TOUCHPOINT The Marble Magazine One West 29th Street, New York, NY 10001-4596 212-686-2770 MarbleChurch.org
The Francis Factor
I write this the day after Pope Francis completed his whirlwind (and highly consequential) tour of Cuba, Washington DC, New York City, and Philadelphia. I have no idea how he maintained the schedule he had while here. In about two weeks’ time, he honored twenty-eight speaking engagements, numerous meetings, tours of schools and helping agencies, etc. Throughout it all, there were certain themes that emerged which we hope will stay with us, even now that he has returned to The Vatican. We hope there will be what the press is calling “the Francis factor,” the lingering of the message even after the messenger has left town.
Many of us clergy in NYC were interviewed by various news outlets in the past couple weeks. Most, I suspect, were asked a question that was frequently posed to me: “What was your primary impression of the man?” My answer was: “My primary impression was that the essence of Pope Francis is unqualified kindness.” That is a sacred attribute, probably closer to the biblical virtue of agape than any other quality at all. And that is what he asked of us, that we deal kindly with one another. That is what he asked of our political leaders when he addressed Congress, and of our world leaders when he addressed The U.N., and of religious leaders when he addressed us Dr. Michael Brown – that we become peacemakers by extendOne of the Pope’s central themes was that ing kindness to each other, by practicing what we preach: we should take seriously what Jesus said in The Beatitudes: “Do unto others what you would have them do unto you.” “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called chilHe applied the message in myriad ways: how we deal with dren of God.” (Matthew 5:9, NIV) the poor, how we deal with children, how we deal with the I was privileged to be part of a service the Pope led for planet, how we deal with the vulnerable, etc. But at the end inner-religious leaders at the 9/11 Memorial Site. He spoke of the day, his message was that we make peace by practicabout peacemaking. He did not speak of the dream for peace ing kindness. At the 9/11 Site, the service concluded with a but rather of the necessity for peace, not about longing for it large youth choir from our city singing beautifully: “Let there to be a reality but rather about working to make it a reality. be peace on earth, and let it begin with me.” That’s where it He talked of how that place, so long a symbol of national all begins, isn’t it? It begins with our commitments, one by pain, could become one, to make peace by treating others with kindness. a platform for global It’s not long till Advent. In fact, the season begins at the peace. He reminded us end of November. It is a time of praying, longing, and waitof what we all knew – ing for the arrival of One the Bible calls “Prince of Peace.” that in the holy books (Isaiah 9:6) Perhaps the most appropriate way to make of all the world’s great room for Him in the inns and stables of our hearts is to work religions we find the for peace in the world, the halls of Congress, the city, the same verse: “Do unto neighborhood, the religious institutions, the home, and in our others what you would personal relationships. And it all begins with a commitment have them do unto you.” to honor the words of scripture: “Be ye kind one to There we sat, repreanother ….” (Ephesians 4:32) sentatives of all faiths, challenged by the most visible religious leader on the planet to live up to what we profess to believe.
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015 SUNDAY WORSHIP, 11AM
OCTOBER 4
OCTOBER 18
Dr. Michael B. Brown Senior Minister preaching
Love Is Being Fed
The Stairway
World Communion Sunday
Luke 15:11-17, 20-24
Organ Dedication
Every Week
Psalm 95:1-6
OCTOBER 11
OCTOBER 25
Hebrews 4:12-16
Job 42:1-6, 10-17 Chad Tanaka Pack preaching
A Christ Who Understands, a Church That Cares
WEDNESDAY WORSHIP 6:15PM
Happily Ever After
JAZZ REVELATION 5:00 PM Sundays
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Marble Matters
Re / M A R K /s
Dr. R. Mark King Executive Minister
By Dr. R. Mark King Is Marble a teaching church? Teaching churches have several characteristics. First, they encourage, even challenge people to grow in spiritual maturation and wisdom. Growth can also occur in relationships, biblical understanding, social justice issues, global awareness and life principles. Growth can be daunting and edge out, even conflict with our past learnings and experiences. It may not be easy, but if we don’t grow, we are stagnant. One of Marble’s values focuses on growth which is pivotal to our faithfulness. Secondly, teaching churches focus on discipleship. At Marble, discipleship, education and spiritual formation are integral to making Christian living effective. Both our vision and our mission statements attest to the needs and opportunities for Christian learning experiences and spiritual development for everyone. We aspire to be a discipling community of faith. Thirdly, teaching churches offer a myriad of learning opportunities. Our hope is that the teaching ministry of Marble provides for transforming people into maturing followers of Jesus Christ. At Marble, we believe more in transformational learning as opposed to just informational learning. By transformational, we mean holistic experiences from a variety of sources. These include empirical understandings, reflective exploration and discussion, intuitive perceptions and revelation. Furthermore, learning is lifelong—an ongoing venture where the journey is just as important as the destination. These are just a few of Marble’s offerings related to teaching: A. Sister Carol Bible Study – Each Sunday during the program year, Sister Carol leads the 10:00am Bible Study that lifts up the Holy Scriptures to powerful understandings. She also teaches in other opportunities during the week. B. Small Study Groups – Groups that are continuous in nature or short term, typically built around a theme of the Christian faith, a book or the Bible. We are in the process of also offering virtual groups. C. Sunday School for CYF – The Children, Youth and Families Ministry seeks to inspire these special
age groups to develop a loving relationship with God, Jesus Christ and one another through creative and age-appropriate learning about the Bible, studying our shared Christian history, service and outreach to others and fellowship. D. A Word for the Journey – New for Fall 2015, Adult Sunday School for CYF parents and other adults to understand the context and content of biblical texts with connection to relevance and application. E. The Colloquium – Symposium style series that brings outstanding scholars from theological and ecclesiastical academia to offer presentations on current and yet provocative topics stimulating to a modern church in Marble’s unique urban setting. F. The Bible for Today – Dr. Michael Brown’s video series released at various times during the year that shares intuitive insight into selected biblical texts for both enlightenment and inspiration. G. Imagine & Ignite Spiritual Growth – Seminars and forums that tackle pertinent topics for Christians to learn and grow spiritually. At Marble, I&ISG will often be associated with key relationships and applicable dynamics for harmony within our walls and beyond. H. Summer Spirituality – From mid-June through August, during the 10:00am hour, SS is a holistic series on some topic of the Christian faith led by staff and guest speakers. I. Disciple U – Still in its formative stages, Disciple U will be an intensive approach to Christian spiritual formation and growth that begins with foundational building blocks of the faith and migrates toward a more thorough comprehension of Theology, Mission and Leadership. Five sequential blocks will be offered: 1) Beginning – questions for the Christian faith journey; 2) Belonging – understanding and applying spiritual gifts and fruit; 3) Learning – a survey of the Old and New Testaments; 4) Serving – applying Christian theology and ethics to church mission; 5) Leading – participating in the Academy of Christian Leadership.
NOVEMBER 2015 SUNDAY WORSHIP, 11AM Dr. Michael B. Brown Senior Minister preaching
NOVEMBER 1 All Saints Sunday
“In Memory Of”
Mark 14:3-9 Dr. R. Mark King preaching
NOVEMBER 8
Jet Lag Notwithstanding Matthew 19:13-15
NOVEMBER 15
He Who Has Promised Is Faithful Hebrews 10:19-25
NOVEMBER 22 Christ the King/Commitment Sunday
Dr. Luke A. Powery Dean, Duke University Chapel
NOVEMBER 29 First Sunday in Advent
Jeremiah’s Christmas List Jeremiah 33:14-16
Marble Matters
THE “LOVE IS...” WALL Love Is... so deep a theme that we will explore it all year and still barely scratch the surface. But, in simple terms, of this much we can be sure: Love is the nature of God AND the purpose of humans. — Dr. Michael Brown
In the interest of exploration and engagement with our theme, we invite you to add to our “Love Is…” Wall, which is an installation in the Marble Loft where members of the Marble Community write their own reflections of what “Love Is…” on colorful tags that hang on the wall. For our online community or those who can’t get to Marble, you can participate by going to MarbleChurch.org/Connect/Livestreaming and use the “Send a Question” button. Together we are creating a new mosaic of love!
In the Marble Spotlight
OPEN HOUSE NEW YORK Saturday, October 17 | 12:00-4:00pm Sunday, October 18 | 1:00-3:00pm Marble is excited to once again open our doors as a part of Open House New York (ohny.org), a celebration of architecture and the city. Invite your friends and neighbors! This is an opportunity to share Marble’s rich history. Explore the Sanctuary, discover the stories behind our beautiful stained glass windows, learn more about the Labyrinth Room and Chapel. Marble is definitely a treasure worth exploring. Self-guided or docent led tours will be available. For some fun, take the quiz on page 7 for a chance to win a prize!
PIPE ORGAN DEDICATION Sunday, October 18 Come hear history in the making as we celebrate Marble’s new 101-rank Glück Pipe Organ! For the first time in over four years the sound of a pipe organ will be heard in the Sanctuary during Worship. Designed and voiced by Sebastian Glück, our new pipe organ encircles the listener in a manner both heard and felt. Don’t miss this historic day. 11:00am – Special Dedication during Worship 12:25-1:00pm – Short Talk and Demonstration Sebastian Glück explains and Ken Dake demonstrates the sounds. This “aural tour” will show off the colors of its 6000+ pipes. Afterwards, you will be able to look inside the newly built organ chambers. INAUGURAL CONCERT BY KEN COWAN Tuesday, October 27 | 7:30pm We present our new pipe organ in concert for the very first time with one of North America’s finest concert organists, Ken Cowan. Praised by audiences and critics alike for his dazzling artistry, impeccable technique and imaginative programming, Ken maintains a rigorous performing schedule which takes him to major concert venues in America, Canada, Europe, and Asia. (OrganistKenCowan.com) Tickets: $20; $15 students & seniors, purchase in advance at MarbleChurch.org or at the door. Our inaugural series continues: • Thursday, March 10, 7:30pm – Richard Elliott. The renowned Principal Organist for The Mormon Tabernacle Choir. • Friday, April 29, 7:30pm – Pipes and Voices featuring Diane Bish. Known as The First Lady of the Organ, Diane Bish is the most visible and influential concert organist performing today. She will appear in concert with The Marble Choir and Festival of Voices.
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Ken Cowan October 27 Concert
SAVE THE DATE LOVE DIVINE Sunday, December 6 | 2:30pm Encounter the mystery of this sacred season. The Marble Choir, Festival of Voices, and Chamber Orchestra, directed by Kenneth Dake. 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! HOMECOMING IS NOW ON NOVEMBER 22! To accommodate the final touches on the installation of our beautiful new pipe organ, our Homecoming Celebration will be moving from Sunday, October 11 to November 22. Please see the next page for all the events on this wonderful Marble day. Homecoming 2014
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Marble Matters
SUNDAY NOVEMBER 22 Join us for this Sunday full of special events! Make a day of it and bring friends and family. The Colloquium & Prayer Circle - 10:00am Please see page 8 for details. Worship - 11:00am We welcome special guest preacher Dr. Luke A. Powery, Dean of the Duke University Chapel, on this Stewardship/Commitment Sunday.
Thanksgiving Brunch - 12:15pm Join us as we give thanks for our unique and diverse faith community with a bountiful Thanksgiving feast in the Marble Loft. $20, adults; $10, children. No reservation needed, but limited seating. Homecoming - 1:30pm Our Homecoming Celebration ends the day as our Staff, Ministers and Board Members unveil some of their hidden talents in a grand and fun variety show. You won’t want to miss it! (No charge.)
CYF CORNER FAMILY WORSHIP Sundays, October 4 & November 29 | 10:00am See the Calendar of Events on page 11. HALLOWEEN COSTUME PARTY Saturday, October 31 | 12:00-3:00pm Join the CYF for a spooky day of fun, food, and prizes—for the first time in a long time on October 31! Children and adults are encouraged to dress in costume. Prizes will be given for a variety of costume types! $10 per person; family discounts available. To register, contact Brian Hampton (BHampton@MarbleChurch.org).
Jayla Figueroa, age 6 “On the beach in Barbados.”
Marissa Leanna Joseph, age 6 “At church.”
CYF ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL Begins October 11. See page 9. WHERE WAS GOD THIS SUMMER? On the first day of Sunday School, the children were asked to draw where they saw God this summer. At right are a few of their drawings:
Altar of Remembrance
T.J. Houlihan Director of Individual and Planned Giving
CYF Costume Party
By T.J. Houlihan Throughout history, cultures have honored and remembered their faithful departed in different ways. To this day, ancestor veneration occurs throughout the world, with many emphasizing the connection between the living and their ancestors. Buddhists prepare food, incense, and paper lanterns to engage with the spirits of their ancestors. During Yom Kippur, Jews say prayers and fast in honor of their ancestors. Muslims visit the graves of their parents and finish meritorious acts that they may have left incomplete. From the very earliest days of the Christian Church, we have also remembered our holy dead. During persecution under the Roman emperors, Christians gathered in underground catacombs in relative safety, surrounded by the physical remains of martyrs. Today, one of the most well-known and popular remembrances is that of Mexico through the Day of the Dead or “Dia de Muertos.” Traditionally, families build
Jackson Begin, age 8 “Climbing the Flatiron with me.”
“ofrendas”— altars or small shrines in their home— which feature crosses, statues, religious pictures, and photos of deceased relatives. Families visit cemeteries where their loved ones are laid to rest and erect these altars on or at the gravesite. They spend time around it, praying and telling stories, and leave flowers and even foods that they once enjoyed in life. At Marble, we also have a rich history of remembering those we love who have gone before us—our “saints”— the people who made a difference not only in our lives, but in the life of Marble. This year, the Peale Society, Women’s and Adult Ministries invite you to experience a new tradition by bringing a photo of a loved one to decorate our Altar of Remembrance. The Altar will be located in the Marble Chapel, next to the Labyrinth Room, from October 11 through November 8. Photos may be of anyone—people you loved greatly or, perhaps someone whom you didn’t know well but want to honor by lifting up—this is an opportunity to reflect on them and their stories. (To return your photo, please write
Marble Matters
your name and address clearly on the back. They will be available at Marble Reception for pickup beginning November 9. If photos are particularly sentimental or delicate, photocopies are strongly encouraged.) In Paul’s letter to the Philippians, he writes: “To all the saints in Christ Jesus who are in Philippi… I thank my God every time I remember you.” Our Altar, Communion with Our Saints Dinner (see
Hallowtide article that follows) and, All Saints Sunday are all opportunities for us as a community of faith to honor our loved ones who have gone before, and thank God for their lives. While these are unique and unfamiliar, we hope you will take part in them all and remember our “saints” alongside each other.
Hallowtide
Saints Dinner on Thursday, October 29. Beloved guest “Saints” from our past will be in attendance once again for our evening together, as well as you, our present-day ‘saintly’ sisters and brothers. We will seek to focus our understanding of their contribution to our lives through the lens of the Transformational Power of Grace recieved with Love. Please come, break bread, and share in the stories that honor those who have served to guide and support our spiritual needs and longings and have led us to be “saints” for others through God’s Loving Grace.
By Susan Phillips The period of Hallowtide encompasses All Hallow’s Eve, All Saints’ Day, and All Souls’ Day. As a single holy season, they are days for prayer, contemplation, and sharing of communion about those that came before us who have inspired and supported our lives and our spiritual journeys. Their guidance also prods us to look at how our past affects our present and encourages us to be “saints” to others in the future. In the Fall of 2014, Marble’s Women’s Ministry presented a celebration and memorial event during the Hallowtide season. We honored our church’s “saints”, Drs. Norman Vincent Peale, Arthur Caliandro, and Florence Pert, and our dear sister Clarice Simpson, through video selections and the spoken word. The focus was on Hope. Then we shared our own stories with one another about these and other beloved souls in our lives that had uplifted, supported, and nurtured us along our spiritual paths and had given us the hope that we had needed and desired. By listening to the recorded words of our beloved spiritual leaders who had passed on, the Women’s Ministry planning team had a goal of reminding our church members of the gift we had all shared. We hoped that, by capturing memories of such prominent figures, we would also spark personal memories of other loving and uplifting people in their lives. In addition, we wanted to introduce these spiritual guides to those who had only heard about them. The team was moved to see that this remembrance of the “saints” in our lives was all we had hoped it would be. The response was inspiring and our focus upon God-given Hope seemed to be moving actively among us. We felt that we were all truly pausing in our lives to recognize and honor some of the wonderful people who led and continue to lead us to be open to God’s loving guidance through his angels here on earth. The entire Marble Community is invited to join the Marble Women’s and Adult Ministries, and the Peale Society for this year’s A Communion with Our
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Susan Phillips
Hallowtide Event 2014
During Hallowtide we also invite everyone to bring a photo of a loved one to place on a special Altar of Remembrance; see previous article for details. Trick or Treat for UNICEF will again be our outreach effort to support the world’s children who struggle with hunger, illness, and the need for life’s basic necessities. This is a wonderful opportunity for us to show our Love through the Grace of Giving.
Marble Matters
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Reflections from the Editor
Karla Fritsch Publications Manager
Robert Romagnoli
By Karla Fritsch With Halloween around the corner, I’ve been thinking about masks, especially since this year I’ll be hanging out in a neighborhood that I’ve been told takes trick-or-treating seriously. I want to create a fun mask to wear inspired by one I experienced maybe 20 years ago. I was celebrating Halloween with a group of my closest friends. No one was in costume, yet the artist among us had brought a beautiful mask she created and we took turns putting it on. It was fascinating how it made these friends seem like different people. I think most humans wear masks from time to time. Although one of my aims in life is to be authentically me in all situations, there are definitely moments when I’ve put on masks. Years ago I put on a happy face trying to cover up the darkness of depression that I was battling. Sometimes I wondered if something happened to me would people comment, “We didn’t know anything was wrong.” That wasn’t really a healthy mask to be wearing. However, there were times that putting on that happy face was actually beneficial. I could act “as if” and sometimes that would spill over and I’d start feeling better. There are other positive “mind over matter” masks – like when we’re not feeling well yet have a lot of work to do or are fighting off nerves when speaking at a meeting or performing on stage. Or when we’re in different environments we show different sides of ourselves – perhaps playing one role at work and another with family.
God definitely sees behind whatever masks we wear and certainly understands the reasons. On the journey of authenticity, it’s important for each of us to explore and be aware of any masks we may use, and why. One mask we really ought to wear is the mask of God. That actually isn’t a mask – it’s more like a façade – it’s what we show the world, yet it’s attached to the deepest core of who we are. In his cover article Dr. Brown mentioned the multi-faith service with Pope Francis at the 9/11 Museum. I watched on TV and saw a multitude of God’s faces. I was inspired to see so many faiths represented and diversity at its best shone through for me when I watched the youth choir. There was this wonderful mosaic of humanity – and God’s light was shining through each of them. It gave me hope that all of us can let God’s light blend with our own unique light, so we can be the authentic, beautiful beings of love and peace that God created us to be. Then we can save the masks for Halloween.
Marble Tours
I feel very privileged to have the opportunity to lead tours like these. I’ve met people from all over the world, and I’m always so excited to share our beloved church home with visitors. I receive so much more than I could ever give.
By Robert Romagnoli One of my favorite volunteer opportunities at Marble is leading tours. When special groups visit the church (such as these fine folks from Prairie Ridge Church, an RCA church in Ankeny, Iowa), I take them around our beautiful Sanctuary and new Concourse, telling them about our history, architecture, stained glass windows, Labyrinth, etc. Since the church is usually empty during these tours, I also try to “paint a picture” of Marble’s worship services and the vibrant life of our community: our spectacular music, superb preaching, and our diverse, loving congregation. These young people come from Iowa every summer to help rebuild an ailing church in Hell’s Kitchen. They perform very hard work over long hours, and are a true blessing to our city. I thanked them all on your behalf. I was so glad they could spare some time to see our church.
Prairie Ridge Group, Ankeny, Iowa
Marble Matters
Celebrating 35 Years with Sister Carol
In celebration of 35 years of “The Longest Running Underground Bible Study”, as Sr. Carol calls it, here are some reflections from just a few of her students…
I have been privileged to have sat in Sr. Carol’s Bible classes for 30 of the 35 years that she has been our nun in the basement. In every class Sr. Carol teaches, she brings the Bible alive—as it was in Christ’s time. Each and every Sunday, and during weekday classes, we come away feeling as if we have been eye-witnesses to Christ’s life and teachings. Sr. Carol brings to life the Bible’s many characters—so much so, that we feel “we are there.” — Dieter Killinger
Do We Get Questions!
Visitors to Marble Church during special tours and Open House New York ask our expert Tour Guides some challenging questions. Here are some of the most common queries we have fielded from our guests over the years. How many would you be able to answer correctly? Submit your answers to Kim Sebastian-Ryan (KRyan@MarbleChurch.org) by November 22 and the person with the most correct answers will win two tickets to this year’s Advent Concert on December 6. (One entry per person.) 1. How often do you ring the bell? 2. Is Dr. Peale buried here?
Sister Carol! What a life changer. A scholar, an imparter of good sense and solid Biblical knowledge, a mystery buff, a Downton Abbey fan, a Homecoming good sport, an intrepid early morning bus taker, and our highly respected, valued, and much loved dear teacher. We are grateful beyond words to have had the blessing of “the nun in the basement” all these years! — Cindy Hoxie Sister Carol’s Tuesday night Bible Study has been a priority on my calendar for years. I have learned more than can be imagined in these classes and unlearned many things I was taught thanks to the way she shares her knowledge of the Bible and her explanations of how things should be interpreted. — Joanne Ebersbach
9. How long did it take to build the church? 10. Why are there doors on the pews? 11. Why do the stained glass windows all look so different? 12. What do all the fleur-de-lis on the walls mean? 13. Why do they call it Marble church? 14. Is this “The Little Church Around the Corner”? 15. Have any U.S. Presidents worshipped here? 16. Is Marble on Facebook and Twitter?
Staff for this Issue:
What Are You Grateful For?
EDITORS:
Although Thanksgiving is in November, we all know that gratitude is timeless and something we ideally focus on every day. In a future issue of Touchpoint we’d like to print some of the things you are thankful for. To share, please email: KFritsch@ MarbleChurch.org.
Karla Fritsch Catherine Ortiz PHOTOS:
6. What do the ribbons on the fence mean?
Dave Cross Jay Johnson Marie Papp Brian Hampton Siobhan Tull Karla Fritsch
7. What kind of Bibles do you use?
GRAPHIC DESIGN:
8. Are there any pictures of the former ministers?
Beth Player-DiCicco
3. When was the first service held here? 4. How tall is the steeple? 5. What denomination is the church affiliated with?
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Spiritual Growth and Education
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Bible Study with Sister Carol Perry
Sr. Carol Perry Bible Scholar
SUNDAYS AT 10AM HOW ARE WE COMMUNITY? October 4, 11, 18 & 25; November 1, 8, 15 & 29 From tribal life to monarchy to exile, God’s people keep redefining community until Jesus announces: “Now is the time”. His disciples receive a message that they carry out to the world. Both the gospel of Matthew and the Book of Acts trace this evolution of community in ways that we must take into our living of church. This is both fascinating and practical. AND THE WORD BECAME FLESH November 29; December 6, 13 & 20 Each year Advent reminds us of the daring action of God on our behalf as we are invited to come closer. It is an age-old journey that is never finished. 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. CLEARING UP A MYSTERY October 13, 20 & 27; November 3 & 17 Why do some Bibles have more books than others? What are the “apocrypha”? Who decided what was in and what was out? Let’s try to clear up this mystery of those “other Bible books”.
Dr. Hyun Kyun Chung The Colloquium
WEEKDAYS, NOON–1:00PM SPIRITUALITY IN THE WORKPLACE Bring your lunch and join interactive Bible study in two Manhattan locations. Return to work with a new attitude. TUESDAYS IN THE MARBLE LOFT October 13 & 27; November 17 THURSDAYS AT ST. BART’S October 1, 15 & 29; November 19 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. Sister Carol Perry’s book Waiting for Our Souls to Catch Up is now available as an audiobook! listenupaudiobooks.com/audiobooks/product/ waiting-for-our-souls-to-catch-up/
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 Rev. Gregory Johnson Johnson. Meets every Sunday. Holy Communion celebrated weekly (unless scheduled for 11:00am Worship).
The Colloquium
DR. HYUN KYUN CHUNG Sunday, November 22 | 10:00am We continue our special series of welcoming outstanding scholars from the spectrum of theological and ecclesiastical academia to offer presentations on current and yet provocative topics of relevance to the modern church in Marble’s unique urban setting. Dr. Chung is a professor of Inter-faith Engagement at Union Theological Seminary in New York City. She is a Christian scholar-activist, writer, international lecturer and she defines herself as a “salimist” (Korean Eco-feminist) from the Korean word “salim,” which means “making things alive.”
Small Groups
Small Groups at Marble can change us, help us grow, and get us to go out and do good in the world. There are still new fall groups beginning in October including: The 5 Love Languages, begins Thursday, October 1; Becoming Disciples Through Bible Study and Comparative Religions both beginning Sunday, October 4. To learn more, stop by the Small Group Table during Coffee Hour on Sundays after Worship, contact Baleta McKenzie (BMcKenzie@ MarbleChurch.org) or visit MarbleChurch.org.
Dr. Michael Brown’s Online Series
With each installment of Soul Purpose, Dr. Brown will bring you to a deeper and more personal understanding of doctrine, and why that matters in our lives of faith and daily living. It’s practical faith for the everyday. Feed your Soul. A new short video will be posted every Thursday at MarbleChurch.org, and archived for your viewing convenience.
Spiritual Growth and Education
OTHER OPPORTUNITIES FOR SPIRITUAL GROWTH CYF ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASS Begins Sunday, October 11 | 10:00am A Word for the Journey, led by Dr. R. Mark King, Rev. Kirsty DePree and other staff. Meets most Sundays, come when you can. For a schedule, contact Brian Hampton (BHampton@MarbleChurch.org).
SISTER CAROL PERRY’S ADVENT DEVOTIONAL Begins Sunday, November 29 A highlight of any Advent is Sister Carol Perry’s devotional booklet. Digital versions will be available at MarbleChurch.org to download or to read daily blog entries.
A COURSE IN GRATITUDE Mondays, November 2, 9 & 16 The Marble Women’s Ministry Leadership team will be hosting a three-session online seminar on Gratitude, the Stepping Stones to Finding Grace during the weeks leading up to Thanksgiving. We invite the women of Marble, both in the New York area and those who worship with us from communities from around the world, to join us. Stay tuned for more information on this exciting new series.
ADVENT BLOG: A DAILY MESSAGE TO TRANSFORM YOUR ADVENT EXPERIENCE Begins Sunday, November 29 Once again The Marble Women’s Ministry will share reflections, stories, recipes, and advice to help you find moments of grace this Advent. Take a time-out from the busy secular side of the season and reconnect with the transformative power of the sacred Advent Story. We all need to be blessed by the work of Advent in our lives, so please join us and see the Grace, Love and Transformation which God intended Advent to be.
Missons and Outreach: Opportunities to Serve
In the Action Spotlight
HELP MARBLE FIGHT HUNGER – “BRING A CAN SUNDAY” We live in the world’s wealthiest nation. Yet 14.5 percent of U.S. households—nearly 49 million Americans, including 15.9 million children—struggle to put food on the table. This includes the working poor, people who are working but wages are so low that it becomes difficult for them to feed their families. In the United States, hunger is not caused by a scarcity of food, but rather the continued prevalence of poverty. Both issues must be addressed in our continued efforts to help those Jesus called “the
least of these” (Matthew 25:45). During the month of October Marble Action Volunteers will be focusing on “Marble Fights Hunger”. We encourage people to bring canned foods and other non-perishable food items to Marble each Sunday through October 25. (Of course, donations welcome all year!) You may drop off your donations in the food bins in the 29th St Reception area, the Marble Loft, or leave them at Action Volunteer Table after Sunday Worship. Donations distributed to Icahn House CRF, a shelter for single mothers and children.
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, October 11 & November 8 — Volunteers are needed to help prepare 50 lunches, 9:30-10:30am, 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.
Congregational Care Prayer Shawl Ministry — Knit or crochet prayer shawls as gifts to members who are ill at home, in the hospital, or homebound. Gather on 1st and 3rd Mondays, 5:00-6:00pm, 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.
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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 the Women’s Ministry and Peale Society for a special Hallowtide dinner Thursday, October 29 and we sit together at the All-Church Thanksgiving Brunch on Sunday, November 22. See the website for more details. Contact Colleen Cosgrove (CCosgrove@MarbleChurch.org).
Connection (20s&30s)
Join us for social activities and conversations about faith, relationships, and life in New York City. To connect with us, contact Chad Tanaka Pack (CTanaka@ MarbleChurch.org).
Entrepreneurs
Entrepreneurs hosts several events this fall: An Entrepreneur for All Seasons on Thursday, October 22; A Day in the Country on Saturday, October 24; and our Retreat for All Seasons, October 30 – November 1. Check website for details. Contact Katherine Gotshall English (212-529-8512 or kathcoach@earthlink.net).
Men’s Ministry
We explore Love/Charity at our retreat October 2-4. On Tuesday, November 10, Dr. Bill Lutz leads our discussion on self-care. For information, see the Calendar of Events, website or contact Tom Schneider (TSchneider@MarbleChurch.org).
60+ Fellowship
See the Calendar of Events and 60+ newsletter for details on our lunch programs. Autumn Art class with Judy Tulin begins Wednesday, October 7. Contact Colleen Cosgrove (CCosgrove@MarbleChurch.org).
Women’s Ministry
All welcome for our Communion with Our Saints Dinner on Thursday, October 29. See page 9 for information on our November online course Gratitude, the Stepping Stones to Finding Grace and our Advent Blog. For details, check website or contact Anna Nugent (ANugent@MarbleChurch.org)
GIFTS: LGBTQ Fellowship
Join us for our Coffee Hour on Sunday, October 4. NOTE: Our retreat has been postponed until spring. Contact T.J. Houlihan (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. To submit quesMarbleChurch.org tions, those in the Sanctuary may use the new Talk Back card in the pews and our online community may or stop by the Welcome email: Connect@MarbleChurch.org. Hosted by Mario Center after Worship Sprouse. during Coffee Hour. Jazz Revelation | 5:00pm Connect with a community of people in a cozy setting of bistro tables to enjoy this time of worship led by Dr. Mark King and Chad Tanaka Pack; music led by pianist Chris Whittaker with talented guest artists. In the Marble Loft. (Please note, no service on November 22 due to Homecoming.)
Calendar of Events
EACH WEDNESDAY 60+ Fellowship For details on our lunch programs, check our 60+ Fellowship monthly newsletter. Inquiries to Colleen Cosgrove (CCosgrove@MarbleChurch.org).
Walk the Labyrinth | 5:00-6:00pm Take a moment for a walking meditation before WeWo. (Please call to confirm schedule.) WeWo: Wednesday Worship | 6:15pm “WeWo” blends traditional and contemporary worship styles, with sermons by Dr. Brown and others, plus dynamic music led by Deah Harriot with a praise vocal ensemble and band. Meets in the Marble Loft. 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 could vary.) WEEKEND, OCTOBER 2-4 Men’s Retreat Dr. Mark King helps us explore Love/Charity at San Alfonso by the Sea in southern NJ. Visit MarbleChurch.org for details.
Calendar of Events
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4 Family Worship | 10:00am Join CYF in the Marble Loft for their first Family Worship of the year. Both Children’s Choirs will sing and families will participate in the service. The morning’s message will be by Dr. R. Mark King. All invited! GIFTS: LGBTQ Coffee Hour | 12:15pm All welcome for this time of fellowship. WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 7 60+ Autumn Art with Judy Tulin | 10:00-11:30am Meets four Wednesdays in October. Sign up in advance with Colleen Cosgrove. 60+ Fellowship Lunch & Program | 12:00pm Soup and salad ($7) and birthday celebration for October babies, followed by speaker series at 1:00pm: Rev. Roberta Arden shares her unique spiritual path to the ministry and her work with the Foster Grandparents Program New York City. WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 14 60+ Fellowship Lunch & Program | 12:00pm Catered Oktoberfest lunch ($12, Fellowship members; $15, guests) followed by program at 1:00pm: The New York Kammermusiker double reed ensemble performs unique classical selections. WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 21 60+ Fellowship BYOL & Program | 12:00pm Bring Your Own Lunch (with potluck desserts), followed by program at 1:00pm: Manhattan School of Music provides a special top-notch student soloist. THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22 An Entrepreneur for All Seasons | 6:00-8:00pm All invited to hear our guest speaker Karen H. Senecal, LP, M.Div., followed by seven minute talks by entrepreneurs with musical interludes by Jordan Pettay, saxophone. $10. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24 A Day in the Country | 9:30am-6:30pm First Presbyterian Church invites members of Marble to join them for a refreshing day at Holmes Presbyterian Camp, in Holmes, NY. For details visit website; to register, contact Hannah (hoconnell@ fpcnyc.org or 212-675-6150). SUNDAY, OCTOBER 25 Monthly Brunch | 12:15pm All are invited for this time of fellowship and good food. In the Marble Loft (274 Fifth Ave). $12. WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 28 60+ Fellowship BYOL & Program | 12:00pm Bring Your Own Lunch, followed by movie at 12:30pm: When the Game Stands Tall.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 29 Special Hallowtide Dinner | 6:00pm The Marble Women’s and Adult Ministries, and the Peale Society invite all to A Communion with Our Saints. $18. Register online. Please see articles on pages 4 & 5. WEEKEND, OCTOBER 30 – NOVEMBER 1 A Retreat for All Seasons All invited to join Entrepreneurs for this weekend at Garrison Institute. Visit website for details. Register at garrisoninstitute.org.
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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.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 31 CYF Costume Party | 12:00-3:00pm All welcome! Please see page 4. SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 1 Daylight Saving Time Remember to set your clocks back one hour before you retire Saturday evening. WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4 60+ Fellowship Lunch & Program | 12:00pm Soup and salad ($7) and birthday celebration for November babies, followed by program at 1:00pm: Ken Dake treats us to a recital on our new pipe organ in the Sanctuary.
Dr. Bill Lutz
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 10 Men’s Ministry | 6:30-8:00pm Dr. Bill Lutz will talk about the importance of physical, emotional and spiritual well-being as an approach to holistic self-care. $5. WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11 60+ Fellowship Lunch & Program | 12:00pm Soup and salad ($7) followed by program at 1:00pm: Favorite Frank Gauthier with Ed Sullivan’s Really Big Show. WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 18 60+ Fellowship Lunch & Program | 12:00pm Catered Thanksgiving lunch ($12, Fellowship members; $15, guests) followed by Worship at 1:00pm in the Sanctuary. (Please note, no 60+ on November 25.) SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 29 Family Worship | 10:00am All welcome to join CYF for their uplifting service. The morning’s message will be by Rev. Kirsty DePree. Marble Loft. Note: The Calendar of Events schedule subject to change. Please call to confirm.
LIVE WEBCAST SCHEDULE If you can’t be here in person, visit MarbleChurch.org. Sundays
10am – Bible Study with Sr. Carol Perry 11am – Worship Service 12:15pm – Talk Back with Dr. Brown
Wednesdays 6:15pm – Wednesday Worship TV – Fridays @ 4:30pm, MNN Time Warner Ch. 57 (Manhattan) Sermon Podcasts: Subscribe at MarbleChurch.org.
MARBLE ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Touchpoint: October/November 2015
Ken Cowan
PIPE ORGAN DEDICATION & INAUGURAL CONCERT Sunday, October 18 | 11:00am For the first time in over four years the sound of a pipe organ will be heard in the Sanctuary during Worship. The Marble Choir will return to a newlyrebuilt Choir Loft and the North and South Balconies will again be open to congregants. There will be a special dedication during 11:00am Worship, followed by a short talk about the organ with builder Sebastian Glück and Director of Music Ken Dake. Thursday, October 27 | 7:30pm Renowned organist Ken Cowan kicks off our Inaugural Concert Series. Tickets: $20; $15 students & seniors, purchase in advance at MarbleChurch. org or at the door. Please see page 3 for more information. CYF COSTUME PARTY Saturday, October 31 | 12:00-3:00pm All are invited for this fun annual event! Please see page 4.
OCT/NOV ‘15
Marble Ghostbusters
TOUCHPOINT The Marble Magazine One West 29th Street, New York, New York 10001-4596 ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 22 Plan to join us for this spectacular day that includes the next edition of The Marble Colloquium with Dr. Hyun Kyun Chung, Professor at Union Theological Seminary. It is also Stewardship Sunday and we welcome Dr. Luke A. Powery, Dean of the Duke University Chapel, as our guest preacher. Following that is our Annual Thanksgiving Brunch, and Homecoming ends the day as our Staff, Ministers and Board Members perform a fun variety show. Please see page 4. The Colloquium & Prayer Circle | 10:00am Worship | 11:00am Thanksgiving Brunch | 12:15pm No reservation needed, but limited seating. Homecoming | 1:30pm THE LAST WORD Gratitude is the music of the heart, when its chords are swept by the breeze of kindness. — Author Unknown
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