Touchpoint February March 2017

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

FEBRUARY & MARCH 2017

For Your Attention

As we rapidly move toward Lent (how is that posAlso, mark your calsible since it seems we just took down our Christmas endars for Wednesday trees a few days ago?), there are a three things I want night, March 29, when to lift up for your attention. Obviously there will be we will welcome His so many traditional services in that season which we Eminence, Timothy have come to treasure year-by-year (mid-day and eveCardinal Dolan (the ning Ash Wednesday Services on March 1, the Palm Roman Catholic Sunday Service on April 9, Maundy Thursday Evening Archbishop of NY) Communion on April 13, Good Friday mid-day service to preach for us in on April 14, and two Easter Sunday Services on April a Special Lenten 16). Also, ABC-TV will carry “A Service. It Marble Easter” on its network be a hisDr. Michael Brown “we will welcome will on Easter weekend. Additionally, toric moment His Eminence, when a Catholic Archbishop leads worship however, there is one new ongoing addition to our Worship menu Timothy Cardinal and preaches in the oldest Protestant church at Marble, and two special events Dolan, to preach in America. On that evening, we will celebrate upcoming that I want to highlight in our shared commitment to Christ and to the for us in a deep spiritual, personal meanings of the this article.

Special Lenten season of Lent. Again, I ask you to spread the The new ongoing Worship expeService.” word and invite others to join us. rience is A Service of Morning Prayers every Wednesday at And, please mark your calendars for one of 11:00am. It will meet in the Chapel and will be led by the most important musical evenings imaginable. On the Rev. Greg Johnson. The format will be similar to the Friday, February 24 at 7:30pm, we will have the priviPrayer Circle Service Rev. Johnson leads in the Chapel lege of hosting Marcus Hummon’s musical Frederick every Sunday morning at 10:00am, but not identical.

Douglass: The Making of an American Prophet.

Everyone is invited, and I encourage you to spread the Mr. Hummon is a Grammy Award winning composer word about this new service. Hopefully not only will it and performer. This will be the musical’s first showing in attract Marble members but also persons who live or NYC and will star Bakari King as Douglass. Though the work in our neighborhood. Following the service each phrase “don’t miss” is sometimes overused, in this case week, Rev. Johnson will be available to individuals upon it applies 100%. This is a “don’t miss” occasion. Spread request for personal prayer and/or to discuss issues as the word for a powerful evening of musical theater. desired, including issues about caregiving. For those who are part of our 60+ Fellowship, the service proper in the Chapel will conclude each Wednesday in time for you to transfer to the Marble Loft to begin your meeting.

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2017 SUNDAY WORSHIP, 11AM

FEBRUARY 5

Dr. Michael B. Brown Senior Minister preaching

Isaiah 58:3, 5-9

The Fast of the Faithful

FEBRUARY 19

WEDNESDAY WORSHIP, 6:15PM

Dr. James Forbes preaching

Every Week

FEBRUARY 26

Ash Wednesday, March 1 Special Lenten Service, March 29

FEBRUARY 12

Transfiguration Sunday

1 Corinthians 3:1-9

Mark 9:1-7, 14-24

Baby Love

Rev. Chad Tanaka Pack

A Tale of Two Barts

Cardinal Timothy Dolan preaching

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Marble Matters

Penguins and Stories

Rev. Kirsty DePree Senior Associate Minister

on those pages and in the stories that he shared, and I was overcome by the realization that much of who I

By Rev. Kirsty DePree am as a minister comes from listening to and watchIt was no ordinary day, it was an extraordinary day. ing him, but also from all the churches and the people It was the Wednesday right before Christmas, and the and stories that have guided me through my life. I day I walked back into my office upon returning home began to reflect on my ministry the last five years at from Scotland after saying goodbye to my father, Marble, and the story and the life we have been living who danced his way into heaven on Saturday, together, and I was in awe of how thankful I am for December 17. I opened the door and on my computer our life and ministry together. was a penguin, and the tears from One thing that my father taught me is deep within my soul began to flow, that our stories matter, they shape us, “...our stories they were tears of both joy and sorform us and continue to be told for many row. I cried because my father was matter, they shape generations to come. This spring on our known as Pastor Penguin, and this us, form us and women’s retreat, we will focus on The image brought back many memories, Story of Us, our past, our present and but I also cried tears of joy, because continue to be even our future, and discover that in life I was coming home to a place and a told for many in the here and now and forever more, people that I knew to be my family, we are profoundly shaped and formed generations to my home of faith. Marble was and by the people of faith who have crept is for me a source of life, strength come.” in beside us, or perhaps boldly jumped and love. I knew that I would get in before us, or who walked beside us through this because I had so showing us that our stories take on greater meaning much love around me, and I cannot begin to thank you when we share them and live them in a way that for the cards, calls, flowers, goodies and penguins. gives us life, hope and joy.

One of the things I did that day was open a red The verse I held onto throughout this has been, notebook that my father gave me and inside were “the joy of the Lord is my strength”, but truth be told, some of his sermons, that I believe, he choose for me. much of my joy comes from you, my church family As I read them, each one showed both a deep love for who strengthens me. Thank you for ministering to me, God, but perhaps even more so, a deep love for God’s I love you. people. His ministry and his legacy were in the words PRACTICAL FAITH WITH DR. MICHAEL BROWN Our new podcast offers practical advice to enrich your spirit and explores how faith can help with the complexities of life. Episodes currently available include “Spirituality When You Are Not Religious” and “Resolutions” with special guest Rev. Susan Sparks.

You’ll even find that “The Meaning of Christmas” with Rabbi Joe Potasnik and Sister Carol Perry is a good companion to this year’s Tri-Faith Sunday conversation and not something limited to December! Listen or download at MarbleChurch. org/connect/podcast or subscribe at iTunes.

CONGRATULATIONS, REV. DEPREE! Rev. Kirsty DePree has been selected to receive an “Older Adult Ministry Award” from United Adult Ministries. Rev. Douglas Kurtz, organization President, stated, “Your service in Stephen Ministry and your work in the compassionate congregation volunteer program exemplify the love of Christ.” It will be presented to her at their Gala on May 11.

United Adult Ministries (UAM) is an older adult ministry of the Presbytery of New York City, Presbytery of Long Island, and the Regional Synod of New York, the Reformed Church in America. Flushing House, United Home Services, and United Lifeline, are all not-for-profit organizations sponsored by UAM.

MARCH 2017 SUNDAY WORSHIP, 11AM

MARCH 5

Dr. Michael B. Brown Senior Minister preaching

1st Sunday in Lent

Lenten Series: Tragedies and Triumphs

Matthew 20:17-28

MARCH 12

2nd Sunday in Lent

MARCH 26

4th Sunday in Lent

Storing Up and Missing Out Those Who Will Not See Tragic Flaws, John 9:1-12, 18-21, 24-25 Triumphant Spirits Mark 10:17-23, 26-27 MARCH 19

3rd Sunday in Lent

Miracles Missed, Wonders Welcomed Luke 10:1-11, 17

Ash Wednesday, March 1 Special Lenten Service, March 29 Cardinal Timothy Dolan preaching

Marble Matters

SHROVE TUESDAY PANCAKE SUPPER Tuesday, February 28 | 5:00-8:00pm Back by popular demand, we are pleased to announce the Second Annual Pancake Supper!

Grab your friends and family and head to the Marble Loft to enjoy pancakes flipped on the griddle by the Ministers, Staff, Elders and Deacons. We celebrate

Mardi Gras with a stack of pancakes, a little Jazz, and a lot of fun! Please join us any time between 5:00 and 8:00pm. $5.00 per person, children under 12 are free. No reservation needed. Gluten-free options available.

Lent 2017

WEWO: WEDNESDAY WORSHIP @ 6:15PM “WeWo” blends traditional and contemporary worship styles, taking the best of both. Meets in the Sanctuary on Ash Wednesday & March 29, otherwise in the Marble Loft. Holy Communion each week, except March 1 & 29. (No WeWo on April 12.)

ASH WEDNESDAY, MARCH 1 1:00pm – “Blessing the Dust” (Psalm 103) Rev. Kirsty DePree 6:15pm – “Rend Your Heart” (Joel 2:12-14) Dr. Michael B. Brown LENTEN SMALL GROUPS In Person and Online Make a Small Group part of your Lenten journey.

This year we’re offering groups using A Journey through Lent by Timothy Keller & David Bisgrove, or The Women of Easter by Liz Curtis Higgs.

A Journey through Lent • Wednesdays, March 1 – April 5 | 7:30-8:30pm • Sundays, March 5 – April 9 | 12:30-2:00pm Online Group led by Rev. Kirsty DePree • Wednesdays, March 1 – April 5 | 1:30-2:30pm The Women of Easter • Mondays, March 6 – April 19 | 6:15-7:45pm For details or to sign up, visit MarbleChurch.org, the Small Group Table during Coffee Hour, or contact Baleta McKenzie (BMcKenzie@MarbleChurch.org).

For online participants, please contact Siobhan Tull (STull@MarbleChurch.org).

CARDINAL TIMOTHY DOLAN Special Lenten Service Wednesday, March 29 6:15pm Please see page 12.

Cardinal Timothy Dolan

SISTER CAROL PERRY’S LENTEN DEVOTIONAL Would You Be My Disciples? Sister Carol’s devotional is a blessed companion to enrich your Lenten journey.

It will be available in late February at MarbleChurch.org.

Holy Week 2017 April 9 Palm/Passion Sunday EASTER LILIES Lilies are placed in the Sanctuary in honor or memory of loved ones whose names appear in the Easter Sunday Bulletin of April 16. Look for the Lily Envelope in your mailbox and in the pews in late February. Deadline to submit names will be April 2.

Contact Shana Wolfe (SWolfe@MarbleChurch.org).

April 13 Maundy Thursday April 14 Good Friday April 16 Easter Sunday

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Marble Matters

In the Marble Spotlight

THE ART OF CREATION Fridays, February 3 & 17, March 3 | 6:30-8:00pm All are invited for a living conversation on creativity and the wonder of beginnings. How do the stories of our earliest ancestors relate to our lives today? As we explore visual art and scripture, we will learn how to more fully create ourselves. Led by Rev. Chad Tanaka Pack. In the Labyrinth Room. Uses Bill Moyers’ book Genesis (used copies available to purchase). Inquiries to Chad (CTanaka@MarbleChurch.org).

SILENT MOVIE: METROPOLIS Monday, February 20 | 5:00pm The NYC American Guild of Organists invites the Marble Community to watch Metropolis, the epic 1927 sci-fi film by Fritz Lang, with a live score improvised by renowned organist Peter Krasinski on Marble’s magnificent pipe organ. Admission: $20. Purchase tickets at brownpapertickets.com/event/2822162 or at the door. Visit nycago.org for more information.

VISIONARY VOICES: A WEEKEND CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY FREDERICK DOUGLASS: AN AMERICAN PROPHET Friday, February 24 | 7:30pm Marble is proud to present Frederick Douglass: The Making of an American Prophet adapted

by Grammy-Award winning composer Marcus Hummon. This powerful play, in the form of a concert theatrical, tells the story of Douglass’ early years as a slave and his transformation into one of America’s greatest social reformers.

Bakari King stars as Frederick Douglass, along with supporting ensemble and chorus. In the Marble Sanctuary.

Admission free; offering received.

For more on Visionary Voices, please see View from the Choir Loft on the next page.

LIFT EVERY VOICE! Sunday, February 26 | 3:00pm The Marble Community Gospel Choir and Festival of Voices present this tribute to African-American composers, from classical to gospel. Advance pricing: $15; $10, seniors. At the door: $20; $15, seniors.

Purchase tickets at MarbleChurch.org.

(Note: Concert was rescheduled from February 5.)

JAZZ BRUNCH Sunday, February 26 | 12:15pm Join us for this special brunch featuring a Southern menu with music by Gary Thompson and Mario Sprouse. $12. No reservation needed. In the Marble Loft.

LUNCHTIME ORGAN RECITAL SERIES Mondays, March 6 – April 10 12:30-1:00pm Take a 30-minute break for your soul. Free admission.

WEDNESDAY MORNING PRAYERS Weekly | 11:00am-12:00pm All are invited to be still, refocus and connect with God during this midweek time of prayer led by Rev. Gregory Johnson. The format is similar to Sunday Prayer Circle, but not identical. Spread the word, especially to people who live or Rev. Gregory Johnson work around Marble. Meets in the Chapel, most Wednesdays. For those who attend 60+ Fellowship, the service concludes in time for you to attend your lunch and program.

Rev. Johnson is also available for individual prayer/family caregiving issues, 12:00-1:00pm on Wednesdays. Please contact Judy Tulin (212-6862770, ext. 207) to schedule an appointment.

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!

MARCH Sunday, March 5 | 10:30am-2:30pm Orientation with Dr. Brown and Rev. DePree Sunday, March 12 | 10:45am-1:30pm Connection Sunday, including Lunch with Staff Sunday, March 19 | 10:30am-12:15pm Reception of New Members during Worship

Marble Matters

A VIEW FROM THE CHOIR LOFT VISIONARY VOICES As the culmination to Black History Month, we will have two historic events in one weekend at Marble Collegiate Church! We begin Friday, February 24 at 7:30pm with GRAMMY award winner Marcus Hummon’s musical Frederick Douglass: The Making of an American Prophet. This powerful concert theatrical adaptation stars Bakari King and celebrates the great abolitionist and social reformer’s life. Marble had a taste of Marcus Hummon’s incredible music during Advent, but this will be the first showing of this profound masterpiece in New York City. In Hummon’s words, “People sometimes describe the quintessential American story as rags to riches – the story of a self-made man.

With Frederick Douglass we have a deeper American success story – from slave to a president’s confidante, a successful author, a celebrated orator, a statesman and social reformer. In the tradition of prophets who speak truth that transcends the time they live in, Frederick has a lot to say to us today.” Commissioned

by Christ Church Cathedral in Nashville, Frederick Douglass: The Making of An American Prophet details his early years as a slave and their relationship to his later vision. This is a “don’t miss” occasion.

Expect to be inspired and profoundly moved!

Then on Sunday, February 26 at 3:00pm the Marble Community Gospel Choir will present Lift Every Voice! under the direction of Stacy Penson. The choir will also be joined by the Festival of Voices in presenting a wide range of music

by African-American composers.

The concert will feature gospel hits by Richard Smallwood, Carl Preacher, Michael Dryver, and Mark Miller, as well as classical works by Nathaniel Dett and Adolphus Hailstork, plus spirituals in roof-raising arrangements by Moses Hogan and Glenn Burleigh.

Through this concert we want to emphasize that musical cultures can co-exist, and that musical genres transcend being defined by race. We will celebrate the true diversity of musical voices that have arisen from the African-American community over the last century.

Join us February 24 and 26 as we lift EVERY voice in celebration of those who have courageously raised theirs in the past, and in solidarity with those who continue to lead us into the future.

For ticket information, please see In the Marble Spotlight on page 4.

GRACE NOTES: Inside the Music with Kenneth Dake Every Sunday | 10:50am Join our online worshippers as Director of Music Ken Dake shares historic and theological background on the day’s choral selections, hymns, preludes and postludes. In the Sanctuary. If you miss it live, watch online when you get home.

Ken Dake

CYF CORNER THREE KINGS’ DAY The children in Ms. Oanfa and Ms. Angela’s Sunday school class celebrated Epiphany by making their own crowns.

THE CHERUB CHOIR Sunday, February 5 Hear The Cherub Choir sing during 11:00am Worship.

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Marble Matters

Honoring a Legacy, Providing a Future

By T.J. Houlihan On Sunday, November 6, 2016, the annual Peale Legacy Society Luncheon made its elegant return.

Founded in 1993, and named in honor of Dr. Norman Vincent Peale and Mrs. Ruth Stafford Peale’s legacy, the Peale Society is Marble’s meaningful expression of thanking a special group of supporters who share a vision of ensuring Marble’s historic ministry through a planned gift.

One of the ways Marble says “thank you” through the Peale Society is through this event. At this luncheon, members enjoyed drinks on the terrace, sweeping views of Marble Church and the Empire State Building, the sounds of a jazz trio, fellowship, and a delicious meal.

The Peale Society is about honoring those who support the legacy of Marble Church, so it seemed fitting to mark the occasion and honor those that promote Marble’s heritage through an annual award. One organization most worthy of receiving this inaugural award, and a constant in its support of Marble, is The Peale Foundation. Guided by Dr. and Mrs. Peale’s children and grandchildren, The Peale Foundation supports institutions and causes which Norman and Ruth valued or created during their long and useful ministry.

Maggie Peale Everett (Foundation president) and Liz Peale Allen accepted the award on behalf of The Peale Foundation. During the remarks, Liz noted the importance of not only giving and pledging to Marble now, but also the importance of our planned gifts, noting: each one of us “is important to the future of our beloved place of worship because you have chosen to provide for it sometime in the future, and that provision can provide the building blocks for generations of members, worshipers and the faithful to come.”

Liz ended by saying “There’s a warm feeling among us all today because each in his or her own way has made a deep commitment to Marble and its foundational mission. It is a feeling we will not soon forget. Let us carry it forward in the days and weeks to come as we continue to support and engage with Marble Collegiate Church.”

To learn more about how you can ensure your commitment to Marble and its ministries for generations to come, contact T.J. Houlihan (THoulihan@ MarbleChurch.org or 212-686-2770, ext.260), or visit Frequently Asked Questions at MarbleChurch.org/ Give/Remember-marble.

GIVING BACK AT MARBLE CHURCH As the 2 Corinthians verse tells us, “God loves a cheerful giver”, and at Marble Church there are many ways to cheerfully Give Back to God for all that we have received. To learn how you can make a financial gift to Marble, including gifts of stock/securities, minimum IRA distribution, matching gifts, commemorative gifts, or planned gifts such as a Will, life insurance or charitable gift annuity, contact T.J. Houlihan, Director of Giving (THoulihan@ MarbleChurch.org or ext. 260). For ways to give through your volunteer time, see Missions & Outreach on page 9.

Marble Matters

Reflections from the Editor

By Karla Fritsch I like rocks. I collected them as a child, even bought grab bags of rocks a few times at Collector & Antique Shows with my friend Ellen. It was always exciting to discover what treasures were inside. Now, one of my favorite things to do when I’m in Maine is to walk the beach and collect rocks. A lot of those rocks are in clear vases in my apartment and my office. In addition, I’ve singled out some special rocks for places of honor, including my collection of heart-shaped rocks.

My rocks have had me thinking a lot about love. Of course love is something good to think about any time, but especially with all the craziness swirling around us these days. I can’t help but think of the song, “What the world needs now is love sweet love, it’s the only thing that there’s just too little of.”

It certainly seems like there’s too little of it. However, if we really look, there’s more than enough love, it’s just we humans forget to tap into it and share it with others, as well as ourselves. Sometimes it’s hard to figure out how to put that love in action in a way that matters. There are so many things that love can help heal, yet the size and quantity of the issues can be overwhelming.

I think it’s good to remember that sometimes the simplest acts carry waves and waves of love—like the waves that over time can grind rocks into heartshapes. My sister Kristi gave me a wonderful example of love in action a few months ago. She was visiting NYC and one day I noticed she was washing my vases of rocks! She knew what they meant to me. I felt seen, known, and so loved. I was blown away by her act and how deeply I felt the love in it. I still feel the ripples of energy in her gift.

Of course, any kind interaction is also a gift of love. It may seem too simple with the huge problems facing us, but those small things, when experienced regularly, can act like the pebbles on the beach that smooth out the sharp edges on jagged rocks. Recently, I was walking to the subway on a Monday morning when I was passed by a mother pushing her daughter in a stroller. The little girl was maybe a year old and was busy eating Cheerios. As they moved out in front of me I smiled at the girl. As she smiled back her mother seemed delighted yet a bit surprised, and stopped and turned around to see who her daughter was smiling at. The mom and I smiled at each other and she asked the girl if she wanted to say hi. The girl smiled even bigger and gave me a little wave.

I smiled and waved back. The mother and I smiled even more at each other and I told her that made my day.

What I didn’t tell her was at the very moment that little girl first smiled at me, I was saying my morning prayer for my two great nieces, Ivy and Leilani. All of a sudden it felt like they were right there with me instead of being 1000 miles away. The entire block felt filled with love and the troubling news of the world melted away. Any time I choose to remember, those ripples of love continue to help melt away worry and helplessness.

Those acts of kindness are not only about managing our own thinking and emotions. When we humans plug in to the energy of those small interactions that help an individual feel seen and valued, that is the kind of power that can create positive change throughout the world.

Of course, the most important power to connect with is that Rock of Love, God. The most magnificent heart-shaped Rock we could ever imagine. May we all feel the warmth of God’s powerful Love as if we’re holding that Rock of Love in our hands and hearts at all times. Share it.

MAY WE PRAY FOR YOU? The Marble Prayer Ministry — To ask for prayer, or share feedback use a Prayer Request card found in the pews or stop by the Prayer Room (off the 29th St lobby) after Sunday Worship. Members of the Prayer Ministry Team spend a minimum of two weeks in prayer over each request.

The Prayer Circle — Every Sunday at 10:00am, Rev. Gregory Johnson leads participants in prayer. To have your prayer request included, please call Judy Tulin by Friday noon. Names are prayed over for one month.

Online — MarbleChurch.org, click on blue box at bottom of homepage.

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Karla Fritsch Publications Manager

Spiritual Growth and Education

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Bible Study with Sister Carol Perry SUNDAYS AT 10AM JOSEPH OF EGYPT February 5, 12, 19 & 26 Son and grandson of patriarchs, Joseph comes to us as one who could have been a victim since he is kidnapped, enslaved and imprisoned before his tide turns. Who is this amazing young man who is chosen to save his people? Let’s find out.

Sr. Carol Perry Bible Scholar

JESUS: BUILDER, PUZZLER, INNOVATOR March 5, 12, 19 & 16; 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.

A reminder for Sr. Carol’s online students, ask your questions! Click on the blue “Send a Question” button on the live streaming page. We would love to hear from you!

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. Meets most Tuesdays.

GOD SAID: LET ME MAKE A PEOPLE February 7, 14, 21 & 28; March 7, 14, 21 & 28 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.

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 February 7 & 21; March 7 & 21 Staff for this Issue: EDITORS:

Karla Fritsch Catherine Ortiz PHOTOS:

Dave Cross Jay Johnson Jessica Scovel Karla Fritsch GRAPHIC DESIGN:

Beth Player-DiCicco

THURSDAYS AT ST. BART’S February 9 & 23; March 9 & 23 St. Bartholomew’s Church, 325 Park Ave (at 51st St). Enter through Park Ave doors and proceed to the Welcome Center, directly behind the chancel to the right.

Prayer Circle SUNDAYS AT 10AM This informal gathering centers on singing and prayer for individual and communal concerns. All are welcome! Led by Rev. Gregory Johnson. Meets every Sunday.

Rev. Gregory Johnson Holy Communion celebrated most Sundays.

Connect with Prayer Circle via video conference. On the last Sunday of the month, you can now join Prayer Circle from anywhere around the world!

For more details and to sign up for the special link, contact Siobhan Tull (STull@MarbleChurch.org).

Wednesday Morning Prayers WEDNESDAYS AT 11AM Led by Rev. Gregory Johnson. See page 4 for information.

Lenten Small Groups

Please see page 3 for information on this year’s groups.

Dr. Michael Brown’s Online Inspirations

Practical Faith with Dr. Michael Brown podcast offers a steady, inspiring voice on relevant topics, issues that need light shined upon them and deeper questions about faith and real life struggles. Listen or download at MarbleChurch.org/connect/podcast or subscribe at iTunes.

Soul Purpose videos are a fun way to feed your soul. Visit MarbleChurch.org/worship/inspiration or YouTube to view at your convenience.

MORE OPPORTUNITIES FOR SPIRITUAL GROWTH CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP First Saturday of Month | 1:00-3:00pm Rev. Marion Gambardella offers guidance and spiritual support to caregivers. Learn how to provide better care to loved ones while protecting your own health and well-being. Please contact Rev. Gambardella (magambardella@yahoo.com) or Judy Tulin (JTulin@MarbleChurch.org).

Missons and Outreach: Opportunities to Serve 99

In the Action Spotlight

WINTER GARMENTS AND CHILDREN’S BOOK DRIVE Through February 19 Marble’s CYF and Action Team are collecting much needed new and gently used coats, hats, gloves, as well as children’s books, for Icahn House mothers and children. Leave items at Action Table or Reception.

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY PARTNERSHIP Marble Build Days – February 4 & March 11 Our partnership includes building four different houses over the next four years and establishing an ongoing relationship with each of the families who will live here. To sign up for our upcoming build days, visit MarbleChurch.org/Give/Habitatforhumanity for information, including the Habitat for Humanity NYC Fact Sheet, or contact Susanah Wade (SWade@ MarbleChurch.org) or Tom Schneider (TSchneider@ MarbleChurch.org)

ANNUAL DRIVE FOR DIGNITY March 5 - April 9 Please donate new boxers, briefs, bras, t-shirts, tank tops, socks and feminine hygiene products for homeless adults living in shelters. Bring to the Action Volunteer Table after Sunday Worship.

Monetary donations also welcome; make checks payable to Marble Collegiate Church, write “Drive for Dignity” in memo section, mail to attention of Tom Schneider or place in offering plate. For more information, please contact Tom, TSchneider@ 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, February 12 & March 12 — Volunteers are needed to help prepare 50 lunches, 10:00-10:30am, for Ecclesia Ministry (an open-air worshipping congregation for the homeless in Madison Square Park). We also need others to transport the lunches and host the service which begins at 2:00pm; meet in front of 276 Fifth Ave at 1:30pm. iMentor — Get involved with this organization that matches high school students with a collegeeducated mentor, equipped to guide that young person on their journey to college graduation.

Marble Fights Hunger — Please support our continuous food drive by donating non-perishables.

Food is given to Icahn House shelter program. Leave donations at the 29th Street Reception area, the Fifth Ave Narthex or the Marble Loft.

Congregational Care Prayer Shawl Ministry — Knit or crochet prayer shawls as gifts to members who are ill or homebound. Gather in Peale Parlor on 1st and 3rd Mondays, 4:00-5:00pm, for prayer and creating together. All levels welcome. Materials provided. Contact Judy Tulin (JTulin@MarbleChurch.org).

Donate Metrocards for LGBTQ Youth in Crisis served by “The Church” at St. Luke in the Fields, a partner in mission with our GIFTS Fellowship.

Metrocards should contain at least one full fare.

Used Eyeglasses — Donate used glasses and sunglasses which are given to The Lion’s Club who recycles the glasses and distributes them in developing countries.

Marble Coffee Pourers — If you’d like to volunteer one Sunday a month to serve during Coffee Hour after Worship, please contact Kim Sebastian Ryan (KRyan@MarbleChurch.org).

MarbleVision Team — If you’re interested in helping with Marble’s Media Ministry, contact Siobhan Tull (STull@MarbleChurch.org).

WeWo Visuals Ministry — If you’d like to volunteer to help with the projected visuals during Worship, approximately one Wednesday a month, contact Korland Simmons (KSimmons@ MarbleChurch.org).

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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

Join us for a dinner & discussion Positive Faith in Difficult Times, on Tuesday, March 21.

Mark your calendars now for our Spring Retreat, May 5-7. Contact Colleen Cosgrove (CCosgrove@ MarbleChurch.org).

Connection (20s&30s)

To connect with us, contact Chad Tanaka Pack (CTanaka@MarbleChurch.org).

Entrepreneurs

Contact Gayle Robinson (GRobinson@ 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 Mardi Gras celebration on February 22. Contact Colleen Cosgrove (CCosgrove@MarbleChurch.org).

Women’s Ministry

Join us for two of our most popular annual events, Spa Day for the (Heart +) Soul on Saturday, February 11, and our Retreat, March 31-April 2. For details, check website or contact Don Piper (DPiper@ MarbleChurch.org).

Our Coffee Hours will be after Worship on Sunday, February 19 and Wednesday, March 15. Sign up

by February 15 for our Retreat, Salt and Light: Taste and See That God Is Good, March 4-5. See calendar and website for details. Contact Chad Tanaka Pack or Don Piper at GIFTS@MarbleChurch.org.

Calendar of Events EACH SUNDAY Live Sermon Talk Back with Dr. Michael Brown For more details, 12:15pm to register, or for the Join us in the Sanctuary after Worship as we full listing of all our discuss Dr. Brown’s sermon and he answers your programming, please visit questions about faith & theology. Hosted by Mario MarbleChurch.org Sprouse. To submit questions, use the Talk Back card or stop by the Welcome in the pews or email: Connect@MarbleChurch.org.

Center after Worship EACH TUESDAY during Coffee Hour.

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. Please note, will not meet on February 28 and March 7.

Calendar of Events

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.

Dr. Michael Brown and Mario Sprouse

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 Harriot with a praise vocal ensemble and band. Meets in the Marble Loft.

(Meets in the Sanctuary on Ash Wednesday, March 1, and March 29.)

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, FEBRUARY 1 60+ Fellowship Lunch & Program | 12:00pm Soup and salad ($7), followed by program at 1:00pm: The Living History Program – People of the Past. The Mount Vernon Hotel Museum transports us back to early 19th-century New York City with character reenactments of the era.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 8 60+ Fellowship Lunch & Program | 12:00pm Soup and salad ($7), followed by program at 1:00pm: world-class pianist from Manhattan School of Music.

Calendar of Events

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 11 Women’s Annual Spa Day for the (Heart +) Soul 9:30am-2:00pm The Many Facets of Love. Pamper your soul and feel the warmth of God’s love. $30; $25, seniors/students; includes light breakfast, lunch and materials.

Childcare available. Register by Tuesday, February 7, at MarbleChurch.org, Sundays during Coffee Hour, or contact Don Piper (DPiper@MarbleChurch.org).

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 15 60+ Fellowship Lunch & Program | 12:00pm Soup and salad ($7), followed by program at 1:00pm: A nutritionist gives helpful insights on how to stay healthy and meet your age-related nutritional needs while being active New Yorkers.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 19 GIFTS: LGBTQ Coffee Hour | 12:15pm All welcome for this time of fellowship after Worship. Labyrinth Room.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 8 60+ Fellowship Lunch & Program | 12:00pm Soup and salad ($7), followed by program at 1:00pm: Sr. Carol Perry blesses us with a Lenten lessons and perspectives.

SUNDAY, MARCH 12 Daylight Saving Time Begins Please remember to set clocks ahead one hour on Saturday night.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 15 60+ Fellowship Lunch & Program | 12:00pm St. Patrick’s Day Buffet ($12 Fellowship members; $15 guests), followed by program at 1:00pm the New York Irish Reelers.

GIFTS: LGBTQ Coffee Hour | 7:15-8:30pm All welcome for this time of fellowship after WeWo: Wednesday Worship. Labyrinth Room.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 22 60+ Fellowship Lunch & Program | 12:00pm Mardi Gras Celebration ($12 Fellowship members; $15 guests), followed by program at 1:00pm: The Banjo Rascals perform a lively Dixieland show.

TUESDAY, MARCH 21 Adult Ministry Dinner & Discussion | 5:30-8:00pm Positive Faith in Difficult Times. When the world seems awash with troubles, how can a positive faith practice see us through difficulties imagined and real?

All welcome! $18, dinner & program; $10, program only. Register online.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 26 Jazz Brunch | 12:15pm Before you attend the Lift Every Voice concert, join us for this time of fellowship, good food, and live music with Gary Thompson and Mario Sprouse. $12. No reservation needed. In the Marble Loft.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 22 60+ Fellowship Lunch & Program | 12:00pm Soup and salad ($7), followed by program at 1:00pm: Alice Crespo, visually-impaired, shares inspiration from her life and book, Never Be Discouraged: With God, All Things Are Possible.

Gary Thompson

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 1 60+ Fellowship Lunch & Program | 12:00pm Soup and salad ($7), in the Marble Loft, followed by Ash Wednesday Worship at 1:00pm in the Sanctuary. Rev. Kirsty DePree preaching.

SATURDAY, MARCH 4 & SUNDAY, MARCH 5 GIFTS: LGBTQ Fellowship Retreat Salt and Light: Taste and See That God Is Good.

Led by Rev. Chad Tanaka Pack and Rev. Dr. Tricia Sheffield. At Stony Point Center, Stony Point, NY. For more details and to register, visit MarbleChurch.org.

Please register by February 15.

Rev. Dr. Tricia Sheffield

Rev. Chad Tanaka Pack

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.

SAVE THE DATE WEEKEND, MAY 5 – 7 Adult Ministry Retreat We further explore this year’s church theme, Positive Faith, Practical Living. At St. Marguerite’s Retreat House in Mendham, NJ. Stay tuned to website for details.

SUNDAY, MARCH 26 Monthly Brunch | 12:15pm Join us for this time of fellowship and good food, with live music. $12. No reservation needed. In the Marble Loft.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 29 60+ Fellowship Lunch & Program | 12:00pm Soup and salad ($7), followed by movie at 12:30pm: War Room. Popcorn provided.

WEEKEND, MARCH 31 – APRIL 2 Annual Women’s Retreat Rev. Kirsty DePree and our retreat facilitators will be exploring the legacy of our stories of faith.

At America’s Keswick Retreat Center in Whiting, NJ. For more details, visit MarbleChurch.org, the Women’s Table Sundays during Coffee Hour, or contact Don Piper (DPiper@MarbleChurch.org).

Register by Wednesday, March 15.

11

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) Sermon Podcasts: Subscribe at MarbleChurch.org.

MARBLE ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Touchpoint: February/March 2017

VISIONARY VOICES: A WEEKEND CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY FREDERICK DOUGLASS: AN AMERICAN PROPHET Friday, February 24 | 7:00pm NYC premiere of this concert theatrical adapted by Grammy Award winning composer Marcus Hummon.

LIFT EVERY VOICE! Sunday, February 26 | 3:00pm An inspiring concert with The Marble Community Gospel Choir, directed by Stacy Penson, and Festival of Voices, directed by Kenneth Dake.

Please see pages 4 & 5 for details.

FEB /MAR ‘17

SHROVE TUESDAY PANCAKE SUPPER Tuesday, February 28 | 5:00-8:00pm Celebrate the last day before Lent with a good old-fashioned Pancake Supper! These “Tuesday before Lent celebrations” go back centuries and are a day of feasting before we begin a period of fasting. Join us in this tradition of Shrove Tuesday for delicious pancakes – flipped on the griddle by the Ministers and Staff – along with bacon, sausage and fruit. Gluten-free options will be provided. All are welcome, including families, (but childcare available if needed) for this evening of fun, food and fellowship!

TOUCHPOINT The Marble Magazine One West 29th Street, New York, New York 10001-4596 ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

CARDINAL TIMOTHY DOLAN Special Lenten Service Wednesday, March 29 | 6:15pm Join us for this very special, historic Worship in the Marble Sanctuary when Cardinal Timothy Dolan, the Roman Catholic Archbishop of NY, preaches in the oldest Protestant church in America!

Cardinal Timothy Dolan

THE LAST WORD It makes no difference how deeply seated may be the trouble, how hopeless the outlook, how muddled the tangle, how great the mistake. A sufficient realization of love will dissolve it all. — Emmet Fox

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