Newsletter - First Presbyterian Church

Steve's Scratchings

I write this column in my hotel room in Washington, D.C., after just witnessing the opening ceremony of the Smithsonian's new National Museum of the American Indian (NMAI). My sister's husband, Rick West, is the museum's director, and has worked for 15 years toward this day.

It has been an incredible undertaking - forging alliances among widely different and sometimes historically antagonistic Indian tribes, building and keeping bipartisan political alliances through different administrations and the increasing partisanship in Washington, competing for ever-more scarce charitable dollars, being a "new-kid-on-the-block" in the competitive world of museums, and on and on. Rick is a highly gifted, skilled, and dedicated man, and my hat is off to him.

As I witnessed the ceremony and attended the opening reception, I was struck by several things.

First, I was deeply moved by witnessing the realization of a dream. Most particularly and personally, it was Rick's dream - of a museum that focuses as much on the future as the past and becomes a powerful symbol of living cultures; of a museum that recognizes but seeks to transcend the horrific history of atrocities against native cultures, and instead celebrates all they can contribute to humanity; of a museum that includes native peoples from all the western hemisphere, from Canadian Eskimos (boy, did they sweat in their furs at the opening ceremony!) to Peruvian Incas. How many of us get to see our dreams come true in this dramatic a fashion?

But it was not just Rick's dream. Senators Daniel Inouye and Ben Nighthorse Campbell and many others birthed the dream and nurtured it for decades. And now it is national, even trans-national. In our hotel, on the subways, everywhere we went, we encountered native peoples from all over this country, all over this hemisphere, who had come to Washington to share in the dream. It was their dream, too. A dream of being recognized, welcomed, even valued in their native land, after centuries of being excluded, marginalized, humiliated, and (at least for ancestors) killed. Rick can remember seeing signs in his native Oklahoma, "Dogs and Indians enter here."

As the Washington Post commented, there is a national renaissance of native American cultures. There is new-found wealth (not all of which comes from gaming), pride, and focus on cultural preservation. NMAI seems to be a powerful symbol of this. Located near the Capitol, its undulating sandstone surfaces in sharp contrast to the rectangular gray limestone of most federal buildings. Richly evocative of native deep spiritual connection to the earth, the museum uses water, sunlight, and open space in wonderful ways. As in nature, the Museum's architecture contains not a single right angle.

I could go on and on about NMAI and the events of the past few days, but I want to turn instead to our own church and its building. Though far smaller and much different, our church building is a beautiful, unique, and deeply symbolic structure. Just as many have given generously to create the $219 million NMAI, many have given generously to build, renovate, and maintain our church building. And more will be asked - it is likely that we will undertake a capital campaign in 2005. But as much as we love our building (with the possible exception of the antiquated heating system!), it is not an end in itself.

Rick West's vision of NAMI goes far beyond preserving the glories of the past; it encompasses leadership in shaping the future of native American peoples. What is your vision of our church's building? Is it more as a museum, preserving the heritage and faith of its builders, or as a mission base, enabling the ministry and mission to which God calls us?

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Adult's Ministries & Spiritual Growth

Christian Conversations...Formerly known as Tough Issues, a roundtable discussion of relevant topics with a Christian responsibility focus. We will meet in Room 100 at 9:45 a.m. every Sunday.
Coffee Cup

Join us each week - the coffeepot is on!

Small groups...Small groups are a wonderful way to grow in your discipleship, and develop deeper relationships with fellow Christians. Several new small groups will be starting this fall. To begin, Kathleen O'Connell will be offering a special group to train future small group leaders. If you are interested in participating in a group this fall, or think you might like to learn more about being a small group leader, please contact Kathleen.

New Horizons Class...The New Horizons class for special needs adults and youth is taught by Cheri Lea, a local special education teacher. New Horizons meets in the newly redecorated room 104. This class is an amazing ministry offered by our church. If you are aware of a family who might have a member who would benefit from this class setting, please consider inviting them!

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Children's Ministries

JAM (Jesus & Me) Time Children's Ministry

For all our Kindergarten through 6 graders, we offer great workshops at the 9:45 am. hour in our Workshop Rotation classrooms with study of an exciting Messiah year.

We welcome interested teachers and helpers and we always need more adults helping in this area. There's something for everyone, so please contact Jennifer Pitcher, Children's Coordinator, Mindy Suhr or Cheryl Ann Miller, C.E. Elders for more information today!

Sonshine Kids are planning some Fun, Friendship and Faith activities for our 3, 4 and young 5's for the year ahead.

nursery workers

Our nursery is growing busier on Sunday mornings, and we greatly need additional nursery volunteers, especially from 9:30 - 11:00. Can you help with this vital ministry? If so, please speak to Mary Freed, our nursery coordinator, Cheryl Ann Miller, or one of the pastors.

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Older Adult Ministry

We wish to express our appreciation for those attending and Older Adults

participating in the September 7 informational meeting. The video, Age Wage, was shown which describes the demoseniorraphics of our changing society. Do you know one in every four people is a senior adult and well over a third of our own congregation is in this over-55 age group? We are living longer and living better. We have concerns and interests different from past generations. Churches are called to recognize this "age surge" and to plan for an intentional ministry with, for, and by senior adults. Seniors bring unique skills, wisdom and a lifetime of experience that can be used to promote the work of the church.

Studies have shown seniors' primary concerns are maintaining independence in later years, adapting to losses and changes, and living a purposeful life for themselves and others. To have a successful ministry, programming should reflect these concerns and interests.

Following the video, programming ideas and activities were discussed. Classes/seminars/small groups could be possible dealing with, for example, the following: loss and grief, spiritual growth, death and dying, marriage communication, retirement planning, care-giving, healthy aging, volunteer opportunities and mission outreach. Some of the suggestions made that afternoon focused on living alone and cooking for one, exercise classes, walking groups or partners in spring and fall, book discussions, Bible study, day trips, games, and singing, computer and internet classes, a broad survey by direct personal contact, sharing life experiences and "getting to know you" recognition.

One comment was "been there, done that" as a first reaction, but her second reaction was, "perhaps it's time for a repeat performance." Many things are possible, limited only by imagination and the willingness to try. A group activity is in the planning stage for October. The video, Age Wave, will be shown again Sunday morning, October 10 at 9:45 a.m. in the Reception Room followed by a discussion of the future of this ministry. Your views and comments are vital. Contact either one of us with your comments or when an idea strikes!

Jackie MacKenzie (295-5784) and Mary Ann Graves (264-9794)

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Music Ministry

Chancel Choir : Sing a new song unto the Lord! The Chancel Choir, for post high school ages, sings at the 11:00 am. worship service and practices on Wednesday evenings at 7:30 p.m. Come to enjoy singing and fellowship with us!

Children's Choirs: There is room for everyone as we share in the joy of singing and other activities on Wednesday afternoons in the choir room. Melodia Choir (grades 1-3) practices from 5:00 - 5:30 p.m.; Junior Chorale (grades 4-6) meet from 5:30 - 6:00 p.m. Please join us! Celia Weiss, Director of Music

The Handbell Choir rehearses in Room 100 at 6:15 p.m. No experience in playing handbells is necessary, but keeping a steady beat and a sense of humor is helpful. Come join us! For information, contact director Bob Decker .

Dancers wanted!
Children in grades 1-6 are invited to be part of a special worship celebration on World Communion Sunday, October 3. Jennifer (Woolwine) Wolfe will be teaching the children a dance that they will share during The Bridge (9:45) and 11:00 worship services.

If you are interested in participating, please contact Kathleen O'Connell for more information and practice times.

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Fine is not enough
presented by Eric and Betsy Semple

When you ask someone, "How are you?" and they respond, "Fine," is that enough? Are there times when you judge this is not true? Possibly they wonder the same about you when you respond in the same manner.

FINE is not Enough is a seminar or small group gathering. It's a study of the first nine chapters of the yet to be published book of the same title. As such, it is a study for the "unique self" inside each of us. How long has it been since you've taken time to be with yourself, to take the time to settle in and get to know who you are? This may be a challenge for some, but one that we pray you will be willing to take.

This seminar will be presented twice - November 5 and 6 and repeated on November 12 and 13 at First Presbyterian Church. This is an open seminar but we ask that those who come on Friday plan for Saturday attendance as well because one segment, or the chapter leads into the next. We will meet from 6:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. on Friday and 9:00 a.m. thru 5:30 p.m. Saturday. Then from 5:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. we will discuss what might come next. Coffee and hot water will be available. Bring a bag lunch for Saturday and possibly something to add to a snack table. This seminar is open to singles, couples (one spouse or two), attendees of all three Sunday services, friends, and others.

We will supply personal private journals for everyone, as there will be some writing and note taking. The schedule for the seminar is tight; therefore, there will be little time for discussion except during lunch on Saturday. Christian Conversations on November 14th will give attendees an opportunity to ask questions or comment on the seminar they have just completed. Sign-up sheets are available on the table outside the sanctuary, along with pamphlets explaining the seminar in further detail.

Women's Fall Retreat

with Sister Nancy Rabuin

As women, we take on many roles - sister, wife, daughter, mother, friend. Come spend a weekend getting past the masks we wear, and learning to simply be your true self in the presence of God.

November 12 - 14
Watch for more information.
Registration will be due by Sunday, October 31

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Trustee Tribune

The Trustees have been very conscious of maintaining the building in the highest standard. This effort is magnified by the age of the building. Our goal is to present a safe and inviting atmosphere that the current members will be proud to show to people and new people will be excited to visit. The 2004 budget for maintaining the building was established at $10,000.00. Through August 2004, $17,611.00 has been spent. Every effort has been used to be prudent with the money that is allocated by the congregation. Many items this year are hopefully one-time expenses. For example, the antifreeze (glycol) had to be replaced to make the air conditioning system function. This was a charge of $5,200.00. If any member would like more information please send a request to the church.

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In recent Sundays, members of the Stewardship Commission have been talking about this year's stewardship campaign, which is called Grow-One. We have declared October 10 to be Grow-One Sunday.

This program emphasizes the spiritual discipline of proportional giving. It is intended to help you grow to tithing, if you don't already tithe. As mentioned last week, this plan allows you to transition to an intentional and joyful response to God, eventually achieving the goal of tithing.

The money received from your pledges will be used by the church and staff to meet the needs of our members; Christian education to deepen our understanding and experience of Christ; Outreach to reach the pre-Christians in our area; and Maintenance to keep our facility attractive and sound.

All of this starts with our income, which allows us to budget our expenses in a responsible manner. We need every one of you to help. Let's all GROW-ONE (at least one) together.

Sincerely,
Stewardship Commission

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Crop Walk - October 3
See the table by the Gathering Place for envelopes or people to sponsor!

CROP Walkers...Remember to "walk the block" before you "walk the walk." Ask friends and neighbors to pledge their support. More sponsors mean more funds raised for vital emergency relief in our city, country, and around the world. Church World Service is transferring additional money to assist victims of recent hurricanes in the U.S. Local monies fund food pantries at Church Community Services, Inc. in Elkhart and The Window in Goshen. Thank you for helping us help the needy.
Jeni Hiett Umble, CCS

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Brown Bag Book Bunch

The Book Bunch is reading some great books! If you're a reader, come join us!
Our next meeting is October 4, 2004, at 11:00 am.

October	Probable Future, by Alice Hoffman
November	Leap of Faith, by Queen Noor

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Presbyterian Women

Presbyterian Woman - a woman who supports Presbyterian Women in any way. If you belong to a Circle, you are a Presbyterian Woman. If you donate school supplies, you are a Presbyterian Woman. If you contribute to the Birthday offering, you are a Presbyterian Woman. If you bake cookies for the Cookie Walk, you are a Presbyterian Woman. If you attend the Valentine's Day Party or the Spring Luncheon, you are a Presbyterian Woman. If you don't do any of these things, it's time to get started! Choose what fits your life, or challenge yourself and try something a little different. We welcome all women into our circle of friends - come join us!

Circles: All of the circles focus on Bible study and fellowship. Building community and reaching that community out to include others is vital to Presbyterian Women. This year, three of the circles will be studying What She Said, a Bible study written by Dale Lindsay Morgan. "In these lessons we hear a variety of human expression: tears and laughter, songs of worship, conversation among friends, petitions and prayers, affirmation of faith, preaching and prophecy, words of invitation and hospitality... You are also encouraged to say your own words as you reflect on the study - to pray,sing, and speak words of worship, talk to your friends, testify, laugh and cry, and share hospitality with one another and with the spirit of the living Word that will be with you." Circle I, Ruth Circle, and New Paths Circle will all be studying What She Said. Abigail Circle will decide at their next meeting what they want to study this year. If you have a wonderful Bible study in mind, talk to Melinda or attend the October meeting of Abigail Circle.

Mission: Another piece of Presbyterian Women is mission. Since the Presbyterian Church began, women have been leaders in all aspects of mission work. This is still true today. We support special offerings, such as the Thank Offering, the Birthday Offering, and the Tools of Hope/Blanket Offering. We collect the Least Coin offering and money for hunger/water projects. We collect items for school and health kits. And we sew and knit. Along with Bible study, New Paths Circle focuses on mission work. Sometimes during our meetings, sometimes at home, we sew baby clothes and blankets, knit bandages, and make school bags. If you enjoy sewing, bring your machine to New Paths; if not, come anyway - your ideas and fellowship are just as important as other skills!

A new mission project which is beginning this year is making Prayer Shawls. Prayers are offered during the creation of each shawl, and then each shawl is given, along with prayers, to someone in need. If you would like to learn more, or if you know of someone who could benefit from receiving a shawl, please contact Jill Stoll (848-5322).

Cookbook: The cookbook has been sent to the printers! We expect to have them available for sale by the beginning of December - just in time for Christmas! The cost is $18, and you may pre-order by speaking to any woman on the Coordinating Team.

PW Sunday: September 12th was Presbyterian Women Sunday. It's always exciting when the women lead worship, and this year was no exception. Carol Steede did a wonderful job speaking about women's roles in the church, and the changes that women have brought about over the years. Just a few days later, the Fall Tea took place, and we opened our year with a wonderful Bible study, led by Kathleen O'Connell, about Sarah and Hagar. All during this year, we will be studying women who changed the course of history and continue to inspire us today. Never underestimate the power of women!

Dates for your calendar:

October 6 Wednesday Bible study with Kathleen O'Connell, 11:00 a.m.
October 12 Tuesday Coordinating Team, 6:30 p.m.
October 13 Wednesday Circle I, 1:00 p.m.
October 14 Thursday Abigail Circle, 9:00 a.m.
October 20 Wednesday Ruth Circle, 9:30 a.m.
October 26 Tuesday New Paths Circle, 7:00 p.m.

November 12-14 Friday-Sunday Fall Retreat for women of our church.

This year's retreat will be at Quaker Haven. This is a time to deepen old friendships and create new ones, to laugh and cry and share together, and spend some time with God and your own thoughts. Registration information will be available soon. You may speak to Kathleen O'Connell or Marsha Brownewell for more information.

November 19-20 Friday-Saturday Women's Retreat for women of Wabash Valley.

"Reflecting our Spiritual Heritage: Building a Spiritual Legacy" is the theme for this year's retreat. The Reverend Kelly Furlong, Delphi, will be the leader. Come join us at Geneva Center for reflection and renewal. Speak to Alice Morris or Jill Stoll for more information.

December 4 Saturday Cookie Walk - oh my goodness, is it that time already?! Well, it's not here yet, but it'll be here before we know it. It's never too early to start looking through your recipes and planning all the goodies you want to bring. Watch for more information next month!

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Presbyterian Women Coordinating Team

Moderator	Barbara Harman
Vice-Moderator	Jill Stoll
Secretary	Patricia Charles
Treasurer	Marsha Brownewell
Mission/Sewing	Harriet Sloop
Publicity	Alice Morris

Circle Moderators and Representatives

Abigail Circle	Melinda Romanetz
Circle I	Jill Stoll
Ruth Circle	Mary Wagner
New Paths Circle	Carol Steede
Foundation Representative	Mary Seddon
Church Women United Representative	Patricia Charles

Special Program Chairs

Fall Tea: Ruth Circle	Mary Wagner	848-9429
Women's Retreat	Marsha Brownewell	262-1260
Cookie Walk	Suzanne Wyatt	674-6634
Longest Night Service	Harriet Sloop Barbara Harman	875-6451 641-2434
Valentine Party	Diane Evans	206-8411
Spring Luncheon: Circle One	Jill Stoll	848-5322
Cookbook	Mary Seddon	875-1321

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Beardsley Elementary School

Beardsley Elementary, Our Neighborhood Connection School, needs some friendly folks to help in many ways!

Once a week opportunities include:

Lunch Buddy Reading with matched 1st grader;
One-on-One Tutoring 6th graders (times to be arranged);
Lunch Buddy Nutrition Program: * New this year! * Free lunch every week!
3rd or 4th grade group from October to March led by EGH Nutritionists.
Open library for homework help Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, 2:30-4:00 p.m.;
Pen Pals! You don't even have to leave your home! You can be paired with a class or an individual and write simple messages to teach basic letter writing and communication skills!
Other opportunities include: Room Parents, Bookfair Volunteers and Special Event Volunteers. Whatever your interests, Beardsley has a place to Connect with you!

Contact Bob Blanken 295-1712, Jennifer Pitcher 262-4722 or Deb Weaver at Beardsley 262-5575 to make a difference in these children's lives!

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Older Adult Ministry

Trustee Tribune

Presbyterian Women

Beardsley Elementary School

This 'n' That

Worship Schedule