Sunday School - fcctulsa.org · 12/20/2013 · Page 2 First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)...
Transcript of Sunday School - fcctulsa.org · 12/20/2013 · Page 2 First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)...
A publication of First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), Tulsa Vol. 18, Number 24 December 20, 2013
First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) 913 S. Boulder, Tulsa, OK • 918.582.8237 • fcctulsa.org First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) 913 S. Boulder, Tulsa, OK • 918.582.8237 • fcctulsa.org
The First Christian Church VISION (USPS 012-958) is
published semi-monthly for its members by First
Christian Church at 913 South Boulder Ave., Tulsa,
OK, 74119-2097. Periodicals postage paid at Tulsa,
OK. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to VISION,
913 S. Boulder Ave., Tulsa, OK 74119-2097.
Serving Schedule Sunday, December 22Elder Prayers: 9:00 James Howard, offering; Jean Swanson, communionScripture Reader: Don BrooksElder of the Week: (December 23) Kay ThompsonCommunion Preparation: Barbara Pollard and Caleb AllenDeacons serving communion: Susan McKee, Thressa Northcutt, Bill Northcutt,Kate Northcutt, Bob Parks, Sue Parks, Millie Elswick, Marcia Boyd, MargaretCulley, Hunter BlackburnGreeters: Helen and Bill PummillFlowers for Sunday, December 22: The flowers are given by Tom Nulf in lovingmemory of his wife, Glenda.Flower delivery week of December 22: David and Maggie Thompson
Serving Schedule Sunday, December 29Elder Prayers: 9:00 Molly Krumme, offering; Jennifer Annis, communionScripture Reader: Sharon RegneryElder of the Week: (December 30) Rihab GarnerCommunion Preparation: Don and Jean SwansonDeacons serving communion: Susan McKee, Thressa Northcutt, Bill Northcutt,Kate Northcutt, Bob Parks, Sue Parks, Millie Elswick, Marcia Boyd, MargaretCulley, Hunter BlackburnGreeters: Helen and Bill PummillFlowers for Sunday, December 29: Paul and Mardell Campbell give the flowersin honor of their five great-grandchildren: Eleanor, Audrey, Sophie, Chloe and Jack.Flower delivery week of December 29: Helen and Bill Pummill
Serving Schedule Sunday, January 5Elder Prayers: 9:00 Sandra Lewis, offering; Brian Knight, communionScripture Reader: Molly KrummeElder of the Week: (January 6) James HowardCommunion Preparation: Ray WrightDeacons serving communion: Raylene Barclay, Christy Brooks, Don Brooks, JimFreeman, Sandra Freeman, Mary Garner, Joyce Kendall, Bobbie LewisGreeters: Helen and Bill PummillFlowers for Sunday, December January 5: The flowers are given by SueTrimble in loving memory of her husband, Ray, whose birthday would have beenJanuary 1st.Flower delivery week of January 5: Mardell and Paul Campbell
Aga-PatrianNext Sunday: Weʼll continue RomansLast Sunday: Romans 8: 18-30; weserved breakfast to the children.Class Concerns: Pray for all our classmembers who couldnʼt be with us todayUpcoming Events: Santaʼs WorkshopDate: Dec. 22 from 10:30 - 2:30Volunteers are needed to help childrenshop and wrap gifts.Class Concerns: Keep Vicki Vandivort inyour prayers.13 Present. RG
Double Ring
Next Sunday: Richard Lawson will teachour classLast Sunday: Charles Hargrove taughtabout God giving all the power to Jesus,his son, in heaven and earth.Upcoming Events: Christmas party onDecember 16th (Mon.) 6:30 pm, FH.Celebrations: Mary Lou Gibson and JackElswickʼs birthdaysClass Concerns: Bobbie Lewis, David andElizabeth Dunning38 Present. JAG
Homebuilders
Next Sunday: Bob Rorschach will teachLast Sunday: Clarke Kendall gave ourlesson.Upcoming Events: Happy TimersDate: December 19th at 11:00Place: Fellowship HallCelebrations: Merry Christmas! God blessus every one!Class Concerns: Our homeboundmembers. We wish them well for theChristmas season.16 Present. LS
Sojourners.Upcoming Events: Christmas Party.Date: December 21st at Ethel Brownʼs6 Present. CD
Sunday
School
Class
News
9:00 am Traditional, Sanctuary
10:00 am Breakfast for Children
10:15–11:00 am Sunday School
11:15 am Common Ground
Fellowship Hall
6:00 pm The Loft
(1st
and 3rd
Sundays)
Page 8
Love from the Sparkle Box
Outreach team member Cassie Gray shared
this experience of children participating in FCC
advent activities with Director of Children's
Ministries, Beverly Vale Brown:
"Wasn't the advent festival great?! The room
was filled with so much joy, love, and holiday
spirit. This year the Outreach Committee
sponsored a table for the children to make
their very own Sparkle Boxes. The Sparkle Box
is a box to put our gifts for Jesus.
"After the children decorated their boxes they
were encouraged to write down one gift for
Jesus. One young boy eagerly wrote his gift on
his piece of paper and proudly showed it to me.
On the piece of paper, it simply said "my love."
Wow! There is no question that this church is
making a difference!"
Advent Activies Offer Many Opportunities
to Give from the Heart
Advent Festival last Sunday be-
gan with member Becky Gray read-
ing from the Sparkle Book, which
presents things a young person can
put in their Sparkle Box, things like
community service or helping a
family member or another person.
Some suggestions were as simple
as giving someone a smile or a hug,
making your bed, or putting your
toys away. The suggestions were
written on paper stars hanging on
the Sparkle Tree in the main lobby.
This was how the children got
started on their advent experience. Jim and Becky Gray with gifts for
Santa’s Workshop(See SPARKLE page 7)
Special Christmas
Activities
Friday, December 20
7:00 “Blue Christmas: A Service
of Hope and Solace,” Chapel
Sunday, December 22
9:00 Worship, Sanctuary
Congregational Meeting Part 1
10:30 – 2:30 Children shop in
Santa’s Workshop,
Homebuilders Rm.
11:15 Worship Common Ground,
Fellowship Hall
Congregational Meeting Part 2
12:30 – 2:30 Chi Rho and CYF
Wrap Santa’s Workshop packages
Tuesday, December 24
5:30 Christmas Eve Service,
Fellowship Hall
10:00 Cider and Cookies, FH
11:00 Christmas Eve Service
in the Sanctuary
See Page 2 for more
important dates.
First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) 913 S. Boulder, Tulsa, OK • 918.582.8237 • fcctulsa.org First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) 913 S. Boulder, Tulsa, OK • 918.582.8237 • fcctulsa.org Page 7Page 2
Prayers and Cares
SPARKLE from page 1
NO MIDWEEK PEAK FORDECEMBER 25 OR
JANUARY 1CLOSED FOR CHRISTMAS BREAK
Midweak Peak will resume on
January 8. When Reverend Riggs
returns from a pilgrimage to the
holy land, he will begin a new study
on the Book of Mark.
MEMORIAL SERVICE
Barbara Griffin - Memorial Service, Jan. 7 at 11 AM in the Chapel
HEALTH
John and Donna Ackenhausen
Kay Bauter
Shirley Bennett
Marcia Boyd
Mardell Campbell
Jerry Carlton
Pat and Jim Dalby
Jeff Daniel
Della Davidson
Dollie Dorough
Linda Douglas
David and Beth Dunning
Carolyn Dyer
Jarrod Elmore
Krista English, cancer
Jerry Gay
Les and Marcia Hames
Hope Harder
OTHER
Turner, Webster and Anderson families
Louis Hayward
Hugh Henderson
Brandy Iliff
Dan Kimes, organ tuner
Paul Moffett
Rossie Patterson
Veda Riggs
Ethan Wesley Rosell, infant great-grand
nephew of Jimmie and Karen Younger
Sarah Jane Sackett
Beverly Southard
Cynthia Stevens
Libby Stoppard
Les and Wanda Warehime
Anne Webb
Arthena Young
The
Wilder
Side
Millie and
Jack Elswick
were walking
on air Sun-
day! Their
grandson, Barrett, will be home for
Christmas!! They will have their
celebration next Sunday.
Bill and Lucy Spear had a fun trip
to Nashville, with their daughter
Cindy. They went to the “Grand Ole
Opery”, and to see the Gatlin
Brothers, Vince Gill and the Lori
Morgan Christmas Show. Best of
all, they stayed at the Gaylord
Hotel! It is so huge, they had to
have a map to get around in it. Oh
yeah, they got to see The
Rockettes, too. Sounded like a
great trip.
Marcia Hawkins is going with the
same travel people, after Christ-
mas, to Pasadena to see the Rose
Bowl Parade.
Joyce Marston is spending
Christmas in Kansas with her son’s
family. Hilda Betts is going to
Austin to be with her kids. Gay and
her son Scott Wion are flying to
Houston Christmas Eve, to be with
Todd and Suzanne and Sean and
Ginna Ray, and their almost baby!
Paul and Kay Thompson will
return to Ft. Worth where all of their
children and grandchildren will
meet for the Holidays.
Sure was glad to see Cindy and
Joe Semones in church Sunday. I’m
glad they are close to home again.
A sign at a Propane filling station:
“Thank heaven for little grills.”
See you at Church, Ruthie
Prayers for
Jarrod Elmore
Jarrod Elmore, FCC’s
contemporary worship leader,
was hospitalized on November
24 following injuries sustained
from a seizure. He was released
earlier this month but is
currently unable to fulfill his
duties while he undergoes
additional treatment.
The Personnel Committee
has placed him on an unpaid
leave-of-absence through mid-
February while he continues on
his path of recovery. Please
keep Jarrod in your prayers, and
pray for our church as we move
forward with our contemporary
worship in his absence.
Does it mean anything real anymore?
Are we just going through the motions
because they’re familiar to us? Oh,
we may verbally acknowledge that
“Jesus is the reason for the season”
but that phrase has become a cliché,
tired and worn out, no longer
convicting or convincing. Is Christmas
still relevant to our human condition,
or has the celebration of Christmas
been reduced to shopping, parties,
and presents?
Here are some questions we need
to ask if Christmas is going to have
any real meaning beyond a
regurgitation of popular and secular
culture: What does it mean that God
would come to us in the form of a tiny
human baby? Why would God do
that? Why would we need God to do
that? Why would we want God to do
that? Something happened for the
Word of God to choose to become
human flesh and dwell among us. We
were looking for a Messiah, and God
gave us one. Why were we looking?
Are we still in need of one? These
questions lie at the very heart of our
faith, deep and difficult questions that
give us cause to wrestle with the
Divine Mystery in worship and prayer
and service.
This Christmas Eve, come and
experience the Divine Mystery as we
gather with carols, communion, and
candlelight. Come and discover the
hope that sustains us as we wait for
the coming of Christ. Come and
discover the peace God promises us.
Come and discover the joy we share
in his coming. Come and discover the
love surrounding us. Come and
discover light and life. Come and
discover anew the reason for our
celebration.
“O come, all ye faithful, joyful and
triumphant,
O come ye, O come ye, to
Bethlehem.
Come and behold Him, born the
King of angels...”
Our Christmas Eve services begin
at 5:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall
and 11:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary.
O come, my sisters and brothers,
let us adore Him.
Soli Deo Gloria,
Rev. Michael
“O come, all ye faithful...”
I don’t know about you, but I’m not
ready for Christmas. I haven’t had
time to put up any lights; I haven’t
done any shopping yet; Cassie and I
haven’t been able to send out any
Christmas cards; we haven’t even
gotten out our Christmas tree yet (and
our cats are losing their patience on
that one). I am SO not ready for
Christmas. In fact, I’m extraordinarily
unprepared for Christmas – eek!!
It seems that every year the
Christmas season comes earlier and
earlier. Coffeeshops and shopping
malls have been playing the old
familiar carols for a couple of months,
already. My mailbox has been stuffed
so full of advertisements on holiday
sales that I fear the retailers are
putting trees onto the endangered
species list. Things just seem to get
busier and busier and I never feel
ready for Christmas. By the time it
comes, after I’ve made the Herculean
effort to get everything done, I’m so
glad it’s all over and I don’t have to
go through the holiday madness for
another eleven months. Or will it be
only ten?
Does something seem wrong with
the way we do this holiday hurricane
of Christmas?
It got them thinking
about gifts they could
give of themselves – no
price tag attached. We
had twelve booths set
up where children could
make their own nativity
scene, fashion a jingle
bells necklace, or paint a stained glass
ornament for their home.
At the sparkle box booth, the kids
had the opportunity to write down
what they would give to the new king
(see story on page 1). We had over 90
children participating in the activities,
including having their picture taken
with Santa.
And, this weekend we conclude the
Advent message with a visit to Santa’s
workshop, where each child – no
matter what his or her economic
circumstances are, will have an
opportunity to select gifts for their
family members. This is entirely
sponsored by FCC.
Beverly Vale Brown
2014 DEACONS MEETINGDecember 29th at 10:15
in the Sanctuary
DECEMBER 29thRecognition of 2013 Officers,
Elders, Deacons, Trustees andMinistry Council
in Worship Services
JANUARY 5thInstallation of 2014 Officers,
Elders, Deacons, Trustees andMinistry Council
in Worship Services
JANUARY 12thElders will serve Communion
to Home-Centered
Page 2Page 2 Page 3
YEAR END GIFT REMINDER
As you consider your charitable giving for the rest of this year, the following are things to consider in your
planning:
1. The gift of appreciated stocks, bonds, or mutual fund shares to fulfill pledges can be a great tax
advantage. With today’s stock market this may not be advantageous unless the stock shows an
appreciated value. The donor gets to deduct the full value of the property on the day the gift is
donated, and to avoid capital gains taxes as well, if itemizing deductions on Income Tax returns.
But start soon to allow time to complete the transaction before December 31st. Call your tax
advisor or Mary Byrne for details.
2. IRA Charitable Gifts If you are over 70 ½ and have a traditional IRA, you may request your IRA
administrator to make direct distributions up to $100,000 in 2013 to the church or other charities. It
will not be counted as a taxable distribution to you, and it can be counted against your required
minimum distribution if you choose. This window of opportunity closes as of December 31, 2013.
You may want to pay your pledge for 2014 in advance to take advantage of these tax savings.
2. For 2014 consider using Automated Bank Drafts to pay your pledge. You can choose the 3rd
and/or the 18th of the month to have the authorized amount withdrawn. Allow two weeks to get
started. Over 50 busy members are currently using this service to save time and checking costs and
to maintain their peace of mind. Questions? Call Mary Byrne at 582-8237, Ext. 113.
3. REMEMBER! All gifts to be included on your 2013 Income Tax return as charitable deductions
must be delivered to the church or postmarked by December 31st
. The church office will close
at 5:00 PM on Tuesday, December 31st
.
If you are behind on your 2013 General Fund pledge, please make every effort to catch up by December
31st. Let’s finish this year with extra giving and start next year on sound footing as careful stewards of this
church and its resources. A heartfelt Thank You to all of you who have faithfully supported the ministries
we provide here.
Given by Hilda Knox BettsIn honor and in loving memory of her family
Given by Ethel Mae BrownIn memory of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. M.Y. Brown
Given by Grace and Don DeanIn memory of Don A. DeanIn memory of Emily AlspaughIn memory of Maudie and Conrad BjerkanIn memory of Steven and Lina DeanIn memory of Mabel and Bill Byrd
Given by Carolyn DyerIn memory of Ernest and Hazel WiemannIn memory of Rick Dyer, Jr.In memory of Steven Dyer
Given by Bob and Rihab GarnerIn honor of Mary GarnerIn memory of Robert Burns Garner
2013 Poinsettias
Given by Nita GriggsIn memory of Roy Griggs
Given by George and Joan HaugerIn honor of their children
Kim and NancyRobert and AliceKathy and Scott Ostrem
In honor of their grandchildrenGeoff and AmyChristopher and OliviaJustin and Annika
In memory of their parents,Mary Eva and Leslie HaugerMartha Elizabeth Sutton
Given by James and Mary Lynn HowardIn honor of their familyIn memory of their parents
(Continued on Page 4)
Page 4
The 2013 Christmas Offering for
Regional Ministry
Disciples congregations will be receiving
these offerings on December 15 and 22
Your gifts to the Christmas Offering support all the
ministries of your regional church
The ministries of your regional church bring gifts:
v Of care and nurture of congregations and pastors through the
Regional Commission on Clergy
v Of summer ministries to children and youth who attend camps
and conferences sponsored by the Commission on Children,
Youth and Young Adults
v To those who lost homes and were injured or lost loved ones
during the May tornados
v Of consultation and direction to congregations seeking
transitional pastors or installed pastors
v Of education and resources through the annual Leadership
Training School.
A Service of Hope and Solace
Friday, December 20th
7:00 p.m. in the Chapel
The holidays are supposed to full
of joy, but for many of us finding it
is an enormous challenge. While
others are singing and shopping
and seemingly happy, some
struggle with depression, grief,
anxiety, sadness, or a sense of loss.
For those having the “Christmas
blues,” the bright lights and
sparkling traditions only heighten
the struggle to find joy.
“Blue Christmas” is a worship
service uniquely fitted to those
who find at “the most wonderful
time of the year” a paradoxical
increase in genuine feelings of
sadness and grief. True joy does
not exclude grief – it incorporates
it. “Blue Christmas” offers a special
and honest recognition of the
struggles that many people face
during this season.
All are welcome to share in this
special service and find hope and
solace in Christmas once again, and
find the Light in the darkness.
Please make your checkto First Christian Church
and mark your check“Christmas Offering.”
Given by Barbara IversonIn loving memory of Don Iverson
Given by Bobbie LewisIn honor of her family
Given by Married Peoples Class FundIn memory of their class members and history
Given by Bill and Helen PummillIn honor of their great-grandchildrenIn memory of “Tex” Houston and Kathryn Pummill
Given by Susan RorschachIn honor of Rob, Molly, Betsy, Barbara, Tom and JanIn honor of Mary Carolyn and Bob LengacherIn honor of Jay, Dayna and Bradley KrummeIn memory of Harold and Margaret RorschachIn memory of Fred and Blanche SampleIn memory of Emil and Emma Rorschach
Given by Wayna, Sharon, Wayne II and Warren RumleyIn memory of Barbara Joan Rumley, loving mother
Given by Wayne and Warren Rumley and thegrandchildren
In memory of Joe and Merwyn Wymore Rumley In memory of Gertrude R. PohlmanGiven by Wand Vint
In memory of Maurice Steele and Jesse VintGiven by Jimmie and Karen Younger
In honor of Michael and Cassie RiggsIn memory of Karenʼs sister, Peggy PumphreyIn memory of Jimmieʼs brother, Luther Younger
Given by Richard and Peggy ZiglarIn honor of the FCC staffIn honor of FCC Centenarians, Vera Winston
and Mary Howard, andIn memory of their spouses, Forrest Winston and
Sam Howard
2013 Poinsettias (cont’d)
FCC Activities and Opportunities
Page 2Page 2 Page 5
CONGREGATIONAL MEETINGCongregational Meeting on
Sunday, December 22following both worship
services to approve 2014budget.
Thursday, December 1911:00 Happy Timers, Sanctuary and
FH: A Merry Christmas MusicalMedley from the Mystery Men ofFCC”
1:30 - 8:00 LifeTouch Directory Photos Taken, Parlor7:00 Jazz to the World, Sanctuary – Reception in FH following
Friday, December 207:00 “Blue Christmas: A Service of Hope and Solace,” Chapel
Saturday, December 21Communion Preparation: Barbara Pollard & Caleb AllenSojourners Class Christmas Party at Ethel Brown’s
Sunday, December 22Fourth Sunday of Advent
NEACCO Prayer Calendar: OK Center for Community & Justice – Nancy Day9:00 Traditional Worship Service, Sanctuary – Congregational Meeting Part 1 following10:00 Breakfast for the Children, FH10:15-11:00 All Sunday School classes10:30 – 2:30 Children shop in Santa’s Workshop, Homebuilders Rm.11:15 Worship in Common Ground, Fellowship Hall – Congregational Meeting Part 2 followingCHILDREN’S PROGRAMS (Pre-K –5th grades)12:30 – 2:30 (Junior Youth Fellowship)Christmas Lunch and Activities, 3rd Fl.YOUTH PROGRAMS (6th – 12th
grades)12:30 – 2:30 (Chi Rho and CYF),Wrap Santa’s Workshop packages,EFH and video/music in FH
Monday, December 23TPS Christmas Holiday throughJan. 3rdElder of the Week: Kay Thompson8:00 Prayer Breakfast, FirstWatch, 8101 E. 68th St., Devotion: Kay Thompson
Tuesday, December 24Christmas EveCDC Closed – Christmas Break5:30 Christmas Eve service in the FH10:00 Cider and Cookies, FH11:00 Christmas Eve Service in the Sanctuary
Wednesday, December 25 – MerryChristmas!FCC and CDC Closed - Christmas
Break
Thursday, December 26CDC closed - Christmas Break
Friday, December 27CDC closed - Christmas Break
Saturday, December 28Communion Preparation: Don and Jean SwansonSunday, December 29NEACCO Prayer Calendar: Pray for the New Year and Ministries of the Christian Church (DOC) in Oklahoma9:00 Traditional Worship Service, Sanctuary10:00 Breakfast for the Children, FH10:15 Deacons Meeting, Sanctuary10:15 -11:00 All Sunday School classes11:15 Worship in Common Ground, Fellowship HallNO CHILDREN OR YOUTHPROGRAMS
Monday, December 30CDC Closed – Christmas Break
(Sandra off all week)Elder of the Week: Rihab Garner8:00 Prayer Breakfast, FirstWatch,8101 E. 68th St., Devotion: Rihab Garner
Tuesday, December 31CDC Closed – Christmas Break9:30 Prayer Group, Library
Wednesday, January 1 – HappyNew Year!
New Year’s Day -FCC & CDC Closed
Thursday, January 2CDC Reopens
Friday, January 3No events scheduled
Saturday, January 4Communion Preparation:Sunday, January 5Season of Epiphany beginsNEACCO Prayer Calendar: First Christian Church, Bartlesville9:00 Traditional Worship Service, Sanctuary10:00 Breakfast for the Children, FH10:15-11:00 All Sunday School classes11:15 Worship in Common Ground,
Fellowship HallNO AFTERNOON CHILDREN OR
YOUTH PROGRAMS6:00 The Loft, North end of the youth
lounge, 4th floor
Monday, January 6Vision to be publishedElder of the Week: James Howard8:00 Prayer Breakfast, FirstWatch, Devotion:
Tuesday, January 79:30 Prayer Group, Library11:00 Barbara Griffin Memorial Service, Chapel
Wednesday, January 810:00 Staff Meeting, EFHMidweek Peak Resumes5:30 Light Supper - $5 FH6:00 Bible Study, FHAdult Choir Program7:00 Sanctuary Choir, Choir Rm.
Thursday, January 910:00 a.m. Members packing Snack Packs, SFH10:30 a.m. – Noon CWF (Disciples Women), EFH5:30 – 7:00 Outreach opportunity:Prepare and serve meal for folks atDay Center for the Homeless, 415W. Archer - Sign up sheets in MainStreet lobbyIMPORTANT!
There won’t be anyone at the frontdesk at FCC December 24 -Jan. 1st.CDC is closed and Sandra is takingvacation days. If you don’t know thechurch code, you won’t be able to getin during the day. If you need to knowthe code, call Mary Byrne or BeverlyVale Brown.
Attendance and Gifts
Page 6
Sunday, December 8(Ice and snow - no vans)
Worship9:00 Sanctuary 7211:15 Common Ground 20The Loft na Total Adults 92Children 19Total Worship Attendance 111
Sunday SchoolPreschool 5Elementary 14Youth 6Adults 49 Total Attendance 74
FinancesGeneral Fund $ 5,630.00Sunday School 8.00Loose Offering 30.00 Total $5,668.00
WWBS Fund $650.00Thanksgiving Offering
Gifts Given
Sunday, December 15
Worship9:00 Sanctuary 10511:15 Common Ground 72The Loft 23 Total Adults 200Children 90Total Worship Attendance 290
Sunday SchoolPreschool 34Elementary 56Youth 27Adults 80 Total Attendance 197
FinancesGeneral Fund $ 10,394.88Sunday School 20.50Loose Offering 80.00 Total $10,495.38
WWBS Fund $ 1,033.34Christmas Offering $ 390.00Week of Compassion 210.00
Week of CompassionIn honor and appreciation of theCustodial staff and Hospitality Team
Laurita Williams
COATS, HATS, MITTENS ANDSCARVES NEEDED!
Many of the people who visit us for
snack packs need warm outdoor
clothing. If you can spare any of these
please bring them to church next trip.
Thank you!
First Christian Church Downtown Tulsa - 5:30 PM & 11 PM
January
DecemberDecember 19: Caleb Allen, Mary LouGibson, Heather MurphyDecember 20: Velma Pishel,Montana PoorboyDecember 22: Christy BrooksDecember 25: Diane SmalingDecember 26: Bob GardnerDecember 27: Pauline Adkins, JohnAlspaugh, Susan Clay, HaroldHatfield, Maggie LargessDecember 28: Jack Elswick, GrantParkerDecember 29: Rick BowlinDecember 31: Becky Gray
January 1: Jack SandersJanuary 3: Gloria TigerJanuary 4: Jim AlspaughJanuary 5: Chip Daughtry, JoAnneWilkinsonJanuary 6: Suzy Fisher, MaxineHowellJanuary 7: Melvin Johnson,Kira SeeJanuary 9: Derrick Hildebrant,Don RayJanuary 10: Shawn Casey,Gena GwartneyJanuary 11: Darlene Blackburn, TerryCapria, Marsha RogersJanuary 12: Kari Alspaugh,Reagan Blackburn, Della Davidson,Tyler MillerJanuary 15: Damacio Britt,Lucena Britt
grateful to all who have generouslyresponded with their gifts of time,talent and treasure! One hundred seventeen peoplehave pledged $445,137 for nextyear’s ministries! If you have notyet done so please send yourpledge card in this week, or call or e-mail Mary Byrne [email protected] if youprefer, and we’ll include your re-sponse with our gifts to God for thecoming year. Blessings!
2014 Pledge Update We have received 121 commit-
ment cards for 2014. We are
Camp Christian has an anonymous benefactor who will match dollar-for-dollar funds raised for this cam-
paign. The campaign will end April 1, 2014. Please consider a one-time gift or a monthly gift. Make your
check payable to First Christian Church (memo “Camp Christian Update”).
Remember, every $1 you give will mean $2 for Camp Christian. Your generosity is appreciated.
“CAMP CHRISTIAN UPDATE” FUND
First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) 913 S. Boulder, Tulsa, OK • 918.582.8237 • fcctulsa.org First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) 913 S. Boulder, Tulsa, OK • 918.582.8237 • fcctulsa.org Page 7Page 2
Prayers and Cares
SPARKLE from page 1
NO MIDWEEK PEAK FORDECEMBER 25 OR
JANUARY 1CLOSED FOR CHRISTMAS BREAK
Midweak Peak will resume on
January 8. When Reverend Riggs
returns from a pilgrimage to the
holy land, he will begin a new study
on the Book of Mark.
MEMORIAL SERVICE
Barbara Griffin - Memorial Service, Jan. 7 at 11 AM in the Chapel
HEALTH
John and Donna Ackenhausen
Kay Bauter
Shirley Bennett
Marcia Boyd
Mardell Campbell
Jerry Carlton
Pat and Jim Dalby
Jeff Daniel
Della Davidson
Dollie Dorough
Linda Douglas
David and Beth Dunning
Carolyn Dyer
Jarrod Elmore
Krista English, cancer
Jerry Gay
Les and Marcia Hames
Hope Harder
OTHER
Turner, Webster and Anderson families
Louis Hayward
Hugh Henderson
Brandy Iliff
Dan Kimes, organ tuner
Paul Moffett
Rossie Patterson
Veda Riggs
Ethan Wesley Rosell, infant great-grand
nephew of Jimmie and Karen Younger
Sarah Jane Sackett
Beverly Southard
Cynthia Stevens
Libby Stoppard
Les and Wanda Warehime
Anne Webb
Arthena Young
The
Wilder
Side
Millie and
Jack Elswick
were walking
on air Sun-
day! Their
grandson, Barrett, will be home for
Christmas!! They will have their
celebration next Sunday.
Bill and Lucy Spear had a fun trip
to Nashville, with their daughter
Cindy. They went to the “Grand Ole
Opery”, and to see the Gatlin
Brothers, Vince Gill and the Lori
Morgan Christmas Show. Best of
all, they stayed at the Gaylord
Hotel! It is so huge, they had to
have a map to get around in it. Oh
yeah, they got to see The
Rockettes, too. Sounded like a
great trip.
Marcia Hawkins is going with the
same travel people, after Christ-
mas, to Pasadena to see the Rose
Bowl Parade.
Joyce Marston is spending
Christmas in Kansas with her son’s
family. Hilda Betts is going to
Austin to be with her kids. Gay and
her son Scott Wion are flying to
Houston Christmas Eve, to be with
Todd and Suzanne and Sean and
Ginna Ray, and their almost baby!
Paul and Kay Thompson will
return to Ft. Worth where all of their
children and grandchildren will
meet for the Holidays.
Sure was glad to see Cindy and
Joe Semones in church Sunday. I’m
glad they are close to home again.
A sign at a Propane filling station:
“Thank heaven for little grills.”
See you at Church, Ruthie
Prayers for
Jarrod Elmore
Jarrod Elmore, FCC’s
contemporary worship leader,
was hospitalized on November
24 following injuries sustained
from a seizure. He was released
earlier this month but is
currently unable to fulfill his
duties while he undergoes
additional treatment.
The Personnel Committee
has placed him on an unpaid
leave-of-absence through mid-
February while he continues on
his path of recovery. Please
keep Jarrod in your prayers, and
pray for our church as we move
forward with our contemporary
worship in his absence.
Does it mean anything real anymore?
Are we just going through the motions
because they’re familiar to us? Oh,
we may verbally acknowledge that
“Jesus is the reason for the season”
but that phrase has become a cliché,
tired and worn out, no longer
convicting or convincing. Is Christmas
still relevant to our human condition,
or has the celebration of Christmas
been reduced to shopping, parties,
and presents?
Here are some questions we need
to ask if Christmas is going to have
any real meaning beyond a
regurgitation of popular and secular
culture: What does it mean that God
would come to us in the form of a tiny
human baby? Why would God do
that? Why would we need God to do
that? Why would we want God to do
that? Something happened for the
Word of God to choose to become
human flesh and dwell among us. We
were looking for a Messiah, and God
gave us one. Why were we looking?
Are we still in need of one? These
questions lie at the very heart of our
faith, deep and difficult questions that
give us cause to wrestle with the
Divine Mystery in worship and prayer
and service.
This Christmas Eve, come and
experience the Divine Mystery as we
gather with carols, communion, and
candlelight. Come and discover the
hope that sustains us as we wait for
the coming of Christ. Come and
discover the peace God promises us.
Come and discover the joy we share
in his coming. Come and discover the
love surrounding us. Come and
discover light and life. Come and
discover anew the reason for our
celebration.
“O come, all ye faithful, joyful and
triumphant,
O come ye, O come ye, to
Bethlehem.
Come and behold Him, born the
King of angels...”
Our Christmas Eve services begin
at 5:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall
and 11:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary.
O come, my sisters and brothers,
let us adore Him.
Soli Deo Gloria,
Rev. Michael
“O come, all ye faithful...”
I don’t know about you, but I’m not
ready for Christmas. I haven’t had
time to put up any lights; I haven’t
done any shopping yet; Cassie and I
haven’t been able to send out any
Christmas cards; we haven’t even
gotten out our Christmas tree yet (and
our cats are losing their patience on
that one). I am SO not ready for
Christmas. In fact, I’m extraordinarily
unprepared for Christmas – eek!!
It seems that every year the
Christmas season comes earlier and
earlier. Coffeeshops and shopping
malls have been playing the old
familiar carols for a couple of months,
already. My mailbox has been stuffed
so full of advertisements on holiday
sales that I fear the retailers are
putting trees onto the endangered
species list. Things just seem to get
busier and busier and I never feel
ready for Christmas. By the time it
comes, after I’ve made the Herculean
effort to get everything done, I’m so
glad it’s all over and I don’t have to
go through the holiday madness for
another eleven months. Or will it be
only ten?
Does something seem wrong with
the way we do this holiday hurricane
of Christmas?
It got them thinking
about gifts they could
give of themselves – no
price tag attached. We
had twelve booths set
up where children could
make their own nativity
scene, fashion a jingle
bells necklace, or paint a stained glass
ornament for their home.
At the sparkle box booth, the kids
had the opportunity to write down
what they would give to the new king
(see story on page 1). We had over 90
children participating in the activities,
including having their picture taken
with Santa.
And, this weekend we conclude the
Advent message with a visit to Santa’s
workshop, where each child – no
matter what his or her economic
circumstances are, will have an
opportunity to select gifts for their
family members. This is entirely
sponsored by FCC.
Beverly Vale Brown
2014 DEACONS MEETINGDecember 29th at 10:15
in the Sanctuary
DECEMBER 29thRecognition of 2013 Officers,
Elders, Deacons, Trustees andMinistry Council
in Worship Services
JANUARY 5thInstallation of 2014 Officers,
Elders, Deacons, Trustees andMinistry Council
in Worship Services
JANUARY 12thElders will serve Communion
to Home-Centered
A publication of First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), Tulsa Vol. 18, Number 24 December 20, 2013
First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) 913 S. Boulder, Tulsa, OK • 918.582.8237 • fcctulsa.org First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) 913 S. Boulder, Tulsa, OK • 918.582.8237 • fcctulsa.org
The First Christian Church VISION (USPS 012-958) is
published semi-monthly for its members by First
Christian Church at 913 South Boulder Ave., Tulsa,
OK, 74119-2097. Periodicals postage paid at Tulsa,
OK. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to VISION,
913 S. Boulder Ave., Tulsa, OK 74119-2097.
Serving Schedule Sunday, December 22Elder Prayers: 9:00 James Howard, offering; Jean Swanson, communionScripture Reader: Don BrooksElder of the Week: (December 23) Kay ThompsonCommunion Preparation: Barbara Pollard and Caleb AllenDeacons serving communion: Susan McKee, Thressa Northcutt, Bill Northcutt,Kate Northcutt, Bob Parks, Sue Parks, Millie Elswick, Marcia Boyd, MargaretCulley, Hunter BlackburnGreeters: Helen and Bill PummillFlowers for Sunday, December 22: The flowers are given by Tom Nulf in lovingmemory of his wife, Glenda.Flower delivery week of December 22: David and Maggie Thompson
Serving Schedule Sunday, December 29Elder Prayers: 9:00 Molly Krumme, offering; Jennifer Annis, communionScripture Reader: Sharon RegneryElder of the Week: (December 30) Rihab GarnerCommunion Preparation: Don and Jean SwansonDeacons serving communion: Susan McKee, Thressa Northcutt, Bill Northcutt,Kate Northcutt, Bob Parks, Sue Parks, Millie Elswick, Marcia Boyd, MargaretCulley, Hunter BlackburnGreeters: Helen and Bill PummillFlowers for Sunday, December 29: Paul and Mardell Campbell give the flowersin honor of their five great-grandchildren: Eleanor, Audrey, Sophie, Chloe and Jack.Flower delivery week of December 29: Helen and Bill Pummill
Serving Schedule Sunday, January 5Elder Prayers: 9:00 Sandra Lewis, offering; Brian Knight, communionScripture Reader: Molly KrummeElder of the Week: (January 6) James HowardCommunion Preparation: Ray WrightDeacons serving communion: Raylene Barclay, Christy Brooks, Don Brooks, JimFreeman, Sandra Freeman, Mary Garner, Joyce Kendall, Bobbie LewisGreeters: Helen and Bill PummillFlowers for Sunday, December January 5: The flowers are given by SueTrimble in loving memory of her husband, Ray, whose birthday would have beenJanuary 1st.Flower delivery week of January 5: Mardell and Paul Campbell
Aga-PatrianNext Sunday: Weʼll continue RomansLast Sunday: Romans 8: 18-30; weserved breakfast to the children.Class Concerns: Pray for all our classmembers who couldnʼt be with us todayUpcoming Events: Santaʼs WorkshopDate: Dec. 22 from 10:30 - 2:30Volunteers are needed to help childrenshop and wrap gifts.Class Concerns: Keep Vicki Vandivort inyour prayers.13 Present. RG
Double Ring
Next Sunday: Richard Lawson will teachour classLast Sunday: Charles Hargrove taughtabout God giving all the power to Jesus,his son, in heaven and earth.Upcoming Events: Christmas party onDecember 16th (Mon.) 6:30 pm, FH.Celebrations: Mary Lou Gibson and JackElswickʼs birthdaysClass Concerns: Bobbie Lewis, David andElizabeth Dunning38 Present. JAG
Homebuilders
Next Sunday: Bob Rorschach will teachLast Sunday: Clarke Kendall gave ourlesson.Upcoming Events: Happy TimersDate: December 19th at 11:00Place: Fellowship HallCelebrations: Merry Christmas! God blessus every one!Class Concerns: Our homeboundmembers. We wish them well for theChristmas season.16 Present. LS
Sojourners.Upcoming Events: Christmas Party.Date: December 21st at Ethel Brownʼs6 Present. CD
Sunday
School
Class
News
9:00 am Traditional, Sanctuary
10:00 am Breakfast for Children
10:15–11:00 am Sunday School
11:15 am Common Ground
Fellowship Hall
6:00 pm The Loft
(1st
and 3rd
Sundays)
Page 8
Love from the Sparkle Box
Outreach team member Cassie Gray shared
this experience of children participating in FCC
advent activities with Director of Children's
Ministries, Beverly Vale Brown:
"Wasn't the advent festival great?! The room
was filled with so much joy, love, and holiday
spirit. This year the Outreach Committee
sponsored a table for the children to make
their very own Sparkle Boxes. The Sparkle Box
is a box to put our gifts for Jesus.
"After the children decorated their boxes they
were encouraged to write down one gift for
Jesus. One young boy eagerly wrote his gift on
his piece of paper and proudly showed it to me.
On the piece of paper, it simply said "my love."
Wow! There is no question that this church is
making a difference!"
Advent Activies Offer Many Opportunities
to Give from the Heart
Advent Festival last Sunday be-
gan with member Becky Gray read-
ing from the Sparkle Book, which
presents things a young person can
put in their Sparkle Box, things like
community service or helping a
family member or another person.
Some suggestions were as simple
as giving someone a smile or a hug,
making your bed, or putting your
toys away. The suggestions were
written on paper stars hanging on
the Sparkle Tree in the main lobby.
This was how the children got
started on their advent experience. Jim and Becky Gray with gifts for
Santa’s Workshop(See SPARKLE page 7)
Special Christmas
Activities
Friday, December 20
7:00 “Blue Christmas: A Service
of Hope and Solace,” Chapel
Sunday, December 22
9:00 Worship, Sanctuary
Congregational Meeting Part 1
10:30 – 2:30 Children shop in
Santa’s Workshop,
Homebuilders Rm.
11:15 Worship Common Ground,
Fellowship Hall
Congregational Meeting Part 2
12:30 – 2:30 Chi Rho and CYF
Wrap Santa’s Workshop packages
Tuesday, December 24
5:30 Christmas Eve Service,
Fellowship Hall
10:00 Cider and Cookies, FH
11:00 Christmas Eve Service
in the Sanctuary
See Page 2 for more
important dates.