Newsletter - Yorba Linda Presbyterian Church
Transcription
Newsletter - Yorba Linda Presbyterian Church
Grapevine March, 2015 Palm/Passion Sunday with Communion March 29, 9:30a.m. With joyous songs and the waving of palms, we remember the steps of Jesus as he is welcomed by the crowds into Jerusalem as their King. We then follow the events that quickly turned to the last hours of Christ on earth when he shared his Last Supper in the Upper Room with his disciples, leading to his journey to Calvary. Mission Statement: Good Friday Tenebrae Service Friday, April 3, 7p.m. Through sacred and inspirational music, scripture, and prayer we continue observing Holy Week as Jesus enters the Garden of Gethsemane in prayer, followed by his trial, conviction, and crucifixion. Join the Chancel Choir, Gloria Ringers, and guest flutist as we meditate, extinguish lights and reflect on the sufferings and death of Christ for us and our salvation. Easter, Sunday, April 5 9:00 a.m. and 10:30a.m. Worship Services We hope you will join us as we celebrate, with glorious sounds of trumpet, bells and voices, the joyous event of the Resurrection of Our Savior, the means of reconciliation with God for human salvation. A special Easter Egg Hunt will be held during Sunday School at both services. For those who wish to attend a Maundy Thursday service, we invite the congregation to attend Canyon Hills Presbyterian Church’s service in Anaheim Hills from 7-8p.m. Worship God Through Jesus Christ; Prepare Disciples through Biblebased teachings and activities; Serve the World through a caring congregation growing within while reaching out. Sunday Morning Worship: 9:30 AM Yorba Linda Presbyterian Church 19301 E. Yorba Linda Blvd. Yorba Linda, CA 92886 714.777.6822 www.ylpc.org From the Pastor A few years ago, my kids and I went to Big Bear to enjoy some days in the snow. The weather was rainy and we knew that the mountain roads going up the front way required chains, so we took our chance and decided to go the back way - via the desert and Lucerne Valley. When we stopped to eat near Apple Valley, the sun was shining brightly, yet the air was bitingly cold. After enjoying a hearty lunch, we headed out to the desert. As we turned up the small 2-lane highway, the mountains were to the east of us and the desert was to the west. It was quite an amazing sight. The mountains majestically rising from the ground appeared ominous. Large grayish black swirling clouds covered them and we could practically see the snow falling. To the right of us was the desert, as flat as the eye could see. In contrast to the mountains, the sky was clear and brilliantly blue and in the sky were rainbows. Yes, not just one, but a double rainbow, both of them completely full. We were in awe. We don’t see rainbows everyday, let alone two full ones. For me, the seasons of Lent and Easter mirrors this experience. We observe the 40 days of Lent to remind ourselves of the pain and suffering that Jesus experienced as he journeyed to the cross. First, he was mocked and ridiculed. Then he experienced the pain of wearing a crown made of thorns, the disgrace of having clothing gambled for, the knowledge of being rejected by his companions, and the loneliness of being forsaken. It was an excruciating death being crucified on a cross. But then something unexplainable came to pass. It’s like a day that God created the most enormous rainbow in a brilliant blue sky, one that covered the whole earth. Through the darkest of dark days, Resurrection happened - the day of life and forgiveness. Easter only comes by the way of Good Friday. The day of crucifixion is called good because all of God’s goodness to us and for us happened because of this day. We are the ones that stand in awe and humbleness because of this radiant event, a day that changed the world and our lives forever. As you continue on this Lenten journey and as we get closer to the celebration of Easter, I encourage you to not only to understand the darkness that surrounds you, but to get ready for the rainbows in life that lead you. In Lenten faith and Easter blessings, Ann 2 Worship PNC Update Holy Week Update We are moving closer in our process to find an installed pastor. At our February session meeting, Rev. Forrest Claassen, Stated Clerk for Los Ranchos Presbytery and Jack Clement, Chair of Committee on Ministry (COM) shared the next steps for our search process. Discussion included the possibility of searching for an installed pastor or a designated pastor, the financial responsibilities between the PNC and the Session, the need for complete confidentiality for the work of the PNC, etc. There was also discussion about the importance that the PNC be represented of the whole congregation. While there were three options to consider, after a healthy discussion, session made the decision to utilize the congregational nominations committee to execute the process of selecting and nominating the slate of members willing to serve on the PNC. PNC is voted on by the congregation. The nomination’s committee is beginning that process with elder, Jim Bowman as the chair. . Presbyterian ‘Lingo’ to know as we move to call our future pastor: PNC = Pastor Nominating Committee. This is the committee that the congregation will elect composed of members of the church that reflect the demographics and ministry interests of the congregation. MIF = Ministry Information Form. This is the required form of the PCUSA of all congregations who are doing a pastor search (formerly called CIF). The MIF reflects the demographics, needs, interests of the church and the characteristics they are seeking in the next pastor. The PNC puts this together and then submits this to the . . . CLC = Church Leadership Connection. The CLC (the ‘EHarmony of the PCUSA) matches the MIF with the . . . . PIF = Personal Information Form. This is the required form of the PCUSA of all pastors who are looking to find a new call in ministry. It reflects their education, experience, theological beliefs and understanding of their personal gifts. It also includes their Statement of Faith and references. 3 This year the worship committee and session decided to celebrate Holy Week with three services remembering the passion, crucifixion and resurrection of Our Lord. The goal is to provide settings for worship that brings the congregation together in corporate worship as we commemorate Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem, the Last Supper, the betrayal, the crucifixion, and then rejoice in his triumph over death in his resurrection. Nomination’s Committee Update On February 25, the nomination’s committee met to discuss the steps needed to find members who are willing to serve on the Pastor Nominating Committee. Members are encouraged to contact Jim Bowman or any of the Nomination’s Committee, if they are interested in serving. Please look for weekly updates in our bulletin regarding this process. One Great Hour Of Sharing An offering will be taken on Palm Sunday, March 29th. Offering supports people in need of food, water, shelter, relief from crisis and catastrophic events, and developmental assistance. Student Ministries Greetings YLPC family! It has been a wonderful start to the year here in our youth ministry. We recently finished our series on the Old Testament learning about Moses and other important men and women such as Joshua and Deborah. Additionally, our High Schoolers returned tuckered out after a jam-packed weekend in the mountains at Forest Home Christian Camps where they learned how to start an avalanche of change for Christ. If you see them, ask them about what it means to be a "lone nut" or about the four "I's" (Imitate, involve, initiate, and invite). Some of our boys also participated in a grand polar bear swim, where they plunged into a frigid creek of snow melt after a readings from John 3. What an adventure! You can see the brave souls in the photo below just moments after the predawn lesson. Take a moment to check out our new website. YLPC.weebly.com. There you can do cool things like learn about our next GOY event. On March 7th, starting at 6:00 p.m., we will be venturing to Danielle's for dinner and a bonfire. Finally! Don't forget to invite all your friendly students to join us for regular programming! Sundays 53:30 for Ohana (middle school) and 6:30-8 for Koinonia (high school). This Lent we will be joining the congregation as we study Soul Feast! Your Interim Student Ministry Leaders, Danielle Martinez and Chris Hebein 4 Children’s Education Facilities Update Emmaus Road Sunday School A Huge Thank You … In February we studied the Lord’s Prayer in a variety of ways. In the Information Station, children played a computer game called Galilee Flyer. In this game, children navigated an airplane over the town of Galilee while answering questions about the Lord’s Prayer. In the Interpretation Station, children used color to help them memorize the Lord’s Prayer. They made prayer beads to take home. In the Interpretation Station, children made prayer bread as they learned about ACTS, (adoration, confession, thanksgiving, supplication) which are parts of a prayer. They wrote their own prayers, using ACTS, on ribbons and hung them on trees throughout the campus. On Celebration Sunday, children experienced the ancient spiritual practice of praying the Labyrinth. In March we will study Jesus’ Last Week with the Disciples. …to our congregation for your patience as the Facilities Committee addresses several issues involving our campus here at YLPC. In our continuing efforts to be “front and center” with information, here is the status of issues you might have questions about. God’s Family at the Table: Childr en in thir d gr ade, and their parents, are invited to attend a “God’s Family at the Table” workshop on Sunday, March 22nd from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m.. We will explore the meaning behind Communion through numerous interactive experiences. On Sunday, March 29th, participants will be recognized in the Communion service. Fourth and fifth graders who have not attended this class before, are invited to participate. Register through the church office or contact Kim Wisnia at [email protected] The new phone system has been installed, including a private voice mail system. This means that all messages left for the Pastor or Staff will be confidential. We are currently receiving additional bids from outside contractors to redesign and seal the Sanctuary roof leak around the column, and the leaks in the Men’s and Women’s restroom. Additional roofing repairs are also being considered for long-term leak prevention. A “Campus Care Day” is being organized for March 21st, and will address several maintenance and beautification projects around our church. This will be one of 3 such events throughout the year, the others are on June 20th and August 29th. We hope you will set aside a few hours on one or all 3 of these days to come out and enjoy the sunshine, get your hands a little dirty, and create even more pride in our beautiful campus. A project is also being considered whereby each Parish will have an opportunity to “Adopt” a certain flower bed and be responsible for its maintenance throughout the year. Details on that will be coming soon. Normal repairs and maintenance are continuously being done, and you can help by simply pointing out to us when you see something in need of repair. Contact either the YLPC Office, or the Facilities Committee so we can address the problem. One Great Hour of Sharing: Once again, we will be collecting the One Great Hour of Sharing offering. Fish banks and information on the offering will be distributed in March. Please return them on Palm Sunday, March 29th. Palm Sunday: If your child would like to be par t of the Palm Sunday processional on Sunday, March 29th, meet on the patio 5 minutes prior to the start of the worship service. Easter Eggs and Candy Needed: We will have our annual Easter Egg Hunt on Easter Sunday during Sunday School at both services. We are collecting plastic eggs and non-chocolate wrapped candy to fill on March 22nd. Please bring any donations to church prior to the 22nd. Again, thank you all for your help in keeping our campus clean and attractive. With your ongoing attention and your participation on our 3 Campus Care Days, it will insure our surroundings will remain as pleasing as ever! Save the Date: August 3-7, 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. Summer Intergenerational Arts Camp A gathering of all ages to explore God’s creation through music, art, drama and more. Watch for details and registration information Mike Jacobs and Matt Kelly FACILITIES COMMITTEE 5 Announcements March Birthdays Rylan Kordolis 03/05 Bill Watt 03/05 . Rachel Bird0 3/08 Danya Hoban 03/11 Roxanne Ford 03/12 Kristen Blincoe 03/13 Linda Richey 03/14 William Naylor 03/15 Mary Ellen Trefry 03/15 Tom Thrasher 03/16 John Sheldon 03/17 Jason Watt 03/17 James Goran 03/18 Jade Letourneau 03/18 Amanda Park 03/18 Shelly Rooks 03/18 Easter Lily Envelopes will be in your Sunday worship bulletins beginning on March 15th. Each plant is $12. Please fill out the envelopes and have them in the church Office by March 28th. You may also put them in the offering plate. The lily dedications will appear in the Easter Sunday bulletin. Adam Stokes 03/18 Izabel Letourneau 03/20 Cynthia Bowman 03/21 DID YOU KNOW! Dick Wales 03/22 Julianna Thrasher 03/25 Linda Burne 03/26 Sara Ros 03/26 Libby Ragole 03/28 Ken Hess 03/29 Samuel Davis Kent IV0 3/29 Marlies Lunger 03/29 Kyle Paul Criswell 03/3015 Emily Green 03/30 Brandon Mamaril 03/31 Our very own Rowen Sabala will star in the title role of an upcoming KCETLink performance! On March 31st at 8:30p.m. the television special ‘Vireo: The Spiritual Biography of a Witch’s Accuser’ will be aired. Viero is a new opera composed by Lisa Bielawa and brought to life through the partnership of California State University of Fullerton with Grand Central Art Center. Along with Rowen, who plays the lead role of Vireo, the program will feature the Kronos Quartet and other performers. Rowen is part of our youth program and Celebration Choir and is the daughter of Greg Sabala, one of our sound technicians. 6 February Session With one family’s request for removal and two requests for letter of transfer, YLPC membership is 247. Annual Reports to the Presbytery were presented by the Clerk and approved. Rev. Forrest Claassen and COM chair Jack Clement presented information regarding the process of forming a PNC and the options available. Deacon’s provided a wonderful selection of treats for the Session members in appreciation of the work put into the Mission Study. The Generative Catalyst Report was discussed and depending on the meeting date, representatives from Session were chosen. CE reported that they are hoping for more people to sign up for the Lenten Adult Bible study and that they are searching for ways to get more involved with community. Worship Committee added two new members: Ila Hitt and Roxanne Ford Stewardship reported income was down by about $5,000 but that it is not unusual for the start of the year. They are keeping an eye on it. Facilities reported training has begun on the defibrillator. Roof repairs bids are coming in. Phone system is being installed. The office desks were delayed 2-3 weeks due to measurement errors by the supplier. Work party dates are 3/21, 6/20 and 8/29. Bids for parking lot resurfacing are being gathered and the Facilities Usage Study is proving to validate the Mission Study findings. Decision regarding the modular will be discussed next month. The Nominating Committee is close to finalizing a slate of Elders. Presbytery Commissioners will be chosen at the next Session meeting. Ann shared concerns and prayers for members of the congregation. She encouraged Session members to participate in the Lenten study and shared some of her experience at the recent Pastor’s Retreat. Respectfully submitted, Chris Hills, Clerk of Session January Financial Report OPERATING FUND: Summary Results Through January, we expected to receive $35,425 and actually received $30,292. Also through January, we expected to spend $37,687 and actually spent $34,165 and Reserved $4,111 for funds budgeted but not spent. Cash Position $ Operating 149,615 Less: Restricted Funds* Unrestricted Funds $ $ 117,137 32,478 Mtg. Reduction $ 9,056 $ $ $ Total 158,670 20,992 $ (11,936) $ 138,128 20,542 * Restricted funds are restricted to use for a specific purpose. These include designated gifts, program reserves, payables, reserves for building maintenance, and reserves for unspent program budget. MORTGAGE REDUCTION FUND: This year we have received contributions of $190 and paid $3630 in principal. LOAN BALANCES - Mortgage Reduction General Assembly Loan II $ PILP Total Loans $ 1/31/15 Loan Payment 6,202 $ 309 353,307 4,668 359,509 $ 4,977 Interest Rate 4.50% 4.50% OPERATING FUND Summary Results Through July, we expected to receive $220,647 and actually received $222,027.Also through July, we expected to spend $218,160 and actually spent $209,975 and reserved $10,612 for funds budgeted but not spent.