OCTOBER 2014
Volume 69, Issue 7
Dear Members and Friends of Fairmont: In the last edition of THE CALL I noted that I was not certain whether my contribution was the final one or not because the Pastor Nominating Committee was nearing a successful conclusion to their work. The overwhelming positive support by the congregation confirmed the unanimous choice of the PNC to have the Rev. Brian Maguire called as the next Senior Pastor and Head of Staff of the Fairmont Presbyterian Church.
Rev. Joe Hookey What an exciting time to be part of the Presbyterian tradition and history Interim Pastor making era. We are at a critical junction in the life of the denomination and the local church. Change and challenge have been the constants of the present era. The awesome question is whether the local church can experience change without losing its purpose and sense of mission. Too often many churches have responded to change by building higher walls, moving to a new location or by only reaching out to people like them. The church can experience change and at the same time explore and proclaim what it means to be a follower of Jesus Christ in the 21st century. Undoubtedly, the future will be a blending of the familiar with the excitement of the new. I have found that the Fairmont Presbyterian Church models a church which has a rich tradition and at the same time is open to new forms of expression. This bodes well for the future.
Although we anticipate creative leadership with Rev. Brian Maguire, without continued, vigorous participation of the members of the congregation little will change and a golden opportunity will be lost. Behind the scene and often not recognized are those who keep the church members informed and cared for. They are Donna Schoonmaker who is at the center of information and communication, Bill Miller, an information specialist who keeps the computers and technical instruments working, Becky Hegwood whose accounting skills are used to oversee an elaborate and complex financial program, Glenn Stevens and Louis Weyrauch who keep the building and grounds cared for. Together they make a fine supportive team. They are key players in the health of the congregation. Finally, I wish to thank the members of Fairmont for the opportunity to share life for almost a year. It has been an inspiring and satisfying time in my life. You all will remain in my heart and prayers in the days ahead. Faithfully yours,
Joe Hookey, Interim Head of Staff
3705 Far Hills Avenue • Dayton, OH 45429-2599 • (937) 299-3539
Worship and Music at Fair mont
have a new pastor coming on November 6 and that doesn’t mean less work for us, the members, it means more work…God’s work.
Worship is the center of the church’s life and our highest calling as God’s people. Each Sunday morning we gather for praise, prayer, fellowship, and renewal in God’s Word. Fairmont’s two styles of worship offer an alternative every week, but both have the same purpose – to glorify God, celebrate the Good News, and seek the Lord’s guidance.
Please keep the excitement and energy alive. Fairmont’s faith journey is about to begin again! God bless us all! Together in FAITH, LOVE, COMMUNITY, and MISSION! ~ The Pastor Nominating Team Kerri Miles, Lois Thomas, Jenny Fiden, Jeff Adam, Charlie Chamberlain, and, Rich Bowden (Chair)
8:30 Casual Worship Music led by Fairmont's Praise Band in Fellowship Hall
Dear Members of Fairmont, Thank you so much for your incredibly warm welcome on the weekend of September 6 & 7. The Pastor Nominating Committee made it a joy. Lisa and I so enjoyed meeting many of you in the ice cream social and hearing parts of your stories about what makes Fairmont such a special place. Thank you also for your gracious welcome in worship and the reception that followed. The kind folks in the kitchen kept me happily distracted while you all were attending to the meeting. Denise, Joe, Rachel, and Ashley were all very gracious in helping me learn about your worship style. We were overwhelmed by the love and hospitality that we experienced that day.
10:30 Traditional Worship Music led by Judy Bede at the organ and vocal soloists in the Sanctuary Oct. 5: World Communion Sunday Rev. Denise Weaver will preach. Oct. 12: Heritage Sunday Rev. Joe Hookey will pr each “Think On These Things” based on Philippians 4:1-9. Oct. 19: Rev. Joe Hookey will pr each “What Are They Saying About Us?” based on I Thessalonians 1:1-10. Oct. 26: Consecration Sunday Rev. Joe Hookey will pr each a ser mon based on Deuteronomy 34:1-12.
The truest sign of call is the sense of "fit" once you commit and begin to live into it. On September 7 it felt like coming home. For that I thank all of you. I look forward to beginning our adventure together. See you in a few weeks! ~ Rev. Brian Maguire
Reception for Rev. Hookey Joe Hookey’s last day will be Sunday, November 2. Deacons will host a reception in Fellowship Hall after both services. Please plan on joining us to say thank you to Joe for helping us during this transition period and for spending the past year at Fairmont.
Last year the frequent news from Trustees focused on the piping project. With its completion, does that give the Building & Grounds committee a break? Unfortunately not. As they redirected their attention to other needs of the physical building, attention to the choir room back wall led to discovery of substantial leaks around this foundation. Observations following rainfalls and a bit of experimentation with a hose showed that the choir room leak is coming from seepage down the gated
The Pastor Nominating Team has completed their work and is beyond excited that you have voted to accept Rev. Brian Maguire as Fairmont’s senior pastor. The congregation has been amazing during this transition period, stepping up to do the work of the church and offering support to Rev. Denise and our interim pastors. We are moving into a new and exciting time at Fairmont and the energy and enthusiasm levels are soaring. Take it to heart! We
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Planned gifts take many forms. They may reduce income and estate taxes, relieving you and your heirs of complicated financial management responsibilities and helping to fulfill your personal, humanitarian and charitable objectives. Planned gifts can be made in cash, stocks, bonds, or life insurance.
low brick wall out front. We are getting estimates for fixing the problem. Two additional leaks from the roof affect the sanctuary, and roof repairs are underway. Several smaller tasks related to water control have also been completed to protect our building. With these immediate concerns, a second important goal of evaluating possible sound system updates has been delayed. Various options have been evaluated to improve sound for worship services. However, because of past purchases without much improvement, we are looking into additional options. Any members especially those with hearing impairment are welcome to be part of the team. Please contact Karen Sensel, Dave Hammond or Daryll Sakada thr ough the chur ch office.
You are encouraged to consider planned giving from your estate to Fairmont Presbyterian Church in your will and estate plan. Your Gift will provide a benefit for all children of God who worship at Fairmont for generations to come!
Establish a Legacy Today! Direct Pledge Payment Direct Pledge Payment is the easy way to make your pledge payment to Fairmont Presbyterian Church by automatically transferring your monthly pledge from your checking or savings account into Fairmont’s account. It works just like having your utility bills deducted from your account. Using Direct Pledge Payment is convenient, especially if your schedule prevents you from attending every week or you don’t like to write checks and keep track of your payments.
STEWARDSHIP 2015
Each September Fairmont Church programs and activities start anew after the summer break. In October we follow up with our annual stewardship campaign which is critical in providing the financial resources required to fund Fairmont programs and mission outreach. This year is special because 2015 brings a new senior pastor and the beginning of a new chapter in the 70-year history of Fairmont Presbyterian Church. We all share in a unique opportunity to welcome our new senior pastor with a fully funded budget for 2015. As you contemplate your financial support of Fairmont next year, please give it the priority level that it deserves. Your generous financial support is essential to maintain church programs and meet mission objectives. Please respond to God’s call to keep Fairmont a strong and viable Christian influence within the church membership, the community and beyond.
To enroll in Direct Pledge Payment, just go to the fairmontchurch.org web site, click on “About Us” and then on “Online Giving”. There is an easy to follow form to complete the process. If you are not comfortable with computers, call Becky Hegwood at the church office, 299-3539, and she can help you complete your enrollment.
November Appreciation Month for Blood Drives Our last blood drive of 2014 will be Nov. 13 at 3:00 p.m. This will be our donor /volunteer appreciation blood drive. We will be having an ice cream sundae bar and gifts at the drive. At this time of year, the blood center is always in critical need of blood products. Your help is needed. Please consider donating or volunteering with the drive. You could be a greeter, donate homemade cookies, help set up or tear down, or decorate. Even an hour of your help makes a big difference so consider helping with this lifesaving event.
Consider Fairmont Presbyterian Church In Your Estate Planning You have lived life to the fullest and you have enjoyed God’s blessings. As you now reflect on how important Fairmont Presbyterian Church has been in your life, please prayerfully consider making a difference for the future of Fairmont with a planned gift. A planned gift is a legal arrangement made by you during your lifetime. The principal benefits may accrue to Fairmont Presbyterian Church at a later time, after your death or the death of a named beneficiary.
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Advanced Directives Class Coming Soon
Name Tags Update Progress on the name tags and holders continues. The basic style has been agreed upon. Eventually the tags will be displayed on walls and the tables will be retired. Due to the size difference of the hanging badges, they will be displayed separately. Thank you for wearing your name tags at the ice cream social for Brian and Lisa Maguire. It was a big help to them that day, and will continue to help them get acquainted with all of us.
In October we plan to present a Health Ministries Class: Advanced Directives. This is an important topic for all adults. If you are unable to relay your health care wishes, without advanced directives you have no control over who makes decisions for you. The state may even take over your care decisions. Young or old, it is important that you express your wishes while you are still able. You never know what will happen. This class will have all the blank documents you need and will walk you through how to fill them out, why and what decisions you have to make. It will explain how things work, legally and medically. There will be time for questions and answers. Please consider attending this class. Look for the date in the upcoming Bulletins or call Gail for details.
Special thanks to Koneta Schneider for volunteering to work at the Welcome Desk. She has been doing a great job, and we really appreciate her doing it.
New Member Reception
Thanks to the many people who donated school supplies for JFK Elementary School. They were thrilled to receive them.
On Sunday, October 19, there will be a simple reception for members who have joined since the summer of 2013. We never fully welcomed them. So, after each service that Sunday, please plan to get acquainted with them if you haven’t met them already. The first to join in that period was Linda Hammond coming to us fr om Texas and becoming very active from the start. Then Jeffrey Jenkins (wife Kelsey) joined the day he and their baby daughter Ellie Ray were both baptized. Susan and Jeff Stewart joined the day their son Kevin was baptized. Their son Will loved our preschool, enjoyed Vacation Bible School and now attends our Sunday School. Our most recent new members joined in late June. Former members JaNice and French McCoy r etur ned after year s being away. Jack Barnes (brother and brother-in-law of members Betty Lou and Dick Ludwig) is our only new member who usually attends the early service. Charlotte (Char) and Max Lee come to us fr om Nevada. With them are their four children: Erik, Sophia, and twins Alex and Austin. All four children attend our Sunday School and Erik and Sophia enjoyed the past two Vacation Bible Schools. Although they have since moved to Columbus, Patricia Gonzales and Joseph Morales ar e still committed to coming to Fairmont. What a great group of people!
We will begin collecting Box Tops for Education for JFK Elementary. Our box tops will be given to the school and they can redeem each box top for 10 cents. Simply cut out the box top from the normal foods and household products you purchase. Participating products include Ziploc baggies, General Mills cereals, Progresso soups, Betty Crocker baking products, Land O Lake butter and many more. There is a collection jar on the Welcome Desk in the Black and White Narthex. Operation Christmas Child Information will be coming about Operation Christmas Child later in October . Filled shoe boxes need to be returned to the church by November 16. Upcoming Mission Opportunities House of Bread volunteer day is Monday, November 4 from 9:00-2:00. Contact Sally Kaskocsak. Lunches are prepared, donated and served to adults who experience mental disorders at The Castle the last Monday of every month. The Castle in Centerville is a place where living and social skills are fostered; it’s a stepping stone for people who want to be a productive part of our community. Contact Joyce Hoffman if you can help.
The Third Sunday mission project will also be taking place on October 19, so you can meet our new members and help work on the project.
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The Good Works Mission in trip in Athens, OH will be the weekend of November 14-16. Contact Dave Diller.
discussion on Presbyterian heritage in America from the earliest colonial churches and presbyteries to the changes and challenges of the present and what it means to be a Christian in the Presbyterian tradition. Books cost $20.
Weekend Mission Opportunity in Appalachian Ohio! November 14-16
Making Sense of the Bible—Numerous denominations continue to experience deep divisions over universal social issues. The underlying debate is not about a particular social issue, but about how we understand the nature of scripture and how we should interpret it. Join Pastor Denise for a discussion on hot -button issues that plague the church and cultural debate as well as often misunderstood biblical themes in order to gain a deeper appreciation of the Bible and hear God’s life-changing and life-giving message to each of us. Class continues in the Upper Room following the 10:30 a.m. worship service on October 5, 12, 19, 26, (no class November 2) and November 9. Books cost $12.
Our Mission Team is sponsoring an exciting weekend mission retreat to Good Works in Athens, Ohio on November 14-16. This trip is for any Adult or Youth over 12-years-old interested in working and growing together with our Fairmont Family. As a Christian community, we are seeking to grow in our love for God and for our neighbor. Good Works, Inc. is an organization we have supported financially for several years. The vision of Good Works is to create a COMMUNITY OF HOPE with and for people who are struggling with poverty and homelessness in rural Appalachia. People in need can experience biblical hospitality, access practical assistance, and share their gifts with others. This trip will facilitate ways for people from all walks of life to build relationships of love and service with their neighbors.
The Young Couples/Young Families cookout at the Weaver’s home was a wonderful beginning for this new group! Twenty-nine people (nine couples, four children, three toddlers and three babies) enjoyed getting to know one another while enjoying food and admiring each other’s children. The group unanimously supported the idea of future gettogethers sometimes with/sometimes without children. Thanks to Rachel Boden, Karen Sensel, John Weaver, Haley and Christopher Ingram for help with childcare and food, Chris and Lisa Shearer for serving as resources based on their experience with older children. Details for future events will be forthcoming.
Last year, 25 of us worked in various ways to either perform practical labor-intensive projects (maintenance, building, yard work, etc.) or spend time with residents and shut-ins. We will again be sleeping in a dorm-like setting and preparing our own meals. Lively Friday and Saturday evening retreat activities, fellowship, and music will be held to further our individual and group growth. More details will be shared later. This is a great opportunity to put your Love into Action! We are limited to 26 folks.
For a closer look at Good Works and the services they provide, take a look at their website: www.goodworks.net
Sunday School Schedule 9:35 a.m.-9:55 a.m. Children's Music (age 4-5th grade) 10:00 a.m.-10:25 a.m. Sunday school (ages 3-5) 10:00 a.m.-10:25 a.m. Sunday school (grades 1-5) 10:30 a.m. (after Children's Talk) Sunday school (ages 3-5) 10:30 a.m. (after Children's Talk) Sunday school (grades 1-5)
Contact Mission Team member Dave Diller to save your spot on this trip or for further information! Mark your calendar now!
Adult Education Offerings
Our Children's Ministry cleaned out the toys in our toddler room and nursery this week, and donated a whole trunk-full of toys to the Artemis Center in Dayton. The Artemis Center is an advocacy program that works to rehabilitate woman victims of domestic violence in the Dayton area, and offers a babysitting
Interested in learning more about Presbyterian history? The study of Presbyterians and American Culture: A History, continues on Monday evenings, October 6 and 20 (no class on October 13) from 7:00 – 8:30 pm in the Upper Room. J oin Dr. John Weaver as he leads a
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Calendar - October 2014
Calendar - October 2014
Karan Bowden Receives Presbyterian Women Honor
service for their children. We had to take the seats out of the minivan to fit all of the toys! The Artemis Center was incredibly thankful to have all of the donations. We also donated the blankets the children made during Vacation Bible School to the Dayton Children's Hospital, who were delighted to have some new, fun, fleece blankets for the kids staying there. We are so excited to show God's love in our community!
At the September Women of Fairmont Coordinating Team meeting, Kim Gunlock, new WOF moderator, thanked outgoing moderator Karan Bowden for her years of service. Karan was presented with a certificate for Honorary Life Membership in Presbyterian Women. This honor recognizes faithful service in the work of the church. All Women of Fairmont, as well as the church, are thankful for Karan's faithful service. Organized, efficient, and fun, Karan has led so many activities for our church!
Upcoming events: October 29, 5 p.m.: Trunk or Treat in the parking lot. Bring a bowl of candy and your car to the church parking lot on Oct. 29 at 5 p.m. Open your trunk and hang out in your car, passing out candy to the preschool and community children. This spin on regular Beggar's Night is easier and safer for very young children and first time parents. Come join us for a night of tricks, treats, and trunks!
Karan was also presented with an honorary life membership pin. The overall design of the pin is of a butterfly, the symbol of newness in Christ. The caring supportive hands represent women who seek to build an inclusive community of Presbyterian Women. The leaf represents growth of our personal and corporate response to Jesus Christ as we nurture our faith. The dove indicates our work for peace in our own lives and throughout the world, shown in the globe. At the center of the design is the cross, by which our sins are forgiven and we are freed to live in Christ, who is the center of our lives.
November 16, 5:30 p.m.: Thanksgiving through Art. Join us in creating a massive piece of artwork to hang in the church as a congregation, showing the many things we are thankful for. December 24, 4:30 p.m.: Family Chr istmas Eve service We hope you will help us show God's love to our kids and our community this fall!
Cards, prayers and get well thoughts of friends are the best recovery medicine there is. Thank you all for the boost out of bed and into rehab so I could be back among you so soon. Our Fairmont family is the best!!! ~ Carol Lamberger Thank you to members of Fairmont, and especially to Rev. Denise Weaver, for the prayers, love, meals and support given to us for the past four and half years. It has been a difficult road to travel, but knowing our church family is with us, gives us great comfort. Thank you again. ~Ray and Helen Madole and family
CIRCLE MEETINGS – Circles will be using the Horizons study, "Reconciling Paul." Circle 1 – Oct. 13, 7:00 p.m. in the Chur ch Par lor Circle 2 – Oct. 15, 10:00 a.m. Hostess: Jean Sherwood Circles 3 & 4 – Oct. 15, 9:30 a.m. Check with Circle Leader for place Circle 5 - Oct. 15, 1 p.m. in the Church Parlor Circle 6 – Oct. 15, 7 p.m. in the Chur ch Par lor Circle 7 – Oct. 18, 9:30 a.m. Check with Circle Leader for place
Address, Phone & E-mail Changes:
The WOF Coordinating Team will meet on Monday, Oct. 6, at 6:30 p.m. in the Upper Room.
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Veterans’ Day Plans A luncheon to honor our veterans is being planned for Tuesday, November 11 in Fellowship Hall. All veterans of Fairmont Church and their spouses and guests will be invited. Hold the date. Details will be announced later and will be in the November Call. WINE & CHEESE PARTY October 25, 6:30 p.m. There will be an adult wine and cheese party at A Taste of Wine, 90 South Main St., Miamisburg (in downtown Miamisburg). Your cost for the evening will depend on the wine you select, the number of wines you try, and the food you order. This will be the perfect way to sit and relax, to talk to your friends, to make new friends, and to try different wines. Every adult is invited. Please call Cindy & Dave Youngerman for infor mation. Vendors Sought for Fine Arts, Craft & Antique Show Be a part of the third annual show to be held on Saturday, November 22 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Fairmont. Again, 100 % of profits go to local food missions. We are accepting applications for 8 x 10 booths for only $40. If you make nice hand-made crafts or food (or know someone who does), or have antiques to sell, please pick up an application in the office. In addition to the silent auction items which you can donate, we will be having a "member boutique" booth that will sell your nice vintage or antique collectibles with proceeds also going to our charities. Be thinking of things in your house that can be sold for this worthy effort. A place for drop off will be announced in early October. If you have any questions, please contact Carolyn Wimer, Ann Diller or Callie Johnson.
Weddings: Ashley Ross and Claude Cassion wer e mar r ied at Northminster Presbyterian Church on Sunday, September 14, by Rev. Jeff Hosmer. Kara Karmele and Charlie Poff wer e mar r ied in the Chapel on Tuesday, September 23, by Rev. Denise Weaver.
Dayton Out of the Darkness Walk Sunday, October 6
Fairmont Men’s Group Activities
The Dayton Out of the Darkness Community Walk will begin at Oakwood High School at 2:00 p.m. with registration starting at 1:00 p.m. For more information about the Dayton event, go to the “Dayton Out of the Darkness Walk” page on Facebook or contact Sallie Luther. To find out more about suicide prevention, visit the website at www.afsp.org.
The Fairmont men's group will meet at the Bob Evans restaurant, 7115 Far Hills Avenue, (just south of Southminster Presbyterian Church) on Wednesday, October 15, at 8:00 a.m. All the men of the church and their guests are invited. Sign "breakfast" on the attendance pads, or call the church office by Tuesday noon, October 14.
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Fairmont Call Fairmont Presbyterian Church 3705 Far Hills Avenue Dayton, OH 45429-2599 CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED
Interim Pastor: Joe Hookey Associate Pastor: Denise Weaver Youth Ministry Coordinator: Ashley Cassion Interim Children’s Ministry Coordinator: Rachel Boden Director of Chancel Choir: Ashley Cassion Praise & Worship Leader: Jerry Mahn Bookkeeper: Becky Hegwood Administrative Assistant: Donna Schoonmaker Information Specialist: Bill Miller, III Preschool Director: Coleen Petrello Organist: Judy Bede Custodian: Glenn Stevens Church Office: (937) 299-3539 Fax: (937) 299-5974 E-mail: office@fairmontchurch.org Website: www.fairmontchurch.org Facebook: Fairmont Presbyterian Church - Kettering, OH
In This Issue: 1 Message from Joe Hookey 2 Pastoral Nominating Team 2 Board of Trustees 3 Budget & Stewardship 3 Evangelism & Member Care Team 4 Fairmont Missions 5 Christian Formation Team 6-7 Calendar 8 Women of Fairmont 8 Expressions of Gratitude 8 Within the Fellowship 9 Upcoming Events 9 Memory Verse of the Month
**DEADLINE FOR THE NEXT CALL**
Deadline for the November issue of the CALL will be Monday, October 20. You may submit your articles either by sending them to the office or e-mailing them to the editor, Karen Eizenga.
October 2014 November 2014 Call deadline: Monday, October 20