FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, ALBEMARLE January 2015 Dear Friends, A recent Sunday School class discussion got me ƚŚŝŶŬŝŶŐ͙ When Jesus returned to Nazareth, following his 40 days of wilderness temptation, he went to the synagogue and took the scroll of the prophet Isaiah and read these words: The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, to proclaim the ǇĞĂƌŽĨƚŚĞ>ŽƌĚ͛ƐĨĂǀŽƌ͘ Jesus spent the next three years living out that text and engaged others in ministry with him. The disciples engaged even more people and the same pattern has continued for more than 2000 years. As the body of ŚƌŝƐƚ͕ ǁĞ ƐƚĂŶĚ ŝŶ ƚŚĂƚ ƚƌĂĚŝƚŝŽŶ͘ KƵƌ ƚĂƐŬ ĂƐ ŚƌŝƐƚ͛Ɛ
church in 2015 is to carry on the mission of Jesus Christ. Our elders and deacons will gather in mid-‐January to think together about how we at First Presbyterian Church may more effectively carry out the mission of Jesus Christ in our community and our world. We know this much to be true ʹ it takes all of us to serve faithfully in the name of Jesus Christ. Grace and Peace, Elizabeth WwOoRrSsHhIiıPp NnOoTtEeSs
The lectionary gospel for this year is Mark. Throughout the year, most gospel readings will
be taken from Mark, though the gospel of John also appears with some regularity.
Sunday, January 4
We will begin the new year DURXQG WKH /RUG¶VWDEOH DV ZH FHOHEUDWH
WKH6DFUDPHQWRIWKH/RUG¶V6XSSHUThe Ten-Cents-A-Meal offering
for hunger will also be received.
Gospel Reading: John 1:10-18
Wednesday, January 7 Join your church family for Epiphany Worship on Wednesday,
January 7 at the First Family Dinner at 6:00 p.m .
Sunday, January 11
Baptism of the Lord Sunday
We will reaffirm our own baptism vows and contemplate what it
means to be claimed by God in the waters of baptism. Elders and
deacons elect will be ordained and installed.
Gospel Reading: Mark 1:4-11
Sunday, January 18
Week of Prayer for Christian Unity begins. We will focus on what
that means for us.
Gospel Reading: John 1:43-51
Sunday, January 25
Gospel Reading: Mark 1:14-20
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Want to Formalize Your Relationship with
First Presbyterian Church by
Becoming a Member of the Congregation?
Every person who enters the door (sanctuary, gym, parking lot) at First Presbyterian Church is invited to participate fully in the life of this community of faith. Brothers and sisters in Christ are welcome to worship and serve at any time. Often, though, folks want to make a deeper commitment to the church by entering into membership. /Ĩ ǇŽƵ͛ƌĞ Ă ǀŝƐŝƚŽƌ ĂŶĚ ǁĂŶƚ ƚŽ ŬŶŽǁ ŵŽƌĞ ĂďŽƵƚ ŵĞŵďĞƌƐŚŝƉ Ăƚ &ŝƌƐƚ WƌĞƐďǇƚĞƌŝĂŶ ŚƵƌĐŚ͕ ƉůĂŶ ƚŽ ŵĞĞƚ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ
Church Parlor (outside the doors of the sanctuary) briefly following worship on Sunday, January 4. For more information, contact Susan Pandich (336-‐461-‐2609 or [email protected]), Membership Committee Chair. *****************************************************************************
We will receive the Ten-Cents-A-Meal offering for hunger on January 4.
T en-C ents-A-M eal This monthly offering is used by the Presbytery of Charlotte to fund
hunger programs and agencies (including SCCM) throughout the
presbytery. Ten cents per person per meal is just $9.00 per month and helps provide people both nourishment
DQGKRSH,I\RXGRQ¶WKDYHD7HQ-Cents-A-Meal container, you can find one in the pit stop. Checks and/or
coins are welcome! We received a total of $504.00 for Ten-Cents-A-Meal in November. Our goal is to receive
an average of $600.00 per month.
*****************************************************************************
2015 F lower C alendar
The 2015 flower calendar is posted in the pit stop. If you wish to put flowers in the church in honor or memory
of someone or just to provide beauty to the service, please sign up on the calendar. F lowers may be ordered
from any florist, but are most often orderHGIURP+DUZRRG¶V Contact Frankie Palmer (704-982-1757 or
[email protected]) for more information.
Epiphany occurs on the 12th day of Christmas, January 7. It is the day the church has historically recognized the visit of the wise men to the manger. Come share dinner and a worship celebration in the gym! First Family Dinner Wednesday, January 7 6:00 p.m. in the gym ƱȽɃ̃ɀȳȷȼɄȷɂȳȲɂȽȰɀȷȼȵ warm gifts to place in the manger ̓ ȱȶȷȺȲɀȳȼ̃Ɂmittens, hats, and gloves will be donated to Central Elementary School. *****************************************************************************
Save the 2015 Date for
Music & Arts Camp!
Your children and grandchildren will thank you
for putting the following week on your calendar
for Music & Arts Camp June 14-18!
Children ages 4 years through 6th grade will enjoy an exciting week filled
with games, activities, drama, music & more that reinforce a story in the
Bible. Theme for camp coming soon!
For children ages 4 years through 6th grade!
For volunteers of all ages!
Come share the week with us!
*****************************************************************************
2015 Mwandi Mission Trip
Plans are in the works for a trip to Mwandi in
2015. Approximate dates are July 31-August
15. If you would like more information, plan to
be part of an informational meeting in the parlor
following worship on Sunday, January 11.
First Presbyterian Church Congregational Retreat
Please join us for a congregational retreat designed for the whole family! There are many outdoors activities including hiking, canoeing, and a low ropes course. There are cabin-‐style and bedroom-‐style accommodations available. This will be a weekend of worship, recreation, food, and fellowship. where:
YMCA Camp Hanes in King, NC when: March 13-‐15 cost: $98.00 per person Assistance with cost is available WHO CAN ATTEND? The congregational retreat is for anyone who considers themselves to be part of First Presbyterian Church, Albemarle. Whether you are a member or a visitor, married or single, young or old, you are invited to join in! Schedule Friday evening i Getting to know one another i Campfire Saturday morning i Program for adults and youth. ŚŝůĚƌĞŶ͛ƐƉƌŽŐƌĂŵĂŶĚĐŚŝůĚĐĂƌĞ for others. Sharing Your Gifts Saturday afternoon i Low ropes course and other outdoor activities. i Napping, reading, board games, etc. Saturday Evening i Keynote i Fun and Games Sunday morning After breakfast, we will worship before we depart for home. We can use your help! Can you help by: i Leading an activity on Saturday? i Welcoming retreaters as they arrive? i ƐƐŝƐƚŝŶŐǁŝƚŚƚŚĞĐŚŝůĚƌĞŶ͛Ɛ program? i Helping design worship on Sunday morning? i Shopping for needed supplies? If so, please contact Matt ([email protected]). Sign me up! Name ___________________________________________ # of people _____________ Request Housing in: ____ Cabin-‐Style (open plan with 18 bed in each room) Would like to share with___________________ ____ Hotel-‐Style (bedroom with 2-‐4 beds in each) Please return to First Presbyterian Church office by January 28 with a $50.00 deposit. 67(:$5'6+,3$1'68&+«N O V E M B E R 2014 F I N A N C I A L R E P O R T
GENERAL FUND Actual: Year to Date Budget-‐to-‐Date Total Income Received: 455,310.00 499,214.00 Total Expenses: 507,307.00 498,857.00 (Shortage)/Surplus: (51,997.00) 357.00 GENERAL FUND BUDGET 2014 Pledges: 480,741 Weekly Amount Needed to Keep Commitments: $10,465 Total Income: 544,199 Average Weekly Amount Received in November: $8,379 Total Expenses: 544,199 We are behind $21,451 in pledges. ($12,993 of 2014 pledges was prepaid in 2013) November Ten-‐Cents-‐A-‐Meal Offering: $504 *****************************************************************************
ENDOWMENT COMMITTEE GRANTS
The Endowment Committee will accept applications for grants from the Gaither Endowment
until January 15. Applications are available in the church office. If you have questions, contact
the church office (704-982-2722 or [email protected]).
*****************************************************************************
5RRWV7R:DWHU8SGDWHþ
The recent sale of Roots To Water forced bulbs generated a profit for the Mwandi Well Project of $1,010.00. The children are celebrating and wish to extend many thanks to all of those folks who supported the project by donating jars, bulbs, ribbon, rocks, art work, and especially those who bought them as gifts. It is our hope that the roots growing down will continue to remind you of being grounded in 'ŽĚ͛ƐůŽǀĞĂŶĚĂŶĐŚŽƌĞĚŝŶŽƵƌĨĂŝƚŚ͘ *****************************************************************************
Zambia Well Project
The fund raising drive for the Zambia Water Project was kicked ŽĨĨĂƚEŽǀĞŵďĞƌ͛Ɛ&ŝƌƐƚtĞĚŶĞƐĚĂǇĚŝŶŶĞƌǁŝƚŚĂvideo prepared by Andy Cotton. As of December 16, we had received $8,320.00Ͷalmost ¾ of our goal. Donations have included Faith on the Fifth offering, alternative gifts, Youth Club and donations from friends of Mwandi. A very impressive $1,010.00 was raised by the Youth Club Trusty Travelers. With your help, we feel confident that we can easily reach our goal. *****************************************************************************
First Presbyterian Church has put together a work crew to
help out at Homes of Hope. They will be called upon to
help move furniture and supplies. The first month during
which they will be on call is January. If you are interested
in participating in this work crew, please contact Matt
([email protected]).
M E M O RI A LS
F aith on the F ifth F und:
In memory of Betty Lynn Boone Fort, given by Ruth Ann & Bill Rogers.
F lower F und:
In memory of Betty Lynn Boone Fort, given by Tom & Holly Norwood.
General F und:
In memory of Betty Lynn Boone Fort, given by Joe & Betty Godwin.
In memory of Betty Lynn Boone Fort, given by David & Peggy Grigg.
In memory of Betty Lynn Boone Fort, given by Mike & Laura McLeod.
In memory of Betty Lynn Boone Fort, given by Tommy & Judy Murrell.
In memory of Betty Lynn Boone Fort, given by Mike & Alice Taylor.
In memory of Betty Lynn Boone Fort, given by David & Miriam Wolfe.
0LQLVWHU¶V'LVFUHWLRQDU\)XQG
In memory of Betty Lynn Boone Fort, given by Don & Janice Abernathy.
In memory of Betty Lynn Boone Fort, given by Bill & Jane Pickler.
In memory of Betty Lynn Boone Fort, given by Jim & Mary Louise Sawyer.
Property E ndowment:
In memory of Betty Lynn Boone Fort, given by Tom & Jean Rabe.
Scholarship E ndowment:
In memory of Georgia Canon, given by Carole Yost.
In memory of Dr. and Mrs. Whit Canon, given by Dale & Sue Flanagan.
In memory of Betty Lynn Boone Fort, given by Dr. & Mrs. Frank Green.
7RE\:HEE0HQ¶V3UD\HU%UHDNIDVW&KULVWPDV)XQG
,QKRQRURIWKH7RE\:HEE0HQ¶V Prayer Breakfast Christmas Fund, given by Tom Webb, III.
SY M P A T H Y
To Dr. Davis Fort and Brad Boone upon the death of Betty Lynn Boone Fort on December 3.
To Debbie Wainwright and family upon the death of her sister, Sheila Ann Flowe, on December 18.
To the family and friends of John Craig upon his death on December 18.
To the family and friends of Peggy Howard upon her death on December 19.
C O N G R A T U L A T I O NS
To Jerry and Kim Caudle upon the birth of their grandson, Elias Lane Caviness, on November 29. Elias is the son of Lauren
(Caudle) and Dusty Caviness.
To Steve Coats who has recently retired from the Stanly County School system.
C H A N G E O F M A I L IN G A D D R ESS
Debbie & John Hahn
P.O. Box 766
Albemarle, NC 28002
W elcome New M embers
Jana Sanderson 221 N. 8th Street A lbemarle, N C 28001 704-783-6730 [email protected]
Hello! My name is Jana Sanderson and I am a native of Charlotte, but have called Stanly County home now for 14 years.
I quickly learned I was not a city-gal but a country-gal , and have never looked back. Since 2010, I have worked at the
Community Inn, first as a volunteer, then as a staff member and as the Meal Coordinator since 2011 (anyone wanna serve
a meal??). Since 2011, I have worked as the lead child caregiver here at First Presbyterian, particularly with the littlest
angels of the church in the nursery on Sundays. I currently am working on obtaining my Bachelor's degree at GardnerWebb, double-majoring in criminal justice and human services and am slated for graduation in December 2015. In my
spare-time, which is very rare, I love to spend time with my niece. I also scrapbook, crochet, getting my crafting fix, and I
play a mean game of Scrabble.
L inda Slimick 221 N. 8th Street A lbemarle, N C 28001 980-581-8245 lin_slimick @yahoo.com
Hi, my name is Linda Slimick, and I am a native to Charlotte but have called Stanly County home now for 13 years. I just
recently moved from Badin to Albemarle in February of 2014. I am retired from the retail world and love spending my
time volunteering at the Community Inn and serving as a mentor for Homes of Hope. I also enjoy spending time and
Skyping with my 2 granddaughters, my pets, gardening, swimming at the YMCA, and reading. Last, I want to say that I
love my new church family and home here at First Presbyterian. You all have made me feel very welcomed.
Session Notes
At its stated Session meeting on December 14, Dession met with deacons and ruling elders
elect for their examination. All of the officers elect passed with flying colors, and there was an
opportunity for good theological conversation and fellowship. Session approved the 2015
budget proposed by the Stewardship Committee. The 2015 budget is $562,887, showing an
increase of slightly more than 3% over the 2014 budget. Session also set the date of January
18 for the annual meeting of the congregation and corporation of First Presbyterian Church. Committee reports were
heard and outgoing elders (Kristie Bryson, Steve Cumming, Bill Jolly, Mark Mabry, Sandy Rogers, and Rita Whitley)
received hearty thanks for their good work over the past three years.
M uffins & More
Thursday, January 15 at 10:00 a.m.
An opportunity for good kitchen fellowship and to share in the joys and sorrows of
the First Presbyterian Church congregation.
Where?
In the church kitchen.
Contact Gloria Bryson (704-982-8030) to find out how you can get involved.
When?
What?
Newsletter Deadline: T he deadline for the F ebruary 2015 Newsletter is noon on T uesday, January 20.
Early submissions are always welcome! If you type your items in Microsoft Word, please email them as an
attachment to: [email protected].
SCCM NEED FOR JANUARY: PEANUT BUTTER & JELLY T H AN K Y OU
To: Mildred Andrew, Gloria Bryson, Ann Duckwall, Donna Gaither, Ruth Goodwin, Sally Grantier, Margaret Ivey, Nancy
Joines, Bede Karr, Frankie Palmer, Ruth Ann Rogers, Rich Schaefer, and Martha White for assisting in the office during
November.
T hanks to Donna Gaither and Carolyn Sharpe and the scores of volunteers who provide meals for bereaved families.
T hanks to the Decorating Committee for the many ways they enhanced our worship and fellowship spaces during Advent.
Community A dvent M eal T hank You
Ruth Cotton and Shirley Welch would like to thank the following people for helping with the Community Advent Service lunch
on December 3: Gloria Bryson, Ann Duckwall, Peggy Finley, Debbie Hahn, Martha Sue Hall, Margret Ivey, Catherine
Moeller, Anne Montgomery, Gayle Russell, Rose Saltzman, Jim Sawyer, Carolyn Sharpe, Harold Sharpe, Ann Snuggs, Jane
Snyder, Debbie Wainwright, and Elizabeth Wilson.
Cookie W alk T hank You
Dear First Presbyterian Church Family,
2QEHKDOIRI61/SOHDVHDFFHSWRXUVLQFHUHJUDWLWXGHIRUKHOSLQJWRPDNH'HFHPEHU¶VFRRNLHZDONDVXFFHVV2YHU
was raised! Each year, we are humbled by the tremendous support received for this event from our congregation. Whether you
baked, shopped, or baked and shopped, we appreciate your participation and generosity and we thank you for supporting our
youth and the causes that are important to them. SNL wishes each of you a happy and healthy New Year!
Sincerely,
Jane Boone and Liz Jolly
DHFHPEHU¶V)LUVW)DPLO\'LQQHU7KDQN<RX
Thanks to all of the deeply committed volunteers that show up month after month! I depend heavily on your help and am
so thankful for your presence. You make the preparation joyful and peaceful for me. I look forward to First Family every
month just because I get to spend time with the people I love. I had many that spent the WHOLE DAY with me! You are
blessings to me! Linda Anderson, Mildred Andrew, Keith Bryson, Andy and Ruth Cotton, Ann Duckwall, Peggy Finley,
John and Debbie Hahn, Lee Johnson, Dustin Jolly and the Faith Explorers, Mary Kesselman, Bryce Kimrey, Ken Knight
and Connie Wallace, Leslie, Stephan, Morgan and Merrin Kinley, Mark Mabry, Anne Montgomery, Linda Richards,
Marlene Sanges, Sandy Saunders, Mary Lousie Sawyer, Carolyn and Harold Sharpe, Ann Snuggs, Lee, Billie Jean and
Whit Snuggs, and all those who helped break down the tables and chairs and clean up the gym! YOU ARE ALL A
%/(66,1*720(,MXVWFDQ¶WWKDQNHYHU\RQHHQRXJKIRUEHLQJVRJHQHURXVZLWKWKHLUWLPHDQGWDOHQWV-
Prayer L ist Connection
Do you ever see a name on the prayer list and think, Now who is that? Or forget what the relationship is? You are not alone as many folks have asked for help with this. The Prayer List Connection will refresh all our memories. Folks with chronic needs will be listed for a month in the bulletin. Following that month, we will keep ƚŚĞŵ ŽŶ ƚŚĞ ŶĞǁƐůĞƚƚĞƌ͛Ɛ Prayer List Connection for as long as we are requested to do so. Critical prayer concerns will be added weekly to the prayer list in the bulletin. Friends of the Congregation: Chrissy Adams, ĨƌŝĞŶĚŽĨ^ŚĂŶŶŽŶΘ<ĞŶƚEĞǁƉŽƌƚ͖,ŽĚŐŬŝŶ͛ƐĚŝƐĞĂƐĞ͘ Sheila Kirkland Breisch, sister-‐in-‐law of Gloria Bryson; Atrial fibrillation. Amy Brinson, friend of Doris Forte. Margaret Brooks, friend of Debbie Hahn; at an assisted living facility. Millie Campbell, friend of Melissa Lemons; receiving treatment for breast cancer. Steve Dalton, friend of Carolyn McLaurin; lung cancer. Rachel Darling, friend of Dona Lisk; ovarian cancer. Rich Drye, nephew ŽĨĂƌďĂƌĂtŚŝƚůĞǇ͖,ŽĚŐŬŝŶ͛Ɛ>ǇŵƉŚŽŵĂ͘ Sara Dyer, mother of Martha White; continuing health concerns. Barbara Earnhardt, friend of Shannon & Kent Newport; battling ALS. Lindsey Efird, daughter of Karen Efird and Mark Efird; battling MPS. Carrie Hawkins, mother of Nancy Joines; Hugh Chatham Nursing Center (Elkin). Sandra Helms, ĨƌŝĞŶĚŽĨ^ĂƌĂŚDŝĐŚĂĞů͖ƌŽŚŶ͛ƐĚŝƐĞĂƐĞ͘ Herman Hinson, father of Carolyn McLaurin; cancer. Tonia Icenhour, friend of Kim Caudle; lymphoma. Jeannette Isenhour, sister of Frankie Palmer; COPD. Jackie Lynn Kruis, seven year old great-‐niece of Gloria Bryson. Bryanna Medlin, nine year old diagnosed with Hodgkins Lymphoma. Louise Medlin, mother of Dona Lisk; diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma. Charles Miller, battling cancer. Craig Morgan, health issues; friend of Don & Janice Abernathy. Shannon Newton, diagnosed with cancer; friend of the Johnston family. Sam & Melanie Obermiller, friends of John & Debbie Hahn. Barbara Petillo, friend of Peggy Finley; disabling health problems. Kathy Powell, friend of Roger and Gina Martin; pancreatic cancer. Brian Rogers, son of Jane Rogers. Karen Russell, First Baptist Church Wee Care Teacher; breast cancer. David Sanges, brother of Nathan Sanges; being treated for Acute Myloid Leukemia. Charles Schinck, brother-‐in-‐law of Peggy Finley; recurrence of cancer. Garin Stepp, Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Claudine Stone, friend of Laura Wheeler. Lachlann Tannery, 2 year old with JMML (a rare form of leukemia); friend of Shannon & Kent Newport. Ashley Teeter, niece of Robin Howell; diagnosed with breast cancer. Dianna Thompson, sister of Debbie Bennett. Ethel White, sister-‐in-‐law of Lynn White; diagnosed with mesothelioma. Members of the Congregation: Becky & Joe Carter. Dennis & Anita Gower. Peter Henkenjohann. Blue Honeycutt. June Johnson. Fran Mabry. Johnsie McIntyre, (Trinity Place; Room B1). Laura McLeod. Judy Murrell. Ed Myers. Bill Palmer. Pete Smith. Rita Whitley.
JANUARY
BIRTHDAYS & ANNIVERSARY
JANUARY BIRTHDAYS
02- Pine Sydalack
03- M ike M c L eod
Sandy Rogers
04- Sandy Saunders
05- A ustin Coats
M iriam Russell
06- Shannon L isk
08- Jim Ivey, Jr.
10- Rita Morgan
Jacob Palmer
11- D rew M c M anus
12- Ruth A nn Rogers
13- Jane Borders
16- Debbie H ahn
19- Nancy F eather
K en F razier
20- L ar ry Sitton
23- Susan G ar rison
K im M arshall
Ronnie M ichael
24- Dennnis Gower
27- L inda Richards
28- K im A ndrew
Dona L isk
G us Holbrook
30- L inda A nderson
B rittany W hite
31- G ar rett C hapman
JANUARY ANNIVERSARY
05-John & Debbie H ahn
JANUARY SCRIPT
Happy New Year! As we begin a new year, there are many SNL activities to get involved with. During these cold winter months come find warmth in the fun programs, good food, and great friends! Sunday, January 4 4:45 p.m. ʹ 7:45 p.m. SNL Sunday, January 11 5:00 p.m. Family Dinner Sunday, January 18 4:45 p.m. ʹ 7:45 p.m. SNL Sunday, January 25 4:30 p.m. ʹ 7:30 p.m. Game Night with FPC Concord Happy Birthday 10-‐ Jacob Palmer 31-‐ Garrett Chapman *****************************************************************************
SNL Recap On December 7, members of SNL and their families baked and sold cookies for our annual cookie walk fundraiser. About $900 were raised for our youth missions and programming. SNL would like to thank everyone who baked cookies or treats as well as everyone who supported our youth ministry by buying cookies. On December 21, SNL teamed up with the youth ministry from First Presbyterian Church, Concord to travel to Charlotte for an evening of ice skating. The presbytery youth council reserved an ice skating rink for an hour, and youth from all over the Charlotte area spent the evening in fellowship on the ice together. *****************************************************************************
Confirmation Interest Meeting Seventh and eighth graders and their parents are invited to meet with Matt Drumheller on January 18 th following worship to discuss plans for the 2015 Confirmation Class. We will meet briefly in the parlor following worship. *****************************************************************************
SAVE THE DATE
Youth Breakfast March 16-‐20, 2015 First Presbyterian Church Gym Adult Bible Study Tuesday Mornings in January & February First Class: January 6 at 10:00 a.m. in the Old Session Room Topic: ƪȽȻȯȼɁ˸ơȼɂȳɀȾɀȳɂȯɂȷȽȼƚȷȰȺȳƫɂɃȲɇ written by Art Ross, former pastor of White Memorial Presbyterian Church in Raleigh ƬȶȳȺȳɂɂȳɀɂȽɂȶȳƪȽȻȯȼɁȷɁɂȶȳȾȷȼȼȯȱȺȳȽȴƨȯɃȺ̃ɁɅɀȷɂȷȼȵȯȼȲɂȶȷȼȹȷȼȵ˷ơɂ
contains profound insights into living faithfully, passionate debates about the fate of the Jews, and cherished messages of comfort and love. Paul instructs his readers, both then and now, to be transformed following the example of Jesus Christ. Books (cost: $12.00) will be available at the first class. *****************************************************************************
FIRST FAMILY GATHERING Wednesday, January 7 at 6:00 p.m. in the gym We will celebrate Epiphany. ƚƪơƦƦƝƪ˸ƚɀȳȯȹȴȯɁɂȴȽɀƜȷȼȼȳɀ French Toast Dish, Egg Casserole, Bacon, Sausage, Grits, Biscuits, Fruit, PB&J Station, assorted muffins and coffee cake, tea, OJ, coffee Contact the church office 704-982-2722 or [email protected] ȰɇȼȽȽȼȽȼƬɃȳɁȲȯɇ˴ƢȯȼɃȯɀɇ̵ɂȽɁȯɇɇȽɃ̃ɀȳȱȽȻȷȼȵ˷ *****************************************************************************
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR FIRST FAMILY GATHERING Muffin Crew: Tuesday, January 6 at 10:00 a.m. Eggs, Grits, & Hashbrown Crew: Wednesday, January 7 at 10:30 a.m. Meat Crew: Wednesday, January 7 at 1:00 p.m. Set-‐up Crew: Wednesday, January 7 at 3:45 p.m. Final Touches Crew: Wednesday, January 7 at 4:15 p.m. Clean-‐up crew: Wednesday, January 7 at 6:45 p.m. /ĨǇŽƵŚĂǀĞŶ͛ƚĞǀĞƌũŽŝŶĞĚƵƐ͕ƉůĞĂƐĞĚŽ͘tĞŚĂǀĞƐƵĐŚĂŐŽŽĚƚŝŵĞƚŽŐĞƚŚĞƌ͊ Please call Jane Snyder at the church 704-‐982-‐2722,on her phone 704-‐438-‐3358 or email her at [email protected] if you would like to help.- CHEC K OUT THE THEATRE
Many thanks to Marlene Sanges for overseeing the refurbishment of
the theatre. A new projector and blu ray player are in place, and we are
glad to have this wonderful space back in business. The January outing
of the Faith Explorers is to OUR theatre!
*****************************************************************************
Tree of Warmth
Decorate the tree in the pit stop with warm clothing items for children at Central Elementary School. New and gently used scarves, mittens, gloves, socks & toboggans are welcome. We will collect through Wednesday, January 7 and place these gifts at the manger during the Epiphany Worship Service that evening. *****************************************************************************
PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 7 AT NOON IN THE PARLOR FEEL FREE TO BRING A BAG LUNCH For more information, contact Miriam Russell (704-‐982-‐3025). *****************************************************************************
Young Adult Lunches are a chance to gather in the middle of ƚŚĞǁŽƌŬǁĞĞŬƚŽĞŶũŽǇĞĂĐŚŽƚŚĞƌ͛ƐĐŽŵƉĂŶǇĂŶĚƐŽŵĞůŽĐĂů
dining. Please join us at noon on the first Wednesday of every month. The schedule for the beginning of the new year is: January 7 at El Ranchito and February 4 at Little Tokyo. *****************************************************************************
ƧƞƞơƛƝƪ̃ƫƪƝƬƪƝƙƬƙƦƜƧƪƜơƦƙƬơƧƦ˱ơƦƫƬƙƤƤƙƬơƧƦ 7KH DQQXDO RIILFHU¶V UHWUHDW ZLOO EH KHOG DW WKH FKXUFK -DQXDU\ 9-10. The following Deacons and
Elders will be ordained and installed in worship on Sunday, January 11:
Deacons
Josh Campbell, Wes Eudy, Debbie Hahn, John Howell, Jim Sawyer, & Janet Schaefer
Elders
Patrick Currie, Heather Deese, Martha Sue Hall, Bob Johnston, Larry Sitton, & Ellen Snyder
*****************************************************************************
Church Officers ± Coming & Going Many thanks to the following people who have faithfully served this congregation as leaders for the past three years: Class of 2014 Diaconate: Mary Kesselman, Greg Lisk, Carolyn McLaurin, Jordan Morgan, Rich Schaefer, and Carroll Sitton Session: Kristie Bryson, Steve Cumming, Bill Jolly, Mark Mabry, Sandy Rogers, and Rita Whitley W hen?
W here?
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W ednesday, January 14 at 11:45 a.m.
Meet at Sagebrush Steakhouse
(623 N C 24/27 Bypass E ast, A lbemarle)
In the cold, dark days of January, fellowship with one
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lunch ± HYHU\RQH¶VLQYLWHGWRFRPHEULQJDIULHQG Call the church office (704-982-2722) by
0RQGD\-DQXDU\WROHWXVNQRZ\RX¶UHFRPLQJDQGRULI\RX need transportation.
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T heology L ite«7KXUVGD\January 15
On January 15, young adults are invited to Theology Lite at Little Tokyo on Route 52. Matt will host a conversation over your choice of drink about a topic of theology. We will gather at 8:00 pm in the back room. Please feel free to invite friends (members or non-‐members) to join in the conversation! *****************************************************************************
ANNUAL MEETING OF THE CONGREGATION & CORPORATION
Session has established the date for the Annual Meeting of the Congregation and
Corporation as Sunday, January 18. The meeting will be held immediately following
worship. The purpose of the meeting is to receive annual reports and to transact
other business as may properly come before the meeting. We will also have a
congregational meeting for the purpose of reviewing and approviQJ WKH SDVWRUV·
terms of call.
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A fternoon T ea & Conversation
T uesday, January 20
2:00 p.m. in the parlor
A ll women are invited &
encouraged to bring a friend!
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New Face in Nursery & Toddler Room We are excited that Caroline Snyder has joined the childcare staff team in providing care for our youngest ones. She is a familiar face around the church and has volunteered during Music & Arts Camp and numerous movie nights. Being a senior at Albemarle High School keeps Caroline very busy, however, in her spare time she enjoys volleyball and soccer. She plans on studying elementary education at a university next year and hopes to learn how to teach and work with children in a positive way here at First Presbyterian Church so that she can take the skills she learns on into her teaching future. Daughter of Jane and Michael Snyder, she is a member of Annunciation Catholic Church. Please join us in welcoming Caroline on Sunday, January 4. Grandparent & Grandchild Retreat
Sunday, January 25, 2015
Noon-2:00 pm
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Children K-5th grade
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Lunch in pit stop followed by activities in gym
Call or email church office to sign up!
(704-982-2722 or [email protected])
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January & F ebruary Book Study
#1 New Yor k T imes Bestseller
I Know This Much Is True
by W ally L amb
This New York Times bestselling novel explores (through the
lives of twin brothers, the wrenching topics of mental illness,
dysfunctional families, domestic violence, and responsibility for the
other . It is a triumphant exploration of suffering and redemption.
Because of the length of the book, we will discuss it for two
months.
January Discussion Date:
January 26 at 7:00 p.m. in the church parlor
Discussion of chapters 1-24
F ebruary Discussion Date:
February 23 at 7:00 p.m. in the church parlor
Discussion of chapters 25-end
Books are available in the church office for $12.00.
2015 Committee Reorganization
Each year in January, committees reorganize and
every member of the congregation has an
opportunity to be part of the work of the church
by saying Y ES, I want to help.
Plan to attend a luncheon on
Saturday, January 10 at Noon
to learn more about the
Diaconate and Session Committees
and engage in the wor k of one or more.
Diaconate Committees which need you!
Childcare
College & Military
Fellowship
Membership
Senior Care
Ushering
Session Committees which need you!
Christian Education
Mission
Property
Stewardship
Scholarship
Worship
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CENTRAL SCHOOL BACKPACK FOOD PROGRAM First Presbyterian Church, in conjunction with other downtown churches, is sponsoring the Central School Backpack Food Program. First Presbyterian Church is responsible for filling backpacks with food on Wednesday, January 21. Items needed are: Large Cans of Soup, Hamburger Helper, Fruit Cups, Breakfast Cookies/Granola Bars. A bin in the pit stop will receive your donations. If you would like to volunteer to help pack the backpacks, contact Debby Johnston (704-‐982-‐6006 or [email protected]). Youth C lub Moves into New Y ear with the Spirit of E piphany
Youth Club children (K-5th graders) head into 2015 with lessons and crafts that focus on
the Kings visit to the stable as they try to hold onto the spirit of Epiphany. Faith Explorers
will create Epiphany Prayer Boxes, bedazzled with jewels and glitter, while Trusty Travelers
create a stately set of Kings¶ to adorn the dinner table at the Epiphany Service at 6:00 p.m.,
January 7, 2015.
In recreation, the children will experience a fun, physical fitness test to see how many
push-ups, sit-ups and jumping jacks they can do for a timed period. Also, how many times
they can jump rope in a given time and set small goals for improvement. This fits in well
with our theme for the year Grounded and Growing, with a Healthy Twist. Just like we want
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gave us so that we may help our neighbor in need through mission locally and globally.
T rusty T ravelers: K-3rd graders continue to learn of Biblical characters who were called and led by God. This month they will
OHDUQ RI 0RVHV )URP KLV ELUWK DQG OLIH ZLWK 3KDURDK¶V GDXJKWHU WKURXJK WKH SODJXHV FURVVLQJ WKH 5HG 6HD DQG WKH Commandments, the book of Exodus will take the children on a wonderful journey of the life of Moses. This adventure will reinforce
*RG¶VHYHUODVWLQJORYHIRUKLVSHRSOHDQGWKHIDLWKWRWUXVWWKDWKHZLOOJXLGHDQGOHDGKLVSHRSOHWRDEHWWHUSODFH7KH\ will learn of
patience as they hear of the many times Pharoah faileGWROLVWHQWR*RG¶VFRPPDQGV7hrough it all, God continued to show Moses
signs he could show the people so they would believe.
F aith E xplorers: )DLWK([SORUHUVWKWK*UDGHUV«7KLV\HDU<RXWK&OXELVIRFXVLQJRQWKHWKHPH*URXQGHG*URZLQJ
The youth memorized the inspirational traits found in Galatians 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness,
goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. This month we will explore the issue of patience. The Faith Explorers read the
book Pictures of Hollis Woods over the holiday break - a heartwarming story which deals with several serious issues. On January
14th, Rev. Elizabeth Ayscue and Mary Troutman, the Program Supervisor at the Stanly County Department of Senior Services, will
lead a conversation with the FEs about dementia and Alzheimer's, a prominent theme in the book. For our monthly outing, we will
view the Hallmark movie Pictures of Hollis Woods based on Patricia Reilly Giff's award winning novel.
YOUTH CUBS
December was a time to focus on the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. This was an exciting
time for the children and an opportunity to lay the foundation that God sent us his son, Jesus. Cubs
enjoyed this time of learning about and celebrating the reason for the season, the birth of Jesus, through
songs, books, and art. Of course, ringing our Jingle Bells was fun, too! January will include the stories
of Daniel, Zaccheaus, and Moses, along with winter art and books.
Submitted by: Lynn Poplin
Hurray For Breakfast Bunch!!!
Who can come? 2nd graders & 3rd graders
What?
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When?
Sunday, January 4 at 9:00 a.m.
Where?
Media Room
Why?
To pray together & build strong community of faith
3OHDVHOHW*LQD0DUWLQNQRZLI\RXDUHDEOHWRMRLQXV«[email protected]) 3DUHQWV«WKHUHZLOO
be coffee & muffins for you in the parlor, so please take advantage of this opportunity to relax with other
moms & dads while your children are spending quality time together each month.
Faith Explorers Pizza & Movie Afternoon Sunday, January 11, 2015 Noon-‐3:00 p.m. Eat in pit stop & watch the movie in the church theatre featuring the Hallmark movie Pictures of Hollis Woods͙ based on the book the children have read over the Christmas break. Thursday, January 1 EĞǁzĞĂƌ͛ƐĂǇ Church Office Closed Sunday, January 4 dŚĞ^ĂĐƌĂŵĞŶƚŽĨƚŚĞ>ŽƌĚ͛Ɛ^ƵƉƉĞƌͬEŽŚŝůĚƌĞŶ͛ƐŚƵƌĐŚ Ten-‐Cents-‐A-‐Meal 9:00 am Breakfast Bunch (Media Room) 9:45 am *Sunday School 11:00 am *Worship 4:45 pm-‐7:45 pm SNL Monday, January 5 8:30 pm ^ĞŶŝŽƌ,ŝŐŚŝďůĞ^ƚƵĚǇĂƚůŝǌĂďĞƚŚ͛Ɛ Tuesday, January 6 10:00 am Adult Bible Study 10:00 am First Family Muffin Crew Wednesday, January 7 Bring Warm Tree Gits to Epiphany Worship & Dinner 6:30 am dŽďǇtĞďďDĞŶ͛ƐWƌĂǇĞƌƌĞĂŬĨĂƐƚ 9:30 am *Pray & Play 10:30 am First Family Eggs, Grits, & Hashbrown Crew 12:00 pm Prayer Shawl Ministry (Parlor) 12:00 pm Young Adult Lunch at El Ranchito 1:00 pm First Family Meat Crew 3:15 pm-‐5:15 pm Youth Cubs/Youth Club 3:45 pm First Family Set Up Crew 5:15 pm-‐5:45 pm Youth Orff/Handbells Ensembles 4:15 pm First Family Final Touches Crew 6:00 pm Epiphany Worship & First Family Dinner (Gym) 6:45 pm First Family Clean-‐Up Crew 7:00 pm *Chancel Choir Rehearsal 8:30 pm Pick-‐up Basketball Thursday, January 8 10:00 am Staff Meeting Friday, January 9 7:00 pm-‐ϭϬ͗ϬϬƉŵKĨĨŝĐĞƌ͛ƐZĞƚƌĞĂƚ Saturday, January 10 8:30 am-‐ϯ͗ϬϬƉŵKĨĨŝĐĞƌ͛ƐZĞƚƌĞĂƚ *childcare provided Sunday, January 11 Baptism of the Lord Sunday Ordination & Installation of New Officers 9:45 am *Sunday School 11:00 am *Worship 12:00 pm Mwandi Mission Trip Interest Meeting (parlor) 12:00 pm-‐3:00 pm Faith Explorers Pizza & Movie 5:00 pm SNL Family Dinner Monday, January 12 8:30 pm Senior High Bible Study at ůŝǌĂďĞƚŚ͛Ɛ Tuesday, January 13 10:00 am Adult Bible Study Wednesday, January 14 6:30 am dŽďǇtĞďďDĞŶ͛ƐWƌĂǇĞƌƌĞĂŬĨĂƐƚ 9:30 am *Pray & Play 11:45 pm Dutch Treat Lunch Outing to Sagebrush Steakhouse (623 NC 24/27 Bypass East) 3:15 pm-‐5:15 pm Youth Cubs/Youth Club 5:15 pm-‐5:45 pm Youth Orff/Handbells Ensembles 7:00 pm *Chancel Choir Rehearsal 8:30 pm Pick-‐up Basketball Thursday, January 15 Deadline for Gaither Endowment Grant Applications 10:00 am Muffins & More 10:00 am Staff Meeting 8:00 pm Theology Lite at Little Tokyo (Hwy. 52) *childcare provided Sunday, January 18 Week of Prayer for Christian Unity Annual Meeting of the Congregation & Corporation 9:45 am *Sunday School 11:00 am *Worship 12:00 pm *Annual Meeting of the Congregation & Corporation 12:00 pm Confirmation Interest Meeting 4:45 pm-‐7:45 pm SNL Monday, January 19 Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Church Office Closed Tuesday, January 20 10:00 am Adult Bible Study 12:00 pm February Newsletter Deadline 2:00 pm Afternoon Tea & Conversation (Parlor) Wednesday, January 21 Packing of the Backpacks for Central School 6:30 am dŽďǇtĞďďDĞŶ͛ƐWƌĂǇĞƌƌĞĂŬĨĂƐƚ 9:30 am *Pray & Play 3:15 pm-‐5:15 pm Youth Cubs/Youth Club 5:15 pm-‐5:45 pm Youth Orff/Handbells Ensembles 7:00 pm *Chancel Choir Rehearsal 8:30 pm Pick-‐up Basketball Thursday, January 22 10:00 am Staff Meeting Sunday, January 25 9:45 am *Sunday School 11:00 am *Worship 12:00 pm-‐2:00 pm Grandparent/Child Retreat 4:30 pm-‐7:30 pm SNL Game Night at First Presbyterian Church, Concord Monday, January 26 7:00 pm January Book Study Discussion (parlor) 8:30 pm ^ĞŶŝŽƌ,ŝŐŚŝďůĞ^ƚƵĚǇĂƚůŝǌĂďĞƚŚ͛Ɛ Tuesday, January 27 10:00 am Adult Bible Study Wednesday, January 28 6:30 am dŽďǇtĞďďDĞŶ͛ƐWƌĂǇĞƌƌĞĂŬĨĂƐƚ 9:30 am *Pray & Play 3:15 pm-‐5:15 pm Youth Cubs/Youth Club 5:15 pm-‐5:45 pm Youth Orff/Handbells Ensembles 7:00 pm *Chancel Choir Rehearsal 8:30 pm Pick-‐up Basketball Thursday, January 29 10:00 am Staff Meeting *childcare provided *childcare provided T H OSE W H O SE R V E I N J A N U A R Y
Ushers: Angie Earnhardt, captain; Anissa Chapman, Chris Chapman, Wes Eudy,
John Howell, Robin Howell, Greg Lisk, Witt Snuggs, and Elizabeth Wilson
E lder Greeters: Mark Mabry; Sandy Rogers
THE WEEKLY PRESBYTERIAN BULLETIN is published every Thursday by First Presbyterian Church, (P.O. Box 1578) 126 W. North Street, Albemarle, NC 28001. Second-‐class postage paid at Albemarle, NC 28001. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to First Presbyterian Church, P.O. Box 1578, Albemarle, NC 28002-‐1578. Nursery Room:
January 4: Lauren Cranford
January 11: Jana Sanderson
January 18: Jana Sanderson
January 25: Jana Sanderson
Toddler Room:
January 4: Caroline Snyder
January 11: Lauren Cranford
January 18: Cici Ly
January 25: Salem Taylor
Nana & Papa Team:
January 4: Debby Johnston; Joyce Lambert
January 11: Susan & Banks Garrison
January 18: Joan Belsan; Carroll Sitton
January 25: Shirley Welch; Teresa Taylor
Preschool Partners:
January 4: Penny & Jack Morton
January 11: Connie Wallace & Ken Knight
January 18: Lynn Poplin; Isabel McLeod
January 25: Anissa & Chris Chapman
Acolytes:
January 4: David Kilde
January 11: Robert Ivey
January 18: Jacob Palmer
January 25: Evan Johnson
&KLOGUHQ¶V&KXUFKIRU January:
January 4: 1R&KLOGUHQ¶V&KXUFK
January 11: Dona Lisk; Laura Beth Marks; Evan Johnson
January 18: Dona Lisk; Laura Beth Marks; Evan Johnson
January 25: Dona Lisk; Laura Beth Marks; Evan Johnson
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN
CHURCH NEWSLETTER
Albemarle, North Carolina
Elizabeth McNair Ayscue, Pastor
Matt Drumheller, Associate Pastor
Frank Poolos, Director of Vocal and Handbell Music
Stan Scheer, Organist
Gina Martin, Director of Chrisitan Education
Kyle Lambert, Office Manager
Church Office: (704) 982-2722
Website:www.fpcalbemarle.org
Pam Knighten, Secretary
FAX: (704) 982-7918
E-mail:[email protected]
JANUARY 2015