November 2019Issue 71

Volume 11

First United Presbyterian Church1303 Royal Heights Road • Belleville, IL 62223

618.233.0295 • www.firstunitedpres.org

We are a Christian church that glorifies God through meaningful worship, active discipleship,

faithful service and nurturing fellowship.

Worship

as Thanksgiving

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WORSHIPSCHEDULE

November 3

8:00 & 10:30 am

Not a Quitter

Psalm 136

November 10

8:00 & 10:30 am

Improv Sunday

Congregation will choose

November 17

8:00 & 10:30 am

What I Really Believe

Romans 1:8-12

November 24

8:00 & 10:30 am

Worship As Thanksgiving

Hebrews 10:19-25; Psalm 150

Worship As Thanksgiving

It was my first Thanksgiving at my in-laws. I was trying to sneak in some football watching in a household that evidently didn’t know that you are

supposed to watch the Dallas Cowboys play football on Thanksgiving. I did catch that they got the turkey, dressing, pies, etc. right, but there were other weird things happening. Several hours before the meal, a plate of pickles and green olives was placed out for snacking. Green olives... yuck! Then, when it was time for the meal, they put this bowl of purple stringy stuff out on the table. I just stared at it. “What is that?” “It’s red cabbage,” replied my mother-in-law. “That’s not red,” I thought to myself.

We passed the serving bowls and I tried a little of everything to be polite... even the red cabbage. This was my first time eating a Thanksgiving meal

where there were things on the table that I didn’t like. I started trying some things. Some new things I liked. Some I did not. The red cabbage went into the “How do I feed this to the dog?” category. As the years of shared family Thanksgiving meals continued, I noticed some things. I noticed which foods my sister-in-law really loved. I noticed my wife really enjoyed the green olives. I did not know that she liked olives that much. I saw my other relatives each take a bit of everything, but each one had one or two things that were really piled on the plate. And after a while, it started to seem wrong if one of those items was missing from the table, even the things I didn’t like. We needed each item so that everybody had something they really liked. We wanted everyone to be fed and to feel personally welcome at the table.

Worship is like a Thanksgiving table. We hope to have several aspects for each person to connect with God. We also know that means each

person will have the equivalent of green olives and red cabbage to suffer. At the end of the Thanksgiving meal, I’m glad that my wife gets her green olives. And now, several years later, I actually love red cabbage! When you worship at First United, I hope you get your olives, and I hope you come to love the red cabbage. I hope you can feel the connection with God and rejoice in looking two pews over and seeing someone pile up enjoyment of something that you simply do not find appealing. In the end, it is about giving thanks and rejoicing in our worship of God together.

In Christ, Pastor Rob

Welcome New Members!On Sunday, October 6, these new members were received (left to right): Brandy Englert, Lynda Fish, Mitch Fish. Please make our new members feel welcome.

P H O T O S B Y J O H N M A N N

Ministering to God’s People

Family News Information current as of October 27

In Our Prayers

November 3USHERING 8:00 amConi JacksonKathy SchmidtUSHERING 10:30 amAdrian CroissantNathan DyerWill GagenDennis HubbardGrace KearnsMarrisa KearnsSusy RybickiColin WiltsieLITURGISTDick PalmerAMBASSADORSBrenda & Roger DollPHONEMary TeagueBUS DRIVERDanny HalelCOUNTERSRoger CoxKevin MederCOFFEE HOUR Volunteers Needed SOUND OPERATORAl KrausVIDEO OPERATORAlex TambalaCHILDCARE ATTENDANTSPat HargroveDiane Winland

November 10USHERING 8:00 amDan BainterLou Stark USHERING 10:30 amBrenda DollSharon GaskillGavin GuinnMandy & John GuinnMarian & Jim MorrisBetty ScherrerACOLYTESJames JensenOlivia KrausLITURGISTDelaney GilesAMBASSADORDaphne SumnerPHONEJane WilkinBUS DRIVERMatt HallCOUNTERSRoger CoxKevin MederCOFFEE HOURVeterans’ Life GroupSOUND OPERATORDan HarresVIDEO OPERATORRich StehnachCHILDCARE ATTENDANTSAmy AbernathyElizabeth Schramm

November 17USHERING 8:00 amDonna BockBillie & Steve ChaneyUSHERING 10:30 amCyndi & Ed LangenAmber LankfordRachel LankfordShawn Lankford Lily MokriakowBruce ReederSharon & Larry ScottACOLYTERyley BreeceLITURGISTKristen LinkAMBASSADORRosemary EhrsteinPHONEPam HalelBUS DRIVERKevin MederCOUNTERSRoger CoxKevin MederCOFFEE HOURDeaconsSOUND OPERATOR Mark VandiverVIDEO OPERATORAlex TambalaCHILDCARE ATTENDANTSPam HalelJessica Mokriakow

November 24USHERING 8:00 amDan O’SabenTerri O’SabenUSHERING 10:30 amAmy AbernathyGrace FarinasDelaney GilesDan HarresJohn MannACOLYTEKayta GilesLITURGISTJohn MannAMBASSADORSharon GaskillPHONELinda Gurr BUS DRIVERRoger Cox COUNTERSJoe Harnist Dennis HubbardCOFFEE HOUR Volunteers Needed SOUND OPERATORDave EppsVIDEO OPERATORRich StehnachCHILDCARE ATTENDANTSKeely & Mike GilesLeah Lankford

For Donna Nowak, Stephanie Nowak, and family on the death of Donna’s husband, Bruce Nowak, who died on October 15. For Sharon and Larry Scott and family on the death of Sharon’s son, Justin Heath, who died on October 18 in Belleville. For the family of Margaret Gilligan who died on October 18 in Fairview Heights.

Our Deepest Sympathy

Sally & Jim BeairdNicole BreiningIrene CoverdellMarguerite FrenchHelen Handley-FabreJune JohnsonLucile Katty

Albert Killmeier (Marti Gibson’s brother) & familyHenri & Ted LawrenceLaura MailanderEvelyn MeyerLane MillerNancy Reinecker

Don RhodesMarge SchanuelSteve SchmidtWanda Lee SchmidtIsabelle Vogel

All world leadersAll missionaries Our enemiesOur eldersOur deaconsOur trustees Our Church staffOur Stephen Ministers

Presbyterian Community PreschoolOur efforts to grow spiritually Our efforts to express our faith clearlyOur efforts to discover & use our spiritual gifts

Our efforts to serve the communityOur efforts to care for one anotherOur efforts to reach new believersPeople who are depressed and anxious

FUPC CirclesCelebrate the Past: Presbyterian WomenEmbrace the Future: FUPC CirclesAfter much prayer and discussion, women who were currently active in First United’s Presbyterian Women voted to formally disband as a local chapter of the Presbyterian Women (PW) national organization. Three former PW circles will continue to meet monthly with the purpose to nurture women’s faith through prayer and Bible study:

• Lydia Circle, 7:00 pm, 2nd Thursday, Room 200• Lamplighters Circle, 1:00 pm, 3rd Tuesday, Room 200• Hannah Circle, 11:30 am, 3rd Wednesday, Eversull Hall

The circles will also continue the following mission projects: Cap and Mitten Trees for Kindercottage, collection of Bingo items for Memorial Care Center, and collection of Easter items for Kindercottage. The Mission Committee will continue the monthly collection of GAMAM (Give-a-Meal-a-Month) items for the Catholic Urban Program and the collection of the 2cents-a-meal, collected at every meal served at FUPC. The 2cents-a-meal collection will be

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November 2 and 3: Annual Holzschnitzers’ ShowThe Midwestern Woodcarvers will hold their 49th annual show the first weekend in November at the Belle-Clair Exposition Hall. The hours are 9:00 am - 5:00 pm on Saturday, November 2, and 10:00 am - 4:00 pm on Sunday, November 3. Tickets are $4.00 if purchased at the door or $3.00 if purchased in advance. You can buy tickets in advance from any Helmsmen. We hope to see you there!

Did you know that the Woodcarvers group has met at First United for many years? Their carving sessions are on Mondays at 6:00 pm in Eversull Hall, except for the first week of the month when they meet on Tuesday for a business meeting. Newcomers are always welcome, and they gladly share their expertise. Many of the woodcarvers who meet at FUPC will have their work at the show.

November 9: Community Pancake Breakfast The Community Pancake Breakfast sponsored by FUPC’s Veterans’ Life Group will be in Eversull Hall from 8:00 - 11:00 am. Come enjoy a delicious breakfast and fellowship. As always, ALL of your donations will be used throughout the year for Veterans support and needy organizations in our community. Hope you can join us!

November 23: 2019 Fall Quilt CampProjects for the Fall Quilt Camp include potholders for microwave dishes, hot pads, and table runners. There is no need to bring fabric unless you want to use a specific fabric. Bring a rotary cutter, cutting mat, scissors, and a sewing machine. Call Diane, 717-756-9133, if you have questions.

December 7: Save the Date for Breakfast with Santa The Presbyterian Community Preschool invites you to spend a special morning with Santa on Saturday, December 7, starting at 10:00 am. Come to Eversull Hall and enjoy a yummy breakfast of donuts, muffins, juice, hot chocolate and coffee. Bring a camera to take your own family photo with Santa! The cost is $3 per person or $15 per family. Enter through the Royal Heights Road entrance.

Christmas Season WorshipPlease share these worship times with family and friends as we move into the Advent Season.Sunday, December 22: Regular Sunday schedule with the Christmas Cantata sung by the Chancel Choir during the 10:30 serviceTuesday, December 24: Christmas Eve services at 4:00 and 7:00 pm Sunday, December 29: Worship services at 8:00 and 10:30 am; no Sunday School at 9:15 am

given to two local food pantries.

All financial assets will be disbursed as listed below: Presbyterian Disaster Assistance 3000.00Presbyterian Preschool Scholarships 2000.00Marion Medical Mission Scholarships 2000.00FUPC Ray Anger Scholarship Fund 2000.00FUPC Paul Cornell Scholarship Fund 2000.00Marion Medical Mission (4 wells) 1800.00FUPC Youth Ministries Scholarships 1000.00SWIC Soup Foundation 1000.00FUPC Deacons Fund (Eye & Dental) 500.00Presbyterian Children’s Home 500.00Kemmerer Village in Assumption, IL 500.00Violence Prevention Center 500.00Total $16,800.00

In addition, any remaining funds from the PW accounts will be given to the Deacon Fund.

Worship Pledges & Contributions Attendance* as of September 30, 2019Week 1 40 - 219 - 26 Estimates of Giving $55,273.13 Week 2 34 - 199 - 34 Loose Offerings 587.25 Week 3 44 - 205 - 29 Per Capita 100.00Week 4 35 - 224 - 30 Schnucks eScrip Cards .25Week 5 40 - 228 - 35 Capital Campaign Funds 5,268.55 Additional Information: *8:00-10:30-Wednesday Online Giving** 7,108.00 * * The Online Giving amount is not a separate income, but is incorporated in the other income categories.

If you have questions, please contact the Budget Committee Chair, Elder Lorenzo Clayton, 541-0101.

September 2019

P H O T O B Y D I A N E R I C H A R D S O N

Adult DiscipleshipThoughtful Christian Gathering (Sundays, 9:15 am, Conference Room, 200)• November 3: Reading through Ephesians (Roger Doll) Join this class as members will read through Paul’s Letter to the Ephesians. Paul’s main topics are God’s eternal plan for all humanity and the implications of God’s grace for the church, individuals and families.• November 10 & 17: Judaism (Danny Halel)Most Christians are aware that our faith is grounded in the Jewish faith. What we call the Old Testament is really the Scripture for the Jews. Many of us have Jewish friends and are respectful of their faith. But do we really know how they live their faith? What are the different groups of Jews, what holidays do they celebrate, how are we similar, and what do we learn from them? Session 1 examines the history of the Jewish people and where they live today. Session 2 describes the various religious days celebrated and the different groupings of Jews and how they came to be.• November 24: Seasons of the Church Year (Jackie Bainter)Why is the church decorated in purple during Lent? Why is

Christmas always on December 25, but Easter is a different date each year? What is Ordinary Time? These and other basic but often unanswered questions in the liturgical life of churches are answered in this study. Participants are guided through the liturgical calendar and given a chance to discuss the various seasons.

Adulting (Sundays, 9:15 am, Library)• November 3, 17, 24: Grab a cup of coffee and join other adults in the Library for conversation about everyday life and faith. • November 10: Yoga with Tina Steibel of Yoga without Walls. Bring a yoga mat if you have one. Tina will have a few extras. Wear comfy clothes that will allow full range of motion, and meet in the Library.

Chair YogaNovember 17: Tina Steibel of Yoga without Walls will lead a time of chair yoga and meditation. Wear clothes that will allow full range of motion, and come to Eversull Hall.

Adult FellowshipNovember 1: Sand DollarsThe Sand Dollars will meet in Eversull Hall on Friday, November 1, at 6:30 pm for dinner and a meeting. If you are a family (children included), a couple, or single adult and would like to share a meal in a very relaxed atmosphere with Christian fellowship, please come and join us. For anyone who is interested, contact our Skippers, Brenda and Joe Fedak, 233-1213 or Jan and Dennis Nevois, 277-4383.

November 8: Merry MatesMerry Mates will gather on Friday, November 8, at 6:00 pm in Eversull Hall for dinner and a program. Kathy Harryman will give a presentation on monarch butterflies. Any and all are invited to come enjoy good food and fellowship! For more information, contact Erma Jean and Dale Vandiver, 233-6833.

November 16: HelmsmenThe Helmsmen Mariners will gather in Eversull Hall on Saturday, November 16, for a night of Christian fellowship and a potluck dinner. Dinner begins at 6:00 pm followed by a presentation by John Harryman on “Illinois Agriculture” and our regular business meeting. These monthly gatherings and our weekly Friday night dining at local restaurants, are open to anyone wanting to join us. For monthly meeting information, contact Karen or Chuck Thurig, 277-8493. For the Friday dinners, contact Frank Carter, 628-1893.

November 18: Family Stories Life GroupFamily Stories Life Group will meet at 9:00 am on Monday November 18, at Coffee with Christ located at 6 Wade Square (corner of Lebanon Avenue and Hwy. 161 in Belleville). We will share memories of past Thanksgiving holidays as well as those people and experiences for which we are thankful this year. New

participants are encouraged to attend. Call Jan, 262-894-6580, if you need a ride.

Tuesday, November 26 (*Note new day): Faith in FictionWe will continue the discussion of Disappointment River, Finding and Losing the Northwest Passage by Brian Castner. This is an historic narrative and travel memoir of North American exploration. Fourteen years before Lewis and Clark’s journey, Mackenzie set off to cross the continent of North America with a team of voyageurs and Chipewyan guides in an attempt to find a trade route to the riches of the East. What he found was a river that he named “Disappointment.” Mackenzie died thinking he had failed. He was wrong. We will meet Tuesday, November 26, at 9:00 am. If you have questions, contact Susy Rybicki at 792-9458.

Prayer Shawl MinistryThe Prayer Shawl Knitters celebrated their 12th anniversary and the gifting of shawl #2,000 over lunch at Fletcher’s Kitchen & Tap in Swansea. Twenty talented and dedicated members gathered, and we missed those who were not able to join us. We are so blessed that the loving handwork of these women has been gifted to so many and that it seems to have given the comfort and peace the shawls were meant to provide. We invite anyone who feels a God nudge to please pick up a shawl and gift it to someone for whom you are concerned. As we continue with this ministry, we invite anyone to join us who would like to participate! Please call Betty McRoberts, 235-3197, for information. You will be very welcome. Note: We will not meet in either November or December but will resume on the 4th Wednesday in January.

B Y S E A N S T R AT T O N O N U N S P L A S H

On Wednesday, October 16, over 200 volunteers gathered to package over 14,000 meals to

be delivered to the hungry overseas as part of a partnership with a group called Rise Against Hunger. In a few weeks, we will receive an email notifying us of the exact location where the meals were delivered. This evening of church members and outside community groups from businesses, youth organizations, and local colleges was an outstanding witness of the Body of Christ in action.

We began the evening in the Sanctuary with prayers and song to God. We remembered

the incredible generosity of Gene Johnson whose bequest from his estate paid for the entire event. Gene left a legacy donation to the church when he died. His family requested that the funds be used to help people in need as Gene lived his life displaying incredible generosity and volunteerism. So, a portion of his legacy gift paid for the entire event including the food and packing supplies. Through this process we also learned that Gene’s son, Larry, had organized similar events in past years. The blessings and connections of God’s Spirit were all over this event!

Gene’s generosity was combined with excellent planning from our youth ministry and

Christian education teams of volunteers. After our gathering in the Sanctuary and initial instructions, the volunteers worked in two shifts. One shift ate dinner while the other shift packed 7,000 meals for the hungry. Then the groups switched places. Each volunteer was given a specific role to play in the packing process. Every time another 1,000 meals were packed, we rang a large gong and announced the progress. The room was filled with joy and purpose all night long.

As a PCUSA Hunger Action Congregation, we are committed to participating in addressing

hunger issues at the local and global levels. Furthermore, we are committed to connecting people in the community with the life-giving faithful service that we know as followers of Jesus Christ. This event was a win from every angle and purpose. Thanks be to God for this opportunity.

-Pastor Rob

P H O T O S B Y R O B D Y E R , S T E P H A N I E F O L T Z , K A I T I E K A U T Z & A L E X L Y S D A H L

Feeding the 14,000: Accomplished!

P H O T O S B Y R O B D Y E R , S T E P H A N I E F O L T Z , K A I T I E K A U T Z & A L E X L Y S D A H L

PYC students (grades 3-5) had a fun and busy October 2019

Lock-in! 19 PYCers spent time studying Bible stories of God’s people, eating, playing games, roasting marshmallows over a fire pit and making s’mores, joining in a scavenger hunt around the dark church with Bibles and flashlights, watching a movie, and getting some sleep! After studying Psalm 136, PYCers created paintings to illustrate the 26 verses. (Their art work will be used in worship on November 3.) The next morning, they played the “Glad Game” and shared how and when they felt and feel God’s love in their lives.

Nine volunteers completed these projects: (Below l-r) raised the corner of the pavilion

7”; fixed roof joists; painted trail signs; adjusted swings; painted pavilion wall. Also completed:

P H O T O S B Y S T E P H A N I E F O L T Z

God’s Steadfast Love Endures Forever – Doesn’t Quit – Never Fails!

Adult Mission Trip to Mound Ridge Retreat

P H O T O S B Y D I A N E R I C H A R D S O N

stained a deck; installed gutters and down spouts on the Welcome Center; replaced tile in a bath room; cleaned off the roof of Main Lodge; measured for a counter in the Dining Hall.

Candy MinistryIt’s that time of year…bulk candy time! Do you have leftover Halloween candy? Think about donating it to Youth Ministries. One of the simple ministries Kaitie does is to have a basket of candy in her office. From people stopping in on a Sunday morning, to those who arrive for homework and games before youth group on a Wednesday night, the candy provides an opportunity for connection. Thank you for your contributions.

Sunday Mornings for Children & Youth (9:15 am)On Sundays, there are classes for students ages 3 through high school. Childcare is available for infants and toddlers all morning at First United. • Ages 3 – PreK: Preschool Sunday School ClassThis class is for children who have turned 3 through pre-kindergarten. Children hear Bible stories and participate in a wide range of activities such as storytelling, music, crafts, and movement. • Grades K-5: FaithQuest FaithQuest is the Sunday morning program for children in kindergarten through grade 5. Recognizing that children learn differently and through repetition, major Bible stories and concepts are taught using activities that actively engage all the senses. Students hear the same Bible lesson as they “rotate” through different learning areas to experience the story through several different ways. During November, rotations will focus on the Prophets Elijah, Elisha, Isaiah, and Jeremiah. • Grades 6-8: KIX (Kids in Christ) Sunday SchoolThis group meets in a room specifically set aside for them. These students delve more deeply into the meaning of the Bible, expanding their knowledge. Another very important component is the fellowship they share, discussing their everyday joys and challenges with each other.• Grades 9-12: TIM (Teens In Ministry) Sunday SchoolTeens meet in a room specifically set aside for them. Students participate in discussions and Bible study each week. They use a variety of curricula, all designed to help them continue growing in their knowledge of God’s work.

Sunday Mornings for Children during 10:30 WorshipChildren’s Chapel, for ages 3 through 3rd gradeFirst United recognizes the importance of even our youngest members experiencing worship with the rest of our faith community. During the 10:30 worship service, all children ages 3 and up attend the first part of the worship service with their families. After the pastor shares time with the children, students ages 3 through 3rd grade are invited to leave with adult Worship Leaders and Greeters to attend their own carefully designed, age appropriate worship time in Children’s Chapel. Parents are also always welcome to keep their children with them in worship. During November, the children will hear the stories of The Promised Land; The Temple, A House for God; Exile and Return; and How the Church Tells Time.

Wednesday Evenings for Children and Youth at FUPCThe Christian Education Committee offers three programs for children on Wednesday evenings. For more information on these groups, contact Stephanie Foltz, Director of Christian Education.

Children & Youth Life • Infants through 3 years old: GLC (God’s Loving Care) (5:30-7:30 pm) In addition to lots of TLC (tender loving care), there is play time, Bible story time, and a response activity. They join older children and youth for dinner. (Childcare until 8:00 pm is provided for children whose parents are in choir or those with older siblings in KIX or TIM.)• Age 4 – 2nd grade: GFF (God’s Faithful Friends) (5:30-7:30 pm) Students gather for game time, dinner, Bible story time, response time with craft or service, and worship. • Grades 3-5: PYC (Presbyterian Youth Club) (5:30-7:30 pm) For PYCers, there is game time, dinner, Bible study time, service opportunities, worship, and lots of fellowship. • Homework Club (7:30-8:00 pm) is provided for those in GFF and PYC with older siblings in KIX/TIM or whose parents are in choir. Students should bring homework or a book.

The Youth Ministries Committee offers programs on Wednesdays for youth in grades 6-12. For more information on these programs, contact, Kaitie Kautz, Director of Youth Ministries.• Grades 6-8: KIX (Kids in Christ) • Grades 9-12: TIM (Teens in Ministry) The typical schedule for KIX and TIM is (5:30-6:00 pm) Homework and Games;* (6:00-6:30 pm) Dinner; (6:30-7:30 pm) Worship/Discussion; (7:30-8:00 pm) Homework and Games* (*Arrive early or stay late for games, fellowship or doing homework.)

Youth Bus Transportation on WednesdaysBus transportation to the church is available for PYC, KIX, and TIM participants. If you need a ride, please contact Kaitie Kautz, 233-0295 or kkautz@firstunitedpres.org, no later than 2:00 pm on a Wednesday.

November 9: TIM Adventure DayJoin us for an afternoon of fun followed by preparing dinner at the Ronald McDonald house in St. Louis. We will meet at the church at 12:30 pm, having already eaten lunch, and will return around 8:00 pm.

November 20: Summer Trip Early Bird DeadlineThought about summer yet? Early bird deposit of $100 for the TIM mission trip to Green Bay, Wisconsin, or for the KIX trip to Great Escape, is due. After this date, the price increases $50. You won’t want to miss out on either of these life-changing experiences! Scholarships are available!

November 27: No GLC, GFF, PYC, KIX, and TIM Youth GroupWe will not meet the night of Wednesday, November 27. Have a great Thanksgiving break!

The Lucky Winner!Wanda Cawvey won the beautiful quilt donated by the talented FUPC Quilters for the Quilt Raffle to benefit the Professional Church Vocations Fund. The drawing was held on Sunday, October 20.

P H O T O B Y S T E P H A N I E F O L T Z

FUPC members and the Preschool families contributed 518 containers for the igloo used at this year’s Abraham Lincoln Elementary School Book Fair! Joelle Ahrens, the Book Fair chair and a Preschool Teacher Assistant at FUPC, thanks everyone for their generous support.

The middle school students gathered for a lock-in on Friday, October 11. Through games, activities and scriptures, they explored the idea that one person can make a difference.

FUPC Men’s Softball enjoyed the 2019 season, praying with the opponent after each game, spreading the love of Christ in Shiloh.

P H O T O B Y J O E L L E A H R E N S

P H O T O S B Y K . K A U T Z A N D B . M I C H A L K E

2019 Golf for YouthA big thank you to all who played, volunteered or donated to the Annual Clarence Voigt Memorial Golf Tournament at Stonewolf Golf Course. Twenty-five golfers participated and over $1,900 was raised for youth activities. Special thanks to Dennis Hubbard, Kevin Meder, and Dave Misselhorn for their help planning the event and to Bob Samples who began the outing 17 years ago! ~ Don Darnell

1st Place Flight One: Bob Gregory, Bill Shaw, Ron Noble,Tom Farquhar

Closest to Pin Contest Winners: Tom Bates (Above, left); Jim Nicholas (Above, right)

1st Place Flight Two: Joe Harnist, Dennis Hubbard, Kevin Meder, Roger Cox

Completed Igloo Ready for Book Fair

KIX Lock-In

Men’s Softball Team

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Give-a-Meal-a-Month (GAMAM)Thank you for supporting this program! The menu to the right suggests non-perishable items to buy during November. All items collected are taken to the Catholic Urban Program Food Bank which ministers to families in the Metro East. Fill up a yellow GAMAM bag or fill your own bag and bring the items to the church. Monetary gifts are also welcome; make checks payable to First United Presbyterian with the memo to GAMAM.

Wednesday Night MealsWe still need volunteers to provide a Wednesday night meal in 2020. There are many ways to support this ministry. You could “do it all” - shop, prepare, serve, and help clean up; or shop and drop off food in kitchen and the Wednesday night kitchen crew will prepare and serve; or order pizza; or write a check and the crew will do it all! So gather your family, friends or church group and contact Jess Mokriakow, 910-3738.

Hospitality MinistryThe 2020 Coffee Hour sign-up sheet is now available on the stand in the Commons. Keep us in mind when you plan your year of service. You can be as creative as you like or keep it simple. Coffee Hour is a great time to socialize, catch up with your church family and learn about activities going on in our church community. November 3 and 24 for 2019 are still open. Thank you for all of your contributions. ~ The Hospitality Committee

Consider Serving as an UsherAdditional ushers are needed for Sunday services. There is no age limit; anyone from 9th grade to 99+ years is welcome. Ushers serve a very visible and important role before, during, and after each worship service. They also help to keep the service moving smoothly. If you are interested, please contact Amy Abernathy, 578-9736, or ranja@charter.net.

Candy Ministry It’s that time of year…bulk candy time! Do you have leftover Halloween candy? Think about donating it to Youth Ministries. One

Ways to Serve and Give

of the simple ministries Kaitie does is to have a basket of candy in her office. From people stopping in on a Sunday morning, to those who arrive for homework and games before youth group on a Wednesday night, the candy provides an opportunity for connection. Thank you for your contributions!

November 24: Cap and Mitten Trees Join Hannah Circle members in contributing warm, comfortable caps, hats, gloves and mittens for the little ones at Kindercottage, infant through school age. On November 24, there will be a tree outside the Chapel and a tree in the Sanctuary Narthex. The trees will be up through Sunday, December 8. Located in East St. Louis, Kindercottage is one of the ministries First United has supported for many years.

December 7: Salvation Army Bell Ringing at the MallOur church will again help with ringing bells to collect needed funds for the Salvation Army. Our day to serve is Saturday, December 7, from 9:00 am until 7:00 pm. We will be a presence at three major entrances at St. Clair Square. This is a great family mission project where all ages can actively engage for this great cause! We encourage you to sign up in Cornell Commons or contact Nancy Kreeb, kreebnja@hotmail.com.

Menu for October

Canned Chicken

Brown or White Rice

Canned Green Vegetable (low or no salt)

Canned Whole Cranberry Sauce

Biscuit Mix (no eggs required)

Powdered Milk

Additional Items:Personal Hygiene Month

Shampoo & Conditioner

Soap

Deodorant

GIVE-A-MEAL-A-MONTH

Monetary donations always welcome.Coordinated by FUPC Mission Committee

Shirley AdamsSharon BainterNorman BechererLynn BertrandShirley CallisonBob CrawleyHelen DissettWilliam DissettWayne DonaldsonMaribeth DuncanTodie ElseaRichard Feldmann

Peggy FoltzLena Mae GamblinMargaret GilliganSandra Kay GuentherEarl GussHarry Robert HallVirginia HarresJustin HeathLucille IsomNorma JacksonGene JohnsonDoris Kempfer

Kenneth KrausRuth KunstmanLarry LeiperJeannette LibbertonSherry LintonLee MikesellVernon MonkenBruce NowakJohn Jeffrey O’YoungJanet ParkerRon PedrickArt Peters

In memory of the Saints of God, those who have joined the Church Triumphant in the past year:

Mary Ellen PollockSandy RhodesRobert (Bob) RipleyDoris Sanders

A L L S A I N T S ’ S U N D A Y — N O V E M B E R 3

Coleman ScherrerCarole ThornberryTimothy VenhausWill Weeks

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 16:30 pm Sand Dollars

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 29:00 am Woodcarvers Show (Bel-Clair Fairgrounds)

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 3All Saints SundayDaylight Saving Time - Set Clocks Back One Hour8:00 am Worship 9:15 Confirmation Class9:15 am Sunday School 10:00 am Woodcarvers Show (Bel-Clair Fairgrounds) 10:30 am Worship

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 46:00 pm Metro East Chorale7:00 pm Preschool Board

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 59:30 am Quilters 9:30 am Staff Meeting6:00 pm Woodcarvers

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 68:30 am Men’s Bible Study4:00 pm Member Connections5:30 pm Children’s Programs5:30 pm Youth Homework and Games6:00 pm Children and Youth Supper7:00 pm Chancel Choir

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 710:00 am Equipping Team10:00 am Prayer Quilters10:30 am Parish Nurse Available6:00 pm Illinois Heat Volleyball

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 86:00 pm Merry Mates7:00 pm MaryMarthas

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 98:00 am Veterans’ Group Community Pancake Breakfast 9:00 am Presbytery Gathering at Washington Presbyterian12:30 pm TIM Adventure Day

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 10Recognition of Veterans8:00 am Worship9:15 am Sunday School 10:30 am Worship12:00 pm Youth Ministries

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 11Veterans’ Day - Church Closed 6:00 pm Metro East Chorale6:00 pm Woodcarvers7:00 pm Trustees

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 129:30 am Quilters9:30 am Staff Meeting6:30 pm Session

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 138:30 am Men’s Bible Study1:00 pm Personnel Committee5:30 pm Children’s Programs5:30 pm Youth Homework and Games6:00 pm Children and Youth Supper7:00 pm Chancel Choir 7:00 pm Deacons

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 14Steeple Deadline7:30 am Veterans’ Group Breakfast (Belleville Denny’s)10:00 am Prayer Quilters10:30 am Parish Nurse6:00 pm Illinois Heat Volleyball7:00 pm Lydia Circle

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 166:00 pm Helmsmen

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 178:00 am Worship9:15 am Sunday School10:30 am Worship11:45 am Evangelism Meeting

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 189:00 am Family Stories Life Group (Off-site)6:00 pm Metro East Chorale6:00 pm Woodcarvers

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 199:30 am Quilters9:30 am Staff Meeting1:00 pm Lamplighters5:30 pm Budget/Finance Committee5:45 pm Christian Education Committee

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 208:30 am Men’s Bible Study11:30 am Hannah Circle5:00 pm Worship Committee5:30 pm Children’s Programs5:30 pm Youth Homework and Games6:00 pm Children and Youth Supper7:00 pm Chancel Choir

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2110:00 am Prayer Quilters10:30 am Parish Nurse Available6:00 pm Illinois Heat Volleyball

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 22

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 238:00 am Fall Quilt Camp

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 248:00 am Worship9:15 am Sunday School10:30 am Worship3:00 pm No-Name Chorale Concert

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 256:00 pm Metro East Chorale6:00 pm Woodcarvers

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 269:00 am Faith in Fiction (Note: New Day)9:30 am Quilters9:30 am Staff Meeting

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 27No Preschool 8:30 am Men’s Bible Study9:00 am Prayer Shawl Ministry9:00 am Steeple VolunteersNo Children and Youth ActivitiesNo Chancel Choir

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 28Thanksgiving - Church Closed

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29Church Closed for Thanksgiving

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 308:00 am Hanging the Greens

Calendar of Events November 2019

S AV E T H E D AT E

December 4TIM Christmas

Party

December 7Santa Breakfast

December 7Salvation Army

Bell Ringing at the Mall

December 8 & 15Merry Mates Cookie Walk

December 11KIX Christmas

Party

December 22Christmas Cantata

December 24Christmas Eve

Worship Services 4:00 & 7:00 pm

December 25Christmas Day

Dinner

Flower Calendar InformationThe Chapel flower calendar is on the bulletin board in the Royal Heights hall. The Sanctuary calendar is on the bulletin board by the Music Room. Flowers can be a memorial or in celebration of an event. Please fill out the card next to the flower calendars, include wording for the bulletin, and return the card to the Church Office.

Dill’s Florist handles the orders. Sanctuary flowers are two vases for $50 and one vase for $25. Chapel flowers are two vases for $35 and one vase for $17.50. To request something special, contact the florist, 234-2056. You can also order from any florist, but please let LuAnn Orlet know.

Legacy In this season of Thanksgiving, show gratitude by remembering First United in your estate plan.

THE STEEPLE1303 Royal Heights RoadBelleville, IL 62223

Publication Postage

USPS 442-180Belleville, IL

PAID

F I R S T U N I T E DP R E S B Y T E R I A N

Senior Pastor / Head of Staff rdyer@firstunitedpres.orgThe Rev. Robert J. Dyer

Associate Pastor alysdahl@firstunitedpres.org

The Rev. Alexandra K. Lysdahl

Director of Christian Education sfoltz@firstunitedpres.org

Stephanie Foltz

Director of Youth Ministries Director of Equipping Ministries

kkautz@firstunitedpres.orgKaitie Kautz

Director of Music ajensen@firstunitedpres.org

Andy Jensen

Pianist/Accompanist Diana Umali

Worship Music Leader Mat Conway

Office Staff (8:00 am - 2:00 pm) lorlet@firstunitedpres.org

LuAnn Orlet

Financial Secretary (12:30 pm - 4:30 pm) cbarrett@firstunitedpres.org

Cara Barrett

Art Director jhalton@firstunitedpres.org

Jody Halton

Director of Audio/Video Ministries videoministry@firstunitedpres.org

Loren Elliott

Childcare ProvidersMary Blodgett, Kyla Riley, Egin Willis

Parish Nurse ajlied1@aol.comJoyce Lied, RN

The Steeple Articles and Suggestions

TheSteeple@firstunitedpres.org

OUR STAFF

Turn your clocks BACK one hour.

NOVEMBER 3TIME CHANGE - FALL BACK

COMMUNITY PANCAKE BREAKFAST

Saturday, November 98:00 - 11:00 am in Eversull HallSponsored by Veterans’ Group