This week at FPC | Announcements
Concerns | Prayer Request
Flowers
The flowers on the Chancel today are given by Bev Yancey in loving memory of her husband, Ron, and also by Dick and Elaine Anderson in celebration of their 50th wedding anniversary.
Blood Pressure Screening
Blood pressure screening is from 10:30 to 11:00 a.m. today in the church office.
We Did It!
Our church family has again shown how much we can do together to demonstrate the love of Jesus Christ. On their way to Africa and India are 26l filled shoeboxes through the ministry of Samaritan’s Purse. The power of a simple gift shows these very poor children that they and their families have not been forgotten and God loves them. THANK YOU, church family and friends, for your amazing response. There are some other congregations who want to borrow Heidi for their shoebox drive! Good job, Heidi, and Merry Christmas!
Sacrament of Baptism
We are happy to present for Christian Baptism this morning at the 9:30 a.m. service David Harold and Julia Carol Gardner, son and daughter of Patricia and the late Steve Gardner. Rev. Craig Davies will perform the service. He will be assisted by Elder Nancy Pekins.
2009 Pledge
Have you made your 2009 pledge of financial commitment to the church? Estimate of Giving Cards may be obtained from the Ask Me Information Desk in the narthex or the church office. The generous support of every member and friend is needed in order for the church to meet its mission and ministry goals in the coming year. As of November 25th, 219 pledges have been received for a total of $370,988.00.
CONSECRATION SUNDAY
November 9th was a memorable day in the life of our church. On this day, the entire church family came together in a single, combined service with uplifting music provided by ministries of both the traditional and contemporary services. The church was almost filled to capacity as we listened to the inspiring sermon of The Reverend Bruce Wismer. Immediately following the sermon, God called upon us to share the many treasures that He has bestowed upon us.
Following the service, the Fellowship Hall overflowed into the library and class rooms as most of our members and friends engaged in loving fellowship and enjoyed a delicious meal. God’s presence was in evidence both during the sermon and the luncheon.
We would like to thank all those who made a pledge and to those who consistently support the church financially throughout the year. A thank you is also in order to all those who give so unselfishly of their time and talent.
May God be with each and every one of you.
The Reverend Craig S. Davies Jack W. Gundrum
Pastor Consecration Sunday Chairperson
Is God whispering in your ear?
Has He put it on your heart to share your God-given gifts and talents with others? The Stephen Ministry is a great way to honor that calling. We will teach you everything you need to know to begin ministering to those experiencing a crisis in their lives. And, you will receive continuing education and support while you carry out your ministry. What a beautiful way to share your love for Jesus Christ with others.
Please, if you feel God calling you to this ministry, any one of our Stephen Leaders (Denise Lay, Gail Hill, Bonnie Purcell, Wilma Kepler, or Rev. Davies) would be happy to answer any questions you might have. We are planning a new class to begin in January. What a beautiful way to start the New Year!
Men’s Fellowship
The next breakfast meeting of Men’s Fellowship will be on Thursday, December 11th, at 8:30 a.m. in Fellowship Hall. Hope to see you there! Should you have any questions, please call Jim McKenzie at 344-0070 or Ken Strohl at 527-8681.
Salvation Army – Ring the Bell
Over the past years, the First Presbyterian Church of Inverness has been extremely successful in supporting the annual “Ring the Bell” fundraising drive for the Salvation Army (Thanksgiving to Christmas period). Due to the severe economic conditions, this campaign is very important as it raises a large portion of the funds which support year-long Salvation Army mission activities. Our church “kettle” location is at the local Winn-Dixie supermarket. Winn-Dixie has been very supportive of us. Again, this year, we are asking for volunteers to “man the kettle”. A sign-up board will be displayed in the narthex or fellowship hall over the next weeks. Individuals and/or groups can sign up for 2 hour periods. Our success can only be achieved through YOUR PARTICIPATION. Questions for this year’s drive should be addressed to Richard Saari, (352) 527-9544.
Presbyterian Women
The Presbyterian Women’s Council will meet on Tuesday, December 9th, at 1:00 p.m.
Also, the Presbyterian Women will have their Christmas luncheon on Tuesday, December 16th, at 12:00 p.m. All ladies are invited. You need not be active in a woman’s circle. As always, sandwiches, salads, or desserts are needed. Husbands and significant others are also invited. Place settings will be furnished. Least coin project will be recognized. Please plan on attending. Happy Holiday!
Betty Sperry, Moderator
Interim Staffing Plan
The following interim staffing plan has been approved by the Session:
The Rev. Michael Fonfara joins our church staff today as part-time Parish Associate. Mike will assist in worship, make pastoral visits, teach, and preach in the absence of Pastor Davies, or when requested.
Denise Lay is stepping in as supervisor and advisor for the youth. She is being assisted by Youth Interns Jenifer Billings and Brian Moore. Sarah Fiske is assisting Denise as Sunday School Intern.
Helen Batten joins the church staff as music leader for the 9:30 a.m. worship service. Joining Helen on the Praise Team is her husband Bobby, Pat Clinton, Patti DiGioia, and Ben Medrano. Sam Glionna’s Praise Team is continuing to provide music at this service on the second Sunday of every month.
Pastor Davies is the staff liaison to the Communication, Fellowship, and Mission Committees.
New from the Maintenance Department:
As the Holiday season approaches so does the flu season. For your protection and safety, we have installed instant foam hand sanitizers throughout the church. They are conveniently located in both hallways by the narthex, the front and rear of the CE wing, the lobby, kitchen, fellowship hall, and in the front office.
The operation of these dispensers is very simple. Place one hand under the unit and push the lever/pump one time. A small amount of foam will appear in your hand. Simply massage both hands together and let dry. There is no need to wash your hands after using this foam.
The sanitizer is alcohol free and made with aloe. It moisturizes your hands and kills 99.9% disease spreading germs at the same time.
The Maintenance Department would like to wish you all a happy, healthy, and blessed Holiday season!
Danny Sullivan
Facility Manager
Born for You and Me
A Christmas Play by Laura and Robert Keeley
Directed by Amy Coleman and Sarah Fiske
Christmas play practice will be held on December 7th and December 14th immediately following Sunday School and will end at 11:15 a.m. The play will be presented on Wednesday, December 17th. You can contact Amy Coleman at 400-5706 or email her at ymasmith76@yahoo.com. We are looking forward to working with your children to make this year’s Christmas play a hit!
Thursday Afternoon Bible Study
The Thursday afternoon Bible Study meets at the church from 1:30 to 3:00 p.m. in one of the Sunday School rooms. We welcome men, women, couples, singles – anyone who would like to read and discuss the teachings of the Bible. We will be reading and discussing Acts in the Bible. Any questions, please call George or Priscilla Larsson at 249-4470 or Mary Anne Hlavacek at 527-8880. Come join us!
Prayers of Thanksgiving and Joy
Prayers of thanksgiving and joy…the generous offering your church sent to help the flood mission at Ottawa Presbyterian Church, summer of 2007, was the jump-start of many more donations to a ministry that extended beyond our small church membership, with more financial aid than we could have ever imagined. You will be receiving a “summary” DVD of all that was accomplished through the grace of God in this very small town. Presbyterian Disaster Assistance and the ministry of many Presbyterian churches in our state and beyond helped to restore homes to so many. We finished our final project this past weekend with the help of Grosse Point Woods Presbyterian Church (Michigan) – it will be their 5th trip to Ottawa. It has been 15 months of work and, Praise God, families are back in their homes. I, personally, want to celebrate your unselfish giving to a town that most of you never knew existed. We are bound together by our faith in Jesus Christ and our common ministry to the most in need. Your congregation answered the call to assist at a time when assistance was needed most. Bless you all!
Susan Basinger, Ottawa Presbyterian Church
Thursday Night Bible Study
The Thursday night Bible study is back. Come join us as we study the book of Daniel. A small group is the best way to “connect” with your church family. This group meets in different homes every Thursday evening. There’s no qualifications, no pressure, just a need for fellowship and joy in the Lord. Come and see. Phone Eric and Joan Fritzeen (637-5518) or Frank and Audrey Mattox (341-2484) for the best time of your week.
Presbyterian Women
Circle Meetings
December, 2008
Hostess & Phones Address Date Time
#1 Elizabeth Circle Church Conference Room 12/02/08 10:00 a.m.
Betty Jones 726-0051
#2 Deborah Circle Church Room #3 12/02/08 10:00 a.m.
Nancy Whigham 726-2057 Lunch at Stumpknockers
after Meeting
#3 Naomi Circle Church Room #5 12/02/08 10:00 a.m.
Laura Zurawski 341-5432 Have lesson at church – Lunch At McLeod House #4 Ruth Circle Church Room #1 12/02/08 10:00 a.m. Marilyn Miller 746-7887 Covered dish at Church
#5 Sarah Circle Meet at church to carpool 12/02/08 11:00 a.m. Thelma Steele 465-5236 to Bentley’s @ 11:30, then back to 1405 E. Silver Thorn Loop for lesson and dessert
#6 Martha Circle Inverness Woman’s Club 12/04/08 11:30 a.m. Fran Pierce 637-1582 1715 Forest Drive
#8 Rebekah Circle Meet at Church @ 11:00 a.m. 12/02/08 11:00 a.m. Sylvia McKean 726-1946 to carpool for lunch at Redd’s
#9 Miriam Circle 2820 E. Squirrel Ct. 12/16/08 7:00 p.m.
Susan Steelfox 344-3981
Scripture Searchers
Scripture Searchers is an adult Bible study open to everyone. It meets every Sunday from 9:30-10:30 a.m. in the library. It is facilitated by Jeanie Roberts, and she can be reached at 637-1793 should you have any questions.
Open Door Bible Study
“Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me.”
(Our Lord God speaking in Revelation 3:20)
As Christmas approaches, you may find your mind turning to the special foods that have become such a wonderful part of your Christmas tradition...every family has them!...cookies, a traditional bread or cake or a “dish” that is prepared only for Christmas dinner. These foods become more special to us because we enjoy them just once a year.
The opposite is true of our spiritual food...God’s word...we need to be partaking of it on a regular basis. In Ezekiel 3, the prophet Ezekiel had a vision in which he ate God’s message and found the spiritual food not only good for him, but also sweet as honey. When we “digest” God’s word regularly, in a meaningful way, we find it makes us stronger in our faith and that it’s wisdom sweetens life. Studying God’s word with others, somehow makes it “sweeter”...come and join us...Open Door is made up of a “cross-section” of our church family and everyone is welcome.
We are continuing with our study entitled “Facing the Giants in Your Life.” You can join in anytime. It is a practical application of God’s word...we are all sure to grow in Christ as we look at what the scriptures say about anger and resentment in the upcoming weeks.
Open Door Bible Study meets on Sunday evenings at 5:30 p.m. in Fellowship Hall. Call Gail Hill (341-4779) if you have questions...otherwise, just come!
Our December Fellowship Schedule is as follows:
December 7 - Finger Food
December 14 - Christmas Potluck
December 21 - Group will go to a local restaurant
December 28 - No Class
Women’s Bible Study
“To Live Is Christ: the Life and Ministry of Paul”
Our Women’s Bible Study is studying “To Live Is Christ: the Life and Ministry of Paul,” written by Beth Moore. This study focuses on the Book of Acts and the Epistles of Paul. You will be blessed by a better understanding of Paul’s faithful service and his love for his fellow Christians which will prepare you for your own walk as a believer as you model Christ’s life for your family and friends. Come and join us anytime.
Class starts at 9:30 a.m., and women of all ages are welcome. Please contact Denise Lay (637-0770) or Gail Hill (341-4779) if you have questions.
New Member Class
A new member class for adults will take place Sunday, December 7th, from noon to 2:30 p.m. Lunch will be provided. This class, taught by Pastor Davies, will consist of, 1) a discussion about the origins, beliefs, and government of the Presbyterian Church (USA), 2) an explanation of the church sacraments, 3) a presentation of the history, programs, and activities of our church, and 4) a discussion about membership expectations. Church members who desire a refresher course are also welcome to attend this lunch and class.
Reservations for lunch are required. Please call the church office (637-0770) no later than Wednesday, December 3rd. Also, please let the office know if you need child care.
In addition to the class, new members will be formally received into the membership of the church during a meeting of the Session on Tuesday, December 16th, at 6:45 p.m. New members will then be introduced and welcomed before the congregation during the worship services on December 21st. Please direct any questions about the lunch and class to Pastor Davies.
HELP US BEAUTIFY OUR SANCTUARY
ORDER POINTSETTIAS NOW
$7.00 A PLANT
We are taking orders for Christmas Pointsettias. We need to have a count of how many Pointsettias we have to order and would appreciate if you would put your order in early.
All orders must be received by Sunday, December 14th.
There are green order forms at the Ask Me Information Desk as well as in the office lobby. You can also get an order form from the church office.
Attendance Last Week: 439
Expenses and Revenues 2008
Revenues for January - October $402,343.29
Expenses for January - October $430,340.12
Projected Expenses for November $ 39,629.79
Revenues for November (Month To Date) $ 43,845.98
SERMON NOTES
November 30, 2008
“Ready or Not”
“Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.” Mark 1:3b
Christmas demands preparation.
There is another dimension to this idea of preparing the way for Jesus’ coming.
What we are preparing for is His birth within us.
We are to be Christ to our neighbors.
Enter into someone’s loneliness this Christmas.
The best gift that you can give to anyone is the gift God gives to everyone - himself.
So give yourself! If there is someone you can lift this Christmas, then be there.
Are you preparing the way for His coming? Are you doing what you can?
The flowers on the Chancel today are given by Bev Yancey in loving memory of her husband, Ron, and also by Dick and Elaine Anderson in celebration of their 50th wedding anniversary.
Blood Pressure Screening
Blood pressure screening is from 10:30 to 11:00 a.m. today in the church office.
We Did It!
Our church family has again shown how much we can do together to demonstrate the love of Jesus Christ. On their way to Africa and India are 26l filled shoeboxes through the ministry of Samaritan’s Purse. The power of a simple gift shows these very poor children that they and their families have not been forgotten and God loves them. THANK YOU, church family and friends, for your amazing response. There are some other congregations who want to borrow Heidi for their shoebox drive! Good job, Heidi, and Merry Christmas!
Sacrament of Baptism
We are happy to present for Christian Baptism this morning at the 9:30 a.m. service David Harold and Julia Carol Gardner, son and daughter of Patricia and the late Steve Gardner. Rev. Craig Davies will perform the service. He will be assisted by Elder Nancy Pekins.
2009 Pledge
Have you made your 2009 pledge of financial commitment to the church? Estimate of Giving Cards may be obtained from the Ask Me Information Desk in the narthex or the church office. The generous support of every member and friend is needed in order for the church to meet its mission and ministry goals in the coming year. As of November 25th, 219 pledges have been received for a total of $370,988.00.
CONSECRATION SUNDAY
November 9th was a memorable day in the life of our church. On this day, the entire church family came together in a single, combined service with uplifting music provided by ministries of both the traditional and contemporary services. The church was almost filled to capacity as we listened to the inspiring sermon of The Reverend Bruce Wismer. Immediately following the sermon, God called upon us to share the many treasures that He has bestowed upon us.
Following the service, the Fellowship Hall overflowed into the library and class rooms as most of our members and friends engaged in loving fellowship and enjoyed a delicious meal. God’s presence was in evidence both during the sermon and the luncheon.
We would like to thank all those who made a pledge and to those who consistently support the church financially throughout the year. A thank you is also in order to all those who give so unselfishly of their time and talent.
May God be with each and every one of you.
The Reverend Craig S. Davies Jack W. Gundrum
Pastor Consecration Sunday Chairperson
Is God whispering in your ear?
Has He put it on your heart to share your God-given gifts and talents with others? The Stephen Ministry is a great way to honor that calling. We will teach you everything you need to know to begin ministering to those experiencing a crisis in their lives. And, you will receive continuing education and support while you carry out your ministry. What a beautiful way to share your love for Jesus Christ with others.
Please, if you feel God calling you to this ministry, any one of our Stephen Leaders (Denise Lay, Gail Hill, Bonnie Purcell, Wilma Kepler, or Rev. Davies) would be happy to answer any questions you might have. We are planning a new class to begin in January. What a beautiful way to start the New Year!
Men’s Fellowship
The next breakfast meeting of Men’s Fellowship will be on Thursday, December 11th, at 8:30 a.m. in Fellowship Hall. Hope to see you there! Should you have any questions, please call Jim McKenzie at 344-0070 or Ken Strohl at 527-8681.
Salvation Army – Ring the Bell
Over the past years, the First Presbyterian Church of Inverness has been extremely successful in supporting the annual “Ring the Bell” fundraising drive for the Salvation Army (Thanksgiving to Christmas period). Due to the severe economic conditions, this campaign is very important as it raises a large portion of the funds which support year-long Salvation Army mission activities. Our church “kettle” location is at the local Winn-Dixie supermarket. Winn-Dixie has been very supportive of us. Again, this year, we are asking for volunteers to “man the kettle”. A sign-up board will be displayed in the narthex or fellowship hall over the next weeks. Individuals and/or groups can sign up for 2 hour periods. Our success can only be achieved through YOUR PARTICIPATION. Questions for this year’s drive should be addressed to Richard Saari, (352) 527-9544.
Presbyterian Women
The Presbyterian Women’s Council will meet on Tuesday, December 9th, at 1:00 p.m.
Also, the Presbyterian Women will have their Christmas luncheon on Tuesday, December 16th, at 12:00 p.m. All ladies are invited. You need not be active in a woman’s circle. As always, sandwiches, salads, or desserts are needed. Husbands and significant others are also invited. Place settings will be furnished. Least coin project will be recognized. Please plan on attending. Happy Holiday!
Betty Sperry, Moderator
Interim Staffing Plan
The following interim staffing plan has been approved by the Session:
The Rev. Michael Fonfara joins our church staff today as part-time Parish Associate. Mike will assist in worship, make pastoral visits, teach, and preach in the absence of Pastor Davies, or when requested.
Denise Lay is stepping in as supervisor and advisor for the youth. She is being assisted by Youth Interns Jenifer Billings and Brian Moore. Sarah Fiske is assisting Denise as Sunday School Intern.
Helen Batten joins the church staff as music leader for the 9:30 a.m. worship service. Joining Helen on the Praise Team is her husband Bobby, Pat Clinton, Patti DiGioia, and Ben Medrano. Sam Glionna’s Praise Team is continuing to provide music at this service on the second Sunday of every month.
Pastor Davies is the staff liaison to the Communication, Fellowship, and Mission Committees.
New from the Maintenance Department:
As the Holiday season approaches so does the flu season. For your protection and safety, we have installed instant foam hand sanitizers throughout the church. They are conveniently located in both hallways by the narthex, the front and rear of the CE wing, the lobby, kitchen, fellowship hall, and in the front office.
The operation of these dispensers is very simple. Place one hand under the unit and push the lever/pump one time. A small amount of foam will appear in your hand. Simply massage both hands together and let dry. There is no need to wash your hands after using this foam.
The sanitizer is alcohol free and made with aloe. It moisturizes your hands and kills 99.9% disease spreading germs at the same time.
The Maintenance Department would like to wish you all a happy, healthy, and blessed Holiday season!
Danny Sullivan
Facility Manager
Born for You and Me
A Christmas Play by Laura and Robert Keeley
Directed by Amy Coleman and Sarah Fiske
Christmas play practice will be held on December 7th and December 14th immediately following Sunday School and will end at 11:15 a.m. The play will be presented on Wednesday, December 17th. You can contact Amy Coleman at 400-5706 or email her at ymasmith76@yahoo.com. We are looking forward to working with your children to make this year’s Christmas play a hit!
Thursday Afternoon Bible Study
The Thursday afternoon Bible Study meets at the church from 1:30 to 3:00 p.m. in one of the Sunday School rooms. We welcome men, women, couples, singles – anyone who would like to read and discuss the teachings of the Bible. We will be reading and discussing Acts in the Bible. Any questions, please call George or Priscilla Larsson at 249-4470 or Mary Anne Hlavacek at 527-8880. Come join us!
Prayers of Thanksgiving and Joy
Prayers of thanksgiving and joy…the generous offering your church sent to help the flood mission at Ottawa Presbyterian Church, summer of 2007, was the jump-start of many more donations to a ministry that extended beyond our small church membership, with more financial aid than we could have ever imagined. You will be receiving a “summary” DVD of all that was accomplished through the grace of God in this very small town. Presbyterian Disaster Assistance and the ministry of many Presbyterian churches in our state and beyond helped to restore homes to so many. We finished our final project this past weekend with the help of Grosse Point Woods Presbyterian Church (Michigan) – it will be their 5th trip to Ottawa. It has been 15 months of work and, Praise God, families are back in their homes. I, personally, want to celebrate your unselfish giving to a town that most of you never knew existed. We are bound together by our faith in Jesus Christ and our common ministry to the most in need. Your congregation answered the call to assist at a time when assistance was needed most. Bless you all!
Susan Basinger, Ottawa Presbyterian Church