Reflecting On Expectations
As we enter this season of Advent, we are invited to reflect on our expectations, not just of the holiday season, but of life itself. Advent is a time of waiting and preparation in which we can let go of the expectations that weigh us down and move toward those which move us forward with hope.
The truth is that in the hustle and bustle of life, we often find ourselves caught up in societal expectations: getting promotions at work, raising high performing children, buying bigger homes, staying fit, taking fabulous vacations, and the need to make it all look easy. We can easily find ourselves gravitating toward the expectations others have placed on us rather than the expectations God desires for us.
focusing on what others may think and expect of her, she focused on where God was leading her. Despite what she faced from others, she was able to find hope, peace, joy and love as her heart brimmed with faith and expectancy of what God was doing in her life.
This Advent, let us reflect on our own expectations. May we let go of our unrealistic and unhealthy expectations, and remember to embrace the beauty of the present moment God offers us along the way.
…are they bringing more of what God desires in our lives...
Advent is a time to slow down and think about the expectations we carry. Are they expectations that breathe life into us and bring out the best in us? Or are they burning us out and causing us to stray from who we want to be? The real question is this: are they bringing more of what God desires in our lives… more hope, more peace, more joy and more love? These are the things that make life worth living.
Consider Mary as she awaited the birth of Jesus. She was a young, unbetrothed, pregnant woman, facing uncertainty and societal judgment. Rather than
YEAR-END GIFT
photo by
Jay Johnson
Staff for this Issue
EDITOR: Karla Fritsch
PHOTOS: Dave Cross
Jisselle Tavarez Fernandez
Karla Fritsch
Brian Hampton
Rick Harper
Jay Johnson
GRAPHIC DESIGN:
Beth Player-DiCicco
Marble is a place where you can come as you are, be touched by the love and power of the Holy Spirit, and leave changed in deep ways. As we come to the close of 2024, would you please consider making a special year-end gift to Marble? The faithful giving of our congregation has been heartening and humbling. We are profoundly grateful to the Marble Family for helping us navigate through uncertain financial times. If you are able to give a special year-end or Christmas gift this year, we would be grateful! Give at MarbleChurch.org/Christmas-Offering. If you need help, please contact Clay Hale in our Business Office (CHale@MarbleChurch.org or 212-686-2770).
In this season of waiting, may we cultivate a spirit of expectancy that allows us to see God’s presence in our lives, even in the ordinary. Let us prepare our hearts to receive the hope, peace, joy, and love that Christ brings, and may our expectations align with the divine possibilities that await us.
HONORING SOMEONE SPECIAL
A meaningful way to support the ministry of Marble & honor someone in your life
Please consider giving a financial gift in honor of someone in your life, a special celebration (anniversary, graduation, wedding or other achievement) or in memory of a loved one. Click on GIVE at MarbleChurch.org and select from the dropdown menu or contact Clay Hale (CHale@MarbleChurch. org or 212-686-2770). Names are listed every few months in the bulletins. VISIT MARBLE’S ONLINE GIFT SHOP AT MARBLEGIFTSHOP.COM
Items honoring Marble’s 170th Anniversary • Seasonal Gift Items Spiritually Uplifting Books • Apparel • Jewelry • Household Goods Proceeds further the mission of Marble.
Dr. Michael Bos Senior Minister
COVER: Caroling on 5th
A WORD FROM OUR EXECUTIVE MINISTER REVISIT THE MEANING OF THE INCARNATION
By Dr. J. Elise Brown
Sometimes Christmas can become routinized – we do the same things each year, perhaps with the same people. We purchase gifts for the same people, looking for something new or different to give them this year. We pull out the same decorations we have used for many years. We send the same cards to the same list. Some face Christmas with excitement and anticipation. Others feel dread.
What about you? How will you approach Christmas this year?
During the 10 O’Clock Hour on November 10, Dr. Kimberly George asked us each to sit still for a moment and feel our heart beat for 30 beats. Just 30 beats. She asked what we were each doing to make our heart beat. We said, “nothing.” Dr. George reminded us of the power of the divine creator who has given us each a heart that beats on its own, and the ability to breathe in, one breath at a time with hearts that beat one beat at a time. That calming exercise was deeply meaningful, and I encourage you to try it when you begin to feel stress during this season.
Lift up your head and think of three things for which you are grateful that day. When you do it again, think of three different things. Keep doing this each day, letting the peace and power of the Holy Spirit wash over you and sink into your life.
…give thanks to God for the gift of the incarnation, the gift of Jesus and the promise that we are never alone.
In whatever way you approach this season, I pray you remind yourself again of the meaning and power behind it all. God made a radical decision – to touch down in the very midst of our human reality, to take on human flesh and all the challenges that would mean for him. This was the most significant divine action in history, one that has become clouded by consumerism, commercialism and a frenzy of stress and strain that takes our eyes off of what really matters.
We are children of the light, called to reflect the light that shines in the darkness. Remember the darkness can never overcome the light. You are light. I pray you feel the light and love of God as we move once again through this holy season.
See you in Church!
Sit and feel your heart beat for 30 beats. After you have done that, stay in a posture of prayer and give thanks to God for the gift of the incarnation, the gift of Jesus and the promise that we are never alone.
GIVE YOURSELF A GIFT IN THE NEW YEAR –JOIN THE MARBLE FAMILY!
Are you searching for a place to belong, to connect with others, and to grow in your faith? We welcome you for who you are, wherever you are on your faith journey. We’d love to have you join us! New Member Orientations are offered at various times throughout the year.
To learn more, please contact Kim Sebastian-Ryan (KRyan@MarbleChurch.org or 212-686-2770), on Sundays talk to someone wearing a red carnation or visit MarbleChurch.org/become-a-member.
Dr. J. Elise Brown Executive Minister
Advent & Christmas at Marble
OPERATION SANTA LETTERS
Elves Still Needed!
Buddy the Elf is back and needs you to help Santa make Christmas morning wishes come true for children in need. Please select a letter(s) from the Labyrinth Room (or contact Rev. Susanah Wade), purchase the requested gift, and deliver unwrapped to Marble by December 15. You can also give a financial donation at MarbleChurch.org or send a check indicating “Santa Letters.”
ARTISTS’ BOUTIQUE
Sunday, December 8 | 12:00-2:00pm
Before the concert, shop for special gifts created by some of Marble’s talented artists. Our artwork, jewelry, notecards, knitted items, books, ornaments and many one-of-a-kind handmade items are sure to delight. Please note: some artists take cash only. Labyrinth Room.
ADVENT CONCERT*
Through the Eyes of Gabriel
Sunday, December 8 | 2:00pm
Director of Music Michael T. C. Hey invites you to come hear the Advent story through the eyes of the angel Gabriel and rediscover what we love about the season. Be inspired by performances from The Marble Choir, the Marble Festival Choir and the Marble Community Gospel Choir, with guest organist Stephen Tharp. Invite your friends! Admission: $20. Save $5 when you register at MarbleChurch.org by December 5; pick up tickets at Will Call before the Concert.
*The music this holiday season, including the Concert, generously given by Lynda Packard in loving memory of her parents, John and Lynn Packard, and for the enjoyment of all to capture the magic of Christmas.
ONLINE
TEA TIME WITH KIM
Virtual Christmas Walk
Wednesday, December 11 | 1:00-2:00pm
Pull up a comfy chair, grab a cup of something warm, and join us for our annual Christmas walk on Zoom. Get the link at MarbleChurch.org/calendar.
MERRY,
MERRY MARBLE
Sunday, December 15 | 12:00-1:00pm
All ages are invited to decorate trees and wreaths to be blessed and donated to our homebound members and those settling into more permanent housing. Craft materials provided. Refreshments served.
CAROLING ON 5TH
Sunday, December 22 | 12:00-12:30pm
Our festive and fun gift to the neighborhood returns! All are welcome to share the Christmas spirit as we sing Carols on 5th Avenue immediately after Worship.
ADVENT ONLINE
Annual Blog — Reflecting the Light of Hope
For the 10th year, the Marble Women’s Ministry inspires readers daily during Advent with stories of light and hope from the wider Marble community. Visit MarbleWomen.com. Please share your story of hope! Email Karla Hendrick (KHendrick@ MarbleChurch.org).
Online Advent Calendar — Gratitude in Action
On social media we continue our year-long theme kicked off on Gratitude Sunday, Gratitude in Action. We will share a thoughtful prompt encouraging you to reflect, act, and connect with others in our community. Follow along and share your experiences to fill the world with kindness one day at a time.
Arts Ministry Exhibit — Waiting for Christmas
Be inspired by the work of Marble artists including visual art, poetry, and photography at MarbleChurch. org/arts, as well as in person on our Wall of Hope, Inspiration and Healing, outside the Labyrinth Room.
CHRISTMAS EVE WORSHIP
Tuesday, December 24, 6:30pm
A Reason to Change
Meditation by Dr. Michael Bos
Music prelude for Brass, Choir and Organ begins at 6:10pm
CHRISTMAS POINSETTIAS
Poinsettias will be placed in the Sanctuary in honor or memory of loved ones whose names will be listed on Sunday, December 22, in the bulletin and at the end of the Worship live stream. To pay tribute to someone, please donate what you can to help off-set the cost of poinsettias (suggested donation: $25 per poinsettia) by Sunday, December 8 at MarbleChurch.org/Poinsettias or contact Clay Hale (CHale@MarbleChurch.org). You can also mail checks, however, please call Clay to make sure it was received and names get added to the list.
CHRISTMAS DAY COFFEE
with the Bos Family
Wednesday, December 25 | 10:00-10:30am
Dr. Michael Bos, Tena Bos, and their family invite you to join them for morning coffee/tea and a prayer for the day. Gather on Zoom to wish your Marble Family a Merry Christmas!
In the Marble Spotlight
WALK THE LABYRINTH
Wednesdays, December 18, January 15
February 12 | 5:00-6:30pm
Ash Wednesday, March 5 | 5:00-6:00pm
Feed your spirit with this walking meditation. A facilitator will be available to help guide you and answer questions, while allowing you the space to walk in your own way, at your own pace. Note, dates subject to change, please call to confirm.
REAFFIRMATION OF VOWS
Sunday, January 5 | 12:00pm
Whether you’ve shared your lives together for a few months or many years, ALL COUPLES welcome to commit to each other again at our annual ceremony. In person in the Sanctuary or online.
SUNDAY SANCTUARY TOURS
January 26 & February 23 | After Worship
Our popular guided Church Tours are still going strong! Please join us to learn more about Marble’s rich history, fascinating architecture, and beautiful windows. Discover little-known church facts and fun anecdotes, and explore seldom-seen church areas. Led by a trained guide, a tour is also an informal way to introduce your family and friends to Marble. Tours will be held following the service on the fourth Sunday of the month, please stay tuned to announcements and bulletins in case of changes
Meet in the center aisle immediately following 11:00am Worship. Look for the Tour Sign. We hope to see you there.
COFFEE HOUR
Sundays | 12:15-1:15pm
Join us after Worship in the Labyrinth Room (downstairs) for a wonderful chance to enjoy some refreshments, make new friends, and learn about upcoming programs and opportunities to give back. Stay tuned to the Sunday bulletin and MarbleChurch.org for details about our Special Outreach and Festive Coffee Hours like these favorites:
• Cold Weather Coat Drive – January 12 & 19
• Honoring Black History Month & Youth Bake Sale – February 16
ONLINE TEA TIME WITH KIM
Wednesday, February 19 | 1:00-2:00pm
We gather on Zoom for an opportunity to connect, deepen relationships, and enjoy beautiful virtual walks together. Every other month. Stay tuned to the bulletin, announcements and MarbleChurch.org for details.
WINTER WARM-UP TRIVIA PARTY
Sunday, February 23 | after Worship
Brighten up the dark winter days with lots of fun and laughter at this special Coffee Hour filled with yummy food and trivia fun for all ages. All invited! Labyrinth Room.
EARLY MARCH EVENTS
Ash Wednesday, March 5
Please see page 8.
Music at Midday
Please note, our free pipe organ performances return Wednesday, March 12, 12:00-12:45pm.
If you sing, read music, and are interested in auditioning for the new volunteer choir, please email the music department (Music@MarbleChurch.org).
For more events, please see pages 9 & 11.
MARBLE FESTIVAL CHOIR
THREADS OF GRATITUDE
By Valerie Doll
I’m very grateful every day from morning till night but it wasn’t always that way. I’ve had many pity parties and times when I questioned why I had so many challenges and why some things were happening to me. Marble is a story-telling church, so sharing a bit of my story might shed some light and understanding on significant struggles, disappointments and pain on my path – those loose threads that don’t make sense until it is turned over and we see a beautiful tapestry.
I was the youngest of three children. Both of my sisters were much older and I was raised like an only child. As a result, I was dependent, sheltered and over-protected. Not prepared for the ups and downs of life, I ventured out into the world lacking confidence and the self-esteem to make sound decisions. I came to realize the problems I was experiencing were the result of poor choices and not knowing who I was and what I needed to be happy. In the past I was embarrassed to tell my story, but I now know it was all part of my journey and God’s purpose for my life.
Two early marriages ended in divorce. I picked up the pieces of my life as a single Mom, took a good look in the mirror and asked myself, “why I was making these choices”. I embarked on the road to self-discovery. I worked to support us and enjoyed my son Scott’s growing-up years. I tried to widen his world, our world, and did the best I could as a single parent. They were challenging but happy years and life seemed to be stabilizing but God had another idea. In a very unexpected way, a new relationship came into my life. I married again. Within a short period of time, my husband became terminally ill and died after three-plus years. God had a hand in this part of my life for sure. It was about me being there for my husband at a critical and extremely painful time in his life. It was not about me, although it was a powerful and pivotal part of my story.
My gift from this experience was growth. I left the corporate world, took a leap of faith and finally pursued my strong creative interests. I enrolled in design school and followed my passion into a career in Interior Design.
I had read The Power of Positive Thinking and started “tiptoeing” into Marble. I felt welcomed, safe and blessed to be there. Still on the road of self-discovery, as a single Mom with limited income, I couldn’t afford therapy but at Marble found community, small groups, retreats, workshops, programs – truly a self-help package IF I was open to it. I found God and answers to problems which were all part of my journey.
At Marble, I found hope, faith, friends and spiritual refuge. Once again God had another plan – an unexpected relationship. Dick and I met at church and were married in 2004. Ours was a great marriage and God was very much a part of it. Life together was very happy but not to be problem-free. In 2007, my son Scott tragically died. This wonderful young man was bi-polar and sadly ended his life in the pain of his depression. Dick was my rock and anchor during this tragic time. I don’t know how I would have handled it alone. Life was never the same without Scott but with God and Dick, life went on. Dick had many health challenges but a powerful life force. We worked through his health issues together in faith and love until his passing in December 2020. How grateful am I? Let me count the ways. Woven into the fabric of my story is a continuous Thread of Gratitude. Through each challenge, I had the choice to give up or grow and, often painfully, I chose growth. God sustained me through each. I grew in gratitude. Marble was my Light, my Support, my Church Home... my Happy Place. How then could I not give back to this place that had welcomed me – problems and all – and given me a spiritual home, practical solutions and faith in the future? Gratefully, I gave all that I could in gifts, talent and service.
It is said “when life gives you lemons, make lemonade”. I add to that, when life’s twists, turns and problems arise – lean on God. Trust God. Keep believing and never lose faith.
GRATITUDE SUNDAY IS NOT OVER!
The Marble Community came together for our Gratitude Sunday Celebrations, in person on November 17, and online November 24. It was a joyful time when we celebrated giving back to God for God’s many blessings. Even in the face of challenges, we have much for which to be thankful. Whether you have been with Marble for some time or recently found us and have not had a chance to participate in our Gratitude Sunday activities, we
would love for you to join us in the prayerful act of giving back to God. You may do so by completing your 2025 Estimated Giving/Commitment Card found at MarbleChurch.org/Gratitude. There you will also find tools to aid you in discerning your level of giving, as well as videos of some of the Marble Gratitude Stories.
Thank you for being part of the Marble Family. Please know how much we appreciate you.
Valerie Doll, Marble Member
Reflections from the Editor
By Karla Fritsch
I think that I shall never see A poem as lovely as a tree. A tree whose hungry mouth is prest Against the earth’s sweet flowing breast; A tree that looks at God all day, And lifts her leafy arms to pray; A tree that may in Summer wear A nest of robins in her hair; Upon whose bosom snow has lain; Who intimately lives with rain. Poems are made by fools like me, But only God can make a tree.
— Trees by Joyce Kilmer
I had some special encounters with trees when I was in Iowa and Colorado this fall. When I told my sister Kristi about them, she reminded me of the Trees poem that our Nana had memorized and shared while we were growing up.
Some of my tree encounters were in the Ames Municipal Cemetery. It’s always been a special place for me, and not just because my dad, nephew, and both sets of grandparents are buried there next to each other. When I was growing up, my mom and I would ride our bikes there. Every time I go back to visit, I see people riding bikes, walking or running. Yet, this fall was the first time I took extended walks there. No matter how far I walked, I felt better walking there than any of my other Iowa or NYC walks. I credit the trees. The Ames Cemetery is a quiet place with some wide, gently curved roads, and lots of tall trees, even after various Midwest storms brought many down. Walking underneath them fed my body, mind and spirit. Being there, and especially walking, helped me connect to my own spirit as well as the spirits of my loved ones.
My dad’s spirit surprised me when I was under another bunch of old trees in Ames. One day after the cemetery I pulled into Homewood Golf Course. From
THE MARBLE PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY
…means caring and sharing. – Muriel Bulger …wraps me in the same love that the shawl I make wraps the receiver. – Barbara Costigan
… has gathered a dedicated group of women who are on a journey of creation that will bring joy to the person who will receive the shawl.
– Gladys H. Adams
…is passing the love in each stitch, praying for healing, strength, and comfort. – Betty Costa
1940 to 1963, Nana and Boppa, my dad’s parents, managed it, and my dad worked there a lot, especially after Boppa died. I was so young near the end of their tenure, I only have faint memories of when they lived on the property, yet I do remember walking in the woods nearby and walking, and later playing, on the course surrounded by trees. I’ve gone by often when I’ve been back in town, but this was the first time in decades I’d driven into the parking lot. I stopped to take a few photos and
my eyes welled up, then tears streamed down my face. I felt my dad’s presence so strongly. I talked to him; I talked to the trees. Even though so much had changed, Dad had spent countless hours taking care of the greens and fairways and walking under those trees that the trees somehow soaked up part of his spirit to connect with me almost 48 years after his death.
Trees, these incredible creations by God, are wonderful examples of the importance of letting our roots spread out to help ground us and keep us strong as the storms of life blow through. The glorious Aspens I saw in Colorado show us that although we look like individuals, we come from the same root and are connected to the main life force no matter what it looks like on the surface. And, those branches reaching toward the sky, are a reminder for us to “look at God all day and lift our leafy arms to pray”.
God has put in our hearts the desire and ability to create with our hands shawls of beauty and comfort. We share our creations with those who need comfort to remind ourselves and the recipients that God’s love and comfort can come in a time of need from friends and strangers. – Diana Berardino
All are welcome to be part of this creative and prayerful ministry! For details, please see page 11
Karla Fritsch Publications Manager
SUNDAY WORSHIP
11AM
December 2024
January & February 2025
Dr. Michael Bos Senior Minister, preaching
A Reason to Change
CHRISTMAS EVE
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 24, 6:30PM
Meditation by Dr. Michael Bos
Opening the Door
DECEMBER 29
Rev. Susanah Wade, preaching
Great Expectations
Something Worth Waiting For DECEMBER 1
1st Sunday in Advent
Someone Worth Following DECEMBER 8 2nd Sunday in Advent
The Christmas Journey DECEMBER 15
Children & Youth Christmas Pageant 3rd Sunday in Advent
Someone Worth Sharing It With DECEMBER 22 4th Sunday in Advent
The Old Is Gone, the New Is Here
Change Is Needed JANUARY 5
Renewing Faith JANUARY 12
Renewing Relationships JANUARY 19
Special Gospel Choir Medley
Renewing Purpose JANUARY 26
ASH WEDNESDAY WORSHIP, MARCH 5
12:00pm
In the Sanctuary
6:30pm
Dr. Michael Bos, preaching In the Sanctuary and live streamed
Favorite Stories
David & Goliath
FEBRUARY 2
The Good Samaritan FEBRUARY 9
Zacchaeus FEBRUARY 16
The Samaritan Woman at the Well FEBRUARY 23
Dr. J. Elise Brown, preaching
10:00 O’Clock Hour
SUNDAYS AT 10AM
ANTICIPATION AND EXPECTATION
The Marble clergy will lead a three-part series on the power of anticipation and the promise of expectation, both central to this prayerful and holy season of Advent:
HISTORY & HEROES SERIES
Biblical Scholar in Residence
Dr. Julie Faith Parker concludes her Tantalizing Torah Series, an exploration of the Bible’s first five books. In February, her new series turns to Israel’s history as a people developing into a nation. We will explore the challenges and joys of the Israelites as they settle into their new homeland and learn about the leaders who guide them.
THE WILD WILDERNESS
Sunday, December 29
DEUTERONOMY AND GIFTS FROM GOD –GRATITUDE FOR ABUNDANCE
Sunday, January 12
DEUTERONOMY AND GIFTS TO GOD –GRATITUDE IN ACTION
Sunday, January 19
A BIBLICAL PROSTITUTE AND A DISNEY PRINCESS
Sunday, February 16
GRAPPLING WITH THE BIBLE’S VIOLENCE
Sunday, February 23
Small Groups
Consider these upcoming opportunities to grow spiritually and connect in a deeper way. For details and to register, visit MarbleChurch.org.
Bible Study on 1st, 2nd & 3rd John
Led by Dr. Elise Brown
Tuesdays, January 7–28, 6:00pm, in person Thursdays, January 9– 30, 12:00pm, on Zoom
12 Habits of a Reconciler by Rose Castle Foundation
Led by Rev. Susanah Wade and others who went to the UK for training. Meets twice monthly thru June. Thursdays, starts January 9, 6:00pm, on Zoom Mondays, starts January 13, 6:15pm, in person
Thought Conditioners by Norman Vincent Peale
Led by Dr. Elise Brown on Zoom
Explore Dr. Peale’s short book on 40 scripture verses. Stay tuned for dates.
• Sunday, December 8: Dr. Michael Bos
• Sunday, December 15: Dr. Elise Brown
• Sunday, December 22: Rev. Susanah Wade
THRIVING TOGETHER
Sunday, January 26
Deneen Washington, on her recent book Thriving Together: Cultivating Growth and Well-Being in Educational Communities.
RESTORATIVE JUSTICE PRACTICE
Sunday, February 2
Iyana Titus, Assistant Commissioner for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging for NYC Parks & Recreation, plus a Marble deacon.
SACRED SNAPS
Sunday, February 9
Roman Williams, author of Sacred Snaps an interfaith photography project aimed at bringing people together across divides.
10:00 O’Clock Hour
Join us in person in the Labyrinth Room or live stream. Check the website for details. If you miss a session or want to see it again, view at MarbleChurch.org/Watch.
Prayer Circle
SUNDAYS AT 10:00AM
Join us for this time of prayer and music. The Circle is always open – all you need is a willing heart. We meet in the Children’s Chapel (2nd floor, access via elevator/stairs off 29th St Lobby) or on Zoom. Please note, not meeting on December 29. Dr. Elise Brown leads January 5, there won’t be a separate 10:00 O’Clock Hour that day.
Afternoon Prayer
TUESDAYS AT 4:00PM
Wind down your day with a brief time of sharing and prayer. Join us via Zoom (call or video). Get link at MarbleChurch.org. Please note, not meeting December 24 & 31.
Dr. Julie Faith Parker
Deneen Washington
Iyana Titus
Roman Williams
CYF CORNER
A WONDERFUL START TO THE SCHOOL YEAR
By Brian Hampton
CYF classes started with our amazing teachers, we participated in Marble’s Build-a-Backpack event, our students, teachers, and parents received a blessing in Worship, Confirmation Classes began, and we had a very fun party—cheering each other on with group games and lots of laughs.
We also brought in our “stuffies” and our family pets for the Blessing of the Animals, had our second annual spooky and meaningful Fall Festival and Thanksgiving Drive where we paraded down the aisles in full costumes at the end of Worship, played lots of games, did tons of crafts, and helped fill bags full of Thanksgiving supplies for those in need.
We welcomed two new staff members, too! Delia Mendez re-joined our CYF family as our Infant/Toddler caregiver, and Joel Esher became our new Director of Children and Youth Choirs. It’s been so nice meeting new infants and toddlers, and Joel’s choirs made their triumphant return to the Sanctuary on Gratitude Sunday. Bravo!
How we got all of this done in just a few months is a blur. But it’s a big, beautiful blur!
This Christmas, the CYF will tell the tales of the many trips taken by our favorite characters in the Advent story with our Christmas Pageant on Sunday, December 15. This year’s play, The Christmas Journey, was written by me and Sr. Carol Perry. It will be directed by Youth Director, Sarah Sanou — with super creative music choices and direction by Joel. We hope you all will join us in the Sanctuary for this very special moment for CYF and Marble.
We also have lots to look forward to in 2025! We have our upcoming Build-a-Bagged-Lunch event, a Bake Sale, and more. If you and your family would like to join us or receive more information, please be sure to register at MarbleChurch.org/cyf. All families are welcome anytime.
Brian Hampton Director of Children, Youth & Families Ministry
Engage – More Upcoming Events
For the most up-to-date information, more events and details, visit MarbleChurch.org.
ARTS MINISTRY
This year’s Artists’ Boutique is December 8, please see page 4. Works of Arts Ministry members will be featured in our exhibits for Advent: Waiting for Christmas; New Year’s: Bold Beginnings; and Black History Month: Positively Black; view in person on the Wall of Hope, Inspiration, and Healing outside the Labyrinth Room and at MarbleChurch.org/arts. Both professional and non-professional artists are welcome to join our discussion groups, workshops and times of fellowship. Contact Mario Sprouse (MSprouse@ MarbleChurch.org) or Karla Hendrick (KHendrick@ MarbleChurch.org).
CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP
First Saturday of Month | 1:00-3:00pm
Caregiving presents considerable challenges: physical, emotional, and economic. Each meeting provides confidential, facilitated conversation offering guidance, healing, and hope. Learn how to balance your life and be a Caregiver with new strength and vitality. Led by Rev. Marion Gambardella on Zoom. Contact Judy Tulin (JTulin@MarbleChurch.org).
CHAIR YOGA
Every Thursday | 10:00-10:45am
Center yourself physically and spiritually with this beginner-friendly time of gentle movement. Join us via Zoom; link at MarbleChurch.org/calendar. No registration required. Please note, not meeting on December 26 & January 2.
GIFTS: LGBTQ FELLOWSHIP
We’re grateful for all who helped with our Outreach event with Kaleidoscope on December 1 when we served a meal to LGBTQ+ youth and young adults! Since 1992, GIFTS (LGBTQ+ In Fellowship, Tradition, Service) has been a vibrant community at Marble that celebrates and supports LGBTQ+ persons, their families, and their allies. Stay tuned to MarbleChurch.org. Questions? Please contact Mike Thurlow (MThurlow@MarbleChurch.org, please reference GIFTS in the subject line).
PRIMETIME (55+)
All invited to our Wednesday gatherings. Christmas & Birthday Celebration lunch ($30, pre-register) with steel drum music, December 18; January 15; Valentine’s lunch with Manhattan School of Music, February 12. Our vision board event returns, Ring in the New You, Sunday, January 12, after Worship. Open to all! Register at MarbleChurch.org. Questions? Contact Baleta McKenzie (BMcKenzie@MarbleChurch.org).
WOMEN’S MINISTRY
Celebrate Christmas with us at our Zoom party, Saturday, December 14, 11:00am-12:00pm. We kick off 2025 with an in-person workshop, Finding Wellness Through Balance, Joy and Health, Saturday, January 11, 9:30-11:30am. On February 5, 6:00-7:00pm, all invited to join our all-church Online Wellness Workshop. Details and registration for all events at MarbleChurch.org/ calendar. Questions? Please contact Karla Hendrick (KHendrick@MarbleChurch.org).
Engage – Help Others
Learn about ways you can be of service to others at Coffee Hour on Sundays after Worship, visit MarbleChurch.org/engage/volunteer, or contact Rev. Susanah Wade (SWade@MarbleChurch.org).
Engagement, Volunteerism & Lay Leadership — Please see page 12.
Prayer Shawl Ministry — Join us as we gather for prayer and creating together to knit or crochet prayer shawls for members who are ill or homebound. All levels welcome. First Mondays on Zoom, 5:006:00pm; third Mondays in person, 1:00-2:00pm. Dates subject to change, confirm with Judy Tulin (JTulin@MarbleChurch.org). For thoughts from some participants, please see page 7.
Cold Weather Coat Drive — Sundays, January 12 & 19, we invite you to donate NEW winter coats, jackets, hats, scarves and gloves to be given to Project Hospitality on Staten Island.
Marble Fights Hunger — We encourage you to bring canned/bottled food whenever you come to Marble. Donations benefit various organizations including Icahn House. Drop-off bins are in the 5th Ave Narthex. Monetary donations also welcome.
10:00 O’Clock Hour, Prayer Circle & Small Groups
For information, please see Spiritual Growth and Education on page 9
MARBLE’S HISTORY FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH
In this season of gratitude and giving, it’s fitting to highlight a special chapter in Marble’s rich history
THE MARBLE RED CROSS WORKSHOP
In March of 1917, the Marble Red Cross Workshop was organized out of the Winter Sewing Guild as part of the Collegiate League for Patriotic Service. The scope of the work was to make anything needed for hospital garments. They met every Thursday,10:00am-5:00pm. The work was
so well done that the chairwoman was made the Superintendent of Hospital Supplies and Garments for the Atlantic Division of the American Red Cross. In November of that same year, the group began a Surgical Dressing Workroom and held meetings every Tuesday evening. They had an average attendance of 45 women. In addition to hand-knitting, their combined work was done with 8 sewing machines (4 electric), 9 cutting tables, and 1 gauze cutter. In one year, their output was 32,913 surgical dressings, 578 hospital garments, 1020 knitted articles (sweaters, socks, etc.) and 293 miscellaneous articles. Working continuously over the next 80 years during wartime and peace, this became the oldest chapter of the American Red Cross in New York City.
THE LAST WORD
If you become a helper of hearts, springs of wisdom will flow from your heart. — Rumi
ENGAGEMENT, VOLUNTEERISM & LAY LEADERSHIP
We are looking for eager hands to help spread God’s love in the world and we welcome you to join us! There are many opportunities to get involved at Marble whether you are interested in giving your time long-term or short-term. We have a new webpage coming soon, MarbleChurch.org/ volunteer-form, where you’ll be able to fill out a form so we can do our best to find the right fit for you. Stay tuned!
During WWII the Marble Red Cross Workshop gathers in Burrell Hall, which was the big fellowship space in the basement under the Sanctuary as of 1937.