FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH | BONITA SPRINGS ANNOUNCEMENTS FOR THE WEEK OF JANUARY 18, 2015 Welcome to First Presbyterian Church of Bonita Springs! Whether you’re a resident of Southwest Florida or just visiting, we invite you to participate in any of the following worship, study, mission or fellowship opportunities available at First Church. So, as you plan your week, be sure to put “First things” first! SPIRITUAL DEVELOPMENT CENTER What is shaping your soul these days? In this age of overstimulation, too much information and stress, we can lose touch with our highest priorities and our deepest needs. What we need is to know God deeply. The Spiritual Development Center offers confidential counseling, spiritual direction, retreats, classes and resources to “shape your soul.” Consider attending these events: A Day Away FOR SPIRITUAL RENEWAL Friday, Jan. 30 | 10 AM–2:30 PM | Chapel & Garden You are invited for this special time of teaching, private prayer and quiet reflection led by Pastor June Barrow. Come as you are, seek His voice and be encouraged on your spiritual journey. Enjoy solitude, journaling, conversation and share a simple lunch together. There is no cost for this event; lunch is provided. The Boundaries Course Offered in two sessions running 90 minutes: Tuesday evenings, Feb. 3–March 24| 6:30 PM Thursday, Feb. 5 –March 26 | 9:30 AM Have you ever found yourself wondering: Can I set limits and still be a loving person? How do I answer someone who wants my time, love, energy or money? Why do I feel guilty when I say no? The Boundaries Course should offer some answers. It is based on the book by Drs. Henry Cloud and John Townsend. Sessions led by Dr. Al Barrow and Pastor June Barrow will present biblically based answers on how to set healthy boundaries with parents, spouses, children, friends, coworkers and even ourselves. Available at the BookCenter. Registration is required for both events; visit the SDC kiosk today to register. You may also contact the Spiritual Development Center (239-221-8250; Jgreene@fpcbonita.org). BOOK DISCUSSION THE LANGUAGE OF GOD: A SCIENTIST PRESENTS EVIDENCE FOR BELIEF Part 2: Tuesday, Jan. 20 7:00-8:30 PM | CenterPoint Join us for a lively discussion of this bestselling book, written by geneticist Francis Collins—one of the leading Christian evangelists for the advocacy of Theistic Evolution. Moderated by Pastor Doug Pratt and Scott Flaig, it is sponsored by the Men’s Ministry and open to the congregation. Questions? Contact Scott Flaig (239-949-7307). Purchase your copy today in the BookCenter. NEXT SUNDAY KIRKIN’ O’ THE TARTAN Help us observe this annual tradition and celebrate our Scottish heritage. If you would like to participate as a tartan bearer in the 9 AM or 11 AM service (or both!), contact Cheryl Bauer (cbauer@fpcbonita.org or 239-992-3410 ext. 232). Tartans provided! PAGE 2 FIRST THINGS FIRST _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ FIRST MISSIONS CHRISTIAN EDUCATION MINISTRY Around the Corner, Around the World Sunday Morning Classes Revival Sport EURASIA Revival Sport operates as a multicultural non-profit organization working in partnership with communities, sports networks and faith based organizations. Their vision is to develop healthy and sustainable faith communities by using Scripture and sports. Their mission is to train and equip the next generation of leaders in Eurasia in community transformation efforts for effective Christian discipleship through the sports. In 2014 there were 6,822 leaders who successfully completed 378 trainings/conferences through the Eurasia Sport Coalition, of which Revival Sport is a part. As a result, 89,163 people participated in sports projects that included the invitation for spiritual growth and individuals from 117 nations joined 2,219 Bible study groups after sports ministry projects. Please pray for Revival Sport— their leadership, ministry teams and community efforts. To learn more, visit revivalsport.org. D.I.G.: The Gospel Unleashed–Acts of the Apostles 10:05-10:45 AM | Great Room Join us as our pastoral staff “digs” into the Book of Acts, one chapter at a time! Explore how believers were empowered by the Holy Spirit and worked to spread the Gospel of Christ from Jerusalem to Rome. Discover anew the excitement of the early church as Christ’s movement explodes into the world! The Screwtape Letters 10:05–10:45 AM | Price Chapel In addition to our D.I.G. Bible study on Sunday mornings, Dr. Al Barrow (Director of Spiritual Life at the new Spiritual Development Center) is teaching this engaging class through March. A milestone in the history of popular theology, The Screwtape Letters derives much of its appeal from C.S. Lewis’s startlingly original reversal: telling a story about Christian faith from the perspective of a devil trying to secure the destruction of one man’s soul. Available in the BookCenter. Monday Pastor’s Class 7 PM | CenterPoint Don’t miss these information and inspiring classes led by members of our pastoral staff. JAN. 19: Five Most Misunderstood Scripture Passages ∣ Pastor McWilliams JAN. 26: Anger—The Misunderstood Emotion ∣ Pastor June & Dr. Barrow FEB. 2: A Close Up Look Inside Russia Today ∣ Pastor McWilliams ART GALLERY New Show Set-up Tuesday, Jan. 20 | 10:30 AM Artists are encouraged to submit their work on Jan. 20 between 10:30 AM and 12:30 PM. Previous show participants may also pick up their work at this time. Art must be framed and wired for hanging. Entry forms available in the Art Gallery. Contact Joan Stobart (239-948-0979). THE GREAT BANQUET ANNUAL RETREAT Men: Feb. 5-8, 2015 | Women: Feb. 12-15, 2015 The Great Banquet weekend is a 72-hour experience, beginning Thursday evening and concluding Sunday evening. For three days, guests live and study together through a worshipful time of singing, prayer and discussion. RSVP today! Questions? Visit the Great Banquet kiosk this morning. You may also contact: Lee Gery (upnorth2@aol.com; 239-4986051) or David Mustian (jadmust@aol.com; 239-498-5972). FIRST THINGS FIRST PAGE 3 _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ IN OUR THOUGHTS & PRAYERS Our Prayer Chain continues to pray for all who have asked for prayer. To be added or removed from the Prayer Chain, please call Sherri Feeley (992-2726) or place your written request in our “prayer box” at the Welcome Desk. Special Prayers Please remember Mimi Labs, Alan Moir. Pastoral Care Line: 239-992-6887 The Pastors, Parish Nurses, Deacons and Visitation Team are available as needs arise. Please leave a message on the Pastoral Care Line if you or someone you know has been hospitalized, requests a visit or is in need of prayer. PARISH NURSE MINISTRY Eye Health Seminar Tuesday, Jan. 20 | 3–4:30 PM | Price Chapel Learn the latest treatment options for dry eyes, irritation, blepharitis and allergies from Board Certified Ophthalmologist James Croley III, MD. Free & open to the community; no reservations needed. Questions? Contact the Parish Nurse Office (239-992-3233 or parishnurse@fpcbonita.org). MEMBERSHIP CLASS TODAY 6:30-8:30 PM | McClure Hall First Church extends an invitation to those interested in learning more about church membership. This class, led by Senior Pastor Doug Pratt, offers information regarding the Presbyterian faith as well as our church—its history, principles, pastors, staff and ministries. Connect with others new to our church; get to know our pastors and church leaders; discover opportunities for fellowship and service. Membership options will be explained with no obligation to join. Walk-ins welcome. To reserve your spot, see Rebecca Harley at the Welcome kiosk in the Narthex or call her at 239-229-8953. FIRST MISSIONS BONITA CHRISTIAN FORUM Gretchen Carlson Tuesday, Jan. 27 | 7:30 PM Our guest is FOX News anchor and former Miss America Gretchen Carlson. Tickets are required (and have been distributed in advance to all Friends of the Forum sponsors). At this time, only tickets for McClure Hall seating remain, where the event can be experienced live via high definition audio/video feed. A limited number of free tickets are available in Lightner Conference Room after worship services today; any remaining tickets will be given out to the general public beginning Tuesday, January 20, 9:00 AM at the Ticket Office. Sponsors: If you have tickets you are not able to use, please pass them on to neighbors or friends who can attend this event, or return them to the ticket office for redistribution. For more information, contact Event Manager Jeff Wain (239-9923410 ext. 250 or jwain@fpcbonita.org). Habitat for Humanity Habitat needs volunteers to help build a home for a deserving family right here in Bonita Springs. The home site is at 26870 Red Blossom Drive and volunteers can come to help on Tuesday from 8 AM to 2 PM. Whatever your talents, Habitat can use your help. Directions to homesite: East on East Terry St. to Southern Pines (just before I-75) turn left ¼ mile to Red Hibiscus, site will be on your left. Questions? Call Paul Spinka at 630-640-8604. PAGE 4 FIRST THINGS FIRST _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ MEN’S MINISTRY CHILDREN & FAMILY MINISTRY Breakfast Fellowship At Neon Kids, our mission is to partner with parents to lead children into a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Thursdays | 7:20 AM in McClure Hall We hope you will join us this week for our Bible study and discussion of current events with Pastor Doug Pratt, who is leading a series on “God’s Plan for the Back Nine of Life.” On Jan. 29, our guest speaker will be Tom Case—a local businessman and champion amateur golfer, who will share his faith journey. All men are encouraged to invite friends; breakfast is complimentary for first-time attendees. For more info, contact Mike Greene (mhverde@icloud.com; 239-676-1462). SINGLE DIRECTION Single Direction offers opportunities for singles (50+) to gather for fun and Christian fellowship. In addition to meeting for brunch after the 11 AM service on Sundays, activities are scheduled monthly. Dinner & Program Thursday, Jan. 22 | 6 PM in McClure Hall Enjoy a catered dinner and “Karaoke Night” featuring DJ Brian Graceland. Sign up today! Visit our kiosk this morning or contact Shirley Kuaile (1-937935-4682). To learn more, visit neonkids.org, inquire Sunday at the Children’s Desk or contact Children’s Ministry Coordinator Lauren Hargis (lhargis@fpcbonita.org; 239-992-3233). Sunday Schedule Childcare for children ages 6 months–2 years is available at the 9 AM service. The Children’s Choir begins at 10 AM. Our monthly Family Worship Service is today at 11 AM in the Sanctuary and includes a message for the children. Afterward, children may stay in the service or depart for Neon Kids — our Sunday school classes with age-appropriate lessons for children 6 months through 5th grade. YOUTH MINISTRY: GROUP 3IN1 Wednesday Fellowship Sunday School 6-7:30 PM | FMC #8 9 AM | Youth Ministry Office At Group 3in1, our mission is to raise leaders from among our youth to further the Kingdom, focusing on Biblical principles essential to spiritual growth. We meet twice weekly; middle and high school students are invited to join us. Questions? Contact Josh Pelkey (jpelkey@fpcbonita.org; 239-992-2233). EXPLORING LOCAL FLORIDA NATURE Visit Naples Botanical Garden Tuesday, Jan. 20 | 9:30 AM | Carpool from church parking lot Nature explorers are invited to join us for an outing to Naples Botanical Garden, which has recently opened a multi-million dollar renovation program—adding three new gardens and a retail center. Both “Path-walkers” (those who can walk up to a mile) and “Tram-riders” (those who may have difficulty walking) are invited. We expect to have at least three wheelchairs (free) and two electric scooters ($12) available. Cost for the guided, 1½‐ hour tour is $20/person. Bring a picnic lunch; we will eat at a nearby park. The Garden also has a grill to purchase sandwiches/salads. We should return to the church around 2:00. To reserve your spot on this fun outing or for more details about our groups, please contact one of our coordinators: Don Sauerman (239-992-6926); Margaret Winn (239-223-8692); or Joan Havens-Kester (239-961-0861). FIRST THINGS FIRST PAGE 5 _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ WOMEN’S CONNECTION A Taste of Women’s Connection Tuesday, Jan. 20 | 10-11:30 AM | MCH New to FPC and wondering what Women’s Connection is all about? You are invited to a tasting of homemade treats, gourmet teas and coffees, and a menu of ways to connect with other women at FPC. Find out “what’s cooking”—upcoming events, Bible studies, speakers, field trips and more. Today is the sign-up deadline; visit the Women’s kiosk or contact Beth Johansen (bethannjohansen@gmail.com; 239-676-1650). Manna for Monday Mondays | 2 PM | CenterPoint Kelly Minter’s book, What Love Is, will guide our discussion of 1, 2 and 3 John. Study guide available in the BookCenter. Working Women’s Fellowship Tuesdays | 7 PM | Lightner Conf. Rm. Join WWF for our new DVD study of Andy Stanley’s It Came From Within as we look more deeply into what it means to “guard your heart for it is the wellspring of life.” (Prov. 4:23) Wednesday in the Word Wednesdays | 9:30 AM | MCH Our new study is based on the book, Jeremiah: Daring to Hope in an Unstable World by Melissa Spoelstra. Whether facing everyday challenges or a major crisis, you’ll be encouraged. Study guide available in the BookCenter. Wednesday Prayer Group 1st & 3rd Wednesdays | 11 AM | Price Parlor All women are welcome to help us pray for the concerns of our families, friends, church, community, country and world. Moore on Thursday Thursdays | 11 AM–1 PM | Chapel During this 11-week study on Beth Moore’s book, Esther: It’s Tough Being a Woman, we hope to learn how to trust in God’s providence. Study guide available in the BookCenter. ACoverGirl’sStoryofRedemption Saturday | March 7 | 10AM–3:30PM MusicbyBillyDean&DawnandGabriellaFrei TICKETS: $20 (includes lunch) Today is the final Sunday tickets will be sold during First Stop for this event. After today, they may be purchased at the church Ticket Office, Monday–Thursday, 9 AM–4 PM (239-992-3410 ext. 250). Nifty-Thrifty Fashion Show and Luncheon Wednesday, Jan. 28 | 12 noon In McClure Hall Our last Women’s Connection Thrift Shop Fashion Show was such a hit, we’re doing a reprise! Join us for a delicious lunch and a sampling of what’s available for the budget-conscious “fashionista.” Cost is $20. Sign up at the Sunday morning Women’s kiosk by Jan. 25. ——————————————————–————————————— For more details on Women’s Connection, stop by the Women’s kiosk this morning or contact Judy Calhoun (jcalhoun@fpcbonita.org or 239-992-3233 ext. 293). PREPAREDNESS MINISTRY How to Prepare for a Crisis, PART 1 Thursday, Jan 29 2-3:30 PM | MCH Do you know where your important documents are located? Do you have a will or trust? Are you prepared for the death or chronic illness of a child, spouse, parent or even yourself? In Part 1, learn how to plan ahead for a crisis financially and spiritually. Guest speakers: Attorney/Estate Planner Michael Hill, Pastor Steven Grant and Parish Nurse Stephanie Stec, RN. This seminar is free and open to the community. Reservations are not required but to be assured a packet of information, we ask that you contact Connie Duquin (239495-1744; cjduquin@comcast.net). PAGE 6 FIRST THINGS FIRST _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY Our prayer shawls are made by volunteers who dedicate their time to either knitting or crocheting a shawl according to our easy instructions. We invite you to join our ministry. Visit the Prayer Shawl kiosk today or contact Polly Grafton (239-949-4632). RECENT STOCK DONATIONS The church has received unidentified stock from Apple, Inc. and Torchmark Corp. If anyone donated this stock, please contact David Reynolds in the office (239-992-3233). Thank You. PERSONAL STORIES OF FAITH Do you have a “first person” story of inspiration that you would like to share? Have you gone through difficulty and come out the other end realizing God’s power and blessings? You are invited to submit your story for the next issue of our church newsletter. Please email Epistle editor Rita J. Flower-Opdycke (flower@fpcbonita.org) with submission or questions. Our deadline is Feb. 1. FIRST STOP... is our coffee & fellowship time after worship. Come to McClure Hall for refreshments, fellowship, & sign-up opportunities. TODAY’S KIOSKS IN MCCLURE HALL: Community – Benefit Concerts Great Banquet Men’s Ministry Military Care Ministry Order of St. Luke Single Direction Ministry Spiritual Development Center Women’s Ministry LIGHTNER CONFERENCE ROOM: BCF | Travel | Women’s Ministry NARTHEX: Sacred Arts ART GALLERY: The Lunch Bunch MILITARY CARE MINISTRY If you have a loved one in the military and/or serving overseas, stop by the Military kiosk today and sign them up to be included in our prayer list and to receive care packages. You may also email your request to Jim Brandreth (Ebrand239@aol.com or 239-992-4167); be sure to include their name, address and your contact info. A SINCERE “THANK YOU” ...To Clarkey Holden and her flower crew for beautifying our worship areas with poinsettias for Christmas: Linda Colvin, Rick & Peggy Eble, Pat Hamilton, John & Joan Lewis, Sue Murray, Norma Reynolds, and Ron & Marcia Sobolik. We are grateful for your time and talents! PUBLICATIONS MINISTRY Join Our Bulletin Crew! Fridays | 8:30 AM | Narthex If you have a few hours to spare on Friday mornings, consider joining our team of volunteers who collate the Sunday bulletins. We invite you to join us this Friday… and have a cup of coffee with us afterward. Questions? Contact Publications Manager Rita J. Flower-Opdycke (239-992-3233 or flower@fpcbonita.org). TWO BENEFIT CONCERTS HOSTED BY FPC The Legacy of Harry Chapin Tuesday, Feb. 3 | 7:30 PM | Free Tickets BENEFIT CONCERT FOR THE HARRY CHAPIN FOOD BANK The Steve Chapin Band (the original Harry Chapin Band led by his brother, Steve) will perform the classic rock favorites recorded by Harry Chapin. Tickets are free and required for seating. A free will offering will be received. Paul Todd & Friends Benefit Concert Tuesday, Feb. 10 | 7 PM | Tickets: $30 Gen. Adm. ALL PROCEEDS BENEFIT THE LOCAL SALVATION ARMY Singer/keyboardist Paul Todd is famous for playing six keyboards simultaneously. (Cash or check payable to the Salvation Army; designate “Friends Benefit.” Tickets for these two benefit concerts are available this morning at the Community kiosk. Also available at the church Ticket Office: Monday-Thursday, 9 AM–4 PM | 239-992-3410 ext. 250 FIRST THINGS FIRST PAGE 7 _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ FPC BOOKCENTER Visit our BookCenter for a wide selection of nonfiction, fiction, devotionals, Bibles and classic Christian literature. Books are always 20% off retail. Open Sunday after worship and Monday through Thursday, 10 AM–3 PM. Featured Titles This Week In His Steps Charles Sheldon One of the bestselling books of all time, this Christian classic takes place in the railroad town of Raymond where Rev. Henry Maxwell challenges his congregation to not do anything for a year without asking, “What would Jesus do?” The Greatest Words Ever Spoken Compiled by Steven K. Scott, this amazing collection consists of all the sayings of Jesus that address nine crucial areas of life—His teachings and promises on 222 topics. The Third Target Joel Rosenberg When New York Times foreign correspondent J. B. Collins hears rumors that ISIS has captured chemical weapons inside Syria, he must pursue the story. Knowing that terrorist forces are already trying to bring down two Arab governments in the region—Iraq and Syria—can Collins uncover the truth before it’s too late? Or will the terrorists succeed in setting their sights on the third target and achieving genocide? WEEKLY CALENDAR Sunday, January 18 First Light Service, 7:30A, Sanctuary Worship Service, 9:00A, Sanctuary & CPT Children’s Choir, 10:00A, FMC #7 Group 3in1 Youth Sunday School, 10:00A, YMO D.I.G. Bible Study: Acts, 10:05A, GR The Screwtape Letters Study, 10:05A, Chapel Family Worship Service, 11:00A, Sanctuary & CPT Neon Kids Sunday School, 11:15A, FMC A Time of Prayer & Communion, 12:00P, Chapel Membership Class, 6:30P, MCH Monday, January 19 Manna on Monday, 2:00P, CPT Angelus Bell Choir, 5:00P, Sanctuary Monday Pastor’s Class, 7:00P, CPT Tuesday, January 20 Taste of Women’s Connection, 10:00A, MCH Art Gallery New Show Setup, 10:30A, Art Gallery Men’s Ministry Leadership Team, 1:00P. LCR GriefShare, 1:30P, Parlor Tuesday Singers, 1:30P, Millennium House Eye Health Seminar, 3:00P, Chapel Disciple Group, 3:30P, GR Book Discussion: The Language of God, 7:00P, CPT Working Women’s Fellowship, 7:00P, LCR Wednesday, January 21 Wednesday in the Word, 9:30A, MCH Women’s Prayer Group, 11:00A, Parlor New Horizons Band, 2:30P, Chancel Jubilate Bells, 5:45P, Sanctuary Men’s Choir, 6:00P, Chapel Group 3in1 Youth Ministry, 6:00P, FMC #8 Chancel Choir, 7:00P, CR Thursday, January 22 Men’s Fellowship Breakfast, 7:20A, MCH Banner Committee, 9:00A, GR Moore on Thursday, 11:00A, Parlor Mission Prayer Team, 11:00A, HHC OSL Class, 12:30, LCR Preparedness Ministry, 2:00P, HHC Single Direction Dinner, 6:00P, MCH Session, 7:00P, CPT Friday, January 23 Dixie Disciples Rehearsal, 9:00A, GR Saturday, January 24 Fine Arts Concert: Thomas Pandolfi, 7:30P, Sanctuary Sunday, January 25 First Light Service, 7:30A, Sanctuary Worship Service, 9:00A, Sanctuary & CPT Children’s Choir, 10:00A, FMC #7 Group 3in1 Youth Sunday School, 10:00A, YMO D.I.G. Bible Study: Acts, 10:05A, GR The Screwtape Letters Study, 10:05A, Chapel Worship Service, 11:00A, Sanctuary & CPT Neon Kids Sunday School, 11:00A, FMC A Time of Prayer & Communion, 12:00P, Chapel CPT=CenterPoint CR=Choir Room FMC=Family Ministries Ctr. GR=Great Room HHC=Hawk Hospitality Ctr. LCR=Lightner Conf. Rm. MCH=McClure Hall YMO=Youth Ministry Office “The Unseen Hand” Luke 12:13-21 (NIV) Someone in the crowd said to him, “Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me.” 14 Jesus replied, “Man, who appointed me a judge or an arbiter between you?” 15 Then he said to them, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.” 16 And he told them this parable: “The ground of a certain rich man yielded an abundant harvest. 17 He thought to himself, ‘What shall I do? I have no place to store my crops.’ 18 “Then he said, ‘This is what I’ll do. I will tear down my barns and build bigger ones, and there I will store my surplus grain. 19 And I’ll say to myself, “You have plenty of grain laid up for many years. Take life easy; eat, drink and be merry.”’ 20 “But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?’ 21 “This is how it will be with whoever stores up things for themselves but is not rich toward God.” —————————————— SERMON NOTES 13 TRAVEL OPPORTUNITY “Discover Israel” Holy Land Trip A 10-day tour led by Pastor Steven & Nanette Grant March 14-24, 2015 Experience the spiritual power of the Holy Land when you walk where Jesus walked. The trip will include: Bethlehem, Nazareth, Capernaum, Mount Carmel, Jerusalem, the Sea of Galilee, the Dead Sea, the Via Dolorosa, the Mount of Olives, Gethsemane, the Garden Tomb, the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, the Wailing Wall, and following the road to Emmaus. For more information on this trip, visit Lightner Conference Room today during First Stop. You may also contact Pat Hazen at Pelican Landing Travel, 239-948-1000. 2015 OFFERING ENVELOPES Your 2015 offering envelopes may be picked up. Look for them on tables in the Mission hallway across from the office entrance. If you have a question or do not find your envelopes, contact the church office at 239-992-3233. 9751 Bonita Beach Road | Bonita Springs, FL 34135 | 239.992.3233 | fpcbonita.org First Academy of Music ~ 239.992.3410 | First Thrift Shop ~ 239.992.0285 Spiritual Development Center ~ 239.221.8250 | Wonder Years Preschool ~ 239.948.6677
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