The First Presbyterian Church - First Presbyterian Church of Fort

The First Presbyterian Church
of Fort Wayne, Indiana
Issue N um ber 173, N ovem ber & December, 2013
Transforming Lives Through The Love Of Jesus Christ
Weekly Services
8:00am Chapel Service
9:45am Classes for All Ages
11:00amTraditional Service
(Sanctuary)
11:00amKorean Language
Service (McMillen Chapel)
11:15amSunday School,
Age 3 to Grade 5
Contents
Dear Friends,
One of the spiritual
practices I’m working on
right now is gratitude.
This usually entails
pausing in the beginning,
middle or end of my
day and intentionally
Rev. Jeff Lehn
naming what I’m grateful
for. “I’m grateful for…
Arianne, Sunny, my family, my friends, our dear
church, our lovely home, our hopeful faith, our
good health, our stable community, food to eat,
leisure to enjoy, books to read, sunshine and wind
and rain to feel.” And so much more.
The practice often turns into an extended
Announcements &
Scheduled Events
pages 2-5
Deacons & Angel Tree
page 4
Pillows for Sale
page 5
Rev. An’s Comments in Korean
page 6
Day School Ministry News
prayer of thanksgiving to God, who is, after all,
page 7
Theater Information
the giver of all good gifts. Without fail, I feel better
page 8
afterward. I’m more joyful and energized and at
Gallery Information
Music Series Information
peace. I focus on all I have instead of all I lack.
page 9
I remember my place in the order of things.
Glory to God Donor List
page 10
But for me the practice is much easier said than
People in Pictures
done. Why do we struggle to do the very things
page 11
Suicide Support Group
we know are good for us? I know, for example,
page 12
Children, Youth & Family Notes that exercising five days a week is good for me,
page 13
but do I always do it? No. I know that eating a
Book Review
healthy and balanced diet with plenty of fruits
page 14
Statistical & Financial
and vegetables is good for me, but do I always do
Information
it? No. I know that lifting up everything to God in
page 15
Calendar
prayer throughout my days is good for me, but do
page 16
300 West Wayne Street
Fort Wayne, IN 46802
260-426-7421
www.firstpres-fw.org
I always do it? No. I’m willing to bet you could tell
a similar story in your own life.
Part of this enduring human struggle is
epitomized in the words of the apostle Paul in
chapter 7 of his letter to the Romans. He writes,
“I do not understand my own actions. For I do
not do what I want, but I do the very thing I hate”
(Romans 7:15). Of course, there are a million
reasons to eschew gratitude these days. Just
open up a newspaper or turn on cable news.
Political gridlock. Stagnant unemployment.
Hateful speech. Inadequate education and health
care and housing. Violence on our streets. Wars
across the globe. It’s enough to dismiss the
practice of gratitude as sanguine sanctimony.
Unless we resist it, we too will get caught up in
the downward spiral of cynicism.
As people of faith, however, you and I have an
opportunity to sing a different tune, not because
things are hunky-dory in our corner of the world,
but because we know God has hard-wired us to
practice gratitude. When we are grateful, we are
more joyful, more creative and more perceptive.
When we are grateful, we reject the narratives
of scarcity, anxiety and negativity that exist all
around us. When we are grateful, it’s infectious
and other people around us begin to change.
This season, I encourage you to regularly
engage in a practice of gratitude. Maybe my
simple practice works for you. Pausing to say,
“I’m grateful for…” Or maybe you want to do
something different, such as journaling or talking
with a friend or hosting a meal.
We will not pick up gratitude by magic. God’s
grace is there, infusing our lives, but we must
seize it, put it into practice and let it save us
each day. As we approach the somber season of
Advent and the glorious days of Christmas, may
our hearts be prepared for them by the practice of
gratitude. After all, what are we more grateful for
than the incarnation of God among us, the Christ
child born to set us free.
–Gratefully yours.
Jeff
Highlights from Session Meeting,
September 10 and October 8, 2013
Exerpts from minutes by Jean Linville
Each Session meeting begins with a shared
meal and a time of prayer, sharing of joys and
concerns, devotion and song, and ends
with prayer.
Highlights from September 10
The Session was informed of the name change of the Inter-Faith
Hospitality Network to Just Neighbors.
Elder Swihart presented a revised Marriage Service Policies and
Procedures from the Worship Committee. After minor changes of
enumeration and clarification, it was approved by the Session.
Rev. Jeff Lehn explained the work of the Membership Committee in
compliance with the new Book of Order eliminating the Inactive Member status.
Rev. Dr. An reported an historical event with 150 Ft. Wayne Korean
Christians worshiping together on August 25, 2013.
The KLM mission will support a special school, Heaven Dream
School, designed to assist the 4,000 North Korean refugee children in
adjusting to a new educational system in South Korea.
Rev. Arianne Lehn reported that there are nine confirmands this year.
Highlights from October 8
The pending retirement of Rev. Hal Thomas at United Faith
Presbyterian Church was announced.
Mission co-worker in Taiwan, Rev. John McCall will speak at our
church April 6, 2014.
Taff Silliman encouraged everyone to participate in the fund raiser,
Empty Bowls, for Just Neighbors on November 3. Hand crafted bowls will
be for sale, no reservations required.
Building and Grounds requested approval to (1) replace HV boiler
pressure tank, (2) replace 2 gas valve actuators, (3) clean out valves
strainer, (4) air handler door needs to be re-worked. Total cost $11,390
from the Capital Projects Fund approved by Session.
Rev. Dr. An reported that October 20, 2013, will be the thirty-fifth
anniversary of our KLM congregation.
The Children and Youth programs are going well. Thirteen youth are
attending a retreat this weekend.
Prayer Chain Requests: If you have a prayer request, please call
Joan Jackson, 486-4828, or contact Arianne Lehn at 426-7421 x106 or
[email protected].
Printed Copies of most Sermons are available upon
request (usually by Tuesday), Copies of past sermons are also available.
You may request that a copy of a recent sermon be mailed to you by
calling the Church Office, 426-7421 x100. If you wish, we will put your
name on our list to automatically receive the sermon by mail each week.
Audio Copies of Recent Sermons are now available on
our website, www.firstpres-fw.org. Go to Media & Resources / Latest
Sermons.
Hearing Assistance: Our Chapel, Sanctuary, McKay Hall and Theater are equipped with the “Hearing Loop” system. Set your hearing aid to
the “T-coil” or “telephone” setting to access the system or ask an usher
for a loop headset.
If you have e-mail, please read First Pres Weekly News which is
e-mailed to you every Friday at Noon. This short e-newsletter will give
you up-to-date information for the coming week, and includes a prayer
naming those who are hospitalized or have other needs.
Elders of the Month
The designated Elders of the Month are on call to hear the concerns of
congregation members, to assist with Baptisms and to help with other
worship related events as necessary.
The Elders of the Month for November are
Suzanne Echtenkamp, 492-4142, and Jeff Slater, 492-6261
The Elders of the Month for December are
Sally Swihart, 744-4645, and Marcie Weissner, 459-2470.
Hospital Visitation and Clergy on Call
Schedule: Our three Clergy regularly visit rehab patients as well
as those in hospitals. The pastors on call this month are:
Oct. 28-Nov. 3 Rev. Youngsoo An
November 4-10
Rev. Jeff Lehn
November 11-17
Rev. Arianne Lehn
November 18-24
Rev. Jeff Lehn
Nov. 25-Dec.1
Rev. Youngsoo An
December 2-8
Rev. Arianne Lehn
December 9-15
Rev. Youngsoo An
December 16-22
Rev. Jeff Lehn
December 23-29
Rev. Arianne Lehn
Dec. 30-Jan. 5, 2014 Rev. Youngsoo An
How We Know If You’re in the Hospital: Every weekday
morning, a member of our staff calls each area hospital, gives our
special code number, and receives a list of those admitted in the last 24
hours who have listed First Presbyterian as their church. These names
are passed on to the Pastor on call and to the Deacons, and the patients
are visited as soon as possible. Unfortunately, if a person is admitted
in an emergency situation, we do not receive this information even
when we call the hospital. So, if your family member or friend has been
hospitalized and you’re not sure if we know about it, please call the
Church Office, 426-7421 x100, and give us the name. We would much
rather have it twice than not at all. Also, please remember to notify us
when someone is moved from a hospital to long term care or a rehab
facility. Thank you.
PAGE 2
Angels Among Us
Many of us have been touched by angels: those living among us, reaching out to us, lending a hand. This column is an
opportunity for individuals
to recognize and show appreciation for their angel(s)
in a detailed or anonymous way. FPC welcomes your submissions
to the “Angels Among Us” column. Please e-mail your submissions to
[email protected] or leave a note at the Church Office for Luci.
Many thanks to Dorothy Kehr, my talented and gracious neighbor,
who sewed 18 decorative and very unique pillows to be sold for charity
(see related article, page 5). –Vaun Smith
We extend much love and thanks to a wonderful group of women,
from the Perry Patton family. The new Welcome Baby Ministry has been
so helpful as we transitioned into a family of four. Thank you to
Cindi Odle, Laurie Gonzagowski-Satter, Jennifer Shaw and Sally Swihart
for delivering delicious meals and thoughtful gifts. We’re so grateful to
be part of this church community! –Betsy, Jack, Ira & Freddy Patton
During this Thanksgiving Season, Gary and I are especially thankful
for your prayers, your love, your concerns, and the many kind things
you’ve done for us these past months. We are blessed to have such
wonderful and thoughtful friends. Thanks be to God! Blessings to all of
you. –Vrina Stebbins
A special thank you to Ann Barnett, David & Jane Beer,
Bonnie Huepenbecker, Joan Jackson, Mary Jo Meyer, Sandy Niles,
Marianne Platt, Carrie Schloss, Mary Schneider and Mary Winters for
their help putting the bookplates in the new hymnals in record time! Your
help is greatly appreciated!! –Chelsea Vaught
The Hunger Relief Team would like to thank all of the
people who volunteer to help unload, sort, organize and haul the food
that comes in to our church on Food Sunday every month. With this
generous contribution of food and volunteer efforts we are able to
significantly supplement the food banks at Wellspring Interfaith Social
Services, East Wayne Street Center, and Amistead Christiana Church. We
thank you for your contributions!
Presby Day Plans:
Thursday, November 21, 2013–
Peabody Entertainers presents “Decades of Popular Music” as our
afternoon program
Honoring Rev. Hal Thomas from United Faith on his retirement.
In the morning, Thanksgiving Dinner inviting all Seniors and First
Presbyterian staff members to lunch, also Carolyn Lovell will speak
about 100 Years of Home Ec. Clubs.
December Presby-Day will be on Sunday, December 15 - we will
attend the production of “A New Christmas Revue” at 2:00pm in the
Theater followed by a dessert in the Parlor on the second floor.
A $5.00 donation covers the price of the show and dessert.
PAGE 3
Preachers, Scriptures & Anthems
November and December
Nov 3 - Jeff Lehn, preaching - Ephesians 1:11-23
We Remember Them by Donald McCullough
Nov 10 - Jeff Lehn, preaching - Luke 20:27-38
Ubi Caritas by Ola Gjeilo
Nov 17 - Michael Spath, preaching - Luke 21:5-19
Sing to the Lord of Harvest by Healey Willan
Nov 24 - Arianne Lehn, preaching - Luke 1:68-79
At the Name of Jesus by Don Malin
Dec 1 - Jeff Lehn, preaching - Isaiah 2:1-5
E’en So, Lord Jesus, Quickly Come by Paul Manz
Dec 8 - Jeff Lehn, preaching - Romans 15:4-13
Lift Up Your Heads, Ye Mighty Gates by Healey Willan
Dec 15 - Arianne Lehn, preaching - Luke 1:46b-55
Of the Father’s Love Begotten
13th Century Plainsong/arr. Paul Wohlgemuth
Dec 22 - Jeff Lehn, preaching - Matthew 1:18-25
10:45am Bell Choir Prelude
Still, Still, Still by Norman Luboff
Dec 29 - Guest Preacher, Rev. Sue Babovec - Matthew 2:13-23.
Advent and Christmas
at a Glance
Dec.4 7:00pm, PW Advent by Candlelight
Dec. 6 5:30pm, Gallery Artists’ Reception
6:00pm, Dinner Theater
7:30pm, A New Christmas Revue
opening performance
Dec.15 9:30am, Breakfast in Bethlehem
4:00pm, Youth Mission –
Salvation Army Bell Ringing
Dec.19 7:30pm, Blue Christmas Service
Dec. 22 6:00pm, Youth Christmas Party
Dec. 24 4:00pm, Family Christmas Eve Service
6:00pm KLM Christmas Celebration
9:30pm Festival Prelude*
*Please note this is one hour earlier than
in recent years.
10:00pm Service of Nine Lessons
and Carols*
*Please note this is one hour earlier than
in recent years.
Dec. 25 MERRY CHRISTMAS –building closed
Dec. 31 NEW YEAR’S EVE –Church Office closed
at noon
From The Deacons’ Corner
The Deacon’s Relief Fund: Where does the money go?
Your offering envelope box contains four special envelopes located right behind the ones for the first Sunday of each quarter. They are labeled
“Deacon’s Relief Fund.” Perhaps you’ve wondered where the money donated in these envelopes goes.
Christmas gifts in December and a plant in June for our Deacon visitation friends, items needed but not donated by the Deacons for the October
Rescue Mission meal (which the Deacons prepare and serve), toiletries in May for those in shelters and half way houses, and scholarship help for
the Deacon’s retreat in May as needed. These are some of the ways the money helps our members and those outside our walls. The Deacons have
purchased toiletries for the FWCS clothing banks, cribs and mattresses for a Baby’s Closet, and eye glasses for children through the Parkview nursing
program.
One project the money funds is the Matthew 25 denture program. Matthew 25 refers patients to us who need dentures and cannot pay for them.
The Matthew 25 Committee interviews these patients and, through a grant or loan, provides the money to Matthew 25 to pay their lab fees. (Matthew
25 covers the rest of the costs.) In three years the committee has helped 47 patients receive dentures. This has cost $23,500 but has purchased
$99,600 of retail value. These men and women can now eat more nutritiously and smile more confidently.
Your contributions to the Deacon Relief Fund have helped to make all this possible. Please continue to give generously each quarter using your
Deacon Relief Fund envelopes. Thank you.
2013 Angel Tree Volunteer
Opportunities
Even though the tree leaves are just starting to turn, the 2013 Angel Tree
Committee is beginning its work in support of our annual Angel Tree
mission project here at First Presbyterian Church.
The 2013 Angel Tree committee can use help preparing the angels
for the tree, tree set up and assisting church members with their selection
of the angels. We can also use help receiving the gifts when they are
returned and with delivery of the gifts to our participating agencies.
The committee meets in the evenings to allow working church
members the opportunity to volunteer. Our first meeting, which will focus
on angel preparation, will be Wednesday, November 6, at 6:30pm in room
306. An additional meeting will be on Wednesday, November 13 at 6:30pm
to finish the angel preparations, also in Room 306. We will be decorating
the Angel Tree on Saturday, November 16 in the Small Dining Room at
10:00am and Angel Tree selections for the congregation begin on Sunday,
November 17 and run through December 8.
If you are interested in helping with the 2013 Angel Tree, please
contact Janice Roddy at 493-2511. Current committee members, please
confirm your availability for this season.
2013 Angel Tree
The Christmas Season will be upon us before we know
it and First Presbyterian Church will once again be
sponsoring our annual Angel Tree. This year we will have
approximately 150 Angels available for your selection;
ages newborn through age 12. Eligible Angels come to us
from the East Wayne Street Center, Amistad Christiana,
Wellspring Social Services and Boys & Girls Club.
Angels will be available for selection in the Small
Dining Room beginning on Sunday, November 17. Individual Angels
or families of Angels are available. Angel cards will indicate if the child is
an individual or part of a larger family. You can select an individual Angel,
one or more members of a family or an entire family. As in previous years, a sign-up board will be available next to the
Angel Tree for selections done during the week; however, if you do take
an Angel during the week, please be sure to include the Angel’s number,
your name and phone number in the appropriate areas on the sign-up
sheets on the board. This is our only way of knowing which angels you
have selected. If you are planning to select an angel or family of angels
for your place of business, please let us know so that we can coordinate
the distribution of multiple gifts.
If you would
rather make a
monetary contribution
and have Angel Tree
committee members
do the shopping and
wrapping, you can drop
off your contribution
at the Angel Tree table
in the Small Dining
Room on Sunday
mornings November
17 through December 8 or you can include it with your offering during
church services. Please make sure that you place your contribution in an
envelope and designate it for the 2013 Angel Tree.
We would like to provide each Angel with a sweater, blouse or shirt,
slacks and at least one toy. Additional items requested are also welcomed.
Gifts should be new, unused items and wrapped. If you select an Angel but
are not able to provide all of the requested items, please let the committee
member know when you return your gift so that we can purchase the
items you are not able to provide, using the monetary gifts we receive
each giving season. If you are not able to wrap your gifts, please let us
know so that the committee can assist you with that effort. All gifts need
to be returned no later than Sunday, December 8.
It is prayerful hoped that all of our Angels will be selected by the
congregation this season as the need is greater than ever in these
tough economic times.
If you have questions or would like to help with the Angel Tree, please
contact Janice Roddy at 493-2511 or Beth Marks at 494-1227.
The Third
Sunday of
Each Month
is
a day of glorious generosity
at First Pres. People donate
to the monthly food drive,
bring the food they’ve
prepared for the Rescue
Mission meal and drop their
coins in the children’s Bucket Collection. Please take a minute today
to mark all of the “third Sundays” on your calendar, so you can come
prepared to share. Thank you.
PAGE 4
Rescue Mission Meal:
The November Mission
Meal will be prepared and served on November 17. The December
Mission Meal will be prepared and served on December 15. Watch
for menu announcements in weekly bulletins. Cooks and servers are
always needed. Please sign up in the Church Office if you are able to
participate, or call 426-7421 x100. Your faithfulness to this ministry is
always appreciated.
IGNITE!
Due to a lack of interest, the Young Adult Bible Study,
Ignite!, is going to be suspended for now. We will try again in the spring
of 2014.
Pillows For Sale
And not just any pillows; these are beautiful, puffy, posh (and historic)
cushions. When the Aesthetics Committee designed and saw to the
implementation of the remarkable redecorating of the Session Room
earlier this year they decided to have the fabric and linings from
the original draperies made into pillows. Dorothy Kehr, experienced
seamstress and neighbor to Vaun Smith, volunteered to make the
cushions at no charge and has done a wonderful job of creating 18
unique pillows. Dorothy was, according to Vaun, pleased to have the
project and “would never charge a church”. By the way, Dorothy
celebrated her 90th birthday on October 6.
The pillows will be on sale for $50 each in the Lobby, near the Church
Office, on November 3 and 10 after the 11:00am service. Proceeds of
the sale will be donated to Building and Grounds for future projects, so
buy a bit of history, donate to a good cause and check another Christmas
gift off your list.
Everyone
A Neighbor
Day
Everyone a Neighbor
wishes to thank
the organizers and
participants of this
year’s FPC Garage Sale. We were given a part of this year’s profit. We
especially appreciate donations this year. As of September 30, we
have $3.00 in our church budgeted dollars. We are cooking for 80 - 90
participants this year and food costs have risen, but thanks to the Garage
Sale gift we are able to keep cooking! Everyone a Neighbor Day is the
fourth Thursday of each month, beginning at 11:00am. You are always
welcome to come visit and lunch with our downtown neighbors.
KLM/KWV Thanksgiving Dinner:
Once again our Korean congregation invites us all to their amazing
Thanksgiving Dinner honoring Korean War Veterans. The dinner will be
held in McKay Hall following the 11:00am Worship Service on
November 24. Please sign up in the Church Office now. This event
is held each year to show Korean’s deep gratitude to Korean
War veterans.
Pause: Moments to Reflect,
a 2014
year of devotions, is available in the Chapel Bookstore now for $12.84
(includes tax). Rev. Arianne Lehn is one of the authors of this book of
devotions. Thinking Christmas? This would be a lovely, inspirational gift.
PAGE 5
Presbyterian Women Soup To Go:
Be sure to purchase some Chili and crackers on November 10 before and
after the 11:00am. Worship Service. $5, with proceeds to go to Angel
Tree. Vegetarian option available. Volunteers needed to help make chili
on Saturday, November 9, call Lynn (260-637-6071).
Blue Christmas Service will be held on
Thursday, December 19, at 7:30pm in McMillen Chapel. This will be an
opportunity, as in years past, to acknowledge the grief or sense of loss
we may feel during this time of year.
Joint Presbyterian All-Saints
Service, Friday, November 1 at Trinity Presbyterian Church, 9600
Saint Joe Road. We will gather for dinner at 6:00pm, worship at 6:45pm
and enjoy a bonfire at 7:30pm.
Gather These Mirrors
A
Celebration of Hope, Courage, and the Human Spirit
Music by Kala Pierson & Heartland Chamber Chorale, Allen County
Courthouse, Sunday, November 3, 4:00pm
Free and open to the public
Gather These Mirrors celebrates human rights and hope on behalf of
refugees and other victims of war and violence; it is also a call to action.
The concert is a musical collaboration between Indiana Center for
Middle East Peace, contemporary American composer Kala Pierson and
Heartland Chamber Chorale. It is comprised of Gather These Mirrors,
written by Kala, based on Middle Eastern poetry and an interview with
an Iraqi refugee girl. The entire concert will be music and poetry from
throughout the Middle East, focusing on the triumph of human rights,
courage, and hope in the context of dehumanization and violence.
Tickets are free, call the Heartland Office, 260-436-8080.
Attention all Committee Chairs!
Annual Reports are due by December 20. Please keep your report to
one page or less in length and e-mail or leave a hard copy in the Church
Office for Luci Foltz, [email protected]. If you are new to writing
annual reports and would like to have a copy of last year’s report as a
reference, ask Luci, 426-7421 x113.
Remember Family and Friends
During this Holiday Season
Throughout the four weeks of Advent our
Sanctuary and Chapel are made beautiful
with a variety of Christmas decorations,
made possible through monetary gifts given
in loving memory of family and friends. You
may participate by using the Chancel Guild
envelope in your offering envelope box, or by
using the envelopes available in the pews. The
memorialized names, with the names of the
donors, appear in both of the Christmas Eve worship bulletins, Deadline
is Sunday, December 16.
Looking Way Ahead: The Third Annual Giant
Garage Sale is scheduled for April 11 & 12, 2014. Start accumulating
items to sell now.
Korean Language Ministry (KLM)
가서 너도 이와 같이 하라
길을 지나가던 작은 소년이 아주 멋있는 스포츠카를 뚫어지라고
쳐다 보고 있습니다. 그 차의 주인은 그 소년에게 자랑하고
싶어서 이렇게 말합니다.
“이 차는 말이야. 우리 형이 나에게 선물해 준거야”
그 때 소년은 뭐라고 말했을까요? 아마도 이 소년이 대부분의
사람과 같은 마음이었다면,이렇게 말했을 것입니다.
“아..나도 그런 형이 있었으면”
개인적으로도 어떤 비결이 있었을까 궁금해 하던 터라서 이형수
박사께 질문을 한 적이 있었습니다. 어떤 사연이 있지는
않았을까 하고 생각하던 그분의 답변은 너무 단순한
것이었습니다.
“목사님, 그냥 그러고 싶었어요. 우리가 다 같은 한국 사람이라는
사실 만으로 충분한 이유가 되는 것 같아요. 그냥 그것 뿐이에요”
단순한 답변이었지만, 제 마음을 흔드는 강력한 대답이었던 것은
이것이야 말로 이웃을 내 몸처럼 사랑하라는 예수님의 명령에
부합하는 것이기 때문입니다. 내 몸을 사랑하는 것이 무슨
이유가 있겠습니까? 그렇다면 이웃을 사랑하는 것도 그렇게
이라고 말입니다. 그런데 이 소년은 이렇게 말했습니다.
“아. 나도 그런 형이 되었으면”
사랑해야 합니다. 그런데도 우리는 늘 이유를 달고, 조건을 달고
사랑하려고 하는 것입니다. 이형수 박사의 단순하고도 강력한
답변은 그 이후로도 지금까지 저의 목회를 비추어 보는 거울이
제가 이 이야기를 소개하는 이유는 저도 그런 사람이 되었으면
되고 있습니다.
하는 분이 있어서 여러분에게 소개하고 싶어서입니다.
제가 이글을 통해서 소개하고 싶은 이형수 의사 선생님의 또
지난 8 월 25 일은 포트웨인의 한인 사회에 있어서 아주 역사적인
한가지의 감동적인 이야기가 있습니다. 건강이 많이 약해
날이었습니다. 그동안 흩어져서 예배 드려왔던 포트웨인의 한인
지셔서 병원을 은퇴하고 집에 머물러 계셔서 심방을 갔을 때의
교회 세 교회가 함께 예배하며 한분 하나님을 예배하였던 날이기
이야기입니다. 요즘 어떻게 지내시냐는 질문에 이형수 박사님은
때문입니다. 그런데 그 날 그 행사 가운데 아주 중요한 행사가
이렇게 대답하십니다.
있었습니다.그것은 지난 35 년의 시간 동안 포트웨인의 모든
한인들을 아무런 댓가도 바라지 않고 무료로 돌보아 주신 이형수
“목사님 요즘에 꿈을 꾸고 나면 너무 안타까워요. 꿈에 환자들이
의사 선생님의 은퇴식이 있었기 때문입니다. 이형수 박사는 우리
저를 찾아오는데, 제가 딱 보니, 그 병은 수술하면 나을 수 있는
교회의 멤버이며, 우리 교회 안토넷 리 장로님의 부군이기도
병이에요. 그런데, 거기에 맞는 수술실을 찾지 못하겠는거에요.
합니다.
이리 뛰고 저리 뛰고 수술실을 찾지 못해 안타까워 하다가 꿈을
깨곤 해요”
이형수 박사는 40 여년전에 이곳 포트웨인에 정착하며 수많은
한국인들을 돌보아 주셨습니다. 당시 미국 사회에 살고 있는
돕고 싶은데 돕지 못하는 안타까움, 그 이야기가 한동안 저의
대부분의 사람들에게 건강은 가장 중요한 문제였습니다. 고된
마음을 파고 들어 왔었습니다. 세상 모든 사람들을 다 돕지는
이민 생활을 하다가 보면 건강을 돌보기가 쉽지 않은데, 그런
못하더라도 그 안타까움을 가지고 살아간다면, 예수님의 사랑에
가운데 이형수 의사 선생님의 도움은 그야말로 당시 이곳의
빚진 자로서 그래도 얼굴값은 하고 살텐데 나는 뭔가 하는 그런
한인들에게는 가뭄에 단비와도 같은 것이었습니다. 더욱 중요한
부끄러움 때문이었습니다.
사실은 의사로서의 본인의 업무가 분주함에도 불구하고 항상
한국인들을 우선적으로 진료를 하며, 그들의 형편에 따라
대부분의 사람들은 무료로 진료를 하였다는 점입니다. 그것도
하루 이틀이 아니라, 본인이 은퇴하기 까지 35 년여의 시간을
가을이 깊어갑니다. 깊어가는 가을 만큼 내 이웃에 대한
안타까움도 깊어 갔으면 하는 바람입니다. 아울러 이형수 의사
선생님의 건강이 빨리 호전되어 예전처럼 도움을 필요로 하는
많은 사람들에게 도움이 되어 주시기를 기도합니다
그렇게 하여 왔다는 것입니다. 그 결과 지금도 포트웨인에 살고
있는 한인들이 그분의 도움을 받지 않은 분이 없을 정도입니다.
행복한 목사 안영수 드림
PAGE 6
Translation of Rev. An’s comments by Antoinette Lee
Go and Do Unto Others
A little boy was staring at a beautiful sports car parked on the side
of the road. The owner of the car couldn’t help boasting, “You know,
my brother gave me this beautiful car.” How do you think the little
boy replied? Anyone would have said, “Wow, I wish I had a brother
like yours.” But no, that little boy said, “I would like to be that brother
someday.”
The reason why I am telling this story is because there is someone
I respect, and I would like to be that person. August 25, 2013, was a
very important day for all of the Korean churches in Ft. Wayne. All three
Korean churches gathered together at one place to worship. On top
of that, we had a very special program during the service. We held a
retirement ceremony for Dr. Hyung Soo Lee to show our gratitude for
his steadfast service to all of the Korean people in Ft. Wayne and the
Ohio area, without charge, for more than 35 years. Dr. Lee, a surgeon,
is a member of our church and also the husband of Antoinette Lee who
translates my articles for the newsletter.
Dr. Lee came to this area in 1973 to start his practice after years
of training. He took care of so many Korean people when they needed
help. At that time, a lot of Koreans started difficult lives as immigrants,
unfamiliar with the English language and American customs. When they
were sick, they didn’t know where to go and express where and how
it hurt. Finding Dr. Lee was like a sweet rain in the middle of drought.
Dr. Lee had such compassion that he sympathized with those who had
financial difficulties and always told them not to worry about his fees.
He never charged those who had hard times making ends meet. On
many occasions, he even treated serious illnesses with surgeries for
free. This high level of care lasted for more than 35 years. There are
few Koreans in the Ft. Wayne area who didn’t receive help from him, and
when some had personal problems and didn’t know where to turn, Dr.
CONGRATULATIONS to our
Korean Language Ministry
who celebrated its 35th anniversary on October 20.
Day School Ministry News
The day school enjoyed a busy fall getting to know new children and
staff, harvesting the final fruits of the garden, planting bulbs for the
spring, visiting apple orchards and pumpkin farms, and taking walks to
find the signs of the changing seasons.
The major fundraiser for the program was the cookie booth at the
Johnny Appleseed Festival. Thank you to all of the parents, staff and
church members (including youth) who donated their time and efforts to
bake and sell over 10,000 cookies. Over $4300 was raised for the day
school and the church’s children/youth ministry.
Thank you to those who supported the day school through the
purchase of cookie dough. The cookie dough, popcorn and pretzels
will be available for pick up at the church after 12:00 noon on Monday,
Nov. 4. The children will be singing again this year for Presby Day
in November and December. Susan Dorion, our music teacher, is
working with the children each week on special holiday songs. Day
school parents will be enjoying a Christmas Pageant in the theater
on Wednesday December 18 at 10:00am. Member of the church are
welcome to come and enjoy the program.
PAGE 7
Lee was a counselor, social worker and even psychiatrist.
I once asked him how he was able to do that for so long. His
answer was simply, “No other reason. That is what I do.”
It was a simple but very strong answer as I know it was exactly
what Jesus taught us – love thy neighbors as yourselves. Anybody can
love his or her own body. We must love our neighbors just as we love
ourselves. We know it is not easy. We often put reasons and conditions
before we can love or help others. Dr. Lee’s strong and simple answer
has been with me ever since and it reflects on my mirror of ministering
and consciousness.
There is another incident that moved me. I was visiting with him
after he became ill and had to retire. When I asked him how he was,
it was obvious he still thinks about others. He said, “Almost every
night I dream about my patients. I just know I can make them all fine
with one surgery, but I cannot find the operating room. I am running
looking for the surgery room and then I wake up.” I could feel his love
and dedication for his neighbors and the frustration he can no longer do
what he used to do and loved to do. When I felt his pure and enormous
love for all of us, it almost put me to shame thinking I have done so little
in repaying the debt for the love and salvation we received from Jesus.
In this beautiful Fall season, I hope we will all try to love our
neighbors as ourselves, just as we have learned from Dr. Lee. We hope
and pray that he will recover soon and help those who are in need once
again.
–Your Happy Minister
Youngsoo An.
P.S. On behalf of my husband, I would like to say how honored I am to
have the opportunity to work on an article such as this one. We thank all
who have sent their love and praises to my husband. –Antoinette Lee
The Book Store volunteers
cordially invite
all members of the congregation to the Small Dining Room on Sunday
November 3 between 9:00am and 12:30pm to peruse items from the
store including books, gifts, hand crafted items, greeting cards and
advent calendars. When you purchase items through our book store you
are supporting artisans throughout the world and you are enabling the
book store staff to use the profits to provide for missions in our own
church such as the Angel Tree, Youth Work Camp, and our Children’s
Ministries. Please come and take a look, with cash or check book in
hand, ready to buy. We need your help so we can continue to make a
difference at home and abroad.
Come with Us to South Korea:
October 4-18, 2014, some members of the ELS congregation, along
with Rev. An and others, will be traveling to South Korea to experience
that exciting and exotic culture, A wonderful two weeks of travel is
being arranged through Arlene Waters at Travel Leaders, 434-6690.
The projected cost is $4,000 to $4,200 which includes air fare, lodging
and some meals. The cost could go down if we get more than 20
participants. If you want to learn more please come to our next planning
meeting on November 6, 4:00pm at First Pres or call Wendell Cree,
489-1407, or Judy Hayhurst, 432-8418.
Theater
NOW PLAYING:
Oct 24**, 25, 26, Nov. 1, 2, 3*, 8, 9
MRS. PACKARD by Emily Mann
direction by Thom Hofrichter
Mrs. Packard is put in an insane asylum by her husband, a Presbyterian minister, for questioning his
interpretation of church doctrine. Based on historical events from 1861, this brilliant play explores the
inspirational story of an extraordinary woman victimized by oppression based on gender, religion, and
political beliefs. The events of her triumph over these forces point to present battles in which so many
believe they know the mind of God.
AND COMING IN DECEMBER:
December 5**, 6, 7, 8*, 13, 14, 15*, 20, 21, 22*
FPT CHRISTMAS REVUE assembled by Jack Cantey, Thom Hofrichter and
Jim Mergenthal, direction by Thom Hofrichter, musical direction by Jim Mergenthal,
choreography by Sara Black
A new musical revue of songs, dances, and sketches to put you in the Christmas spirit. Playwright
Jack Cantey’s clever comedy, and Jim Mergenthal’s wonderful music selections will put the joy of Christmas
in your heart for the holiday season.
FPT Christmas Revue Opening Night Dinner Friday, December 6,
at 6:00pm. Enjoy this lovely catered event before you attend the Revue. Watch for more details in the e-news and bulletins.
For Tickets call the Box Office
260-422-6329
or order on line at www.firstpresbyteriantheater.com.
• **Thursday preview—all tickets $10
*Sunday Matinee curtain at 2:00pm.
All other shows are at 7:30pm
• Advance sale tickets are $20/$18 for seniors (65+),
• The first 30 full-time students free with reservations
• Tickets purchased at the door are $24/$22 (65+)/
$10 full-time students
• Discounts for season memberships—
Groups of 20 or more are $15 per ticket
Coming In November: Watch for the
first information about the 2014 Stratford trip. Watch the
weekly e-news and bulletins for dates and shows
AUDITION OPPORTUNITY:
Othello by William Shakespeare, direction by Thom Hofrichter
AUDITION:
Saturday, November 2, 1:00pm or 2:00pm
(sign up for a one hour slot)
CALLBACK: Saturday, November 9 at 1:00pm
(read material handed out Nov. 2)
REHEARSALS: January 13-March 5
PERFORMS: March 6-22, 2014
NEEDED: 12 men and 3 women (role of Othello is cast).
PAGE 8
firstpres-fw.org/the_arts/gallery
Gallery 2013-14 Season
Vassilen Vasevski & Jordan Ivanov, Life is a Dream & Al Martin,
Ceramics
In The Gallery Through December 1
‘Vassi’ Vasevski, a Bulgarian born artist, has a MFA in Painting from The National Academy of
Fine Arts in Sofia, Bulgaria and an AS from Indiana-Purdue University, Fort Wayne, IN in Commercial
Arts. A former resident of Fort Wayne, Vassi now lives in Chicago, where he is an Assistant Professor
at The Illinois Institute of Art, Chicago.
Jordan Ivanov was born in Bulgaria and lives in New Orleans, where he works as a Production
artist for The Mardi Grass Festival. He holds a MFA in Industrial Design from The National Academy
of Fine Arts in Sofia, Bulgaria. Vasevski and Ivanov have been collaborating since 2004. This is their
second show at First Presbyterian Gallery.
www.vassi-art.com, www.jordanivanov.com
Al Martin’s crystal glazed, organic forms are simply beautiful. Crystalline glazes are responsible for infinite colors and shapes which appear
to “float” on top of the object’s surface and which wrap around the contour of the object. Martin’s work,demonstrates a great skill and experience of
heating and cooling the ceramic piece to produce a desired crystal pattern.
Diane Allen Groenert, Drawings
Tom Fuhrman, Blown Glass
December 6, 2013 – January 19, 2014 Reception—Friday, December 6, 5:30 – 7:00pm
(before Theater dinner)
Diane Groenert was born in San Diego and came to Fort Wayne to attend
Indiana University’s division of General and Technical Studies, receiving an
Associate Degree in Commercial Art in 1974. Some classes were taught at the
Fort Wayne School of Fine Arts, where she fell in love with the School and the
West Central neighborhood. Diane began painting her House Portraits in 1999. “In my House Portraits... I paint until I feel I’ve captured the Narrative
of the Home.”
Tom Fuhrman has been working in glass since 1974. Originally in northeastern Indiana, Fuhrman Glass Studios is now located in
Oak Ridge, TN. Tom has received numerous corporate and organizational awards and his pieces can be found in many private collections, including
those of Temple Achduth Vesholom here in Fort Wayne and the White House, Washington DC, and in the permanent collections of several museums.
His leaded windows are featured in 14 churches and in many restaurants and private residences.
www.fuhrmanglass.com
Tom Fuhrman will be doing a Gallery Talk while in Fort Wayne. Date and time to be announced.
Music 2013-14 Season
The Fort Wayne American Guild of Organists’ Pipe Organ Festival
Sunday, November 10, 3:00pm at First Presbyterian Church
There will be remembrances of Greg Vey and George Johnson, spoken word, and organ music by Irene Ator & Kathy Miller, Bob Nance,
Greg Childs, Michael Dulac, Chelsea Vaught, Becca Fensler and Wayne Peterson. Everyone is invited to attend!
Tower Brass
Sunday, December 1, 7:00pm, Sanctuary
Tower Brass was founded in the spring of 1997 after requests for more brass
music at Fourth Presbyterian Church in Chicago. After generous donations,
Tower Brass became a reality in September of the same year. They regularly
perform in concerts and during worship services. Tower Brass has come to be
regarded as one of the finest brass ensembles in the area. The group consists of
eight brass players and one percussionist. Appearing here with special guest, Dr.
Chelsea Vaught, organ. Their concert is sure to start your December off right and
put you in the holiday spirit!
PAGE 9
Thank you to everyone listed below who contributed towards the purchase of our
new hymnals, Glory to God. Your generosity is greatly appreciated.
Steve & Kathy Adair
Joan Adam
Edgar & Betty-Alice Almeida
Andrea Amstutz
Rev. Dr. Youngsoo An &
Sunglim Shin
Tom & Anne Barnett
David & Karen Bash
Bob & Joanne Beatty
Bonnie Bogenschutz
Virginia Bokern
Gretchen Bonsib
Raymond C. Borne
Ady & Ned Brenizer
Art & Lou Brickman
Julia A. Brown
Larry W. & Cynthia A. Brown
Irene M. Campbell
Mary Campbell
Arthur & Linda Chapman
Howard & Betsy Chapman
Alice L. Chitwood
Will & Ginny Clark
Virginia B. Coats
Robert & Annelie Collie
Rollyn & Julie Coverdale
Wendell & Mary Cree
Evelyn J. DeYoung
Mr. & Mrs. Clairus M. Dew
Ann Dhillon
Robert & Patricia Doerr
Dot & Bill Easterly
Gladys Edmunds
James Ehlich
Dorothy Ferguson
Al & Meribeth Figel
William L. Fish
Dick Florea
Luci Foltz
Frederick & Cleoria Fox
Carol & Dave Freeman
Eugene Fulmore
Jo Furr
Joann Gage
Nancy & Josh Gerow
Phyllis G. Glenn
Roger Goodland
Patty Griest
XianChun Gu
Diane & Ron Gumbert
Young Hwa & Kye Soon Han
Everett & Marilyn Hardy
Marjorie Havens
Pat & Ted Heemstra
Irene A. Heglin
Marsha Heller
Leslie A. Howard
Bonnie Huepenbecker
Marie Isaacs
Joan Jackson
Bob & Donna Jesse
Alan L. Johns
Rem Johnston
Phyllis Kaiser
Barbara Kerch
Ae-Sook Kim
Ron & Pat Kohart
Carolyn Krebs
Irwin Krueger
I.S. or W.K. Kwak
Mary LaRocque
Gene & Janet Laughlin
Antoinette & H.S. Lee
Byung J. Lee & Ju J. Lee
Jeff & Arianne Lehn
Jean Linville
James & Kaye Lobsiger
Ivadine Long
Micheline MacMillan
Nancy Manske
Craig & Beth Marks
Tracy Heaton de Martinez
Doris Mather
Catherine Mather-Grimes
David A. &
Barbara S. McCants
Fannie Moore McCowan
Stacey McGiffin
Mary Lynn McIntyre
Edee & Alan McMahan
Scott McMeen
Iona H. Mensch
Jim & Sondra Mergenthal
Mary Jo Meyer
Don & Idora Miller
Janet Miller
Kathy Miller
Matt & Kim Monaghan
A. Jane Morris
Max & Mary Morrow
Betsy & Roberto Muñoz
Kay Nims
Mr. & Mrs. Walter Nollen
Charles & Melissa Northrop
Beverly Norton
Jessica Sujung Oh
Kip & Mary Jane Ormerod
Arthur & Renee Page
Fran Page
Mr. & Mrs. Young Park
Mac & Pat Parker
Betsy Perry Patton
Jill Perillo
Jim & Marianne Platt
Dan & Cindy Purvis
John & Marge Ralph
Lynn Rebman
John & Young Renner
David & Judith Ruoff
Louise Sams
Deborah & David Sand
Karen & Edward Sandman
Clifford H. Scott
David & Cynthia Scott
Rob & Maribelle Severine
Fahad M. Shaheen
Sandy Shearer
Paul & Pat Sheets
Phyllis J. Sheldon
Orlo & Dorothy Shifley
Mike Shim
Nancy Shriner
Ann & Dave Silletto
Taff Silliman
George D. Smith
Thelma Smith
Vaunceil Smith
Shirley Sona
Jack Spindler
Gary & Vrina Stebbins
James & Maggie Steensma
Tom & Sally Swihart
Gary & Linda Sykes
Mario & Nanette Teixeira
Jane Thompson
Barbara Trabel
Chelsea Vaught
Joan M. Venderly
Stanley Volz
Deborah Ward
Bill Wareham
Julie Rhinehart Waterfield
Terry & Peggy Webb
Herb & Lorraine Weier
Marcie & Steve Weissner
Gretchen F. Wiegel
Dorothy Wiggs
Don Williams/Sharon Hedeen
Kwang Williams
Norm & Janet Williams
Gerald & Mary Winters
Anita Wolfe
Frank & Judith Wright
Newell Wright
Lisa Yarian
John & Thirza Youker
Dave & Jody Young
Welcome Baby Ministry
We, at First Pres, are excited to welcome new babies into this wonderful world and our Church
Family. If you are pregnant or adopting, please contact Jennifer Shaw, 426-7421 x 127 or
[email protected]. We look forward to providing the families of new babies with
home-cooked meals, support from other moms and small gifts from the church.
PAGE 10
People in Pictures
Kathy Beatty, Bob Beatty, Mary Robles, Tom Sites were welcomed as new
members on October 20. We pray that their membership with us is long
and blessed.
Congregation members carried lots and lots of blue hymnals out of
the Sanctuary on October 20, to be replaced by the new “Glory to God”
Presbyterian Hymnals.
October 20 was Bible Sunday and three children received their own personal
Bibles: Hanna Munoz, Autumn Byer and Connar Uhrich.
“Bread for the World” Several people took
time to sign a petition on October 20 asking
President Obama to work with Congress on a
plan to end hunger.
The combined KLM/ELS choirs and our pastors sang a stirring anthem “Look at the World” on World Communion Sunday, October 6.
PAGE 11
Indiana Center for Middle
East Peace Presents:
Craig and Cindy Corrie of the
Rachel Corrie Foundation
for Peace and Justice
Plymouth Congregational Church, 501 West Berry Street, Fort Wayne,
7:00pm, Thursday, November 21, 2013.
The program is free to the public.
“There is a name that resonates throughout the world on the topic
of human rights in Israel and Palestine…that name is Rachel Corrie,”
says Dr. Michael Spath, Executive Director of Indiana Center for Middle
East Peace. Rachel, a 23-old American peace activist, was crushed by
an Israeli bulldozer in 2003 while non-violently protecting a Palestinian
family home from demolition. Since her killing, many solidarity activities
have been carried out in her name around the world.
Her parents, and program speakers Craig and Cindy Corrie, founded
the Rachel Corrie Foundation as a testament to her life. The organization
supports grassroots efforts in pursuit of human rights and social,
economic, and environmental justice. Their emphasis is on Israel and
Palestine. Rachel’s story may be familiar as the one-woman, one-act
play, My Name is Rachel Corrie, that was brought to Fort Wayne on its
first tour by the Center.
For information on the Indiana Center for Middle East Peace visit
our website, www.indianacmep.org. or contact: Dr. L. Michael Spath,
Executive Director, Indiana Center for Middle East Peace, 260-4162516, [email protected]. For more information on the Rachel Corrie
Foundation for Peace and Justice, visit rachelcorriefoundation.org.
Jennnifer Shaw. Director of
Children’s, Youth and Family
Ministries shares some dreams for the future of
her program which is already off to a strong
start this fall.
“I want to blend the line between Children and
Youth ministries with Family @ First and other
events, focusing on the family unit since faith
formation occurs first and foremost in the
home. I hope to better equip and support our
families.” (Family @ First is different this year,
not splitting off into small groups, but one big
inter-generational activity.)
“I hope to make the church a place of security
and comfort for the youth, a place they will
feel accepted and loved, unconditionally. As a
result, I hope to see more of our youth coming
to youth activities and bringing friends.”
“Youth Group (Sunday evenings) will be a balance of mission work
(serving at the Rescue Mission, helping Habitat for Humanity with
builds for Associated Churches, packing clothes for Forgotten Children
International, etc.), faith activities held at church, and fun field trips. We
had a Youth retreat in October, and will be attending Heifer International
in Michigan in May for an overnight experience.
“I hope to get the youth more actively involved with the
congregation, as lay readers, greeters, and other roles in services.”
“I plan to continue the Children’s programming as is, but with a renewed
vigor to intentionally strengthen the children’s knowledge of scripture
and their personal relationship with Jesus.”
Clothtique Possible Dream Santas,
the collection of Betty-Alice Almeida, on display in November in the
McKay Foyer cabinet.
The Clothtique Possible Dream Santa Claus
collection is very special as they are all hand
made and all express their own personalities.
The very first Clothtique Possible Dream
Santas were introduced in 1985. The stiffened
fabric process was inspired by European
collectibles and brought to the United States.
The unique and patented combination of
sculpting and stiffened fabrics bring each
Santa to life. Designed in the US, every
Possible Dream Santa is hand made by a
team of skilled artisans with exquisite detail and artistic expertise. The
attention to detail is what makes these Santas the No. 1 Santa brand in
the country. Each Santa comes with a brass tag that certifies it is an
authentic Possible Dream collectible. The Santas on display are designed
by designer Ann Dezendarf, who has been designing the Possible Dream
Santas since 2003. Her own family traditions and memories, and her
interaction with other Santa collectors have sparked all her designs.
Please stop by and see these beautiful and exquisite Santas.
The First Presbyterian Church
Suicide Grief Support Group was founded
on September 23, 2013. “Time heals all wounds.” is not necessarily true
for survivors of suicide. Time is necessary for healing, but time is not
enough. Shared feelings enrich and lead to growth and healing. FPC
recognizes that suicide in Indiana outranks current national statistics
and is the 11th cause of death in the state. To this end, First Presbyterian
Church of Fort Wayne is hosting a suicide survivors bereavement support
group; a place where those who have lost a loved one to suicide can find
comfort and support and share a safe place; to share their experiences
with others who really understand, talk openly, and where people will
listen without judging.
FPC will follow American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
guidelines. Our support group will create a chance for survivors to
learn from each other and provide a source of hope, change, and
transformation.
Membership: The group is open to any member of FPC who has lost
a loved one to sucide.
Meetings: Meetings will be held on the second Sunday of each
mont after the 11:00am worship service.
Facilitators: The group will be led by Lea Ann Powers, American
Foundation for Suicide
Prevention Facilitator
and co-facilitated
by FPC members.
Please feel welcome
to attend as we
seek transformation
through the love of
Jesus Christ.
Colleen Carpenter (Suicide Prevention Coordinator), Arianne, and Mayor Tom
Henry at the Fort Wayne, Out of the Darkness, Suicide Awareness walk on
October 19, 2013 at Foster Park.
PAGE 12
PresbyterianWomen
Women and girls!
Join us as we gather to experience the
True Spirit of the Christmas Season.
Second Annual
Advent By Candlelight
Wednesday, December 4, 2013
McKay Hall, 7:00pm
An evening of prayer, music, scripture, and reflection
on the meaning of the season.
Delicious desserts will be served. There is no charge for this event.
Any donations we receive will contribute to the Presbyterian Women Scholarship Fund.
Sign up in the Church Office no later than November 27.
If you would like to host a table, please sign up on the hostess page. The hostess decorates a table
and provides a dessert for the dessert table. For more information and hostess guidelines, contact
Lynn Rebman, 260-637-6071 or [email protected].
PAGE 13
Book Review
by William Kern
A People’s History of the United States: 1492-Present
by Howard Zinn
1980, 2003 by Harper Collins Publishers
We owe it to the former Governor of the State of Indiana that this
absolute gem of a historical review of the American experience has been
brought to public attention in recent weeks. I think of myself as a kind
of weekend amateur student of American and world history but in the 33
years since it was first published it never caught my attention until a few
days ago.
But ex-Governor Daniels’ remarks made during the course of his
attempt to have this book banned from Indiana schools at every level
from elementary schools through graduate schools did catch my eye.
And I am so grateful.
This fact-jammed book is, in my opinion, an easy read because
virtually every page is so absolutely interesting. And the reason I found
it to be so relentlessly interesting is that, on virtually every page one
feels that one is learning the truth about important matters never before
discussed in a dozen years of elementary and secondary education. Or
if discussed at all, only from the point of view of the dominant elements
of society.
This book begins with the arrival of Christopher Columbus’ (and
other Spaniards) at several Bahamas islands where he was greeted by
Arawak Indians who brought them food, water and gifts. Columbus diary
says “on the first Island which I found, I took some of the natives by
force in order that they might give me information of whatever there is in
these parts.” The information Columbus wanted was: Where is the gold?
The Indians were compelled to search for gold, of which there was
very little on the Caribbean islands. Those who found any were awarded
an artifact which they could wear around their necks. Those who did not
had their hands amputated.
A Spanish priest in Columbus’ company, Bartolome de las Casas,
wrote a four-volume book enumerating Spanish atrocities. “The
Spaniards thought nothing,” he said, “of knifing Indians by tens and
twenties and of cutting slices off them to test the sharpness of their
blades.” Among other things, he told of how two of these so-called
Christians met two Indian boys one day, each carrying a parrot; “They
took the parrots and for fun, beheaded the boys.”
Samuel Eliot Morrison, the Harvard naval historian who is widely
regarded as the most distinguished writer on Columbus baldly
summarizes this aspect of Columbus as follows: “The cruel policy
initiated by Columbus and pursued by his followers resulted in complete
genocide.” The term genocide ordinarily refers to the unprovoked
murder of thousands or millions of people. But the foregoing passage-a
single sentence unobtrusively slipped into a book running to hundreds
of pages-was all Morrison had to say on the subject of Columbus‘
character.
Zinn concludes that “when we read the books given to children in the
United States, it all starts with heroic adventure--there is no bloodshed
--and Columbus Day is a celebration!”
Yes, it is true that Columbus never reached any part of the Western
Hemisphere which would eventually become part of America. But the
things that happened in the Carribean early on do seem to be a part of
American history. This is merely the first of dozens of illustrations of
the yawning gap between the reality of our history and the ways it has
traditionally been taught here.
Theodore Roosevelt wrote a friend in 1897, as follows, says the
author. “In strict confidence, I should
welcome almost any war, for I think the
country needs one.” As things developed, he
got his wish in fairly short order. And on a
larger scale than he (or perhaps anybody)
envisioned at the outset.
As with all wars, the SpanishAmerican War began with a certain
amount of hoopla but there was also
an uncharacteristic amount of protest.
The battle for Cuba was over in three
months in what the American Secretary
of State would characterize as a
“splendid little war.” But that would
not be the end of it. Spain was so badly beaten that
it immediately ceded a number of possessions to the United States
including Puerto Rico, the Hawaiian Islands, Wake Island, Guam and the
Philippines, all for only $20,000,000.
In less than a year, the Filipinos revolted against the Americans, as
they had often done against the Spanish. It took 70,000 American
troops-four times as many as had ever been sent to Cuba-and three
years to quell that rebellion. There were enormous casualties on both
sides. Was this what Teddy Roosevelt was hoping for? Did Secretary of
State John Hay still think it a “splendid little war”?
Come to think of it, Cuba has been and continues to be a durable
trouble spot for America, even though it was never formally annexed by
the USA. In 1961, the CIA landed about 1,400 trained and armed Cuban
exiles at the Bay of Pigs with a view towards sparking a general uprising
against the Castro regime. The trouble was that there was practically no
Cuban sentiment for overthrowing Castro. In three days, the Cuban army
had rounded up all the CIA trainees.
Modernly, the US Navy makes little use of its Guantanamo Bay
base but that territory continues to be the rather contentious site of
the imprisonment of suspected participants in the World Trade Center
terrorist attack of 2004.
For most of his career, Zinn was a history professor, first at Spelman
College in Atlanta where, he said, “I began to read the African-American
historians who never appeared on my reading lists in graduate school.”
Later, he was at Boston College for more than 20 years. He once said of
his Spelman experience that he learned more from his students there
than he had ever taught them.
What did he have in mind in writing this book? “I wanted,” he said,
“to awaken a greater consciousness of the on-going class conflict, racial
prejudice, sexual inequality, national arrogance and our dis-functional
political system.” In earlier editions, it was, he says, my east-coast
orientation that blinded me to the struggle for justice of the Indians and
Latino people living in California and the American southwest, and my
own sexual orientation that accounted for the minimal treatment of the
issue of gay and lesbian rights.
Zinn has written more than 20 books but it is this one, “A History…”
that, as of recent date, has sold nearly two million copies. He died at age
87 of a heart attack while swimming in a hotel pool in 2010.
PAGE 14
Statistics
2013 Income & Expenses through September
Stories & Photos
for the January/February 2014 issue of
First News are due December 10 by 5:00pm.
Please e-mail contributions to
Luci Foltz at [email protected]
or mail or deliver them to the Church Office.
If you have comments, suggestions, would like to recognize an
“Angels Among Us” or submit an article I’d like to hear from you.
First News is published six times a year. If you’d like a weekly
update of current and upcoming events, please subscribe to the
weekly electronic newsletter, First Pres Weekly News by providing
your email address to Lisa Yarian at [email protected], or
phone her at: 426-7421 x116.
PUBLICATION SCHEDULE 2014:
Issue
Jan./Feb. 2014
March/April, 2014
May/June, 2014
July/August, 2014
September/October, 2014
November/December, 2014
Deadline
December 10
February 10
April 14
June 16
August 11
October 13
Mail date
December 20
February 21
April 25
June 27
August 22
October 24
Parish Life Update for August & September, 2013
August & September Worship Attendance:
Contributions Transfers from Foundation
User Fees
Day Care Income
Theater Income
Room Usage/Dinners
Other Income
Parking Lot
EH Kilbourne Trust
Interest, etc.
Special Offerings
Total Income
Total Expense
Operating Gain (loss)
Adjustment to Operating Statement
Add Depreciation YTD Operating Statement on a Cash Basis
Subtract Capital Expenditures
Trfr to/(wdrl from) Trustees Fund
August & September Member Deaths
Further Detail for Aug.-Sept. 2013
Elsie Gloria (Keskinen) Myers August 8
Dick Florea & Sandy Shearer
Ted Hart & BoHyun Park
August & September Weddings
August 30
September 21
Summary of Active Membership
August 1 Membership879
Additions to Active Roll
1
By Certificate0
By Profession of Faith
0
By Reaffirmation of Faith
0
By Reactivation1
Dismission from Active Roll
15
By Certificate of Transfer
0
By Death1
By Deletion from Membership
14
September 30 Membership865
Additions to Active Roll
6
PAGE 15
194,797
57,366
15,480
2,904
10,238
5,944
24,107
1,196,263
1,386,343
(190,080)
$
$
129,330
(60,750)
(65,788)
(125,538)
$
First Presbyterian Church
Website Viewing Activity and Comparison
August 4
222
September 1
305
August 11
256
September 8
352
August 18
243
September 15
307
August 25
250
September 22
288
September 29
309
14 first time visitors, 102 resident visitors, 41 non-resident visitors
$541,679
343,749
Aug.-Sept. 2012 Total unique visitors
2,105 Total visits
3,602
Average duration per visit
2 min 50 sec
Total page views
11,073
Aug.-Sept. 2013
2,214
3,269
2 min 19 sec
9,238
Of the 3,269 visits, 2,249 were from Indiana, including 1,802 from
Fort Wayne and Allen County, followed by Indianapolis (131),
Angola (27), Auburn (23), and North Manchester (14). The top
out-of-state origins were Ohio (131), Illinois (105), Michigan (102),
California (45) and Texas (45). Other visits include Philippines (22),
South Korea (19), Germany (15), and Moldova (8).
First Presbyterian Church
Facebook Activity
August
September
Total Page Likes:
Total Post Clicks:
139
237
141
383
Visit Facebook and join our conversation
www.facebook.com/firstpresfortwayne
.
First Presbyterian Church
300 West Wayne Street
Fort Wayne, Indiana 46802
NON PROFIT ORG.
US POSTAGE
PAID
PERMIT NO. 217
FORT WAYNE, IN
Address Service Requested
Check out more FPC photos on our website:
firstpres-fw.org and on facebook!
Calendar
19
6:15pm Deacons’ Meeting
21
10:00am Presby Day
1
1:45pm Towne House Communion
24
Regular Worship Schedule (see November 3)
6:00pm Joint Presbyterian All Saints Service
8:30am Angel Tree Selection continues
Trinity Presbyterian Church
12:15pm KLM Thanksgiving Dinner, honoring Korean War Vets.
7:30pm Mrs Packard performance*
3:30pm Youth Outing - Dinner and Lazertag
3
DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME ENDS -fall back one hour
28
HAPPY THANKSGIVING - building closed
8:00am Worship & Communion, McMillen Chapel
29
Thanksgiving holiday - building closed
9:00am Vintage Pillow Sale
9:00am Bookstore Sale
DECEMBER
9:30am Nursery open
1
First Sunday of Advent, Regular Worship/Communion
9:45am Classes for all ages
7:00pm Music Series - Tower Brass*
10:00am KLM Choir Rehearsal
4
7:00pm Presbyterian Women Advent by Candlelight
11:00am Worship & Communion, Sanctuary
6
1:45pm Towne House Communion
11:00am KLM Worship Service, McMillen Chapel
5:30pm Gallery Artists’ Reception*
11:00am KLM Sunday Class
6:00pm Dinner Theater*
11:15am Children’s Sunday school
7:30pm A New Christmas Revue opening performance*
12:00pm KLM Fellowship
8
Second Sunday of Advent, Regular Worship Schedule
12:15pm Empty Bowls fundraiser meal
5:00pm Youth Group
4:00pm Youth Local Mission
10
6:00pm Session Meeting
4
1:30pm 3B Fitness (weekly, M,W, F)
15
Third Sunday of Advent, Regular Worship Schedule
5
5:45pm Parents’ Night Out
9:30am Breakfast in Bethlehem
6
6:00pm Hand Bell Choir (every Wednesday)
4:00pm Youth Mission - Salvation Army Bell Ringing
6:30pm Dr. Spath’s Wednesday Evening Class (Weekly)
19
10:00am Presby Day
7:00pm KLM Wednesday Worship Service (Weekly)
7:30pm Blue Christmas Service
7
9:30am Women’s Bible Study (every Thursday)
22
Fourth Sunday of Advent, Regular Worship Schedule
9:30am KLM Bible Study (every Thursday)
6:00pm Youth Christmas Party
10
Regular Worship Schedule (see November 3)
24
CHRISTMAS EVE
9:00am Vintage Pillow Sale
4:00pm Family Christmas Service
9:00am “Chili to Go” Soup Sale
6:00pm KLM Christmas Celebration
3:00pm American Guild of Organists Concert*
9:30pm Festival Music Prelude
5:00pm Youth Group
10:00pm Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols
12
6:00pm Session Meeting
25
MERRY CHRISTMAS - building closed
13
5:30pm Family @ First (making gifts for shut-ins)
29
Regular Worship Schedule (see November 3)
16
7:30pm Fort Wayne Children’s Choir performance
31
NEW YEAR’S EVE - Church Office closed at noon
17
Regular Worship Schedule (see November 3)
8:30am Angel Tree Selection begins
9:00am Children’s Committee Thanksgiving Bake Sale.
*See pages 8 & 9 for detailed Music, Gallery & Theater information. Please
12:15pm Tour Your Church
consult your weekly bulletins or check on line at www.firstpres-fw.org for a
5:00pm Youth Group
more detailed list of calendar events and committee meetings.
NOVEMBER
N
O
V
/
D
E
C
2
0
1
3
FPC Children & Youth
Family @ First
Thank you for your sock
donations for our Sock
Hop on Sept. 25! There
will be warmer feet on our
streets thanks to you!
Oct. 23rd we teamed up
with the Day School to
enjoy a fall meal followed
by pumpkin carving!
Many creative jack-olanterns were a ‘glowin!
November 13 is our last
Family @ First for 2013.
We will be making gifts
that will be included in the
deacon’s Christmas bags
for our shut-ins. All
members encouraged to
attend. Please RSVP by
Nov. 11th if you will be
joining us for dinner.
Fall Youth Retreat
Thirteen of our Youth spent a weekend at Stillwater Retreat Center earlier
this month. The weekend was an opportunity to get to know one another
better, to share our visions for the year, and to spend time in the Word. We
celebrated our individual gifts on Friday night, capped off by releasing our
inner light to the world via Chinese lanterns. Saturday we explored the
power of what can happen when we come together. A two hour ropes
course highlighted the struggles and victories of teamwork. We enjoyed
personal devotion time, as well as group lessons. We left feeling more
complete, and united. We have some amazing kids at this church. If they
are the future of First Presbyterian Church of Fort Wayne, we have nothing
to worry about.
Bible Sunday
Our four year olds and third
graders were excited to receive
their new bibles! Pictured:
Hanna Munoz, Autumn Byer,
Connar Uhrick Not Pictured:
Ian Kim, Maya LaPierre,
Grace Noble
Book Club!
Parents of Children and Youth, and Youth...like to
read? We will meet at the Shaw’s on Nov. 17th
immediately after church to discuss:
The Fault in Our Stars by John Green
Lunch provided. See Jennifer for more details.
Are you on facebook?
‘Friend’ Jennifer Shaw and
she will add you to our
Children and Youth page.
A very active page that
will help keep you in
the loop!
IGNITE!
Due to low interest,
our young adults
bible study has
been suspended at
this time.
November / December Events
November 3 Youth Group Youth 4 - 8:30
Dinner at Pizza Hut and mission at
Forgotten Children International
November 5 Parents Night Out!
Parents
5:45 - 8:15
Dinner @ Henry’s
Childcare provided @ church
Youth Lounge
November 10 Youth Group Youth 5-7
November 13 Family @ First
ALL 5:30 - 7:30
Making gifts for shut-ins
November 17 Bake Sale
ALL (morning) Bake! Buy!
Support Children’s Ministries!
Readers
1 - 2:30
Shaw’s house
November 17 Youth Group Youth 5-7
Youth Lounge
November 24 Youth Group Youth 3:30-7:30
Lasertag and Dinner
December 8 Youth Group Youth 5-7
Youth Lounge
December 14 Program Rehearsal
Children&Youth 4:00-6
ALL who plan to be in program
MUST attend rehearsal.
November 17 Book Club
December 15 Christmas Program/Light Breakfast 9:30 am
NO 9:45 Sunday Schools
December 17 Youth Mission
Youth 4-8
Bell Ringing for Salvation Army
December 22 Youth Group Youth 6-9
Christmas Party - Shaw’s
December 24 Christmas Eve
ALL 4:00
Family Service
EMPTY BOWLS
Fundraiser for Homeless Families
Join us for a meal and help homeless families in our community.
First Presbyterian Church
Sunday, November 3
12:15pm
$8/person
(Children 5 & Under Free)
Handmade bowls sold separately
Interfaith Hospitality Network/Just Neighbors
Sheltering families in crisis.
www.ihnfamily.org
260-458-9772
Proceeds benefit the Interfaith Hospitality Network. IHN’s mission is to serve homeless families by providing
emergency shelter, meals and comprehensive, compassionate and ongoing support.
Looking for helpful
information about the
Patient
Protection
and
Affordable
Care Act
aka “Obamacare”?
Join us to hear from an expert panel of presenters:

Mary Haupert, President/CEO Neighborhood Heatth Clinics

Professor Abraham Schwab, Medical Ethicist

Dr. Phil Wright, Emergency Physician

Dr. Tom Hayhurst, Public Health Physician
Thursday, November 14, 7:00pm
at First Presbyterian Church
300 West Wayne Street, Fort Wayne, IN 46802
260-426-7421
firstpres-fw.org
ACA: Just the Facts
Are you confused about the Patient Protection and Affordable
Care Act (PPACA) commonly called Obamacare or the Affordable
Care Act (ACA)? Tired of opinions and political analysis? Heard
enough?
Have you already made up your mind about it? Do you still
have questions? Will this affect me? What are these new minimum
standards? Do I need them? Tax credits you say? If you answered yes
to any of these questions we have answers coming soon.
The ACA was signed into law in March of 2010 as a significant
regulatory overhaul of the healthcare system to increase coverage
and reduce the number of uninsured citizens. Having survived a
Supreme Court challenge of its constitutionality last year, and a
government shut down this year, it is the law today. Since October
1, 2013, eligible individuals have been able to enroll during the open
enrollment period in Indiana via a Federally Facilitated Exchange.
To learn more, join us on Thursday, November 14 at 7:00pm
in McKay Hall for a fact-based discussion of the ACA.
This panel discussion, with Q&A time, will feature specialists
in this area:
Mary Haupert, President/CEO Neighborhood Heatth Clinics;
Professor Abraham Schwab, Medical Ethicist;
Dr. Phil Wright, Emergency Physician; and
Dr. Tom Hayhurst, Public Health Physician.
Please join us for this helpful, fact filled panel discussion.