MARBLE COLLEGIATE CHURCH
UPDATE
One West 29th Street, New York, New York 10001-4596 www.MarbleChurch.org 212-686-2770 212-685-0706 fax
APR-MAY-JUNE 2015 SUNDAY WORSHIP, 11AM DR. MICHAEL B. BROWN Senior Minister preaching*
APRIL 5* Easter Sunday
The Divine Post-Script I Corinthians 15:50-56
APRIL 12 To Be Determined
APRIL 19*
Making the Most of a Mess John 20:11-18
APRIL 26*
Who Said You Have to Be Good Enough? II Samuel 3:12-16
May/June Sermons Listing
Recognizing the Holy in All Holidays
The origin of the word “holiday” is from the old the fingerprints of God in the particular date or occasion English hāligdæg (which literally meant “holy day”). we are observing. In what ways does this or that desigWe do not ordinarily think of all our nated date possess and profess a holy Truth? holidays as being particularly holy Obviously this is important every time (Valentine’s, Fourth of July, etc.). Christians gather for Worship, but I particularHowever, when prayerfully considly encourage you to approach upcoming ered and honorably celebrated, we special Sundays in a spirit of earnest prayer. can always experience the sacred Ask God to reveal to you the spiritual meaneven within the secular. ings of that specific occasion. And, pray that In April, May, and June, several others who come to Marble on those holidays and/or special dates will Sundays will find not only appropriate celebe observed. It doesn’t require brations of particular dates, but even more much imagination to see the holiwill experience the reality of God’s Spirit in ness in some of them (like Easter, what occurs here on those dates. In so doing, Pentecost, and Trinity Sunday). But, may all our observances lead others into a Dr. Michael Brown there are other dates not specifically renewed experience of mystery and grace. church-related that still touch our spirits in holy ways A holiday or any day can be a holy day when prayerfully (e.g., upcoming Sundays like Mothers’ Day, Fathers’ considered and honorably celebrated. Day, Memorial Day, and Pride Sunday). Whatever the occasion may be, Christians are called upon to look for
Please see page 2.
WEDNESDAY WORSHIP 6:15PM Every Week (except April 1)
JAZZ REVELATION 6:15 PM First & Third Fridays
HOLY WEEK SERVICES Please see page 2.
MARBLE UPDATE INDEX 1-7
MARBLE MATTERS
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SPIRITUAL GROWTH AND EDUCATION
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OPPORTUNITIES TO SERVE
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS MARBLE MATTERS
The Power of Prayer
One of Marble’s longtime prayer traditions is the Good Friday Prayer Vigil, 1:00-3:00pm, hosted by the Marble Prayer Ministry. This is a place “where two or three are gathered” to pray for members and friends of Marble, including requests from the Peale Center/OurPrayer. Prayer has been the focus of our Lenten journey this year at WeWo and through Small Groups studying Listen: Praying in a Noisy World by Bishop Rueben P. Job. We invite you to continue that journey and join us to give the gift of prayer to those in need. Come when you can, leave when you wish. It is also a wonderful opportunity to request prayers for your family, friends and yourself. Complete a Good Friday Prayer Request card available at the 29th Street Reception Desk or Welcome Table and return by Palm Sunday. Of course, Marble is always a praying community! Please see page 6 for reflections from the Marble Prayer Ministry and mark your calendar now for their annual Prayer Intreat, Saturday, June 27, 10:00am-2:00pm, in the Labyrinth Room. Details will be available later this spring.
Easter Offering 2015
Help us overflow the Easter Egg Thermometer! This year’s goal is $225,000, $21,000 more than last year, 100% of which will be given to carefully vetted non-profits that feed the hungry, house the homeless, create opportunity for vulnerable children, and build bridges of understanding. Whether you can give $1, $10, $250, $1500 or more, let’s all join together to express God’s love and make a difference in our neighborhood, city and world. •Use an Easter Offering envelope found in the pew racks or at reception desk, and place it in the offering plate or mail it to the church. •Give via our secure website: www.MarbleChurch.org (click on Give/Give to the Easter Offering). •Simply write “Easter Offering” on your check or a regular Offering Envelope.
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Marble Matters
MAY & JUNE 2015 SUNDAY WORSHIP, 11AM DR. MICHAEL B. BROWN*
MAY 3
Dr. R. Mark King
MAY 10*
Divinely Maternal Proverbs 1:1-9, 20-23
MAY 17*
How to Stay Alive All Your Life Genesis 12:1-3
MAY 24* Pentecost Sunday
Happy Birthday to Us! Acts 2:1-15
MAY 31* Trinity Sunday
Faith in Three Parts Matthew 28:16-20
JUNE 7*
Obvious Observations John 10:7-10
JUNE 14*
Slow to Understand Mark 1:40-45
JUNE 21*
Thoughts from a Dad Matthew 7:9-11
JUNE 28*
You Will Greet Yourself Arriving Psalm 139:13-15
Re / M A R K /s
last vision of Peter was Peter’s denial. By then, Peter felt shame of that denial: he could not even come to the cross. Jesus loved this fisherman – poor and common; bright, but impulsive. I think he would have thought of Mary of Magdala. She loved Jesus, following his curing Dr. R. Mark King Executive Minister her of seven demons if she was the woman of Luke 8:2. Perhaps Jesus’ last sight was her own sobbing tears. Where was Mary now? Jesus needed to see her, to reassure her. Then there was Judas Iscariot. Jesus would have thought of him too. Poor, poor Judas; he could never see the forest for the trees. The church would forever blame Judas Iscariot for how he had betrayed the Son of God. But that day, in that tomb, I imagine Jesus still loved him and felt great sorrow. I could go on, but I believe you get the picture. Jesus, as the epitome of all God’s holiness and character, cared more about people than any ideology, material thing or power. Easter gives us so much. It gives us hope; it gives us light; it gives us power and promise; it gives us victory. Can we not see it for once, as Jesus may have seen it? Let us see Easter the way Jesus may have seen it – another day, another moment, this time, one that will last an eternity, for us to love and be with one another and to share that love as often as we can.
Holy Week 2015
Prayer Vigil – 1:00–3:00pm Jazz Revelation – 7:00pm A Jazz Funeral for Christ. Dr. R. Mark King preaching. Music by Chris Whittaker. In the Sanctuary. APRIL 5, EASTER SUNDAY Prayer Circle – 8:30am Prelude for Brass and Organ – 8:45 & 10:45am Worship – 9:00 & 11:00am “The Divine PostScript” (I Corinthians 15:50-56) Dr. Michael B. Brown preaching. Music by The Marble Choir with festival brass ensemble. 11:00am Worship will be live streamed as usual. We anticipate a large number of friends and visitors at our services, plus this year seating is limited due to Sanctuary construction. We recommend members attend 9:00am Worship and arrive early for all services, and please join us in welcoming all who worship with us.
By Dr. R. Mark King He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Easter. What a glorious and triumphal day! Have you ever considered, what was that day like for Jesus? At that moment, that glorious moment, what took place inside the dark tomb, only God really knows. When Jesus was resurrected, what sensation did He immediately experience? As He became oriented, what feelings flooded Him? I want to step out on a limb and offer a hypothesis, clearly conceived from my own interpretation of who Jesus Christ was and is. But still, consider what I share. Now let me start with What Jesus Most Likely Did Not Think or Feel. First, I don’t think he would have thought or felt something like, “Wow, we did it!” Jesus had no doubt that God would raise Him; it would have been no surprise. I don’t think he would have wanted to throw it all in the Sadducees’ or Pharisees’ or Romans’ face. In fact, I think that is perhaps the most remote possibility. I doubt he would have meditated on the theological manifestations of the soteriological ramifications in the atonement theories construct. In other words, Jesus was not so caught up in knowing and articulating a set standard of belief – creedalism or legalism – as much as he was concerned about what was in people’s hearts. So if that is not what he would have thought or felt, What May Have Jesus Felt or Thought? I think immediately he wondered about Peter. He wondered what he was doing; how he felt for Jesus’
MARCH 29, PALM/PASSION SUNDAY Bible Study with Sister Carol Perry, Prayer Circle, Family Worship – 10:00am Worship – 11:00am “Fair Weather Faith” (Mark 11:1-10), Dr. Michael B. Brown preaching. APRIL 2, MAUNDY THURSDAY Worship – 7:00pm “Greater Love Hath No One Than This” (John 15:12-14; Luke 23:26) is Dr. Michael B. Brown’s message with dramatic readings and music by The Marble Choir. Includes Holy Communion. APRIL 3, GOOD FRIDAY Music for Prayer and Meditation – 11:30am Kenneth Dake Worship – 12 Noon “Forsaken or Faithful?” (Psalm 22:1-2; Psalm 31:1-5), Dr. Michael B. Brown preaching. Music Director Kenneth Dake leads The Marble Choir, Festival of Voices, and orchestra. Today’s service will be live streamed.
Marble Matters
In the Marble Spotlight
ANTI-BULLYING WITH JANE CLEMENTI and Sean Kosofsky of the Tyler Clementi Foundation Sunday, April 12 | After Worship Have you – or someone you love – ever been bullied? What IS bullying and what do we know about how to prevent it? At this first-in-a-series event, we’ll explore how widespread bullying has become and hear from Jane Clementi whose son Tyler was a victim of cyber-bullying. As a freshman in college, Tyler learned he had widely become a topic of ridicule and ended his life by jumping off the George Washington Bridge. The Tyler Clementi Foundation is now working to end online and offline bullying in schools, workplaces and faith communities. Hosted by Children, Youth and Families Ministry, GIFTS: LGBTQ Fellowship, Men’s Ministry, and Women’s Ministry. Suitable for 14 years and older. REMEMBERING, REFLECTING, RECONCILING JOURNEYS OF HOPE, FAITH AND LOVE – A SERIES ON DIVERSITY The Latino American Perspective Sunday, April 26 | 2:00pm Dr. E. Carmen Ramos, Ph.D., Curator for Latino Art at the Smithsonian American Art Museum and Puerto Rican artist and activist, Miguel Luciano, join us to discuss the Latino American Perspective in this next installment of our Diversity Series. Dr. Ramos will be speaking on “what is Latino about American art?” thereby underlining that Latino, like all Dr. E. Carmen Ramos cultures that make up the melting pot called America, is not “other” but is part of America’s culture-fabric. Mr. Luciano will discuss and show his art focused on peaceful resolutions. Please check website for more details and to purchase tickets. Miguel Luciano In honor of the day’s Diversity Event, our April 26 Monthly Brunch will feature a Latino inspired menu, special live music and more.
5TH ANNUAL THE PUZZLE: MARBLE’S THEATRE FESTIVAL Monday, June 15 – Sunday, June 21 This June, the Marble Loft will once again be transformed into our Off-Off-Broadway theatre as we head into the 5th year of The Puzzle: Marble’s Theatre Festival. The two nights of 10-minute plays will be back as well as a few surprises for our 5th anniversary. Details will be added to our website as plays are chosen and schedules announced. Until then, mark your calendar to “go to the theatre!” WOMEN’S MINISTRY/THE PUZZLE/ DIVERSITY EVENT Thursday, June 18 The Women’s Ministry will be teaming up with The Puzzle: Marble’s Theatre Festival in a new theatrical piece. All are invited to join us as we showcase the first stage of this play that’s being developed especially by Marble Church as part of its Diversity Series. Stay tuned for details. ALL NATURE SINGS Thursday, April 30 | 8:00pm Merkin Concert Hall Fresh from their triumphant debut at Carnegie’s Weill Recital Hall, The Marble Choir makes their Merkin Hall debut this spring! (129 W. 67th St.) Come join the choir as they celebrate our earthly home. Tickets: $35, Prime Seating; $20, all other seats. Visit www.MarbleChurch.org for purchase information and program details. MARBLE MUSIC NEXT DOOR Join us for the last in this year’s Marble Loft salon concert series. Guided by coartistic directors Tami Petty and Sarah Griffiths and hosted by Ken Dake at the keyboard. Tickets available at the door: $20 general admission/$10 students & seniors. Contemporary Elements: New Song in New York Celebrating the eclectic voice of NYC song composers Thursday, May 7 | 7:30pm Justine Aronson, Sarah Griffiths, Sarah Hawkey, Lauren-Rose King, sopranos; Kristin Gornstein, mezzo-soprano; Chad Kranak, Kevin Rose, Christopher Preston Thompson, tenors; Greg Hoyt, Marcus Jordan, baritones; Ken Dake, piano. “MOVING UP” FAMILY WORSHIP CELEBRATION Sunday, May 17 | 10:00am All are invited to join the Children, Youth, and Families Ministry for their annual “Moving Up” Celebration on the last day of Sunday School classes. In the Marble Loft.
Staff for this Issue: EDITORS:
Karla Fritsch Catherine Ortiz PHOTOS:
Dave Cross Jay Johnson Siobhan Tull Karla Fritsch GRAPHIC DESIGN:
Beth Player-DiCicco
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Marble Matters
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My Time at Marble
Duhaney C. Williams
By Duhaney C. Williams Church has always been an important part of my journey. There are feelings of warmth and safety I experience every time I set foot inside the walls of a church. My favorite part of the service is always the the choral sermon from the choir. Their angelic voices always send goosebumps up my arms. After living in five major metropolitan cities, finding the right church would be essential to surviving my relocation to New York. I came across Marble on my way to a yoga class and decided I wanted to visit this amazing monument of midtown. The outside aestheticism stood glorious in all its wonder. So when the opportunity presented itself for me to attend one of Marble’s services, I jumped at it. The inside of the church was as magnetic as its external beauty. Then the greeters and the staff’s efforts to welcome me made it easy for me to feel at home with Marble Collegiate Church the first time I attended. Fast forward to five years later and my membership solidifies that my journey was on the right path – a path that has afforded me the chance to return to school and complete my first New York City Marathon.
Spiritual Upgrades
Rev. Kirsty DePree Minister of Congregational Care
By Rev. Kirsty DePree Last month, while worshipping at Marble I realized that we, as a congregation, had made a significant upgrade. While it was subtle and had occurred over time, it was in essence replacing an old way of doing things with a new paradigm. We spent a portion of our announcements welcoming those who worshipped with us online, via live streaming. We had 44 states and 23 countries that were represented. What once was just a congregation on 29th and 5th in New York City is now becoming a church for the world. Some would deem this an upgrade, and others may question how the church they have come to know and love is still going to remain their own church. With any upgrade, it opens both opportunities for learning and exposes tensions or bugs that need to be addressed. The key is to navigate the upgrade in a way that brings forth acceptance, greater knowledge, and a clearer more focused way of doing things. Upgrades are intended to enhance, and yet if not taught well, can leave some feeling frustrated or confused. Upgrades open up opportunities for questions. Some of the questions we at Marble Church are now engaging in are: •How do we do discipleship for a church that reaches out to the world? •How do we offer pastoral care for those who are not in our neighborhood, but
My time at Marble has been blessed in so many ways that I always feel I should be doing more and being the best possible person I can be. Now as my journey directs me to get more involved with the church, I have my eyes set on the choir and other avenues of entertainment within the church that spread the message of God. I am truly blessed and honored to be a part of this church. God’s blessings. . .always and forever! 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! APRIL Sunday, April 19 | 10:30am-2:30pm Sunday, April 26 | 10:30am-1:30pm JUNE Wednesday, June 10 | 6:00-9:00pm Wednesday, June 17 | 6:00-7:45pm
consider Marble their church family? •How do we celebrate the sacraments in a way that is both gracefilled and blessed with a global fabric of community? Jesus told John the Baptist’s disciples that old wineskins were not appropriate for new wine. If new wine was poured into the old skins they would break, they would crack under the amount of pressure that they felt. He then encouraged them to put new wine into fresh wineskins and that in doing this both the old skins and the new skins would keep in good condition. This is an age old parable that is used to help congregants take a fresh look at congregational life. New wine, new ideas or upgrades need places to reside where the flavor is enhanced, the richness experienced and the change can breathe. However, when making an upgrade, one needs to pay attention to the operating system that has existed and then explore what changes need to be made in order for the church to retain its unique context, embody its theology and tradition and at the same time be prepared and ready for what God may do. Marble Collegiate Church is the oldest church in America, yet we as a church continue to engage the question, how do we press the refresh button to become a newer version of ourselves? To upgrade well, it is necessary to explore what needs to be added, tweaked, revised, perhaps even deleted in
Marble Matters
order that it will be more colorful, fresher, faster, and more engaging. One person suggested that upgrading is the process of replacing a product with a newer version of the same product. In other words, new wine in new wine skins. Neil Cole has tackled this subject of church upgrades in his book Church 3.0: Upgrades for the Future of the Church. He tries to define how the universal church needs to upgrade by suggesting that the church needs a complete upgrade to a new operating system, a shift from a program-driven and clergy led institutionalized approach to one that is relational, simple, intimate and viral. His hope is that the church is not seen as a program to reach out to the world,
but a people that bring God with them into the world. The words from The Message translation of Isaiah 43:19 say, “Forget about what’s happened; don’t keep going over old history. Be alert, be present. I’m about to do something brand-new. It’s bursting out! Don’t you see it?” The mistake we sometimes make is we make the work of upgrading all about us. Notice God was ready to do a new thing in Isaiah’s day, and God is still doing a new thing today. Our role is to see it, be open to, and have the courage and faith to click the “Install” button. Who knows? We might be surprised at how well it runs.
Following Christ – Continuing the Rise in Word and Action By Susanah Wade The season of Lent, along with the Gospels in which the Lenten story lives is one of my favorites. Here we find energy and action, both mental and physical, and quite frankly, movements that one might say are akin to those we find in the best detective novels – suspense, mystery, paradox, confusion, heart throbbing moves and ultimately, unexpected clarity. Jesus’ words embodied in his call to humankind in the Gospels and his parables should certainly be some of our best examples of literary devices using figurative language, and ultimately of what one might need for a good read. But within the colorful nature of the read, we are exposed to the reality of somberness and to darkness, all of which seek to get our attention and bring us to God’s purpose for our lives as highlighted in the Gospels – to pick up our cross and follow Jesus and be marked as children of God. As we move out of the season of Lent, to Jesus’ resurrection and ascension into heaven, Jesus calls his disciples to follow him – to continue his movement. He essentially calls us to continue to rise and to show love for the world, not only by what we say but by also by what we do. Before Jesus’ ascent to heaven and before the Holy Spirit takes its place as a pivotal axis from which we experience the presence of God, we see Jesus in the company of the eleven disciples, some of course still in disbelief that Jesus
has risen from the dead. It is at this moment in time that Jesus seems to clearly leave a command that he deems important for all humankind which we see in Matthew 28:18-20, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go ye therefore and make disciples of all nations… and teaching them everything that I have commanded you…” This is the call to us, not only during Lent but as we journey through life – to follow Jesus – to follow his path of expressing love for all, protecting children, advocating for peace and reconciliation, efforts to feed the poor, and providing shelter for the homeless. Words by themselves can show good intent but our actions fulfill the intent. As we seek to be more like Jesus and to answer his call, may we always seek to do what he has asked of us. The potential power of our actions in the world is exemplified by Jesus and he has provided us with the roadmap to do this. May we allow his words to guide our actions – reminiscent of the sentiment by the psalmist who said in Psalm 119:105, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path”.
It is the season of the year when the Marble Community has an opportunity to express our Christian faith and love by assisting Jesus’ (and our) brothers and sisters through the Annual Easter Offering. It’s amazing the difference we can make for those in need when each of us gives!
Susanah Wade Director of Missions and Outreach
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Marble Matters
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The Marble Prayer Ministry
Members of Marble’s Prayer Ministry in the Prayer Room: Kora Vaughs, Linda Giannini, Jean Ando, Gail Ferenc, Claudette Macey, Annie Allen. Not pictured: Zoe Morris, Rev. Kirsty DePree and Judy Tulin.
Have you ever wondered what happens to the Prayer Request card you placed in the offering plate or in the basket in the Prayer Room? The cards are distributed to members of the Marble Prayer Ministry (MPM) who pray for each request for at least two weeks. Every June the MPM holds a ritual to burn the cards collected throughout the year — a sending up of the prayers directly to the One who hears and answers them. As it says in Psalm 141:2: “Let my prayer be counted as incense before Thee.” They have been fortunate to be able to use the fireplace at The Players Club, thanks to Marjorie Martin, who was a member of the Club as well as a longtime member of the MPM. Originally, the MPM was known as the Spiritual Enrichment Committee (SEC). In addition to praying for the Prayer Requests, the SEC planned spiritual events with speakers such as Bernie Siegel, Paula D’Arcy, Parker Palmer, and other spiritual giants. Now the name better reflects the focus of their Intreats and the gift of prayer they give to the entire Marble Community. There are currently eight members who serve as leaders of the Marble Prayer Ministry. Here are reflections from some of them: I consider myself very privileged to be involved with the MPM because I have the opportunity to have a personal talk with God through Jesus Christ for others and myself. Praying is a very important part of my life. – Kora Vaughs
Reflections from the Editor
Karla Fritsch Publications Manager
By Karla Fritsch God did such an amazing job when he created animals. I love it when I’m in Maine surrounded by nature and encounter such an interesting mix of His creation. I’m intrigued by Native Americans and their connection to animals, especially their understanding of “animal medicine” – the spiritual meaning of animals. In the big city are there animals that have spiritual lessons for us? Absolutely! Although we’re surrounded by skyscrapers, concrete and glass, we can still experience the gift of animal medicine. Dogs, of course, are a very familiar sight in the city. I love walking to the subway in the morning and passing all the people walking their dogs. When I see a dog walker with a
A meaningful part of being on the Prayer Team is the ritual of the burning of the prayer requests. It is a sacred time we share together as we release the prayers back to God. – Gail Ferenc As I release and burn the prayers, when I see the ashes and the flames rising up, I think of new beginnings – it’s a sign of renewal for me as well as for those who have sent the prayers to us. – Annie Allen I am blessed to be a member of MPM. Each prayer request I receive reminds me I am my brother’s keeper. Each time I pray for someone I am building a deeper and abiding relationship with God through his son Jesus. – Claudette Macey The burning of the prayers is a reflective and happy and uplifting time, to send our praises to God for all of the things he has done for His children; now and future blessings. Praise God! – Zoe V. Morris There are many avenues for requesting prayer at Marble: •Fill out a blue Prayer Request card (or special Good Friday Prayer Vigil card) found in the pews and Prayer Room; •Submit prayers at www.MarbleChurch.org at bottom right of the home page or Connect/Prayers; •Call or email Judy Tulin (JTulin@MarbleChurch.org). We try to include member prayer requests on the Pulpit Prayer List – but only a limited number can be included each Sunday. All other prayers are prayed for in the Prayer Circle or by the Prayer Ministry Leadership. Although God already knows each of your requests, Marble is a praying community at work.
group of dogs I often stop in my tracks because I’m so thrilled. Right there is a lesson on diversity. There are different breeds, various sizes, colors, temperaments – yet all taking, and usually enjoying, the journey together. Once I was sitting on a stopped bus on Central Park South near a horse and his carriage. The horse was eating out of a red bucket and there were pigeons all around grabbing any bits that fell their way. Then one pigeon jumped in the bucket as the horse was busy chewing. Within seconds four other pigeons joined the buffet inside the bucket. I was amazed how patient the horse seemed with the fluttering pigeons feasting just under his muzzle. Plus, he was willing to share. I didn’t witness one nudge trying to keep it all for himself.
Marble Matters
A few winters ago I was taking photos of a beautiful snowfall in Riverside Park when I saw a hawk flying north over Riverside Drive. I’ve always been drawn to soaring hawks whenever I’m in the country and feel like each sighting is a spiritual gift. Yet to see one in the city is a wondrous surprise encounter. In my almost 25 years in NYC I’ve been blessed by three hawk “visits”. Another one of these visits was on a Sunday morning in March 2014. I was sitting on a wall waiting for the bus on Riverside Drive and there wasn’t a sound yet “something” made me turn around. In the tree not that far behind me was a hawk sitting quietly on the branch! (Perhaps it was even the same hawk I’d seen in flight.) In Jamie Sams & David Carson’s book,
Medicine Cards: The Discovery of Power through the Ways of Animals, they write: “Hawk is akin to Mercury, the messenger of the gods. Hawk medicine teaches you to be observant, to look at your surroundings… Life is sending you signals. …a clue about the magic of life is being brought to you.” Another lesson is there – if we keep our eyes and hearts open, we will experience God’s enchanting majesty that is always around us. God’s furry & feathered teachers are there ready to guide, enlighten and bless us, no matter where we are. Are you willing to enter their classroom?
Cristo Rey Interns at Marble
Noah Graham, Freshman, enjoys playing basketball and lacrosse. He hopes to finish college and maintain a job that benefits other people. Working at Marble has helped me understand the meaning of teamwork. Everyone does their part to make work easier, and I can see that everyone genuinely cares for each other. My experiences at Marble have helped me realize that helping others and caring for them will make your life better. – Noah Adonia “Doni” Hosier, Junior, likes writing stories and creating characters. She also enjoys singing and playing instruments. This is Doni’s second year at Marble and some of you were blessed to hear her beautiful voice at the 60+ Finale last June. She dreams of being a filmmaker and a performing artist. My intern experience at Marble has been amazing, it wasn’t what I would have expected freshman year. When I first came to Cristo Rey and found out that students work, I couldn’t imagine building a relationship with coworkers and feeling comfortable around them. Working here has taught me a lot about how the work world functions, and about myself. The most important thing I will take from here is communication. Something as simple as that was a huge challenge since I’m very reserved. My supervisor and coworkers helped me to come out of my shell by encouraging me to ask questions. I had to realize that no one is born knowing all, or is perfect. We all will make mistakes, but we shouldn’t hold it against ourselves. Above all working here has taught me to take pride in my work and in myself. – Adonia Thank you Adonia, Noah and Tanner!
Marble has been privileged to participate in Cristo Rey New York High School’s Work Study Program for five years. Brian Heese, Director Corporate Work Study Program, describes their mission: Cristo Rey’s mission is to provide a college-preparatory, high school education to 400 students who for academic or financial reasons cannot attend a quality, college preparatory high school. Cristo Rey developed a unique financial model where the students work in an innovative Corporate Work Study Program at premier companies and non-profit organizations in New York City and assign their earnings to the school. The jobs generate about 45% of the school’s $5mm budget; the remainder is funded by donations and a small amount from the students’ families. The school is achieving incredible success. 100% of its students are accepted into college, 99% of its alumni actually enroll in college and 80% of its alumni persist in college to graduation. Cristo Rey is part of a network of 28 schools nationwide. All the schools educate students from low-income families and have the students work to pay for their education. 9,000 students are being educated under this model across the country. Cristo Rey likes to work with Marble Church because Marble’s staff develops the students. – Brian Heese This year Marble has had three interns from Cristo Rey working under the supervision of Daphne Kim, HR Manager. We are so appreciative of the unique gifts each of them brings to the job and the spirit they add to our workplace. Tanner Edmondson, Freshman, likes to draw and is interested in Anime and Manga. One of his dreams for the future is to become an astronomer. Being at Marble has taught me a lot. I’ve helped in the Business Office and I even kept up on a spreadsheet, which I doubted I would get the hang of at the beginning of the year. – Tanner
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Noah Graham, Adonia Hosier, Tanner Edmondson
To view a video about the school’s job program, visit: http://www. cristoreyny.org/cwsp/ CristoReyNY_CWSP_ Video.mp4
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Spiritual Growth and Education
Bible Study with Sister Carol Perry SUNDAYS AT 10AM REPAIRING THE COMMUNITY April 12, 19 & 26 The disciples all fled on Maundy Thursday night. How does the Risen Jesus help them put back together the pieces of this shattered relationship? (Please note, no Bible Study on Easter Sunday, April 5.) FOCUSING ON FAMILY TIES May 3, 10, 17, 24 & 31 The first identity of every biblical character is famSr. Carol Perry Bible Scholar ily. One is a parent, a sibling, a spouse, or sometimes all at the same time. So are we, and the interactions of Esau, Joseph, Moses, the Zebedee brothers with their relatives both intrigue and teach. Congratulations Sister FEASTING IN THE KINGDOM Carol Perry for being June 7 & 14 honored at Blanton-Peale’s The feast was the dream of Israel that runs like a 2015 Norman Vincent Peale Awards for Positive Thinking theme through the books of the Bible. What deeper truth lies here for our calorie-conscious world? Gala in May! (Sr. Carol’s Sunday Bible Study will return on September 13.) We have a special invitation for Sr. Carol’s online students who live stream her Sunday morning Bible Study – Please join the discussion at the end of class by asking your questions! There are two ways to do this: click on the “Send Us a Question” button on the live streaming page or email us at MarbleVision@MarbleChurch.org. We would love to hear from you! TUESDAYS AT 6:30PM A BIBLE TOOL BAG April 7, 14, 21 & 28, May 5 To make the Bible our own we need some knowledge of other cultures, of literary devices and of what scholars have learned through the years. Each of these can make our Bible study richer and more spiritually fruitful. (Classes resume in September.)
Rev. Gregory Johnson Prayer Circle
WEEKDAYS, NOON–1:00PM SPIRITUALITY IN THE WORKPLACE Bring your lunch and join interactive Bible study in two Manhattan locations.
VOLUNTEER FOR THE SUMMER CHOIR Continue Marble’s weekly commitment to musical excellence by joining the Summer Choir, directed by Kenneth Dake. Rehearsal at 9:00am each Sunday June 7 - September 6. Sing on your available Sundays. Prospective singers must be comfortable reading music and have prior choral experience. Those not already in Marble Choirs may be asked to audition. Please contact Korland Simmons (KSimmons@MarbleChurch.org).
TUESDAYS IN THE MARBLE LOFT April 14 & 28, May 5 & 19 THURSDAYS AT ST. BART’S April 16 & 30, May 7 & 21 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). Please note, abbreviated session at 8:30am on Easter Sunday.
Spiritual Growth Hour SUNDAY AT 1:15PM We continue to seek to illuminate, educate, and empower people to experience Hope, Faith, and Love. LOVE… LIVED April 12 Special guest Jane Clementi. Please see page 3. LOVE… LEARNED May 24 Led by Sister Carol Perry. How The Bible Expresses the Many Dimensions of Love. LOVE… LIBERATED June 21 Celebration with The Puzzle.
Small Groups
Small Groups at Marble can change us, help us grow, and get us to go out and do good in the world. To learn more, visit www.MarbleChurch.org or contact Baleta McKenzie (BMcKenzie@MarbleChurch.org).
CONGREGATIONAL CARE PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY Knit or crochet prayer shawls as gifts to members who are ill at home, in the hospital, or homebound. All are welcome to join us for prayer and creating together on the 1st and 3rd Mondays of each month, 5:00-6:00pm. Materials provided. Contact Judy Tulin (JTulin@MarbleChurch.org). No session April 6.
Missons and Outreach: Opportunities to Serve
In the Action Spotlight
HABITAT FOR HUMANITY WORK DAY Saturday May 16 | 9:00am-2:00pm The entire Marble Community is invited to join the Marble Men’s Ministry to help build a home for someone in need.
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, April 12, May 10 & June 14 — 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 trans-
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port the lunches and host the service which begins at 2:00pm; meet in front of 276 Fifth Ave at 1:30pm. 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. Marble Fights Hunger — Please support our continuous food drive by donating non-perishables. Food is given to various food banks in NYC which serve at-risk families. Leave donations at the 29th Street Reception area, the Fifth Ave Narthex or the Marble Loft. Saturday, June 27 and Sunday, June 28 — Help serve water to those marching in the annual Women’s March on Saturday and Pride March on Sunday. This is a great opportunity to publicly serve and show that ALL are welcome at Marble Church, and loved. Period.
Program Ministries
Adult Ministry
Join us for our Annual Retreat, The Spirit of Being Present, April 17-19 and Jazz Revelation on May 17 followed by fellowship at a nearby restaurant. See the Calendar of Events and website for more details. Contact Colleen Cosgrove (CCosgrove@ MarbleChurch.org).
Connection (20s&30s)
To receive Connection emails (including a schedule of events), contact Brian Hampton, (BHampton@ MarbleChurch.org).
Entrepreneurs
Dr. Robert D. Williams is our special guest on May 28 for the next in our Peale Parlor Soul Salon Series, An Entrepreneur for All Seasons. Our Salon Series will continue on July 23. Contact Katherine Gotshall English (212-529-8512 or kathcoach@ earthlink.net).
GIFTS: LGBTQ Fellowship
We co-host a special event on anti-bullying with Jane Clementi on April 12 and our monthly Coffee Hours are on May 3 and June 7. Stay tuned to the website and eblasts for all our Pride Events in June. Contact T.J. Houlihan (GIFTS@MarbleChurch.org).
Keep up with our different Program Ministries Join us as we co-host Marble’s anti-bullying event by attending Coffee on April 12. On April 15 and June 19 we gather Hour after Worship and for Worship and a bite to eat afterwards, we lead visiting their pages at Marble’s Habitat Build on May 16, and Dr. Jason
Men’s Ministry
Baker joins us for a discussion on health on May 26. For information, see the Calendar of Events, website or contact Tom Schneider (TSchneider@ MarbleChurch.org).
60+ Fellowship
We have entertaining and informative Wednesday programs planned for the last three months of the church year. Please note, no session April 1. There are special luncheons for Easter on April 8 and our Grand Finale on June 10. Free hearing screenings on May 6. See the 60+ newsletter and Calendar of Events for details on all our Wednesday events. Judy Tulin’s May Art Class: 10:00am. Contact Colleen Cosgrove (CCosgrove@MarbleChurch.org).
Women’s Ministry
On April 12 we co-host Marble’s special antibullying event, at our May 21 program we focus on renewal, and we ask all to join us for our contribution to The Puzzle & The Diversity Series on June 18. For details, check website or contact Anna Nugent (ANugent@MarbleChurch.org).
www.MarbleChurch.org.
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Calendar of Events
Calendar of Events
For more details, to register, or for the full listing of all our programming, please visit www. MarbleChurch.org or stop by the Welcome Center after Worship during Coffee Hour.
EACH SUNDAY Live Sermon Talk Back with Dr. Michael Brown 12:15pm Remain in the Sanctuary after Worship to join Dr. Brown and Marble’s online community for a brief discussion/Q&A about the day’s sermon. Hosted by Mario Sprouse. 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 AND THIRD FRIDAYS Jazz Revelation | 6:15pm Connect with a community of people in a cozy setting of bistro tables and refreshments, enjoy a time of worship led by Dr. Mark King, and music led by pianist Chris Whittaker with talented guest artists. 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 note, schedule could vary. No walks on Easter, April 5.) WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8 60+ Fellowship Lunch & Program | 12:00pm Easter buffet ($12 Fellowship members; $15 guests), followed by program at 1:00pm: Manhattan School of Music Quartet performs in the Sanctuary. WEDNESDAY, APRIL 15 60+ Fellowship BYOL Lunch & Program 12:00pm Bring Your Own Lunch (with potluck desserts), followed by program at 1:00pm: The Medicaid Advisory Group presents information on maximizing entitlements and accessing quality healthcare. Men’s Ministry Meet and Eat | 6:15-8:30pm All men invited to join us for WeWo followed by fellowship at Mason Jar Restaurant, 43 E. 30th St.
Aronda Way 60+ Fellowship Lunch , May 6
WEEKEND, APRIL 17-19 Adult Ministry Retreat The Spirit of Staying Present. Led by Rev. Sam Clover, Lesley Mazzotta, Colleen Cosgrove and Adult Ministry lay leaders at Villa St. Joseph, Saugerties, NY. Visit www. MarbleChurch.org for details. WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22 60+ Fellowship Lunch & Program |2:00pm Soup and salad, $7, followed by program at 1:00pm: Manhattan School of Music’s Annual Musical Theatre Cabaret.
Rev. Sam Clover
Lesley Mazzotta
SUNDAY, APRIL 26 Monthly Brunch – Celebrating the Latino Community | 12:15pm All are invited for this time of fellowship and good food. In honor of today’s Diversity Series event, we will have a Latino inspired menu, special live music and more. In the Marble Loft. $12. WEDNESDAY, APRIL 29 60+ Fellowship BYOL Lunch & Program | 11:30am Special presentation Hearing and Healthy Aging by Caroline Ginsburg Stern, 11:30am-12:15pm. Bring Your Own Lunch (with potluck desserts). Our monthly movie will follow at 12:45pm: Young @ Heart. SUNDAY, MAY 3 GIFTS: LGBTQ Fellowship Coffee Hour | 12:15pm All are welcome for this time of fellowship. WEDNESDAY, MAY 6 60+ Art with Judy | 10:00-11:30am Judy Tulin leads this class each Wednesday in May. Pre-register with Colleen Cosgrove. Free Hearing Screenings | 10:30am-3:30pm The Center for Hearing and Communications will provide free screening tests for the Marble community aged 55+, for those who do not wear hearing aids or have not had a hearing test recently. First come, first served. Follow-up tests for those who qualify will be on May 20 and 27. 60+ Fellowship Lunch & Program | 12:00pm Soup and salad, $7, followed by program at 1:00pm: Aronda Way returns to entertain with jazz and gospel favorites. WEDNESDAY, MAY 13 60+ Fellowship BYOL Lunch & Program | 12:00pm Bring Your Own Lunch (with potluck desserts), followed by program at 1:00pm: Poetry Snap! 60+ Members offer readings of original and established works of poetry.
Calendar of Events
FRIDAY, MAY 15 Marble Adult Ministry Gathering | 6:15-8:00pm We attend Jazz Revelation followed by dinner at a local eatery. Pay on your own. SATURDAY MAY 16 Habitat for Humanity Work Day | 9:00am-2:00pm The Marble Men’s Ministry invites the entire Marble Community to help build a home for someone in need. (Site TBD)
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 10 60+ Fellowship Lunch & Program | 12:00pm End-of-Year luncheon ($12, Fellowship members; $15, guests), followed by program at 1:00pm: Grand Finale Celebration! Gary Thompson and members of the Marble Staff present a musical revue, in the Sanctuary. (Our next season will begin September 16.)
WEDNESDAY, MAY 20 60+ Fellowship Lunch & Program | 12:00pm Soup and salad, $7, followed by program at 1:00pm: Attorney Linda Amato returns to address con- FRIDAY, JUNE 19 cerns about Power of Attorney and Estate Planning. Men’s Ministry Meet and Eat | 6:15-8:30pm All men invited to join us for Jazz Revelation folTHURSDAY, MAY 21 lowed by fellowship and food at The Holland House, Marble Women’s Ministry | 6:30pm next door to the Marble Loft. Join us for Woman Renew Thyself: Be You and Flourish! Stay tuned to website for details. SUNDAY, JUNE 21 Monthly Brunch | 12:15pm SUNDAY, MAY 24 All invited for this special brunch celebrating the Memorial Day “Picnic” Brunch | 12:15pm finale of The Puzzle: Marble’s Theatre Fesitval. In the Join us for our patriotic indoor picnic brunch. In the Marble Loft. $12. (Last brunch until September.) Marble Loft. $12. TUESDAY, JUNE 30 TUESDAY, MAY 26 Men’s Ministry High Line Walk Men’s Ministry Gathering | 6:00pm We walk The High Line and eat afterwards. All men Dr. Jason Baker speaks on Six Crucial Health invited! Time and meeting location TBA. Issues for Men, 6:00pm, fellowship; 6:30pm, program. All men invited! $5. WEDNESDAY, MAY 27 60+ Fellowship BYOL Lunch & Program | 12:00pm Bring Your Own Lunch (with potluck desserts), followed by program at 1:00pm: Marble staff member Korland Simmons presents songs from the AfricanAmerican composers’ canon, with Ken Dake at the piano. (Rescheduled from February.) THURSDAY, MAY 28 Entrepreneurs: Peale Parlor Soul Salon 6:30-8:00pm Calming the Storm with Dr. Robert D. Williams, followed by seven minute talks by seven entrepreneurs. $10 suggested donation. WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3 60+ Fellowship Lunch & Program | 12:00pm Soup and salad, $7, followed by program at 1:00pm: Classical Productions, under the direction of Patricia Rogers, returns with selections from opera to Broadway, in the Sanctuary. SUNDAY, JUNE 7 GIFTS: LGBTQ Fellowship Coffee Hour | 12:15pm All are welcome as we kick off Pride Month!
PRIDE 2015 – A Celebration for the Whole Church! There will be opportunities for you to march, hand out water at Marble’s water table, plus fellowship and worship. Stay tuned to the website and GIFTS e-blast for details on all our events including Pride WeWo on Wednesday, June 17; Women’s March Water Table, Saturday, June 27; Pride Breakfast and Water Table, Sunday, June 28. Note: The Calendar of Events schedule subject to change. Please call to confirm.
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Calendar of Events
For more details, to register, or for the full listing of all our programming, please visit www. MarbleChurch.org or stop by the Welcome Center after Worship during Coffee Hour.
Pride 2014
Marble Collegiate Church Update:April- May-June 2015
In the Spotlight
ANTI-BULLYING EVENT Sunday, April 12 Jane Clementi of The Tyler Clementi Foundation helps us explore this important topic.
Jane Clementi
THE LATINO AMERICAN PERSPECTIVE Sunday, April 26 | 2:00pm We welcome Dr. E. Carmen Ramos, Ph.D., Curator for Latino Art at the Smithsonian American Art Museum, and Puerto Rican artist and activist Miguel Luciano. THE MARBLE CHOIR AT MERKIN HALL Thursday, April 30 | 8:00pm
CONTEMPORARY ELEMENTS: NEW SONG IN NEW YORK Thursday, May 7 | 7:30pm Our Marble Music Next Door series features singers from The Marble Choir along with guest vocalists and instrumentalists. THE PUZZLE! 2015 Monday, June 15 – Sunday, June 21 Join us for the 5th Annual The Puzzle: Marble’s Theatre Festival, produced by Brian Hampton, with Artistic Director, Marya Spring Cordes. Look for a performance schedule at www. MarbleChurch.org in late May.
Please see page 3 for details on all these events.
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MARBLE COLLEGIATE CHURCH
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APR / MAY/JUNE ‘15
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• Printed mail – Please keep the business office (Shana Wolfe, SWolfe@MarbleChurch.org) up-to-date on any changes in your mailing address or other contact information (emails, phone numbers, emergency contacts). If you are currently receiving the MarbleUpdate via mail but are switching to the electronic version, please let Shana know. THE LAST WORD I have always been delighted at the prospect of a new day, a fresh try, one more start, with perhaps a bit of magic waiting somewhere behind the morning. — J. B. Priestley