1. religion and spirituality
2. christianity

WORSHIP
Sunday, March 1, 2015
Generous god, you have promised to
open your kingdom to all people, despite
their circumstances. Bring us close to you,
and help us to proclaim the goodness of
your generosity. We pray these things in
the name of Jesus Christ, our Savior and
Lord. 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 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
A memorial service for Stanley R. Tolbert will be held on March 7 at 10:00 a.m.. in
the Chapel.
Sanctuary Flowers
The flowers are given today to the glory of God and in loving memory of her
husband Robert S. Brenneman, by Jean P. Brenneman; and in loving memory of
Allen Higginbotham Jr.
8:00 a.m. Chapel Communion Service
Please sign the red covered friendship pad at the end of the pew.
Prelude
Call to Worship
*Hymn #483
Opening Prayer
Psalm 16:5-8; 11
Offering
Scripture
Sermon
Communion
Prayer
*Hymn #171
*Benediction
Postlude
“Sing Praise to God, Who Reigns Above”
Matthew 20:1-16 (Pew Bible NT pg. 21)
Generosity, Joy and Pleasures
“The King of Love My Shepherd Is”
SANCTUARY WORSHIP LEADERSHIP TODAY
Senior Pastor
Executive Pastor
Congregational Care Pastor
Visitation Pastor
Family Ministry Directorr
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
MARCH USHERS
9:00 a.m. - Barry Buchanan, Barbara Branning, Linda Evans, Katy Goodwin,
Dutch Johnson, Jerry Laurila, Jay Mitchell, Kyle Mitchell, Willie Mitchell, Jim
Mills, Phil & Candy Hoffman, John & Robin Sego. Captains: Bob & Sally Irwin.
11:00 a.m. - Joe Guyton, Martha Church, Bill Waggener, Eleanor Smith, Jackie
Garn, Babe Hart, Sylvia & Duane Hefner, Joyce Hesson, Bob Luedeka , Ben
Morgan, Wayne Kindt, Sam Stipp, Sharyn Van Epps, Sebastian Spivey. Captain:
John Mercier.
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)
Why Don’t You Try This?
When you are struggling through difficult times, the advice flies thick and fast. But often
it is not the advice you need. Rather it is caring Stephen ministers who are trained to
give this care by listening instead of pushing advice. What is more, confidentiality is the
cornerstone of Stephen Ministry. To find out more or to receive a Stephen Minister’s care,
you can use the request folder available in every pew rack, or contact our Congregational
Care Pastor, Dr. Hmingi Browne, 924-1323, hbrowne@churchofthepalms.org.
a celebration of
w rship
9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. • Sanctuary
2nd Sunday in Lent
• We gather •
Prayer of invocation
9:00 a.m.
11:00 a.m.
Andrew McFall
Bill Watrous
PRELUDE
“O Divine Redeemer”
Brandon Evans, tenor
*Introit
Chancel Choir
Charles Gounod
*Call to worship
*Hymn #483
“Sing Praise to God, Who Reigns Above”
*Call to Confession
• we confess •
*Prayer of Confession (together)
Have mercy on us, O God, according to your steadfast love; according
to your abundant mercy blot out our transgressions. For we know
our transgressions, and our sin is ever before us. Against you, you
alone, have we sinned, and done what is evil in your sight. Wash us
thoroughly from our iniquity, and cleanse us from our sin. We ask
this 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.
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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.
“Many Tables”
Fred Gramann
Chancel Choir
Many tables, Lord, we see; many choices do us invite;
As we seek our community, may we know which place is right.
Draw us closer to your light.
Offertory
For your tables is set with grace; at each place the cup of love.
The invited gaze upon your face; Holy One sent from above
Who for us did shed his blood. You are there for all to see,
As we sit to dine with Thee.
*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.)
Scripture LESSON
Leader: This is the Word of the Lord!
People: Thanks be to God!
SERMON
Psalm 16:5-8, 11; Matthew 20:1-16
(Pew Bible pg. 496; NT pg. 21)
“Generosity, Joy and Pleasures ” Dr. Lal Hmingliani Browne
Hymn #357 (seated)
“O Master, Let Me Walk with Thee”
Sacrament of the lord’s supper
The basket in front of the Communion table holds packets of Communion
elements to be served to our homebound members by the Deacons and Elders.
Invitation to the Lord’s Table
Words of Institution
Prayers of Thanksgiving and Consecration
The Lord’s Prayer (congregation sings)
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.
Distribution of the Elements (Bread is gluten-free)
Prayer of Praise
www.churchofthepalms.org
5
• We GO •
*Hymn #171
*Benediction
“The King of Love My Shepherd Is”
*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.
“The Rejoicing”
Postlude
G.F. Handel
*Congregation, please stand if able
Prayer is the most available of all God’s gifts and perhaps the most misunderstood.
Many don’t understand how to pray and many waste prayer on the wrong things.
Join us as we read and listen to Jesus’ teaching on prayer and discover perhaps a
new way to have a conversation with God. Led by Dr. McConnell.
Noye’s Fludde
(Noah’s Flood by Benjamin Britten)
TODAY • 3 p.m. & 7 p.m. • Sanctuary
Church of the Palms and Sarasota Young Voices in Sarasota, Florida
have joined forces in a full scale production of Benjamin’s Britten’s
1 Act Opera, Noye’s Fludde. Seventy five Young Singers, Professional
Orchestra & Vocal Artists, Sets and Costumes will join together in
this grand production that is intended for all audiences. Enjoy this
depiction from the Bible of Noah’s Flood envisioned by Benjamin
Britten that will bring together music, art, singing and
dancing all together in a glorious performance.
A Tale of
TWO PIANOS
March 29
4:00 p.m. • Sanctuary
Tickets: $10.00 Genevieve beauchamp • jonathan spivey
Please join us on March 29 for an exciting performance by our own Jonathan
and Genevieve, who will be performing a varied repertoire on two 9 foot
Steinway pianos. The sanctuary will be filled with heavenly music that you
won’t want to miss! Tickets are $10.00 and are on sale in the church office.
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Church of the Palms
new
member
class
March 8 • 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.
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.
Military
Individuals
Chris Branning
Remember In
Prayer
June LeBell Alley
Ray Angle
Roxanna Browning
Dotti Cole
Maxine Colgate
Joan Daly
Mary Frances Dockum
Janet Eddy
T.H. Edelblute
Lee Greene
Happy Hall
Babe Hart
Marian Heymann
Khloe Hill
Ernie Ingham
Mary Ann Jaqua
Marcia Jensen
Suzi Kinder
Bob Kramer
Cherie Leetzow
Jan Montgomery
Doris Nocera
Jay Northrup
Mae Perry
Ragnar Petri
Alex Brown
Carl Phillipps
Richard Carson
Sally Taylor
Rob Garner
Roland VanderValk
Peter Higginbotham
David Wachtel
Zachary Miller
Betty Walser
David Moffett
Bill Zurlo
Lauren Moffett
Non-Members
Tracy Prohoniak
Tommy Arthur
Jared Sweetser
Eleanor Candido
Ben Young
Jeff Dockum
Jacqueline Fellhauer
Daniel Higley
Nutei Khawlhring
Ralp Korn
Joshua Miller
Lloyd Odegaard
Susanna & Ismail Omac
Kathleen Papile
Tracy Patterson
In Need of Prayer?
Please call the church office.
Thomas Perry
We would love to pray for you
Sharon Piver
and any prayer requests you
Ann Prohoniak
may have, 924-1323.
Don Wilson
www.churchofthepalms.org
7
Family
ministry
family
MINISTRY
youth group - Forgiveness week 2
6:30 p.m. • Room 208
This week at Youth Group, we will continue our conversation on forgiveness. We will
experience and walk through what the Day of Atonement (our Jewish heritage’s most
high, holy day) was like and how Jesus fulfilled all of that for us. The key earthly roles
played on the Day of Atonement are the high priest, the scapegoat, and the sacrificial
goat. In fascinating symbolism, the Bible describes Jesus as filling all three roles. We
will walk through the ceremony of the high priest and emphasize the atonement of our
sin through Jesus. We will then take Communion and learn the parallels between Jesus
having shed blood on our behalf and the Day of Atonement rituals.
Childcare on wednesday evenings
If you need childcare on a Wednesday night, reservations must be made to Corrie
Hoffman at choffman@gmail.com by Tuesday at noon.
Easter Egg Collection & Volunteers
Saturday, March 28 • 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Our annual Easter Egg Hunt is approaching. Please help us prepare by bringing in plastic
eggs and candy. You may donate pre-stuffed eggs or donate bags of wrapped candy and
plastic eggs. Please do not fill them at home. Eggs and candy must be at the church
office by Sunday, March 22. If you’d like to help, please stop by the Family Ministry Table
under the tree or email Carol Homeister, chomeister@churchofthepalms.org
confirmation
Our 2015 Confirmands will all be participating in the CROP Walk on Sunday, March 1
from 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. If you would like to sponsor our confirmands with a donation
to CROP Walk, contact vmathews@churchofthepalms.org.
Summer Trip Payments
Payment #2 is due no later than Wednesday, April 1. Contact Valerie Mathews for more
information regarding your amount and if you have questions on how to pay, vmathews@
churchofthepalms.org.
Spring Bash at Cedarkirk! (3rd – 5th grade)
All 3rd – 5th graders are invited to attend our 24-hour retreat to
experience God in a fun, exciting and beautiful setting. Sign up through
our website: churchofthepalms.org/children.html
COP’s Got Talent 2
Start Practicing now! Our next COP’s Got Talent night is Wednesday,
March 18!
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Church of the Palms
SUNDAY KIDS WORSHIP
9:30 a.m. - 10:15 a.m.
All Pre-K through 5th grade
kids begin in worship with their
families at the 9:00 a.m. service.
After the Children’s Moment,
they will be escorted upstairs
to room 205 to participate in a
fun and inspired Kids Worship
experience. Come see what
God’s Fun is all about!
Sunday Childcare & Nursery
8:45 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
1st floor, Education Bldg.
Room 101 & 103
Serving 2 months - 4 years old
Children will enjoy a craft,
share a snack, and play
in a safe and nurturing
atmosphere.
Nursing
station and changing
areas are available. Please consider
helping our team in the nursery.
For information contact Nursery
Coordinator Corrie Hoffman at
corrie3hoffman@gmail.com or call
(727) 457-9403.
KIDS SUNDAY SMALL GROUPS
10:15 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Kid’s will divide into classrooms
by age with their small group
leaders for a chance to hear more
about GOD’s word and our
churchwide narrative lesson.Great
relationships start in small groups
and fun is guaranteed!
Pre-K - Kindergarten: room 114
1st & 2nd grade: room 207
3rd grade: room 211
4th & 5th grade: room 205
COOL KIDsUpcoming Events
Noye’s Fludde: March 1 • 3 p.m. & 7 p.m.
Crop Walk: March 1 • 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
COP’s Got Talent: March 18 • 5:15 p.m.
Family Fun Night: March 18 • 6:30 p.m.
Campfire Service: March 18 • 6:30 p.m.
Easter Egg Hunt: March 28 • 9:30 a.m.
Good Friday Family Service: April 3
Cedarkirk Spring Bash: April 10-11
(3rd - 5th grade)
Skate Night @ Stardust:
March 26 • 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m
Contact Carol Homeister, chomeister@
churchofthepalms.org for more information.
Campfire service for Families - S’mores, Stories, & Songs
Wednesday, March 18 • 6:30 p.m - 8:00 p.m.
Join us for some campfire fun immediately following the COP’s Got Talent
on Wednesday, March 18! Our teens will be leading us in a time of worship,
s’mores, stories and songs around the fire. Bring your whole family, your
lawn/beach chairs or blanket, and your friends as we gather around the fire
to share the light and to share a story.
Old Fashioned Family Skate Night Fundraiser
Thursday, March 26 • 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. • Stardust Skate Center
Join us for some good ol’ fashioned family fun at the skating rink to BENEFIT
Student Ministry! $10 for 2 hours of skating, games, races, and more! Invite
all of your friends! $25 family price. All proceeds benefit our student ministry
and offset our bus costs for our summer trips. No skating necessary. You can
just come to support.
www.churchofthepalms.org
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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.
Thriving in the early years of parenting (Parents of kids 6 and under)
10:15 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. • Room 202
Family Builders Tony and Janae Camp will lead this 5 week course. Young parents
will connect with one another as they learn techniques for correcting behavior and
how to communicate for better cooperation. Questions? Contact Laurie Haas, lhaas@
churchofthepalms.org.
Christians Under Construction:
Biblical Perspectives on Current Issues
10:15 a.m. • Room 206
Each week we will tackle a new subject that has generated interest among both
Christians and non-Christians and look at it from a Biblical perspective. We will read
the Bible, consider how this experience might apply and engage in informed discussion.
Church of the Palms Book Group
March 15, 3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. • Chapel Reception Room
During this significant time of Lent, we look forward to discussing
Barabbas by Par Lagerkvist. We trust this book will provide us with the
opportunity to dig more deeply into the Biblical story of the “one human
being Jesus literally died for on the cross.” Join us on March 15, as well
as on the third Sunday of upcoming months for the following books: April - The
Insanity of God:True Story of Faith Resurrected, by Nik Ripken, and May - In the Land
of Blue Burqas by Kate McCord. Questions? Please contact Doris Kamphuis, 360-8474,
rakamphuis@aol.com
Lord, Teach Me to Pray: Prayer According
to Jesus
5:30 p.m. • Chapel • Led by Dr. McConnell
Prayer is the most available of all God’s gifts and perhaps the most
misunderstood. Many don’t understand how to pray and many
waste prayer on the wrong things. Join us as we read and listen to
Jesus’ teaching on prayer and discover perhaps a new way to have a
conversation with God.
10
Church of the Palms
East home bible study
March 8, 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. • Off Campus
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” If you hunger for a
deeper study of the Scriptures and would enjoy participating in thought-provoking
discussion on biblical topics and fellowship with others who desire the same, please
join us at the East Home Bible Study. We meet every second and fourth Sunday
at the home of Mark and Karen Hildreth. For questions, address and/or directions,
please contact Mark at 321-5871 or Karen at 302-0603, karenhildreth@gmail.com.
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 all 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. • West Meeting Room
This is a time for encouragement through God’s Word and prayer. We
pray 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
March 3, 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. • Room 206
Our reading group, led by Dr. McConnell, will continue our
discussion on That Hideous Strength.
North home bible study
March 10, 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.• Off Campus
We will now begin studying the book of II Peter. We meet on
the second and fourth Tuesday of the month. Please join us for
Bible study, prayer, and food/fellowship. Contact Reyn or Doris
Kamphuis at 360-8474 or email us at rakamphuis@aol.com if you
have any questions or wouldwww.churchofthepalms.org
like to join the group.
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Stephen ministry
March 17, 6:30 p.m. - 9:00 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 his 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 Pastor Hmingi
Browne, 924-1323 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.
Palms Buffet & Grille
5:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. • Campus Center
Enjoy food and fellowship for all on Wednesday evenings!
On The Menu: Roast Chicken Dinner, our delicious Salad Bar
and Dessert. 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.
Temple mount - site of the world’s longest running
family feud
6:30 p.m. • Room 205
Come and join a new and enlightening series explaining the continuing conflict between
Jews and Arabs. Travel through the Middle East searching for Biblical archeology,
searching Scripture, and seeing how events 5000 years ago are still affecting us today.
This interactive PowerPoint series will be led by Charles Haeussner, MD.
This week - From Egypt to Jerusalem
This week we will learn about the Tabernacle and the Temple, and review the Jewish
sacrificial system. We will also cover what happened to Israel and Solomon’s Temple
after King Solomon’s death.
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Adult Discipleship & Fellowship
Thursday
Adaptive Movement classes
10:30 a.m. • Off Campus
Church of the Palms & Bee Ridge Presbyterian Churches have now officially joined
together to provide easy adaptive movement classes. We will work on balance, range
of motion, standing/sitting, walking, light weights to tone muscles, coordination,
etc. The classes will be lead by Kay Sanchez (retired Parish Nurse) every Thursday
at Bee Ridge Presbyterian in their Fellowship Hall at 10:30 am. Please contact Susy
Welsh if you wish to join the group, 321-5703 or musicalmoment@me.com.
PALMS BRIDGE CLUB
March 5, 7:00 p.m.• Chapel Reception Room
We meet on the first and third Thursdays of the month for fun
and fellowship. Contact Nancy Kanellos, 320-3478 to make your
reservation or to be placed on the substitute list. Substitute players
are greatly appreciated (and needed) as well as players who are able
to play on a regular basis. Come and join us - you’ll love it!
Beginning Creative Signing Class
5:30 p.m. • 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. Led
by the Advanced Creative Signers. Everyone is welcome. Sign up under the Fellowship
Tree contact Susy Welsh 321-5703, musicalmoment@me.com.
Beginning Bell Ringers class
6:30 p.m. • Sanctuary
Come and learn how to read music and how bell/tone chimes ringing is actually done.
Everyone is welcome, middle school students through adults. No previous experience
necessary. Contact Susy Welsh 321-5703, musicalmoment@me.com.
Sisters in Christ
March 26 • 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. • Room 209
We meet on the fourth Thursday of the month and study books and articles to
help us on our spiritual journeys. Come and share insights and fellowship with
coffee, discussion and prayer. Contact Cindy Lanoue-Foster, 922-1826 (please leave a
message); bettina5321@verizon.net.
www.churchofthepalms.org
13
Friday
Friday Morning Bible Study
9:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. • Room 202
Beginning on Friday, February 27, you are invited to join our
nondenominational Bible Study group which will begin a new
study titled, “Basic Biblical Christianity.” It will will touch on
topics such as Pursuing Holiness, The Footprints of the Holy
Spirit, With All Your Mind, Opening the Scriptures, Blessed
Assurance, and other topics. Study guides will be available on the
first day of the study. Led by Meriam Matthews, meriam112@
mindspring.com and Peter Connor, peterconnor37@gmail.com.
grief support group
10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. • Chapel Reception Room
All those who have lost a loved one are invited to attend on Fridays. Licensed counselor
Diane Brantley of Samaritan Counseling is leading. For more information, contact
Pastor Hmingi Browne, 924-1323.
Eat, Meet & Be Merry
March 27, 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.
South home bible study
March 13, 7:00 p.m. • Off Campus
We will now begin studying the book of Proverbs. We meet on the second
and fourth Friday of the month. Please join us for Bible Study, Prayer, and Food/
Fellowship. Contact Reyn or Doris Kamphuis at 360-8474 or email us at rakamphuis@
aol.com if you have any questions or would like to join the group.
Loving stitches
March 27, 2015 • 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.
14
Church of the Palms
opportunities for
generosity
Easter Egg Collection
and Volunteers
Please help us prepare for our Easter
Egg Hunt by bringing in plastic eggs
and candy. You may donate pre-stuffed
eggs or donate bags of wrapped candy
and plastic eggs. Please do not fill them
at home. Eggs and candy must be at
the church office by Sunday, March
22. To help, please stop by the Family
Ministry Table under the tree or
email Carol Homeister, chomeister@
churchofthepalms.org
Wednesday Grille & Food
Pantry 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.
Openings also available for Wednesday
packing in the Food Pantry, beginning
at 8:00 a.m. To help, please contact
Kathy Robinett, 924-1323, krobinett@
churchofthepalms.org.
Help With Panera
Bread Pickup
Volunteers are needed to
help with the Panera Bread
pick up for the months of July, August,
September, November and December.
Ccontact Kathy Robinett, 924-1323,
krobinett@churchofthepalms.org.
Serve In Our Sunday
Kids Program
Do you enjoy the fun of
being around kids? If so,
then we have a place for
you! Volunteer opportunities exist in
teaching Sunday school, helping in
Kid’s Worship, rocking babies...the list
goes on. Lots of fun and entertaining
guaranteed. Contact Carol Homeister
(chomeister@churchofthe palms.
org) or Laurie Haas (lhaas@
churchofthepalms.org) to place your
name on our Family Ministry list.
Starting this week, we only have 7 weeks of tutoring
left. Please consider giving 7 hours of your time. It
tutoring program
could mean that a child might pass a course or grade.
We have openings during the day hours, but the following are the openings we have
from 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Please see Judy Armitage under the Fellowship Tree between
services, or contact her at 924-1323, jarmitage@churchofthepalms.org. Thanking you in
advance, Judy and students.
(5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. continued)
5:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
4th grade: Math, Multiplication, Division (or later)
8th grade: Pre Algebra (or later)
7th grade: Math (or later)
9th grade: Geometry (or later)
1st grade: Math, Reading, Writing
4th grade: Math, English (or later)
8th grade: Math, Science
7th grade: Math
back t bas cs
6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
6th grade: Math
11th grade: Geometry
3rd grade: Reading Comprehension
4th grade: Math, Reading Comprehension
www.churchofthepalms.org
2nd grade: Math, Reading Comprehension
5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
1st grade: English
8th grade: Math, Reading, History
8th grade: Math
10th grade: Geometry (or later)
15
spotlight on
missions
Hank Paulson // 4D Ministries
Hank Paulson traveled from Eastern Europe to attend the
2015 Mission EXPO and spoke during one of its sessions,
hosted a table in the Big Tent on Sunday, and showed
the 11 A.M. congregation how individuals located all over
the world were claiming commitment to Jesus Christ via
a technology for connecting people online. During the
few minutes Hank spoke, we watched places light up on
various continents every few seconds.
When the Mission Committee recently asked its Mission Partners, including
Hank, how his work during 2014 helped people know God through faith in Jesus,
he answered “it seeks to be as effective as possible in enabling nationals and their
churches to win people for Christ, nourish them and equip them for ministry.”
The Mission, Vision and Values for 4D Ministries are:
Mission: Empower national ministries to help churches be missional;
Vision: Empower every Christ centered church in Central and Eastern
Europe to be missional with a focus especially on the younger generation,
to win, nurture towards growth, connect and send out for service. Building
partnerships to mobilize churches to win the next generation for Christ.
Values that drive 4D: Christ centered; Field driven; Excellence (quality
or quantity); Relevant and modern communications; Servant leadership;
Purpose driven (to enable churches to be missional); Partnerships (maximizing
Kingdom resources, while a testimony for the un-churched).
Hank provided major questions and answers:
•What is a missional church? A church involved in God’s mission to this world
letting its light shine and being outward focused with an aim of winning for
Christ and nurturing and mobilizing both individuals and communities.
•Why is a missional church important? It’s God’s idea to use it as an instrument
to proclaim redemption through Christ and reconciliation with the Father.
Christ did not only call us to gather us the redeemed ones, but also to go out
as Ambassadors of reconciliation to a broken world.
16
Church of the Palms
•Why is a missional church a strategic part of God’s plan? It’s a local presence
of his eternal Kingdom. It’s a community that is multi-talented and relevant
to the needs of the un-churched. (Much more than a foreign missionary who
needs to learn the language and culture and is perceived as having lots of
US funds and possibilities.) Missional churches also are ideal for the follow
up and nurture of new believers.
•How can we help the church be missional? To share with them God’s vision
and plan, to coach, nurture and develop leaders and partnerships and to
provide tools such as stewardship ministry; Internet evangelism and
e-coaches, public school ministry, camps and tools for follow up such as
LeaderXpress.
•Why is 4D uniquely positioned? A track record of trust and ministry of more
than 40 years, no church planting or denominational ambitions (we are
there to serve). Partnerships and a reputation across denominations and
with international ministries (f.i. Jesus.net).
•4D is inadequate and therefore depends on God and partnerships within the
Body of Christ to make His vision and plan a reality.
•It produces models that are local, practical and reproducible throughout
Eastern Europe.
There are no limitations on Hank’s part on anything he shares with us at COP. We
are welcome to use anything we see in publications, video or web site. Hank and
his wife Mona Paulson are featured in Spotlights on pages 28 and 29 in the new
Spotlight on Missions 2014. They may be reached at: P.O. Box 120, Monument,
CO 80132. Their website is www.4dministries; email is hank@4dministries.org;
Phone: 719-266-2433 (work number - it connects you to Hank’s computer where
ever he is!) Ashley Goering (Hank’s administrative assistant): 417-527-0239
or 719-287-6245. Hank’s Mission Partner Advocate is Rev. Phil Bliss, who is a
member of the 4D Ministries Board of Directors: pbliss1@verizon.net, 748-2126.
www.churchofthepalms.org
17
upcoming ministry
events
Sunday, March 1
St. James United Methodist
Church (2049 Honore Ave,
Sarasota, FL 34235)
The Church of the Palms is one of
fourteen local congregations banding together in this effort to alleviate hunger around
the world. The CROP Walk is the primary fund raising effort of Church World Service
with 35 denominations cooperating in the U. S. with international disaster recovery and
long term solutions for hungry people. Twenty-five percent of funds raised in Sarasota
go to our local All Faiths Food Bank. This year’s l mile and 5 mile walks will begin at St.
James United Methodist Church. This is a major community service project of our new
confirmands and their mentors. You will have an opportunity to sign up for the walk,
or to contribute your support for our youth and other walkers under the tree Sundays
through March 1. You can also email or call Bill Watrous for more information, bill@
watrousvideo.com, 374-0062. Please be sure to make checks payable to “CROP”.
Open Hangar
Saturday, March 7
11:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Join us for an Open Hangar at
the Venice Municipal Airport
(100 Airport Ave E.) on
Saturday, March 7. For more
information, contact John
Mercier, 921-5726, jmaosf@
gmail.com. Visit our website
to learn more: http://www.
agapeflights.com/
Annual Legacy Society Luncheon
Saturday, March 7 • 12:30 p.m. • Mattison’s 41
(7275 South Tamiami Trail, Sarasota)
For those interested in joining us, please contact Steve McConnell, smcconnell@
churchofthepalms.org, 924-1323 or John Mercier, jmaosf@gmail.com, 921-5726.
18
Church of the Palms
upcoming ministry
events
Congregational Meeting
March 15 • 10:00 a.m.• Sanctuary
The Session has called a Congregational meeting for
Sunday, March 15 at 10:00 a.m. in the Sanctuary for the
purposes of amending the bylaws, electing church officers
and to receive the Session’s report of the Facilities Master
Plan. Signed, Linda Getzen, Clerk of Session.
Day of
Hope - SAVE THE DATE!
Saturday, July 25, 2015 • 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Watch the bulletin for further information on volunteer and donation
opportunities. Contact Dotti Tyle: 320-3983, dtyle@verizon.net.
Why SHOULD I INCLUDE THE
CHURCH IN MY WILL?
That’s a pretty big question. It’s really a question concerning
the place of the church in one’s life. Yet, as more and more of
us are learning to engage in long range estate planning, this
is a crucial question for thoughtful Christians to consider.
Consider these reasons for including Church of the Palms:
1. It’s a matter of values. Your will is your “testament” - a testimony concerning the
persons and causes important to you. When we remember a particular ministry in our
will it is a powerful statement that this is something we believe in. Conversely, omitting
the church from our estate plan suggests it really wasn’t an important part of our lives.
2. It’s a matter of timing. Many gifts just can’t be given during our lifetime because we
still require the gift asset for our own use. Giving through our will enables us to give
to the church when we no longer have need of the gift. This often enables us to make
a more substantial gift than we ever could during our lifetime.
3. It’s a matter of faith. Because we believe that “the Church is of God and will be
preserved until the end of time,” we believe that giving to the church through our
will is a faithful way to provide for on-going ministry long after we’re gone. This is an
outstanding way to provide endowments for future ministries through our church and
become a Legacy Society member at the same time.
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
19
Pa ms
Detach before mailing
_______________
of the Church:
Check which echoes apply to you!
Echoes received . . . remembering God’s gifts to you!
Remembering God’s gift of life.
Remembering God’s gift of the important people in your life.
Remembering God’s gift of new life in Christ.
Echoes given . . . your gifts to God:
Giving praise: in worship, prayer and service.
Giving from First Fruits: budget your gift before other expenses
Giving regularly: use weekly envelopes
Giving systematically: use your bank’s “bill pay” or set-up recurring gifts at www.churchofthepalms.org
Giving faithfully: make an annual pledge on the other side of this card
Monthly
Quarterly
Annual
Seasonal
I/We have included the Church and/or the Foundation in my/our estate plan and Pledge $__________
therefore qualify for membership in the The Legacy Society.
This commitment may be increased or decreased due to changing circumstances.
insurance gift, etc.)
I/We would like to discuss a special or planned gift (through a will, annuity, trust, Weekly
Grateful for God’s love in Jesus Christ, I (we) make the following commitment in support
Email____________________________________________________________________________
City__________________________________________________State________Zip___________
Address__________________________________________________________________________
Name___________________________________________________________________________
The Generosity Team would like to say thank you
to those of you who presented your 2015 sacrificial
commitments last week on Commitment Sunday. We
continue our Stewardship season and invite any and all
who have not yet made a financial pledge to our mission
and ministry for 2015 to complete a pledge card. They
are available in the pews or in the church office during the
week. You may place your completed card in the offering
plate or send it to the church office. We look forward to
great opportunities this year as you join others carrying
out the important work of Equipping Disciples for the
Service of Christ.
Church
3224 Bee Ridge Road
Sarasota, FL 34239
P: 941-924-1323
F: 941-923-9594
www. churchofthepalms.org
of the
a community of faith . . . a way of life
$___________________
My/Our TOTAL PLEDGE is
Keep this portion as a record
of your financial Stewardship
Pledge for the year 2015.
_______________
calendar of
events
Sunday, March 1
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.
11:00 a.m.
3:00 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 7:00 p.m. Chapel Worship Service
Chapel
Prayer Meeting
Chapel Study
ChildcareSee Page 9
The Garden Worship Service
Campus Center
Traditional WorshipSanctuary
Kid’s Worship
205-207
Pre-K - Elementary Small GroupsSee Page 9
Middle - High School Small GroupsSee Page 9
Christians Under Construction
206
Thriving in the Early Years of Parenting 202
The Story: Creation to Resurrection
Chapel
Traditional WorshipSanctuary
Noye’s Fludde PerformanceSanctuary
Lord, Teach Me to Pray
Chapel
Noye’s Fludde PerformanceSanctuary
Monday, march 2
9:00 a.m.SILL Music MondaysSanctuary
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.Deacons Meeting
Chapel Reception Room
7:00 p.m.Spring Cantori Choir Rehearsal
Chapel
Tuesday, march 3
7:00 a.m.
Men’s Bible Study & Breakfast
Off Campus
2:00 p.m.
Women’s Prayer Group
West Meeting Room
2:30 p.m.
Tutoring
Campus Center
4:30 p.m.SYV Prelude & Training Choir Rehearsal Music & Arts Building
5:30 p.m.
Creative SignersSanctuary
5:45 p.m.SYV Concert Choir Rehearsal Music & Arts Building
6:00 p.m.
C.S. Lewis Reading Group206
6:30 p.m.SYV Chamber Choir Rehearsal
Music & Arts Building
7:00 p.m.Ruth Circle
Chapel Reception Room
Wednesday, march 4
7:30 a.m.
Men’s Bible Study Chapel Reception Room
9:30 a.m.
PEO Meeting Campus Center
10:00 a.m.
Presbyterian Women Board MeetingSanctuary Narthex
10:00 a.m.
Watercolor Wednesday
Chapel Reception Room
2:00 p.m.
90+ Luncheon Planning Meeting
Chapel Reception Room
2:30 p.m.
Building & Grounds Meeting
211
3:30 p.m.
Prayer Shawl Group
Chapel Narthex
5:00 p.m.
Facilities Master Planning Team Meeting Chapel Reception Room
5:00 p.m.
Congregational Prayer Time
Chapel
5:00 p.m.
Palms Buffet & Grille
Campus Center
5:30 p.m.Discipleship Task Force Meeting
West Meeting Room
5:30 p.m.Equipping Ministry MeetingEast Meeting Room
6:00 p.m.
Jubilee Handbell Choir RehearsalSanctuary
6:30 p.m.
Youth Group (Middle & High School)
208
www.churchofthepalms.org
21
calendar of
events
6:30 p.m.
6:30 p.m.
7:15 p.m.
PALMS Essentials Small Group
Temple Mount Class
Chancel Choir Rehearsal
202
205
Music & Arts Building
Thursday, march 5
2:30 p.m.
Tutoring
Campus Center
4:00 p.m.Easter Sunrise Service Committee Meeting West Meeting Room
5:30 p.m. Beginning Creative Signers Class
Music & Arts Building
6:00 p.m. The Garden Worship Team MeetingEast Meeting Room
6:30 p.m. Beginning Bell Ringers ClassSanctuary
6:30 p.m. Bridge
Chapel Reception Room
7:00 p.m.
The Garden Worship Band Rehearsal
Campus Center
Friday, march 6
9:30 a.m.
10:00 a.m. 1:00 p.m. Friday Morning Bible Study
Grief Support Group
Palms String Ensemble
202
Chapel Reception Room
Music & Arts Building
Saturday, march 7
2:00 p.m.
Family Promise Volunteer TrainingSanctuary
Sunday, March 8
8:00 a.m.
Chapel Worship Service
Chapel
8:00 a.m.
Prayer Meeting
Chapel Study
8:45 a.m.
ChildcareSee Page 9
9:00 a.m. The Garden Worship Service
Campus Center
9:00 a.m.
Traditional WorshipSanctuary
9:30 a.m.
Kid’s Worship
205-207
10:15 a.m.
Pre-K - Elementary Small GroupsSee Page 9
10:15 a.m.
Middle - High School Small GroupsSee Page 9
10:15 a.m.
Christians Under Construction
206
10:15 a.m.
Thriving in the Early Years of Parenting 202
10:15 a.m.
The Story: Creation to Resurrection
Chapel
10:15 a.m.New Members - COP Orientation
Chapel Reception Room
11:00 a.m.New Members - Join The Community
Chapel Reception Room
11:00 a.m.
Traditional WorshipSanctuary
4:30 p.m. Praise & Glory Choir RehearsalSanctuary
5:30 p.m. Lord, Teach Me to PraySanctuary
22
Church of the Palms
God’s Story
Your Story
March 1, 2015
For the week of March 1, 2015
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 extravagant grace, you have showered your children with
blessings we did not deserve, but gratefully receive. Accept our
gratitude for your goodness, for the glory of Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Amen.
Reflect: Reflect on the key verses from Sunday’s reading.
[Jesus said,] “[The landowner said,] ‘Am I not allowed to do what I
choose with what belongs to me? Or are you envious because I am
generous?’ So the last will be first, and the first will be last.”
Matthew 20:15-16
Study: Study the reading and consider the background.
Our sense of fairness is challenged in this parable. Many of us have been
raised to believe we get what we earn. To imagine someone else might
receive what we receive for having earned far less challenges our
sensibilities.
But what if we are not the laborer who has earned a day’s wage? What
if we are the laborer who cannot possibly work hard enough or long
enough to earn a day’s wage? Perhaps Jesus was teaching here that God
offers love more abundantly than anyone can possibly earn.
- 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
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 parables and teachings of Jesus, as Jesus challenged
followers to do more for God’s kingdom.
Sunday, Matthew 20:1-16, Laborers in the Vineyard
Monday, Psalm 16:5-8, Psalm
Tuesday, Matthew 16:1-12, Teachings of Jesus
Wednesday, Matthew 16:13-23, Jesus Foretells His Death
Thursday, Matthew 17:9-27, Teachings of Jesus
Friday, Matthew 18:10-14, Parables of Jesus
Saturday, Matthew 19:1-30, Teachings of Jesus
What is God’s role in the parables Jesus told?
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?
Where are wages just and where are they unjust within your
community? What would happen if Jesus’ idea of abundant
generosity was played out in your community?
What difference does it make to your life that you have been given
abundant, unearned, generous love from God?
Do: By acting on what we learn, we make God’s word come alive. Do the
following activity this week.
Be an extravagant tipper this week. Notice how practicing abundant
generosity changes you.
Bless:
Close your devotion with a blessing.
Generous God, our hearts are sometimes stingy. Speak love to us in the
reading of your word. Amen.
Copyright © 2014 Clergy Stuff. Used with Permission. Find more at www.ClergyStuff.com. Blessing written
by Pr. Chip Borgstadt.