TOUCHPOINT The Marble Magazine One West 29th Street, New York, NY 10001-4596 212-686-2770 MarbleChurch.org
DECEMBER 2017 & JANUARY 2018
Mulligans & Expressions of Grace
It’s never easy writing a sermon, blog, or newsletter diligent in the year to article for January. That’s because you already know come than we were in what’s coming. Arthur Caliandro and I used to laugh the year past. about that over our frequent lunches. He said, “Every In a sense, New year I tried to give it a different title – `Starting Over,’ Year’s Resolutions are `You Can Start Over Again’, `Starting Anew,’ `You Can expressions of Grace. Start Anew.’ But once I got past the title,” he told me, It’s our way of saying “the sermons remained the same.” Arthur spoke with we believe God is a preacher’s wisdom. I’ve been doing this full time for always prepared to forty-four years, and I can tell you from experience that Dr. Michael Brown give us only the titles change in January. The another chance to get things right. Maybe message remains the same. “God is not we have failed in our yesterdays, but God
Perhaps, however, that is permisas interested in grants us new opportunities to learn from sible. In fact, it may be advisable. I’ve where we’ve that so we can succeed in our tomorrows. never met a person who didn’t need As you’ve heard me say so many times: God been as in where is not as interested in where we’ve been as a do-over from time to time, which is we’re going.” in where we’re going. what we traditionally preach and write about in January. It’s what golfers So, what’s the same old January text we call “Mulligans.” Once in a while you hit a shot that goes hear every year? Arthur and I laughed about that, too. off course, and you need a chance to hit again. You do “Behold, I make all things new.” (Revelation 21:5) Every the shot over. Life is not unlike that. January is a great January we trot that one out … as, in fact, we should. time for Mulligans. It’s the promise of Grace I referred to. However tired or I think that’s what New Year’s Resolutions are essentially about. It’s not that we suddenly have an epiphany we’ve never had before. “Wow! Dieting – Exercise – Prayer – Going to church – Spending more time with my family – what a great idea! Why had that never occurred to me before?” That’s not how it works. We make those resolutions anew because in one or more of those areas, we have gone off course. We need a fresh start. A doover. So, we make a resolution to be more attentive and
flawed we may have been in 2017, it’s 2018 now. And our God has promised us a newness of mind and spirit, a fresh lease on life, that shatters our shadows with sunlight. When January rolls around, we get a Mulligan. And in thankfulness for that, we make resolutions to stay on course. Happy New Year!
DECEMBER 2017 / JANUARY 2018 SUNDAY WORSHIP, 11AM DECEMBER 10
DECEMBER 24
Dr. Michael B. Brown Senior Minister preaching
4th Sunday in Advent
DECEMBER 3 1st Sunday in Advent
Life from a Stump Isaiah 11:1-9
Rev. J. Elise Brown, Ph.D.
2nd Sunday in Advent
Company’s Coming Revelation 3:20-22
DECEMBER 17 3rd Sunday in Advent
The Host and Hostess Gifts Psalm 126; Luke 1:46-50
A Light Shines in the Darkness
WEDNESDAY WORSHIP 6:15pm Every Week, except Dec. 27.
John 1:1-5
DECEMBER 31
Full of Grace and Truth John 1:1-14, 16-18
Rev. Barbara Cawthorne Crafton
CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICES See page 4.
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Marble Matters
A Word from Our Executive Minister
Rev. J. Elise Brown, Ph.D. Executive Minister
A SEASON OF WAITING…AND CHANGING In a few more weeks, snow and ice will probably By Rev. J. Elise Brown, Ph.D. grace the landscape, filling in the gray spaces with As I write this article the fall colors are still in full patches of white. Things will change again. bloom. Patches of burnt orange, brilliant red, and As we observe the constantly changing landscape golden yellow grace the landscape of green spaces in and rhythms of our lives, may we be the City and beyond. Just a few weeks open to God’s hand of change within ago, all was green. In a few more “God is always us. The fulfillment of a holy promise to weeks, all will be barren gray. calling us toward be God-with-us and God-for-us is the Change. There is nothing to do greatest gift of our lives. May we be change and open to the changes God is working to to stop it. And while I might want transformation.” fulfill in each of us. to hold onto the brilliant colors gracing the landscape, any attempt See you in church! to do so would be futile. Change is inevitable. And, whether the leaves are green, An Advent Poem brilliant red or barren gray, they’re all beautiful in their by John Betjeman own way. And is it true, As December approaches, we move together This most tremendous tale of all, toward the holy season of Advent, a season of hope Seen in a stained-glass window’s hue, and expectation, and a season of change. God fulfills a holy promise to come and live among us as A Baby in an ox’s stall? Emmanuel, God with us. This divine choice changes The Maker of the stars and sea everything. Love comes and takes residence in our Becomes a Child on earth for me? very midst. Rather than a God far away somewhere out in the stratosphere, our gracious God of love And is it true? For if it is, comes to live in our midst, and empowers us to be No loving fingers tying strings changed and serve as agents of change in a world that desperately needs this message of hope and life. Around those tissued fripperies, This God-with-us is also God-for-us. The sweet and silly Christmas things, Change. God is always calling us toward change Bath salts and inexpensive scent and transformation. God is always at work in our lives And hideous tie so kindly meant, to bring healing and hope to situations that might No love that in a family dwells, seem impossible or despairing. God never stops this holy work of transformation. God doesn’t quit. God No caroling in frosty air, doesn’t give up. God Nor all the steeple-shaking bells meets us right where Can with this single Truth compare we are as Emmanuel, God-with-us. And then That God was man in Palestine God calls us onto new And lives today in Bread and Wine. pathways of hope and life…changing us into more of the people God has created us to be.
JANUARY 2018 SUNDAY WORSHIP, 11AM
JANUARY 7
Dr. Michael B. Brown Senior Minister
Epiphany
Rev. Kirsty DePree preaching
JANUARY 14 Martin Luther King Sunday
Dr. Michael B. Brown preaching
JANUARY 21
Tri-Faith Sunday
JANUARY 28
Susanah Wade preaching
Marble Matters
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Showing the Love of Christ
By Rev. Kirsty DePree Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the Visitors and members alike searching for prayer come least of these who are members of my family, in on a daily basis and use our Prayer Room finding you did it to me. — Matthew 25:40. peace and comfort. We clothe the naked, just last This is one of my favorite passages. It is a reminder week someone was almost naked in the freezing cold and we were able to clothe to see Christ in “the least of these.” It her with a warm coat and clothes. is a passage that calls us to look at On a weekly basis I visit and pray “On any given day what it means to be part of God’s Kingdom – a place where the poor at Marble I get an with the sick and I get to hear the stories of Stephen Ministers who are royalty, the sick are cared for, up close look at the provide hope and healing. We have the stranger welcomed, the least Kingdom of God a congregant who is imprisoned of these are blessed. I have come to realize the least of these is not in action.” and we have someone who prays for him and writes often. I could go just a handful of people; no it is on and on about the way we show the majority, for every follower of compassion and love at Marble. It isn’t always glamGod has at one time or another known pain, suffering, orous, but necessary as we show the love of Christ to sadness, fear, hunger, imprisonment or illness. the least of these at any given moment. On any given day at Marble I get an up close look The joy of the Lord is my strength and my joy and at the Kingdom of God in action. I get to see the the joy of so many people at Marble is powerfully people of God show compassion and it happens in realized when we have seen Christ in the least of numerous ways. When someone says “I am hungry”, these and have been part of turning their pain into joy. through the generous contribution of Marble Fights Hunger, we are able to send them out with food. When someone who is thirsty comes in we are quick to give a drink of water or if it is a cold day, Judy Tulin, my assistant, makes a great cup of coffee.
Advent & Christmas at Marble MUSIC FOR ADVENT & CHRISTMAS MASTERWORKS HERALDING THE PRINCE OF PEACE Sundays, December 3-24 | 10:45am During Advent, arrive early for Worship for this special time of quiet meditation and beautiful music. Generously underwritten by Lynda Packard in loving memory of George Packard (1965-2017) whose wonderful singing talent and love of music lives on in his children Daniel and Anne. O WONDROUS MYSTERY Sunday, December 10 | 2:30pm Encounter the mystery of this sacred season with The Marble Choir, Festival of Voices and Chamber Orchestra in concert directed by Kenneth Dake. Inspirational readings and dance add to this journey into the very heart of what Christmas means. Invite your friends to share in this special tradition. Advance pricing: $60 reserved seat; $30 general admission; $20 students/seniors. Please note: advance pricing ends at 3:00pm, Thursday,
December 7. At the door: $35; $25 student/seniors. Purchase tickets at MarbleChurch.org or Sundays during Coffee Hour. Please note: Childcare provided for children 7 and under, (at 276 5th Ave, 3rd floor). We’re sorry, but children under 7 not admitted to concert.
Rev. Kirsty DePree Senior Associate Minister
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Marble Matters
CHRISTMAS BRUNCH Sunday, December 17 | 12:15pm All are welcome to enjoy warm fellowship and a delicious Christmas Brunch, plus live music. $20, adults; $10, children, age 8-15. No reservations necessary. In the Marble Loft. CYF CHRISTMAS SHOW & CAROL SING Sunday, December 17 | 1:30pm See Christmas through the eyes of Marble’s children and youth, plus lend your voice as we all sing carols of the season! Led by Jessica Scovel, Daryl Paul Lobban, Michael Finke, and Karie Brown. No charge. In the Sanctuary.
Sunday, December 31 Please note, we will have 11:00am Worship, however there will not be a New Year’s Eve service this year.
CHRISTMAS EVE WORSHIP Sunday, December 24 4:00pm – Merry Christmas, NYC! Celebrate the season with a playful heart at this family-friendly service. Led by Daryl Paul Lobban and Jessica Scovel. Followed by a birthday party for Jesus. 6:30 & 8:30pm – O Holy Night (Luke 2:1–20) Meditation by Dr. Michael B. Brown. Festive Coffee Hour in the Marble Loft between the services at 7:45pm. Holy Communion celebrated at 8:30pm service. Childcare provided for both services. Preceding Worship, Kenneth Dake directs The Marble Choir, with brass ensemble, in joyful music at 6:10 and 8:10pm. (6:30pm service live streamed.) TV SPECIAL Christmas Worship at Marble Collegiate Church Sunday, December 24 Tell your family and friends around the country! Please see page 12.
ADVENT DEVOTIONALS Please see page 6 for two opportunities to help you on your Advent journey, Sister Carol Perry’s Advent Video Series and the Women’s Advent Blog. ART EXHIBIT Advent – The Art of Waiting December 3-24 Some of Marble’s visual artists will be displaying artwork that represents the full range of emotions that we can sense throughout Advent while we wait for Christmas Day to arrive – certainly expectation and hope abound, yet also despair during what can be a bleak time of year. Please make it a part of your Advent to view the exhibit in the Labyrinth Room. CHRISTMAS POINSETTIAS Poinsettias are placed in the Sanctuary in honor or memory of loved ones whose names will appear in the Sunday, December 24 morning bulletin. To pay tribute to someone in your life in this special way, please return a Christmas Poinsettias envelope (in pews and at Reception) with your contribution by Sunday, December 10. You may also contact Shana Wolfe (SWolfe@MarbleChurch.org). MARBLE 2017 CHRISTMAS ORNAMENT Add a bit of Marble to your Christmas tree and help others in the process! This year’s ornament will be available to purchase during Coffee Hour on Sundays, December 3 - 24 (while supplies last). $5 each. Proceeds go to one of our Missons & Outreach partners.
In the Marble Spotlight MARBLE ARTISANS’ BOUTIQUE Sunday, December 3 | 12:15-2:00pm Celebrate Marble’s Creative Artists and get started on your Christmas list with a variety of hand-crafted gifts. In the Marble Loft.
ANNUAL TRI-FAITH SUNDAY Sunday, January 21 | 11:00am Marble has a rich history of participating in interfaith activities and one of the highlights is our “Trialogue” hosted by Dr. Michael Brown. The focus of the service is a conversation among spiritual leaders of three faiths: Christianity, Judaism, and Islam. Invite friends to join you for this special experience.
MARBLE COMMUNITY GOSPEL CHOIR CONCERT Sunday, January 14 | 3:00pm MEMBERSHIP AT MARBLE We honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Faith is a journey and we invite you to join with Luther King, Jr. through music. us as you travel along. For information about our Please see page 12. 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), after WeWo visit the Welcome Table, or contact Kim Sebastian-Ryan (KRyan@MarbleChurch.org). We’d love to have you join us!
Marble Matters
A VIEW FROM THE CHOIR LOFT MARBLE’S ANNUAL CHRISTMAS CONCERT
CYF CORNER FAMILY WORSHIP Sunday, December 10 | 10:00am Join CYF in the Marble Loft for their Advent Worship. Both Children’s Choirs will sing and families will participate in the service. All invited!
CYF students get creative as they learn about the walls of Jericho – here they are preparing to build a wall of brownies!
Building the walls of Jericho out of blocks.
Ken Dake with members of the Cherub Choir as they learn about the pipe organ.
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Marble Matters
Loving the Word
Rev. Barbara Cawthorne Crafton
Now it seems that somebody has moved the goalposts. Now I’m the one for whom a year seems like a couple of weeks. Didn’t we just put all this stuff TIME AFTER TIME away? Didn’t I just make — and then break — the By Rev. Barbara Cawthorne Crafton same New Year’s resolution I am contemplating now? Years did not always pass this quickly. The passing of time is the theme of many human I remember sitting with my sorrows. We are apt to mark it with memoparents amid the ruins of the ries of our losses — Let’s see, we say, did Christmas dinner table the year “In Christ, we move here before or after Mom died? I was eight, attempting to make the past, the A baby is born and named after the beloved them understand the depth of my present and the grandmother who never got a chance to despair at the fact that it would meet her. Should auld acquaintance be forbe an entire year before Christmas future are all got and never brought to mind, we all sing came again. one thing.” at midnight, as one year yields to the next, “The whole season, from and we hold each other a little more closely Thanksgiving on, is happy,” I said. as we sing. I was near tears. “Everything is so happy and pretty. Time, though, is something we only have here on And now it’s over. Now we have to wait a whole year the earth. This is good news indeed. Our joys may be for Christmas to come back.” My father cracked open temporary, but so are our sorrows. They don’t have a walnut and handed it to my mother. They were both time in heaven. They don’t need it — nothing is lost bone tired, I now realize, and longing for a nap. But there. In Christ, the past, the present and the future they were patient people. are all one thing. God doesn’t need our befores and “It’ll be here again before you know it,” my mother afters. Neither will we, when we enter fully into the said. It was an attempt to soothe, but it was a patdivine existence. ent untruth. It would be an eternity before Christmas came back.
CHURCH ONLINE SISTER CAROL PERRY’S WEEKLY ADVENT VIDEO DEVOTIONAL Beyond the Christmas Card Sister Carol Perry invites us to watch her video series to help us lift the characters of Advent out of our Christmas cards and into real life. Each video includes a brief message that ends with a thoughtful practice for the week. A new video will be posted on Sundays, December 3, 10 & 17 at MarbleChurch.org.
Behind-the-scenes: Dr. Brown greets Sister Carol before she records her Advent series.
Nick Giardina prepares Sister Carol’s mic, while Jim McDonald adjusts the boom.
ADVENT BLOG Boldly Walking in Faith Help center your spiritual journey by reading the Women’s Ministry 4th annual Advent Blog, December 3-24. The story of Advent is about boldly walking in faith and many in our community post inspiring stories, poems, scripture examples and prayers to help you explore the role the Season of Advent plays in taking that first step to change and transform your life and the lives of others. We also share recipes, volunteer opportunities, and gift ideas that make a difference. Visit marblewomen.com.
Marble Matters
Reflections from the Editor
By Karla Fritsch I’ve been thinking a lot about home. Mostly the ways I haven’t felt at home in my own apartment lately. As with a lot of older NYC buildings, there have been issues. Demo on the apartment next door felt like it was going to break through my wall. It didn’t, but the air vent cover in the bathroom was knocked out and all sorts of construction dust came flying in. While still dealing with that mess, there was a day with no hot water and then no working shower for almost a week. I kept thinking of the people in Puerto Rico and St. Thomas who were dealing with the aftermath of hurricanes. I knew what I was going through was nothing but a little frustration; I’d been through worse years ago when water damage caused my ceiling to collapse. I think the biggest frustration was having workmen in my apartment again and again. They were extremely nice, but my space had been invaded. My apartment isn’t ideal, it’s a tiny studio, it’s old, the windows are small – but it’s my home. I had similar feelings about invaded space when I was a child. I was still in grade school when I stopped sharing a room with my sister Kristi and I was thrilled to get my own! However, there were no locks on our bedroom doors. I was a good kid, yet I wanted privacy and felt my family didn’t always respect that. I would stack books behind the door and put up big signs – “Please knock, AND WAIT FOR AN ANSWER before entering!” It seemed like it rarely worked. A sense of personal space is probably important to most people, but as an introvert it’s always been crucial to me. In our house there was one inside door with a lock – the bathroom door. That became one of my sanctuary spaces. It had a good radio and as I sang
THE MARBLE WELCOME A TOUCHSTONE FOR CONNECTION We love being a part of a place that serves as a touchstone for connection, positive uplift and empathy. At the heart of such a bustling City is a warm cup of coffee exchanging hands, with a genuine exchange of curiosity for the other. There is such care for how each person is doing, and by way of this small ritual, when we walk out, our hearts are full, having seen and spoken with so many wonderful people. – Jamie Roach and Jonathan Zautner
along I could use a hairbrush as my mic to imagine I was on stage. I could wash my long hair and pretend I was filming a commercial in the mirror. It was a narrow room, but I could even dance in there. So, all this thinking about home got me to wondering – does God feel at home in my heart? Do I do enough to protect God’s “personal space” within me? There are certainly things I need to lock out so God and I can connect. One of those is noise. That can be especially hard in the city, even more so these days when it seems like construction is everywhere. Some of the noise comes from my own thoughts – negative, ghostly voices from my past. They’ve gotten softer through the years but still rise up and try to separate me from God and who God created me to be. There are things I need to let in so I can receive God’s inspiration, like music. The Marble Choir’s choral response, “Lord, I Offer My Life to You”, is an automatic door opener for my spiritual self and singing it has become one of my morning mantras. Yet, even though I know the positive power of music in my life, it’s amazing how I can get so distracted by other things that I forget to sing or really listen to music. I’m afraid I let things squeeze God out too often. If I don’t create a home for God within me, then how can I feel at home myself? These lyrics from The Wiz say it well – “When I think of home, I think of a place where there’s love overflowing…” If I’m aware of the Presence of God’s Love within me, then anywhere I go is home. How are you doing at making God feel at home in your life?
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Karla Fritsch Publications Manager
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Spiritual Growth and Education
Bible Study with Rev. Barbara Crafton
Rev. Barbara Cawthorne Crafton Spiritual Teacher
SUNDAYS AT 10AM Watching for the Christ with George Frederick Handel December 3, 10, 17 & 24 Every word of our most beloved choral composition is taken straight from the King James Bible. Let’s listen and learn. December 3 – Isaiah 7 (Behold, a virgin shall conceive) December 10 – John 1:29 (Behold the Lamb of God) December 17 – Job and Paul (I know that my Redeemer liveth) December 24 – Rejoice greatly, Oh daughter of Zion! Promises, Promises January 7, 14, 21 & 28 A look at covenant in the Bible. January 7 – New Year’s Resolutions January 14 – Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. January 21 – Broken New Year’s Resolutions January 28 – The New Covenant A reminder for online students, ask your questions! Click on the blue “Send a Question” button on the live streaming page.
Staff for this Issue: EDITORS:
Karla Fritsch Catherine Ortiz PHOTOS:
Dave Cross Jay Johnson Christina Morano Keiser Jessica Scovel Karla Fritsch GRAPHIC DESIGN:
Beth Player-DiCicco
TUESDAYS AT 6:30PM Join Rev. Crafton Tuesday evenings for an hour of exploration and education. December 5 – Annunciation: How Artists Have Seen Mary’s News December 12 – The Heavenly Host: How Artists Have Seen the Angels December 19 – Nativity: How Artists Have Seen the Birth of Christ January 2 – The Holy Name of Jesus January 9 – The Wise Men January 16 – The Slaughter of the Innocents January 23 – The Flight into Egypt January 30 – Jesus Sasses His Mother
Prayer Circle
SUNDAYS AT 10AM This informal gathering centers on singing and prayer for individual and communal concerns. Led by Rev. Gregory Johnson. Holy Communion celebrated most Rev. Gregory Johnson 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. In the Chapel. Meets in the Chapel. Please note, no session December 27.
Small Groups
Make a Small Group part of your Advent journey. Three Gifts, One Christ meets Sundays at 12:45pm beginning December 3 or Thursdays at 6:15pm beginning December 7. Names for the Messiah meets Wednesdays at 7:20pm beginning December 6. For details and registration please visit the Small Group Table after Worship at Coffee Hour, contact Baleta McKenzie (BMcKenzie@MarbbleChurch.org).
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 brief and lively way to feed your spirit. Visit MarbleChurch.org/worship/ inspiration or YouTube. MORE OPPORTUNITIES FOR SPIRITUAL GROWTH 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).
Missons and Outreach: Opportunities to Serve 99
In the Action Spotlight — Christmas! SANTA LETTERS Pick up your letter after Worship during Coffee Hour at the Action Volunteer Table and buy a gift for children from SCAN (Supportive Children’s Advocacy Network) and Icahn House (single homeless mothers with children under 12 years of age). Please return gifts by December 10. If you are unable to purchase a gift, a donation of $35 will buy a toy for a needy child. Make checks payable to Marble Collegiate Church, write “Toys for Kids” in memo and mail to attention of Tom Schneider or place in offering plate during Worship. ST. THOMAS CHRISTMAS FUND Please make a financial donation to help bring some Christmas Spirit to the children of St. Thomas dealing with the devastation of Hurricanes Irma and Maria! Gift cards will be distributed to the Longpath Community Center, a ministry of our sister church St. Thomas Reformed Church led by Rev. Jeffrey Neevel. Make checks payable to Marble Collegiate Church, write “St. Thomas Christmas Fund” in memo and mail to the attention of Tom Schneider or place in the offering plate during Worship, by December 10.
CHRISTMAS PARTY FOR ICAHN HOUSE Saturday, December 9 Help host our annual Christmas Party in the Marble Loft for single mothers and their children residing in Icahn House a transitional family shelter on East 28th Street. Volunteers needed 9:30am-3:00pm. THISTLE FARMS AND BAKE SALE Sunday, December 10 | 12:15 - 2:00pm Support the work of Thistle Farms by purchasing bath, body products and candles made by the women survivors — gifts that “give back”. Also enjoy treats from our Bake Sale, with proceeds going to Housing+Solutions. In the Marble Loft.
Marble’s Christmas Party for Icahn House
THE MARBLE HOLIDAY GIVING CATALOG Share the spirit of the season by giving! Make a positive difference by gifting your loved ones with a donation to meaningful organizations, such as Thistle Farms, Housing+Solutions, Mustard Seed Communities, Safe Passage Project, Brooklyn Animal Rescue Coalition and more. Printed copies available at the Action Table during Coffee Hour or view catalog online at MarbleChurch.org/Give.
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, December 10 & January 14 — Volunteers are needed to help with Ecclesia Ministry (worshipping congregation for the homeless in Madison Square Park). Prepare lunches, 10:0010:30am; and/or transport lunches at 1:30pm and host the service which begins at 2:00pm. Marble Fights Hunger — Please support our continuous food drive by donating CANNED FOODS for Icahn House (a temporary shelter for homeless mothers.) Leave food at the 29th Street Reception area, the Fifth Ave Narthex or the Marble Loft. Nutritious, canned/bottled items only. Suggestions: fruits, vegetables, pasta sauce, meats, fish, pasta, soups, peanut butter, jelly, juice, etc. Also, vacuum-packed cartons of milk/juice and baby food in plastic/glass containers. We encourage everyone to bring something with them every time they come to Marble!
Congregational Care Prayer Shawl Ministry — Knit or crochet prayer shawls for members who are ill or homebound. Gather in Peale Parlor for prayer and creating together. All levels welcome. Materials provided. 1st and 3rd Mondays, 4:00-5:00pm. Contact Judy Tulin (JTulin@ MarbleChurch.org). Due to the New Year’s and Martin Luther King Holidays, we will meet on January 8 and 22. Habitat for Humanity Partnership – 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).
“The Prayer Shawl is beautiful. It warms the human heart with the divine presence.” — Luella and Ed Mulder
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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
We join GIFTS to host a Christmas Mocktail Reception on Wednesday, December 13 after WeWo. On Monday, January 22 we have Hot Soup for a Warm Spirit on a Cold Winter’s Eve, stay tuned for details. Contact Colleen Cosgrove (CCosgrove@MarbleChurch.org).
Arts Ministry
Make sure to view our exhibition Advent – The Art of Waiting, on the Advent in the Labyrinth Room. December 3-24. ARTS Peer Support Group and Fellowship of Professional Artists meet monthly. For details, contact Mario Sprouse (MSprouse@ MarbleChurch.org).
Connection (20s&30s)
Contact Daryl Paul Lobban (DLobban@ MarbleChurch.org).
GIFTS: LGBTQ Fellowship
Men’s Ministry
For information, contact Tom Schneider (TSchneider@MarbleChurch.org).
60+ Fellowship
See the Calendar of Events and 60+ newsletter for details on our Wednesday lunch programs including our Christmas celebration on December 20. In January our theme will be Music & Movies. Contact Colleen Cosgrove (CCosgrove@MarbleChurch.org.
Women’s Ministry
For inspiration during Advent, visit marblewomen. com for our daily blog written by the Marble Women’s Ministry Leadership Team. Save the dates for our annual Spa Day for the Soul on Saturday, February 3, a Financial Planning Lunch on Saturday, February 11, and our popular Retreat, March 16-18. For details, visit us during Coffee Hour, check website or contact Don Piper (DPiper@MarbleChurch.org).
We host Christmas Mocktails with Adult Ministry on Wednesday, December 13 after WeWo. On Sunday, January 21 we’ll have our first Coffee Hour of 2018. Contact Rev. Chad Tanaka Pack or Don Piper at GIFTS@MarbleChurch.org
Calendar of Events EACH SUNDAY Grace Notes: Inside For more details, the Music with to register, or for the Kenneth Dake full listing of all our 10:48am Hear historic and programming, please visit theological background MarbleChurch.org on the day’s music. In the Sanctuary. Please note, or stop by the Welcome no Grace Notes during Advent due to the special Center after Worship musical preludes at 10:45am. during Coffee Hour.
Calendar of Events
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. Please note, no Talk Back December 10.
EACH TUESDAY Marianne Williamson Weekly Talks | 7:30pm Marianne Williamson, internationally renowned teacher and bestselling author, speaks on A Course in Miracles, in the Marble Sanctuary. $20, but no one turned away if unable to pay. Also live streamed, details at Marianne.com. Please note, no session December 5. EACH WEDNESDAY 60+ Fellowship For details on our weekly 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. Not available December 27. WeWo: Wednesday Worship | 6:15pm “WeWo” blends traditional and contemporary worship styles. Dynamic music with a praise ensemble. Meets in the Marble Loft. Please note, no WeWo December 27.
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, DECEMBER 6 60+ Fellowship Lunch & Program | 12:00pm Soup and salad ($7), followed by program at 1:00pm: Manhattan School of Music’s Holiday Singers. SUNDAY, DECEMBER 10 Thistle Farms & Bake Sale | 12:15-2:00pm Join us after Worship and before the concert to support the work of Thistle Farms. Purchase gifts that give back – bath and body products and candles made by the women survivors. Marble Loft. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 13 60+ Fellowship Lunch & Program | 12:00pm Soup and salad ($7), followed by program at 1:00pm: The Labyrinth – A Walking Meditation with member and Labyrinth Ministry Coordinator Jean Ando. GIFTS and Adult Ministry Christmas Reception | 7:15pm All are invited to this Christmas Mocktail Reception hosted by GIFTS: LGBTQ Fellowship and the Marble Adult Ministry. In the Labyrinth Room after WeWo. No charge. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 20 60+ Fellowship Lunch & Program | 12:00pm Christmas buffet ($12 Fellowship members; $15 guests), followed by program at 1:00pm: Marble Staff Christmas Revue hosted by Gary Thompson. Please note, no meeting December 27. WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 3 60+ Fellowship Lunch & Program | 12:00pm Soup and sandwiches ($8), followed by program at 1:00pm: Swing into 2018 with Linda Ipenema and the Dixie Cats. SUNDAY, JANUARY 7 Reaffirmation of Vows | 12:30pm All couples welcome to join us for this annual ceremony in the Sanctuary. Childcare available.
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 10 60+ Fellowship Lunch & Program | 12:00pm Soup and salad ($7), followed by movie at 12:30: Maudie. WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 17 60+ Fellowship Lunch & Program | 12:00pm Soup and salad ($7), followed by program at 1:00pm: Sing-along with member Nancy Simpson. SUNDAY, JANUARY 21 GIFTS: LGBTQ Coffee Hour | 12:15pm All welcome for this time of fellowship. In the Labyrinth Room.
Calendar of Events 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.
MONDAY, JANUARY 22 Marble Adult Ministry Dinner & Discussion 6:00pm Hot Soup for a Warm Spirit on a Cold Winter’s Eve. Join us for soup, salads, sandwiches and discussion. $15. Stay tuned to website for more details. WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 24 60+ Fellowship Lunch & Program | 12:00pm Soup and salad ($7), followed by a movie at 12:30pm: Wonder Woman. SUNDAY, JANUARY 28 Monthly Brunch | 12:15pm Join us for this time of fellowship and good food. $12. No reservation needed. In the Marble Loft. WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 31 60+ Fellowship Lunch & Program | 12:00pm Soup and salad ($7), followed by program with a special musical guest at 1:00pm. SAVE THE DATE SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 3 Women’s Annual Spa Day for the Soul Stay tuned to the website for details. 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 Rev. Crafton 11am – Worship 12:15pm – Talk Back with Dr. Brown Thank you to all who placed something on our Gratitude Tree in the Marble Loft, including “I am thankful for the opportunities of each day,” and the many expressions of gratitude for the Marble Family.
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TV – Fridays @ 4:30pm, MNN Time Warner Ch. 57 (Manhattan) Sermon Podcasts: Subscribe at MarbleChurch.org.
MARBLE ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Touchpoint: December 2017/January 2018
TV SPECIAL Sunday, December 24 Broadcast around the country on ABC-TV, Christmas Worship at Marble Collegiate Church is a dynamic, joyful program filled with a powerful Christmas message from Dr. Michael B. Brown, beloved carols and music from The Marble Choir directed by Kenneth Dake. This opportunity was made possible through our valuable partnership with The Interfaith Broadcasting Commission. Tell your family and friends around the country! (Check local TV listings for time.)
DEC‘17 / JAN ‘18
ADVENT AND CHRISTMAS Marble is a wonderful place to experience the true spirit of Christmas. Please see pages 3 & 4 for details on our Christmas Eve services, as well as the Annual Christmas Concert on Sunday, December 10, and Christmas Brunch, followed by the CYF Christmas Show & Carol Sing on Sunday, December 17.
TOUCHPOINT The Marble Magazine One West 29th Street, New York, New York 10001-4596 ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
MARBLE COMMUNITY GOSPEL CHOIR CONCERT Sunday, January 14 | 3:00pm Join us for this performance honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Directed by Stacy Penson. Advance pricing: $15; $10, seniors. Please note: advance pricing ends at 3 :00pm, Thursday, January 11. At the door: $20; $15, seniors. Purchase tickets at MarbleChurch.org or during Coffee Hour on Sunday, January 7.
THE LAST WORD Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. — 1 John 4:7
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