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Showers of praise and compliments continue to rain down on the First Presbyterian Church’s performance of “The Last Supper” that took place in the sanctuary this past Maundy Thursday (April 8). A majority of the cast and crew were culled from the congregation. After two long months of rehearsals and set construction, the “Last Supper” team managed to put on an intriguing reenactment that shed light on each of the 12 apostles who shared Jesus Christ’s last meal on earth. Dave and Rosemary Tucker co-directed the performance that featured monologues and concluded with a 45-second pose of Leonardo da Vinci's world famous painting of the Last Supper. The one-night performance was also part of a sequence of events that comprised the “Walking In Their Shoes” project, a project with which the Tuckers found great satisfaction.“Rosemary and I always feel gratified when we see months of intense planning and work come together in a production that is well received and appreciated,” Dave said. “I think this was. We look forward to the future and what we may be able to bring to our church in that future.” Besides the positive response that poured in afterwards, executive producer Anna Bohart also witnessed a creative birth in all the actors, many of whom had never performed on staged before. “I think the performers developed the character of the person they were performing to such an extent that they became that person,” said Bohart. “And I think they’ll carry that with them for a very long time. It’s not something that just happened. You could see the growth in the performers because I saw the first one (rehearsal) and I saw the last one, and all of those in between. And with every one there was more growth and they became that person. It was amazing to watch.” Perhaps, the most difficult role – if not the most distasteful – was that of Judas, portrayed admirably by Rick Sunday. In assuming the role of the man who betrayed Christ, Sunday found “great relief” in finally being able to mentally detach from the misguided character once the play had ended. “It was extremely difficult,” said Sunday. “As a result, I did not fully engage the role during the rehearsals. Rather, I kept myself distanced from the character until the performance. It was a great relief to have disengaged from the character of Judas after experiencing the emotions of betrayal and treachery.” One of the main goals of “The Last Supper” reenactment was to reveal the psychological roller coaster each disciple may have experienced during the last hours of Christ. Through that open door into the minds of the twelve, it was ultimately hoped the audience would get a better insight into those same lives 2,000 years later. Sharon Wilkes was especially touched by the way each actor involved himself in his character and thereby lent a thought-provoking vehicle for the audience. “It thought it was very moving. I thought the actors really got into their characters and that helped us understand more about each person,” Wilkes said. “It made me think. But it also, rather than like a play where you look at the mechanics of things, you got into more of the background of what led up to the last supper.” From a spiritual standpoint, First Presbyterian minister, Jesse Thornton, was particularly affected by the abundant use of scripture and the innovative way in which it was utilized for the reenactment. “I think what I appreciated the most was how much the monologues were almost from scripture,” Reverend Thornton said. “I really liked the use of scripture and how it was made into a very creative and imaginative way. Anytime we can do things in church or worship services where people learn more about scripture, I am very pleased with that.” Reverend Thornton also was intrigued with the production’s attempt at visualizing a 21st-century interpretation of the Last Supper. “In that sense, we don't often have an opportunity to see it visually reenacted,” he added. “And this was as best as we know how that would have played out.” (posted April 30, 2004)
If you’re interested in attending the retreat but haven’t signed up yet plan to stop by the Parlor after Worship on Sunday, May 2 for “the scoop” from our presenter Kristi Lee. It promises to be a time of spiritual reflection and renewal. (posted April 30, 2004)
“God calls us around the World in Five Days” June 7-11 9:00AM- 12:00 Noon For kids entering Kinder-5th grade Take off daily for an adventure! Visit far away lands like Peru, Pakistan, Malawi, The Philipines, and Guatamala. We have some exciting games, songs, food, and fun for you in Vacation Bible School this year! Don’t wait, sign up today! Registration forms are in the Narthex (posted April 30, 2004)
If you would be willing to serve the little ones or the big ones in some capacity we have a place for you. In many of the classes a team of folks rotate so you might only teach two or three months out of the nine. Contact Rebecca if you feel the calling to assist with Sunday School. We need you!! (posted April 30, 2004)
On May 13, 6:30 PM a dinner will be held at the Bentsen Ranch to recognize those who’ve worked in Sunday School or Youth Group this year. We are fortunate to have many who give their time and talent on a weekly basis. The Christian Education Committee would like to take this opportunity to honor them and the efforts they make. (posted April 30, 2004)
Summer Bible Study June 2,16, 30, August 11, 25 6:00-7:30 PM Our format this year will be a picnic dinner in the courtyard (bring dinner for you and your family and a dessert to share, the church will provide drinks). Following dinner the adults will have a lesson on “Jesus and Paul” in the Parlor. The kids and teens will stay outside for a fun lesson with crafts, drama, games, and a story. VBS June 7-11 9:00 AM- 12:00 Noon God Calls Us Around the World in 5 Days This 5 day study is for kids entering Kinder- 5th grade. The kids will enjoy visiting the different countries and studying the mission work done by the Presbyterian Church in those distant lands. The Guatemalan Connection June 7 6:00- 7:00 PM We will have a pot luck dinner and a program on the work the Presbyterian church is doing in Guatemala. Katy Bedunnah will be here. She started the Pennies for Piggies program which raised money to buy sows which in turn gave the Guatemalan people a means to support themselves. Also with Ms. Bedunnah will be 2 ministers from churches in Guatemala. Summer Mission Madness June 21-25 8:30 AM-4:30 PM The Youth of our church will volunteer two days at the Food Bank and two days at Habitat for Humanity. On Friday we will celebrate their efforts with a trip to Schlitterbahn at the Beach. (posted April 30, 2004)
Congratulations to new grandparents Carolyn and Tommy Joyner on the arrival of their grandson Thomas Conner Joyner born April 25, 2004 in Austin, TX. (posted April 30, 2004)
"To all the dear members of First Presbyterian Church in McAllen: I am grateful to the church and its members for helping me as a person and in my faith. Throughout my youth you were very supportive in Sunday School, youth group, camp retreats and summer activities. It was always a place where I felt welcome and when I go back I get the same feeling. I am thankful for First Presbyterian Church in McAllen." Pablo will be graduating from Austin College on May 16, 2004 with a bachelor of Arts in Religion. We extend our congratulations and best wishes. Pablo, we are proud of you! (posted April 30, 2004)
Education is at the heart of much of the work we do in the church. The CE Committee is looking for some enthusiastic folks to join our efforts. Some of our yearly events are Fall Festival, Confirmation Classes, Sunday School, VBS, Sacrament Classes, Youth Group, and Savvy Sage. If you’re willing to serve in this committee please contact Ismael Cantu, CE Chair or Rebecca Villarreal, DCE. (posted April 30, 2004)
Please join us for worship on May 9, 2003. We are pleased that Gwyn Kozma, an elder on our session will be preaching at our 10:30 am worship service. Gwyn has been active in many of the ministries of our church---Worship Committee, Children's Sermon, Acolyte training, just to name a few. Thank you Gwyn for sharing the Good News with us! (posted April 30, 2004)
It’s time to celebrate! This coming Sunday, May 2, is Celebration Sunday at the First Presbyterian Church of McAllen. Immediately following the morning’s Worship Service, the congregation is invited to assemble in the Fellowship Hall where we will honor all members who are celebrating a birthday in May. Come and enjoy cake, coffee, punch and all sorts of goodies as we recognize the month’s birthday celebrants. Also that day, the Senior High and Junior High youth groups will pack up the cars and leave the church bright and early in the morning for their annual Youth Valley Clusters Beach Retreat at South Padre Island. They’ll not only get to share sand and surf with the seagulls, but they’ll also take part with other Valley youth in a worship service at The Chapel by the Sea. And don’t forget to mark your calendars for May 5 when we resume our First Wednesday Dinner following a two-month hiatus of the event. A dinner and program will be part of the happenings that start at 6 p.m. inside the Fellowship Hall. Then, on May 9, one of our favorite moms, Gwyn Kozma, will preach in the pulpit during the Worship Service that morning as part of the celebration for Mother’s Day. Like Three Dog Night used to sing, “Celebrate, celebrate, dance to the music!” – the Worship/Evangelism Committee (posted April 30, 2004)
Today’s world is a troubled place. What’s not fought in the battlefield is debated in the courtroom. Folks everywhere tell tales of friends or relatives who are fighting the enemy. Communities are filled with sorrow as the nightly news reports the details of the fallen. These are the times that try men’s souls. The summer soldier and the sunshine patriot will, in the crisis, shrink from the service of his country, but he that stands it now, deserves the love and thanks of man and woman. Thomas Paine The wars that rage on affect those in the midst of battle but the casualties aren’t limited to the battlefield. It’s times like these when others see where our loyalties lie. Being faithful to a cause or to a friend isn’t always the easiest path but it’s the right thing to do. The Bible speaks of loyalty and faithfulness in Psalms 86:11 “Teach me to follow you and I will obey your truth. Always keep me faithful.” Also, in Psalms 26:3, “I never forget your kindness and am always faithful to you.” My parents’ loyalties were unshakable. Both of them were raised in the South during a period when Blacks and equality were not used in the same sentence. My mom used to bake goodies and take them to a family that worked for us and lived on “the other side of town”. That was not done too much at that time and even though I was only 5 or 6 I knew that other white folks weren’t visiting friends in that neighborhood. On another occasion I made a biased remark about someone of another faith and my dad was quick to correct me. I was taught early on to stand up for what’s right even when it makes you uncomfortable. We as mere mortals haven’t the fortitude to fight these fights on our own. Only through the grace of God can we be courageous enough to face the challenges. God grant us that courage. by Rebecca Villarreal, DCE (posted April 30, 2004)
Please plan to come to our First Wednesday Dinner and Program on May 5, 6:00 PM. The program that evening will feature the stories, memories, and honesty of our older adults. The week of May 2-8 has been designated as Older Adult Week in the Presbyterian Church and we hope you’ll join us as we honor these savvy sages. (posted April 30, 2004)
Su Casa de Esperanza (Your House of Hope) will be highlighted during the month of May at First Presbyterian Church for our First Sunday Offering. Su Casa is located in Las Milpas, a rural community located 5 miles south of Pharr and 3 miles north of the Texas-Mexico border. The goal of Su Casa de Esperanza is to impact the spiritual, physical, intellectual, emotional, economic and social needs of participating families. Special emphasis is placed on early childhood development and on family life education. Self help is the cornerstone for all of the programs at Su Casa. Funding for Su Casa comes from individuals, churches, corporations and foundations. Grace Caballero, the director of Su Casa will speak to us on Sunday, May 2 and she will be happy to tell you more about this program. Many FPC members are active volunteers at Su Casa. Perhaps God is calling you, with your gifts, to help with this wonderful border ministry. During the month of May, you may contribute to the ongoing work at Su Casa not only with your First Sunday offering, but also with any newborn or toddler items. ANYTHING related to BABIES: Q-tips, lotion, (NO POWDER, please), diapers, wipes, clothing, towels, wash cloths, blankets. You may place your donation in the box in the Narthex each Sunday in May. Thank you! -the Witness Committee (posted April 30, 2004)
Sunday, April 25 is the fourth Sunday of the month and time to bring your cans and boxes of foods for our grocery cart. We’re providing sustenance for the needy folks right here in the Rio Grande Valley with every item donated so load up our grocery cart on Sunday with your generous offerings! (posted April 14, 2004)
As followers of Jesus Christ, we have many reasons to celebrate. None, obviously, is as important as last Sunday, when we celebrated the resurrection of our Lord and Savior. However, this coming Sunday gives us another chance to sing our praises. On April 18, Confirmation Sunday, six of our youth will officially become active members in the First Presbyterian Church. For the past eight months, Keaton Obst, Kimberly Pruneda, Brian Pullen, Scott Schneider, Sarah Schwab and Celeste Shaney have been meeting almost weekly to prepare for this magnificent day. During this Sunday’s Worship Service, Celeste will receive the Sacrament of Baptism and then join her five friends as the newest Confirmands to be accepted into active membership. This is an important day for not only these six young people, but also for the entire church as we witness the fulfillment of many months of nurturing and teaching, culminated Sunday by their public profession of faith. Prior to the service, at 8 a.m., the Confirmands will be introduced to the Session during a breakfast prepared by the Fellowship Committee inside the Fellowship Hall. The Confirmands and Session members will spend most of the hour-long breakfast getting acquainted with each other before each new inductee is asked to share his/her Statement of Faith with the Session. What a wonderful day it will be for Christ’s church when we welcome these six young persons into active membership. Later in the day this coming Sunday, the McAllen Memorial High School Choir will conduct a concert inside the sanctuary beginning at 2:30 p.m. Among Memorial’s angelic voices will be Natalie Moore, the Youth Representative on Session who is also a member of our own church choir. The monthly Taizé Service will then follow at 6 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall. If you’re looking for a unique service, this is it. The Taizé Service offers the participant a chance to worship God away from the ear-piercing, fast-paced bustle of today’s world. If you’ve never attended a Taizé Service, come and soak up God’s word in a meditative setting highlighted by quiet reflection and communion, silent prayer, soft music and peaceful solitude. Also this month concerning our youth, on Sunday (April 25), the Senior Highs and Junior Highs will converge after church for their annual get together at the Hunke-Rowland Ranch located north of Edinburg. This is always a relaxing escape for the middle school and high school youth as they combine sight-seeing in the great outdoors with joyful camaraderie and a delicious barbequed meal before heading back to the real world. What a wonderful time indeed for our youth! -Worship/Evangelism Committee (posted April 14, 2004)
Congratulations to Amanda & Andrew Lentz on the arrival of their daughter Emma Nell Lentz born Friday, April 9, 2004. Brothers: Brandon & Andrew Grandparent: Kathy Garfield Great Grandparent: Donald Bentsen (posted April 14, 2004)
Spring is my favorite time of year. Not only because of the beauty of everything around us, the growth of grass and flowers, the gorgeous weather, but also because of the growth I see here at school. Springtime is a wonderful time to look at the children here and see how they have changed since the beginning of school. The attitude of love and caring for each other that has come to exist over the past few months. The joy of looking forward to each new day at school and what it has to offer. The comfort level that has come to exist over time to where their teacher is as comfortable as mom. The excitement that can only exist when someone feels safe. Spring is a wonderful time of seeing the hope of the future and so is Lynn Flowers Preschool. From here, the future looks pretty bright. Love, Miss Pat (posted April 14, 2004)
It’s Spring and the flowers are blooming, the sun is shining, and I feel like doing cartwheels rather than working so I’m giving in and sitting back to enjoy some Springtime poetry. Hope you enjoy it! I Meant To Do My Work Today By Richard Le Gallienne I meat to do my work today, But a brown bird sang in the apple tree, And a butterfly flitted across the field, And all the leaves were calling me. And the wind went sighing over the land, Tossing the grasses to and fro, And a rainbow held out its shining hand— So what could I do but laugh and go? Millions of Strawberries By Genevieve Tagged Marcia and I went over the curve, Eating our way down Jewels of strawberries we didn’t deserve, Eating our way down. Till our hands were sticky, and our lips painted, And over us the hot day fainted, And we saw snakes, And got scratched, and a lust overcame us for the red Unmatched Small buds of berries, till we lay down— Eating our way down—and rolled in the berries like two Little dogs Rolled In the late gold And gnats hummed And it was cold And home we went, home without a berry, Painted red and brown Eating our way down. by Rebecca Villarreal, DCE (posted April 2, 2004)
Next Sunday is Palm Sunday and we need all of you to help carry in the palm branches at the beginning of worship. Please come and meet in the Narthex at 10:15 to be part of this annual procession. Thank You! (posted April 2, 2004)
This time of year is always busy around the preschool. Many new families come to look at the school and talk about our program at Lynn Flowers Presbyterian Preschool. It is always a joy to me to have families come in and tell me all the wonderful comments they have heard about the school from others in the community. The other day a young mother came in with a child not old enough to even come to school. She wanted to see the school and make sure that when her son turns two he will be able to come. She said she has many friends that are teachers and that they have seen our school prepares the children wonderfully. They told her the children from our school were excited and very well behaved and ready to learn. Wow! Those kinds of comments really make us feel our time and effort is worth while. I love having the opportunity to share Lynn's philosophy with parents and letting them know what a wonderful, loving person Lynn was. I am so proud and privileged to serve as an ambassador for this church and for Lynn Flowers. I pray that I make this church and Lynn proud too, Love, Miss Pat (posted April 2, 2004)
It’s doubtful you’ll see a whole batch of bunny rabbits hopping around the church this coming week, but our emotional barometers will certainly feel like those long-eared critters after we’ve experienced all the ups and downs of Easter week. It all starts, appropriately so, this coming Sunday (April 4) with Palm Sunday when we joyfully celebrate the day Jesus entered Jerusalem. While there won’t be anyone riding a donkey, Worship Service will nevertheless begin with a procession of palms and end with communion. (Don’t forget to set your clocks forward one hour the night before so you don’t miss church that morning. Example: If it is 10 PM move clock forward to 11 PM) Afterwards in the Fellowship Hall, we’ll enjoy Celebration Sunday as we recognize and honor all those born in April with a variety of cakes and juices. The day won’t be complete, however, until the young people of our church go on an Easter Egg Hunt at the Bentsen Home. The egg quest begins at 4 p.m. In celebration of Christ’s last meal on earth, a reenactment of the “Last Supper” will take place on Maundy Thursday (April 8) inside the sanctuary beginning at 7 p.m. Communion will follow the performance. Tickets are free, but you must have one to enter the sanctuary since seating is limited. A brief, 30-minute service will be conducted the next day on Good Friday (April 9), the day our Lord was crucified. This mini service commences at noon in the sanctuary and will include short readings and music. Then, Easter Sunday, the most rewarding day for Christians everywhere starts in earnest with a Sunrise Service at 7:00 a.m. led by Reverend Jesse Thornton. Around 8 a.m., the Senior High Youth Group will serve a Pancake Breakfast for $5 a person and $10 a family in the Fellowship Hall. Sunday School at 9 a.m. followed by the regular Worship Service at 10:30 a.m. round out the most glorious day on our church calendar. All week long, come join us as we remember His life and death and, more importantly, praise His resurrection. The Worship/Evangelism Committee (posted April 2, 2004)
As part of our older adult week celebration we need photographs of you!! If you are 70 years of age or older and would be willing to share your memories with us, please bring in several photos of yourself (can be baby pictures, wedding, etc.). Drop off with either Lori or Rebecca. Be sure to put your name on the back so they can be returned to you. (posted April 2, 2004)
Women! Treat yourself to a retreat! Our annual gathering will be May 7-8 at Camp Thicket. The theme this year is “Celebrating Your Faith Journey: Sharing Divine Secrets”. If you are interested in attending this retreat please come to a brief preliminary meeting (one hour long) Sunday, April 18 in the Parlor immediately following Worship. A light lunch will be served. Our guest leader, Kristi Lee, will be on hand to give us a peek at the playful and wonderful events planned. You deserve a time of fun with the females so plan to come on the 18th and get the details! (posted April 2, 2004)
Our First Wednesday dinner on May 5 will be a time to celebrate the gifts of the older adults in our church. Please plan to come for dinner and a program honoring our older adults. (posted April 2, 2004)
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