TOUCHPOINT The Marble Magazine One West 29th Street, New York, NY 10001-4596 212-686-2770 MarbleChurch.org
OCTOBER & NOVEMBER 2016
Positive Faith, Practical Living
Every new Church Program Year, the Ministry enthusiastically embrace Leadership Team comes up with a new theme for that the promise of scripture particular season (September-May). Last year, as you which Paul made to the know, our theme was “Love Is ….” Throughout all that church people in Philippi: we did and taught and preached and sang about and “I can do all things through tried to enact programmatically, we intentionally kept Christ who strengthens that theme at the center of it all. In fact, even though a me.” (Philippians 4:13) new program year has come, we will still leave a “Love is That text from Paul, Wall” in the Loft. We will continue to minister in the bibli- when closely examined, is Dr. Michael Brown cal and theological awareness that if two-pronged. There is the undeniable positive we are followers of Christ, sooner or statement that we believe all things are poslater it all comes down to love. “God endows sible through the power of Christ. There is also,
This is, however, a new program us with the however, the implicit message that the good year, and as you have no doubt potential to things we desire are not just magically dropped discerned by now we have a new into our laps. “I can do all things ….” That is become voices theme specific to the Septemberan action phrase which requires the believer to of reason, be active, to become a participant with Christ May season we’ve just entered. examples of in achieving the goals that are desired. So, that Our new theme is Positive Faith, Practical Living. One of the meskindness, and verse demands a practical application of our sages historically associated with thus agents of positive faith. That is at the heart of this year’s our church is that we are positive Church Program theme. much-needed thinkers and positive believers. We believe that hungry people can be fed, change in the that homeless people can be housed, that atWhereas we do not bury our heads in the sand, denying the critical world.” risk children can be educated and equipped for and sometimes alarming realities meaningful futures, that people in dire situain the world around us, neither are tions (whether at home or far away) can have their lives we people who give up. We do not give up on God, demonstrably improved, that trafficking can be verbally we do not give up on the church, we do not give up opposed and, in time, visibly deposed, that the hopeless on the presence of goodness in our world (despite the can find hope, that the despondent can find courage, consistent presence of badness in the press), we do that the lonely can find love, and that we can all find not give up on people, and we do not give up on life. senses of meaning and purpose that make life not mereWe believe that God endows us with the potential to ly livable but, in fact, exhilarating. We are positive about become voices of reason, examples of kindness, and all that, but we are just as certain that it will require thus agents of much-needed change in the world. We investments and efforts on our part. Continued on page 2
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016 SUNDAY WORSHIP, 11AM
OCTOBER 2
Dr. Michael B. Brown Senior Minister preaching
World Communion Sunday
A Loaf, A Cup, A Question
OCTOBER 16
Why Bother with Church? Luke 18:1-8
I Corinthians 11:23-26
Chad Tanaka Pack
OCTOBER 9
OCTOBER 23
Perspective
A Sally Field Moment
Matthew 13:24-30; Proverbs 23:7 (NKJV) II Corinthians 9:6-8
OCTOBER 30 Dr. Luke Powery preaching Dean of the Duke Chapel
WEDNESDAY WORSHIP 6:15PM Every Week
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Marble Matters
Love. Don’t Judge.
Rev. Kirsty DePree Minister of Congregational Care
and didn’t strive to meet it. As we live into our theme this year, Positive Faith, Practical Living, it’s important By Rev. Kirsty DePree that our faith helps us to live out our lives in real, pracRecently, I went to see The Phantom of the Opera. I tical, authentic ways. Perhaps, that means we trust watched this well-known story with a new set of eyes. in Christ and not just the opinions and impressions I found myself full of compassion for the Phantom as of others, or that we conduct ourselves in ways that he sang, “this face which earned a mother’s fear and treat people with mercy, acceptance, and justice, the loathing, a mask, my first unfeeling scrap of clothing.” way we would want to be treated. Even better yet, I, in a small way, identified with his that as a community of faith trying to live in sadness and shame. I was reminded practical ways, we would have compassion of both the subtle and overt ways for ourselves and for others and we would that people judge, critique and find ways to celebrate and embrace all the perhaps shame people into putunique, God gifted, beautiful people that ting on some form of a mask. Our we are. masks are meant to cover up our I have my moments, we all do, when I insecurities, our shame, our fears, — (1 SAMUEL 16:7) find myself looking for a mask to wear, but but masks inevitably cover up when I do, I am reminded of the verse, “the one’s authentic self. Our masks Lord does not look at the things people look can become too heavy to wear and eventually resentat, people look at the outward appearances, but the ment and feelings of inadequacy come to bear. As Lord looks at the heart.” (1 Samuel 16:7) Christians we are called to love, not judge. However, The Phantom sings, “Why, you ask was I bound and the world in which we live sets us up to judge – we chained in this cold and dismal place not for any mortal judge people on their weight, their hair, the sound of their voice, their clothes, and when we do this, people sin, but the wickedness of my abhorrent face, hounded out by everyone, met with hatred everywhere, no kind revert to putting the masks on, rather than living into word from anyone, no compassion anywhere.” and embracing the person that God has created them to be. Oh, if only the Phantom had a place like Marble, a place where compassion, acceptance and love makes Jan Johnson, in her book, Invitation to the Jesus room for all. Life, suggests that to live into one’s authentic self, we look to Jesus, who didn’t expect the world’s approval
“…the Lord
looks at the heart.”
“Positive Faith, Practical Living...”continued from page 1 That’s what it means for positive thinkers to become practical livers. I invite you to throw yourself into this faith-journey of exploration and application this year. In worship, in study groups, in short-term or long-term classes, in online opportunities, open yourself up to the possibilities that God can do things in you and for you that have not been done before. And, also open yourself
up to the possibilities that God can (and desires to) do things through you that you have not attempted before. Let’s see where God takes us, as individuals and as a congregation, when we commit ourselves to Positive Faith, Practical Living.
NOVEMBER 2016 SUNDAY WORSHIP, 11AM
NOVEMBER 6
NOVEMBER 13
NOVEMBER 27
Dr. Michael B. Brown Senior Minister preaching
All Saints Sunday
Stewardship/Committment Sunday
1st Sunday in Advent
Who Comes to You On The Malibu Rock I Thessalonians 5:12-18 the Mountain? Matthew 17:1-8
NOVEMBER 20
Christ the King Sunday
Bill Maher and Jesus Matthew 7:24-29
Reclaiming Christmas Luke 10:38-42
WEDNESDAY WORSHIP, 6:15PM Every Week
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Marble Matters
WELCOME BACK DR. KEN RUGE I am pleased to announce that Dr. Ken Ruge will be returning to the Staff of Marble Church in a part-time (two days per week) position beginning in October. Many Marble congregants and staff members lovingly remember Ken, who was previously with us on a private contract basis. In 2009, he left to become Senior Minister at Bronxville Reformed Church. Dr. Ruge’s work with us will replace what was done so effectively by Dr. Bill Lutz, with a bit of staff resourcing and consulting added on, as well. Ken
will serve primarily as in-house therapist and in that capacity will be available for private conversations with members of the Marble family. His title will be Associate Minister of Counseling and Staff Consultation, essentially describing what his roles will be. Though he has requested not to take on a traditional clergy role, it is still our hope that occasionally, at least, he will also be on the chancel and will preach. It is with joy and gratitude that we welcome Dr. Ken Ruge back to the Marble fellowship! Michael Brown Dr. Ken Ruge Associate Minister of Counseling and Staff Consultation
In the Marble Spotlight
SUNDAY SANCTUARY TOUR October 2 & November 6 | 12:15pm Learn more about Marble’s rich history, fascinating architecture, and beautiful windows. Discover littleknown facts, and explore seldom-seen areas. A tour is also an informal way to introduce your friends to Marble. Meet in the center aisle by the Communion Table immediately after 11:00am Worship. Tours are approximately 45 minutes long and led by a trained guide. OPEN HOUSE NEW YORK Saturday, October 15 | 12:00-4:00pm Marble is excited to once again open our doors as a part of Open House New York (www.ohny.org), a celebration of architecture and the city. From the spire to the fine details of the interior, featuring beautiful stained glass windows, two of which are Tiffany, Marble is a treasure worth exploring. Everyone is welcome to join us for guided tours; self-guided tours are also encouraged. See our historic Sanctuary, our Labyrinth Room and our Chapel. HOLMES FALL FOLIAGE OUTING Saturday, October 22 | 9:15am – 6:00pm All are welcome for a leisurely day at Holmes Presbyterian Camp. Located 55 miles from NYC, the 55 acre woodland camp boasts two lakes, roads to ramble, and gentle hiking trails. A rustic one-room lodge overlooks Lake Denton, has a wood burning fireplace and is completely accessible. The day includes a cookout lunch. The Adult Ministry and the 60+ Fellowship co-host and provide fun games and activities. $55, includes lunch and coach transportation to/ from the Marble Loft; $35, includes lunch, no transportation. Register online or at the Welcome Table by Sunday, October 16.
THE SOUL’S JOURNEY, PARTNERING WITH SAINTS IN OUR FAITH WALK Tuesday, November 1 | 6:30-8:00pm The Marble Women’s and Adult Ministries of invite everyone to join us for our annual Hallowtide event to honor the souls in our past and present who have partnered with us in our faith journey. We share stories and listen to the recorded words of, and testimonials about, saints of Marble. At the conclusion we will take time at the “Altar of Remembrance” for silent reflection (see below) and the Labyrinth will be available to walk. $18, light fare will be served. Register online or contact Don Piper (DPiper@MarbleChurch.org). Trick or Treat for UNICEF will again be our outreach effort to support the world’s children who struggle with life’s basic necessities. ALTAR OF REMEMBRANCE During Hallowtide, the Peale Legacy Society invites everyone to bring photos of their loved ones who have passed away, to place on a special Altar of Remembrance in the Marble Chapel, from October 16 through November 6. Photos may be of a loved one or anyone you want to honor — this is an opportunity to reflect on them and their stories. Blank slips will also be available to write names. Leave photos at Reception to the attention of T.J. Houlihan. To have your photo returned, please write your name and address clearly on the back. Photos will be available at Marble Reception for pickup beginning Monday, November 7. (If photos are particularly sentimental or delicate, photocopies are strongly encouraged.)
MORE MARBLE SPOTLIGHT Please see page 12.
HOMECOMING 2016 Sunday, October 23 1:30-2:45pm
LUNCHTIME ORGAN RECITAL
Monday, November 7 12:30-1:00pm
THANKSGIVING BRUNCH
Sunday, November 20 12:15pm
MARBLE ARTISANS’ BOUTIQUE AND BAKE SALE
Sunday, November 27 12:15-2:00pm
2015 Altar of Remembrance
Marble Matters
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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! OCTOBER Sunday, October 2 | 10:30am-2:30pm Orientation with Dr. Brown and Rev. DePree Sunday, October 9 | 10:45am-1:30pm Connection Sunday, including Lunch with Staff Sunday, October 16 | 10:30am-12:15pm Reception of New Members during Worship
CYF CORNER FAMILY WORSHIP Sunday, October 16 | 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. All invited!
COSTUME PARTY Friday, October 28 | 5:00-8:00pm Join the CYF for another spooky day of fun, food, and prizes. 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).
EXPERIENCING GOD By Jessica Scovel “We learn . . . 20% of what we hear, 30% of what we see, 80% of what we experience.” I first heard this quote during graduate school. My supervisor was teaching us how to create language lessons for young children. She quoted the research of Edgar Dale, American educationalist, to emphasize that effective teaching involves more than merely talking to children. While sitting in class, I found this point interesting. While working in the therapy clinic, I experienced what she meant. I still cringe when I recall my early therapy sessions and how children’s eyes would glaze over to my talking! (Remember Charlie Brown’s perception of his teacher? Waaa Waaa Waaa). As we plan for a new CYF year, we are taking an intentional look at how children might experience God on Sunday mornings. Part of our planning involves exploring new curriculums with lessons about the
Old and New Testaments, and teachings about the liturgical year. We know that God can be experienced during these lessons. But God’s presence is also felt in the countless moments that comprise a Sunday morning: a teacher’s heartfelt hug, a moment of wondering during Godly Play or singing with the choir. Many people experience God’s presence when they help others. Through the years, CYF has supported Missions and Outreach’s efforts in different ways such as by donating food and baby supplies, and contributing to the Easter offering. This year, in response to requests from families to volunteer together, CYF will facilitate monthly opportunities to participate with Marble’s Missions and Outreach. Tom Schneider, Missions and Outreach Associate, met with us to discuss ways for families to join the larger Marble Community in their volunteer efforts. This year families will be able both to donate items as well as to take part in service projects. These projects include making sandwiches for the home-
Participating in the Marble Family Worship gives parents, caregivers and their children, the joy of experiencing God’s love together. — Robert Pesce Robert Pesce, Shelley Rojano, Julian & Isabella Pesce participate in Family Worship
Jessica Scovel Director of Children’s Ministry
THE OPEN CENTER PRESENTS MATTHIEU RICARD AND LAURIE ANDERSON AT MARBLE Saturday, November 5 | 7:30pm Matthieu Ricard, world-renowned author, scientist, humanitarian, and Buddhist monk, and Laurie Anderson, multi-disciplinary artist extraordinaire, discuss ideas from Matthieu’s newest book, A Plea for the Animals, as well as from his seminal text, Altruism. This is an Open Center event, more details and registration at OpenCenter.org. Open Center Members: $30 / Nonmembers: $39 / Marble discount: $35 – use code MarbleRicard. (Price includes copy of A Plea for Animals.)
Marble Matters
less, packing Thanksgiving baskets and writing letters to our more isolated congregants – all child-friendly activities. With an eye on child development, we have selected opportunities that children will find meaningful. In our view, a meaningful experience has the potential of becoming a God experience. Edgar Dale may be correct when he posits that we retain 80% of what we experience. His research, however, is difficult to apply to matters of the spirit. How can we quantify acts of compassion? Or measure the correlation between feelings of empathy
and gratitude? This inability to quantify experiences of God doesn’t make them any less real or enduring. Rather, it’s the opposite. They become part of a greater whole . . . the mystery. Whether participating in volunteer work, helping a tired mother, or sharing with a friend at school – may our children experience this mystery. This is our blessing for the new church year.
A VIEW FROM THE CHOIR LOFT SINGING OUR FAITH By Kenneth Dake Why must we sing our faith and not merely speak it? Because singing comes from the heart, and the heart doesn’t lie. A centerpiece of our corporate worship is singing. It is a kind of sacrament – an outward and audible sign of our unity with each other. Singing is how we engage the soul in worship – the inner sanctum of our deepest self where our fears, doubts, aspirations and profound longings are harbored. Singing in worship is where the core of who we are is brought before God, where the magic and mystery of worship can take place. And yet week after week many “opt out” of singing in worship, preferring to just listen to the choir, or passively observe the spectacle of it all. Why is this? For many it’s simply the fear of hearing their own voice – or being heard. Many have been told they “can’t sing,” which is highly unlikely, as it would actually mean they were born without vocal cords. For some it is a reluctance to be fully in the present moment, to be open, to surrender judgements, to simply let go. And yet this is exactly the place where transformation can occur. We need to get out of ourselves in order to be transformed by the moving of the Spirit. Let us sing in worship with our whole body. Every sound we make is a collaboration between the divine breath given by God – “ruach” in Hebrew – and the physical tones of our human journey. Breathe that divine breath down to your toes and let a cascade of authentic tone issue forth. Your song bears public witness to God’s goodness! “This is my story, this is my song, praising my Savior all the day long!” (Fanny Crosby) Let us sing in worship with our whole mind. I invite you to ask yourself: What message of truth is meant for me in this music? What belief or core value am
I proclaiming in this hymn? “Take my mind and let it be filled with messages from Thee.” (Frances Havergal) Let us sing in worship with our whole spirit. We don’t sing so that others will hear us; we sing because God has already heard us. As John Wesley wrote, “Have an eye to God in every word you sing. Aim at pleasing God more than yourself or any other creature.” As I often say: it is not whether you can sing, it is whether or not you have a song. “Let those refuse to sing who never knew our God.” (Isaac Watts) Put another way, anyone who has ever known God has reason to sing! “My song is love unknown, my Savior’s love to me…here might I stay and sing, no story so divine!” (Samuel Crossman) What is the song of your life? Please don’t wait and have your loved ones hire a soloist to sing it at your funeral. Sing it NOW, with your own voice, your own actions, your own life. Your song is prayer. What would you like to sing to God today? Is your heart soaring with gratitude, marveling in awe, overflowing with love? Or is it breaking in grief, clouded with confusion, frozen by failures, or just plain tired? Sing it to God! God is like one of the judges on The Voice, or all of the judges at once. Only He couldn’t care less how good you look or how slick you sound, because He is a terrible judge. He is already extremely partial to you. All God cares about is the song emanating from your heart, not the sound emanating from your vocal folds. When you start to sing, His chair will be the first to turn, and the floor will immediately light up with “I Want You.” God desperately wants you on His team, just because He loves you. And that’s worth singing about.
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CYF helps prepare sandwiches for Ecclesia. Angela Sengut, Anne Marie Edwards, Blaine McIndoe, Kathleen Agaton-Cappiello, Katia Cappiello, Caleb Vaughn, Luca Cappiello, Abbigail Weinberg
Kenneth Dake Director of Music
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Marble Matters
Why Every Artist Should Be a Great Storyteller by Katherine Gotshall English
Let the beauty we love be what we do. – Rumi I receive a weekly online newsletter entitled 99U. The name comes from the Thomas Edison quote that “Genius is 1% inspiration, 99% perspiration.” I usually save it, never to be read, but this time a sentence caught my eye, “Expertly telling your story is the best kind of organic marketing you can do to promote your art because people care almost as deeply about how you create, as they do about the end product.” Katherine Gotshall English I’ve been aware of the storytelling principle, but Marble Member and Entrepreneurs leader what struck me this time was the importance of how people care as deeply about how you create. Now that I think about it, when becoming a member of Marble I asked Arthur Caliandro how he created a fresh sermon week after week, and he said, “with great difficulty.” He shared that right up to stepping to the podium he was shaping his words. One day this summer, Chad Tanaka Pack and I See page 10 for upcom- used the 1%/99 % formula and created, out of thin air, The Art of Creation. It just happened. What we ing sessions in The Art of envisioned was a group of people talking about Creation Series. creativity, art from New York museums and the Bible To listen to a recorded stories of God creating the beginning. conversation on The Art of My out-of-print copy of Genesis by Bill Moyers Creation, call: 712-432-3974, didn’t exactly fall out of my bookcase but close. I used pin: 280175# 0# it to prop my door open when I ran down to let in the UPS guy and it dawned on me that this would be the perfect guidebook for our group. God works in mysterious ways. Anyone creating something has had this experience. You realize there is a hand of God in all creation. I’d like to ask Julian Fellows how many
Reflections from the Editor
Karla Fritsch Publications Manager
By Karla Fritsch I’ve been thinking a lot about DNA. My mom turns 90 in October yet lives like she’s 70. Last spring she earned her Green Valley Hiking Club 1500 mile patch for miles logged on her Thursday morning hikes, January-March. Whenever she can, instead of hopping in the car, she hops on her “steed” – her bike. She recently switched to a three-wheeler and has learned to ride all over again. When I was young, I regularly hitched a ride on the baskets on the back of her bike. Some of our best talks were while riding our bikes on the quiet roads of the Ames Cemetery or walking at the Marshalltown Soldiers’ Home. And when you were with Mom, you took the stairs whenever you could.
times he experienced this in the writing and creating of Downton Abbey. Elizabeth Gilbert wrote about this phenomenon in Big Magic. You get picked to birth an idea, a project, and if you stay the course and love it into existence it develops. Recently, I asked Don Piper and Tom Schneider to talk to me about creativity. Tom told the story of how a consultant said that to grow a church you have to embrace the entrepreneurial and artistic mindset. His suggestion was that Marble develop a community of lay leaders to begin a conversation on creativity. His point was that each and every one of us is creating on a daily basis. We are here to create. Before Don begins to produce Marble’s Annual Report or a flyer with many puzzle pieces, he takes a long walk. Nature helps him organize his thoughts and he has a conversation with God and asks for assistance. Don appreciates the freedom and encouragement Marble has given him to express his gifts of creativity. To be creative, give yourself permission to be playful, he recommends. Norman Mailer in his book, On God: An Uncommon Conversation, wrote, “Certain sculptors talk about how they do not know exactly what the work will become until they cut into the marble. It is the marble that discloses what they must do with the next stroke. The same process of discovery may be present in human or animal design. The environment plays a mighty role.” Chad and I don’t quite know what will develop from our series, but we will be listening to what the marble – the people of Marble – have to say and from that will come our strokes. Come to the living conversation.
Mom has always continued to learn new things. She’s passionate about attending Bible studies, she started fabric painting classes in her 80s, and she has an iPhone and is on Facebook. She has a gift for connecting with people of all ages, and, two of her most valuable traits are her deep faith and positive attitude. I have her DNA in me. I have God’s DNA in me. Yet, too often I struggle to live up to that birthright. My struggle is reflected in one of my favorite quotes, “Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, ‘Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?’ Actually, who are
Marble Matters
The Peale Legacy
By T.J. Houlihan When Dr. Norman Vincent Peale accepted the call to serve in what would become a 52-year tenure at Marble in October 1932, the world was an uncertain place. The U.S. was still reeling from the stock market crash of 1929, and would be for some time to come. Understandably, Marble was also suffering financially, as well as in its attendance. However, by 1937, Dr. Peale and his partner in life and ministry, Mrs. Ruth Stafford Peale, had begun to turn Marble around and steward the church into more prosperous times. Though I never met Dr. and Mrs. Peale, their legacy is an indelible part of the fabric that is Marble Collegiate Church. When I hear or read about them, “well done, good and faithful servants!” always comes to mind. So much of what we love about Marble and experience today is due in large part to their faithfulness, perseverance, and dedication to serving God through Marble. Founded in 1993, the Peale Legacy Giving Society is Marble’s small but meaningful expression of honoring Dr. and Mrs. Peale’s legacy, but its primary purpose is to honor you, the many individuals who by remembering Marble in their Wills or with another planned gift, continue to keep this historic church’s ministry strong, both now and for generations to come.
Planned gifts are a way that each of us can make a final gift, a return to God of some portion of all God has given to us. It’s not about the size or the amount, it’s about the practice of looking beyond our monthly budget and annual pledge, and consider a gift we can make when our need for worldly assets is done. It’s a part of our spiritual responsibility for the assets God has entrusted to us. When we realize that everything we own actually belongs to God and we are simply His caretakers or stewards, we understand the importance of making sure that those assets are passed on in a way that honors God and ensures the ministries and programs we love now, continue long after we’re gone. On All Saints Sunday, November 6, at 12:30pm, the Peale Society is delighted to bring back its annual luncheon honoring its current members. Invitations are forthcoming, but please save the date. We look forward to thanking you in person because you continue to make our church what it is! If you are a current member and want to confirm or update your address or, if you have remembered Marble with a planned gift and haven’t alerted us, please be in touch. We want to thank you for your future generosity. To explore how to remember Marble with a planned gift contact T.J. Houlihan (THoulihan@MarbleChurch.org; 212-686-2770, ext.260), or visit Frequently Asked Questions at MarbleChurch.org (Give/Remember Marble).
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T.J. Houlihan Director of Giving
Dr. & Mrs. Peale
you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world… We are all meant to shine… We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It’s not just in some of us; it’s in everyone...” — Marianne Williamson I don’t fully honor my DNA. I hide my light too often. Mom has certainly said A LOT of prayers about that. Thankfully, those prayers have helped my light break through some very dark shadows. Yet,
there is more to break through. As part of my birthday gift to Mom, I want to do better at being all God created me to be, and who she raised me to be. I’m going to keep walking, taking my daily spiritual vitamins, offering a listening ear to others, creating through my photography and writing… and I can only hope that my light will shine as brightly as the 90 candles on Mom’s cake.
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Spiritual Growth and Education
Bible Study with Sister Carol Perry SUNDAYS AT 10AM ALL GOOD GIFTS October 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 Who we are and what we do with God’s goodness to us is the story of our lives. Looked at biblically, we find God inviting us to be as fully his people as we can. What does that mean? MUST I CHOOSE BETWEEN MERCY AND JUSTICE? November 6, 13 & 20 Are these concepts opposed to each other? Each of them strikes deep within the human heart. Let us search God’s word for the path where both can bring us light and grace.
Sr. Carol Perry Bible Scholar
ADVENT SERIES November 27, December 4, 11 & 18 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.
Rev. Gregory Johnson Prayer Circle
GOD SAID: LET ME MAKE A PEOPLE October 4, 11, 18 & 25; November 1, 15 & 29 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 October 11 & 25; November 15 Staff for this Issue: EDITORS:
Karla Fritsch Catherine Ortiz PHOTOS:
Dave Cross Jay Johnson Karla Fritsch GRAPHIC DESIGN:
Beth Player-DiCicco
THURSDAYS AT ST. BART’S October 13 & 27; November 17 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.
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. Holy Communion celebrated weekly (unless scheduled for 11:00am Worship).
Small Groups
It’s not too late to join a Small Group this fall! Being part of a Small Group is a wonderful way to grow and connect with others on the spiritual journey. There are new groups in October including: Invitation to the Old Testament and C.S. Lewis Reading Group, both beginning Sunday, October 2; The Essential Commandment: A Disciple’s Guide to Loving God & Others, begins Monday, October 3; and The Call: The Life & Message of The Apostle Paul, begins Thursday, October 6. 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. Also, an online version of The Essential Commandment, begins Monday, October 10. To register or for information on other online Small Groups, contact Siobhan Tull (STull@MarbleChurch.org)..
Dr. Michael Brown’s Online Series
These brief videos are a way to feed your soul and help you explore a practical faith. A new video will be posted monthly at MarbleChurch.org/worship/inspiration and archived to view at any time. They are also available on YouTube. MORE OPPORTUNITIES FOR SPIRITUAL GROWTH CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP First Saturday of Month | 1:00-3:00pm Rev. Marion Gambardella leads this group to help caregivers provide better care to their loved ones while protecting their 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
OUR PARTNERSHIP WITH HABITAT FOR HUMANITY Marble Build Days – October 15 & 29, November 5 & 19, December 3 & 17 Please join us as we partner with Habitat for Humanity over the next four years to build affordable housing and make a difference in a family’s life! We will contribute to the build of four different houses and with each build we will establish an ongoing relationship with the family who will live in each residence. After they are selected in January 2017, our first family will be introduced to the congregation. 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).
PHOTO: Spencer McCormick
In the Action Spotlight
Marble Volunteers at Habitat Build Kick-off, September 17
Page Brown
Page & Michael Brown ready to work
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 9 & November 13 — Volunteers are needed to help prepare 50 lunches, 10:00-10:30am, for Ecclesia Ministry (an openair 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. 2016 Crop Walk / Sunday, October 16 —Join us for this year’s Crop Walk which raises funds to help end hunger at home and around the world. 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. 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. 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, 4:30-5:30pm, for prayer and creating together. All levels welcome. Materials provided. Contact Judy Tulin (JTulin@MarbleChurch. org).
Dorothy Marsh wrapped in a Marble Prayer Shawl while she live streams Worship.
Calendar of Events
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 12 60+ Fellowship Lunch & Program | 12:00pm Soup and salad ($7), followed by program at 1:00pm: Marble member and yoga instructor Audrey DaCosta offers a session of age-appropriate yoga and meditation.
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 1 Hallowtide Event | 6:00pm The Marble Women’s and Adult Ministries invite all to our annual Hallowtide event, The Soul’s Journey, Partnering with Saints in Our Faith Walk. $18. Light refreshments. Register online.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 15 GIFTS: LGBTQ Fellowship Intreat | 9:30am-2:30pm Join us for a day of fellowship, worship, and learning, as we continue to explore how LGBTQ people are uniquely called to lives of faith. Led by Chad Tanaka Pack, in the Marble Loft. $25, includes a light breakfast and lunch. Register online or at the GIFTS Table during Coffee Hour.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 2 60+ Fellowship Lunch & Program | 12:00pm Soup and salad ($7), followed by program at 1:00pm: Author David Holmes presents The Faiths of the Postwar Presidents as we move toward Election Day.
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 16 GIFTS: LGBTQ Coffee Hour | 12:15pm All welcome. In the Labyrinth Room. WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 19 60+ Fellowship Lunch & Program | 12:00pm Soup and salad ($7), followed by program at 1:00pm: a talented student from Manhattan School of Music. THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20 An Entrepreneur for All Seasons | 6:00-8:00pm The Age of Insight: Three Perspectives on the Second Half of Life with Dr. Michael Brown, Ashton Applewhite and Dr. Louise DeCosta. Program is in the Chapel, followed by a Reception in Peale Parlor. $10, suggested donation. SUNDAY, OCTOBER 23 Monthly Brunch | 12:15pm Join us for this time of fellowship and good food before the Homecoming show! $12. No reservation needed. In the Marble Loft. WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 26 60+ Fellowship Lunch & Program | 12:00pm Soup and salad ($7), followed by movie at 12:30pm: Bill Cunningham New York. Popcorn provided. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 28 CYF Costume Party | 5:00-8:00pm All welcome. Please see page 4.
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.
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 6 Daylight Saving Time Remember to set your clocks back one hour before you retire Saturday evening. WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 9 60+ Fellowship Lunch & Program | 12:00pm Soup and salad ($7), followed by program at 1:00pm: Lift your spirits with some lively post-election music. SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 12 The Art of Creation | 10:30am-12:00pm Please see description under October 7.
Chad Tanaka Pack The Art of Creation, Oct. 7 & Nov. 12 GIFTS Intreat, Saturday, Oct. 15
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 16 60+ Fellowship Lunch & Program | 12:00pm Thanksgiving lunch ($12, Fellowship members; $15, guests) followed by Worship at 1:00pm in the Sanctuary, Rev. Kirsty DePree preaching. (Please note, no 60+ on November 23.) SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 20 GIFTS: LGBTQ Coffee Hour | 12:15pm All welcome. In the Peale Parlor. WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 30 60+ Fellowship Lunch & Program | 12:00pm Soup and salad ($7), followed by movie at 12:30pm: The Power of the Weak. Popcorn provided. SAVE THE DATE ANNUAL ADVENT CONCERT Sunday, December 4 | 2:30pm The Marble Choir, Festival of Voices, and Chamber Orchestra directed by Kenneth Dake. Note: The Calendar of Events schedule subject to change. Please call to confirm.
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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
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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
Our private Facebook page will be live in October! We co-host the Fall Foliage Outing on Saturday, October 22 and the Hallowtide Event on Tuesday, November 1. Contact Colleen Cosgrove (CCosgrove@MarbleChurch.org).
Connection (20s&30s)
To connect with us, contact Chad Tanaka Pack (CTanaka@MarbleChurch.org).
Entrepreneurs
Dr. Michael Brown, Ashton Applewhite and Dr. Louise DeCosta join us for An Entrepreneur for All Seasons, Thursday, October 20. Contact Katherine Gotshall English (212-529-8512 or katherinegotshall@gmail.com).
Men’s Ministry
For information, contact Tom Schneider (TSchneider@MarbleChurch.org).
60+ Fellowship
Our Fall Foliage Outing is Saturday, October 22 and Autumn Art class with Judy Tulin begins Wednesday, October 5. See the Calendar of Events and 60+ newsletter for details on our Wednesday lunch programs. Contact Colleen Cosgrove (CCosgrove@MarbleChurch.org).
Women’s Ministry
All welcome for our Hallowtide Event, The Soul’s Journey, Partnering with Saints in Our Faith Walk on Tuesday, November 1. For details, check website or contact Don Piper (DPiper@MarbleChurch.org).
GIFTS: LGBTQ Fellowship
Our Fall Intreat is Saturday, October 15 and GIFTS Coffee Hours are on Sundays, October 16 and November 20. See website for details. Contact Chad Tanaka Pack or Don Piper at GIFTS@ MarbleChurch.org.
EACH SUNDAY Live Sermon Talk Back For more details, with Dr. Michael Brown to register, or for the 12:15pm full listing of all our Join us in the Sanctuary programming, please visit after Worship as we discuss Dr. Brown’s sermon and he MarbleChurch.org answers your questions or stop by the Welcome about faith & theology. Center after Worship Hosted by Mario Sprouse. during Coffee Hour. To submit questions, use the Talk Back card in the pews or email: Connect@MarbleChurch.org.
Calendar of Events
EACH WEDNESDAY 60+ Fellowship For details on our weekly lunch programs, check our 60+ Fellowship 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 call to confirm schedule.) WeWo: Wednesday Worship | 6:15pm “WeWo” blends traditional and contemporary worship styles, with sermons by Dr. Brown, Rev. DePree, 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.
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.) WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5 60+ Autumn Art with Judy Tulin | 10:00-11:30am Meets Wednesdays, October 5, 19, 26 & November 2. Please sign up in advance with Colleen Cosgrove. 60+ Fellowship Lunch & Program | 12:00pm Oktoberfest buffet ($12, Fellowship members, $15, guests), followed by program at 1:00pm: Linda Ipenema and the Dixie Cats. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 7 The Art of Creation | 6:30-8:00pm All invited for this series that weaves together art work from local museums, biblical stories and living conversations from Bill Moyers’ book Genesis, plus a search for your own creativity. Led by Chad Tanaka Pack and Katherine Gotshall English. Continues Saturday, November 12, 10:30am-12:00pm. Please see Katherine’s article on page 6.
Touchpoint: October/November 2016
Homecoming 2015
HOMECOMING 2016 Sunday, October 23 | 1:30-2:45pm In the tradition of welcoming back the congregation after summer holidays, we invite you to join us in the Sanctuary for our Annual Marble Homecoming Celebration. A fun-filled variety style show featuring Marble Staff, Board and Ministers. What will happen this year? Before the show, please join us for Brunch in the Marble Loft, which will be served immediately following Worship. $12, no reservation needed. This is a Sunday at Marble you don’t want to miss!
OCT/NOV ‘16
LUNCHTIME ORGAN RECITAL Monday, November 7 | 12:30-1:00pm Happy Birthday, Marble Pipe Organ! Our magnificent 101-rank Sebastian Glück pipe organ is turning one year old! Come celebrate the anniversary of this historic THE LAST WORD achievement with a lunchtime Life at its best is a creative recital by Kenneth Dake. The synthesis of opposites in Sanctuary will rumble and vibrate fruitful harmony. with regal fireworks of Sir Edward —Martin Luther King, Jr. Elgar, along with other dazzling masterworks. Free admission.
TOUCHPOINT The Marble Magazine One West 29th Street, New York, New York 10001-4596 ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
THANKSGIVING BRUNCH Sunday, November 20 | 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. Free for children 7 and under. No reservation needed. MARBLE ARTISANS’ BOUTIQUE AND BAKE SALE Sunday, November 27 | 12:15-2:00pm Celebrate Creative Artists and get in the Christmas Spirit! Invite your friends and neighbors to join you for 11:00am Worship, followed by our Annual Artisans’ Boutique in the Marble Loft. Support our amazing Marble artists and get a head start on your Christmas list with a variety of hand-crafted gifts. (Preview sale, 10:00-11:00am.) Sweet and savory treats can be purchased from our Bake Sale to enjoy while you shop! We also invite you to put on your chef’s hat or apron and donate delicious homemade treats to this special event. 100% of the proceeds from the Bake Sale go to charity. For more information, or to sign up to bring food, please contact Kim Sebastian-Ryan (KRyan@MarbleChurch.org).
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