Dear Friends,

Easter Sunday at Second Presbyterian Church was glorious. Large crowds. Magnificent music. Energy and vitality and great joy. We celebrated that Christ has been raised from the dead, and in his resurrection is the sure promise of ours.

Easter means many things:

• God’s vindication of all Jesus said and did• the defeat of sin and evil• the end of death’s final power• Christ’s ongoing life with God

But in consequence of all this and more, the message is also that by the gift and power of the Living One, here and now, we can become more fully alive.

When the last day of your life is upon you, suppose you were to look back on your life and ask: Did I really live? Did I drift/rush through my days paying little attention to the wonders and the people and the possibilities all around me? Was I aware? Was I grateful? Compassionate? Generous? Did I live like someone who is free? Did I take risks for love’s sake? Was I guarded, anxious, and stunted by self-absorption, or was I open-hearted, giving of my best self to the things that really mattered? Did I try to make a difference? Did I consciously live in God’s Presence? Did I embrace joy? How terrible to die without having lived.

From ancient times, the central concern of much religion has been the problem of death. Christian faith powerfully addresses that problem, but its chief concern isn’t death, but life—how to be, in every sense, fully and faithfully alive. John Updike wrote: “Vitality, perhaps, is the overriding virtue in the Bible.” That statement goes nicely with the famous saying of the second-century theologian and martyr, Irenaeus: “The glory of God is a human being fully alive.” Over both those statements, we can write the words of Jesus: “I have come that they may have life, and have it abundantly.” (John 10:10)

What is true for individual believers is also true for churches. A church can be healthy, happy, busy in ministry, and inspired in worship, yet still fall far short of the vitality, vigor, passion, joy, and lively faith that is the height and depth of life which the Risen Christ raises us to enjoy and to share. It is thrilling to know that such vitality—miraculous!—is possible; and it is cause for hope, for prayer, and for earnestly seeking together.

“It is no longer I who live,” said Paul, “but Christ who lives in me.” (Galatians 2:20) That is the great good news of Easter for every last one of us, and for our risen life together. Take it as God’s most gracious and creative invitation: Go into the world as new creations, for in Christ, so you are. Now be more alive than you have been.

Christ’s peace,

Second PressA publication of Second Presbyterian Church

in Little Rock, ArkansasApril 26, 2017

He is Risen Indeed!

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SPY Kids Family PicnicSunday, May 7 • 4:00 p.m.

Pinnacle Mountain State ParkAll 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders and families are invited to join us for the end-of-the-year SPY Kids Picnic…hiking, hot dogs, and lots of fun! We will:

• Welcome our rising fourth graders to the SPY Kids Program

• Bless our current fifth graders who will be moving into our Middle School youth program

• Enjoy hot dogs, chips, drinks, and cookies togetherPlease contact Jeannie Ford (jeannieford@secondpreslr.org, 227-0000) to sign up.

Getting to Know UsSeveral times each year we offer an introductory course as

a ministry to those who are new to our church, both visitors and new members. There are no requirements to be or intend to become a member; just an interest in knowing more about who we are and what we do here. The Prospective Member Class is taught by pastors in order to give an overview of what we believe, as well as opportunities to grow in faith and mission. The next class will meet on Sunday afternoon, April 30, 2017 at 3:00 p.m. in Second Hall. Topics to be presented:

• Introduction to Second Presbyterian Church and a walking tour of the campus

• Overview of what Presbyterians believe, and how Presbyterians function as a church

• The Path of Discipleship (ways to deepen and live out our faith)

“Getting to Know You”: a fellowship meal with members of the staff will be provided at the end, so that we can all become better acquainted. Childcare will be available at the church, contact Karin Howze for reservations, karinhowze@secondpreslr.org or (501) 227-0000. For more information, contact Catherine Allsbury, (501) 227-0000 or catherineallsbury@secondpreslr.org. We hope to see you there!

Spring Cleaning (and Weeding!) April 29On Saturday, April 29, from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m., the Property Ministry will be hosting a church-wide work day for all of us to gather and help make our church facilities more beautiful. There are a variety of tasks that needs

volunteers from weeding flower beds and moving mulch to deep cleaning classrooms and cleaning woodwork. Pickup trucks and trailers are needed to haul mulch. There will be refreshments and childcare available throughout the event. In case of rain, the workday will be rescheduled. Stop by the table in the narthex, or call the church office (227-0000) to sign up for this day of service and fellowship!

Road ConstructionAs you are probably aware, a new northbound access

ramp is being added to I-430 off Cantrell. This construction will involve some blasting. Kiewit Infrastructure Engineers is in charge of the project, and the blasting is being done by Explosive Contractors, Inc.

We met with a representative from Kiewit and learned the following:

• Blasting will be done on the weekends, beginning April 22, 2017, and should be complete by Memorial Day weekend.

• Blasts will occur on Saturday between 6:00 a.m. and noon with one blast between 10:00 and 11:00 a.m.

• Blasts will occur on Sunday between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., with one blast between 10:00 and 11:00 a.m. and another between 2:00 and 4:00 p.m.

• Traffic will be stopped on both Highway 10 (Cantrell) and I-430 at the time of the blasts.

• Most likely we will hear the blasts at the church, and feel the vibrations for one to two seconds.

We requested that the blasts not take place during our Sunday morning worship services. While the representative from Kiewit was sympathetic to our concern, he could not make any promises since the timing of the blasts (days and hours allowed to blast) is dictated by the Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department.

—Steve

Youth SundayWe’re excited to announce that Sunday, April 30 our young

people will be leading the 11:00 a.m. Worship Service. While in years past we have led all three worship services during Youth Sunday, this year we have decided to focus on the 11:00 a.m. worship service. We are excited about this opportunity, because it allows us to focus on one service to make it the best that it can be and it allows friends and family to not be split between services when trying to see our young people lead worship.

A little about this year’s worship service. Throughout the last year during SPY we have been discussing concepts of diversity. During the spring semester we reached out to our brothers and sisters from other faith backgrounds. We met with them in community to get to know each other, break down stereotypes and do service projects together to share God’s extraordinary love. Our young people have decided to make diversity the theme of this worship service. Two young people from our graduating class, Allison Mundy and Annie Hagemeier, will be preaching during the service and the rest of the youth group will be leading all other facets of worship. The youth choir will lead music and will also be singing an anthem. This is going to be a wonderful day of worship and we hope you will join us in celebrating God with our Youth Group this April 30!

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Evening Circles• The Huldah Evening PW Circle will gather on Sunday,

May 21, 5:00 p.m., at the home of Jo Paulus, 7 Roanne Court, 72211. The Bible Study lesson will be Chapter 4: “Who is Jesus According to John?”

• The Deborah Evening PW Circle will gather on Monday, May 8 and Monday, May 22, 6:00-7:30 p.m. at Taziki’s Mediterranean Café on Chenal Blvd. The Bible Study lesson for May 8 will be Lesson 4 (continued) [John] and May 22 will be Lesson 6 [Hebrews].

Please contact Catherine Allsbury with questions about the Evening Circles, catherineallsbury@secondpreslr.org.

Day CirclesOur daytime PW Gathering will be on Tuesday, May 9, 10:00 a.m. in Second Hall. Jeannie Ford will present our Bible Study lesson, Chapter 9: “Who is Jesus According to Contemporary Cultural Interpretations?” We will thank our current leadership and install our new leaders for 2017-2018. We will also accept donations for our 2017 PW Birthday Offering after learning about the three projects being supported this year. These projects include The Navajo Water Project (New Mexico), The Family Justice Center Safe Haven for Victims of Domestic Violence (South Carolina) and the First Hand Aid Rural Clinic Development Initiative (Cuba). Our PW local mission opportunity is serving dinner at Our House on Friday, May 12, 5:30 p.m.Please contact Betty Jean Moore (224-5313) or Jeannie Ford (jeannieford@secondpreslr.org, 227-0000) if you would like more information about the Day Circles.

Together in ServiceTogether in Service will not gather in May. We have completed our projects for the program year.

Church Women UnitedThe Church Women United “May Friendship Day” Celebration and Luncheon is Friday, May 5, at Faith United Methodist Church, 9820 Markham Street. Registration begins at 9:30 a.m. and the Celebration is at 10:00 a.m. Lunch will be available after the Celebration, the cost is $5.00. Please call Faith United Methodist Church, (501) 225-4286, to make your lunch reservation. We will not be carpooling this time. Please call Mary Ann Foerste, (501) 227-4621, if you have questions.

Presbyterian WomenMay Gatherings

Sunday School Series:“When Religion Becomes Evil”

Sundays, April 23 – May 289:50 a.m. in Second Hall

LeadersHenry Goodspeed

General Wesley ClarkReligion is arguably the most powerful and pervasive force on earth. Throughout history religious ideas and commitments have inspired individuals and communities of faith to transcend narrow self-interest in pursuit of higher values and truths. Dr. Charles Kimball (Middle East expert, World Religion professor and chair of the Wake Forest University Department of Religion, and author of When Religion Becomes Evil) probes why people do bad things—sometimes unspeakably violent things—in the name of religion. “Whatever religious people may say about their love of God or the mandates of their religion, when their behavior toward others is violent and destructive, when it causes suffering among their neighbors, you can be sure the religion has been corrupted and reform is desperately needed.” Unfortunately, current event examples are mounting with regard to clarion call. This class will consider historical and current event cases that highlight distortions of faith and discuss Kimball’s five warning signs of corrupt religious thought.

Presents

Mozart ’sRequiem

Saturday, April 29, 7:30 p.m.

Second Presbyterian Church600 Pleasant Valley Dr.Little Rock, Arkansas

$20 general admission$15 student admission

Order tickets at praeclara.orgor call (501) 859-9000

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Attention High School SeniorsWe at Second Presbyterian are pleased to share the excitement of your upcoming high school graduation with you and your family. We would like to honor and celebrate this big step in your life during Youth Sunday. We will ask you to come forward during the worship service to receive a special gift from your church family. Please contact David Mills, davidmills@secondpreslr.org if you will be able to attend this service.

Young Adults

Young Adults, we will go together to the festival on Sunday, April 30. Admission is free and we will supplement your budget for ticket purchases for food. We will meet at War Memorial Stadium at 12:30 p.m. A carpool will leave from the church following the 11:00 a.m. service. Text, call, or e-mail Blake: (501) 920-6982 or tierneyblake@gmail.com.

Young Adult Retreat – NEW DATE!Reserve your spot today at the Young Adult Retreat from 6:00 p.m. on Friday, June 2 to 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 3. We will be staying at the Eco Center at Ferncliff and will be enjoying camp games, speakers, hiking the trail, cooking together, and taking a much-needed breather. We are asking for $10 per person, $15 per couple. Please RSVP to Blake: tierneyblake@gmail.com or (501) 920-6982.

Vacation Bible SchoolHero Central: Discover Your Strength in God!

June 12-15

VBS Kick-Off CelebrationMonday, June 12, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

We will have VBS “Hero Central” Kick-Off in the Sanctuary at 6:00 p.m., followed by a Superhuman Hero Extravaganza in the Great Hall 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. 4 year olds – 5th graders are invited to come as their favorite super hero for pizza, games, and super hero activities!

Tuesday – ThursdayJune 13-15, 8:30-11:45 a.m.

We will have our “regular” morning schedule and VBS activities including music, art, Bible, recreation and more.

Register online at www.secondpreslr.org. A $5.00 per child registration fee is due at check-in on June 12 (5:15-5:45 p.m.). For more information or to volunteer, please contact Volunteer Coordinator Caroline Crew (beyondspeech@gmail.com) or Jeannie Ford (jeannieford@secondpreslr.org, 222-0000).

M.A.D. Camp (Music, Art, Drama) for 4 year olds through rising 6th graders. Register online at www.secondpreslr.org. The camp runs June 5-9, 8:30 a.m. to noon. The cost per camper is only $40 for the entire week. There will be an option for extended days (with an additional cost). For more information, please contact Mary Ibis, (501) 412-1416 or maryibis@secondpreslr.org.

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Elders Class of 2020Becky Farrow was baptized and grew up in Second Presbyterian. After thirty-three years, she has retired from her career as a real estate broker. She and her husband Jackson are the parents of two grown sons, Jackson, who will marry Erin Hohnbaum this summer, and Keith, who lives in Boston with his wife Catherine. Becky has served the church in several capacities. She worked on the Second Beginnings Capital Campaign, taught preschool Sunday school, served as a deacon, an elder, a member of the Personnel Committee, a Pastor Nominating Committee, the Outreach Ministry, and the hospital visitation team. She is a regular volunteer with the Family Promise program and is a member of the Our House cook team.

Marie Holder was born in Holly Springs, Mississippi and joined Second Presbyterian in 2002. She is a political consultant and is married to Ryan Holder, a CPA. They have two daughters, Alex and Kate. Marie previously served as a deacon at Second Presbyterian, and currently serves as a Children’s Ministry member, Bible Village coordinator, and Family Promise dinner host. She is also a member of the Arkansas State Medical Board, a Girl Scouts leader, a Pulaski Academy parent volunteer, and a member of the Greater Little Rock Delta Gamma Alumni. Marie received her B.A. in English and Journalism from the University of Mississippi.

Don Hollingsworth is a Little Rock native and joined Second Presbyterian in 1983. He is a retired legal aid attorney, former Executive Director and attorney at the Center for Arkansas Legal Services, former Executive Director of the Arkansas Bar Association, and a former attorney at Memphis Legal Services. Don is married to Leslie, a retired social worker, and they have a daughter, Elizabeth Gitchel. Don has previously served Second Presbyterian as an ordained elder and deacon, former moderator of Outreach and Worship Ministries, and has served on several church committees, including Pastor Nominating Committee. He is currently a member of the Social Justice Advocacy Committee. Don is a current board member and former chair of the Health Policy Board at the Arkansas Center for Health Improvement, incoming board President of the Arkansas Access to Justice Foundation, board member of Faith Voices Arkansas, and member of the Quality of Care Committee for the State Employees Benefits Division. He is a graduate of Little Rock Central High School, Rhodes College, and Vanderbilt School of Law.

Christina Littlejohn is from Chapel Hill, North Carolina and joined Second Presbyterian in 2009; she has previously served as a deacon. She holds a B.A. from Furman University and a Master’s degree in Business Administration and Arts Administration from the University of Cincinnati. She is currently the Executive Director of Arkansas Symphony Orchestra. Her daughter, Jubilee Leenhouts, is ten years old. Christina is very active with our church’s children’s music programs. She was Chair for Group Three Orchestras for the League of American Orchestras and was a member of the Arkansas Women’s Leadership Forum. She enjoys traveling, spending time outdoors and reading.

Janet Nelson is a native of Muskegon, Michigan and she joined Second Presbyterian in 2004. She is the assistant to the Director of Depaul USA/Jericho Way Day Resource Center for the Homeless. She holds a Master’s degree in Psychology w/ Graduate certificate in Gerontology from Southern Illinois University and has been an adjunct teacher in the Gerontology department at UALR since 2011. Her children are Mary Ibis, our Associate Director of Music, Sarah Burns, and John T. Olsen. She is currently serving on our Pastoral Care Ministry, the Alzheimer’s Task Force, Jubilee Handbell Ringers, and facilitates the Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Group twice a month. She is a trained Stephen Minister and Leader and has been a member of the Faith and Grief Team and Hospital Visitation Team.

Youth Elder(Serving a one-year term)

Dylan Fike was born in Little Rock and confirmed at Second Presbyterian in 2014. She is the daughter of Steve and Schelle Fike, and has two sisters, Emma and Sarah Ann. Dylan is involved with the youth ministry at Second Presbyterian, assists with Vacation Bible School, and recently performed in the youth musical. She is currently a junior at Central High School.

6Deacons Class of 2020

Anne Brantley was born in Little Rock and joined Second Presbyterian in 1987. She taught seventh through ninth grade English and was Division Training Coordinator for Dillards. Anne is married to Richard Brantley, a dentist. She has one son, Sam, and Richard has two children, Steve and Shannon. They have seven grandchildren between them. Anne was previously Moderator of Presbyterian Women (2014-2015) and a Stephen Minister (2011-2015) at Second Presbyterian. She is the president of her antique club. Anne obtained her B.S.E. in Speech/English from the University of Central Arkansas.

Sarah Watkins Ceja is from Little Rock and was confirmed at Second Presbyterian in 2002. She is a postpartum (mother/baby) RN at UAMS and is married to Sergio Ceja, a financial advisor. They have two children, Allie and Crew. Allie is involved in the children’s choir, and Sergio and Sarah participate in the young family activities at Second Presbyterian. They enjoy spending time with family, annual float trips to the Buffalo River, and traveling. Sarah completed her B.S. in Nursing at UAMS.

J. Dyke is a native of Chicago and joined Second Presbyterian in 2009. He is an attorney and co-owns mertinsdykehome with his partner, Garry Mertins, an interior designer. They have two dogs, Lovey and Brother Boy. J. previously served on the Property Ministry of Second Presbyterian, and helps decorate the Chrismon Tree every year. He holds J.S. and J.D. degrees from the University of Arkansas.

Tracy Johnson is from St. Louis and joined Second Presbyterian in 2012. She worked as a programmer in the field of institutional research at SAU Magnolia, the Arkansas Department of Higher Education, and UALR over a span of 33 years, retiring in July 2015. Before becoming a programmer, she enjoyed working as a trim saw operator and sort deck operator for International Paper in Springhill, LA. Tracy is married to Rusty Johnson. At Second Presbyterian, she has been involved with Belonging Ministry, Fellowship Ministry, Pastoral Care Ministry, and Stephen Ministry. Tracy sings in the Adult Choir and currently serves as Historian of Presbyterian Women. She was a founding member and past President of the UALR Community Chorus. Tracy previously served as Treasurer for the Treasure Hill Neighborhood Association, and was a member of the Southern Association for Institutional Research, Arkansas Institutional Research Organization, and Arkansas Local Users Group of DECUS. She received her B.B.A. from SAU Magnolia.

Jennifer Knight was born in LaCrosse, Wisconsin and joined Second Presbyterian Church in 2012. She is an administrative specialist and graduate student at UALR. Jennifer’s husband, Tom Knight, works in sales with Moon Distributing. They have two children, Spencer and Miriam. Jennifer has served as a Bible Village shepherd and has assisted with the children’s choir at Second Presbyterian. She is a member of the Mello Velo cycling club, and raises money each year for Multiple Sclerosis through the MS150 bike ride. Jennifer is a member of the Safe Zone committee at UALR where she is completing a Master’s degree in Counselor Education with an additional certificate in Conflict Mediation.

Gregorio Ramos is from Maracay, Venezuela and joined Second Presbyterian in 2012. He is a statistician and is married to Andrew Carter, an industrial engineer. Gregorio participated in the Shepherd’s Hope Neighborhood Health Center as an interpreter from 2014 to 2016. He enjoys CrossFit, multisport and triathlon activities. Gregorio holds a B.A. from Delta State University, M.S. from Middle Tennessee State University, and Ph.D. from University of Louisville.

Kathryn McMillian is the daughter of Jon and Julie Newsum and was confirmed at Second Presbyterian in 1990. She is a mental health therapist in private practice, working with clients who experience symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, and eating disorders. Kathryn is married to Brian McMillian, a civil engineer. They have two children, Keers and Peyton. For two years Kathryn has served Second Presbyterian as a Sunday School teacher for 2 year olds. She serves on the board of Eating Disorder Coalition of Arkansas. Kathryn obtained her B.A. in Social Justice from Emory University, and her Masters in Social Services from Bryn Mawr School for Social Work and Social Research.

Hallie Rookey joined Second Presbyterian in 1999. She is married to Craig Rookey, and they have four children, Chris, Shannon, Stephen, and Deborah. Hallie has been involved with Second Wind, and sings in the Adult Choir.

Beth Sigler is a Little Rock native; she has been a member of Second Presbyterian since birth and was confirmed in 1982. She is a graduate of Mount St. Mary Academy and holds a B.A. in Business/Accounting from Rhodes College in Memphis. Beth is a CPA and Tax Manager at Arkansas Children’s Hospital. She is an ordained deacon and through the years, she has served on the Young Adult Ministry, Stewardship Team, and Officer Nominating Committee. She is a Jazzercise instructor and enjoys being a baby rocking volunteer at ACH.

Shanna Smiley was born in Little Rock and joined Second Presbyterian in 2016. She is a Program Analyst, VISN 16 Mental Health, for the Department of Veterans Affairs. She holds a B.A. from George Washington University. She is active in Presbyterian Women.

Alan Solomon joined Second Presbyterian in 2015 after moving to Little Rock from Texarkana. He is a retiring general surgeon. He and his wife Mary Margaret have five adult children, Matthew, Patrick, Mary Helen, Sarah Beth and Anna Blair, and love spending time with their grandchildren.

Ralph Wilcox was born in Meadville, Pennsylvania. He became a member of Second Presbyterian in 2002. He is an Architectural Historian with the Arkansas Historic Preservation Program and the Organist at First Presbyterian Church in Lonoke. He earned a B.A. in History from Westminster College in New Wilmington, Pennsylvania and a Master’s in Historic Preservation from Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana. He is an ordained deacon, plays handbells in the Evening Ringers and the Praeclara Ringers, moderates the Heritage Committee and is an occasional substitute organist. He loves to travel and has an interest in garden railroads. He is a member of the Society for Commercial Archeology, the National Trust for Historic Preservation, and the Southeast Society of Architectural Historians.

Youth Deacon(Serving a one-year term)

Gracie May is a tenth grader at Little Rock Central High School. She has been active through the years in the Children’s Choir, Youth Group and the Youth Musicals. She has also been a part of the summer weeding team for the past two years. Her extracurricular activities are ballet, jazz and tap and hanging out with her friends. Her parents are Tracy May and David May. Her grandparents are Jim Hunt and Lynne and Bill Minix.

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Upcoming Family MilestoneMinistry Events

Milestone #3: “Praying Together”This Milestone, scheduled for April 30 and May 7 has been postponed until June. Details will be announced at a later date.Milestone #6: “Exploring The Sacraments”For first and second graders and their parents, Sunday, April 30 and Sunday, May 7. On Sunday, April 30, we will be offering a workshop on “Welcoming Children to the Lord’s Table.” The class will meet from 2:00 – 4:30 p.m. in Bible Village. Childcare will be provided for younger siblings (please contact Karin Howze at karinhowze@secondpreslr.org to make reservations). Older siblings who have not been part of previous classes are welcome to join us. Participating children will be celebrated and welcomed to the Lord’s Table on Sunday, May 7, at the 11:00 a.m. worship service. Please contact Jeannie Ford at 227-0000 or jeannieford@secondpreslr.org to register.

When a loved one dies, one of the most common early reactions is an intense yearning, a sense that part of you is missing, and a hunger to have that person back. Sharing stories often provides solace and helps ease the heartbreak. Our church is providing a place to share those stories.From our program’s national headquarters, “Faith & Grief Ministries’ mission is to provide ongoing comfort to persons who have experienced the death of a loved one. We value most the gifts of the Holy Spirit’s gentle and restless source of comfort; a community that understands mourning; compassion revealed in silence, listening, tears and surprising laughter; and stories that speak truth in love and promote wholeness.”On the third Tuesday of every month, our church hosts a Faith and Grief Luncheon for the community from noon to 1:00 p.m. in Second Hall. Participants will experience:

• A supportive community of persons who have experienced the death of a loved one.

• Comfort through scripture and prayers • Encouragement through personal stories • Hope in sharing your feelings and experiences

Registration for May 16 can be made by visiting www.faithandgrief.org or by calling (469) 251-9612.If you are interested in receiving more information about the Faith and Grief Ministry, contact Sharon Hughes at (501) 227-0000 or sharonhughes@secondpreslr.org or go online to www.faithandgrief.org.

Summer CampsJune 5 - August 4

Registration is now open for 2017 Summer Camps. These include Day Camp, Nature Preschool Day Camp, Overnight Camp, and Family Camp. For more information, and to register, visit www.ferncliff.org.

Ferncliff Summer Camp brochures are available in the church office.

Friends at Home Visitors Are NeededThis important ministry helps to keep our “Friends at Home” connected and feeling a continued sense of belonging to Second Presbyterian Church. Our FAH are usually older and are generally confined to either their homes or assisted living facility most of the time. If you can commit 15-20 minutes once or twice a month, please consider being a visitor to one of our Friends at Home. All you need to be a great At Home Visitor is a kind heart, an interest in conversation and curiosity about people—it’s an amazing way to brighten someone’s day and share God’s love. If interested, please contact Diedra Gaskalla at (501) 831-5449 or drdeda@yahoo.com for more information.

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Are You Interested in Helping Our Honduras Ministry Get Off The Ground?

The Outreach Ministry of Second Presbyterian recently made a commitment to actively participate in the Presbytery’s partnership with the Presbyterian Church of Honduras. We are putting together a team of people to vision, plan, and coordinate our church’s involvement in this ministry. If you are interested in serving on this team, or if you have questions, please contact Britton Varn, brittonvarn@secondpreslr.org.

It’s Not Too Late to Turn In YourTime & Talents Covenant

This is the time of year when our congregation has the opportunity to sign up for activities and service for the coming year. We need ushers, greeters, Sunday School teachers for all age groups and help with belonging, fellowship, pastoral care and outreach activities and projects. There are extra forms available in the church office and sanctuary for your convenience. You may mail back the one you received in the mail recently or bring it to the office or place in the offering plate on Sunday. Please consider sharing the gifts and skills with which God has blessed you by answering this call to serve God through the life of this congregation.

Prayer Shawls NeededDo you love to craft, knit or crochet—or would you like to learn? Our stock of prayer shawls is running low. The Prayer Shawl Ministry is in need of a few good people, interested in making simple prayer shawls for our friends in life transitions or with health concerns. If you already know how to knit and purl, or can make a hook chain—or if you’re willing to learn—please contact Rev. Marie Mainard O’Connell in the church office at (501) 227-0000 or e-mail mariemo@secondpreslr.org to state your willingness to wield a hook or needle on behalf of others. No experience necessary—we will teach!

Preschool Security DoorsDear Fellow Church Members,

You may have noticed new glass doors in the hallways that access the childcare and preschool Sunday School rooms. I wanted to give a little background on why they have been installed, and how they are being operated.

Through a commitment to be the very best preschool serving young families in our community, Second Presbyterian Preschool is the preschool of choice in Little Rock, and has grown to a staff of 54 who provide quality early childhood education to 360 children.

Ensuring security for 360 children can be challenging, especially in a building used by a variety of groups for many different programs and activities on a daily basis. In 2015, security consultants were hired by the Preschool to evaluate safety deficiencies in the space where the preschool operates. The primary recommendation related to implementing controlled access when children are present.

Plans were developed, funds raised to cover all costs with preschool resources, architect hired, presentation and approval by Property Ministry and Session, and final review/revisions by church staff. In the first quarter of 2017, the project has been completed. During hours that the preschool operates, all access into the space where children are present is restricted. Outside of preschool operating hours, restrictions are disabled.

I am happy to report the system is working as expected! The success would not have been possible without the church’s willingness to allow these measures. The Preschool families and staff are grateful for this support.Paige Majors,Preschool Director

Presbyterian Village Derby Day • May 6Tickets are available for the Presbyterian Village Kentucky Derby fundraiser at the Pleasant Valley Country Club. Enjoy wonderful Derby-inspired food and activities, all while watching the 143rd Kentucky Derby race live. Tickets may be purchased online or by calling 225-1615. Contact melissajenkins@presbyvillage.org for more information.

Presbyterian VillageSpring Memorial Service

The spring memorial service remembering Village residents will be held Thursday, May 25 at 2:00 p.m. in the PV Lodge. This semi-annual service is for Village residents, families, staff and friends to remember those who have recently passed away. Please join us for this special time at our community. For more information, contact Chaplain Stacey Hammons at staceyhammons@presbyvillage.org.

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Isaac Arnold, Sage & Joe Arnold’s nephew – Air Force, stationed at Offutt AFB, NEAndrew Delo, Jeanne Lloyd’s grandson – stationed at Groton, CT Naval BaseMartyn Delo, Jeanne Lloyd’s grandson – stationed in San Diego at Naval Base (on USS Boxer in dry dock)Taylor Douglas, son of Susan & Kevin Douglas – Camp Pendleton, San Diego, CADavid Henry, son of Mary Helen & Joe Henry – at the Pentagon, Washington, DCJonathan Johnson, grandson of Helen Scott, nephew of Clarke & Cindy Scott Huisman – stationed at Warner Robbins, GA.Daniel Jones, Jean Munger’s grandson, Marjorie Watkins’ nephew – stationed in Ft. Leonardwood, MO Jonathan Miller, son of Patrice & Stan Miller – stationed in Virginia Beach, VAMatthew Powell, grandson of Dorothy Powell, stationed in Savannah, GA Chris Rookey, son of Hallie & Craig Rookey, grandson of Hallie & Kirk Simmins – deployed to Eastern EuropeKyle Rought, Mary Ibis’ cousin – stationed in Wahiawa, HIStuart Rubio, Keesler Air Force Base, Biloxi, MSDamon Singleton, Diane Tait’s granddaughter’s husband – stationed in IraqJohn Matthew Solomon, son of Mary Margaret & Alan Solomon – stationed at Fort Meade, MD

In Harm’s Way

May 2017STEWPOTCook team: 9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m.Servers: 11:30 a.m.-1:15 p.m.Friday: April 28, May 5, 12, 19

OUR HOUSESecond Friday of each month, 5:30-7:00 p.m.Presbyterian Women delivers and servesFriday: May 12

RICE DEPOTVolunteers box and deliver food to older adultsFourth Saturday of each month, 8:15-11:00 a.m.Saturday: May 27

FOR MORE INFORMATION . . .

StewpotCampbell McLaurin campbellmclaurin@gmail.com

Our HouseLinda HumphriesLCHumphries@comcast.net

Rice DepotMike Tharpmichael.tharp@sbcglobal.net

Usher/Greeter VolunteersAlways Appreciated

Those who serve as ushers and greeters for our worship service are providing a ministry of hospitality for members and visitors to our church. Along with providing an important leadership role for worship, those who serve as ushers and greeters are also afforded a wonderful opportunity to meet and work alongside other members of the congregation. You may contact the following deacons who serve as usher captains to volunteer as ushers or greeters:

May Worship Usher Captains

8:30 a.m.Laura Campbell

LL_cool_smith@yahoo.com

9:00 a.m.Jill Wright

jill.wright@lrsd.org

11:00 a.m.Katherine Downie

katherinedownie@att.net

Vera Lloyd’s Donor Appreciationand Pink Hat Day

Saturday May 6, 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on the school campus in Monticello—and you are all invited!

This annual celebration is a chance for the staff of Vera Lloyd Presbyterian Family Services to say thank you and recognize the support of those individuals, churches and organizations that have been in service to Vera Lloyd in the last year. The festivities include lunch, tours of the children’s homes, visits with youth and a parade of women (and men) showing off their embellished pink hats. We will carpool from the church to Monticello and if you are interested in joining the festivities please contact Jerrie Finch (580-2853) or Sharlie Rigby 821-2221.

Bulletin BoardHospitalized (*Discharged) Sara DeMotte, Jim Gauntt, Amy Grant, *Dorothy Powell, *Harlan Weber

Our sympathy goes to Julie and Mike Honeycutt, Alex and Chris, on the death of mother and grandmother, Julia Ann Williams; Amy Wisdom and David Eifling, Stephen, Evan and Eli, on the death of mother and grandmother, Evelyn Madeline Wisdom; Edwin Mitchell and family on the death of Edwin’s uncle, Mike Vines; Destiny Duguid and family on the death of her mother, Courtney Blevins.

Congratulations to David and Kristen Beach on the birth of a grandson, River Edward Wayne Willson. Parents are Elizabeth Beach and Justin Willson of Cabot.

We would appreciate your help . . . in keeping the church office informed when there is a sickness in your family, when someone is in the hospital, or a death has occurred. Please also keep us updated on the sickness or concern so that the information we have on our Care and Concern Line is accurate. Members and friends can call the Care and Concern Line, 227-6117, on weekdays to receive information about prayer concerns in our church family. We will honor all requests for confidentiality, but in order for us to offer pastoral care we need to be aware of your situation. We also want to know about the joys, accomplishments and achievements of members of the church. Please call Marie Mainard O’Connell or Sharon Hughes in the church office with information, 227-0000, or e-mail mariemo@secondpreslr.org or sharonhughes@secondpreslr.org. Thanks for your help!

Heritage Committee Seeks Second Presbyterian MemorabiliaDo you have old certificates, bulletins, newsletters, programs, or other documents for earlier days of our church? Our Heritage Committee would like to copy such to help fill in some of the gaps in our church records. Please contact Pam Luther, 690-5203.

PASTORRev. Steve HancockASSOCIATE PASTORRev. Lindy Vogado TRANSITIONAL ASSOCIATE PASTORRev. Marie Mainard O’ConnellPARISH ASSOCIATESRev. David GillDr. Robert WilliamsonCHURCH EDUCATORJeannie FordINTERIM YOUTH DIRECTORDavid MillsTRANSITIONAL COORDINATOR FOR YOUTH AND YOUNG ADULT MINISTRIESBritton VarnDIRECTOR OF MUSIC AND ARTSDr. Bevan KeatingASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF MUSICMary IbisORGANISTAdam Savacool9 O’CLOCK MUSIC COORDINATORSarah Jane GuzmanBUSINESS ADMINISTRATORAileen MooreDIRECTOR OF PLANNED GIVINGMalinda KirchnerNEWCOMER CARECatherine AllsburyYOUNG ADULT MINISTRYBlake TierneyErin BeardFACILITIES MANAGERDavid BeachADMINISTRATIVE ASSOCIATESSage ArnoldTracy MaySharon HughesAdam SavacoolCHILD CARE COORDINATOR & ADMINISTRATIVE ASSOCIATEKarin HowzeSEXTONSGuy HowzeEmily McPherson

SUNDAY WORSHIP SERVICES8:30, 9:00 and 11:00 a.m. SUNDAY SCHOOL9:50 a.m.Newsletter articles may be e-mailed to:adamsavacool@secondpreslr.orgUPCOMING DEADLINES:Thursday, May 4Thursday, May 18

600 Pleasant Valley Dr.Little Rock, AR 72227

Office: (501) 227-0000Fax: (501) 227-6513Care/Concern: (501) 227-6117www.secondpreslr.org

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LITTLE ROCK ARPERMIT #1744Presbyterian Church

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@2PresLR

Prayerfully consider including our Church’s missions and ministries in your estate plans.

Our legal name is:Second Presbyterian Church

of Little Rock, Arkansas