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June 27, 2010
Our text in worship this week comes from Paul's letter to the Galatians (Chapter 5:13-25) and speaks of behaviors that are becoming (or not becoming!) of a person of faith. The writers of these letters are facing problems and conflicts in those scattered communities in the Mediterranean basin who have devoted themselves to following the teachings of Jesus. The list tends to divide between selfish and unselfish acts - those behaviors that are indulgent and those that offer care and support to others. In a sermon entitled "Making Room For Others" we will consider how to recognize when we have crossed the line from self-care or simple pleasure to self-indulgence and selfishness. Come and join us for worship at 10AM in the Chapel!
Like to sing Gospel Music? This Sunday Connie will organize a pick-up Gospel Choir for worship. Practice will take place at 9 a.m. on Sunday in the choir room for a couple of easy pieces of music.
After worship we will celebrate Ken and Beth's 60th Wedding Anniversary with a cake in the parlors. Join us and feel free to bring them a card of well wishes!!
Council Meeting will take place from 11:30-1:30 this Sunday in Rm. 232. If you have agenda items, please get them to Moderator Carolyn Olney by Thursday.
Greeters are: Jackie Lonnquist and Barbara May. Ushers are: Avis Hinks, Nate Lewis and Judi Tyler Liturgist is: Chuck Wojnowski Acolyte is: Tang Annis
All children and youth will begin each Sunday in the chapel with their families and then be excused after the Children's Time. Over the summer we will have a combined ages church school most Sundays that will meet in the youth lounge on the 2nd floor. Staffed by two adults each week, they will explore Bible stories, do activities and hang out in an informal atmosphere. On Communion Sundays (July 4th, Aug. 1st and Sept. 5th) there will be no church school. On those days, older children and youth are invited to join a teenager in the library for some time of hanging out and game playing after the initial time together in worship. Bring your games or use the ones in the library. The nursery is open every Sunday for younger children.
Recent Members' Gathering. If you joined our church in 2009 through this spring, you are invited to our Recent Members' pool party and barbecue at the Bonzo house on Sunday June 27th from 3-6 p.m.!! Please RSVP to Nina in the church office at fccnina@yahoo.com or (626) 795-0696 and bring a side dish to share. All members, their sponsors, confirmands and their advisors are invited. Come join in some summer fun! Children are welcome and there is sun, shade, and an air conditioned house to cool off in!
Need some physical activity combined with warm camaraderie? Then come to FCC Boot Camp, Saturday June 26th from 4:30-5:45. We will continue with 35 min. of walking or running and then 35 min. of yoga stretching. Bring comfy shoes, beach towel for yoga, and $10. Revs. Lynch and Pomeroy are leading this fun and physical Saturday tradition. Need childcare for a small child? Let us know no later than Friday and we'll have a teenager there to watch your child.
Family Camp Reservations are still being taken. You must put down 50% of your deposit when you sign up. Over 50 FCC folks are signed up so far - come join us! We will take reservations through mid summer as space is available. Please see Bevin Ashenmiller on Sunday and bring a check for your deposit. She has reserved a number of safari tents and cabins for our use. The dates are Oct. 22-24th. Check out the campsite at Elcapitancanyon.com for more information.
The July/August Newsletter will be published in the next few weeks. If you have items for mid July through August, send them to Nina at fccnina@yahoo.com for the Summer Newsletter. Weekly information will be publicized through our Touchstone.
June 20, 2010
This Sunday we will move back to our chapel for its intimacy and air conditioning over the summer months. In addition, while our Music Director Andy Whitenack is away for the summer, we will have the musical talents of Connie Washburn for our enjoyment. Connie has agreed to bring back the hymn-sing so come with your favorite hymn in mind each week. We will sing a few each week instead of the first hymn so come early if you want to sing! Also this Sunday we will honor all dads in our worship service - our own biological dads as well as the father figures in our church who nurture and love us. Come and hug a dad this Sunday in church.
For our scriptural text this week we have the troubling story of King Ahab who plots with his wife Jezebel to steal Naboth's vineyard. The entire saga can be found in I Kings 21 if you would like to read it in advance and reflect on it in preparation. Although it is a difficult story, there is a confrontation between Elijah the prophet and King Ahab that hints of just retribution for Ahab and Jezebel's evil deeds. It's a deliciously-told tale of just desserts that warns us of exploiting others for our own pleasure. Hope to see you in our chapel on Sunday at 10 a.m. - Rev. Marlene W. Pomeroy
Greeters are: Nate & Varnell Lewis Ushers are: Sandy Biehler, Robert Rinck, Cindy Speakman and Lurline Brown Liturgist is: Tara Bernard Acolyte is: Sandy Grant Church School Teachers are: Roberta White and Natalie Maddox
There will be a service of celebration of Ken Paul Goyer's life.
From Peter's Keller's email 6/9/2010:
Back home, the ceremony will be held at Ken's mother's church, information is show below, if you plan to come to the service. Please contact with Irene Keller so that Ken's mother can have some idea of the numbers for the service.
When: ................................................................ June 26, 2010 (Saturday) Service Time: ..................................................... 10:00 A.M. Where: ............................................................... The Location: ................. ..................................... If you plan to come please contact Irene Keller Telephone: 1-818-249-2398 Email: ijkeller@aol.com
FCC Boot Camp continues through June each Saturday from 4:30-5:45 down near the Rose Bowl, just adjacent to the play structure and softball fields. Childcare is provided and you will run or walk for 35 min. and then have yoga for 35 min. Bring a towel, wear athletic shoes and bring $10! Led by Revs. Leo Lynch and Marlene Pomeroy. RSVP to fccrevs@yahoo.com so we can plan for childcare!! We will continue as long as folks are interested and willing to show up.
Sign up for Family Camp in the parlors after church! Family Camp will take place at
Our Recent Members (2009-2010) and their sponsors are invited to a Pool Party/Barbecue and the Bonzo's house on Sunday June 27th from 3-6 p.m. Please RSVP to Nina at fccnina@yahoo.com if you are planning to attend. Bring you swim suit and a side dish to share. Other food/drinks will be provided.
Church Council will meet on Sunday June 27th from 11:30-1:30 in Rm. 232. Please get your agenda items to Moderator Carolyn Olney if you have something for the Council to discuss by Monday June 21st. Also on the 27th after worship we will celebrate Ken and Beth Biery's 60th wedding anniversary during coffee hour.
June 13, 2010 Choir Appreciation Sunday
I Kings 17:8-16 Elijah and the widow of Zarephath
Elijah's faith in and zealous loyalty to [God] predestined him to take leadership in the struggle against the encroaching forces of the Tyrian Baalism fostered by Jezebel. His acts and words were long remembered in the circle of disciples, and his fame grew to more than human dimensions until, finally, he was regarded as the harbinger of the eschatological age - from the Interpreter's Dictionary of the Bible
If you haven't thought about Elijah for a while, this is a great opportunity to remember anew this prophet from the ninth century before Christ. His miracles were legendary, as was his feuding with Jezebel. He shows up in the Books of First and Second Kings and is the master of Elisha who succeeded him. Come and hear the story of his encounter with the widow of Zarephath. We will also celebrate the Sacrament of Communion this Sunday as we do the first Sunday of each month. In addition, we will be accepting canned goods for the Friends in Deed Food Pantry. If you bring them to worship, they will be delivered for you. After church we will have a potluck luncheon in the parlors and then hold our Spring Business Meeting till @1:00 p.m. Please bring food to share (limited desserts please - youth are having a bake sale; see below). The agenda includes: reports from our leaders and pastors, an update about our financial status, as well as the presentation of our outgoing and incoming officers and leaders. Members and friends are urged to participate in this meeting as we conduct the work of our church. See you Sunday!! Childcare is provided for worship and the meeting.
From Pastor Schweibert: this Sunday -Youth Fundraiser: Bring Your Dirty Car, Sweet Tooth, Book Craving and Checkbook. After worship there will be a big youth fundraiser, all proceeds going towards youth programs, including the August camping trip to Lake Isabella and future service/mission trips. During coffee hour immediately following worship, please purchase used books and baked goods in the parlors. During the Spring Business meeting, youth will be washing cars; leave your dirty car with a responsible adult in the parking lot where youth will wash it. All donations will support FCC youth programs! - Rev. Marlene W. Pomeroy
Ushers this Sunday are: Peter Keller, Bob and Marie Spencer and Kim Story Greeters: Ken and Beth Biery and Trenten Hart Church School Teachers: Krysty, Grace and Andy Romine; Children's Choir practice at 11:30 in the chapel. Acolyte: Pam Biery
Other Opportunities Coming Up: Our Church School children and youth are working on another dramatic reading in worship to be offered during worship on June 13th. The teachers are working hard to pull this together and Connie is playing the piano for them as they offer two songs. The script is the story of Pentecost. Parents: please help us by having your children at worship this Sunday and on June 13th so that they can be fully prepared! The schedule is: Sun. June 6th practice during church school and then choir practice in the chapel at 11:30. Sunday June 13th practice in the sanctuary at 9:00 a.m. and then presentation in worship that day. Please speak to Marlene or Krysty if you have questions!!
This Sunday you will also have a chance to sign up for Family Camp the weekend of Oct. 22-24th. We have about 50 children, youth and adults signed up so far - please join us! This is an intergenerational event that is adult-friendly and kid-friendly! Need a roommate? Need more info? Come and find the Family Camp table after church this week. Thanks to Bevin and Lu for getting us signed up. Want to see the site? See www.elcapitancanyon.com for more info!!! We want all of you to join us for this weekend of fun and fellowship in Santa Barbara .
Looking ahead - Fri/Sat. June 11/12th Annual Gathering of our Southern California/Nevada Conference in Santa Ana . Speak to our pastors for more information.
June 13th Choir Appreciation Sunday (which means fabulous music and a big thanks to our choir before they take a well-deserved break for the summer!); also Teacher Appreciation Lunch at the Pomeroys at 12 noon; also sound engineer training in the chapel from 11:15-11:45.
Sunday June 27th Recent Members' barbecue and pool party at Bonzo's house 3-6 p.m. (if you have joined in 2009 or 2010 or are a sponsor of someone who joined or was confirmed, you are invited!). See Amy Story for more information.
Halogen Hollywood Bowl outing to see RENT on Sunday August 8th - we have three tickets left. $40 includes a good seat, parking and fun with about 15 FCC folks. Call Marlene.
May 30, 2010
May 16, 2010
Our text in worship this week is the dramatic story of a guard who confesses Christianity after witnessing an earthquake that causes the release of Paul and Silas - Acts 16:16-34. In a sermon entitled "Changing Course" we will consider where such dramatic events happen in our own lives and what they move us toward, if anything. The writers of Luke/Acts want us to notice the power of God in a natural act - an earthquake - and how that demonstration of a power beyond human control leads persons like the guard to look and listen differently to those who are describing the God who Jesus proclaimed. We will reflect on what is beyond our control in our lives and what that leads us to confess or consider about God. Join us for worship in the Sanctuary at 10AM!
In worship this week we will collect one of our five denominational offerings - Strengthen the Church. This offering is one of the UCC's offerings that is directed to our local conferences, Local Church Ministries and the Stillspeaking ministry for church and leadership development. The Stillspeaking ministry spreads the message of God's extravagant welcome, reaching out to those who have not felt welcomed within Christianity and supports local churches that need to be strengthened. This offering will be taken up next week on May 23rd. Also in worship this week Pastor Schwiebert will be trying prayers a little differently - he will invite us to pray in smaller groups. He'll go over the details in worship but come with expectant hearts this Sunday as we try something new with our prayers to God!
June 13th - Choir Appreciation Sunday - will be our last Sunday in the Sanctuary until fall. Why did we stay in the Sanctuary this spring between Christmas and Easter? Worship Ministry decided that there were significant advantages to worshipping in the Sanctuary while we did not have another congregation leasing that space. The Sanctuary offers wonderful acoustics and ample space for musical performance at a time when we are trying to involve more styles of music in our worship services. The Sanctuary also offers open space for restless children and toddlers during the first part of worship as the number of young persons in our congregation grows. Also, the steps provide room for Children's Time with over 25 children on some Sundays - we were feeling cramped in the Chapel with our recent "baby boom." The Sanctuary also offers a sense of history and beauty that connects our worship to the founding of our congregation - you might call it checking in with the saints that have been a part of this church since its beginning. The set up of the Sanctuary also offers our Music Director and our Chancel Choir some choices in how and where they sing - choices that were not available in our Chapel. We will be in the Chapel to take advantage of air conditioning this summer and Worship Ministry will consider in the fall how and when we may return to the Sanctuary for our Sunday worship.
Hope to see you in worship Sunday! - Rev. Jake Pomeroy
Ushers: Sandy Biehler, Robert Rinck, Cindy Speakman and Lurline Brown Greeters: Nate and Varnell Lewis Acolyte: Rebecca Rinck Liturgist: Aren Burd
Other Opportunities Coming Up: Our FCC Boot Camp continues with over 10 people participating! Come join us down near the Aquatic Center/Play structure across from the Rose Bowl Saturday May 15, 22 and 29 from 4:00-5:15. We meet promptly for 30 min. of running or brisk walking, then 35 minutes of yoga stretching. $10 per session goes to the work and ministry of our church. Questions? E-mail Revs. Marlene Pomeroy or Leo Lynch.
After church on Sunday May 16th a planning group for the Summer Coffee House will meet from 11:25-12 noon in the pastor's office. The Summer Coffee House, under the direction of Connie Washburn will take place on Saturday July 24th from 6:30-8:30 upstairs in air-conditioned Alden Hall. Save the date for music, fellowship, fun and goodies!!
Note: Our Teacher Appreciation Lunch, originally scheduled for this Sunday May 16th has been moved to Sunday June 13th at the Pomeroy's house at 12 noon.
Tickets are still available for the Sunday Aug. 8th production of RENT at the Hollywood Bowl. Join the group who is coming. We have a few extra tickets. See Marlene for into.
The Aid Africa Walk will take place on Saturday May 22nd in the morning (registration starts at 7:00 and the walk steps off at 8:30 a.m.). Sponsor someone this Sunday who is walking/running or come out and walk! More info can be found at aidafrica.net
Council meeting will take place on Sun. May 23rd from 11:30-1:30. Also that day a youth planning meeting will take place for youth and their parents/caregivers about summer plans at 11:30 in the youth lounge.
Our Spring Business Meeting will take place on Sun. June 6th from 11:30-1:15 in our East parlors starting with a potluck. See the church newsletter on our website uccpasadena.org for further information.
May 9, 2010
In the book of Acts there are many interesting characters that inhabit the life of the early church. This week we hear more about the experience of Peter as his understanding of God's love is broadened. With the aid of a colorful vision, we learn along with Peter of God's plan for our world. Join us as we journey through the book of Acts. This Sunday is also Mother's Day so we invite you to bring your mom to our church as we honor women who have mothered us!!! Hope to see you Sunday!
- Rev. Marlene W. Pomeroy Ushers: Kathie Arscott Jeff Levison & Jim Maddox Greeters: Peter & Irene Keller & Cindy Speakman Acolyte: Sandy Grant Liturgist: TBA Church School Teachers are: Krysty and Grace for combined class Other Opportunities Coming Up: Our newsletter will be sent in the next few days so look for information on events in late May and June in our newsletter. FCC Boot Camp Begins Sat. May 8th Dates: Saturdays May 8, 15, 22, 29 Time: 4:00 (be prompt!) till 5:15 Bring: water bottle, beach towel or yoga mat (it will get dirty). Keep your mat in the car till after we run/walk Wear: comfy, stretchy clothes in layers so you can peel down when you get warm Agenda: Meet, check-in and either run with Leo or walk with Marlene for 30 min. Return to grassy area just to right of structure with your towel/mat for 35 min. of stretching and absCost: $40 for all four sessions! All monies go toward the work and ministry of our church. Questions? Contact Marlene at fccrevs@yahoo.com Annual FCC Teacher Appreciation Lunch for Church School teachers, nursery providers and youth advisors is Sunday May 16th at 11:45 in our parlors. Save the date! Invitations are coming! Aid Africa 5k Run/Walk takes place Saturday May 22. If you are not participating in the walk, then sponsor someone!! You can call the church office and register your pledge. The registration begins at 7:00 a.m. and the walk starts at 8:30. See www.Aidafrica.net for more information. Let's give this walk our full support!! May 2, 2010
Our text for worship this week is John 13:31-35 - an exhortation for followers of Jesus to love one another, just as Jesus has loved all those who have been a part of his journey. In a brief reflection entitled "Signs of Love" we will consider what "loving" looks like - and what kind of energy and discipline it takes to carry out love in our lives. We gather in the Sanctuary for worship each week at 10AM - please join us! In worship this Sunday we will confirm our five youth: Trenten, Kaley, Catherine, Will and Ethan. They and their adult partners have been preparing for this day as they join the church by profession of their faith. A cake in their honor will be served at coffee hour. We invite friends of these young people to bring a card or other offerings to celebrate them on their special confirmation day! At 11:30 we will be screening the documentary film "For the Bible Tells me So" upstairs in room 232. This film explores the intersection between religion and homosexuality in our country and how the religious right has used its interpretation of the Bible to stigmatize the gay community. Light refreshments will be served and childcare is provided till 1:30. Join us on Sunday! - Rev. Marlene and Jake Pomeroy
April 25, 2010
How fitting that the reading for worship this week is the story of Tabitha - Aramaic for the English word "Gazelle." She is also known as Dorcas, which is the Greek rendering of her name. Tabitha, Gazelle, Dorcas - whatever you call her, let us remember what she did!! She was known for her good works and acts of charity. In the Women's Bible Commentary it is noted that "Tabitha is identified as a disciple?the only occurrence of the feminine form of ?disciple' anywhere in the New Testament." Gail O'Day, who writes about the book of Acts in this commentary, points out that if we read Luke's description of Tabitha clearly we can see that she is valued as a philanthropist who cares for the needy through her own resources; this is an unusual occurrence to be documented in the New Testament! How refreshing and how wonderful that we have glimpses of strong, powerful and giving women in our Bible. It is fitting for us that this is the lectionary reading for the day since two of our powerful women at FCC have coordinated a terrific Spring Boutique for us this Sunday!!! Many thanks to Grace Rinck and Lu Burd for their planning and organization for the 3rd (yes 3rd!) Annual Spring Boutique. It will be held in the parlors immediately after church from 11:15 till about 1:30. Lunch will be sold, a boutique will be available with wares from several artists, and then the auction will begin sometime after noon!!! Auctioneer Brian Brookey is dusting off his gavel in preparation!! Please plan to come, enjoy the festivities and bring a friend or two!! All proceeds from this fund-raising will go towards the ongoing work and ministry of our church. Cash or checks are accepted. Many thanks to all the generous folks who donated auction items and their time to make this a successful event! The church nursery will be open throughout the event, only closely briefly so that nursery providers and children can come and have lunch!!! See you Sunday to learn more about Tabitha and to enjoy our Boutique!! See attached flyer for more info. Parking update: the University Lot is not available this Sunday, so we suggest you: arrive early, park on the street or in the Corson lot just north on Los Robles, use the Walnut lot and the Fuller overhang, or stack-park in the Los Robles lot! Thanks for your flexibility!) - Rev. Marlene W. Pomeroy Ushers: Avis Hinks, Nate Lewis, Judi Tyler Greeters: Jackie Lonnquist and Barbara May Liturgist: Josh Ashenmiller Acolyte: Sandy Grant Church School Teachers: Roberta and Andy Romine Other Events Coming Up: Monday April 26th is our monthly Council Meeting. Council members will receive their packet tomorrow in preparation for the meeting. Saturday May 1st is the Central Association Meeting at the Montebello Christian Congregational Church starting at 9 a.m. All are invited to attend our area association meetings which take place twice each year. Flyer is attached. Sunday May 2nd is CONFIMATION DAY! Please plan to come and celebrate our five outstanding confirmands: Catherine Brookey, Will Brookey, Trenten Hart, Kaley Pomeroy and Ethan Rinck and shower them with our love and gifts! Each will be presented with a Bible on that day and welcomed into the full membership of our church community. A time of refreshment will be held in the parlor during coffee hour. After coffee hour we will screen the movie "For the Bible Tells Me So" upstairs in Rm. 232 as part of our Conscientious Projector series starting at 11:30. This documentary is an exploration of the intersection between religion and homosexuality in the U.S. and how the religious right has used its interpretation of the Bible to stigmatize the gay community. On the afternoon of May 2nd there will be a Women Helping Women fund-raiser to support the work and ministry of ECPAC. Rev. Marlene Pomeroy and a few women from our church will be attending this event and hearing poetry from some of the women who frequent the Women's Room at ECPAC. Our church supports ECPAC and Friends in Deed through our regular mission giving. Please ask Rev. Pomeroy about this if you have questions. Monday May 2nd is our Union Station meal sponsored by our Alpha Team. If you are on that team, please be in contact with Rev. Marlene Pomeroy. If you can sub, let her know! May/June Newsletter deadline is Tuesday April 27th. Please get all your articles to Nina by then for the next newsletter - anything you would like us to publicize through the end of June! fccnina@yahoo.com April 18, 2010 Our scripture this week is Second Corinthians 5:16-21, an exhortation by the writer for each of us to see one another as children of God and as "new creations." In a sermon entitled "Being Different" we will consider how we spend time together at church and what we are called to do as a community. We need to have meetings and conversations in order to keep the church running, but do we find nurture and nourishment in those encounters? Are we the kind of "new creations" the writer is referencing in this text? Come and join us for worship at 10AM in the Sanctuary this Sunday as we explore our experience of "church"!
April 11, 2010
To the modern, rational mind, the resurrection is frankly unbelievable. Yet here we are, Easter people of the 21st Century, professing a faith in a God of life, whose love is more powerful than death. We choose to believe in the resurrection despite the lack of physical evidence, despite the lack of firsthand witness, despite the missing hidden camera footage. But we ultimately choose to believe because we have touched and felt the places of suffering in this world and in our lives and have witnessed God's powerful presence as many of these situations are transformed and overcome. We know we have a choice to believe, and we consciously choose faith because, it would seem, the alternative to faith in a God who loves and cares for God's creation is meaninglessness and death.
In the scripture we'll focus on this Sunday in worship, John 20: 19-31, we hear the story of Thomas the twin who misses Jesus' first appearance to the other disciples. He refuses to believe in the resurrection until he is able to physically touch the marks of suffering and healing on Jesus' hands and side. We'll reflect on what holds us back from belief and how it is that we come to believe.
On Sunday April 11th Pastor Andy Schwiebert will be preaching. Connie Washburn will be coordinating special music by J. S. Bach, who wrote a cantata for each Sunday of the church year. "Christ lag in todesbanden" (Christ lay in death's bonds), BWV 4, was written for the week after Easter and first performed in 1707. It is based on a chorale of the same name by Martin Luther. The chorale tune is used throughout the work and each solo and duet ends with a Hallelujah section. The church soloists, Pamela Hopson, Carol Lisek, Gerald Washburn, and Tyler Barth, will be featured, along with a violinist, cellist, and Connie Washburn at the keyboard. The choir will sing the final chorale. Join us in the sanctuary for a glorious day of Bach! -Pastor Andy Schwiebert
Greeters are: Peter & Irene Keller and Cindy Speakman Ushers are: Ron White, Kathie Arscott, Jeff Levison and James Maddox Liturgist is: James Chavers Acolyte is: Tang Annis Church School Teachers are: Andy Romine and Roberta White
FCC parking on April 11 & 18 will be: University lot, in the Walnut lot, Los Robles lot and street parking. On April 25 no parking is available in the University lot.
The FCC Lamplighters group is organizing a family-friendly (open to the entire congregation) trip to the Gene Autrey Museum of the American West in Griffith Park on Saturday, April 17th from 1-5pm. Admission is $3-$9 depending on age. Contact JR Kalayjian for reservations (call Nina in the church office for his number).
Just a reminder: the Spring Boutique, a fundraiser to support the ministries of First Congregational Church of Pasadena, will take place after worship on Sunday April 25. Please bring your items for auction to the church office as soon as possible so they can be included in promoting the auction.
Lamplighters is also organizing an "adult evening" at the San Gabriel Mission Auditorium for a performance of Miss Saigon presented by the San Gabriel Valley Music Theatre on Saturday May 1 at 8pm. Reserved seats at $20 per person (regular $30). Call ASAP to Varnell Lewis or Roberta White.
April 4, 2010 Easter Sunday
In each of the four Gospel accounts of Easter morning, the one common thread is Mary of Magdala. Matthew's Gospel reports an earthquake and an angel who descends from heaven; in Mark's Gospel there is a young man sitting in the tomb dressed in white; Luke's Gospel reports that two men in dazzling apparel appeared; In John's Gospel Mary finds the tomb empty and runs to get Simon Peter. So many differing accounts of the empty tomb and yet Mary and the empty tomb are the threads that run through them all. In her relationship with Jesus is a mystery. Through her discipleship there is a hint of who we are to be. Her words initially were heard as an idle tale. And yet, her account of the resurrected one is what draws us to church each Easter Sunday. "Why are you looking for the living among the dead?" she is asked in John's Gospel. Indeed. Because amidst death are the seeds of new life.
Come and join us for our Easter worship service this Sunday, April 4th in our sanctuary at 10 a.m. featuring a string quartet, our church choir and Rev. Marlene W. Pomeroy preaching. We will also celebrate the sacraments of communion and baptism as we welcome Zachary Glenn McLea into our church community! Childcare will be provided for younger children in our nursery after a "Special Time for Children" in our service. There is no church school on Easter Sunday so older children are invited to remain in worship. Immediately following worship we will be taking a group picture in the sanctuary for our website. Since we are welcoming a new building partner this Sunday, we will be urged to move to the parlors for coffee hour immediately after the pictures are taken! Thanks for your cooperation.
Parking will be: under Fuller overhang, in the Los Robles lot (Randy will be our attendant to help us stack park if necessary), in the Corson lot on the corner of Corson and Los Robles, just below the freeway, and on the street. We do not have the University Club this Sunday. We urge you to leave the spaces in the Walnut lot for those who cannot walk very far and for our visitors. During coffee hour you will have one more opportunity to have your picture taken for the church directory in the parlors. If you would like to purchase an Easter lily or some tulips, please call Nina in the church office by Thursday afternoon so your dedication can appear in the bulletin. You may take your flower(s) home after the service. Please bring your Easter offering in the envelope that was sent to your house for the continuing work of our church. Extra envelopes will also be available on Sunday. Come and celebrate the Risen Christ with us this Sunday! Alleluia! - The Revs. Marlene & John Pomeroy
Greeters are: Ken & Beth Biery and Trenten Hart Ushers are: Marie & Robert Spencers, Peter Keller and Kim Story Liturgist is: Acolyte is: Sandy Grant
Holy Week Services: Come and observe Holy Week with us! See below for details on Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and Easter! Childcare is provided for Easter Sunday services only.
Maundy Thursday will be held on Thursday April 1st starting at 6 p.m. with a simple soup supper in our narthex. Please call Ken Biery or Nina in the church office to see what you can bring. Our confirmation class will be assisting with the service, which will include Communion and a hand-washing. NOTE: confirmands and adult partners, please plan to arrive between 5:15 and 5:30 to practice your parts in the service. The service will conclude at approximately 7:40 p.m. Parking will be: under the Fuller overhang starting at 5:30, in the Walnut lot, one side of the Los Robles lot, street parking and the Corson lot.
Good Friday services we will gather for an ecumenical worship service with other area churches on Friday April 2nd. This year it will be held at
Other Opportunities Coming Up: Our Delta Team is scheduled to serve the meal at Union Station on Monday April 5th. If you are on that team, please be in touch with Nina in the church office or a fellow team member.
On Sunday April 11th Pastor Andy Schwiebert will be preaching. Connie Washburn will be coordinating special music by J.S. Bach on this Sunday, featuring our choir soloists: Pamela, Carol, Tyler and Gerald, as well as a guest violinist and cellist. This particular cantata was first performed in 1707. Many thanks to Connie for bringing us this special music for our service on April 11th!
March 28, 2010 In worship this week we celebrate Palm Sunday and the text describes Jesus' entry into Jerusalem for the Passover feast - Luke 19:28-40. In a sermon entitled "Ask a Question" we will consider the response of the owners of the colt when the followers of Jesus come to take the animal for Jesus. "Why are you untying the colt" they ask - and it reminds us of the importance of questions as part of our own faith journey. The use of a colt for transportation reminds readers of the royal aspect of Jesus' life and work - he promises to replace both religious and secular governments of the day. The writers of Luke show us that Jesus was not well understood in his work and this scene lays the groundwork for the later accusations that lead to Jesus' death. We will consider what kind of questions we want to ask on our faith journey and what kind of answers we might expect along the way. Come join us for worship in the Sanctuary at 10AM! Our guest musician this Sunday is Nick Janssen playing the bagpipes. He will play several pieces, including "Highland Cathedral" for our prelude, "Amazing Grace" and traditional Scottish marches "The Rowan Tree/Blue Bells of Scotland." After worship we will have our annual Palm Sunday Festival and Easter Egg Hunt!! Lunch will be provided for a fee ($5 adults/$3 kids) and then we will have an Easter egg hunt in our sanctuary for children. Please bring your own basket and some money for lunch!! We will also have egg dyeing and crafting in the parlors for all ages till 1:00. Childcare is provided in the nursery for our smallest children as they need it. Thanks to Tara Bernard and Christian Nurture for planning this wonderful event for us. Our building manager Sallie informs us that we do have University Club parking this Sunday March 28th (but will not have their lot on Easter Sunday so plan ahead and carpool or be prepared to stack park on Easter!!) Note: Sunday morning Bible studies will be happening on occasion and will be listed in the Touchstone when it will happen that week. Keep up your Lenten disciplines as we lean toward Easter!! - Revs. Jake and Marlene Pomeroy Greeters: Jackie Lonnquist and Barbara May Ushers: Avis Hinks, Nate Lewis and Judi Tyler Liturgist: Cindy Speakman Acolyte: Pam Biery Church School Teachers: Krysty Leckrone, Grace Rinck and Roberta White Other Opportunities Coming Up: This coming Sunday marks the beginning of Holy Week - and week in which we remember the final days and events that lead up to the death and resurrection of Jesus. We invite you to read the Gospel of Luke's account of the Passion of Christ throughout the week, found in chapter 22-24. We will be profiling these stories through our Holy Week services. You are invited to attend our candlelight Maundy Thursday Service in our sanctuary narthex on Thursday April 1st. Simple soup supper starts at 6 p.m. and then worship will follow, led by members of our confirmation class; it will include both communion and a hand washing. Please contact Nina in the church office or Ken Biery to sign up to bring some soup or snacks such as cheese/crackers, fruit, hummus, olives, etc. If you need childcare for this event, please call Nina in the church office ASAP! The evening will conclude around 7:45. We join other congregations in honoring Good Friday on April 2nd with an ecumenical worship service from 12 noon till 1:00 p.m. at the Messiah Lutheran Church this year at 570 E. Orange Grove Blvd. Pastor Marlene Pomeroy is designing the service this year and it will feature five reflections from local pastors on the people who were there at the cross. Our own Rev. Leo Lynch and Connie Washburn will be providing preaching and music for this service of remembrance. Join us as we observe Holy Week. March 21, 2010
March 14, 2010
This week in worship we hear the story of the Prodigal Son?the text is Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32. In a sermon entitled "The Other Child" we will consider the anger and frustration of the older son, whose responsible behavior stands in stark contrast to the "loose living" of his younger brother. How are we to respond when we feel as though God is unfair? What in our faith helps us address a relationship where blessings are squandered and decisions are made selfishly? Come join us in the Sanctuary for worship at 10AM this Sunday! NOTE: This weekend is Daylight Savings! Turn your clocks forward one hour before you go to bed Saturday night so you aren't an hour late for worship!! -Rev. John H. Pomeroy
March 7, 2010
I'll be honest. When I opened up the Bible to see what the lectionary assignment in Isaiah was for this Sunday, I was a bit surprised. Right here in the middle of Lent is a passage that is about eating and drinking and delighting!! "Hearken diligently to me, and eat what is good, and delight yourselves in fatness." The message in Isaiah is that God woos us with sensual delight and then whispers in our ears that God wants us close so that God can make an everlasting covenant with us. Hmmm. God knows that we love food and drink (and clothes and golf, wine and purses, nice power tools and shiny new technology). Okay, says God, have those things, but "incline your ear, and come to me?" Isaiah goes on to urge us to seek out God and know that God is beyond all of this stuff of human life and pleasure!!! What a great passage to read during Lent when we are well aware of trying to discipline ourselves to do something different. The text is paired with a brief parable in Luke's Gospel that shows us indeed that God's ways are not our ways!! Join us in worship this Sunday as we explore the themes of these two passages and celebrate the Sacrament of Communion. Confirmation Class will take place from 10:30-11:45. After worship we will have a time of fellowship in our parlors. Our Directory Committee will be on hand to take pictures for our FCC photo directory. Pictures will be taken family style in the East parlor this Sunday as well as on March 14th and 21st after worship. If you have questions, please direct them to Amy Story Johnson or Don Hughes. All members and friends of FCC are encouraged and invited to be in our photo directory. Hope to see you Sunday! - Rev. Marlene W. Pomeroy Greeters are: Ken & Beth Biery and Trenton Hart Ushers are: Marie & Robert Spencers, Peter Keller and Kim Story Liturgist is: TBA Acolyte is: Rebecca Rinck Church School Teachers are: Andy, Krysty and Grace are teaching. Confirmation class taught by Jake and Marlene Pomeroy Other Opportunities Coming Up: Lent: Each week in the six weeks of Lent a different area UCC church is providing us with daily reflections. Unfortunately this past week we were not given them. However, our church is assigned the week of Sunday March 7-Saturday March 13, so look for our reflections in a later e-mail this week! Also, please notice our Lenten bulletin board outside the chapel this week. We are posting different Lenten practices that folks are doing to observe Lent! If you have one or two for us to post, please send it to one of the pastors at fccrevs@yahoo.com We are happy to post your practice anonymously! Come and be inspired by what others in your faith community are doing this season. In addition to the Reflections this Lent, we are also inviting folks to participate in two activities this season: the first is the Annual Easter Basket distribution to children and adults through ECPAC. The deadline to deliver a basket to ECPAC is Friday March 26th. If you wish for us to deliver it to you, please bring it in by Wed. March 24th. Ideas for the baskets are: gender neutral gifts, candy, gift cards, small goodies that cannot be swallowed by young children, etc. The second activity is work on the Glendale Habitat project on Saturday March 27th from 12-4 p.m. We are hoping to invite youth 16 yrs. and older from all area UCC churches to have first priority but we also want adults!! If you are interested, please speak with Lu Burd or Marlene Pomeroy ASAP so we can get you the forms and the information needed. Newsletter deadline: Monday March 8th!! Get in any articles that pertain to this month through Easter Sunday!!! Installation of Rev. Skip Lindeman - will take place Sunday March 7th at 3 p.m. at the Congregational Church of La Canada. All are welcome to attend this service to install Skip as the settled pastor there. February 28, 2010
This Sunday in worship I will be preaching on Luke 9:28-36. In this passage, Jesus took the disciples to the mountaintop to pray. But rather than entering deeply into prayer and truly listening to how God may be speaking to them... the disciples rush straight into doing-- to misguided action. For Lent this year, I decided to take on a daily morning prayer practice to help center and connect me to God each morning. It's a practice I used to do on a more-or-less regular basis but have gotten away from. Much like a workout regimen, in my newly (re) adopted morning prayer, I'm trying out a regular routine of exercises. You could liken each one to a physical exercise, each one strengthening a different (spiritual) muscle group. February 21, 2010
Today marks the beginning of the season of Lent - a season of reflection and preparation for Easter. We are invited to set aside these forty days as a time for deepening our faith in God. In our United Church of Christ tradition, we are invited to observe this season in a way that is meaningful to us. For some, this may mean taking on a spiritual discipline for the forty days - either something we already do that we might do in a different way, or a new discipline that we have been toying with. Now is the time to begin!! For others, this might be an opportunity to "fast" from something for this length of time. Traditionally it may mean giving up a certain type of food, but it might be non-food related! Be creative! Maybe we need to give up procrastinating or complaining this year. Perhaps we need to give up another habit that is creating an obstacle to our health and well being. Take the time to reflect on what might be meaningful for you this year and give it a try! For Lent in 2006 I made the decision to practice yoga at my local YMCA at least once a week. It was hard to add this to my schedule, but I managed to do it most weeks and I fell in love with this discipline. Now, four years later, I am certified as a yoga teacher and practice/teach yoga at least four times each week! Who knew that a Lenten discipline could have such a lasting impact? For me, this is a spiritual discipline that works with my personality and temperament far better than meditation or silent prayer. Perhaps for you silent prayer each day might work! I know Rev. Lynch uses distance running as one of his spiritual disciplines!! Others might use knitting or baking as a way to be with God. I invite you to use the tools of discernment to discover what your body and soul needs this Holy season. How will you observe the season of Lent this year? In worship on Sunday we will mark the first Sunday of Lent by hearing the account of Jesus' temptation by the devil in Luke's Gospel. I urge you to read the passage in advance of worship and consider the role of temptation in your life. When you come to worship on Sunday, please remember it is Pasadena Marathon Sunday - consult your last newsletter or the marathon website for a route to church and allow extra time! (pasadenamarathon.org) Also, due to a University Club event, there will be no parking at the University Club this Sunday. You may park in either of our lots or in the small Fuller lot, just adjacent to our Walnut lot - enter on Oakland. This Sunday we will be having Confirmation Class at 10:30 till 11:30. We are also having a Lenten Lunch and program this Sunday - food catered by Pita Pita will be ready for you after worship/coffee hour and there will be programs for all ages: adults will be in the east parlor for a discussion about Lent, youth will be in the computer room meeting with Pastor Schwiebert, and the elementary youth will be in the youth lounge watching a movie. Of course the nursery will be open through the end of the program around 1:00. Join us as we explore the season ahead! - Rev. Marlene W. Pomeroy Greeters are: Nate and Varnell Lewis Ushers: Sandy Biehler, Robert Rinck, Cindy Speakman and Lurline Brown Liturgist is: Andy Romine Acolyte: Lachlan Ashenmiller Church School Teachers: Krysty Leckrone and Roberta White Confirmation led by Pastor Schwiebert Lenten program for all ages 11:30-1:00 ish Also Coming Up: The Halogen Fellowship Group is traveling to Chinatown this Saturday, Feb. 20th to have Dim Sum together and watch the Chinese New Year Parade! Please RSVP to Lu Burd or Marlene by Friday if you plan to join the group for lunch at 11 a.m. at the Empress Pavilion at 988 N. Hill Street. Lu is making reservations! There may be a group that travels on the Gold Line from Pasadena. Let us know by Friday at the latest. All ages are welcome! Bring cash to help pay for lunch easily - $15-20. In our newsletter this past week the prayers were omitted. Please keep the following in your prayers: Mel Smith, Jack Badzey and Jackie Hoyt. The SCNC Church Vitality Event is happening this Friday Feb. 19th and Saturday Feb. 20th. See the conference website for more info - scncucc.org for further information. The conference is being held at the First Congregational Church of Long Beach. February 14, 2010 This Sunday is Peace and Justice Sunday and we welcome Carlos J. Correa of Justice and Witness Ministries of the United Church of Christ as our guest! In worship our scripture text is Matthew 25:40-45 and Carlos will preach a sermon entitled "Jesus is a Verb Not a Noun!" We hope you will join us for worship at 10AM in our Sanctuary. At 11:30AM we will have a Forum in the parlors where Carlos will share about his current work as the Program Coordinator of Centro Romero, a US-Mexico border ministry in San Ysidro, CA. We will serve light refreshments and all are welcome to join our discussion! Carlos' visit is sponsored by our Peace and Justice Committee. Liturgist: Jordan Leano Acolyte: TBA Greeters: Peter Keller, Irene Keller and Cindy Speakman Ushers: Ron White, Kathie Arscott, Jeff Levison and James Maddox Teachers are: Andy Romine and Grace Rinck are teaching Upcoming Events Our Lamplighter Fellowship Group is having a day at the Santa Anita Racetrack this Saturday Feb. 13th from 12:30 through the last race. If you would like to join them, please contact Ken Biery or Nina in the church office at fccnina@yahoo.com The Church office will be closed on Monday Feb. 15th due to the observance of Presidents' Day. On Wednesday Feb. 17th we will observe Ash Wednesday with a potluck dinner and Worship service with other area UCC churches. The combined service will be held at the First Congregational Church of Glendale, located at 2001 Canada Blvd. in Glendale, just north of Glendale Community College. All are invited to attend! Lenten Reflection booklets put together by area churches will be available electronically starting next week, with a few copies available for pick-up on Sunday for those without access to e-mail. The Church Vitality Event is taking place Friday and Saturday Feb. 19th and 20th. A few folks from our church are attending and Jake Pomeroy is presenting a workshop on Narrative Budgets on Saturday morning. For more information see the Conference website www.scncucc.org The Halogens are gathering for Dim Sum and to view the Chinese New Year's Parade downtown on Saturday Feb. 20th. More information will be in the newsletter this week. The parade starts at 2 p.m. with lunch beforehand. Christian Nurture invites everyone to our Lenten Lunch on Sunday February 21st from 11:30AM to 1:30PM in the parlors. Lunch will be catered and there are brief Lenten offerings for all ages?extended time for the nursery, a DVD for elementary aged children in the computer room, a discussion for youth in the Youth Lounge and small group discussions for adults in the parlors after lunch. Come and join us for both fun and faith development as we begin the Lenten season. We will ask for a small donation for lunch from those who are able to pay. All are welcome! February 7, 2010
This week in worship we hear the story of Jesus teaching at the edge of the lake and Simon Peter and his co-workers deciding to follow Jesus after a miraculous haul of fish in their nets. The text is Luke 5:1-11 and in a brief reflection entitled "A Faith Perspective," we will consider what difference it makes for us to live our lives with faith. The fisherman had already fished the waters that day, yet when they returned after hearing the words of Jesus, the writers of Luke are showing us that their work, their living, even the lake itself was transformed. Do we experience anything like that in our own faith journey? Come and join us in the Sanctuary at 10AM for worship this Sunday! We will celebrate the Sacrament of Communion in our worship service and all are welcome to come forward and partake of this expression of God's grace to us. The Rev. Jake Pomeroy
Winter Business Meeting this Sunday! All are invited and encouraged to attend our Winter Business Meeting where we will hear: a Treasurer's report about how we ended the financial year in 2009, the proposed budget for 2010, we will approve a slate of officers and ministry members, and hear both a Moderator and Co-Pastors' reports. Please plan to bring an ample lunch for a potluck as well as kid-friendly food for children who will be in the nursery and library. Lunch will begin at 11:30 and the meeting will go until approximately 1:15. Please plan to attend, as we need all voices and votes to approve the budget and plan for the coming year!! Many thanks to Budget Committee Chairperson Carolyn Olney, Jeff Levison and her team for all their hard work.
Greeters this week are: TBA
Ushers scheduled are: Marie & Bob Spencer, Peter Keller and Kim Story
Acolyte is: Will Brookey
Liturgist is: Catherine Brookey
Church School teachers are: Andy Romine, Roberta and Judi; Confirmation class taught by Rev. Marlene Pomeroy; church school class will continue during the church business meeting on the first floor, staffed by Kathleen Sheehy and teachers will supervise them after they have had a chance to eat.
Other Opportunities Coming Up:
On Saturday Feb. 6th the Halogen Fellowship Group is going to see the play Tick Tick Boom at the Empire Theatre in Santa Ana at 202 N. Broadway. If you ordered a ticket, please speak with Marlene Pomeroy. All folks are urged to meet in the church parking lot at 5:15 to carpool to dinner and the play, which starts at 8 p.m. We have one extra ticket! You may also order your own ticket at the theatreout.com website.
Confirmation Class will be held this Sunday, starting after the Children's Time in the Co-Pastor's office. Older children and youth are invited to eat lunch together and then paint in the church library.
Bad Weather Shelter Meal: This Sunday we are scheduled to cook and serve our second meal at the Bad Weather Shelter. Please speak with Peter Keller to confirm whether you are serving this meal. We need at least 15 people and the time is 5:30-9:30 p.m. at the Pasadena Covenant Church on the corner of Lake Ave. and Santa Barbara. The parking lot is on Santa Barbara Ave.
Come Sing with Us! Over the past couple of years our choir member numbers have decreased due to various reasons including retirement and/or moving out of the state. I know there are some good singers in our congregation who would enjoy participating in our choir. We have fun and fellowship while learning different styles of music from gospel to praise to contemporary. Most of what we sing is recently published like the jazzy gospel arrangement of last Sunday's spiritual "Go Down, Moses." Here's your chance to participate and sing in our beautiful Sanctuary. We especially need more women. We rehearse the first Thursday of the month at 7:00pm and Sunday morning at 9:00am. There is no regular choir on the Sunday each month when the bell choir plays. Come join us on Thursday, Feb 4th at 7:00 or jump in on Sunday at 9:00am. High school age students are welcome to participate. Hope to see you soon!
Andrew Whitenack, FCC Music Director
January 31, 2010
Luke 4:22-37; 40-44 Jesus' ministry has begun by chapter four of Luke's Gospel. We have already heard that he read and interpreted Holy Scripture in the temple and Rev. Jake challenged us to find our own voice as followers of Jesus. Today's lectionary is full of action by Jesus: he finishes his teaching in the synagogue and manages to anger his hearers by telling them that God is not a tribalistic God, but someone who reaches beyond our confines to heal and tend to those who are not like us; the crowd responds by taking him to the edge of town and he barely escapes being thrown off a cliff! Next, he teaches in Capernaum and a man possessed with a demon confronts him and Jesus rebukes the demon in the man. Then Jesus is inundated with requests for healings and exorcisms and performs them until he is in need of some alone time. We end this section with Jesus seeking out a quiet place and letting folks know that he is called to bring the good news to other towns as well and sets out for a new location. A rolling stone gathers no moss? His message is controversial, his reputation increases daily and he must decide how long to linger and when to move on. A busy first few weeks of public ministry if you ask me! We, as followers of Jesus, have much to learn from him. He knows when to provoke, when to comfort, when to withdraw and when to keep moving! Join us in worship this Sunday at 10:00 a.m. as we explore this text and learn from this wise one.
The Rev. Marlene W. Pomeroy
Greeters this Sunday are: Don Hughes, Carol Penn-Romine and Andy Romine
Ushers are: Carol Penn-Romine, Aren Burd, Julie Burd and Thom Meyers
Acolyte is: Sandy Grant
Liturgist is: Cherryl Weaver
Church School Teachers are: Krysty, Judi and Jeff in Room 232
Other Opportunities Coming Up:
This Sunday, Jan. 31st we will be having a Budget Forum from 11:30-12:30. The forum will give us a report on how we finished the year financially in 2009 and a preview for the proposed 2010 budget that will be presented at the Winter Business meeting for your approval on Sun. Feb. 7th. The Budget Committee, headed up by Vice Moderator Carolyn Olney, has worked hard on the challenges of the current budget with the struggling economy and major shifts in our building rentals this past year. The committee is interested in your input at this stage in the process so please plan to attend. Childcare is provided in the nursery for younger children and older youth are welcome to hang out in the library across the hall from the parlor.
On Monday Feb. 1st the Bravo team is signed up to serve the meal at Union Station. Please confirm with Nina that your team is all set! If anyone would like to be a sub on this team or any others, please contact Nina in the church office at fccnina@yahoo.com or call her at (626) 795-0696.
On Sat. Feb. 6th a group of 15 Halogens will be having dinner and attending the play Tick Tick Boom in Santa Ana. We have two extra tickets for $22.50 each. Contact Marlene Pomeroy if you are interested in buying them and joining this group. Other folks can order their own tickets at the theatreout.com website.
On Sunday Feb. 7th FCC will hold its Winter Business meeting following worship in the east parlors. We will vote on the budget for 2010 as well as new leaders and officers. Please plan to attend and bring food for a potluck. Childcare is provided while the meeting lasts (between 11:30-1:15). Also on Feb. 7th our church will cook and serve the meal at the Bad Weather Shelter from 5:30-9:30 p.m. Please contact the church office or Peter Keller if you can join the group. We need about 16 people.
Please see your newsletter and attached monthly calendar for other February events! Lamplighter day at the races on Feb. 13th, Guest preacher and Forum leader Carlos Correa from the Romero Center on Jan. 14th , Ash Wednesday service with other UCC churches at the Glendale UCC Church on Feb. 17th, just to name a few!
January 24, 2010
Our scripture in worship this week is Luke 4:14-21 where Jesus returns to Nazareth as a young adult and teaches in the synagogue on the Sabbath, reading from the prophecy of Isaiah. Jesus explains that in his person, the "good news" for the poor, the prisoner, the blind and the broken has come true. In a sermon entitled "Claiming Our Part" we will consider how we offer our gifts and how we participate in God's work in the world. How is it that we will receive the training, the support and the guidance we need to carry out ministry in Christ's name? Come join us for worship in the Sanctuary at 10:00 a.m. this Sunday! After Children's Time, the Confirmation class will meet in the pastor's office till 11:45. Adult sponsors of Confirmands are invited to join us at the conclusion of worship. There will also be a Council Meeting this Sunday starting at 11:30 upstairs in Rm. 232. A light lunch will be provided for Council members. Also on Sunday the Ecumenical Council for Pasadena Area Churches (ECPAC) is having its annual meeting at the First Methodist Church on Colorado and Oakland from 3:00 -5:00 p.m. In addition to hearing a report on the year's activities and voting in new Board Members (Rev. Marlene Pomeroy is rotating off this Board after three years), there will be a discussion about the possibility of ECPAC becoming an interfaith organization. We support ECPAC/Friend Indeed House through our annual mission giving, our offering of Bad Weather Shelter meals, summer camperships and canned goods that we donate the first Sunday of each month. Any church member is invited to attend the annual meeting to hear about the work of ECPAC and to help set the direction of this important local organization that serves the poor and homeless on our behalf. See you Sunday! The Revs. John and Marlene Pomeroy
Ushers greeting you this Sunday: Avis Hinks, Nate Lewis and Judi Tyler Greeters: Jackie Lonnquist and Barbara May Acolyte: Tang Annis Church School Teachers are: Grace/Roberta Confirmation Teacher: Marlene Liturgist: Jeff Levison Other opportunities coming up: This Saturday, January 23, our youth will be going on an outing with Andy Schweibert and a youth advisor. Due to the weather, please check with Pastor Schwiebert about the activity which begins at 10:30 a.m. Our Winter Business Meeting will be held on Sunday, February 7 directly after worship in the East Parlor. Please bring food for a potluck lunch and to vote on the business of the church: hear the budget report for 2009, presentation of the 2010 budget, voting on new officers and leaders, and a report from the pastors and moderator. Please plan to attend this important business meeting between 11:30 a.m. -1:15 p.m. Childcare is provided for small children. Older children are free to gather in the church library. Financial Update: Our Treasurers and Bookkeeper are getting ready to close the books on 2009 and finalize the pledge income for 2010. If you have any final checks for 2009, please date them December 31, 2009 and bring them to the church office this week. If you have a pledge for 2010, please call Nina for a pledge card or simply let Stewardship Committee member Varnell Lewis know of the amount so that we can finalize our budget planning for 2010 - we are within $4,000 of the giving that was reached for 2009 which is great news for our budget. With reduced building income due to the economy, we are dependent more than ever on members' giving. Thank you to all who have supported the ministry and programs of our church for 2010! Please keep the Budget Committee in your prayers as they begin the task of reconciling the budget with our needs. They will present the tentative budget for 2010 on Sunday, January 31 in a forum after worship to gather your input. The budget will be voted on at the Business Meeting on Sunday, February 7. January 17, 2010 John 2:1-11 In this narrative of Jesus at the wedding at Cana , oftentimes the focus is simply on the miracle of Jesus turning water into wine. It is viewed as one of the "signs" in John's Gospel to show us the work and majesty of Jesus through miraculous deeds. We often use miracles as evidence of God's presence; if we only pay attention to the spectacular and the amazing, we may miss the wonder of God in the everyday. We will also consider the relationship the text presents between Jesus and his mother at a community event. Jesus at the wedding feast is a story about more than turning water into wine. It is about all the ways that God's presence can be seen in our world. We invite you to read this story in advance of worship and to come join us in our beautiful sanctuary this Sunday for worship at 10 a.m. Our heater seems to be up and working so the temperature should be comfortable for you. We will also be celebrating the baptism of young Mattias in worship. Hope to see you Sunday! The Rev. John H. Pomeroy
The Membership Ministry is interested in coordinating an "enhanced coffee hour" on Sundays. In addition to our usual coffee and drinks, they are hoping that folks will sign up to bring other goodies for people to enjoy and to provide this hospitality to visitors and members. If you would like to sign up to help with this enhanced experience of welcome, please speak with Josh Ashenmiller. At 11:30 a.m. this Sunday, the church school children and youth will be going on a field trip to the Norton Simon museum in Pasadena. Each parent will need to sign a permission slip before their child can leave the premises. Please see Grace Rinck on Sunday about that. Church folks will be driving. Admission for children is free but we encourage each person to bring money for lunch at the museum. The trip is a chance for our children and youth to see some of the religious art at the museum in preparation for their exploration of Jesus through art in their church school classes. Please direct questions to Marlene Pomeroy Grace Rinck. Greeters this Sunday are: Nate & Varnell Lewis Ushers are: Sandy Biehler, Robert Rinck & Cindy Speakman Liturgist is: Shannon Anderson Acolyte is: TBA Church School teachers are: Grace, Jeff and Krysty
Other Opportunities Coming Up: Confirmation Class will be held during the church school time on Sunday, January 24. Confirmands will start class after children's time in worship and sponsors are invited to join us in the church office immediately following worship. Class will end by 11:45. Also on Sunday, January 24, ECPAC is having its annual meeting from 3:00 - 5:00 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church on Colorado Blvd. and Oakland. This is a time to review the past year, vote in new Board Members, and hear about the programs and plans of this important organization. We donate substantial time and money to the work of ECPAC and their outreach arm Friends Indeed, and urge any interested church members to attend. January 10, 2010
Luke 3:15-12, 21-22 Theologian Howard Thurman was a contemporary of Martin Luther King, Jr. In his book, "The Mood of Christmas," he writes, When the song of the
angels is stilled, When the star in the sky is gone, When the kings and princes are home, When the shepherds are back with their flock, The work of Christmas begins: To find the lost, To heal the broken, To feed the hungry, To release the prisoner, To rebuild the nations, To bring peace among brothers, To make music in the heart. In the Christian lectionary year we move from the celebration of Christ's birth to the baptism of Jesus as an adult. We hear Luke's version of the baptism this week. Baptism is one of two sacraments observed by our tradition (the second being Communion). We observe these ancient rituals as a link to our historical past and as symbols of God's presence with us in the Church today. Baptism is a decision to join the sacred family of God's people and to publicly proclaim God's mark on us. We celebrate and remember the baptism of Jesus this Sunday and we take the time to reflect on our own baptism and commitment to the Church of Jesus Christ. We will continue to meet in the sanctuary this week if the boiler is working! Wear your warm clothes and enjoy the beauty of our sanctuary. We may decide to go back to the chapel if the cold persists and the boiler continues to be finicky. Stay posted, be flexible. God is with us wherever we worship! The Rev. Marlene Pomeroy
Ushers greeting you this Sunday: Ron White, Kathie Arscott, Jeff Levison and James Maddox Greeters are: Peter Keller, Irene Keller and Cindy Speakman Acolyte is: Sandy Grant Liturgist is: Carol Penn-Romine Teachers TBA Other Events and Opportunities Coming Up: Our Halogen Fellowship Group is having its annual Epiphany Party at the Ashenmiller's house this Saturday, January 9h starting at 5:30 p.m. This adult-only party is a potluck with a twist! Bring your least favorite Christmas gift you received for our "Yankee swap" and $10 for a challenging game where the winners donate their winnings to their favorite non-profit. Please RSVP to the pastors and plan to attend! Our youth and a few adults will be setting out cots and serving the meal for the Bad Weather Shelter this Sunday, January 10 at 5:30 p.m. Please confirm with Peter Keller that you will be attending. If you are in 6th-12th grade, please check in with Andy Schwiebert about attending. Christian Nurture will meet this Sunday after worship for their meeting. All other Common Ministries will meet at the usual time on Tuesday, January 12 at 6:00 p.m. A group of older youth and adults will be participating in the Faith Build Day for Habitat for Humanity on Saturday, January 16. All spots are taken for this day but if you are interested in future work days, speak with Lu Burd or Peter Keller from Discipleship Ministry. Stewardship Update: We currently have received pledges from 50 household units for a total of $143,920! Thank you all of you who have pledged! Our pledged income last year was $151,500 and we are hoping to reach that and even exceed that for 2010! Please speak with the office or Varnell Lewis if you plan to make a pledge or wish to increase your gift. The Budget Committee is working hard to present us a proposed budget at the Budget Forum on Sunday, January 31. Please plan to attend to hear the details! Note: January Council meeting has been moved to Sunday, January 24. |
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