january 2016 - bonhomme church

JANUARY 2016
OUR BICENTENNIAL YEAR IS HERE!
JOIN US FOR SUNDAY FUNDAYS EVERY WEEK IN JANUARY
For a New Year celebration worthy of our bicentennial year, each Sunday in January we will highlight a Bonhomme ministry
and inspiring stories of the lives it has touched. Come to Kilby Commons for food, fun, and fellowship following the 11 a.m.
services.
January 3: ALPHA DOGS: Great food and even greater stories of how lives have changed through Alpha!
January 10: Meet our Missionaries: The Puttcamps will be here from Costa Rica. Come hear stories of their ministry, help
them build a library of Spanish Bibles, and share some yummy treats!
January 17: Family Snowball Throw and Hot Cocoa: Hear stories of Safe Families for Children and The Haven of Grace.
Bring a pack of diapers or a gift card to Walmart or Schnucks to help support our mission partners.
January 24: St. Louis Mission Day: Bring canned food donations and/or new gloves, hat or scarf to stock the Isaiah 58 food
pantry and the “mitten tree” for Oasis and Freedom School. Enjoy delicious cinnamon rolls from The Bridge Bakery while
together we pack and sort donations.
January 31: First Ever Monthly Community Potluck Lunch: Bring a favorite dish to share. No reservations, no rules! Just come
and enjoy spending a few relaxed minutes with your Bonhomme family. Open–ended questions will be provided to help us
get to know each other’s stories, and Don Everts will share a few of his stories from India!
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DANGEROUS GIVERS CAMPAIGN UPDATE
It’s Not Too Late to Turn in Your Pledges
It is critical for you to make your pledge as soon as possible.
You can mail it to the Church Office to the attention of Deanna
Simpson. The Budget and Finance Ministry will use the total
pledged amount to forecast income and set the operational
budget for Bonhomme in 2016.
As of December 22, we have received 369 pledges totaling
$1,968,286. Thank you to everyone for making this stewardship
season a success.
If you need any other assistance, please do not hesitate to contact
Deanna Simpson, [email protected] or 636-532-3486.
Thank you,
Jeff Erkert, Stewardship
BONHOMME FINANCIALS
NOVEMBER FINANCIAL UPDATE
INCOME
Month
YTD
Actual
BudgetOver(under)
$222,161$229,295 $(7,134)
$1,953,033$1,886,784 $66,249
OPERATING EXPENSES
Month
YTD
$163,941$161,742 $2,199
$1,828,228$1,914,106 $(85,878)
BALANCE IN RESERVE FUND
As of 1/1/2015
$410,530
Surplus (Deficit)
$124,805
A–Wing Allocation
$(100,000)
Current balance
$435,335
ACTUAL INCOME VERSUS ACTUAL EXPENSE
YTD Income
$1,953,033$1,886,784 $66,249
YTD Expense $1,828,228
$1,914,106
$(85,878)
Surplus (deficit)$124,805
$(27,322)
$152,127
BONHOMME FOUNDATION
ADVANCING MISSION AND MINISTRIES
The mission of the Foundation is to provide an opportunity for members and friends of Bonhomme Church to make contributions to
a permanently endowed fund in harmony with Bonhomme’s mission of “Knowing, Growing and Going with Jesus.” The purpose of
the Foundation is to advance Bonhomme’s mission and ministry efforts by providing meaningful financial support to endeavors which
spread the gospel and care for the less fortunate, with priority given to those which are new or innovative and not currently supported
by Bonhomme’s mission budget. The Foundation understands that charitable gift planning requires considerable thought, reflection,
and prayer. Our prayer is that your donation to the Foundation will leave a legacy that will last an eternity through the Foundation Grant
program.
Grant Guidelines: The Foundation will be accepting Grant submittals through February 15. The Trustees of the Foundation will ensure
that Grants meet the basic objectives and support Bonhomme’s mission. Grant applications will be reviewed and awarded, normally in
March, as funds are available. If you wish to submit a Grant Application Form on behalf of an organization, please complete the Grant
Request Form listed on the Bonhomme Foundation link on the website, bonpres.org/support-ministries.
BONHOMME MUSIC
MUSIC MINISTRY OPEN ENROLLMENT
PIANO FUND
Now is a GREAT TIME to join one of our
music organizations. Why don’t you come
and give it a try?
The Music Ministry is raising money for two new pianos: One for
the Sanctuary, and one for the Choir Room. The current pianos
in those areas have served us well for many years; now they are
showing their age, and the time has come to replace them.
Chancel Choir meets Wednesdays at 7 p.m. in the
Choir Room
If you attended Traditional Worship on December 13 or the
Christmas Concert that afternoon, you saw and heard a new
Yamaha piano which was loaned to us for that occasion by
Piano Distributors. The difference in sound was noticeable,
and a great pleasure to hear.
Les Cloches (bells for middle school and high school)
meets each Sunday at 1 p.m. in the Children’s MultiPurpose area
Children’s Bells and Choirs meet each Wednesday
beginning at 4:45 p.m.
Come and join us!
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You may contribute to the Piano Fund through the Church
Office: Simply write Piano Fund on the memo line of your
check, or designate it as you wish. Please keep in mind that
donations to this fund should be in addition to your support of
the church budget.
BONHOMME PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
MESSAGE FROM PASTOR TOM
A PRIMER FOR THE NEW YEAR
…Jesus came into Galilee, proclaiming the gospel of God,
and saying, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God
is at hand, repent and believe in the gospel.”
Mark 1:14b–15
Recently I watched Bill and Melinda Gates’s 2014 commencement
address at Stanford University on YouTube. They spoke eloquently on
the importance of innovation and optimism in front of thousands of eager
faces turned toward the future, and I thought to myself, “what better
audience for an address like this.”
I also thought to myself, “They aren’t addressing the fundamental problem,
which, unless it is fixed, all the innovation and optimism in the world won’t
help.” And that problem is us. Until we are radically changed at the core,
until we are reborn, until we embrace the richness of Christ and his way
of being and life, until we enter the kingdom of God and his service in
humility, the rest will be deck chair shifting on the you know what.
So I thought at the beginning of this new year, it might be worth
reconsidering the basics for a moment—and they are found in Jesus’ first
words in Mark’s gospel, printed above.
First, we must recognize that “The time is fulfilled.” What time is that?
The time when God chose to send his Son into the world to provide
for the world’s reconciliation, redemption and restoration. Christians are
called to be the ones who not only recognize that “the present form of
this world is passing away” (1 Cor. 7:31) but to actually be living in God’s
new world as his “new creations” (2 Cor. 5:17).
Second, Jesus said, “The kingdom of God is at hand.” This is the thesis
statement of Jesus’ ministry, and everything he says and everything he
does is tied to it. Both his works and his words are demonstrations of
the presence and power of God’s kingdom. Indeed, he comes not only to
announce it, but to bring it in his own person.
Third, “Repent. Repentance is not sorrow, it is not primarily behavior
modification (although it will ultimately include that), repentance is
“reconsideration.” It literally means to “think again.” Based upon the
startling announcement of the presence of the kingdom we are to
reconsider everything: Our values, our priorities our allegiances, our loves.
All of these must be reconsidered and reordered in light of the arrival of
the reign (kingdom) of God.
Fourth, “Believe the Good News” The kingdom is good news, it gives
us life, future, and hope. This is why repentance in the kingdom always
brings joy—like a merchant who finds a pearl of great price, like a woman
who finds her lost coin, like a man who finds a treasure in a field, like a
shepherd who finds his lost sheep, like a man who finds his lost son. The
kingdom decision is not hard to weigh, the math is simple and joyful!
This inaugural expression of Jesus, the Messiah, the Son of God, in Mark
is the primer for Christians. This is the announcement we are called to
herald. Unless we start here, in joyful submission to the Christ who is
King, all the innovation and optimism in the world can neither save nor
help us. Let’s remember, embrace and celebrate the arrival of God’s
kingdom with the fullness of our lives in this new year.
NEW COVENANT
PARTNERS
As we start a New Year, Evangelism Ministry
is so happy to introduce Bonhomme’s new
Covenant Partners (members), who were
received by Session and joined our church
family December 13!
Each of them has said “YES” to a relationship in
which the Covenant Partner and Congregation
are both blessed as a Community of God that
encourages, grows and “covenant together,
intentionally, in Christ’s work.” This wonderful
group of Covenant Partners brings gifts that
will bless our church and community, as we
bless them in return as family.
Please welcome them warmly as you see them
at worship and participating in the life of our
church!
Greg and Tricia Creel recently moved to St. Louis
from Atlanta. They came to Bonhomme on the
recommendation of Tom Pfizenmaier’s sister,
and decided to stay! Greg is CFO at Equifax and
Tricia is a Physical Therapist at SSM Health.
Daughter Katie, 11, is in fifth grade and David,
7, is in first grade at Chesterfield Elementary.
Christine Grogan moved back home after living
in Florida. She joins her parents, Terry and
Leisa; grandparents, Bob and Betty; and aunt
and uncle, Laura and Jay Logsdon in making
Bonhomme her church home. Christine has a
doctorate in pharmacy and works at St. Luke’s
Hospital.
Shannon Kern also has been attending
Bonhomme for quite a while. She is employed
as a sales manager at Pilkington and Shannon’s
daughter Shelby is a fifth grader at Henry
School. Shannon joins her parents, Sue and
Rick Kern as members of Bonhomme.
AmyRuth and Jason Bartlett first came to
Bonhomme to take the Marriage Course,
then returned last spring to worship with us.
Shortly thereafter, AmyRuth came on staff
as Bonhomme’s new Minister of Community!
Jason is a social worker and both AmyRuth and
Jason are graduates of Covenant Seminary.
The Bartlett’s are made complete with daughter
Karissa, a first grader and son Immanuel, 2.
Grace and peace,
Tom Pfizenmaier
THE PIONEER PRESS
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COMMUNITY LIFE
This Sunday while singing in the choir I looked out to see many
of your faces, and I felt so thankful that the Lord has given you to
me as brothers and sisters. I’m thankful that we get to learn how
to love one another, and especially thankful that in God’s family,
loving God and loving one another is our highest calling!
In my current endeavor to love our community well, I have been
pouring over the surveys that you each took time to complete.
Thank you, by the way, for enduring that Sunday morning
awkwardness to share your information and hearts with me.
Each card feels like a little treasure, and I appreciate you all
entrusting me with your honest feedback.
I have been so encouraged by the results that I want to share
some of what I’ve learned. First and most exciting to me, 52
members of our community have indicated that they would
like to be equipped to lead a small group! Another 134 couples
and individuals expressed a desire to be in a small group, with
interests ranging from Church history to parenting, and everything
in between. Finally, 111 others shared that they are already
participating in one or two of the small groups that have been
vibrantly weaving the fabric of our community for years. I also
had a good response rate from people who are not interested in
being part of a small group, which is valuable information for me
since my goal is to help us build a community where each person
has opportunities to be known and loved without being pushed
to fit a certain mold.
To give a brief outline of what I see happening next, I have sent
an email to those who are already leading and those who showed
interest in becoming small group leaders inviting them to a series
of “Equipping Conversations” during our Spiritual Formation hour
each Sunday. Later this spring I anticipate a weekend opportunity
open to the entire congregation for those who would like to grow
in developing deeper spiritual friendships. This event will be
followed by the launch of several new small groups.
If you’re eager to get started there are a handful of options you
might consider:
1. Approach me about being trained to lead as there will be
lots of relational opportunities in our class of “Equipping
Conversations.”
2. Join one of the vibrant small groups that already exist in
our church (many of them are continuously open to new
members).
3. Talk to Brandon Mann about BBT (Biblical Business
Training) as they have excellent opportunities for you to lead
or join a small group Bible study at any time of the year.
4. Invite another family, couple, or single person to get together
and ask open-ended questions so you begin knowing each
other on a deeper level.
In order to create more opportunities for open-ended
conversations, Community Life has decided in addition to
Wednesday Night Dinners, to host a potluck in Kilby Commons
on the last Sunday of each month. Bring a favorite dish to share.
No reservations, no rules. Just come and enjoy spending a few
relaxed minutes with your Bonhomme family (energized and tired
kids welcome!)
Throughout this year I will also be working to compile a complete
list of Bonhomme’s new and existing groups so that new
members can find their way into our community with ease. In the
meantime, I am asking for your patience. I want to carefully equip
small group leaders with the wisdom and emotional intelligence
to help us “get real and grow” as well as the patience to let each
member take their own pace. This type of community building
requires us all to grow in honesty and grace with one another
and cannot be built assembly-line style.
I am excited to serve as your Minister for Community, and look
forward to seeing what happens as we work in earnest to create
a solid path of growth for our community in the year to come.
Blessings and Love,
AmyRuth Bartlett
Community Life is collecting items for Samaritans Purse Christmas Shoeboxes and BPW Easter Baskets all year long! Please
bring as many of these items as you can throughout the year and place in one of the collection bins in Kilby Commons or Steffen
Lobby. Come November we will have a box packing party with the hope that we can at least double the amount of shoeboxes sent
to children around the world by our very own Bonhomme community. Follow this monthly suggestion, or bring it all every month.
Just remember each item has to fit in a shoebox or Easter basket. Thank you for contributing!
New Girl Clothes, Flip-Flops (Ages 2-4, 5-9, or 10-14)
January: Shoebox size Plastic Bin with Lid, Dental Hygiene Items
July:
February:Small Gifts for Elderly Bonhomme Shut-In Easter Baskets
August:
School Supplies, Crayons, Colored Pencils, Pencil Sharpener
March:
Small Gifts for Boys’ and Girls’ Easter Baskets
September: Instruments, Quality Crafts, Toys
April:
Easter Basket, Stuffed Animal, Coloring Books
May:
Soap, Brush, Comb, Hair Ties (No Liquids) / Help Assemble Baskets
October:
June:
New Boy Clothes, Flip-Flops (Ages 2-4, 5-9, or 10-14)
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Wrapped Hard Candy, Small Ball or Large Ball deflatedwith Pump
November: Time to Help Pack the Boxes, $7 for Shipping
December: Shoebox size Plastic Bin with Lid, Pray for Recipients
BONHOMME PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
BONHOMME MISSIONS
HONDURAS MISSION TRIP—MARCH 2016
Save the date to come hear about the next trip to El Centro Integral Orphanage in Honduras! The informational meeting will be
January 10 following the 11 a.m. services. We will meet in Room 3205. The trip is planned for the week of March 18, 2016. Don’t
miss out on this incredible opportunity to grow in faith and show the love of Christ to our Honduras family.
DANCING FOR
GOD’S CHILDREN
The sixth annual Dancing for God’s Children
was held at Bonhomme Presbyterian Church
on November 14. Not only did the girls learn
awesome dance routines, they also had the
privilege to raise funds for El Centro Integral
Orphanage in Honduras. Over $1,500 was
raised to support this wonderful mission
partner as these young women learned how
to love and serve others.
PERSPECTIVES CLASS IN CHESTERFIELD STARTS JANUARY 9
15 Weeks ...
with 15 different speakers...
from around the world...
sharing what God has done, what he is doing, what He is going to do...
and how YOU can be involved!
Perspectives on the World Christian Movement is a dynamic course looking at biblical, historic, cultural, and strategic
“perspectives.” By participating with kingdom-minded believers from numerous churches and other organizations from
across the St. Louis area, you will be encouraged to continue in the advancement of God’s kingdom locally and globally.
Come join the movement and expect to be transformed.
Friendship Village Chesterfield Theater, 15201 Olive Blvd., Chesterfield, MO 63017
Saturdays, January 9–April 30, 9 a.m.–12 p.m. (no class March 19 or 26)
Contact: [email protected]
Register at: https://class.perspectives.org/Visitor/Public.aspx?ClassId=432685
About the class: http://www.perspectives.org/About
There’s still time to register and to interact with many of today’s most dynamic and thoughtful cross-cultural thinkers!
Not sure about the class? Come on January 9 and 16 to check it out … the first two weeks are FREE!
THE PIONEER PRESS
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BONHOMME MISSIONS
RECEPTION FOR DAN AND SARAH PUTTCAMP—REACHING AND TEACHING IN COSTA RICA
January 10, 12 p.m. in Community Room. Light snacks provided.
Many pastors in the developing world are undertrained.
They have the heart to serve the Lord and shepherd
their flocks, but they lack the training necessary to
teach and lead. Most of these pastors live in rural areas,
they are the only leaders in their churches, and they
work other jobs to scratch out a living and support their
families. As a result, leaving their situation to earn an
expensive seminary degree is simply impossible. That
is why SOLAE Bible Center seeks to take Accessible
Biblical Education to them. SOLAE offers these Costa
Rican church leaders low–cost biblical and leadership
training in their own home and at their own pace. Now,
those who hunger to discover new depths of the Word
of God can do so while continuing to serve their flock
more effectively.
Would you prayerfully consider investing in the development of Costa
Rican church leaders? You can find information on how to give below.
Your investment today will yield a strong Costa Rican church that is
prepared to reach the people of Costa Rica and the whole world with
the gospel.
Daniel Puttcamp, son of Bonhomme members, Stan and
Chris Puttcamp, directs the SOLAE Bible Center. Dan
and his wife, Sarah, along with their children, Timothy
and Tabitha, live in Atenas, Costa Rica serving with
Global Outreach. Their work focuses on the formation
of leaders in the Costa Rican church. While Dan is
primarily involved with the direction and expansion
of the SOLAE Bible Center and training the leaders
of their local church, Sarah focuses on developing a
women’s ministry and on training the women leaders of
their church to reach other women for Christ. This is a
particular challenge as women are an often disregarded
demographic of the Costa Rican church.
To give by EFT, Credit Card or online
Please follow the instructions at:
ps67.blogspot.com/p/give.html
To invest in strong leadership for the Costa Rican church:
To give by check
Make your check payable to, “Global Outreach”
Put “Account #4133” on the memo line;
Mail to Global Outreach at:
Global Outreach
P.O. Box 1
Tupelo, MS 38802
To contact Dan and Sarah
785-371-0071
[email protected]
www.ps67.blogspot.com
Mail:
Apdo, 409-4013
Alajuela, Atenas
Atenas 20501
Costa Rica
ALPHA AT THE HAVEN OF GRACE
The residents of The Haven of Grace
experienced their first Alpha course! Pam
Douthit and Deb Hawley coordinated the
course on Thursday nights and completed
it the week before Thanksgiving. We went
“old school” using the Nicky Gumbel
talks on DVD and the young ladies really
enjoyed “the old British guy.” Although we
didn’t start the evening with a joke or a
story, we were able to share a meal with
the ladies before class and love on some
adorable newborn boys.
Each week, class was attended by five
ladies, three of whom were pregnant and
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the others were new moms. For those
of you not familiar with The Haven, it is
a residence shelter that houses up to 10
homeless pregnant women between the
ages of 18-24. The ladies all come from a
Christian background and are believers but
like many of us they had lots of questions
and were seeking something more. A
recurring theme was “it is so hard to have
faith in the world in which we live; how do
we stay strong in our society?” While we
didn’t have all the answers, we were able
to point them in the right direction—each
lady received a daily devotional book, a
Study Bible and the Action Bible (thanks
to Pam, Elizabeth Harris, and Jenn
Whyman). Logistically it wasn’t possible to
have a weekend retreat but we were able
to discuss the Holy Spirit. It was a very
powerful eleven–week journey that none
of us wanted to end. The ladies asked for
a Bible Study so let’s all pray that we can
make that happen!
If you have any questions about The
Haven of Grace, please contact Deb
Hawley, [email protected] or check out
their new website at havenofgracestl.org.
BONHOMME PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
BONHOMME MISSIONS
2015 SPOTLIGHT MINISTRY CELEBRATIONS
This past year the Bonhomme congregation has warmly supported our three St. Louis Spotlight Ministry Partners. Here are
just the highlights from The Bridge, Habitat for Humanity and Oasis International Ministries.
Spring: The Bridge
♦♦ Volunteers continue to serve dinners twice a month to the homeless at the Bridge.
♦♦ After hearing from the director of The Bridge and moving testimony from Bridge Bread bakers, blue envelope donations
totaled $8,560. ♦♦ Bridge Bread has added a fifth baker, Bre, thanks to increasing demand. It is exciting that another person has escaped
homelessness due to Bridge Bread.
♦♦ Bridge Bread is now sold every week in Kilby Commons. Special orders are available on request at www.bridgebread.org.
Summer: Habitat for Humanity
♦♦ Bonhomme members had the opportunity to meet a Habitat family as well as a staff family at Sunday services and a
BBQ/whiffle ball tournament that followed.
♦♦ Twelve Bonhomme volunteers work on site building homes in 2015 compared to just two volunteers last year.
♦♦ Children’s Ministry held a construction day right in our Youth Room, building a dog house and benches using the HFH
organization plan for a site build. The children learned firsthand about the importance of volunteering to help build homes
for deserving families.
♦♦ Blue envelope collections totaled over $1,100.
Fall: Oasis International Ministries
♦♦ Thirteen people from Bonhomme toured Oasis and had the opportunity to meet the women refugees who come for
English classes and hear remarkable stories from Mark and Joanie Akers.
♦♦ Twenty–five adults and children helped with an Oasis on-site community barbecue.
♦♦ Bonhomme members contributed to the biggest furniture drive in Oasis history, plus brought in over 20 lamps during our
lamp drive.
♦♦ Two hundred people attended the November fundraising event, “A Night for Oasis International Ministries.”
♦♦ The Beth Moore Bible Study ladies donated enough baby clothes for 11 showers and arranged them in beautiful blessing
baskets. Our Spotlight Ministries were certainly blessed. Thanks to all! Throughout 2016, our Spotlight will be on Global Missions. Look
forward to learning more about our Bonhomme–supported partners around the world.
BONHOMME CHILDREN
BONHOMME PRESCHOOL AND KIDS DAY OUT REGISTRATION
January 26-27, 2016
Bonhomme Preschool and Kids Day Out offers a wonderful
experience for children ages six months through Junior
Kindergarten. We have many options and times available each
day of the week, 9 a.m.–3 p.m., and we would love to talk with you
about the opportunity to care for your child or grandchild.
Our school offers a loving, nurturing Christian environment where
young children grow spiritually, cognitively, physically, emotionally,
and socially. We believe that children learn best through play
and hands–on experiences. Kids Day Out (KDO) classrooms
are staffed by experienced caregivers and are equipped with
developmentally appropriate materials.
Preschool classrooms are carefully structured so children have
a healthy balance between child-centered and teacher directed
activities. Our preschool schedule also includes Music/Bible,
Physical Education, Spanish, and Art Appreciation.
Brochures and registration cards are available in the lobby
outside of Steffen Hall and in Kilby Commons. Please spread
the word about our amazing program! For more information or
to schedule a tour of the facility, please contact Sharon Rinklin,
636-778-9315, [email protected]. Or visit us at bonpres.org/
preschoolkdo and on Facebook.
Registration for the 2016–2017 school year will begin at 9:15 a.m. each day in Steffen Hall.
January 4—Bonhomme Church members
January 26—Current and former Preschool and Kids Day Out families
January 27—Registration opens to the community
THE PIONEER PRESS
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BONHOMME CHILDREN
CELEBRATE: A FAMILY CHRISTMAS EVENT
Fifth grade nativity play
Decorating a family member
like a Christmas tree
Advent remember and
celebrate scripture activity
Singing “The Twelve Days of Christmas”
Remembering and writing down
how God has been faithful
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BONHOMME PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
BONHOMME EVENTS
ALPHALIVE! AND THE MARK STUDY
Looking for a great way to begin your New Year? What better way than with a delicious meal, interesting conversation,
and a dynamic talk by Don Everts! You can have all this and more by joining us at AlphaLive! or the Mark Study.
AlphaLive! is an opportunity to explore questions of life, God, and Christianity with a group of great folks around a
delicious meal! Over 10 sessions you’ll hear Don Everts take on the basic questions of Christianity followed by small group time to
engage, question and wrestle with the topic. It’s fun, relaxed, free and childcare is provided!
The Mark Study is a friendly way for people who have never studied the Bible and is a great next step after Alpha or as a
short‑term small group. This study led by Wendy Everts will give you training in the manuscript method of Bible study, small and
large group discussion, and, of course, a delicious meal! Dinner and childcare are provided and there is a suggested $25 donation.
Both AlphaLive! and the Mark Study begin Thursday, January 7, 6–8:30 p.m. To register for either, contact Elizabeth Harris,
[email protected] or 636-532-3486. We hope you’ll join us and invite a friend to begin their New Year with you at AlphaLive! or
the Mark Study!
BON FIRES BRIDGE 2016
If you like to play bridge, we plan to have
our duplicate bridge group play once a
month, January through October.
Bridge will take place the fourth Friday of
each month in Kilby Commons at 7 p.m.
(except in March, we will meet on the third
Friday.)
An awards dinner will end the season the
first Friday of November.
If you and your partner have not already
signed up and would like to play, please
contact John Muller, 314-275-2268 by
January 16, 2016.
IT’S A NEW YEAR: MAKE A RESOLUTION TO TAKE
CARE OF YOURSELF!
It’s a New YEAR . . . a time to reflect and make resolutions about
how to make 2016 the best year yet. Have you or someone you
know been struggling with something but you just don’t know
where to turn for help? Please prayerfully consider making a New
Year’s resolution to FINALLY do something about it. There is no
reason to spend another day trying to handle your problem alone.
No matter the issue, if you are feeling depressed, stressed, empty,
angry, lonely or sad, you can get help from a Stephen Minister. Stephen Ministers
are trained laypeople who will listen and provide confidential, Christ-centered
support to anyone going through a tough time in their life.
If you or anyone you know could benefit from having a Stephen Minister, please
contact Elizabeth Harris, 636-532-3486 or [email protected].
THE NEW YEAR IN THE LIBRARY
Happy new year! This is the time of year when we all think about improving
ourselves—losing weight, getting into shape, getting organized. But what about
our relationship with Jesus? To help our spiritual growth, your library has added
several outstanding new books:
♦♦ God is in Control—Charles Stanley’s powerful message is simply that you can
recognize, appreciate, and rely on God’s sovereignty even when your whole
world seems out of control. God is always at work for his beloved!
♦♦ Live Love Lead, Your Best is yet to Come—Brian Houston shares his lifetested experiences and the powerful biblical truths he’s learned that will
enable you to live fully, love completely, and lead boldly—the hallmarks of
Jesus’ time on earth.
♦♦ Simplify, Ten Practices to Unclutter Your Soul—By offering practical tips and
spiritual insights to help you declutter your soul, Bill Hybels encourages you
to stop doing what doesn’t matter and create a “God-first” schedule so you
can experience purpose, fulfillment, connectedness, and joyful productivity.
THE PIONEER PRESS
9
BONHOMME NURSE
GOODBYE FROM NURSE KATHY
My last day at Bonhomme was December 31. I am retiring for personal reasons of my husband and myself. I did, however
want to say thank you to all of you as you have supported me in the role of the Parish Nurse. I have enjoyed the friendships
and opportunities to meet with others in the congregation that have had some type of concern. I wish you all happy, healthy
years ahead and my hope is that you will have someone take over this ministry quickly to serve all needs.
Again, thank you for the warm welcome. I trust in the Lord to show me the way through retirement doing what pleases him.
Blessings,
Kathy Johnson, Parish Nurse
WHO GETS GLAUCOMA?
You’d Be Surprised
Glaucoma most often occurs in adults over age 40, but it can
also occur in young adults, children, and even infants. In AfricanAmericans, glaucoma occurs more frequently and at an earlier
age and with greater loss of vision.
So don’t put off having those “baby blues” checked out. It can
save your vision. Make you appointment soon. If you wear
contacts please remove them several hours prior to the test
and take your eyeglasses to wear home.
In my nursing years I have seen numerous patients who have lost
their sight. Glaucoma is a prime cause for many blind persons
in the United States. The problem is that glaucoma can develop
over time and you won’t have an ache or pain to alert you.
You are at an increased risk of glaucoma if you:
♦♦ Are of African-American, Irish, Russian, Japanese, Hispanic,
Inuit, or Scandinavian descent
♦♦ Are over age 40
♦♦ Have a family history of glaucoma
♦♦ Have poor vision
♦♦ Have diabetes
♦♦ Take certain steroid medications, such as prednisone
♦♦ Have had trauma to the eye or eyes
There is only one way to determine if you have it. I know that
an eye exam is expensive and time consuming. It is also hard to
take money that you need for food, medicines or that new pair
of shoes you love. It is also hard for older adults when retiree
vision benefits may be decreased. And those vision specialists
always want to dilate your eyes when you go in. This means
you must have a driver or wait until the pupils return to normal
before driving home. However, the simple test for glaucoma,
which is a slight puff of air which flattens your cornea, is quick
and not painful.
Visit http://www.webmd.com/eye-health/glaucoma-directory
for more information. Questions? Call your optometrist or the
Parish Nurse.
Blessings of good sight to you,
Kathy Johnson, Parish Nurse
BE PREPARED
Make Sure You Plan
Recently we had a talk on paperwork that is important to leave your loved ones. The Parish Nurse has several documents to make
this task easier. There is a Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care and Health Care Directive Form and another document
called Five Wishes.
♦♦ The POA form is given by the Missouri Bar Association and is a great way to prepare for a time that you are not able to speak
for yourself in health decisions.
♦♦ The Five Wishes booklet lets your family know who can make those decisions, the kinds of treatment you want, how comfortable
you want to be, and many other personal things.
Please stop by to pick these up, fill out, and have notarized. Make sure to give copies to your designee, doctor and family members.
10
BONHOMME PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
BONHOMME THANK YOU
ADVENT THANKS
The Worship Ministry wishes to thank the families who served to light the Advent Wreath and lead the readings in Traditional
Worship this year. They are…
Lisa and Jonny Munch, Grace, Mason, Lily, and Emma
Jeanette and David Peevers, Abby and Maggie
Cathleen and Jason Gotsch, Ben and Alex
Cherry and Collin Ohms, Hannah and Abigail
Jen and Gene Buist, Alexandra and Aiden Marilyn and Darin Blasiar, Adam and Andrew
Erin and Cecil Compton, Cora
Karen and Brad Roche
Your participation made our Advent worship so meaningful, and we truly appreciate your contribution to our celebration of the season!
Also, the Worship Ministry offers MANY THANKS to Cindy Wendt and her small group, who have decorated the Sanctuary
every year for many years, and to Jane Hemberger and Jim Conley, for assembling and decorating the tree in the Sanctuary.
This is a beautiful gift they provide for us and, as always, this year’s décor was splendid!
THANK YOU FROM CIRCLE 6
A big thanks to all Bonhomme members, friends, and staff who helped with another successful Christmas Giving Tree project
in 2015. On December 14, four agencies, Presbyterian Children Homes and Services; MO Department of Social Services
(St. Louis County Foster Children); Kathy J. Weinman Women’s Shelter; and St. Martha’s Women’s Shelters, picked up a
“mountain” of gifts. On December 16, gifts were delivered by Circle 6 members to Haven of Grace. This was truly a group effort
by those who shopped, wrapped, sorted, bagged, and moved the gifts for needy children and women in our area. Many angels
were at work sharing joy during this blessed season.
JANUARY BIRTHDAYS
1
Deborah Blackmon
Jonathan Blackmon
Steve Ecker
Avery Engelmeyer
Kelli Glover
Sally Hallums
Bud Harmon
Rachel Mesina
Nancy Nease
Stuart Wells
2 Beth Beattie
Caryn Hill
Jack Kershner
3 Amy Finlayson
4 Louis Lucas
Diana Rawizza
7
Laurie Land
Debbie McConnell
Chris Morgan
Matt Packwood
Vanessa Reuter
8
Julie Hemberger
Nancy Keefer
Patricia McMillan
Cynthia Miller
Rita Peterson
9 Jeni Eigenseher
Sue O’Neal
10 Jodee LeVin
David Moenkhaus
Janet Porch
11 Amy Stirrat
5 Dominique Padgette
6 Sunnye Hollingsworth
William Matson
7 Karen Holman
Glennon Hunn
THE PIONEER PRESS
12 Beverly Blackman
John Morse
Earl Murray
13 Craig Baggett
Jane DuMont
13 Karen Sanner
Peggy Wilkinson
15
Judy Behrman
Robin Bell
Greg Fleissner
Nicholas Lazenby
Andy Luther
Sam Powell
16 Kurt Stanford
17
Steve Harris
John Milla
Betty Moenkhaus
Norma Ruck
18
Brooke Barry
Darin Blasiar
Joe Member
John Steffen
19
Marilyn Blasiar
Dan Holman
Keith Michel
Mary Beth Weatherby
20
Chrissy Bird
Stanley Garst
Franz Hildebrecht
Jo Ellen Hunter
Ruth Iversen
Sina Miesner
21
Abigail Goedeke
Jerry McCormac
John McQuillan
Crest Oelke
Shirley Paterson
26 Beverly Nixon
Jerry Palmer
Greg Porto
27 Bill Dowell
Jennifer Porto
Erica Whyman
28 David Edwards
29
Emily Brooks
Paris Disper
David Lazenby
Georgia Zutter
23 Derek Bell
Janet Bourne
Patricia Holmes
30
Laura Brunk
Jane Glenn
Dan Panzitta
Ruth Van Der Tuin
24 Greg Kramer
Gail Lambright
Kristina McKay
31 Bob Baker
Michelle Bawden
Peter Hobson
22 Dave Black
Gary Gagstetter
26 Mike Cox
Carolyn English
Jay Hotze III
11
WINTER—SPRING CLASSES FOR ADULTS: SUNDAY CLASSES
TITLE
LEADER(S)
SUMMARY
ROOM
NOTES
What Christians
Believe, and Why
Tom Pfizenmaier
What does the Bible teach about who God is, who we are and our 3208
relationship? What does the Bible teach about the ordering of
the creation, about sin and salvation? What does the Bible teach
about how to live a flourishing life in this world? What does the
Bible teach about human destiny and the end of history? And how
does Jesus stand at the center of all these questions? Come and
find out. This course is intended to help you put it all together.
January
through
May
The Postmodern
Path to Faith
Don Everts
We all know that as Christians we are called to introduce the 3205
people around us to Jesus. But how exactly do you do that?
Turns out that in our “postmodern” age people are still becoming
Christians (yeah!) and the better we understand how they do that,
the more natural and fruitful we can be in helping our friends
journey along that path to Jesus (yeah!). Come learn what brand
new Christians have taught us about “the five thresholds of
postmodern conversion” and how that knowledge can help us
introduce the people around us to Jesus.
January
through
February
God’s Mission of
Reconciliation 2.0
Don Everts and
Amy Narishkin
In light of recent events in Ferguson and elsewhere our nation 3205
is wrestling with the realities surrounding race in America. As
Christians we may wonder if we can do anything, if there is any
hope, if God’s Word can shed any light in this area. The Bible is
clear that the gospel has the power to “break down the dividing
walls of hostility” between we humans. So if the gospel has
the power to help us realize reconciliation in our own lives, how
can we fully avail ourselves of that gospel power—in our hearts,
our relationships, and even in our culture? In this 2.0 class, we
continue the discussion we began in the fall.
April
through
May
Future Prophecy in
the Bible
Tom Hobson
What does the Bible tell us about the future? This class will cover Quilt Room
passages containing future prophecy in the Old Testament, (Chapel
Gospels, Epistles, and Revelation. No timetables or roadmaps Wing)
here, but substantial clues to watch for!
January
through
February
The Book of
Jeremiah
Study the life of Jeremiah the prophet who, from his youth to old 3226
Curt Ruhlman
and Ross Jenkins age, delivered the Word of God to the people of Israel at the most
terrifying time in their troubled history.
January
through
February
The Gospel
According to John
Kurt Johnson
The “Gospel According to John” is unique and distinctively different 3224
from the three Synoptic Gospels. (It makes the compelling case
that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. It explains that we must
believe to be saved. It presents many events and teachings not
included in the Synoptic Gospels. It does not include many events
and teachings included in all three Synoptic Gospels.) We will
conduct an in‑depth study of the “Gospel According to John”
including insights from three noted Biblical scholars, D.A. Carson,
Leon Morris, and John Calvin.
January
through
May
Old Testament
Overview
Jim Graham and
Wayne McCollum
This ongoing class features continuing studies in the Bible and 2106
theology and application. The fall term will continue our study of
the unfolding history of the Israelites.
January
through
May
Equipping
Conversations
AmyRuth
Bartlett
If you are interested in leading a small group or growing in your Community
ability to encourage friends as they journey through the ups and Room
downs of life and faith, join us. This biblically based seminar helps
you understand others by gaining a biblical understanding of your
own heart. It includes lectures and an interactive small group
experience, plus reflective time to practically apply principles to one
real-life friendship. This will help you better understand yourself
as well as invite others into a deeper relationship in Christ. This
class, due to the nature of our work together, will require weekly
attendance and will not allow for new members after the third week.
January
through
May
WINTER—SPRING CLASSES FOR ADULTS: MID–WEEK CLASSES
TITLE
LEADER(S)
SUMMARY
ROOM
Pastor’s Bible Study
Tom Pfizenmaier
This class will be an in depth verse by verse expository 3208
study of the Gospel of Luke and its relevance to our
lives today. Come find out Luke’s unique contribution
to our knowledge of who Jesus is and why he came.
Tuesday
6:30-7:30 a.m.
Healing Prayer
Wendy Everts and
Jenn Whyman
Have you ever read about the healings in the new 3208
testament and wondered why we don’t see that
happening today? Chances are, you haven’t been in
the right place to see it! Turns out that the Kingdom
of God is now and healing still happens when we
give space for God to work. Would you like to learn
about it? Would you like to try it? We will have class
twice a week (Tuesday a.m. and Wednesday p.m.)
so pick the best time that works for you. We will be
watching a video series by Francis MacNutt (a long‑
time believer in healing), process the information,
and then pray for each other.
Tuesday
9:30-11:30 a.m
Women’s Bible Study Jane Kostelc
In–depth Scripture‑based
discussion.
Wednesday
6:30-8:30 p.m.
Healing Prayer
Wendy Everts and
Jenn Whyman
(See class description above. Same class is offered 3208
Tuesday mornings and Wednesday evenings.)
Wednesday
6:15-8:15 p.m.
Book of Hebrews
Dana Altermatt
We will be studying the book of Hebrews with the Steffen Hall
guidance of Lisa Harper. Lisa is described as a
hilarious storyteller and theological scholar. She will
guide us to see God is not far away, but an up-close
Redeemer who draws near to us. Hebrews will help
us make the connection between God the Father
and God the Son and remind us Jesus is supreme,
compassionate, empathetic and loving. Childcare is
provided by reservation by calling the Church Office
at 636-532-3486. If any questions, please contact
Dana Altermatt at 314-378-9227.
Thursday
9:30-11:30 a.m,
January 7
AlphaLive!
Don Everts
AlphaLive! is a practical introduction to Christianity. Steffen Hall
Over dinner, a talk, and dessert, skeptics and seekers
have a place to honestly wrestle with their questions,
and Christians get reinvigorated by revisiting the
core of their faith.
Thursday
6-8:30 p.m.,
January 7
through
February 25
Mark Study
Wendy Everts
Mark Study is a fun, interactive, thoughtful way of 2107
studying the life of Jesus and growing as one of his
disciples. This study is friendly for people who have
never studied the Bible and is a great next step
after Alpha or as a short‑term small group. Dinner
and childcare are provided. Call the Church Office to
register.
Thursday
6-8:30 p.m.,
January 7
through
February 25
Alpha Marriage
Course
Andy and Kim
Seers,
Don and Wendy
Everts
Grow your marriage by taking your spouse on a date Steffen Hall
night with depth! The Marriage Course is a series
of seven sessions designed to help any married
couple grow their marriage—whether it is struggling
or strong.
Thursday
6-8:30 p.m.,
April 7 through
May 19
study
with
much Community
Room
NOTES
THE PIONEER PRESS
PERIODICAL
POSTAGE
PAID AT
CHESTERFIELD, MO
14820 Conway Rd,
Chesterfield, MO 63017
636-532-3486
CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED
Postmaster: Send Address Changes To:
Pioneer Press, 14820 Conway Road,
Chesterfield, MO 63017
Pioneer Press (UPS: 431950) Is Published Monthly by Bonhomme Church
Dated Material - Please Do Not Hold
PLEASE JOIN US FOR WORSHIP
SERMON SCHEDULE
MUSIC IN TRADITIONAL MUSIC
Sermon Series: Who Am I?
January 3: I am Beloved (not unloved)
Don Everts (Traditional)
Tom Pfizenmaier (Contemporary)
January 3
8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m.
Lynn Packwood: “He Loved Me”
Sermon Series: Who Am I?
January 10: I am Fallen (not fine)
Don Everts (Traditional)
Andy Seers (Contemporary)
January 17: I am Free (not trapped)
Don Everts (Traditional)
Tom Pfizenmaier (Contemporary)
January 24: I am Useful (not useless)
Tom Pfizenmaier (Traditional)
Don Everts (Contemporary)
January 31: I am Part of the Family (not alone)
Tom Pfizenmaier (Traditional)
Don Everts (Contemporary)
January 10
8:30 a.m. Karen Roche, organist
11 a.m. Chancel Choir: “Our Song Shall Rise to Thee”
January 17
Bonhomme Bells will play at both services
8:30 a.m. Chancel Choir: “Our Song Shall Rise to Thee”
11 a.m. Karen Roche, organist
January 24
8:30 a.m. Karen Roche, organist
11 a.m. Chancel Choir: “By Our Love”
January 31
8:30 a.m. Chancel Choir: “By Our Love”
11 a.m. Karen Roche, organist
TRADITIONAL SERVICE IN THE
SANCTUARY
Sundays at 8:30 and 11 a.m.
SUNDAY SCHOOL
FOR ALL AGES
9:45 a.m.
CONTEMPORARY SERVICE IN
STEFFEN HALL
Sundays at 11 a.m.