The Potential of Power
We live in extraordinary political times, and with an election coming, pundits and politicians alike are framing this over the question of who should be in power. However, it is much more than this.
As Christians, we tend to shy away from using the term “power,” yet power is a reality in the world we cannot avoid. Scripture speaks of power in saying it is the hope we may know “the immeasurable greatness of God’s power for us who believe” (Ephesians 1:19 ). We must engage the power dynamics in this world, and in doing so we can change how people think and act about the potential of power.
Here’s a glimpse of the power we need:
Power With: Power has more potential when shared with one other. It builds bridges to each other across our differences. It gives us greater ability to be in service to each other rather than against each other.
Power To: Power has the ability to create new possibilities that are better for all of us, not just some of us.
“…we need a power with the potential to bridge differences and work for the common good.”
Typically, we think of power as the ability to have power over people and outcomes. It means one has control over others and how the future will unfold. Because one must stay in power to do this, it becomes more important to be right than to get it right. The concern for the greater good fades away, and division and blame are levied against anyone who tries to diminish or take away one’s power.
It doesn’t take a theologian to recognize this is not the Christian way to think about or use power. Power is not about the ability to gain control over others, but if not this, then what is power about? It is about the power with, power to, and power within.
EDITOR: Karla Fritsch
PHOTOS: Dave Cross
Jisselle Tavarez Fernandez
Karla Fritsch
Jay Johnson
GRAPHIC DESIGN: Beth Player-DiCicco
Power Within: Power builds within us the capacity to know we can make a difference in this world if we are willing to work with others for the good of all.
There is no getting around power in the upcoming elections, but we need a power with the potential to bridge differences and work for the common good. Together, let us pray the elections lead to a power with, power to, and power within. Only then will we know “the greatness of God’s power for us.”
Gratitude Sunday is coming on November 17, 2024, and it will be a grand celebration so mark your calendars. This year’s focus is gratitude in action. This helps recover an essential but forgotten part of gratitude. The dictionary says gratitude is the “quality of being thankful” and includes a “readiness to return kindness.” Gratitude is more than a state or feeling we experience. It is something that moves us to find a way to return an act of kindness shown to us by doing something for others.
Scripture says God gives us things that out of our gratitude, we then give away, which enriches us in every way, so that we can be generous (2 Corinthians 9:11). In other words, gratitude inspires us to action. May gratitude always be active and in action in our lives, for this is how we enrich our lives and those around us.
— Dr. Michael Bos on behalf of the Gratitude Sunday Team
Dr. Michael Bos Senior Minister
COVER: Kim Sebastian-Ryan, Janet Smith & Pepper photo by Jay Johnson
Staff for this Issue
For more on this, see writings by Graeme Stuart and Brené Brown.
A WORD FROM OUR EXECUTIVE MINISTER STEPPING OUT IN FAITH
By Dr. J. Elise Brown
There is no question life can be filled with challenges, changes, unexpected twists and turns, and roads we thought were going in one direction that end up taking us somewhere we had no intention of going. A sudden job loss. An unexpected illness of oneself or a loved one. A death that takes us completely by surprise. A death that is expected and for which we thought we had prepared, but we learn we can never really prepare for such things.
I think of the beauty and power of living each and every day to its fullest, for we do not know how long our journey on this earth will be. Savoring the beauty. Embracing our loved ones. Taking time to notice the small things, the little details that make life so full of beauty.
“Faith keeps us going, keeps us believing…”
All of these realities of human life can make us want to go inside, shut the door, turn off the phone and try to shield ourselves from life’s uncertainties. But that is not the way we are supposed to live, and it’s not the way God intends us to live.
In a way, all of life is a grand experiment. We can plan all we can; organize everything we can organize; believe we have it all under control. But those efforts will never fully shield us.
And they shouldn’t.
Hebrews 11:1 says: “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.”
Our faith is what compels us to go out into the world, stepping out every day with the confidence that we are not alone. Faith keeps us going, keeps us believing that as we face the many challenges of this earthly life, we will get through them because God is right there with us.
In Thornton Wilder’s beautiful work, Our Town, Emily returns just for a moment to say goodbye to the world in which she had lived before she goes back to her grave on the hill. She says, “Goodbye, goodbye, world. Goodbye, Grover’s Corners…Mama and Papa. Goodbye to clocks ticking…and Mama’s sunflowers. And food and coffee. And new-ironed dresses and hot baths…and sleeping and waking up. Oh, earth you’re too wonderful for anybody to realize you. (She looks toward the stage manager and asks abruptly, through her tears) Do any human beings ever realize life while they live it? Every, every minute?”
The stage manager replies, “No. The saints and poets, maybe...they do some.”
Saints and poets, who are they if not ordinary people like you and me? Like them, we possess the power to paint the hour, transfigure the day, and not take a moment of this precious life for granted.
A blessed autumn to you.
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, contact Kim Sebastian-Ryan (KRyan@MarbleChurch.org), on Sundays talk to someone wearing a red carnation or visit MarbleChurch.org/become-a-member. New Member Orientation
Sunday, September 29, 12:00-1:30pm (Peale Parlor & Zoom)
Reception of New Members during Worship* Sunday, October 20, 11:00am
*Need to register and attend an orientation session to participate.
Dr. J. Elise Brown Executive Minister
JOIN THE MARBLE FAMILY!
In the Marble Spotlight
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:
•Build-a-Backpack Outreach Coffee Hour –September 8
•Passport to the Fall Open House & MultiMinistry Mixer – September 22
•Fall Festival with Costumes, Food & Fun, and Build Thanksgiving Bags – October 27
WALK THE LABYRINTH
Wednesdays, September 11, October 16, November 13 & December 18 | 5:00-6:30pm
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.
RECLAIM THE VOTE
Stay tuned for an upcoming volunteer opportunity to join us in mobilizing voter registration and providing education on important electoral issues.
BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS
Sunday, October 13 | After Worship
We look forward to our annual Blessing of the Animals directly after 11:00am Worship, in front of the church on Fifth Avenue. We encourage children to bring their favorite stuffed animals! Photos can also be blessed if your pet doesn’t travel well. This is one of the highlights of the fall and a fun way to connect to the neighborhood and broader community.
The Sanctuary will be pet free, so if you are allergic or not a fan of our furry friends don’t be alarmed. All pet lovers are welcome to watch the 11:00am service with their animals in the Labyrinth Room (downstairs)
ONLINE TEA TIME WITH KIM
Wednesday, October 16 | 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 and to register.
MUSIC AT MIDDAY
Wednesdays, October 30 & November 20 12:00-12:45pm
Give yourself a midday break to enjoy the incredible sounds of the Marble pipe organ and more during these 45-minute performances. Free admission. Learn more about the talented musicians at MarbleChurch.org.
October 30 – Anastasiia Staroselska, Ukrainian mezzo-soprano, and Peter Van de Velde, organist of Antwerp Cathedral, Belgium
November 20 – Zac Schurman, organist & Director of Music, Saint Catherine of Siena Roman Catholic Church, Trumbull, CT
For more events, please see pages 9, 11 & 12.
LOOKING BACK / LOOKING FORWARD
By Michael T. C. Hey
What an exhilarating year it has been as your new Director of Music and Organist! I can hardly believe how quickly the time has flown by. Each week has brought new experiences, surprises, and opportunities for growth, and I am filled with gratitude as I reflect on this journey.
After nearly a decade as Associate Director of Music and Organist at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, culminating on June 4, 2023, I suddenly found myself on the organ bench at Marble, for my first service here on June 11, 2023. The shift was both exciting and challenging, as I quickly realized how much there was to learn about Marble’s rich musical traditions.
As the year progressed, I initiated several programs that I’m excited to see flourish in the coming seasons. We launched the Summer Choir, which will continue as our new volunteer choir, joining The Marble Choir on select Sundays throughout the year. The enthusiasm and dedication of our volunteer singers this summer have been inspiring, and I look forward to seeing this group grow in the fall.
I also had the great privilege of welcoming Joel Esher as our new Director of Children and Youth Choirs. Joel’s energy and expertise will inspire our youngest musicians, and I encourage you all to invite friends and family to join his program. The future of our Children and Youth Choirs looks incredibly bright under his leadership. (See Joel’s article on page 6.)
NEW VOLUNTEER CHOIR
If you sing, read music, and are interested in auditioning for the new volunteer choir this church year, please contact Michael Hey (MHey@ MarbleChurch.org).
This year also marked the launch of the Music at Midday series, Marble’s offering of noontime concerts on Wednesdays throughout the year. These free performances provide a time for reflection and celebration through music. Six of these concerts are planned for the upcoming season, including two where I’ll be performing, one in the fall and one in the spring.
I’ve also had the opportunity to connect more deeply with the Marble Community Gospel Choir. This summer, Carl Arnez Ellis, III has been serving as interim choir director, allowing me the chance to play some gospel piano.
And, of course, I must thank The Marble Choir, the cornerstone of our musical life at Marble. Their hard work and dedication elevate our worship every week, and I’m eager to embark on a new season with them.
Looking ahead, we have an exciting year in store, with the Advent Concert, a spring concert, more Music at Midday performances, and organ recitals by yours truly.
Thank you all for the warm Marble welcome. I look forward to what this journey brings this season!
Michael T. C. Hey Director of Music
CYF CORNER SCHOLARS AND SCHOLARSHIPS
By Brian Hampton
Through the generous support of donors (thank you!), Marble’s CYF Ministry continues to give undergraduate scholarships to our alumni each year. In the summer, this is something I always look forward to. I wait for all the applications to arrive, and I read them as if I’m reading a secret “inside look” into the heart of our program and our church. I ask them to be honest and write from the heart. Their responses are always private, but I give them an option to share any thoughts with you, our Marble Touchpoint readers, if they would like to. Here are those highlights:
If you could duplicate something special about Marble and give it to other churches around the world, what would it be?
Marble’s radical acceptance
— Amanda Crewey (Macalester College)
The diversity of everyone, including LGBTQIA+ and people with disabilities.
— Fred Lee Whitfield, Jr. (Guttman Community College)
The love of God in all of its forms, regardless of how that might differ person-to-person. Marble practices unconditional love and joy through God in every possible way.
— Felicia Jennings-Brown (Smith College)
What would you tell a friend who is looking for a church in NYC about Marble?
If you are looking for a community that will embrace you as you are, but will push you to be kinder, I can think of no better place.
— Cara Giardina (SUNY Purchase)
Marble gives the warmest welcomes and makes us feel accepted for who we are.
— Harry McSween (Skidmore College)
By Joel Esher
I am so grateful to be a new part of the Marble Church family. Already in attending services, in meeting so many of you and in feeling the spirit of the space, I am moved, excited, and thrilled to be able to begin bringing my mission of joy to the youth and children’s choruses at Marble.
My journey in music is rooted in the center of a “traditional” secular children’s choral upbringing – I sang in the go-to children’s chorus for the Boston Symphony Orchestra, pieces from Berlioz to Tan Dun, from Mahler to Dutilleux. I’ll always remember the look of surprise and joy on Seiji Ozawa’s face as he moved to cue our chorus in for our first notes of a
You’re always welcomed with open arms at Marble, whether you’re new to church, or are looking to relocate. It’s a safe and welcoming environment.
— Sofia Licata (Goldsmiths College)
Marble is a place that accepts everyone…. a space where you can grow in your faith however you may choose.
— Ella Niewood (University of Connecticut)
Marble is for, genuinely, anybody – and it is very easy to feel like you’ve been there your whole life in such a short amount of time.
— Juliette Licata (Albright College)
Everyone knows who you are and genuinely cares about how you are doing in your life. It’s the support system I never knew I needed.
— Walker McSween (Berklee College of Music)
What does receiving a Marble Scholarship mean to you?
It makes me feel like my home, and my family, are still with me even though I’m hundreds of miles away. — James Banks (Penn State)
I have grown up at Marble, and the community has seen me go through every milestone up to this point. It makes me very happy that Marble is willing and able to help me as I continue to grow into an adult.
— Ella Niewood (University of Connecticut)
I truly appreciate having this loving community in my corner, cheering me on as I pursue my education and discover the ways I can make a difference in the world. — Amanda Crewey (Macalester College)
piece. It sparked us into action with wonder and delight, like a rollercoaster taking off. It was thrilling.
I encountered that same thrill many years later in, of all places, music directing for sketch comedy and musical improv with The Second City. By this point I had my degree in music from Northwestern in Opera, Vocal Performance and Music Direction, but I had made it through without much spark left for my performing. I was so nervous; I wanted to get things right and perfect, and I would pre-plan so much of my music-making that I felt stiff. I was successful and good, but without the wonder, and without the joy. Right when I was out of school, I said yes to a job to perform on a cruise ship with a Second City comedy troupe. What they DIDN’T tell me was that the job
Brian Hampton Director of Children, Youth & Families Ministry
JOY FIRST!
Joel Esher Director of Children & Youth Choirs
required I take an improv class. DEAR GOD, I thought. I had never done that before but had always marveled at my friends in high school and college who could get up in front of an audience with NOTHING and proceed to be the funniest, most interesting people out there!
I took that improv course, and the first couple of classes I remember preparing EVERYTHING I was going to say or do so far in advance that my brain started to hurt. I was exhausted and anxious about class. I wish I could call myself a hero about overcoming this, but the truth is eventually I just was too tired of pre-planning to do it anymore, so I relaxed and succumbed to the structure of letting things happen in the moment to inspire my words and actions. And, let me tell you – the joy, the spark, the trust, the wonder, it all came crashing back down into my body. I have now become a 16-year veteran music
Reflections from the Editor
By Karla Fritsch
From little acorns grow mighty oaks. —14th century English proverb
Fall is generally a time of harvesting not planting, yet seeds have been on my mind a lot lately. Specifically, the impact of small seeds.
My spirits were quite down this spring and summer. My doctor thought a big part of it was probably a delayed response to my February surgery. I thought my trip to Maine in June would dramatically turn things around. However, I had a vacation curveball of getting Covid for the first time. The shadows continued.
Then the smallest seeds of hope started coming my way. The first was from a photo I took on my flight to Portland. I was surprised when my iPhone identified one of the locations as Buxton, Maine. My mind immediately jumped to the movie The Shawshank Redemption. (spoiler) While in prison, the character Andy had planted a seed with his friend Red about something buried in Buxton. When Red finds the rock wall by a big tree in a hay field, he digs up a note from Andy: “…Remember, Red, hope is a good thing, maybe the best of things, and no good thing dies…” Scenes later, Morgan Freeman’s incredible voice continues to narrate, repeating the word “hope” over and over.
I’ve seen that movie so many times, yet this is the first time I’ve wondered, is that tree a mighty oak?
In July, a friend helped me follow through on a simple but important errand that I couldn’t get to myself, and I felt the shadows lifting a bit more.
director of musical improv and sketch comedy, and I have brought the ethos of improv and comedy into my music classes with Trinity Wall Street, Dreamyard Project, Little Orchestra Society, Disney Theatrical Group, The Metropolitan Opera Guild, and now, Marble. I strive to always keep my head up, find the students where they are at, give them the opportunity to discover their own brilliance, and trust the process that gets us there, and demonstrate top-level musicality both inconspicuously and conspicuously as appropriate to the moment. My approach is deeply, dually rooted in traditional chorus and ensemble building through improv, and I cannot wait to facilitate the joyful experiences in music the youth and children of Marble will have this fall!
Please stay tuned for more from me about our returning Youth and Children’s Choir program.
I was surprised about the small ripple of positive shifts that followed. Then another friend told me, “Don’t ever underestimate the power in the tiniest bit of hope.”
I thought of the mustard seed. In Matthew 17:20 we are told, “if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move, and nothing will be impossible for you.” Have you ever held a mustard seed in your hand? It really is tiny.
It was hope the size of a mustard seed that helped save my life forty years ago. During college I was extremely depressed and even had periods of being suicidal. One unusually spring-like February day I was in my room at my sorority and I got closer to ending things than I ever had before. Next to my bed there “happened” to be a book by Robert Schuller that my godparents Dorothy and Warren had given me, and I reached for that instead of something harmful. I don’t remember what the sentence was, but within a few words, I had just enough hope to hang on.
It still amazes me the power that a little bit of hope can hold.
As I move into autumn, the crop I want to harvest is more seeds of hope. Or, actually, in life, it’s always time for harvesting AND planting. I pray I’ll plant and nurture the seeds of hope I’ve been given in the past so mighty plants of possibility can be harvested and give me bushels of seeds to scatter to those around me so HOPE can grow for us all.
Karla Fritsch Publications Manager
SUNDAY WORSHIP
11AM
September
October
November 2024
Dr. Michael Bos
Senior Minister, preaching
Sermon in Song SEPTEMBER 29
Special Music & Homily
NYC Street Closings — Please plan ahead for your time at Marble. For details, visit nyc.gov/events/index. html/ or call 311.
Bridging the Gap OCTOBER 6
World Communion Sunday
The Good Life
Knowing Your True North SEPTEMBER 8
Doing What Is Best SEPTEMBER 15
Building Goodwill SEPTEMBER 22
Engage
How We Show Up OCTOBER 13
How We Move Forward OCTOBER 20
OCTOBER 27
Dr. J. Elise Brown, preaching
Why We Remember NOVEMBER 3
All Saints’ Sunday
The Gratitude Gap
A Decision Away NOVEMBER 10
Joy Awaits NOVEMBER 17
Gratitude Sunday
Passing It On NOVEMBER 24
10:00 O’Clock Hour
SUNDAYS AT 10AM
TANTALIZING TORAH SERIES
This fall, Biblical Scholar in Residence Dr. Julie Faith Parker leads our exploration of Scripture building on last year’s study of Genesis. Join us as we delve into the Bible’s first five books. If you missed the August 25 & September 1 sessions, view the online archive.
WHAT’S IN GOD’S NAME?
Sunday, September 8
PERSUASION AND PESTILENCE
Sunday, October 13
EXODUS: MOVEMENT OF JAH PEOPLE
Sunday, October 20
THE TEN [?] COMMANDMENTS AND THE GOLDEN CALF
Sunday, November 3
WE’RE FREE – NOW WHAT?
Sunday, November 10
STARTING POINTS
We build upon Dr. Bos’ August sermon series about how we find our way into faith and community and build meaning in our lives by belonging, believing and serving.
Dr. Michael Bos – Sunday, September 15
Rev. Susanah Wade – Sunday, September 22
Dr. Elise Brown – Sunday, September 29
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.
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.
EQUITY-BASED HOSPITALITY
Sunday, October 6
Rev. Liz Testa, Coordinator for Women’s Transformation and Leadership, Reformed Church in America, and former Marble minister
MENTAL HEALTH AND OUR YOUTH
Sunday, October 27
Dr. Shari Brink, President and CEO of the Blanton-Peale Institute & Counseling Center and former Marble minister
SERVING IMMIGRANT CHILDREN IN NEW YORK CITY
Sunday, November 17
Angela Fernández, Esq., Executive Director of Safe Passage Project
SERVING REFUGEES & IMMIGRANT CHILDREN IN ITALY
Sunday, November 24
Hannah Kummer, RCA Missionary, and Federica Brizi, Coordinator, Humanitarian Corridors
10:00 O’Clock HourJoin 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.
Small Groups
Being part of a Small Group is a wonderful opportunity to grow spiritually and connect in a deeper way with others at Marble both in person and via Zoom. For upcoming groups and to register, visit MarbleChurch.org and attend our Open House on Sunday, October 6, after Worship.
Walk the Labyrinth
For upcoming Labyrinth walks, see page 4. Learn more about the Labyrinth at MarbleChurch.org/ labyrinth.
Dr. Julie Faith Parker
Dr. Shari Brink
Hannah Kummer
Angela Fernández, Esq
Rev. Liz Testa
Engage – Help Others
A BLESSED COMMUNITY
It was a fun Marble summer! We honored our two High School grads and all the students of CYF. Rev. John Pavlovitz returned for 10:00 O’Clock Hour, Worship and a book signing. Members of the Arts Ministry performed and displayed their work at the Summer Arts Festival. And, as always, Pride was a celebration for the entire church – this year CYF youth helped cut ribbons for everyone to hang on the fence at the end of Worship on Pride Sunday before we served water to the thirsty marchers.
Learn about ways you can be of service to others at Coffee Hour on Sundays after Worship, visit MarbleChurch.org/volunteer, or contact Rev. Susanah Wade (SWade@MarbleChurch.org).
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. Monday, September 16, at Marble, 1:00-2:00pm. In October, returns to First Mondays on Zoom, 5:00-6:00pm; third Mondays in person, 1:002:00pm. Dates subject to change, confirm with Judy Tulin (JTulin@MarbleChurch.org).
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.
Pastoral Care for the Congregation —
Sometimes we find out about members or friends of Marble suffering from challenges after they have
been struggling for a long time. If you know someone from Marble who has become homebound, is suffering from illness or could benefit from a pastoral call from a minister, please let us know by contacting Judy Tulin, Pastoral Care Coordinator (JTulin@MarbleChurch.org).
Help Support the Pastoral Benevolence Fund
Sometimes people need immediate help paying for groceries, an electric or health insurance bill, or temporary rent assistance. The Pastoral Benevolence Fund is used for the purpose of short-term aid. Gifts to this fund are appreciated and can be made by clicking on “GIVE” at MarbleChurch.org and then selecting Pastoral Benevolence Fund from the dropdown menu on Realm. You may also speak to Dr. Elise Brown if you are interested in supporting this fund.
Engage – More Upcoming Events
For the most up-to-date information, more events and details, visit MarbleChurch.org.
ARTS MINISTRY
Achieving Your Highest Artistic Vision is this year’s theme that we’ll explore through Bible study, discussion, art making, goal setting and fellowship. Both professional and non-professional artists are welcome. View our various art exhibits in person on the Wall of Hope, Inspiration, and Healing outside the Labyrinth Room and at MarbleChurch.org/ arts: Reverent Remembrance, remembering 9/11, September 11-29; Autumn, October 6-November 30. Mario Sprouse leads Waiting Is an Action Step workshop on Wednesday, November 20. Contact Mario Sprouse (MSprouse@MarbleChurch.org) or Karla Hendrick (KHendrick@MarbleChurch.org).
CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP
First Saturday of Month | 1:00-3:00pm
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
Thursdays, starts September 19 | 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.
GIFTS: LGBTQ+ FELLOWSHIP
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 for upcoming events or for more information, please contact Mike Thurlow (MThurlow@MarbleChurch.org, please reference GIFTS in the subject line).
PRIMETIME (55+)
All invited to our Open House on Sunday, October 6, after Worship. Learn more about our group and plans for the coming church year. Celebrate Thanksgiving with a yummy lunch on Wednesday November 20, ($30; please pre-register). We also make our annual trip to see the Radio City Christmas Spectacular on Friday, November 22, 2:00pm (check if tickets are still available or get on the waiting list). Register at MarbleChurch. org. Questions? Contact Baleta McKenzie (BMcKenzie@ MarbleChurch.org).
WOMEN’S MINISTRY
10:00 O’Clock Hour, Prayer Circle & Small Groups
For information, please see Spiritual Growth and Education on page 9.
We’ll be present at Marble’s Passport to the Fall on Sunday, September 22. Meet other women and learn about our plans for the year. Join us in person on Saturday, October 19, for an autumn tour of a special NYC location. Sunday, November 3, we partner with the Music Ministry to create a meaningful All Saints’ service to remember loved ones we’ve lost. Also be on the lookout for a Small Group Book Study in November in collaboration with PrimeTime. Questions? Please contact Karla Hendrick (KHendrick@MarbleChurch.org).
If you need assistance registering online for an event, please don’t hesitate to ask. On Sundays, visit the Welcome Table during Coffee Hour, or call/visit our receptionist.
THE LAST WORD
PrimeTime Thanksgiving
MARBLE’S HISTORY FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH MARBLE TURNS 170
Wednesday, October 11, 1854 –Friday, October 11, 2024
On a Wednesday afternoon in 1854, Marble Collegiate Church opened its doors to the public. Originally known as the Church at Twenty Ninth Street and Fifth Avenue, Marble didn’t become the official name until 1906 when the Consistory voted to officially change the name to its popular nickname – Marble. The nickname was derived from the building’s exterior constructed
entirely of marble. Through the decades Marble has been at the forefront of progress. It is thought to be the first church with free-hanging (cantilevered) balconies, among the first to install electricity, the first to use closed-circuit television to reach overflow crowds, and the list goes on. Equally important was the establishment of its “mission” to bring a message of love and peace supporting missionaries foreign and domestic, chapels in harder to reach neighborhoods in the city, an open-air pulpit outside the church during the week to encourage passersby, the creation of what would become known as the Blanton-Peale Center where both spiritual and mental health were supported, the founding of a group of interfaith clergy to discuss their faith traditions and challenges facing the city.
SUNDAY SANCTUARY TOURS
September 29, October 20 & November 24
After Worship
WEBCAST SCHEDULE
Visit MarbleChurch.org or Facebook
Sundays
10:00 O’Clock Hour
11:00am – Worship
Sermon Podcasts: Subscribe at MarbleChurch.org
MARBLE COLLEGIATE CHURCH
1 West 29th Street (at Fifth Ave)
New York, New York 10001
212-686-2770
ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Each year has produced new possibilities to change and grow as the city has grown around it, all the while remaining steadfast in its original mission to be a beacon of faith and hope.
OPEN HOUSE NEW YORK & SPECIAL ORGAN CONCERT WITH MICHAEL T. C. HEY
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.
Sunday, October 20 | 12:30-4:00pm Marble is proud to be a part of this annual citywide event. Open House New York (ohny.org), is a celebration of the city’s history, culture, and architecture. So, bring a friend and come explore Marble — from the spire to the details of the interior, featuring beautiful stained-glass windows, Marble is a city landmark worth exploring. This year we are especially proud to feature a special organ concert showing off the talents of our own Director of Music, Michael T. C. Hey, and our beautiful pipe organ!
MARBLE
The church was designated a New York City historic landmark in 1967 and added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1980.
Looking up 5th Ave, ca 1865