Wayne Press Jan/Feb 2024

January/February 2024

WAYNE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

WAYNE PRESS

www.waynepres.org

SEASONS AND REASONS TO CELEBRATE The Advent season was full of beautiful music and joyful celebration, and we look forward to the next season on our Christian calendar when we focus on the life and ministry of Jesus. This issue of the Wayne Press shows how our activities are aligned with our mission to share the ministry of Christ through worship, learning, serving and caring. Read about our beautiful worship and music events, many Bible studies, service projects and caring outreach. Looking ahead, we will have a screening and discussion of a powerful new documentary, book discussions, speakers, meals, retreats, explorations of spiritual practices, multi-generational fellowship events and many more activities to deepen our relationships with God, each other and our world.

We hope you enjoy this issue of the Wayne Press, which highlights many recent events and upcoming programs, but it can’t cover everything we do! Please visit waynepres.org regularly for more information and updates. Also visit the online Member Portal at waynepres.org/member-portal/ or contact the Church office to keep your membership records updated to make sure you receive our publications.

ADULT EDUCATION CHILDREN IN CRISIS: THE STORY OF CHIP

Join us in February as we gather to explore the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, Horse, by Geraldine Brooks!

February 4, 9:30 a.m. - Library We will meet in the Library and then break into smaller discussion groups.

February 11, 9:30 a.m. - Fireside Room Dr. Emerson Powery, Professor of Biblical Studies at Messiah University will present and facilitate a discussion on how the Bible was used in the history of slavery.

Join us for a Powerful Documentary Film by Scott Galloway, Coming to WPC on March 17 As Christians we know that we are called to stand with our brothers and sisters in need, showing the love of Christ in a hurting world. An inspiring example of a response to this call is found in the collaboration of Pittsburgh churches – one of which was led by our own Rev. Dr. John Galloway, Jr. – to lead a grassroots program that expanded into one of the most important federal healthcare programs ever enacted – the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), ultimately helping to insure millions of children.

In the early 1980s, over 150,000 steel-related jobs were lost in the Pittsburgh area, many residents were starving, and their anger was directed at corporate leaders. One Sunday, the displaced steel workers confronted the steel executives at the churches where they worshiped, including Fox Chapel Presbyterian Church, where Dr. Galloway served as senior pastor. Rather than engaging in confrontation, Dr. Galloway welcomed the protestors and listened as they expressed their pain. Recalling the testimony of one steel worker, Dr. Galloway says, “He apologized for interrupting the service but he wanted us to know they’re really hurting. ‘How do I take care of my kids? How do I feed my family? How do I keep my house?’ You don’t just hear that…and ignore it.” That engagement expanded to encompass numerous sectors of the community, including not only the displaced steel workers and local churches, but also schools, sports teams, celebrities and Blue Cross. It culminated in the formation of the Caring Program for Children, which provided health insurance for children in need.

CHILDREN IN The model proved highly replicable CRISIS: THE and was extended throughout STORY OF CHIP Pennsylvania and other states. In is a remarkable story, 1997, federal legislation established illustrating how a the Children’s Health Insurance cross-section of people Program (CHIP) based on the can create change, Pittsburgh model. Scott Galloway, overcome differences Dr. Galloway’s son, has produced a and demonstrate the powerful, hour-long documentary best of democracy's film about these events. Entitled promises.

Children in Crisis: The Story of CHIP, the film will be shown at

Wayne Presbyterian Church

February 18, 9:30 a.m. - Fireside Room Tony Holland, is a coach in Villanova’s Executive MBA Program and sits on many charitable boards. Mr. Holland will consider several themes of the novel: the healing power of horses, the impact of slavery and desegregation on American Horse racing and the legacy of Lexington.

March 3, 2:00 p.m. - People’s Light Theatre in Malvern The church has purchased a block of 30 tickets for the performance of “the ripple, the wave that carried me home,” centered on the movement to desegregate community swimming pools. The tickets will be for sale at our group discount price of $34.00. Visit peopleslight.org to learn more and email Janice Mack (gardengirl65@gmail.com) if you’d like to join us!

WPC, followed by a discussion/Q&A session with Scott on Sunday, March 17, at 3:00 p.m. in the Chapel.

Join us to learn about this inspiring story of churches taking action to fix broken systems.

Click here to view the trailer. The film is currently streaming on PBS, Amazon Prime and Apple TV+.

Scott Galloway is a writer, director and producer with more than 800 film and television credits. His films have won multiple film festival awards, have received national theatrical releases and have been screened throughout the world. He has produced content for more than 20 television networks, won Emmys and Tellys, and has been nominated for a Peabody Award. Of all his work, this is the first film he actually lived.

FELLOWSHIP OF THE BEAN It was standing room only on Sunday, January 14 as members of Fellowship of the Bean, the High School Sunday school class and the Confirmation class filled the Knox Room for a special inter-generational program.

Tanisha Agrawal, a Conestoga High School senior, presented her documentary – The Berwyn School Fight .

Her short film, a project for the National History Day competition, recounts the story of the African American community’s efforts to protest and change discriminatory actions and policy by the Tredyffrin School Board from 1932-1934. The film dovetails information presented last year during the Adult Education Black History Month Speaker Series. One of the speakers, Miss Penny Washington, a local historian, summarized the Berwyn School Fight in her talk, “Right Here: Main Line Fight for School Integration.”

During the Q&A following the film, Tanisha revealed that her ability to have the “lens of an outsider” gave her a unique ability to appreciate this topic. She explained that being neither black nor white, yet often being on the outside, made her motivated to tell this story to her peers.

Tanisha’s film is another example of keeping history alive.

With the help of the African American Student Union, Tanisha’s documentary became an agent for real change!

The TE School Board voted to include The Berwyn School Fight in the curriculum for grades 3, 8 and 11.

Fellowship of the Bean regularly meets on Sunday at 9:30 a.m. in the Library to discuss a wide variety of topical and thoughtprovoking subjects through the lens of our Christian faith.

We also particularly enjoy good coffee. Please join us!

L to R: Pamela Jensen, Tanisha Agrawal, Janice Mack, Rick Davis

THURSDAY MORNING MEN’S MINISTRY (TM3) 7:00 a.m. Fireside Room Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. – Psalm 119:105 TM3 is an informal group of Wayne Presbyterian Church that meets at 7:00 a.m. each Thursday in the Fireside Room and on Zoom. It is a wonderful opportunity for relationships, prayer and learning. The program year runs from September through June.

The morning begins with prayer and fellowship, followed by learning time: a 30-minute presentation typically from professors from Eastern University. Are you looking to explore the world of history, bible study, astronomy, philosophy, theology and a host of Biblerelated topics? This might be just what you are looking for. The lineup of speakers will challenge your mind and fill your spirit. Join in for a morning or two or the entire series. You will be glad you did.

SPRING SPEAKER SCHEDULE FEBRUARY Dr. Stephen Boyer, PhD.; Professor of Theology, Eastern University MARCH Rev. Cean R. James; Senior Pastor, Salt & Light Rev. Christopher J. Holland II; Executive Director, The Common Place APRIL Dr. Phil Cary, PhD., Chair; Professor of Philosophy; Eastern University MAY Dr. Joseph B. Modica, PhD., University Chaplain; Associate Professor of Biblical Studies, Eastern University and Scholar-in-Residence at WPC JUNE Dr. Walter Huddell, PhD.; Professor of Mathematics, Engineering Adviser, Eastern University For more information or to get on the email Zoom invite list please contact Tim Pretz at tpretz@eastern.edu or Sal Ambrosio at sambrosio55@gmail.com.

January/February 2024

2024 LENTEN BIBLE STUDY: MONDAY BIBLE FELLOWSHIP Jonah – (January 22 through February 26)

Unique among the prophetic books, Jonah is based on an obscure Galilean prophet about 750 years BCE, yet he is never called a prophet in the text. It is also uncharacteristic in its use of humor to make its points. God pointed Jonah at Nineveh. Many of Jonah’s responses inform our faith even today.

Nahum (March 4 through 26)

SUNDAY MORNING BIBLE STUDY Spring 2024 (January 21 – May 19) Paul’s letter to the Romans Dr. Joseph B. Modica, University Chaplain and Associate Professor of Biblical Studies at Eastern University returns to WPC for his 10th year leading Sunday Morning Bible Study in the Fireside Room at 9:30 a.m.

He notes: “The letter to the Romans is seen as the Apostle Paul’s theological magnum opus. Historically, there have been debates on how to best understand Paul’s concerns and convictions in this letter. This semester, we’ll study this significant letter and the challenges of how to be faithful witnesses to the gospel today in both word and deed.”

The class will be using a commentary by Scot McKnight: Romans: Experiencing Peace Together in a Chaotic World (New Testament Everyday Bible Study Series). The book jacket includes the following comments: In trying to unify a congregation he’d never met, the Apostle Paul starts the first half of his letter reminding the believers of their redemption in Jesus, anticipating the unity for their life together. Paul ends with a call for peace; a redemptive peace that speaks to how to live in relation to our state, our work, our church and our households.

Romans is the most influential document in the New Testament for the formation of what Christians believe today. But it also has importance for how to live that belief in our chaotic world.

Similar to Jonah, the focus of Nahum’s prophecy is also Nineveh. This short and little-studied book complements Jonah’s mission to Nineveh.

Taken together, God is clearly seen as the Lord of all nations.

All are welcome. We meet at 10:00 a.m. Mondays in the Fireside Room and on Zoom. Meetings will be facilitated by Scott Laird and Mary Nicol, with selected classes led by Pastor Katy. For more information and a Zoom link, please contact Scott Laird at hslaird@aol.com or 610.745.7479.

Wayne Presbyterian Church

The classes are designed as standalone units. So come to one, a few or the entire series. For more information email Sal Ambrosio at sambrosio55@gmail.com.

WinGS (WOMEN IN GOD’S SERVICE) WORD BEFORE WORK PROVIDES BREAKFAST, SCRIPTURE, PRAYER AND COMMUNITY FOR EARLY RISERS On Wednesdays, a dedicated group of women in our church rises with the sun. (Often, even before the sun!) Aptly named “Word Before Work,” this women’s Bible study gathers at 6:45 a.m. – before the workday begins – in order to share breakfast and dive into God’s Word together. WBW has been meeting early and faithfully for years – even during the pandemic, when participants gathered diligently over Zoom screens with coffee mugs and in pajama bottoms. Under Pastor Katy Shevel’s leadership (and thanks to Nancy Dever’s administration), the group has explored a wide range of spiritual topics. Together, WBW has surveyed all the women in the Old Testament; reflected on the theological significance of “night” and the evening prayer practice of Compline; read and prayed through the Book of Psalms; and spent time with “reluctant” prophets, Jonah and Moses. This Fall, we read the Book of Micah through the lens of Sacred Rhythms by Ruth Haley Barton. In this recent study, the group had the opportunity to combine biblical study and faith practice: to discover the transformative power of ancient spiritual disciplines, all while reading a powerful biblical story of God’s people being called back to faith. Together, WBW experienced what happens when we prayerfully name the longings of our hearts to God: we see how God is already changing our hearts – and the hearts of others.

This January, WBW is back and has been listening to what the Bible has to say about friendships and building spiritual community. Want to be a part of this curious and compassionate community of early risers? Reach out to Pastor Katy at katy@waynepres.org at any time.

WinGS CHRISTMAS TEA 2023 The sights and sounds of the holidays filled the Chapel on Saturday, December 9 for the Annual WinGS Christmas Tea. Forty men and women came together to enjoy a morning of fellowship featuring traditional fare of sweet and savory treats and coffee and tea served from vintage silver services. Rev. Katy Shevel played the piano filling the Chapel with seasonal music and led the attendees in a selection of carols.

Our guest speaker was Rev. Laura Colee, Associate Pastor of the First Presbyterian Church of Philadelphia and the Beacon Church in the Kensington neighborhood of Philadelphia. After a heartfelt introduction by Becky Greenhow, Rev. Colee gave an informative and impassioned talk entitled “God’s Unexpected Table.” Beacon Church, a Faith in Action partner, brings together unexpected dinner companions at their Dinner Church services, and feeds food insecure neighbors through their Monthly Community Meals and the Urban Gardening program.

WinGS encouraged all Christmas Tea guests to support Rev. Colee and the Beacon Church with either a monetary donation towards the Community Meals program or by providing small gardening tools and supplies for the Urban Gardening program.

WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDIES Winter/Spring 2024 Class Selections Fireside Room with hybrid option

WEDNESDAYS

WORD BEFORE WORK Jesus and Friends – Exploring Friendships in the Bible Led by Rev. Katy Shevel Breakfast at 6:45 a.m.

Study promptly from 7:00 – 8:00 a.m.

Contact Nancy Dever at nancydever@comcast.net for class information and Zoom link.

WOMEN IN THE WORD TBA – Mid March LUNCH WITH THE LORD Life Lessons from Matthew Led by Lee Pretz Weekly, Noon – 1:00 p.m.

Contact Lee at lpretz@verizon.net for class information and Zoom link.

THURSDAYS MOMs PARENTING DISCUSSION SERIES A Variety of Parenting Topics Led by Rotating Leaders of MOMs Every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the Month from 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.

Contact Pam Clark at pammyclark@gmail.com for class information and Zoom link.

January/February 2024

VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT THE PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY “May you be cradled in HOPE, kept in JOY, graced in PEACE and wrapped in LOVE.” These words end the prayer on every card signed by a member of the WinGS Prayer Shawl Ministry.

Since February 2017, a faithful group of women meet twice a month to knit and crochet together. They purposefully and prayerfully create shawls which are symbolic of an embracing and loving God. The shawls wrap, comfort, envelop and give solace to someone in times of need. The group’s hope is that those who receive the shawls feel uplifted, valued, cherished and prayed for.

To date, the Prayer Shawl Ministry has produced well over 175 shawls. Many people in our church family have been comforted by one of these gifts. People going through difficult medical treatments or a long convalescence, those who suffered a loss and are grieving, those who are aging, who are lonely or displaced or who are hurting in any other way benefit from the warm embrace of a prayer shawl and the attached scripture meditation.

The women also create hats, scarves and other items in response to the needs of some of our Mission partners such as Cornerstone Christian Academy and The Common Place. Receiving blankets and caps are sent to the Labor and Delivery Unit of the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania as wraps for the stillborn babies.

The group also makes car seat blankets for the MOMs group to distribute to many new parents of the congregation. Prayer shawls are available in the church office or through the Deacons.

SAVE THE DATE

The Prayer Shawl Ministry meets on the 1st and 3rd Monday of the month in the Library from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. You do not need to be an experienced needlewoman to join them. They are happy to teach any and all of their skills! Also, they are always happy to accept yarn.

Friendship: Bonding in Spiritual Community

Contact Linda Teets at lst833@aol.com with questions about the Prayer Shawl Ministry or donating yarn.

Led By Rev. Katy Shevel

2024 Women’s Retreat • April 26th – 27th St. Raphaela Center Retreat Center, Haverford, PA Registration Begins February 25th

Wayne Presbyterian Church

“Stitched in Prayer…Given in Love” L to R: Sue Ellen Larkin, Betsy Girard, Linda Teets, Lee Pretz, Debby Jones, Elsa Forrest and June Vollmer. (Not pictured - Carol Cook)

WORSHIP AND MUSIC CREATION CONCERT VIDEO NOW AVAILABLE ON YOUTUBE!

If you missed the magnificent world premiere of “CREATION” performed by the Wayne Oratorio Society (WOS) in November, or if you would like the thrill of experiencing it again, the video recording is now available on YouTube!

Composed by renowned composer Dan Forrest, commissioned in honor of the WOS 75th Anniversary through the generosity of an anonymous WOS patron, this 72-minute oratorio explores the wonders of our planet through a dazzling variety of musical expressions for chorus, orchestra and soprano and baritone soloists.

We are blessed to be able to share this beautiful performance with the world, thanks to generous donations that compensated the musicians who filled the sanctuary with the rich sounds of CREATION. This new oratorio will also be performed in April in its NYC premiere at Lincoln Center, and from there it will go on to be performed world wide.

As a special bonus, the Society also produced a documentary called “The Creation of CREATION,” with glimpses into the writing, rehearsals and people behind the production.

Click here or visit waynepres.org/music for information and links.

January/February 2024

CHANCEL DECORATING COMMITTEE TRANSFORMS THE CHURCH FOR ADVENT On the Sunday after Thanksgiving when you walked into the vestibule from the parking lot you were met with greenery, wreaths and bows…. the Church had been visited by a team of energetic, cheery, dedicated elves (also known as the Chancel Decorating Committee) and was decorated for Christmas Christmas! Advent – the period of preparation for the coming of Christ was upon us.

The main reason for this article is to say THANK YOU to the cast of wonderful folks who, for many years, have tweaked, fluffed, made and installed bows, hung wreaths, moved heavy bins of decorations to and from the basement and unloaded poinsettias and lilies off the nursery truck – all with a smile. We also thank our Church family for donating and dedicating the plants we use to continue the tradition of building both the Poinsettia and Lily trees.

Two years ago, when Angela Tait and Lani Fabere took the reins of this committee from Nancy Bruhns and Betty Ogren, they knew they had big shoes to fill. They recently learned that Nancy and Betty felt the same way years ago when they took over from Sally Bruns and Julie Hoffmann. These four (and the others in this 2003 picture and some not pictured) were forward thinkers, with a devotion that started this decorating tradition.

We are forever grateful to all of you!

Finally, thank you to the Radnor Scout Troop 284 and the Bruhns Family who, for well over 25 years, have donated the live wreaths we hang on our doors and windows as friendly symbols that say to the world: COME INSIDE – ALL ARE WELCOME HERE! From top right: Perri Bruhns provides wreaths through the Scouts, Angela Tait leads the team with Lani Fabere (not pictured), some of the original Chancel Decorating Committee in 2003!

COMMUNION SERVED AT SHANNONDELL AND WHITE HORSE VILLAGE The Congregational Services committee of the Deacons focuses on serving the needs of the congregation. As part of this ministry, the committee hosts social, fellowship and worship events specifically for the older members of Wayne Presbyterian Church. Rev. Liz Wagner conducts monthly Communion services at Shannondell where 35 members reside.

Jeff Fowler, retired Director of Music at WPC, plays the piano for the hymns. Weezie Duff, Deacon and Shannondell resident, organizes the event and sends the invitations. After the December Communion service, Deacons Diana Bacci, Weezie Duff and Linda Kurtz hosted a reception with tea, cookies and muffins. In December Rev. Wagner also conducted a communion service for the seven WPC members at White Horse Village.

Deacons James Barnes and Mary Bollinger greeted residents at a reception following the service. If you would like to get involved in such caring ministries, contact Mary Bollinger at mme_bollinger@verizon.net.

Wayne Presbyterian Church

DEACONS CHRISTMAS ANGEL TREE PROJECT SERVES 90 FAMILIES The Board of Deacons Community Service Committee held a very successful annual Christmas Angel Tree project providing holiday meals along with pantry food items and small gifts for 90 families. In fact, all the families were selected so quickly that we were able to provide additional support to our partners through gift card donations totaling more than $2,000!

This year’s project marked another year where all selections were made either online from home or during the coffee hour on three Sundays in the church Connector. It was a joy to have the opportunity to talk inperson with familiar and new church members at the Angel table bringing additional joy and fellowship to the project.

We also continued with the option to use heavy-duty reusable/recyclable cardboard boxes which were provided at the Angel table. This option was cost effective, eco-friendly and appreciated by those who utilized them.

The outpouring of kindness, enthusiasm and generosity from those who participated in the Angel Tree project was truly inspiring. It is the joy of giving to families we know need assistance and it is an expression of the loving care our faith asks of us. As a result, ninety families from three of our mission partners were surely overwhelmed with your heartfelt gifts of food and treats.

On behalf of the Board of Deacons, your Community Service Committee thanks you for continuing to support exemplary mission outreach programs at Wayne Presbyterian Church.

EARTH CARE HELP OUR ENVIRONMENT AND OUR COMMUNITY VIA THIS FREE INTERFAITH EVENT! Recycle your Old Electronics (E-Waste)

PAR-Recycle Works* comes to Main Line Unitarian Church, 816 Valley Forge Road, Devon, PA on Saturday, March 2 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

PAR accepts: accepts Laptops, iPads, computer towers, mobile phones and most items with a plug: small appliances, e.g., toasters, vacuum cleaners, radios, tape recorders, electric shavers, disc players, power drills, power strips and cords.

PAR doesn’t accept: accept Large appliances (refrigerators, washing machines), air conditioners, dehumidifiers, microwaves, separate computer monitors, flat screen TVs, CRTs, light bulbs and alkaline batteries.

Come for snacks and meet with other environmentally concerned neighbors!

Interfaith Partners: Saint David’s Episcopal Church, Central Baptist Church, Wayne Presbyterian Church, Wayne United Methodist Church, Main Line Unitarian Church *People Advancing Reintegration (PAR) Recycle Works is a Philly-based nonprofit electronics recycler that provides transitional employment opportunities to people returning from prison.

Questions? Please contact Pamela Jensen at jens0581@umn.edu.

January/February 2024

FAITH IN ACTION WPC SERVES ON MARTIN LUTHER KING DAY For the first time since the pandemic, the Faith in Action and Children & Youth Committees organized a handful of service project options for members of all ages, both in the church and off campus.

Welcome Kits for Outley House Men’s Shelter in SW Philadelphia Some 20 or 25 intergenerational members with family gathered in the Knox and Calvin Rooms to assemble welcome kits with things like socks, personal hygiene items, soap, etc. One hundred (100) kits were assembled in short order. There was a craft activity table for young children and later Kelli Masters led them into the sanctuary to dust off the pews! Thanks to Caitlin Werthman, Laura Koster and Kelli for their leadership.

Casserole Preparation in the WPC Kitchen Led by Susan Aggarwal under the direction of certified food preparer Rick Smith, a team of seven members prepared 19 frozen chicken noodle casseroles for the Great Valley Food Cupboard and Broad Street Ministry.

Shelf Construction in the IHN Storage Closet in Room 208 Kevin Blackney, John Larkin and Bennett Colesbury of our Hammers With Heart ministry installed shelves inside the closet to facilitate storage of support materials for hosting homeless families from Family Promise of the Main Line.

Food Drive Scout Troop 284 ran a great food drive for the Food pantry at Wayne Methodist Church. Doug Bruhns, Scoutmaster and WPC member, organized this project.

Painting at Main Line Mentoring in Mt. Pleasant Kevin Stroman, President of MLM, opened the Carr School/Chapel to Jean Kozicki, Andrew Ivory, Marty and Scott Laird to help paint the doors and trim in the main hall.

Photos of all these project activities can be found on the WPC website at waynepres.org/ministries/faith-in-action.

SPREADING CHRISTMAS CHEER AT MITCHELL SCHOOL AND ALL AROUND It took a village of 22 Wayne cookie bakers (to produce 1,400 cookies), an exuberant team of youth group decorators and a quartet of packagers to make 66 bags of treats for teachers and staff at Mitchell School. One of the 5th grade boys who helped carry the bags from our car upstairs asked “Who are these cookies for?” We said, “For the teachers,” and he replied, “That’s so nice. They really deserve it.”

(L to R): Wayne youth group members express their creativity!, Look good and tastes good, too!, Gretchen Andersen, Wendy Norman and Jane Beatty packaged so many cookies.

Mitchell’s Principal, Ms. Dunn wrote, “I wanted to extend a great big THANK YOU!!! The teachers loved coming down and grabbing a cookie. I was tickled by their plans to sit at home and eat them. We are truly blessed to have you all partner with us. Happy Holidays to you as well! Looking forward to an amazing 2024!!”

Wendy Norman, Susi Bruhns and Rita Fisk recruited all those cookie bakers. Kelli Masters and Evelyn Widham had the happy job of supervising our creative youth decorators.

Mitchell, a K-8 school in the Philadelphia Public School District, is located in the Kingsessing area of Southwest Philadelphia. WPC members have been supporting projects there for 24 years. The need is great and the opportunity is fulfilling for all involved. This year, tutors are working with 4th graders once a week to encourage their math prowess and “personal librarians” enjoy reading and helping Kindergarten-3rd grade classes two times a month. Come visit some Tuesday or Thursday! Contact Jane Beatty (jnbeatty@verizon.net), Wendy Norman (wnormanpa@yahoo.com) or Rita Fisk (Ritahfisk@google.com).

Wayne Presbyterian Church

SAVE THE DATE: WAYNE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH WILL JOIN THE COMMON PLACE FOR ITS 10TH ANNIVERSARY SOIREE IN APRIL In October 2013, WPC embarked on a journey to help rebuild a church at the center of the SW Philadelphia community. We are now celebrating the 10th anniversary of WPC’s decision to join with local leaders, purchase the property owned by New Spirit Community Church for $1, conduct extensive renovations and help transform it into a faith-based educational outreach center for children and families in the SW community called The Common Place. It was a bold and spirit-led initiative involving a $3M capital campaign ($1.5M for TCP and $1.5M for WPC property funds) and significant investments of time and energy from our staff and congregation. New Spirit Church eventually merged with Grace Christian Fellowship to become Salt & Light Church with a congregation approaching 1,000 worshippers.

Many WPC members continue to lead and volunteer at TCP, which has now become a sustainable non-profit organization providing support to children and their families through educational programs, food sovereignty, community collaboration and welcome. Friends, this is an example of what we can do together with our neighbors when we are led by the spirit to give and serve. Please plan to join the TCP community to celebrate this major milestone, honor Rev. Aisha Brooks-Johnson, our former pastor and a key leader in the growth and success of TCP, and help support TCP’s plan to initiate a preschool program.

Our church’s covenant as a

Hunger Action Congregation

PC(USA) CERTIFIES WPC AS A COVENANTING HUNGER ACTION CONGREGATION The Hunger Action Congregation (HAC) process is part of the Presbyterian Hunger Program (PHP) of PC(USA) which is supported by contributions to the One Great Hour of Sharing (OGHS) program.

The HAC process celebrates the faithful work of Presbyterians around the country who are responding to the biblical call to help alleviate hunger and end its causes. Through stories and encouragement, PC(USA) and WPC wish to be mutually inspired to pursue broader and more justice-oriented ministries. There are currently 78 HAC churches in 48 presbyteries, of which 50 are certified.

“As disciples of a loving God who inspires us to do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with our God, we commit to faithful action to end hunger and address its root causes.”

WPC is certified for three years for conducting an activity in each of six areas: Hunger Alleviation, Development Assistance, Hunger Education, PRESBYTERIAN Lifestyle Integrity, Corporate & Public Policy Witness and Worship.

HUNGER PROGRAM www.pcusa.org/hunger Hunger will be a worship theme during Lent this year. Additionally, there will soon be information sessions offered for members who are interested in learning more about our plans for future Hunger Action at WPC. A Hunger Action Team, whose sole focus is learning about hunger in our community and planning ways to combat it in addition to what we have and are already doing.

Photo by PHP partner Asociación Fénix, Nicaragua

If this is of interest to you, contact Elders Scott Laird (hslaird@aol.com) or Susan Aggarwal (vnsagg@aol.com), and visit the Faith in Action website for more information and updates.

January/February 2024

CORNERSTONE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY NAMES A NEW HEAD OF SCHOOL Cornerstone Christian Academy is a long-term Faith in Action partner at WPC. Cornerstone is an independent, private Christian school in Southwest Philadelphia serving Kindergarten through 8th grade students in a safe, disciplined and spiritual educational environment. The school’s campus adjoins The Common Place.

Nearly 100% of Cornerstone graduates complete high school on time and most pursue a college degree. The WPC congregation has generously supported Cornerstone with time, talent and treasure for over 25 years.

We want to share the good news that after an extensive national search process, Cornerstone recently announced Brandon McNeice as the new Head of School and CEO of Cornerstone Christian Academy!

Brandon brings a wealth of experience in school administration and leadership, having served in various roles in private schools from New York to California, including as a founding Head of School of BASIS Independent Manhattan’s Upper School. His journey has been marked by a dedication to educational excellence and includes roles in student enrollment, community relations, student affairs, program development and operations management.

Beyond his professional achievements, Brandon’s personal values align with the core principles of Cornerstone. As a member of the Anglican Communion, he recognizes the profound impact of faith on education and views it as the cornerstone of personal, professional and academic development. Please keep Brandon in your prayers as he embarks on this exciting journey to shape the future of education at Cornerstone Christian Academy.

We also want to thank Dick Ollinger, the former President and CEO of Cornerstone, for his dedication to Cornerstone and his partnership and friendship with WPC for over 20 years. We wish Dick all the best.

For more information on Cornerstone, including how you can get involved or to donate, please visit wearecornerstone.com/.

ALTERNATIVE GIFTS PROVIDE A GIVING OPTION DURING ADVENT Once again, Wayne Presbyterian Church confirmed that we ARE a church with a heart for mission. For well over 15 years, the Alternative Gifts Program has been offered during the season of Advent to give additional financial assistance to our chosen partners. In 2023, due to your loyal giving, $11,300 was raised and has been distributed to 11 partners. The partners that were selected this year were Baker Industries, Cornerstone Christian Academy, Emmanuel Hospital Association, Family Promise of the Main Line, Gemma Services, God’s Precious Children, Great Valley Food Cupboard, GROW ESL, Mitchell School, The Common Place and West Kensington Ministry. Thank you so much for your generosity and your unwavering support.

Wayne Presbyterian Church

CHILDREN’S & YOUTH MINISTRIES CHILDREN’S MINISTRY THE CHRISTMAS PAGEANT WAS A SIGHT TO BEHOLD!

If you were in the sanctuary at 4:00 p.m. on Christmas Eve, then you know what a joy it was to have the children bring us the story of Jesus’ birth from the perspective of the animals in the stable. “The Night the Animals Sang” was a delight from start – helping 38 children learn their parts – to finish, watching the congregation receive the pageant as a real Christmas blessing. Top it all off with a candlelit (glowstick) Silent Night and you have a Christmas Eve to remember.

OUR CHILDREN LOVE TO SERVE Whether it is collecting food for the food cupboard, donating toys for Gemma Services, making cards for our homebound friends, packing hygiene kits for Outley House or washing the pews in the sanctuary…our children and youth are here for it! What a blessing it is to see our young ones develop a heart for service and caring.

January/February 2024

YOUTH MINISTRY Our youth gathered for a fantastic MidWinter Advance “retreat” at Refreshing Mountain in Stevens, PA. Youth from 21 churches gathered for a weekend of fun and fellowship. They enjoyed everything from serious discussion regarding the Bible and God in their lives to deepening their relationships through amazing activities and challenges. We are so grateful to our many youth leaders and volunteers who make this program fun, safe and enriching for so many youth. Our program has grown considerably this year, thanks to the energy and commitment of all involved in the program. Based on the success of our recent Fall and Winter retreats and programs, the Youth Committee is actively planning Spring and Summer service and fellowship activities to continue the momentum in fostering spiritual growth and relationships among our young people. Please contact Kelli Masters at kelli@waynepres.org, Evelyn Widham at evelyn@waynepres.org or Mason Cruz at masoncruz01@gmail.com to get involved!

STEWARDSHIP UPDATE As of January 12, 2024, the Stewardship Committee is delighted to share that we have received total pledges of $1,427,159, exceeding our $1.4 million goal. To date, 244 pledges have been committed, averaging 24% above last year. The generosity and optimism of our faithful community is inspiring – thank you! you If you are a member who has not yet submitted your pledge of support, we hope you will support our work through regular giving in 2024. All donations strengthen our foundations of ministry. Visit waynepres.org/giving for a link to our Narrative Budget that explains how your donations are used. We will continue to share messages throughout the year regarding the impact our ministries are having in our communities and in the world, celebrating our abundant gifts and fostering an ongoing culture of gratitude and generosity.

Wayne Presbyterian Church

LEADERSHIP UPDATES

SEE SI SIGHTS GHTS AND SOUNDS SOUNDS FROM FROM 2023 VIEW W VID VIDE EO IN O OUR UR YEAR-IN-RE YEAR-IN-REVIE Our church was busy in 2023, with more programs and events than we can possibly capture. But you can see a glimpse of our many ministries in a new Year-in-Review video, which walks through some of the ways in which we worshiped, sang, learned, served, cared and connected throughout 2023.

Thank you to all who contributed to the joy, energy and purpose in our ministries, and we hope that the video inspires more to join us in 2024!

Click on the graphic below to view the video, or find the link on the Resources page at waynepres.org.

ANNUAL REPORT At our annual meeting on February 4, church leaders shared many updates with the congregation, including financial reports, a Pastor Nominating Committee update, reflections on 2023 and plans for 2024.

All information is contained in the 2023 Annual Report. Click here to read the report, or you may find it on the Resources page at waynepres.org. Printed copies are also available in the Connector and church office.

Please review this comprehensive document, which shares much good news about our work in 2023 and our robust plans for sharing the light of Christ with the world in 2024.

January/February 2024

125 East Lancaster Avenue Wayne, Pennsylvania 19087

If you are receiving the Wayne Presbyterian newsletter by surface mail and would prefer to receive it by email instead, please email ExecutiveAssistant@waynepres.org or contact us at: (t) 610.688.8700 • (f ) 610.688.8743 • office hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. /waynepresbyterian

@waynepres

@WaynePresbyterianChurch

www.waynepres.org

STAY CONNECTED! • Rev. Katy Shevel, Associate Pastor for Congregational Life Katy@waynepres.org, x219 • Rev. Liz Wagner, Bridge Associate Pastor LWagner@waynepres.org, x226 • John Grecia, Director of Music Ministries JGrecia@waynepres.org , x214 • John Pitocchelli, Director of Operations and Finance Operations@waynepres.org, x216 • Kate Liguori, Executive Assistant to the Pastors Kate@waynepres.org, x212 • Christina Sacco, Events and Publications Coordinator Christina@waynepres.org, x225 • Nicole Veith, Digital Marketing & Technology Coordinator Nicole@waynepres.org, x220 • Kelli Masters, Director of Children’s & Youth Ministries Kelli@waynepres.org, x222 • Sara Goldberg, Finance Assistant Sara@waynepres.org, x241 • Mike Burnham, Broadcast Specialist, Broadcast@waynepres.org • Cathy Chandler, Head Housekeeper & Sunday Morning Facility Coordinator, Cathy@waynepres.org, x245 • Dana Arranz, Director of Nursery School • Evelyn Widham, Youth Director Evelyn@waynepres.org, x237 • Julia Thompson, Children’s Ministry Assistant, x237