Weekly Bulletin - Coral Gables Congregational United Church of

WELCOME TO WORSHIP!
•No matter who you are or where you are on life’s journey,
you are welcome in this United Church of Christ congregation.
•Large-print bulletins, hearing devices, and cough drops
are available from the ushers.
•Nursery and pre-school care is available during worship if you wish.
•God is calling you today, but probably not on your cell phone!
Please remember to put it on vibrate.
•ALL are welcome to this time and place of worship.
Know that in this space you are welcome as you are and for who you are.
Together we celebrate all of God’s children – young, old, and in-between;
male, female and in-between; gay, lesbian, straight, and in-between;
the assured, the doubting, and the in-between;
the optimistic, the cynics, and the in-between;
the foolish, the wise, and the in-between.
•Invite your family and friends around the world to worship with us online
each Sunday at http://gablesucc.org/live.
The Reverend Dr. Laurinda Hafner, Senior Pastor
The Reverend Dr. Guillermo Márquez-Sterling, Associate Pastor
The Reverend Megan Smith, Associate Pastor
The Reverend Dr. Richard J. Bailar, Pastor Emeritus
Coral Gables Congregational United Church of Christ
3010 De Soto Boulevard
Coral Gables, Florida 33134-6317
Phone: 305.448.7421 ~ www.Gablesucc.org
CCLI License # 11282912
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A CELEBRATION OF MARDI GRAS
An Affirmation of Humor
We believe with the Bible that
“there is a time to weep and a time to laugh.”
We believe with Aquinas that there is a time for
“playful deeds and jokes.”
We believe with Luther that
“You have as much laughter as you have faith.”
We believe with Wesley that
“A sour religion is the devil’s religion.”
We believe with Kierkegaard that
“Humor is intrinsic to Christianity.”
We believe with Dostoevsky that
“If a person laughs well they are a good person.”
We believe with Chesterton that
“A good joke is the closest thing we have to divine revelation.”
We believe with Bonhoeffer that
“Ultimate seriousness is not without a dose of humor.”
We believe with Elton Trueblood,
“Never trust a theologian without a sense of humor.”
THE GATHERING MUSIC
Joe Donato and the Mardi Gras Ensemble
THE WORDS OF WELCOME AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
Thank you for signing the red hospitality pad found in the pews and passing it around.
Please use your smart phone to check in on Facebook or Twitter and let your family and
friends know that you are at Coral Gables Congregational UCC.
Invite your family and friends around the world to worship with us online
each Sunday at http://gablesucc.org/live.
Be sure to “like” us at http://facebook.com/mycgcc.
You are most welcome to connect your smart device to our free wifi service.
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February 7, 2016
THE ORDER OF WORSHIP
Our faith is over 2000 years old;
Our thinking is not.
11:00 a.m.
*Please stand as you are able.
INSTRUMENTAL CALL TO WORSHIP
Mardi Gras in Miami
Joe Donato and the Mardi Gras Ensemble
*THE CALL TO WORSHIP
Based on Psalm 100
Tony Prinzi, liturgist
On your feet now – applaud God!
Bring a gift of laughter, sing yourselves into God's presence.
Know this: God is God. God made us; we didn't make God.
We are God's people, God's well-tended sheep.
Enter with the password: "Thank you!"
Make yourselves at home, talking praise.
Thank God. Praise God.
For God is sheer beauty, all-generous in love,
loyal always and ever.
Let us worship God with joy!
BELL PROCESSIONAL AND OPENING JOKES
Middle School Youth
*OPENING HYMN
When the Saints Go Marching In
(Please join in the refrain.)
Oh, when the saints, go marchin’ in.
Oh, when the saints, go marchin’ in.
Lord, I want to be in that number.
When the saints go marchin’ in.
You may be seated after the opening hymn
OPENING RESPONSE
Steve Weirich and Louise Sieben, leaders
Leader:
How many evangelists does it take to change a light bulb?
People:
Only one, but the bulb must repent of its darkness and be
willing to be changed.
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Leader:
People:
Leader:
People:
Leader:
People:
Leader:
People:
Leader;
People:
All:
How many Baptists does it take to change a light bulb?
At least 15. One to change the light bulb, and two or three committees
to approve the change, and one to provide a casserole.
How many Episcopalians does it take to change a light bulb?
Three. One to call the electrician, one to mix the drinks and one to
talk about how much better the old one was.
How many Congregationalists does it take to change a light bulb?
Undetermined. Whether your light is bright, dull, or completely out,
you are welcome here.
How many TV evangelists does it take to change a light bulb?
One. But for the message of light to continue,
send in your donation today.
How many Amish does it take to change a light bulb?
What's a light bulb??
This is the day that God has made!
We will rejoice - and laugh – and be glad in it!
SUNG RESPONSE
I Sing Because I’m Happy
The Chancel Choir
arr. Rollo Dilworth
A MESSAGE FOR CHILDREN (OF ALL AGES!)
All children through second grade wishing to attend Sunday School
are invited to exit to the Fellowship Hall following the children’s message.
Children and youth from third grade through high school will stay in worship.
INSTRUMENTAL INTERLUDE
A Change is Gonna’ Come
Joe Donato and the Mardi Gras Ensemble
A MOMENT FOR LAUGHTER
John Graham
THE GIFT OF MUSIC
The Saints Sing “Hallelujah”
The Chancel Choir
A MOMENT FOR LAUGHTER
Martha Hester
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arr. David Frost
HYMN FOR CHOIR AND CONGREGATION
Fly Away Medley
Mark Hayes
Trio/Choir:
Some glad morning when this life is o’er, I’ll fly away;
to a home on God’s celestial shore, I’ll fly away
I’ll fly away, O glory, I’ll fly away;
When I die, hallelujah, by and by, I’ll fly away.
When the shadows of this life have gone, I’ll fly away.
Like a bird from prison bars has flown, I’ll fly away.
Choir and Congregation:
I’ll fly away, O glory, I’ll fly away.
When I die, hallelujah, by and by, I’ll fly away.
Choir:
Trials dark on ev’ry hand and we cannot understand
all the ways that God would lead us to that blessed Promised Land;
But God will guide us with His eye, and we’ll follow till we die;
we will understand it better by and by.
Choir and Congregation:
By and by, when the morning comes, when the saints of God are gathered home;
We will tell the story, how we’ve overcome; we will understand it better by and by.
When the roll is called up yonder, when the roll is called up yonder, when the roll is
called up yonder, when the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there.
Choir:
On Jordan’s stormy banks I stand and cast a wishful eye to Canaan’s fair and happy land,
where my possessions lie.
I am bound for the Promised Land; O who will come and go with me?
I am bound for the Promised Land.
Choir and Congregation:
O when the Saints go marchin’ in. O, when the saints go marchin’ in,
O, Lord I want to be in that number when the saints go marchin’ in.
I’ll fly away, O glory, I’ll fly away.
When I die, hallelujah, by and by, I’ll fly away.
Choir:
I’ll fly away. Lord, I’ll fly away. When the morning comes, I’ll fly away.
A MOMENT OF WITNESS
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A SONG OF PREPARATION FOR PRAYER
Be Still My Soul/What a Friend We Have in Jesus
Greg Jackson, soloist
At this time you are invited to text your prayer requests to Pastor Laurie at 305.968.6482.
There are prayer request forms in the pews which you may give to the ushers.
THE MORNING PRAYERS
THE LORD'S PRAYER (a little different version)
Our Father and Mother in heaven, let Your holy name be known,
let Your kingdom come, and Your will be done on earth as in heaven.
Give us today the bread that we need, and forgive us our wrongs,
and ok, we’ll forgive those who have done wrong to us, too.
Do not lead us into trial, but save us from evil.
For we want for You alone to rule in our hearts.
You have power to transform,
and in the light of Your smile is Your glory. Amen
SUNG PRAYER RESPONSE
Just a Closer Walk With Thee
Choir:
All along my pilgrim journey, Savior, let me walk with Thee.
Choir and Congregation:
Just a closer walk with Thee, Grant it Jesus, is my plea.
Daily walking close to Thee; let it be, dear Lord, let it be.
All Women:
I am weak but Thou art strong;
All Men:
Jesus, Keep me from all wrong.
All:
I’ll be satisfied as long as I walk, let me walk close to Thee.
Choir:
Close to Thee, close to Thee, all along my pilgrim journey,
Savior let me walk with Thee.
Choir and Congregation:
Through this world of toil and snares, If I falter, Lord, who cares?
Who with me my burden shares? None but Thee, dear Lord, none but Thee.
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THE RECEIVING OF OUR GIFTS
An Invitation to Give
Tithe if you love Jesus. Anyone can honk!
Our church is open to all denominations – but it prefers 10’s and 20’s.
The Lord loves a cheerful giver…..but God also accepts gifts from the grouch.
Offertory Music
What a Wonderful World
Joe Donato and the Mardi Gras Ensemble
Just a Little Talk with Jesus
The Chancel Choir
arr. Stan Pethel
*PRESENTATION OF GIFTS AND THE SINGING OF THE DOXOLOGY
Praise God, from whom all blessings flow;
Praise God, all creatures here below.
Praise God above, ye heavenly host,
Creator, Christ and Holy Ghost. Amen.
*PRAYER OF DEDICATION
Unison:
Thank you God, for the joy you have given us which bubbles over into
laughter and fun! Thank you for renewing our joy. We pray that you
will use these, our gifts, to bring joy to all the world. Amen.
Please remain standing for the closing hymn
*HYMN FOR CHOIR AND CONGREGATION
Down by the Riverside
The congregation is invited to join in as cued:
John Rutter
I’m goin’ to put on my starry crown
Down by the riverside,
down by the riverside,
down by the riverside,
I’m goin’ to put on my starry crown,
down by the riverside,
And I ain’t gonna study war no more.
I ain’t gonna study war no more, I ain’t gonna study war no more.
I ain’t gonna study war no more, I ain’t gonna’ study war no more,
I ain’t gonna’ study war no more, I ain’t gonna’ study war no more.
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*THE SENDING FORTH
Leader:
The Laughing One called us together
People:
so we could share in the laughter of life.
Leader:
The Laughing One sends us out,
People:
to carry the joy of life and love to the world.
Leader:
Go out to laugh, to live, to love. And when you hear a good joke...
People:
remember that sharing is a great thing!
*TRAVELING MUSIC
This Little Light of Mine
This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine.
This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine.
This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine.
Let it shine, Let it shine, Let it shine.
Hide it under a bushel? No! I'm gonna let it shine…
Everywhere I go, I'm gonna let it shine…
Even in my home, I'm gonna let it shine…
When I see my neighbor coming, I'm gonna let it shine…
Shine all over Miami! I'm gonna let it shine...
Following our service, please join us in the Fellowship Hall as we continue our
Mardi Gras Celebration. A New Orleans-style luncheon will be served. A freewill
offering will be gratefully received. Visitors, we would LOVE to have you join us.
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A WARM AND CORDIAL WELCOME TO ALL GUESTS!
If you are visiting us today, we welcome you. We are grateful we have found each other.
And, if somehow, there is something in you, some still small voice seeking a place to live
out your faith, to ask important questions, and to serve beyond yourself, we invite you
into our community. For more information about the church or membership, please
contact Pastor Laurie at 305.448.7421, ext. 116, [email protected], or text her at
305.968.6482.
IN OUR PRAYERS…
We remember all those places of war, violence and unrest, as we continue to pray for
peace for all people around the world. A lighted candle on the altar table symbolizes
our prayers for peace.
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STAY IN TOUCH
Once a week or so, Pastor Laurie e-mails a pastoral letter, Laurie’s Lines, to all
members and friends, filling them in on the week’s events, any special concerns that
have arisen, and general church business. If you would like to be included, contact
Ron Morgan at [email protected].
THANK YOU TO OUR USHERS: Lois Legge, head usher; Dawn Thompson,
Carmen Reyes, Lydia Acevedo, Arnold Elguezabal, and Cindy Camus.
FAIR TRADE MARKETPLACE
Beautiful gifts, hand-crafted items, jewelry and clothes
The Fair Trade movement provides fair wages, safe working conditions, and micro-lending
to artisan producers while addressing environmental issues through sustainable materials.
Open Today 12:00 noon -2:00 p.m.
The shop is located next to the Education Wing just outside Fellowship Hall.
GERMAN-LANGUAGE WORSHIP
Sonntag, den 7. February 2016, 15:00
Vor dem Karnival Gottesdienst bieten wir Elten,
die sich für die Konfirmation ihres Kindes interessieren, ein Informationsgespräch
mit Pastor Jochen Pajunk an.
Contact [email protected] to sign up for our mailing list.
SPANISH LANGUAGE WORSHIP SERVICES
The Second and Fourth Sundays of the Month
10:00 a.m. in the Chapel
If you are part of a Spanish-speaking family, come and join us for a worship service
bridging the Latin experience with a progressive theology. Spanish language services will
be held at this time on the second and fourth Sundays of the month. Coffee is served.
SABEEL MEETING
This Sunday, February 7 from 2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
The Youth House (1207 Malaga Avenue)
Sabeel is Arabic meaning "the way." The Sabeel organization, based in Jerusalem, acts as
a Palestinian Christian voice of conscience for Palestinian self-determination and human
rights. Our local group discusses the current situation in Israel-Palestine and acts as an
advocacy group for justice in the Holy Land. We gladly welcome newcomers. For more
information email church member Matt Bewley at [email protected] or
call 502-741-6698.
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CHURCH NIGHT IN
Each Wednesday Evening from 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
In the Fellowship Hall
$6 for adults / $4 for kids 12 and under
Join us for delicious food, warm fellowship and interesting programming.
Menu: Curry Chicken, Basmati Rice, Roasted Garam Masala Veggies,
Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies
Vegetarian: Indian Curry Lentils
Kids: Chicken Nuggets, French Fries, Carrots
ASH WEDNESDAY TRI-LINGUAL SERVICE
Wednesday Evening, February 10
7:00 p.m. in the Church Sanctuary
We will join with Christians the world over in marking the beginning of Lent with an Ash
Wednesday service. Begin your Lenten journey in worship, prayer, music and the
symbolic act of receiving ashes. On this night, we are reminded of the fragility of life and
our call to live life abundantly. This is a children-friendly service and we encourage
families to worship together. It will be shared with our brothers and sisters from our
German-Language and Spanish-Language services. Dinner will be served from 5:30 p.m. –
7:00 p.m.
VALENTINE KARAOKE PARTY
Thursday, February 11 from 11:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
(The shuttle leaves the church at 11:00 a.m.)
At the home of Bob Medina and Hector Zuazo
8567 SW 114th Place, Miami 33173
Gracious hosts Hector Zuazo and Bob Medina are once again inviting all fun and
adventurous people (you know who you are) to their lovely home for a Valentine’s Day
Lunch and Karaoke. Please bring a dish to share and your best singing voice as we take
turns belting out the hits of the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s. If you wish to ride the church shuttle,
please also let Drew know at [email protected] or 305-448-7421, ext. 150.
ROLE FREE TANGO
Thursday Evenings 7:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall
If you love to dance and have fun and you want to improve your Tango dance skills,
come join us. Whether you are straight, transgender, lesbian, gay, or undecided, you are
welcome. We take our Tango skills quite seriously and the focus of this group is on
progressive skill development, but we also have a great time getting there. We are
requesting a $5 donation for expenses.
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AN EVENING WITH DONNA SCHAPER
How Progressive People Can be Spiritual Plus Progressive
Friday, February 12 from 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. in Havighorst Lounge.
Donna Schaper, Senior Minister here from 2000-2004, will be with us to share readings
from her two newest books, Approaching the End of Life: A Practical and Spiritual
Guide and Prayers for People Who Think They Can’t. Donna is presently the Senior
Minister at Judson Memorial Church in New York City.
CANDLELIGHT CONCERT SERIES
Featuring Dr. Greg Taylor, piano
Friday, February 12, 7:30 p.m. Moye Chapel
The program will open with Mozart’s hauntingly beautiful Rondo in A- Minor, followed
by Beethoven’s heroic and brilliant Waldstein Sonata. The second half of the concert will
be devoted to some of Dr. Taylor’s favorite compositions by Chopin, including the
Polonaise- Fantasy and the Fourth Scherzo.
YOUTH ACTIVITIES
Senior High Youth Movie Night on Friday, February 12
Gather at the Youth House by 5:30 p.m. More information coming.
PUT YOUR FAITH INTO ACTION
Habitat for Humanity Faith House Blitz
Saturday, February 13 from 7:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Join congregations from around Miami in building a home for a deserving low-income
family. Everyone must sign up online for this event at www.miamihabitat.org/ and by
going to the “volunteer” button. Use code CGCC when prompted during the registration
process. Once you have completed this portion click on Habitat for Humanity Blitz Build
2016 – February 13, 2016 (Saturday) and the system will send you a confirmation email
with the address and all of the details you will need for your volunteer day!
SPECIAL VALENTINE’S DAY SERVICE
Next Sunday, February 14
It’s Chocolate Sunday! Bring your favorite chocolate treats (brownies, fudge, cookies,
pastries, etc.) to the Fellowship Hall before worship. Then join us after the service as we
indulge mightily in what many people believe is true love…chocolate! Then at 12:30
p.m., join us back in the sanctuary as we invite all couples in a committed relationship to
share in a brief informal service to renew their vows. There will be no individual vows,
just everyone speaking vows together with their beloved. Bring your kids, friends, family
and celebrate love!
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A VERY SPECIAL SUNDAY MORNING LENTEN SERIES
Here I Stand: A 12-Step Program to End Racism
Sundays, February 14, 21, 28 and March 6
9:45 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. in Havighorst Lounge
Ron Buford has developed a 12-step Program which he believes will help end racism.
Intrigued, we have invited him to via be with via skype to explore issues of racism with
us. Ron says, “I belong to a church that believes ‘God is still speaking,’ still creating,
still bringing the world into existence. For me, that means that Creation was never
finished and that neither are we.” Ron is a writer, speaker, preacher, and consultant. The
visionary behind the UCC's God Is Still Speaking campaign, Ron consults with UCC
conferences and churches across the nation and appears in the DVD-based progressive
theology series, Living the Questions 2.0.
LENTEN VESPERS
Wednesdays, February 17, 24; March 2, 9, 16
6:15 p.m. - 6:45 p.m. in the Sanctuary
Vespers or “sunset prayers” will be held through the season of Lent as a way to follow
our Lord into the passion of the cross in order to encounter the joy of the resurrection.
These services, with candlelight, music and prayer, offer the perfect quiet break we need
from the stress and noise of life around us. All are welcome. We meet in the sanctuary.
Childcare is available.
LET’S GO TO THE THEATRE
West Side Story at the Miracle Theater
Sunday, February 21 at 3:00 p.m.
Shuttle will leave the church promptly at 2:30 p.m.
West Side Story is considered by many to be one of the greatest creations in American
musical theatre history. The Jets and the Sharks, an incomparable Bernstein score,
Romeo and Juliet style romance, and the infamous Jerome Robbins’ based choreography
will be sure to delight and remind us why we love the theater. Cost is $35 per ticket. To
register contact Drew Sandbulte at [email protected] or 305-448-7421 ext. 150.
GAY PRIDE PLANNING COMMITTEE
Sunday, February 21 12:30 p.m. in the Library
ALL ARE INVITED to participate in this first meeting for our Gay Pride Parade float. If
you are interested in helping with the creativity and preparations for our float this year,
please join us for this casual meeting where we will discuss theme ideas and begin to
build a team to help make this the best Gay Pride float yet!
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FOOD FOR THE SOUL
Sunday, February 21 at 12:15 p.m. in the Chapel
Cecilia Gutierrez-Abety, President and CEO of the Miami Children’s Initiative, Inc.
The Board of Justice and Witness invites you to come and learn more about the Miami
Children’s Initiative (MCI), a nonprofit organization focused on transforming Liberty
City into a prosperous community. MCI believes that Liberty City’s strength lies in the
undeveloped potential of its youth and that through focused strategic work the potential
of each child can be unleashed. A light lunch will be served.
PACT (PEOPLE ACTING FOR COMMUNITY TOGETHER)
Tuesday, February 23 from 7:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Christ the King Catholic Church
PACT is a diverse coalition of 35 congregations and two universities throughout MiamiDade County. It is the largest grassroots organization in South Florida, representing more
than 50,000 people. Since 1988, PACT has used the power of its large, organized
numbers to solve pressing community problems. Join the Gables group attending. Sign up
at the Justice and Witness Table in the Fellowship Hall after worship.
BEERS AND HYMNS
Sunday, February 28 from 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Duffy’s Party Room at 2108 SW 57th Ave. 33155 Miami, FL
We gather young and old ~ We socialize ~ We sing.
The only rule is we sing hymns 100 or more years old — (except when we pull out a few
folk songs and bits of pop songs). We value tradition, but also silliness, mashups, and
occasional super-fermatas. We will mostly sing a cappella with bits of tambourine
and acoustic guitar. We have booklets of hymns — and expect boisterous singing and
swaying. Please bring money for the purchase of beverages (and/or available food) from
Duffy’s– we want to be good partners with our venue. Free root beer for the kids!
LEAP YEAR GATHERING FOR WOMEN
Monday, February 29 from 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Amore Gelato Art Caffe, 153 Giralda Avenue, Coral Gables
All women are invited to join us for a delicious dinner, drink, and discussion. Leading
our conversation will be Cecilia Tucker, the author of “Who Needs a Damn Therapist
Anyway,” an uplifting, humorous and self-help guide for finding daily joy. For dinner,
you may choose an entrée, two scoops of gelato or sorbetto and a glass of wine, beer or
soft drink for $25 which includes tax and gratuity. We are asking that you preselect and
pay for your dinner so that they are prepared when we arrive. Sign up by going online to
http://gablesucc.org/product/leap-year-gathering-women/.
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CORAL GABLES CONGREGATIONAL UCC STAFF DIRECTORY
Ministers
All Members of the Church
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CORAL GABLES CONGREGATIONAL UCC STAFF DIRECTORY
Ministers
All Members of the Church
Pastoral Staff
The Rev. Dr. Laurinda Hafner, Senior Pastor
[email protected] ext. 116
The Rev. Dr. Guillermo Márquez-Sterling, Associate Pastor
[email protected] ext. 117
The Rev. Megan Smith, Associate Pastor
[email protected] ext. 119
Program Staff
Mark Hart, Exec. Dir. of the Community Arts Program
Dr. Ronald Morgan, Director of Music Ministries
Dr. Gregory Taylor, Parish Musician
Janet Hiles, Director of Early Childhood Center
To contact Early Childhood Center, please call:
[email protected] ext. 120
[email protected] ext.121
[email protected] ext. 155
[email protected]
305-444-9792
Support Staff
Kris Coney, Sound Technician
[email protected]
Allen Feldman, Pew Organizer
Alice Fernandez, Accounting Assistant
[email protected] ext. 127
Ashley Levin, Cherub Choir Director
[email protected]
Chely Llorens, Wedding & Baptism Coordinator
[email protected] ext. 112
Tony Prinzi, Print Room Manager & Reception Coordinator
[email protected] ext. 100
Dennis Rodrigues, Business Manager
[email protected] ext.130
Drew Sandbulte, Administrative Assistant
[email protected] ext.150
Alex Sloan, Director of Media Ministry
[email protected] ext.151
Alexandra Woods, Agape Choir Director
[email protected]
Maintenance and Custodial Team
Rene Dominguez, Rosario Noriega, and Guillermo Ordoñez
WE ARE OUT OF THE BOX PEOPLE!
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