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The Chimes nline
Newsletter of First Presbyterian Church of Atlanta
SUNDAY Schedule
October 2 & 9, 2011 Christ at the Center
Sunday, October 2 • Prayer breakfast for Homeless persons - 6:30 am, Fifield Hall • Communion Service 8:30 am, Winship Chapel • The Mustard Seed Bookstore 9:00 am - 1:00 pm • Cherub Choir - 9:30 am • Worship Service - 9:00 am, Sanctuary • Sunday School - 10:05 am • Worship Service - 11:15 am, Sanctuary • Women’s Bible Class Celebration - 12:15 pm, Room 156 • Fellowship Hour - 12:15 am, Fifield Hall • Excelsis Choir - 1:00 pm
Sunday, October 9 • Prayer breakfast for Homeless persons - 6:30 am, Fifield Hall • Communion Service 8:30 am, Winship Chapel • The Mustard Seed Bookstore 9:00 am - 1:00 pm • Cherub Choir - 9:30 am • Worship Service - 9:00 am, Sanctuary • Sunday School - 10:05 am • Worship Service - 11:15 am, Sanctuary • Fellowship Hour - 12:15 am, Fifield Hall • Excelsis Choir - 1:00 pm
On Oct. 2 we will dedicate the new “reserved” pew markers. This needlepoint project was done in memory of a few families at First by 17 volunteers. OCTOBER 2 WORLD COMMUNION SUNDAY Dear Friends, As we continue to “Stay Centered and Get Connected” during this fall season at FPC, I look forward to coming to the table for World Communion Sunday with all of you this weekend. The title of our sermon is “For God So Loved The World”, taken from the familiar text of John 3:16, and I hope you will read the entire chapter in advance of our worship services at 9:00 and 11:15am in the sanctuary. And speaking of the sanctuary, we are going to hold a special celebration and dedication of the new “reserved” pew markers which have been prepared by a group of faithful and creative needlepointers, coordinated by Cindy Candler and Katherine Davey and sponsored by the Worship Council. These memorial pew markers will be dedicated to the glory of God and in memory of Alice and Bill Pressly, Earl Haltiwanger, Ruth Pratt and Jan Tabaka, with special appreciation to their families who will be with us in worship that day. So please come join us on October 2 as we lift up our hearts in grateful praise and remember the “communion of saints” who have gone before us in the faith. And I hope that you will invite your family members and friends to come on along as well!
OCTOBER 9 “SPIRITUAL BUT NOT RELIGIOUS” How many times have you heard people say, “I’m spiritual, but not religious”? That phrase is becoming more and more popular these days, and the national trends indicate that a growing number of Americans are saying that is the way they identify themselves. On the surface of things, those words could convey a dynamic and growing spiritual fervor across this country, seeking to replace what some might consider “dry as dust” religious structures and institutions. But some theologians and church leaders are wondering if “spiritual but not religious” might also mean those who are dropping out of any form of organized religion and pursuing a more individualistic path, “doing their own thing” and rejecting any and all kinds of faith traditions. We’ll deal with those questions on October 9, and the sermon entitled “Spiritual But Not Religious” will be based on the scripture passage from Acts 17:16-34, describing the experience of the Apostle Paul in Athens almost 2000 years ago - a story which is actually very current in our world today. So please come join us for worship, Sunday School and fellowship on October 9...and once again, I hope that you will invite your friends and families to join us in the journey here at the corner of 16th and Peachtree Streets! Faithfully Yours,
George B. Wirth
The Chimes Care, Growth & Events
Prayers for THOSE IN MILITARY SERVICE
Pastoral Care Report (As of September 21, 2011) Hospitalized: Dan Smith, Beverly Wesley, John Talmadge
This is a list of known servicemen/women in our Church family. To add names, please call 404.228.7719.
Pray for: Chaplain Capt. Jamison Bowman ABE3 Gregory Bridges Sgt. Isaiah Bridges Lt. Col. Bradford W. Cousar LCPL Austin W.P. Eskew First Airman Kevin Lee Captain Alexandria Victoria Miller Captain John Warren Robey Captain Gabriel Rulewicz Ensign David B. Sibley USN Commander Ryan Tewell Col. Roderick G. Turner III MC2 Tyler Wilson
Recuperating: Bob Eskew, Michael Ryan, Yancey Stribling, Eleanor Dabney Births: Congratulations to: grandparents Jenner & Libby Wood following the birth of Jenner Dowd Schutte on September 12th; proud parents are Sally & Nico Schutte; Dan & Melanie Wintermeyer following the birth of their son, Colin Patrick Wintermeyer, on September 16th. Deaths: We extend our deepest sympathy and lift up in prayer: Katie Phelps following the death of her brother, Jonathan Phelps, on July 21st; Kim and Knox Wilmer & family following the death of Kim’s mother, Anne Vinson Hickman, on September 7th; Marcus Hill upon the death of his great-grandmother, Ruby Meks, on September 7th; Sandi & Wendell Harsh following the death of Sandi’s mother, Mary S. Lever, on September 11th; David, Wil & Jay York following the death of mother and grandmother, Iris York, on September 12th.
COME-ON-ALONG OCTOBER 20!
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f your family, or any you know, has children who are dealing with loss, RAINBOWS can help. RAINBOWS is a weekly support group program for children and youth who have experienced traumatic change, usually due to divorce, abandonment or death. Parents and guardians also meet in a group to consider what is happening in their families from the child’s point of view. This program is open to the community, so spread the word. For more information, or to register, call Sue Anthony at 404-257-9388, or the Pastoral Care office at 404-228-7719.
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RAINBOWS SCHEDULE Thursday evenings, Sept. 29 - Nov. 17 and Jan. 5 - Feb. 23 Gather for brown bag supper: 6:00 pm Groups: 6:45-7:45 2011-12 session begins September 29. Groups are forming now.
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October 2 & 9
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COME-ON-ALONG TO CHERRY LOG FOR BBQ (with the Senterfitts and a visit to Merciers Orchards) DATE: Thursday, October 20, 2011 TIME: Leave 2nd Ponce de Leon Baptist Church at 9:15 a.m. COST: $15.00 per person Mark your calendar and save the date! Make your reservation and send in your check so we can save your seat on the bus. It’s going to be a day of fun, food, and fellowship with Trisha and Jack in Cherry Log. The leaves will be turning and the BBQ will be tasty! You can just sit and relax or walk the labyrinth. And don’t forget the apples, cider, fried pies and other delicious goodies you can purchase at Merciers. You don’t want to miss this special trip, so call Pat now! (404.228.7719). If you need a ride from your Hi-Rise call Julia Brooke at 404/438-7344.
The Chimes PROGRAMS & events
W E D N E S D AY
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F I R S T
The FPC FALL
October 5 & 12
W EDNESDAY
FESTIVAL &
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
PICNIC 4 not to mention
Bible, crafts & fellowship. Childcare available.
E lementary A ctivities 5:00 - 7:30 pm
Carnival
Y outh 5:30 - 7:30 pm B111
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LOGOS: recreation, dinner, choir, drama and art. All youth are invited to join us for Fellowship, Food and Bible Study.
With loads of music, food, fun, and more great stuff!
W ednesday N ight C hoirs
5:30 - 6:25 pm 6:00 - 6:45 pm 6:45 - 7:30 pm 6:30 - 7:25 pm 7:30 - 9:00 pm
Handbell Choir Archangel Choir (Grade 1 -2) Archangel Choir (Grade 3 -5) St. Cecilia Consort Chancel Choir
Sunday, OCT. 16th Immediately following the 11:15 am
Wednesday Night Studies & Worship 6:30 - 7:30 pm Reception Room Midweek Worship Led by Rev. Lindsay Armstrong, Rev. Kevin D. Knab & Rev. Chris Moore-Keish
Worship service, with Dr. Wirth preaching. FUN FOR EVERYONE!
Location: Our newly renovated playground 4 4 and in the back parking lot. 4 4
The Lay Academy 6:30 - 9:00 pm Room 156 (No Lay Academy on October 12) The Gospel of John for the 21st Century. Rev. Dr. Cheryl Gosa.
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COME-ON-ALONG
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FIRST PRESBYTERIAN
Next month (Friday, November 11th) we’re going to see the Musical Drama performance of Heaven Bound at Big Bethel AME Church. Call Pat for more information and to make your reservation!
MISSION CHURCH OF ATLANTA
CELEBRATION
Make plans for your whole family to attend this exciting Mission experience. S U N D A Y
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S A V E
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D A T E
October 2 & 9
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The Chimes
T h e
F ine
A rts
C ommittee
presents a chance to see
Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA)
Pa r t n e r s h i p
M i n i s t r y
Autumn Family Fun Day
Sunday, October 9
5:00 - 7:00 pm - Open House, Tour and Reception Exclusively for members of FPC hosted by MODA - our neighbors across Peachtree No charge, but reservations are required. Sign up at the Get Connected tables outside Fifield Hall or online.
The Holidays will be here before you know it...
FPC Youth Wreath Sales
Share
the
Season
with
Someone!
Support Junior & Senior High Youth 2012 Mission Trips. Place your order today for your 22� Fresh Balsam Fir Wreaths Orders will be taken from
October 2 through October 26, 2011 Please sign-up on line at :
www.firstpresatl.org/Youth $32.00 per wreath, boxed with a gift card, and red bow, shipped UPS directly from Maine to each destination you specify. Special price of $25.00 per wreath for orders of 3 or more. Self pick-up at FPC and does not include a gift card. All Proceeds Benefit Youth Missions
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October 2 & 9
The Partnership Ministry invites you to bring your family and join other families from First & Hillside Presbyterian Churches for an afternoon of fun and games for our annual Autumn Family Fun Day on Saturday, Oct.15 from 12 to 3 p.m. at McKoy Park in Decatur. This is both an outreach project to the families of the Dekalb County Drub Court and an opportunity for members of both churches to come together for a time of fun and fellowship. We will be grilling hot dogs & hamburgers with all the usual fixings. There will be lots of games--play bingo & win a cake! Join a ball game, get a balloon, swing a hula hoop, run a relay, play dominoes. Fun for all ages! Please call Michele at 404-228-7741 or Anne Drake at 404-228-7746 or email to fpc_hillside@bellsouth.net to make a reservation. The park is located at 534 McKoy Street, in the East Lake neighborhood.
The Chimes
The church honors the Women’s Bible Class
G od told yo u WHAT?!
The Theology of Old Testament Law Dr. Brent A. Strawn Associate Professor of Old Testament Candler School of Theology, Emory University Have you ever wondered about the significance of Old Testament law? Is it all outdated in light of the New Testament or are any of those laws (613 according to the rabbis) still useful and pertinent? This five week study will provide an introduction to the theological and ethical significance of Old Testament law and
will cover such items as: the narrative setting of OT law, various legal collections in the OT (including the Ten Commandments and, yes, Leviticus!), and other matters pertaining to interpreting OT law, especially the important question of the ongoing usefulness of law for Christian faith and practice. Please join us!
Wednesdays, October 19 - November 16 6:30 – 9:00 pm, Room 156 $50 per person; scholarships available
THE LAY ACADEMY
Be included in our NEW Pictorial Directory! Appointments available starting Sept. 20th. Go to www.firstpresatl.org/events for link to sign ups!
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n Sunday, October 2, 2011, the Archives Committee will honor the Women’s Bible Class and its rich history, its members, its distinguished Bible teachers, and its outstanding contributions to the Church. In November, 1951, a group of 20 women met in the balcony of the Church in order to form a Sunday School class that would provide in-depth study of the Books of the Bible. The class continued rapid growth, at one time exceeding 150 members, the largest Sunday School class in the history of FPC. Outstanding teachers during the early years were: Mrs. S.H. Askew, Miss Belva Moss, Mrs. Boling Gay, Mrs. Robert L. Hinds, Mrs. Righton Gordy, Mrs. G. Richard Moore and Dr. Eugene Randolph. Later the high teaching standards were continued by FPC members. For nearly 60 years, this class supported financially the Church’s causes. Just a few examples are: International Missions, Thornwell Orphanage, the Joy Gift, The Quitman Home, Camp Calvin, Columbia Seminary, and more recently the Women’s Shelter, the Samaritan Fund, Childspring, the Food Pantry, the Archives Committee and the Craddock Center. With attendance continuing to decline, the members made a decision to end the class in the Spring of 2010. Throughout the years, the Women’s Bible Class maintained its original high standards of in-depth Bible study, provided Christian community for each other, and served God through support of the Church’s many Ministries. Thus, these women will be honored on October 2 for their contributions to FPC.
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October 2 & 9
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The Chimes nursery/preschool & elementary
youth ROCK THE ‘TAT - A HABITAT FOR HUMANITY BENEFIT CONCERT OCTOBER 2! High school bands around Atlanta are coming together to put on a huge concert to raise money for Habitat for Humanity. Come out for a Sunday of good food, good people, and great music. The artists include our own Lotus Slide featuring Jack Webster, Jack Douglas, Larson Collier, Steve Terry and Andrew! Cost is $8.00 at the Masquerade. We will leave church together and go. I need to get tickets from Jack, so email me if you want to go. CONFIRMATION CHURCH VISITS AND LUNCH OCTOBER 2! The 9th Grade Confirmation Class will be visiting other churches this Sunday in an effort to compare the Presbyterian denomination with other denominations. We will visit the churches in groups then meet at Mellow Mushroom for lunch. Bring $8.00 for lunch! We will return to the church by 1:45 PM.
Wednesday night programs LOGOS, Elementary Choir and Nursery/Preschool activities have begun!! If you need information about registering for LOGOS, please check out the Elementary page on the FPC site: http://www.firstpresatl.org/elementary.
Get connected!! Calling All Volunteers!! Both the elementary and nursery/preschool ministries need volunteers for the 2011-2012 program year. If you are interested in teaching Sunday school, volunteering with LOGOS on Wednesday nights, participating as part of the committees, or rotating on the halls please contact Katharine Hamer at khamer@firstpresatl.org for Nursery/ Preschool or Lauren Patrus, lpatrus@firstpresatl.org. for Elementary.
MIDDLE SCHOOL RETREAT TO CALVIN CENTER OCTOBER 7-9! All 6-8th graders are invited to join us for a retreat at Calvin Center. This will be a fun retreat with ropes and horseback riding as well as worship, Bible study, an opportunity to build friendships and lots of fun. Cost is $100.00. The theme is “Five Loaves and Two Fish.” Don’ t miss this great weekend. 2012 YOUTH MISSION TRIPS! TIME TO SIGN UP! It’s time for all the 6-12th graders to sign up for the 2012 Youth Mission Trips. We have worked out the trips. We will do tornado relief work in Joplin, Missouri. Applications are available in the Youth Ministry office and through email. Let me know if you would like to sign up. June 3-9, 2012 – Sr. High Mission Trip to Joplin, MO June 10-16, 2012 – Jr. High Mission Trip to Joplin, MO July 8-14, 2012 – Combined Youth Week of Hope Mission Trip, Orlando, FL July 21-23, 2012 –Youth Family Mission Trip to Roatan Honduras UPCOMING EVENTS: FPC Fall Festival Carnival and Lunch – October 16 Random Acts of Kindness Event – October 23 Parent Committee Meeting – October 25 Halloween Parties – October 30
Take me out to the ballpark! 6
October 2 & 9
The Chimes adult sunday school A gora Room 322 In Old 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. Visitors welcome! B erean B ible C lass Reception Room The Bereans were critical thinkers who, with study, became believers. (Acts 17: 10-12). This year our theme is “What is the Bible?” It is God’s word, but it is also art, literature, and the most influential book ever written, and that is just the beginning. Join us on October 9 and 16, when Dr. George Yacoubian will discuss his take on this interesting and vital topic. C ommunity B ible S tudy Room B415 Taught by the Rev. Charles Black and Rev. Connie Lee, the Community Sunday School Class includes First Presbyterian members and community participants. C ovenant C lass Room 230 On October 2nd and October 9th, we welcome Gary Shell back to lead our class. D iscovering G od ’ s W ord Room 317 Our class is studying John Claypool’s book, Glad Reunion: Meeting Ourselves in the Lives of Biblical Men and Women. On Oct. 2, we will discuss Hosea (Chapter 14, p. 136-146), and on Oct. 9, Isaiah (Chapter 15, p. 147-158). Please join us! E mmaus C lass Room 227 The Emmaus Class will be studying the Gospel of Mark, using Tim Keller’s book, King’s Cross as a resource. These classes will be led by class members. All are welcome. F aith and L ife Room 218 On October 2 and 9 Rev. Craig Goodrich will discuss the inner work which is spiritual task of the mature Christian. Join us as we discuss “living in the loving presence of God.” F irst F oundations Room 319 “First Foundations class member Cliff Orr will be leading us in a discussion of “equanimity.” Oct. 9 is to be determined right now!
F orum @ F irst Fifield Hall On October 2 and 9, Forum welcomes Dr. John A. Azumah, the brand new Associate Professor of World Christianity at Columbia Theological Seminary. Growing up in a Muslim family and later converting to Christianity, Dr. Azumah specializes in Islam and Christian-Muslim relations and will be leading a series on Christian approaches to other religions. Join us! G alatians 3:28, Room 323 A brand new Bible Study class, we officially kick off on Oct. 2. Taught by Emory Ph.D. student Parker Diggory, we bring a faithful, historically informed, progressive vision to our discussion of faith issues. Join us! I nternationals Room 327 On October 2, Class member Jack Hardin will discuss “Cyprus Today.” and on Oct. 9, Betty Smith will speak on “Three Generations in Mexico,” a mission to Reynosa. M editation G roup Room B320 (New Location inside Care Ministry offices - in the group counseling room)
This guided meditation class is designed to relieve stress and awaken us to a greater sense of the presence of God in our live. Beginners welcome.
O pen D oor Room 156 On Oct. 2, Prof Joel Lemon will be our speaker. On Oct. 9, Steve Feagin will speak to us about FPC “Micro Finance” projects. O urs for T oday Room B308 On Oct 2, we will complete our study of “The Gospel According to Bob Dylan,” led by Tim Bennett and David McLean. On Oct. 9, we will return to our “Get Connected” process with Tom Lowry and Ed Trimble. S piritual L iving Room B202 On October 2 and 9, we continue our discussion of Diagrams for Living.
T he U pper R oom Room 332 On October 2 and 9, we welcome Rebekah LeMon, FPC’s new Director of Church Growth as she teaches a two week series on heaven. On October 2, we’ll focus on a biblical and historical discussion of heaven. On October 9, we talk through popular depictions and ideas. All are welcome.
october
SchedulE PRESBYTERIAN WOMEN
C ircle 1
Monday, October 24th at 7pm at the home of Amy Hunley, 876 Lullwater
C ircle 2
Monday, October 3rd at 10am in Room 156 (Open Door Classroom)
C ircle 3
Monday, October 3rd at 10am at the home of Pam Covington, 1929 Greystone Road
C ircle 6
Monday, October 10th at 9:30am. Contact Adele Shepherd for location.
C ircle 7
Monday, October 3rd at 10:30am at the home of Carolyn Smith, 3809 Castlegate Drive
C ircle 8
Monday, October 10th at 7pm at the home of Lynn Franklin, 485 Riverside Pkwy
C ircle 9
Monday, October 3rd at 11am at the Lenbrook Dining Room
C ircle 11
Thursday, October 20th at 7pm. See Evite for location or contact nmpeterson@gmail.com
C ircle 12
Tuesday, October 11th at 7pm. See Evite for location or contact goodcaitie@yahoo.com
C ircle 13
See Evite for location or contact kbhamer@comcast.net Come Join Us! Contact Carla Ferrell, ferrell04@comcast.net, for information about joining an FPC Women’s Circle
October 2 & 9
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The Chimes
“New name, new logo, same great teaching.”
For information about private music instruction and group music, dance, and art classes, please visit us on the web or call: Kate Breytspraak, Director www.PSPAonline.org (404) 228-7762 www.firstpresatl.org/sfa
ar t s THE SCHOOL OF FINE
first presbyterian church of atlanta
Soon leaves will turn glorious colors, the air will be crisp and the sky a vivid blue...an invitation to curl up with a good book.
The Mustard Seed
Wednesdays 9-1, 4:40 - 6:30 Sundays 9-1 (404) 201-6442 info@themustardseedbookstore.com
r Let ou lp e h f f a st our with yion. select
Music for October 2 Prelude Introit Anthem Offertory Com. Motet Ben Resp
Meditation on “Beautiful Savior” - arr. Cathy Moklebust (9:00 am) - God is Love Good Christians All, Rejoice - arr. Susan E. Geschke God So Loved the World Stainer Jesu, Thou Joy of Loving Hearts A Grace - Mathias
Music for October 9 Prelude Offertory Anthem Ben Resp Postlude
Fantasie - César Franck The Day Draws on with Golden Light - Bairstow Old Time Religion Moses Hogan (Excelsis Choir) Amen - Marty Haugen Fanfare - John Cook
The Chimes Bi-weekly Newsletter of
First Presbyterian Church of Atlanta 1328 Peachtree Street, NE Atlanta, GA 30309-3209 HOW TO CONTACT US Phone/404-892-8461 Fax/404-228-7760 E-mail: youbelong@firstpresatl.org Web: www.firstpresatl.org WORSHIP Sunday Communion Service - 8:30 am Sunday Worship Services -9:00 am & 11:15 am Sunday School 10:05 am 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.