Touchpoint September 2016

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

SEPTEMBER 2016

Time for a New Adventure

I recently saw a travel poster designed to entice people to make creative vacation plans. The scene was of beautiful blue ocean waters crashing on a rock-lined shore. The caption read: “I do believe it’s time for a new adventure!”

Well, so it is. The new church program year is about to begin, and with it comes the new adventures of learning, serving, and growing closer to God and one another.

Our daughter, Katharine, begins her freshman year in college this month. It seems like only yesterday she stood with several of her friends on the Chancel at Marble and was confirmed into the membership of our church. That Sunday all the confirmands were children. Now, like Katharine, they are all off on a new adventure. For them it will be, to a great extent at least, an adventure of the mind – a time for entertaining new thoughts, for reading new ideas, for learning new lessons, and for growing into a new stage of life called “young adulthood.”

The adventure of learning “...when should never end, whatever our we stop stage of life. I’ve told you before learning, of an aged retired Professor who was always on the camwe stop pus of Duke when I was a living.” student there. Most of his time on campus was spent in the — DUKE PROFESSOR library, reading and taking copious amounts of notes on legal pads. A younger academic asked him: ‘Why do you continue to do this, since you are no longer required to?”

His older colleague answered: “Because when we stop learning, we stop living.” His entire life was spent on a grand adventure.

So, what are your plans this autumn? What adventures of mind and spirit would you like to experience? Always in Worship (Sundays at 11:00am and Wednesdays at 6:15pm), we try to lift up ideas about faith that help us grow in our relationships with God and our underDr. Michael Brown standings of self. But Worship alone is rarely enough. We have Small Groups that study issues and books. Obviously we are blessed with Sister Carol (Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays) who is one of the most insightful and inspiring biblical scholars I have ever known. And, we have online opportunities for those who like to learn from the comfort of their own homes. Let me say a word about the latter.

Kirsty DePree and I have taught online courses and will be doing more. Mark King did, as well, when he was on the Marble team. The first online Small Group I ever taught (we studied Christian Doctrine) was populated by people from all over the world. But, in spite of the miles between them, they bonded on screen – seeing one another’s faces, entering into meaningful conversations, growing together, and loving together. In July they traveled from all across the country (and overseas) for a reunion weekend. The group members were from Connecticut, New Jersey, Virginia, Missouri, and Croatia. We have received inquiries from folks in New Zealand and Australia to be part of upcoming groups, plus inquiries from people all across America. If you are intrigued by the idea of being part of an online study group, it will give you the opportunity to travel without even leaving home – to be involved in a national (maybe international) community that is bound together Continued on page 2

SEPTEMBER 2016 SUNDAY WORSHIP, 11AM

SEPTEMBER 4

SEPTEMBER 18

Dr. Michael B. Brown Senior Minister preaching

1 Samuel 7:7-13

Jeremiah 1:1-10

These Stones Shall Speak

Just Do It!

WEDNESDAY WORSHIP, 6:15PM Every Week

Sister Carol Perry

SEPTEMBER 11

Positive Faith, Practical Living John 1:35-46

SEPTEMBER 25

Dr. Lillian Daniel preaching

Sr. Minister, First Congregational UCC, Dubuque, Iowa

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Marble Matters

Stepping Stones

Rev. Kirsty DePree Minister of Congregational Care

Practical Living. Stepping stones remind us of the positive steps of faith we take as we explore how our faith

By Rev. Kirsty DePree intersects with our practical life. One way we also do Margaret Silf in her book, The Inner Compass, this is through Stephen Ministries, as we provide onewrites, “Each breath is a stepping stone to God.” to-one Christian care, exhibiting a faith that promotes As I began to write this, I took a deep breath and I hope and healing in one’s practical life. recalled the many moments that I saw God through On our Stephen Ministries retreat, we experienced the exploration of stones this summer. Stones come in stones in a different way. We went for an early mornall shapes and sizes, weights and textures – they are ing walk in hopes of finding life giving water and we symbolic of strength and they often provide a way of found a creek with many stones. Someone suggested clarifying direction. In the Bible we see some instances that we each pick up a stone and think about what we of erecting little altars of stones where God met the want to give up and then throw it back into the creek. needs of a person, or of Israel. In Scotland these little I remember the moment I threw my stone in alters of stones were called Cairns and I was caught by all the ripples it left in the and they would serve as markers or water.

I realized that whenever we take a step “Each reminders of milestones in one’s life. out in faith there are always ripple effects of At our Women’s Ministry retreat we breath is change that impact our own life and the lives decided that our theme for the year of others. would be Stepping Stones of Faith. a stepping Stones are also used to stand on as we Each woman was given a stone, and stone to make our way from one shoreline to the next, on one side of the stone they were asked to write what they needed God.” whether it is a gentle stream or a raging river. As we stand on the stone slowly lookmost to help them take a step out in — MARGARET SILF ing for another stone, we take a breath and faith, and on the other side they were are reminded we can get to the other side. asked what area of life they needed Stepping stones help us move from one place to have faith in. The answers to the first question varied: I need trust, stability, community, to another, but in each step we take, we take it in faith, faith in the one who knows we will eventually answered prayer, courage, strength…. The answers get to the other side. to the second question were: I need faith to figure out my job situation, my financial situation, my stress, my Yes, in life there are many waters to cross, but anxiety and fears…. We then spent time in prayer, our stepping stones of faith help us to put our trust in seeking the breath of God as a way to grow deeper in God and we take a breath and we pray and we take our faith and trust. another step in the hopes that on the shoreline we can say I have come this far by faith.

This year our theme for Marble is Positive Faith,

“Time for a New Adventure...” continued from page 1

Staff for this Issue: EDITORS:

Karla Fritsch Catherine Ortiz PHOTOS:

Dave Cross Bob Estremera Jay Johnson Brian Hampton Siobhan Tull Karla Fritsch GRAPHIC DESIGN:

Beth Player-DiCicco

by the members’ desire to grow in understanding and experiencing the Christian Faith.

Add to this the myriad service opportunities (a Habitat house, the PS30 tutoring program, Stephen Ministries, Ecclesia, and numerous other chances to volunteer service and offer love). Each service opportunity is also a chance to learn about God and neighbor and, thus, to grow in your personal faith.

The list goes on and on. Talk to someone on staff.

We will be happy to point you in a direction consistent with your dreams or desires. September is here.

Paths of study and service are opening. I do believe it’s time for a new adventure!

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In the Marble Spotlight

SUNDAY SANCTUARY TOUR September 4 | Immediately after Worship Learn more about Marble’s rich history, fascinating architecture, and beautiful windows.

Discover little-known church facts, and explore seldom-seen areas. Led by a trained guide, each Sunday Tour is full of fun and surprises, as well as answers to your questions. A tour is also a relaxed, informal way to introduce your family and friends to Marble.

Meet in the center aisle by the Communion Table after 11:00am Worship. Tours are approximately 45 minutes long. More tours are scheduled for October 2 and November 6. (Dates subject to change.)

THE ART OF CREATION Saturday, September 24 | 10:30am-12:00pm All invited for this exciting new series that weaves together art work from local musuems, 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. In Peale Parlor.

The series continues Friday, October 7, 6:30-8:00pm, and Saturday, November 12, 10:30am-12:00pm.

MONTHLY BRUNCH RETURNS Sunday, September 25 | 12:15pm All are invited as our brunches begin again. Please see page 11.

WEWO: WEDNESDAY WORSHIP Every Week | 6:15pm Have you joined us recently for WeWo? Give your spirit a mid-week boost through this joyful atmosphere of worship, music and prayer in the relaxed setting of the Marble Loft (274 Fifth Ave).

September 7: Rev. Kirsty DePree September 14: Dr. Michael B. Brown September 21: Chad Tanaka Pack September 28: Dr. Michael B. Brown

THE OPEN CENTER PRESENTS ELIZABETH GILBERT AT MARBLE Thursday, September 29 | 7:00pm The Open Center returns to Marble with the immensely popular author Elizabeth Gilbert (Eat, Pray, Love). Elizabeth will draw from her newest book, Big Magic: Creative Living Without Fear, to delve into the mysterious nature of inspiration and explore how we can all awaken and nurture our most creative impulses.

Open Center Members: $39 / Nonmembers: $55/ Marble discount: $45 – use code EGMARBLE. (Price includes pre-signed, paperback copy of Big Magic.) Register at OpenCenter.org.

PHOTO CREDIT: TIMOTHY GREENFIELD-SANDERS

Marble Matters

Elizabeth Gilbert Thursday, September 29

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 SAVE THE DATES OPEN HOUSE NEW YORK Saturday, October 15 | 12:00-4:00pm Join us as we open our doors and invite folks to explore Marble’s rich history for the 14th Annual Open House New York Weekend.

HOMECOMING 2016 Sunday, October 23 | 1:30pm Following Sunday Brunch in the Marble Loft, please join us in the Sanctuary for our Annual Homecoming Show. This is a great opportunity to see the gifts and talents of the Ministers, Board and Staff in a whole new light!

What will Sr. Carol do this year and will Michael Brown sing? Just wait…

Homecoming 2015

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Marble Matters

CYF CORNER SUNDAY SCHOOL BEGINS! Sunday, September 11 | 10:00am CYF is eager for Sunday School classes and both children’s choirs to begin! Get ready for another church year filled with friends and learning – and some surprises, too. Please arrive early to fill out a registration form, or email Brian Hampton, Director of CYF (BHampton@MarbleChurch.org), or Jessica Scovel, Director of Children’s Ministry (JScovel@MarbleChurch.org) for a digital form. We look forward to seeing all of our returning students and meeting new ones!

Brian Hampton Director of CYF Ministry

IT TAKES A CHURCH The summer is always a nice time for me to reflect and think about the school year here at Marble. And, one of the great things I get to do is read and process the applications we receive for the Marble scholarships for graduates and current college students.

I read their answers to the question: “What has being part of Marble meant to you throughout the years?” And I feel like a proud Uncle, Dad, friend.

I’ve seen these young adults move from the toddler room to the Pre-K room, talked to their parents in the hallway, while they anxiously listened to see if their child would cry. I’ve seen them sing their first song on the Chancel—at the wee age of 4—as they showed me bravery that inspired me. I saw them say their first line in a play—and then I’ve seen them take lead roles—becoming more and more comfortable as they grew up.

A VIEW FROM THE CHOIR LOFT The view from the choir loft is spectacular, from the organ or piano prelude to the organ postlude.

Singing above the congregation, facing the Chancel, and knowing our voices are sharing God’s love with heavenly sound soaring ... is inspirational and exhilarating. To be a part of a family of choristers, all gifted music makers, with the blessing of song is truly, more than existing. To work with gifted and multi-talented composers such as Ken Dake and Stacy Penson is a lifetime experience in itself. To be able to participate in song accompanied by an orchestra or solo instrumentalist on any given Sunday is unique for Marble to offer... As a volunteer member of Marble’s Festival of Voices and the Marble Community Gospel Choir, I am so BLESSED to be a part of Marble’s Music Ministry. To God Be the GLORY!!!!

– Aronda Way (FOV and Gospel Choir)

I’ve seen them feed the homeless, speak scripture, light the Advent Wreath, collect offering, and pray for others. I’ve seen them ask questions, and then I’ve proudly witnessed them answering questions.

I’ve seen them go to prom, study overseas, make films, serve the community, invite friends to church, build bridges, and mend relationships. And now I get to see them leave the nest and start their adult lives.

And, it makes me think about the true meaning of the CYF here. It’s not about the perfect performance.

It’s not about the articulation of saying a passage out loud, it’s not about doing things flawlessly. It’s about courage, faith, and being comfortable with their beliefs.

I often speak with adults who come to Marble because they have finally found a church that loves them for who they are. And, many of them were hurt, scared, judged, or completely turned off by their churches when they were a child. That is not the case here at Marble. And it’s because of you. It’s because of all of us—the ministers, the lay leaders, the teachers, and the congregation. This church is producing every year, faith-filled young adults whose faith is theirs. It’s accepted. And they will always look back on this church and remember how loved they were for exactly who they are and who they will become. And I know many of them will bring their kids here (I’ve already seen it happen).

I just wanted you all to know how much you all mean to me, the CYF, and the children here. And, honestly, I just don’t say it enough. You are a part of these kids’ lives, and I thank you. It’s a legacy to be proud of.

The Marble Community Gospel Choir has been one of the most meaningful musical experiences of my life. It has provided an amazing opportunity to foster relationships with other Marble family members through our shared passion for music. Most importantly, spreading God’s message of love and hope through the joyful noise we create together has also strengthened my own faith in a most beautiful and unexpected way.

– Nathan Homb (Gospel Choir) When it comes to the Marble Music Ministry, I have gotten a double dose as I have the supreme blessing to minister in two choirs; the Festival of Voices and also the Marble Community Gospel Choir.

When the Gospel Choir walks onto the Chancel, I can’t help but smile. I see all the beautiful faces in the pews, smiling expectantly at us, waiting for the first notes of a song that is sure to rock their souls, and help them start their week knowing that they are right with Jesus. On the Sundays when FOV sings, I feel a

Marble Matters

sense of great joy and peace as I sit in the Choir Loft and prepare to raise my voice in song. I feel so close to God. My view from the Choir Loft is a very special view. One not afforded to many. I will forever be grateful for that view.

– Gina Wynn (FOV and Gospel Choir) Would you like to become part of the 2016-17 musical season with these inspired singers in either the Festival of Voices and/or the Marble Community Gospel Choir? Rehearsals start soon!

Marble Festival of Voices: includes singing in Worship once a month, the Advent Concert on Sunday, December 4 and Good Friday Worship with

orchestra on April 14. Weekly Wednesday evening rehearsals begin September 14. Prospective volunteers should have some prior choral experience and be able to read music; an informal audition is required. To discuss membership or schedule an audition, contact Ken Dake (KDake@MarbleChurch.org).

Marble Community Gospel Choir: includes singing in Worship once a month and the Black History Month Concert on Sunday, January 5 and Pentecost Concert on Sunday, June 4. To discuss membership or schedule an audition, contact Stacy Penson (SPenson@MarbleChurch.org).

Tutoring at P.S. 30

getting to know her and seeing her progress academically but also from the camaraderie that developed among the teachers, tutors and students who shared our library classroom each week. We all looked forward to seeing everyone each week to share stories and catch up on life events as well as take time to celebrate holidays and birthdays.

In addition to the weekly tutoring sessions, monthly Saturday field trips to noted sites in the City and surrounding areas were an important complement to the classroom work. In addition to the tutors and teachers, parents and siblings of our students were invited to join in on these excursions which included visiting the SONY High Tech Learning Center on Madison Avenue, the Children’s Room of the New York Public Library, the New York Botanical Garden and the Liberty Science Center in New Jersey. At each of these places, there were interactive learning activities for the students and others to enjoy as well as the opportunity to get to know each other better in a more informal setting.

For me the opportunity to be a tutor to a young student at P.S. 30 was a most rewarding experience. I so enjoyed learning about the world of a third grader and the challenges she and her fellow students face growing up. As the new school year approaches, I look forward to again being part of this most worthwhile program.

By Barbara Sagan Last Fall I found myself returning to school, not as a student but as a participant in the P.S. 30 Tutorial & Cultural Arts Enrichment Program being sponsored

by Marble. After a day of training at the school with the Principal, teachers and the other tutors, I was very eager to meet my student, a third grader named Samiya Carr, and get to know her. Over the course of the school year, we would meet one-on-one every Tuesday morning in the school library and work on the prepared assignments for that day in Math and English Language Arts. Solving word problems, reading and interpreting stories and playing word games to learn vocabulary were all part of each week’s session. Prior to meeting with our students, each tutor would meet with one of three teachers assigned to the program to go over the lesson for that day and identify any subject matter areas needing special emphasis. At the end of the tutoring session, we would again meet with the teachers to share insights and discuss each student’s progress. These before and after meetings with the teachers were invaluable for addressing problem areas and providing valuable feedback.

However, the joy and satisfaction I experienced as a tutor came not only from working with Samiya,

The Ripples of Giving

By T.J. Houlihan This past June 26, I celebrated the 2-year anniversary of my kidney transplant. The following Monday, I met with my transplant team and received an A+ report on my progress. God is good!

After I left the doctor’s I walked back to the office, and found myself reflecting on all that had transpired in the years that led up to that transformative day.

How different life has been since. How had two years already gone by?

As I walked along East 29th, I found myself in front of The Church of the Transfiguration, and stopped in the garden. I watched the water cascade down the tiers in the fountain, mesmerized by the little ripples that radiated outward in the pool below. I was overcome with a deep, deep sense of gratitude. Gratitude for being alive; for the gift of new life; for the family, friends and communities who walked alongside me, and for a gift received that I can never repay.

I will never be more humbled by a gift than by that one. Jesus said, “Greater love has no one than this: Continued on page 6

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Barbara Sagan Marble Member

For information about our P.S. 30 Partnership and the names of the other 2015-16 tutors, please see page 9.

T.J. Houlihan Director of Giving

Marble Matters

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“The Ripples of Giving...” continued from page 5

Ashley Johnson Marketing Manager

to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” (John 15:13) When Jesus said that, He wasn’t trying to say that you literally have to die for others the way He did for us. Laying down your life for others can mean putting others first, and making their needs more important than your own. As with any gift, it’s about being selfless and sacrificial in our actions, rather than focusing only on ourselves.

Recently, I learned that a friend of mine from back home was thinking of donating a kidney to her cousin, but was unsure of what the process was like for a living donor. She had been following my transplant journey online. She was considering donating, but had concerns. Because I went public, she felt comfortable reaching out to my donor to ask him about his experience, and felt better informed and less scared.

Ultimately, she committed to becoming a donor for her cousin, who one year later is doing great.

Another friend recently came to me to ask for advice because they’re coming to the point where they need a transplant. And many of you have reached out to me about friends and loved ones in your lives who are at various stages of a transplant process. Two years later the lesson is clear: God is still at work, showing me that one person’s gift can touch multiple lives.

Much like the “ripples” I’ve experienced from one person’s selfless gift, there are “ripples” to the selfless gifts we give to God through Marble.

Unless we’re feeding the hungry in Madison Square Park through our Ecclesia partnership, restoring our pipe organ, or painting the Sanctuary—not everything our giving does is visible to us. Giving clearly happens in tangible, missional ways, but is also immeasurable: in the warm greeting we receive at the front door on a Sunday; in the cup of coffee passed to us in the Loft with a smile; or in the faithful prayers we know we’re all assured of through our Prayer Ministry.

Giving freely does come with a cost: uncertainty.

When we give, we don’t always know what the outcomes will be. We give because we don’t know what we’ll get back. Or, how or when or where or if it will come back to us.

But if you’ve been touched by Marble in any way, you know your giving impacts it, its ministry, and the people it serves in life-changing ways. Giving is a ripple effect, and has the power to transforms our own lives, and through us, the lives of others.

So next time you’re sitting in the pews (or in your living room), during the Offering, take a moment as you drop your envelope into the plate (or click that “give now” button)—and think of the possibilities of what your gifts can do. You never know what happens when you make just one.

Ripples.

Social Media at Marble

sessions with a minister, at what she considers her church, halfway around the world. It’s an exciting time to be a church!

Statistics show that 79% of the U.S. population has a Social Media presence. While we have had an online presence for quite a while at MarbleChurch. org, what you may not know is that for the past five years, Marble has chosen to connect with our faith community through Social Media on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. This has allowed us to build a global faith community (Twitter started with 2 followers and now we have 436. On Facebook we have a total of 2.8K fans from 55 countries, speaking no less than 26 different languages!) and share our positive message of love and inclusive faith for anyone to find and connect with.

As Social Media manager, it is a wonderful challenge and opportunity to curate the posts you see, offering spiritual growth and (our hope!) enriching your life as you connect with us:

By Ashley Johnson Many of you have been lucky enough to set foot in Marble, felt the extraordinary welcome, grown from the messages being preached and found a faith community connection. That is how our faith communities have thrived for years. But with the arrival of Social Media, there is now an additional way to connect to your faith community.

The world’s hectic pace shapes our days, and Social Media platforms like Facebook, Twitter YouTube, Instagram and Snapchat are taking center stage in how we share our daily communications with each other. Social Media is a great way to stay connected, entertain yourself, learn something new or share your thoughts. For Marble, we’ve used it to build a virtual faith community, to enrich a person’s journey, and as a way to connect for those, near and far, looking for a diverse, inclusive, loving message of Faith. One of my favorite stories is of an online congregant from Croatia who live streams with us, keeps in touch on our Facebook page and does Skype

Marble Matters

FACEBOOK: Marble Collegiate Church Our Facebook page delivers you to the essence of the Marble message a few times each week. It’s a good way to keep connected to the church you love.

FACEBOOK GROUPS: GIFTS Group and the Women’s Ministry Group These are closed groups where you must request to join. Once you have joined, the conversations had in that space are private and cannot be viewed by others in the Facebook community at large. This allows for a deeper level of sharing.

YOUTUBE We offer spiritual growth through Dr. Michael Brown’s video series like Soul Purpose and The Bible for Today. Listen to Practical Faith, a new podcast with Dr. Michael Brown that offers conversations, stories and faith advice geared to help faithfully shape the practical matters in your life.

Reflections from the Editor

By Karla Fritsch I love thunderstorms. I always have. It started with my love of Iowa skies and watching storms from our garage when I was a kid. Also, at an early age I decided thunder was God playing the drums.

A lot of those Iowa storms came with tornado warnings and we’d dash to the basement. My town was never struck, but I saw the destruction they caused when my Youth Conservation Corp team helped after a nearby town was hit. Even knowing the possible danger, when I hear thunder it immediately takes me to a peaceful place. If I can’t watch a storm, I’ll always stop to listen. Recently I even sat outside on a stone bench in midtown during a storm. I had a big umbrella to keep me somewhat dry, hoped the buildings would take care of the lightning and I enjoyed the moment.

In addition to watching thunderstorms, when I’m in Maine I love watching the dance of the bay, the clouds and the mountains. I observe the sometimes subtle choreography between puffy cumulus, feathery cirrus, fog banks and how they interact with each other and the mountains.

Recently I’ve asked myself – why do I have such peace during thunderstorms and as I watch momentto-moment changes of an ocean view, yet not during life’s storms and changes? I was raised a positive thinker. I have faith. I guess my faith isn’t as tall and wide as those towering storm clouds. Being bom-

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TWITTER If you like your check-ins with your faith community short and sweet, then Twitter is for you! Follow both Marble and Dr. Brown for daily spiritual pick-me-ups: @MarbleChurch @revmbbrown. We’d love to hear from you and will tweet back!

Community is an important part of the human experience. When we join a community, we are enriched by the connections we make and we grow from the interactions with each person we let into our lives. When we explore our faith and seek out a faith community our lives are made even richer. Marble is committed to meeting you right where you are on your journey. That is why our doors are open on 29th and 5th and why we have swung our virtual doors wide open. For many not able to set foot in our Sanctuary, it’s church the way they hoped and needed it to be, and we are right there with a virtual Marble welcome and food for the soul.

Come check us out!

barded with the world’s troubling news doesn’t help.

I can’t totally tune it out, I need to live in this world.

But, how do I keep all that negativity from depleting my spirit?

I must keep connecting to God. Like this month’s “Last Word” quote from Elizabeth Gilbert – “…look for God like a man with his head on fire looks for water.” I need to keep building my faith muscles.

I need to keep taking what I call “spiritual vitamins” – reading Unity’s “Daily Word”; listening to encouraging speakers and uplifting music; getting myself out in nature; meditating; journaling… And, a new spiritual vitamin, created on my 55th birthday – anytime I see it’s 55 minutes after the hour, I take deep breaths and talk with God. I also need to keep my eyes open so I see rainbows. This July I saw four rainbows in one day! My spirit was buoyant, and still is when I think about it.

Rainbows – a sign of God’s promise and mercy, a sign of hope that light can, and will, break through the dark, stormy skies.

Maybe my making the connection between thunderstorms I love, and life’s changes I don’t, is its own spiritual vitamin. Now, when I face one of life’s storms, maybe I’ll remember to take a breath and listen for thunder.

What are some of the ways you spiritually shore yourself up for the storms of life?

Karla Fritsch Publications Manager

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Spiritual Growth and Education

Bible Study with Sister Carol Perry

Sr. Carol Perry Bible Scholar

SUNDAYS AT 10AM CHURCH IS NOT FOR GOOD PEOPLE September 11, 18 & 25 We come as we are and that is apt to be bumpy!

With some help from Paul, let’s ask what challenges this coming together poses for us.

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 September 13, 20 & 27 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 September 13 & 27

Small Groups

Small Groups at Marble can change us, help us grow, and get us to go out and do good in the world.

If you love coming to church but sometimes find yourself getting lost in the crowd, or if you yearn for a deeper connection with the people you see on Sundays – then our Small Groups are for you! We encourage you to consider participating in one of the many new offerings that begin this fall!

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.

MORE OPPORTUNITIES FOR SPIRITUAL GROWTH SPIRITUALITY & THE ARTS Our summer series was a rousing success! Thank you to all who participated whether as an audience member or a presenter. If you missed any of the sessions or want to revisit them, remember they are available at MarbleChurch.org. Either visit the calendar page of the particular Sunday you want to watch or the Webcast Archive.

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).

THURSDAYS AT ST. BART’S September 15 & 29 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).

Rev. Gregory Johnson Prayer Circle

Dr. Michael Brown’s Online Series

View Dr. Brown’s Soul Purpose and The Bible for Today videos any time at MarbleChurch.org/worship/inspiration. These brief videos are a way to feed your soul and help you explore a practical faith.

VISIT THE PRAYER ROOM Every Sunday immediately after Worship we invite you to stop by the Prayer Room to pray with a member of the Marble Prayer Ministry Team or speak to a Stephen Minister. The Prayer Room is in the 29th Street Lobby, next to the Reception Desk.

Missons and Outreach: Opportunities to Serve 99

In the Action Spotlight P.S.30M IN HARLEM TUTORIAL & CULTURAL ARTS ENRICHMENT PROGRAM Blessings to all our volunteers and students as our special partnership continues. Please keep them all in your prayers throughout this school year.

Marble is partnering with P.S. 30M Hernandez/ Hughes Community Learning School in Harlem, which is a part of the New York City Community Learning School Initiative. Our program to benefit 2nd and 3rd graders in need of support, as well as their families, focuses on math and reading comprehension in a one-on-one tutorial enrichment program with a cultural arts component, and building relationships with tutor and student.

A big thank you to our 2015-16 tutors for sharing your time, talent and love!

Ared Bulbuljian Bill Clayton Leonard Cummings Kathleen Heimann Greg Lozier Carmen Matias

Barbara Sagan Jessica Scovel Eunice Townsend Linda Watrous Margery Westin Stanley Williams

Please see Barbara Sagan’s article on page 5.

BACK TO SCHOOL DRIVE Through September 11 Be part of the Marble tradition as we collect school supplies for “at risk” and homeless children.

The agencies we support have over 600 children who need our help! We also welcome monetary donations for supplies – make checks payable to Marble Collegiate Church and write “Back to School” in memo section. Please mail to the attention of Tom Schneider, place in offering plate during Worship, or stop by the Action Table Sundays during Coffee Hour.

MARBLE PARTNERS WITH HABITAT FOR HUMANITY Saturday, September 17 We will officially be kicking off our partnership with Habitat for Humanity on September 17. Dr. Michael Brown, his wife, Page, the Marble volunteers and the Mission & Outreach Team will represent Marble at the inaugural ribbon cutting event. After that, we build!

Over the next four years, we will be contributing to the build of four different houses. With each build we will be establishing an ongoing relationship with the family who will live in each residence. The family from our first collaborative build with Habitat will be selected in January 2017. Once we know who our family will be, we will introduce them to our congregation during Sunday Worship.

For more information, please contact Susanah Wade (SWade@MarbleChurch.org) or Tom Schneider (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. Sunday, September 11 – 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.

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, 4:30-5:30pm, for prayer and creating together. All levels welcome. Materials provided.

Contact Judy Tulin (JTulin@MarbleChurch.org). Please note, no session on Labor Day, September 5.

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).

MARBLE BUILD DAYS September 17 October 15 & 29 November 5 & 19 December 3 & 17

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Program Ministries

Adult Ministry

Keep up with our different Program Ministries by visiting their pages at

Plan now to join us for a Fall Foliage Outing on Saturday, October 22. Contact Colleen Cosgrove (CCosgrove@MarbleChurch.org).

and attending Coffee Hour after Worship.

Connection (20s&30s)

MarbleChurch.org

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

Entrepreneurs

An Entrepreneur for All Seasons returns October 20 with Dr. Michael Brown and others.

Contact Katherine Gotshall English (212-529-8512 or katherinegotshall@gmail.com).

GIFTS: LGBTQ Fellowship

All Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer invited as we kick off the year with brunch on Sunday, September 18, bring your friends. Make plans now to attend our Fall Intreat on Saturday, October 15. See website and eblasts for details.

Contact Chad Tanaka Pack or Don Piper at GIFTS@ MarbleChurch.org

Dr. Michael Brown’s Book Signing for A Five Mile Walk, June 5, 2016

Men’s Ministry

For information, contact Tom Schneider (TSchneider@MarbleChurch.org).

60+ Fellowship

Our new season of lunch programs begins on Wednesday, September 21. Save the date of Saturday, October 22 for our Fall Foliage Outing.

To register for the new year or for more information, please contact Colleen Cosgrove (CCosgrove@ MarbleChurch.org).

Women’s Ministry

Our theme for 2016-17 is Stepping Stones of Faith. We kick off with an Open House on Sunday, September 11. For details, check website or contact Don Piper (DPiper@MarbleChurch.org).

Baptism August 7, 2016 – Jessica Berrios and Aaliyah, Uzoamaka & Cephas Ezeude and Chimka, James Augustine & Jason Baker and twins Edwin & Joseph, Raymond Keiser & Christina Morano Keiser and Olive, Torin Francis & Mia Antonetti Francis and Maliya & Anaya

Baptism June 19, 2016 – Kelly Ruiter and Hudson, Abigail Shue and Nell, Chenell Platz and Brooklyn

Calendar of Events

EACH SUNDAY Live Sermon Talk Back with Dr. Michael Brown | 12:15pm Join us in the Sanctuary after Worship as we discuss Dr. Brown’s sermon and he answers your questions about faith & theology. Hosted by Mario Sprouse. To submit questions, use the Talk Back card in the pews or email: Connect@MarbleChurch.org.

EACH WEDNESDAY 60+ Fellowship Weekly lunch programs begin September 21. For details, 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, 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 answer questions, while allowing you the space to walk in your own way. (Please confirm, schedule could vary.)

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 3 Caregivers Support Group | 1:00-3:00pm Rev. Marion Gambardella offers guidance to those providing care to a loved one. Learn tools to help you provide better care and also protect your own health and well-being. No charge. Please contact Rev. Gambardella (magambardella@yahoo.com) or Judy Tulin (JTulin@MarbleChurch.org). Meets first Saturday every month.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 11 Women’s Ministry Open House | 12:15-2:00pm All women welcome as we kick off our church year.

Join us as we share our theme for the year, Stepping Stones of Faith, and also hear about upcoming events. Light refreshments served. $10. Register online.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 18 GIFTS: LGBTQ Fellowship Brunch | 12:15-2:00pm Share good food and conversation at our first brunch of the new church season. Our LGBTQ community is encouraged to attend and bring friends. $15.

Register online or email GIFTS@MarbleChurch.org.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 60+ Fellowship Lunch & Program | 12:00pm Welcome Back! Festive sandwich and salad spread ($8), followed by program at 1:00pm: Sr. Carol Perry reveals the world of Biblical women through her latest book, Among Women: Lives of Challenge, Courage and Faith.

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, SEPTEMBER 24 The Art of Creation | 10:30am-12:00pm Join Chad Tanaka Pack and Katherine Gotshall English for this new series. Please see page 3.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 25 Monthly Brunch | 12:15pm All are invited for this time of fellowship and good food. Join us after Worship in the Marble Loft. Live music. $12. No reservation needed.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 28 60+ Fellowship Lunch & Program | 12:00pm Soup and salad ($7), followed by movie at 12:30pm: The Martian.

Save the Dates WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5 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.

WEEKEND, OCTOBER 15 GIFTS: LGBTQ Fellowship Intreat Stay tuned to GIFTS Eblast and MarbleChurch.org for details.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 22 Holmes Fall Foliage Outing The entire Marble Community is invited to join the Adult Ministry and 60+ Fellowship for a leisurely day in the country enjoying God’s gifts of nature. Stay tuned for details.

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

Touchpoint: September 2016 WE WELCOME DR. LILLIAN DANIEL Sunday, September 25 Please join us when our special guest, Dr. Lillian Daniel, preaches at 11:00am Worship.

Dr. Daniel is a preacher, teacher, writer, and speaker.

Her last book, When Spiritual But Not Religious Is Not Enough: Seeing God In Surprising Places, Even the Church is a provocative case for why religious community matters and was featured on PBS and in the New York Times. Her new book, Tired of Apologizing for a Church I Don’t Belong To: Spirituality Without Stereotypes, Religion Without Ranting explores the changing religious landscape. Her words have been described as biting, hilarious, pitch perfect, tender, and often stunningly beautiful. Dr. Daniel is currently Senior Minister at First Congregational Church in Dubuque, Iowa.

Dr. Lillian Daniel

SAVE THE DATE HOMECOMING 2016 Sunday, October 23 | 1:30pm Celebrate the Marble Community with the spirit of laughter and song. To relive last year’s fun, visit the Photo Gallery at MarbleChurch.org.

ONLINE REFLECTIONS WITH DR. BROWN AND SISTER CAROL In addition to the Webcast Archive at MarbleChurch.org where you can watch videos of Sermons and Bible Studies for spiritual growth, we have blogs you can read on a variety of topics by Dr. Michael Brown and Sister Carol Perry — be uplifted and get a glimpse of what’s on their minds.

And, did you know that Dr. Brown is a regular contributor to The Huffington Post? Read the pieces he’s written at www.huffingtonpost.com/dr-michael-bbrown. Also, stay tuned for Dr. Brown’s new podcast, Practical Faith, launching this fall. These are all great places to gather inspiration for your day.

THE LAST WORD Look for God, suggests my Guru. Look for God like a man with his head on fire looks for water.

— Elizabeth Gilbert

SEPTEMBER ‘16

Homecoming 2015

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