March Here@First

first presbyterian church

here@

FIRST

March 2013

l l a o t n i o G the world...

Missions!

“Glorifying God through equipping disciples to love and serve our neighbors.�

Volume 48

First Presbyterian Church of Yakima

9 South 8th Ave Yakima, WA 98902

(509) 248-7940

Our Core Values Glorifying God with our best.

Pioneering and ongoing outreach.

Engaging and nurturing relationships.

Being a cornerstone in the community.

Equipping people for ministry through biblical foundation and service.

MARCH

MARCH

MARCH

MARCH

Sermon Series

We began in February with the start of Lent, and have embarked on a yearlong theme on Sunday mornings called “Kingdom Living.” The first part of this theme will cover “Being Available to God” through spiritual disciplines: Easter is the day and season in which we celebrate the Resurrection of Jesus. Before we can celebrate Easter, however, we need to prepare for its coming. Lent is the season that precedes Easter and, foundationally, it is a time of preparation. Many people will strive to “give up” something during Lent. Contrary to popular belief, the goal of Lent is not to get physically healthy through the elimination of chocolate or caffeine. The purpose of “giving up something” is to get spiritually healthy by making more room in our lives for God! “Giving up” something is one discipline you can attempt, but there are others! Over the next year, we will focus on different aspects of what it means to live into God’s Kingdom.

During Lent, we will focus on Being Available to God by highlighting a different spiritual discipline each week. This will serve as the foundation for our year of Kingdom Living and prepare us for Easter.

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KINGDOM LIVING: CONFESSION – MINDING THE GAP Sermon Text: 1 John 5-10

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KINGDOM LIVING: MEDITATION – COURSE CORRECTION Sermon Text: Philippians 4:8-9

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KINGDOM LIVING: SOLITUDE & SIMPLICITY – THE SIMPLE LIFE Sermon Text: Matthew 6:19-24

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KINGDOM LIVING: SUBMISSION – SUBMITTING TO GOD PALM SUNDAY Sermon Text: Matthew 21: 1-11

MARCH 31 KINGDOM LIVING: CELEBRATION – CELEBRATING THE KING EASTER SUNDAY

Sermon Text: Matthew 21: 1-11

9:30 kids remain in worship – kid friendly involvement

Cookies & Cans March 3 : T-Z

March 10: A-F

March 17: G-M

March 24: N-S

March 31: T-Z

Please bring a dozen cookies on your week, and non-perishable food items for Calvary Rescue Mission.

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Here@First is available in a PDF format on the church web page at www.fpcyakima.com. For inquiries, submissions, omissions, and corrections contact Curtis Rosenkranz in the church office. 248-7940 x 113 curtis.rosenkranz@fpcyakima.com

Calendar March Events Sunday, March 3 Trailseeker Auction 2:00p Gym Everyone Monday, March 4 Living Water Meeting 5:30p Parlor Mission Team Wednesday, March 6 Committee on Ministry Meeting 9:00a Adult Ed Committee Thursday, March 7 Happy Travelers Meeting 1:30p Adult Ed Committee Thursday, March 7 Senior Adult Ministries Meeting 3:00p Adult Ed Committee March 8, 9, 10 Women’s Retreat at Chelan all weekend Lake Chelan Women Saturday, March 9 Craft Night 6:00p Adult Ed Women Sunday, March 10 Open Discernment Meeting 4:00p Sanctuary Everyone Tuesday, March 12 Service Ministry Team Meeting 6:00p Adult Ed Committee Tuesday, March 12 Fellowship Ministry Team Meeting 6:00p Parlor Committee Tuesday, March 12 Worship Ministry Team Meeting 6:00p Room 220 Committee Tuesday, March 12 Adult Education Team Meeting 7:00p Room 203 Committee Tuesday, March 12 Business Ministry Team Meeting 7:00p Library Committee Saturday, March 16 Kidzone Palm Sunday Rehearsal 10:00a Sanctuary Kidzone Saturday, March 16 Clothing Xchange 9:00a Gym Everyone Sunday, March 17 Easter Egg Candy - Stuffing Day all morning Garden Room Everyone Sunday, March 17 VBS Volunteer Kick Off! all morning Garden Room Everyone Thursday, March 21 Happy Travelers Seattle Flight Museum 8a - 8p Seattle Everyone Thursday, March 21 Ghormley Commission 6:30p Adult Ed Committee Saturday, March 23 Opera Tune a Tea 1:00p Garden Room Everyone Saturday, March 23 CV Couples Night 5:30p DF Lounge Everyone Sunday, March 24 Palm Sunday / Kids Sing Sunday, March 24 Kidzone Pancakes 9:30a Gym Kidzone Thursday, March 28 Maundy Thursday Communion & Tenebrae 6:30p Sanctuary Everyone Friday, March 29 Good Friday - Sanct Open for Prayer Noon-3p Sanctuary Saturday, March 30 HUNT Noon Davis Soccer Field Everyone Sunday, March 31 Easter Sunday

Weekday Events

M-W-F Exercisers 8:45a-9:45a Gym/GR Sr Adults Monday TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) 10:00a Adult Ed Everyone Overeaters Anonymous 12:00p Adult Ed Everyone Trailseekers 2:30p Gym Al-Anon 5:15p Adult Ed Everyone

Soaking Prayer 6:30p Prayer Rd Everyone Tuesday Women’s Bible Study (Spirit Led Life) 9:15a Gym Women

Women’s Bible Study (Women in the Word) 9:45a Parlor Women Wednesday Women of Action 9:30a Chapel Women SOZO Prayer 5-9p SOZO Team

Youth Group - Mid High 6-7:45p Youth Room LL7 6th - 8th gr

Youth Group - Senior High 7-9p Youth Room LL7 9th - 12th gr

SOAR: School of Spiritual Transformation 5:30p Chapel SOAR Students Thursday Bible Study Fellowship 9:00a Women Contemporary Worship Rehearsal 5:30p Sanctuary Worship Band Temple Choir Rehearsal 7:00p Choir Room Choir Friday SOZO Prayer 9-Noon / 5-9p SOZO Team

Sunday Mornings

Intercessory Prayer 8:30a - 9:30a Chapel Everyone Contemporary Worship - led by Contemporary Worship Team 8:00a & 9:30a Sanctuary Everyone Traditional Worship - led by Organ & Choir 11:00a Sanctuary Everyone Worship - Cristo Vive (Spanish) 12:15p Chapel Everyone KidZone Sunday Classes 9:30a Upstairs K-5th Sonbeams 9:30a Mezzanine L2 2½ yr & 3yr Cubbies 9:30a Room 103 4yr & 5yr Adult Ed Bible Class 9:30a Adult Ed Adults 40 Days of Purpose 9:30a Mezzanine Adults Golden Circle 9:30a Lounge Adults Students (6th - 12th grade) 9:30a Youth Room LL7 Gr 6-12

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Happenin’ @ First VOLUNTEER!

God Loves A Cheerful Giver

Have you ever felt the Spirit tugging on your heart to give financially...but you left your checkbook at home? Well now you can make the same donation online. Just go to www.fpcyakima. com and make a donation with your debit or credit card. You can even specify which ministry/mission/fund you want it given to.

The 2nd Saturday of every month is “Work Day at Ghormley.” We have all sorts of odd jobs, both indoor and outdoor, which need help accomplishing. Come, work for the day and enjoy a free lunch. Please RSVP 672-4311

SPRING LUNCHEON The Creation – Evolution Controversy Beginning April 7, Adult Ed, Sunday mornings.

Coordinated by Larry Hasen & Ron Sanders With Team Teaching from some of the Scientific Experts from FPC including Doug Cairns, Dr. Raymond Merrell, and Dr. Shawn Kurtz.

One of the most profound statements found in the pages of the Bible appears in the very first verse where God declares that He alone is the Creator of both “the heaven and the earth”. Even so, many today debunk this statement as myth.

Many in the scientific field say all that exists and all that we see today developed by the process of evolution. They claim that this is proved by the studies of the elite intellectuals during the last two centuries.

Come join us as we discuss these important issues.

Wednesday, April 17 at Noon First Presbyterian Church Garden Room All women are invited to the annual Mabel Swan Spring Luncheon. Call the church office to RSVP. Cost is $5; no charge for Mabel Swan residents.

Kaffee Klatsch - Reformat

In the last nine months attendance to Kaffee Klatsch has dwindled to a number that it is not feasible to continue the program in its current format. The Senior Adult Ministry Team has decided to discontinue this program and to resume it in September of 2013 with a new format.

If there are any suggestions as to a new format, please contact Carolyn Mason, Harley Drollinger, Marv Becker, Francis Lockwood, or Dorothy Smith.

Happy Travelers Denominational Discernment Meeting

will be held on Sunday, March 10 at 4p in the Sanctuary.

Childcare available.

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We are going to the Flight Museum in Seattle on Thursday, March 21. This will be an all-day trip because there is so much to see. We will be going by bus with an early start at 8a, and will have a guide to show us around. Costs: $15 for the museum ($13 for 65+), and $35 per person for the bus. Sign up at the Connection Center or in the church office TODAY! Space is limited.

Pastor Jack

Kingdom Living: From Our Seat to Spruce Street

Jack Peebles Senior Pastor jack.peebles@fpcyakima.com

Dear Church Community, Are you available?

This is the question we have been asking all throughout our Lenten sermon series, Kingdom Living: Being Available to God. Hopefully, you have been able to make yourself available to God through the spiritual disciplines we have explored on Sunday mornings and with help from the Lenten devotional provided. I know I have been blessed by my time with God and hope you have also!

This Lenten sermon series is just the first in a yearlong effort to focus on Kingdom Living. This theme will coincide with a year-long partnership with Madison House. The theme of the partnership is Kingdom Living: From Our Seat to Spruce Street and the mission statement of the partnership is, “Transforming our community through training and service as we love one another.” We believe God is calling First Presbyterian Church to love and serve the community around the Madison House.

Transforming our community… God is calling us to be participants in His Kingdom beyond the walls of the church. Whether Jew or Gentile, poor or rich, white or Hispanic, there are no walls in Christ (Ephesians 2:11-22). As God exists in relationship (Father, Son and Holy Spirit), we are called to exist in relationships with other. In fact, we believe that God works at the speed of relationships, and it is through these relationships (with God and our neighbors) that the Yakima community will be transformed and God’s Kingdom will be expanded.

…through training and service… God is calling us to grow as disciples. This growth entails training and service (Ephesians 4:11-12). Like any major undertaking, the Christian faith necessitates education and practice. We all have to start somewhere and we recognize that many have difficulty in taking the first steps. This partnership will provide opportunities for individuals and families to be put in positions to serve, regardless of their level of spiritual maturity. The Madison House will serve as a training vehicle through which disciples can grow. …as we love and serve each other. This partnership is mutually beneficial. Individuals and families will also have the opportunity to love and be loved. Essentially, we will be blessed as we are given the opportunity to live into what Christ has commanded (John 15:9-12).

The partnership gets kicked-off on Sunday, April 21st with an open house. On that Sunday, we will have one blended service at 9:30 and then members are encouraged to head over to the Madison House for lunch, tours, and other activities so we can get to know our neighbors! Transportation will be provided for those who need it.

In the coming weeks and months, we will be sharing with you other ways through which you can participate in this year-long partnership. For now, I leave you with the question we have asked and will continue to ask: Are you available…to love and serve our neighbors?

Living and loving for Him,

ck Pastor Ja

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Seniors

Jim Erixson Associate Pastor jim.erixson@fpcyakima.com

The first of May is approaching much faster than I had ever expected. There is so much more to do and accomplish before I depart to the new world of retirement and the beginning of a new style of ministry. Yes, my ministry continues to go on and on, and ministry will continue to go on here at First Presbyterian, Yakima. I am hearing more and more the question, “What are we going to do without you, Jim?” the closer we get to my departure.

Well, there is plenty that can be done! Just because I am departing, doesn’t mean the ministry of caring for this congregation and fellowship should slow down. This congregation is a very talented congregation full of people who can visit the sick, the lonely and the despaired. This is a great time to get involved with Carenet, and make a few phone calls to check in and reconnect with our congregation family, and to invite each other into daily fellowship in Christ.

There is a great need for you to join the Fellowship

Ministry Team! A small group of dedicated people, they work at and look at new ways to create an atmosphere of warm fellowship with our members, frequent attendees, and those who are visiting First Presbyterian for the first time. Your skills and ideas are needed to serve this congregation in this capacity. Without fellowship this church becomes a dead church. Fellowship is one of the core needs to bring people together in a common faith.

Please talk to me about joining in to develop this most important ministry of this church.

I know that your Associate Pastor Nominating Committee (APNC) is working hard to replace me with that very special person to lead in the ministry of caring for this congregation and the community of Yakima. It would be great to have, along with the Deacons and Prayer Team, a cadre of people who continue the ministry of caring until that leader steps into the position to lead them as they continue to serve.

So, in the time that remains, come talk to me about how you can serve God and our church.

Jim

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Devotional

Janet Krieger

Heaven Invading Everyday Life Our Father in Heaven, may Your name be honored.

May Your Kingdom come soon. May Your will be done here on earth, just as it is in Heaven. Matthew 6:9-10 Then I saw a new Heaven and a new earth, for the old Heaven and the old earth had disappeared. And the sea was also gone. And I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of Heaven like a beautiful bride prepared for her husband. I heard a loud shout from the throne, saying, "Look, the home of God is now among His people! He will live with them, and they will be His people. God Himself will be with them. He will remove all of their sorrows, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. For the old world and its evils are gone forever." And the One sitting on the throne said, "Look, I am making all things new!" Revelation 21:1-5 God’s desire is not that we are only saved for Heaven, but that we daily pursue bringing Heaven to earth.

What does it look like to bring Heaven to earth? It begins, and likely ends, with the commandment of God to love our neighbors. We are called to love and care for others and the world in which we live. We are called to bring joy, dispel sadness and be of help to those we encounter. We are called to allow the love of God, deposited in our lives, to live through us.

It is our Father’s will that the Kingdom of God is brought to a desperate world through the lives of His people. God wants to minister through the lives of believers to spread the love and hope of Heaven. We must not be daunted by the troubles in our world or community. We must not feel that the problems are too big and our efforts too small. We must choose to do something. We must have faith that God will use our lives to touch one person at a time. And, when we live to love and serve in that way God begins a transformation within us. We must choose to do something . . .

Sue Woodruff has been ministering at Madison House for the past five years.

She volunteers in an English as a second language class. Sue recently described her ministry and the blessings she receives: “My thing is to be there each week, do my best and really care about the people in the class. It is more a case of trying to act out love by putting names with faces, calling people by their names, trying to communicate English sometimes by acting out words or actions and just being there on a consistent basis. We have work books and teaching materials provided by Gustavo Carvajal. One fun thing every week is that Gustavo's dad, Jorge, practices his English with me. Sometimes I don't understand, but he is getting better and better each year. I guess the way I'm changing is that I ask God every time I go for wisdom, creative communication, clarity, compassion and understanding. I have a greater appreciation for how difficult it is to learn English. I am receiving tons of blessings. I am greeted with a hug each time I come. I get sincere thanks for just doing something I love anyway. There is a lot of satisfaction each time someone ‘gets’ what I'm trying to teach.”

Where are the places in your everyday life you can love and serve others?

What will you choose to do?

Janet

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Children

Hear Ye… Hear Ye… An EPIC adventure awaits!

Susie Woodin Children’s Ministries susie.woodin@fpcyakima.com

First Presbyterian Church VBS June 24 – 28, 2013 Even though a day only has 24 hours – a LOT can happen in ONE DAY. And,

during Jesus’ last 24 hours, a WHOLE LOT of important stuff happened. On March 10, 17, & 24 in KidZone, we are going to look at some of the important things that happened on the last day Jesus was crucified – and “WHAT A DAY” it was!

We will begin with the Last Supper, teaching the children the importance of Communion and what the bread and juice represents.

Then we will walk with Jesus and the disciples to the Garden of Gethsemane where Jesus prayed and prepared to face the biggest test of His life.

Finally, we will experience the sadness of Jesus’ crucifixion, and the glory of His resurrection. Your children will feel as if they were there when the most amazing event of all human history took place!

We are preparing for a whirlwind 24 hours…It’s going to be an amazing journey! What A Day! We will then all celebrate Easter Sunday in worship @ 9:30a with special activities and message as a family together. Childcare will be available for kids up to kindergarten age. Elementary kids will join with their parents in worship.

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KIDZONE PALM SUNDAY CELEBRATION

We are excited to have Deb Wagner back in KidZone helping us prepare for Palm Sunday music. Don’t miss the chance to come to KidZone and learn the fun songs we will sing! CD’s and lyrics will soon be sent home with the kids so they can all practice.

All KidZone classes will sing during worship services on Palm Sunday.

Palm Sunday Rehearsal! Due to a scheduling conflict our combined rehearsal will be one week earlier than usual.

Mark your calendar for music rehearsal on March 16 @ 10:00a in the Sanctuary. This practice is for everyone!

Sonbeams & Cubbies will practice first and K – 5th grades follow at about 10:15a. Practice should be over by 11:00a. Please come!

Palm Sunday – March 24, 2013 Sonbeams and Cubbies will sing at the 9:30a and 11:00a services.

Please arrive to KidZone class at 9:00a K-5th Grade will sing at all 3 services. Please arrive to Kidzone class at 8:15a.

A pancake breakfast is planned for all children during the 9:30a KidZone hour.

Kids will be ready for pick up in their classrooms after they are finished singing.

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Easter Sunday – March 31, 2013 NO KIDZONE on Easter Sunday! INSTEAD…we are excited for kids to join their parents in worship and experience this special service together as a family.

Childcare is still provided for children birth – kindergarten ages.

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Missions - Nepal We at First Presbyterian Church are blessed to witness so much of God’s work in our midst. H@F is pleased to bring you an interview with Sylvia Severn who recently assisted Habitat for Humanity in Nepal.

consequently, there were holidays the whole time we were there. I did not get a very good feel for how many "normal" days they have. The religions coexist, and that seems very normal to the Nepalese.

H@F: What drew you to work with Habitat for Humanity in Nepal?

As Americans, we think a lot about our "free time", how much we have; what we are going to do with it; where we might visit, etc. In Nepal, for many of the people, "free time" did not seem to be. With the average wage being $1.30 a day, the normal household does not have washing machines, dishwashers, vacuum cleaners, etc.

Therefore, the woman's day is totally consumed with meal preparation, laundry - done outside, put under a stream of water, pounded and hung to dry --- harvesting the garden, working in the fields, and other tasks directly related to living one day at a time. The men are working the fields, being a porter or guide for visitors, doing construction work or making/marketing/selling food or cultural items to tourists. They are living day to day.

They have no medical care. They have no safety net of any kind. So, free time and what to do with it is not a concern in Nepal.

SS: I had wanted to go on a Habitat trip with Bruce and Ann Willis. I had never considered going to Nepal, but once the opportunity was available, it seemed to have my name on it. Experiencing a vastly different culture was calling to me from the very first time I heard about this trip.

H@F: What sorts of things did you experience that were in contrast to what you expected?

SS: I have seen real poverty before; I had no expectations. I went with a feeling that I would receive whatever I experienced; that I would learn; and I might experience a little of "walking in their shoes". Of course, being a visitor, I really didn't come close to that. I didn't try to compare and contrast; I simply wanted to experience what was.

H@F: Can you address some cultural differences that impacted your thinking?

SS: I had read that in Nepal Buddhism, Hinduism (most Nepalese are Hindu), Christianity (very small percent), and Muslim (small percent) exist side by side. This is true. Religious holidays are shared by everyone, so

Education in Nepal is valued. Parents value their children going to school. Children wear uniforms that are sparkling clean and pressed, even though the most primitive methods are used to launder those uniforms.

The Nepalese understand that education is the one thing that can fundamentally change their future. Americans take education for granted.

Nepalese children are learning English. They can all have a very fundamental conversation with you. English is considered a powerful language, and the children are all eager to learn it.

H@F: While most folks who work with HH have a desire to serve, we often hear that they gained far more than they thought they were able to give. Can you expand on that thinking?

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SS: Twenty one folks from Yakima, most of us knew each other only slightly, got together for this amazing trip. We were from varying and contrasting ideological stands, varying religious affiliations and religions, and a wide variety of professional experiences. We spent two weeks on a very small square of land building with the simplest of tools and taking instruction from the Nepalese in order to build a bamboo house. The ebb and flow of who was going to do what, how would one

Student Ministries learn the skills necessary for the tasks, how to stay out of the way of other work going on, when to lead and when to follow, how to respect the family rhythms and sacred areas of the build site, how to maintain one's health throughout were all themes that we learned "received" from each other. It is rare that a person has the opportunity to work in concert with 21 other personalities. The respect we all developed for each other was a real gift from this trip.

Living in another culture, if even for two-three weeks, allows for relationships and an understanding of a people that is never learned when being a tourist only. In the long run, we are all God's people, and we all have many of the same hopes and dreams as we live from day to day. We just have very different geographic locations, different contexts and situations in which we are placed.

H@F: What advice do you have for others who might want to participate in a future HH experience in a third world country?

SS: I can only share what I feel works for me when visiting another country and culture. If you go with an agenda, you may miss out on some of the most important lessons God has for you. We did have an agenda of sorts -- we were going to build a bamboo house. But, the details of how that was going to happen developed from day to day as we learned from the people we were working with. If we had gone with our own ideas, our own tools, our own expertise and tried to make that "fit" the experience, we would have failed miserably. Our ideas wouldn't have fit their needs; our tools would not have worked in their environment; and our expertise would not have been useful to their situation. We need to be available and present to experience all of the wonders of things different from what we are used to.

H@F: Thank you so much for sharing your story Sylvia.

New York Jeff Murray Student Ministries Director Jeff.Murray@fpcyakima.com

The Easter Project: NEW YORK March 31 - April 6

Thank you for all the financial support! Please keep the following people in your prayers this Easter as we minister to the city of New York.

Students:

Karly Smith Julia Baldwin Sarah Laurvick Julia Villasenor Austin Kent Madison Alderman Esteban Mata Monique Sepulveda Kaylyn Brookman Elise Erickson Samuel Garcia Martin Martinez Alison Alderman Sandra Mendoza Elizabeth Rodriguez Ben Gerhardstein Kevin McMillan Luke Stuber Susan Drake-Wilkes

Leaders:

Courtney Hutchins Aaron Schmidt Ben Antonio Molly Rosbach Jeff Murray Kelsey Schmidt Debbie Baldwin Gustavo Carvajal Jana Alderman

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Ghormley

f labor o t f i g a Give Ghormley T.L.C.

Mark Washam Camp Director Mark@ghormleymeadow.org

Broken drawer

Worn off paint in shower

Broken curtain rod

Camp Ghormley has a rich history of volunteers who have to a large degree built this camp and maintained it. We are in need of a new generation who will love Camp Ghormley by investing their time in the upkeep of our buildings and grounds.

Our cabins are in need of some TLC. We are looking for individuals, couples, families, or small groups who would like to adopt a cabin, and give it some Tender Loving Care.

You can choose the cabin you would like to adopt. Here’s what it would look like...

We are asking for a two time per year commitment - coming up once in the fall and then again in the spring. Needs might include a deep cleaning, minor repairs, touching up the interior with paint, and clearing the area outside the cabin. One of the perks of adopting is you get to spend the night for free when you come to work on your cabin! (based on availability) Our first TLC project is “ tired looking curtains”. Donating money to purchase fabric or time to sew curtains is how you can help us. Fixing up our cabins would add warmth and welcome to the hundreds of people who use our cabins throughout the year, as well as attracting new groups who are looking for a camp to use.

Holes in doors

AC mounting

Please contact Vicky Washam at 672-2594 or vickywasham@gmail.com if you are interested or have any questions.

Window seals Chipped enamel

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Torn cushions

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History - IDES of March

Early Roman Persecution of the Early Church

The Romans loved having gods. Polytheism was a major part of their cultural identity. With the famous death of Julius Caesar on March 15 of 44 BC, the (then unofficial) position of Emperor did not disappear into history.

Declared from the will of Julius, and after a brief power struggle, Octavius was granted his great-uncle’s position by the Senate, thus becoming the first official Emperor of Rome, effectively converting the Roman Republic into the Roman Empire. Given the title Augustus, the emperor was held as a god (posthumously) and was to be officially worshipped. This created a bit of a problem for Christians who refused to be a part of the Roman culture of polytheism; worshipping only the One God, who just happened to not be Caesar. This made Roman citizens nervous about the local Christian “cult” that was growing in Rome and surrounding areas. Given to meeting in secret, and with wild rumors about cannibalism (a literal (mis)understanding of Communion), Christians were seen as a threat to the Roman way of life. The greatest expression of this distrust is first seen surrounding the burning of Rome, and the beginning of Christian martyrdom in the Roman world. Roman Senator and Historian Cornelius Tacitus described the event: “Consequently, to get rid of the report, Nero fastened the guilt and inflicted the most exquisite tortures on a class hated for their abominations, called Christians by the populace.

Christus, from whom the name had its origin, suffered the extreme penalty during the reign of Tiberius at the hands of one of our procurators, Pontius Pilatus, and a most mischievous superstition, thus checked for the moment, again broke out not only in Judaea, the first

Infamous Persecuting Roman Emperors

source of the evil, but even in Rome, where all things hideous and shameful from every part of the world find their centre and become popular. Accordingly, an arrest was first made of all who pleaded guilty; then, upon their information, an immense multitude was convicted, not so much of the crime of firing the city, as of hatred against mankind. Mockery of all sorts was added to their deaths. Covered with the skins of beasts, they were torn by dogs and perished, or were nailed to crosses, or were doomed to the flames and burnt, to serve as a nightly illumination, when daylight had expired.”

Official persecution of Christians ended with the Edict of Milan, signed by the Christian convert Emperor Constantine and his co-emperor Licinius. Christianity becomes the official religion of the empire under Emperor Theodosius.

Nero: Traditionally attributed the martyrdoms of Peter and Paul. Framed Christians for burning of Rome, and punished them with atrocities.

Trajan: Outlawed Christianity.

Marcus Aurelius: Martyrdom of Polycarp.

Septimus Severus: Martyrdom of Perpetua.

Decius: Christians are actively sought out by requiring public sacrifice to Roman gods. Martyrdoms of bishops of Rome, Jerusalem and Antioch.

Valerian: Martyrdoms of Cyprian of Carthage and Sixtus II of Rome.

Maximinus the Thracian: Banished and persecuted the leaders of the church.

Diocletian & Galerius: Burned documents, buildings, and up to 20,000 Christians were martyred.

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LOCAL Missions - Marriage: Prepare & Enrich class

Four marriage enrichment groups are continuing to meet weekly in homes led by Jack and Margaret Peebles, Tyler and Jessica Van Horn, Bill and Kathy Starr and Hamilton and Carol Licht. So far we’ve looked at how such factors as being flexible, emotionally steady, assertive, self-confident, or prone towards avoidance can impact the way we relate to our spouse. We’ve talked a lot about how to improve communication skills and how to resolve conflict.

Each week we’ve been looking at the results of another part of the Enrich assessment we took at the beginning, which gives each of us a personal snap shot of areas where we already have strength as a couple (our stepping stones) and areas where more conversation and skills will be helpful.

We’ve been enjoying the opportunity to become better acquainted and to pray for one another. It’s been reassuring to hear other couples share their stories as we learn from each other and receive encouragement. We’re all excited about the upcoming retreat at Camp Ghormley in mid-March. They are rolling out the red carpet to accommodate us with a Friday movie night, a Saturday evening candlelight dinner, and even remodeled beds suited to couples in private rooms! Go Ghormley!

Our church plans to offer another round of Enrich small groups in the fall. The hope is that more couples will come forward with an interest in leading these rewarding groups. I know that Hamilton and I benefit as much as the couples attending our group. It’s been a great way to live into one of our missional priorities: marriage!

Carol Licht

LOCAL Missions MOPS is a biblically based outreach ministry with members from all backgrounds and levels of faith. At First Presbyterian, there are about 80-90 women who attend, making it the largest MOPS in the Yakima Valley!

The purpose of MOPS is to encourage, equip and develop every mother of young children to realize her potential as a woman, mother and leader in the name of Jesus Christ.

MOPS is vital to our community and our prayer is that stronger marriages and families will emerge because of a mom’s time spent at MOPS. For me personally, when I moved to Yakima six years ago I didn't have a single friend, except for my husband. I longed for the relationships I had left behind and I feared I would never have again because of the history and years I had with those in my home town. I'm a social person by nature and knew that I would need those friendships! Little did I know how God would provide. I started attending MOPS when I was weeks from giving birth to my first daughter, now almost six years ago.

I was immediately embraced - loved on, accepted, hugged, encouraged and prayed for. These women have ministered to me and my family in so many ways.

This is my sixth year attending MOPS. My cup is so full!

God has blessed me way beyond what I could've even prayed or imagined - as He usually does! I was asked to be on leadership a few years back and took that step of faith. I have the privilege of serving alongside some of the most amazing, talented and Godly women. My faith has been strengthened by watching these women in their pursuits of holiness - we laugh, we cry, we pray for and serve each other. I think the biggest lesson I've learned in being a leader is that I don't have to pretend to have it all together just because God has placed me in this role.

In fact, the more transparent and vulnerable you are, the more He raises you up to glorify Himself!

Our theme this year is PLUNGE: Love as if your life depended on it! It comes from 1 Peter 4:8-11 - I encourage you to read this passage and watch how God will transform your life when, by the power of the Holy Spirit, you live it out.

We are so appreciative of First Presbyterian Church for your support of MOPS. Because of you we are able to love on women who, in this stage of life, so desperately need encouragement and support. We welcome your prayers and should you ever feel led to join us we would love to have you!

Jenny McCown

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Cristo Vive

Gustavo Carvajal Pastor de Cristo Vive gustavo.carvajal@fpcyakima.com

God is at Work - Interview with Mariana Giles Cristo Vive: Hi, Mariana.

Mariana Giles: Hola.

CV: How long have you been part of our congregation?

MG: 14+ years.

CV: I understand that you are a big believer in the power of prayer?

MG: Yes! Definitely!

CV: Can you give us an example?

MG: Just recently I experienced something amazing. I was at the Madison House and Alex invited me to pray with two women from First Presbyterian Church.

CV: Was that on a Thursday morning?

MG: Yes, indeed.

CV: I know you have prayed with people in the past in our prayer vigils and also in our services. So what was different this time around?

MG: That Thursday I opened up my heart to my two FPC sisters. They heard the cry of my heart broken for my son. As they prayed with me I felt also how their heart was broken as well. People I had not met before were there with me, weeping for my son and fighting for his soul. They prayed words of hope and deliverance.

CV: What happened after your prayer time?

MG: They shared verses from scripture with me and encouraged me to spiritually fight for my children.

CV: Was that a turning point in your life?

MG: Yes! I have decided to stop living the way I have lived so far.

CV: Can you please elaborate?

MG: Sure. I have come to church for many years, but I have not really taken God seriously in my life. I want to give God my best. No more excuses for not coming to church on Sundays. No more excuses for not coming to prayer meetings or to Bible study. I am fed up with the old me. I decided that day that God deserves my best

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because He has given me His best.

CV: How have you walked the talk since?

MG: I have talked to my mom and I asked her for forgiveness. I did not make the right choices and I broke her heart when I was younger too. I needed her forgiveness and she has forgiven me. I have also decided to tithe, giving back to God what is His. I am eager now to learn more from Him and to study scripture...

CV: Whoa, whoa, hold your horses there! Are you trying to tell me that so much change has come from a "simple" prayer?

MG: Simple or not, I know that God is giving me a second chance to have a better impact in my own life and in the life of my younger children. I am thirsty to know more from God and to be better equipped to be, as a single mother, the best mom I can be.

CV: I know it, I have seen you at the Parenting class on Sunday mornings.

MG: Yes. I am so grateful for Laurie, and for all the great things we are learning. I wish I had had all these tools when I first became a mom. But, God knows I want to do the best for Him now. I will give my little ones my best.

CV: Gracias Mariana for opening your heart and letting us see a glimpse of God's miracles in you.

MG: You're welcome. By God's grace, Christ has sent my sins to the bottom of the sea. What I have now is the chance to write a new story, a better story for me and my children; a story that comes from a forgiven and grateful heart. Praise be to God! CV: Thank you, Mariana.

o

Gustav

Preschool

Rhonda Cardona Director rhonda.cardona@fpcyakima.com

Thank you FPC for your support of the weekday preschool program! Your prayers and financial gifts are what make this outreach program of our church as strong as it is in the community, benefitting both children and young families. In return our church is strengthened! Through your sacrificial offerings we are able to continue with our scholarship program; therefore giving many the opportunity they would not have otherwise. You are a blessing to many!

Why is preschool important? Preschool focuses on school readiness for young children. Academics are important, but young children will have a lifetime of formal learning ahead of them. What makes us different? Our preschool offers this strong academic

Three Years Old Tuesdays & Thursdays 9:00a – 11:30a Must be 3 by 9/1/13 $95 monthly tuition Yearly Snack Fee: $35

Four Years Old Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays 9:00a – 11:30a Must be 4 by 9/1/13 $125 monthly tuition Yearly Snack Fee: $45

foundation, but more importantly we offer the love of Christ that builds a strong spiritual foundation. It is a place where children learn to love school and learn to love learning. Along with the basics, they also learn important social skills. Children here at FPC Preschool learn that God loves them and so does our church!

We are currently registering children for the upcoming 2013-14 school year. Please pass on this news to your family, friends, and neighbors! We need you to help spread the news. Information is available in the main church office, online at yakimapreschool.com or by calling Rhonda Cardona at 248-7940, ext. 119. We are happy to give personal tours and spend time with you sharing this program.

Pre-Kindergarten Mondays – Thursdays 9:00a – 11:30a Must be 5 by 12/31/13 $150 monthly tuition Yearly Snack Fee: $55

The non-refundable registration fee of $80 for new students for all classes include a t-shirt, school bag, and supply fee. The non-refundable Registration fee for returning students is $60.

Look for See’s Easter Candy for sale this month! Get your Easter basket goodies and support our preschool.

We will be in the Garden Room on Sunday, March 10th and candy will be available at the coffee stand while supplies last.

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Parenting Class

Laurie Kanyer

First Presbyterian Church has run a variety of new parenting class’s since 2011. These classes have begun to resonate in our neighborhood, and the community has come to rely on FPC for offering classes to assist families on achieving peace in the home. “Parenting Education” is a field of study that is a mere 35 years old. Those attending a course to learn techniques and tools are pioneers! Consider your hairdresser who has to attend nearly two years of training in order to legally cut your hair. Isn’t a child worth the very best the parents can offer?

Here’s the good news, through exhaustive research there are a number of skills that can be taught and learned to raise cooperative children. Our present class boasts well over 60 adults attending on a regular basis and upward of 77 on occasion. The current class comes from all walks of life, education and professions. Additionally, this is the first time we have offered the course in both English and Spanish with simultaneous translations taking place on the spot.

While parents are in class, children are in a special program designed by Monnie Miller (our Director of Childcare) for kids under five. The older kids program is being provided by staff from the YWCA with the support of Susie Woodin in the Children’s’ Department. Prayer ministers have been on site, and listening prayer has been offered at every class. Follow up individual sessions and phone calls have taken place for families with deeper needs.

Surprisingly most of the families who are attending the class are not from the First Presbyterian congregation. This class is reaching out to the community and bringing people in our doors. For many people this is the closest they have been to church in years, if ever before. Along with the text being gifted to the families, Bibles have been also been distributed to anyone in need!

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Current victories recorded in class include: Using techniques for modulating and reducing parental stress.

Becoming more thoughtful and positive toward children.

Determining when the problem is about the deficits in the adult (rather than projecting on the child).

Understanding and listening to their children’s feelings to a deeper level.

Taking 10 steps backward when feeling angry (rather than laying angry hands on a youngster) Learning to ask for forgiveness when they have made a mistake with their child.

Repeating back the words said by the distressed child and the blessing to discovering how much the child has to share with them.

Giving the child choices to increase thinking skills in the child and decrease power struggles.

Choosing to be aware of their own attitude and character traits that pull down family life.

• • • • • • • • •

Sample topics in the individual discussions with the instructor have ranged from:

• • • • • • • •

Developing a cooperative parenting care plan between separated parents.

Helping to get the child to listen to the parent.

Helping to improve the child’s issues with disrespect toward a parent.

Offering techniques to manage a child who calls names.

How to get the child to be gentle with the animals in the house.

How to achieve peace in the morning between fighting siblings.

Tips to manage a child who cries and cries to get what he wants.

Helping a toddler transition into a big kid bed.

Thank you to First Presbyterian for your support and vision for this class.

Laurie

HOLY WEEK

SUNDAY MARCH 24: PALM SUNDAY Join us to celebrate Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem as our children lead us into worship with shouts of Hosanna at all of the services.

THURSDAY MARCH 28: MAUNDY THURSDAY There will be a celebration of the Last Supper with the Sacrament of Communion followed by a Tenebrae service (service of darkness) reminding us of Jesus’s sacrificial gift of Good Friday. The service begins at 6:30p in the sanctuary and will conclude by 8:00p.

FRIDAY MARCH 29: GOOD FRIDAY The sanctuary will be open for individual prayer and reflection from noon until 3:00p.

SATURDAY MARCH 30: COMMUNITY EASTER EGG HUNT Share the incredible JOY of Easter with our neighbors as we once again host a Community Easter Egg Hunt at the Davis Soccer Field at noon. You can serve in so many ways. Sign up at the Connection Center, or contact Shan Trick at 248-7940x142 SUNDAY MARCH 31: EASTER SUNDAY • SonRise service - 6:45a on the north lawn of FPC • 8:00a and 9:30a - Contemporary Style Services • 11:00a - Traditional Style Service Please join us for Breakfast in the gym, available 7a-11a.

Easter at FPC is always packed! To accommodate easy access for our many guests on Easter Sunday, regular attendees are asked, if they are able, to park in the Hospital parking lot. Shifting your celebration to the 8:00a or 11:00a service will help even out seating availability in all services. Thank you! We also need extra folks to welcome our guests and help them feel at home. If you would like to serve, please contact Jim Erixson at 248-7940x130.

Remember, we all can take notice of new faces and extend a warm welcome!

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FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 9 SOUTH 8TH AVE YAKIMA, WA 98902

NONPROFIT ORG US POSTAGE PAID YAKIMA, WA PERMIT NO 59

16th bi-annual

G O I C L TH N A G C E H N X

Saturday, March 16 9:00a 2:00p

Clean, usable CLOTHES for Women, Men, and Children, Games, Books, Toys, & Baby Gear.

FREE! Donations are appreciated, but n o t m a n d a t o r y.

First Presbyterian Church Gym (Koehler Hall) 9 South 8th Ave 248-7940 www.fpcyakima.com

Bring all donation s to church gym starting Sunday, March 10