FPC connects
The Chimes Newsletter of First Presbyterian Church of Atlanta
SUNDAY Schedule Sunday, September 16 • Prayer breakfast for Homeless persons - 6:30 am, Fifield Hall • Communion Service 8:15 am, Winship Chapel
• The Mustard Seed Bookstore - 9:00 am - 1:00 pm • Worship Service - 9:00 am, Sanctuary • Cherub Choir - 9:30 am, Rm 222 • Youth Choir - 9:30 am, Rm 223 • Sunday School for all ages - 10:05 am • Worship Service - 11:15 am, Sanctuary • Fellowship Hour - 12:15 pm, Fifield Hall
Sunday, September 23 Focus Sunday
• Prayer breakfast for Homeless persons - 6:30 am, Fifield Hall • Communion Service 8:15 am, Winship Chapel
• The Mustard Seed Bookstore - 9:00 am - 1:00 pm • Worship Service - 9:00 am, Sanctuary • Cherub Choir - 9:30 am, Rm 222 • Youth Choir - 9:30 am, Rm 223 • Sunday School for all ages - 10:05 am • Worship Service - 11:15 am, Sanctuary • Fellowship Hour - 12:15 pm, Fifield Hall • Focus Luncheon - 12:15 pm, Reception room
September 16 & 23, 2012 Christ at the Center
W
o r d s . We live in a world of words. Sometimes it seems like they are coming at us relentlessly, especially in this season of political conventions and campaigns. Much September 16 - Rev. Craig of what we hear we Goodrich to preach might characterize as “negative” or at best “argumentative,” words spoken or written against another in an attempt to prove the validity or dominance of one’s position, or one’s party or candidate. But it is not just in our politics, is it? It’s everywhere, including in our own lives. So let me ask you this, do you ever stop to think about not only what you hear, but what you say? Or going even deeper, why you say it? In the letter of James, the writer in speaking about the responsibility of those who teach the faith, cautions his readers on the power of speech and the need to tame the tongue, “How great a forest is set ablaze by a small fire! And the tongue is a fire….. (Think of the forest fires that have raged out West this summer). He goes on to say “With it we bless the Lord and Father, and with it we curse those who are made in the likeness of God. From the same mouth come blessing and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this ought not be so.” (James 3: 5, 6, 9-10). What about you? Do you need to tame your tongue? To move from negative to positive, from cursing to blessing? You know, it starts with what is going on in our own hearts and minds. And it starts with the grace and the love of God in Jesus Christ. I look forward to seeing you on Sunday. The sermon is entitled, “What Did You Say?” Faithfully Yours,
Craig
A
s we return to our regular fall schedule on September 9, I am looking forward with great anticipation to welcoming all of you back to worship at 9:00 and 11:15 am September 23 - Dr. Oliver in the sanctuary and Thomas to preach another new church year! Our overall and ongoing theme “Christ At The Center” will be focused in a particular way during the months ahead as we seek, in the words of the prophet Isaiah, to “ wait for the Lord”, “to renew our strength” and “to mount up with wings like eagles, to run and not grow weary, to walk and not faint” (Isaiah 40:31). Waiting Waiting, renewing, flying, running and on Text walking are all action words which move us forward in our spiritual journey, looking to the Lord to lead us every step of the way! Realizing that this will be my final year here as pastor of this great congregation, I also want everyone to know that I am trusting in God to guide us and provide us with a sense of direction as we set our sails to the winds of transition and change, believing beyond the shadow of a doubt that “in all things, God works together for good for those who love Him and are called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28). So please join with me, our wonderful staff and all of our faithful church officers as we join hearts and hands together in worship, work and witness, and may the Lord grant us joy for the journey that is before us! Faithfully Yours, George B. Wirth
The Chimes Care, Growth & Events
Prayers for THOSE IN MILITARY SERVICE This is a list of known servicemen/women in our Church family. To add names, please call 404.228.7719.
Pray for: Major Charles Ayers PVT Forrest “Woody” Bass Maj. Jamison Bowman, Chaplain ABE3 Gregory Bridges Sgt. Isaiah Bridges LCPL Austin W.P. Eskew Staff Sgt. Kevin Lee Captain Alexandria Victoria Miller Captain John Warren Robey Captain Gabriel Rulewicz Brig. General Russell Sanborn Ensign David B. Sibley USN Commander Ryan Tewell Col. Roderick G. Turner III
RAINBOWS
Pastoral Care Report (As of September 4, 2012)
Rehab: English Robinson, Jr. Recuperating: Granvette Matthews, Molly Orr. Births: Congratulations and many blessings go out to: Chris and Helena Bryant following the birth of their son, Austen Alexander Bryant, on August 22nd; Molly (Stanford) and Richard Hudson following the birth of Richard Brady Hudson, on August 27th; proud family includes grandparents Beth & John Stanford, and great-grandmother Elizabeth Feely. Deaths: We extend our condolences and lift up in prayer: Clay & Eileen Scofield & family following the death of Clay’s father, Edgar Clayton Scofield, Jr., on August 23rd;
COME-ON-ALONG SEPTEMBER 20Th!
hope and healing in the face of loss ainbows is looking for two compassionate adults who are willing to work with the children’s small groups. Facilitators receive training through an online course taken at your convenience. These facilitators will be taught how to appropriately offer support, understanding and guidance through the use of their own listening skills, supported with Rainbows materials. If you have ever experienced such a loss or have known the pain of your own children or others in grief, please consider this ministry as a way to serve God and the children of our congregation and community. To volunteer or to find out more, please contact Sue Anthony (404-257-9388) or the Pastoral Office.
R
RAINBOWS SCHEDULE
Thursday evenings, Sept. 27 - Nov. 15 Dinner: 6:00 Groups: 6:40-7:45
2
September 16 & 23
57
up th F ighter Gro Restaurant
COME-ON-ALONG TO THE 57th Fighter Group Restaurant DATE: Thursday, September 20, 2012 TIME: Leave 2nd Ponce de Leon Baptist Church at 11:00 a.m. COST: Self Pay Mark your calendar! Join us for a delicious lunch at the World War II aviation-themed restaurant on the edge of the DekalbP-tree Airport runway in Chambleee. You don’t want to miss this fun trip, so call Pat now! (404.228.7719).
The Chimes programs & events
God(s), Heroes, Legends, and Law: Exploring the First Books of the Bible Taught by Dr. Joel LeMon Assistant Professor of Old Testament Candler School of Theology Emory University
Sundays, September 9, 16, 23 & 30 10:05 – 11:00 am Fifield Hall
W E D N E S D AY
@
F I R S T
September 19 & 26
W EDNESDAY T he M ustard S eed 9:00 am - 1:00 pm,
4:30 - 6:30 pm Books, gifts and cards for all ages.
D inner 5:00 - 6:30 pm
Adults and Youth :$8 Children 3-12: $4
P reschool 5:30 - 8:00 pm
Bible, crafts & fellowship. Childcare available.
E lementary A ctivities 5:00 - 7:30 pm
LOGOS program. Dinner, choir, rec., drama & art.
Y outh 5:30 - 7:30 pm B111
All youth are invited to join us for Fellowship, Food and Bible Study.
W ednesday N ight C hoirs
5:30 - 6:15 pm 6:15 - 6:45 pm 6:45 - 7:30 pm 6:30 - 7:25 pm 7:30 - 9:00 pm
Handbell Choir Carol Choir (Grade 1 -2) Archangel Choir (Grade 3 -5) St. Cecilia Consort Chancel Choir
Wednesday Night Studies & Worship 6:00 - 7:30 pm Room 323 Making A Good Marriage Better... Led by Andi and Craig Goodrich And Gerry and Sonia Mize
Eyes and Ears under construction
6:30 - 7:30 pm Reception Room Wednesday Worship - Eyes, Ears and Soul featuring the music of The Beatles, Johnny Cash. Led by Rev. Kevin D. Knab 6:30 - 7:15 pm Room 156 Renew Large Group Bible Study 7:15 - 8:30 pm Various rooms Renew Small Group Bible Study
under construction
September 16 & 23
3
The Chimes
FOCUS 2012
e
Sunday, September 23rd
e
32nd Annual Theological Forum and 7th Marion Kenan Lectureship Co-chaired by Allison & Tim Bennent Featuring Rev. Oliver “Buzz” Thomas
F
d
m y
“Civility and the Common Good - A City Set on a Hill” Preaching at 9:00 & 11:15 am
4
s h
*Reservations required.
e
Rev. Oliver “Buzz” Thomas, Executive Director of the Knoxville Public Education Foundation and noted First Amendment authority is an accomplished attorney, author, educator, minister and community leader, who over the last decade has been at the frontlines of debates regarding religion, science, and education.
e
*RSVP lunch reservations to 404.228.7709 or online: www.firstpresatl.org/events
September 16 & 23
A retirement dinner & festive celebration honoring the Rev. Charles Black who in 25 years of ministry at First Presbyterian Church of Atlanta has followed Jesus’s directive with service, love and joy for the journey Can we get an amen?
Luncheon following in the Reception room.
Rev. Thomas’ most recent book, “10 Things Your Minister Wants To Tell You” ( but can’t because he needs the job) will be available for sale in The Mustard Seed Bookstore.
Please join us Friday, September 28, 7-9 p.m. Dinner, 7 p.m., Fifield Hall Festive Celebration, 8 p.m., Sanctuary
p
Reservations are $15, paid in advance. Prepayment can be made online at www. firstpresatl.org events or at the sign-up table outside Fifield Hall on Sundays through September 23. Payment must be received by September 24. Please bring an item for the Food Pantry.
ar t s THE SCHOOL OF FINE
first presbyterian church of atlanta
For information about private music instruction and group music, dance, and art classes, please visit us on the web or call: Kate Breytspraak, Director (404) 228-7762 www.firstpresatl.org/sfa
The Chimes
Fall Bible Study: September
f i v e
@
f i r s t
Summer break is over.
1 0 y ears o f b u i l d i ng br i d ges
The Five@First a casual, evening worship service Join us each week at 5PM in the Reception Room for inspired music, prayer, and preaching.
The Partnership Ministry is excited to celebrate 10 years of building bridges between the congregations of First Presbyterian Church of Atlanta and Hillside Presbyterian Church of Decatur. We will be sponsoring two special events to celebrate this special milestone: On Sunday, October 7 we will meet at 4pm at Hillside Presbyterian Church for a joint World Communion Day Celebration Service. This will be a special opportunity for us to worship as a combined congregation and give thanks to God for the growth and outreach that we have experienced together. On Saturday, October 13 we will enjoy a special Community Concert to be presented at 5pm in the sanctuary of First Presbyterian Church of Atlanta. The Music Ministries of both churches have been working hard to present a concert which will represent the spirit of the Partnership Ministry to our community at large.
to
December
THE CHURCH IN CHANGE:
The Pastoral Epistles A study of 1 & 2 Timothy and Titus How does the church retain the past while facing the future? How do we respond to pressures within and competition from without? Led by The Reverend Fred Wise & Jami Wise Hosted in their home in Decatur. 1st Thursday of every month starting Sept. 6, 2012 , 6:30 to 8:00 pm. To sign-up contact: Morgan Moore at morganhealymoore@gmail.com or Jami Wise at jwise@firstpresatl.org
Musica Sacra Season Preview
September 16 The Musica Sacra Atlanta Guild would like to invite you to our Season Preview Luncheon Sunday, September 16, 12:30pm-2:00pm Fifield Hall First Presbyterian Church $10 per person You may sign-up for the luncheon by emailing us at music@firstpresatl.org or by calling us at 404-228-7732
September 16 & 23
5
The Chimes nursery/preschool & elementary
youth
THANK YOU!! Thank you to all the parents and volunteers who helped the children’s ministries continue to flourish over the summer. We had a great summer with Sunday school, VBS, Mission trips and more! Elementary Pool Party! Sunday, Sept. 23rd, 11:00 - 2:30 swimming and lunch! - details and registration at firstpresatl.org/elementary, email Lauren with questions! (lpatrus@firstpresatl.org)
New pics coming
es ng go ” o s the on! Like Pass it “
Youth Teacher and Advisor Orientation SEPTEMBER 5, 2012 All 2012-2013 Youth Teachers and Advisors are invited and encouraged to attend an orientation and planning session for the upcoming church year. We will break into teams to go over curriculum, roles, calendars, etc. Please RSVP by emailing aper-lee@ firstpresatl.org. I’m looking forward to a great and wonderful year in our Youth Sunday School and Fellowship Program. We will meet in — B111 at 7:00 PM.
Red, White, and Blue D-Group KickOff Lock-In SEPTEMBER 8-9, 2012 We will kick-off our D-Group Small Group Bible Studies with a Lock-In at the church! All youth will meet with their D-Group Leaders, do rotations for service projects, games, food and fellowship! Don’t miss out. We will initiate our new pingpong/pool table too! Everyone is encouraged to wear Red, white and blue! Sign up in the Youth Ministry Office!
How did summer end so fast? LOGOS! Every Wednesday night 5:00 - 7:30 it’s not too late to register! Join us for music, recreation, dinner, art and Bible study! Details and registration at firstpresatl.org/elementary, email Lauren with questions! (lpatrus@firstpresatl.org) Bible story, playground and games on Wednesday nights for Nursery/Preschool kids too! Come to room 180, contact Margaret at mevans@firstpresatl.org with any questions!
New pics coming
Parents’ Morning Out There are still a few spaces open in PMO for the 2012-2013 school year - please contact the PMO office at PMO@firstpresatl.org with any questions.
Good times at the McColl’s Honduras Reunion! 6
September 16 & 23
The Chimes adult sunday school A gora Room B303
In New Testament Greek, the name means “meeting place,” and we are a vibrant, conversational class that discusses a variety of topics, including Bible, theology, current events, and arts. Most of us are thirty something, and many have young children.
Berean Bible Class Reception Room
On September 9, we are excited to have as our speaker Rev. Charles Black, who will give us his personal perspective on this year’s theme, “What is the Church?” On September 23, Bill Lyons will return. Bill will discuss selected topics from the booklets in our hallway about our history and our windows. He will add some topics not mentioned there. Be sure to be ready with your questions for both Charles and Bill.
First Foundations Room 323
A laid-back, discussion-oriented class of couples, many in our thirties with young families. We try to maintain diversity in our topics with a combination of Bible study, modern day religious and societal trends, parenting and family issues, movie and video lessons, guest speakers, etc.
Forum @ First Fifield Hall
On September 16 and 23, we continue our four week series entitled “God(s), Heroes, Legends, and Law: Exploring the First Books of the Bible.” Dr. Joel LeMon of Emory is fabulous and is teaching in Fifield Hall. Join us!
G alatians 3:28, Room 319
Community Bible Study Room B415
With only four weeks left before Rev. Charles Black retires, please join us for Bible study and fellowship. As always, any and all are invited.
A brand new Bible Study class, we are open, inclusive, and discussion-oriented. A safe space to discuss a wide variety of issues, including sexuality, we are taught by Emory Ph.D. student Parker Diggory. Join us for historically informed, biblically grounded conversations about faith issues.
Covenant Class Room 230
Internationals Room 327
Join us for our first class of the season – Bill Farrisee will lead us in a discussion on the Jefferson Bible. Rush Smith will be bringing coffee. Stop in, rekindle friendships and share in the conversation – it’s sure to be interesting!
Discovering God’s Word Room 317
On Sept. 16 and 23, we will attend Forum@First, “God(s), Heroes, Legends, and Law: Exploring the First Books of the Bible” in Fifield Hall.
Emmaus Class Room 227
On September 9th, please join fellow classmates of the Emmaus Class for fellowship time as we kick off the new church year. We will be studying N. T. Wright’s book, After You Believe in a series of lessons this fall. All are welcome.
Faith and Life Room 218
On September 16th Rev. Craig Goodrich will continue his discussion of NT Wright’s bookAfter You Believe: The Importance of Christian Character. NT Wright is one of the most prolific and influential theologians of our times. We welcome Craig as he leads us in the study of this important author and thought-provoking book. Join us for coffee and discussion in room 218. On September 23 class member Nancy Cunningham will speak on “Making a Difference: The Role of Mentors.” Who have been the mentors in your life? How have they shaped your life? How can we serve as mentors in the lives of others? Join us for coffee and discussion led by Nancy in room 218.
The Upper Room Room 332
How disciplined is your spiritual life? How disciplined could it be? Join us on September 16 as Rebekah LeMon leads us in a conversation about Christian spiritual disciplines (like reading scripture, prayer, worship, hospitality, fasting, and stewardship) and ways to incorporate them into our busy lives. On September 23, join us as specialist Dr. David M. Moss leads us in the first of two weeks of conversation about healthy marriage in mid-life and during times of transition.
Young Adults Room 322
We are a new class for singles and couples in their twenties and early thirties. Join together for topical discussion, fellowship, and even some enlightening Bible Study. If you’ve never had a class before, and you’re a young adult, this one’s for you.
Sept 2 - DISSCUSSION OF CHRISTIAN FAITH - The Positive Values of Doubting (continued)led by Sam Bukas Yakabul Sept 9 - DISSCUSSION OF CHRISTIAN FAITH - The Positive Values of Doubting (continued) led by Sam Bukas Yakabul
Meditation Group Room 320
This year, we are meeting exclusively as a small group, meeting on Thursday evenings at the home of Dottie Hitchcock. We’d love to have you if you’re interested. Please call Dottie at (404) 228-7709 for further information.
Open Door Room 156
Hello everyone! We’re looking forward to another year at Open Door! Our first meeting will be on 9 Sept, and our speaker is Anne Farrisee. This is her first of three weeks with us. We hope you’ll join us.
Ours for Today Room B308
We welcome current and prospective classmates to a party/planning session, Sunday, September 9th. Please bring your knowledge, passions and expertise for the year ahead! We are building our curriculum around the theme “Get Committed” – committed to Christ, the church, our families, our marriages, and each other.
Spiritual Living Room B202
The members of the Spiritual Living Class study the different paths to Spiritual Living through books and other teachings. In the past we have read C.S. Lewis and Emmet Fox among others. Class discussion is ALWAYS lively and new members and visitors are ALWAYS welcome. Please join us this Sunday.
Meditation Class
is now meeting Thursday nights, 6:30~8:00 pm at the home of Dottie Hitchcock. Beginners and pros are all welcome. To sign-up & for directions call 404.228.7709.
September 16 & 23
7
The Partnership Ministry
The Partnership Ministry is actively seeking assistance with our “Whiz Kids” tutoring/mentoring program.
It’s time again for the Whiz Kids tutoring program to prepare to serve the children of Snapfinger Elementary School in Decatur. The Partnership Ministry is looking for retirees, students needing volunteer hours or anyone wth a desire to help a child learn and grow. If you or someone you know would be interested in participating in this rewarding outreach program please contact Rev.Connie Lee at 404-228-7741 or email clee@firstpresatl.org.
Music for September 16 Prelude
Suite in A minor – Telemann Darryl Payne, Recorder
Anthem
Ubi Caritas – Durufle
Offertory Dear Lord and Father – Parry Ben Resp
Three-fold Amen
Postlude
March in D Major Opus 56,#3 - Guilmont
Music for September 23
The Mustard Seed
We’re open and stocked full of wonderful new items. Stop in and visit.
Prelude
Wednesdays 9-1, 4:40 - 6:30 Sundays 9-1 (404) 201-6442 info@themustardseedbookstore.com
Ben Resp
Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee (verse 3)
Postlude
Toccata - Georgi Mushel
Lots of new ise! and merch e see m o C us!
Partita on Sei Gegrusset, Jesu Gutig (Hail to Thee, My Jesu, Lowly) - J.S. Bach
Offertory The Lord is the Everlasting God – Kenneth Jennings
WEEKLY BROADCASTS Sundays live at 9:00 am & 11:15 am On demand anytime www.firstpresatl.org/servicesonline AIB Cable Network (Comcast Channel 5; Smyrna Channel 22) Wednesdays at 8:00 p.m. WORSHIP Sunday Communion Service - 8:30 am Sunday Worship Services -9:00 am & 11:15 am Sunday School 10:05 am HOW TO CONTACT US Phone/404-892-8461 Fax/404-228-7760 E-mail: youbelong@firstpresatl.org Web: www.firstpresatl.org
First Presbyterian Church of Atlanta 1328 Peachtree Street, NE Atlanta, GA 30309-3209 Bi-weekly Newsletter of
The Chimes
Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Atlanta, GA Permit No. 1521