1. religion and spirituality
2. christianity

WORSHIP
Sunday, January 25, 2015
Loving god, through your Son you have
called us to repent of our sin, to believe
in the good news, and to celebrate the
coming of your kingdom. Like Christ’s first
apostles, may we hear his call to discipleship,
and, forsaking old ways, proclaim the gospel
of new life to a broken world; through our
Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, who lives and
reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one
God, now and forever. Amen.
Church of the Pa ms
a community of faith . . . a way of life
3224 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota, FL 34239 • Ph (941) 924-1323
Fax (941) 923-9594 • www.churchofthepalms.org
Prayer line (941) 924-9979
welcome to
w rship
Church of the Palms
Our mission and deep commitment is:
“Equipping Disciples for the Service of Christ.”
We are a community of faith dedicated to a way of life contained in our name:
P.A .L .M . S
P raising God in Worship
A ligning ourselves with Christ
L oving one another in Community
M inistering generously with our Time, Talent & Treasure
S haring our story and The Story
Our Pastors, staff and Session invite you to share not only in our worship, but also
in the exciting opportunities that Church of the Palms offers to learn, serve and
grow in your faith. So whether you are a first time visitor, member, affiliate member
or frequently attend . . .
. . . we are glad you are here!
Sanctuary Flowers
The flowers are given today to the glory of God and in celebration of James T. and
Nancye Snyder’s 52 years of marriage.
Sanctuary Flowers Designation
You are invited to designate Sanctuary flowers in memory of a loved one, in honor of
a special person or event, or just in thanksgiving to God. To place your reservation,
contact Jackie Gomez, 924-1323, and send a separate check of $40.00 payable to
“Church of the Palms” and marked “for flowers” to her attention in the church office.
8:00 a.m. Chapel Communion Service
Please sign the red covered friendship pad at the end of the pew.
Prelude
Call to Worship
*Hymn #220
Opening Prayer
Psalm 91
Offering
Scripture
Sermon
Communion
Prayer
*Hymn #298
*Benediction
Postlude
“All People That on Earth Do Dwell”
Matthew 5:1-20 (Pew Bible NT Pg. 4)
The Climb
“There’s a Wideness in God’s Mercy”
SANCTUARY WORSHIP LEADERSHIP TODAY
Senior Pastor
Executive Pastor
Congregational Care Pastor
Visitation Pastor
Children’s Ministry Coordinator
Equipping Ministry Director
Director of Music Ministry
Organist / Pianist
Dr. Stephen D. McConnell
Dr. Bruce Hedgepeth
Dr. Lal Hmingliani Browne
Dr. Alan Rodda
Carol Homeister
Carolyn Wilson
Genevieve Beauchamp
Dr. Jonathan Spivey
Church Copyright License for all Music #706640 • Church Copyright License for all Video #503843606
JANUARY USHERS
9:00 a.m. - Paul Goetz, Ginny Greenawalt, Monty & Andrea Jackson, Ben &
Jayne Jacobson, Bob & Edith Lane, Ann Lang, Brigitte Lontz, Dave Lutes, Susan
McKinnon, Carol Selvey, Rick & Carol Spathelf. Captain: Bob Nerthling.
11:00 a.m. - Steve Black, Emily Conklin, Jane Delgado-Semidei, Jean DeMeritt,
Jackie Garn, Debbie Keck, Patti Kelly, Bob Luedeka, Frank Moravec, Peg Pentz and
Eleanor Smith. Captain: Pat Frazier.
Hearing Loop System in the Sanctuary
Switch Hearing Aids to T-Coil (telephone setting)
Sanctuary Worship Aids: Large-print copies of the Order of Worship and
hearing devices are available. Packets containing children’s worship activities are
available in the Sanctuary and Campus Center. Please ask an usher for assistance.
Sermon Text: Printed copies of previous sermons are available in the Narthex
of the Sanctuary, Campus Center, the Administration Building and on the church
website.
Televised 9:00 a.m. Worship Service - Every Sunday, Comcast Cable Channel
189. Live streaming of the service is available on our website, www.churchofthepalms.
org and may be replayed Sunday afternoon. All services are archived online. DVD
copies may be purchased through the church office.
The Garden @ CHURCH OF THE PALMS
Join us at 9:00 a.m. in the Campus Center for our Modern Worship service.
THE GARDEN WORSHIP LEADERSHIP TODAY
Pastors:
Joe Davis ([email protected])
Bruce Hedgepeth ([email protected])
Technical Director: Mike Bassett ([email protected])
Worship Leader: Megan Mooney ([email protected])
IT CAN’T BE THAT BAD!
But it is. And no one seems to understand what you are going through. At times like
this, you need a concerned and caring Christian friend who will listen to you as you work
through your feelings. Why not reach out for that caring ear and warm heart of a trained
Stephen Minister? To find out more or to receive a Stephen Minister’s care, you can use
the request folder available in every pew rack, or contact our Congregational Care Pastor,
Dr. Hmingi Browne, 924-1323, [email protected].
a celebration of
w rship
9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. • Sanctuary
3rd Sunday after Epiphany
• We gather •
Prayer of invocation
9:00 a.m.
11:00 a.m.
Ginna Clark
Susy Welsh
PRELUDE
“Prelude and Fugue”
George Nickson, Marimba
*Introit
Chancel Choir
J.S. Bach
*Call to worship
*Hymn #220
“All People That on Earth Do Dwell”
*Call to Confession
• we confess •
*Prayer of Confession (together)
God of glory, you sent Jesus among us as the light of the world, to
reveal your love for all people. We confess that our sin and pride
hide the brightness of your light. We turn away from the poor; we
ignore cries for justice; we do not strive for peace. In your mercy,
cleanse us of our sin and baptize us once again with your Spirit, that
forgiven and renewed, we may show forth your glory shining in the
face of Jesus Christ. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
*Declaration of Pardon
Leader: Friends, believe the good news of the Gospel.
People: In Jesus Christ we are forgiven.
*Congregational response (together)
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost;
As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be,
World without end. Amen, Amen.
*Affirmation of Faith - The Apostles’ Creed (together)
I believe in God, the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth.
And in Jesus Christ his only Son our Lord; who was conceived by the
Holy Ghost, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate,
was crucified, dead, and buried; he descended into hell; the third day
he rose again from the dead; he ascended into heaven, and sitteth on
the right hand of God the Father Almighty; from thence he shall come
to judge the quick and the dead. I believe in the Holy Ghost; the holy
catholic church; the communion of saints; the forgiveness of sins; the
resurrection of the body; and the life everlasting. Amen.
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Church of the Palms
• we share •
RESPONSE
O for a thousand tongues to sing
My dear Redeemer’s praise,
The glories of my God and King,
The triumphs of God’s grace!
Life at Church of the Palms
Please sign and pass the red covered friendship pad at the end of the pew.
The McFall Family
Sharing our story
music MEDITATION
“Blessed Are You”
Craig Courtney
Chancel Choir & Creative Signers (Linda Evans and Susy Welsh)
Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.
Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.
Blessed are they that hunger and thirst after righteousness,
For they shall be filled.
Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.
Blessed are the pure of heart: for they shall see God.
Blessed are the makers of peace: for they shall be called the children of God.
Blessed are they who are persecuted for righteousness:
For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are you when people revile and persecute you,
And speak against you, for my sake.
Rejoice, be glad: for great is your reward in heaven:
For so they persecuted the prophets which were before you.
Blessed are you, blessed are you.
Pastoral prayer and the Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom
come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our
daily bread; and forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors; and
lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the
kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.
Offertory
“Rhythm Song”
George Nickson, Marimba
Paul Smadbeck
*DOXOLOGY AND PRAYER OF DEDICATION
Praise God from whom all blessings flow;
Praise Him all creatures here below;
Praise Him above, ye heavenly host;
Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen.
• We PROCLAIM •
Carol Homeister
Children’s Moment (9:00 a.m.)
*Hymn #244
“Let Us with a Gladsome Mind”
Scripture LESSON
Matthew 5:1-20 (Pew Bible NT Pg. 4)
Leader: This is the Word of the Lord!
People: Thanks be to God!
SERMON
“The Climb”
www.churchofthepalms.org
Dr. Stephen D. McConnell
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• We GO •
*Hymn #298
*Benediction
“There’s a Wideness in God’s Mercy”
*Benediction Response
Grant us thy peace upon our homeward way;
With thee began, with thee shall end the day.
Guard thou the lips from sin, the heart from shame,
That in this house have called upon thy name.
Postlude
“Trumpet Voluntary in C”
John Stanley
*Congregation, please stand if able
About our guest musician:
george nickson
A percussionist of great versatility and virtuosity, George
Nickson has been hailed as “a performer handling his
role with ease and flair” by The New York Times.
George, a native of South Florida, has recently received
the Master of Music degree at The Juilliard School,
where he studied with NY Philharmonic principal
percussionist, Daniel Druckman. He was appointed
Principal Percussionist of the Sarasota Orchestra in April
2012. He has performed with Pierre Boulez and Steve Reich, was a finalist
for the Boston Symphony’s percussion position and was a Fellow at the Tanglewood
Music Center. An ardent proponent of new music, George was a member of the
Xanthos Ensemble from 2005-2010 and has worked closely with our greatest living
composers, in particular, Elliot Carter, Charles Wuorinen and Oliver Knussen. In
addition to the classical field, Nickson has had the pleasure of performing with
numerous rock and pop groups throughout the New York and Boston areas.
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Church of the Palms
new
member
class
February 8 • Chapel Reception Room
10:15 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. New Members Part 1 - COP Orientation: If you are
ready to make a deeper commitment to the Church of the Palms family of faith or
would just like to explore what that means, then this is the class for you! Just here
seasonally? Come learn about our affiliate membership.
11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. New Members Part 2 - Join The Community: If
you have made the decision to join our community of faith, this is your opportunity
to be received into membership. The only prerequisite is to have attended a New
Member Orientation. No need to sign up for either New Members Part 1 or 2...just come
to the Chapel Reception Room!
Call to Prayer
Sundays, 8:00 a.m. - 8:45 a.m.
Chapel Reception Room
Join us every Sunday before the services as
we pray for our pastors and the morning
services. Come and pray silently or out
loud. Contact Susan Grundy, 355-2156.
Remember In
Prayer
Missionaries & Mission Partners
An updated list of our supported worldwide and local mission partners and missionaries
is available on the literature racks at the doors in the Sanctuary, the Campus Center
and the Church Office. We ask for your continued prayers for all of our Missionaries
and Mission Partners.
Military
Individuals
Chris Branning
June LeBell Alley
Roxanna Browning
Bob Castle
Mary Frances Dockum
Janet Eddy
T.H. Edelblute
Lee Greene
Babe Hart
Ernie Ingham
Mary Ann Jaqua
Bob Kramer
Cherie Leetzow
Imogene Lewis
Brigitte Lontz
Ragnar Petri
Carl Phillipps
DeVon Simon
Sally Taylor
Roland VanderValk
Bob VanBergen
Mary Wadsworth
David Wachtel
Non-Members
Judith Dench
Jeff Dockum
Beverly Egan
Craig Hendry
Nutei Khawlhring
Ralph Korn
Frank, Karen, Phil & Chloe Lagana
Craigery Morgan
Lloyd Odegaard
Ann Prohoniak
David Reifsnyder
Don Wilson
Alex Brown
Richard Carson
Rob Garner
Peter Higginbotham
Zachary Miller
David Moffett
Lauren Moffett
Tracy Prohoniak
Jared Sweetser
Ben Young
In Need of Prayer?
www.churchofthepalms.org
Please call the church office.
We would love to pray for you
and any prayer requests you
may have, 924-1323.
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Family
ministry
family
MINISTRY
SMALL Group ANNOUNCEMENT - summer trip meetings today
For Montreat: meet in room 210 (couch side).
For MS Mission Trip: meet in room 209.
Students who are not attending either of these trips will meet in room 208 (café side).
confirmation dinner & Orientation
Tonight • 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. • Campus Center
If you have RSVP’d for our Confirmation Dinner and orientation, it is tonight in
the Campus Center from 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
MARK YOUR CALENDARS!
Confirmation lock-in
Friday, January 30
Mark your Calendars for our Confirmation Lock-in this Friday night!
More information will be provided tonight at dinner.
Date night
Friday, February 13 • 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. • Campus Center
Just bring your sweetheart and let us take care of the rest. We’ll keep your kids while
you enjoy dinner, dessert, and entertainment. Cost is $10.00. RSVP to
Valerie Mathews; [email protected] or 924-1323 ext.
208. Students - this is a great way to get your service hours before
the March deadline! Sign up with Valerie today.
STUDENT SPONSORSHIP 2015 is here!
Thank you for your generosity as we begin to receive our sponsors and donations.
If you have not, please don’t forget to bring your financial gift along with the card
and place it in the weekly offering. There are cards available in the pew racks for
your convenience. Because of your generosity, our students will have opportunities
to encounter Christ in 2015 that will impact them for life. This is truly an eternal
investment. Questions? Contact Jeff McCauley at [email protected]..
thriving in the early years of parenting
Beginning February 1 • 10:15 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. • Room 202
Do you want to be a great mom or dad? Do you sometimes feel like you’re
failing? All parents of kids who are 6 and under are invited to a Parenting
Workshop from 10:15 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. in room 202. Family Builders Tony and
Janae Camp will lead this 5 week course beginning February 1. Young parents
will connect with one another as they learn tips and techniques for correcting
behavior and communicating in ways to enhance cooperation. Parenting for the
heart encompasses topics like understanding the basic needs of kids and enjoying
each phase of development. You won’t want to miss this great class. If you have
questions, please contact Laurie Haas, [email protected].
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Church of the Palms
NURSERY CARE • 8:45 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. • 1st floor, Educ. Bldg.
For your little angels ages 2 months - 4 years old, Nursery is available from 8:45
am-12:15 pm on Sundays in the first floor of the Educational building. Children
enjoy a craft, snack and learning about Jesus in a fun and safe environment.
Nursing station and changing areas are available for parents in the nursery as
well. Volunteers are always needed and much appreciated. For information please
contact Corrie at [email protected] or by calling 727-457-9403.
SUNDAY KIDS WORSHIP • 9:30 a.m. - 10:15 a.m.
All Pre-K through 5th grade kids should begin worship with their families at
the 9:00 a.m. service. After the Children’s Moment, they will be escorted from the
service to participate in Kids Worship in room 205-207 from 9:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
SUNDAY CHILDCARE • 8:45 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Nursery: room 101
Toddlers & 2 Year Olds: room 103
3 Year Olds: room 103B
sunday Elementary Small Groups • 10:15 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
This year, children are learning the same theme being preached in the Sanctuary
and Garden each week. We are all finding our place in God’s Story, the Bible.
Pre-K - Kindergarten: room 114
1st & 2nd grade: room 207
3rd grade: 211 Library
4th & 5th grade: room 205
SUNDAY Middle & High School Small Groups (Rooms 208, 209, 210)
Each Sunday from 10:15 a.m. - 11:00 am, students will gather in Rooms 208,
209, and 210 to explore the deeper themes of God’s Story through the narrative
lectionary being studied church wide. We will have creative conversations and
share personal stories to find where we connect to God’s greater story.
CONTACT FAMILY MINISTRY STAFF (924-1323):
Family Ministry Director:
Laurie Haas ([email protected])
Jeff McCauley ([email protected])
Student Ministry Director:
Valerie Mathews ([email protected])
Family Ministry Coordinator:
Children’s Ministry Coordinator: Carol Homeister ([email protected])
Corrie Hoffman ([email protected])
Nursery Coordinator:
students serving
Serve your church family and earn those trip bucks! Contact Valerie Mathews to sign
up: 924-1323 ext. 208, [email protected]. Remember: You must have
15 hours served before March 1 to keep your spot on a summer trip!
Wednesday Afternoon
Kitchen Prep
3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Help during dinner and clean-up
afterwards. Contact Kathy Robinett,
[email protected]
Yellow Umbrella Greeting
Want to brighten someone’s day
with your smile? Sign up to be a
yellow umbrella greeter.
Volunteers Needed
Family Ministry is looking
for a team of volunteers
to help in our creative
outreach. If you have an
eye for design or know how
to use Pinterest, we want
YOU! All ages are welcome.
Contact Valerie Mathews
(924-1323 ext. 208,
[email protected]) to sign up.
sunday
The story: creation TO THE resurrection
10:15 a.m. • Chapel
This class is designed as a companion to the Sunday sermon series. Each week we
will have the opportunity to look deeper into the scriptures behind the sermon. We
will learn how God has revealed His plan of salvation from Creation to the Cross.
Augustine formulated the axiom, “in the Old Testament the New is concealed, in the
New the Old is revealed”. Led by Dale Vollrath: [email protected].
New Life Class
10:15 a.m. • Room 202
New Life Class is a wonderful group of parents who meet Sunday mornings
to discuss topics related to parenting and marriage. Our purpose is to provide
a time and place for couples to grow closer to God by studying scripture
and gleaning wisdom from current books related to family life. Led by Derek
Thompson, [email protected].
Christians Under Construction:
Biblical Perspectives on Current Issues
10:15 a.m. • Room 206
Each week we will tackle a new subject that has generated interest among both
Christians and non-Christians and look at it from a Biblical perspective. Today we
discuss a Harvard-trained neurobiologist’s near-brain dead experience that convinced
him of Heaven’s reality and seek to match it with traditional Biblical belief. We will
read the Bible, consider how this experience might apply and engage in informed
discussion. This Sunday, facilitated by Dr. Alan Rodda.
Church of the Palms Book Group
February 15, 3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. • Chapel Reception Room
At this gathering, we plan to discuss The Language of Sparrows by Rachel
Phifer. Through this story of unique and compelling individuals of
varied ages, the reader witnesses the awesome workings of our God of
hope. You are most welcome to join us on February 15, as well as on
the third Sunday of upcoming months for the following books: March Barabbas by Par Lagerkvist, April - The Insanity of God:True Story of Faith Resurrected,
by Nik Ripken, and May - In the Land of Blue Burqas by Kate McCord. Questions?
Please contact Doris Kamphuis, 360-8474, [email protected].
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Church of the Palms
east home bible study
Today, 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.• Off Campus
This newly-organized East Home Bible Study group is meeting in support of God’s
word as our only authority and His Son as our only Savior, as we seek to follow the
leading of His Spirit. We will meet on the second and fourth Sundays of the
month. Please join us for Bible Study, Prayer, and Food/Fellowship. Contact Reyn
or Doris Kamphuis at 360-8474 or email us at [email protected] if you have any
questions or would like to join the group.
MONday
PALMS’ SINGLES DINNER (50+)
5:30 p.m. • Off Campus
Every Monday we have dinner at 5:30 p.m. followed by events such as book talks,
game night, special outings and more. Please call in your dinner reservations by the
Thursday prior to this dinner, no later than noon. Contact Dottie Stoddard, 924-7430.
TUESday
MEN’S BIBLE STUDY & BREAKFAST
7:00 a.m. • Off Campus
This group is open to all men who would like the opportunity to
get to know other men from our church while deepening their
faith through Bible study and prayer. Please bring a Bible. We
are currently studying the book of John. Led by Dale Vollrath.
Contact Dale Vollrath, [email protected].
Women’s Prayer Group
2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. • Chapel Narthex
This is a time for encouragement through God’s Word and prayer. We
pray for our church, country, family relationships, adult children with
addictions, grandchildren and friends. We will stroll with Paul through
Romans. Join us to know Jesus Christ more clearly, to love Him more
dearly and to follow Him more nearly. We welcome all prayer requests.
Gaye O’Brien 377-3480.
C.S. Lewis Reading Group
February 3, 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. • Room 206
Our reading group, led by Dr. McConnell, will continue our
discussion on That Hideous Strength, through chapter 7.
north home bible study
January 27, 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.• Off Campus
We will now begin studying the book of II Peter. We meet on
the second and fourth Tuesday of the month. Please join us for
Bible Study, Prayer, and Food/Fellowship. Contact Reyn or Doris
Kamphuis at 360-8474 or email us at [email protected] if you
have any questions or would like to join the group.
Stephen ministry
February 17, 6:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. • Room 206
Receive continuing education and meet in supervised groups every third Tuesday of
the month. Contact Hmingi Browne, 924-1323.
WEDNESday
Men’s Bible Study
7:30 a.m. • Chapel Reception Room
In his letter to the Romans Paul develops the argument that is the basis of
Christianity: Nothing you can do will save you. It is through faith alone that we are
saved. Led by Tom Webber, [email protected] and Rev. Fred Marsh.
watercolor wednesday
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. • Chapel Reception Room
Paint with watercolor and enjoy the company of other artsy folk!
Please remember to bring your own supplies. Contact Pastor Hmingi
Browne, 924-1323 or [email protected].
prayer shawl group
3:30 p.m.• Chapel Narthex
We are knitting prayer shawls. All are welcome
to join us! Contact Hmingi Browne, 924-1323 or
[email protected].
Palms Buffet & Grille
5:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. • Campus Center
Enjoy food and fellowship for all on Wednesday evenings!
Please note: There will be NO Wednesday dinner this week due to
the Mission Expo dinner. We will resume our regular schedule on February 4.
oasis midweek worship
7:00 p.m. • Chapel
In worship on Sunday it all seems so clear how we can live in a way that’s
pleasing to God, but sometimes by the middle of the week the
stresses and demands of life threaten to consume all our time
and attention. Join us on Wednesdays beginning in January for
a midweek time of refreshment to help us regain our faith focus. m i d w e e k
OAS S
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Adult Discipleship & Fellowship
worship
REMEMBERING THE SABBATH (Women’s study)
February 4 • 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. • Room 206
Please note: Due to the Mission Expo event we will not meet
this Wednesday, January 28. We will meet on Wednesday,
February 4. Is keeping the Sabbath a challenge for you and your
family? Join us for this 4 week study as we explore what the Bible says about the Sabbath,
listen to short videos from Matthew Sleeth, author of 24/6, and share in discussions
about today’s challenges and what we can do to “Keep the Sabbath.”Please bring your
Bible. Contact Jan Hunt, [email protected].
COMPARATIVE RELIGIONS
January 28 • 7:00 p.m. • Room 205
In this class we will study and explore four of the major religions in today’s
world: Judaism, Hinduism, Buddhism and Islam. Each week is self-contained.
Led by Dr. William Browne, assisted by Dr. Doris Nocera and Dr. Hmingi
Browne. Contact Pastor Hmingi Browne, [email protected].
THURSday
PALMS BRIDGE CLUB
February 5, 7:00 p.m.• Chapel Reception Room
We meet on the first and third Thursdays of the month for fun
and fellowship. Contact Nancy Kanellos, 320-3478 to make your
reservation or to be placed on the “fill-in” list. “Fill-in” players are
greatly appreciated (and needed) as well as players who are able to
play on a regular basis. Come and join us - you’ll love it!
Beginning Creative Signing Class
5:30 p.m. • Music & Arts Building
This class is an introduction to incorporating American Sign Language with music
to interpret God’s message to us in visual form. No previous experience is necessary.
Our Advanced Creative Signers will be leading this class. Everyone is welcome, middle
school students through adults.You may sign up under the Fellowship Tree contact
Susy Welsh 321-5703, [email protected].
Beginning Bell Ringers class
6:30 p.m. • Sanctuary
Come and learn how to read music and how bells/tone chimes ringing is actually done.
Everyone is welcome, middle school students through adults. No previous experience
necessary. Contact Susy Welsh 321-5703, [email protected].
www.churchofthepalms.org
13
sisters in Christ
January 29,2015 • 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. • Room 209
Please note: For the month of January ONLY, we will meet on Thursday,
January 29. We will resume our regular schedule in February. Normally, we meet
on the fourth Thursday of the month and study books and articles to help us on
our spiritual journeys. Come share insights and fellowship with coffee, discussion
and prayer. Contact Cindy Lanoue-Foster, 922-1826 (please leave a message);
[email protected].
FRIday
Friday Morning Bible Study
9:30 a.m. • Room 202
Our new Bible study is titled, “Luke 24” will last approximately 10
weeks, give or take a week. If you need a study guide, please email
Meriam. Led by Meriam Matthews, meriam112@mindspring.
com and Peter Connor, [email protected].
grief support group
Please note: The Grief Support Group will resume on Friday, February 20. For the
Friday dates of January 30, February 6 & 13, we will have Faith-Based Revovery
meetings from 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. in the Chapel Reception Room. If interested, just
show up.
Eat, Meet & Be Merry January 30, 11:30 a.m. • Off Campus
Join Pastor Hmingi Browne for food and fellowship at Der Dutchman every
last Friday of the month. Contact Hmingi Browne, 924-1323.
south home bible study
February 13, 7:00 p.m. • Off Campus
We will now begin studying the book of Proverbs from the Old Testament.
We meet on the second and fourth Friday of the month. Please join us for Bible
Study, Prayer, and Food/Fellowship. Contact Reyn or Doris Kamphuis at 360-8474
or email us at [email protected] if you have any questions or would like to join
the group.
loving stitches
February 27, 2015 • 9:45 a.m. • Chapel Reception Room
We are a group of women who knit, crochet, sew and quilt for
local charities. We create baby sweaters and blankets for Healthy
Start and the Veterans Hospital; teddy bears for the Sheriff and
Police Departments and hats for the Resurrection House and the
Salvation Army. We meet on the fourth Friday of each month. If
you enjoy sewing, knitting, quilting or crocheting, please join us.
Knitting and crochet instructions are available. Contact Alberta
Adams, 924-8464.
14
Church of the Palms
opportunities for
generosity
Two Cents A Meal
Collection TODAY!
Join the Fight Against
Hunger Every donation
we collect will go to hunger related
projects, including 50% to our own
Food Pantry. Red collection baskets
will be located by the Sanctuary main
entrances. To donate by check, include
Two Cents A Meal in the memo line.
back t bas cs
Family Ministry Volunteers
Family Ministry is
looking for a team
of
volunteers
to help in our
creative outreach.
If you have an
eye for design or
know how to use
Pinterest, we want
YOU! All ages are
welcome. Contact Valerie Mathews
(924-1323 ext. 208, vmathews@
churchofthepalms.org) to sign up.
tutoring program
We still have many
students with no tutors.
If you work and would like
to help a student after you
finish your day at work, please see
Judy Armitage under the Fellowship
Tree between services. You may
also contact her by calling 9241323 or emailing her at jarmitage@
churchofthepalms.org. Thank you.
Wednesday Grille Volunteers
We need volunteers for prepping (2
hours), dining room setup (begins at
3:00 p.m.), dining room help during
dinner and cleanup afterwards.
To help, please contact Kathy
Robinett, 924-1323, krobinett@
churchofthepalms.org.
Donations of Animal Fabric Needed for Noah’s Flood
The Music Department is in need of any type of animal fabric to be used in their
upcoming production of Noah’s Flood. Donations of fabric are needed no later than
January 30, and may be dropped off at the Music & Arts building or church office,
labeled “Music”. Thank you!
Professional leadership opportunity at COP
As we continue to pursue our mission of “equipping disciples for the service
of Christ” in 2015, session has redefined the role of Dr. Bruce Hedgepeth
to focus on discipleship and outreach. As a result, we are currently seeking
a person to serve as Executive Director of Operations who will oversee
the organizational/business facets of our ministry. A full job description is
available on the church website.
www.churchofthepalms.org
15
spotlight on
missions
Joe Davis, Pastor
The Garden and its Nightlife Center
J
oe Davis prepared this portion of the
Spotlight so that all of us will get to know
him better and learn what he considers special
about Church of the Palms. “My title at COP is
Lead Teaching Pastor for The Garden. One of
the things I like about my current role is that it
gives me an outlet to connect with non-church
people I meet constantly through my role in the
community with a church. This includes both
adults and Nightlife Center students. It has
truly been a joy to shepherd the congregation
through teaching of the Word of God, while at
the same time having a very effective outlet for
evangelism every Sunday morning. The way we
work together as a team in The Garden with Pastor Bruce Hedgepeth, Mike
Bassett, and Megan Mooney to blend shepherding and outreach is truly the most
unique church ministry experience I have had in my 25 years as an ordained
minister. For decades I have struggled with knowing how to draw un-churched
people (both youth and adults) into a meaningful relationship with a local church.
Here at COP in The Garden I have discovered that when those we are trying to
reach with the Gospel have a meaningful relationship with the people they see
up front each week, they come, get connected, and stay connected. It truly is a
God-ordained partnership between COP, The Garden, The Nightlife Center, and
Mobilepreacher.org.”
The Nightlife Center is a division of Mobilepreacher.org. a non-profit 501(c)3
organization. The Year-End 2014 Update: Year of Expansion recently reported
that the Board of Directors had said: “As we approach one year in our new facility,
the Nightlife staff enjoyed a year of total focus on shepherding and mentoring
the students God has given us. Several new ministries were created which allow
us to reach new students, while a renewed focus on mercy and benevolence has
taken form.”
16
Church of the Palms
Here is a snapshot of their weekly
ministries and some of their highlighted
ministry achievements:
2014 Weekly Ministries:
Monday and Friday: Martial Arts class
(Free for Nightlife Students); Monday:
Open Court Basketball (outside during
DST); Wednesday: Nightlife, our flagship
crowd-gathering ministry, basketball,
crafts, pizza, music, homework lab, and the Gospel - 50 weeks a year; Thursday:
Smart Recovery (Christian bases substance recovery program for H.S. & young
adults); Saturday: Weekly Game Night/Poker Night, fun, food fellowship and
ride planning for church; Sunday: Church and Sunday Nightlife Brunch. Pick
up kids in the “Nightlife Van” for church and then weekly brunch afterwards!
Other Weekly Highlights:
40-80 kids reached each week; weekly staff of 8 adults (2 paid, 6 volunteers);
musicians’ jam session each Wednesday after the message.
2014 Ministry Highlights:
$16,500 benevolence for students and their families in need (100 % increase from
2013, and $24,500 over the last two years); two temporary housing facilities
acquired to help address the problem of homelessness some of our students face
each day; Party Point: successful entrepreneurial mentoring program providing
several students with business training and money-making opportunities
via a party planning service started and run
exclusively by students, with help from seasoned
mentors; Monthly Speakers provided for
Sarasota County Teen Court, Teen Shelter, and
Juvenile Detention Canter.
For more “About Worship in The Garden Modern Worship - Ancient Truth - Spiritual
Growth,” please visit COP’s website to view
the Garden Vision Statement in the Worship Section. The Garden Team: Joe
Davis (Garden Worship Pastor) - [email protected]; Bruce Hedgepeth
(Executive Pastor) - [email protected], 924-1323 x 210; Megan
Mooney (Garden Worship Leader) - [email protected]; and Mike Bassett
(Garden Technical Director) - [email protected].
www.churchofthepalms.org
17
upcoming ministry
events
Congregational Meeting
TODAY • 12:00 p.m.• Sanctuary
Please plan to attend the Annual Meeting of the
Congregation, called by Session for Sunday, January 25 at
noon in the Sanctuary. The purposes of this meeting are: the election
of elders, deacons and Nominating Committee members; and voting on the
Terms of Call for our installed pastors. Finally, we will review financial
results for the Church and Foundation during 2014 and hear a report on the
church operating budget for 2015. Printed copies of the 2014 Annual Report
are available in the back of the Sanctuary, Campus Center and church office.
You may also read it online by visiting our website.
SAVE THE DATE
Mark Your Calendars Now!
Wednesday, January 28, 2015
Missionary Panel for Middle & High
School Youth
At their regular meeting with pizza.
Reaching Others for Christ
Wednesday, January 28, 2015
Campus Center Dinner & Presentations
Presentations by three COP Mission
Partners: Iraq Refugee Relief, Our Two
Sponsored Jesus Films, Bulgaria Youth
Leadership Development. PW will help
assist with the event.
Saturday January 31, 2015
Missionary Brunch in the Campus
Center
Ten COP Mission Partners share their
wonderful stories.
Sunday, February 1, 2015
The Big Tent Event
Speak one-on-one with missionaries.
At Mission Expo 2015, start the New Year by becoming better acquainted with many
of the Missionary disciples serving Christ that you support with your Church of the
Palms giving. More information forthcoming.
18
Church of the Palms
upcoming ministry
events
Wycliffe Bible Translators &
Campus Crusade’s JESUS Film Production
Tuesday, February 17 • 7:00 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.
The Mission Committee is inviting everyone to visit Wycliffe in Orlando, the Wycliffe
Bible Translator’s Discovery Center and Campus Crusade International. You will have
an opportunity to see first-hand what our church has supported for the last 9 years. Since
Church of the Palms has sponsored two JESUS Film for two people groups in Nigeria,
this will be an opportunity to visit Wycliffe as well as see first-hand how a JESUS Film
is produced. Sign up under the tree today. This trip will be FREE, thanks to a special
gift from an anonymous donor. For further information, please contact Reyn Kamphuis,
360-8474, [email protected].
A Tale of
TWO PIANOS
Sunday, February 8
3:00 p.m.• Sanctuary
Tickets: $10.00 Genevieve beauchamp • jonathan spivey
Please join us on February 8 for an exciting performance by our own
Jonathan and Genevieve, who will be performing a varied repertoire on
two 9 foot Steinway pianos. The sanctuary will be filled with heavenly
music that you won’t want to miss! Tickets are $10.00 and are on sale in
the church office.
SHAPE Wants Me To Serve. . .
I Know Now Where God
And it brings the most
joy to me while helping others.
This is what graduates of the S.H.A.P.E. Class are saying. Invest six hours over just
two days and find how you have been shaped by God to serve others. In the S.H.A.P.E.
Class, you will learn how you are equipped for the service of Christ by listening to
biblical teaching, doing self-assessment exercises, learning how to interpret these
self-assessments, and having the opportunity to discuss them in a small-group.
This class meets in the Education Bldg, Room 206, beginning at 6:30 p.m. on
Friday, February 20 and continues Saturday morning, February 21. One hour of
preparation is required before attending the class. You may pick up the workbook in
the church office or from under the Tree between services. Contact Bob Baarson at
400-9391 or [email protected] for further information.
www.churchofthepalms.org
19
Honduras Missions
Now that Christmas is over and we’ve turned the page
on a new year, it’s time to turn our attention toward the
church’s mission trips that will be coming up in 2015.
The first of those will be in February when a team of
21 adults will travel to Honduras for our 10th year of
mission outreach in the area of El Progreso where the
eye clinic is located. On February 14 we will be sending 10 team members to work
at the Miqueas orphanage in the village of La Colorada. During the week, they will
assist with the construction of a new home on the property. As this team returns on
February 21, a second team of 11 will head south for a week of Vacation Bible School
at an elementary school in El Progreso. This school has approximately 300 students,
and it is our goal to provide each child with a small package of basic school supplies
to begin the year. These packages will contain pencils, erasers, a pencil sharpener,
scissors and crayons or colored pencils. We’ve already begun collecting items, but we
welcome your help.
Here is a list of what we still need:
• Glue sticks (100) (Elmers or Avery brand)
• #2 Pencils (600)
• Pencil Sharpeners (135)
• Erasers (100)
• Crayons (25 boxes of Crayola 24 pack)
• Colored pencils (48 boxes of Crayola 12
pack)
• Scissors (150 round tip for young
children; 150 student scissors for older
kids)
You can help these children get a good start into their new
school year by simply dropping off your donation in the administration building by
Sunday, February 1. If you have any questions, please contact Jan Hunt at janh1151@
gmail.com.
Legacy Giving Corner
One of the greatest ways you can care for
those you love in a lasting way is to make
a will and to keep it current with your
present wishes. Don’t hesitate. You’ll be glad
for the peace of mind that follows.
Contact your tax professional to learn more. For more
information, about the Legacy Society, contact Dr.
McConnell, [email protected], 9241323 or John Mercier, Chair of the Legacy Giving
Committee, 921-5726, [email protected].
20
Church of the Palms
calendar of
events
Sunday, JANUARY 25
8:00 a.m.
Chapel Worship Service
8:00 a.m.
Prayer Meeting
8:45 a.m.
Childcare
9:00 a.m. The Garden Worship Service
9:00 a.m.
Traditional Worship
9:30 a.m.
Kid’s Worship
10:15 a.m.
Pre-K - Elementary Small Groups
10:15 a.m.
Middle - High School Small Groups
10:15 a.m.
Christians Under Construction
10:15 a.m.New Life Class
10:15 a.m.
The Story: Creation to Resurrection
11:00 a.m.
Traditional Worship
12:00 p.m.
Annual Congregationl Meeting
12:45 p.m.
Foundation Annual Ogranizational Mtg.
1:00 p.m. Honduras Mission Team Training
3:00 p.m. Suncoast Band Concert
4:00 p.m.
East Home Bible Study
5:00 p.m. Life’s Difficult Questions
5:00 p.m. Confirmation Kick-off Dinner
Chapel
Chapel Study
See Page 9
Campus Center
Sanctuary
205-207
See Page 9
See Page 9
206
202
Chapel
Sanctuary
Sanctuary
211 Library
Chapel Reception Room
Sanctuary
Off Campus
Sanctuary
Campus Center
Monday, JANUARY 26
9:00 a.m.
3:30 p.m.
5:30 p.m.
6:00 p.m.
6:30 p.m.
6:00 p.m.
SILL Music Mondays
Sanctuary
Salary Grade Committee
West Meeting Room
Palm Singles DinnerOff Campus
Session Dinner
Campus Center
Sounds of Glory Orchestra Rehearsal
Music & Arts Building
Session Meeting
206
Tuesday, JANUARY 27
7:00 a.m.
Men’s Bible Study & Breakfast
Off Campus
2:00 p.m.
Women’s Prayer Group
Chapel Narthex
2:30 p.m.
Tutoring
Campus Center
4:30 p.m.
SYV Prelude & Training Choir Rehearsal Music & Arts Building
5:00 p.m.
COP Nominating Committee Meeting
West Meeting Room
5:30 p.m.
Creative SignersSanctuary
5:45 p.m.
SYV Concert Choir Rehearsal Music & Arts Building
6:30 p.m.
SYV Chamber Choir Rehearsal
Music & Arts Building
6:30 p.m.North Home Bible Study
Off Campus
Wednesday, JANUARY 28
7:30 a.m.
10:00 a.m.
3:30 p.m.
5:00 p.m.
5:00 p.m.
5:30 p.m.
5:30 p.m.
6:00 p.m.
Men’s Bible Study Chapel Reception Room
Watercolor Wednesday
Chapel Reception Room
Prayer Shawl Group
Chapel Narthex
Congregational Prayer Time
Chapel
Mission Expo Dinner
Campus Center
Equipping Ministry Meeting
East Meeting Room
Leadership Development Team Meeting West Meeting Room
Jubilee Handbell Choir Rehearsal
Sanctuary
www.churchofthepalms.org
21
calendar of
events
6:30 p.m.
Youth Group (Middle & High School)
6:30 p.m.
PALMS Essentials Small Group
7:00 p.m.Oasis Wednesday Service
7:00 p.m.
Comparative Religions Class
7:15 p.m.
Chancel Choir Rehearsal
208, 209, 210
East Meeting Room
Chapel
205
Music & Arts Building
Thursday, JANUARY 29
2:30 p.m.
Tutoring
Campus Center
5:00 p.m. Mission Youth Expo Pizza Dinner
Courtyard/208-210
5:30 p.m. Beginning Creative Signers Class
Music & Arts Building
6:00 p.m. Girl Scout Troop 127 Meeting
205-207
6:00 p.m. The Garden Worship Team Meeting
East Meeting Room
6:30 p.m. Beginning Bell Ringers Class
Sanctuary
6:30 p.m. Sisters In Christ
Chapel Reception Room
7:00 p.m.
The Garden Worship Band Rehearsal
Campus Center
Friday, JANUARY 30
9:30 a.m.
10:00 a.m. 11:30 a.m. 1:00 p.m. 5:00 p.m. Friday Morning Bible Study
202
Faith-Based Recovery Group
Chapel Reception Room
Eat, Meet & Be MerryOff Campus
Palms String Ensemble
Music & Arts Building
Mission Potluck Dinner
Campus Center
Saturday, JANUARY 31
9:00 a.m. Mission Expo Brunch
Sunday, February 1
8:00 a.m.
Chapel Worship Service
8:00 a.m.
Prayer Meeting
8:45 a.m.
Childcare
9:00 a.m. The Garden Worship Service
9:00 a.m.
Traditional Worship
9:30 a.m.
Kid’s Worship
10:15 a.m.
Pre-K - Elementary Small Groups
10:15 a.m.
Middle - High School Small Groups
10:15 a.m.
Christians Under Construction
10:15 a.m.New Life Class
10:15 a.m.
The Story: Creation to Resurrection
11:00 a.m.
Traditional Worship
1:00 p.m. Honduras Mission Team Training
3:00 p.m. Praise & Glory Choir Rehearsal
5:00 p.m. Life’s Difficult Questions
Campus Center
Chapel
Chapel Study
See Page 9
Campus Center
Sanctuary
205-207
See Page 9
See Page 9
206
202
Chapel
Sanctuary
Chapel Reception Room
Music & Arts Building
Sanctuary
Suncoast Concert Band Performance
TODAY • 3:00 p.m. • Sanctuary
Tickets are $5.00 per person and may be purchased at the door.
God’s Story
Your Story
January 25, 2015
For the week of January 25, 2104
Devotion: Use this resource at home to guide your household’s daily
devotions. You can do this alone, as a couple, as a family; in the morning,
during the day, or at night. Find a routine that works best for you.
Pray: Light a candle and open your devotion time with a prayer.
Lord of abundant blessings, you promised hope and blessing for all
people who appear not to have much. Help us to see the blessings in
each of your children, and to receive whatever blessings you have in
store for us, for the glory of the Lord. Amen.
Reflect: Reflect on the key verse from Sunday’s reading.
[Jesus said,] “You are the salt of the earth.” Matthew 5:13
Study: Study the reading and consider the background.
Every culture has some variation of a hierarchical social structure that
is critical, or even unjust to its weakest members. In Jesus’ day, those
who were meek, ill, grieving, poor, or perceived as weak were the ones
most likely to suffer from social inequities. Jesus came to abolish the
hierarchies that caused some to suffer at the hands of others. His
sermon on the mountain promised those at the bottom of the social
structure that there was a reward for them that would surpass any they
could receive here on earth. The gifts of God’s kingdom would be
abundant for them. His words gave hope to those who may have long
abandoned hope.
This story does not seek to condemn those whose lives appear blessed in
the eyes of the world. Instead, it seeks to offer hope to anyone who
suffers any affliction of body, mind, or spirit. It encourages us to be
kind and gentle to those whose suffering is greater than ours, and
gratefully to accept the help and care from those whose suffering is less.
- Continued on back -
New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright © 1989, Division of Christian Education of the National Council
New
Revised
Standard
Version
1989,ca.
Division
of Christian
of the National
of the
Churches
of Chri
st in theBible,
Unitedcopyright
States of© Ameri
Used with
permission. Education
All rights reserved.
Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used with permission. All rights reserved.
God’s
Story
Your Story
- continued -
Read: Read the following daily readings to deepen your understanding of
Sunday’s text. After the reading, ask the follow-up questions.
Follow these stories of Jesus’ sermon on the mountain.
Sunday, Matthew 5:1-20, Beatitudes
Monday, Psalm 1:1-3, Psalm
Tuesday, Matthew 5:21-26, Concerning Anger
Wednesday, Matthew 5:27-32, Concerning Adultery and Divorce
Thursday, Matthew 5:33-42, Concerning Oaths and Retaliation
Friday, Matthew 5:43-48, Love for Enemies
Saturday, Matthew 6:1-6, Concerning Almsgiving
What does Jesus’ sermon tell us about the nature of God? What is
God’s role in our world? What is our role?
Connect:
Connect in conversation with others in your household. Discuss the
following questions, or simply check in with “Highs” and “Lows.”



What was a high point of your day? What was a low point?
How do the guidelines in Jesus’ sermon shape your community?
Which are necessary today? Which have been adjusted to reflect the
modern era? How can a community remain faithful to God’s laws?
Where do you see yourself in the hierarchy of your community?
How does the impact of Jesus’ sermon on your life change if you
place yourself somewhere else in the hierarchical continuum?
Do: By acting on what we learn, we make God’s word come alive. Do the
following activity this week.
Set your week’s grocery budget at half of what you normally spend.
Find ways to provide for yourself and/or your household with this
lowered budget. Reflect on the challenges and joys of this activity.
Bless:
Close your devotion with a blessing.
God who blesses in unexpected ways, give peace to those who need it as
your word is read. Give challenge to those who need it at the same time.
Amen.
Copyright © 2014 Clergy Stuff. Used with Permission. Find more at www.ClergyStuff.com. Blessing written
by Pr. Chip Borgstadt.