Wednesday, April 28, 2010

Come, Sunday

A weekly e-newsletter of First Presbyterian Church of Brooklyn:
Main office (718) 624-3770               Email info@firstchurchbrooklyn.org

THIS FRIDAY April 30, 2010
Twilight Jazz Benefit Concert at FPC: at 7:30 pm, First Presbyterian hosts a benefit for their Food Pantry and Seeds for Haiti.  Twilight Jazz at FPC will present singer Bertilla Baker with a talented trio to back her.   Bertilla has performed on Broadway in "Les Miserables," and "Jesus Christ Superstar," and recently appeared in "Sessions" at the Algonquin Hotel.  Bertilla's vocals have backed Vanessa Williams in her recording of "Silver and Gold," and Clay Aiken in his "Merry Christmas With Love."   She is a member of Broadway Inspirational Voices, and a member of this congregation. Minimum Contribution: $10.

THIS SATURDAY May 1, 2010
Cuba Fundraising Party: 4:00-7:00 p.m. at the home of Richard and Diane Greene at 212 St. Johns Place (between 7th & 8th Ave. in Park Slope, Brooklyn). Enjoy Cuban Food, Mojitos, music and dancing. Your contribution will benefit CESERSE (Center for Social and Educational Services) an agency that provides services to developmentally disabled children.  CESERSE is located in Varadero, a coastal town about 90 miles east of Havana.  Since its opening in 2001, CESERSE has served over 1,500 clients. Donation: $40.

Last Sunday, alas, the recording machinery did not work during the worship service.  Bertilla Baker's deeply moving offerings of "Precious Lord" and Duke Ellington's "Come, Sunday" are still in our hearts---but not in your CD collection.  Someone suggested that Rev. Phelps offer his same sermon again on some soon occasion, since attendance was reduced by all the walkers joining in the annual March of Dimes event.  In any event, the service of last Sunday joins the throng of 10,000 or so which were never recorded since the church began.  Therefore, come Sunday . . .

THIS SUNDAY May 2, 2010 – Sacrament of Holy Communion and Baptism
This Sunday, First Church will joyfully celebrate the baptism of Filip Adrian Kools, son of Arie van Duijn and Frank Kools.

11:00 a.m. Worship Service: Rev. Stephen H. Phelps will deliver the sermon "What I Meant"

Printed copies of Rev. Phelps' recent sermons are on the table in the Narthex (Henry Street Foyer) and are also posted on-line in text and audio formats at www.shphelps.com.


The nursery will be open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., with Christina and Patty.

10 O'clock Hour
No meeting is scheduled this week as planners work on a schedule for May and June.

Other News:

March of Dimes in Honor of Margaret Grace: Jill Huguet thanks everyone for walking last Sunday in the rain and or donating to the March of Dimes walk in honor of Margaret Grace. The weather may have been cold and wet but all of your smiling faces made the walk warm and sunny. We raised so far $3,401 surpassing the $1000 goal. THANK YOU! 
If you still would like to donate to the team walking for Margaret Grace you can go online at http://www.marchforbabies.org/MargaretGracefpcb

Updates on Margaret Grace: Go to http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/bethwaltemath

Tuesday Tea: Please join us in the Rose Room for our monthly tea on Tuesday May 10. For more information please contact Linda Kolts at lindakolts@earthlink.net.

Coping With Job Loss: A support group for anyone impacted by the effects of job loss. In a secure and caring environment, the group offers hope, faith, inspiration, coping skills and spiritual support to individuals seeking community while embracing the challenges that accompany job loss. The group meets on Fridays from 5:00-6:15pm in the Elliot Room beginning May 7th to June 11th. For more information and details, contact Tonya Deniz at 646 289 0872 or deniztonya@gmail.com.

The Annual FPC BBQ will be held on Sunday, May 23 (the weekend before Memorial Day weekend). Bernice Adorno and Edna Asknes are coordinating servers, food donations, set-up & clean-up crews.  If you are interested please contact Edna at eja128@msn.com  or Bernice Adorno at berniceadorno@aol.com

The FPC Global Arts Festival is Sunday, June 13.  Four hours (12:00 - 4:00) of great entertainment and fine handcrafts presented by NYCreates — and food. If you would like to show your handiwork, sell food, or help out, let us know. We need volunteers to help set up, take down, assist the performers, vendors, or be general information-givers. Setup begins with vendors arriving at 10:30 a.m. that morning.  To volunteer, contact Annie Solages at 718-624-3770 or email info@firstchurchbrooklyn.org .

 2010 Offering Envelopes are available in the Narthex (Henry Street Foyer).  If you would like to request (or unsubscribe from receiving) offering envelopes for this year or next year please call the Church office at 718 624-3770 or email Annie Solages at info@firstchurchbrooklyn.org.

Job Bank: Do you have skills or know of employment?  Contact Susan Schultz at Schultz.design@yahoo.com  to list your ideas on the FPC Job Bank.  If you are able to help others with writing resumes and cover letters, please also let us know.

Piano and Organ Lessons: Customized piano and organ lessons for kids and adults by FPC organist Wil Smith.  Contact him at wmdanielsmith@gmail.com or 646-320-0606 for info.

On the calendar:

Tuesday, May 4
Living with Loss at 6:00 p.m. in the Thurman Room. Contact Rev. Charles Monaco at 718-647-5479 or email at imagepark@aol.com.

Wednesday, May 5
Men's Breakfast at 7:30 a.m., at the Park Plaza Diner on Cadman Plaza. Contact Jim Palmer at jwpalmer@aol.com.

Thursday, May 6
Food Pantry, 10 to 11 a.m. To volunteer, contact Jane Woland at jawol28@gmail.com

FPC Choir Rehearsal, Thursday evening at 7:00 p.m. Please contact Music Director Amy Neuner at aneuner@verizon.net for info about the choir.

Friday, May 7
Coping with Job Loss 5:00-6:15 p.m. in the Elliot Room. For more information and details, contact Tonya Deniz at 646 289 0872 or deniztonya@gmail.com.

Who/where to connect:
Online Donations: Set up a recurring gift to the church through a secure online account.
On the church website, www.firstchurchbrooklyn.org, click the DONATE button at the lower left of the page.  To set up an account, click on the "First Church Donation Account Setup" link. To edit an existing gift, choose the "First Church Donation Login" link.

First Church Staff Email Addresses:
To simplify communications with the web world, we are finally changing our e-addresses to standard business formats, using first initial + whole last name + church domain name. For example:
Rev. Phelps                 sphelps@firstchurchbrooklyn.org
Rev. Waltemath          bwaltemath@firstchurchbrooklyn.org
Victor Forde, sexton   vforde@firstchurchbrooklyn.org
Although emails will get through to our church administrator Anne Solages at asolages@firstchurchbrooklyn.org, Annie notes that it is best to use  info@firstchurchbrooklyn.org.  That is the address to begin using.  Please delete the old address, fpc124@aol.com.

Messages sent to Amy Neuner, Wil Smith, and Sunday School Director Elizabeth de la Garza Vargas with the new addresses will be forwarded to their personal addresses, which have not changed.
Amy Neuner               aneuner@firstchurchbrooklyn.org
Wil Smith                    wsmith@firstchurchbrooklyn.org
Elizabeth de la Garza Vargas              edelagarza@firstchurchbrooklyn.org

New boxes can be created very easily.  Church projects—especially those aimed to serve or connect with people outside the church—can benefit when the public has a simple handle for them.  For example, the email address for a children's Shakespeare theater program  at First Church in July has been created at ssteps@firstchurchbrooklyn.org. If you think a box would help your church work, please call the church office to have one set up.

Don't worry about emails sent to the old AOL addresses.  We will maintain the old AOL account through May so that nothing is missed.  But why not change your address book now, while it's on your mind?

Thursday, April 22, 2010

40th Anniversary of Earth Day!

A weekly e-newsletter of First Presbyterian Church of Brooklyn:
Main office (718) 624-3770               Email info@firstchurchbrooklyn.org
  
40th Anniversary of Earth Day: Linda Kolts, chair of Social Action was at the Farmers' Market on Earth Day and decided to leave Con Edison behind and sign up for a new source of energy. Here is some information from the Green Mountain website. 
Con Edison joins with Green Mountain to deliver wind and water energy supplies to New Yorkers.
Since 2000, Green Mountain has been an active participant in the development of energy competition for New York. Green Mountain has been providing renewable energy products to National Grid customers in upstate New York since 2002 and the company helped support the development of New York's first wind power facility, the Madison Wind Project in Madison County. As of August 2009, Green Mountain entered the competitive market in New York City.
Green Mountain is the only electricity provider (ESCO) in New York City dedicated to cleaner energy. The company was founded on the mission to change the way power is made.  When you choose cleaner Green Mountain Energy® electricity products, you may be helping to make a difference for the environment.
Con Edison supports energy competition and encourages customers to choose an energy supplier (ESCO) that is right for them. Con Edison's primary business role is energy delivery, and ESCOs are in the business of energy supply. Even after you choose an energy supply company, Con Edison will still be there to read your meter, handle service calls, and provide emergency assistance. Energy competition is also supported by the State of New York.
 Green Mountain offers New Yorkers the choice between two electricity products that use cleaner renewable resources: Pollution FreeSM electricity and the 100% Wind product.  The primary difference between the products is where the renewable energy is generated. Pollution Free electricity is made from clean, renewable wind and water sources in New York State. And the wind energy used for 100% Wind product may be generated anywhere in United States. For each month that you purchase the 100% Wind product, Green Mountain matches 100% of your monthly electricity usage with clean energy generated from wind power generation sources in America.
How do I switch to Green Mountain Energy Company?
 You can sign up for Green Mountain's cleaner electricity products by calling toll-free     877- 216-4632 or online at www.greenmountain.com. You will need your 15-digit Con Edison account number to complete the sign up. You can find your account number on your Con Edison bill.
THIS SUNDAY April 25, 2010

March of Dimes in Honor of Margaret Grace: Jill Huguet started a team for the March of Dimes, March for the Babies 2010 in honor of Margaret Grace. The walk is on Sunday April 25 at 9 a.m. and it is only 3 miles. If you or your family would like to walk or donate, please click on the link below.

11:00 a.m. Worship Service: Rev. Stephen H. Phelps will deliver the sermon "The Jesus Game."

Printed copies of Rev. Phelps' recent sermons are on the table in the Narthex (Henry Street Foyer) and are also posted on-line in text and audio formats at www.shphelps.com.

The nursery will be open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., with Christina and Patty.

10 O'clock Hour
No meeting is scheduled this week as planners work on a schedule for May and June.

Other News:

Updates on Margaret Grace: Go to http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/bethwaltemath

PNC Committee Report: We continue to move in an expeditious and thoughtful manner with the search for a Senior Pastor.
Since January 2010 we have been able to accomplish the following:
·         Received and reviewed approximately 100 applications from a very diverse group of outstanding candidates representing gender, ethnic, and geographic diversity
·         Listened to many hours of moving sermons and identified a distinguished group of candidates to interview
·         Commenced first round telephone and in-person interviews with a very select group
Next steps:
·         We will hear prospective candidates preach in-person in May and June
·         Introductory meeting with the Presbytery Committee on Ministry in mid-May
 In the weeks ahead, the committee will continue to review applications and conduct outreach efforts. We believe this approach will identify the right nominee for our congregation. We look forward to keeping you updated and will make ourselves available should you have any questions. 
— David MullĂ© and Taylor Noguera PNC Co-Chairs, Paul Austin, Erick Brogger, Lukus Hasenstab, Harriette Mandeville, Aris Peguero, Susan Schultz,  Emily Thomas

Twilight Jazz Benefit Concert at FPC: On Friday, April 30, at 7:30 pm, First Presbyterian hosts a benefit for their Food Pantry and Seeds for Haiti.  Twilight Jazz at FPC will present singer Bertilla Baker with a talented trio to back her.   Bertilla has performed on Broadway in "Les Miserables," and "Jesus Christ Superstar," and recently appeared in "Sessions" at the Algonquin Hotel.  Bertilla's vocals have backed Vanessa Williams in her recording of "Silver and Gold", and Clay Aiken in his "Merry Christmas With Love".   She is a member of Broadway Inspirational Voices, and a member of the congregation at First Presbyterian Church on Henry Street. Minimum Contribution: $10.

Cuba Fundraising Party: Saturday May 1st, 4:00-7:00 p.m. at the home of Richard and Diane Greene at 212 St. Johns Place (between 7th& 8th Aves Park Slope, Brooklyn). Enjoy Cuban Food, Mojitos, music and dancing. Your contribution will benefit CESERSE (Center for Social and Educational Services) an agency that provides services to developmentally disabled children.  CESERSE is located in Varadero, a coastal town about 90 miles east of Havana.  Since its opening in 2001, CESERSE has served over 1,500 clients. Minimum Contribution: $40.

Coping With Job Loss: A support group for anyone impacted by the effects of job loss. In a secure and caring environment, the group offers hope, faith, inspiration, coping skills and spiritual support to individuals seeking community while embracing the challenges that accompany job loss. The group meets on Fridays from 5:00-6:15pm in the Elliot Room beginning May 7th to June 11th. For more information and details, contact Tonya Deniz at 646 289 0872 or deniztonya@gmail.com.

Annual FPC BBQ: will be held on Sunday, May 23 (the weekend before Memorial Day weekend). Bernice Adorno and Edna Asknes are coordinating servers, food donations, set-up & clean-up crews.  If you are interested please contact Edna at eja128@msn.com  or Bernice Adorno at berniceadorno@aol.com

The FPC Global Arts Festival is Sunday, June 13.  Four hours (12:00 - 4:00) of great entertainment and fine handcrafts presented by NYCreates — and food. If you would like to show your handiwork, sell food, or help out, let us know. We need volunteers to help set up, take down, assist the performers, vendors, or be general information-givers. Setup begins with vendors arriving at 10:30 a.m. that morning.  To volunteer, contact Annie Solages at 718-624-3770 or email info@firstchurchbrooklyn.org .

Shakespeare on the Steps: This summer, from July 19-July 30, First Presbyterian Church and teacher Lauren Mancia will be offering a Shakespeare Summer Theater Camp for 7-10 year olds. Classes incorporating voice, movement, acting, and theater games will allow young actors to become acquainted with the exciting world of theater through the language of Shakespeare. $75/camper.  Registration open till, May 29, 2010.  To register contact Jill Huguet at Ssteps@firstchurchbrooklyn.org or 718-624-3770.
 2010 Offering Envelopes are available in the Narthex (Henry Street Foyer).  If you would like to request (or unsubscribe from receiving) offering envelopes for this year or next year please call the Church office at 718 624-3770 or email Annie Solages at info@firstchurchbrooklyn.org.

Job Bank: Do you have skills or know of employment?  Contact Susan Schultz at Schultz.design@yahoo.com  to list your ideas on the FPC Job Bank.  If you are able to help others with writing resumes and cover letters, please also let us know.

Piano and Organ Lessons: Customized piano and organ lessons for kids and adults by FPC organist Wil Smith.  Contact him at wmdanielsmith@gmail.com or 646-320-0606 for info.

On the calendar:

Sunday, April 25
Many Mansions Meeting immediately following Worship Service in the Rose Room.

Tuesday, April 27
Living with Loss at 6:00 p.m. in the Thurman Room. Contact Rev. Charles Monaco at 718-647-5479 or email at imagepark@aol.com.

Wednesday, April 28
Men's Breakfast at 7:30 a.m., at the Park Plaza Diner on Cadman Plaza. Contact Jim Palmer at jwpalmer@aol.com.

Thursday, April 29
Food Pantry, 10 to 11 a.m. To volunteer, contact Jane Woland at jawol28@gmail.com

FPC Choir Rehearsal, Thursday evening at 7:00 p.m. Please contact Music Director Amy Neuner at aneuner@verizon.net for info about the choir.

Friday, April 30
Twilight Jazz Benefits Concert at 7:30 p.m. in the Elliott Room. Contact Linda Kolts at lindakolts@earthlink.net .

Who/where to connect:
Online Donations: Set up a recurring gift to the church through a secure online account.
On the church website, www.firstchurchbrooklyn.org, click the DONATE button at the lower left of the page.  To set up an account, click on the "First Church Donation Account Setup" link. To edit an existing gift, choose the "First Church Donation Login" link.

First Church Staff Email Addresses:
To simplify communications with the web world, we are finally changing our e-addresses to standard business formats, using first initial + whole last name + church domain name. For example:
Rev. Phelps                 sphelps@firstchurchbrooklyn.org
Rev. Waltemath          bwaltemath@firstchurchbrooklyn.org
Victor Forde, sexton   vforde@firstchurchbrooklyn.org
Although emails will get through to our church administrator Anne Solages at asolages@firstchurchbrooklyn.org, Annie notes that it is best to use  info@firstchurchbrooklyn.org.  That is the address to begin using.  Please delete the old address, fpc124@aol.com.

Messages sent to Amy Neuner, Wil Smith, and Sunday School Director Elizabeth de la Garza Vargas with the new addresses will be forwarded to their personal addresses, which have not changed.
Amy Neuner               aneuner@firstchurchbrooklyn.org
Wil Smith                    wsmith@firstchurchbrooklyn.org
Elizabeth de la Garza Vargas              edelagarza@firstchurchbrooklyn.org

New boxes can be created very easily.  Church projects—especially those aimed to serve or connect with people outside the church—can benefit when the public has a simple handle for them.  For example, the email address for a children's Shakespeare theater program  at First Church in July has been created at ssteps@firstchurchbrooklyn.org. If you think a box would help your church work, please call the church office to have one set up.

Don't worry about emails sent to the old AOL addresses.  We will maintain the old AOL account through May so that nothing is missed.  But why not change your address book now, while it's on your mind?

Thursday, April 15, 2010

First Church is Growing! God Gives the Growth.

A weekly e-newsletter of First Presbyterian Church of Brooklyn:
Main office (718) 624-3770               Email info@firstchurchbrooklyn.org
  
THIS FRIDAY April 16, 2010

NEW CONCERT SERIES AT FIRST CHURCH!
Cellist/vocalist/composer JODY REDHAGE and her band FIRE IN JULY headline the third concert in the inaugural season of MUSIC AT FIRST, an exciting new music series at First Presbyterian Church in Brooklyn heights.  The band, consisting of Jody Redhage on voice/cello/compositions, Ken Thomson on clarinets, Alan Ferber on trombone, Tom Beckham on vibraphone, and Fred Kennedy on drums and percussion, meld the detail and finesse of chamber music with the energy and drive of jazz improvisation.  With tinges of Medieval chanson and hints of Kurt Weill, Jody's compositions create a captivating blend of genres that simply comes across as her own unique voice.
Tonight at 7:30 p.m. in the Sanctuary. $10 suggested admission per person which will be collected at the door.

THIS SATURDAY, April 17, 2010
Inquirers Class – Second Gathering–EARLIER hour:  8:30 a.m. at the Manse (128 Henry Street).  We will further reflect on the meaning of our faith and the life of First Church.  If you want to take part in the conversation, please contact Paul Austin at paustin19@yahoo.com.

THIS SUNDAY April 18, 2010 – New Members Join!

Rev. Stephen H. Phelps, will deliver the sermon: "Tell It Like It Is"

Printed copies of Rev. Phelps' recent sermons are on the table in the Narthex (Henry Street Foyer) and are also posted on-line in text and audio formats at www.shphelps.com.

The nursery will be open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., with Christina and Patty.

The Women's Ministry will host this Sunday Coffee Hour in honor of Sheilah Hill's recently published memoir, They That Sow in Tears. Sheilah will read excerpts from her book and sign copies.
They That Sow in Tears tells Sheilah's story when as a young widow and mother at the wake of her husband, she experiences something intensely spiritual.  However, others do not understand, and she is taken to a psychiatric hospital on the eve of his funeral. There she is forced to receive multiple shock treatments and take medication with adverse side effects. In this environment, her faith and Psalm 91 sustain her.  The artwork for this book was designed by Susan Schultz.

10 O'clock Hour
Those who have been attending the Old Testament introduction with Rev. Phelps will reflect on the course, now concluded, and think through other subjects of study that First Church can present in coming months.  Rev. Phelps and Elder Chris Slowik, chair of Adult Education and Spiritual Life will facilitate the discussion.

Other News:

Updates on Margaret Grace: Go to http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/bethwaltemath

March of Dimes in Honor of Margaret Grace: Jill Huguet started a team for the March of Dimes, March for the Babies 2010 in honor of Margaret Grace. The walk is on Sunday April 25 at 9 a.m. and it is only 3 miles. If you or your family would like to walk or donate, please click on the link below.

There will be no Living with Loss meeting this coming Tuesday. Meeting will resume on Tuesday April 27 at 6:00 p.m. in the Thurman Room.  Contact Rev. Charles Monaco at 718-647-5479 or email at imagepark@aol.com .

Twilight Jazz Benefit Concert at FPC: On Friday, April 30, at 7:30 pm, First Presbyterian hosts a benefit for their Food Pantry and Seeds for Haiti.  Twilight Jazz at FPC will present singer Bertilla Baker with a talented trio to back her.   Bertilla has performed on Broadway in "Les Miserables," and "Jesus Christ Superstar," and recently appeared in "Sessions" at the Algonquin Hotel.  Bertilla's vocals have backed Vanessa Williams in her recording of "Silver and Gold", and Clay Aiken in his "Merry Christmas With Love".   She is a member of Broadway Inspirational Voices, and a member of the congregation at First Presbyterian Church on Henry Street.  See attached flier.

Cuba Fundraising Party: Saturday May 1st, 4:00-7:00 p.m. at the home of Richard and Diane Greene at 212 St. Johns Place (between 7th& 8th Aves Park Slope, Brooklyn). Enjoy Cuban Food, Mojitos, music and dancing. Your contribution will benefit CESERSE (Center for Social and Educational Services) an agency that provides services to developmentally disabled children.  CESERSE is located in Varadero, a coastal town about 90 miles east of Havana.  Since its opening in 2001, CESERSE has served over 1,500 clients.

Annual FPC BBQ: will be held on Sunday, May 23 (the weekend before Memorial Day weekend). Bernice Adorno and Edna Asknes are coordinating servers, food donations, set-up & clean-up crews.  If you are interested please contact Edna at eja128@msn.com  or Bernice Adorno at berniceadorno@aol.com

The FPC Global Arts Festival is Sunday, June 13.  Four hours (12:00 - 4:00) of great entertainment and fine handcrafts presented by NYCreates and food. If you would like to show your handiwork, sell food, or help out, let us know. We need volunteers to help set up, take down, assist the performers, vendors, or be general information-givers. Setup begins with vendors arriving at 10:30 a.m. that morning.  To volunteer, contact Annie Solages at 718-624-3770 or email info@firstchurchbrooklyn.org .
 
2010 Offering Envelopes are available in the Narthex (Henry Street Foyer).  If you would like to request (or unsubscribe from receiving) offering envelopes for this year or next year please call the Church office at 718 624-3770 or email Annie Solages at info@firstchurchbrooklyn.org.

Job Bank: Do you have skills or know of employment?  Contact Susan Schultz at Schultz.design@yahoo.com  to list your ideas on the FPC Job Bank.  If you are able to help others with writing resumes and cover letters, please also let us know.

Piano and Organ Lessons: Customized piano and organ lessons for kids and adults by FPC organist Wil Smith.  Contact him at wmdanielsmith@gmail.com or 646-320-0606 for info.

On the calendar:

Sunday, April 18
Session meeting: at 10:30 a.m. in the Thurman Room to receive new members.
    Personnel Committee meeting at 12:30 p.m. in the Thurman Room

Wednesday, April 21
Men's Breakfast at 7:30 a.m., at the Park Plaza Diner on Cadman Plaza. Contact Jim Palmer at jwpalmer@aol.com.

Thursday, April 22
Food Pantry, 10 to 11 a.m. To volunteer, contact Jane Woland at jawol28@gmail.com

FPC Choir Rehearsal, Thursday evening at 7:00 p.m. Please contact Music Director Amy Neuner at aneuner@verizon.net for info about the choir.
           
Who/where to connect:
Online Donations: Set up a recurring gift to the church through a secure online account.
On the church website, www.firstchurchbrooklyn.org, click the DONATE button at the lower left of the page.  To set up an account, click on the "First Church Donation Account Setup" link. To edit an existing gift, choose the "First Church Donation Login" link.

First Church Staff Email Addresses:
To simplify communications with the web world, we are finally changing our e-addresses to standard business formats, using first initial + whole last name + church domain name. For example:
Rev. Phelps                 sphelps@firstchurchbrooklyn.org
Rev. Waltemath          bwaltemath@firstchurchbrooklyn.org
Victor Forde, sexton   vforde@firstchurchbrooklyn.org
Although emails will get through to our church administrator Anne Solages at asolages@firstchurchbrooklyn.org, Annie notes that it is best to use  info@firstchurchbrooklyn.org.  That is the address to begin using.  Please delete the old address, fpc124@aol.com.

Messages sent to Amy Neuner, Wil Smith, and Sunday School Director Elizabeth de la Garza Vargas with the new addresses will be forwarded to their personal addresses, which have not changed.
Amy Neuner               aneuner@firstchurchbrooklyn.org
Wil Smith                    wsmith@firstchurchbrooklyn.org
Elizabeth de la Garza Vargas              edelagarza@firstchurchbrooklyn.org

New boxes can be created very easily.  Church projects—especially those aimed to serve or connect with people outside the church—can benefit when the public has a simple handle for them.  For example, an email for a children's Shakespeare theater program set for July here at First Church has been created at ssteps@firstchurchbrooklyn.org. If you think a box would help your church work, please call the church office to have one set up.

Don't worry about emails sent to the old AOL addresses.  We will maintain the old AOL account through May so that nothing is missed.  But why not change your address book now, while it's on your mind?

Thursday, April 8, 2010

The Power of Love and Harry Potter

A weekly e-newsletter of First Presbyterian Church of Brooklyn:
Main office (718) 624-3770               Email info@firstchurchbrooklyn.org
  
THIS SUNDAY April 11, 2010: The Sacrament of Baptism

This Sunday, First Church gladly celebrates the sacrament of baptism for Vivian Helena Yamato daughter of Andrew Yamato and Jenny Gage.

Elder Nate Dudley, will deliver the sermon: "The Power of Love and Harry Potter"
Nate is the founding principal of the Urban Assembly NY Harbor School, a seven-year-old small maritime public high school located in Bushwick Brooklyn, and moving to Governors Island in July. The School focuses on experiential education on the water. Nate joined First Presbyterian Church about 14 years ago and has served as an elder on the Session and as a chair of the Social Action Committee. Nate lives in Brooklyn with his wife Stephanie, and their daughters Emerson and Jillian.

Recent sermons of our Interim Senior Pastor are available online at www.shphelps.com, and printed copies are available in the Narthex (Henry Street Foyer).

The nursery will be open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., with Christina and Patty.

10 O'clock Hour
There will be no 10 O'Clock Hour this coming Sunday!

Other News:

Congratulations to Chris & Peggy Slowik on the birth of their daughter Cassandra on April 2, about noon: 7 lbs. 5 oz.

We grieve with Mark Elsenheimer and Jill Huguet on the death of Mark's mother: Esther Florence Elsenheimer.  Please remember the Elsenheimers family in your prayers.

Session Meeting: Monday April 12 at 7:00 p.m. in the Rose Room.

Tuesday Tea: Tuesday April 13 at 4:00 p.m. in the Rose Room. For more information please contact Linda Kolts at lindakolts@earthlink.net .

NEW CONCERT SERIES AT FIRST CHURCH!
Friday, April 16 at 7:30 pm -- MUSIC AT FIRST FEATURING CELLIST JODY REDHAGE AND FIRE IN JULY

Please come out and celebrate the third performance of FPC's exciting new concert series, MUSIC AT FIRST!  The series is curated by organist/pianist Wil Smith, and features some of our area's most talented new music ensembles and performers.  In order to introduce our congregation to the music, each performer or ensemble performs a work on the Sunday morning service of the same week of the concert.
Each concert lasts between an hour and a hour and a half, and there is a $10 suggested admission per person which will be collected at the door.

 Please help us make this series a success--your attendance and support ensures that more concerts of all types take place at FPC in the future.  For more information, check out our website designed by FPC member Susan Schultz: www.musicatfirstsite.com

The Women's Ministry will host the Coffee Hour on April 18th in honor of Sheilah Hill's recently published memoir, They That Sow in Tears. Sheilah will read excerpts from her book and sign copies.
They That Sow in Tears, whose artwork was designed by Susan Schultz, tells Sheilah's story when as a young widow and mother on the wake of her husband's death, she experiences something intensely spiritual.  However, others do not understand, and she is taken to a psychiatric hospital on the eve of his funeral. Here, she is forced to receive multiple shock treatments and take medication with adverse side effects. In  this environment, her faith and Psalm 91 sustain her.

Updates on Margaret Grace: Go to http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/bethwaltemath

March of Dimes in Honor of Margaret Grace: Jill Huguet started a team for the March of Dimes, March for the Babies 2010 in honor of Margaret Grace. The walk is on Sunday April 25 at 9 a.m. and it is only 3 miles. If you or your family would like to walk or donate, please click on the link below.

Cuba Fundraising Party: Saturday May 1st, 4:00-7:00 p.m. at the home of Richard and Diane Greene at 212 St. Johns Place (between 7th& 8th Aves Park Slope, Brooklyn). Enjoy Cuban Food, Mojitos, music and dancing. Your contribution will benefit CESERSE (Center for Social and Educational Services) an agency that provides services to developmentally disabled children.  CESERSE is located in Varadero, a coastal town about 90 miles east of Havana.  Since its opening in 2001, CESERSE has served over 1,500 clients.

Cuba Trip Planned with FPC White Rose Ministry
FPC White Rose Ministry has been invited to participate in several events in Cuba during the country's National Week against Homophobia May 13-21 (and stay longer for an additional program.  The FPC delegation will be involved in planned programs in Havana, Santa Clara and Veradero with religious and party officials.  Other social and cultural activities will also be scheduled.  Projected cost for participating is $1,800/person, which includes airfare, room, board and travel visas.  Contact either Emily Thomas (cell: 347.262.6466, email: thomas@igc.org ) or Patrick Dail (cell: 347.880.1530 or email: LPatrickDail@gmail.com) for more information.

2010 Offering Envelopes are available in the Narthex (Henry Street Foyer).  If you would like to request (or unsubscribe from receiving) offering envelopes for this year or next year please call the Church office at 718 624-3770 or email Annie Solages at info@firstchurchbrooklyn.org.

Job Bank: Do you have skills or know of employment?  Contact Susan Schultz at Schultz.design@yahoo.com  to list your ideas on the FPC Job Bank.  If you are able to help others with writing resumes and cover letters, please also let us know.

Piano and Organ Lessons: Customized piano and organ lessons for kids and adults by FPC organist Wil Smith.  Contact him at wmdanielsmith@gmail.com or 646-320-0606 for info.

Haiti Disaster Relief Update:

First Church of Brooklyn has raised over $4,550 for Haiti's relief. Thank you so much for your generous donations. Please continue to support our Haitian brothers and Sisters.

How You Can Help?

Haitian Women for Haitian Refugee
1212 Ocean Ave #5A
Brooklyn, NY 11230

MEDICC is a multiplier. Your donation will touch the lives of people in Haiti and across the globe through the work of thousands of talented young health professionals trained in Cuba in the spirit of public service. To donate by mail, send a check to: MEDICC, P.O. Box 361449, Decatur, GA 30036.
http://www.medicc.org/ns/index.php?s=105

Presbyterian Disaster Assistance (PDA)
To donate online:   http://www.pcusa.org/pda/
Contributions by cash, check, or money order may be sent to:
Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)
P.O. Box 643700
Pittsburgh, PA 15264-3700

Partners in Health
Contributions by check – note "Haiti Earthquake Relief" in the memo line – may be sent to:
Partners In Health
P.O. Box 845578
Boston, MA 02284-5578

International Red Cross and Red Crescent


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On the calendar:

Monday, April 12
      Session meeting at 7:00 p.m. in the Rose Room.

Tuesday, April 13
Tuesday Tea at 4:00 p.m. in the Rose Room.
Living with Loss at 6:00 p.m. in the Thurman Room. Contact Rev. Charles Monaco at 718-647-5479 or email at imagepark@aol.com.

Wednesday, April 14
Men's Breakfast at 7:30 a.m., at the Park Plaza Diner on Cadman Plaza. Contact Jim Palmer at jwpalmer@aol.com.

Thursday, April 15
Food Pantry, 10 to 11 a.m. To volunteer, contact Jane Woland at jawol28@gmail.com

FPC Choir Rehearsal, Thursday evening at 7:00 p.m. Please contact Music Director Amy Neuner at aneuner@verizon.net for info about the choir.

Friday, April 16
New Music Series at First Church: Jody Redhage, cellist and Fire in July Concert starts at 7:30 p.m. $10 suggested Admission.
           
Who/where to connect:
Online Donations: Set up a recurring gift to the church through a secure online account.
On the church website, www.firstchurchbrooklyn.org, click the DONATE button at the lower left of the page.  To set up an account, click on the "First Church Donation Account Setup" link. To edit an existing gift, choose the "First Church Donation Login" link.

First Church Staff Email Addresses:
To simplify communications with the web world, we are finally changing our e-addresses to standard business formats, using first initial + whole last name + church domain name. For example:
Rev. Phelps                 sphelps@firstchurchbrooklyn.org
Rev. Waltemath          bwaltemath@firstchurchbrooklyn.org
Victor Forde, sexton   vforde@firstchurchbrooklyn.org
Although emails will get through to our church administrator Anne Solages at asolages@firstchurchbrooklyn.org, Annie notes that it is best to use  info@firstchurchbrooklyn.org.  That is the address to begin using.  Please delete the old address, fpc124@aol.com.

Messages sent to Amy Neuner, Wil Smith, and Sunday School Director Elizabeth de la Garza Vargas with the new addresses will be forwarded to their personal addresses, which have not changed.
Amy Neuner               aneuner@firstchurchbrooklyn.org
Wil Smith                    wsmith@firstchurchbrooklyn.org
Elizabeth de la  Garza Vargas             edelagarza@firstchurchbrooklyn.org

New boxes can be created very easily.  Church projects—especially those aimed to serve or connect with people outside the church—can benefit when the public has a simple handle for them.  For example, an email for a children's Shakespeare theater program set for July here at First Church has been created at ssteps@firstchurchbrooklyn.org. If you think a box would help your church work, please call the church office to have one set up.

Don't worry about emails sent to the old AOL addresses.  We will maintain the old AOL account for the next few months so that nothing is missed and make sure you know when they are suspended.  But why not change your address book now, while it's on your mind?