Oct 2015 steeplelights

Steeplelights D , October 2015

Naples United Church of Christ

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God is still speaking,

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From the Senior Minister Transition and New Beginnings As promised in the last issue of the Steeplelights, I want to share with you some of the details of Charnley and my plans for the period following our retirement in the spring. Before I do so, let me make a few comments: Your leaders and staff have worked hard for three years to prepare for the transition to new leadership. A concept of ministry plan approved by you, a job description for the Senior Minister, the continuing work of a long range planning committee, and finally the efforts of a conscientious search committee have all been part of this effort. Faithful, dedicated and highly skilled lay leaders brought their expertise and commitment to the church, attending more meetings than I can remember. They consulted with experts around the country, read current books and planned. At this point the final details of the formal transition are being worked out. This will include a series of meetings and then a congregational meeting to elect my successor in January.

I will continue my presence and ministry for the coming season. Then, what happens in the life of Ron and Charnley?

Dr. Ron Patterson

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You can reach me at 239-253-1512, my cell number if you have a concern, an invitation, or

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just want to talk!

This area will always be close to our hearts. What we have loved most about Naples is each of you and this amazing congregation. We have worked together and accomplished so much during the years our paths have intersected. A mission driven congregation has been my dream and you have been a dream come true!

South Florida, because of the presence of my son, daughter-in-law and five grandchildren, will always be a partial home for us. After my retirement, we will leave Naples and settle in Tacoma, Washington, just south of Seattle. Some time ago, we purchased a condo in the Stadium District of Tacoma. This is an historic district which includes the mansions of the lumber barons of Tacoma’s golden age. It is located in the near north downtown area served by bus lines and soon to be served by light rail. Our condo is in the Ansonia, an historic building designed by a prominent architect and built in 1914. It was redone completely in 2008 by a developer, and so the remodeling we hope to do is not extensive. We are in a walkable neighborhood full of good restaurants, businesses and a gourmet grocery store—the nearby amenities we have missed since leaving New York. We have a stunning view of Puget Sound, and Tacoma has a thriving arts community—something we have relished here in Naples. There is a minor league baseball team and there is easy access by public transportation to Seattle, with the many things it offers. Most of these things were on a list Charnley and I compiled some years ago as we discussed retirement plans. We move with the understanding that we will spend some time each year traveling to be with our family, which at this point stretches from Seattle, to New York, to Miami to Colorado. Mexico and St. Thomas are also on our priority lists!

My personal plans include developing my weaving skills, working as a volunteer in a local church, doing some interim work on a short-term basis, and continuing my volunteer involvement with the national United Church of Christ. I don’t want to speak for Charnley, but music, continuing involvement with church and other volunteer opportunities, and time with grandchildren will be priorities for her.

In the life of NUCC, we have so many models for wonderful, active, creative retirements. My prayer is that we will be able to apply some of the wisdom so many have shared with us to this next chapter of our adventure.

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Meanwhile we have months yet together. I welcome invitations to be with you in the days ahead. Let’s spend the months of the coming season creatively engaged in the life of this great congregation.

With love, Ron 0

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From the Associate Minister Home It’s been interesting lately because I have been thinking a lot about home and what that means.

You see, growing up as a United Methodist “PK” (preacher’s kid), we moved about every five years or so and lived in parsonages – homes provided for the pastor by the church. So, my parents have never owned a home and I have never owned one either. My father will retire a few months after Ron. So at the age of 64 and 65, my parents have begun looking to buy their first home as they prepare for retirement.

Dr. Dawson B. Taylor

Of course, I also celebrate with Ron and Charnley as they share their news of finding a “dream home” in a “dream neighborhood” in preparation for their retirement. And yes, I wish it was closer, but they deserve every chance to savor their awaited retirement and time to travel, read and spoil their grandchildren (because you know that they won’t sit still!).

And I have also begun to reflect on the community of Naples in a different light. One of the things that I appreciate about the United Church of Christ, that is different from my United Methodist upbringing, is that the decision about where I serve is made between you, the congregation, and me. There is no one in authority (at least on earth) that tells me where I have to serve. So I get to choose where I want to live and serve – and Naples is where I want to live and serve. And with your vote and blessing in January, that will continue to be Naples. So you can imagine the flood of emotions that surrounded me as I was greeted with the news that the Search Committee was making the recommendation to you that I become the next Senior Minister. It was as if God was softly whispering “Welcome Home.” And I believe those are two of the most powerful words one can hear.

I have been simply overwhelmed by the gracious and kind expressions that I have received from literally across the world (we do have members that live overseas during the summer.) I have received cards, letters, emails, phone calls, text messages, hugs, handshakes, Facebook messages and Tweets from members, colleagues, peers, friends and family that have left me humbled, teary-eyed, excited and nervous.

But that’s what makes being at home so special – it is safe to feel all of those emotions and more.

As I am fond of saying, “If you can’t be yourself at church, where can you?” If you can’t be yourself at home, where can you?

And I think that’s where my reflections have led me. While I am anxious to see what home my parents will select, and I love to see Ron light up when he talks about the view from the living room in Tacoma, at the end of the day, home is about the people you love and who love you. It’s about Jesus who tells stories of a child who wandered away and was welcomed back by a parent who looked for him every day and threw a party for him when he returned. Home is about a church and a farm boy from Ohio and city boy from Texas and the gift of ministry that we all share together.

Grace and Peace, Dawson

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October 2015

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NUCC Staff

Ministers Rev. Dr. Ronald M. Patterson, Senior Minister rpatterson@naplesucc.org

In This Issue...

Rev. Dr. Dawson Taylor,

Associate Minister dawson@naplesucc.org Rev. Beverly Duncan,

Assistant Minister revbev292@gmail.com Wendy Ackerman,

Executive Assistant to Clergy wendy@naplesucc.org

October 2015 2........... From the Senior Minister 3........... From the Associate Minister

18-21... Adult Enrichment Opportunities and Social Activities

5........... Meals of Hope

22......... Bargain Box News

6........... Moderator’s Report

23......... The Green Space

6........... Board of Mission

24......... Book Recommendations

7........... Neighbors In Need

24.......... October Lectionary

7........... Church Picnic

25......... Endowment Committee

7........... All Saints Day

25......... Hi Everyone!

8........... Ebenezer School

26......... Condolences

9........... Bazaar, November 7, 2015

26......... In Service to Our Country

10......... Music Notes

27......... October Birthdays and Anniversaries

10-11... 2015-2016 Concerts 12......... Palette Pals

Jamie Hardesty, A ssistant to the Director of Music Christian Education Dr. Heather English, Adult CE english.heather@gmail.com Nancy Van Fleet, Director of CE – Children & Youth nanvf7@yahoo.com Jane Coiné, Assistant Director of CE – Children & Youth Administration Kary Sirken, Church Administrator kary@naplesucc.org Sharon Magiera, Finance Administrator sharon@naplesucc.org Kaleigh Caldwell,

Administrative Assistant kaleigh@naplesucc.org Julia Simeone

Interim Publications Specialist jsimeone@naplesucc.org

13......... Precious Cargo Academy

Gregg Lepore,

Production Manager, gregglepore@yahoo.com

13......... Labyrinth

Susan Melick, Events Coordinator

14-15... October Calendar

Pat McGee, Volunteer Coordinator

16-17... Youth Christian Education

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Music Ministry Dr. Becky Weese, Director of Music beckyweese@msn.com

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Georgia Lundy,

Sunday Fellowship/Kitchen Coordinator Daniel Brower, Facilities Rick McGinn, Facilities Precious Cargo Academy Leanne Badham, Director leanne@preciouscargoacademy.org Bargain Box Thrift Store Sandy Goldstein, Manager

(239) 262-3802

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We need your help! ~ Meals of Hope Saturday, October 31 from 10 am to Noon!

With a six-year track record of an amazing “goal smashing” community effort to help children and families right here in Collier County, we will again set our sights higher to make even more “meals of hope.”

Saturday, October 31 from 10am-12pm in McSpadden Hall and expanding into Nelson Hall, we will surpass last year’s goal of 153,000 meals!

This “Trick or Treat” packaging event is a wonderful community service project for school-age kids, adults and grandparents. Sign up with your friends, family, neighbors, and groups to strengthen our community and give back this Halloween while having fun!

If you have never been part of this amazing event, please make plans to put on your best Halloween costume and package protein-fortified macaroni and cheese with us on October 31.

We are seeking to make tables with teams of 10 people from the church and community. Sign up your team of 10. Or sign-up individually and we will team you up. We also need help with fundraising, advance event planning, set up and clean up.

This event is at no cost to anyone who wants to join us. It is supported by NUCC Board of Missions and Outreach but your direct contributions will help tremendously by allowing mission giving to make the largest impact. Our goal is to raise $15,000 to be matched by the Board of Missions and Outreach dollar to dollar! Please help us turn your donation into a real “treat” this Halloween. You can simply write a check and put it in the offering plate, stop by the Meals of Hope table after services, or use a credit/debit card by calling the church office in care of Meals of Hope.

One packaged meal costs 20 cents.

A case is 200 packaged meals = $40 A pallet is 55 cases (11,000 packaged meals) = $2,200 For more information, to make a donation, or to sign up, stop by the Meals of Hope table after services or call the church office (239-261-5469) or Kristin Downs at 682-1919.

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Moderator’s Report It is hard to believe that summer is over and season is about to start. In August, we sent a letter to the membership from the search committee and myself about their recommendation to call the Reverend Dr. Dawson B. Taylor to be our next Senior Minister. His candidating sermon will be on Sunday, January 17, with a vote by members present after each service. On January 16, as is our tradition, there will be a reception in McSpadden Hall for all our members to chat with Dawson. Since most of our members know Dawson, I would encourage any members who don’t know him, or want to know him better, to set up a coffee or some other social function with some of your friends to get to know him.

As you are aware, Ron is retiring next spring. His last Sunday preaching will be April 3, 2016. We are planning several celebrations of his ministry including a reception in McSpadden on March 19, 2016 at 2 PM. We are also planning a dinner at an area club the evening of March 20, 2016. Tickets will go on sale for the dinner in early January, and seating will be limited to the first 300 who sign up. More details will be coming on these functions; but I wanted to give you time to put them on your calendar. If you have any questions please call me at our new home phone number, 239-254-1070. ~ Michael S. Hunt, Moderator

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Board of Mission and Outreach A Thank-You Note!

In May, four of our students at New Horizons graduated from high school, and we are all so proud of them! Over their school years, we have been privileged to see them blossom into the young adults they now are. Our programs have helped to lay a foundation of strong academic performance, character and faith in each of them. They are headed in the right direction because of you and all your support to them over the years.

We can never say it often enough; thank you for setting these students on a course of hope and opportunity. And our collective efforts have not gone unnoticed. When clubs begin on August 31, we will welcome back the largest group of students we have ever had, over 400. We are thankful to have the ability to reach so many children and teens who need us. As we finish out the summer and head into fall, we are excited to see what a new school year will bring!

Looking forward,

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Debra Haley, Executive Director New Horizons 0

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Neighbors in Need Mission Offering October 4 Neighbors in Need (NIN) is a special mission offering of the UCC that supports ministries of justice and compassion throughout the United States. One-third of NIN funds support the Council for American Indian Ministry(CAIM).

Two-thirds of the offering is used by the UCC’s Justice and Witness Ministries(JWM) to support a variety of justice initiatives, advocacy efforts, and direct service projects through grants.

Neighbors in Need grants are awarded to churches and organizations doing justice work in their communities.

These grants fund projects whose work ranges from direct service to community organizing and advocacy to address systemic injustice. Funding is provided through donations to the Neighbors in Need offering.

Most UCC congregations will receive the NIN offering on October 4, 2015 as part of their World Communion Sunday observance.

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All-Church Picnic October 4 at 4 p.m. in the church parking lot, catered by Haney’s. Hot dogs, burgers, chicken, and all the trimmings. Cold bottled water provided. Should you want something else to drink, please feel free to bring it! Activities will include live music and games for young and old. You can participate or watch—it will be fun! Purchase tickets by September 30, 2015. Cost: $15 adults; $7 ages 7-12; children under 7 free, family package $30. Feel free to bring lawn chairs and tray tables. Bluegrass music will entertain you.

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All Saints Day Memorial List and Evening Service On Sunday, November 1, during both morning worship services, we will be remembering our loved ones who passed from this life in the last year. Please call the office, (239) 2615469, if you would like to add a name to the list. Please have the names in by October 26.

Sunday evening please know you are invited to the Memorial Garden for the annual All Saints Garden service at 5:30.

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Ebenezer School School Days!

Classes at the Ebenezer school in Honduras are now three-quarters into the year, with exams and final days the end of November. Presently there are 91 children registered, and attending quite regularly despite the endless problem of security in the streets. Here is a breakdown of classroom numbers: GRADE . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. TOTAL STUDENTS PRE-KINDER . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 0 KINDER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .0 PREPARATORY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 PRIMERO. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 SEGUNDO . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 15 TERCERO. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 CUARTO. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 QUINTO. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 SEXTO . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 9 SEPTIMO. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 OCTAVO. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 NOVENO. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 TOTAL . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 91 The violence in Honduras goes on. Gunfire in the streets, gang warfare, drugs and crime everywhere. A basic problem is corruption in the police and a lack of impunity for any of the crime.

Lavinia, the school’s director, writes, however, that the children pay attention to studies, behave, enjoy their friends and teachers, and cope with the situation of security.

All students are learning with computers and using programs in both English and Spanish, although there is limited exposure to the Internet. However, with this basic knowledge they will be more up-to-date and comfortable in today’s world.

It is the concern and generosity of members and friends of NUCC that gives these children the opportunity for an education at Ebenezer. They are from families that lack enough food for the table. There is no money for schooling.

Appreciate the wonder of this gift.

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Holiday BAZAAR

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November 7, 2015, 8 am - 2 pm

DONATE! 1) Linens of all kinds – It’s good to have them early – to get them ready for sale!

2) Jewelry – any kind – even broken gold pieces!

These are needed now, as well, if possible!

3) Almost-new items – that gift you never used

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– those candle sticks that are the wrong color – that bowl that doesn’t match anything else...

4) Garage sale items – you know what those are!

5) Tools – hand tools and small power; fishing gear, bicycles

6) Treasures for Silent Auction – something VERY special – or a service from your favorite provider!

7) Cookies – dozens and dozens of cookies!

Bar cookies, drop cookies, decorated cookies, chocolate cookies, diabetic cookies…

8) Baked goods of any kind – breads, cakes, pies,

brownies, coffee cakes, muffins…Wouldn’t it be great to have LOTS of great food to select?

9) Any other home-made food “goodies” – pickles, salsas, jams, chutneys, appetizers, casseroles, soups…

10) Hand-crafted items of any kind – whatever

your talent! Join with the Perky Patchers and Monday Morning Workshop ladies in providing extraordinary creative “goodies”!

ANYTHING you find in your home – EXCEPT

clothing and furniture – take those to the Bargain Box!

Come and Buy!

Besides all that’s listed – Cheese – Swiss and Cheddar - it melts in your mouth! Pecans – perfect for holiday baking!

The Palette Pals will have some WONDERFUL original artwork you will love! And, the Precious Cargo Scholastic Books will be there, too!

VOLUNTEER!

YOU are the one WHO MAKES THIS A SUCCESS! Help is needed on Tuesday to cover tables!

Help is needed on Sunday after church to help pack up!

A lot of help is needed on Saturday!

Call Dana at 877-2960 or Pat at 659-5312.

WHY?

Best of all is the fellowship! What a great way to meet new people! This is a way to use YOUR talent for the benefit of our community! It’s short term! The profit is given to our community, in cooperation with the Mission Board. Our own church benefits as well through special projects of Women’s Fellowship! Last year, about $30,000 was earned to share with OUR community!

Join Your Fellow Members and Friends!

Without your donations, there is nothing to sell!

Without volunteers, the event cannot take place!

Without buyers, we have a room filled with wonderful items! DONATE, VOLUNTEER, BUY! 9 Credit cards accepted.

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The Music Committee is pleased to report that again, we look forward to a season of inspirational music at our worship services, two series of concerts performed by exciting, varied artists/ groups, and other enjoyable musical events. Although several of the concerts will require the purchase of a ticket for admission, we are happy to report that some of the musical events this season will be free. On these pages, you will find the entire schedule listing the concert performers and dates of the concerts.

Although, our Director of Music has been very busy making the arrangements for the worship music and the concerts for the upcoming season, she was able to participate in a regional meeting of the American Guild of Organists in Charlotte, NC. The NUCC budget supports annual continuing education for the Director of Music, a wise investment of resources. Our music program benefits from the refreshment and exchange of ideas that occur at such meetings.

I wish to remind you that your pledges/ contributions to the annual NUCC operating budget provide the basics for the NUCC music program—staff salaries, choir accompanists, new music, organ/ piano maintenance, etc. But the special music that enhances our worship is supported by the Music Gift Fund. We thank you for your past generous support of the Music Gift Fund. Your continued support of the Music Gift Fund will allow special music to continue to enrich worship at NUCC.The Music Committee Lou Fischer, Chair

Tuesday, November 17th at 7:00pm in the Sanctuary.

Geoffrey Day, violin and Lan Lam, piano

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@ Concert Series 2015 ~ 2016

Tuesdays a t Twilight

Programs begin at 7:00 p.m. in Beverly Hall

$30.00 per ticket December 8, 2015 Trinity-by-the-Cove

January 12, 2016 Duo Pianists Dr. Catherine Lan Tao Lin

February 23, 2016

Frank Almond Concertmaster Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra Photo by Nigel Parry/CPI

March 22, 2016

Chrysalis Rebecca Richardson, soprano Mary Bowden, trumpet Troy Chang, cello Milana Strezeva, piano

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Sanctuary

Concert 2015 Series - 2016 Tuesday, January 19th, 7:00 pm “For the Love of Broadway” $20.00 ~ Tickets

Tuesday, March 8th, 7:00 pm “For the Love of Opera”

Ed Pember, baritone $20.00 ~ Tickets

Friday, February 5th, 7:00 pm

Kenneth Dake, organist Free will offering

Ken is the Director of Music and Organist at Marble Collegiate Church in NYC

Water color by Cheng-Khee Chee

Sunday, February 7th, 2:00pm

Tur tle Concer t In honor of “Tur tles on the Town” Free Concert Featuring NUCC Sanctuary Choir accompanied by a chamber orchestra, NUCC Children’s Choirs, and The Whizpops and their award winning song, “A Sea Turtle”.

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Advent Meditations

In the Sanctuary, Tuesdays at noon Dr. Becky Weese, organ and piano Pastoral Staff, homily December 1st Leelo Basham, flute

December 8th Jessica Van Ord, soprano

Sunday, February 21st, Two Identical Concerts: 3:00 pm and 5:00 pm

Naples Harp Ensemble Their Greatest Hits Free Concert Guest Vocalist ~ Zofia Majewski Directed by Dickie Fleisher, Principal Harpist of the The Naples Philharmonic Orchestra

December 15th Adam Satinsky, cello

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Palette Pals Save the date for an exciting day trip to Miami Beach, sponsored by Palette Pals!

Thursday, December 3 - Deadline for reservations – November 2!!

Art Basel – Miami Beach is an internationally acclaimed art exhibition of modern and contemporary artworks from north and South America, Europe, Asia and Africa. Come join Palette Pals for a round-trip bus, social, and creative adventure.

We will be leaving from the church lot Thursday morning, approximately 8:00 - 8:30 am, arriving at the Miami Beach Convention Center in 2 hours.

Participants can tour the exhibition at their own individual pace. The group will meet again at 4:00 pm for bus pick-up and return to Naples United Church of Christ at approximately 6:00 pm.

Lunch details are being developed and will be announced in the next Steeplelights and in the Sunday bulletins.

Among the several options, we are very near the famous Collins Avenue with a myriad of cafe’s offering sidewalk dining under brightly colored umbrellas. Everyone will have full-day passes to come and go from the exhibit area.

Our cost will be $80.00 per person. Reservations can be made through the church office, in the Gathering Place signup on Sundays or by calling Pat Slater, 239-262-4867, email: patstoy777@gmail.com.

Deadline for reservations is November 2.

This is an ideal time to enjoy the camaraderie with other artists, be inspired by cutting-edge art from around the world and “leave the driving to someone else.” Bring a spouse, friend, or other art enthusiasts for a trip you will not want to miss. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

Reservation Form Name (s):_________________________________________________________________________________ Ph. No:______________________cell no._______________________ email:___________________________ No. of seats___________ Make checks payable to: Naples United Church of Christ – for: Palette Pals Art Basel Exhibit

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Precious Cargo Academy The holidays are upon us and we could not be more excited! Our fall fundraiser is going on until the 5th of October, and our Scholastics Book Fair is right around the corner. This month we have our first parent teacher conferences of the school year, and our first Art Gallery display of the year.

The children are gearing up for our Halloween Parade and the NUCC Trunk or Treat event.

This school year has started off wonderfully, and our new students have adjusted well. The classrooms are full, engaging, and inviting as the teachers prepare for the joy of the holiday season. The children are enjoying our new on-campus library, and STEM Laboratory (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), and our infants are learning to communicate through the use of baby sign language.

As the busy season is upon us, we are greatly looking forward to the return of our NUCC volunteers. The teachers truly appreciate the extra support in the classrooms, and the children love having guest visitors. We will be hosting another Volunteer Orientation soon, so please stay on the lookout in the church bulletin. If you are interested in joining us as a volunteer, or in learning more information about Precious Cargo, please call the school at 239-261-7442, or email me directly at leanne@preciouscargoacademy.org. Volunteer opportunities vary from rocking babies, reading stories to preschoolers, or simply assisting the teacher in the classroom. We thank all of our generous volunteers, and welcome any new faces!

Also, as we prepare for this event filled time of year, we are accepting candy donations. Candy is used for our students during our Halloween Parade, Christmas Festival, and for distributing at the Naples Downtown Christmas Parade, and the Boo at the Zoo event at Naples Zoo. All candy must be nut free. The following brands are allergy free: Tootsie Roll, Skittles, and Starburst.

We thank you for your generosity!

We wish everyone a very “spook”tacular October!

Warm Regards, Leanne Badham, Director

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Why Walk the Labyrinth?

The reporter from a large city newspaper was interviewing a woman about the labyrinth. The reporter wanted to know what the woman found helpful about walking the labyrinth. Had it changed her in any way or made a difference in her life?

The woman responded: “Each time I walk the labyrinth my awareness is expanded. The practice of walking helps me to amplify some joy I am feeling, or unload some stress I am carrying. The labyrinth, with its winding path reminds me that my journey through this life is filled with twists and turns that may lead me to a place I had not envisioned, but that is usually better than I expected. It’s just great to have a place to walk where I can focus on some aspect of my life that needs attention. One day it may be that I am distressed or have a problem I need to think out. Another time when I walk I want to pray for a friend who is facing surgery, or a family member who has some special need. I bring my joys and sorrows onto the labyrinth and leave with a sense of peace and calm.”

Our labyrinth can also simply be a pleasant place for a walk on a beautiful day, or a wondrous venue from which to view the moon through the swaying palms. Whatever your reason for being there, the labyrinth is always there for you.

Kathe Rhinesmith, Labyrinth Ministry Committee

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October 2015

October 2015 sun

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NEIGHBORS IN NEED 4 WORLD WIDE COMMUNION 9 :00am Worship Service (S) 10:00am Stephen Ministry Pastoral Care (P) 11:00am Worship Service (S) 12:00pm Stephen Ministry Pastoral Care (P) 4:00pm Church Picnic (Parking Lot)

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9:30am Monday Morning Ladies (N104) 4:30pm Baby Basics Diaper Pick-Up (WH)

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18 9:00am Worship Service (S)

19 9:30am Monday Morning Ladies

9:00am Worship Service (S) 9 :30am Monday Morning Ladies 10:00am Stephen Ministry Pastoral (N104) Care (P) 5:00pm GLSEN Meeting (N 101) 11:00am Worship Service (S) 12:00pm Stephen Ministry Pastoral Care (P) 6:00pm Youth Group (N201)

10:00am Stephen Ministry Pastoral Care (P) 10:00am Guest Info Brunch (N104) 11:00am Worship Service (S) 12:00pm Guest Info Brunch (N104) 12:00pm Stephen Ministry Pastoral Care (P) 6:00pm Youth Group (N201) MUSIC FUND MISSION MOMENT NEW MEMBER SUNDAY 9:00am Worship Service (S) 10:00am Stephen Ministry Pastoral Care (P) 11:00am Worship Service (S) 12:00pm Stephen Ministry Pastoral Care (P) 6:00pm Youth Group (N201)

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11:30am Women’s Fellowship Luncheon (N207) 2:00pm History and Theology of the UCC (N101) 6:00pm Trustees (N104) 6:45pm Voices of Naples Practice (S) 7:00pm History and Theology of the UCC (N101)

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9:30am Monday Morning Ladies (N104) 10:00am Palette Pals (Art Room) 2:00pm The Book Club (N104) 6:45pm Voices of Naples Practice (S)

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3 :00pm Prayer Shawl Ministry (P) 6:30pm Board of Christian Education (N101) 6:30pm Diaconate Meeting (ACR)

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9:00am NUCC Cares Meeting (N104) 10:00am ‘Our Favorite Psalms’ with Charnley Marsden (N101) 1:00pm Music Committee Meeting (ACR) 1:00pm Social Committee Meeting (N101) 2:00pm Book Study with Dr. Patterson “Taking Liberties” (N104) 3:00pm PCA Meeting (ACR) 3:00pm Membership & Growth (N101)

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8:30am Budget Preparation Meeting (N 104) 10:00am ‘Our Favorite Psalms’ with Charnley Marsden (N 101) 2:00pm Old Testament Video Series

by Amy-Jill Levine with Rev. Duncan (N101) 2:00pm “Taking Liberties” Book Study with Dr. Patterson (N104)

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10:00am ‘Our Favorite Psalms’ with Charnley Marsden (N 101) 2:00pm Old Testament Video Series

by Amy-Jill Levine with Rev. Duncan (N101) 2:00pm “Taking Liberties” with Dr. Patterson (N104) 6:30pm Executive Meeting of the Council (ACR)

What’s Happening This Month at Naples United Church of Christ

wed 1

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thurs 2 fri sat 3

2:30pm Mahjong (N205) 5:45pm PCA Staff Meeting (N207)

12:00pm Al Anon (N104) 5:00pm Elizabeth Theiss/ David Morris Wedding Rehearsal (S)

4:00pm Elizabeth Theiss/ David Morris Wedding (S)

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12:00pm Al Anon (N104) 4:00pm Caitlyn Hurley/ Clayton Rodgers Wedding Rehearsal (S)

1 :00pm Stephen Ministry (N207) 3:30pm Junior Disciples (N207) 4:00pm Children’s Choir: Pre-K-1st Grade (BH) 4:30pm Children’s Choir: Grades 2-5 (BH) 5:00pm Youth Choir: Grades 6-12 (BH) 7:00pm Sanctuary Choir Rehearsal (BH/S)

1:00pm Board of Missions and Outreach (N104) 2:30pm Mahjong (N205) 4:00pm Thursday at the Movies and Dinner (BH) 6:00pm PCA Training Kindergarten Readiness (VPK classrooms)

14 10:00am “The Blue Zones” Book Study

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Presentations (N104) 9:00am NUCC Cares Soup Preparation (NH-Kitchen) 9:00am Endowment Investment Committee Meeting (N101) 1:00pm Mahjong (N205) 6:30pm “The Blue Zones” Book Study with Dr. Taylor (N104)

12:00pm Al Anon (N104)

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with Dr. Taylor (N104) 3:30pm Junior Disciples (N207) 4:00pm Children’s Choir: Pre-K-1st Grade (BH) 4:30pm Children’s Choir: Grades 2-5 (BH) 5:00pm Youth Choir: Grades 6-12 (BH) 6:30pm Book Study with Dr. Patterson “Taking Liberties” (N104) 7:00pm Sanctuary Choir Rehearsal (BH/S) Presentations (N 104) 10:00am “The Blue Zones” Book Study with Dr. Taylor (N101) 3:30pm Junior Disciples (N207) 4:00pm Children’s Choir: Pre-K-1st Grade (BH) 4:30pm Children’s Choir: Grades 2-5 (BH) 5:00pm Youth Choir: Grades 6-12 (BH) 6:30pm Book Study with Dr. Patterson “Taking Liberties” (N104) 7:00pm Sanctuary Choir Rehearsal (BH/S)

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10:00am Men’s Coffee and Conversation (N104) 10:00am Women’s Coffee and Conversation (N101) 1:00pm Mahjong (N205) 2:15pm Bargain Box Committee Meeting (ACR) 6:30pm “The Blue Zones” Book Study with Dr. Taylor (N104) 7:00pm PFLAG Meeting (N207)

10:00am “The Blue Zones” Book Study 2 :30pm Mahjong (N205) with Dr. Taylor (N104) 6:30pm “The Blue Zones” Book Study 3:30pm Junior Disciples (N207) with Dr. Taylor (N104) 4:00pm Children’s Choir: Pre-K-1st Grade (BH) 4:30pm Children’s Choir: Grades 2-5 (BH) 5:00pm Youth Choir: Grades 6-12 (BH) 6:30pm Book Study with Dr. Patterson “Taking Liberties” (N104) 7:00pm Sanctuary Choir Rehearsal (BH/S)

12:00pm Al Anon (N104)

FOOD PACKAGING EVENT SET-UP 12:00pm Al Anon (N104) 5:00pm Trunk or Treat (GP/Portico)

3:30pm Caitlyn Hurley/ Clayton Rodgers Wedding (S)

10:00am Meals of Hope Food Packaging Event

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Youth Christian Education When I am preparing a Sunday School lesson using our online curriculum, I always try to find a way to make the lesson my own. Recently, as I was looking for inspiration, I began surfing around to different websites: Naples United Church of Christ website, Sermon Seeds, and the main UCC website. Although I have been to the main UCC website many times, I noticed something new. UCC is described as “the church of extravagant welcome.”

“Ah ha,” I said to myself. “No wonder I love this place so much.”

I hope others feel the extravagant welcome that I do each time when we have our weekly 10AM Sunday celebration. And as the children return to Sunday School, Junior Disciples and Youth Group, we are also reminded that “the more the merrier.” Boy was it merry on August 16 for our annual back-to-school blessing! We had a Sunday School class of thirty-five children and youth.

During our Sunday School class, we all helped each other as we made origami butterflies. Once the children started to fold their colorful papers, we explained to them that their creations would become part of a mobile that we would be presenting to the congregation the following Sunday at church. While they were folding, we asked the children to pray about back to school concerns or joys, so that the congregation could pray for each silent intention the following week. And so that Miss Nancy and I could continue to pray for them each time we passed by the mobile in its permanent place in Nelson Hall.

Many of us were not brought up in the UCC. I find it interesting when people ask me what church I came from. I always say, “I was brought up in the Catholic Church.” I’ve heard this many times from other people. “I was raised Baptist; I was brought up Unitarian.” Isn’t it interesting how much onus we put on the churches of our childhood.

Our parents and grandparents “raise us” and shape us most, but we also talk about the church in which we were brought up and raised. The religion of one’s childhood seems to carry as much weight as ethnicity does to a firstgeneration American child of an immigrant family.

As you see the children in church, just remember that they are children who are being brought up by NUCC. You make up their church family; you are their honorary grandparents, aunts and uncles as you nurture them each week with your kind smiles, actions, and words.

I thank you and I urge you to give yourself a pat on the back for a job well done.

Jane Coiné

Trunk or Treat! - Oct 30th Grab some candy (enough for 80 children and preferably peanut-free), decorate your car trunks, and wait for the children to come Trunk or Treating! Located in the church parking lot, Trunk or Treat is an annual tradition! The Precious Cargo Costume Parade begins at 4 p.m. After the parade, children will play carnival games and enjoy pizza! Then they will Trunk or Treat! Come early to decorate your trunks! The Trunk or Treating will begin at 5 p.m.

Please RSVP so we have enough pizza! If you have questions, please call Nancy Van Fleet at 239-293-7748.

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Adult Enrichment Opportunities Monday Morning Ladies

Thursday at the Movies

This group meets weekly on Monday mornings year-round - 9:30 a.m. -12:00 p.m. (Approximately) to produce a wide variety of different kinds of projects for the annual Bazaar.

Knitting, crocheting, cross stitch, needlepoint, machine and hand sewing, beading (and other craft forms) produce everything from scarves and caps and mittens to pillows and bibs and children’s dresses and toys to pot holders and dishcloths and exquisite quilts! Christmas trees - wreaths Christmas ornaments - stockings - tree skirts - jewelry - all find their way onto the Bazaar tables! The group regularly enjoys lunch out! Everyone is welcome - come and we’ll find a project for you! You will enjoy the friendly conversation!

Our next showing of “December Boys” will be on October 1.

Please remember to sign up in the Gathering Place. Movies start at 4:00 pm with a $5.00 donation accepted. The group then goes to a local restaurant for fun and fellowship.

NewComers’ Dinners

Church Cookbook Monday Morning Ladies are sponsoring the publication of a NUCC cookbook. This “one-of-a-kind” book would be on sale at the Bazaar in 2016. It will include YOUR favorite recipe as well as a section with the recipes for the delicious soups made

by NUCC Cares. So...YOU need to provide us with two or three of your favorite recipes in any food category - appetizers, salads, entrees, desserts, etc - name attached. They can be dropped off at the church to Kaleigh, e-mailed to pamcgee1234@aol.com or mailed to the church. We would appreciate the recipes as soon as possible - if we can have the book printed during “down” times, we can get it cheaper! As of July 15, we have 45 recipes - we need more!

Second Thursday of each month - 6:00 p.m. For the first eighteen months of membership, new members are invited to a monthly dinner as a way of getting acquainted and forming friendships. During the winter and spring, these dinners are usually potlucks held at a private home or a community room.

During the summer, the dinners are usually held at a restaurant. Middlers Plus Off-Campus Social Activities Invitations are mailed to eligible members. Make reservations by Welcome Back Dinner Buffet calling the church. Dinners are sponsored by the Membership Royal Poinciana Golf Club and Growth Committee.

Sunday, November 8th Prayer Shawl Ministry 5:45 PM Cocktails 6:30 PM Dinner First Thursday of the month at 3:00 p.m. Prayer Shawl Ministry is a wonderful outreach to people who need solace in Price per person-TBA in Oct the form of comfort through a hand-knit or crocheted shawl.

Hosted by Bill and Sally Hall We knit/crochet, visit, and bless the furnished shawls. Please Reservations with payment starting Oct 4th. join us and we’ll give you instructions for making shawls that Deadline: 10/28/15 as long as space is available. are so appreciated by those who receive them.

Women’s Fellowship This group is open to all women of the church - a great way to meet new people and enjoy old friendships! Potluck luncheons (salad, sandwich, dessert) with a program are held three times a year. Sign-up is available in the Gathering Place on Sundays or by calling the church office - necessary only for adequate table space! Luncheons are at 11:30 a.m. Try it - you’ll like it! Save the Date! October 19, 2015 - Conservancy of SW Florida.

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Theatre Tickets Theatre Zone at the G & L Theatre at the Community School of Naples Sun, January 17th “Sweet Smell of Success” $48 seats Sun, May 1st “Dames at Sea” $48 and $43 seats Reservations with payment starting Oct 4th. *Registration forms and info will be available in the Middlers’ Plus mailbox or on Sunday mornings in the Gathering Place in October.

For questions, contact Bobbi Richardson 239-207-6615

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Our Favorite Psalms Ms Charnley Marsden Description: Reading together the Psalms that have been meaningful to the class participants, and reflecting on the message they bring to our lives.

Bio: Ms. Charnley Marsden graduated from Smith College with a major in religion. She has been active in the United Church of Christ all her life in Massachusetts, Seattle, New York City and Naples. She is marred to the Rev. Dr. Ronald Patterson.

Dates: Tuesdays (Oct. 13 – Nov. 17) 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Cost: None Registration: Not required, all are welcome.

Taking Liberties: Why Religious Freedom Doesn’t Give You the Right to Tell Other People What to Do Rev. Dr. Ronald Patterson, Senior Minister Description: Using Robert Boston’s new book on the Separation of Church and State, Dr. Patterson will engage participants in a wide ranging discussion of the parameters of religious freedom and the arguments currently being made by some religious group suggesting that their religious freedom is somehow threatened by recent court decisions. We will look at issues including controversy over birth control, same-sex marriage, religion in the public schools and the ‘war on Christmas.’ Boston is the director of communications for Americans United for Separation of Church and State.

Dates: Tuesdays (Oct. 13 – Nov. 3) 2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

OR Wednesdays (Oct. 14 – Nov. 4) 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

(Identical afternoon and evening classes) Cost: $15.00 per book (limited copies are available in the church office or you can order the book or the e-book yourself) Registration: Not required, all are welcome.

The Blue Zones: 9 Lessons for Living Longer from the People Who’ve Lived the Longest Rev. Dr. Dawson B. Taylor, Associate Minister Description: Since publishing his bestselling The Blue Zones, longevity expert and National Geographic Explorer Dan Buettner has discovered a new Blue Zone and launched a major public health initiative to transform cities based on principles from this book. The Blue Zones, Second Edition is completely updated and expands his bestselling classic on longevity, drawing on his research from extraordinarily longlived communities--Blue Zones--around the globe to highlight the lifestyle, diet, outlook, and stress-coping practices that will add years to your life and life to your years. A long, healthy life is no accident. It begins with good genes, but it also depends on good habits. If you adopt the right lifestyle, experts say, chances are you may live up to a decade longer.

He found that the recipe for longevity is deeply intertwined with community, lifestyle, and spirituality. People live longer and healthier by embracing a few simple but powerful habits, and by creating the right community around themselves.

It’s not coincidence that the way they eat, interact with each other, shed stress, heal themselves, avoid disease, and view their world yield them more good years of life. Join Associate Minister, Rev. Dr. Dawson B. Taylor to not only discuss this groundbreaking book and study but to discuss the implications of what this could mean as Collier County considers becoming a Blue Zone.

Dates: Wednesdays (Oct. 14- Nov. 4) 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

OR Thursdays (Oct. 15 – Nov. 5) 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

(Identical evening and morning classes) Cost: $15.00 per book (limited copies are available in the church office or you can order the book or the e-book yourself) Registration: Not required, all are welcome.

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Video Series and Discussion: The Old Testament with Dr. Amy-Jill Levine Rev. Beverly Duncan, Assistant Minister This is a video course of half-hour lectures by Dr. Levine on the stories and events of the Old Testament (Hebrew Scriptures). The series will take place over 12 weeks, beginning on Tuesday, October 20, from 2:00 to 3:30 p.m. and continue, with holiday breaks, through Tuesday, January 26. Come to all or some sessions as you are able. Participants will receive outline summaries of each fascinating historical-theological lecture.

Background: Professor Amy-Jill Levine will be NUCC’s featured presenter and preacher the weekend of February 26-28, 2016. Amy-Jill is a renowned biblical scholar, teacher, and spellbinding lecturer. She describes herself as a “Yankee Jewish feminist who teaches in a predominantly Christian divinity school in the buckle of the Bible Belt.”

Needless to say, she combines her matchless biblical scholarship with a keen sense of humor.

Time and Place: Tuesdays, 2:00 to 3:30 in Nelson Hall, Room 101 Dates: October 20 and 27; November 3, 10, 17; December 1, 8, 15; January 5, 12, 19, 26 There is no cost, and preregistration is not required. All are welcome!

History and Theology of the United Church of Christ Rev. Dr. Patterson, Rev. Dr. Taylor &/or Rev. Duncan Description: This single session class offers an overview of the United Church of Christ’s history, theology, and core beliefs. Facilitated by one of our ministers, it provides an opportunity for open discussion and questions. Ideal for those considering membership or seeking to learn more about our denomination.

Dates: Mondays (Oct. 19, Nov. 30, Jan. 11, Mar. or April 11) 2:00 p.m. or 7:00 p.m.

Cost: None Registration: Not required, all are welcome.

Men’s Coffee and Conversation Rev. Dr. Ronald Patterson, Senior Minister or Rev. Dr. Dawson Taylor, Associate Minister Description: Men of the church are invited to partake of coffee and good conversation at the same time as the women are meeting. There is an announced topic for which articles of interest and preparation are made available ahead of time in the church office. We will give some thought to how our Christianity informs our perspective on the topic at hand as well as our conversational interactions with one another. (Participants are also invited to share lunch together after the meeting.)

Dates: Thursdays (once a month) 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

(Oct. 22, Nov. 19) Cost: None Registration: Not required, all are welcome.

Women’s Coffee and Conversation Rev. Beverly Duncan, Assistant Minister Description: Women of the church are invited to partake of coffee and good conversation at the same time as the men are meeting. There is an announced topic for which articles of interest and preparation are made available ahead of time in the church office. We will give some thought to how our Christianity informs our perspective on the topic at hand as well as our conversational interactions with one another.

Dates: Thursdays (once a month) 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

(Oct. 22, Nov. 19) Cost: None Registration: Not required, all are welcome.

NUCC Book Club Candy Nordland, Book Club Coordinator Description: Explore a new book each month alongside other book lovers. Each session is led by a different member of the group.

Dates: Mondays (monthly) 2:00 pm Oct. 26: The Wright Brothers written by David McCulloch Discussion led by Ron Patterson Nov. 23: Being Mortal written by Atul Gawande Discussion led by Charnley Marsden Cost: book prices vary Registration: Not required, all are welcome.

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Social Committee Membership Committee Description: This single session class covers a wide range

of topics important to the workings and activities of Naples United Church of Christ. Each is facilitated by our congregation’s moderator and features information from chairpersons of several of our boards and committees. Come learn about the many opportunities to participate in our church, including our outreach in a casual and conversational setting.

Dates: Sundays (November 1, December 13, January 24, March 20, April 24) 10:00 a.m.

Cost: None Registration: Not required, all are welcome.

Yoga Shannon Danford, Yoga Instructor Description: Yoga is the practice of stilling the body and quieting the mind in preparation for meditation. While it may sound foreign, meditation is the other half of prayer. It is the “be still and know that I am” practice of listening.

Bio: Shannon Danford has been teaching yoga for five years and practicing for seven years. She is determined to do a headstand on her 125th birthday.

Date: Mondays & Thursdays (Nov. 2, 2015 – May 26, 2016) 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

Bring a yoga mat with you and a block (if you have one) Cost: $10.00 per session.

Registration: Not required. All are welcome.

So you can look ahead on your calendar!

Take note of these coming activities! And sign up early!

Games Mahjong Classes Want to learn to play? Beginner mahjongg classes will be held november 2, 5, 9, and 13, 2015 in nelson hall from 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Cost is $50 payable by october 30, 2015. No refunds after this date. Class size is limited.

Do you play mahjongg but would like a refresher on the rules and strategy? Try this one day rules refresher class on november 17, 2015 at 1 p.m. cost is $18 payable by november 15, 2015. The class is limited to 12 participants.

And - don’t forget - we play mahjongg every Thursday in Nelson Hall room 205 at 1 p.m.

Come join us! No sign-up necessary!

Dominoes Want to learn to play this fun game? Classes are being held on november 16 and 18, 2015 at 1 p.m. cost is $25 payable by november 11, 2015.

Bus trip The first trip of the season will be to Mt. Dora to see the Christmas Lights. This is an overnight trip December 9-10, 2015. The cost is $249 per person double occupancy and $299 single occupancy. This includes the round trip bus ride to Mt. Dora, overnight accommodations, dinner and nighttime trolley tour of the lights, breakfast at the Lakeside Inn in historic Mt. Dora. Shopping and lunch on your own the morning of Dec. 10, then the bus takes us to the Lakeridge Winery Tour and Tasting on the way back to Naples. The bus leaves from the Village Walk gated community on Vanderbilt Beach Road at 7 a.m. on Dec. 9 and returns approximately 7 p.m. on December 10. This trip is limited to 20 persons. Deadline for payment and/or cancellation is November 25, 2015.

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Bargain Box News The perfect time for you to donate is in the first few months of Season. We are at our busiest the months of October through Easter. If you wait until spring, the donation is greatly appreciated, but we have fewer shoppers to purchase your donation. That results in the store having to offer deeper discounts on your items. The more we sell your items for, the more we are able to give to the Mission Board to help individuals less fortunate than ourselves. So clean your closets and cabinets upon return and call if you need a pick up. We are more than happy to help!

We sell everything but large appliances. Call if you have doubts and we can help you decide.

We accept:

1. Gently used clothing, shoes, purses, hats, scarves and belts

2. Jewelry

3. Furniture (big or small) and lamps

4. Dishes and pots and pans

5. All kitchen utensils

6. Books

7. Artwork

8. Knickknacks

9. Gently used linens and pillows

10. Sporting goods and bicycles.

When in doubt don’t throw it out, give us a shout! 239 262-3802 We are always looking for new volunteers. If you already volunteer, make it a really good experience by mentoring a friend from the congregation or community. Bring them along on your day of volunteering to break the ice. If you currently don’t volunteer, we will do our very best to make your experience enjoyable. We want you to want to come! There is something for everyone at the store.

We are surprised when someone from the congregation has to ask for directions to the store. We are the Naples United Church of Christ Bargain Box and hope you all use our name daily!

The Bargain Box ~ Sandy, Bargain Box Manager, 153 10th St S, Naples, FL 34102

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The Green Space How Big Is Your Carbon Footprint?

A common definition of a carbon footprint is the total amount of carbon dioxide a person contributes to the environment. There are many websites available to help you calculate your own personal footprint. It is a fascinating exercise to see just how much impact your life-style is having on the world around you. I used the Nature Conservancy Carbon Footprint calculator that measured 4 areas, including home energy, driving, flying, food, diet, recycling, and waste. Although I thought I was living a “green lifestyle,� I was shocked to discover that I was emitting over 14 metric tons of CO2 annually.

The average U. S. per capita emission of CO2 is 20 metric tons per year, while the worldwide average is about 4 metric tons. According to the Encyclopedia of Earth, an individual living in an industrialized country creates the most emissions from transportation and household electricity usage. One round-trip airline trip across this country emits 6,000 pounds, while an automobile with average fuel efficiency produces 20 pounds of CO2 for every gallon of gasoline burned.

In the U.S. 20% of the green house gas emissions come from home energy use. Air conditioning in a typical home produces approximately 6,600 pounds of CO2 gas in a year, which is more than all other home appliances combined.

1.3 pounds of CO2 is generated per KW of electricity used, and the average U.S. home emits approximately 15,000 pounds of gas per year.

An interesting study conducted by MIT students in 2008 and published in Science Daily in April of the same year, estimated the carbon emissions of Americans in a wide variety of lifestyles -- from the homeless to multimillionaires, from Buddhist monks to soccer moms -- and compared them to those of other nations. They found that even the people with the lowest usage of energy are still producing, on average, more than double the global per-capita average. Among those interviewed was a homeless man who was eating at a soup kitchen and sleeping in a shelter. Even he had a larger footprint because he was consuming electricity and heat in the shelter and eating food that had been transported across the country.

Because of our standard of living, we face a challenge to reduce our individual and national Carbon Footprint in order to preserve this earth for all of God’s people.

Nancy Hanson, Member The Green Justice Team

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Book Recommendations ~ Recommended by Don Snyder How to Read the Bible

by Harvey Cox

Just Mercy

by Bryan Stevenson

The author says “What I try to do in my book is to describe how the various literary and historical approaches to the Bible can actually strengthen its spiritual power and help us to see its relevance for today.� He lays out for us a road map for reading and understanding the Bible while exploring its spiritual nature without compromising its literary and historical complexity.

Desmond Tutu says Just Mercy should be read by people of conscience in every civilized country in the world to discover what happens when revenge and retribution replace justice and mercy. It is as gripping to read as any legal thriller, and what hangs in the balance is nothing less than the soul of a great nation.

Seeking Serenity

by Amanda Enayati

The author challenges our long-held assumptions about stress, painting a groundbreaking picture that separates myth from reality when it comes to what is commonly referred to as the plague of modern life. She offers a practical, life-changing plan, which not only promises to manage stress, but calls for a paradigm shift in how we think about it in our daily lives in the modern world.

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October Lectionary Our music and worship resources each Sunday are based on the lectionary readings. The lectionary is a three-year cycle, which takes the reader through all the major themes in the Bible. Use these readings to prepare for Sunday and for your private devotions.

October 4

(Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost)

Job 1:1; 2:1-10 * Ps 26 or Gen 2:18-24 * Ps 8 Heb 1:1-4; 2:5-12 Mark 10:2-16

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October 11

(Twentieth Sunday after Pentecost)

Job 23:1-9, 16-17 * Ps 22:115 or Amos 5:6-7, 10-15 * Ps 90:12-17 Heb 4:12-16 Mark 10:17-31

October 18

(Twenty-first Sunday after Pentecost)

Job 38:1-7, (34-41) * Ps 104:1-9, 24, 35c or Isa 53:4-12 * Ps 91:9-16 Heb 5:1-10 Mark 10:35-45

October 25

(Twenty-second Sunday after Pentecost)

Job 42:1-6, 10-17 * Ps 34:18, (19-22) or Jer 31:7-9 * Ps 126 Heb 7:23-28 Mark 10:46-52

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Endowment Committee Our Endowment Campaign Wraps Up Next Month

Preserving Our Future

Our $10 million, estate focused, five-year campaign has made steady progress. The generosity of our membership and their interest in helping to preserve the future of our church has been truly inspiring.

We plan to present our campaign results early in November. At this point we can say that we are very close to reaching our goal. The next five weeks will be important.

We thought one more gentle reminder might be appropriate for those ten or so members who told us they planned to talk with their attorney and/or family members about including NUCC in their estate plans this summer. We suspect there are others who have been meaning to do this, but have not told us.

If this is something you have been considering, please take a few moments now to act on your good intentions. Your gift could be the one to help us reach our goal.

If it would help to talk with us about the possibility of your endowment gift, please contact either Dr. Patterson in Naples at 253-1512 (ron@naplesucc.org) or Dave Stevenson at 781-726-0681 (dks65@icloud.com).

Please remember every gift is appreciated and valued.

a Hi Everyone!

I have been asked to give our congregation an update on my journey to ordained ministry. I would like to begin by expressing my immeasurable gratitude to the members of this wonderful church, not only for supporting me now as a seminarian, but also for fostering my growth as an individual during the years I have attended. My church family is truly like no other in its love and generosity.

By the time this newsletter is published, I will have already begun classes as a full-time student at Chicago Theological Seminary! This is an incredibly exciting time for me, and a wonderful chance to explore the direction I feel God is taking my ministry and myself. In these recent months, I have devoted much thought and prayer to how I would begin my graduate school experience. I have decided that it is in my best interest at this time to take my first semester as an online student. CTS has one of the premier online seminary programs in the country, allowing students to take a portion or even all of their classes through distance learning. Taking classes online does not affect my standing with the institution. I am still considered a full-time Master of Divinity student, my scholarship is unaffected, and I even have the opportunity to dialogue with my fellow students and our professors through video conferencing. I also will receive instruction from the same distinguished faculty. One of my courses is being co-taught by the president of the seminary, Alice Hunt! I will still be moving to Chicago, but it will not be until January. At that time, I will take an intensive course at the seminary and prepare for the beginning of the Spring semester on February 1. Until then, I will continue to serve Naples UCC in whatever capacity I can; and I look forward to seeing you on Sundays in worship!

Always with love and many thanks, Wesley Snedeker

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Our Condolences To the friends and family of Doris Lee. To the friends and family of Connie Carter.

To the friends and family of Dr. Charles Zinn.

To the friends and family of Margaret Robichaud.

Dr. Heather English and family at the loss of her aunt, Barbara Read.

To the friends and family of Suzanne Williamson.

To the friends and family of Lorne Vladimar Palmason.

To the friends and family of Terry O’Connell To Jamie Hardesty on the loss of her grandfather, Paul McGiness

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Pat Blake’s 100th birthday

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In Service to Our Country: Clayton Pisani We include in our prayers all who are serving our nation, including all loved ones of congregation members and friends.

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Helen Lewis’s 95th birthday

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Birthdays and Anniversaries October Birthdays Preston Provost . . . . .

Marlene Bauerle. . . . .

Alina Nunez. . . . . . . .

Jim Schorr . . . . . . . . .

Meb Bergwall. . . . . . .

Chuck Cairns. . . . . . .

Carol Haack. . . . . . . .

Carol Hilfiker. . . . . . .

Jacob Falco. . . . . . . . .

Susan Hansen. . . . . . .

Lydia Cartwright . . . .

J. Cunha. . . . . . . . . . .

David Hoefer. . . . . . .

Bob Thomason. . . . . .

Anita Hoy . . . . . . . . .

Kitty Keane. . . . . . . .

Dawson Taylor. . . . . .

Fred Berlet. . . . . . . . .

Ken Campbell . . . . . .

Don Kaegi. . . . . . . . .

Larry Kelley. . . . . . . .

Jean Tezanos. . . . . . . .

Nancy Van Fleet. . . . .

Michael Whyte. . . . . .

Joseph Ellis. . . . . . . . .

Ivan Hall, Jr. . . . . . . .

Helen Hasselbacher . .

Eunice Leavenworth. .

Ren Smith . . . . . . . . .

Susan Gallo . . . . . . . .

Amy Barry. . . . . . . . .

10/01 10/02 10/02 10/02 10/03 10/03 10/03 10/03 10/04 10/04 10/05 10/05 10/05 10/05 10/06 10/06 10/06 10/07 10/07 10/07 10/07 10/07 10/07 10/07 10/08 10/08 10/08 10/08 10/08 10/09 10/10

Sophie Barry. . . . . . . . 10/10 Jack Biondi. . . . . . . . . 10/10 Betty Boswell. . . . . . . 10/10 Eric Flesher. . . . . . . . . 10/10 Wally Hedman. . . . . . 10/10 Phyllis Matteo . . . . . . 10/10 Wendy Richards. . . . . 10/10 Paul Roese . . . . . . . . . 10/10 Grace Van Tienhoven. 10/10 Sunny Hansen . . . . . . 10/11 Carol Recco . . . . . . . . 10/11 Lucy Wagner . . . . . . . 10/11 Joe Anderer . . . . . . . . 10/12 Bob Davis. . . . . . . . . . 10/12 Norman Norris. . . . . . 10/13 James Bailey. . . . . . . . 10/14 Morgan Johnson. . . . . 10/14 Jane Gaillard . . . . . . . 10/15 Wally Gauger. . . . . . . 10/15 Nancy McKimm. . . . 10/15 Bruce Millon. . . . . . . 10/15 Carole Monroe. . . . . . 10/15 Joanie Rudolph. . . . . . 10/15 Jim Higgins. . . . . . . . 10/16 Ginny Fleming. . . . . . 10/16 Bette Gibson . . . . . . . 10/16 Freddy Prado . . . . . . . 10/16 Buss Ransom . . . . . . . 10/16 Mary Lou Yost . . . . . . 10/16 Henry Balassone, Sr.. . 10/17 Tom Enright. . . . . . . . 10/17

Carolyn Morgan. . . . .

John Schmitt . . . . . . .

Michael Armstrong. . .

Annie Oakley. . . . . . .

Jerry Zielinski. . . . . . .

Charlie Arthur . . . . . .

Barbara Hill. . . . . . . .

Margaret Kleber. . . . .

Alyssa Long . . . . . . . .

Diane Myers. . . . . . . .

Barbara Balassone. . . .

Bill Fouse. . . . . . . . . .

Norma Merzbacher. . .

Ginny Newell. . . . . . .

Elizabeth Pedersen. . .

Kay Ryder . . . . . . . . .

Maryn Coine. . . . . . . .

Linda Gauger. . . . . . .

Jan Hakes. . . . . . . . . .

Bertie Knapp. . . . . . .

Susan Pyke. . . . . . . . .

Rob Blabey. . . . . . . . .

Anne Hastings. . . . . .

Stan Russell . . . . . . . .

Cathy O’Connell. . . . .

Marcans Docteur . . . .

Marcus Docteur. . . . .

Nancy Fleming. . . . . .

Gail Schultz. . . . . . . .

Gloria Antworth. . . . .

Shannon Danford. . . .

10/17 10/17 10/18 10/18 10/18 10/19 10/20 10/20 10/20 10/20 10/21 10/21 10/21 10/21 10/21 10/21 10/22 10/22 10/22 10/22 10/22 10/23 10/23 10/23 10/24 10/24 10/24 10/24 10/24 10/25 10/25

Josephine Morse. . . . . 10/25 Greg Peterson. . . . . . . 10/25 Joan Toren. . . . . . . . . 10/25 Pete Lilly . . . . . . . . . . 10/26 Gabrielle Lormestoire.10/26 Ian Williams. . . . . . . . 10/26 Barbara Bennett. . . . . 10/27 William Hyde. . . . . . . 10/27 C. David Shaffer. . . . . 10/27 Suzette Sorenson. . . . . 10/27 Dewey Tate . . . . . . . . 10/27 Jenna Feldman. . . . . . 10/28 Gary Jorgensen. . . . . . 10/28 George Picht . . . . . . . 10/28 Barbara Converse. . . . 10/29 Sally DeShetler. . . . . . 10/29 Al Elders . . . . . . . . . . 10/29 Millie Szilagyi. . . . . . . 10/29 Charlene Dybedock . . 10/30 Jim Head. . . . . . . . . . 10/30 Dave Ray. . . . . . . . . . 10/30 Teresa Zimmerman. . . 10/30 Lynn DeFreest . . . . . . 10/31 Bonnie McDonald . . . 10/31 Tina Tayman. . . . . . . . 10/31

October Anniversaries Jo Ann VanDegriff and Dean Smith...........................10/02 Marianne and Robert Anderson.................................10/05 Claire and James Bailey.............................................10/05 Kristine and Davey Scoon..........................................10/05 Linda and Glen Sholl.................................................10/05 Kate and Richard Ahrens, Jr......................................10/07 Lou Ann and Horace Ransom....................................10/08 Debra and Bob Hall..................................................10/10 Kris and John Buck..................................................10/11 Nancy and Donald Williams......................................10/11 Tracy and Todd Pedersen............................................10/12 Anne and Lee Hauser................................................10/14 Lynne and Alfred Shotwell, III...................................10/14 Marilyn and Winthrop Cody......................................10/15

Virginia and Dr. David Williams...............................10/18 Wendy and Roger Kephart........................................10/19 Holly Putterbaugh and Lois Farnham........................10/20 Jean and Robert Partridge.........................................10/20 Bobbie and Ivan Hall, Jr............................................10/23 Nancy and Gale Miller..............................................10/23 Carol and John Talanian............................................10/23 Dorothy and Allen Caswell........................................10/24 Susan and John Scheessele.........................................10/26 Louise and Robert Brown..........................................10/29 Barbara and Dr. Daniel Weiss....................................10/30

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October 2015

Naples United Church of Christ

Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Naples FLA 34103 Permit #15

5200 Crayton Road Naples, FL 34103 (239) 261-5469 O Fax: (239) 261-2475 www.naplesucc.org O email: info@naplesucc.org

Place Label Here

Please Note: The next issue will be November.

November’s Issue Submission Deadline: October 15.

Please call the church office, (239) 261-5469, with address updates or if you would like to have Steeplelights sent to your email.

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God is still speaking,