...news and tidbits from the church office
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THE EXPERIENCES OF 2 AMERICANS WHO SERVED IN VIETNAM On Sunday, November 2, 2003 from 4:30 to 5:30 PM in the Fellowship Hall the Jr. High Youth Group will be hosting Douglas & Cindy Young. He was an Infantry Officer and she was a nurse during the Vietnam War. The Youth invite you to join them as they learn from 2 Americans who experienced war first hand. Douglas & Cindy will be speaking about the war from their perspective and the perspective of the Vietnamese including how the war affected modern day Vietnam. You are welcome to join us at First Presbyterian Church, McAllen. (posted October 30, 2003)
The Savvy Sage Series, a once-a-month special program for seasoned adults, continues to offer a unique opportunity for growth and fellowship. September’s program, "Celebrating Senior Wisdom," was attended by 17 folks. Sandy Pierson and Shirley Pippen prepared a beautiful lunch for the group. November’s program on sound financial practices for older people featured Arthur Hughes, a financial advisor. Rena Taylor provided a delicious lunch for 12. "Telling Your Faith Story" is the topic for Thursday, Nov. 20. We’ll review our journeys of faith from the time we first thought about God, until the present, when we’ve been through many challenges and experienced great joys. Dozens of possibilities exist for testifying to your faith, among them, writing, journaling, and preparing personal memoirs so that your spiritual legacy blesses others. Kristie Lee of Mission, a journal and photo album consultant, will be our guest. She and I will present ways to consider thinking about and preserving your faith story. Kristie will suggest how you can combine your spiritual journaling with appropriate photos, certificates, and mementos. Don’t want to write a spiritual autobiography or create a journal album? Come anyway! You’ll be nourished reviewing the ways that God can speak to our souls. And you’ll enjoy hearing others’ faith stories and an opportunity to share yours. The time is 10 a.m. to noon on Nov. 20 in the church parlor. Remember to make your reservation with Lori in the church office by Wednesday noon, Nov. 19. Also tell her if you’ll be staying for lunch ($3). The number is 682-2836. If you’re reading about the Savvy Sage Series here for the first time, pick up a brochure from the church office telling about the other monthly programs, all of which are free and offered to all members, friends, and visitors of FPC age 55 and older. Welcome! --Jan Seale (posted October 30, 2003)
We here at the First Presbyterian Church have a good thing going in the spiritual worship retreats this church sponsors at MO-Ranch Conference center which is located in the hill country near Hunt, Texas. Our next "MO-Ranch Prayer Retreat" will be February 20-22, 2004. You need to act right away to register for this spiritual time in your life. This will be in our 11th Annual for our church. The upcoming retreat cost $140.00 per person and that covers five (5) meals in Kings Hall and two (2) nights lodging at Flato Lodge and Wynne Lodge. All rooms are all on the ground floor or first floor. They are like a motel and contains two double beds, private bath and two lounge chairs with table. The past few year, we have shared themes like: 2003-"Making Sense of G-R-A-C-E" 2002-"The Servant Lord and His Servant People" 2001-"Life in the Spirit" 2000-"Amazing Faith" 1999-"I Walked Where Jesus Walked" 1998-"The Depth of God's Love" This is a weekend of spiritual renewal in a special place,Mo-Ranch, where we have an enriching program in a learning and living Christian environment. A place to learn to know your friends and share their faith with each other. The first deposit is $70.00 per person or $140.00 per couple due at the time of registration which is October 15 - November 15, 2003. Please make all your payments by check, payable to: First Presbyterian Church marked for Mo-Ranch 2004 Prayer Retreat. You may turn your check into the church office or give them to Spud Brown. The final payment of the balance of $70.00 per person or $140.00 for couples will be due by Sunday, February 1, 2004. Please call the church office and leave a message for me, Spud Brown, if you would like to go or if you know someone that would like to go and I will contact you as soon as possible. All are welcome to join us, members, non-members, Winter Texans, family and friends. Payments are nonrefundable if cancellation is made after December 7, 2003. (posted October 30, 2003)
It’s Halloween and the word “spirit” is back in season as part of our verbiage. Talk of the spirit or spirituality may be infrequent among some of us. We’re better at black and white type of concepts. Who knows what spirituality really means! The Westminster dictionary of the Bible describes different theologies regarding the concept of spirit. One theory is that we have a natural body, made of things you can touch like flesh and bones, and a spiritual body which houses sensibility, memory, and instinct. Within our spiritual side there is a higher order which addresses intellect, morality, and our knowledge of God. It seems to me that the higher order should be split into another tier with intellect at one level and spirituality up a notch. I know that for myself the tendency is to address God at an intellectual level. I talk to him and ask his opinion but I have my agenda laid out already. If he speaks to me in that small still voice I’m not apt to hear him, and my intellect doesn’t stop and search for meaning or try to decipher what if anything he’s saying to me. I attended a class at Austin Theological Seminary on Spiritual Formation. We looked at what keeps us from addressing our spiritual side both as individuals and as a culture. Again it comes back to intellect. Even in the church where spirituality should be at the forefront we have expectations for how things should run here. We have our calendars and we want them (speaking for myself) filled up with activities. Hopefully many of the activities we offer have a spiritual component but there are things you can do on your own to nurture your spiritual side. For one, take time for Sabbath-keeping. Even God rested on the 7th day but in our culture the busiest gets the prize. We need to take time for Sabbath, to rest and to pray. Another way to nurture our spiritual side is through getting in touch with the playful side of yourself. Grab a kid and go chase butterflies! Lay out under the stars and experience the wonder of what’s in space and beyond. We in youth group experienced the playful last weekend when we took off in the pouring rain to David Rowland’s ranch to enjoy creation, each other and some fajitas. We couldn’t help but laugh as we bumped and bounced down the caliche road to the ranch. It was exhilarating !! If God is bigger than us and God’s ways are not our ways then it stands to reason that getting in touch with God (the spirit within us) is about seeking adventure. Who knows what we can discover!! by Rebecca Villarreal Director of Christian Education (posted October 30, 2003)
Revenues from pledges slumped during the third quarter (July - September) of this year. The total projected revenue from pledges for 2003 is $364,000, an average monthly amount of $30,332. Through September 30, actual monthly revenue from pledges averaged $29,306, a deficit of $1026 per month. During the three months of the third quarter, the average monthly figure dropped to $22,885. Despite the 3rd quarter slump, we have done reasonably well pledge-wise, but it is very important to pick up the slack and get back on target during the final quarter. The key to balancing the 2003 budget is to meet our pledge obligations. On the plus side, expenses remained within budget for the quarter and continue to be slightly below budget for the year-to-date(September 30). It should also be noted that the capital account had a balance of $18,677 as the 3rd quarter ended. Given the recent problems with the air conditioning system and its age, we need to continue building this account by meeting our remaining roof pledges for 2003, 2004 and 2005. These additional funds will be an important element in the necessary upgrading of the A.C. system. God continues to bless us in so many ways. Let us thank Him by supporting His work at First Presbyterian Church. John Graham for the Finance/Stewardship Committee (posted October 30, 2003)
If you enjoy fun and fellowship please join us on Fridays, November 21, 2003 from 9:15-12:00 noon at First Presbyterian Church in McAllen in the church parlor.Winter Texans and friends are welcomed! (posted October 30, 2003)
Plan to join us Wednesday, November 5, 2003 from 6:00 to 7:00 PM for an evening of good food and a topic fitting for this Holiday Season. The program is titled "Hanukkah-History and Traditions". It will be presented by Dana Friedman, Nina Raff and her young assistants. Dinner will be provided by the Fellowship Committee (King Ranch Casserol, Salad, and Dessert). We hope to see you there! (posted October 30, 2003)
Thank you all so very much for all of your prayers, cards, phone calls and flowers. You helped to make an unpleasant time pleasant. I am so appreciative. Margaret White (posted October 30, 2003)
Isn't this the beginning of the most wonderful time of year? The air is full of excitement and energy. If you can't feel it, than all you need to go get around some children. Halloween is the beginning of a fun filled couple of months for our kids. There is excitement over the idea of costumes, candy, and festivals. Then comes the joy of Thanksgiving with family and then of course, the best of all Santa and Christmas and the idea of getting everything that you have EVER wanted.No wonder these next few months just seem to fly by. Unfortunately, we as adults sometimes think of all the hurry and commercialism and all the hassle of the holidays coming up. We tend to look at the work of it all instead of the fun of it all. But, when you have the opportunity of being with little ones and seeing the fun and excitement through their eyes, it makes all the work and hassle worth it. As I get older, I think part of my wisdom is in seeing how much God wants me to see Him and HIS world through the eyes of a child, with enthusiasm and joy. Enjoy your next holiday months! Love Miss Pat (posted October 30, 2003)
On Sunday, November 16 at 12:00 Noon in the Courtyard plan to bring a picnic lunch and dine with Kirsten Kelso from Mo-Ranch. Drinks will be provided.Kirsten will be visiting with our WoRM kids and their parents about camp at Mo and introducing us to some great camp games. She will also be meeting with the Youth Groups later in the day. (posted October 30, 2003)
Our Confirmands have been in class for 7 weeks now and have completed their 1st session of study on "The Trinity, Prayer, and the Bible." We're really proud of these kids. Please take a moment to express your encouragement to Scott Schneider, Keaton Obst, Brian Pullen, Sarah Schwab, Celeste Shaney, and Kimberly Pruneda. (posted October 30, 2003)
Worship is blessed with members of the congregation who are devoting their time and talents tot the benefit of God and this church. All committee members have contributed to the planning for the Advent season. Mark your calendars for the following events. Taize Service will be Sunday, November 16th at 6 PM in the Fellowship Hall. Our annual "Hanging of the Greens" is scheduled for Saturday, November 29th,3-5 PM. We will be decorating the Sanctuary and church for the Advent season. All ages welcomed.There will be a tree decorated by the youth in the Fellowship Hall and we will enjoy a light Supper afterwards. To remember the occasion, Alfonso Photographers will be in the library for photos Saturday and Wednesday, December 2, 5-7PM. The cost is $12.95. All pictures will be available before Christmas. Poinsettias will again be in the sanctuary for Christmas. Each poinsettia will be $10.00 and can be purchased after November 2, 2003. If you are interested in purchasing the poinsettias, please call the office for more information. (posted October 30, 2003)
We have persons in our church that need our time and talents! There are those that have needs that we can help. There are needs to change a light bulb in the ceiling light fixture. The door will not lock, may need a new lock set or it is hard to open, needs trimming or oiled. Maybe someone needs to stop the water from running on the floor from the toilet or sink. How about a ride to the store or to the doctor's. Some may need a ride to church and that would be a blessing for us all. You may know of some needs of someone who is our neighbor. Persons in need of help, can phone the First Presbyterian church office to tell of the need. Leave your name, phone number and what you need. This information will be referred to the Help For Needs, chairman, who will call back, and talk about their need, and will then call two workers with the talents needed and arrange for a time to come. An appointment will be set up with the person in need. We are looking for handy persons that can do some repairs. We have members in our church that can give time and talents to help those in need. If you have a talent to give in our care of our fellow members in need, join us in this way as a service for God's people. These services are for just a few hours a month to help. The skills that are needed are for one or two hours of your time in the morning- 9 -11 AM; afternoon- 2 - 4 PM. Calendar of Open Meetings October 21, 12:00 noon- Come up with names & phones for workers. October 28, 12:00 noon - Put into action starting in November (posted October 27, 2003)
The firemen are coming! The firemen are coming! No, the firemen WERE coming! I was going to write a few words on how excited the children were to see the firemen and their truck and their fire suits. But, guess what!? The firemen did not get to come today because they had to go and fight a REAL fire only a few blocks away from here. A fire where someone's home burned, but the people were safe. Even though we were a little inconvenienced and maybe a bit sad, again we are forced to see how blessed we are. The reality of having men and women that are willing to risk their lives to save ours. Over and over today we have heard sirens that only remind me of how we all need each other to survive daily. Where would our lives be or our country, if we did not have men and women devoted to serving others. I've walked in those fireman's shoes, not to fight a fire, just to put on his suit and I know it's hard just to walk in those big, heavy boots. But, to really walk in his shoes may mean to lay his own life on the line for us. It is easy for us to go about our everyday lives as if nothing will ever happen to us. As we enter this season of thanksgiving, we really need to realize we have much to be thankful for. By Pat Simpson Director of Lynn Flowers Preschool (posted October 15, 2003)
Any woman who would like to stretch her faith in the company of other sisters is invited to a once a month Bible Study. We will be using Helen Pearson's "DO WHAT YOU HAVE THE POWER TO DO" This is a New Testament study of six women who stretched their faith and broke barriers. We will gather on Thursday evening,November 6, 2003 at 6:00 PM in Gracie Caballero's home, McAllen Texas…. Contact the church office if you have any questions. Hope to see you there! (posted October 15, 2003)
The Lord has truly blessed my family. We feel so welcomed by the good people of First Presbyterian. We want to thank you all for being so kind as we begin our call to lead here in McAllen. The choir is quite wonderful, always fun to work with, and we have been rehearsing wonderful music to enhance the worship service. As October began you heard the first fruits of our Children's Choir, under the direction of Pauline Sexton. Pauline is an expert in professional elementary music education and an Orff instrument and methodology specialists. Your children are in great hands in this important music ministry. Your children with unchanged voices that are comfortable reading are welcome (ages 6-12) The Adult Bell Choir has already rung this season and it was quite beautiful. We are fortunate to have such a ministry, and I would love to see more ringers involved. Handbell ringing is very accessible to even beginning musicians. The techniques employed look more difficult than they actually are, so don't be intimidated if you feel called to serve. All that is required is a heart for service and a desire to learn. The Youth Handbells continue to meet and we look forward to their first appearance in worship. All middle school children are welcome to come learn. We will prepare for the advent cantata on Wednesdays, beginning October 15, 2003. The cantata will be rehearsed from 8:30 -9:00 PM following our regular rehearsal time at 7-8 PM. We will present the Christmas Oratorio of Camille Saint Saens on Sunday, December 14, during our regular worship service, complete with chorus and soloists from our choir, with strings and keyboard accompaniment. This is a wonderful work celebrating the birth of our Savior. If you've been waiting to answer your call to join us in the loft, this is a great time to do so. Again, thank you so much for the wonderful welcome. We look forward to worshiping with you. God Bless. (posted October 15, 2003)
I believe the children are our future Teach them well and let them lead the way Show them all the beauty they possess inside Give them a sense of pride to make it easier Let the children's laughter remind us how we used to be Recorded by Whitney Houston Words and Music by Micheal Masser and Linda Creed I was first introduced to this song about a week into my first teaching job. Another "rookie" in the school played it at a teacher's meeting and it became our theme that year. We were young, fresh out of college, and ready to conquer the world. The words have always been meaningful to me and through out the years I've shared them with my students and with other teachers. Two weeks ago the youth in our church along with their sponsors headed out for a retreat at John Knox Ranch. This song came to mind. The children/youth in this church aren't just our future, they're our present. They're an active, involved group that add hope, enthusiasm, and honesty to our church. We have the responsibility to "teach them well" and to "give them a sense of pride." Our church has supported the youth for as long as I've been here. Many of you have given your time and talent to teach Sunday School or work as a Sponsor in Youth Group. There are four elements we focus on in Youth Group. They are recreation, study, worship, and service. Research with youth indicates that those with strong involvement in church have two things in common: They've served. Their work with those less fortunate than themselves has given them an appreciation of what God has done for them and a sense of responsibility for helping others. They have close ties with the older members of the church and credit those members with teaching valuable faith lessons. I thank God that the present and the future of First Presbyterian Church is in the hands of our young people and I pray that we as adults give them the skills to continue to serve and develop here. By Rebecca Villarreal Director of Christian Education (posted October 15, 2003)
The Disciplines include:
Interpretations of scripture that deepens your understanding of God's word. Suggestions for your daily walk with God. Please come by the church office during the week to pick up your Upper Room Daily Devotions Book. It is available for $10.00. Take advantage of this opportunity. They are limited in quantity so come by the church between 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM and get your copy. (posted October 15, 2003)
Fun and frolicking is on the agenda for this year's Fall Festival. Come in costume for this annual event of food, games, prizes, and festivities. This years festival will be Wednesday,October 29. 5:30 - 8:00 PM in the Courtyard and Fellowship Hall. (posted October 2, 2003)
I am sitting here today waiting as we all do when we have jury duty. I'm not real crazy about the coming over here, the waiting, the being taken away from the school where I want and need to be. It's a long day. It's not an inconvenience. It's not been fun. But, even though there is much that I'm not too thrilled with, I am thankful to be here. Hearing the judge talk about our small amount of service we are doing for our country makes me think twice. Seeing a family seeking justice when they obviously do not have great financial means, makes me appreciate the opportunities Americans have. Knowing that we live in a country when we all have the same access to have our case be heard makes me realize how truly fortunate we are. Praise God our family has never needed to be in a courtroom on either side but I am thankful that we live where the courtroom is an option for us all. So today, I'm learning to see a new side to being here, waiting. I am helping someone else have the opportunity to have their case heard just like I would want mine heard. That is worth the inconvenience and time spent, isn't it? Anyway, it gave me a chance to write this note to you. God Bless. Miss Pat Director of Lynn Flowers Preschool (posted October 2, 2003)
This months Savvy Sage Series topic will be: “Stewardship of Blessings” Learn about financial risk and non-risk taking plus other financial bits of information. This Session will take place at: First Presbyterian Church 104 S. 12th St. McAllen, TX in the Church parlor. For more information on the Savvy Sage Series, or to make reservations, contact the church office. Let the secretary know whether you’ll be attending the seminar only or staying for lunch as well. (posted October 2, 2003)
If you're one of the "Young at Heart" (roughly 60 or younger) please join us at Pepe's on the River on Sunday, October 12, 12:30 PM. This will be the first of several "good times" we have scheduled this year. Mom and Dad bring the kids for a casual, dutch treat, burger and fries type lunch down on the Rio Grande River. Please RSVP by calling the church office by October 8th. Hope to see you there! (posted October 2, 2003)
Women of First Presbyterian Church please mark you calendar for Saturday, October 25th at 9:30 AM. We will meet in the fellowship Hall for learning, sharing, and fellowship. We'll see you there! Gwyn Kozma Patricia Myers (posted October 2, 2003)
Hope is a hot topic. The headlines abound with stories of hope lost or the hope of a community renewed. It’s a timeless commodity, never goes out of style and in true Leo Buscaglia fashion you can share all the hope you have and still have all you started with. Whether you’re a wee one or an octogenarian hope is one need we all share. It’s the stuff that dreams are made of and frankly without it we wouldn’t feel like getting out of bed in the morning. But can we as a church nurture hope? Isaiah 40:31 But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength They will soar on wings like eagles They will run and not grow weary They will walk and not be faint. In The Future of Christian Education: Educating Congregations, Charles Foster believes that hope can be nurtured. His experiences show that hope and faith are strong among a people who serve others. To help someone whose needs are greater than yours humbles us. Getting in and getting your hands dirty is rewarding. Every community and yes every congregation is unique. Each one has its own set of circumstances, its own needs. When we come together as a people to do God’s work in God’s world we experience grace and we see that truly through God all things are possible. By Rebecca Villarreal (posted October 2, 2003)
If you have a video camera, are attending at least some of the Savvy Sage Series, and would be willing to do some video taping of the classes, please call Rebecca Villarreal at the church office. (posted October 2, 2003)
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