Touchpoint February March 2021

FEBRUARY&&MARCH MARCH2021 2021 FEBRUARY

TOUCHPOINT MarbleChurch.org

Worship with Us pg. 8

CYF Corner pg. 5

The Marble Magazine

Spotlight: Racial Justice Series page 5 Lent & Holy Week page 4

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Marble Matters

Love Matters

We tend to spend considerable time talking about Let me be clear: love does not overlook bad behavlove in the Church, which makes sense since love is ior. Love does not permit people to use or abuse us. the single best word to describe God and the oneThere are consequences for our actions, and there word mission statement of the Church. Yet with all our are times boundaries need to be set on relationships. talk about love, I wonder if we understand the tall task However, love holds the hope that somehow, someof love, especially in such divisive times. way, we can all arrive at a place of wellbeing. It is that for which we work and that for which we pray.

What we learn about love in sacred scripture is that love isn’t about the feelings we have toward othIn divisive times, it is easy for others to draw out ers. And thank God it isn’t! If it were, love would be the worst in us. Instead, as we journey together a rollercoaster of a ride as our feelings come and go. through Lent toward Easter, let’s ground ourselves Love would exist but not as something any of us could in the love of God and ask that we be guided by this count on. same love. As Martin Luther King Jr. said, “I have decided to stick with love. Hate is Instead, we learn what too great a burden to bear.” “ …the love shown love looks like through God’s love shown to us in and through Jesus isn’t just I invite you all to join us this Lent through Jesus, who was willas we explore what it means to be for the best of us. ing to sacrifice his life for the guided by love. We’ll be holding lives of others. And here’s discussions on Bishop Michael It’s for all of us.” the wonderfully beautiful and Curry’s new book, Love Is the Way: wildly difficult part about this: Holding on to Hope in Troubling the love shown through Jesus isn’t just for the best of Times. Watch for more details! us. It’s for all of us. It’s for the people we would rather I’m so thankful we have the technology and staff to hate than wish well. It’s for the people for whom we advance our ministry virtually; yet I also so miss seeexperience gleefulness when they suffer misfortune. ing all of you. The words of Paul keep coming to mind, Of course, none of us freely admit harboring feelings “although we were torn away from you for a short like this, except maybe in the comfort of our own time (in person, not in heart), our desire to see you homes and around close friends. face to face has become even more intense” Real love, the inclusive love God has shown us in

(1 Thessalonians 2:17) Jesus, is about our orientation toward people—all Blessings to you all! people. It’s about how we see others, what we wish for others, and the work we’re willing to do for the wellbeing of others, even the wellbeing of those for whom we struggle to have anything positive to say.

Jesus stretched us all when he said, “Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you” (Luke 6:27).

Dr. Michael Bos Senior Minister

Staff for this Issue EDITOR:

Karla Fritsch PHOTOS:

Dave Cross Jay Johnson Karla Fritsch GRAPHIC DESIGN:

Beth Player-DiCicco

MARBLE COMMUNITY OUTREACH Marble Community Outreach (MCO) is a not-forprofit entity launched by an investment from Marble Collegiate Church as an avenue to make a difference in our community. A key opportunity offered by Marble Community Outreach is to enable individuals to include their employer’s match for charitable giving. Contact Clay Hale (CHale@MarbleChurch.org or 212-686-2770).

Marble Community Outreach is a separate not-for-profit organization: IRS 990 approved for tracking and reporting.

ID Tax #: 81-3229252.

MIDDLE CHURCH RELIEF Thank you, Marble, for helping raise $26,373 for Middle Collegiate Church (as of this printing) after the fire devastated their building in December. $5,000 of these funds came as a gift from Marble Community Outreach in partnership with the funds raised hrough individual giving.

Marble Matters

A WORD FROM OUR EXECUTIVE MINISTER I COME FOR HOPE with you.” I didn’t reach out my hand in case that

By Rev. J. Elise Brown, Ph.D. would be too much, but I did ask his name. “John,” He came to church every week, always slipping in he said. “My name is John.” after the service had begun and sitting on the end of “Welcome, John,” I said. “It’s good to have you the last pew in the sanctuary. He came alone, week with us.” after week, and would usually leave during the final He responded, “I come for hope. I feel hope here.” hymn. I saw him there every week, but didn’t know his name or how long he had been attending our church.

Those words have never left me. “I come for hope.”

This happened often at my former church, where Lent is the season where we gather our longings it was easy for people to slip into the sanctuary on for hope to break into our lives as we walk a path Broadway and stay for a little while and then leave. leading through desert and wilderness places to life Sometimes it was clear they were tourists who were and resurrection. Ashes lead to lilinterested in seeing the sanctuary ies. Shadows lead to brilliant light. and maybe take a few pictures of “Ashes lead to lilies. The season includes Hosannas and the Tiffany stained-glass window Alleluias, betrayals, denials and an Shadows lead and altar. I’ve done the same thing in empty tomb. my travels, interested in the beautito brilliant light.”

And the season includes hope. ful sacred architecture of cathedrals and temples around the world.

As we continue to gather virtually for the foreseeable future, I pray you experience But this man was different. It was clear he wasn’t a tourist because he was there every week, same late hope and the promise of new life breaking forth on the horizon of such a challenging time in our lives. arrival, same early exit, same pew.

“Come” to Marble for hope and community, for prayer One day I decided I would try to speak to him. and study, for words of encouragement and possibility I watched for him, wondering if he would show up on as we journey together through the holy season of the Sunday I was intent on greeting him. Sure enough, Lent. he slipped in during the final verse of the opening You matter to us. Come journey with us in hope. hymn. During the Passing of the Peace, I gently approached him and said, “The peace of Christ be

MEMBERSHIP MATTERS – NO MATTER WHERE YOU ARE The need to belong, to navigate these uncertain Zoom call to record your reception into the Marble times with others, is essential to our well-being. If Family which will be shown the following Sunday you’d like to deepen your connection, join the Marble during Worship.

Family. Whoever you are, wherever you are in Consider becoming a member in 2021. We would your faith journey, wherever you live – we invite be so glad to have you, and think you’ll find it will you to take that step and journey forward with us! It’s make a difference knowing you belong – knowing you easy, all you need to do is participate in two online are welcomed and loved for who you are. For more New Member Orientation Sessions offered via Zoom information, attend the Information Session on video chat after Sunday Worship. These sessions are February 21, or contact Kim Sebastian-Ryan (KRyan@ conversational and informal – designed to give you the MarbleChurch.org or 212-686-2770). You can also sign chance to get to know more about us, and us about up now at MarbleChurch.org /engage/join/becomeyou. Following the orientations, we’ll set up a special a-member.

New Member Information Session – Sunday, February 21, 12:00-12:30pm, via Zoom New Member Orientation Sessions – Sundays, March 7 & 14, 12:00-1:00pm, via Zoom Recording of the Reception of New Members – Sunday, March 21, 12:00-12:30pm, via Zoom Sunday Worship showing Reception of New Members–Sunday, April 4, 11:00am, at MarbleChurch.org

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Rev. J. Elise Brown, Ph.D. Executive Minister

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Marble Matters

VIRTUAL SHROVE TUESDAY PANCAKE SUPPER Tuesday, February 16 | 6:30-7:30pm Pancakes are not cancelled! We are excited to announce a Virtual Pancake Supper. Grab your friends and family, and join us via Zoom video chat as ministers, staff, elders and deacons help us celebrate Shrove Tuesday and Mardi Gras online. Music.

A Mask Contest. Games. Prizes. Fun! Find link at MarbleChurch.org.

Lent 2021

ASH WEDNESDAY WORSHIP February 17 | 6:15pm Join us online for the start of Lent. Message, Remember, by Rev. J. Elise Brown, Ph.D. Live music

by Ken Dake and Rashad McPherson.

HOLY COMMUNION DURING LENT During these extraordinary times we invite you to join in partaking of Communion in your own home Wednesdays in Lent, February 24 – March 24. Please have ordinary elements of bread and juice nearby.

VIRTUAL EASTER LILIES In lieu of placing a multitude of live lilies on the Sanctuary Chancel this year, we will honor loved ones by listing their names onscreen at the end of Worship on Easter Sunday, April 4, as well as in the online bulletin. To pay tribute to someone in your life in this special way, please visit MarbleChurch.org/lilies or call the Business Office, 212-686-2770, to make your contribution by Sunday, March 21. Donations will go to The Marble Care Fund.

Holy Week 2021

Easter will come once again and the Marble Community will celebrate! As we did last year, Worship will be online due to the continued Coronavirus pandemic. Please visit MarbleChurch. org/watch for all services.

MARCH 28, PALM SUNDAY Worship — 11:00am, Dr. Michael Bos APRIL 1, MAUNDY THURSDAY Worship — 7:00pm (Prelude, 6:50pm) Dr. Michael Bos. Holy Communion.

Commemorating Jesus’ final night.

We invite you to join in partaking of Communion in your own home as part of the Maundy Thursday service. Please have ordinary elements of bread and juice nearby.

Grow Deeper – YOUR LENTEN JOURNEY LENTEN ALL-CHURCH READ: LOVE IS THE WAY The world may succumb to anger, division, and fear, but Christians are called to walk another way – the way of love. This Lent, join with the Marble Community in reading Episcopal Bishop Michael Curry’s Love Is the Way: Holding on to Hope in Troubling Times and reflecting on its powerful message. Please order a copy of the book for yourself and stay tuned for more details about discussion groups.

Women’s Ministry Lenten Blog – Visit MarbleWomen.com for daily words of inspiration beginning February 17.

ANNUAL EASTER OFFERING Please see page 6 for Rev. Susanah Wade’s article.

APRIL 2, GOOD FRIDAY Instrumental Music for Meditation — 11:30am Worship — Noon, Dr. Michael Bos The Marble Choir, Festival of Voices and soloists.

Good Friday Prayer Vigil — 1:00pm Join the Marble Prayer Team Ministry online as we pray together via Zoom. To request prayer, visit MarbleChurch.org/goodfridayprayerrequests.

Questions? Contact Judy Tulin (JTulin@MarbleChurch. org or 212-686-2770, ext. 207).

APRIL 4, EASTER SUNDAY Prayer Circle — 10:00am (via Zoom) Prelude for Brass and Organ — 10:45am Worship — 11:00am, Dr. Michael Bos Join us at Marble Church.org.

Marble Matters

In the Marble Spotlight

First Thursdays, 7:00-8:15pm We encourage all to attend. Invite your friends.

RACISM AND THE CHURCH Thursday, February 4 Join Dr. Michael Bos and Dr. Elise Brown for a conversation with Dr. Nigel Pearce, Senior Minister of Grace Congregational Church, Harlem, as we discuss where the church has gone wrong and where the church has gone right in the quest for racial justice.

THE EVOLUTION OF VOTING RIGHTS Thursday, March 4 Join Dr. Michael Bos and Rev. Rashad McPherson for a conversation with Jessica Huseman, a reporter and CNN analyst, who covered voting rights during the recent election. Learn more about the surprising history and current state of voting rights in America and why this issue is of great importance today.

CYF CORNER MARBLE STORYTIME

Visit MarbleChurch.org/watch to join Rev. Brittany as she reads a book, ending with some questions for your family to ponder. All previous books also available.

Next book: Speak Up

BLACK HISTORY MONTH CELEBRATION DURING WORSHIP Sundays in February | 11:00am This February, celebrate African American Heritage through the lens of Gospel Music every Sunday during Worship. Led by Gospel Choir Director Rashad McPherson, experience special video presentations that include historical narration, music performances

by Gospel Choir members and images from the Marble Arts Ministry.

Rev. Rashad McPherson Marble Community Gospel Choir Director

ANTI-RACISM RESOURCES Marble is dedicated to sharing the best resources we have found on learning and growing in our shared commitment to racial justice and anti-racism. Please visit MarbleChurch.org/ engage/anti-racism-resource-guide/ for a list of books, articles, podcasts and films so you can learn and help us in the on-going conversation.

As we celebrate Black History Month this February, we invite you to join us on Social Media.

You can find us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

ONLINE SUNDAY SCHOOL AND CHOIRS All children welcome to join us for Sunday School every week at 10:00am and Cherub and Children’s Choir Rehearsal follows at 11:00am. Youth Choir Rehearsal is on Sundays at 12:30pm; Youth Group at 1:00pm. For more information, please contact Rev. Brittany Juliette Hanlin (BHanlin@ MarbleChurch.org) or Brian Hampton (BHampton@ MarbleChurch.org).

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Marble Matters

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Rev. Brittany Juliette Hanlin Associate Minister

Rev. Susannah Wade Associate Minister

For more information, visit MarbleChurch.org/ give/easter-offering or contact Rev. Susanah Wade (SWade@ MarbleChurch.org).

MINISTERIAL MUSINGS EXTRAORDINARY WORK IN ORDINARY TIMES

By Rev. Brittany Juliette Hanlin “When the song of the angels is stilled, when the star in the sky is gone, when the kings and princes are home, when the shepherds are back with their flocks, the work of Christmas begins: to find the lost, to heal the broken, to feed the hungry, to release the prisoner, to rebuild the nations, to bring peace among the people, to make music in the heart.” ­­– Howard Thurman The Christian liturgical calendar is framed around two of the holiest days of the year. We all know these days well: Christmas and Easter. As Christians, we spend a great deal of time preparing ourselves for such sacred days and, if we’re honest, the days between Christmas and Easter just feel… ordinary.

In the Christian liturgical calendar, we consider “Ordinary Time” any time between Christmastide and Eastertide (not including Advent and Lent). It feels like there is nothing sacred and holy to celebrate, so many of us become stagnant in our spiritual practices. Our compassion for the stranger is limited and our capacity to hear the cries of injustice is minimal.

The exuberant Christmas joy once exuding from our

hearts is now gone, and we long for the return of the next holy day.

Over the past year, many of us feel like this time is anything but ORDINARY: as political divisions continue to separate us from one another, as a pandemic continues to take innocent lives, as racial injustice is glossed over and ignored, as people struggle to make ends meet. We long for peace, we long for calm, we long for…ordinary.

But, Howard Thurman’s words remind us of the extraordinary work of ordinary times. Finding the lost is extraordinary work to do in these ordinary times.

Healing the broken is extraordinary work to do in these ordinary times. Feeding the hungry is always extraordinary work in ordinary times. Releasing the prisoner with forgiveness is extraordinary work for ordinary times. Rebuilding our nation with love, truth and justice, that’s extraordinary work in these ordinary times. Bringing peace among people and to make music in the heart, Beloved children of God, that is extraordinary work for ordinary times.

There is extraordinary work to do. There is love to give and receive. There is truth to be spoken. There is justice to seek. During these ordinary times, may we open our hearts to the Gospel’s extraordinary call to serve in love.

MARBLE’S EASTER OFFERING — ELEVATING LIVES

By Rev. Susanah Wade Easter reminds me of movement in an upward up and gave $158,000 to the Easter Offering which direction. Something or someone gets elevated was awarded to 41 nonprofit organizations supportbeyond where that thing or person was before. Jesus’ ing persons with a range of needs including shelter, resurrection was symbolic of this elevation; he rose food, mental health and economic justice. Stay tuned from the dead three days after he was crucified and throughout Lent for some of these stories of lives buried to make a positive difference in our lives. As changed and elevated. we approach the Lenten season which starts on Ash As I conclude, I am reminded of a recent comment Wednesday, February 17, and culminates on Easter by a congregant who described our potential escape Sunday, April 4, with the resurrection of Jesus, I am out of our multiple pandemics as that shrub that pushreminded of lives that were changed and elevated es its way through the cracks in the pavement where with Marble’s Easter Offering of 2020. The events one would least expect to see such life. God always surrounding the resurrection reminds me also of a manages to show us possibilities where the imposcontext that was difficult, overburdened and likely sible seems like the expected outcome. This year, for overwhelming for many who had to experience or wit- Easter 2021, we look forward to having you join us on ness the events of that period. a journey of upward movement that helps to provide In 2020, our Easter Offering grant-making process hope for many – lives that would likely have been was caught in a similar environment – difficult, overimpacted by the multiple challenges of 2020 that burdened, overwhelmed and challenged primarily by moved with us into 2021. the COVID-19 pandemic that placed lives at risk and Blessings and peace to all as we continue to conour city and nation in a “lock-down.” Yet despite these nect and walk with God in all that we do. challenges, the Marble Congregation and friends rose

Marble Matters

THANK YOU, KARLA FRITSCH – CELEBRATING 30 YEARS OF SERVICE

By Christina Morano Keiser Over thirty years, that is how long Karla Fritsch has My favorite talent of been dedicating herself to Marble Church, and even Karla’s is her writing. If you before that she was attending as a congregant. So, haven’t read one of her artichances are, before many of you even stepped into cles before, I suggest you the door of Marble, Karla was there. She is in the fab- do it now, on the page 10 ric of this place. The Sunday and Wednesday bulletins and at MarbleChurch.org/ packed with the Order of Worship, lyrics, dedications media/touchpointmagaand upcoming events – Karla puts them together zine/. Her honesty and every week: carefully writing, cutting and organizing vulnerability come through it all. The Touchpoint magazine that you are reading with every word. She tackright now – Karla is the editor: writing, designing, and les real and tough subjects with eloquence and grace following up on deadlines to get it done. She proofs and always leaves me reevaluating my own experiand touches almost every webpage, program, eblast, ences with a new positive perspective. mailing, rack card, slate, video, poster, you name it.

She continually puts Marble and others first, and If you are reading it, chances are Karla had a hand in even runs a monthly Staff Worship that serves as a making it happen. much-needed respite for many. Whenever I talk to I had the privilege of working more closely with colleagues or congregants about Karla, it is her dediKarla when I moved into my role as Director of Media cation to Marble and her genuine care for others that and Communication in 2018. Karla welcomed me with shines through. open arms and quickly became my rock. I lean on her Thank you for your thirty years, Karla. Here’s to expert proofing skills, creativity, endless knowledge thirty more! of the history of this church, and more personally as a friend.

Karla is always offering appreciation and encouragement to others. It comes through like rays of sunshine in our lives. It seems like every time I send her something, she sends the kindest, encouraging notes in reply. It never fails to brighten my day!

– Dr. Michael Bos Karla exudes a beautiful, clear inner light that shines forth to others, bringing light and love to everyone around her. Thank you, Karla, for being such a light shining on all of us at Marble...for 30 years!

– Rev. J. Elise Brown, Ph.D. I have said this before, and I’ll say it again: Karla is the heart and soul of the Marble staff.

She radiates an innate goodness.

When we first began working together in 1997 it didn’t take me long to experience her kindness, thoughtfulness, and gentle support.

– Don Piper

The monthly Staff Worship has certainly become Karla’s project. Through the years since its inception, it has called a tiny halt to life and lets us do what makes church work scale the heights of heaven. We stop and pray for each other and for the Church. Two thousand years later, it is another incarnation of Jesus’ promise “Where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I in the midst of them.”

– Sr. Carol Perry Karla has always been an inspiration to me, an Iowa girl who came to the big city, and won her place in it. Through hard work and long hours, through spirit and faith, through laughter and creativity, Karla established herself at Marble. She grew and helped Marble to grow. And she and Marble continue their fruitful partnership.

– Dr. Rob Williams

Karla Fritsch & Christina Morano Keiser Director of Media & Communication

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Worship

SUNDAY WORSHIP 11AM, ONLINE

February March 2021

Dr. Michael Bos Senior Minister, preaching

When You’re Afraid Dealing with Fears FEBRUARY 7

Dealing with Doubt FEBRUARY 14

Spiritually Moved Moving into the Wilderness FEBRUARY 21

1st Sunday in Lent

Moving beyond Yourself FEBRUARY 28

2nd Sunday in Lent

Moving into Disruption MARCH 7

3rd Sunday in Lent

Moving toward Transformation MARCH 14

4th Sunday in Lent

Moved by the New MARCH 21

5th Sunday in Lent

#WeWo: Wednesday Worship - Online See page 9 Virtual Jazz Vespers See page 9

Unexpected

An Unexpected Ending MARCH 28 Palm Sunday

An Unexpected Beginning APRIL 4

Easter Sunday

Spiritual Growth and Education

Marble’s Bible Study is a casual, come-as-you-can forum that is open to all, and especially newcomers.

Remember, if you miss a session of Sunday Bible Study, you can catch up at MarbleChurch.org/Watch.

Sunday Bible Study

SUNDAYS AT 10AM The Gospel of Mark New to Christian faith and wanting to know more about Jesus? Not sure what you believe about hard-to-swallow stuff like the virgin birth? Just like to learn and grow and geek out about what makes one gospel different from the others?

Join Rev. Anthony Livolsi and others online before Worship as we continue our read through of the Gospel of Mark.

Tuesday Evening Bible Study

Prayer Circle via Zoom SUNDAYS AT 10AM Join us for this weekly time of prayer and music via Zoom video chat. The Circle is always open – all you need is a willing heart, an internet connection or telephone.

Online Small Groups

Grow deeper spiritually and stay connected with others even though we are online only.

New Winter/Lent/Spring Small Groups begin February 9 & 10.

To register for John – The Gospel of Light & Life: The Belonging Project and Love Is the Way, by Bishop Michael Curry, visit MarbleChurch.org or contact Baleta McKenzie (BMcKenzie@MarbleChurch.org).

TUESDAYS AT 6:30PM The Letters of Paul The writings of the Apostle Paul – the earliest in the New Testament! – have shaped how all Christians after him have understood and lived out their faith. There is almost no spiritual question Paul does not address: What does it mean to be “saved”? Who is Jesus? How does the grace of God change us? Come with questions of your own to this participatory, jump-right-in roundtable study.

Questions? Email, Rev. Anthony Livolsi (ALivolsi@ MarbleChurch.org).

Worship #WEWO: WEDNESDAY WORSHIP - ONLINE Wednesdays | 6:15pm Enjoy the uplifting messages from our ministers and powerful music from Deah Love and the Praise Team, via archival highlights as well as new music from Deah. Note, Jazz Vespers on February 24 & March 24.

VIRTUAL JAZZ VESPERS Wednesdays, February 24 & March 24 | 6:15pm Take a mid-week break to rest, reflect and refresh with our service featuring local Jazz artists led by music director Chris Whittaker.

February 24: It’s Tempting, Dr. Michael Bos March 24: Rev. Chad Tanaka Pack

HOLY COMMUNION WEDNESDAYS IN LENT February 24 – March 24 During these extraordinary times we invite you to join in partaking of Communion in your own home.

Please have ordinary elements of bread and juice nearby during Worship on Wednesdays through Lent.

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Marble Marble Matters Matters

Reflections from the Editor

Karla Fritsch Publications Manager

Joanie Collyer, Judy Tulin, Karla, Dr. Rob Williams

KF at old 3 West 29th St Reception Desk

By Karla Fritsch I can easily forget how far I’ve come in my life when I’m distracted by challenges in front of me, especially those that are too familiar. So, my 30th anniversary at Marble has been an opportune time for reflecting on the gifts of growth working here has given me, or helped me open within myself. These are some of the gifts I’ve revisited during this milestone.

Being part of the Marble Staff has given me…

My NYC Family Of course, I have my big extended NYC family from being a congregant, yet my closest circle of friends who became family, I met on the job, especially “The Gang”(photo on pg 7), headed by beloved Marble elders Ed and Luella Mulder and Henry and Dorothy Marsh. Not only were these new family members people I could have heart-to-heart conversations with, they helped me reconnect to having fun and laughing a lot. That’s a gift no matter what, but after dealing with my long battle of chronic depression that hid me away too much, time with The Gang was a vital part of rebuilding my life.

Supportive Environment Where I Could Find A My Voice and Unwrap My Own Gifts Through all three decades I’ve been blessed to have supervisors and co-workers who accepted me as I was as they encouraged me to grow. They could see strengths and talents in me that I couldn’t see or didn’t trust enough to share. I have been surrounded by people who cared for me as a person, not just a worker – Dr. Rob Williams (who hired me), Luella Mulder, Marian Patterson, Joanie Collyer and others.

Each time I proof or edit, I have moments of joy and still feel Joanie’s presence from all she taught me when I started helping her with Sunday bulletins.

One thing I didn’t trust earlier in my life was speaking for myself. Working as a Marble Receptionist certainly helped me practice using my voice. Sharing more of my talents in my various roles on the job built my confidence which also strengthened my voice. It can still be a challenge to think on my feet and share my opinion, but I’ve improved a lot. When I started as editor of the old MarbleUpdate newsletter, I had inner nudges for a while about writing these columns. Although I often

wore a hat when I worked Sunday Reception, I wasn’t sure about wearing my creative writing hat at Marble.

I appreciate the encouragement Don Piper gave me about eight years ago to start using my voice in this way. It’s been a blessing on so many levels.

My Introduction to Maine I heard Dr. Caliandro and Chef Ron talk often about Maine and in the summer of 1995 I visited Ron in Eastport for the first time along with Stuart, Gary and Judy. Maine quickly became the place where my soul was fed the most – from being out on the ocean in Ron’s boat, looking at the mountains of Acadia across an ever-changing bay, watching enthralling loons and eagles, walking on a rocky beach, staring up at the pines… and taking 1000s of photos.

It was the staff responding so positively to my Maine photos that led me to share my photography in wider circles through creating photo cards. That helped me gain the confidence to be able to call myself an artist, something I’d always wanted but didn’t think I could because I couldn’t draw or paint.

A Safe Space for My Dreams to Evolve Although I stopped trying to pursue a professional performing career decades ago, as part of the Marble staff I’ve had the chance to dust off my singing voice to perform for the Senior Adult Fellowship/PrimeTime and Homecoming. Years ago I was the one creating Marble’s printed posters and I realized I was living an adapted version of my old dream of working at an ad agency. I was creating on the job, yet in a positive environment. And through so many of the people I’ve worked with, seeds of new dreams have been planted.

I could go on for 30 pages in order to share the many more gifts I’ve received working here.

I’ll continue getting frustrated at times by the things I still let hold me back from being the More God created me to be, and I’ll hear the old inner critical voice taunt me with, “you’ll never change, others can but you can’t.” However, when that happens, I can stop and reflect again on how far I’ve actually come – in great part because I’ve been regularly nourished by this loving Marble Family.

I will be eternally grateful.

Marble MarbleMatters Matters

Engage – More Upcoming Events We are blessed that we can gather together online for Worship and other events, even as the physical distance created by the COVID-19 pandemic continues. For direct links, more events, and the most up-to-date information, visit MarbleChurch.org.

ALL-CHURCH VIRTUAL COFFEE HOUR & OUTREACH Sunday, February 14 | 12:00pm Join us for another time of fellowship and outreach via video chat. We hope to see you there! Stay tuned to MarbleChurch.org for details.

PRIMETIME (55+) Wednesdays | 1:00pm Gather with this energetic group via video chat or phone to visit with your friends, meet new people and hear meaningful and interesting presentations on various topics. On February 10 we welcome Manhattan School of Music pianist Jason Flowers.

To be included on the mailing list and receive a schedule, please contact Baleta McKenzie (BMcKenzie@MarbleChurch.org or 212-686-2770, ext. 219).

WOMENS’ MINISTRY VIRTUAL COFFEE HOUR Sunday, February 21 | 12:00-1:00pm All women are encouraged to join us and see how there is a place for you in the Women’s Ministry at Marble. As we enter this season of Lent, let’s find out what God is doing in our lives. Newcomers are always AFTERNOON PRAYER welcome.

Weekdays | 4:00-4:20pm Wind down your day with a brief time of sharing GIFTS: LGBTQ FELLOWSHIP and prayer, led by the Marble ministers. Join us via VIRTUAL COFFEE HOURS video chat or call.

Sundays, February 21 & March 21 | 12:00-1:00pm Get together online after Worship for a chat with CHAIR YOGA Marble’s LGBTQ+ fellowship and allies. Newcomers Every Thursday | 10:00-10:45am are always welcome.

Center yourself physically and spiritually with this beginner-friendly time of gentle movement.

ONLINE SCREENING OF SIGHTED EYES/FEELING HEART CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP Monday, February 22 | 6:00-9:00pm First Saturday of Month | 1:00-3:00pm Celebrating Black History Month, The Theatre Learn how to provide better care to loved ones Upstairs – downstairs@marble presents a screen- while protecting your own health and well-being. ing of Sighted Eyes/Feeling Heart, the first-ever Please contact group leader Rev. Marion Gambardella feature documentary about Lorraine Hansberry, the (magambardella@yahoo.com) or Judy Tulin (JTulin@ visionary playwright who authored the groundbreakMarbleChurch.org). ing A Raisin in the Sun. A conversation with Executive Producer Chiz Schultz follows.

For information on Sunday & Tuesday Bible Study, Prayer Circle and Small Groups, please see WOMEN’S MINISTRY ANNUAL RETREAT Spiritual Growth and Education on page 9.

(ONLINE) Friday, March 5 | 7:00-8:30pm Saturday, March 6 | 10:00am-3:00pm We Were Made for More – Trust More, Hope Learn about ways you can be of service to others More, Act More. Save the dates and stay tuned to at MarbleChurch.org/engage/volunteer.

MarbleChurch.org for details.

Engage — Volunteer

BEREAVEMENT GROUP Every Monday | 11:00am-12:00pm Are you mourning the loss of a loved one? You need not travel this road alone. Share your story in a confidential atmosphere of love and faith. Led by Dr. Ken Ruge. For video link and more information, contact Judy Tulin (JTulin@MarbleChurch.org or 212-686-2770, ext. 207).

Please note, in January we switched all our video chats to Zoom.

Make sure you use the new links for on-going events.

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Touchpoint: February & March 2021

MONTHLY RACIAL JUSTICE SERIES Please see page 5 for more information.

MY JOURNEY – A CONVERSATION WITH BRENDA BRAXTON Monday, March 22 | 6:30-8:30pm Celebrating Women’s History Month, The Theatre Upstairs – downstairs@marble and Marble Women’s Ministry present a conversation with Tonynominated Broadway performer Brenda Braxton. Last seen on Broadway as Velma Kelly in CHICAGO The Musical, Brenda will be interviewed by Mario Sprouse and will be speaking about her spiritual journey and how it has sustained her personally and professionally.

SAVE THE DATES UPCOMING VIRTUAL CONCERTS THIS SPRING All Creation Sings God’s Praise: An Earth Day Celebration Sunday, April 25 | after Worship The Marble Choir and Festival of Voices directed by Kenneth Dake.

The Sound of Revival: A Gospel Celebration Sunday, May 23 | after Worship Marble Community Gospel Choir directed by Rashad McPherson.

THE LAST WORD Hope is like a road in the country; there was never a road, but when many people walk on it, the road comes into existence. — Lin Yutang LIVE WEBCAST SCHEDULE Visit MarbleChurch.org or Facebook.

Sundays 10am – Bible Study 10:50am – Grace Notes: Inside the Music 11am – Worship

Wednesdays 6:15pm – #WeWo: Wednesday Worship Sermon Podcasts: Subscribe at MarbleChurch.org.

Marble Collegiate Church

1 West 29th Street (at Fifth Ave) New York, New York 10001 212-686-2770 MARBLE ON SOCIAL MEDIA

WHEN YOU NEED HELP During these challenging times, please reach out for help if you need it.

Marble Care Line: Call (800) 531-1913 – Wednesdays through Sundays, 12:00-8:00pm.

A trained volunteer will listen to you with a Christcentered ear and a caring heart. Available to adults 18 years and older.

Stephen Ministry at Marble – A one-to-one ministry that empowers lay members to provide highquality, confidential, and Christ-centered care to those who are struggling with difficult life events. Email: StephenMinistry@MarbleChurch.org.

Blanton Peale Counseling Center – If you need more in-depth, professional help with mental health issues visit BlantonPeale.org.

IF YOU MISSED IT Did you miss watching A Conversation with Bevy Smith on January 7 and other video events – or do you want to see them again? Visit the homepage at MarbleChurch.org and click on the “If You Missed It” image to watch a featured event or go to the Watch page and click on “More Videos”.

PRINTED TOUCHPOINT Please share your printed copy of Touchpoint if you don’t want to keep it – let others know about our welcoming community. If you haven’t already signed up to receive it via email, please do so under “Email Sign Up” on the homepage at MarbleChurch.org. Please keep in mind we will not be printing and mailing all our upcoming issues.