For Pride Week, celebrate love at FPC with guest preacher Jim Johnson

A weekly e-newsletter of First Presbyterian Church of Brooklyn:

Main office (718)624-3770               Email FPC124@aol.com 

 

THIS SUNDAY, June 28:

At the 11 a.m. Worship Service, Pride Sunday, our preacher is Elder James Johnson.  His sermon titled "The Gift of Love: A Celebration" 

 

Jim has worshipped at First Presbyterian since 1995 and has been a member of the choir since 2002.  He was elected to the session and ordained as an elder in 2004.  A litigation partner at Debevoise & Plimpton LLP, Jim is and chair of both the Brennan Center for Justice and the New Jersey Advisory Committee on Police Standards.  He held a number of key positions in the Treasury Department during the Clinton administration, Under Secretary of the Treasury for Enforcement and recently served on the Obama-Biden transition team.

 

We also will welcome the 30-member Southwest Children's Chorus from DeSoto, Texas, back to the Worship Service. 

 

 

The 10 o' Clock Hour continues a four-week series called "Searching for a Pastor the Presbyterian Way."  This week ends the series with a discussion on "Particular Theological Issues in the Process of Calling a Pastor," led by Meagan Manas, Paul Mowry, and Sarah Wiles. For more information email Rev. Beth at bethfpc@aol.com.

 

The nursery will be open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

 

Sunday School for June 28, 2009 Title: Healing Powers
Focus passage: Mark 5:21-43 
The focus Scripture reading for this week offers a "story within a story"— two stories of healing, with a contrast in status of the two who seek healing. These stories of Jesus' healing powers invite us to explore what it means to seek God's compassionate care, reaching out for help for ourselves or someone else. One of the themes that weaves through this Season after Pentecost is that of community-community in Christ, empowered by Christ.  Reflect on times you have reached out for help and on times you've responded to someone in need.  How did it feel to be vulnerable in community? How did it feel to be needed?  As a family, list ways you give and receive together each day?

Children's Church and Sunday School will begin after the Passing of the Peace. 

 

Sunday School meets through June.  Please contact Rev. Beth if you are able to help in July and August with Bible Movie Theater time.  We have Video and Bible games.  This is the most fun time to facilitate!

 

 

Other news:

 

Welcome New Members: Five new members joined FPC on June 21. They are: Lisa Borge, Louis Duplan, Gladys McNish, Aris Peguero and Susan Schultz.

 

Worship Leaders for the Summer: Anyone who is interested in participating as a Worship Leader in July and August, please contact Larry Picard or Annie Solages at fpc124@aol.com. Larry will contact you to discuss your interest and schedule. No experience is necessary.

 

Summer Worship Hours begin July 5 though Labor Day Week-end.  Summer Sunday Services will start at 10 a.m.

 

No July Women's Monthly Potluck: The Women's Potluck will resume in August. If you need more information please call the church office or email fpc124@aol.com

 

No Midweek Boost on July 1 because of the Fourth of July holiday.

 

Garden Parties: The garden parties began on Friday June 12 and continue through August 28, from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.   These popular informal gatherings are the perfect way to wind down from the work week while enjoying the beautiful Peace Garden. In the event of rain, the Garden Party will be held in the Elliott Room.  Please note, there will be no Garden Party on July 3 due to the holiday. For more information please contact Prisca Owens at Prisca.owens@americas.bnpparibas.com

 

Green Team - The Peace Garden needs regular watering during the dry season (June 12th through September 12th). Please contact Uda at umbradford@mindspring.com

or Jill at hughugj@aol.com  if you are able to help water for one week or more this summer.

 

New Parents' Group will not meet at the church during the summer but will enjoy neighborhood playgrounds.

 

Ask the Session:

Do you have questions or concerns for the church that you'd like to have addressed?  The Session wants to hear your concerns during this time of transition.  Please send written feedback to Session, which will be addressed at its monthly meeting. Send email to co-clerks, Marcia Smith, at mmax@pasesetter.org ; or Edna Asknes, eja128@msn.com.

 

Or leave questions and comments in the box in the Narthex labeled" Congregational Questions to the Session." 

 

Church Wide Nominating Committee (CWNC) seeks expressions of interest from FPC members (and members only!) interested in serving on the New Pastoral Nominating Committee (PNC).  Please prayerfully consider taking up this service to the Church, with energy, discernment, listening ears and open hearts.  Expressions of interest are due June 26^th, 2009; A Congregational Meeting will then be called on July 12 to vote on the PNC slate nominated by the CWNC.

 

If you are interested in serving, please contact any current committee member:  Jon Abernethy, Chair, Bernice Adorno, Nate Dudley, Marta Nelson, Sam Murumba, or Kimbirly Mack by emailing them at fpc124@aol.com.

 

On the calendar:

 

For more details about calendar events, click on this link. Click again on the event on the calendar to read a description. 

http://www.fpcbrooklyn.org/phpEventCalendar/index.php?

  

 

Wednesday, July 1:

Men's Breakfast at 7:30 a.m., at the Park Plaza Diner on Cadman Plaza. Contact Jim Palmer at jwpalmer@aol.com.

CSA Delivery for Food Pantry:  7:45p.m.  Contact Linda Kolts to help at lindakolts@earthlink.net.

 

No Mid-Week Boost, due to the Fourth of July.

 

Thursday, July 2:

Food Pantry, 10 to 11 a.m. To volunteer, Jane Woland at janewoland@yahoo.com

Thursday Night Choir Rehearsal, Sanctuary, 7 p.m. New members welcome!

 

Friday, July 3:

We will not have a Garden Party this week, due to Fourth of July.

 

Who/where to connect:

Pledging Statements will be mailed in July.  Please stay current on your pledge.

Online Donations: 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?GUIDE79B3-73D8-4D85-957E-A95BD878B25D

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Celebrate Ernie Salvi, Our Custodian of 33 Years

A weekly e-newsletter of First Presbyterian Church of Brooklyn:

  

THIS SATURDAY, June 20: Membership Class

 

There will be one two-hour Membership Class to be held on Saturday June 20 from 10 a.m. – Noon.  This will be the only class before the vote for a new PNC. Please contact Peggy Swisher Slowik ASAP to register at peggyswisher@gmail.com or (917) 400-6589.

THIS SUNDAY, June 21:

At the 11 a.m. Worship Service, Membership Sunday, our preacher is Paul Mowry.  His sermon titled "Across to the Other Side."  Paul received his master of divinity degree from Union Theological Seminary last year.  He is under the care of this church in his quest for ordination as a Minister of Word and Sacrament.  Paul especially remembers on this Father's Day his father, grandfather and great-great grandfather, all Presbyterian ministers.

 

This Sunday we will also have a special presentation during Worship Service to honor Ernie Salvi, our custodian of 33 years.

 

The 10 o' Clock Hour continues a four-week series called "Searching for a Pastor the Presbyterian Way." June 21 is the third series with a discussion on "The Process of Calling a New Pastor." Meagan Manas, Paul Mowry, and Sarah Wiles will lead the series. See the full course description below. For more information email Rev. Beth at bethfpc@aol.com.

 

The nursery will be open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

 

Sunday School for June 21, 2009 Title: In the Boat Together
Focus passage: Mark 4:35-41
 
This week's reading from the gospel of Mark reminds us that Christ is "in the boat" with us in the midst of times of turmoil and fear. The Christian Education and worship resources for this week explore the promise of peace offered by God's presence. The life of faith is not a guarantor of smooth sailing or stress-free lives. As you prepare as a family for Sunday think of experiences of fear and vulnerability in your own life. What has helped you during these times to speak and act with trust in God's presence? In what ways is the community of faith "in the boat together," reminding each other of the promise of peace offered by God's presence? 

 

Children's Church and Sunday School will begin after the Passing of the Peace. 

 

Sunday School meets through June.  Please contact Rev. Beth if you are able to help in July and August with Bible Movie Theater time. 

 

 

 

Other news:

Midweek Boost: What is the 5^th Commandment? What is the longest book in the Bible? Join Midweek Boost for fun, brain-tickling Bible Trivia.  No studying required!! Wednesday, June 24 at 7:00 p.m. in the Peace Garden (weather permitting), otherwise in the Thurman Room.  (By the way, the answers are: "Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you. " Ex. 20:12 NIV and the Book of Psalms.)

 

On Sunday June 28, we will welcome the Southwest Children's Chorus to our worship service!   There are 30 children in the chorus ranging from the ages of 9-16.  We had the pleasure of hearing their group several years ago, and it was such a blessing!  You will be inspired by their music, pride, dedication, and talent.  Please join us for this special day. 

 

We would like to treat the group to a lunch following the service, so if you are willing to bring a side dish, dessert, or beverage, please email Amy Neuner (aneuner@verizon.net) to sign up.  Any contribution would be greatly appreciated. 

 

Garden Parties: The garden parties on Fridays begin June 12 to August 28, rain or shine (no gathering on July 3 due to holiday) from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.   These popular informal gatherings are held at the end of the work week when we can enjoy the beautiful Peace Garden. For more information please contact Prisca Owens at Prisca.owens@americas.bnpparibas.com

 

Summer Music Series

Please join us each Thursday, starting July 9th, for music in our beautiful Peace Garden. The series will include: 

 

*Hymn-sings featuring the FPC Choir and our amazing trio

*The New York Brass Ensemble

*Guitar ensembles featuring James Moore, Scott Borg and the Threefifty Duo *Organ Concert with Wil Smith and guest organist, Meg Wilhoite

*An evening of Jazz featuring Bertilla Baker, vocalist

*An evening of R & B and Gospel featuring Jami Jackson, vocalist 

 

Each Thursday performance will begin at 7 p.m. Specific dates coming soon!  Light refreshments will be served. 

 

Green Team - The Peace Garden needs regular watering during the dry season (June 12th through September 12th). Please contact Uda at umbradford@mindspring.com

or Jill at hughugj@aol.com  if you are able to help water for one week or more this summer.

 

New Parents' Group will not meet at the church during the summer but will enjoy neighborhood playgrounds.

 

Adult Ed/Spiritual Life continues a series in June called "Searching for a Pastor the Presbyterian Way." The series will be led by Meagan Manas, Paul Mowry, and Sarah Wiles during the 10 o'Clock Hour meeting on Sunday in the Thurman Room.  For more information email Rev. Beth at bethfpc@aol.com

 

June 21            The Process of Calling a New Pastor

June 28            Particular Theological Issues in the Process of Calling a Pastor

Ask the Session:

Do you have concerns for the church you'd like to have addressed?  The Session wants to hear your concerns in this time of transition.  Please send written feedback to Session, which will be addressed at its monthly meeting. Send email to co-clerks, Marcia Smith, at mmax@pasesetter.org ; or Edna Asknes, eja128@msn.com.

 

Or leave questions and comments in the box in the Narthex labeled" Congregational Questions to the Session." 

 

Church Wide Nominating Committee (CWNC) seeks expressions of interest from Church members (and members only!) interested in serving on the New Pastoral Nominating Committee (PNC).  Please prayerfully consider taking up this service to the Church, with energy, discernment, listening ears and open hearts.  Expressions of interest are due by June 26^th; a Congregational Meeting will be called to elect a new PNC from the slate nominated by the CWNC on July 12^th, 2009

 

If you are interested in serving, please contact any current committee member:  Jon Abernethy, Chair, Bernice Adorno, Nate Dudley, Marta Nelson, Sam Murumba, or Kimbirly Mack by emailing them at fpc124@aol.com.

 

On the calendar:

 

For more details about calendar events, click on this link. Click again on the event on the calendar to read a description. 

http://www.fpcbrooklyn.org/phpEventCalendar/index.php?

  

Tuesday, June 23:

Living with Loss & Change Support Group, 6:30-8 p.m., Thurman Room, contact Rev. Monaco at Imagepark@aol.com.

 

Wednesday, June 24:

Men's Breakfast at 7:30 a.m., at the Park Plaza Diner on Cadman Plaza. Contact Jim Palmer at jwpalmer@aol.com.

CSA Delivery for Food Pantry:  7:45p.m.  Contact Linda Kolts to help at lindakolts@earthlink.net. 

Mid-Week Boost at 7:00 p.m. in the Thurman Room. For information please contact Aris Peguero at drarisp@aol.com or Edna Asknes at eja128@msn.com

 

Thursday, June 25:

Food Pantry, 10 to 11 a.m. To volunteer, Jane Woland at janewoland@yahoo.com

Thursday Night Choir Rehearsal, Sanctuary, 7 p.m. New members welcome!

 

Friday, June 26:

Garden Parties, from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Peace Garden, contact Prisca Owens at Prisca.owens@americas.bnpparibas.com for more information.

 

 

Who/where to connect:

Online Donations: 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?GUIDE79B3-73D8-4D85-957E-A95BD878B25D

Special Notices on Church Business

Special Note on Church Business.

There is much happening at FPC during this time of transition – so much, in fact, that we are sending this update separately from the church newsletter. Included below is a report from co-Clerks Edna Asknes and Marcia Smith; information about the Pastor Nominating and Mission Review committees; and reports from the 10 o'Clock Hour series and Sacred Conversations.

Clerks' Report.

Dear FPC Brooklyn,

We write to keep you updated and informed about the work and service of our many Elders, congregants (members and non-members), and volunteers in addition to the great fellowship and discipleship many of you are already offering.

The next Session meeting will be held on Thursday June 18^th. Rev. Arabella Meadows-Rogers, the Executive Presbyter will be our guest. During this meeting, Rev. Meadows-Rogers will explain & review the PNC process. Please submit questions about Session or the PNC process to Edna via email, a note in the Clerk mailbox or a note in the "Questions for Session" box in the narthex.

At the May 31 Congregational Meeting, the Church Wide Nominating Committee added 2 new members, Sam Murumba & Kimbirly Mack, by congregational vote. The CWNC is charged with nominating members for ordination as Elders and for nominating the PNC slate. The CWNC is currently accepting statements of interest from FPC members who are interested in being on the new PNC. The deadline for applications is June 26, 2009. Prayerfully consider being a part of this vey important process. A description of the role & the responsibilities is available in the narthex.

Those who are interested in serving on the PNC should attend the June 21^st session of the 4 part series "Searching for a Pastor the Presbyterian Way". The focus on that Sunday will be the actual process of calling a new pastor; past PNC participants (from FPC and other churches) will share their experiences. All are welcome to attend the series, which is held at 10am in the Elliott Room. (See below for a summary of the June 7^th session.)

For those who are not members but wish to join, the next membership class is being held on Saturday June 20^th 10a-12Noon. For additional information or to register, please contact Peggy Swisher at peggyswisher@gmail.com. Remember, this will be the last membership class before we vote for the new PNC.

The Mission Review Committee from 2007 has reconvened and added 4 new members. (Look for their multicolored leis.) They will be meeting and talking with congregants over the next 3 to 4 weeks seeking additional information to update the 2007 Mission Review Report. If you didn't receive a copy of the Report during the May 31^st Service, copies are available in the narthex. Comments can be written directly on the Report or emailed to the church. The updated MR Report will then be reported to Session and to the Congregation and given to the new PNC as a reference.

Ernie Salvi, our Custodian of 33 years, will be retiring effective June 30, 2009. His last Sunday will be June 28^th. We will have a small ceremony during Worship Service honoring him and his years of service to FPC Brooklyn. The Clerks and the Personnel Committee will be interviewing candidates over the next two months for the position. Please email Marcia or Edna if you know of anyone interested in the position.

Session has initiated the process of interviewing potential candidates for Interim Pastor. Co–Clerk Edna is spearheading the process. Please email her with questions or comments.

As we go into the summer months, opportunities to connect, grow & fellowship abound. In addition to the weekly Coffee Hour, we encourage you to partake, contribute and participate in the Garden Parties (Fridays), Mid-Week Boost (Wednesdays), the Choir's Summer Music Series (Thursdays), the Men's Breakfasts (Wednesdays) & the Women's Potluck Dinners (1^st Sunday of the month). Check the weekly bulletin, the church bulletin board, the website or call the office for details.

May God continue to bless and guide you,

Your Sisters in Christ,

Edna Asknes and Marcia Smith, co-Clerks of Session

eja128@msn.com / mmax@passetter.org

The Mission Review Committee (MRC) has the responsibility of preparing a report that reflects the congregation's views, sentiments, and preferences in support of the selection process for a new minister. We are in the early stages of soliciting input from you, our church members, that will permit us to update and freshen the Committee's original report that was prepared over 2 years ago. During the next few weeks you can help and assist us as follows:

- Complete and submit the updated member questionnaire that will be available at each Sunday service and on the FPC website at www.fpcbrooklyn.org

- Review and comment on the content of the MRC report draft…also available on the website and in the sanctuary.

- Members of the Mission Review Committee will be conspicuous and welcome your comments and input in any form: Richard Greene, Jane Quinn (co-chairs), Emily Thomas, Barbara Cummings, Merrie Lee Gottlieb, Jim Johnson, Reeves Carter, Dorothy Gill, and new members: Jim Palmer, Taylor Noguero, Aris Peguero, or Patty Watwood.

Our task will be completed by the end of July, so please make an effort to communicate your views to us. The MRC would like your comments on the Mission Review Report. Please read, comment, and send to fpc124@aol.com by June 21, 2009. Thanks much.

Richard Greene, Jr., Jane Quinn, Co-Chairs

Church Wide Nominating Committee (CWNC) met on Wednesday, June 10^th by conference call. They seek expressions of interest from Church members (and members only!) interested in serving on the New Pastoral Nominating Committee (PNC). Please prayerfully consider taking up this service to the Church, with energy, discernment, listening ears and open hearts. Expressions of interest are due by June 26th; a Congregational Meeting will be called to elect a new PNC from the slate nominated by the CWNC on June 28th, 2009

If you are interested in serving, please contact any current committee member: Jon Abernethy, Chair, Bernice Adorno, Nate Dudley, Marta Nelson, Sam Murumba, or Kimbirly Mack by emailing them at fpcpnc@aol.com.

Classes and Dialogues on the Process: Participants in Sunday's 10 o'clock Hour and the after-church Sacred Conversations have summarized their discoveries for you.

From Ten o' Clock Hour Class: Session 1: On How We Govern.

"Who knew that talking about church governance could be so lively and so joyous? In the first session of four-week series, Meagan Manas and Sarah Wiles led a discussion on "Foundations of How We Govern." The group looked at a few select passages from the Presbyterian Book of Order, including the assertion that in matters of religion, the right to private judgment is "universal and unalienable." In other words, as Presbyterians we are granted the absolute right to think for ourselves. Still, according to the principles of church order, there is such a thing as truth, although people "of good character" might disagree about exactly what forms truth takes. How are we to negotiate differences? "The Presbyterian way is to trust more people, rather than fewer, to make decisions," Manas said. The process requires patience, but it gives churches, rather than leaders, authority to find the right way forward. As one class member put it succinctly: "Truth matters, but as long as we are searching for it with authenticity, it doesn't matter so much if there are differences along the way – we should cut each other some slack." For next week's discussion on "Leadership in the PC (USA), two session members will sit in and discuss their experience.

Upcoming sessions in this series, "SEARCHING FOR A PASTOR THE PRESBYTERIAN WAY," will be led by Meagan Manas, Paul Mowry, and Sarah Wiles during the 10 o'Clock Hour meeting on Sunday in the Thurman Room. For more information email Rev. Beth at bethfpc@aol.com

June 14 Leadership in the PC (USA)

June 21 The Process of Calling a New Pastor

June 28 Particular Theological Issues in the Process of Calling a Pastor

From Sacred Conversation led by Many Mansions: 20 in attendance.

Last Sunday, Many Mansions for an hour after church continued their
exploration of the various mansions in which we all live, as we
collectively make up this First Presbyterian Congregation. Last Sunday,
over a feast of home-made goodies, we continued the deep sharing of
ourselves which builds community. We talked of our hopes and concerns for
the church at this particular time. But most importantly, we were able to
experience the joy of a deep and honest conversation of honest speaking
and deep listening. These gatherings will continue monthly. We will
continue to travel together to find out about where each of us lives and
explore the many mansions that make up the First Church village. If you
want to join the planning committee please contact Emily Thomas at Thomas@igc.org.

Preacher from Union Seminary & Friend of Rev. Cari

A weekly e-newsletter of First Presbyterian Church of Brooklyn:

THIS SUNDAY, June 14:

At the 11 a.m. Worship Service, guest preacher Rev. Karen Jones will give a sermon titled "Preparing for a New Beginning."

Reverend Jones has been Director of Field Education at Union Theological Seminary for the past nine years, but is leaving the position to transition into full-time parish ministry. She has served the past year as the interim pastor at Elmhurst Baptist Church in Queens. She is the mother of four and a new grandmother of one and describes herself as " sister-friend-colleague-spiritual companion," of Dr. Cari Jackson.

Reverend Jones earned a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration from Tennessee State University in Nashville, a Master of Arts in Christian Education (with an emphasis in Pastoral Care) from Scarritt Graduate School in Nashville, and a Master of Divinity from Union Theological Seminary. She is the editor of Church and Family Together: A Congregational Manual for Black Family Ministry.

The 10 o' Clock Hour continues a four-week series called "Searching for a Pastor the Presbyterian Way." June 14 is the second series with a discussion on "Leadership in the PC (USA)." Meagan Manas, Paul Mowry, and Sarah Wiles will lead the series. See the full course description below. For more information email Rev. Beth at bethfpc@aol.com.

The nursery will be open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Sunday School Lesson for June 14, 2009

Mark 4:26-34, Theme is "Flourishing"

The fourth chapter of the gospel of Mark begins a series of teachings, known as parables, revealing insights into the "kingdom" or realm of God. This week's focus scripture reading follows the parable of "the sower and the seed" and helps us to explore how God's realm flourishes, in ways that are seen and unseen.

New Testament scholar Michael Trainor suggests that the parable of the sower is a critical lens through which we can view the entire message of Mark's gospel. As we read the Gospel of Mark, the Spirit moves us to ask these questions: "Where are the places of growth in your own life? What is helping or hindering your growth? How is your growth dependent on others, upon things that cannot be seen?"

Ask these questions at your family dinner table. Or better yet, take a family outing to the green market and select a young plant to nurture together. Or best of all, sign up with Uda to water the Peace Garden for one week this summer. A great excuse to wear their Crocs and bathing suits!

Children's Church and Sunday School will begin after the Passing of the Peace.

Sunday School meets through June. Please contact Rev. Beth if you are able to help in July and August with Bible Movie Theater time.

Confirmation Class: Final class is 5-6:30 p.m. We will recite the Ten Commandments and Lord's Prayer for our Final Ritual.

Other news:

Garden Parties: The Garden parties on Fridays begin June 12 to August 28 rain or shine (no gathering on July 3 due to holiday) from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. It is a popular informal gathering at the end of the work week when we can enjoy the beautiful Peace Garden. For more information please contact Prisca Owens at Prisca.owens@americas.bnpparibas.com

Now is the Time to Join FPC! Classes to be held in June

What's the difference between becoming an "official member" and personally committing to attend regularly? Only members have the right to speak and vote in congressional meetings. Only members can be ordained as elders to govern as members of session. Membership is a commitment of faith within a community and should be considered first as a spiritual act. Please speak to a pastor or elder if you are in discernment over joining.

There will be one two-hour Membership Class to be held on June 20 from 10 a.m. – noon. This will be the only class before the vote for a new PNC. Please contact Peggy Swisher Slowik ASAP to register at peggyswisher@gmail.com or (917) 400-6589.

Green Team - The Peace Garden needs regular watering during the dry season (June 12th through September 12th). Please contact Uda at umbradford@mindspring.com

or Jill at hughugj@aol.com if you are able to help water for one week or more this summer.

New Parents' Group will not meet at the church during the summer but will enjoy neighborhood playgrounds.

Adult Ed/Spiritual Life continues a series in June called "Searching for a Pastor the Presbyterian Way." The series will be led by Meagan Manas, Paul Mowry, and Sarah Wiles during the 10 o'Clock Hour meeting on Sunday in the Thurman Room. For more information email Rev. Beth at bethfpc@aol.com

June 14 Leadership in the PC (USA)

June 21 The Process of Calling a New Pastor

June 28 Particular Theological Issues in the Process of Calling a Pastor

Session Meeting: Thursday June 18 at 7:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary.

Ask the Session:

Do you have concerns for the church you'd like to have addressed? The Session wants to hear your concerns in this time of transition. Please send written feedback to Session, which will be addressed at its monthly meeting. Send email to co-clerks, Marcia Smith, at mmax@pasesetter.org ; or Edna Asknes, eja128@msn.com.

Or leave questions and comments in the box in the Narthex labeled" Congregational Questions to the Session." Next Session meeting June 18^th at 7:00 pm in the Sanctuary.

Church Wide Nominating Committee (CWNC) seeks expressions of interest from Church members (and members only!) interested in serving on the New Pastoral Nominating Committee (PNC). Please prayerfully consider taking up this service to the Church, with energy, discernment, listening ears and open hearts. Expressions of interest are due by June 14th; a Congregational Meeting will be called to elect a new PNC from the slate nominated by the CWNC on June 28th, 2009

If you are interested in serving, please contact any current committee member: Jon Abernethy, Chair, Bernice Adorno, Nate Dudley, Marta Nelson, Sam Murumba, or Kimbirly Mack by emailing them at fpcpnc@aol.com.

On the calendar:

For more details about calendar events, click on this link. Click again on the event on the calendar to read a description.

http://www.fpcbrooklyn.org/phpEventCalendar/index.php?

Tuesday, June 16:

Tuesday Tea at 4 p.m. in the Rose Room, please join us for the last Tuesday Tea before the Summer.

Living with Loss & Change Support Group, 6:30-8p.m., Thurman Room, contact Rev. Monaco at Imagepark@aol.com.

Wednesday, June 17:

Men's Breakfast at 7.30 a.m., at the Park Plaza Diner on Cadman Plaza. Contact Jim Palmer at jwpalmer@aol.com.

CSA Delivery for Food Pantry: 7:45p.m. Contact Linda Kolts to help at lindakolts@earthlink.net.

Mid-Week Boost on June 17 at 7:00 p.m. in the Thurman Room. This week will be a discussion on "The gifts we are and that we bring to our communities". Led by Gladys McNish. For information please contact Aris Peguero at drarisp@aol.com or Edna Asknes at eja128@msn.com

Thursday, June 18:

Food Pantry, 10 to 11 a.m. To volunteer, Jane Woland at janewoland@yahoo.com

Session Meeting, Sanctuary 7:00 p.m.

Thursday Night Choir Rehearsal, Woodman Room, 7 p.m. New members welcome!

Who/where to connect:

Online Donations: 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?GUIDE79B3-73D8-4D85-957E-A95BD878B25D

Spirit Filled Co-Preaching & Sacred Conversations

A weekly e-newsletter of First Presbyterian Church of Brooklyn:

THIS SUNDAY, June 7:

At the 11 a.m. Worship Service and Holy Communion, Barry Ford and Lisa Mensah will preach a sermon titled "The Audacity of Fixing the Jericho Road."

Lisa Mensah and Barry Ford, an elder and member of the session, are married and are the parents of Rebecca, 13, and Andrew, 9. They live in Brooklyn with Lisa's mother, Gloria. Both have long and distinguished records of public service and achievement.

Some highlights:

Lisa is an expert in using financial tools to improve the economic security of the working poor. As executive director of The Aspen Institute, Initiative on Financial Security, she leads an advisory board to explore financial products that build wealth for America's working families. She has worked in commercial banking, and as deputy director of economic development for the Ford Foundation, where she led the foundation's work in microfinance and women's economic development. She holds an M.A. from the Paul H. Nitze School of Advanced International Studies of The Johns Hopkins University and a B.A. from Harvard University.

Barry is director of Outreach and Advocacy at the United States Tennis Association, where among other things, he works to introduce the sport of tennis to communities that have been traditionally outside the sport. A 1991 graduate of Harvard Law School, Barry has represented non-profits in governmental and public affairs matters in New York City, has served as vice president for external relations at The After-School Corporation (TASC), and as Senior Policy Advisor to New York City's Public Advocate Mark Green.

Barry graduated from Harvard College with a degree in government.

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The 10 o' Clock Hour will feature a series for four Sundays called "Searching for a Pastor the Presbyterian Way." June 7 is the first series with a discussion on "Foundations of How We Govern". Meagan Manas, Paul Mowry, Nancy Talbot, and Sarah Wiles will lead the series. See the full course description below. For more information email Rev. Beth at bethfpc@aol.com

The nursery will be open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Sunday School Lesson for June 7, 2009
Focus passage: John 3:1-17 "Mysterious Encounter"

This week is Trinity Sunday. Our lesson begins the Season after Pentecost with a focus on the story of Nicodemus' meeting with Jesus. This encounter evokes wonder and questions and invites us to reflect on the holy mystery of God's presence and God's ways. We invite you to reflect with your family about your own encounters with the Holy One, and the mystery and power of God's presence in your life. Use this blessing at dinner or before bed: May "the hands of God uphold you, the hands of the Savior enfold you, the hands of the Spirit surround you; and the blessing of God, Trinity of love, peace, and justice, uphold you evermore."

Children's Church and Sunday School will begin after the Passing of the Peace.

Sunday School meets through June. Please contact Rev. Beth if you are able to help in July and August with Bible Movie Theater time.

Confirmation Class: June 7^th at 12:30 p.m. Mentor groups meet and June 14^th is final class at 5:00-6:30 p.m. We will recite 10 Commandments and Lord's Prayer for our Final Ritual.

More Sacred Conversations sponsored by the Many Mansions committee on June 7 Light lunch and child care and a chance to grow our beloved FPC community.

Women's Potluck: June 7, 2009 at 6:00 pm at the Manse. The theme is "Letting Go." Along with your dish please bring an item that you would like to give to someone else and the story behind it.

Other news:

Now's the Time to Join FPC! Classes to be held in June

What's the difference between becoming an "official member" and personally committing to attend regularly? Only members have the right to speak and vote in congressional meetings. Only members can be ordained as elders to govern as members of session. Membership is a commitment of faith within a community and should be considered first as a spiritual act. Please speak to a pastor or elder if you are in discernment over joining.

There will be one two-hour Membership Class to be held on June 20 from 10:00 a.m. – Noon. This will be the only class before the vote for a new PNC.

Please contact Peggy Swisher Slowik ASAP to register at peggyswisher@gmail.com or (917) 400-6589.

Green Team - The Peace Garden needs regular watering during the dry season (June 12th through September 12th). Please contact Uda at umbradford@mindspring.com

or Jill at hughugj@aol.com if you are able to help water for one week or more this summer.

New Parents' Group will not meet at the church during the summer but will enjoy neighborhood playgrounds.

Yoga Class: June 6 will be last class until the Fall. For details, contact yoga instructor Maria Cutrona at maria@jamarts.com

Adult Ed/Spiritual Life will feature a series for four Sundays in June called "Searching for a Pastor the Presbyterian Way." The series will be led by Meagan Manas, Paul Mowry, Nancy Talbot, and Sarah Wiles during the 10 o'Clock Hour meeting on Sunday in the Thurman Room. For more information email Rev. Beth at bethfpc@aol.com

June 7 Foundations of How We Govern

June 14 Leadership in the PC (USA)

June 21 The Process of Calling a New Pastor

June 28 Particular Theological Issues in the Process of Calling a Pastor

Session Meeting: Thursday June 18 at 7:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary.

Ask the Session:

Do you have concerns for the church you'd like to have addressed? The Session wants to hear your concerns in this time of transition. Please send written feedback to Session, which will be addressed at its monthly meeting. Send email to co-clerks, Marcia Smith, at mmax@pasesetter.org ; or Edna Asknes, eja128@msn.com.

Or leave questions and comments in the box in the Narthex labeled" Congregational Questions to the Session."

Church Wide Nominating Committee (CWNC) seeks expressions of interest from Church members (and members only!) interested in serving on the New Pastoral Nominating Committee (PNC). Please prayerfully consider taking up this service to the Church, with energy, discernment, listening ears and open hearts. Expressions of interest are due by June 14th; a Congregational Meeting will be called to elect a new PNC from the slate nominated by the CWNC on June 28th, 2009

If you are interested in serving, please contact any current committee member: Jon Abernethy, Chair, Bernice Adorno, Nate Dudley, Marta Nelson, Sam Murumba, or Kimbirly Mack by emailing them at fpcpnc@aol.com.

On the calendar:

For more details about calendar events, click on this link. Click again on the event on the calendar to read a description.

http://www.fpcbrooklyn.org/phpEventCalendar/index.php?

Wednesday, June 10:

Men's Breakfast at 7.30 a.m., at the Park Plaza Diner on Cadman Plaza. Contact Jim Palmer at jwpalmer@aol.com.

Mid-Week Boost will not meet this week. Contact Dr. Aris Peguero drarisp@aol.com

Thursday, June 11:

Food Pantry, 10 to 11 a.m. To volunteer, Jane Woland at janewoland@yahoo.com

Thursday Night Choir Rehearsal, Sanctuary, 7 p.m. New members welcome!

Who/where to connect:

Online Donations: 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?GUIDE79B3-73D8-4D85-957E-A95BD878B25D