WORSHIP Sunday, October 12, 2014 GRACIOUS GOD, you have invited and welcomed us to this place of worship. You draw us away from the idols we create to take your place. When we come together, we sense that there is nothing in life that can substitute for a vital relationship with you. Yet we are only dimly aware of who you are. All the mysteries of the universe are in your hands, yet you have made yourself known among the people of this earth. We catch glimpses of your work among us and are amazed. We want to meet you again today, as for the first time. Touch us. Remake us. Help us to stand firm in the faith. Amen. Church of the Pa ms a community of faith . . . a way of life 3224 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota, FL 34239 • Ph (941) 924-1323 Fax (941) 923-9594 • www.churchofthepalms.org Prayer line (941) 924-9979 welcome to w rship Church of the Palms Our mission and deep commitment is: “Equipping Disciples for the Service of Christ.” We are a community of faith dedicated to a way of life contained in our name: P.A .L .M .S P raising God in Worship A ligning ourselves with Christ L oving one another in Community M inistering generously with our Time, Talent & Treasure S haring our story and The Story Our Pastors, staff and Session invite you to share not only in our worship, but also in the exciting opportunities that Church of the Palms offers to learn, serve and grow in your faith. So whether you are a first time visitor, member, affiliate member or frequently attend . . . . . . we are glad you are here! In Memoriam We extend our Christian sympathy to the family of Clayton E. Webb, who passed away on October 2. Cards and sympathy notes may be sent to Ethel Webb, 9508 East Riggs Rd. Apt D-123, Sun Lakes, AZ 85248. The memorial service will be held on October 25 at 2:00 p.m. in the Chapel. Sanctuary Flowers The flowers are given today to the glory of God and in loving memory of Edward Grancagnolo, from his children. 8:00 a.m. Chapel Communion Service Please sign the red covered friendship pad at the end of the pew. 2 Prelude Call to Worship Hymn #473 Opening Prayer Psalm 121 Offering Scripture Sermon Communion Prayer Hymn #244 Benediction Postlude “For the Beauty of the Earth” Joshua 24:1-15 (Pew Bible Pg. 215) Behind Closed Doors “Let Us with a Gladsome Mind” Church of the Palms SANCTUARY WORSHIP LEADERSHIP TODAY Senior Pastor Executive Pastor Congregational Pastor Visitation Pastor Family Ministry Director Equipping Ministry Director Director of Music Ministry Organist / Pianist Dr. Stephen D. McConnell Dr. Bruce Hedgepeth Dr. Lal Hmingliani Browne Dr. Alan Rodda Laurie Haas Carolyn Wilson Genevieve Beauchamp Dr. Jonathan Spivey Church Copyright License for all Music #706640 • Church Copyright License for all Video #503843606 OCTOBER USHERS 9:00 a.m. - Paul Goetz, Ginny Greenawalt, Genie Hindall, Monty & Andrea Jackson, Ben & Jayne Jacobson, Bob & Edith Lane, Ann Lang, Brigitte Lontz, Dave Lutes, Susan McKinnon and Carol Spelvey. Captain: Bob Nerthling 11:00 a.m. - Steve Black, Emily Conklin, Jane Delgado-Semidei, Jean DeMeritt, Jackie Garn, Debbie Keck, Patti Kelly, Jerry Laurila, Bob Luedeka, Peg Pentz, Eleanor Smith, Peg Tonn, and Carol Spangle. Co-Captains: Pat Frazier and Brad Wilson. Hearing Loop System in the Sanctuary Switch Hearing Aids to T-Coil (telephone setting) Sanctuary Worship Aids: Large-print copies of the Order of Worship and hearing devices are available. Packets containing children’s worship activities are available in the Sanctuary and Campus Center. Please ask an usher for assistance. Sermon Text: Printed copies of previous sermons are available in the Narthex of the Sanctuary, Campus Center, the Administration Building and on the church website. Televised 9:00 a.m. Worship Service - Every Sunday, Comcast Cable Channel 189. Live streaming of the service is available on our website, www.churchofthepalms. org and may be replayed Sunday afternoon. All services are archived online. DVD copies may be purchased through the church office. The Garden @ CHURCH OF THE PALMS Join us at 9:00 a.m. in the Campus Center for our Modern Worship service. THE GARDEN WORSHIP LEADERSHIP TODAY Pastors: Joe Davis (mobilepreacher@gmail.com) Bruce Hedgepeth (bhedgepeth@churchofthepalms.org) Technical Director: Mike Bassett (mbass66@verizon.net) Worship Leader: Megan Mooney (megmooney@hotmail.com) Need Someone To Talk To? In times of trouble, we turn to caring Christian friends to listen to us while we work through our feelings. A Stephen Minister can become such a friend. If you or someone you know could benefit from the trained, caring presence and listening ear of a Stephen Minister, please call our Congregational Care Pastor, Dr. Hmingi Browne at 924-1323. a celebration of w rship 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. • Sanctuary 18th Sunday after Pentecost Prayer of invocation 9:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. • we gather • Bill Lewis Cindy Lanoue-Foster “Prelude & Fugue in E Minor ” PRELUDE Introit (9:00 a.m.) Felix Mendelssohn Chancel Choir *Call to worship *Hymn #473 “For the Beauty of the Earth” *Call to Confession • we confess • *Prayer of Confession (together) God of all mercy, you have planted within us a desire to observe justice and do righteousness. We want to be fair and honorable, delighting in life shared openly and honestly with family, friends, and co-workers. Instead, we are often defensive, fearful, and distracted. We spend more time with our toys than with your truth. We seek temporary thrills rather than lasting meaning. Then we are disappointed when our “golden calves” bring no fulfillment. We return to you, loving God, intent on following the guidance we are receiving from you. Save us from ourselves. In Jesus’ name. Amen. *Declaration of Pardon Leader: Friends, believe the good news of the Gospel. People: In Jesus Christ we are forgiven. *Congregational response (together) Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost; As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, World without end. Amen, Amen. *Affirmation of Faith - The Apostles’ Creed (together) I believe in God, the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth. And in Jesus Christ his only Son our Lord; who was conceived by the Holy Ghost, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, dead, and buried; he descended into hell; the third day he rose again from the dead; he ascended into heaven, and sitteth on the right hand of God the Father Almighty; from thence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead. I believe in the Holy Ghost; the holy catholic church; the communion of saints; the forgiveness of sins; the resurrection of the body; and the life everlasting. Amen. 4 Church of the Palms • we share • RESPONSE O for a thousand tongues to sing My dear Redeemer’s praise, The glories of my God and King, The triumphs of God’s grace! Life at Church of the Palms Please sign and pass the red covered friendship pad at the end of the pew. MINUTE FOR MISSION - stephen ministry Fran Patterson (9:00 a.m.) / Katherine Andersen (11:00 a.m.) pastoral prayer and the Lord’s Prayer Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. offertory 9:00 a.m. “He Is The Everlasting God” Joseph M. Martin Chancel Choir He is the everlasting God. He is the holy One. He is the everlasting God of Abraham. The nations glorify His name, all His majesty proclaim. Alleluia, holy One, alleluia. Shout! He is the everlasting God. He has measured the heavens, held the seas in His hands. He has held the mountains counted each grain of sand. The kings of the earth all tremble, they bow before His throne. Who is His adviser? For He is God alone. Come join the celebration, break forth in jubilation. Alleluia, allelu. Come, praise the God of Abraham. He is the everlasting God, shout! Rejoice with cymbals crashing. 11:00 a.m. “Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee” arr. Joel Raney *DOXOLOGY AND PRAYER OF DEDICATION Praise God from whom all blessings flow; Praise Him all creatures here below; Praise Him above, ye heavenly host; Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen. • we PROCLAIM • Laurie Haas Children’s MomenT (9:00 a.m.) Sherry Watts Sharing our story *Hymn #306 “Fairest Lord Jesus” Scripture LESSON Leader: This is the Word of the Lord! People: Thanks be to God! SERMON Joshua 24:1-15 (Pew Bible Pg. 215) “Behind Closed Doors” www.churchofthepalms.org Dr. Stephen D. McConnell 5 • we GO • *Hymn #244 “Let Us with a Gladsome Mind” *Benediction *Benediction Response Grant us thy peace upon our homeward way; With thee began, with thee shall end the day. Guard thou the lips from sin, the heart from shame, That in this house have called upon thy name. Organ postlude “Fugue in C Minor” J.S. Bach *Congregation, please stand if able celebrating M O I RA Moira has accepted a position teaching Math at Haile Middle School. We are so happy for her to be pursuing a dream that she has had for a long time. She will be greatly missed by all of us who got to work with her! She will also be missed by the children, teens and families that she has shepherded over these last four years. Lucky us, Moira and her family will continue to worship and serve here with us! We want to say thank you to Moira for her ministry among us. Please join us in the courtyard today to enjoy some refreshments and to personally thank Moira for her service. If you know of anyone interested in working as the Children’s Ministry Coordinator, please have them contact Laurie Haas, lhaas@churchofthepalms.org. The Job Description is available on our website, www.churchofthepalms.org. 6 Church of the Palms new member class TODAY • Chapel Reception Room 10:15 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. New Members Part 1 - COP Orientation: If you are ready to make a deeper commitment to the Church of the Palms family of faith or would just like to explore what that means, then this is the class for you! Just here seasonally? Come learn about our affiliate membership. 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. New Members Part 2 - Join The Community: If you have made the decision to join our community of faith, this is your opportunity to be received into membership. The only prerequisite is to have attended a New Member Orientation. No need to sign up for either New Members Part 1 or 2...just come to the Chapel Reception Room! Call to Prayer Sundays, 8:00 a.m. - 8:45 a.m. Chapel Reception Room Join us every Sunday before the services as we pray for our pastors and the morning services. Come and pray silently or out loud. Contact Susan Grundy, 355-2156. Remember In Prayer Missionaries & Mission Partners An updated list of our supported worldwide and local mission partners and missionaries is available on the literature racks at the doors in the Sanctuary, the Campus Center and the Church Office. We ask for your continued prayers for all of our Missionaries and Mission Partners. Individuals June LeBell Alley Earl Bloom Dottie Cole Joyce Christiansen Mary Frances Dockum Janet Eddy Edie Esser Aaron Gooding Babe Hart Mary Jaqua Beverly Killian Bob Kramer Cherie Leetzow Jim Lontz Paul Mercer Mae Perry Ragnar Petri Linda Dallman-Repp Lee Stewart Sunny Ulrich Roland VanderValk Mary Wadsworth Military Non-Members Ann Andrus Jean Baray Kim Bassett Jason Candido Claire Cane Maaika Clark Jeff Dockum Marien Favat Jessica Flagiello George Godfrey Khloe Hill Bob Kelly Nutei Khawlhring Frank, Karen & Phil Lagana Sharron Piver Ann Prohoniak Brian Rogers Devon & Carol Simon George Thomas Alice & Harlan Twible Joan White Don Wilson Chris Branning Richard Carson Zack & Daniel Castle Rob Garner Peter Higginbotham Zachary Miller David Moffett Lauren Moffett Tracy Prohoniak Jared Sweetser Ben Young The Family of Clayton E. Webb In Need of Prayer? Please call the church office. We would love to pray for you and any prayer requests you may have, 924-1323. Family ministry family MINISTRY Children’s small groups special themes in october Sundays in October • 10:15 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. • Education Building Kids in 1st through 5th grades will enjoy learning about these special themes during the month of October: 1st & 2nd grade: Baptism & Communion 3rd grade: Get into the Bible 4th & 5th grade: Service in our Community Youth Group - echo the story Middle School & High School Students Wednesdays • 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. • Rooms 208-210, 209 This year, we invite middle and high school students to join us as we enter the Story of God, the larger story that we are all a part of. Join us for games, discussion and music each Wednesday. FAMILY FUN NIGHT Wednesday, October 15 • 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. • Room 205 Parents and kids PreK-5th grade will gather in Room 205 from 6:30 p.m. -7:30 p.m. for a Generosity Themed night on work. “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord” (Colossians 3:23). We will explore this theme with games and fun activities. You won’t want to miss the Spooky Dinner Ms. Kathy has planned, serving from 5:00 p.m. - 6:15 p.m. Call the front office to register for both events, 924-1323. “GIRLS ON FIRE” GAME NIGHT Saturday, October 18 6:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. • At the home of Gillian Gardner Ladies - join our girl’s ministry, Girls on Fire, for a game night. Build tacos, build relationships, and play games...be there (2716 Siesta Drive, Sarasota, 34238)! Contact Leslie Hazlett, leslie@ hazlettllc.com. Pumpkin Carving Party at the McCauley’s! (8th-12th graders) Sunday, October 19 • 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. • At the McCauley home 8th graders through 12th graders are invited to the McCauley House for a night of pumpkin carving. All you need to bring is yourself, a pumpkin to carve, and $3 for dinner. Well, maybe a friend. Let’s get in the Halloween spirit together. Contact Jeff McCauley, jmccauley@churchofthepalms.org for address and directions. 8 Church of the Palms SUNDAY KIDS WORSHIP • 9:30 a.m. - 10:15 a.m. All Pre-K through 5th grade kids should begin worship with their families at the 9:00 a.m. service. After the Children’s Moment, they will be escorted from the service to participate in Kids Worship in room 205-207 from 9:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. On the first Sunday of the month, children will have Chapel (in the Chapel) during Kids Worship time. Parents are welcome to join us for Chapel, which will include music, a short message, and Communion. After Kids Worship or Chapel, children will have Fellowship Time in room 205-207 from 10:00 a.m. - 10:15 a.m. SUNDAY CHILDCARE • 8:45 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. Nursery: room 101 Toddlers & 2 Year Olds: room 103 3 Year Olds: room 103B sunday Elementary Small Groups • 10:15 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. This year, children are learning the same theme being preached in the Sanctuary and Garden each week. We are all finding our place in God’s Story, the Bible. Pre-K - Kindergarten: room 114 1st & 2nd grade: room 207 3rd grade: 211 Library 4th & 5th grade: room 205 SUNDAY Middle & High School Small Groups (Rooms 208, 209, 210) Each Sunday from 10:15 a.m. - 11:00 am, students will gather in Rooms 208, 209, and 210 to explore the deeper themes of God’s Story through the narrative lectionary being studied church wide. We will have creative conversations and share personal stories to find where we connect to God’s greater story. CONTACT FAMILY MINISTRY STAFF (924-1323): Family Ministry Director: Student Ministry Director: Family Ministry Coordinator: Nursery Coordinator: Laurie Haas (lhaas@churchofthepalms.org) Jeff McCauley (jmccauley@churchofthepalms.org) Valerie Mathews (vmathews@churchofthepalms.org) Corrie Hoffman (corrie3hoffman@gmail.com ) parents forum: Beyond Facebook #Bullying Parents of 4th - 12th Graders Wednesday, October 22 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. • Room 205 We are bringing in an expert to lead us in a discussion of social media influence and bullying. As you drop off your student for Youth Group, please stay for an hour of conversation with other parents about subjects that are important as we try to raise healthy, Christ-centered kids. high school fall retreat Friday, November 14 - Sunday, November 16 • At the Straeb home This fall, we will launch our very first High School Fall Retreat. Led by a team of caring adults, high school students will settle into a weekend retreat house, where rest, conversation, service and worship are the agenda. Special thanks to the Straeb family for graciously allowing us to use their home for this retreat! Because of their generosity, the price has been reduced to $70! Sign up by Sunday, Nov. 2nd to hold your spot. www.churchofthepalms.org 9 adult discipleship & fellowship sunday The story: creation TO THE resurrection 10:15 a.m. • Chapel This class is designed as a companion to the Sunday sermon series. Each week we will have the opportunity to look deeper into the scriptures behind the sermon. We will learn how God has revealed His plan of salvation from Creation to the Cross. Augustine formulated the axiom, “in the Old Testament the New is concealed, in the New the Old is revealed”. Led by Dale Vollrath: dale.vollrath@trcstaffing.com. New Life Class 10:15 a.m. • Room 202 New Life Class is a wonderful group of parents who meet Sunday mornings to discuss topics related to parenting and marriage. Our purpose is to provide a time and place for couples to grow closer to God by studying scripture and gleaning wisdom from current books related to parenting. Led by Alisia Thompson and Kim McCauley: kimmermccauley@msn.com. Christians Under Construction - Biblical Potpourri 10:15 a.m. • Room 206 Each week we will tackle a new subject bringing Bible lessons to current issues; pondering Biblical mysteries; wrestling with the question of free will against Biblical truth; and matching what we know from science against traditional Biblical beliefs. We read the Bible, consider how the lessons apply to the real world, and practice informed discussion. Led by Tom Webber (webber.thom@gmail.com), Adam Leonard and Alan Rodda. A Time out for parents 10:15 a.m. • Room 109 Parents: please join our small group for a 4 week study of the Verbs of God with the Margaret Feinberg video series from RightNow Media. Each week, we will visit with each other as we catch up on our week. This will be followed by a 10-15 minute video, scripture readings, and discussion questions. Contact Jen Clifton, jenaclifton@gmail.com, 925-0198. Church of the Palms Book Group October 19, 3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Chapel Reception Room You are encouraged to join us for our October book choice, Bridge to Haven by best-selling author, Francine Rivers. In this fascinating story, readers encounter a tale of temptation, grace and unconditional love. Our hour of discussion is certain to be jam-packed with high interest, valuable insights, and enjoyable sharing. Everyone is most welcome. Contact Doris Kamphuis, 360-8474, rakamphuis@aol.com. 10 Church of the Palms MONday PALMS’ SINGLES DINNER (50+) 5:30 p.m. • Campus Center Every Monday we have dinner at 5:30 p.m. followed by events such as book talks, game night, special outings and more. Please call in your dinner reservations by the Thursday prior to this dinner, no later than noon. Contact Dottie Stoddard, 924-7430. TUESday MEN’S BIBLE STUDY & BREAKFAST 7:00 a.m. • Off Campus This group is open to any men who would like the opportunity to get to know other men from our church while deepening their faith through Bible study and prayer. Please bring a Bible. We are currently studying the book of John. Led by Dale Vollrath. Contact Dale Vollrath, dale.vollrath@trcstaffing.com. Women’s Prayer Group 2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. • Chapel Narthex Our prayer time is a time for encouragement through God’s Word and prayer. Prayers are for our church, country, family relationships, adult children with addictions, grandchildren and friends. We will stroll with Paul through Romans. Join us to know Jesus Christ more clearly, to love Him more dearly, and to follow Him more nearly. We welcome all prayer requests. Gaye O’Brien 377-3480. C.S. Lewis Reading Group October 21, 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Chapel Reception Room Our reading group, led by Dr. McConnell, will discuss chapters 8-10 of The Problem of Pain. THE LEGACY JOURNEY by Dave Ramsey Begins October 21 - December 9 (no class on November 25) 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. • Room 202 This is an all-new, 7-week, Bible-based class that will lead you deeper into investing, basic estate planning, purposeful living, safeguarding your legacy, and discovering the keys to generational wealth and true generosity. It will involve video teaching, class discussions and interactive small-group activities. Register for the class at: https://www.daveramsey.com/legacy/registration/ class/259192/. Cost of materials is $109; see Bob Baarson to purchase or for help registering. Contact Bob Baarson: baarson@comcast.net, 400-9391 www.churchofthepalms.org 11 north home bible study October 14, 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.• Off Campus Beginning in August through mid-October, we will be studying the book of James. We meet on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month. Please join us for Bible study, prayer and food/fellowship. Please contact Reyn or Doris Kamphuis at 3608474 or email us at rakamphuis@aol.com if you have any questions. Stephen ministry October 21, 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. • Room 206 Receive continuing education and meet in supervised groups every third Tuesday of the month. Contact Hmingi Browne, 924-1323. WEDNESday Men’s Bible Study 7:30 a.m. • Chapel Reception Room In the Letter to the Romans Paul develops the argument that is the basis of Christianity: Nothing you can do will save you. It is through faith alone that we are saved. Led by Tom Webber, webber.thom@gmail.com and Rev. Fred Marsh. watercolor wednesday 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. • Chapel Reception Room Paint with watercolor and enjoy the company of other artsy folk! Please remember to bring your own supplies. Contact Hmingi Browne, 9241323 or hbrowne@churchofthepalms.org. prayer shawl group 3:30 p.m.• Chapel Narthex We are knitting prayer shawls. All are welcome to join us! Contact Hmingi Browne, 924-1323 or hbrowne@churchofthepalms.org. Living a life of significance (Men’s Study) 6:30 p.m. • Room 202 This fall, we will explore our role in the modern world, developing our role as the spiritual leader for our families and the significant people who surround us. We will also focus on living lives of significance; getting rid of the board in our eyes before we remove the speck from others. We will turn to God and the Bible to eliminate harmful habits/addictions that men must deal with. Led by Brad Wilson, bradsrq@ verizon.net. gideon by Priscilla Shirer (Women’s study) Today - October 15 • 6:30 p.m. • Room 206 Through a look at the life of Gideon, you can discover that instead of ignoring, neglecting, or trying to escape your weaknesses, you can see them as the gifts, given specifically and strategically by God to unlock the door of God’s strength. Led by Alison Dietz-Ross, adrgator@comcast.net. 12 Adult Discipleship & Fellowship EXPERIENCING gOD Today - November 12 • 6:30 p.m. Chapel Reception Room Come and explore how we experience God in each day of our own lives. This class consists of short DVD lectures and class discussions. Led by Pastor Hmingi Browne: 924-1323, hbrowne@churchofthepalms.org. This Wednesday Spooky Dinner Night Cauldron Cafe 5:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. Campus Center Slimey Spaghetti • Goblin Garlic Bread Spooky Salad • Vampire Vegetables Purple Witches Potion • Boo Brownies Family Price w/reservation (2 adults, 2 children): $15; $16 without reservation • Kids (ages 3-17): $5 • Adults w/reservation: $8; $9 without reservation. Kids two and under eat FREE! Make your reservation by calling the office before noon on Tuesday, filling out a dinner reservation card, or going to www.churchofthepalms.org. Remembering your story by Richard Morgan Begins October 22 - November 19 • 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. West Meeting Room Remembering Your Story will help you to recall the memories of your spiritual journeys and project them into the future. This series will kick-off on October 22 at 5:15 p.m. with a guest speaker, Donna Authers. She will speak on “Sharing Your Wisdom” which will then lead into your own personal discernment journey. Work books need to be picked up in advance in order to prepare for the first session. Cost of workbook: $14.00. Contact Fee Mercer to obtain a workbook. Led by Fee Mercer: pmercer10@comcast.net, 371-8091 the family of jesus by Karen Kingsbury (Women’s study) Begins October 22 - November 19 • 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. • Room 206 The Family of Jesus offers a fictional view of six of the family members of Jesus, all anchored in Scriptural truth, creating a life-changing and unprecedented emotional connection to the Bible. Karen intersperses fictional and emotional details anchored in Scripture with historical and theological insights and questions that will inspire soul-searching and reflection. Led by Alison Dietz-Ross, adrgator@comcast.net. www.churchofthepalms.org 13 THURSday PALMS BRIDGE CLUB October 16, 7:00 p.m.• Chapel Reception Room We meet on the first and third Thursdays of the month for fun and fellowship. Please join us. Contact Gloria Knox, 371-0848 to make your reservation. Beginning Creative Signing Class 5:30 p.m. • Music & Arts Building We are now offering a new Beginning Creative Signing class on Thursdays at 5:30 p.m. in the Music & Arts Building. This class is an introduction to incorporating American Sign Language with Music to interpret God’s message to us in visual form. No previous experience is necessary. Our Advanced Creative Signers will be leading this class. Anyone from Middle School through senior adults is welcome. If you are curious how this works, and you love to talk with your hands, come and sign up under the Fellowship Tree. Contact Susy Welsh 321-5703, musicalmoment@me.com. sisters in Christ October 23, 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. • Chapel Reception Room We meet on the fourth Thursday of the month. We study books and articles to help us on our spiritual journeys. We share insights and fellowship with coffee, discussion and prayer. Contact Cindy Lanoue-Foster, 922-1826 (please leave a message); bettina5321@verizon.net. FRIday Friday Morning Bible Study The Tabernacle: Christ in the Old Testament 9:30 a.m. • Room 202 This first of several Fall and Winter sessions will be a 7-week study exploring how the wilderness Tabernacle of Moses foreshadowed Jesus Christ’s incarnation, ministry, death and resurrection, down to the smallest detail. Led by Meriam Matthews, meriam112@ mindspring.com and Peter Connor, peterconnor37@gmail.com. grief support group 11:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m. • Chapel Reception Room All those who have lost a loved one are invited to attend. Licensed counselor Diane Brantley of Samaritan Counseling is leading. Contact Pastor Hmingi Browne, 9241323. 14 Church of the Palms loving stitches October 24, 9:45 a.m.• Chapel Reception Room We are a group of women who knit, crochet, sew and quilt for local charities. We create baby sweaters and blankets for Healthy Start and the Veterans Hospital; teddy bears for the Sheriff and Police Departments and hats for the Resurrection House and the Salvation Army. We meet on the fourth Friday of each month. If you enjoy sewing, knitting, quilting or crocheting, please join us. Knitting and crochet instructions are available. Contact Alberta Adams, 924-8464. south home bible study October 24, 6:30 p.m. • Off Campus We meet the second and fourth Friday of the month. We are continuing our study of the book of Romans. Join us for prayer, Bible study, and fellowship. Contact Reyn and Doris Kamphuis, 360-8474 or rakamphuis@aol.com. Eat, Meet & Be Merry October 31,11:30 a.m. • Off Campus Join Pastor Hmingi Browne for food and fellowship at Der Dutchman every last Friday of the month. Contact Hmingi Browne, 924-1323. Shepherding Deacons’ Quarterly meeting Saturday, October 25, 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. • Campus Center Be sure to bring your Deacons Binder, $6.00 for lunch and stories to share. Please RSVP by Monday, October 20 by sending an email to Jan Gilbert at rmg1@ comcast.net so that we know how much food to prepare. You may also call Pastor Hmingi to RSVP, 924-1323. Legacy Giving Corner What Will They Say About You When You’re Gone? An old song used to plead, “Please don’t talk about me when I’m gone”. In fact, it is most likely that folks will speak about us when we are gone whether we like it or not. The real issue is, what will they have to say? Providing for the causes and institutions that have been meaningful to us during life can be a most effective means of giving our friends something to remember us by. When you remember the church in your will, you leave more than money. You are leaving powerful evidence that your life accomplished something significant and lasting. Then, when folks think of us, they will have something positive to say. For more information, about the Legacy Society, contact Dr. McConnell, smcconnell@ churchofthepalms.org, 924-1323 or John Mercier, Chair of the Legacy Giving Committee, 921-5726, jmaosf@gmail.com. www.churchofthepalms.org 15 spotlight on missions Current Status of Christians in Iraq As September 11, 2014 There is great fear and anxiety throughout all of Iraq. While we were greatly surprised in the United States by the rapid development, sudden appearance, and brutality of the group known as ISIS, so also were the Iraqi people caught off guard and surprised. Initially ISIS would come into Sunni Muslim towns, and befriend the townspeople into thinking that they would reestablish a Sunni dominated government. Then ISIS would introduce their version of Sharia law, and the people were trapped. Many Sunni joined the ISIS military because not to do so meant their death and their families’ deaths as well. ISIS suddenly spread through the Sunni towns and cities that occupied that area between the Tigris and Euphrates River known as the fertile crescent of Iraq. They came within 35 miles of Erbil (the Capital of Iraqi Kurdistan) and Kirkuk. The number of refugees seeking safety throughout the country is over a million. Food, shelter, and basic staples are at a premium, and everything is more expensive because of scarcity and increased need. The National Evangelical Presbyterian church of Kirkuk, which we at COP help to support, is now hosting 52 Christian refugees from the city of Mosul. Many members of the church have left seeking safer places to live, thus depleting the church’s flock and offerings. Nevertheless, the church is using its own funds to buy food and necessities for these refugees who will remain there for an indefinite period of time. The church has several guest rooms for visitors, and the rest of the families are living in the Sunday school classrooms. The pastor knows that in addition to Christians, there are also many Shiite Muslims, Turkmen, and others who also fled the threats of ISIS. The pastor states firmly, “These Muslims cannot be held accountable for what ISIS has done. They too have become victims of the same bigotry.” 16 Church of the Palms The Kirkuk pastor is working with other clergy to provide shelter and food in other churches and city buildings. Public schools will not be open for classes this year since the empty classrooms are being used as family dormitories and refugee camps. However, the church-supported kindergarten, a private school, will open. The new primary school which the pastor and his flock had hoped to open this fall will most likely not open. The people of Kirkuk, whether Christian or Muslim, are working together to give sanctuary and aid to the many, many refugees. Fortunately the American air strikes have caused ISIS to retreat further away from Kirkuk and Erbil. The Iraqis are very grateful to the USA, but hope and pray, as we do, that ISIS can be defeated without placing our “boots on the ground.” The author of this update, Charlie Haeussner, is pleased to report to you that following COP’s appeal in August to help the Iraqi Christian refugees, there was a large response of support through the Iraq Partnership Network of the PC/USA. As the Treasurer of the Iraq Partnership Network, Charlie talked on 9/11/2014 with the Middle East Office of the PC/USA in Louisville, KY. They reported that immediately after the announcements and article (Spotlight on Mission in the Church Bulletin) about the Iraqi Christian refugees appeared at COP, forty-three families from the Sarasota area donated a total of $5,865. Church of the Palms comes through again with open hearts and generosity. This is in addition to the $1,000 that was raised during the evening with two of COP’s missionaries in the Campus Center on September 7th. You will be pleased to know that those funds and others will be taken to Kirkuk and given to the pastor by a delegation travelling from the USA to Beirut and Iraq in the next several weeks. Iraq will have a continuing crisis for quite a long time. When the secretary of the Middle East Office asked Charlie how one church in Florida managed to raise so much money so quickly, Charlie replied, “Because we asked! We told their story, and then we asked for help. Our people responded.” Charlie asked that this information be shared with those on the Mission Committee and also with Church Staff and Session. It is important for all to know how effective announcements from the pulpit and articles in the weekly bulletin really are. You are truly sharing with our brothers and sisters in Christ in other parts of this world as Christ has told us to do. As mentioned above, the author of this Spotlight is Charlie Haeussner - member of COP and a member of the Mission Committee. The Haeussners live in the Pittsburgh area half the year and in the Sarasota area the other half. Charlie and Carol look forward to returning to Florida in early October. They may be reached at cfhcgh@erthlink.net. Iraqi Displaced Christian Relief Contributions can be made online: http://www.presbyterianmissions.org/donate/ E052049, or you may make a check payable to PC/USA ECO Fund # 052049. Write “Iraqi Displaced Christian Relief” on the Memo Line and mail to: PC/USA Individual Remittance Processing P.O Box 643700 Pittsburgh, PA 15264-3700 Attn: ECO Fund #052049 - Displaced Christian Relief www.churchofthepalms.org 17 opportunities for generosity Advent Readers This is the time of year when we look for couples and families who feel like setting the tone for the Christmas Season. Read a simple text at either the 9:00 a.m. or 11:00 a.m. service on one of the Advent Sundays or on Christmas Eve. Just make sure you light the right candle! Please sign-up under the Tree or contact Jan Short: janet.short1@gmail. com; (508) 769-9752. Volunteer in the Nursery Interested in helping out our young families? Volunteer in the nursery just one time per month! This will allow our young parents to worship and go to Small Groups on Sunday morning. You will fall in love with our littlest angels. Please contact Corrie Hoffman to schedule a time. Call 727-457-9403 or corrie3hoffman@ gmail.com back t bas cs tutoring program The math and science training yesterday was super. Thanks to Jane Brand, Sue D’Angelo and Carlos Hernandez who did the training and are heads of the departments in the Sarasota County Schools. Thanks, also, to all of the tutors who attended. We are still in need of tutors. For information and/or to volunteer, please see Judy Armitage under the Fellowship Tree or call her at 924-1323. 18 Food Pantry Help Wanted The Food Pantry is looking for substitutes and packers. We are in need of substitutes for distribution on an on-call basis. We also need packers for Wednesdays and Thursdays (beginning at 8:00 a.m. on Wednesdays and 8:00 a.m. on Thursdays). If you would like to help, please contact Kathy Robinett, 924-1323, krobinett@ churchofthepalms.org Wednesday Grille Volunteers We need volunteers for prepping (2 hours), dining room setup (begins at 3:00 p.m.), dining room help during dinner and cleanup afterwards. If you would like to help, please contact Kathy Robinett, 924-1323, krobinett@churchofthepalms.org The Resurrection House: A Daycare Center for the Homeless The RH continues to need your donations if you are unable to volunteer. With the coming of cooler weather, warm clothing (coats, hats, 30-34 underwear socks, & sneakers), bedding (blankets & sleeping bags) and towels & wash cloths are needed. Please drop off donations in sacks or containers marked RH in the Administration building. All donations are greatly appreciated. Contact Len Higley, 724-6876. Church of the Palms upcoming ministry events hope lives: An Intergenerational and Intellectual Exploration Into Poverty Around the World & Our Place in God’s Plan Small Group • Sept. 16 - Dec.16 • 7:15 p.m. • At the home of the Huey’s We invite high school students and up who have seen/experienced poverty domestically and internationally, or are interested and would like to delve into the roots of its existence, to join us. We will also explore God’s role and our role in poverty. Contact Brett Keyser: brettkeyser@gmail.com, 957-8425. Saturday, October 18 • 8:00 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. • Campus Center The fall Men’s Breakfast is coming soon! We invite all men to join us for breakfast on Saturday, October 18 from 8:00 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. in the Campus Center. We’ll provide a great breakfast, share more on upcoming opportunities and events for men, and hear real-life messages of how men are “Sharing their Story”. Stop by the Palms Men table under the tree to learn more and sign up today! SARASOTA CHORAL FESTIVAL Saturday, October 18 • 7:00 p.m. Key Chorale presents the inaugural Sarasota Choral Festival featuring the works of modern choral composer, Morten Lauridsen. Choral singers from around the area will join the Chorale in a performance of Lauridsen’s Lux Aeterna. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit http://keychorale.org/event/event-number-three/ . Advent Dinner To Benefit Samaritan Counseling Services Friday, December 12 • 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. • Campus Center Tickets: $40.00 or a Table of 8 for $320.00 Get ready for Advent by viewing inspiring table settings decorated by members and friends of our church. Enjoy the delicious dinner, Christmas music entertainment, and fellowship with one another. Our 2014 Advent Dinner will benefit Samaritan Counseling Services of the Gulf Coast. Our mission is to strengthen individuals and families through professional Christian Counseling services. Mark your calendars now! For more information contact Bonney Miller at 966-8102 or email her at: bonneybcat@comcast.net. www.churchofthepalms.org 19 Stephen The After After People People Stephen Ministers: Ministers: The People often ask, “What exactly is a Stephen Minister?” One way to put it is that People often ask, “What is a Stephen Minister?” One way to put it is that Stephen Ministers are theexactly After People. Stephen Ministers are the After People. Stephen Ministers are there: Stephen Ministers are there: . . . after the phone call you hoped you’d never get. . . . after the phone call you hoped you’d never get. . . . after the divorce papers are served and the bottom falls . . . out after of the yourdivorce life. papers are served and the bottom falls out of your life. . . . after the funeral, when everyone has left and the emotions you’ve . . . held afteratthe when everyone has left and the emotions you’ve bayfuneral, come crashing in on you. held at bay come crashing in on you. . . . after the doctor says, “I’m sorry, but there’s nothing more we can do.” . . . after the doctor says, “I’m sorry, but there’s nothing more we can do.” . . . after the nursing home director shakes your hand and says, “Welcome to . . . your afternew the nursing home.” home director shakes your hand and says, “Welcome to your new home.” . . . after the last child honks the horn, waves, and drives away—and the house . . . suddenly after theseems last child honks the horn, waves, and drives away—and the house empty. suddenly seems empty. . . . after the gavel goes down, the handcuffs go on, and your loved one is . . . led after the gavel goes down, the handcuffs go on, and your loved one is away. led away. . . . after the baby arrives, demanding more of you than you ever . . . dreamed after thepossible. baby arrives, demanding more of you than you ever dreamed possible. . . . after you find a pink slip with your final paycheck. . . . after you find a pink slip with your final paycheck. . . . after your family and friends have heard your story . . . after and friends have heard oneyour too family many times, but you still needyour to story one talk too many times, but you still need to it out. talk it out. Stephen Ministers are the “After People.” They are ready to come alongside you—or Stephen Ministers are the “After People.” They are ready to come alongside you—or your friends, neighbors, coworkers, or relatives—and provide comfort and support for your friends, neighbors, coworkers, or relatives—and provide comfort and support for www.stephenministries.org as long after as needed. www.stephenministries.org as long after as needed. Copyright © 2009 by Stephen Ministries St. Louis, Missouri. All rights reserved. Representatives of a congregation have permission to photocopy this document forMinistries use within congregation to build forRepresentatives Stephen Ministry. Copyright by Stephen St.their Louis, Missouri. All rightssupport reserved. of a congregation have permission © 2009 to photocopy this document for use within their congregation to build support for Stephen Ministry. 20 Church of the Palms calendar of events Sunday, OCTOBER 12 8:00 a.m. 8:00 a.m. 8:45 a.m. 9:00 a.m. 9:00 a.m. 9:30 a.m. 10:15 a.m. 10:15 a.m. 10:15 a.m. 10:15 a.m. 10:15 a.m. 10:15 a.m. 10:15 a.m. 11:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. 4:30 p.m. Chapel Worship Service Prayer Meeting Childcare The Garden Worship Service Traditional Worship Kid’s Worship Pre-K - Elementary Small Groups Middle - High School Small Groups Christians Under Construction New Life Class The Story: Creation to Resurrection A Time Out For Parents New Member Class - COP Orientation New Member Class - Join the Community Traditional Worship Praise & Glory Choir Rehearsal Chapel Chapel Study See Page 9 Campus Center Sanctuary 205-207 See Page 9 See Page 9 206 202 Chapel 109 Chapel Reception Room Chapel Reception Room Sanctuary Music & Arts Building Monday, OCTOBER 13 9:30 a.m. Deborah Circle Off Campus 9:30 a.m. Priscilla Circle Chapel Reception Room 10:00 a.m. Rebekah Circle206 5:30 p.m. Palm Singles Dinner Campus Center 6:30 p.m. Sounds of Glory Orchestra Rehearsal Music & Arts Building 7:00 p.m. The Garden Leadership Team Meeting East Meeting Room Tuesday, OCTOBER 14 7:00 a.m. 9:30 a.m. 1:00 p.m. 2:00 p.m. 2:30 p.m. 4:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m. 4:30 p.m. 5:00 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 5:45 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 7:00 p.m. Men’s Bible Study & Breakfast Off Campus Mary Circle 210 Martha Circle Chapel Reception Room Women’s Prayer Group Chapel Narthex Tutoring Campus Center Generosity Team Meeting 206 Stephen Ministry Leadership Team Chapel Reception Room SYV Prelude & Training Choir Rehearsal Music & Arts Building Key ChoraleSanctuary Creative SignersChapel Equipping Ministry Team Meeting 202 SYV Concert Choir Rehearsal Music & Arts Building SYV Chamber Choir Rehearsal Music & Arts Building North Home Bible Study Off Campus Wednesday, OCTOBER 15 7:30 a.m. 9:30 a.m. 10:00 a.m. 3:30 p.m. 5:00 p.m. 5:00 p.m. Men’s Bible Study Chapel Reception Room PEO MeetingCampus Center Watercolor Wednesday Chapel Reception Room Prayer Shawl Group Chapel Narthex Congregational Prayer Time Chapel Palms Buffet & Grille Campus Center www.churchofthepalms.org 21 calendar of events 6:00 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 7:15 p.m. Jubilee Handbell Choir Rehearsal Family Fun Night Experiencing God Men’s Study: Living a Life of Significance Women’s Study: Gideon Youth Group (Middle & High School) Chancel Choir Rehearsal Sanctuary 205-207 Chapel Reception Room 202 206 208, 209, 210 Music & Arts Building Thursday, OCTOBER 16 2:30 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 6:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m. Tutoring Campus Center Beginning Creative Signers Class Music & Arts Building The Garden Worship Team Meeting East Meeting Room Bridge Chapel Reception Room The Garden Worship Band Rehearsal Campus Center Friday, OCTOBER 17 9:30 a.m. 11:00 a.m. 1:00 p.m. 5:00 p.m. Friday Morning Bible Study Grief Support Group Palms String Ensemble Key Chorale Saturday, OCTOBER 18 8:00 a.m. 8:00 a.m. 6:00 p.m. Key Chorale Palms Men’s Breakfast Girls on Fire Game Night Sunday, OCTOBER 19 8:00 a.m. 8:00 a.m. 8:45 a.m. 9:00 a.m. 9:00 a.m. 9:30 a.m. 10:15 a.m. 10:15 a.m. 10:15 a.m. 10:15 a.m. 10:15 a.m. 10:15 a.m. 11:00 a.m. 3:00 p.m. 4:30 p.m. 22 Chapel Worship Service Prayer Meeting Childcare The Garden Worship Service Traditional Worship Kid’s Worship Pre-K - Elementary Small Groups Middle - High School Small Groups Christians Under Construction New Life Class The Story: Creation to Resurrection A Time Out For Parents Traditional Worship Church of the Palms Book Group Praise & Glory Choir Rehearsal Church of the Palms 202 Chapel Reception Room Music & Arts Building Sanctuary Sanctuary Campus Center Off Campus Chapel Chapel Study See Page 9 Campus Center Sanctuary 205-207 See Page 9 See Page 9 206 202 Chapel 109 Sanctuary Chapel Reception Room Music & Arts Building God’s Story Your Story October 12, 2014 For the week of October 12, 2104 Devotion: Use this resource at home to guide your household’s daily devotions. You can do this alone, as a couple, as a family; in the morning, during the day, or at night. Find a routine that works best for you. Pray: Light a candle and open your devotion time with a prayer. God of renewed hope, you reestablished your covenant with the people of Israel after you led them into the Promised Land. Remind us of all that you have done for us, so that we might live in gratitude for your faithfulness, for the sake of Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen. Reflect: Reflect on the key verse from Sunday’s reading. Now if you are unwilling to serve the Lord, choose this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served in the region beyond the River or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you are living; but as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord. Joshua 24:15 Study: Study the reading and consider the background. The first generation of Israelites to be freed from slavery in Egypt proved unfaithful to God, creating and worshiping idols for themselves, despite the overwhelming evidence that God had just delivered them from bondage. As a punishment for their wickedness, God did not allow them to enter the Promised Land, but instead they wandered the wilderness for 40 years; essentially a generation. The second generation of Israelites were given the gift that their ancestors were denied. God led them into the Promised Land. The land God promised to Abraham and his descendants had finally been given to them. God remained faithful to God’s promise to Abraham, even when God’s people remained unfaithful to God. - Continued on back - New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright © 1989, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used with permission. All rights reserved. New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright © 1989, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used with permission. All rights reserved. God’s Story Your Story - continued - Read: Read the following daily readings to deepen your understanding of Sunday’s text. After the reading, ask the follow-up questions. Follow the story of how Samuel became the judge who anointed David as king. Sunday, Joshua 24:1-15, Joshua Renews the Covenant Monday, 1 Samuel 1:1-28, Samuel’s Birth and Dedication Tuesday, 1 Samuel 3:1-18, Samuel’s Calling and Prophecies Wednesday, 1 Samuel 7:3-15, Samuel as Judge Thursday, 1 Samuel 8:1-22, Israel Demands a King Friday, 1 Samuel 9:27 – 10:8, Saul Anointing as King Saturday, 1 Samuel 16:1-13, David Anointed as King Why did the people want a king? What did God want for the people? How did Samuel choose the kings? Connect: Connect in conversation with others in your household. Discuss the following questions, or simply check in with “Highs” and “Lows.” What was a high point of your day? What was a low point? How are leaders in your community chosen? What might it look like to trust in God rather than trusting in people? What covenants or agreements have you made with God? Are these healthy (commitment to follow) or unhealthy (bargaining) agreements? What commitment can you make to God this week? Do: By acting on what we learn, we make God’s word come alive. Do the following activity this week. Participate in a political event. Decide what you stand for. Stand for it. Bless: Close your devotion with a blessing. God of grace, your word inspires our faith. Speak so that we may clearly see the options we face and have wisdom to choose those that draw us to you. Amen. Copyright © 2014 Clergy Stuff. Used with Permission. Find more at www.ClergyStuff.com. Blessing written by Pr. Chip Borgstadt.
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