here - First Presbyterian Church
Transcription
here - First Presbyterian Church
Epistle to the Bonitians THE NEWSLETTER OF FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF BONITA SPRINGS | NOvEMBER-DECEMBER 2015 And he will startle many nations. Kings will stand speechless in his presence. For they will see what they had not been told; they will understand what they had not heard about. Isaiah 52:15 (NLT) OU R MI SSION To welcome and nurture our community, help people grow as disciples of Christ, and present a positive witness in today’s world. First Presbyterian Church of Bonita Springs A BIBLICALLY-CENTERED CHURCH IN THE PRESBYTERIAN FELLOWSHIP 9751 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs, FL 34135 | 239 992 3233 | 239 992 7547 fax | fpcbonita.org Doug’s Desk Dear Members and Friends of First Church, A s another fall and winter season in Southwest Florida has begun, we are seeing once again a large wave of seasonal friends wash back on our sunny shores. e programs at our church are picking up to full speed again aer a slower pace in the summer months. I trust that, wherever you spent your summer, it was a blessed and rewarding time. We have another outstanding lineup available for you over the next six months: some terrific concerts and speakers, interesting programs and opportunities to learn God’s Word better and get to know other Christians; and of course, the centerpiece of all we do as a church—our weekly gathering to worship God together and grow closer to Him. e next few months also bring at least three major new challenges for the church, and I want to highlight each of them for you briefly. Saturday Night Worship: Every Saturday evening through May we will gather to worship from 5:30 to 6:30 PM. Services will be in CenterPoint (unless we outgrow that room and have to move to the Sanctuary!). e same message by the same preacher will be provided, but the music and atmosphere will be different than Sunday mornings. We invite you to come on a Saturday night and try it some time. Seminary Student Mentorship: Four graduate students at Gordon-Conwell Seminary in Boston, who are preparing for pastoral ministry and receiving scholarships from our church, will be with us in January. ey will be “embedded” in the life of the congregation, attending activities and learning how a large church operates behind-the-scenes. You will see them and meet them, and may have the opportunity to get to know one or more of them and encourage them. ey are bright and gied and very eager to learn how to be effective in their future ministries. Search process for a new Associate Pastor: Since Paul Fahnestock’s retirement (and the beginning of his service with Wycliffe Associates in Bible translation), we have a pastoral vacancy on our staff. e process of finding and “calling” a new pastor is a slow and careful one in the Presbyterian tradition. A committee of church members was elected in October and is beginning their work. We are hoping and praying to have a new associate pastor selected 2 Epistle to the Bonitians | NOvEMBER-DECEMBER 2015 Rev. Dr. Doug Pratt and able to begin with us no later than next summer. In the meantime, Pastors Steven and June and I, along with our outstanding staff, will appreciate your prayers that we will be able to cover all the spiritual and pastoral and leadership needs of this great congregation. For our spiritual growth and enrichment, the Christian Education Ministry of our church has decided to give special attention during the upcoming year 2016 to learning and applying some of the great verses and texts of God’s Word. In order to help us focus on that, we will be selecting a “verse of the month” for each month of the year. If you have a Scripture verse that is especially meaningful or important to you, please share that with me or with Elder Carl Johansen. May God continue to be with you and grant you His presence and grace and peace. Yours in Christ, Pastor Doug Pratt e Greatest Gi e greatest mystery of all time is one we share with all humanity, even those who have not yet accepted it. We share it with not only those we know and love today but all the saints who have gone before us. It is a gi of grace we cannot comprehend—God’s plan of redemption made incarnate in the Baby of Bethlehem. ose who first followed Jesus may not have known of the Nativity or the Holy Family’s perilous journey to Bethlehem. It is difficult to imagine the world they lived in, but they recognized Jesus as Lord. Aer His death, they had to hide their faith from that world in order to survive. ey used secret symbols to communicate with other believers. ey had a fellowship and family beyond the mortal one and risked their lives to honor it — worshiping and praying in secret… for centuries. Today, here and now, we at First Church share in that holy fellowship of believers. We have been blessed to be able to share our faith openly. is Christmas season, we each stand alongside members of our First Church family sharing the greatest gi of all—mankind’s salvation through Jesus. First Church pastors, staff and leadership send out Christmas wishes to all our readers, members and friends for a holy life bathed in the light and hope of the Messiah, the Baby King, our Savior. Gis, Memories and Traditions of Christmas God has given us so many gis, including the unique details of our daily lives—family and friends, childhood memories, the kindness of others, life lessons learned. Even times of trouble and turmoil hold hidden treasures, once realized. Gis come in many shapes and sizes, with different purposes and meanings. ere are spiritual gis, material gis and gis that are a mingling of the two. ere are gis that are talents, skills and aptitudes. ere are gis that are donations, endowments and bequests. e epistle asked church members to reflect on Christmases past and share a moment from their lives. Below and within the pages of this issue, are responses to which we can all relate. Special gis, memories and family traditions like these are part of all our lives—fibers of the tapestry that makes us who we are. e most special gi I ever received was a coin with folded hands on the front and the serenity prayer inscribed on the back. It was given to me by a very close friend and I wear it around my neck every day. – ChRiStiaN Faux It was a very tiny box and I was 12… (Read “A Pearl by Any Other Name” on page 5.) – aNoNyMouS e most special Christmas gi I have ever received was my very first violin. I was still in elementary school at the time my parents gave it to me. is violin was a student instrument made by Wilhelm Eberle. It was my constant companion for many years and marked the first significant advancement toward my lifelong love affair with music. – PaStoR SteveN GRaNt Christmas was my mother’s favorite holiday. Being a single parent, this was the time of year when her family—parents, cousins, aunts and uncles—became very close and united, giving her support and encouragement. e holidays culminated when everyone gathered at my grandparents’ home to feast, celebrate the birth of Jesus and listen to my mother sing “O Holy Night.” God gied her with a beautiful voice. – JaNet GReeNe e most special gi I have ever received was my transformation at the Great Banquet in 2009 that led to my spiritual walk with Jesus Christ and the receiving of the Holy Spirit. I feel the call to respond to the poor, the needy and the imprisoned with compassion, because “the harvest is plentiful and the workers are few.” – JohN haSheK I remember a time that began with great turmoil… (Read “ree Amazing Gis” on page 23.) – DoNNa teNFelDe One of my favorite Christmas traditions as a child was selecting and purchasing our annual ornament for the Christmas tree. As a family we would find the ornament we felt best captured the most memorable event of the year— a new pet, a family vacation or a special milestone. Over the years, putting up and decorating the Christmas tree became such a joyous time to reflect on God’s many blessings as we shared in the memories of each special ornament. Now I continue the tradition in my own home with my family. Last year’s ornament was “Baby’s First Christmas” in honor of our son Henry’s first Christmas. – aMaNDa ZaeNGle continued on page 5 NOvEMBER-DECEMBER 2015 | Epistle to the Bonitians 3 @ FPC Sundays Wednesdays First Church offers two services during November and December: 8 AM (FirstLight) and 10 AM. At 8 AM, First Light is our “early bird” service. Held in the Sanctuary, it includes all the basic worship elements of music, message and Scripture— having the same preacher and message as the 10 AM service—but neatly packaged into a 40-minute time frame. A full service with choir is offered at 10 AM in the Sanctuary and, by video feed, in CenterPoint. While sharing in the concurrent service experience in the Sanctuary through the wonders of technology, this alternate location offers a less formal setting with various seating options. Our ongoing D.I.G. (Discover, Investigate, Grow) Bible study is held from 8:45 to 9:45 AM in the Great Room. During the 10 AM service, ageappropriate Sunday school classes are held for children age 6 months through 5th grade. “First Stop”—our fellowship time— takes place in McClure Hall following the 10 AM service. Join us for coffee and refreshments, visit with friends, and take advantage of the informational kiosks for various church ministries. Congregational Meeting Sunday, December 6 • 11 AM • Sanctuary Our year-end congregational meeting will be held following worship. Items of business will include the election of new Elders and Deacons (who will serve 3-year terms beginning in January) and the approval of any changes in the “terms of call” of the pastors. 4 Epistle to the Bonitians | A Time of Prayer & Communion Sundays • 11 AM • Price Hall Chapel Every Sunday following the 10 AM service, First Church offers a Time of Prayer & Communion (except on Sundays when the sacrament is shared during worship). ose who desire are invited to come to Price Chapel, where one of our ministers will be present to offer the sacrament of Holy Communion. Prayer teams will be available for intercessory prayer and anointing with oil as a symbol of the Holy Spirit, promised by Jesus in John 14:26. In your hour of need, accept God’s invitation… and come pray with us. Saturdays CenterPoint Praise 5:30 PM • CenterPoint First Church now offers an evening contemporary service set in the casual atmosphere of CenterPoint. e preaching pastor and message are the same as the following Sunday morning. Praise music is led each week by Brent Taylor. Children and youth are encouraged to attend. Childcare is available for children ages 6 months to 3 years. Special Guest on November 7 Dan Kramer, MAST Leader for Wycliffe Associates Special Guests on November 21 Eddie Kauoltz, Director of Church Mobilization for IJM and Tim & Annette Gulick, OC International. NOvEMBER-DECEMBER 2015 Family Night Programs Through Nov. 18 • 6-7:30 PM Family Ministries Center See page 20 for more information. Fridays Kids Night Out Nov. 13 & Dec. 4 • 5-8 PM Family Ministries Center See page 20 for more information. FAM Christmas Recital Sunday, December 6 • 3 PM • McClure Hall First Academy of Music invites church members to join FAM parents and friends in celebrating both the Christmas season and student progress. is annual end-of-semester recital will be held “bistro-style” in McClure Hall. e audience will be seated at tables where they can nibble on holiday goodies to the accompaniment of student musicians. Epistle to the Bonitians NOvEMBER-DECEMBER 2015 Editor: RJ Flower-Opdycke Copy Editor: Donabeth Urick Design: gilurickdesign Contributing Writers: Trusha Barner Cheryl Bauer Nancy Bolognese Shirley DiLorenzo Connie Duquin Leslie Durling Rev. Dr. Paul Fahnestock Christian Faux Jeff Faux Scott Flaig Ellis Gery Rev. Steven Grant Janet Greene Lauren Hargis John Hashek Lynn & Jill Heinold Maria Karl Jackie Maxwell Rev. John McWilliams Dave Nichols Rev. Dr. Doug Pratt Norma Reynolds Nelson Robbins Lowell & Sally Senitz Dave & Lynne Stauffer Rachel Steffens Donna Tenfelde Donabeth Urick Amanda Zaengle Contributing Photographers: Nancy Bolognese Dave Stauffer e Greatest Gi continued e most special gis I have ever received are my salvation from Jesus, my wife and my family and ministry for e Lord. – PaStoR JohN MCWilliaMS For me, it was one of the greatest blessings… (Read “Opening the Door” on page 30.) – elliS GeRy When I was 10 years old (the youngest of six) my father was laid off from his job and we had no money for Christmas. My mom reached out to a friend who then reached out to St. Leo’s Catholic Church where church members gathered gis for my family. Although they were not expensive Barbie dolls or toy trucks, they were still very special gis. is is a Christmas I will remember forever— when local Christians cared enough to bring us gis so we could have a nice Christmas. at is the true meaning of CHRISTmas! – NaNCy BoloGNeSe For all of us, it was just the traditional Christmas routine… (Read “Christmas with Elisabeth” on page 14.) – MaRia KaRl I had wanted to sponsor a Compassion child for several years, but my resources were limited and I didn’t think I could afford the ongoing monthly donation. But, on one Compassion Sunday here at First Church, I perused the child packets and one photo caught my attention. It was a mother holding her little girl, age 3. Little Deborah had a pouty face that made me smile. Right then I knew I had to let God’s light shine on that little girl and her family. I have sponsored Deborah in Peru for three Christmases and I know this is the finest gi I have been blessed to give. I stepped out in faith, trusting God to make it possible. In my latest photo of Deborah, she still has that beautiful pouty face. But I know God is working in her life just as He is working in mine. Praise God for all gis given and received! – aNoNyMouS Twenty-four gis for 24 great nieces and nephews… (Read “A Compassion Christmas Tradition” on page 9.) – lyNN & Jill heiNolD A Pearl by Any Other Name anonymous It sat under the tree—a very tiny box with my name on it in my mother’s handwriting. I was 12 and it was Christmas morning. My brother, six years my junior, had so many gis and toys he was already opening and playing with… even a battery-operated helicopter! I held my box for a long time, fighting back the tears as I watched my brother playing, laughing and having fun. Finally I reluctantly opened the tiny white box that wasn’t even wrapped. It was a pair of tiny pearl stud earrings with gold posts in a velvet gi box. I was not surprised. My brother got all that stuff and I got a little pair of earrings, not even the cool, dangly kind. It wasn’t until all these years later that I now truly appreciate the beauty of that tiny little gi. My mom didn’t say a word but she told me a lot with that gi. First, that I didn’t need “all that stuff ” and “all those toys” like my little brother. Second, that I deserved things of quality and beauty. ird, that a gi from the heart—like a pair of classic earrings to help her daughter feel pretty—was a true treasure, no matter the size of the box. And fourth, that such a beautiful gi simply given (with no pomp or circumstance or expectation of gratitude) actually reflects the heart and character of the giver. By the way, I discovered that my name is of Greek origin and means “pearl.” NOvEMBER-DECEMBER 2015 | Epistle to the Bonitians 5 Pastoral Intern Christian Faux Christian Faux, son of our Director of Sacred Arts Jeff and his wife Joan, is considering a career in pastoral ministry. First Church has developed an innovative one-year Pastoral Internship for Christian, supervised by Pastors Doug Pratt and Steven Grant. From now through next August he will be participating in many areas in the life of our church and learning ministry first-hand. To help our congregation get better acquainted with Christian, the epistle asked him a few questions and found out more about the young man behind the internship. Q. How did you become a committed follower of Christ? I grew up in the church, so being a follower of Christ has, to some degree, always been a part of my life. Several moments acted as sort of “awakenings” but one in particular stands out. At a church camp when I was in high school, the sermon for the night was on what it means to be a disciple and to live your life for Christ. ere was an altar call and at that moment, with the words of the pastor still on my mind, I rededicated my life to Christ. Q. Tell us about your college experience. I attended Southeastern University, an Assemblies of God university in Lakeland, FL. While I was there I studied English as my major. College was the first time in my life I felt really connected to what I was learning and doing. I had a great time digging into the texts we were reading and getting to know the history behind the authors. College was also the first time I began to feel socially competent as well, seeking out new friends and developing strong relationships with those who kind of fell into my life. Because the school leaned toward the charismatic, there was an emphasis on the emotional aspect of religion; it was all very emotional, which never clicked for me. I approach my faith very rationally and logically, not ignoring emotion but realizing that, as the Bible says, the heart is deceitful. is is why I’m so grateful for this opportunity to learn in an environment that fosters learning elements of faith, emotion and intelligence. Q. What are the main areas you will be working in during your internship at First Church? e three areas I am predominantly working in are: the Youth Ministry, getting to know the students and helping teach them about God; the Media Ministry, offering tech support for Wednesday in the Word, Preschool Chapel, the Men’s Breakfast and CenterPoint Praise; and pastoral lead6 Epistle to the Bonitians | NOvEMBER-DECEMBER 2015 FROM A FATHER’S POINT OF vIEW What makes Christian a good candidate for pastoral ministry? JEFF FAUX: Christian is a thinker. He processes everything that goes on around him in a very intellectual way. He is constantly asking questions and is very willing and able to see things from several points of view. is could be because he attended an Assemblies of God school, a Catholic high school and has attended Lutheran, United Methodist and Presbyterian churches over the course of his life. rough these many different ways of approaching theology that he has experienced, Christian has been able to focus on and clearly understand the common story of redemption and salvation in Christ. ership, which is largely mentorship and focused on reading. Working through theological and spiritual texts is familiarizing me with church doctrine and theology. In addition to that, my experiences with the pastors and staff will show me the practical sides of how a church is run and help me understand the foundations of its inner workings. Q. What are some things you are hoping to learn from your time here? Largely what I am hoping to learn comes from truly experiencing what it takes to run a flagship church and provide meaningful, relevant programming on a weekly basis. I also want to dig deep into theology, something that’s always fascinated me but seemed impenetrable before. It’s difficult to delve into over 2,000 years of theology without a solid starting point, but the past two months have been a great start. Q. How would you like church members to be praying for you? I feel I need prayer in developing discipline in all its forms and that God continues to lead me in discerning my call. I also feel that prayers of thanksgiving are definitely warranted—not only for the path that has led me here but also because of the fact I am able to both learn and contribute to such an outstanding church. More about Christian Mentoring in Everything Presbyterian As part of Christian Faux’ internship year, Pastor Steven Grant is mentoring him on all things Presbyterian. ey are studying Presbyterian history, starting with John Calvin, John Knox and the early days of Presbyterianism in America, and then will follow the story from then to the present time. “We will look at its development as an elder-led community of faith,” said Pastor Steven. “We will study the essential tenets of the Reformed faith as well as any other theological questions that present themselves. As far as practical ministry is concerned, I will be inviting Christian to join me for some pastoral visits. It is a pleasure to work with such a delightful, intelligent and faithful brother who will be a great asset to God’s church through his future pastoral ministry. I pray that the time we spend working together will be meaningful for Christian, but for myself, I appreciate the opportunity to revisit our church’s story, what we believe and how we live out our faith as a church.” Christian was born in Burlington, NJ (outside Philadelphia) where he spent his first seven years. en the Faux family moved to Fort Myers in 2000, where Jeff (FPC Director of Sacred Arts) began as Director of Music at First United Methodist Church in downtown Fort Myers. Christian attended Bishop verot Catholic High School and worked as a clerk at a local law firm. He graduated from Southeastern University in Lakeland with a Bachelor’s in English. He minored in religion and took some basic theology courses. Christian always had a deep fascination with theology. In fact while a freshman in high school, he recorded and posted apologetics videos on youtube. “ankfully these have been lost to time,” Christian said, “but one of my viewers, a girl about my age, commented that I would make a good pastor. at simple statement got the wheels turning and, ever since then, I’ve been on this path.” Christian began his pastoral internship at FPC in August not only to learn more about serving in ministry but also to help him discern what area of ministry best suits him. He feels blessed to be here. “I am impressed with how much effort is put into developing a philosophy for everything that is undertaken here at FPC,” he said. “When a new project is started, every aspect is carefully considered and kept in line with our vision and purpose to prevent getting sidetracked.” Christian loves reading. (at is a good thing, with Pastors Doug and Steven as his mentors!) He is an exceptional writer and enjoys dabbling in painting. With a penchant for games, Christian built his own gaming PC earlier this summer. His favorite book is ender’s Game by Orson Scott Card. When Christian was asked his favorite Scripture passage, he said, “is is going to sound stupid, but hear me out. It’s John 11:35, ‘Jesus wept.’ e verse highlights for me exactly how human Jesus was—that He could be so overcome by emotion that He broke down and wept at His imminent execution. I think we tend to see Jesus as this stoic wise teacher, and not as the very human being that He was. It helps show that we shouldn’t be afraid of our humanity but at the same time, like Jesus, we shouldn’t let it rule us.” NOvEMBER-DECEMBER 2015 | Epistle to the Bonitians 7 Bittersweet Farewell to the Fahnestocks Rev. Paul Fahnestock retired as Associate Pastor of First Church this past August. In his pastor’s letter published in the May-June issue of the epistle, he wrote, “I have just completed ten years of fruitful and joyful ministry at FPC (2005-2014). Linda and I believe that God is now calling us to transition into one more ministry that might take us to the finish line. We are answering a call to full-time ministry with Wycliffe Associates and this new [MAST] Bible translation project.” Paul and Linda were introduced to MAST (Mobilized Assistance Supporting Translation) last February during a Wycliffe project in Cameroon, West Africa. ey participated in and witnessed the Gospel of Mark being translated into five native languages in the course of only two weeks using Dan Kramer’s amazing new methodology. Upon their return to Bonita Springs, their excitement was obvious… and understandable. MAST proved to greatly reduce the time it takes to translate Scripture. e former paradigm would have taken an average of 27 weeks (working 5 days per week) to complete the 678 verses of Mark. e Cameroon experience convinced Paul and Linda to become part of the church’s challenge to bring God’s Word to the 4,101 living languages that have never had in written form. Aer much prayer and discernment, they made the decision to refocus their lives and answer the call to return to the mission field. Now MAST Global Coordinators for Wycliffe Associates, the Fahnestocks have just returned from several projects training language groups in India and Africa. (Join them for their special presentation, “e Fahnestock Report,” aer worship on November 8.) When Paul and Linda came to Bonita Springs in 2005, both were veteran missionaries who spent a total of 10 years serving in Uzbekistan and Northeast Brazil. e next decade of their lives was spent with us in ministry here at First Church. Paul’s pastoral role developed and changed over time, eventually settling in the field of missions. In 2013, Linda joined the staff of Wycliffe as coordinator of an English Language Learners (ELL) program. Her assignment was to help potential Brazilian Bible translators learn English, enabling them to join international translation teams. rough their dedication and passion for missions, Paul and Linda taught us how we can literally transform our 8 Epistle to the Bonitians | NOvEMBER-DECEMBER 2015 community and the world we live in with the conviction of Christ in our hearts. eir presence here cultivated a deepening of our commitment to the broader mission of Christ in the world. Paul’s legacy at First Church includes the structural and spiritual development of our Mission Ministry, recruiting and training many from our church to share in its leadership. Deeply devoted to sharing love in the name of Christ, he spearheaded the establishment of the local Love INC Clearinghouse in our community. His decade of counsel, preaching and teaching as Associate Pastor deeply changed us for the better. An advocate for the least of God’s children, the poor, neglected and lost of this world, Paul challenged us to oppose persecution and ignorance. He never gave up. His sense of humor was never diminished; neither was his excitement about life. A prayer warrior in the deepest sense, Paul’s faith was the driving influence behind many Kingdom projects and partnerships during these past 10 years. We have been greatly blessed to call him our pastor and friend. Bible Translation: Dawning of a New Era In the last 500 years, the Bible translation ministries of the church have been able to translate the Old and New Testaments into 513 languages, the New Testament into an additional 1,294 languages, and portions of Scripture into another 1,110 languages. Most of this work has been completed in the last 200 years. e challenge to the church is that there are 4,101 living languages which have no Scripture at all. e exciting news is that with Dan Kramer’s innovative MAST methodology along with the appropriate use of current technology, the goal of adequate biblical content in every language and for every people group could be reached within 10 years. It is a stunning paradigm shi in providing Scripture and discipleship material for “every tribe and language and people and nation” (Revelation 5:9). Dan serves as MAST Leader for Wycliffe Associates and will be with us on November 7 and 8 during worship services. Asssociate Pastor Nominating Committee Search Begins for a New Associate Pastor In the wake of Pastor Paul Fahnestock’s recent retirement from FPC, Pastor Doug Pratt and the church Elders have been discussing the appropriateness of filling the associate pastor position he vacated. e consensus is to proceed with searching for a new associate pastor to complete our pastoral staff. At the October 18 congregational meeting, a Pastor Nominating Committee (PNC) was elected: Dave Nichols (Chairman), Kay Brown, Jacque Dousson, Roger McLaughlin, Stephen Myers, Paul Spinka, Jerry Weisenauer, Geri Wolfe and Sarah Zimmermann, with (alternate) Kathy McMichael. ey will be working closely with Peace River Presbytery, Pastor Pratt, the church elders and congregation as they embark on the formal search for a new associate pastor to serve our church. e Presbytery has already dissolved the pastoral relationship with Pastor Paul and authorized our church to move forward with the selection process. A representative from Peace River Presbytery will be assigned to work with our PNC. Only ordained PCUSA pastors may be considered for this position. e PNC’s first responsibility is to work with Session to agree on the recommended Terms of Call (salary, compensation, benefits) for the prospective associate pastor. ey will then begin preparing a Ministry Information Form (MIF), which is a collection of information about the demographics of our church and community, our Mission Statement, and the most important qualities desired in an incoming pastor. e PNC, working with Session and Pas- tor Pratt, will ultimately determine the duties of the incoming pastor, which may not necessarily match Pastor Paul’s duties. Preparing and submitting the MIF may take upwards of four months. Once completed, the MIF is submitted to the denomination which alerts all pastors of our interest in filling this position. Pastors may then submit their resumes to us. e entire committee will review each form submitted to determine if the candidate meets the established criteria. Over a period of one to two months, the top 10 candidates will be identified and briefly interviewed over the phone. en the top one or two candidates will personally meet with the PNC, who will also find an opportunity to hear them preach. When the final candidate is identified and an offer is made, his/her name is submitted to the Committee on Ministry at Peace River Presbytery for final review and approval. Ideally, we could have our new pastor in place during the 2016 summer months. Your PNC is honored and humbled to accept the call to serve on what is one of the most important committees in our church, and will prayerfully embark on this search. ere will be a time in the process when members of the congregation will be called upon to suggest any candidates worthy of consideration. ough the PNC will be bound by the highest level of confidentiality, we will provide the congregation with frequent updates as to where we are in the process. associate Pastor Nominating Committee A Compassion Christmas Tradition by lynn & Jill heinold We are now in our 70s, and have been blessed not only with two grandchildren of our own but also a total of 24 great-nieces and great-nephews. We try to remember each one of them on special occasions, in order to remind each child that they are an integral part of our family. Since the birth of our Lord is such an important part of the Christian year, we have chosen to celebrate His coming by making a donation in the name of our grandchildren and all our great-nieces and great-nephews to Compassion International. Compassion provides us with a nice colorful receipt for each gi showing what need we contributed to in their name (safe water wells, education fees, medical needs, garden seeds, livestock, child survival program, disaster relief, Bibles for children, etc.). ere is even a place to include a personal note to each one. at way, each child knows they’ve been thought of and remembered with love. ey also know their gi will further God’s kingdom around the world through His outreach of love to an actual child in need… for if we do something for the least of these, it is as though we have done it for Christ Himself (Matthew 25:35-40). Going out and buying 24 separate gis is more difficult as we get older. But with Compassion International providing this opportunity for giving, we can do most of it online. en we address an envelope to each child and off the loving message goes. NOvEMBER-DECEMBER 2015 | Epistle to the Bonitians 9 e Greatest Story Ever Told At First Church, we honor God’s story of redemption each and every Saturday and Sunday in worship. We carry the Messiah’s agape love into our daily lives—our family, our work, our recreation, our giving. Our focus and lessons learned change from week to week, but we understand that God’s far-reaching plan is part of our purpose and seek to worship Him in prayer and praise. During November, we are emphasizing and celebrating First Missions—organizations and individuals supported by our church and devoted to proclaiming the Good News of Jesus to all corners of the earth. We urge you to learn more about our core of over 40 missions and to pray for them on a regular basis. How blessed we are in this time and place to be able to worship freely and share our faith. But our missionaries in the field are most oen not welcome and their surroundings unfamiliar and inhospitable. ey go because God has called them. Many have chosen to move their families to places and among people who do not know Jesus. But these devoted Christians choose to predominantly see not the fear and confusion of the surrounding darkness but the light Christ is waiting to shine on the least, the last and the lost. Let us recognize their sacrifice and pray for them oen. We begin the season of Advent on Sunday, November 29 as we prepare our hearts to truly celebrate Christ in us. Even though our culture idolizes the material and commercialized aspects of the “holiday” season, as Christians we strive to realize the true depth of God’s mystery of salvation. e Messiah was foretold by the prophets centuries before. Although born humbly and visited by simple shepherds, His birth was also announced by angels and celestial events; and He was honored as king by wise men from the East. For 30 years, the Messiah lived quietly among us. en He dedicated the final three years of His life proclaiming the amazing message of salvation, before becoming our living Sacrifice on Calvary. rough His death and resurrection, we have gained access to eternal life. Our Christmastime services reflect His story, “e Greatest Story Ever Told,” and encourage us to proclaim it as OUR STORY. Worship Highlights November 1 All Saints Sunday Communion Service Worship will include the Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper and a special tribute to those from our congregation who have gone to be with the Lord since last All Saints Day. Immediately following the 10 AM service, those with a loved one interred in our Resurrection Garden are invited to gather there for a brief Service of Remembrance and Reconsecration. November 8 Wycliffe Bible Translation Our 10 AM service on Sunday morning will highlight the Bible translation work of Wycliffe Associates. Dan Kramer, MAST developer for Wycliffe, will be with us to talk about the challenge to bring the Bible to “every tribe and language and people and nation” (Rev. 5:9). Our Drama Ministry will present “Scattered Ashes,” a one-act play about John Wycliffe, set in 1425. New Mission banners created by the FPC Banner Committee will be on display in the Sanctuary. Following worship, Pastor Paul and Linda Fahnestock will share a special presentation on their recent adventures in India and Africa leading MAST workshops. Aerward, guests may express fond farewells as Paul and Linda return to their new home in Texas and continue their mission work with Wycliffe. November 15 “Seeking Allah, Finding Jesus” book discussion Worship at 10 AM will feature music from the Contemporary Ensemble and Chancel Choir. e service will be abbreviated due to the Bikers for Babies motorcycle fundraiser reaching Bonita Beach Road around 11:15 AM. For those wishing to stay at First Church during this time, Pastor Doug Pratt will hold a discussion on the book Seeking allah, Finding Jesus by Nabeel Qureshi, our Bonita Christian Forum speaker on January 5, 2016. November 22 Mission Sunday Our 10 AM service celebrates First Missions with special guests Eddie Kauoltz, IJM Director of Church Mobilization, and Tim & Annette Gulick, missionaries with OC International. Immediately following worship, all are invited to our annual Missions Fair in McClure Hall. Many of our local and international mission partners will be featured. (For more on First Missions, see pages 16 & 17.) 10 Epistle to the Bonitians | NOvEMBER-DECEMBER 2015 Community Servants Recognition November 29 First Sunday of Advent As Advent begins, we ponder the Messianic prophecies in our hearts. We light the Candle of Presence, and look toward Bethlehem. e Motet Choir will sing (10 AM). December 6 The Greatest Story Ever Told (10 AM) rough special music and Scripture readings, we focus on the sacred Christmas story that Christians are called to shout from the mountain tops. e Chancel Choir and Brass Ensemble present inspiring anthems and beloved carols, reminding us that Christmas marks the beginning of our story of redemption and grace. On the Second Sunday of Advent we light the Candle of Peace. December 13 Third Sunday of Advent Before worship, the New Horizons Band will greet worshipers with Christmas carols. We light the Candle of Adoration and Joy. Our Drama Ministry will present “e Writing of i heard the Bells on Christmas Day,” a one-act play set on Christmas Eve 1863, featuring the carol’s author, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. Music will feature the Angelus Bells. December 20 Fourth Sunday of Advent (Christmas Sunday) As we light the Candle of Praise, we meditate on the divine mystery of the Son becoming flesh, born into this world as both fully God and fully human. Music will feature the Men’s Choir. December 27 We enjoy the peace of Christmas, contemplating the final days of 2015 and looking forward to new beginnings and greater challenges. Pastor June Barrow will preach on “e Size of the Gi.” First Responders at Bonita Springs Fire Department Station #1 on Old 41 Road were happy to pose with their “thank you” card and box of treats! On September 20, we celebrated our 11th annual Community Servants Recognition Sunday. e service was well attended by firefighters and EMTs in uniform from the Bonita Springs Fire District and Sheriff ’s Deputies from Bonita’s Delta Division. Aer worship, the uniformed firefighters and officers formed a reception line in McClure Hall. Hundreds of our congregants took time to personally thank them for their service to the community. e FPC Deacons who organized this event want to say…“THANK YOU” to: all the Sunday school children for creating the terrific “thank you” cards; all the volunteers who helped collect, pack and deliver the cookies; and, of course, all those who prepared the wonderful baked goods. Over 300 packages of goodies and treats were donated and distributed among 10 local fire stations and sheriff ’s offices, along with one of the giant “thank you” cards created by our Neon Kids and signed by members of the church. What a joy it is for us to celebrate and thank our Community First Responders. Please keep them in your prayers. Special Services Wednesday, November 25 Thanksgiving Eve Service • 7 PM • Sanctuary Thursday, December 24 Christmas Eve Candlelight Services • 5 PM, 7:30 PM & 10 PM Sanctuary Spend Christmas Eve with your church family! Our 5 PM service is tailored for families with children. e later services feature music from the Chancel Choir. NOvEMBER-DECEMBER 2015 | Epistle to the Bonitians 11 Christian Education First Flix: Do You Believe? Friday, December 4 • 7-9 PM • CenterPoint We invite you to join us on Sunday mornings as our ongoing D.I.G. (Discover, Investigate, Grow) Bible study class helps us discover the teachings, opportunities and blessings God has in store for us. Sunday Mornings: D.I.G. Our Pastors’ Favorite Scripture Verses Through November 15 • 8:45-9:45 AM Great Room Our pastoral staff shares their favorite verses from Scripture as well as personal and spiritual insights they have found there. The Journey: Walking the Road to Bethlehem November 22 through December 20 • 8:45-9:45 AM Great Room It’s a story you know by heart, but e Journey combines historical information and archaeology with Adam Hamilton’s thoughtful, conversational teaching style to give you a new perspective on the story of Mary and Joseph’s journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem. e five-session DvD was filmed on location in the Holy Land. Each exciting and informative session contains 10-15 minute video vignettes of the author retracing the actual path Mary and Joseph followed. e five sessions include: Mary of Nazareth, Joseph of Bethlehem, Mary’s visit to Elizabeth, From Nazareth to Bethlehem, and e Manger. 12 Epistle to the Bonitians | NOvEMBER-DECEMBER 2015 Set in Detroit, this 2015 film is a multi-character study about 12 individuals whose lives ultimately intersect. e characters are a vibrant mix of believers and skeptics, some in anguish and pain, some who are being tested. Its main point? at the cross of Christ needs to be dealt with by every person sooner or later and that faith always leads to action. From the creators of the popular God’s Not Dead, this movie is an engaging presentation of just how Jesus changes people, sometimes radically. Ted McGinley plays the young pastor whose response to a crisis of faith impacts everyone it touches in unimaginable ways. Familiar faces include Lee Majors, Cybill Shepherd, Mira Sorvino, Brian Bosworth and Sean Astin. Rated PG-13. “e idea of how God’s providence works itself out… is made explicit… but that doesn’t render the underlying theological themes any less potent. In its own realm, Do you Believe? set a new standard for what a certain vein of Christian cinema can be.” (Christian Hamaker, “In Defense of Christian Cinema: A Review of Do you Believe?” March 19, 2015, crosswalk.com) Don’t Miss All at God Has Waiting New Book by Pastor John McWilliams Balancing Your Faith Improving Your Relationship with God According to Pastor John McWilliams, many of us may be running on only one-third the power and blessings God has for us. Why? “As Christians, we tend to ‘major’ in only one Person of the Trinity and ‘minor’ in the other Two,” said Pastor John. “We oen hear people speak about having a ‘personal relationship with Jesus,’ but we rarely, if ever, hear anyone talking about having a personal relationship with the Father and/or the Holy Spirit.” Membership Classes Saturday, November 7 • 9-11 AM Sunday, November 8 • 5:30-7:30 PM Saturday, January 16 • 9-11 AM Sunday, January 17 • 5:30-7:30 PM Classes are held in McClure Hall First Church extends an invitation to those interested in learning more about church membership. is class, led by Senior Pastor Doug Pratt, covers what it means to be a Christian, what it means to be Presbyterian, and what it means to be a member of First Church. You’ll hear a little of our history and get a snapshot of our various ministries. Connect with others new to our church; get to know our pastors and church leaders; discover opportunities for fellowship and service. various options for membership will be explained; there is no obligation to join at that time. Choose the session most convenient, then contact Membership Coordinator Rebecca Harley (239-229-8953) to reserve your space. If you have any questions about church membership or our membership classes, contact Rebecca Harley at 229-8953 or visit the Welcome kiosk in the Narthex on Sunday morning. Because of this, we could be missing so much of what God has waiting for us. Balancing your Faith takes an exciting look at how each of us can improve our relationship with God by becoming more spiritually balanced in our individual lives and in our congregations. Many down-toearth, practical examples of how we can seek more stability in our Christian walk and ministry are included. “I would recommend this book to Christians of all levels of maturity,” Pastor John said, “brand new believers and the seasoned faithful alike. e text also includes God’s plan for salvation, so it is also designed to help non-Christians as well as followers of Christ.” Pastor John has served in ordained ministry for over 38 years. Aer earning his Master of Divinity from Princeton Seminary, he spent the next 21 years serving two congregations in Windham, NH and on Long Island, NY. During that time, John and his wife Barbara raised their three children. In 1998 John and Barbara felt a call into Christian mission work full time. ey le the pastorate and went to work with Campus Crusade for Christ for nearly 15 years. John is now on staff with International Biblical Training in Chattanooga, TN. His main area of responsibility has been training pastors and Christian leaders in various countries as well as throughout the United States. He has traveled to teach, preach and minister numerous times in Russia and Costa Rica, as well as Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, the Bahamas and, most recently, Cuba. As a minister, Pastor John is a member of Peace River Presbytery, and Barbara has been a member of First Church for six years. Over the years, John has preached here and offered classes related to Christian spirituality and the mission field. His lifelong goal is to bring others closer to God and to use all his gis and talents to do so. John has written numerous articles, hymns and songs and has recorded various audio seminars on pertinent Christian topics. is book is available in the FPC BookCenter. all proceeds from the first 500 sold and 10% thereaer will be given to “operation heal our Patriots,” a ministry of Samaritan’s Purse that focuses on bringing spiritual hope, physical renewal and marriage enrichment to our wounded veterans and their spouses. Consider this book for Christmas gigiving to family and friends. NOvEMBER-DECEMBER 2015 | Epistle to the Bonitians 13 First Person e Power of Prayer by Shirley Dilorenzo I have a story to tell. It’s all about love, faith, and the power of prayer. If I ever doubted these things, I have found new reasons to believe them now. About five months ago, my son Nick mentioned that I had been coughing a lot and suggested I have it checked out. So I went to an urgent care facility for chest x-rays. ey sent me home with a prescription but called me later that day saying they needed to change that prescription to a more powerful one, as some abnormalities were noted on the x-rays. I was then scheduled for a CT scan and then a PET scan, both with the same results. By this time, my doctor was getting concerned. Aer more checking, he said that everything pointed to lung cancer. My other son, Bob, is a doctor in Raleigh, NC, and advised me to send all the information to his hospital for a second opinion. His colleagues studied all my test results and agreed it was indeed lung cancer. ey advised that we wait two months, and repeat the tests then. I went to Raleigh and stayed with Bob and his family. By this time, his church congregation had heard of my struggle and began praying for me. So, along with my Christian family here at First Church, I had even more prayers being said for me. at was very comforting. I had already accepted the thought that God decided my time on earth was coming to an end. Aer 89 years, I knew I wasn’t going to live forever and was ready to meet my Lord. I was at peace and calmly started making changes to my life goals. Aer the two months had passed, the doctors repeated the tests in Raleigh. Bob, his wife Sherri and I were asked to join the oncologist in his office to review the results. He showed us the first set of films, and then the second. We were happily surprised to see how much the nodules had shrunk! e doctor said this is not consistent with cancer cells, and therefore concluded that cancer was no longer a threat! Can you imagine the relief we felt? I realized right then and there that God had heard our prayers and answered them. I was sent in for a bronchoscopy to try to figure out what was causing the problem. ey took many cultures and discovered I had a bacterial lung infection for which I am now being treated. With the help of antibiotics and prayer, I will soon be well again. 14 Epistle to the Bonitians | NOvEMBER-DECEMBER 2015 I will never again doubt God’s hand in our lives and know for sure that all our prayers are heard. I now realize that God has given me this healing blessing so that I will encourage others to actively embrace and trust in the power of prayer. I feel so blessed with my church family and thank all of you for your loving prayers and support. As God’s Word states in 1 essalonians 16:18, “Be joyful always, pray continuously; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Jesus Christ.” Christmas with Elisabeth by Maria Karl e year was 1974. I took my “grandmother-in-law to be,” Elisabeth (in her 80’s), to my parents’ house for Christmas Eve, with my parents, grandparents, and siblings also present. We celebrated our “traditional” Christmas Eve aer already attending the church service. Festivities included the unveiling of the nativity presented for the first time that season, lighting the Christmas tree, reading the story of Christ’s birth from the Gospel of Luke, and singing Christmas carols… all verses! en each of us either said a short prayer, recited a Christmas poem or played a Christmas song with an instrument (recorder or piano). Aer all that, we exchanged Christmas presents, making sure that everyone received at least one present. To close the evening, mom served her homemade potato salad and wieners. For all of us it was just the traditional Christmas routine… but to our guest, Elisabeth, it was something very special. As midnight approached, we were on our way to take Elisabeth home. She turned to me with tears running down her cheeks and said, “is was the best Christmas ever in my life!” She was so impressed with us—men, women, children, old and young—all together in the room, participating, listening, singing and praying wholeheartedly, and getting along. Her words took me by surprise. I was almost speechless. en I told her, “But this happens only this once during the course of the entire year! e rest of the time we are all just ‘normal’—running around, fighting, teasing each other, yelling, laughing, singing.” Aer all, there were nine of us, three generations living under one roof! But Christmas Eve was an evening of peace and joy, laying aside all strife and disagreements. Instead we stuck together, enjoyed each other and celebrated the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ. 2015-16 2015-16 | Our 28th Season Fine Arts Series Concert Series is season’s Fine Arts line-up is our greatest yet. e quality of this year’s artists and music is the best you will find anywhere is Southwest Florida. At the same time, the cost per ticket is lower than you will pay elsewhere. Why drive further, fight traffic and pay more to hear world class music? We bring the best right to you! Ticket order forms are available at the church. Tickets may be purchased at the Ticket Office, Monday–ursday, 9 AM–3:30 PM, or at the door prior to each concert. For more information, call the Concert Line at 239-992-3410 ext. 250. Fine Arts Series 2015-16 Naples Philharmonic Chorus “A Choral Christmas” December 3, 2015 • 7:30PM Tickets: $35 Naples Philharmonic “Around Town: Brahms and Schubert” January 28, 2016 • 7:30PM Tickets: $35 Gulfshore Opera “Legends of Opera Gala” February 21, 2016 • 4:00PM Tickets: contact gulfshoreopera.org Hector Olivera Internationally Acclaimed Organist March 13, 2016 • 3:00 PM Tickets: $10 Naples Philharmonic & Chorus Presents Beethoven’s “Mass in C Major” April 7, 2016 • 7:30PM Tickets: $35 e Fine Arts Series is being presented as a fund raising effort for the First Academy of Music’s (FAM) financial aid program. FAM provides high quality musical instruction for students of all ages and levels of skill. Private lessons on individual instruments are offered as well as group musical experiences for children and adults, with performance opportunities over the course of the program year. Financial assistance is available to qualifying students aged 18 years and younger enrolled in private lessons at the school. For more information, call the music office at 239-992-3410 ext. 232 or visit firstacademyofmusic.org. Our Concert Series presents first-class musical entertainment to the Bonita Springs community free of charge as a way of welcoming them to our church home. is is made possible through the support and generosity of the congregation, sponsors and through freewill donations received at each performance. Concert Series 2015-16 The Stardust Memories Big Band November 20, 2015 • 7:30PM The Ditchfield Family/Christmas Concert December 11, 2015 • 3:00 & 7:30PM Embraceable You: The Music of George Gershwin January 15, 2016 • 3:00 & 7:30PM Nicole Sassen Live January 29, 2016 • 3:00 & 7:30PM The Four Freshmen February 5, 2016 • 3:00 & 7:30PM Barbary Coast Show Band February 26, 2016 • 3:00 & 7:30PM The Browns March 4, 2016 • 3:00 & 7:30PM Let’s Hang On March 18, 2016 • 3:00 & 7:30PM Tickets are free but required for seating and available to the public at the Ticket Office 10 days before each concert date. Information about our Concert Series and sponsorship program is available at the church, online at fpcbonita.org and also by calling the Concert Line at 239-992-3410 ext. 250. NOvEMBER-DECEMBER 2015 | Epistle to the Bonitians 15 First Missions Making a Difference Over the past decade, through the leadership of Pastors Doug Pratt and Paul Fahnestock, First Church has established a core of over 40 relevant mission organizations, projects and missionary partners making a positive influence for God’s kingdom in today’s world. Dedicated research by members of the Mission Leadership Team recommending support of these projects has further influenced the good accomplished for Christ as we continue to reach out to “the least, the last and the lost, around the corner and around the world.” You only have to peruse the First Missions Directory to get a feel for the pervasive reach of our Mission Ministry, both locally and worldwide. is Christmas season, First Church asks members and friends to listen to that “still small voice” and share in a tangible way your love of the Baby Jesus and the hope and light He brings. We encourage you to look through our First Missions Directory and choose a mission partner that you and your family can relate to. Read about the work they are doing, research them online, and attend our Mission Fair on November 22. It will feature many local and international missions and missionaries supported by our church. Consider choosing a cause and supporting that ministry, both financially and with your heartfelt prayers. Arrange to make a Christmas donation to further their work. Director of Missions Trusha Barner is very knowledgeable on each mission we support. She would be glad to help match you and your family with a mission cause that reflects your concerns. Just send her an email ([email protected]) or set up an appointment (239-992-3233). e large and small organizations we support as a church are among the most respectable and ethical, with established far-reaching efforts in place to combat the dark, destructive forces of this world—including human slavery and injustice (IJM, She Is Safe, Wings of Shelter), poverty and hunger (Compassion International, Samaritan’s Purse, ECHO, Café of Life) and spiritual illiteracy (Wycliffe, Witnessing Ministries of Christ). We know most of our individual missionaries personally and many have been introduced to the congregation at one time or another in worship and through presentations that highlight their work. Over the past few years we have met Bruce and Deb Robinson (with CrossWorld in Haiti), Marianne Harvey (with Wycliffe in West Africa), Tim & Annette Gulick (with OC International), Philip Prasad (with WMC 16 Epistle to the Bonitians | NOvEMBER-DECEMBER 2015 in India) and Dimitrie Todorov (with New Hope International in Bulgaria) to name only a few. Finding a missionary cause that is close to your heart and deciding to offer proactive support can make a big difference—not only in our own Christian walk but also in the world’s spiritual movement toward salvation and the light of Christ. Sponsoring a mission dedicated to spreading the Gospel of Jesus—bringing His love to parts of the world living only in shadow—is a bold proclamation of our Christian faith. A Christmas donation can go a long way in expanding the reality of God’s love to this broken world. But even more important to the FPC Mission Ministry is our support through dedicated and focused prayer. e Finest Gi of All: Prayer “Of course, our missionaries appreciate all monetary donations,” says our Director of Missions Trusha Barner. “is makes it possible for their work to continue. But it is important for us to realize their utmost respect for and dependence on the power of prayer. ese brave missionaries, who choose to live on the forefront of a very real spiritual battlefield, singularly covet our prayers most of all. ey live their faith daily and prayer plays a vital role in their everyday lives.” is is the concept behind our Mission Ministry’s “Mission Prayer Tree” to be displayed this holiday season. e tree will hold “ornaments” listing a specific missionary, project or organization supported by our church and will include their prayer requests. Members and friends are encouraged to take an ornament from the tree and spend time in prayer especially for that mission. If possible, an address will be provided so prayer warriors may send an encouraging Christmas card. “Prayer is something we can all do to show support for our mission partners, many of whom have chosen to live with their families in foreign lands in order to spread God’s Word,” Trusha added. Visit the Mission Prayer Tree beginning in mid-November. Choose a mission ornament and pray. First Missions November is Mission Emphasis Month During November, First Church celebrates “First Missions” with a month-long emphasis on our mission partners. Here are some highlights. November 2 “Compassion & Justice in the DR” 6 PM Potluck • 7 PM Presentation • McClure Hall e week of October 19, a mission team of 17 members of First Church along with our Director of Missions spent five days in the Dominican Republic. Aer a potluck dinner on Monday, November 2, members of the team will present an overview and share their experiences (and photos) from this time in the DR. Our mission team visited the Compassion national office, the local church and FPC’s designated Child Survival Program (DR 915) in Santo Domingo. ey also met with staff at the headquarters of International Justice Mission (IJM) there. But, most likely, our team was happiest when they were spending time with their combined group of 19 sponsored Compassion children. What a thrill to meet a child you help support through prayers and donations! e mission team took with them nearly 50 Bibles and children’s Bible story books (in both English and Spanish) donated by the FPC Women’s Ministry, which were le for the church and Compassion program. ank you, Women’s Ministry! If you are interested in participating in a future DR Mission Trip, currently sponsor or want to sponsor a child or would like to know more about what First Church is doing in the DR—please come and be part of this event! Questions? Contact FPC Director of Missions Trusha Barner (239-992-3233; [email protected]). November 7 & 8 Wycliffe Bible Translation Saturday 5:30 PM CenterPoint Praise • Sunday 10 AM Worship Both CenterPoint Praise on Saturday evening and our 10 AM service on Sunday morning will highlight the Bible translation work of Wycliffe Associates. Dan Kramer, MAST developer for Wycliffe, will be with us. New Mission banners created by the FPC Banner Committee will be on display in the Sanctuary. November 21 & 22 Annual Mission Fair Saturday 5:30 PM CenterPoint Praise • Sunday 10 AM Worship Both CenterPoint Praise on Saturday evening and our 10 AM service on Sunday morning will highlight “First Missions” with mission guests interviewed by Pastor Doug Pratt. Eddie Kauoltz serves as Director of Church Mobilization for International Justice Mission. is role affords him the opportunity to equip churches and communities by sharing the biblical call to seek justice, introducing them to IJM’s work, and mobilizing them to engage in both local and global ministry. Eddie is also a contributing editor to RELEvANT Magazine and a co-host on their podcast. Tim and Annette Gulick are missionaries with OC International. ey have been mentoring and providing resources and training for youth leaders in the Spanishspeaking world since 1996. eir website (paralidares.org), which hosts over 40,000 pages of free materials (articles, Bible studies, games, training courses) is visited by an average of 9,000 individuals a day. ey helped to set up an accredited seminary-level mentoring program for youth leaders in Argentina and are in high demand as leadership coaches for youth ministries in various Spanish-speaking countries. Tim and Annette have recently traveled to India to teach foundations of youth ministry discipleship. (Annette is the daughter of church members Paul and Bethel Baumann.) Following worship on Sunday, our Mission Ministry invites everyone to McClure Hall where many local and international mission organizations and missionaries supported by FPC will be featured. The Fahnestock Report Sunday following the 10 AM service • Sanctuary Pastor Paul and Linda Fahnestock now serve as MAST Global Coordinators with Wycliffe Associates. ey will share a special presentation on their recent adventures in India and Africa leading MAST workshops. Aerward, guests may express fond farewells as Paul and Linda return to their new home in Texas and continue their mission work with Wycliffe. Tim and Annette Gulick NOvEMBER-DECEMBER 2015 | Epistle to the Bonitians 17 First Missions continued Operation Christmas Child Don’t forget: OCC shoeboxes are due by Sunday, November 8. is fun project of filling shoeboxes with toiletries, school supplies, T-shirts and toys not only meets the needs of children living in poverty, but also opens the door for the presentation of the Gospel message. OCC is the world’s largest Christmas program for kids! Each year this ministry of Samaritan’s Purse distributes gi-filled shoeboxes to boys and girls, ages 2-14, in over 100 countries worldwide. Gospel publications are included and, whenever possible, local churches make follow-up visits to invite children into a deeper relationship with Christ through a series of Bible lessons called “e Greatest Journey.” What goes into that little shoebox you fill is fun, but what comes out of it is eternal! Look for the OCC collection kiosk during First Stop on November 1 and 8. Questions? Contact Bethel Baumann ([email protected]), Anne Price (239-498-6544) or Trusha Barner ([email protected]; 239-992-3233). Fahnestock Report Continuing Progress in Bible Translation Our own Paul and Linda Fahnestock are now working with Wycliffe Associates pioneering a new methodology of Bible translation called Mobilized Assistance Supporting Translation (MAST). e goal of this accelerated approach is that, by 2025, translation of God’s Word in every remaining language that needs it will have begun. Paul and Linda are both MAST Global Coordinators and, in September, their MAST team was in India. ey led workshops in Hosur, Guwahati and Bangalore. Part of their work is facilitating the translation of “Open Bible Stories”— a portion of the online “unfoldingWord” project making unrestricted biblical content available in every language for free to anyone with a cell phone or computer. Paul with Gabada language group after successfully uploading their first OBS story online. 18 Epistle to the Bonitians | NOvEMBER-DECEMBER 2015 MAST team in Guwahati, India. In a recent email to FPC Director of Missions Trusha Barner, Paul said, “Everyone is excited about the new translation methodology. We have been privileged to teach the accelerated training to 76 Indian languages in the last 5 weeks. e Scripture and “Open Bible Stories” translations that have been completed during each workshop will touch the lives of many women, men, girls and boys in each of these language communities. People are not waiting years to hear God’s Word. Rejoice with us at what God is doing to cover the earth with the knowledge of his glory.” e Fahnestocks continue to be grateful for your support, and now ask for prayers of thanksgiving and continued health, energy and wisdom. By October 16, they were orienting a new 10-member MAST team, with the help of Dan Kramer, for the next workshop in Lusaka, Zambia in Africa. e goal: to translate the New Testament into two Zambian languages! Paul and Linda need both financial and prayer support as they help to guide the translation of God’s Word into unreached languages. If you feel led to become part of their support team, please contact FPC Director of Missions Trusha Barner. B ON IT RISTIAN CH F 1 6 Bonita Christian Forum A M RU O 2015-2016 e Bonita Christian Forum was launched in 2005 to enrich the cultural and spiritual life of the Bonita Springs area. Its intent is to raise the visibility of the Christian message in our community, to provide a gathering place for Christians from various local congregations, to inspire and challenge those who follow Christ, and to present the life-changing work of Christ to people who have not yet met Him. Over its first ten years, the Bonita Christian Forum firmly established its place in our community as a venue for some of the most notable voices of our time sharing their Christian testimony. Beginning with former major league pitcher Dave Dravecky, the Forum has welcomed speakers from the worlds of business, sports, medicine, government, science, film, and the media. Join us as we enter our second decade! 2 2 0 1 5 – 0 Karen Hughes Tuesday, November 10, 2015 | 7:00 PM Nabeel Qureshi Tuesday, January 5, 2016 | 7:00 PM Dinesh D’Souza Monday, January 25, 2016 | 7:00 PM Kevin Sorbo Tuesday, March 8, 2016 | 7:00 PM All events begin at 7:00 PM Doors open at 6:15 PM HUGHES QURESHI D’SOUZA SORBO Friends of the Forum Please remember! e Bonita Christian Forum is offered to the community at no charge so that the life-transforming message of the Gospel is available to everyone. e Friends of the Forum sponsorship program helps to underwrite each season of speakers. You can express your support of the Bonita Christian Forum and help to guarantee its place in the culture of our community by becoming a Friend of the Forum for the 2015-2016 season. Consider one of these levels of sponsorship: • CARPOOL. Help us maximize the limited parking available! Level 1 Gi of $150 or more Friends receive two General Admission tickets for each event. • PARKING. Traffic control on Bonita Beach Road and a professional crew in our parking lot together will manage traffic flow and direct cars to the next available space. • BRING YOUR TICKETS to guarantee entry. • BE PATIENT. Many who come will be unfamiliar with our campus. Watch for opportunities to be helpful and ensure a good experience for everyone! Level 2 Gi of $300 or more Friends receive reserved seating for two in the Sanctuary for each event. Level 3 Gi of $1,000 or more Friends receive reserved seating for two in the Sanctuary for each event, a small memento of the speaker (whenever possible) and are invited to a private reception with the speaker. Visit bonitachristianforum.org for more information. NOvEMBER-DECEMBER 2015 | Epistle to the Bonitians 19 Let Your Light Shine Brightly! At Neon Kids, our mission is to partner with parents to lead children into a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Neon Kids provides quality programs for children ages 6 months through 5th grade. We invite you to visit us on Sunday mornings before worship. Check your children in at the Children’s Desk for both nursery or Neon Kids Sunday school. You can also visit us on the web at neonkids.org to catch up on all the latest news. Children’s Christmas Program Thursday, Dec. 10 • 6 PM • Sanctuary • Tickets: $1 is year Wonder Years Preschool, Neon Kids, and Illumination Student Ministry will come together to present a wonderful evening Christmas program, sharing the story of Jesus’ birth. Dressed as townspeople of Bethlehem, angels, animals and stars, the children will sing some of the great hymns and new songs of the season. Tickets are just $1 and available for purchase at the Children’s Desk on Sunday mornings through December 6. All children are encouraged to participate; please see Preschool Administrator Nancy Bolognese or Children’s Ministry Coordinator Lauren Hargis for details. Neon Kids Christmas Project for Seniors Children attending the “Holly Jolly Kids Night Out” (Friday, Dec. 4.) will be involved in this special Christmas outreach project. Our Neon Kids will be making Non-skid Slipper Socks for local retirement home residents. With simple materials like puffy fabric paint, cardboard, ribbon, scissors and socks, of course, they will create these special gis to keep residents’ feet festively warm and will also prevent falls, slips and accidents. “is is a fun gi-giving project for the children,” said Children’s Ministry Coordinator Lauren Hargis. “e children enjoy personalizing each pair of socks, knowing the socks will be appreciated and utilized by local residents. We hope to bring them joy and share the love of Christ this Christmas season.” e Non-skid Slipper Socks will be distributed by our Director of Sacred Arts Jeff Faux and the Tuesday Singers during one of their musical performances at a local facility in December. Questions? Contact Children’s Ministry Coordinator Lauren Hargis at [email protected] or 239-992-3233. CH ILDRE N’S MI NI ST RY Family Night Programs Wednesdays through Nov. 18 • 6-7:30 PM Family Ministries Center For youngsters, LIL’K (age 3–6) and KIDMO (1st–5th graders) offer exciting discoveries about God. Illumination for middle & high school students meets for activities, discussion and fellowship. e Young Adults Group also meets for their own study. Program details are listed in our weekly First ings First. You may also contact Children’s Ministry Coordinator Lauren Hargis ([email protected] or 239-992-3233). Kids Night Out Friday, Nov. 13 “Science Quest” Friday, Dec. 4 “Holly Jolly Kids Night Out” 5-8 PM • Family Ministries Center Children ages 1-11 off are invited to join us. FPC members: $5 per child. Non-members: $15 per child ($30 maximum per family). Limited spots are available so reserve early. “In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.” MATTHEW 5:16 20 Epistle to the Bonitians | NOvEMBER-DECEMBER 2015 Meet Nancy Bolognese Preschool Administrator One might say that Nancy’s first appearance at First Church in late spring of this year was providential. Others may be more to the point and call it a “God-thing.” Nancy started volunteering in our Children’s Ministry programs—helping with Sunday school, Kids Night Out and vBS. According to Family Ministry Director Amanda Zaengle, she was a “natural” with children. “What struck me about Nancy was her deep faith in the Lord and her calm, gentle spirit,” Amanda said. “I think God led her to us at just the right time.” In May, the position of Preschool Administrator opened up and the search Nancy Bolognese began. Nancy offered to help with the paperwork for Wonder Years until a candidate was found. “She was such a blessing,” Amanda said. “Her organizational skills alone helped us accomplish a lot over the summer. And the more I got to know her, the more she seemed like such a natural fit.” Apparently Nancy felt the same way toward our Children’s Ministry; she expressed an interest in applying for the position herself. “e many credentials required for a Preschool Administrator is always the biggest hurdle in finding candidates,” Amanda explained. “Wonder Years is licensed by the State of Florida and also accredited by APPLE, so we need to meet very specific criteria for hiring in order to maintain those standards.” And… guess what? Nancy already had the proper credentials. Nancy was born and raised in Bonita Springs and has lived in Grand Rapids, MI and Canton, MA. She owned her own preschool for five years and, prior to that, worked in Office Administration. She attended Florida Southwestern State College earning an Associate degree and a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education as well as ESE (Exceptional Student Education) certification, along with ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) and Reading Endorsements. “I love working with the children and teachers, and recognize it is a great responsibility,” Nancy said. “God has given me a servant's heart with leadership skills and I want to use this precious gi to its full abundance.” Teaching the Importance of Missions Nancy is encouraging the students and families of Wonder Years to participate in mission-giving opportunities offered here at First Church this Christmas season. In November the preschool will be involved with Operation Christmas Child. “We are placing an OCC shoebox in each classroom,” Nancy said, “so the children can contribute the items they want to give. ey can also contribute toward the shipping cost.” In December, the preschool is collecting children’s clothing, toiletries, toys and food for the Café of Life in Bonita. Parents from each classroom will also be asked to prepare a meal that will be taken to the Café. “By including missions as part of Wonder Years we are teaching the value of giving and being part of a community,” Nancy said. “It’s a great way to model to our children good citizenship by helping others.” She will also have information available about the Manger Tree, in case a family wants to donate a gi for a local needy child. “Wonder Years is a great way to reach out to families in our community,” Nancy said. “Our goal is not only to teach these little ones about Christ, but to get the parents involved in this teaching as well.” Nancy has one daughter, victoria, and resides in Bonita Springs. Illumination On a Mission… or Two During this season of giving, members of Illumination Student Ministry will be participating in Operation Christmas Child, a worldwide ministry that delivers shoeboxes to needy children around the globe. “Each student was asked to participate either individually or with their family,” said Youth Ministry Coordinator Rachel Steffens. “It’s always fun to see what special and thoughtful gis you can fit in a shoebox that might end up halfway around the world. If a student is unable to afford this, they can contribute some items to an existing box and/or write a letter of encouragement to a child so we can include it in one.” Members of Illumination will also be volunteering to serve lunch at Café of Life in Bonita Springs just before anksgiving and Christmas. “rough participation in this local mission, we hope to broaden their understanding of serving others in need,” Rachel said. e FPC Women’s Ministry will be partnering with Rachel and Illumination in December, donating children’s Spanish Bibles for them to hand out at the Café. NOvEMBER-DECEMBER 2015 | Epistle to the Bonitians 21 Steven’s Study Dear Brothers & Sisters in Christ, E arlier in my career Nanette and I served Caldwell Presbyterian Church in Lake George, NY. At that time it was the yearly practice for our church to share Christmas Eve worship services with St. James Episcopal Church across the street. Caldwell’s building was a New England meeting house style structure with a tall steeple, complete with bell and rope. St. James Church was a pretty stone church right out of a omas Kinkade painting. Since our church had more space, the 7 PM family service was held at Caldwell Church and the 11 PM candlelight service was held at St. James Church. Father Williams and I shared in the leadership for both services. I recall one year in particular when the weather forecasters promised snow on Christmas Eve. Sure enough as we all le Caldwell Church aer the earlier service, the snow started to fall. e squeal of the children’s delight at seeing a white Christmas assured me that memories were in the making. But for me, the best part was yet to come. By the time the 11 PM service came around there were a few inches of snow on the ground and the snowflakes were still coming down. As a result, the whole town was so peaceful to the point of silence except for the crunch of tires and footsteps on the snow. e so glow from the lanterns outside the pretty stone St. James Church and from the candles emanating from the church windows created such a perfect setting for a Christmas Eve service. Singing “Silent Night” couldn’t have been more fitting. Aerward, though it was well beyond midnight, our dear friend, Mrs. Helen Mitchell, expected Nanette and me, our son Evan, and another dear friend Judd, to pay her a visit. Mrs. Mitchell had a stately stone home up on a high hill. Christmas Eve at her home always included a roaring fire in the fireplace, an impressive huge natural tree beautifully decorated, and the finest refreshments imaginable from the best of her North Carolina tradition. It is good to remember these kinds of things. Perhaps as you read of my memories your stories started to come into your mind. ese memories are precious gis that are ours forever. ough they exist in the past, calendar-wise, they exist in the present because we embrace them with great fondness and deep gratitude. Some might argue that these kinds of things are not what Christmas is really all about. I beg to differ. It is true that in America Christmas has gotten so commercialized that it is hard to recognize the spiritual Rev. Steven Grant basis for the holiday. We must be able to separate out the profoundly spiritual and world changing reality of the coming of the Messiah from all the razz-ma-tazz. For in that cradle in Bethlehem, God came in the form of a human being, our King, our Lord of Lords who brought the promises of peace, love and salvation. e time we spend with loved ones, the decorations we put up, our precious Christmas traditions, and the time we spend in meaningful worship all serve as a means to remind us of those promises. It is true we must be careful not to make parties, food, trees, presents and all the rest, ends in themselves. We can get very uptight about arrangements as we want everything to go as planned. We can make idols out of these things. Our anxiety creates the exact opposite result of the feelings and experiences we are trying to create. But the ambience, the sights and sounds, the personal contacts, and all the “warmfuzzies” of the holiday are designed to enhance our awareness of Him for whom we do these things in celebration. I don’t mind celebrating His birthday for a month and doing it big time, as long as we remember it is His birthday, not ours! e solution is that in the midst of all the hubbub of the holiday season, keep your focus on Jesus and keep Him in the middle of all you do. Ask yourself: Why do we put up decorations? What do they mean? What do they represent? (If you don’t know, find out!) Remind each other of these things; talk about them. Are the details of your gatherings more important than the time shared with the people participating in that gathering? Embrace friends and loved ones, past and present, even when the food doesn’t quite turn out right and your spouse forgot to get something from the store. Why do we give and receive presents? For personal profit or preference, or as expressions of our love? Aer all, just what is the “perfect” gi? You will notice that my memories described above had nothing to do with buying and selling, busy-ness, stress or continued on page 23 22 Epistle to the Bonitians | NOvEMBER-DECEMBER 2015 Preparedness Ministry ree Amazing Gis by Donna tenfelde “Without counsel plans fail, but with many advisors, they succeed.” – Proverbs 15:22 MiSSioN StateMeNt: to identify, understand and prepare for life’s challenges in wholeness with Christ in mind, body and spirit. e Preparedness Ministry works year-round in order to present worthwhile seminars that offer positive witness toward life’s challenges. Each seminar is free and open to church members as well as the community. e speaker’s presentation is usually about an hour followed by 30 minutes for questions. Information packets are available. e Preparedness Ministry welcomes ideas for new seminar topics. Contact Connie Duquin at 239-287-7649 or [email protected]. How Do I Declare Florida Domicile? Thursday, November 19 • 2-3:30 PM • McClure Hall Every year, you return to your second home in Southwest Florida and wonder: Could I become a Florida resident, avoid state taxes and take a Florida Homestead Exemption? e amount of time you spend here is only one consideration; there are many others. Presenter Mary Beth Crawford, Esq. will explain the steps necessary to declare Florida residency and what to consider before changing your legal residence. Steven’s Study continued useless angers. ey will always remain in my heart among my most cherished memories because of the loved ones I shared them with, and because of the gratitude I feel for those who shared what was theirs with me. ese are precious memories because of the time I spent with God in worship, the joy of the children in the snow, and the beauty of God’s earth—all of which were gis from Him. We may not be able to stop the commercialism that is all around us, but we can look through it all with the eyes of faith and see His goodness and mercy all around us. May your Christmas holidays be filled with peace, love and Jesus! Without fail during the holidays, I remember a time that began with great turmoil. On November 18, 2004 my husband had a potentially fatal brain aneurysm about 7 PM in Kentucky. Aer a sixhour surgery at about 4 AM, we were told he had survived and the prognosis was 50/50 he would return to normal thinking and activity. On November 24, 2004—the day before anksgiving— my daughter gave birth to twin babies (a tad early), our first and only grandchildren in Florida. One of the newborns needed tests and deeply concerned my daughter. So, about a week later, I had a decision to make: whether or not to leave my husband in the hospital and go to Florida to help with the newborns. I was counseled by the neurosurgeon who performed Tom’s surgery. He said, “Let us take care of your husband. Your place is with your daughter and the new babies.” Desperately torn in two directions, I reluctantly decided to spend a week helping with the grandbabies, then returned back home to Kentucky. And while I was in Florida, over 20 of our friends took turns at Tom’s side in the hospital. On Christmas Day 2004, both Tom and I were able to fly to Florida so the babies could meet their “PaPaw.” I definitely think this was the most spiritual Christmas of my life —no tree, no Christmas lights, no party—just celebrating Jesus’ birth, the birth of our new grandbabies and (sort of) Tom’s rebirth. Now, nearly 11 years later, I have beautiful healthy grandchildren and live in Florida with my husband who the doctors say is 98% recovered. Tom is on the golf course daily, so I’d say more like 100%! On November 18, 2004, I turned to God in fervent prayer. I prayed for Tom to live and then to heal, for my daughter and the babies, for the medical staff at both hospitals. I prayed for the friends who were supporting me every step of the way. e prayers never stopped and they have not stopped since… only now they are prayers of praise! I would say that I received three amazing gis during that unforgettable time: my husband’s survival, my twin grandbabies and wonderful friends. Oh, who gave me these most precious gis? e Heavenly Father, of course. He took care of my family during a time filled with apprehension, fear and anxiety… and transformed our lives with His hope. Pastor Steven Grant NOvEMBER-DECEMBER 2015 | Epistle to the Bonitians 23 Spiritual Development Center ART GALLERY Art from read: Our Sacred Story Who We Are Rev. Steven M. Grant, M.Div. Associate Pastor/Program Director SDC Alfred R. Barrow, Ph.D. Director of Spiritual Development Maria Karl, CBC Biblical Counselor Rev. June G. Barrow, M.A., M.Div. Assistant Pastor How We Serve e Center offers compassionate and confidential counseling, spiritual direction, retreats, support groups, and classes related to marriage & family as well as spiritual and emotional growth. We focus on Biblical truth and counseling excellence. Appointments may be scheduled by calling the Center at 239-221-8250. ere is no charge or fee for services. “Profusion Illusion” - Quilt designed by Susie Robbins Our Location e Center is located directly across the street from the main church campus: 9696 Bonita Beach Road, Suite 207 2nd Floor, down the hall on the le Our Mission Our mission is to help individuals and families, no matter their background, meet the challenges they face in a complex world, to strengthen their relationships with one another and with God, and to offer opportunities for personal and spiritual growth. 24 Epistle to the Bonitians | read is the raw material of so much we encounter in our everyday lives. A variety of threads woven together becomes essential elements in the tapestry of our life, but those same threads in the hands of an artist can be a form of beauty and expression. At First Presbyterian Church, we utilize the arts as a way of expressing our story of salvation and offering our thanks to God for His gi of grace. Our Art Gallery will be offering a very special show in January featuring the result of threads in the hands of sacred artists. More importantly, we want to highlight the tradition of textile art as a means to express our sacred story. Quilts, needlepoint, cross stitch, knitting and other textile arts are oen labor intensive and therefore require a great investment of time from the artist. When so much is invested in a creative effort, it becomes a reflection of something profoundly important to the artist. Oen, the spiritual story of the artist is reflected in their art. We are calling on textile artists of all kinds and ages to consider offering a piece of their work that reflects a part of their spiritual journey. is gallery show is named “Art from read – Our Sacred Story” because our purpose is to demonstrate how your art work reflects your faith and personal “sacred story.” We would like to display each piece in our gallery with a description of its spiritual importance to the artist and how it connects to their Christian journey. is exhibit will be shown in the Art Gallery in January through the beginning of February. Entry forms and other information about submissions are available in the Art Gallery. Please prayerfully consider what you might offer that will communicate your unique sacred story. NOvEMBER-DECEMBER 2015 First ri Remodeled rough Giving by Dave & lynne Stauffer First ri is a ministry of First Church offering a unique shopping experience for the community. All merchandise is donated by church members and friends allowing us to offer a wonderful selection of new or gently used items. We have great bargains on quality merchandise. is past summer, our volunteers worked diligently to give our showroom a “makeover”—with improvements and a fresh, new look to enhance presentation. New slatwall displays have been installed throughout the store. Gondola displays and a new 20-foot outrigger merchandiser for men’s clothing have been added. We have improved our ability to show art pieces with new grid hangers in our back room. Clothing racks have all been repositioned for improved visibility and ease of shopping. Our new feature displays have the ability to show unique accent pieces, glass items and dinnerware. We are pleased to be getting positive feedback from shoppers on our new appearance as well as our designer brands such as Chico’s, Talbots, Ralph Lauren, Tommy Bahama and White House|Black Market. Our new shoe department features Enzo Angiolini, Anne Klein, Mootsie Tootsies, Bandolino, Naturalizer, Charles David and Nike. First ri is deeply grateful for the continued support of the congregation—the foundation which makes this ministry possible as well as a blessing to many in the community. Showing your loyalty through merchandise donations, promoting the shop to family and friends, shopping and volunteering here is the most valuable gi you could give us. ank you! Be a First ri volunteer! volunteering at First ri is fun and rewarding. We are a true ministry sharing a common goal of honoring God through our service. It is a wonderful way to make new friends, too! We offer a flexible schedule and the opportunity to be part of a Christian team serving our community. Remember: First ri Shop… • Is open Monday through Saturday, 10 AM – 3 PM • Offers free pick-up of furniture • Wants your donations of gently used clothing, household items and furniture Call 239-992-0285 NOvEMBER-DECEMBER 2015 | Epistle to the Bonitians 25 Men’s Ministry Fellowship Changing Men’s Hearts One at a Time e Star of Bethlehem: A Miracle on Nativity Street but a man of understanding will draw it out.” by Scott Flaig MMF VISION STATEMENT: To build relationships with men, to mutually encourage them, and bring them closer to Christ through fellowship and discipling. i see him, but not here and now. i perceive him, but far in the distant future. a star will rise from Jacob; a scepter will emerge from israel. – NUMBERS 24:17 (NLT) It is called “e Star Prophecy.” In Numbers 24:17, God uses the sorcerer Balaam to foretell the coming of the Messiah 1,400 years into the future. In Matthew’s accounting of the Nativity story (Matt. 2:1-12) he mentions a star that appears to Wise Men on two separate occasions. e first was as an announcement of Jesus’ birth in Israel: “We saw his star as it rose…” (Matt. 2:2, NIv). e second identified the birth place as Bethlehem: “And the star they had seen in the east guided them to Bethlehem. It went ahead of them and stopped over the place where the child was” (Matt. 2:9). What was this “star”? Was the scriptural account of a special star just a myth? Was the star’s appearance just coincidental with Jesus’ birth? Or was it a miracle? For two millennium biblical scholars, philosophers and scientists have debated these questions and hundreds MMF SCHEDULE Thursdays • 7:20 AM • McClure Hall For more information, please contact Scott Flaig at 239-949-7307 or [email protected]. “e purpose in a man’s heart is like deep water, — Proverbs 20:5 more concerning the Bethlehem Star. e universal acknowledgement across all three disciplines is that yes, indeed, there was a star — an unusual sighting that appeared around the same time as the birth of Jesus. ere is historical reporting that Wise Men did in fact visit with King Herod preceding their short journey to Bethlehem. Just who were these men? Were they really “wise” men? Oh yes, indeed they were! In that time they were oen called “Magi,” a priestly caste highly educated and well-versed in ancient texts (“Biblical Magi,” en.wikipedia.org). ey found truth both in the prophets of the Old Testament (Balaam, Daniel and Micah) and in the sciences (astronomy, astrology and genealogy). “ese were devout men, believing in the true God of creation and the promises in His Word. ey were … able to recognize that this new star that had suddenly blazed forth in the sky must indeed be “His Star,” the star announcing the birth of the promised King.” (Henry M. Morris, Ph.D., “When ey Saw the Star,” e Institute for Creation Research, icr.org) Were there three wise men or two or many? Did they come from Babylon (now Iraq), Persia (now Iran), India or perhaps China as some suggest? Matthew simply says (in 2:1), “some wise men from eastern lands.” But does it really matter how many there were or where they were from? No, it does not. ey were there! How did they find Jesus? Scripture reports that a star first appeared where the Wise Men lived (most likely Persia): “For we observed his star at its rising…” (Matt. 2:2, NRSv). is star was unusually bright. It was the signal, the announcement, the proclamation that the new King of the Jews, as prophesied, was to be born. ey could not have taken this signal lightly; from the ancient city of Susa in Persia to Jerusalem is about 765 miles. is trip would take several months, requiring significant investment of time, money and personal credibility. e Magi believed in both the prophecy and astronomical significance of this star. is star was truly special! Did the Magi travel by camel or horse? Were they accompanied by an army? Interesting questions for historians, but not so much for Christians; the fact that they made the journey is the only important fact. eir arrival in Jerusalem looking for the new King of the Jews made King Herod angry. e Magi’s unusual story of the star—a star neither Herod nor his advisors recalled seeing—only added to their embarrassment. While still in the city, Scripture accounts say the Wise Men again sighted that incredibly bright star to the east (although Bethlehem was south). As they traveled those six miles, the star also moved… then stopped directly overhead, shining on the stable at Bethlehem. What was this “star”? Perhaps it could be explained as an unusual astronomical event. Let’s look at the most likely possibilities as expressed in science: continued on next page 26 Epistle to the Bonitians | NOvEMBER-DECEMBER 2015 1) A nova or supernova is a sudden, rare and unpredictable explosion of an existing star and would be unbelievably bright, even seen during the day. A nova might occur once per century per galaxy but there have only been a few visible supernovas in our galaxy (ibid.). What are the odds? It could not have been a nova or supernova! 2) A comet would clearly have a tail —an incredible omission that discredits a comet sighting. Astronomers report that none were visible even close to the date of Christ’s birth. Comets are believed to be harbingers of impending calamity; the Wise Men would not have interpreted it as heralding the birth of the Messiah. It was not a comet! 3) A planetary conjunction does occur frequently. Astronomer Johannes Kepler first suggested this explanation (in 1605) aer calculating the conjunction of Saturn, Jupiter and Mars in 7 B.C. (ibid.). Others cite the conjunction of Jupiter, venus, and the star Regulus in 3 B.C. But these events would only last a few days and it would be unlikely the Magi would call a group of stars “His” Star. e stars could not have been a planet! So, what about the last possibility… you know, the “miracle”? Like the parting of the Red Sea, or Jesus feeding 5,000, or Jesus raising Lazarus, or His Resurrection, or Incarnation… or even Creation itself! My conclusion, given the evidence (or lack thereof), is that indeed the Star of Bethlehem was a MIRACLE… an unexplainable, luminous heavenly body foretold by ancient prophecies of such significance they were followed by believing Wise Men in search of the Baby Savior of mankind. A miracle! Recharge Your Spirit Want a 3-day retreat from the world? Need to concentrate on your spiritual journey? Crave time for worship, prayer & meaningful discussion? Yearn to feel God’s grace? If your answer is “yes,” God may be drawing you toward accepting His invitation to Endowment Fund eological Foundations Endowment gis are theological statements which demonstrate one’s belief that we are never ultimately proprietors or owners, but only stewards—lifetime guardians entrusted by God to use wisely what God has placed in our hands. When an individual creates an endowment gi for the church during or beyond their lifetime, it declares to the present and future generations the importance of our faith and trust in God. We have each drawn water from wells we have not dug; we have all sat under shade trees we did not plant. We each have a wonderful opportunity to provide the means for the church to have a strong and empowering ministry for generations to come. Matthew 2:11b – “ey opened their treasures and presented him with gis…” Now read this passage in the first person. Endowment gis usually come from treasures, our accumulated assets. Genesis 26:17-25 – “And Isaac dug again the wells of water which had been dug in the days of Abraham his father…” Consider leaving something behind which is better than what you found. A Year-end Gi Idea If you need or want to take a distribution from your IRA account before the end of 2015, and you want to make a “full value” contribution to a charity, such as the Endowment Fund of FPC, please contact the church office (239-992-3233) for a sample letter that you can use to instruct your IRA investment manager. “Full value” means direct distribution to a charity will not require that income tax be paid by you. e Great Banquet a banquet is being prepared… for you! Men’s Great Banquet – February 11-14, 2016 Women’s Great Banquet – February 18-21, 2016 We welcome your R.S.v.P. Contact Community Lay Director David Mustian at 239-498-5972 or [email protected]. NOvEMBER-DECEMBER 2015 | Epistle to the Bonitians 27 Women’s Connection e mission of the Women’s Ministry of First Church is to help women of all ages reach uPWaRD to a deeper relationship with Christ, reach iNWaRD to one another in love and fellowship, and reach outWaRD to our community and world in service. November Events for Missions Study & Prayer Groups PRC Annual Walk for Life Saturday, November 7 • 8 AM - 1 PM Golden Gate Community Park, 3300 Santa Barbara Blvd., Naples Walk for Life … because every life matters! Grab a friend and join us in support of Pregnancy Resource Center of Southwest Florida. Funds raised go directly to support women facing an unplanned pregnancy who come to PRC for help. e Center is a nonprofit, Gospel-centered ministry operated by a small staff and a team of volunteers. Services provided free of charge include: limited ultrasounds, pregnancy tests, resource referral information and counseling. e PRC Bridge Program connects women and families to the community of Christ through local churches to encourage support and spiritual growth. To register, join a team or make a donation, visit supportprc.org. Get connected! ALL women of First Church are invited to grow deeper in their relationship with God and their sisters in Christ by getting involved in one of our ongoing Bible studies or Prayer Group: Missions Brunch featuring Wings of Shelter Wednesday, November 18 • 9:30 AM • McClure Hall Guest Speakers: Lowell & Sally Senitz Women are invited to attend this brunch and learn more about Wings of Shelter Int’l, founded by Lowell and Sally Senitz of Lee County. eir non-profit Christian organization is dedicated to helping victims of human slavery and child trafficking by providing rescue, restoration, education and prevention. Lowell and Sally work in collaboration with dozens of agencies and organizations, both in the U.S. and internationally, that are motivated to intervene in slavery. Wings of Shelter has been an FPC-supported mission since 2012. You can help their mission, too, by simply being present and learning about their work. (See related story on next page.) is event features a menu from the 5-star chef and professional catering team of SMH Catering, an enterprise of St. Matthew’s House in Naples. Tickets are $12 and can be purchased at the Women’s kiosk on Sundays. If you have any questions about Women’s Connection studies or events, please contact Donna Tenfelde (239-992-3233 ext. 293 or [email protected]). 28 Epistle to the Bonitians | NOvEMBER-DECEMBER 2015 Manna for Monday Mondays through November 23 • 2-3:30 PM Price Hall Parlor Study: e First ree Kings Working Women’s Fellowship Tuesdays through December 8 • 7-8:30 PM Lightner Conference Room Study: e Major Prophets (Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations, Ezekiel, Daniel) Wednesday in the Word Wednesdays through December 9 • 9:30-11 AM McClure Hall Study: Saying Grace led by Pastor June Barrow Wednesday Prayer Group 1st & 3rd Wednesdays • 11 AM Price Hall Parlor We invite any and all prayer warriors to join us and pray for the needs of our church, community, country and world. Moore on Thursday Thursdays through December 3 11 AM - 1:30 PM • CenterPoint Study: inheritance by Beth Moore Be sure to check the weekly First ings First announcement booklet in December to find out new studies being offered starting in January. Out of the Shadows “Dedicated to moving child trafficking out of the shadows and out of existence.” at’s what Lowell and Sally Senitz say on their Wings of Shelter website, and that is their mission. Motivated by a Tv special on human trafficking they saw in 2008, the Senitzes said they could not turn away from the largest growing crime in the world today. eir love of children and their Christian faith are the driving forces behind their mission. ey have travelled to Romania, Haiti, Kenya, Sudan and other troubled countries to help rescue child victims of exploitation. “We are Christians and believe that rescuing the oppressed is what love and Christianity is all about,” Sally said in an interview with e Banner back in 2010 (Aaron Hale, “Couple fighting human trafficking,” e Banner, Jan. 8, 2010, naplesnews.com). “We always thought of this type of thing as being in another country. e truth is that children are [also] being brought into the U.S. from other countries and our children… in the U.S. are being trafficked and enslaved daily.” A recent NBC-2 News investigation revealed that human trafficking is a $9.5 billion a year industry in the United States (Lisa Spooner, Women’s Connection Annual Christmas Luncheon Tuesday, December 15 • McClure Hall Doors open at 10:30 AM • Lunch served at 12 noon Join us as we celebrate Christ’s coming with our featured speaker, FPC Director of Sacred Arts Jeff Faux. e title of Jeff ’s talk is “Gis.” is is not to be confused with “presents”! Don’t miss this inspiring program. Tickets ($20) may be purchased at the Women’s kiosk on Sundays, November 25 through December 6. Registration deadline: December 9. If you have any questions about Women’s Connection studies or events, visit the Women’s kiosk on Sunday mornings or contact Women’s Ministry Coordinator Donna Tenfelde (239-992-3233 ext. 293 or [email protected]). “Human sex trafficking,” May 20, 2015, nbc-2.com). Sally Senitz contributed to the story which featured a woman who had moved into a Wings of Shelter safe house aer spending years being enslaved. She was targeted at the age of 12, recruited right out of a Southwest Florida middle school. Many of us don’t realize that the United States is a highrisk trafficking country; and Florida ranks third in the nation for the number of exploited victims (fgcupinnacle.com, Feb. 2015). To FPC church member Jackie Maxwell and her Great Banquet Reunion Group, this was unbelievable. “We were shocked to find this happening right here in ‘paradise,’” Jackie said. Her group is chairing the Mission Brunch event for the Women’s Ministry on November 18. Members of the WOW (Women on Wednesday) reunion group include Becky Beale, Carol Johnson, Lynn Lyons, Sharon Morrison, Pam Silar and June ompson. “We learned about the work Wings of Shelter is doing through some of our members who are also on the Mission Leadership Team. We first contacted Lowell and Sally about a year ago. eir presentation made us want others to know of their mission, how they are educating law enforcement, what to look for ourselves and how to help.” e WOW group wanted Sally and Lowell to speak at this event in order to get the word out that “yes, this crime is happening here; and yes, there are ways to help… by contacting Wings of Shelter.” Wings of Shelter established the first Department of Children and Family licensed safe house in Florida for the long-term rehabilitation and restoration of minor girls rescued from child sex trafficking. ey provide mental health counseling, private school education, tutors and healthcare for the girls. A vital part of this Restoration Program is equipping the children to develop a new life through the transforming love of Christ and people who care. Wings also offers an Education Program that provides free Human Trafficking Intervention/Investigation training to federal, state and county agencies, including the FBI, Sheriff ’s departments, and Immigration and Customs Enforcement. eir Prevention Program offers age-appropriate information on human trafficking and child slavery in middle and high schools. Wings of Shelter is on the Southwest Florida Task Force/Coalition for Intervention of Human Trafficking and Slavery. For more information on the mission of Wings of Shelter, visit wingsofshelter.com. NOvEMBER-DECEMBER 2015 | Epistle to the Bonitians 29 Opening the Door by ellis Gery In Our oughts & Prayers Our heartfelt Christian sympathy extends to: Diane Anderson on the recent death of her father, Walter Matuza; Bobbie Gray on the death of her husband, David Gray, on August 28; Lyn Craver on the death of her husband, Robert Craver, on September 6; the family and friends of Bob Tucker who died on September 8; Rad & Peg Scott on the death of their son-in-law, Joe Johnson, on September 19; the family and friends of Leigh Fiedler who died on September 20; Bill & Bonnie Speer on the death of their 19-year-old granddaughter on September 26; Ralph & Jackie Maxwell on the recent death of Ralph’s mother in Oklahoma; the family and friends of Carol Richardson who died on October 6; Jay Franklin and family on the death of Jay’s wife, Shirley Franklin, on October 11; Augusta Crane, on the death of her husband, Edgar (Ed) Crane, on October 14; the family and friends of Judith Hadnagy-Kovats who died on October 15; Donna Walter on the death of her husband, Phillip Walter, on October 15; and the family and friends of Frank (Ed) Pringle, who died on September 23. Please pray for our loved ones in the military: Steve Adams, omas Adney, Alexis Alvarado, Ryan Bach, Matt Byington, Amy Nesbitt Copeland, Justin Cramer, John Cuddy, Dave Cullen, Hope DiGiusto, Scott DiGiusto, Brian Eifler, Joseph R. Fox, Corbin Gibson, Stephen Gumpf, *James Harmison, Kent C. Hay, Michael Heath, Morgan Holden, Michael Holmes, Michael Jaster, Kevin Kath, Michael Kim, Tyler J. Koehler, Kenneth Kubinski, Daniel S. Lai, Dave Landymore, Jose Mantilla, Carl McFarland, *Waverly C. McFarland Jr, *Jim Mitnik, Lee Moffett, *Paul J. Najarian, Desmond Nelson III, Philip Novak, Keith A. Perry, Dylan Rehberg, Christopher Rhodes, Patrick Ryan, Sarah Ryan, *Ryan Schlenker, Dylan Michael Sipos, ayne Stahlacker, John R. Stanton, Trevor S. rasher, Jeffery Tolbert, Tyler van Kampen, *Brian Watkinson, Eric Williams, Zach Williams, Jonathan Wise, Deisy Wolfe, Matthew C. Wolfe, John N. Yacos, Kyle York. *indicates military personnel currently deployed. If you have a prayer request, you may call the church office (239-992-3233), Sherri Feeley (239-992-2726), or complete a Prayer Request card found at the Welcome Center and place it in the prayer box provided. 30 Epistle to the Bonitians | NOvEMBER-DECEMBER 2015 For me, one of the greatest blessings I can receive is a family member choosing to believe and trust in Jesus Christ as their personal Lord and Savior. My father was a Christmas and Easter service attender. He supported the church with funds, but it was Mother who nurtured me in faith while growing up in Columbus, Ohio. During my adult life, my father and I had only a few discussions about Jesus, and those all ended in tears. Dad just couldn’t get a glimmer of the miracle of Jesus as both God and Man. (Most of us, if we are honest, are getting new understandings of this our entire life.) My husband Lee and I lived in Indianapolis and were in the midst of a Men’s Great Banquet one November. Suddenly my dad, then in his mid-80s, had to be rushed to the hospital for a serious operation. I was told that if it was not successful and a blood clot reached his heart, he could easily die. Aer learning this and praying with some Christian friends at church, I decided to make the three-hour trip to the hospital in Columbus. I stopped at a Christian store on the way to see if there was anything appropriate to take with me. ere was a plaque of Jesus standing at the door, with the Scripture, “Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him and he with me.” is verse, Revelation 3:20, was the exact verse that had helped open my eyes to see who Christ really is. When I arrived at my father’s bedside, I told him how much I loved him and asked him if I could please talk to him one more time about Jesus. He was agreeable and we prayed together first. I pulled out my little picture of Jesus at the door (with no knob on the outside, as we must open the door from the inside to let Him in). We talked about the picture, that Jesus loves us and wants us all to be with Him in heaven, but that it is our choice… we do not have to be “good enough.” ere were tears from both of us and we felt a closeness like never before. My heart leapt when Dad told me that he would open the door and ask Jesus to come in. is was the most significant, loving time I ever had with my father. It was only November, but what a wonderful and true “Christmas gi” I received on that day! A few years later, at 87, Dad passed away, just before our first grandchild was born. But I will always carry that moment in my heart — that amazing moment when he opened the door for Jesus. What great joy — true Christmas joy — I will always have, knowing Daddy is with the Lord. And you know, it is true… a picture can be worth a thousand words! Church Directory 2015 SESSION Moderator Rev. Dr. Douglas G. Pratt Clerk of Session Tom Grafton All of our staff are committed to the mission of First Presbyterian Church and would like to make ourselves available to assist you in whatever way we can. The directory listing below, although not comprehensive, includes contact information that may be helpful to you. PASTORS Rev. Dr. Douglas G. Pratt Senior Pastor/Head of Staff Rev. Steven Grant Associate Pastor Rev. June Barrow Assistant Pastor [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] ADMINISTRATION Elsie Nesbitt Administrator Ed Gonzalez Office Manager Dave Reynolds Accountant [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] BIBLICAL COUNSELING Dr. Al Barrow Director of Spiritual Development Maria Karl Biblical Counselor Janet Greene Ministry Assistant, Spiritual Development Ctr. [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] BOOKCENTER Ed Schick BookCenter Manager [email protected] Elder Emeritus FACILITIES Tom Bunt Facilities Manager [email protected] FAMILY MINISTRY Amanda Zaengle Family Ministry Director Nancy Bolognese Preschool Administrator Lauren Hargis Children’s Ministry Coordinator Rachel Steffens Youth Ministry Coordinator [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] HOSPITALITY Vivien Wain Hospitality Manager [email protected] MEDIA Tommy Hillegass Media Specialist [email protected] MEMBERSHIP Rebecca Harley Membership and Volunteer Facilitator [email protected] MISSIONS Trusha Barner Director of Missions [email protected] PARISH NURSE MINISTRY Stephanie Stec RN & JoAnn Hochstetler RN Parish Nurses [email protected] PASTORAL SUPPORT Donabeth Urick Executive Assistant, Pastor Pratt Judi Van Cleave Pastoral Assistant [email protected] [email protected] PUBLICATIONS Rita J. Flower-Opdycke Publications Manager [email protected] SACRED ARTS Jeff Faux Director of Sacred Arts Peter Lewis Associate Director of Sacred Arts Cheryl Bauer Director of First Academy of Music/ Frank Provenzano 2015 DEACONS [email protected] [email protected] Jeff Wain Event Manager [email protected] [email protected] THRIFT SHOP Lynne & Dave Stauffer Thrift Shop Managers [email protected] WOMEN'S MINISTRY Donna Tenfelde Women’s Ministry Coordinator [email protected] Administrative Assistant-Sacred Arts ELDERS Ron Brown Jim Croley Tom Grafton Mal Griffin John Holdeman Carl Johansen Stevie Joslin Diane Lepola John Lewis David Lyons Mary Ann McCoy Nancy Near Dave Nichols Gary Norbo Monty Robson Dave Stauffer Jack Wallace Sharon Weisenauer Moderator John Hashek James Brandreth Leslie Durling Ellis Gery Polly Grafton John Hashek Joan Havens-Kester Lynn Heinold JoAnn Hochstetler Marty Howard Bob Lorenz Ann Luedke Jerry Meier Wendi Owens Norma Reynolds Peggy Stottmann Judy Teasdale Judi Van Cleave Margaret Winn Office: (239) 992-3233 Fax: (239) 992-7547 First Academy of Music: (239) 992-3410 x232 First Thrift Shop: (239) 992-0285 Spiritual Development Center: (239) 221-8250 Wonder Years Preschool: (239) 948-6677 Event Office: (239) 992-3410 x250 fpcbonita.org NOvEMBER-DECEMBER 2015 | Epistle to the Bonitians 31 Non-Profit Organization U S Postage PAID Bonita Springs FL Permit #14 PO Box 2168 Bonita Springs, FL 34133 Manger Tree by Norma Reynolds Hearing the gleeful yelps and laughter of children at Christmastime is one of life’s precious moments. Here at First Church we have the opportunity to make that happen for local children who may otherwise be silent. Our Deacons are once again organizing the FPC Annual Manger Tree Project. is year we will bring joy and laughter to over 500 children at four aer-school student organizations: New Horizons Super Kids at Bonita Methodist Church, New Horizons Super Kids and Super Teens at Rosemary Park, Pinewoods Elementary Kids Club in Estero and the Bonita Springs YMCA. With your help we can bring Christmas joy to all of these children! e Manger Trees will be set up at the east end of the narthex as you enter the Art Gallery/Café beginning Saturday, November 14. is season, because the church is open on Saturday evenings for CenterPoint Praise, you will be able to sponsor a local child by selecting an ornament on Saturdays, 4:30 to 7 PM, and Sundays following the First Light service until 12:30 PM, through December 6. Each ornament specifies a child’s name, age, gender, and his/her wish list. Aer selecting an ornament, you must register the child’s name with a Deacon to receive printed guidelines on purchasing and wrapping gis within the price range of $25 to $35. 32 Epistle to the Bonitians | NOvEMBER-DECEMBER 2015 You may return your gis to the Manger Tree location on any Saturday or Sunday between the times previously listed through Sunday, December 6. Due to storage and distribution concerns, as well as maintaining equality in value of the gis received by the children, bicycles are not accepted. Gis will be sorted and delivered to each site on Tuesday, December 8. ere are many more children needing sponsorship this year. Please help. If you sponsor a child, we urge you to pray for the child and their family during the Christmas Season. ank you for supporting the Manger Tree project. If you have any questions, please contact Deacons Norma Reynolds (239-948-4774) or Margaret Winn (239-223-8692).