other things, my youngest son and I went for a walk together. Lawrence is the one who’s usually climbing all over me like a little monkey during the children’s celebration in worship. He’s a sunbeam of a child who feels things profoundly and often surprises me with the depth of his questions.
As we headed down the front steps and hit the sidewalk, Lawrence asked, “Mommy, does God mind if you say bad words to him?” I reminded my dear child that God isn’t a man and then tried to answer his question. I told Lawrence that God actually really likes it when we share our feelings in prayer – even if they’re angry or frustrated feelings that sometimes make us want to use bad words. So, no, God doesn’t mind bad words when they’re matched with hard feelings that we need to lift up in prayer.
He seemed to get that. I felt like a real champion of a parent until a few hours later when I climbed into bed beside Lawrence to read him his bedtime story and heard him cursing quietly under his breath. Pray for us, church. We need all the help we can get!
In peace,
Thursday, October 6, at 6 pm, Plymouth Church welcomes Psychologist Dr. Harriet Lerner, who will present "The Magnificent Seven: Seven Steps of Clarity and Courage in Hard Conversations." Dr. Lerner will share seven essential steps to staying connected, staying oneself, and "finding voice" with the key people in our lives. A question and answer period and a book signing will follow her talk.
Dr. Harriet Lerner is best known for her unique ability to recue men and women from the swamps and quicksand of difficult relationships. She is the author of numerous scholarly articles and twelve books, including The New York Times bestseller The Dance of Anger and Why Won't You Apologize? Dr. Lerner was a staff psychologist and supervisor at The Menninger Clinic for several decades before she and her husband, Steve, moved to Lawrence in 2002 and started a private practice.
Plymouth's Racial Justice Team invites you to Pauline Sharp's historical performance of "Chief Lucy of the Kaw Indians" at 3:00 pm on Sunday, October 2, 2022, at Unity Church of Lawrence (900 Madeline Lane).
Sharp is a citizen of the Kaw Nation and serves on the Board of the Kanza Heritage Society. Her work centers on the study and preservation of the history and culture of the Kanza people, from whom the State of Kansas took its name. Sharp tells the story of the Kanza (Kaw) people through the character of her grandmother, Lucy Tayiah Eads, the first female chief of the Kaw nation. Following her presentation, Sharp will welcome questions and discussion. Admission is open to all and is free. An offering will be taken to benefit the Kanza Heritage Society.
This is the first of two events this October that the Plymouth Racial Justice Team invites you to in support of the Kanza Heritage Society and the return of the Sacred Red Rock to the Kanza people. The rock, currently called "Founders Rock," in honor of the town and the state's white settlers, sits by the North Lawrence Bridge downtown. It was taken from its former spot where the Shunganunga Creek and the Kansas river intersect near Tecumseh, Kansas. The rock is returning to Kanza owned land in Council Grove later this year.
This acclaimed play, performed by Ted & Company TheaterWorks, is being brought to Lawrence by an inter faith coalition in support of the Kanza Heritage Society and the return of the Sacred Red Rock to the Kanza people. Theatre Lawrence supports this work by providing the use of the theater without charge. All proceeds beyond production costs will go to the Kanza Heritage Society.
The play uses humor in a contemporary setting challenging us to consider issues of love of land, loss of land, and what it means to "own" something. In addition, it provides a thought provoking glimpse of how the Doctrine of Discovery, the legal framework that justified seizure of land and displacement of Indigenous peoples, is still being used and causing harm today.
Reba Seward
Reba moved to Lawrence in 2019 from Siloam Springs, Arkansas, to be closer to her daughter and her family, where she was a longtime member of the First United Methodist Church. Reba is retired from a long career teaching high school math and enjoys tutoring her grandkids and their friends as they go through math classes at Free State High School. Reba has attended Plymouth since she moved to Lawrence and looks forward to becoming a member and growing her involvement in the church.
Melody Gatti
in Lawrence for over 30 years. They have two sons, John and Tony, who are married and live in lovely places to visit (San Diego and Miami). Now that they are retired (sort of), they get to visit more frequently! Melody retired from teaching in the Lawrence Public Schools and enjoys working part time as an adjunct professor at KU. She has been exploring a "better fit" for a new faith home for a couple of years and has found Plymouth to be a comfortable and welcoming church to become an active member. Melody enjoys running, hiking, reading, cooking, knitting, and of course, spending time with friends and family!
Ian Crossfield & Betsy Mills
Ian Crossfield and wife Betsy Mills met in Los Angeles, moved several times across the country (and beyond), and settled in Lawrence in late 2019. They're excited to continue forging new connections within the Plymouth community, especially as they raise their 1.5 year old daughter Elsie. Thanks in advance for helping to make Plymouth, and Lawrence, a wonderful and welcoming new home.
Gene Stoker
Gene and Connie retired to Lawrence six years ago to be close to their daughter, son in law, and three grandchildren. They are a KU mom and dad, so they have former familiarity with Lawrence, upon which we continue to build. They love the town and all the activities it brings. Gene was born in Brevard, N.C., and Connie in Meadville, Pa. They met during our undergraduate studies at the University of Pittsburgh.
Kim Noll
Kim retired March 1, 2020, in Joplin, MO, just in time to solo the covid shutdowns, and very soon decided to move to Lawrence to be closer to family. She graduated from Oklahoma Baptist University with a degree in Office Administration. She worked in administrative support roles and, in later years, in the field of Human Resources. She loves life in Lawrence, especially the time she spends with her grandkids. Hiking, yoga, and pickleball are other activities she enjoys. Kim currently volunteers for LINK and participates in a covenant group. She comes from a church in Joplin that welcomes and accepts all people along a journey of faith and service, and she looks forward to continuing her spiritual walk within the Plymouth community .
Pat & Stacy England
Pat and Stacy England moved to Lawrence in July 2021 to be near family. Prior to their retirement, Pat had driven a feed truck for Two Rivers Coop in Arkansas City, and Stacy taught at Southwestern College in Winfield. Originally from western Kansas, they enjoy living in Lawrence and attending church at Plymouth. Pat enjoys riding his motorcycle, working in the yard, and exploring the area and Stacy gardens, takes photographs, and reads. In addition, they both stay busy with their three grandchildren.
Cindy Epperson & Bob Starr
Cindy Epperson and Bob Starr moved to Lawrence at the end of 2021 from St. Louis. They met, married, and started their family in Johnson County, KS, before moving to St. Louis, where they spent 24 years as a professor and chemical engineer. They live a street over from their two grandchildren, Landyn and Levi Deck, who often attend Plymouth with them. Cindy retired last summer and stays busy volunteering in the community, coordinating events for the Plymouth Youth Service Corp, participating in a Covenant Group, hanging with her Big Brothers/Big Sisters Little, biking, walking, and enjoying the activities of Lawrence. Bob continues to design and sell water treatment systems enjoying biking, golf, and the many other features of Lawrence in his free time. They are transferring their membership from Grace United Methodist Church in St. Louis, Missouri.
This Plymouth Academy class starts on October 19 at 6 pm, so there is still time to enroll!
Too often, the Bible has been used as a weapon against LGBTQIA+ people. And many progressive Christians report feeling under equipped to engage in conversation about the Bible. This course will explore different approaches to reading the Bible critically. We will dig into a few of the most common “clobber passages” and explore the question, “is there redemption in or for the Bible?”
De Weaponizing the Bible is a part of Plymouth Academy, Plymouth’s fall Wednesday night programming. This class will conclude on Wednesday, November 9. Enroll at plymouthlawrence.com, in the church emails or using the QR code
Are you seeking deep, rich spiritual friendship after a season of isolation and disruption? Do you want to grow in your faith alongside others? Do you want to find more meaningful intergenerational connections at Plymouth?
Our Covenant Groups are kicking off another season of intentional small groups. Covenant Groups meet on weekday evenings or Sunday mornings. Invite a friend and take the leap of faith!
Covenant Groups are amazing ways to experience God’s love and learn the beautiful practice of sharing life together in Christian community. Sign up at plymouthlawrence.com or by using the QR Code to the right. Questions? Email Rev. Caroline Dean at associatepastor@plymouthlawrence.com.
Each meeting begins with a short meditation and prayer time, followed by a discussion about incorporating contemplative practices in our daily lives. These groups gather between services on Sunday mornings (approx. 10:40 am).
Plymouth's Contextual Learning Seminarian, Phillip Kroh, invites you to participate in three groups that foster fellowship, spirited and relaxed theological discussions, or meditative and contemplative practices. On Sundays, check out the groups listed below and make them a part of your weekly routine.
Come, grab a cold beverage and join a fun, relaxed discussion on Bible passages, the questions of life, and events of the day Sunday nights at 5 pm at Ecumenical Campus Ministry (1204 Oread Ave).
Come pray in the spirit of Taizé. The fall season of Taizé continues with a service at First United Methodist Church on Oct. 28, at 6 pm, at the downtown church.
St. John the Evangelist Church will lead off the Advent Taizé services on Dec. 2, Plymouth on Dec. 9, and First United Methodist Church on Dec. 16. All services will start at 6 pm.
During the time of COVID, Taizé has also been held via Zoom. Those services happen every Friday at 6 pm and are led by Jimmy and Christina Bloomquist. Taizé coordinator Judith Galas sends out the Zoom link. If you wish to experience Zoom Taizé or receive timely reminders for upcoming Taizé services, please contact Judith at judithcgalas@gmail.com to be added to her Taizé email list.
Unfamiliar with Taizé? The prayer service grew from the post WWII efforts of Brother Roger, a Protestant monk who sought peace and reconciliation following a devastating war. Those early prayer services in Taizé, France, became a worldwide prayers for peace movement.
Taizé services, which include reflective readings, simple music, and meditation, happen worldwide in thousands of Christian churches that seek to support reflective prayer and inner peace.
Here in Lawrence, the Taizé community is entering its 23rd season, starting in December 2000 as a joint effort of Plymouth and St. John’s. All are welcome to come and pray in the spirit of Taizé.
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This group is for dads with littles ages 0 6 to gather in fellowship and fun at local playgrounds at 9 am on the second Saturday of each month. Older siblings are, of course, welcome to join in the fun. Coffee and donuts will be provided.
UPCOMING PLAYDATES
Saturday, October 8
@ Veterans Park 19th & Ohio Street
Calling all Plymouth children! Wear your Halloween costumes to church and join a friend for a Halloween treat parade in the church between services! students, bring a costume to change into after receiving your 3rd and 4th grade Bibles at the 9:30 am worship service.
What is MOPS? Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) believes in the simple but revolutionary idea that remarkable things happen when moms come together.
Plymouth's 2023 High School Youth Service Learning
Trip destination has been set. This year we will travel to Albuquerque, New Mexico, to work with the Reach Beyond organization focusing on indigenous studies, cultures, and communities. Registration and a $100 deposit are due by November 15, 2022 (Make a check out to "Plymouth Church" with "Service Trip" in the memo line).
The total cost of this student trip is $500, but full and partial scholarships are available. Contact Rev. Caroline Lawson Dean (associatepastor@plymouthlawrence.com) for more information. The full cost for the trip is due by February 1, 2023. You can register by scanning the QR Code to the right.
Support the Handbell Choirs! The Plymouth Handbell Choirs are selling fresh greenery, wreaths, swags, garlands, and centerpieces to provide funds for purchasing music, stands, folders, polish, and upkeep on the handbells. Purchased items will be delivered to Plymouth for pick up before Thanksgiving. All items may also be shipped directly to distant relatives or friends, making a no hassle early Christmas present that can be enjoyed throughout the season. Please visit the handbell table between services in the Narthex. The last date to order is Sunday, October 31. For more information, please contact Kim Manz (music@plymouthlawrence.com).
The Plymouth Players and Dinner Theater is back Friday, November 4, and Saturday, November 5. This event costs $18 for adults and $10 for ages 12 and under. The evening begins at 5:30 pm for social time, with the meal served at 6 pm.
Enjoy an evening of food, fellowship, and entertainment as the Plymouth Players present the murder mystery “Cancelled.” In this award winning farce, set in a studio in a radio station in the 1940s, the cast of a popular radio show is held hostage by one of the show’s sponsors, who is furious that the show has been canceled, and who also, unfortunately, appears to be a member of the mob. It all falls hilariously apart as the actors struggle to produce a whole show with only a few pages of script and no means of escape.
On the menu for the evening is the following: pulled pork or vegetarian option, au gratin potatoes, seasonal vegetables, salad, roll, and dessert. Wine will be available for a donation.
Advanced reservations and payment are required. Please visit the sign up table between services in the Narthex on Sunday mornings. For more information, contact Kim Manz (music@plymouthlawrence.com).
Do you love to sing? Did you sing in choir in high school and have not sung since? Come sing in the Chancel Choir! We are always look for more voices to add to this welcoming and friendly ensemble.
The choir sings a wide variety of music from the Renaissance through contemporary newly published works. Each year the choir sings two major choral works with orchestral accompaniment. The next major work will be on Sunday, December 11.
Don’t worry if you can’t make a strict weekly commitment. We still want you, AND we have at least two parties each year! Rehearsals are in the Mayflower Room on Thursday evenings from 7 8:30 p.m. Come lift your voice up to God in song!
In 1974 the first three octave set of handbells was presented to Plymouth Church as a living memorial to Brad Fisher, who had passed away at the age of 11. That wonderful memorial started the tradition of a large and successful handbell program. Plymouth purchased additional handbells to accommodate the growing number of ringers. In addition to the original three octave set, Plymouth owns a five octave set and five octaves of handchimes.
Handbell ringing is a fun, collaborative ensemble where each person rings two bells. You don’t need to read music or have any previous experience, as we will teach you everything you need to know. Ringing is a hands on team building social musical ensemble. New ringers are always welcome.
Please contact Kim Manz for more information at music@plymouthlawrence.com.
The Plymouth String ensemble rehearses Wednesday evenings from 7 8 p.m. in the Althaus Chapel. All string players playing at the high school level or above are invited. Plymouth Strings plays for worship several times throughout the year. Please contact Kim Manz at music@plymouthlawrence.com for more information.
Do you play flute, clarinet, oboe, sax, or bassoon? Would you be interested in playing in a woodwind ensemble at Plymouth? The ensemble could rehearse weekly. Or it could rehearse for a few weeks, play for worship, take a break and start up again. Contact Kim Manz, at music@plymouthlawrence.com, if you are interested in playing.
The Plymouth Fellowship Board invites members and friends to the Lawrence Rotary Park at the Arboretum for a fall Nature Walk on Saturday, October 22, at 10 am.
Our Fellowship Nature Walks were a staple of safely gathering during the COVID lockdown. Though those days are thankfully behind us, we miss those beautiful and fun walks. So come out and enjoy a fall morning walk led by Mary Kaczor. Meet Mary at the entrance to the Rotary Park near the large shelter by the pond. The walk will be a time to enjoy the beautiful outdoors with church friends and will last approximately 45 minutes. Mary will also end the walk with a few moments of meditation or thoughts on mindfulness. In case of inclement weather, the walk will be canceled.
One of Plymouth Church’s most beloved yearly traditions returns this fall for the first time since 2019. On Sunday, November 20, Plymouth’s annual Thanksgiving meal for the congregation returns!
We need your help to make it a success. We expect a big turnout, so we need donations to help cover the costs of the turkey
and lots of tasty sides and desserts to complete the feast. Starting Sunday, October 2, stop by the table in the Narthex and sign up to donate, make a side, or provide a dessert. Representatives from the Fellowship Board will be there to give out recipes and foil pans. On the following few pages, check out some recipe ideas. Then be here on Sunday, November 20, for the feast!
