...news and tidbits from the church office
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Who are we? There’s lots of us in this church. We come in all shapes and sizes, are all ages and have many different interests. The multigenerational church has been the focus of a number of books and studies, “Generations” by Strauss and Howe and “Virtual Faith” by Tom Bodoin to name a couple. In order for us, as the church, to meet the needs of the different age groups it’s important for us to understand each other. The folks of the G.I. Generation (1901-1924) believe the church should provide programs that emphasis the Bible. This group practices good stewardship; they believe in giving money to help the poor and those who do God’s work. The G.I.’s feel it’s the church’s responsibility to define moral values and that the home should back the churches’ stance. The Silent/In Between Generation (1925-42) has similar beliefs to the G.I.’s but this generation began to question gender “roles” in church. They’ve had a willingness to carefully consider changes when they see the need for them. The Baby Boomers (1946-1964) brought in a new perspective. Their focus is on practical Bible study and how it affects them. They place less emphasis on memorization of scripture and church traditions and more emphasis on how we in the church can do God’s work by serving others. The Generation X crowd (1965-1981) has a strong sense of civic duty. They participate in ministries they have a passion for but often will only make short term commitments, not because they don’t care but because they have so many obligations and their time is limited. We are a varied people yet we all have so much to offer. Our opinions are based on our experiences and our perspectives. If we spend time together we can learn from and appreciate each other, and our church benefits from the ideas and suggestions of us all. In Christ’s love, Rebecca (posted March 21, 2003)
Here is your opportunity to learn how to spell P-R-E-S-B-Y-T-E-R-I-A-N. Reverend Thornton will be conducting a new members’ class on Sunday, April 6, 2003 from 2-5 pm in the church parlor. At the end of the class we will share a meal and answer any questions. If you are considering becoming a member of First Presbyterian Church or would like to learn more about the history, worship, and government of our church please call the church office at 682-2836 to submit your name, address, and telephone number so we may contact you. (posted March 21, 2003)
Get your picnic gear ready!!!! The First Presbyterian Church Picnic will be on April 27th at 4:00 PM at the “480 Ranch” Keep a look out for more information in the church bulletins and newsletters. (posted March 21, 2003)
You rarely hear first time visitors complaining about the lack of things to do here in the Rio Grande Valley. For a region so richly embedded in its cultural heritage, the arrival of Winter Texans in the fall only adds another plate of diversity to the Valley’s smorgasbord of social events. Similarly, First Presbyterian’s activity calendar is a feast fit for a king. With Christmas and The Epiphany seasons behind us, the Worship Committee is now hard at work preparing for our Easter services. Plus, every week from now until the end of April, the calendar is guaranteed to feature at least one additional function besides our regular worship service. For instance, the congregation was introduced to the Taize service in February and will get a chance to enjoy more of these special meditative ceremonies on March 23, April 27 and May 18, all starting at 7 p.m. The Kirken O’ the Tartans, a Scottish ritual dating back almost 300 years ago, will take the place of the morning worship service on March 30. Jim McLeod will be the guest minister and the Scottish Society will provide banners and flags for the program. A reception will follow in the Fellowship Hall. This will be the first performance of its kind in the Valley and, whether you’re of Scottish descent or not, it would be considered a mistake to miss this unique event. If you would like to participate please contact Anna Bohart. Along with Lenten services continuing every Wednesday through April 9 at 6 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall, a Compassion With Hope service is also planned for Saturday, March 22 at 4 p.m. Cancer survivors and victims alike will be the focus of this ceremony which emphasizes meditation and readings. Then, Palm Sunday on April 13 launches the most important week of all for every Christian. Holy Week encompasses Maunday Thursday and Good Friday followed by Easter and The Resurrection of the Lord on April 20. Jesus died so that we could live. Come share in His bountiful gift. The Worship Committee (posted March 21, 2003)
I’m looking for a few good men or women to help keep our bulletin boards spiffy! This would entail 2-3 hours a month updating a board or shopping for items. We have a Bulletin Board Designer but need workers to put the designs into place. If you are willing to help contact Rebecca at the church office. (posted March 21, 2003)
Our next Taizé Service will be held at 7:00 pm in the fellowship hall on Sunday evening, March 23, 2003. This is an excellent opportunity to continue the journey of Lent with a time of quiet reflection, prayer, and music. In February we had the first service that was well attended. Come, worship and pray during a quiet time. (posted March 21, 2003)
Yuri Medina, a senior at Sharyland High School, has won First in 4A competition in State for Women’s Powerlifting. The competition was held this past weekend in Killeen! She is the only girl to bring such honors to Sharyland High School! She won with an overall score of 880 pounds – 350 lbs for the squat, 165 lbs for bench, and 365 lbs for dead lift. She brought home the State Championship Trophy and a medal. When asked how she felt she said she was very excited but was scared at first because she thought she was in 4th place. She wants to thank her parents and Nani for all their support and love. She also sends her thanks to the congregation for the love and support she receives from them and to the youth group for their prayers, support, and friendship. We are very proud of you Yuri! (posted March 21, 2003)
Based on figures for the last nine weeks of the year, there is reason for cautious optimism regarding the financial picture of First Presbyterian Church. Thus far, total offerings received exceed the total offerings target (as of March 2) by $14,978.
In an earlier issue of the newsletter, it was reported that we were approximately $64,000 short of the pledge money required to fund the 2003 budget. That situation has also improved somewhat. The number of pledging units has grown from 102 to 106, and the total amount pledged has increased from $299,676 to $312,976. Despite the one-time contribution mentioned earlier, we remain approximately $40,000 under our $364,000 target. Reaching this pledge target remains the key to full funding of this year’s budget. As we dealt with financial difficulties last year, we included a brief financial report in the Sunday bulletins. Beginning March 9, this report, which allows the congregation to compare “Total Offerings to Date” with the “Total Offering Target to Date,” will again appear in bulletins. These figures will give us some idea of the current financial status and serve as a reminder to keep our pledges up to date. Have we made a good start on the new year? We have. Do we need more pledge? Yes. Will we have to closely monitor expenses? Yes. Will we have to use savings to meet budget? Possibly. Meanwhile it is important to keep the needs of God’s church in our hearts and minds and to thank God through prayer for His many blessings and for His continued guidance. (posted March 10, 2003)
It’s hard to find the right words to show proper appreciation and thanks for all the acts of kindness and moral support that I have had from First Presbyterian Church during the past three months. Your prayers, your calls, your cards, and many tasty meals, and your visits helped more than you could possibly know. I especially want to thank Jesse Thornton, Lucy Snearly, Bruce Williams, Jim Egger and the Handbell Choir, and Abran Tamayo for the wonderful memorial service, followed by the refreshments in the Fellowship Hall, and overseen by Carol Moore. I felt honored that there were so many wonderful people there to share in the final chapter of Wes’ life here on earth. Thanks also for the many memorials given in his behalf. Shalom and God Bless Eleanor Workman (posted March 10, 2003)
Plans are well underway for VBS and I want to thank those of you who’ve come forward to offer help in the planning or carrying out of this important event. There are some items we will need for either activities or set decoration. I need these items by the first week of June. So you have some time to gather stuff or check your garage/storehouse etc. I will leave a box outside my office for small items, for larger things see me and we’ll find a place! My wish list is: 50 small empty gelatin/pudding boxes 50 disposable, clear 3 oz. cups 50 disposable, clear 4 oz. cups I need lots of nautical type stuff to match our theme “Lighthouse Kids” Fishing nets Fishing gear (poles, hats, bait looking stuff, etc.) Lanterns Buoys A ships wheel Nautical flags Row boat and oars Thanks for your help! (posted March 10, 2003)
The Cook Book project by the Women of the Church is off and running. We urge all our Winter Visitors to secure forms and submit your recipes before March 31st. The books will be completed in the fall. Forms are available in the narthex or the church office. Guys, we want your recipes too. April 6 will be our church luncheon to test the recipes after the 10:30 am worship service. Call the church office to contact Pat Moyer or Sandy Pierson for more information. (posted March 10, 2003)
We continue the journey of Lent over the next few weeks on the following Wednesdays at 6:00 pm in the fellowship hall: March 12 March 19 March 26 April 2 April 9 On these Wednesdays we will have a light meal and Lenten program. Here is your opportunity to join others to practice the spiritual discipline of Lent. Set aside this time to devote yourself to Scripture, prayer, and fellowship. (posted March 10, 2003)
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