Pasadena Presbyterian Church
November 2010
Go to:
From Me to You
Session Digest
Stewardship Ministry Update
Financial Report
Evangemissions
Are You a Pig or a Chicken?
Pasadena Presbyterian Women
Calendar
Library
Faith Community Nursing
Preschool
Fellowship
Praise Kids
Samaritan's Purse: Operation Christmas Child
Youth
Building the Beloved Community
Sunday Worship Attendance
What's New at PPC
Birthdays
“Fight the good fight of faith.”
(1 Timothy 6:12)
What is the difference between a cruise ship and a battleship?
We’d think the answer would be obvious, but apparently it isn’t for many churches.
Cruise ships are designed to carry lots of passengers, usually on a round-trip to nowhere.
Battleships have trained crews and definitive missions.
Cruise ships have cruise directors whose job is to keep the passengers entertained and happy.
Battleships have officers who make sure every crew member knows his or her duty, is properly equipped, and is able to carry-out assignments as part of a team.
Cruise ships hit ice bergs and sink; Battleships take torpedo hits, fix them, and fight on.
Cruise ships are for vacations and sight-seeing; Battleships are built to win wars and change the world!
So, which are we at PPC—a cruise ship or a battleship?
If we take seriously Paul’s letter to his “fellow soldier” and disciple, Timothy, we are and are to be a battleship: we are to fight “the good fight of faith”—which means doing all we can to get the Gospel of Jesus out to the world, to win the world to Christ in His love.
To be victorious, battleships need good officers and dedicated crew members--two of the characteristics I believe we do have at PPC in our church staff and church family. Battleships also need ammunition and fuel to take the fight to the enemy: in our case, “ammunition” is the Spirit’s gifts given to each of us to use in Christ’s service; “fuel” is the financial provision God gifts each of us with, so we can give to move our “ship” along, to win souls and transform lives in Christ.
Currently, PPC is facing a “fuel” shortage—giving is down about 15% and we’re running about $40,000 in the “red” for the year-to-date: a trend which seems to be occurring in churches across the country due to difficult economic conditions. Making-up that deficit by year’s end will be vital to continuing on our mission at full speed and with full staff; additionally, pledging for 2011 (November 14 is Pledge Sunday) will be critical to the “battle” plans we are making for next year.
As members together of this “crew,” we all need to step-up, take our places, do our part, and give as the Lord guides and provides, so that this “battleship” will continue to bring the Good News of Jesus to others here in our “home port” and around the world!
Grateful to be sailing for Jesus with you, His “crew” of the I.H.S. (In His Service) Pasadena Presbyterian Battleship!
In Christ,
Carl
Session Digest: September 28, 2010
The Session had their monthly Stated meeting on September 28, 2010 in the Boswell room, 7 p.m.
The following items were discussed and/or acted on:
1. A Session Fall Retreat is scheduled for October 30 from 8:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. in the Boswell room. This retreat will be combined with the monthly meeting for October. The Deacons, Leslie Hughes (DOFM), and Pastor Anthony Oliver (MIR) will be invited to attend.
2. Elders Smith and Hansell were elected to be commissioners to Presbytery on September 30.
3. The resignation of Leslie Hughes as Elder was approved. This was necessary due to her being on staff part time as the Director of Family Ministries.
4. A projector was placed on the wish list.
5. Pastor Carl Crawford was approved for vacation on November 17-28 and December 26-31. Pastor Bob Bellingar will be on call during those times and will preach on November 28 and December 26.
The full minutes are available in the office and can be read by any active PPC member.
Larry Oline, Clerk
Stewardship Ministry Update: Yearly Stewardship Campaign Kickoff
It's time for Pasadena's yearly stewardship campaign and this year it's especially important. Many Christian charities' and ministries' balance sheets are in worse shape and we want to thank all of you who have given so faithfully in this longer-than-usual downturn in the economy. But, Pasadena is now starting to fall behind. We do need to catch up and eliminate our deficit so we can finish this year strong, with a balanced budget.
Years ago I was asked to give a short talk about stewardship and I wasn't quite sure what to say. I thought about saying it's good for your growth in Christ; it's a sign of a maturing Christian faith, or, that we are only stewards; it's actually all God's money anyhow. But what I finally said was what Nike was saying about exercise at the time: "Just Do it". And, like exercise, it's good for our growth and builds up our spiritual muscles. While not exactly pleasant and requiring quite a lot of discipline, exercise can make you cheerful. Giving also releases fear and worry and increases your trust in and obedience to God.
Thanks again for your gifts. The harder the times, the more they mean to God. As Jesus pointed out with the familiar story of the widow's mite: Giving when it's hurting is much harder and so is honored more. A true sacrifice smells sweet to God and pleases Him.
Tom Smith, Stewardship Chair
Pasadena Presbyterian Church Wishlist |
||
| Nature of Project | Estimated Cost | Received |
| Youth Sound Equipment (speakers, etc.) | $1,500 | New item |
| Sanctuary Projector | $4,000 | New item |
| Youth Projector | $1,000 | New item |
Financial Report: September 30, 2010
The Financials for September show actual income $22,115.86 with expenses of $42,696.89 leaving us $20,581.03 in the red.
Year to Date 2010 |
|
| Actual Income | $264,466.05 |
| Actual Expenses | $306,639.99 |
| Red | $ 42,173.94 |
PPC Foundation |
|
| Pasadena Foundation | $ 27,337.77 |
| Wahl Scholarship | $ 49,719.36 |
Cash Available
Checking Accound Balance: $16,139.32
Cash Reserves
General Reserve MM $54,954.41
Total Cash $71,968.19
“My yoke is easy and my burden is light . . .Matthew 11:28-30
What is Jesus’ yoke anyways? Anyone who has actually devoted themselves to following God’s instructions will understands that God is forever asking people to do things which are hard, if not practically impossible.
One of the greatest lies the world tells us is that a good Christian life, is having safe, respected, comfortable, hopefully prosperous lives. But over and over in scriptures we see that God calls people to live recklessly in following Him. God asks us to give up absolutely everything in order to follow where He leads.
Remember where Jesus says, “seek first God’s kingdom and His righteousness and all these things will be added unto you.” (Matthew 6:33) We are called to do what God asks us to do regardless of the cost and trust that God will cover us. Seek first God’s kingdom. Always and in all things, regardless of the cost. God will cover you. The problem is that inevitably, there is a cost. There is suffering involved. Sometimes it seems like God’s not doing His part. There’s not enough money to pay the bills. Your car breaks down. Your new neighborhood is dangerous and unwelcoming. You begin to think that maybe you’ve just been foolish. God isn’t really going to cover you. He wants you to use good judgment and take care of yourself, not do foolish, reckless things. After all, you’ll find more than enough good Christians who will tell you just that.
Just a couple of verses before the famous yoke verse, Jesus prays to his Father, “I praise you Father, lord of heaven and earth because you have . . . revealed [these things] to little children.” (Matthew 11:25) It comes down to a child-like trust. This is Jesus’ yoke. Even in the midst of disaster, we can trust that God is in charge, that He has a purpose for what is happening. Or if it is an attack of the enemy that He will aid us in the battle so that we can overcome. So you trust. You don’t despair, you don’t curse God or your lot. If you allow the Holy Spirit to work, you find that the fruits of the spirit continue to grow. Instead of anxiety, there is this joy and peace.
And then you begin to wonder if you are crazy. It doesn’t help that people keep coming up to you with sad puppy eyes to ask in tones usually used for those suffering from dementia, “how are you doing?” So you begin to wonder. “I thought I was OK. Actually, I’m pretty happy. Maybe I am just kidding myself.
We struggle with the yoke because it is easy and light. We’re like oxen who have been trained up under too much weight- always having to lean into it, tug and pull and huff and puff at the exertion of carrying this heavy yoke. And then Jesus comes along and gives us His yoke. But it just feels wrong. It’s so easy and light. It can’t be right. So a lot of us go back to our old, heavy yokes. They’re painful, but at least they feel like they fit.
And then all of us Christians who have taken back our yokes (if we ever actually took them off to begin with – most don’t), sit up at night and worry just like everyone else. And we live just like everyone else, because God can’t really think I’d be able to go there or do that – He knows what an unreasonable burden it would be. That’s for saints and missionaries, not for everyday Christians like me who are just trying not to get into trouble.
And this is exactly how we lose our saltiness. Then we wonder that Christianity is seen as fit for nothing more than to be trampled underfoot. But Jesus’ yoke is easy. His burden is light. That’s a good thing to do, because there’s no way we can go to the crazy places God wants to send us carrying our own yokes. We just have to be willing to trade our worry and sorrow for peace and joy. Give up our safety and respectability for gentleness and humility. And trust that God will cover us. And He will.
Rebecca Trotter
For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any created thing, will be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 8:38-39.
Please remember Evangemissions supported projects this holiday season: Toys for Trinidad, Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child; New Life Solutions Baby Bottle Drive, Metropolitan Ministries Donation Tent. Want to get “Light & Salty”? Join us in all of these projects and training!
Gene Hammond, EvangeMissions
When Christians think about stepping out and doing something, they fall into one of two types, PIGS or CHICKENS.
“The difference between these two types is the difference between the pig and the chicken in the ham-and-eggs breakfast. The chicken is interested, the pig is committed. If you are going to do anything worth doing, you need a lot of pigs.”
Well, we have something worth doing and we have a lot of pigs on the Trinidad Mission Team. We have already recruited a few of you to help us with the Metropolitan Ministries Donation Tent that will be right here on church property but we need a huge number of you to step up and help. We who have already committed can’t lay an egg and run so the question begs to be asked; “Will you be a pig with us and put yourself into this or just lay an egg of interest and go back to your roost? We really need you to make this work and we promise this is worthwhile.
We need people to work the tent a 2 hour shift from 8:30a to 7:30p starting the first week of November until a few days before Thanksgiving and then from early December to a few days before Christmas. We will give you more information when you sign up but this is something almost anyone can do and we believe it will be great for our church and our community. Will you help us for 2 hours a day for 1 day a week or as many days of the week as you can? You will have a rewarding experience helping receive food and items for Boxes of Hope and Boxes of Joy, donated from our community to the poor of Pinellas County. You might even invite some of the folks dropping off donations to be your guest at worship services, Sunday school or Wednesday night pot lucks and Bible study. There will also be a day of distribution to needy families that are assigned to us.
Be a pig and get committed! We’ll be putting poultry in the freezer to go to needy families for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner so being a chicken could be frosty . Sign up sheet will be at the welcome booth outside with Buck and Shirley.
Oink, Oink, Christians!
—Evangemissions
THE PURPOSE OF PRESBYTERIAN WOMEN:
FORGIVEN AND FREED BY GOD IN JESUS CHRIST AND EMPOWERED BY THE HOLY SPIRIT, WE COMMIT OURSELVES. . . . .
To nurture our faith through prayer and bible study
To support the mission of the church worldwide
To work for justice and peace
To build an inclusive, caring community of women that strengthens the Presbyterian Church (USA) and witnesses to the promise of God’s Kingdom.
Activities for Month of November at Pasadena
Monday, November 1st at 10:15 am Communion at the Springs
Tuesday, November 2nd at 10:00 am PW Council Meeting - Boswell
Tuesday, November 2nd at 11:00 am Bible Study Helps w/Pastor Carl
Monday, November 8th at 7:00 pm Rachel Circle - Library
Tuesday, November 9th at 10:00 am Esther Circle – Becky McLaughlin’s Home
Tuesday, November 9th at 1:00 pm Ruth Circle – Pat Drucker’s Home
Thursday, November 11th at 7:30 pm Hannah Circle – Library
Sunday, November 21st at 10:30 am Women’s Combined Thank Offering Service
At 11:00 a.m., following the Council Meeting, Pastor Carl will give “helps” to those who are leading the Revelation study in their circle.
On Wednesday, November 17th at 6:30 p.m. we invite you to join Women in the Word in the Fellowship Hall for the Christmas Shoebox Project.
Friday, November 19th the Preschool will have their Fall (Thanksgiving) program at 7:00pm in the Sanctuary. I encourage our women of Pasadena to show their support to the preschool families by attending this program.
Our Annual Thank Offering Service will be observed on Sunday, November 21st at 10:30 a.m. with the women in charge. Our guest speaker will be Judy Oliver. After the service we will enter the Fellowship Hall for the dedication of the Last Supper mural, painted by Yvonne Long, in loving memory of Phyllis Truesdale. A light lunch will follow the dedication. Everyone is invited.
Much appreciation goes to Ruth Hansell and Vicki Danz and their committee for the tea held on Saturday, September 25th. There were 61 in attendance and that says it all. This will be an annual gathering during the month of September. This makes God very happy when we can all work together in His name.
In Christ’s Love,
Patricia Watts, Moderator
INTERESTING AMERICAN THANKSGIVING INFORMATION IN THE LIBRARY
"In 2002 it was estimated that there were approximately 35 million descendants of the Mayflower passengers in the United States, which represents roughly 10 percent of the total U.S. population," Nathaniel Philbrick writes in his book Mayflower. He also writes how Governor William Bradford's manuscript Of Plymouth Plantation came back to America after it ended up in the bishop of London's library and how the bondservant who went overboard, eventually became a leading citizen.
Did you know that the First Thanksgiving was not in November, as we celebrate it? Philbrick says it "was probably in late September or early October." George F. Willison, in Saints and Strangers, agrees and writes that the tradition of Thanksgiving was more a Northeastern regional celebration for years, but spread as pioneers moved West. In 1863, he notes, President Abraham Lincoln, during the Civil War, proclaimed the first national Thanksgiving.
The 1621 menu was not much like ours either. Willison writes that though there were many cranberries in nearby bogs, the Pilgrims may not have used them, and there was no pumpkin pie, either. Wild plums and dried berries, he says, were dessert. Turkey may have been eaten at the three-day celebration, but so were eels, seafood, waterfowl and deer.
Pilgrims' practice of their faith was obvious and woven into their behavior. They did, however, set aside times of worship where they thanked God and believed in spontaneous prayer, rather than prayers read from a book, Philbrick says. There also was time for celebrating.
In addition to these books for teens and adults, books for young readers (7 and above), such as The Pilgrims of Plimoth (Marcia Sewall) written from the perspective of a Pilgrim, are in the library. Colorful drawings abound in Ann McGovern's The Pilgrims' First Thanksgiving. Oh, What a Thanksgiving! contrasts today's holiday with the Pilgrims'.
For the youngest, there is Thanks for Thanksgiving which highlights what modern-day children can be thankful for, with beautiful illustrations.
Laurie Smith, Librarian
As I was looking back over my newsletter articles for this year, I noticed I have not written anything specific to Men’s Health, so this one is for the guys!
“Long life to you! Good health to you and your household! And good health to all that is yours!” 1 Samuel 25:6 NIV
Men can live healthier, longer lives just by knowing their health threats and how to work through those risks. Statistics show that heart disease is the number one threat with cancer, injuries, stroke, COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), diabetes, flu, suicide, kidney disease, and Alzheimer’s making up the top ten. By listening to your body and adopting good lifestyle choices, you can decrease your risk for life-threatening health issues.
A healthy, balanced diet will greatly reduce the risk for five of the top ten threats: heart disease, cancer, stroke, diabetes, and kidney disease. Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are heart healthy selections and can fight some cancers as well. They also help maintain a healthy weight necessary for the prevention of diabetes and kidney failure which is a complication of diabetes and high blood pressure.
Risky behavior can cut a man’s life short and is easily preventable. Accidents from automobiles, falls, and the use of chemicals can be fatal or seriously debilitating so wear seat belts, drive safely, use chemicals in a well-ventilated area, and use ladders carefully. Also lose the smoking habit as it increases your risk of heart disease, cancer, and complications with respiratory disease and diabetes.
Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths. It is most frequently found in men over 65 but rare cases can be found in men younger than 45. If caught early, it is generally slow growing and easily treatable. With few symptoms, it is important to note signs of potential problems like: difficulty urinating, pain during urination, blood in the urine, pain in the lower back/hips/upper thighs. See a physician for a digital rectal exam and/or a blood test for PSA (prostate-specific antigen) to determine if they indicate cancer. If diagnosed, treatment may include surveillance, surgery, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, or chemotherapy. Discuss your options with your physician to determine which is appropriate for you.
“Turn your ear to wisdom and apply your heart to understanding.” Proverbs 2:2 NIV
Smart men think about their health. They know that health screenings are as important for men as they are for women. For men to stay healthy and increase their chance at healthier lives, screenings should include: a body mass index for obesity, a cholesterol check starting at age 35, blood pressure screenings, colorectal cancer screen at age 50 (earlier if there is a family history of cancer), a diabetes check if either blood pressure or cholesterol is high, and a discussion with the doctor about a depression screening. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure!
Debbie Rivard, RN, FCN
October has been a very busy month in the preschool ministry. We have been learning about the people who help us in our lives. We had a visit from the fire department and the police department. The fire fighters and police officers taught the children about safety and told them that they were their friends and helpers. The children learned that they have a Friend and Helper named Jesus who will always be with them. They learned that He loves them and will always be with them.
Our Fall Festival was on October 29th. It was a tremendous success. Thirty six parents volunteered to plan, set up, host all activities, and chaperone the children. Our families are truly a shining example of fellowship and community.
November will be another busy month preparing to give thanks to God for all He has given us. I look forward to sharing with you all of our November activities.
Let us remember to “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” 1 Thessalonians 5: 16-18
May your Thanksgiving Holiday be blessed. – Laura Woodard
The November 17, 2010 5:30 PM dinner will be a Fellowship provided Baked potato and Chicken salad dinner. Fellowship will provide the salad, rolls, desserts, and beverages. Diners are to provide their favorite toppings. Examples of toppings are: broccoli, crumbled bacon, crumbled cheeses, onions, sour cream, black olives, chilies, butter, cheese sauce.
The December 15, 2010 dinner will be a “Bring In Your Favorite Kind of Chilli”. Fellowship will provide baked potato toppings such as cheeses, onions, crackers, sour cream, also salad and beverages, including Root Beer Floats for dessert.
The dedication of the Last Supper Painting in Fellowship Hall will be on the PW Thank Offering Service date - 11/21/2010. The dedication will be before lunch is served by PW (catered by Orange Blossom).
Other Happenings:
In near future a Garage Sale with Tables to be by donations. No date set.
The Hobby Group will have a Sale on Sunday 12/5/2010 starting between services and continuing until 1:00 PM. Please keep your calendar open for this sale!
Ruth Hansell, Fellowship Chair
Throughout the month of October the children learned about faithfulness, gentleness, peace, and patience through puppet shows, arts and crafts, games, play dough, and songs. The children became acquainted with several Biblical characters, including Daniel; Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego; Isaac and Rebekah; Paul in Athens, and Jeremiah.
In November the children will begin practicing the song that they will be singing during the Preschool Christmas Pageant on December 15th. The children will also begin rehearsing the skit and songs for PPC's Christmas Eve service.
Leslie Hughes, DOFM
Praise Kids is open to all children in Pre-K through 5th grade. The children meet in the upstairs classroom wing each Wednesday from 6:30 - 8:00 PM. There will be NO Praise Kids on November 24th.
Samaritan's Purse: Operation Christmas Child
The power of a simple gift...the power of sharing God's greatest gift, Jesus Christ.
Would you like to make an eternal difference in a child's life? This year YOU can experience the joy of giving when you pack a shoe box for a young boy or girl who has never received a Christmas present. Every box represents a precious girl or boy in need of a Savior. The shoe boxes are just the beginning. Through Gospel booklets and discipleship programs, children are introduced to the greatest gift - Jesus!
Brochures and boxes are available in the hallway leading into the Sanctuary. They will also be available in the church office throughout the week. Please read the packing information carefully, and remember to put a "boy" or "girl" label on the top of the box. Please place a $7.00 check inside the box to help with shipping expenses. You may also pay online at www.samaritanspurse.org/ezgive. If you pay online you will actually be able to track the shipment of your box.
Shoe Box Dedication Sunday is November 21st at the combined service. The boxes will be transported to the drop-off location immediately following the service.
Please pray that many children and families will come to know Jesus Christ through Operation Christmas Child. "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these." Matthew 19:14
Our Youth group was involved in a variety of activities throughout the month of October, including bowling at Ten Pins Lanes, Praise and Worship at the church, dinner at Jason and Christine Cook's house, a pool party and cookout at the Sundial Motel, and a community outreach service project.
There are several events scheduled for the month of November. A Movie Night will be held, and the Youth will have several opportunities to volunteer at the Metropolitan Ministries tent on our church property. There will be a Praise and Worship night, and the Animus Victor band will be leading the worship music during the 8:30 service on November 14th. The Youth will also have an opportunity to serve the preschool families during their Family Night dinner on November 19th.
Calendars are available through the church web site, as well as on the Youth bulletin board just outside the church office.
"How can a young man keep his way pure? By living according to your word." Psalm 119:9
Leslie Hughes, DOFM
Building the Beloved Community
On Friday, November 5th at 9:30 a.m., Church Women United of Greater St. Petersburg will celebrate World Community Day at Lakewood United Methodist Church, 5995 Dr. Martin Luther King (9th ) St. South. The theme is "Building the Beloved Community" and is intended to lift up awareness of community needs.
| 8:30 a.m. | 11:00 a.m | Total | |
| October 3 | 102 | 50 | 152 |
| October 10 | 75 | 46 | 121 |
| October 17 | 69 | 51 | 120 |
| October 24 | 56 | 38 | 94 |
Pasadena Presbyterian Church Presents an Evening of Music with the Praise Chorus and Praise Band
Sunday November 7th, 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm.
Join us in worshiping our Lord through the music and hear the Gospel presented through word and music selections from the Musical Godspell.
The musical Godspell is having a revival on Broadway and here at Pasadena with the Praise Chorus. It was first performed on Broadway in 1971 and at Pasadena in 1975. The musical is based on the Gospel according to Matthew. The play uses improvisation and contemporary themes to illustrate the parables...starting with John the Baptist’s “Prepare Ye” and ending with “Prepare Ye” symbolizing Christ’s resurrection.
The chorus will be performing the choral musical selections from the musical with narration written by John Odom and given by Carl Treleaven.
The Praise Band will begin the evening with selections of contemporary artists like, Francesca Battistelli, Third Day, and Kerri Roberts.
Invite a friend and come enjoy an evening of music with dessert to follow.
Thank You Note
Dear Pasadena Presbyterian Church,
Thank you so much for your friendship and generous support. It has been such a blessing being a member here and feeling so welcomed and encouraged in our faith. We pray God will continue to bless PPC and look forward to visiting in the future. The $500 will be of great help. It really means a lot. Please keep us in your prayers. May God strengthen and encourage all of you in Christ.
Soli Deogloria,
Michael and Kelly Flowers
Thanks
Thank you to everyone who is bringing in their postage stamps, soup labels and back to school coupons.
The recipients are very grateful.
Thanks again,
Felicia Ragland
Thank You
THANK YOU!
To all who signed cards and expressed their encouragement for us at the Pastor’s Appreciation Sunday!
We appreciate YOU!
Carl and Donna Crawford
and Updates
the Church