Friday, December 19, 2008

FPC Weekly E-Newsletter

A note from Rev. Cari: Death of my mom

 

On Tuesday morning, Dec. 16, I had the honor of lying in bed with my mom and holding her in my arms as she took her last breath. She had a good and peaceful death. Because my mom was orphaned and did not feel loved by anyone until she came to know God at age 16 and then my dad at age 19, it was a joy for me to let her know how loved she was as she made her transition.

 

My mom was an awesome woman, not only because of how she loved God, my dad, brothers, and me, but also because of her zestful love of life, music, and beauty. That love of life was reflected in her courage to experience new things and her capacity to expand her thinking. Because of the depth of her spiritual connection that cut across religious boundaries, she was often spoke powerful and profound insights that helped encourage and comfort many, many people, even during her years with dementia. Hers was a life well lived.

 

[See below for information about how you can join with Rev. Cari and her family in celebrating the life of Gladys I. Jackson.]

 

THIS SUNDAY, Dec. 21:

At 11 a.m. Interim Senior Pastor Rev. Cari Jackson will preach a sermon titled "A Scandalous Miracle".

 

The nursery will be open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., with Patty and Cristina.  Children's Church will take place in the gym after the Passing of the Peace in the Worship Service.

 

The 10 o'Clock Hour continues with a discussion of "Pausing on the Road to Bethlehem: A Spiritual Journey through Advent."

 

Advent Reflection: Matthew 1:18-25; Fulfillment of Prophecy

As children, people tell us lots of things about what they believe we will be and do in the world—some encouraging, and some hurtful. We get to make choices about which prophecies we embrace and live out.

What has God spoken prophetically about your life, including that which might seem "stranger than fiction?" What choices have you been making about which prophecies you fulfill?

 

Other new:s

 

Remembering and celebrating the life of Rev. Cari's mom:

A wake and funeral for Gladys I. Jackson will be held at New Psalmist Baptist Church in Baltimore on Monday, Dec. 22, at 10:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be given in the name of Gladys Jackson's name to Baltimore Catholic Charities, designated to St. Ann's Adult Day Care or St. Elizabeth Nursing Home. Send to 320 Cathedral Street, 3rd Floor, Baltimore, Maryland 21201-4421. Houseplants (Mrs. Jackson loved them) and other expressions of sympathy can be sent to Rev. Cari. 128 Henry Street,  Brooklyn,  NY 11201.

We love you, Cari, and our hearts are with you.

                    

Please note date change!

Christmas Dinner for Food Pantry Guests:  We are serving Christmas dinner on Tuesday, Dec. 23 at 2 p.m. in the Elliott Room. Members of the congregation are invited to participate by bringing vegetable side dishes, salads, or desserts on Sunday, Dec. 21. Or come help cook on Monday, Dec. 22, or serve and clean up on Tuesday, Dec. 23. Call Emily Thomas at 347-262-6466 if you'd like to be part of this time of sharing and fellowship.

 

2009 Stewardship Campaign Continues: "Bridging the Gap, Preparing Opportunities for the Future." From now through December 28, make a pledge of your time, talent and treasure. Be a part of this exciting time of new opportunities for fellowship, outreach and engaging community.

 

Christmas Poinsettias: If you wish to provide a poinsettia in honor of or in memory of your loved ones. Please fill out the Christmas poinsettia form from the Narthex or call the church office at 718-624-3770.

 

To the Parents of nursery children: If you are interested in donating funds for a gift for Patty and Cristina, please find Tina Snowden outside the nursery or in the fellowship hall after church Sunday.. She can also be reached at (617) 596-7108 or tsnowden@grow.net.

 

Living with Loss During the Holidays. Tuesday 23 at 6:30 p.m., Thurman Room. During the holidays, losses we have experienced often resurface more intensely. Come together with others to nurture yourself during what can be a stressful and lonely time, and allow healing to happen. Please call Rev. Charles Monaco at 718-647-5479 to confirm attendance.

 

Men's Breakfast: will NOT meet on Dec. 24 &  Dec. 31, we will reconvene on Jan. 7 at 7:30 a.m. at the Cadman plaza diner with a new Bible study. Contact Jim Palmer at jwpalmer@aol.com for more information.

 

On the calendar:

 For more details, click on this link to go to church calendar. (Click again on the event on the calendar to read a description.) 

http://www.fpcbrooklyn.org/phpEventCalendar/index.php?month=9&year=2008

 

Wednesday, Dec. 24

Lesson and Carols Candlelight Service, 7 p.m., Sanctuary

 

Wednesday, Dec. 31

New Year's Eve Watchnight Service, 10 p.m., Sanctuary

 

Friday-Monday, Jan. 16-19, 2009

Church-Wide Retreat, The Grail, Cornwall, NY

 

Sunday, Jan. 25

Insights from the Transition. Conversation with Jim Johnson about his role on President-Elect Obama's Transition Team, 1p.m. Watch for details.

 

Who/where to connect:

To give online: Contribute to the church through a secure online account. To find it on the church website, http://www.fpcbrooklyn.org, go to the Site Credits/ Link tab and select First Church Donation Account Setup. Or go to

 

https://www.egsnetwork.com/pages/donor_create.php?GUID=EBCE79B3-73D8-4D85-957E-A95BD878B25D

 

To become an FPC member:

Contact Peggy Swisher Slowik at peggyswisher@gmail.com, or see Reeves Carter for information about classes for new members.


Wednesday, December 10, 2008

FPC Weekly E-Newsletter

WEDNESDAY, Dec. 10:

Advent Evening Vespers Service: "Pausing on the Road to Bethlehem." Gather for a half-hour worship service, starting at 7 p.m., in the Elliott Room. Join in a time of music, reflection, and prayer that will quiet your mind, strengthen your heart, and boost your soul. (Series continues on Dec. 17.)

 

THIS SUNDAY, Dec. 14:

At 11 a.m., Christmas Pageant, Interim Senior Pastor Rev. Cari Jackson will also preach a short sermon titled "When Things Don't Work as Planned.". The nursery will be open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. 

 

The 10 o'Clock Hour continues with a discussion of "Pausing on the Road to Bethlehem: A Spiritual Journey through Advent."

 

Advent Reflection: Luke 1:26-45; God's Favor

When the angel of the Lord appeared and expressed to the young girl Mary that God's favor was upon her, it would have been reasonable for her to say "God, don't do me any favors!" The blessings that flowed from God's favor upon Mary extended to the world because she received God's favor and then nurtured its manifestation in her life.

How do you receive and nurture the favor of God that is upon your life?

 

Other news:

                    

The last day to bring children's toys for the children of migrant workers in Suffolk County is this Sunday, Dec. 14.  For more information, contact Linda Kolts at lindakolts@earthlink.net  

 

2009 Stewardship Campaign Continues: "Bridging the Gap, Preparing Opportunities for the Future." From now through December 28, make a pledge of your time, talent and treasure. Be a part of this exciting time of new opportunities for fellowship, outreach and engaging community.

 

Christmas Caroling and Party: Wednesday, Dec. 17, at 7.45 p.m., immediately following Vespers Service. Bring the spirit of the Christmas season to the Brooklyn Heights community and then return to church for more holiday fun (and food).  This is a family-friendly event. To help with the potluck and for more information, contact Jill Huguet at hughugj@aol.com.  

 

Christmas Dinner for Food Pantry Guests:  Food pantry ministry volunteers will prepare and serving Christmas dinner on Monday, Dec. 22 at 2 p.m. in the Elliott Room. Members of the congregation are invited to participate by bringing vegetable side dishes on Sunday, Dec. 21, or by volunteering an hour or two to set up and serve, starting at 11 am. on Dec. 22.

 

Christmas Poinsettias: If you wish to provide a poinsettia in honor of or in memory of your loved ones. Please fill out the Christmas poinsettia form from the Narthex or call the church office at 718-624-3770. List of names received will be published in the Dec. 21, 24 & 28 bulletins.

 

To the Parents of nursery children: If you are interested in donating funds for a gift for Patty and Cristina, please find Tina Snowden outside the nursery or in the fellowship hall after church each Sunday this month. She can also be reached at (617) 596-7108 or tsnowden@grow.net.

 

Living with Loss During the Holidays. Tuesdays, Dec. 16 and 23 at 6:30 p.m., Thurman Room. During the holidays, losses we have experienced often resurface more intensely. Come together with others to nurture yourself during what can be a stressful and lonely time, and allow healing to happen. Please call Rev. Charles Monaco at 718-647-5479 to confirm attendance.

 

Men's Breakfast: Join the men's breakfast group every Wednesday morning from 7:30--8:30 am at the Cadman Plaza Diner.  Our group is examining the Letter to the Galatians in a study called "Galatians: The Freedom of a Christian Man."  Contact Jim Palmer at jwpalmer@aol.com for more information.

 

On the calendar:

 For more details, click on this link to go to church calendar. (Click again on the event on the calendar to read a description.) 

http://www.fpcbrooklyn.org/phpEventCalendar/index.php?month=9&year=2008

 

Tuesday, Dec. 16:

New Parent's Group, 3:30 p.m., Elliott Room

Tuesday Tea, 4 to 5:30 p.m., Rose Room

Living with Loss during the Holidays, 6:30 p.m., Thurman Room

 

Wednesday, Dec. 17:

Vespers Service at 7 p.m., Elliott Room

Christmas Caroling and Party, 7.45 p.m., immediately following Vespers Service

 

Thursday, Dec. 18:

New Parent's Group, 3:30 p.m., Elliott Room

 

Wednesday, Dec. 24

Lesson and Carols Candlelight Service, 7 p.m., Sanctuary

 

Wednesday, Dec. 31

New Year's Eve Watchnight Service, 10 p.m., Sanctuary

 

Friday-Monday, Jan. 16-19, 2009

Church-Wide Retreat, The Grail, Cornwall, NY

 

Sunday, Jan. 25

Insights from the Transition. Conversation with Jim Johnson about his role on President-Elect Obama's Transition Team, 1p.m. Watch for details.

 

Who/where to connect:

To give online: Contribute to the church through a secure online account. To find it on the church website, http://www.fpcbrooklyn.org, go to the Site Credits/ Link tab and select First Church Donation Account Setup. Or go to

 

https://www.egsnetwork.com/pages/donor_create.php?GUID=EBCE79B3-73D8-4D85-957E-A95BD878B25D

 

To become an FPC member:

Contact Peggy Swisher Slowik at peggyswisher@gmail.com, or see Reeves Carter for information about classes for new members.


Wednesday, December 3, 2008

FPC Weekly E-Newsletter

WEDNESDAY, Dec. 3:

Advent Evening Vespers Service: "Pausing on the Road to Bethlehem." Gather for a half-hour worship service, starting at 7 p.m., in the Elliott Room. Join in a time of music, reflection, and prayer that will quiet your mind, strengthen your heart, and boost your soul. This week's focus will be on the "Greatness of God's Presence." (Series continues on Dec. 10 and 17.)

 

THIS SUNDAY, Dec. 7:

At 11 a.m., Associate Pastor Rev. Beth Waltemath will preach a sermon titled "Rethinking Repentance." Holy Communion will be celebrated.

 

The 10 o'Clock Hour continues with a discussion of "Pausing on the Road to Bethlehem: A Spiritual Journey through Advent."  This discussion focuses on the weekly Advent Reflections and Vesper Services outlined below.

 

The nursery will be open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., with Patty and Cristina.  Children's Church will take place in the gym after the Passing of the Peace in the Worship Service.

 

Circle of Wisdom will meet at 1 p.m. to explore questions including how to reach the power of your spiritual wisdoms to guide you in school, work, and relationships. Especially for adults aged 18-25, but people of all ages are welcome.

 

This Week's Advent Reading and Reflection: Isaiah 40:1-18,

The Greatness of God's Presence: Often, when we are overwhelmed by life, our hearts can become lighter and our hope brighter when we know that someone cares, understands, and journeys with us.  What does it mean for you to know that God not only journeys with you but has the power to transform your situation and to transform you in the midst of your situation?

 

Other news:

 

2009 Stewardship Campaign Continues: "Bridging the Gap, Preparing Opportunities for the Future." From now through December 28, make a pledge of your time, talent and treasure. Be a part of this exciting time of new opportunities for fellowship, outreach and engaging community.

 

To the Parents of nursery children:  We would like to get Patty and Cristina a little something for Christmas to thank them for the exceptional care they provide for our little ones. If you are interested in donating funds for their gift, please find Tina Snowden outside the nursery or in the fellowship hall after church each Sunday this month. She can also be reached at (617) 596-7108 or tsnowden@grow.net.

 

Children's toys are being collected until 14 December for migrant workers in Suffolk County. For more information you may reach Linda Kolts at lindakolts@earthlink.net  

 

Living with Loss during the Holidays. Tuesdays, Dec. 9, 16 and 23 at 6:30 p.m., Thurman Room. During the holidays, losses we have experienced often resurface more intensely. Come together with others to nurture yourself during what can be a stressful and lonely time, and allow healing to happen. Attend one, two, or all three sessions.  Please call Rev. Charles Monaco at 718-647-5479 to confirm attendance.

 

Men's Breakfast: Join the men's breakfast group every Wednesday morning from 7:30--8:30 am at the Cadman Plaza Diner.  Our group is examining the Letter to the Galatians in a study called "Galatians: The Freedom of a Christian Man."  Contact Jim Palmer at jwpalmer@aol.com for more information.

 

Prayer request from the White Rose Ministry. Iglesia La Fernanda, our sister church, in San Miguel del Padron, Havana was established several years ago as a dependent church of a larger, established congregation in Lucayo, Havana.  This week, the Presbytery of Havana will determine if La Fernanda is ready to be its own fully independent, self-supporting faith community.  Please pray for our brothers and sisters in La Fernanda and those make the decision.  May La Fernanda  continue to grow in faith and service, ready for this transition.

 

On the calendar:

 For more details, click on this link to go to church calendar. (Click again on the event on the calendar to read a description.) 

http://www.fpcbrooklyn.org/phpEventCalendar/index.php?month=9&year=2008

 

Tuesday, Dec. 9:

New Parent's Group, 3:30 p.m., Elliott Room

Living with Loss during the Holidays, 6:30 p.m., Thurman Room

 

Wednesday, Dec. 10:

Men's Breakfast at 7.30 a.m., at the Park Plaza Diner on Cadman Plaza

Vespers Service at 7 p.m., Elliott Room

 

Thursday, Dec. 11:

New Parent's Group, 3:30 p.m., Elliott Room

 

Sunday, Dec. 14

Christmas Pageant at 11 a.m., Sanctuary

Organ Recital, 7 p.m., Sanctuary

 

Wednesday, Dec. 17:

Vespers Service at 7 p.m., Elliott Room

Christmas Caroling and Party, 7.45 p.m., immediately following Vespers Service

 

Wednesday, Dec. 24

Lesson and Carols Candlelight Service, 7 p.m., Sanctuary

 

Wednesday, Dec. 31

New Year's Eve Watchnight Service, 10 p.m., Sanctuary

 

Friday-Monday, Jan. 16-19, 2009

Church-Wide Retreat, The Grail, Cornwall, NY

 

Who/where to connect:

To give online: Contribute to the church through a secure online account. To find it on the church website, http://www.fpcbrooklyn.org, go to the Site Credits/ Link tab and select First Church Donation Account Setup. Or go to

 

https://www.egsnetwork.com/pages/donor_create.php?GUID=EBCE79B3-73D8-4D85-957E-A95BD878B25D

 

To become an FPC member:

Contact Peggy Swisher Slowik at peggyswisher@gmail.com, or see Reeves Carter for information about classes for new members.