Touchpoint October November 2020

OCTOBER & NOVEMBER 2020

TOUCHPOINT MarbleChurch.org

Worship with Us pg. 8

The Marble Magazine

Spotlight: Special Events page 4 & 12

CYF Corner pg. 10

Call & Connect page 10

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Marble Matters

We Were Made for More!

Dr. Michael Bos Senior Minister

Kim Sebastian-Ryan Director of Membership & Connecting

As you’ve probably heard (because I tell everyone Marble’s Ministry is needed more than ever.

I can), in two months I’ll be a grandfather. I’m so People are struggling and suffering, fear about the excited I can barely stand it! Soon I’ll be holding a future is becoming crippling, and it’s easy to begin to little bundle of potential in my arms, and it will be a believe change is impossible. Right now we all need joy to watch her grow into the fullness of who God a place where we can discover we were made for created her to be. more, and Marble is that place! And together, as we follow the way of Christ, we learn how to live into the That’s the thing about babies… we see them as “more” God has for each of us. full of potential and possibility, and we watch their lives unfold with great expectation. As children grow, This message has taken on new urgency as we they begin to see this within themselves, and it’s fun look at what is happening in the world. We see to listen to their dreams and all the things they will the pandemic growing, unemployment increasing, be and do—as crazy as they may sound! poverty rising, children struggling educationally, Eventually, we grow and mature and those dreams a national reckoning on race, and the devastation caused by climate change. As we witness this, that are tamed, and sometimes life beats us down. We let go of what could be and settle for what is. As we same voice within us whispers to us, we were made for more. Our faith tells us that do, there is this voice within us God created this world to be so that keeps whispering to us: we “Our faith tells us much more. And while many were made for more. may give up because the issues that God created This month, Marble seem overwhelming and change this world to be so celebrates 166 years of minseems impossible, we remember istry, and through those years the words of Jesus: “for God all much more. ” Marble has been a place where things are possible.” The imposmillions of people have sible becomes an impossible discovered they were made for more. People come possibility. Not only is it possible for God to heal the feeling burdened and broken, helpless and hopeless, brokenness within us, it is possible for God to draw wondering if this is all there is to life. They begin to us together and use us to heal the brokenness in the believe change is impossible. And then, within the world. welcome and acceptance of the Marble Community, As we move into our 167th year, may God help they discover the truth of Jesus’ words, “For mortals our ministry grow and our message spread because it is impossible, but for God all things are possible” everyone needs a place where they can discover we (Matthew 19:26). Through faith they discover the were made for more. voice within them was true. They were made for more.

CAN I STILL BECOME A MEMBER ONLINE?

By Kim Sebastian-Ryan You absolutely can, and I hope you will!

One of the things I’ve been most proud of, and moved by in the last six months, has been Marble’s ability to quickly shift all of our programming online.

During a crisis, where you’re asked to stay at home for weeks on end, feeling connected to God, and others becomes even more important. The need to belong, to navigate these uncertain times with others on the same journey is essential to our wellbeing. Understanding this, we’ve created small groups, and numerous opportunities to gather together in community – to connect, engage, learn, grow, and discover new ways to go forward together.

So, if you would like to deepen your connection, I encourage you to join the Marble Family. Whoever you are, wherever you are in your faith journey – I invite you to take that step and journey forward with us! We’ve made it really easy, and, yes, it can be done online from anywhere in the country or anywhere in the world, for that matter! All you need to do is participate in two online New Member Orientation Sessions offered via video chat (similar to Zoom) after Worship on two Sunday afternoons.

These orientations are conversational and informal – designed to give you the chance to get to know a little more about us, and us about you. Following the orientations, we’ll set up a special zoom call after church to record your reception into the Marble

Marble Matters

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A WORD FROM OUR EXECUTIVE MINISTER I CAN DO ALL THINGS

By Rev. J. Elise Brown, Ph.D.

One day a woman from the group invited the woman who had lost her job to join them in the afternoon. It took the woman a few days to decide I saw her out of the corner of my eye one day as I whether to do this or not – she had been alone for so was walking in my neighborhood. She looked vaguely long during the pandemic. familiar, but I couldn’t place her. Then I saw her again But one afternoon, she brought her chair out and a few days later and I remembered who she was – joined the group. I began to see her with them in that energetic, friendly woman I regularly saw at the the afternoons when I was out walking. I could see gym before the pandemic. She always had a kind the gradual change in her countenance. I could feel word to say and a “hello” to share with those around her vibrant spirit coming back. I could see the smiles her. I didn’t know her name, but I knew her countecoming back underneath her mask. The women in the nance, her spirit. group talked about job possibilities and gave her sevWhen I saw her in July I almost didn’t recognize eral leads to follow up on. They encouraged her and her. Head bowed, eyes cast to the ground, moving she listened to them. It was like watching a gradual, slowly. She had changed; something had happened. beautiful transformation of something that might have The next time I saw her I stopped to speak with seemed lost but was found again – her spirit, her joy. her. I discovered in that short conversation that she The verse from Philippians 4:13 – I can do all things had lost her job in the early months of the pandemic. through Christ who strengthens me is She shared that it wasn’t a job sometimes interpreted as being about she really loved and she was “I could see the the big things – the mammoth underactually o.k. financially. smiles coming back takings – the large challenges we need It was the loneliness that had to face and overcome in our lives. underneath her really affected her. The isolation.

But I believe “all things” really The day after day after day, same, mask.” means “all things.” All things include same, same, that had really gotten the small things. The random acts of to her. I could see in her physical kindness. The small gesture of compassion or social appearance the emotional toll of what she had been connection shared with a stranger. The simple act of through…and the impact of loneliness on her life. inviting someone into the group. Taking the time to Toward the beginning of the pandemic a small reach beyond ourselves to help another. group of women began to gather outside in front of “All things” aren’t just the big things. They are the the building each afternoon – masked and socially small things that truly can make a huge difference in distanced. They talk and do the New York Times the life of another. Think about it, and know you can crossword together. They discuss books they are readdo all things, big and small, through Christ who will ing and movies they have watched. They talk about give you the strength you need each and every day. the weather…and politics…and the pandemic… and everything.

I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength. — Philippians 4:13

find it will make a huge difference knowing you belong. Knowing you are welcomed and loved for who you are. Email or call me for more information (KRyan@MarbleChurch.org or 212-686-2770), I would be happy to help! Or sign up right away by visiting our web page at MarbleChurch.org/ engage/join/become-a-member.

Join us. You’ll be so glad you did!

Family which will be shown the following Sunday during the worship service.

I hope you’ll consider becoming a member this fall.

We would be so glad to have you, and I think you’ll

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

COVER:

Gospel Choir Members March on Washington See page 5.

Staff for this Issue EDITOR:

Karla Fritsch PHOTOS:

Dave Cross Jay Johnson Jen Clover Rick Harper Karla Fritsch GRAPHIC DESIGN:

Beth Player-DiCicco

Marble Matters

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In the Marble Spotlight

HOMECOMING – ONLINE Sunday, October 4 | 12:00pm Quarantine Fatigue? Us, too! We need a little laughter. Until we can be together again in the Sanctuary for a traditional Homecoming show, join the Marble Staff on a Sunday after Worship for a sneak peek with a few laughs, a little music and a whole lot of fun from our houses to yours!

VIRTUAL BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS Sunday, October 11 Although we can’t be together on Fifth Avenue this year, we will still have a Blessing of the Animals at the end of 11:00am Worship. Have your favorite animals with you as we all gather around our computers for this special tradition.

FILM NIGHT – ONLINE Monday, October 5 | 7:00-9:45pm All are invited to gather online to watch Crip Camp: A Disability Revolution, an inspiring, feel-good documentary about Camp Jened, a Catskills summer camp in the 1970s for teenagers with disabilities that fostered a sense of community, creativity, and led directly into the American disability rights movement. Discussion follows.

Hosted by the Marble Women’s Ministry. Register by October 4, at MarbleChurch.org or with Don Piper (DPiper@MarbleChurch.org).

AFTERNOON TEA – ONLINE Thursdays, October 15 & November 19 4:30-5:30pm Our monthly Afternoon Teas return. Gather via video chat or telephone for a relaxed time of conversation over a cup of tea or your favorite beverage. For more information, please contact Kim Sebastian-Ryan (KRyan@MarbleChurch.org) or Siobhan Tull (STull@ MarbleChurch.org).

FORUM2020 & CONCERT OF REMEMBRANCE Please see page 12.

Stephanie M. Bailey Elder

NORMAN VINCENT PEALE AWARDS FOR POSITIVE THINKING Monday, November 9 This year Blanton Peale’s Norman Vincent in celebrating Mental and Spiritual Health: Healing, Peale Awards will be honoring Marble’s own Growing, Flourishing and supporting those hit hard Stephanie M. Bailey, Elder and former Board Chair, by the pandemic, its emotional and economic fallout.

Fortune 500 Executive and nonprofit leader, for her The event will be on YouTube and the direct link tenacious advocacy of mental healthcare for all. Other will be distributed before the event. award recipients will be Joe Namath, Legendary NFL 6:30pm: Recorded Pre-Show quarterback and philanthropist, and Schott Shute, Head of Mindfulness 7:00pm: Live Program and Paddle Raise and Compassion at LinkedIn. Register at blantonpeale.org/event/2020Join hosts Rev. Dr. Shari Brink, norman-vincent-peale-virtual-awards/ President and CEO, and Keyon Questions? Please contact Alex, aingrassano@ Dooling, Former NBA player, blantonpeale.org.

Marble Matters

Marble Community Gospel Choir Attends March on Washington

On Friday, August 28, eight members of the Marble Community Gospel Choir donned masks and carried signs aboard the 6:45am Amtrak train bound for Washington D.C. Though socially distanced in their individual seating arrangements, they remained linked together in a common bond of hope for justice.

The group was headed for The March on Washington, organized by the National Action Network, in commemoration of the fifty-seventh anniversary of The March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. At that renowned event in 1963, on the historic steps of the Lincoln Memorial, 250,000 people gathered to stand in solidarity for racial and economic justice. They heard performances by Lena Horne, Bob Dylan, Mahalia Jackson, and others, and listened to the poignant and prophetic words of A. Philip Randolph, John Lewis, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and others.

Braving the heat and humidity, the Gospel Choir members joined an indescribably diverse crowd in a powerful showing of collective striving — a continuation of “the dream” borne of A. Philip Randolph, Bayard Rustin, and others’ organizing. We stood alongside tens of thousands of people who were gathered to hear speeches from both civil rights luminaries and family members impacted by racial injustice.

Speaking on the mall were Tamika Palmer, sharing the story of her daughter, Breonna Taylor, and Philonise Floyd, speaking out on the death of his brother, George Floyd. Other speakers included the Rev. Al Sharpton, Martin Luther King, III and his 12-year-old daughter Yolanda, who delivered one of the most inspiring speeches of the day, calling for “genuine equality” for African Americans. As Gospel Choir Director Rev. Rashad McPherson noted,

“It is incredible to hear such a legacy of oratorical skill in Martin Luther King’s granddaughter.”

In addition to Rev. McPherson, attendees included his partner, James Warren, LeCora Okeagu, Aronda Way, Ezekiel Montgomery, Dana Holland, Mary Starrs Boyle, and music department manager Jen Clover.

Following a meal together, the group marched from the Lincoln Memorial to the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, a towering depiction of the civil rights icon cut into a spectacular rock face that overlooks the water.

After dozens of photographs and some more sight-seeing, the group headed back to the train station, exhausted but happy and full of stories to share.

The Gospel Choir Community thanks each Marble member and friend for their continued prayers throughout the journey.

May each step taken that Friday lead one step closer to justice.

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/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.

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Marble Matters

An Introduction to the Peale Society and an Invitation The Peale Society is for members and friends of Marble Collegiate Church whose legacies help assure the future strength and growth of this dynamic church.

For many years, people have included Marble Church in their financial and estate plans and these generous gifts have made the ministries of Marble much stronger. To recognize individuals who have included Marble in their long-term plans, the Peale Society was formed in 1992.

We invite you to consider joining the Peale Society by including Marble in your estate planning.

Named in honor of Marble’s long-term and noted Senior Minister, Dr. Norman Vincent Peale, membership in the Peale Society has grown each year as more people recognize the importance of providing future support for the ministries and programs of Marble Collegiate Church.

As a thank you for your generosity in providing for the future of Marble, you become a member of the Peale Society.

Membership involves no dues or obligations. It does allow us to thank and recognize you for the plans you have made, and include you in special events held for the Peale Society each year. We have had several wonderful events over the last few years and hope to return to being together in person in 2021.

OUR UPDATED MARBLE WEBSITE Have you had a chance to explore our updated website yet? The new site is easier to navigate overall and it will adapt nicely whether you’re viewing on your phone, pad or computer.

We’re especially excited about the Watch page where you’ll have easy access to all our videos in one place – past sermons, Bible studies, Storytime, Grace Notes, Hymn Sings and Homecoming (live on October 4).

MarbleChurch.org.

A Virtual Introduction to the Peale Society Thursday, November 19 | 7:00pm This will be done by Broadview (similar to Zoom).

We will provide the link and encourage you to either log in via a computer with video capability to see the program or you can always call in by phone.

This one-hour event will include: • S pecial Music and sharing by Peale Society member, Kenneth Dake, Director of Music at Marble; •W ords of wisdom by Sister Carol Perry on thinking about and planning for the future; •A n encouraging word from executive staff of Guideposts, a global ministry of hope and inspiration begun by Dr. Norman Vincent Peale and Ruth Stafford Peale 75 years ago.

The Peale Society recognizes that with a strong and growing endowment the future strength of Marble can be assured. Your participation helps inspire generosity in others.

If you are interested in attending this Virtual Introduction to the Peale Society, please contact Mike Thurlow, (MThurlow@MarbleChurch.org or 212-686-2770).

Please join us! All are welcome, even if you aren’t sure you want to join the Peale Society just yet.

The site easily adapts to your phone

Marble Matters

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Stephen Ministry

By Abigail Shue “But what exactly is Stephen Ministry?” I have heard this question numerous times from members of our beautiful Marble Community. Maybe I’ve heard it from you. Perhaps you’ve noticed ministers wearing badges in church, or heard Dr. Bos’ welcoming words regarding the ministry toward the end of the service.

Maybe you’re curious and would like to know more?

As our congregation and our world struggles during this incredibly difficult and tumultuous time, let me share a few details about a ministry that strives to counter the darkness with the light of faithful presence.

The program’s name is taken from the deacon, Stephen, in the Book of Acts, who cared for others in need. According to Stephen Ministries International, over 180 denominations across the country (and the world!) use Stephen Ministry. It was founded by Kenneth Haugk, a pastor and clinical psychologist, in 1975 in St. Louis, Missouri. The program trains lay church members to provide Christ-centered one-to-one care to individuals in their congregation and greater community. After 50 hours of training, a Stephen Minister is paired with someone seeking support, and they generally meet in person for an hour (or virtually during the current circumstances), once a week, for about a year.

Stephen Ministers are not counselors, but rather are volunteers trained to provide the Care Receiver with

confidential, non-judgmental listening, encouragement, and faith-based resources and support.

To put it another way, we are trained to walk with you on your journey, whatever that journey may be.

Some seek support following job loss, divorce, a health crisis, parenthood, anxiety, loss of a loved one, or spiritual struggle, but there are many reasons why someone might seek to be paired with a Stephen Minister. Though I cherish the varied ways in which I volunteer in our community, being a Stephen Minister stands out as both a chance to serve those in need and an opportunity to grow deeply in my faith and in my ability to be truly present for others.

Stephen Ministers at Marble take this commitment very seriously. We are all different, we have unique gifts and backgrounds that we bring to the ministry, but every one of us views the walk alongside our Care Receiver as sacred and important.

When you are struggling and can no longer keep up the mask of strength and hope, we are here to witness and hold the space for your experience. When you are questioning, we are present to hear your voice. And when you rejoice, we share in your happiness. Stephen Ministers stay. We never doubt God’s immense love for you, and strive to live God’s promise that you are never alone.

Abigail Shue Marble Member & Stephen Minister

If you feel that you could benefit from the compassionate care of a Stephen Minister, or if you are feeling the call to become a Stephen Minister yourself, please contact Rev. Susanah Wade (SWade@ MarbleChurch.org) or Judy Tulin (JTulin@ MarbleChurch.org).

Reflections from the Editor

By Karla Fritsch When my mom was six, her parents bought a Packard bike as her Christmas gift. My grandpa gave her the bike early, without my grandma’s knowledge, and taught her to ride in his tire shop. From that moment on, she loved riding. Mom turns 94 on October 3, and still loves to ride a bike. Now it’s a 3-wheeler.

A couple years ago Mom told me she was out for a bike ride when a neighbor noticed she needed air in her tires. After he filled them, she rode four miles because it was so much easier to ride. She ended by telling me, “Air in tires matters.”

So, how is your life’s tire pressure?

There have been too many awful things about COVID-19 letting the air out of our tires. Yet, one blessing for me was that I could work remotely from my mom’s house in Iowa for a few weeks so I could be there following her rehab for a broken pelvis and elbow. (FYI, she fell outside a restaurant, not riding

her bike.) Being there for and with her, put air in my life’s tires.

One day I was stressed by work yet felt I needed to stick with it, when Mom called out, “I’ve made lunch, is this a good time for you to take a break?” I know taking healthy breaks helps you work efficiently and helps the creative process, and I still struggle to take them. Mom and I ate lunch together on the deck and the nourishment, breeze, sunshine, sounds of crickets and a nearby fountain… and the together time was just what I needed to come back to my work focused – with air in my tires..

As we continue this journey through these challenging times, I hope we each have people around us and effective ways to help us put air in our tires. It matters. It makes the ride a little easier.

Karla Fritsch Publications Manager

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Worship

SUNDAY WORSHIP 11AM, ONLINE

October/ November 2020

One Breath at a Time OCTOBER 4

World Communion Sunday Rev. J. Elise Brown, PH.D.

Dr. Michael Bos Senior Minister preaching

Conversations We Need to Have About Faith OCTOBER 11

About Climate Change OCTOBER 18

About Race OCTOBER 25

Gratitude in Difficult Times Part 1 NOVEMBER 1

Part 2

NOVEMBER 8

Part 3

NOVEMBER 15 NOVEMBER 22 Gratitude Sunday Advent Series:

Expecting the Unexpected NOVEMBER 29 1st Sunday in Advent

#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.

Every week, except October 21 & November 18.

VIRTUAL JAZZ VESPERS Wednesdays, October 21 & November 18 | 6:15pm Join us for a virtual midweek service of spiritual renewal featuring accomplished jazz musicians under the direction of Chris Whittaker.

October 21 – I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings – A Survivor’s Songbook, meditation by Rev. Rashad McPherson.

November 18 – Theme tba

Spiritual Growth and Education 99

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, 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 hardto-swallow stuff like the virgin birth? Just like to learn and grow and geek out about what makes one gospel different from the others? This fall, join Rev. Anthony Livolsi and others online before Worship for a read through of the Gospel of Mark.

Tuesday Evening Bible Study

TUESDAYS AT 6:30PM The Book of Acts Join Rev. Anthony Livolsi for an in-depth discussion of the second half of the Book of Acts – and its stories of the earliest Christians.

(Early sessions exploring the first half of Acts can be watched in the Bible Study archives at MarbleChurch.org/ watch.) Participants must be able to participate via online video chat.Please contact Rev. Livolsi ahead of time for the week’s reading, (ALivolsi@ MarbleChurch.org).

Prayer Circle via Video Chat SUNDAYS AT 10AM Our longtime Prayer Circle tradition continues, only now it’s online. The Circle is always open – all you need is a willing heart, an internet connection or telephone to join us for this time of prayer and music.

May We Support You Through Prayer?

Please submit your Prayer Requests using the link at the bottom of any page at MarbleChurch.org.

Read Through the Bible 2020

The New Testament Beginning Thursday, October 1 If you are not one of the over 100 participants currently Reading Through the Bible 2020, we invite you to join us for The New Testament. We would love for you to journey with us! Our clergy and invited Bible scholars will continue to preview/review the books we are reading and respond to your comments and questions during our scheduled online gatherings. Register at MarbleChurch.org or contact Baleta McKenzie (BMcKenzie@ MarbleChurch.org).

Jeremiah: Friend and Foe Monday, October 19 | 6:30-7:30pm Jeremiah would be at home in many political circles today—his message changes with the times!

What was happening in his world that prompted him to address his people both lovingly and harshly?

This interactive session with Rev. Dr. Julie Faith Parker, Associate Professor of Biblical Studies at The General Theological Seminary, will focus on historical content for this book, combined with a brief movie clip with Patrick Dempsey (from “Grey’s Anatomy”!) as Jeremiah.

To receive a schedule of the daily readings and let us know you are along for the adventure, email Baleta McKenzie (BMcKenzie@MarbleChurch.org).

Online Small Groups

We encourage you to participate in a Small Group this year – grow deeper spiritually and stay connected with others even though we are online only. For information on new groups, visit MarbleChurch. org or contact Baleta McKenzie (BMcKenzie@MarbleChurch.org).

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Marble Matters

CYF CORNER VIRTUAL TRICK OR TREAT FOR UNICEF Beginning October 1 Join CYF and the Women’s Ministry for this tradition, done in a new way this year, in support of the world’s children who struggle to receive life’s basic necessities. Stay tuned for details.

VIRTUAL HALLOWEEN PARTY Saturday, October 31 | 12:00-2:00pm Just because we can’t get together in person doesn’t mean we can’t celebrate! Put on your costume, exchange your COVID face mask with a Halloween mask and gather around your computer for this time of fun and fellowship. For details, visit MarbleChurch.org or contact Rev. Brittany (BHanlin@MarbleChurch.org).

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

CYF MOVIE/GAME NIGHT Friday, November 20 | 6:00-8:00pm Mark your calendars now and stay tuned to website for details.

Call & Connect There are several ways for you to connect with us during these challenging times, even if you don’t have internet – or if you want to limit your screen time.

There are other events that you may join without internet.

Please see page 4 for Afternoon Tea & page 11 for PrimeTime’s (55+) Wednesday gatherings and more.

PRAYER CIRCLE Sundays | 10:00-10:40am Call (973) 854-6173 and enter meeting ID 112 651 7182 to join us for this weekly time of prayer and music.

CALL-IN WORSHIP (866) 893-5381 — ­ Those without internet can call on Sunday afternoons and during the following week to listen to the full service or sermon & scripture only.

AFTERNOON PRAYER Weekdays | 4:00-4:20pm Call (646) 741-5293 and enter meeting ID 111 712 8389. Wind down your day with a brief time of sharing and prayer. Please note, not meeting October 12, November 26 & 27.

ENCOURAGING WORD Call (212) 686-2774 — Hear an uplifting recorded message from one of Marble’s ministers 24/7. The messages change periodically.

CALL MINISTRY If you would like to help us call people from our congregation who live alone and might feel isolated, please reach out to us to be added to the call list.

(212) 686-2770, daily 9:00am - 5:00pm.

THE MARBLE CARE LINE 1-800-531-1913 Wednesdays - Sundays | 12:00-8:00pm Available to adults 18 years and older.

A trained volunteer will be there to listen to you with a Christ-centered ear and a caring heart. For more information, visit MarbleChurch.org/give/ marble-care-line.

Marble Matters

Online Opportunities Spotlight WOMEN’S MINISTRY FILM NIGHT Monday, October 5 | 7:00-9:45pm Open to all. Please see page 4.

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, does not meet on October 12.

PRIMETIME (55+) Every Wednesday | 1:00pm We invite you to become part of this growing, energetic Marble community. Gather with us each week via video chat or phone to visit with your friends, meet new people and hear meaningful and interesting AFTERNOON PRAYER presentations on various topics. To be included on the Weekdays | 4:00-4:20pm mailing list and receive a schedule of activities, please Wind down your day with a brief time of sharing contact Baleta McKenzie (BMcKenzie@MarbleChurch. and prayer, led by the Marble ministers. Join us org or 212-686-2770, ext. 219). via video chat or call. Please note, not meeting October 12; November 26 & 27.

GIFTS: LGBTQ FELLOWSHIP COFFEE HOURS Sundays, October 18 & November 15 | 12:00pm CHAIR YOGA All LGBTQ people and allies are welcome for this Every Thursday | 10:00-10:45am time of fellowship by video conference right after Center yourself physically and spiritually with this morning Worship. Say hello to old friends and meet beginner-friendly time of gentle movement. Please someone new. Invite a friend to join you. note, no session on November 26.

YOUNG ADULTS PUB THEOLOGY Mondays, October 19 & November 16 | 7:00pm We gather online for a time of casual conversation on faith and life. Grab a beverage and join us. Monthly, third Monday. Contact Rev. Anthony (ALivolsi@ MarbleChurch.org).

WOMEN’S MINISTRY HALLOWTIDE CELEBRATION Friday, October 30 | 7:00-9:00pm Even though we can’t be together in person, all are welcome to join the Marble Women’s Ministry online for their annual Hallowtide evening during which we will honor loved ones who are now joined with God. Contact Don Piper (DPiper@MarbleChurch.org).

ARTS MINISTRY WORKSHOP Thursday, November 19 | 6:30-8:30pm All artists welcome to join us via video chat for this special workshop on the book Precious & Honored – a Spiritual Handbook for Artists by Mario E. Sprouse.

For details and to register, contact Mario (MSprouse@ MarbleChurch.org).

WOMEN’S MINISTRY VIRTUAL WALKING TOUR November, date tba Stay tuned for information on this unique experience.

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 and the most up-to-date information, visit MarbleChurch.org/ marble-online.

CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP First Saturday of Month | 1:00-3:00pm Learn how to provide better care to loved ones while protecting your own health and well-being.

Please contact group leader Rev. Marion Gambardella (magambardella@yahoo.com) or Judy Tulin (JTulin@ MarbleChurch.org).

Sunday & Tuesday Bible Study, Prayer Circle, Read Through the Bible & Small Groups For information, please see Spiritual Growth and Education on page 9.

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Touchpoint: October & November 2020 FORUM2020: SCIENCE, SPIRITUALITY, THE CLIMATE EMERGENCY AND OUR FUTURE Friday, October 16 | 10:00am-1:00pm Saturday, October 17 | 10:00-11:30am Marble is honored to collaborate with the Temple of Understanding for FORUM2020 and the Global Interfaith Prayer Service for the Earth. World religious and spiritual visionaries, Indigenous leaders, scientists, and youth environmental activists come together online to address the urgency of the climate crisis with strategies for inspired collective action. Over forty international speakers will be offering their wisdom and perspectives through keynote addresses, diverse panels, inspiring prayers and sacred music. No charge. For more information and to register, visit templeofunderstanding.org.

On Sunday, October 18, during 11:00am Worship, Dr. Michael Bos will be in conversation with a special guest from FORUM2020.

ETERNAL VOICES: A CONCERT OF REMEMBRANCE Sunday, November 1 | 12:00pm You are invited to remain online following Worship to join Kenneth Dake, The Marble Choir and Festival of Voices as they offer a musical tribute to those in our community who have crossed over to the heavenly choir of Saints. This 45-minute virtual concert will showcase a blend of archived selections from past services and new virtual videos created especially for this occasion, intertwined with powerful readings and moving solo works. Please join us as we honor the legacy of all these Saints, including those whose lives have been tragically cut short by Covid-19. Through music that transcends boundaries between heaven and earth, may their eternal voices continue to sing through our hearts and lives!

THE LAST WORD Take a good long look at The Lord’s Prayer. It’s all “we”, “us” and “our”.

There is no “me”, “I” or “mine” anywhere.

— Anne Hamilton

THANK YOU FOR HELPING US SUPPORT OUR NEIGHBORS! Food was delivered to Mainchance Drop-In Center on East 32nd Street by Luis Furniel from Marble’s maintenance staff.

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 TV – Fridays @ 4:30pm, MNN Time Warner Ch. 57 (Manhattan) Sermon Podcasts: Subscribe at MarbleChurch.org.

MARBLE ON SOCIAL MEDIA

YOUR VOTE IS YOUR VOICE – DON’T GIVE IT UP! May we all pray and work so that our nation can come together and heal.