Touchpoint April May June 2017

TOUCHPOINT The Marble Magazine One West 29th Street, New York, NY 10001-4596 212-686-2770 MarbleChurch.org

APRIL, MAY & JUNE 2017

The Nun in the Basement

learned under her. In such sense, the lessons Carol When I was being interviewed for the position of Senior has taught here continue Minister here at Marble, one of you mentioned “having a to be taught over and over Nun in the basement.” If you drop that phrase on someone again in settings far away without adequate explanation, it conjures up all sorts of from the corner of 29th disturbing images (some not far removed from Vincent and 5th.

Price movies). You find yourself thinking, “How long have Personally, I have seen you held her captive there? You must let the poor woman Carol provide a sound, go!” Obviously, of course, the person who used the phrase calm, and decidedly pasquickly followed with an adequate explanation. That toral influence upon all of was my first introduction to the legacy of Sister Carol us on staff. She has been Perry – when one of you told me that among the greatest our mentor, our counselor, blessings associated with one of our instructor, Dr. Michael Brown America’s greatest churches was “There is no way to our coach, our spiritual guide, and our friend. “our Nun in the basement.”

I know that my own life is richer and better by Now in my ninth year here, I have calculate the power far because of her. My personal spiritual walk is come to appreciate more than words and impact of her deeper and more meaningful because Carol has can express the brilliant and compasshed light on the way for me. sionate Nun and biblical scholar who work on individuals, So, we reluctantly now have reached the has been on our staff for almost four our city, and our moment when we are required to let the Nun decades. There’s only one Carol Perry. church.” in the basement go. It is something none of us I need not remind any of you of the wishes to do. But, Carol has decided to move depth of biblical understanding she into a new chapter of her life, and we respect possesses or her singular talent in helping others grasp that decision. She will continue speaking and teaching. those sacred insights. I have long told congregations, and She will continue living before others the love she has also students preparing for ministry, that no biblical text lived before us. She will continue being “the only Christ can be interpreted unless done so in context. For most of some people will ever see” in such profound and prous that means doing serious research. Carol has an uncannounced fashion that people will know Him by knowing ny textual and contextual library housed within her head. her. And, if we are lucky enough, maybe she will still show She knows who wrote a piece, to whom, when, why, in up here from time to time to refresh and remind us of the what historical setting, and with what result. All of those Story above all stories. questions have to be answered before anyone can take a Carol, our mentor, our sister, our inspiration, and our passage from the Bible and apply it to our own age, world, and lives. For almost forty years, Carol has helped the peo- friend, wherever you go, our love and thanks will go ple at Marble do just that. She has helped us discover (a) with you. And despite the miles that may separate us, biblical Truth and (b) what that Truth says to us in specific your spirit and influence will not go from this church. situations or moments in time. There is no way to calculate Instead, all that will live on in this holy place which you the power and impact of her work on individuals, our city, loved … and which will always and forever love you! and our church. That which she has shared in our midst has been carried out by others who have gone across the nation and around the world as emissaries of a gospel they

APRIL, MAY & JUNE 2017 SUNDAY WORSHIP, 11AM

APRIL 2

APRIL 16

Dr. Michael B. Brown Senior Minister preaching

5th Sunday in Lent

Easter Sunday

Lenten Series: Tragedies and Triumphs

The Other Side of the Magnificat John 19:25-27

APRIL 9

Palm Sunday

Misunderstanding Love Matthew 26:6-13

Triumph

APRIL 30

Joy In Spite of, Joy Because of Psalm 100

John 20:11-18

APRIL 23 Holy Humor Sunday Rev. Kirsty DePree preaching

Wednesday Worship 6:15pm Every Week, except April 12

Holy Week Services See page 2.

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Marble Matters

Holy Humor

Rev. Kirsty DePree Senior Associate Minister

“if I don’t find a way to laugh about it, I will just start to cry.” One minister who has adopted Holy Humor

By Rev. Kirsty DePree Sunday as a tradition said, “laughter releases tension “Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth.” and we have enough of that these days. I think we all — Psalm 98:4 need to stop taking ourselves so seriously. We need Last year at WeWo, the week after Easter, we had to recognize that this is really God’s world, and God a Holy Humor service. We laughed, celebrated and has much in store for us. We put too much emphasis rejoiced in the resurrection of Jesus and we gave on what’s wrong and what’s bad with it...” At Marble thanks for the many small resurrections that we each we love to laugh, we are the church of positive thinkhad experienced in our own lives. This year, on the ing, so it seems fitting that we would have a Holy Sunday after Easter, April 23, we will have a “Holy Humor Sunday!

Humor” Sunday. Many churches are reviving this old To prepare for this day, here are a few suggestions: Easter custom begun by the Greeks in the early cen• Practice smiling a lot turies of Christianity. For centuries, the week following Easter was observed • Get stories and jokes ready to tell “... laugh, smile, as “days of joy and laughter.” It gives • Begin rejoicing in God now rejoice and the church an opportunity to continue • Try some good belly laughs celebrating in the joy of the resurrection. celebrate the • Look for ways to celebrate and The Sunday after Easter has often resurrection in rejoice been called a low Sunday, because lives.” our throughout Lent, people have been • Find times to say alleluia whenever preparing for Easter morning, and it you can comes with joy, triumphs and lots of alleluias, and I have included a photo of the painting, Risen then we go back to our regular rhythms. Holy Humor Jesus by the Sea, by Jack Jewell, as an invitation helps us to continue in the celebration; to laugh, from Jesus to smile, rejoice and celebrate that he has smile, rejoice and celebrate the resurrection in our Risen, he has Risen indeed. We hope to see you on lives. Laughter is medicine for the soul. In my role as April 23.

Congregational Care Minister I often hear people say,

Holy Week 2017 THE BIBLE FOR TODAY: HOLY WEEK Join Dr. Brown at MarbleChurch.org for a short video message every day during Holy Week.

APRIL 9, PALM/PASSION SUNDAY Bible Study with Sister Carol Perry, Prayer Circle, Family Worship – 10:00am Worship – 11:00am “Misunderstanding Love” (Matthew 26:6-13), Dr. Michael Brown preaching. Music by The Marble Choir, Festival of Voices, and Marble Children’s Choir.

APRIL 13, MAUNDY THURSDAY Worship – 7:00pm “Night of Tragedy, Promise of Peace” (John 14:1-9; 25-27), Dr. Michael Brown preaching. Commemorating Jesus’ final night with dramatic readings and special music by The Marble Choir. Holy Communion.

APRIL 14, GOOD FRIDAY Instrumental Music for Meditation – 11:30am Worship – 12 Noon “Let’s Talk About Success” (The Passion Story), Dr. Michael Brown preaching. The Marble Festival of Voices: Requiem of Antonín Dvořák (Part I). Today’s service will be live streamed.

Prayer Vigil – 1:00–3:00pm Join the Prayer Ministry Team to pray for members and friends of Marble. Come when you can, leave when you wish.

The Labyrinth will also be open for walking prayers.

May we pray for you and your loved ones? Please use a Good Friday Prayer Request card, found in the pews and Prayer Room; return to Marble by Palm Sunday, April 9.

Jazz Funeral for Christ – 7:00pm Rev. Chad Tanaka Pack preaching. New Orleans-style jazz ensemble.

MAY 2017 SUNDAY WORSHIP, 11AM

MAY 7

MAY 14

MAY 28

Dr. Michael B. Brown Senior Minister preaching

Psalm 23

Matthew 12:46-49

The Legacy

MAY 21

Sister Carol Perry

The Shepherd’s Psalm

The Family of Jesus Behavior Counts I John 3:11-24

Sister Carol Celebration

Mark 3:31-35

Marble Matters

APRIL 16, EASTER SUNDAY Prayer Circle – 8:15am Led by Rev. Gregory Johnson.

Prelude for Brass and Organ – 8:45 & 10:45am Worship – 9:00 & 11:00am “Triumph” (John 20:11-18) is Dr. Michael Brown’s Easter message at two identical services. Music by The Marble Choir with festival brass ensemble. 11:00am Worship will be live streamed as usual – a wonderful way for your friends and family around the world to join you for Easter at Marble!

Easter lesson and activities for children 2nd Grade and under during services. Children 3rd Grade and up are encouraged to worship with their families.

Remember the Easter Offering!

Please see page 6.

In the Marble Spotlight

LENTEN ORGAN RECITAL SERIES Mondays, April 3 & 10 | 12:30-1:00pm Take a 30-minute break for your soul. Free.

LANDMARKS CONSERVANCY SACRED SITES TOUR Sunday, May 21 | 1:00-3:30pm We open our doors again as part of New York City’s Annual Sacred Sites Tour. Discover Marble’s landmarked architecture and rich history. Docent led and self-guided tours will be available. Free.

PRIDE 2017 A CELEBRATION FOR THE WHOLE CHURCH! There will be opportunities for you to march, hand out water at Marble’s water tables, and for fellowship and worship. Stay tuned to the website and GIFTS e-blast. Pride WeWo, Wednesday, June 14; Women’s March Water Table, Saturday, June 24; Pride Breakfast and Water Table, Sunday, June 25.

See page 9 for information on volunteering at the Water Tables. Bring your friends and show them what God’s inclusive love looks like!

MARBLE SUMMER ARTS FESTIVAL Last Week in June This special week will replace “The Puzzle”. Watch website for more information about this inaugural event for the new Marble Arts Ministry.

ABC-TV EASTER SPECIAL! CELEBRATE EASTER AT MARBLE COLLEGIATE CHURCH Sunday, April 16 Dr. Michael B. Brown provides a poignant and inspirational message, along with music from one of the grandest pipe organs in New York City and Marble’s exceptional award winning choirs. Music selections will include Jesus Christ Is Risen Today, The Strife Is O’er and the Hallelujah Chorus. You will know that Christ has risen! This special broadcast will air on the ABC Television Network, going out to over 40 million households. We hope yours will be one of them. Airs at 1:30pm in NYC; please check your local listings for the airtime in your area.

MEMBERSHIP AT MARBLE Faith is a journey and we warmly invite you to join with us as you travel along. For more information about our upcoming New Member Orientations, after Sunday Worship please come to the Deacons’ Pew (to right of Chancel) where the Membership Team will help you (they will be wearing red carnations), visit the Welcome Table after WeWo, or contact Kim Sebastian-Ryan (KRyan@MarbleChurch.org).

We’d love to have you join us!

MAY Wednesday, May 17 | 6:00-9:00pm Orientation and Dinner with Dr. Brown & Rev. DePree Wednesday, May 24 | 6:00-7:15pm Reception of New Members during Worship THE OPEN CENTER PRESENTS Keeping Alive the Memories of Lost Loved Ones for Healing and Resilience Monday, May 1 | 7:00pm The Open Center returns to Marble for this evening with Harvard professor Henry Louis Gates, Jr.; former CNN anchor Soledad O’Brien; and Emmy Awardwinning journalist Allison Gilbert. Moderated by Ralph White. Open Center Members: $32 / Nonmembers: $39 / Marble discount: $32 – use code: MarbleGates.

Program followed by book signing. Register at OpenCenter.org.

JUNE 2017 SUNDAY WORSHIP, 11AM

JUNE 4

JUNE 11

JUNE 25

Dr. Michael B. Brown Senior Minister preaching

Pentecost Sunday

Trinity Sunday Susanah Wade preaching

Pride Sunday

Sermon Series:

Three Looks at Pentecost

Part I: Spirit Acts 1:6-11

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JUNE 18

Part II: Church Acts 2:38-47

Part III: Community Acts 2:1-13

Pride!

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Marble Matters

Much Time Has Flown

By Sister Carol Perry Is It That Long?

It scarcely seems possible that it was almost 37 years ago that I sat across the desk from Norman Vincent Peale and I think we both had the same thought. “What am I doing?” He, a leading Protestant minister of a New York church was hiring me, a Roman Catholic Sister, to be his adult Bible teacher.

We agreed on two things: we would try it for six weeks and then evaluate it, and we would pray for each other. Those six weeks have stretched on to almost four decades of what has proven to be an incredible adventure.

The Marble Church of 1980 was externally different from the Marble of today. All the ministers and all elders and deacons were white males of a certain age. (In my Catholic ignorance, I thought one had to be beyond youth to be an “elder”!) The Marble Church of 2017 is visually as disparate as a church can be in terms of race, ethnicity and gender. That is part of its secret, for Marble does have a secret.

It has the most welcoming congregation one could desire. After I had taught only one or two classes I stayed for a worship service and an assistant minister, who had no idea I was working in the basement, greeted me with, “You are new here, aren’t you? Do come again.” If I had been a stranger in the city those words could have made a difference in my returning. Such friendliness is not always what big churches offer.

That warmth stems from a large-hearted congregation that made me feel welcome from that very first class. They wanted to learn and I wanted to teach.

We were made for each other!

Someone once asked, “Well, what Bible do you teach, the Protestant or the Catholic?” My answer was, “God’s Bible!” I was not being facetious. My willing students were glad to learn that Bibles differed and after years together, we have even had classes on the books missing from the standard Protestant texts. It was not an occasion for a dispute, but a time to share more knowledge.

No teacher could ask for better scholars than those I have had in my “lower” classes. I have delighted in welcoming each new year with a proclamation that we have had the longest running underground Bible study in the history of New York! By quirks of architecture we have gone from the old Meeting Place of 29th Street to the shining Labyrinth Room of Fifth Avenue with a temporary stay in Bay Hall during a renovation period. We seem to want to stay below ground.

We have done this with so little contention that critics find us dull. I had a long conversation a number of years ago with the then Religion Editor of the New York Times who wanted to know what had been my chief sources of contention with Marble Church. I said we had had no conflicts on dogmatic grounds, that we mutually respected each other’s journey and concentrated on that which bound us together, the gift of the scriptures. He ceased to be interested in a possible story because if there was no dispute, it wasn’t newsworthy! I still laugh at the memory.

So, Dr. Peale, thanks for the adventure of countless Sunday Ten O’Clock Hours, of noontime groups in the workplace, of Tuesday night marathon Bible discussions and of ten church trips to Bible lands and beyond. We never did do that six week evaluation.

Can we save that for a heavenly discussion?

Thank you, Sr. Carol !

Marble Matters

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Marble Matters

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Bridges of Hope and Love to Freedom

Susanah Wade Director of Missions & Outreach

T.J. Houlihan Director of Giving

By Susanah Wade Lent marks a period of the church year that creates a bridge to a heightened awareness of God’s love for us and the freedom we get to enjoy because of Christ’s journey to the cross. Each Lent, we at Marble welcome the opportunity to help create bridges of hope and love that connect populations in need to resources and opportunities that will connect them to other levels of freedom. And while we are not speaking of the freedoms that are restricted by barbed wire fences, walls and shackles, there are restricted freedoms that place vulnerable populations in mental states where they feel that there are physical structures preventing them from enjoying freedom in their lives.

Each year, the Marble congregation has supported non-profits near and far that help to build bridges of hope that express love for others and help lead to freedom for the vulnerable. These freedoms are possible by helping an eight-year old master basic math and reading skills so he has the opportunity to attend college, or helping women who have been abused and imprisoned find healing in communities that give

them hope for a new future, or helping the elderly and our veterans find access to services that allow them to lead lives of dignity and hope, or helping those who need access to shelter and food.

Won’t you join us again this year in helping to create bridges of hope and love that lead to freedom? You can do so by supporting our Easter Offering, 100% of which is given to non-profits that are doing important work to make a positive difference in the lives of those who are vulnerable and in need. You may make your gift in one of the following ways: return the Easter Offering envelope received in the annual appeal mailing, or found in the pews; text any amount to 917-935-4491(standard messaging rates apply); use the Giving Kiosk in the Marble Loft; or call the Business Office, 212 6862770, ext. 248.

Thank you again as you join us on this journey reflected in John 15:12 of heeding God’s call to love one another as he has loved us – to help build bridges of hope and love that lead to freedom for those who are vulnerable and in need.

Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam

that it all has been done for the glory of God, and to help us live our lives more fully with Jesus.

We can gather from several verses in Scripture that God expects us to spread His Word to everyone in the world. From the joyous hymns of Psalms to the accounts of the disciples in Matthew and Mark, there can be no doubt that we as Christians have an essential duty to fulfill on earth. All it takes is just one person to plant that seed. Just like in the Parable of the Sower, God’s Word is like a seed. We know that because of what Jesus said, “Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God.” Luke 8:11. Short, but to the point, and maybe not the most flowery of verses to describe Sr. Carol’s ministry, but isn’t that her all over? The seed that she has planted in all of us is difficult to put into words, but one that has taken root for a lifetime.

No one can (or ever will) replace her, but I know she would tell us, “There’s still much work to do!”, so now it’s up to us to continue what she started 37 years ago: ensure that Marble will always be a place that welcomes seekers who hunger to hear and wrestle and discern the Good News. As with many of the things we’ve come to hold dearly at Marble, we want them to continue long into the future, and provide for others what we’ve all so gratefully experienced ourselves.

By T.J. Houlihan We’re all experiencing a range of emotions with the news of Sr. Carol’s impending departure. How do you say thank you to someone who has given us so much personally, professionally, theologically, and spiritually?

Sr. Carol has been committed to teaching the Gospel to all. Yes, she leaves her own personal legacy at Marble (for many of us, she has become an institution), but her greatest legacy is the gift of exceptional biblical education and theological formation that will last generations.

Have you heard of the Latin phrase, “Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam”? The origin is attributed to the founder of the Roman Catholic order of priests (the Jesuits), Saint Ignatius of Loyola, who intended it to serve as a cornerstone of the society’s ministry. Translated, it means, “for the greater glory of God and the salvation of humanity.”

It reminds me of Sr. Carol and her work at Marble. The faith, tenacity, and the lengths to which she has been willing to travel (not only here, but around the world) to proclaim in word and example the Good News is humbling, to say the least. When you look at the spectrum of her ministry, you can see

Marble Matters

You’ll hear more in the coming months about ways to honor Sr. Carol and her legacy at Marble, but one very concrete way that I hope you’ll all consider, is by making a financial gift in her honor to The Sr. Carol Perry Fund for Biblical Education. This is a way not only to thank her for her ministry, but to ensure that the strong theological foundation she has given us can be passed from generation to generation—that what Sr. Carol has built will always be here at the corner of 5th Avenue and 29th Street.

For information on how you can make a donation, or a planned gift, in honor of Sr. Carol (or if you’ve

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currently remembered Marble in your estate plans and would like to designate your gift to this exciting effort), please contact me (THoulihan@MarbleChurch. org or ext. 260). We will celebrate Sr. Carol as God calls her to new ways of ministry, but with the understanding that the next chapter is still to be written by us. The greatest gift we can give her (and ultimately ourselves and future generations), is to continue that which she has so lovingly entrusted.

Thank you, Sr. Carol. “Well done, good and faithful servant!”

Reflections from the Editor

By Karla Fritsch As you read this, you see before your eyes on your computer or hold in your hand, a Persian rug – woven with care, time, and no matter what, flaws.

I have Sister Carol to thank for seeing the Persian rug in this newsletter and most of the work I do. I enjoy proofing, I view it as a treasure hunt – what typos and inconsistencies can I find?

And yet, no matter how many times I look and how many other staff members have proofed, including the best English teacher in the world, mistakes always get through.

I used to beat myself up a lot about those mistakes. Until I took on Sister Carol’s view that “those mistakes are our Persian rugs.”

Why a Persian rug? The Persians believe only God is perfect in all aspects and so carpet makers intentionally place flaws in the carpet. The Navajo share a similar philosophy and deliberately weave an imperfection into the corner of a rug, they say it’s “where the Spirit moves in and out of the rug.”

My own imperfections are a place where Sister Carol has moved in and blessed my life in countless ways. Her gifts of perspective, wisdom and humor have been a godsend! I’m not sure what I’ll do without her around on a regular basis. She has been that person I can go to when I need to process how to express some of my beliefs. I must admit at times I’ve used the “Sister Carol stamp of approval” to add weight to my words with others who may think differently than me. I wish I was better at remembering all the lessons she’s taught me. At least I have woven her idea of Persian rugs enough into my life that I think it’ll stick.

For much of my life I’d rip myself apart for not being perfect, especially when faced with the verse, “Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.”

(Matthew 5:48) I thought other people were perfect, but not me. In certain areas I’d keep trying to reach that perfection but in others, I gave up before I even began. Then Sister Carol helped me understand that in that verse, “perfect” in the original Greek, was actually “complete.” I only needed to be on my own journey to become the whole person God created me to be.

Another way Sister Carol has helped me celebrate Persian rugs, is with doodling.

Yes, doodling. For years on the cover sheet of the Sunday bulletin draft I give her to proof, I draw something and when she returns it, she’s usually drawn something in response. Her drawings are so neat and exact. Mine are not. Even though I like drawing the doodles, early on I attacked them. Yet, now after her many reminders of Persian rugs, I can simply have fun with it. We have different styles and that’s just fine.

Can you look at mistakes as Persian rugs, because only God is perfect? Can you find the lessons in them to help you in your journey to wholeness, NOT perfection?

What are some of the unique ways Sister Carol has blessed your life? May we all keep working on seeing things in life like Sister Carol does, with wisdom, humor and love.

Karla Fritsch Publications Manager

Spiritual Growth and Education

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Bible Study with Sister Carol Perry SUNDAYS AT 10AM JESUS: BUILDER, PUZZLER, INNOVATOR April 2 & 9 Had we been contemporaries of Jesus, what might have struck us most forcibly about him? Did you ever wonder if you would have followed or would you have stayed by the roadside? Lent is the perfect time to consider where we might have been had we actually lived the gospel story. (Please note: no Bible Study on Easter Sunday.)

Sr. Carol Perry Bible Scholar

Remember, you can always visit MarbleChurch.org to watch archives of Sister Carol’s Sunday classes and read her blogs.

WHAT DO YOU SAY TO A RISEN JESUS? April 23 Humanly speaking, the disciples were at a loss when Jesus returned, risen as he said. How did they react to the Easter event? How should we?

LIVING THE WORD May 7, 14, 21 & 28 Paul was transformed by Jesus’ message that all of us are one. Do we hear it the same way? What could it mean if each of us was a student as open to Christ as was Paul? It might be a new way to live.

Shall we investigate the possibilities? (Please note: May 28 is Sister Carol’s final Sunday at Marble.)

TUESDAYS AT 6:30PM Sr. Carol’s Tuesday Evening Bible Study class draws a committed group of people who want to go deeper into bringing the Bible to life. Come when you can.

GOD SAID: LET ME MAKE A PEOPLE April 4, 18 & 25, May 2 & 9 God’s choice of Israel is part of a long range plan that directly affects us. To see its full purpose is to see ourselves in a new light. Let’s investigate that.

(Please note: No class April 11; May 9 is Sister Carol’s final Tuesday evening class.)

Staff for this Issue: EDITORS:

Karla Fritsch Catherine Ortiz PHOTOS:

Dave Cross Jay Johnson Robert Romagnoli Karla Fritsch GRAPHIC DESIGN:

Beth Player-DiCicco

WEEKDAYS, NOON–1:00PM SPIRITUALITY IN THE WORKPLACE Join this interactive Bible study in two Manhattan locations and return to work with a new attitude.

(Bring lunch if you wish).

TUESDAYS IN THE MARBLE LOFT April 4 & 18; May 2 & 16 THURSDAYS AT ST. BART’S April 6 & 20; May 4 & 18 St. Bartholomew’s Church, 325 Park Ave (at 51st St). Enter through Park Ave doors and proceed to the Welcome Center.

Prayer Circle

SUNDAYS AT 10AM This informal gathering centers on singing and prayer for individual and communal concerns.

Led by Rev. Gregory Johnson.

Rev. Gregory Johnson Holy Communion celebrated most Sundays. Connect with Prayer Circle via video conference on the last Sunday of the month.

To sign up for the special link, contact Siobhan Tull (STull@MarbleChurch.org).

Wednesday Morning Prayers WEDNESDAYS AT 11AM All are invited to be still, re-focus and connect with God during this midweek time of prayer led by Rev. Gregory Johnson. Meets in the Chapel.

Small Groups

Join a Small Group this Spring! Stop by the Small Group Table during Coffee Hour on Sundays after Worship, contact Baleta McKenzie (BMcKenzie@ MarbleChurch.org), or visit MarbleChurch.org.

The Colloquium

THOMAS MOORE Sunday, April 30 | 10:00am We welcome Thomas Moore who will explore Art, Dreams, and the Spiritual Life, as we continue our special series with outstanding scholars.

Thomas Moore is the author of the spiritual bestseller, Care of the Soul. In his youth he was a Catholic monk and also studied music composition. He has a Ph.D. in Religious Studies from Syracuse University and has taught religion and psychology at universities. He has been a psychotherapist for almost forty years and has written twenty-five books on soul and spirit. His most recent book, Ageless Soul: Living a Full Life with Joy and Purpose will come out in October.

Dr. Michael Brown’s Online Inspirations

Practical Faith Podcast with Dr. Michael Brown, offers advice on how Faith can help us with the deeper questions and real life struggles we encounter every day. Listen or download at MarbleChurch.org/connect/podcast or subscribe at iTunes.

Soul Purpose videos are a fun way to feed your spirit. Visit MarbleChurch.org/worship/inspiration or YouTube.

Spiritual Growth and Education

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WORLD LABYRINTH DAY Saturday, May 6 | 12:30-2:30pm Walk as One as One. Do a walking meditation at Marble and join in spirit with others all over the world. A facilitator will be on hand to help guide you.

MORE OPPORTUNITIES FOR SPIRITUAL GROWTH CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP First Saturday of Month | 1:00-3:00pm Led by Rev. Marion Gambardella, (magambardella@yahoo.com). Inquiries also to Judy Tulin (JTulin@ MarbleChurch.org).

ANNUAL PRAYER INTREAT Saturday, May 13 | 9:30am-2:30pm Join the Marble Prayer Ministry Team and Rev. DePree for A Day of Prayer with Labyrinth walks and exploration of prayer practices. $15; $10, students/ seniors. To register, contact Judy Tulin (JTulin@ MarbleChurch.org).

Missons and Outreach: Opportunities to Serve

In the Action Spotlight

P.S. 30 SUMMER ACTIVITY BACKPACKS Through June 24 Please donate school supplies for the students in our P.S. 30 Tutorial Enrichment Program. We will provide them with backpacks that will include age appropriate readers and other activity items.

Monetary donations also welcome; make checks payable to Marble Collegiate Church, write “P.S. 30 Summer Backpacks” in memo section, mail to attention of Tom Schneider or place in offering plate. For more information, please contact Tom, (TSchneider@ MarbleChurch.org).

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY PARTNERSHIP Marble Build Days – April 22, May 6, June 17 Our partnership continues. For information and to sign up for our upcoming build days, visit MarbleChurch.org/Give/Habitatforhumanity, or contact Susanah Wade (SWade@MarbleChurch.org) or Tom Schneider (TSchneider@MarbleChurch.org).

NAMI WALK Saturday, May 13 Join Marble’s team for the National Alliance for Mental Illness annual 5K. Sign up at www.namiwalksny.org or visit the Action Volunteer Table after Worship.

PRIDE WATER TABLES Saturday, June 24 and Sunday, June 25 Help serve water to those marching in the annual Women’s March on Saturday, 5:30-7:30pm, and Pride March on Sunday, 12:00-7:30pm.

(Four Sunday shifts; we especially need people for later shifts.) Love.

Period T-shirt required. This is a great opportunity to publicly serve and show that ALL are welcome at Marble Church, and loved. Period. Contact Don Piper (DPiper@MarbleChurch.org), or Rev. Chad Tanaka Pack (CTanaka@MarbleChurch.org).

Action Volunteers – Ways You Can Serve

If you don’t see what’s right for you listed here, stop at the Action Volunteer Table on Sundays during Coffee Hour to talk with a committee member or contact Tom Schneider (TSchneider@MarbleChurch. org), for more ideas and referrals to organizations that are in need of volunteers. To receive notice of serving opportunities by email, “Action Alerts,” contact Tom. Sundays, April 9, May 14 & June 11 – Volunteers are needed to help with Ecclesia Ministry (worshipping congregation for the homeless in Madison Square Park). Prepare lunches, 10:00-10:30am; and/ or transport lunches at 1:30pm and host the service which begins at 2:00pm.

Marble Fights Hunger – Please donate nonperishables for Icahn House. Leave food at the 29th Street Reception area, the Fifth Ave Narthex or the Marble Loft.

Congregational Care Prayer Shawl Ministry – Knit or crochet prayer shawls for members who are ill or homebound. 1st and 3rd Mondays, 4:30-5:30pm, in Peale Parlor. Materials provided. Contact Judy Tulin (JTulin@MarbleChurch.org).

Pride Water Table Volunteers

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Program Ministries

Keep up with our different Program Ministries by visiting their pages at MarbleChurch.org

and attending Coffee Hour after Worship.

Adult Ministry

Practical Living with Positive Faith is the theme of our Spring Retreat, May 5-7. Join us! Register online or contact Colleen Cosgrove (CCosgrove@ MarbleChurch.org).

Arts Ministry

Welcome Back, Mario Sprouse and the Marble Arts Ministry! Mario Sprouse is back on the Marble staff parttime as the new Arts Ministry Coordinator. A member since 1982, Mario is the former Staff Advisor of the ARTS Fellowship Mario Sprouse and Entrepreneurs Group, and also works for MarbleVision. Check website for details about on-going groups and our Summer Arts Festival. Contact Mario Sprouse (MSprouse@ MarbleChurch.org).

Connection (20s&30s)

Contact Rev. Chad Tanaka Pack (CTanaka@ MarbleChurch.org).

Entrepreneurs

Contact Gayle Robinson (GRobinson@ MarbleChurch.org).

GIFTS: LGBTQ Fellowship

Our Coffee Hours will be after Worship on Sundays, April 30, May 21 & June 18. Stay tuned for all our Pride events in June. See website for details. Contact Rev. Chad Tanaka Pack or Don Piper at GIFTS@MarbleChurch.org.

Men’s Ministry

What interests you? Please let us know so we can develop a Men’s Discussion Group. Contact Tom Schneider (TSchneider@MarbleChurch.org).

60+ Fellowship

See the Calendar of Events and 60+ newsletter for details on our Wednesday lunch programs through June 14. In May Judy Tulin’s Art Class returns and we launch our virtual Small Group, The Five Stages of Life with Dr. Michael Brown, participate in person or online. On Monday, June 5 we have an outing to Governor’s Island. Contact Colleen Cosgrove (CCosgrove@MarbleChurch.org).

Women’s Ministry

Join us for our Mother’s Day Baby Shower on Sunday, May 14 benefiting Hour Children. For details, check website or contact Don Piper (DPiper@ MarbleChurch.org).

Calendar of Events EACH SUNDAY Grace Notes: Inside the Music with For more details, Kenneth Dake to register, or for the 10:50am full listing of all our Join our online programming, please visit worshippers as MarbleChurch.org Director of Music Ken or stop by the Welcome Dake shares historic and theological backCenter after Worship ground on the day’s during Coffee Hour. choral selections, hymns, preludes and postludes. In the Sanctuary. (Please note: no Grace Notes on Easter Sunday or April 23.)

Live Sermon Talk Back with Dr. Michael Brown 12:15pm Join us in the Sanctuary after Worship as we discuss Dr. Brown’s sermon and he answers your questions about faith & theology. Hosted by Mario Sprouse. To submit questions, use the Talk Back card in the pews or email: Connect@MarbleChurch.org.

Calendar of Events

EACH TUESDAY Marianne Williamson Weekly Talks | 7:30pm Marianne Williamson, internationally renowned teacher, speaker, and bestselling author of ten texts including A Return to Love, speaks on A Course in Miracles, most Tuesdays in the Marble Sanctuary. $20, but no one turned away if unable to pay. Also live streamed. See details at Marianne.com.

EACH WEDNESDAY 60+ Fellowship For details on our lunch programs, check our 60+ Fellowship bi-monthly newsletter. Inquiries to Colleen Cosgrove (CCosgrove@MarbleChurch.org).

Walk the Labyrinth | 5:00-6:00pm Take time for a walking meditation before WeWo. Please confirm schedule.

WeWo: Wednesday Worship | 6:15pm “WeWo” blends traditional and contemporary worship styles, with sermons by Dr. Brown, Rev. DePree, Rev. Chad Tanaka Pack and Susanah Wade, plus dynamic music led by Deah Harriott with a praise vocal ensemble and band. Meets in the Marble Loft.

Calendar of Events

FIRST SUNDAYS Walk the Labyrinth | 1:00-3:00pm 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. Please confirm schedule.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 5 60+ Fellowship Lunch & Program | 12:00pm Soup and salad ($7), followed by program at 1:00pm: opera with Linda Lane Smith. Please note, no Fellowship during Holy Week.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 19 60+ Fellowship Lunch & Program | 12:00pm Easter buffet ($12 Fellowship members; $15 guests), followed by program at 1:00pm: Manhattan School of Music Spring Cabaret.

SUNDAY, APRIL 23 Brunch | 12:15pm Join us for this time of fellowship, good food, and live music. $12. No reservation needed. In the Marble Loft. Please note, this is last brunch until September.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 10 60+ Fellowship Lunch & Program | 12:00pm Soup and salad ($7), followed by program at 1:00pm: Gary Thompson serenades us.

SUNDAY, MAY 14 Women’s Ministry Baby Shower for Hour Children | 12:15–2:00pm We gather after Worship for this time of fellowship and service. Bring unwrapped items for children (ages 2-4 years old) in need. Get more details online or during Coffee Hour. Register by May 9.

For more details, to register, or for the full listing of all our programming, please visit MarbleChurch.org

or stop by the Welcome Center after Worship during Coffee Hour.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 24 60+ Fellowship Lunch & Program | 12:00pm Soup and salad ($7), followed by program at 1:00pm: Drew Kindred leads folk dances for all levels.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 31 60+ Fellowship Lunch & Program | 12:00pm Soup and salad ($7), followed by movie at 12:30pm: Lion.

SUNDAYS, APRIL 30, MAY 21 & JUNE 18 GIFTS: LGBTQ Coffee Hour | 12:15pm All welcome for this time of fellowship after Worship. Labyrinth Room.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 7 60+ Fellowship Lunch & Program | 12:00pm Soup and salad ($7), followed by program at 1:00pm: Classical Productions, directed by Patricia Hancock Rogers, returns to celebrate their 30th year.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 3 60+ Art with Judy | 10:00-11:30am Judy Tulin leads this class each Wednesday in May. Pre-register with Colleen Cosgrove.

60+ Fellowship Lunch & Program | 12:00pm Soup and salad ($7), followed by program at 1:00pm: Sister Carol Perry shares her personal faith journey.

60+ Virtual Small Group | 2:15-3:00pm The Five Stages of Life with Dr. Michael Brown, participate in person or online. Contact Colleen Cosgrove (CCosgrove@MarbleChurch.org). Every Wednesday in May.

Calendar of Events

WEDNESDAY, MAY 17 60+ Fellowship Lunch & Program | 12:00pm Soup and salad ($7), followed by program at 1:00pm: The People of the Past Program from The Mount Vernon Hotel Museum transport us back to early 19th-century New York City.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 26 60+ Fellowship Lunch & Program | 12:00pm Soup and salad ($7), followed by movie at 12:30pm: Amélie.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 14 60+ Fellowship Lunch & Program | 12:00pm Sandwich and salad spread ($8), followed by program at 1:00pm: Year-End Grand Finale revue with the Marble staff, hosted by Gary Thompson.

Pride WeWo | 6:15pm GIFTS hosts our annual Pride Wednesday Worship.

Followed by a Festive Coffee Hour. Bring your friends and show them what God’s inclusive love looks like!

Note: The Calendar of Events schedule subject to change. Please call to confirm.

LIVE WEBCAST SCHEDULE If you can’t be here in person, visit MarbleChurch.org.

Sundays

10am – Bible Study with Sr. Carol Perry 11am – Worship Service 12:15pm – Talk Back with Dr. Brown TV – Fridays @ 4:30pm, MNN Time Warner Ch. 57 (Manhattan)

WEEKEND, MAY 5 – 7 Adult Ministry Retreat Rev. Sam Clover leads this weekend as we focus on Practical Living with Positive Faith at St. Marguerite’s Retreat House in Mendham, NJ. Register online.

Sermon Podcasts: Subscribe at MarbleChurch.org.

MARBLE ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Rev. Sam Clover

11

Touchpoint: April/May/June 2017

Sister Carol’s Farewell Reception

Sunday, May 28 12:30-2:30pm Hear Sister Carol preach during 11:00am Worship, then join us across the street at The Midtown Loft & Terrace, 267 Fifth Ave, 10th floor, for a farewell open house. Thank you and God bless you, Sr. Carol!

Gospel Concert

Sunday, June 11 | 3:00pm The Marble Community Gospel Choir, in concert directed by Stacy Penson. $20, general admission; $15 students & seniors at the door. Save $5 by ordering in advance at MarbleChurch.org by Thursday, June 8.

The Colloquium

THOMAS MOORE Sunday, April 30 | 10:00am We welcome Thomas Moore, author of the bestselling book Care of the Soul and many other books on deepening spirituality and cultivating soul in every aspect of life. Please see page 8.

Thomas Moore

The Marble Church App

Live stream, catch up on last week’s sermon, listen to the latest podcast, connect with ministries, register for Marble events, make a gift and sign up to volunteer.

This is the easiest way to connect with Marble anytime you want! Visit MarbleChurch.org for a quick how to and links or search for Marble Church in your app store.

THE LAST WORD

How far away is God’s ear? Not very far at all. We have no need of UPS, angelic messengers or

APR /MAY/JUNE ‘17

an email tracking system. Neither clouds nor planets nor other solar systems get in the way.

All we need is a heart with something to say.

— Sister Carol Perry

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