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BURNT STORE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
SMOKE SIGNALS
A Monthly Newsletter
December 2014
S E S S I O N
M I N I S T R I E S
Session - Ruling Elders
Class of 2014
Joan Cox
Rebecca Nicholson
Warren Mezger
Dave Prins
Chuck Will
Class of 2015
Bill Aiken
Kathy Bertani
Lois Gorman
Mike Huston
Joni Sandles
Class of 2016
Gary Brewster
Luceal Curry
Pete Gaylord
Barb Lohff
Mark Mills
Deacons
Class of 2014
Karen Bishop
Karen Corcoran
Jan DeWitt
Shirlou Fisher
Bonney Howard
Peg Love
Teri Prins
JoAnne Skolnik
Mary Will
Class of 2015
Donna Brast
Emma May Goddard
Joanie Huston
Shelley Jahns
Bev Long
Darlene Lull
Joy Merkel
Teresa Todino
Carol Weitz
Class of 2016
Ron Bloom
Nancy Brewster
Pat Hansen
Annemarie Klein
Barbara Klein
Ann Longenbarger
Dar Nuckols
Carolyn Peavey
Kathy Potts
Clerk of Session
Mike Huston
Ministries and Chairs
*chair
Christian Education
Congregational Care
Evangelism
Facilities and Property
Finance and Stewardship
Mission
Personnel
Worship and the Arts
Bertani* and Nicholson
Mezger* and Gorman
Will* and Gaylord
Prins* and Mills
Sandles* and Brewster
Cox* and Curry
Huston*
Aiken* and Hopkins
Moderator of Deacons
Mary Will
November • 2014
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In his blog Mark Roberts reminds us that this coming Sunday (November
30) is the first day of Advent. Advent is a season in the Christian year
that lasts for about four weeks. It begins four Sundays before Christmas
and ends on Christmas Eve, so there is some variation in its length.
In our world’s secular celebration the Christmas season (please, let us
refrain from talking about “the holiday season”) begins in the weeks prior
to Christmas Day. Generally, this season starts in early December (or late
November), though retailers have a bad habit of beginning Christmas
much, much earlier … like, for example, at the same time as Halloween.
So Advent overlaps with what is usually thought of in our culture as the
Christmas season. But its beginning and ending are well defined, and its
themes are quite a bit different from what is commonly associated with
secular Christmas celebrations.
The Christian season of Christmas actually begins on Christmas Eve and
lasts for twelve days, ending on January 6. Remember, the twelve-day
season of Christmas did not start with the song … it was the other way
around. The time before Christmas is Advent, a season of preparation for Christmas. Christians prepare
for celebrating the birth of Jesus by remembering the longing of the Jews for a Messiah. In Advent, we’re
reminded of how much we ourselves also need a Savior, and we look forward to our Savior’s second
coming even as we prepare to celebrate his first coming at Christmas.
The word Advent comes from a Latin word which means coming or visit. In the season with this name, we
keep in mind both advents of Christ, the first in Bethlehem and the second yet to come.
For those who are unfamiliar with Advent it might feel odd to think of the weeks before Christmas as
anything more than Christmastime. Frankly, until I went to college and attended a large metropolitan
Presbyterian church Advent played a very small role in my pre-Christmas thoughts. As a child, I had no
Advent calendar, but I did have a cardboard display which had windows which were to be opened each
day in December until Christmas Day.
When I was a child I loved Christmas. Part of the reason, to be sure, was because it celebrated the birth
of Jesus, but I suspect I liked it mostly because it meant presents, turkey and dressing version 2.0, a cut
tree (oh the aroma), lights and family visits. Can you identify?
There are a few other things about Advent that one might find odd if he or she is unfamiliar with the
season. One such thing might be the Advent color scheme. We associate Christmas and the weeks leading
up to it with traditional Christmas colors: red and green (and perhaps white, silver, and gold). Advent, on
the other hand, features purple (or, for some, dark blue) and (for some) pink. The purple (or blue) color
signifies seriousness, repentance, and royalty. For those who include it, pink usually points to an
additional theme of Advent … joy. If one is unfamiliar with Advent and happens to attend a worship
service in a church that recognizes Advent, he or she might be startled to see lots of purple, a bit of pink,
and no red or green at all
Compared with Christmas Advent doesn’t get much attention. In fact, some Protestants ignore Advent
altogether because it isn’t specifically taught in Scripture and because they associate it with their Roman
Catholic brothers and sisters. Secular culture ignores Advent completely because, I suspect, there just
isn’t much profit in it.
See you Sunday …
December • 2014
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WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 3: HANGING OF THE GREENS
“And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in bands of
cloth, and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them
in the inn.”
~Luke 2.7
Are you ready for Christmas? I hope not just yet. Although we’ve been
able to purchase decorations since October (maybe even September),
and I’ve been wanting to put up my Christmas tree, decorations in our
home won’t start to be placed until Thanksgiving. Someone told me
once in college that as Christians our favorite holiday should be
Easter. Well for me it’s not; it’s Christmas. I love Christmas, but I’m
certainly not ready for it yet, and I hope I’m not the only one.
Right before Christmas, we have a season for preparing called
Advent. During the season of Advent, we wait as we prepare the way
for our Lord to come. We look forward to when we will hear the
scripture in Luke that tells of the birth of Jesus. We proclaim that
just as Christ has come, he will come again.
During Advent, when we look around the sanctuary, and view the nativity scenes (crèches), we will see
Mary and Joseph, and little baby Jesus, remembering the humble birth of Christ. We will view the
shepherds, the angels, and the wise men, and recall how they came to celebrate the first Christmas.
Yet in our sanctuary, we also have an Advent wreath, poinsettias, trees, evergreens, ornaments called
chrismons, green wreaths, and white lights. The cloths in the sanctuary during Advent are changed to
purple, and this year we will also have cedar branches, holly and ivy, and candles. Why does the church
put up these decorations? Are they just there to make the sanctuary look pretty and smell good? There is
actually a reason why we place each of these in the church, for each of these, in some way, point to
Christ.
The meaning of these decorations will be unveiled on Wednesday, December 3rd at 7:00 PM during our
very first Hanging of the Greens worship service. If you come early at 6:30 PM, you will also have the
chance to listen to the Suncoast Statesmen sing for us a mini-concert. During the service, we will read
scriptures, hear the reason why each decoration is placed, and sing carols such as, “What Child is This”
and “O Come, O Come Emmanuel.”
During the carols, we will have the chance to participate in decorating our sanctuary. Yes, this year you
can place one of our decorations in the church. Some adornments will already be set, and some parts are
already assigned, but we have intentionally left certain decorations to be placed by the entire
congregation that evening. Make sure you don’t miss out on this wonderful service, your chance to
decorate the sanctuary, and the cookies and cocoa after~write it in your calendars right now!
Peace, Joy, and Good Tidings to you,
December • 2014
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Joy Toll-Chandler
BOAR'S HEAD? Isn't that a meat (or a cheese?) - that's the question I have heard a lot lately. So, here's an
explanation … hope it's helpful - and hope to see YOU and lots of your friends there!
Well, yes, as a matter of fact, Boar's Head IS indeed a brand of deli-sliced meat and cheese. However, the
Boar's Head Festival which we will celebrate in just one month is something totally different!
Boar's Head festivals originate from the 14th century - from Oxford, England. There is a legend that one of
the scholars on his way to Christmas Mass was confronted by an angry boar. He was able to kill it (with his
philosophy book!), and the head of the boar was roasted and garnished and carried in that night as
carolers sang in honor of the King of bliss. In the early 1600s, more pageantry blossomed, characters and
music were added, all symbolically participating in the grand procession. The festival came to America
during the colonial time, and continued to grow. Boar's Head events take place all over the country; those
who participate work hard to be true to tradition - food, clothing, music, and procession.
Our festival will be held on Wednesday, January 7, at 7:00PM. It promises to be a grand Epiphany
celebration! Just as the Wise Men came and brought their gifts to the Christ Child, the pageantry shows
all of the Medieval townspeople bringing their own gifts to the babe in the manger. The festival begins
with the tiny light brought into the dark church, bringing the Light of Christ into our dark world. The
arrival of the Boar's Head, carried in by the Beefeaters, symbolizes Christ's triumph over evil (the boar
was the symbol of evil). !Music announces the entry of the Lords and Ladies, carolers sing as they enter,
and an ancient tale is !"told" in music by Good King Wenceslaus and his page.
After all of the people of the village are in place, the birth of Christ is recalled in music, and with the
procession of the characters of the nativity scene. !
The music for the evening is sung by the Praise Chorale, the Praise Team (carolers), soloists, and the
congregation. The organ and the trumpet and the piano will accompany the singing, and the sound of
bagpipes promise to be heard!
Participating in the festival are MANY people from our congregation, younger and not-as-young. Come and
conclude your celebration of the birth of Christ with this first annual Boar's Head festival. The evening
will end with delicious desserts shared around the wassail bowl.
December • 2014
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Kathy Bertani and Rebecca Nicholson, Elders
Adult Studies
Making Disciples …
Part Two
January 4 – February 15
Feasting on the Word
Continue the conversation on today’s scripture as we explore one of the Bible passages from today’s
readings. With comprehensive, accessible bible background from four perspectives, and a solid scriptural
and theological base, this class will invite you deeper into the rhythm of the church year.
9:40 – 10:40
Room 3/5
Bob Lynch
If Not Now……When?
This time together covers our commitment weaknesses do to procrastination and putting off the things
that cause us stress and conflict with God. We will talk about how God can help us make good decisions.
9:40 – 10:40
Room 4
Pete Gaylord
40 Days in the Word by Rick Warren
These six sessions will inspire every member of your group to Love the Word, Learn the Word and Live the
Word! 40 Days in the Word is a journey of eternal significance, as you and your church will learn how to
be not only hearers of the Word, but also doers of God’s Word.
11:00 – 12:00
Room 3/5
Bob and Rosie Gable
December • 2014
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Chuck Will and Pete Gaylord, Elders
Membership Matters
Classes where held on November 9, 16, and 23. Following the last class a new member luncheon was held
in fellowship hall, each ministry and the new member deacons were represented.
Connecting Team
Very active. Wall of crosses is still accepting donations you can drop them off in the narthex.
2015 TGIV Series
The first TGIV was held on November 14, with the local group The Goldtones this was a well-attended
event with about 700 people in attendance, and they were dancing and singing to all the music.
Up-coming TGIV events
January 16
Soul’d Out (gospel quartet)
February 13
church talent/variety show
March 20
Sarasota Bell Group, fundraiser for Jesus Loves
You Ministry (market to area churches)
2015 Concert Series
January 12
Let’s Hang On (Frankie Valli era)
February 16
Barbary Coast Dixieland Show Band
March 16
Purdue University Glee Club
Tickets are available at the carousel and in the church office,
$50.00 for the event series.
Habitat for Humanity
This is a very active and heart-warming activity. We present a Bible
and a frog to the new home owner; many other organizations also
make donations.
Trunk o’ Treats
This was a very well attended event; over 900 children were greeted by over 30 church volunteer cars and
30 cars from other groups, over 60 cars in total.
December • 2014
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Joan Cox and Luceal Curry, Elders
Merry Christmas to all.
December is a month with much excitement in the air, through sights and sounds from our
environment. Christmas is the birth of Jesus. During this time, there may be many Mission giving
opportunities for Local, World and International Charities. One such Mission opportunity will be through
our church; with the Christmas Joy Offering Special Envelope, on December 21, 2014. This is the PC(USA)
Christmas Joy Offering. Hold on, you may ask yourself, what is a Christmas Joy Offering and How is my
gift used?
A Christmas Joy Offering: Supporting past, present, and future leaders.
The Christmas Joy Offering provides assistance for those who have dedicated their lives to the
service of the church and supports leadership development and education at Presbyterian-related
racial ethnic schools and colleges.
• When is the Christmas Joy Offering received?
The Christmas Joy Offering traditionally received during the Advent Season. The offering has been
a cherished Presbyterian tradition since the 1930’s.
• How is my gift used?
A gift to the Christmas Joy Offering helps provide financial assistance to current and former church
workers and their families, and enables deserving students to attend Presbyterian-related racial
ethnic colleges and schools.
• There are five schools and colleges eligible to receive funds from the Christmas Joy Offering.
• Many of the students attending Presbyterian-related racial ethnic colleges are the first in their
families to enroll in higher education.
•
Click on the links below for additional information on the Christmas Joy Offering.
• The Assistance Program of the Board of Pensions
! Racial Ethnic Leadership Development
Our Local Mission Opportunity for Giving:
• Mission Peniel - This Mission ministry is under Peace River Presbytery and is located in Immokalee,
Florida, that serves farm workers. A dedicated group of people travels to Immokalee, usually on the
Second Friday of each month to participate in this Mission Ministry. The opportunity to participate
in this ministry shared through our clothing ministry. Donations accepted in the clothing boxes in
the Narthex. Sonnie Bird organized and took point on the Christmas Hygiene Kits, to be delivered to
Mission Peniel in December. To help accomplish this task Judy Galpin, and Judy Fortney help Sonnie
assemble the kits for delivery. Thanks ladies for your support, greatly appreciated.
Merry Christmas
Luceal Curry
December • 2014
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Joni Sandles and Gary Brewster, Elders
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The 2015 offering envelopes will be available in the narthex beginning on Sunday, December 21. Please be
sure to stop by and pick your envelopes up. Thank you!
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Warren Mezger and Lois Gorman, Elders
I would like to wish everyone a blessed Christmas season. Safe
travels for our members who travel to spend time with family
and friends. We will be starting up Wednesday Night Sharing The Works in January. The first series will be every Wednesday,
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December • 2014
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Bill Aiken and Barb Lohff
The Worship and the Arts ministry has been working hard to finish all the details on the inaugural Hanging
of the Green program that will take place on Wednesday, December 3, 2014. You won’t want to miss this
inspiring and informative interactive evening as we transform our beautiful sanctuary into a Christmas
celebration site. This is sure to be an annual event, so mark your calendars now so you don’t miss out on
the initial kickoff of this great new tradition at Burnt Store. There will be eleven segments to the
program. Each part will have a corresponding bible passage, Christmas Carol and add one more element to
our sanctuary decoration. You will learn the biblical basis for all the traditional trimmings that we have
used for decades. The program begins at 6:30PM with a half hour concert by the Suncoast Statesmen,
followed by the Hanging of the Greens at 7:00PM. It promises to be an uplifting and joyous evening. We
hope to see everyone there.
While you have your calendars out, don’t forget to mark the next inaugural event that the Worship and the
Arts committee has been putting the final touches on in conjunction with our fabulous Music department
and many talented coordinators behind the scenes. I’m referring to the Boar’s Head Festival on
Wednesday, January 7 at 7:00PM. This traditional Renaissance Epiphany festival celebrates the birth of
Christ, the coming of the Wise Men bearing gifts, and Christ’s victory over evil. Hopefully by now you have
already signed up for one of the tableau (that translates into you don’t need to sing) characters that will
be marching down the aisle to join in the celebration of the Christ child’s birth. If not … see Joy’s office
door and choose your character. We will provide the costumes, you provide the spirit and the personality
of your chosen character.
All in all it promises to be a great Christmas season at Burnt Store. And I didn’t even mention all the
special music that each week of advent will provide. Come get involved and enjoy the season with your
friends at BSPC.
I would be remiss not to mention that if you really wanted to get involved in all the exciting new plans the
Worship and the Arts ministry is working on, we do have a couple of spots on our committee for some new
members … give us a call for more information.
Barb Lohff: 941.637.0690
or
Bill Aiken: 941.875.3552
December • 2014
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Dave Prins and Mark Mills, Elders
MY HOW TIME FLIES In the past few weeks we have seen the along awaited return of the Presbyterian
Birds. Things have returned to normal, praise be to God. Property has!been very busy this year and two
projects remain as a work in progress. The first is a new house for the church van/trailer. This precious
resource is! showing signs of needing a shelter. Church leadership has allocated approximately $3,500
from capital improvements (money held in reserve for needs of this nature). Property has acquired a
steel carport, which is 12 feet by 40 feet. A group of volunteers is currently erecting, what we will now
call, the "Presbyterian Tunnel". Please take time to view our progress.! Once completed, drivers will
round the shed complex and enter from the north into the new facility. This will facilitate both ease of
entry and exit for church drivers.
The second work in progress is the glass connector. Let me digress for a moment. You will remember
many of this year's projects have fallen into the category of renewal or updating. The glass connector
also falls into this category. This space is the first place of entry for those who transact business, at
various levels, with our church. It is also a space for informal meetings between services, church events,
etc. The problem has been the décor was dated and the furniture was best described as unusable.
Numerous groups began to redefine how this rather large space could be utilized to meet the current
needs of our congregation.! The new definition included the ability for group meetings from 2 to 10
participants. This resulted in two furniture groupings (one!4 and one 6 with the ability to open to 10).
The "Church Angel's" desk would be replaced with a more current design, consistent with the new
furniture. The bad news is that apparently the delivery truck experienced a load shift, which crushed
three pieces of our furniture. We hope to see replacements before Christmas. But the best part of this
story is how God provides. The furniture was made available by a church member's company at 50% of
it's retail cost. This project virtually had no funding. Finance went to work!and funding was provided by
birthday money, Power of One, and approximately one half by personal private donations. Not one dime
came from our operating budget, which!has been stretched to and beyond it's limits.
Our hope for the future is that you will find new ways to utilize the new glass connector for informal
discussion (a place to meet and greet) and! impromptu meetings, and/or small group meetings. The
possibilities are endless.
!
David C. Prins
December • 2014
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Mike Huston, Clerk of Session
At its called meeting on November 16, 2014, Session approved that Harriet “Jane” Van Hoozen be accepted
as an Affiliate Member of Burnt Store Presbyterian Church.
At its stated meeting on November 18, 2014, Session:
✓ Approved the minutes of the October 14, 2014 stated meeting of Session and the minutes of the
November 16, 2014 called meeting of Session
✓ Accepted the October Treasurer’s Report, subject to year-end inspection
✓ Approved the 2015 Challenge Budget (Version 2 as amended)
✓ Approved the requests for transfer of membership submitted by Bill and Phyllis Kerns, Aubrey Stadtler,
Paul and Jocelyn Brewer, and Jeffrey “Jef” Farlow-Connell
✓ Approved retroactively the use of the church and its property for the wedding of Kristin Stewart and
Isaac Hughes on November 1, 2014
✓ Accepted and consented to the resignations of Bill Aiken and Mark Mills as ruling elders and members of
Session effective December 31, 2014 with grateful appreciation for the faithful work they performed
for the church
✓ Upon motion of the Finance and Stewardship Ministry, approved the Resolution for Housing Allowance
for 2015
✓ Upon motion of the Christian Education Ministry, approved the following Faithworks classes to be held
during the period from January 4, 2015 through February 15, 2015: Feasting on the Word, with Bob
Lynch as the facilitator, If Not Now—When, with Pete Gaylord as the facilitator, and 40 Days in the
Word, with Bob and Rosie Gable as the facilitators
✓Appointed Kathy Bertani and Barb Lohff to serve on the 2015 Nominating Committee, with Kathy to
serve as Chairperson and Barb to serve as Chairperson-Elect
Anyone wanting to learn more about the specifics of any of the foregoing actions is encouraged to contact
the ministry responsible for the action. If you have any questions about this report, feel free to contact
Mike Huston, Clerk of Session.
December • 2014
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Ellen Mogensen, 941.575.0258
We invite all women of our church to enjoy the many activities of Presbyterian Women.
Presbyterian Women Thank Offering Not too late to donate. The 2013 offering funded 30
projects—17 in the US and 13 overseas—such as a maternal/infant health center in Haiti,
campaigns against spouse abuse and human trafficking, clean water supply and hunger
programs. Please write PW Thank Offering on your envelopes and checks. This is a wonderful
way to express gratitude for the blessings in our lives.
Georgia Pecan Sale fundraiser Thank you for all your orders—we appreciate the support of our church
membership. The proceeds support our Presbyterian Women missions: local, national and worldwide.
Socks for the Homeless Please bring new socks for children, women and men and place them in the gift box in the
glass connector before December 18. We will donate them to the Homeless Education Project, Homeless Coalition
and Jesus Loves You Ministry. Thank you for sharing with people who will be grateful to receive your gifts.
Christmas Gathering and Salad Luncheon - Monday, December 8 at 11:30AM in Fellowship Hall.
Hosted by Hannah Circle. ** A special Christmas program ** All women are welcome—think of someone to invite,
perhaps a friend or neighbor. Bring a salad to serve 6 people—or a larger salad if you bring guests!
Enjoy good food, friends, fellowship and Christmas cheer. Don’t miss this special event! Please help us in planning
enough seating by signing up at the carousel.
Our Annual Social Event – Sunday, January 18, at 3PM. President and Mrs. Lincoln Open to all men and women—
guests are welcome as well. Dessert and coffee/tea will be served in Fellowship Hall after the performance in the
sanctuary. Enjoy the award-winning performance of Max and Donna Daniels, who have appeared on TV and History
Channel programs, and at the Smithsonian Institute in Washington, DC.
At the end of the Civil War in April 1865, the Lincoln’s reflect on the events of the past four years, and of their
lives together—their courtship and early marriage, births of their children, Lincoln’s legal and political careers,
their personal traumas and the tumultuous years of the Civil War.
Tickets will be available Sundays at the carousel beginning January 4 for a donation of $15. You won’t want to miss
this special performance. This is our major fundraiser — all proceeds support our Presbyterian Women missions
programs. Local missions that we support are the Homeless Education Project, CARE, Voices for Kids (Guardian ad
Litem) and Immokalee Friendship House.
Our small groups, called Circles, will meet again in January (see dates below). We’ll discuss chapter 10 (Abigail)
from our Bible Study book, Women of the Old Testament: A Faith of Her Own.
Visitors are welcome! Our small groups are a wonderful opportunity to get to know more women in our church. We
often build special relationships throughout the years. We fellowship and support each other in many ways. Find a
day and time convenient for you. Call Ellen at 941.575.0258 for information.
Dates to remember
Monday, December 8 – Christmas Gathering and Salad Luncheon at 11:30 AM, Hannah Circle hosting
Wednesday, December 10 – Pastor’s class for Bible Study at 10:00AM, Chapter 10 (Abigail)
Monday, January 5 – Hannah Circle meets at 9:30AM; Rachel and Ruth at 1PM
Wednesday, January 7 – Eve Circle meets at 6PM
Monday, January 12 – Coordinating Team meeting at 1PM, BSPC Boardroom
Sunday, January 18 at 3PM – annual Social Event: “President and Mrs. Lincoln,” a live performance
Wednesday, January 21 – Pastor’s class for Bible Study at 10:00AM, chapter 11 (Huldah)
Saturday, February 7 – Annual Gathering of Peace River PW, Venice Presbyterian
Blessings to you, and safe travels for the holidays — Ellen Mogensen, PW Moderator
December • 2014
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The cross story this month is a little different. A while back,
Women’s Bible Study learned about prayer beads, their history
and how to make them. God laid on Margy Will's heart the desire
to continue this project in order to share the beads with the
congregation and the community. Since that time, Margy and a
host of helpers have completed and distributed many sets of
prayer beads with accompanying instruction and scripture. This
set of prayer beads honors the passion Margy brings to Christ and
sharing the Word. Thank you Margy! If you would like a set of
prayer beads with scripture and instruction for yourself or to
share with another, please check with Robin in the office.
Isn't the Wall of Crosses a beautiful and fun journey to take down
the hall! If you would like to donate a cross, you can choose one
off of the first labeled board for a $5 donation at the office or
you can donate a cross of your own. The crosses are placed in the
basket in the narthex and hanged every few weeks. If there is a
story that accompanies your cross, please write it up and attach
to the cross.
Stories are shared each month in the Smoke
Signals. For some of you just returning from the north, this is
your first opportunity to be a part of our Wall of Crosses project.
Keep in mind that the crosses must not be taller than 12-14
inches. If we are unable to use your cross and you wish to have it
back, please put your name on the back. Let's watch our Wall of
Crosses continue!
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What a terrific class of Stephen Ministers being trained right
now. It is a joy to watch the six of them share, laugh, bond and
learn. November has been no less full than October was. This
class has explored the topic of assertiveness, using Jesus as the
model; while also seeing the differences between passive,
aggressive and assertive behavior. Our future Stephen Ministers
are learning the importance of establishing boundaries to protect
against manipulation for them and the care receiver. Lastly, they
have learned the effects of crises on people's faith and explored
how to help a person in crisis move toward peace and wholeness.
Please continue to hold Dick, Don, Tom, Rebecca, Annette and
Joyce in your prayers. God is doing something special in them!
December • 2014
F
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N
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S
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Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 9:00AM
10 Session punch card: $35.00
Drop-in fee $5.00
Psalm 24:3 and 4 say, in part, Who may ascend the hill of the Lord? Who may stand in his holy place?
He who has clean hands and a pure heart… Scripture addresses physical and spiritual cleanliness in
numerous places, leaving little doubt that our Lord considers cleanliness essential to our health and wellbeing.
December 1 - 7 is National Hand Washing Awareness Week. Hand washing helps prevent colds, influenza,
hepatitis A, meningitis, and infectious diarrhea as well as many other diseases. According to the Centers
for Disease Control, the correct way to wash your hands is to first wet your hands and apply liquid or
clean bar soap. Secondly, rub your hands vigorously together for at least 10 to 15 seconds to dislodge and
remove germs. Finally, rinse your hands well and dry them. Alcohol-based hand rubs are effective in
reducing the number of germs on skin if your hands are not visibly soiled.
It is especially important to wash your hands:
* before, during and after you prepare food;
* before you eat;
* after you use the bathroom or change a diaper;
* after handling animals or animal waste;
* when your hands are dirty;
* more frequently when someone in your home is sick
If you really want to protect yourself in a public restroom, use a paper towel to open the door after you
have washed your hands. It is important to wash our hands frequently. That washes away germs that we
may have picked up from people, contaminated surfaces, animals or other materials. You can infect
yourself when you touch your eyes, nose or mouth after your hands have picked up germs from other sources.
Why am I writing about this as your Stretch 'n' Tone instructor? Because Stretch 'n' Tone is about more than
just exercise, it's about maintaining excellent health, wellness and vitality, and besides, National Hand
Washing Awareness Week is coming shortly after this issue of Smoke Signals is distributed!!
Art Anderssen, Stretch 'n' Tone instructor.
December • 2014
S H O U T
O U T
A Shout Out to Mary K. Lynch for being such a good sport at the
Women's Bible Study Retreat. She slipped on one of the surprise tee
shirts that showed up and she looks FABULOUS! Thank you Mary K.
for being a wonderful trooper!
A Shout Out to Pastor Cassie for a fun Women's Bible Study Retreat
at the Four Points Sheraton. We slipped into our relaxed beach
mode and learned more about Sarai (Sarah) and Hagar. When it was
complete, we walked away with Psalm 46:10 Be still and know that
I am God. Thank you Pastor Cassie!
A Shout to Brian Hinman for all his time and effort using Google
Maps to re-map the deacon and disaster preparedness areas. Thank
you Brian!
A Shout Out to all who participated in the impromptu Christmas
Child box collection! Thank you for your generosity and on such
short notice!
K I N D E R M U S I K
New classes starting January 14 - 5:00PM
Ages birth through 3 years old with a parent (or grandparent)
Cost is only $50 a month which includes digital home materials.
SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE
To register please call Joy at 941.639.0001 or email [email protected]
December • 2014
W E L C O M E
N E W
M E M B E R S
Jim and Barbara Benjamin:
We are from a small rural town in Connecticut named Killingworth. It was
established in 1663. Barb is a retired elementary school teacher and she
played the organ in church for 18 years. She enjoys travel, dog training,
and church music. Jim retired as a controller for a company in Conn. Jim’s
hobbies are golf, travel, and watching sports on TV. Jim and Barb have a
registered therapy Golden Retriever that will visit nursing homes or shut- ins.
Mary K. Eversole:
Mary K. moved to Punta Gorda from Chicago/NorthPort, ILL. She attended
Business College in Ohio. She is retired. Mary K. loves to bake…she bakes
for the Homeless Coalition in Pt. Charlotte on the holidays. She loves to
watch sports and plays golf. She wants to do good work for the church and
the Lord.
Lorraine H. Fenton:
I lived in NE (NJ, NY;and CT) all my life and worked 32 years for IBM until
retiring in 1998. I enjoy golf, traveling, and reading. I volunteer for the
American Red Cross and serve on several boards. I want to be more
involved in the church. I live 50% of my time in Stamford, CT.
Donna Rice:
My husband was in the Air Force so we traveled much and settled in Ohio. I
retired from nursing and moved full time to Punta Gorda from Dayton, Ohio
on June 1st. I have two daughters and seven grandchildren. I enjoy
gardening and sewing. I learned of BSPC from friends in PGI. I enjoy the
services and the beautiful facility.
Loretta Steeves:
I moved here from Westchester, NY where I retired from Pearson Publishing
Co. My husband and I just finished sailing the Great Loop – a 6,000 mile
journey around the Eastern half of the U.S. I love boating, music, exercise,
and just being alive. We’ve been in Punta Gorda for 3 weeks. We drove
past BSPC and decided to try it. I love the spiritual connection, the
outreach opportunities, and the nurturing community.
Harriet “Jane” Van Hoozen:
I live part-time with my daughter in Ft. Wayne, IN. I am a member of a
non-denominational church in Ft. Wayne but wanted to be a member in
Florida also. I am active in the community and wish to be active in Punta
Gorda also. I have four children, 9 grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren,
and 2 great,great grandchildren. I was named the Mother of the year 2002
in Indiana. I love all crafts!! I feel very comfortable with the BSPC
services….they are very uplifting!
December • 2014
BURNT STORE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
!"#$#%&'()&*+'*,'-"#'.*$'!"'#$%&"'(")%*'+%*,-."*%/!&'01$%21'
2015 Concert Series … Three evenings of wonderful entertainment
January 12: Let’s Hang On
A tribute to Frankie Valli and other
classics from the era know for fun
uplifting music
February 16: Barbary Coast
Dixieland Show Band
Toe-tapping entertainment
March 16: Purdue Varsity Glee
Club
Dynamic musical troupe with
unparalleled showmanship
Ticket Information: Season tickets for the 3 concerts are $50. Single performance tickets are
20, and will go on sale December 26, 2014, if available.
Season tickets will be available between worship services at the Information Carousel from
September thru May and from the church office on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from
9:00 a.m. to noon.
You can also order your season tickets by mailing the form below, with a check and a selfaddressed and stamped envelope to the church, attention: Concert Committee.
Performances will start at 7:30 p.m. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. There is no reserved seating.
Name_______________________________________________ Phone Number________________
Address__________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
Number of Season Tickets _____ x $50 = ______
Special entry for guests with wheelchairs or walkers…
just inform the parking attendant upon arrival.
BURNT STORE
PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
11330 Burnt Store Road
Punta Gorda, FL 33955-1402
phone: 941.639.0001
fax: 941.639.1069
e-mail: [email protected]
world wide web: www.bspconline.org
December • 2014
Birthdays and Anniversaries
1
2
3
5
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
21
Joseph Potts
JoAnne Skolnik
Ann Barnes
Maylene Long
Terry Gilford
Jim Miele
Bill and Linda Peterson
Ron and Chari Hopkins
Joni Sandles
Marilyn Poelman
Dorothy Schumacher
Barbara Klein
Jim Long
Carol Matthews
Bert Louscher
Jon Shattuck
Roy and Ruth Landau
Henry Cardwell
Dave and Lois Allen
John and Carolyn Sielert
Richard Smith
Julie Love
Judy and Bob Eppich
Judy Cornell
Fred Counter
Karen Rauth
Bill and Jan Roemler
Fred O’Donnell
Joan Pence
Jay and Pat Buckley
Gary and Judy Korenstra
Frank Bishop
Marge Higley
Ernie Eaton
Amanda Kukuk
Tara Musselman
Mike Huston
Jan Roemler
Cassie Todd
Walt and Lishia Stillwagon
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
Nancy Kasberger
Joyce Pacifico
Jim Qurollo
Carol Yoder
Craig Havemeyer
Nicole Lacza
Millie Matson
Phil Sieck
Richard and Lois Smith
Karen Fisher
Bob and Mary K. Lynch
Cassie and Matt Todd
John Sielert
Ray and Joann Jasica
Bert and Lorna Louscher
Bill Fuchs
Joanne Nicholson
Maynard and Pat McLeod
Ron and Julie Siegrist
Jaci Anderson
DeShea Sandles
John and Sally Murphy
Eleanor Smith
Bruce and Mary Gensmer
Karen and Jerry Poquette
Brad and Marilyn Teets
Children’s
Birthdays
6!
Kennedy Todd
Sunday
Monday
!
*
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
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!:"" Property
$:"" Evangelism
!:"" Mission
!:"" Cong% Care
&:'" Praise Team
(:"" Stephen Min%
(:'" Hanging
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Friday
Saturday
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!!:'" PW Gathering
!:"" Deacon Training
(:'" Finance
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!&
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Blood Drive
(:'" Mac Users
Stephen Ministry
,O- Campus.
(:'" Session
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Christmas Eve
Worship Services
):"" Worship
&:"" Contemporary
*:'" Traditional
!!:"" Traditional
with Communion
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!:"" Mission
Regular
Weekly
Events
Sunday
8:15 & 11:00 Traditional Worship
8:15 Holy Grounds Café
9:40 Come As You Are Worship
9:40 Faithworks
11:00 MY PLACE Youth Group
11:00 FaithWorks
Monday
9:00 Fitness ‘n Fun
5:00 Dance and Devotion
Tuesday
9:00 Prayer Bead Workshop
10:00 Women’s Bible Study
7:00 SunCoast Statesmen
Wednesday
8:00 Men’s Bible Study
9:00 Fitness ‘n Fun
10:00 Card Embroidery
10:00 Griefshare
6:00 Praise Team Rehearsal
Thursday
9:30 Adult Daycare
Noon AA
3:45 Praise Bells
7:00 Praise Chorale
Thursday con’t
12:30 Adult Daycare Exercise
Friday
Fitness ‘n Fun
December • 2014
C O N N E C T I O N
I S
E A S Y
Would you like to be a part of the many activities at Burnt Store Presbyterian? This can be as simple as
placing a phone call or sending an email. Below are listed the ministries and projects with the
individuals in charge.
EVANGELISM
Chuck Will
Pete Gaylord
941.505.1286
941.637.6418
[email protected]
[email protected]
CHRISTIAN EDUCATION
Kathy Bertani
Rebecca Nicholson
941.627.0162
941.655.8163
[email protected]
[email protected]
PRESBYTERIAN WOMEN
Ellen Mogensen
941.575.0258
[email protected]
PROPERTY AND FACILITY
Dave Prins
Mark Mills
941.639.3057
941.916.0137
[email protected]
[email protected]
WORSHIP AND THE ARTS
Bill Aiken
Barb Lohff
941.875.3552
941.637.0690
[email protected]
[email protected]
MUSIC AND DRAMA
Joy Toll-Chandler
941.639.0001
[email protected]
DANCE
Pastor Cassie Todd
941.639.0001
[email protected]
FINANCE
Joni Sandles
Gary Brewster
941.639.0170
941.639.3378
[email protected]
[email protected]
STEWARDSHIP
Ron Graves
941.505.0562
[email protected]
MISSION
Luceal Curry
Joan Cox
941.833.5552
941.575.9114
[email protected]
[email protected]
CONGREGATIONAL CARE
Warren Mezger
Lois Gorman
941.661.4485
941.639.6422
[email protected]
[email protected]
OFFICE
Robin Milona
941.639.0001
[email protected]
November • 2014
BURNT STORE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
11330 Burnt Store Road
Punta Gorda, FL 33955-1402
www.bspconline.org • [email protected]
phone: 941.639.0001 • fax: 941.639.1069
Blessings are sent to the home of...
Burnt Store Presbyterian Church’s
members and friends!
....reaching up, making disciples, changing lives
Christmas Eve
Candlelight Services
5:00 Contemporary Worship
7:30 Traditional Worship
11:00 Traditional Worship
with Communion