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YOU CAN REACH US FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 1001 S. Rankin Edmond, Oklahoma 73034 Sunday Schedule 8:30 am - Traditional Worship 9:45 am - Sunday School 10:55 am - Contemporary Worship Office Hours Monday - Friday, 8 am - 5 pm Phone 405-341-3602 FAX 405-341-5248 Staff Extensions Pastor On Call Dr. Mateen Elass Rev. John Gruel Rev. Leo Wideman Rev. Dave Leard Alice Tritthart Melissa Tisdell Gretchen Crane Suzanne Seidel Jim VanHemert Anita Plummer Chris Brown Bill Crouch Christy Ford Kristin Leard Lori Jirousek Shelly Fryer Lynette Warnock Debbie Frantz Tracey Rice Jim Booher Dave Dabrowski Zena Nipper Joel Rayburn 222 299 227 226 256 223 225 221 221 281 278 277 238 255 233 242 292 236 284 224 240 260 235 262 to e-mail any staff member: first name initial, full last name @fpcedmond.org. You can also contact us through our website: www.fpcedmond.org PRES (USPS 568-380) is published monthly by the First Presbyterian Church of Edmond, 1001 S. Rankin, Edmond OK 73034-4766. Periodicals postage paid at Edmond, OK 73034. POSTMASTER: Send address change to PRES, 1001 S. Rankin, Edmond, OK 73034. Many of you have asked, “When are you going to share what happened on the Uganda trip?” The answer is Sunday, September 9th. This summer’s evangelism trip was very successful, in large measure because of your prayer support. If you were on the email list or read the blogs online, you may have felt like you were there. If you would like to have more “personal access” to what Jesus is doing in East Africa, your chance will be Sunday, September 9th , (but not in the morning!) Since worship is a sacred time, the team will be hosting a “Dessert and De-Brief” at 7:00 p.m. Sunday, September 9th, in room 2115. YOU are invited. Come if you would like to: (1) Experience stories/pictures/videos not shared online (2) Ask questions of the team members (3) Learn about future evangelism opportunities (4) Sing Ugandan praise songs (5) Eat free dessert! (rsvp to Leo, ext 226) One of the many blessings that comes from reading the works of Christians from past centuries is that they sometimes state familiar truths in language that sounds very fresh to contemporary ears. I had that welcome experience two weeks ago as I was reading a passage from A Preface to Obedience by William Tyndale. Tyndale was one of the earliest translators of the New Testament into English, an early British Protestant who was martyred for his faith in 1536. His writings are filled with passionate expositions from the Scriptures. The odd sentence which caught my eye in this particular book was: “God is no patcher.” I’ve never heard God described that way. And yet, this is a very biblical thought. In Matthew 9:16-17, Jesus observes, “No one puts a piece of unshrunk cloth on an old garment, for the patch tears away from the garment, and a worse tear is made. Neither is new wine put into old wineskins. If it is, the skins burst and the wine is spilled and the skins are destroyed. But new wine is put into fresh wineskins, and so both are preserved.” God is not interested in preserving and extending the old ways of the life of the flesh. Instead he intends to create something new in place of the old. He isn’t willing to patch up the fraying threads of our self-constructed lives; he means to give us a new life instead. He isn’t interested in shoring up our short-sighted dreams; he wants to grant us a glorious future beyond our imagining. God refuses to build on our shaky foundations, as if what we’ve started is good enough, needing only a bit of refreshing or remodeling. If we let him, he will tear down the shoddy workmanship of our fallen characters and replace it with the masterpiece of Christ’s perfect nature. Only such a comprehensive overhaul can meet our desperate situation. So, “God is no patcher.” I find it hard to accept this truth at times, because I’m partial to patches. Indeed, when Cindy and I were dating many years ago, she nicknamed me “Patches” because my two favorite pairs of jeans were barely held together by numerous colorful patches sewn on over the years by compassionate friends. I like to believe that the life I’ve constructed by my own efforts is worth saving by adding a few patches when necessary. But God’s declaration is that my best efforts, even when aided by patches, will not finally hold together in the face of God’s final judgment. What is needed is a new kind of life, not the extension or makeover of my old life. God will not build on an old foundation because the old will ultimately crumble. Instead he offers us through his Son the gift of a new nature, and promises that he will build on that foundation an ever-expanding life able to embrace the eternal joys of heaven. So I put my pride on the altar of sacrifice, and ask God not for a patch here or there so as to save my precious life the way it is, but for the end of my way of doing things and the gift of a new creation instead. As the apostle Paul once said, “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold the new has come” (2 Cor 5:17). Indeed “God is no patcher.” He is instead the author of our new creation, and his work far-out distances anything we might create on our own. To him be the glory! Yours warmly in Christ, Mateen counselor and after learning the background, I recommend a fast track plan for the parents to explore. Sometimes Plan “A” doesn’t work so we have to go on to Plan “B” or “C”. Parents Helping Parents also sponsors a support group so parents have opportunities to meet with others in similar situations. At times, I meet personally with parents but often my only contact with a troubled parent is through an anonymous call. Would you speak to why parents choose to remain anonymous when seeking help? Pat: Parents Helping Parents is a confidential ministry….that goes without saying. However, I find it sad that many are concerned that their church not find out their problem. Addiction is an illness, not a social disease. I have never been in contact with a single addicted person who got there by personal choice. Shame often keeps help away and we separate ourselves from Christ when we try to keep things secret. Of course, I honor the request for confidentiality but I wish our churches offered a greater sense of trust for families in trouble. As we continue to explore ways FPCE members are providing care for others, I recently interviewed Pat Nichols; founder of the Edmond chapter of “Parents Helping Parents” He and his wife Vickie became involved in this ministry in 1999. Vickie is a “background” disciple who assumes a heavier role in their travel business so Pat can devote much of his time to helping others. Pat is quick to say he couldn’t do what he does without Vickie’s support. He says Vickie is his partner in life and in Christ. Martha Turner Congregational Care How did you get involved in this ministry? Pat: I was on a personal search for God’s plan for my life although after taking the Gifts Class, I continued to be conflicted. Finally, I visited with the Gift’s facilitator who suggested I prayerfully wait until I “felt God’s pleasure.” Today, I know this is exactly where God wants me to be. I know first hand the pain that addiction can cause because I am a recovering alcoholic and our son was addicted while he was in high school. How many families in Edmond have Parents Helping Parents impacted? Pat: Over 1300 families---about 80% of them from Edmond. The children who were dependent have ranged in age from 14-42. What help do you provide? Pat: I work with the family who finds themselves on a difficult and lonely journey--often after they have been visited by the police. I am a resource person, not a What can the Church do to help? Pat: First and foremost, the congregation must develop a non-judgmental posture toward families in crisis. I can’t emphasize enough that children slip into dependency through a series of small harmless looking choices. There is no shame in a bad choice…. only shame in pretending things are all right when they are not. I suspect there is not a single family in our church that has not been impacted in some way by drugs or alcohol-- by a family member, relative, friend, or coworker. . We are all sinners….all of us! There is also a tremendous need for volunteers to help with this growing problem. How do you see God in this ministry? Pat: God’s power and grace have kept me in recovery for the past 9 years and I am thankful every day for His mercy. Addiction is the enemy among us and is a growing problem everywhere. God doesn’t want his children to live in dependency. My job is to go where God leads me in helping families separate their children from harm. What advice would you have for parents? Pat: Of course, all teens who experiment don’t become addicted but all addictions begin with a single beer or a first drug experience. It is common for parents and teens to underestimate the problem and over estimate their ability to handle it without outside help. If you suspect a problem, the sooner you seek outside help the better. Don’t wait and hope the “problem” will go away It won’t! What signs should parents watch for with their children? Pat: Patterns of changing behavior, different friends, dropping grades, change in social activities, dishonesty, and smoking. These are the proven early warning signs of possible substance abuse. What would be your advice for teens? Pat: You have a choice. Make that choice not to drink or do drugs. It’s pretty much that simple. And, if you are already in trouble, get help. Start with your parent(s), or if this isn’t possible, speak with your pastor, school counselor, or someone you trust. Addiction leads to loss of life, divorce, sexually transmitted diseases and loss of jobs. Don’t wait until the problem extends itself into other areas of your life. We’ve all heard stories about how expensive it is to seek treatment. Is this true? Pat: Some programs are expensive but others are surprisingly reasonable. There is a program in Enid that costs $2,000 to enroll and $300 a month. There is a Teen Challenge program that is an inpatient international Christian treatment program for both teens and adults. Lack of money isn’t an excuse for parents to talk themselves out of seeking help. It will end up costing either way…. wrecked cars, adult children still living at home, or grandparents raising grandchildren. Addiction carries a price whether through treatment or consequences of abuse. What about alcohol/drugs at college? Pat: This is a critical time in the life of a teen because often there are no established boundaries. Society encourages drinking at all levels and being away at college provides lots of opportunities. For example, binge drinking is very dangerous and often shows up on a campus. I recommend parents talk to their collage age children, ask for a written contract and then watch them carefully—just as they did when they lived at home. One problem is that many parents remember their own college experience and believe drinking is a part of the college scene. Today’s teens face considerably more opportunities for becoming dependent on drugs/alcohol than did their parents. How can you be reached? Pat: Parents can call me at (405) 642-8198 or [email protected]. Also, the Edmond Chapter of Parents Helping Parents meets the first and third Tuesday of every month at the Oklahoma Blood Institute building located on the SW corner of the Broadway Extension. The entrance doors face north toward 33rd street. The meeting starts at 6:30 P.M. and anyone is welcome. Our mailing address is: Parents Helping Parents at 3416 S. Boulevard, Edmond, OK 73003. Report on Coalition Gathering X Held in Houston August 14-16, 2007 The meeting was held at Grace Presbyterian Church in Houston. It started out very HOT on Tuesday, but ended up cooler, with over 5 inches of rain on Wednesday and Thursday. Tuesday the focus was primarily on worship. Mary Naegeli, Co-moderator of the Coalition welcomed us and led us in opening worship. Terry Schlossberg, Executive Director of the Coalition then laid the foundation for this Gathering, reporting on the Coalition’s work throughout the past yearfulfilling mandates they received at last year’s Gathering in Atlanta. In speaking specifically about the desire by some for the major renewal organizations to merge, a desire that prompted conversations between PFR and the Coalition in the early months of this year, Terry said, “Organizations exist for specific callings. Each has distinctives that contribute to the whole.” This, along with many other comments and gestures of welcome, helped create a spirit of togetherness among the numerous Renewal Network organizations who were present. Terry then outlined the proposal the Coalition has created this past year, “Let Us Rise Up and Build: A Plan for Reformation in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.).” This plan was based on a study of Ezra and Nehemiah, and was the focus of work throughout the next 36 hours. (A copy of the summary page of the plan is attached.) Mark Patterson, a pastor from Ventura, CA, was up next, giving a wonderfully clear and challenging presentation entitled “Theological Integrity--Spiritual Vitality.” One of the most compelling points he made was that no one renewal organization is going to be able to change the denomination, and if people are waiting for that, they are waiting pointlessly. We need to be working together--the believers rising up and taking responsibility for renewal and reformation each in our own area. His call was for us to come back to Jesus, and for God to give us a compelling passion for His Son. Jerry Andrews, Co-moderator along with Mary Naegeli, then gave a “State of the Church” presentation, also working in the Coalition plan. There was much positive information for evangelicals in Jerry’s report. Evening worship was very carefully designed following Calvin’s order for repentance. Just as we did at 1st Pres. of Edmond, after studying the scripture regarding renewal and recommitment, the Coalition plan began with a time for confession and repentance. Jerry Andrews preached and Joshua Lee, Moderator of the National Korean Caucus, gave a compelling challenge to seek the power of the Holy Spirit through sincere prayer, convicting us that we do not properly approach our holy and powerful God. A time of prayer followed. Wednesday and Thursday both began with Bible study led by Mark Brewer, pastor of Bel Air Presbyterian Church in Los Angeles. Mark continued the Gathering’s focus on Nehemiah, offering a fresh and powerful witness from his context of ministry in the heart of the LA entertainment industry-clearly claiming who he was as a believing Christian while at the same time offering the welcome of Christ and the Good News to a culture suspicious about biblical claims and teaching. Mary Naegeli followed with a plenary session entitled “Recovering Our Knowledge of Scripture.” She began by affirming that in order for God’s people to live confidently amid days of renewal and the rebuilding of the church, we must be able to answer two key questions: “What is Jesus saying to us?” and “How do we know it is really Jesus?” The answer to both comes in our deepening knowledge of and personal interaction with Scripture. Mary called us back to Scripture opening the Bible together; reading Scripture and getting it into the hands of our people; to centering all of our worship around the proclamation of God’s Word; to read Scripture “transformationally”...slowing down and allowing the Holy Spirit to interpret for us; and to encourage a joyful acceptance of the authority of Scripture in our lives and in the life of our congregations. Workshops were the focus of most of the rest of the day, 19 in all, spread across three different sessions. For some, the highlight of the day came in the evening presentation by Rev. Tom Taylor, (a proclaimed evangelical) the newly appointed Deputy Executive Director for Mission of the GAC. His appointment, along with other evangelical appointments, is one of the really positive developments in the denomination. Tom walked us through the restructuring of the GAC staff leadership, affirming the spiritual gifts these directors bring to their positions, including the most recent appointment of Hunter Farrell (another self identified evangelical,) in leadership of world missions. Tom continued, suggesting that all this restructuring logically leads to the question, “What is next?” Tom’s vision is to help the denomination “...move from attrition to attraction.” In order to do this, he has identified four goals or “lenses” through which he is challenging the GAC staff to see their work: 1. Evangelism and witness based on the Great Commission 2. Justice and compassion based on biblical mandate 3. Leadership and vocation in the spirit of Ephesians 4 4. Spirituality and discipleship shaped by loving God and loving neighbors Tom is determined to help the denomination once again become united in Christ-focused vision, to do everything that can be done to re-establish trust with congregations, to communicate God’s faithfulness in a compelling way, and to share the Good News of Jesus Christ with the next generation(s). We have our work cut out for us if we intend to be witnesses to the Good News without the baggage of perceptions and denominational history. Tom’s presentation was heart-felt, honest, and compelling. We should be in daily prayer for him and for others in the leadership of the GAC structure who are truly committed to Jesus Christ and the proclamation of the transforming gospel of Grace. The day concluded with participants gathering together in groups of similar Presbyteries to discuss how they might work toward implementation of the portions of the plan specifically related to Presbyteries. After Bible study Thursday morning, the Coalition Gathering concluded with feedback from the group sessions the previous evening, an “open-mike” time for sharing, a time for participants to reflect on which portions of the plan they will personally commit to trying to implement, and a final worship service. Report prepared by Jim Cahalan LET US RISE UP AND BUILD: A PLAN FOR REFORMATION IN THE PC(USA) The Plan in Summary The overarching goal of this plan for the reformation of the Presbyterian Church (USA) is the same as it has always been in the history of the Church, that we as a body will exercise what John Calvin said is the Christian’s first and lifelong calling: repentance. We pray that our repentance will produce fruit that will be the reformation of the Church, Christ’s visible body, and that we together will become more faithful, certainly not perfect, disciples of the Church’s Savior, fulfilling the “Great Ends of the Church” and displaying its marks. The need for reformation is deep, widespread, and urgent. Thus, we long for a pervasive reformation that affects every level and every aspect of the church. We recognize how central and essential our congregational life is to the worship of God and to carrying out his gospel mission in the whole world. continued on next page... And we recognize that congregational life is supported by the relationships we have as a body that necessarily extend to fartherreaching covenant communities, which in our polity are presbyteries and General Assembly. We emphasize our own need for reform and our own identity with the deep distress of our whole denomination. We seek to rebuild our own part of the ruined walls of this church. Our goals reflect our commitment to speak first to ourselves and then to the larger church, so that what is rebuilt is of one piece and we are part of it. The working goals of this plan recognize the serious spiritual, theological and moral decline that constitutes the ruin of our body. They are offered as means to strengthen the church’s covenant life and mission by: 1. Returning to the Scripture. Rediscover a right understanding of God’s Word under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. 2. Developing elders competent in order to provide spiritual leadership and pastoral care for the congregation. 3. Preparing elders to lead our congregations and the larger church into the fullness of life that God intends, manifested in direct mission and evangelism efforts and in participation in the governance of the church at every level. 4. Examining ministers of the Word and Sacrament and those in the preparation For three days I had the privilege to attend and participate in the Presbyterian Global Fellowship Conference recently held August 16 through 18 in Houston, Texas with Kristin and Jim Cahalan. Many of you are wondering, “What is Presbyterian Global Fellowship and why do they have a conference?” PGF is a missional movement within the PCUSA that is a network of relationships, ideas, and best practices for equipping persons and congregations to fulfill our calling as the “sent” and “missional” witness to Jesus Christ. This was the second annual conference since the birth of the movement 16 months ago in the spring of 2006. The purpose of the conference was to bring leaders, pastors, elders, and church members together for a time of encouragement through the mutual sharing of resources, needs, and opportunities. We did this by sharing stories of how God is working from the inside-out in the local church. The conference was held at George R. Brown Convention Center. They converted Hall B3 process according to the constitution. 5. Strengthen the church’s covenant life by building up one another and forming covenant communities for mutual accountability and support among presbyters. 6. Building up our pastors’ preparation for and practice of the ministry of Jesus Christ. 7. Streamlining synods by reducing their functions to only administrative and judicial commissions. Move other responsibilities into presbyteries, providing for missional relationships among and between presbyteries. 8. Establishing a closer relationship between presbyteries and the General Assembly in regard to responsibility and authority for policy-making. 9. Electing - to any office at the General Assembly level - those who conform in faith and manner of life with the theology and polity requirements of the constitution, as promised in their vows. 10. Identifying and supporting a candidate for Stated Clerk at the 2008 General Assembly. 11. Preserving a polity that is faithful in belief and practice to Scripture and the confessions of the church, and best represents reformed life in community. 12. Undertaking a study of the doctrine of the Church (ecclesiology) from a particularly reformed perspective. O Lord God of heaven, the great and awesome God who keeps covenant and steadfast love with those who love him and keep his commandments, let your ear be attentive and your eyes open, to hear the prayer of your servant that I now pray before you day and night for the people of Israel your servants, confessing the sins of the people of Israel, which we have sinned against you. Even I and my father’s house have sinned. We have acted very corruptly against you and have not kept the commandments, the statutes, and the rules that you commanded your servant Moses. Remember the word that you commanded your servant Moses, saying, ‘If you are unfaithful, I will scatter you among the peoples, but if you return to me and keep my commandments and do them, though your dispersed be under the farthest skies, I will gather them from there and bring them to the place that I have chosen, to make my name dwell there. They are your servants and your people, whom you have redeemed by your great power and by your strong hand. O Lord, let your ear be attentive to the prayer of your servant, and to the prayer of your servants who delight to fear your name, and give success to your servant…. (Nehemiah 1: 5-11) into the main gathering space for worship with projection screens, lights, and a stage. During the three day event we were on a non-stop schedule that included six main sessions with 12 speakers along with three different workshop times covering more than 29 different topics. There was plenty to hear, see, and do. It was definitely an experience like no other. Proclamation. Just as God stepped out of heaven in the person of Jesus Christ we also must put ourselves in a place where we walk beside others and point them to God as we serve them. The conference opened and closed with keynote speaker Michael Frost, the founding director of the Center for Evangelism and Global Mission at Morling Theological College in Sydney, Australia, and author of six books, including Exiles. He brought a fresh prospective on the word “missional” and what it means to “live missionally in a post-Christian culture.” He opened the conference by giving us a definition for the word “Missional” with three phrases: Mission of God, Participation with God, Bearing the Image of God. Michael talked about how we are sent by God to participate in what God is doing in the world around us. During the closing worship service he challenged us by saying, “We can’t delegate Mission.” Michael encouraged us to remember that being missional involves four characteristics he summed up with these “P” words: Proximity, Presence, Powerlessness, and Sandwiched in the middle of the conference were speakers including Dr. Dave Peterson, Senior Pastor of Memorial Drive Presbyterian Church of Houston, and John Ortberg, Teaching Pastor of Menlo Park Presbyterian Church. They all touched upon the issues facing the world around us, along with those in our own backyards, and how the church is called to respond. They all challenged us to leave the security of the familiar ways in which we “do” church and mission. The yall called us to risk everything for the sake of the kingdom of God. Ultimately, we were encouraged to change our thinking about what it means to be “The Church”, and what it means to be the face of Jesus in the world today. It is the call to respond to the radical claims of the Gospel: to die to self and serve the least of these. David Leard Associate Pastor Acts 2:42 They devoted themselves to the Apostle’s teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer We experienced a full run of the Gathering last year, getting together to share food and fellowship, prayer, and study, and I think we are developing a rhythm now. We have been blessed by Jean Carroll taking over the meal supervision and the great team(s) of folks who have so faithfully helped prepare, serve, and clean up. As we get ready for the next phase we need to remember the importance of community as a major motivation to our gathering. The Holy Spirit calls the church into being as a people. And the church itself is indeed the provisional demonstration of the Kingdom of God. In a culture that is increasingly individual, personal and private we are called to demonstrate fellowship. Let us imitate the New Testament church as we gather for teaching, fellowship, breaking bread, and prayer. In order to make the meal more accessible to everyone we are reducing the suggested cost of the meal to $5.00, with children 8 and under free, and a maximum of $20 per family. Please join us. We will continue to offer B.L.A.S.T. for kids ages preschool through 5th grade which will offer the development of musical production. CAOS for middle school will continue, and there will be a variety of classes for adults. Revolution for high school students is moving back to Wednesday evenings at 7:45. Adult classes will be a blend of “core curriculum” subjects and topical classes. Check out the classes being offered and register now. Sometimes we approach these things with the attitude, “What will I get out of it?” We challenge each of you to consider it from the perspective of “What gifts have I been given for the building up of this body? Who may be blessed by my presence? How can I truly participate in the life of this congregation in this way?” Stay tuned for details and we’ll plan to see you there. THE GATHERING BEGINS SEPTEMBER 5th Dinner 5:15 pm – 6:15 pm For dinner reservaations please contact Melissa Tisdell at 341-3602 x225, fill out a pew card or make reservation online. Chancel Bells 6:15 pm – 7:15 pm Adult Classes 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm CAOS 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm BLAST 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm (5 week teaching/subject rotations) J.A.M. 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm Sanctuary Choir 7:15 pm – 8:45 pm Revolution 7:45 pm – 9:00 pm (Facilitator may adjust time to accommodate lessons) Scheduled Meals for September September 5 September 12 September 19 September 26 Taco Salad Hot Ham & Cheese Sandwiches Chicken Caesar Salad Hamburgers Room 2115 / Facilitators: Rev. Leo Wideman & TBA Women’s Sunday Morning Bible Study Philippians and Colossians Daniel Room 2127 / Facilitator: Emily Blaess Room 2101 / Facilitator: Tim Hast Becomers S.M.A.R.T. Moms “Bad Girls of the Bible” Room 1238 / Facilitator: Clyde Stevens & Rachel Boggess Room 2111 / Facilitator: Cora Boyd The Covenant Pathfinders - One Year Through the Bible Room 2124 / Facilitators: Scott & Lori Briggs, Jason & Traci Eliot, Robert & Amy Reid and Mike & Julie Schneider Bible 101: Old Testament Room 2126 / Rev. Dale and Barbara DePue John Room 2106 / Facilitator: Don Boyd Crossroads - The Gospels and Psalm 119 Room 2109 / Facilitator - Richard Crum Fellowship - God Created a People (September through November) Room 2108 / Facilitators: Julie Cox & Gene Wilson Building Faith / Building Family Room 2114 / Facilitators: Alvin Myers The Newlywed Game Room 2123 / Facilitators: Brian & Laura Reeves * Core Curriculum offerings are those subjects that everyone should experience at some time as part of an intentional process of discipleship formation. These subjects will be identified as Core Curriculum and offered on a recurring basis, both on Sunday Mornings and Wednesday evenings. When you see this symbol, Curriculum class. you will know you are participating in a Core Hey kids, would you like to try something new? At least, new at First Presbyterian Church Edmond! This would be an opportunity for kids in grades third through sixth on Wednesday nights 6:15-6:45 pm to play African instruments while sitting around together in a circle. We will learn about the instruments Shekere (beaded gourd), Gankogui (bell-like instrument), Djeme (drum), Djun Djuns (bass drum of the African drum ensemble) and alto xylophone. There is tremendous variety in the percussion instruments of various cultures within the African continent. Within a given country, several different cultures may exist. We are choosing to work primarily with the Mandederived instruments in our ensemble. I first experienced playing in a drumming circle a couple of years ago and I have been wanting to share that with children or adults at the church ever since. Last January, a workshop was offered through Choristers Guild by Kevin Holland in Dallas, Texas on Remedy for a Prune Face ‘Drumming in the Church’. I attended that workshop and thought what a great way to connect with our brothers and sisters in Africa and other countries by singing spiritual songs in their language. You may have heard the children who participated in the “Made for Praise” Fine Arts Camp sing and play a couple of African songs in worship in August led by Missy Attebery. It was fun and inspiring to see the children enjoy this offering to the Lord. This is a great way to build community within the group as well. Think about it and sign up on the web page. The group is limited to 15. Who knows, perhaps we will be going on the next mission trip to Africa. Amandla ku Morena (Power to the Lord, He loves his people) Anita Plummer “Do you want to stay young? Then join a church choir. Those who sing stay younger looking. A singer’s cheek muscles are so well developed by exercise that her/his face will not wrinkle nearly as soon as that of a non-singer.” So, there you have it. Sing with the choir to keep that young look which everyone else spends lots of $$$ to get! Revised Ministry of Music Schedule 2007-2008 * by audition For more information, please contact Jim VanHemert at 341-3602 ext 281 or [email protected] Group Age Day Time Begins Director TBA Wed TBA Sept 5 Anita Plummer Chancel Bells Adults Wed 6:15 - 7:15 PM Started Terry Attebery JuBELLation 7th - 12th Grade Sun 5:40 - 6:45 PM Sept 9 Jim VanHemert Kids Bells/Chimes 3rd - 6th Grade Sun 4:30 - 5:30 PM Sept 9 Anita Plummer True North Adults Thur 7:00 - 9:00 PM N/A Ben Meek Sanctuary Choir Adults Wed 7:15 - 8:45 PM Started Jim VanHemert Contemporary Choir Adults Sun 5:40 - 6:45 PM Sept 9 Terry Attebery Youth Singers 9th - 12th Grade Sun 4:30 - 5:30 PM Sept 9 Terry Attebery Youth Singers 7th - 8th Grade Sun 4:30 - 5:30 PM Sept 9 Terry Attebery Blast Music * * * Attention Students, Parents and Congregation! New this fall! Student Singers Beginning September 9th 4:30 PM Grades 9 -12 Grades 7 – 8 (By Audition) Terry Attebery Director Jim VanHemert Accompanist To sign-up, go to www.fpcedmond.org and follow the links or e-mail Jim VanHemert at [email protected]. Like many of you, I find great enjoyment from watching a really good movie and once I latch on to one, I tend to watch it many times before moving on to a new one. My most recent favorite is “The Guardian” with Kevin Costner and Ashton Kruther. This movie has it all - action, romance, success, failure, and great struggles both emotional and physical. It is the story of a highly decorated rescue swimmer with the Coast Guard and a talented young swimmer working to become a member of that elite group. So as to not reveal any more of the movie’s secrets, I want to skip to the ending. The lines that caught my attention are “What makes a legend? Is it what someone did when they were alive or how they are remembered after they’re gone?” The idea of what makes a legend is an intriguing one and we can look through the pages of history and find the names of many who have been found worthy to wear the mantle of “legend”. Just recently, many of us sat mesmerized watching a man who is on the fast track to becoming a legend win a prestigious golf tournament right here in Oklahoma. Baseball can’t decide if one of their most prolific hitters deserves that title. Presidents, particularly as they end their time in office, wonder what their legacy will be. For believers, our legendary figure would certainly be our Savior, Jesus Christ. But what men or women would follow Him? I’m confident that many of us would have people like Paul, Martin Luther, Billy Graham or Mother Teresa on our lists because of their tireless spiritual and humanitarian service. Though very different, they offered their lives as a living sacrifice, wholly acceptable unto God. Are all legends famous, accomplished, or rich? Are true legends recognized during their lifetime or after their demise? Is it enough to be a legend in the eyes of a child or co-worker or neighbor without notoriety or fanfare? Do all legends share the world stage or can they be found living and working next to us? If you ask the world, the responses would surely be varied. What if you were given the chance to pose that question to God Himself? Perhaps He would respond by telling us to act justly, love mercy, walk humbly with Him. (Micah 6:8). To summarize, be unfalteringly faithful to our calling as a believer and follower of Christ. Two of my favorite songs offer some insight as to how we can quietly become a spiritual legend to someone if not to many people. “Jesus bids us shine with a pure, clear light, Like a little candle burning in the night. In this world of darkness, so let us shine, You in your small corner, and I in mine.” “Jesus bids us shine first of all for Him, For He sees and knows it if our light grows dim. He looks down from heaven to see us shine, You in your small corner, and I in mine.” “Jesus bids us shine for the world around, Many kinds of darkness may be found. Hunger, need and sorrow, so we must shine, You in your small corner, and I in mine.” Words by Susan Warner © Public Domain “O may all who come behind us find us faithful, May the first of our devotion light their way. May the footprints that we leave lead them to believe, And the lives we live inspire them to obey. Oh, may all who come behind us find us faithful.” Words and Music by JON MOHR© 1987 BIRDWING MUSIC (admin. By EMI CHRISTIAN MUSIC PUBLISHING c/o: MUSIC SERVICES) / JONATHAN MARK MUSIC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. USED BY PERMISSION. For heaven’s sake! Jim VanHemert Minister of Music KIDS’ SUNDAY OFFERINGS KIDS’ WEDNESDAY OFFERINGS Sunday School for Children in 1st - 4th Grade! BLAST! - Believe, Live, Apply, Share, and Tell! Workshop Rotational Sunday School Wednesday Nights from 6:30 – 7:30 / for 1st – 5th Grade Students GRAPPLE – New Sunday School for 5th Grade Students! Preschool Wednesday Nights 6:30-7:30 / JAM (Jesus and Me!) Nursery Sunday School - God Loves Me 3 year olds - Room 1115 / Pre-K and Kindergarten - Room 1112 Infant Room 1124 / Toddler Room 1121 / 2 year olds Room 1123 3-year-old – Kindergarten Sunday School Heartshapers 3-year-old Sunday School / Room 1119 and Room 1115 / (Check classroom for class list) 4-year-old Sunday School / Room 1104 Kindergarten Sunday School / Room 1112 and 1113 / (Check classroom for class list) * Childcare is available during both Worship Services M y Sunday School memories reach way back to the late 1950’s and early 1960’s to an era of women wearing hats and white gloves to church every Sunday, the men wore ties and coats, and everybody ate roast and potatoes for lunch after church, usually with company gathered around the table. My congregation was a growing fellowship of young families who resided in the Brookside area of Tulsa, Oklahoma. Most of the families had one car, one TV, one phone, and attending church was the highlight of our whole week. My Daddy was the worship leader, so that meant I would often sit on the front pew while he was up leading the congregation in all the well-loved hymns that we could sing by heart. Sunday School was the only time we were separated into age groups because there was no nursery or children’s church during worship. Just a “cry room” for the tiny babies and their mothers, and a cloak room for those of us who needed an occasional disciplinary “talk” that might result in a swat if the offense warranted extreme measures. While some people might have had unpleasant memories of these experiences, mine were tempered with the knowledge that I was loved, and my boundaries were secure. There were many people who helped shape a sense of “belonging”, and in those days every Mom was a part of each other’s support system in raising their children. Every Mom, and a few Dads, taught Sunday School at one time or another, but a few of them were so gifted (and called) that they taught all the time and we children had them several times over the course of our growing up years. Such was my favorite teacher “Miss Marcheta”. Her name was Mrs. Ray Felts to the world, but I always called her, along with all my teachers, by their first name with the title “Miss”. Her family history and mine were intermingled in that her parents and my grandparents were close friends and had gone to church together for many years. She grew up with my Mother and her sister, (my Aunt Gretchen), who eventually became her roommate in college. They were in each other’s weddings, babysat each other’s kids, and as we would say today, “did life together” on a daily basis. Miss Marcheta was a Biblical Scholar, although she would deny that, and it was clear that she had a love for the Word beyond simply reading or memorizing it. She loved the power of the words of Jesus to move us to actions of service, repentance, and obedience. She longed to show us the reality of God’s love for us and His nature as revealed through the relationships of men and women He nurtured and guided in the scriptures. One lesson I recall as the clearest was a study of the travels of the Apostle Paul. She took us on the journey from Paul’s participation at the stoning of Stephen, all the way to his final push to share the gospel with his Roman captors and the Jews at large. She had a big map on the wall that showed each path he followed over land and sea, and every lesson helped us see the human side of a man who was used of God to bring Christ to the world. I think she understood that teachers hold the key to making the Bible come alive for eager little souls who need to know that God is real, and that He uses everyday people to do extraordinary things. My faith was shaped by the passion of a teacher who loved the Lord, and loved me enough to invest herself in my life. Sunday School teachers are the foundation of faith builders for future generations. Gretchen Crane Sensitize by Elise Port Darkness It’s de-sensitizing Darkness It’s what you think you want Darkness Tries to make you feel better Darkness It’s all a lie Revolution: SEPT Calendar Sept. 2 Fall Sunday School / 9:45am – 10:45am Sept. 5 Revolution / 7:45pm – 9:00pm Sept. 6 Sr. Lunch @ Bill’s Sept. 9 Fall Sunday School / 9:45am – 10:45am Youth Choir / 4:30pm- 5:30pm Bells / 5:40pm- 6:40pm Sept. 12 Revolution / 7:45pm – 9:00pm Sept. 13 Sr. Lunch @ Bill’s Sept. 16 Fall Sunday School / 9:45am – 10:45am Youth Choir / 4:30pm- 5:30pm Bells / 5:40pm- 6:40pm Sept. 19 Revolution / 7:45pm – 9:00pm Sept. 20 Sr. Lunch @ Bill’s Sept. 23 Fall Sunday School / 9:45am – 10:45am Youth Choir / 4:30pm- 5:30pm Bells / 5:40pm- 6:40pm Sept. 26 SEE YOU AT THE POLE (at school) Revolution / 7:45pm – 9:00pm GARAGE SALE Saturday, November 3 3 Ways to get involved in this FUNdraiser: DONATIONS: We are looking for items such as: children’s toys, furniture, dishes, sports equipment, books, and electronics. Please call Christy at 341-3602 ext. #255 to arrange a time to drop off your items or if you need us to come and pick up an item at your house. PICK UP: We need people to assist us with picking up donations. If you have a truck or a trailer or would like to lend us your muscles we could use the hand. SET UP: We need people to assist in sorting of donated items and pricing them. We will be setting up the week of October 28 through November 2. All of the proceeds from this year’s garage sale will go to support our Mission projects like Soul Food and the Back 2 Back Mission Trip. One day you wake up One day you find out One day you realize That it’s not what you want You’re not feeling better You’re de-sensitized, you want to hide Because it’s a lie; but you can’t Then one day the light shines through One day you discover you One day the truth is revealed And now you’re alive Sensitized Darkness Tries to steal you back Darkness Tries to focus on you Darkness Tries to scare you Darkness Tries to hide the truth But it won’t work You’re being fought for It won’t work You are revived It won’t work You don’t belong lost It won’t work You’re sensitized Because, now you know; You now have hope You now have life You now have love Sept. 27 Sr. Lunch @ Bill’s Sept. 30 Invite a Teacher to Church Fall Sunday School / 9:45am – 10:45am Youth Choir / 4:30pm- 5:30pm Bells / 5:40pm- 6:40pm Because on that day the light shone through That day you discovered you That day the truth was revealed You’re now alive You were revived You were Sensitized CELEBRATION AN AMAZING WEEKEND FOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS WORSHIP, FELLOWSHIP, FUN, FOOD! YOU WILL LOVE IT! OCTOBER 19-21 AT CANYON CAMP COST $95 Senior Lunch at Bill’s Every Thursdays: 1st & 2nd lunch hours 2513 Tredington Way in Chimney Hills Corner of Tredington Way & Chimney Hill Road See You At The Pole Wednesday, Sept 26 7:15 AM @ school STAFF AND PARTICIPANT APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE IN THE PALMER ROOM What happened to the Red Room? The Red Room got a new paint job this summer. What is the new color? Blue. WHY? Many of you are wondering about the Red Room and what’s up with it being painted blue. For one, the room needed a new paint job. The red paint job was showing its’ age. Two, we wanted to brighten the room up so it wasn’t so dark. But, there is the other reason . . . We wanted to be REDefined. We want you to start thinking outside of the box. You see, life isn’t always what it seems to be. Is there any reason why we can’t call a blue room “the Red Room?” Not really! We know it is not what people are expecting. When they hear the color red they are thinking it must be a room that is painted red, not blue. We are sure it will make you stop and think and wonder why and talk about it. To be honest, we really wanted to get your attention on this one. Although the Red Room is now blue, we’re going to keep calling it the Red Room. Why? Because we believe this is a year of REDefining who we are . . . who we are in Christ, what we believe about Christ and lastly, REDefining how we live for Christ. Don’t miss out on what God is doing. Come and Get REDefined! See you in the Red Room. CAOS: SEPT Calendar Sept. 2 Fall Sunday School / 9:45am – 10:45am Sept. 5 CAOS / 6:30pm – 8:30pm Sept. 9 Fall Sunday School / 9:45am – 10:45am Youth Choir / 4:30pm- 5:30pm Bells / 5:40pm- 6:40pm Sept.12 CAOS / 6:30pm – 8:30pm Sept. 16 Fall Sunday School / 9:45am – 10:45am Youth Choir / 4:30pm- 5:30pm Bells / 5:40pm- 6:40pm Sept. 19 CAOS / 6:30pm – 8:30pm Camp CAOS Registration DUE Sept. 20 Late Fee $25 Applies to Camp CAOS Retreat Sept. 23 Fall Sunday School / 9:45am – 10:45am Youth Choir / 4:30pm- 5:30pm Bells / 5:40pm- 6:40pm Sept. 26 SEE YOU AT THE POLE (at school) CAOS 6:30pm – 8:30pm Sept. 30 Invite a Teacher to Church Fall Sunday School / 9:45am – 10:45am Youth Choir / 4:30pm- 5:30pm Bells / 5:40pm- 6:40pm September Class Schedule Nancy Norton Fund: You can make the difference in the life of a teenager today with your donation. Nancy Norton was an active church member and was an adult leader for the youth at the time of her death in June of 1993. Nancy loved her Lord, her family, her friends and her horses. She was an encourager. Because of her love for her church and teenagers, the Nancy Norton Fund was established in her honor. Students are able to “earn” $5.00 per hour they serve others through a variety of opportunities. The money they earn is applied toward up to half the cost of all the trips and events our Student Ministries offers during the year. We currently have over 80 students participating in the Nancy Norton Fund. It really starts to add up at $5.00 per hour. If all of these students attended one of the Fall Retreats that would amount to over $3,600 – not to mention the Ski Trip or Mission Trip or Summer Camp. The good news is students are using the Nancy Norton Fund. The great news is you can make a difference with your donation to the fund. If you would like to make a donation to help replenish the fund you may send it directly to the church finance office or with your weekly offering. Simply put in the memo line of your check – “Nancy Norton Fund”. Thank you for encouraging our students, honoring Nancy, and celebrating what God is doing in our lives. Sun. 2 - Creation page 5 Read Genesis 1 -3 Sun. 9 - Noah and Abram page 6 Read Genesis 6-16 Sun. 16 - Ropes Course Retreat Bring a sack lunch / Wear your Class T-Shirt Sun. 23 - Abraham and Moses page 8 Read Genesis 17, Exodus 1-12 Sun. 30 - Ten Commandments – Part 1 page 9 Read Exodus 19-23 If you have questions or need more information please call Class Coordinator Laura Ganz at 715-0922 or email her at [email protected] Financial Peace Univ., 5:30 pm The Gathering Dinner, 5:15 pm Mothers Prayer Group, 5:30 pm African Drumming, 6:15 pm Chancel Bells, 6:15 pm Adult Classes, 6:30 pm CAOS, 6:30 pm BLAST, 6:30 pm JAM, 6:30 pm Sanctuary Choir, 7:15 pm Revolution, 7:45 pm Parents Praying, 8 pm Cursillo - Camp Canyon Congregational Care, 9:30 am Troop 78 Scoutmasters, 6 pm Civil Air Patrol, 6:30 pm 9/1 AA Meeting, 8 am 9/2 Stephen Ministry Sunday Supervision Group, 8:30 am Traditional Worship, 8:30 am Sunday School, 9:45 am Contemporary Worship, 10:55 am Cursillo Renewal Group, 6 pm 9/3 OFFICES ARE CLOSED! 9/13 9/4 Troop 78, 6 pm Cub Scouts “Bears”, 6:30 pm Cub Scouts “Wolves”, 6:30 pm Denom. Relations, 7 pm Joint Meeting of Mission & Evangelism Comm., 6:30 pm Stephen Min. Tuesday Supervision Group, 7 pm 9/14 9/15 Cursillo - Camp Canyon Friday Morning Men’s Group, 6:30 MOPS, 9:30 am Men’s Conference, 11:45 am 9/16 9/17 Cursillo - Camp Canyon Traditional Worship, 8:30 am Sunday School, 9:45 am Contemporary Worship, 10:55 am Stephen Ministry Sunday Supervision Group, 8:30 am Kids Bells/Chimes, 4:30 pm Youth Singers (9th-12th), 4:30 pm Youth Singers (7th-8th), 4:30 pm JuBELLation, 5:40 pm Contemporary Choir, 5:40 pm 9/5 Wed. AM Bible Study, 6:30 am Financial Peace Univ., 5:30 pm The Gathering Dinner, 5:15 pm Mothers Prayer Group, 5:30 pm Chancel Bells, 6:15 pm Adult Classes, 6:30 pm CAOS, 6:30 pm BLAST, 6:30 pm JAM, 6:30 pm Sanctuary Choir, 7:15 pm Revolution, 7:45 pm Parents Praying, 8 pm 9/6 Congregational Care, 9:30 am Stephen Minister Leaders Meeting, 5:30 pm Troop 78 Scoutmasters, 6 pm Care-Giver Support Grp., 6:15 pm Civil Air Patrol, 6:30 pm 9/7 Friday Morning, Men’s Group, 6:30 9/8 9/9 AA Meeting, 8 am 9/10 SMS Band Rehearsal, 4 pm Troop 78, 6 pm Kids Min. Comm., 6:30 pm Cub Scout “Tigers”, 6:30 pm Worship Comm., 7 pm Adult Disc. Comm., 7 pm Traditional Worship, 8:30 am Journey Kick-Off, 9:45 am Sunday School, 9:45 am Contemporary Worship, 10:55 am Kids Bells/Chimes, 4:30 pm Youth Singers (9th-12th), 4:30 pm Youth Singers (7th-8th), 4:30 pm JuBELLation, 5:40 pm Contemporary Choir, 5:40 pm Team Uganda Presentation, 7 pm 9/11 Oklahoma County Elections Character Council of Edmond, 11 am Tuesday Morning Men’s Gr. , 1 pm Troop 78, 6 pm Cub Scout “Bears”, 6:30 pm Missional Church Listening Group, 6:30 pm 9/12 Wed. AM Bible Study, 6:30 am Character Council of Edmond, 11 am Cursillo - Camp Canyon Men’s Conference, 8 am AA Meeting, 8 am SMS Band Rehearsal, 4 pm F&P Comm. Mtg., 5:30 pm Troop 78, 6 pm Cub Scout Tigers, 6:30 pm Board of Deacons., 7 pm 9/18 Tuesday Morning Men’s Gr. , 1 pm Troop 78, 6 pm Cub Scouts “Bears”, 6:30 pm Cub Scouts “Wolves”, 6:30 pm Stephen Min. Tuesday Supervision Group, 7 pm 9/19 Wed. AM Bible Study, 6:30 am Financial Peace Univ., 5:30 pm The Gathering Dinner, 5:15 pm Mothers Prayer Group, 5:30 pm Chancel Bells, 6:15 pm African Drumming, 6:15 pm Adult Classes, 6:30 pm CAOS, 6:30 pm BLAST, 6:30 pm JAM, 6:30 pm Sanctuary Choir, 7:15 pm Revolution, 7:45 pm Parents Praying, 8 pm 9/20 Congregational Care, 9:30 am Troop 78 Scoutmasters, 6 pm Care-Giver Support Grp., 6:15 pm Civil Air Patrol, 6:30 pm Missional Church Listening Group, 6:30 pm 9/21 Friday Morning Men’s Group, 6:30 am 9/22 AA Meeting, 8 am 9/23 Traditional Worship, 8:30 am Sunday School, 9:45 am UNION, 9:45 am Contemporary Worship, 10:55 am 9/24 Kids Bells/Chimes, 4:30 pm Youth Singers (9th-12th), 4:30 pm Youth Singers (7th-8th), 4:30 pm JuBELLation, 5:40 pm Contemporary Choir, 5:40 pm 9/25 Tuesday Morning Men’s Gr. , 1 pm Troop 78, 6 pm Cub Scout “Bears”, 6:30 pm 9/26 Wed. AM Bible Study, 6:30 am Financial Peace Univ., 5:30 pm The Gathering Dinner, 5:15 pm Mothers Prayer Group, 5:30 pm Chancel Bells, 6:15 pm African Drumming, 6:15 pm Adult Classes, 6:30 pm CAOS, 6:30 pm BLAST, 6:30 pm JAM, 6:30 pm Sanctuary Choir, 7:15 pm Revolution, 7:45 pm Parents Praying, 8 pm 9/27 Congregational Care, 9:30 am Troop 78 Scoutmasters, 6 pm Civil Air Patrol, 6:30 pm 9/28 Friday Morning Men’s Group, 6:30 am MOPS, 9:30 am SMS Band Rehearsal, 4 pm Troop 78, 6 pm Cub Scout “Tigers”, 6:30 pm Session Meeting, 7 pm 9/29 AA Meeting, 8 am Daughters of the American Revolution, 9 am 9/30 PLUG-IN SUNDAY Traditional Worship, 8:30 am Sunday School, 9:45 am Contemporary Worship, 10:55 am Stephen Ministry Sunday Supervision Group, 8:30 am Kids Bells/Chimes, 4:30 pm Youth Singers (9th-12th), 4:30 pm Youth Singers (7th-8th), 4:30 pm JuBELLation, 5:40 pm Contemporary Choir, 5:40 pm Plug-In Sunday Many think we come to church and we get service. The reality is that we are the church, and we come to worship and to serve the Living God! God is calling you to “plug-in” to what He is doing. On Sunday, September 30 the Great Hall will be filled with various ministries of the church. Learn where the Lord Jesus is calling you to serve Him . What better way is there to celebrate someone’s birthday than by praying for them? Please use this list not only as a birthday reminder but a resource to pray for every individual of the church body throughout the year! 10/01 Taylor Belote M.l. Hill Carly Jump Lisa Murray Betty Lou Patterson Katie Roberts John Wayant 10/02 Jay Dawes Bennie Dutcher Joshua Eliot Bill Martin Jeff Stone 10/09 Don Hildebrand Jim Hughes David Hull Chelsea Mitchell Micah Sielert Robbie Slawson Carol Stearns Lance Torcom 10/03 Trent Braden Keri Sue Carter Kenny Frazier Jacob McCarley Richard Nix 10/04 Maddeline Lisle Joetta Myers Berkley Petersen Kristi Roberts Tanna Smith Rex Thomas Matty Tripp 10/05 Dee Dee Brander Mark Hanneman Hannah Hartzog Sherri McClain Stephen Sturges Brett Szymanski 10/06 Olivia Edwards Steve Gray Ty Gunter Carol Harrison David Hooper Rene Jacocks Rebecca McCalmont Brooke Reed Charlie Ruff Zona Scholl Graham Turner Ruth Ann Wright 10/07 Stephanie Coldiron Terry Johnson Easton Mitchell Susanne Nix 10/08 Michael Indelicato Patrick Palmer 10/10 Kelsey Brockert Nancy Coffer Gabrielle Dawes Nicole Knox Tricia Seem 10/11 Linda Rash Caitlin Shogren Chelsea Shogren Laura Vansickle Cindy Winters 10/12 Gratia Bowen Matt Brown Joseph Carothers Scarlett Gooch Dustin Keele Mackenzie Kreplin Amy Livingston Brett Murphy Andrea Tyler 10/13 Emily Hopkins Susanne Jones Austin McLean 10/14 John Bryant Cody Hellstern Mollie Hemric Terry Johnston Debbie Peterson 10/15 Collin Berry Jeffrey Spelman Gene Wilson Matt Swanson 10/16 Anne Carter Dave Hager Marilyn Morton 10/17 Alison Filley John Jennings Alexander Lau Keith Montgomery Kathie Price 10/18 Jasmine Banister Corbin Lothes 10/28 Linda Childress Seth Fuller Ian McCasland Veta Roberts Gene Stephenson Deborah Thomas 10/23 Matt Bown Matthew Jones Benjamin Reid 10/19 Nancy Barrett Allison Craig Caroline Craig Charlotte Greaves Jim Konrad Sidney Longley Don Schiesz 10/29 Morgan Anderson Kelly Jackson Christopher Knott-Craig Haley Swenson Vicky Windsor 10/24 Grayson Brown Bill Clune Tami Hearst Jenni Hoffman Wyatt Landrith Maggie Martin John Meyers Beth Rees Chris Schuyler 10/20 Decker Lardner Rachael Mason Tanna Reed Kristen Sigl Ryan Simm Kristine Wall Chloe Workman 10/30 Elaine Abernathy Shawn Driver Dennis Hughes Dave Peeler Carol Redditt Mike Sharp Shara Snyder Leslie Tucker Paige Warner Brad Windsor 10/25 Aubrey Bailey Mack Cogburn Melinda Norton 10/21 Suzanne Chew Steve Costello Mark Deimund Graham Hill Karen Martin Mike Moore Bill Moran Lance Robnett Jackie Rowland Connie Shanhouse 10/31 Rachel Baer Susan Belote Reese Potts Cindy Schaus Brenda Workman 10/26 Amanda Brown Ted Drab Paul Pustmueller 10/27 Veida Blick Sid Brown Liz Cannon Cynde Clark Warren Filley August Attendance Numbers 8:30 Service 10:55 Service Total Sunday School August 5 271 692 963 281 August 19 176 733 909 288 August 12 August 26 252 323 494 708 Friends and Members, we have started changing locks here at the church. By the time you receive this message, all the exterior locks will have been changed. A small percentage of the interior locks will also have been changed. If you need a key, or keys, please fill out a key request form which may be found in the main entry of the church or in the main office. I hope the transition to a more secure building goes smoothly, and I thank you all for your continued patience. Chris Brown Facilities Manager Laura Holbrook Kim Lange Lou Ann Moore Derek Reid Bryan Spencer Jennifer Welborn 10/22 Laura Baer Kelsey Corken Darlene Dooner David Ezell Laura Ganz John Harrod Daniel McGarry Nikki Nilsen Charles Redditt Denise Ross Lauren Spelman 746 1031 205 703 Financial Report Year-to-Date receipts and expenses compared to budget as of July 31, 2007 Where We Should Be Receipts Budgeted $ 1,347,792 Expenses Budgeted $ 1,347,500 Receipts less Expenses $ 292 Where We Are Receipts Actual $ 1,202,829 Expenses Actual $ 1,309,410 Receipts less Expenses $ - 106,581 Actual minus Budget Receipts/Income Expenses Income less Expenses $ -144,963 $ -38,090 $ -106,603 The Finance and Property Committee members listed below thank you for your continuing financial generosity that permits FPCE to work in so many areas toward the accomplishment of our mission. Feel free to contact us should you have questions about this report. Gordon Andersen Gary Moore Dave Timberlake Tim Hopkins David Story Rick Vermillion The Friday Morning 9:30 AM Class, “Walking through the Word” resumes Sept 7 in Room 2114. The study will be led by Jim Pennington. IT’S COOKIE BAKING TIME AGAIN! We need 3,000 dozen cookies for the Kairos weekend this Fall. In Hebrews 13:3, we are told “Don’t forget about those in prison. Suffer with them as though you were there yourself.” Kairos is a prison ministry designed to establish strong Christian communities among the residents and staff of correctional institutions. We do this by holding three-day spiritual experiences for selected residents where we provide an opportunity for religious renewal. Each person in the institution (not just those on the weekend) is given one dozen cookies each day of the retreat. We had enough last Spring to hand out both days – we need to do it again! With all these cookies coming in, they have to be sacked in white bags, a dozen each. This There are now two kinds of Spam in the world. The Spam I loved as a kid, and the spam I hate as an adult. The sardine-like key (back before the pop-top lids)...the sound it made coming out of the can...the salty-soft texture of “spiced ham” from Hormel. Like baby food...except it tasted good. What’s not to love? Two things happened to Spam that made me fall out of love with it. (1) I grew up and started reading the nutrition label; and (2) we gave away the name “Spam” to describe junk email. Getting spam from anonymous sources is inconvenient; spam from friends is unfortunate; but what do you do with spam from God? I recently tried to establish a morning prayer routine that begins before anyone is awake in my home. Probably not a good idea for a night-owl like myself, but I gave it a go. I prayed to God I would wake up in the morning and spend some time with Him. I set my alarm for 5:00 a.m. but I found the snooze bar was so easy to push (9 times) I stopped setting the alarm. The second day, birds outside my window were making noise at 5:00 a.m. The third day the dog woke me up at 5:00. I thought, “that’s odd,” and let him out before going back to bed. The fourth day the weather radio went off at 5:00 with a tornado watch. The fifth day a thunderclap woke me up with a fright...at 5:00 a.m. “I’m starting to get it, now,” I thought. Day six, fully expecting to be awakened by some sign from God, I actually woke up on my own at exactly 5:00 a.m. I forced myself back to sleep out of disbelief. Finally, on day seven, my phone started to buzz at 5:00 a.m. I got up to turn it off, and realized I had received a spam email greeting card. “I can’t believe God spammed me,” I whispered. I guess talking helps me to wake up, because after that whisper I was ready to go. I thanked the Lord of Heaven for sending me an alarm clock, some birds, a dog, a tornado warning, thunder, body rhythms, and a spam email...just to wake me up. Our quiet time happens later in the morning now, but it’s nice to know that even when we’re casual about prayer, God isn’t. He doesn’t mess around. If you pray it, God hears it, and if He wants it, you get it! Only God could get me to love spam again, because now when I get it (or see it on the shelf), it gets me talking. Leo Wideman Associate Pastor for Evangelism and Mission is done at the churh near the prison where the team stays for the weekend. The leader of the weekend this Fall has aksed me to be in charge of getting this done - HELP! We seem to have trouble getting help to sack these cookies on Thursday afternoon and Friday morning or early afternoon of the weekend. If you are able and feel you would like to help with this ministry in tis way, please plan to have some of that time free on Thursday, Oct 18 and Friday, Oct 19. Give me a call and I will give you all the details. The Women’s Kairos Prison Ministry for this Fall is October 18 - 21. Each team member is asked to provide 100 dozen cookies. I need your cookies by 3:30 PM Wednesday, October 17. Please call me and tell me when you will be leaving cookies in the Church Office so I wil pick them up. There are specific types of cookies that you can donate; these include Oatmeal, Chocolate Chip, and Peanut Butter. Do not add any fruit or nuts to the cookies and do not sprinkle sugar on top. Place cookies in even dozens in boxes. Label each box with type of cookie and how many dozen. Put wax paper between each layer. Love you all and God bless you for giving your time to this important ministry. Julie Cox, Kairos volunteer 359-8882 e-mail: [email protected] Whiz Kids Tutors Needed Dearest Family of God, Now that both our children’s weddings are done, we must thank ALL of you for being so supportive and warm during this exciting time in our lives. Your gifts of presence and presents, plus your well wishes have gone beyond generous. We will rely upon you for your continued prayers and support as they embark on this incredible love lesson from God. A special thank-you to our hardworking custodial staff (who had to stay late on our account), the secretaries (especially Melissa who did more than she should have), Joel Rayburn, our amazing sound crew (Landon and Tom), Jim VanHemert, the marriage committee, Jean Carroll and her gracious assistant, Ann Hawkins (who both did an amazing job with Laura’s reception) and Denise Bergner, our faithful wedding coordinator who keeps many a bride and mother from totally decompensating. But ABOVE ALL we thank our Triune God for the opportunity to glorify Him in obedient ministry with you. May He increase as we decrease. Your fellow servants, John and Leslie Gruel EMERGENCY If you have an EMERGENCY, but the church office is closed, call 341-3602 (church line) and follow the prompts to the designated extension. Your message will be automatically forwarded to the cell phone of the pastor or pastor’s representative on call. Please reserve the use of this extension for pastoral care needs that require immediate attention. You can help break the cycle of illiteracy and poverty for a child this year. Join our church’s partnership with Wildewood Christian Church and Eisenhower Elementary on Oklahoma City’s north side helping at-risk kids become good readers and learn biblical principals for living. Signups are open for caring adults from teen agers through golden agers. Training and orientation will be at Wildewood Thursday, September 13. We’ll meet in our church’s south parking lot at 5:30 pm and take the church van. This is a great opportunity for couples or parents and their teens to work together on a vital mission effort right here at home. For more information call Ken Rees – 210-0828 or John Denneny – 2050086. We’ll see you September 13. FALL At A Glance The Gathering Begins September 23 If you are interested in joining the membership of FPCE please register for the upcoming New Members Class. This 5-week course is an opportunity to explore the basics of Christianity, the Presbyterian tradition, and the mission and purpose of the Church. Lunch and childcare will be provided. Register online, or by calling Melissa at the church office: 341-3602, ext. 225. for the October issue of PRES is September 18, 5:00 p.m. The easiest way to get something in the PRES? Email articles to [email protected] (you will receive a confirmation e-mail of your submissions). Use Joel Rayburn’s box in the church office to drop off photos of your past events. Members in the Military Wednesday, September 5 2 Lt. Andrew T. Wilson, Taegu, Republic of Korea BLAST Lt. Colonel Lance Rodgers, Djibouti, Africa Wednesday, September 5 Men’s Conference September 14 - 15 Cursillo Major Jonathan Whitney, Washington, D.C. USMC Corporal Jason Gay, Kunia, Hawaii September 27 - 30 Captain Laura Lester, Phoenix, Arizona Plug-In Sunday Opportunity Sunday T Sgt. William Nordstrom, Iraq Sunday, September 30 Camp CAOS October 12 - 13 Membership Pictures USMC Captain Jameson McGee, Monterey, California Greg Schulke, USAF, Ft. Irwin, California October 14 and 21 USAF Staff Sgt. Tibor S. Beczo, returned to Georgia from Qatar Celebration USMC Private First Class Andrew Pearson, Iraq October 19 - 21 New Members Class DEADLINE Garage Sale November 3 Green House Union (student) 4th Sunday of the month Together Forever Conference December 7 - 9 One Incredible Moment December 14 -16 Marriage Retreat January 18 - 21 Jonathan Wall, US Coast Guard in New Orleans, Louisiana Kevin Tushka, US Army, Iraq Sgt. Samual Mooneyham, Army National Guard, Iraq Lt. Col. Greg Roberts, Chief NATO AWACS Modernization Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Mons, Belgium Cadet 4th Class Jeffrey Roberts US Air Force Academy Colorado Springs, Colorado