Church Mouse - Shadyside Presbyterian Church
Transcription
Church Mouse - Shadyside Presbyterian Church
The VOLUME 46, Number 2 Church Mouse Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania Newsletter March 2015 www.shadysidepres.org Worship & Music Missions Installation of Dr. Sharps What in the World Is God Doing? Sunday, March 22, at 11:00 a.m. The installation of the Reverend Dr. Conrad C. Sharps as Senior Pastor of Shadyside Presbyterian Church will be celebrated during the morning service of worship on Sunday, March 22. The presbytery in which a newly-called minister serves conducts the installation. The Moderator of the Pittsburgh Presbytery, Ms. Lenore Williams, Elder, East Liberty Presbyterian Church, will preside on March 22. In addition to the Moderator, Dr. Sharps has asked the following individuals to serve as the administrative commission for his installation: • • • • The Reverend Carolyn Cranston, Director of Alumnae/i and Church Relations, Pittsburgh Theological Seminary Ms. Katrina Dunderdale, Elder, Hebron United Presbyterian Church The Reverend Dr. John E. Mehl, Shadyside Presbyterian Church Mr. Terrence H. Murphy, Elder, Shadyside Presbyterian Church • The Reverend Dr. Douglas E. Portz, Senior Associate Minister to Pittsburgh Presbytery • The Reverend Heather Schoenewolf, Associate Pastor for Educational Ministries, East Liberty Presbyterian Church The Reverend Dr. Daniel O. Aleshire, Executive Director of the Association of Theological Schools, will preach the sermon. Mission Dinner Series The mission efforts of SPC are less about what we are doing, and more about what God is doing in our world. Our mission strategy is to prayerfully discern how God is creatively moving in our community and throughout the world, then join in God’s kingdom-building efforts. This vision has led us to some incredible communities where God is surely at work. Most recently, members of SPC have traveled and witnessed Christ’s presence in Malawi, China, and Mexico City. The Mission and Urban Ministry Team believes you will be inspired by the experiences witnessed by those who have traveled as you learn more about the far reaches of SPC mission efforts. Parish Life Please consider attending our new Mission Dinner Series. Dinner will occur from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. in the Hulme Room on the dates listed below. Although there is no charge for the dinner, a freewill offering will be received to offset the dinner costs. RSVP by contacting the church office or by signing up in the Sharp Atrium. The Seventh Annual Sweet and Savory Pie Party • March 4: Malawi Presenter: Elder Don Coffelt • April 8: China Presenter: Elder Ed Wood • May 6: Mexico Presenters: Katherine Ey and Rebecca Verley Sunday, March 22, will be an important day in the life of our congregation, and it is altogether fitting that the observance of this auspicious occasion take place during our normal celebration of the Lord’s Day. An offering for the Oldman Fund, a scholarship for inquirers and candidates for ministry under the care of the Pittsburgh Presbytery, will be collected during worship. A special reception is planned following the service. The Parish Life Ministry will again host a pie party during the Time of Fellowship on Sunday, March 8. We will serve a variety of pies, ranging from sweet to savory, and we are looking for some terrific pie bakers. Sign up in the Sharp Atrium to bring a pie, or call the church office. If you can’t bake pies, come and taste them! We hope you can join us in fellowship. Message from the pastor A Journey Worth the Time My wife Lauren and I were blessed this past month to take a cruise to the Caribbean in celebration of our thirtieth anniversary. While docked in St. Thomas, I was reminded of an opportunity to learn something about life and faith many years ago in the same tropical location. It was Wednesday, and we had disembarked to explore the island. While my wife hunted for the perfect treasures in the market, I found myself investigating a nearby bookstore. As I perused the stacks of books and magazines, a man wearing a clerical collar came into the store carrying a Bible, what appeared to be a hymnal, and several copies of bulletins. I recognized the look on this pastor’s face immediately and identified with the spring in his step. He was in a hurry — probably late! I would not have even spoken to him, except that as he scurried to find a particular person (later discovered to be his church organist), he was told that she was upstairs and would be down as soon as possible. As he waited, I introduced myself and asked about the bulletins. They were for the Wednesday noon Lenten service, and he was there to deliver one to his organist. I could not help but glance at my watch: 11:45 a.m. The lateness of the hour explained the spring in his step. This delightful, welcoming pastor invited me to the service, and then, observing me glancing at my watch, added with a smile, “We might not start until 12:15 or so.” Perhaps it was his gracious invitation or his gentle smile, but this pastor communicated something of the love of God to me in this brief encounter. Haven’t we all been there — running late, behind schedule, scurrying about looking for the very person we cannot find? We do not generally use that time to entertain inquisitive strangers. This man, however, not only took the time, he invited me to the Lord’s house for a time of prayer and worship. I don’t know about you, but my life becomes so hectic sometimes I forget that I am on a journey: a spiritual journey. This journey is what Lent is all about. Lent is a time that we spend in reflection and prayer, affirming what is essential and repenting from all that leads us away from God. Lent can be a time of spiritual transformation. We need not be stuck in self-destructive and negative patterns of sin, for by the mercy of God made known in Jesus Christ, we can change. We can be transformed through repentance to a new life: a life of the Spirit. Where are you on your spiritual journey? Perhaps today you can stop at the crossroads of life, take a break from your frantic pace, and even put away your watch for a time of fellowship, rest, and renewal with others in the worship of God. This is what the Lord says: “Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls.” Jeremiah 6:16 Conrad C. Sharps, Senior Pastor Missions A Message of Thanks from the Community Partnerships MAC On behalf of the members of the Community Partnerships Mission Action Community (MAC), I would like to thank every member of Shadyside Presbyterian Church for supporting our local mission partners when a request for help has been raised. You have volunteered your time during the Sojourner House Women’s Retreat. Because of you, Christmas gifts of pajamas and slippers were provided to women at Pennsylvania Organization of Women in Early Recovery (POWER) and Sojourner House. Kitchen, bed, and bath items were donated to Sojourner House’s Adopt-an-Apartment program, and church members decorated our sponsored apartments. Our confirmation class and their parents purchased presents for a teenage girl who otherwise would not have received anything for Christmas. You have visited inmates in the Allegheny County Jail who are participating in the Foundation of HOPE prison ministry program, and you have rallied with bedding for Off the Floor Pittsburgh. Our mission partners have told me how grateful they are for the ongoing support they receive from Shadyside Presbyterian Church. Your kindness has made a difference in the lives of men, women, and children in our community. May God richly bless you. Eileen Flaherty 2 Missions Why Egypt? The mission trip to Egypt last November was an eye-opening experience for all of the group from SPC: Dr. Rich McGough, Krissy Moehling, Michael Schwerin, and myself. We visited with four new churches and met their pastors and members. We also were able to see churches in various phases of planning and construction. We participated in the 151st Anniversary of the Evangelical Theological Seminary in Cairo — a celebration delayed by one year due to unrest in Egypt during 2013. We also spent one day seeing the ancient pyramids, the Sphinx, and the Cairo Museum. But going to Egypt was really about meeting the people. Being a Christian in Egypt is about being a very, very small minority, and being an Evangelical Christian is an even smaller fraction of that minority. However, the people we met carry God’s love to their neighbors with a joy and purpose that is overwhelming. We spent Above: Gretchen Gockley, Rich McGough, Michael Schwerin, and Krissy Moehling in much of our time with a pastor whose church and home were burned Egypt during their November mission trip. by the Muslim Brotherhood. Yet his faith leads him to help other pastors start new churches all over Egypt to continue to bring the Good News of Jesus Christ and His love to all people. Perhaps what was most impressive was that these pastors seem to believe that they are part of the future for their country. In a country that seems in constant turmoil, where danger comes from so many places, these Christians are striving to participate in forming a better future — one that includes churches that are a glowing example of Christ’s plan. Often as a way to gain an acceptable presence in a country not overly receptive to Christians, these churches, pastors, and members provide education and medical services that will help others to understand the good works they offer to all. So why Egypt? Perhaps because SPC could help not just change the lives of these pastors and their congregations, but because, by helping them, we are helping a part of the world crying out for stability and confidence in what comes next. Gretchen Gockley Missions March Food Collection for East End Cooperative Ministry Food Pantry The Hunger and Homelessness Mission Action Community (MAC) invites members and friends to donate non-perishable food items for our March Food Collection. The East End Cooperative Ministry’s food pantry is experiencing an increase in food requests, and your donations will help to assure adequate supplies of food for the pantry. Bags will be distributed after worship on March 8. A list of suggested donation items will be attached to the bags, which will be collected on Sunday, March 15. If you are unable to attend the service, you are welcome to participate by dropping off your bag at the church during the week of March 8. Additional questions may be directed to Rev. Todd Leach or to any member of the Hunger and Homelessness MAC. Missions Worship & Music Prayers for Mexico: March 7–14 Visiting Choir Our team of fourteen college students and young adults is headed to Mexico City this month to serve alongside SPC’s mission partner, Conexión Mosaico. While there, the team will be aiding in the construction of a retreat center which will provide support for local pastors, missionaries, volunteers, and future mission teams. Please join us in praying for safe travels, open hearts, willing hands, and perseverance while the team is away. If you do not receive a prayer card after our commissioning service on March 1 and would like to pray for specific students and their requests, prayer cards are available in the church office. Sun., March 22, 10:45 a.m. 3 On Sunday, March 22, the Seton Hill Una Voce Choir will present an extended choral prelude from 10:45 to 11:00 a.m. before worship. Plan on arriving early for worship to hear these talented young singers under the direction of conductor Dr. Mark A. Boyle, who is also a member of our Chancel Choir. Session Highlights from Session On Wednesday evening, January 21, 2015, the Session convened for its regularly scheduled meeting. • Customary and anticipated draw requests from the Holland Fund made by the Mission and Urban Ministry Team to support a mission trip to Nepal for Rebecca DePoe and to support a March 7–14 mission trip to Mexico City were approved. • Session approved four fundraising activities which will support East End Cooperative Ministry, a youth summer mission trip, water filtration systems for Haiti, and the March 7–14 Mexico City mission trip. • The Financial Oversight Committee (FOC) provided a financial report detailing 2014 revenues and expenses which balanced at year-end. The report was approved by Session. • The FOC announced receipt of a gift made to the general endowment fund which was acknowledged and received by Session. • A motion to hold the Annual Meeting of the Congregation on Sunday, May 17, 2015, was approved. B. James Shafer, Clerk of Session Care & Support It’s OK to Be Human An important theme of the Lenten season is the humanity of Christ. In Jesus, God became human and fully experienced the wide range of emotions we all encounter in life. Jesus experienced times of loneliness, sadness, hurt, anger, disappointment, grief, and abandonment. That is part of being human. Another part of being human is needing help from each other. God never intended us to be completely self-sufficient. Part of God’s plan is for each of us to turn to others for help when we need it. So when you are experiencing difficult times, don’t struggle alone. Our Stephen Ministers will walk with you, listen to you, encourage you, pray with you, and provide confidential one-to-one care to help you through tough times. Stephen Ministers can bring the love of Jesus back into your life. To learn more about Stephen Ministry, please speak with Reverend Lynn Portz, or Janet Rohrer, Stephen Leader. Our Stephen Ministers are ready to care for you! Janet Rohrer, Stephen Leader Care & Support Divorce Support Group Tuesdays, March 3 through April 28, from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. Most people will tell you that separation and divorce are the most painful and stressful experiences they have ever faced. It is a confusing time when you feel isolated and have lots of questions about issues you have never faced before. Divorce Support is a faith-based program designed to help participants move toward healing and new life. Facilitated by Rev. Lynn Portz, Deacon Eileen Flaherty, and Elder Nat Hunter, group meetings include videos with experts sharing experience and wisdom, and a focused discussion time. Topics include: Coping with Loss; Facing Anger; Facing Depression; Facing Loneliness; New Relationships; Financial Survival; Forgiveness; and Moving Closer to God. We will meet Tuesdays, from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m., March 3 through April 28. To register, please contact the church office. Children’s Ministry Parish Life Appreciation for Soup Sunday ···· Save the Date ···· Our annual winter Soup Sunday was full of delicious aromas and great conversation. The Parish Life Ministry Team would like to thank those who so generously prepared soup and baked desserts, and all who joined us in fellowship. We are truly blessed to have so many generous and talented cooks and bakers among our church family. With grateful hearts, Tricia McGough, Parish Life Ministry Team Vacation Bible School 4 Monday – Friday, June 22–26 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Cost: $40/child; $60/family. Contact Ellen Allston through the church office for details. Music in a Great Space PYSO Returns to SPC to Present Saint-Saëns’ Organ Symphony Sunday, March 8, at 4:00 p.m. The Symphony No. 3 in C minor, op. 78, was completed by Camille Saint-Saëns in 1886 at what was probably the artistic zenith of his career. Saint-Saëns inscribed it as: Symphonie No. 3 “avec orgue” (with organ). The Pittsburgh Youth Symphony Orchestra returns to Shadyside Presbyterian Church to perform this piece, along with Death and Transfiguration, by Richard Strauss, under the direction of conductor Lawrence Loh and accompanied by organist Mark A. Anderson. Above: The Pittsburgh Youth Symphony Orchestra with conductor Lawrence Loh (center) Tickets may be purchased in advance by calling 412-682-4300 or at the door. Details and a full schedule of concerts are available at www.shadysidepres.org/migs. Missions A Glimpse into Our Future: SPC Mission Retreat The mission outreach efforts of Shadyside Presbyterian Church range from educating community youth and feeding the homeless, to international efforts of caring for orphans and promoting health care. Currently, we partner with over twenty organizations who invite us to experience Christ’s presence in our community and in communities far and near. But what will SPC’s future mission efforts look like? How will our recent mission growth propel us to greater relevance in our community and in communities throughout the world? Can we, as a church, enable our vision to grow more fully toward Christ’s vision for us? And, how can we as individual members grow toward that same vision? Rev. Todd E. Leach will lead our annual mission retreat, which will occur on Saturday, March 14, from 9:00 a.m. until noon. All members are invited to attend. The retreat will be held at the Neighborhood Academy and will include a student-led tour of the Academy’s new facilities. To receive additional information, please contact the church office. New Members worship & music An Invitation to Membership Second Sunday of Lent, March 1, at 11:00 a.m. with Communion Sunday Worship The Reverend Dr. Conrad C. Sharps preaching A two-week orientation class for new members occurs Third Sunday of Lent, March 8, at 11:00 a.m. Sundays, March 8 and 15, Fourth Sunday of Lent, March 15, at 11:00 a.m. from 9:45 to 10:30 a.m., and will include an overview of Presbyterian beliefs and history, as well as an opportunity to learn about the various ministries of SPC. Infant care and children’s Sunday school run concurrently. New members will be received on Sunday, March 15, and recognized in worship that day. If you would like to register for the class, please contact Ruth Garrett in the church office. The Reverend John F. Magnuson preaching The Reverend Dr. Conrad C. Sharps preaching Fifth Sunday of Lent, March 22, at 11:00 a.m. Choral Prelude at 9:45 a.m. • Installation of Dr. Sharps The Reverend Dr. Daniel O. Aleshire preaching Palm Sunday, March 29, at 11:00 a.m. The Reverend Dr. Conrad C. Sharps preaching Lenten Vespers Wednesdays, March 4, 11, 18, and 25, at 7:00 p.m. These 45-minute candlelight communion services include music offered by the Shadyside Strings, Chatham Baroque, and the Choirs of the Pittsburgh School for the Choral Arts. Childcare is available. 5 Address Service Requested 5121 Westminster Place • Pittsburgh, PA 15232 Church Office Telephone: 412-682-4300 www.shadysidepres.org www.facebook.com/ShadysidePresbyterian Parish Life Deacons Midweek Luncheon and Light Bite Night Easter Lilies The Parish Life Ministry Team invites church family and friends to the following events. Please make your reservation by signing up in the Sharp Atrium or by contacting the church office. Midweek Fellowship Luncheon on Wednesday, March 11 From noon to 1:15 p.m., join us for great food and fellowship. Our guest speaker will be Peter Freymark, who will share with us his faith journey in international business. Potato leek soup, salad, rolls, and cheesecake will be served. The cost is $5. Please RSVP by Monday, March 9. Light Bite Night on Wednesday, March 18 Join us any time between 6:00 and 6:45 p.m. in the Parish Hall for a wonderful time to connect with one another over supper before vespers at 7:00 p.m. The menu will include meatball submarines with toppings and dessert. Cost: $6. Children 10 and under: goodwill offering. Please RSVP by Monday, March 16. The Board of Deacons is again providing the opportunity for the placement of lilies in the sanctuary during the worship services on Easter morning. Orders may be placed in memory of loved ones at a cost of $8 per lily. Order forms are available in the narthex and the church office and must be received by Sun., March 15. Sustainability Communications Paper Recycling Program Introduced Deadlines for the Mouse are the first business day of each month. The Sustainability Committee is thrilled to announce that the church has begun recycling paper. We are able to recycle all types of paper (white, construction, corrugated, stapled, etc.) in any of the blue bins located throughout the building. You are also welcome to bring any paper or cardboard from home that you would like to recycle and place it in the bin labeled “Paper Retriever,” conveniently located in the parking lot behind the church. Thank you for your support and participation in this exciting new program. 6 Monday, March 2 April issue Wednesday, April 1 May issue Please submit Mouse articles to the editor, Peter Bodnar, at [email protected]. Comments are welcome.