february - march 2016 march 2016 courier.pdf · made available a lenten prayer calendar and shares...

First Presbyterian Church

Delhi, NY

COURIER - Email Edition February - March 2016

First Presbyterian Church Delhi, NY

COURIER February – March 2016

Rev. Laura Stephens-Reed, a Clergy Coach and Congregational Consultant, has

made available a Lenten prayer calendar and shares this wisdom with us.

“Lent is the season for spiritual spring cleaning. As we journey to the foot of

the cross, we shed (with God’s help) the things that keep us from being closer

to God and to one another. On Easter we celebrate the redemption of our lives

together in Christ.

It is important to engage in spiritual disciplines that help us acknowledge and

remove barriers to bonds on a personal level. It is just as critical to discern

relationship distractions and oversights on a communal level.”

Laura asks us to consider this question through this season of Lent as a

community:

Where do we particularly need help as a church so that we can fully join with

other parts of Christ’s body in carrying out God’s call?

The attached calendar contains a season full of prayer prompts to orient us as

an entire congregation toward renewal. Renewal in health and vitality; in

missional focus; in cohesiveness; in discipleship.

I would encourage all of us to participate in this prayerful endeavor during

Lent. As a congregation we are embarking on a time of discernment in where

God is leading us in ministry and what our future looks like. Before we can start

implementing hopes and dreams in practical ways, we need this season of Lent

to prayerfully consider where our distractions are and where we are not living

up to our calling as people of God.

My prayers are with you as you invite God in to help you shed the things that

keep God out. I hope you will pray for me as I do the same.

In Christ’s peace,

Pastor Sarah

*There will be other daily Lenten practices available in the office, specifically

geared for families with children and also praying in color*

Prayer Labyrinth

This Lent, First Presbyterian Church will have a prayer labyrinth set up in the new narthex. We invite you to walk the Labyrinth as a time of prayer and meditation and as a physical reminder of

our “walk” with Christ to the cross and resurrection. The labyrinth will be available for the entire community when the building is open.

Our Servant-King

Jesus began his ministry by being hungry, yet he is the Bread of Life.

Jesus ended his earthly ministry by being thirsty,

yet he is the Living Water.

Jesus was weary, yet he is our rest.

Jesus paid tribute,

yet he is the King.

Jesus was accused of having a demon, yet he cast out demons.

Jesus wept, yet he wipes away our tears.

Jesus was sold for 30 pieces of silver,

yet he redeemed the world.

Jesus was brought as a lamb to the slaughter, yet he is the Good Shepherd.

Jesus died,

yet by his death he destroyed the power of death.

—Gregory of Nazianzus (fourth-century church father)

Mission

Emphasis for

February

Church World

Service:

Blankets + Tools

For over 60 years, CWS has worked in partnership with local communities to

identify their needs and access the resources they need to build the foundation for a more viable future, including:

Blankets, tents, food and other emergency supplies in the wake of a

disaster Tools and seeds for refugees returning home to replant their fields

Wells for families living in drought prone areas to provide clean, safe water

to drink and to irrigate crops and gardens Literacy training and microcredit for women struggling to realize their

potential

Contributions to CWS Tools mean Church World Service will be ready to help people around the world gain the resources and develop the skills necessary to

sustain themselves and their families and to build viable communities.

Again this year, our Presbyterian Women are encouraging us to take part in this important work. Special envelopes for your Blankets+ offerings will be available

in the pews in the sanctuary during February. In addition, cards are available in the church office if you would like to make a donation to Blankets+ in honor of

someone special. Thank you for reaching out and making a difference!

Dearest Lord,

teach me to be generous,

teach me to serve you as I should,

to give and not to count the cost,

to fight and not to heed the wounds,

to toil and not to seek for rest,

to labour and ask not for reward,

save that of knowing that

I do your most holy will.

St. Ignatius Loyola - 16th century

One Great Hour of Sharing

Our March - April Mission Emphasis

“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” 1 Peter 4:10 (NIV)

Around the world, people lack access to

food, clean water, sanitation,

education, and opportunity. Each gift to

One Great Hour of Sharing (OGHS)

serves to help change the lives of

people in these challenging situations.

The Offering provides us a way to share

God’s love with our neighbors in need.

One Great Hour of Sharing, our March

and April mission emphasis, makes a

difference in the world through three

impactful programs: Presbyterian

Disaster Assistance, the Presbyterian

Hunger Program, and Self-Development

of People.

The three OGHS ministries depend on

your contributions! As a result of your gifts and the gifts of other congregations

across the church, OGHS will continue to be a reminder that through the simple

act of sharing, we are blessed and experience God’s abundance in surprising

ways. Thank you for your longtime support of this offering, as together we are

sharing hope that is a witness to God’s love for all creation.

Envelopes for your One Great Hour of Sharing Offering will be available in the

pews in the sanctuary and in the church office throughout March and April.

ZimKids Notes -

Mentoring Our Girls

Back in late June, 2015 we reported that many of our first groups of female vocational trainees

were stellar: They were eager to learn, worked incredibly hard, and have proven themselves

again and again. They engaged in welding, construction, sewing, nurse’s aide training,

early childhood training and computer skills. Since then, we’ve struggled: Our present

cohort of girls shy away from construction or other heavy work and take much less initiative than our first class of girls finishing school. And, most of all, their female

guardians either discourage them from entering training programs, or undermine their ability to participate since they want them to stay home, cooking, cleaning and taking care

of the younger kids in the household. Boys are allowed unambiguous freedom; girls are

tethered to the demands of often-elderly caregivers.

In an effort to deal with this problem, we began working with the caregivers to help them

understand that, while they might experience a short-term loss of the girls’ labor at home,

they had to think of the long-term gain of having income flowing into the household. It didn’t work. They don’t mind that their older girls aren’t busy enough and that six girls

out of this cohort have already gotten pregnant. In fact, it became clear that the caregivers wanted to be paid to allow the girls to participate in vocational training.

So we formed a group called Young Girls of Tomorrow. The initiative is in its early days,

but we’re hopeful that this might be a more solid strategy that will help the girls move forward. They face such immense cultural obstacles, and we’re just beginning to play with

more ideas for overcoming them.

Searching for answers hasn't been easy. But we think we have the makings of a powerful

way to open our girls’ eyes into the lives of girls elsewhere. We are, therefore, thrilled to announce that the Women's Empowerment Club at Eleanor Roosevelt High School has

agreed to work with our Zimkids girls through regularly scheduled skype video sessions.

Tinashe, our director, and I visited Roosevelt High this month and spoke to the Honors students and the Women's Empowerment Club about our girls. We have developed a plan

that will give our girls the opportunity to share their lives, concerns, and challenges with their

counterparts in the United States. And vice versa.

We are hopeful that this exchange will enlighten and encourage our girls to look beyond cultural

expectations and to engage in the kind of education that we offer to brighten their future

and help them to become independent, smart and skilled women.

Wishing all of you a Happy New Year!

Dennis

FOOD BANK

Is a still small voice calling you to help out the food bank? The following are suggestions for items the food bank can always use:

Canned vegetables - all kinds Soups & broth - canned or dehydrated

Powdered milk (plain and chocolate) Dehydrated potatoes

Stove Top stuffing Canned fruit - all kinds Salad dressings and mayonnaise

Peanut butter & jelly Catsup

Salt, pepper, flour, sugar, cake & brownie mixes Canned meat products such as tuna fish, sardines, salmon Potatoes & onions Breakfast foods of all kinds (no baby cereals)

Crackers & cookies, powdered milk - plain & chocolate, Juices

Biscuit mix, pancake mix, syrup, Jell-O, pudding Pasta, rice, macaroni, spaghetti, noodles

Pasta sauces All kinds of paper products such as napkins, paper towels, toilet tissue

All kinds of cleaning products, face soap & laundry detergent. Cash donations are always welcome. Please make checks out to First Presbyterian church and drop in the offering plate (clearly marked food bank) or leave in the church

office.

…. 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of Mine, you did for Me.' Matthew 25:40 NIV

2016

Communion

Schedule

January 24 – Annual Meeting Sunday February 14 – First Sunday in Lent

March 20 – Palm Sunday

March 24 – Maundy Thursday April 17 – 4th Sunday of Easter

May 15 – Day of Pentecost August 7 – Summer Communion

September 11 – Kick-off Sunday

October 2 – World Communion Sunday November 13 – 26th Sunday after Pentecost

December 18 – Fourth Sunday of Advent

HOLIDAY BAZAAR REPORT

The 2015 Holiday Bazaar is over and we did GREAT! The final amount made was

$5,027.60 (including a check from Robinson’s Auction) - which means it was very

successful.

We wish to thank everyone who helped in any way - sorting and cleaning of the White

Elephant items (which was a huge task), making all the beautiful Crafts and Silent

Auction items, Baking, working on the wonderful Luncheon, setting up, working at the

various booths, taking down, packing and disposing of left over items. Also, thanks to

all who made purchases and who attended the Luncheon- a record number of

Luncheon tickets were sold!

It was a lot of work, but rewarding and great fun also. It was nice to see so many

people come together to help the Mission of the Presbyterian Women move forward.

THANK YOU EVERYONE!

Betty and Nancy

Missing Pennies for Mission Pennies!

The “Mile of Pennies” jar is looking a bit empty lately. Please look through your pockets,

purses, drawers and car floors and bring your coins in to the “Mile of Pennies” jar in the narthex. The money collected from this jar goes toward the “Fellowship of the Least

Coin.” This supports our extra-mile mission giving with our brothers and sisters around

the globe. Please see the pamphlet in the narthex or visit http://www.flc.net.ph/ if you want to know more about this offering. Prayer cards are available in the memorial

hospitality room rack.

THINK SPRING!!!

Sign Up for iGive.com

Do your Spring Shopping online and earn $$ for our Youth!

You also save Gas & Time! There are now over 1700 websites

from Amazon to Zumba to choose from. Find some great after holiday Sales!

It’s safe, private and very easy. Just go to our Link:

http://www.iGive.com/1stPresDelhiNY

It Does Not Cost You or Our Church Anything! And with Many Special Deals it

May Cost You Less! Join today following the directions on the link (ask Nancy at the

Church Office if you need help) and earn up to 26% of your purchases for the Youth

Group. To date $315.37 has been earned to help them in their Mission Work.

Returnable Bottles & cans

Don’t forget to drop your returnable bottles and cans off at the church in the new

narthex. Your efforts are appreciated as we work towards the mission God has set forth for our congregation.

Holy Week Schedule Palm Sunday, March 20: Sunday School will meet at 9:30 am. We will

join for worship at 10:30 am in the sanctuary on this Sunday for a service

of Communion. A time of fellowship will follow the service at Coffee Hour

in the Fellowship Hall.

Prayer Labyrinth in the new narthex is available for the entire

community when the building is open. We invite you to walk

the Labyrinth as a time of prayer and meditation and as a

physical reminder of our “walk” with Christ to the cross and

resurrection.

Maundy Thursday, March 24: We’ll gather for a Contemplative Service

at 7:00 p.m. to remember our Lord’s Last Supper with his disciples …

that event which so profoundly shapes our celebration of Holy

Communion … the event at which our Lord gave us the new

commandment to “love one another.”

Good Friday, March 25: We’ll gather at 12:00 noon on the Delhi Town Square at

United Ministry for an ecumenical observance with our sisters and brothers from

the larger Delhi faith community.

Saturday, March 26: Come one, come all! Bring your own

basket and join us at 10:00 am for an Easter egg hunt, games,

prizes, crafts and a visit from the Easter Bunny! Admission is

free. All are invited.

Easter Sunday, March 27: We’ll gather at 7:00 a.m. at the Old

Flats Cemetery for an early service and worship. In case of

inclement weather, we will meet at the church for this service.

A light breakfast (muffins, bagels, juice and coffee and tea) will

be served at the church from 8:00 am – 9:00 am.

Easter Worship Service of praise for our Risen Lord! We will

gather for this special worship at 10:30 a.m. in our sanctuary.

COURIER DISTRIBUTION

2015 brought some exciting changes in the distribution of our church newsletter, the

Courier. The Courier is always available on our website at www. fpcdelhi.org where you will

find a link on the right hand side of the home page. However, due to the ever increasing costs

of postage, paper and copying, we no longer mass print and mail the Courier.

An email notification is sent when a new edition of the Courier is available online. This email

contains an attachment of the Courier in pdf format as well as a link to the latest edition on the website. Please be sure the church office has

your current email address so you may receive this notification. If you wish to receive this email

notification and are not currently receiving it, you may send an email to [email protected]

with “newsletter” as the subject so we know you wish to receive these emails and can confirm

your current email address.

Printed copies of the Courier are available outside the office and in the narthex for those

who wish to pick up a copy. If you are not currently receiving a printed copy by mail and

desire a mailed copy for future newsletters, please complete the form below and drop it off

with Nancy in the church office, place in the offering plate on Sunday or mail it to the church

office at: First Presbyterian Church

Attention: Nancy 4 Clinton Street

Delhi, NY 13753 Please include your correct mailing address and

phone number (even if you think we know this information)!

Remember, printed copies are always available at the church for pick up.

Pictures Needed!

Grab your camera and attend the

events of First Presbyterian Church! The church is always looking for photos to be used in a “bank” of pictures which

will rotate on the website, may appear in the newsletter or on the church’s

Facebook page. If you have any pictures showing our church life such as Children’s Day, Vacation Bible

School, Church Picnic, Bazaar, Youth activities, Coffee Hour, Special Music,

Living Nativity, Mission events, and so on, please consider sharing them. Simply email them to the church office

at [email protected] as an attachment or drop them off at the

church office on a CD, DVD or memory stick. We will return your media to you. The church also has memory sticks you

can borrow, place the photos on and return to the church office. Actual

pictures may also be submitted by dropping off at the church office where we will scan them and return the

originals to you. This is an ongoing project so discover

your hidden photography talents. Bring your camera to our many church activities and continue to share your

photos. Photo releases for any children and any

adults with guardians in the pictures are required. We have these on file in

the church office and blank copies are available if needed. Thanks in advance for helping us make

our website, newsletter and Facebook page up to date and engaging!

Submitted by Nancy Althaus, Church Office

I / We request a printed copy of the Courier by mail

Name:_________________________________________________________

Address:_______________________________________________________

Town:______________________ State:_____________ Zip Code:_________

Phone Number:____________________________

http://www.fpcdelhi.org/

Presbyterian Women

On November 30, 20115 the PW of the First Presbyterian Church voted to

dissolve. The women plan to continue to do the work they have done in the past under a subcommittee of session.

Women volunteers are welcomed to participate with this subcommittee

to continue our important mission work.

February Mission emphasis will be the

Blankets Plus offering. Envelopes will be located in the pews throughout February

and are available in the church office.

Care Packages Sent

Thank you to those who contributed and helped to assemble the care packages to our college youth. We filled twenty-one

packages for college students in our church family.

Spring Gathering

You are invited! The Presbyterian Women

in the Presbytery of Albany Spring Gathering will be Saturday, April 23, 2016 – 10:00 am – 1:30 pm at Trinity

Presbyterian Church on 185 Swagger-town Road in Scotia.

Program will be Rev. Kathy Gorman – Coombs sharing about the partnership

the Presbytery of Albany has with the Mam Presbytery in Guatemala, including

the 2014 Mutual Women's Retreat and her experience during her January 2016

trip to attend their Presbytery meeting where our partnership covenant is being

affirmed. She will include an update on the water filter project.

Presbyterian Women’s

Mission Project for 2016

The PW will once again sponsor the Christmas

Stocking Fund. Stockings are available in baskets

throughout the church for those of you who receive the

Courier by email or read it online. Stockings are

attached to all printed copies of the newsletter as well.

The Stocking Fund is an easy way to raise funds for a “special mission”. We hope all

women and men of the church will help with the project. So start saving your dimes.

Stockings will be collected in December 2016. The donations will be given to Habitat for

Humanity and Hospice.

Thanks to all who helped make the stockings,

put them together, donated material and collected stockings during December.

IF YOU DO NOT PLAN ON MAKING A

DONATION IN 2016, PLEASE RETURN ANY

UNUSED STOCKING. Unused stockings may be left in any of the mission stocking baskets

throughout the church or they may be dropped off in the church office.

Thanks to everyone for their help and support

of this mission.

Sewing Fellowship

The Sewing Fellowship

Group will be taking a break this winter and will resume

meeting in April. If you have any projects or ideas you would like to share

with the group, please contact Nancy in the church office. Watch the upcoming Couriers

and the Church Life section of the bulletin for our next gathering. If you need instructions

for prayer shawls, baby hats, Afghans or school bags, please contact the church office.

Presbyterianism 101:

What Does It All Mean

Anyway?

Join Pastor Sarah in a series of five classes on

what it means to be a Presbyterian. We will be

having discussions, watching videos from

Theocademy, and learning about this

denomination we belong to. This class is perfect

for people considering membership in our

church, those who are already members, or for

folks who would just like to learn more about

our denomination. Classes will be Sunday

mornings from 9:30 am – 10:15 am beginning

February 14 and continuing February 21 & 28

and March 6 & 13. These classes will be held in

the Conference Room (senior meals area) of the

Christian Education wing.

“SPARKS” Group

Submitted by Nancy Althaus

The Women’s SPARKS (Study, Prayer, Action,

Reflection, Koinonia) group continues to meet Wednesday mornings at 7:30 am at Crossroads

Café. All are welcome. The current study is on the Fruits of the Spirit. We are currently talking

about the fruit of “Kindness”. If you would like a copy, please see Nancy in the church office.

New members and friends are welcomed at any time. Please see Nancy Althaus or Bea Mooney

if you have questions or simply join us next week! This is a great way to start your day, grow

in your faith, share in fellowship and nurture one

another through prayer!

We have added a few new books

this fall. If you like stories about

animals, Janet Maxwell has

donated both a dog story and a cat

story. The books The Cat that God

Sent and The Dog That Talked to

God were given in honor of Jeff

and Brenda Maxwell, Joe Maxwell,

John and Elaine Maxwell and

Jacqueline Maxwell and written by

Jim Kraus.

Janet has also shared some of her

commemorative Life Magazine

issues.

Susan Gearhart donated Abigail’s

Story by Ann Burton and Bonnie

Fleming has added two books to

our Grace Chapel Inn series:

Something Old Something New

and Small Town Reality.

We’re looking forward to some

new additions for the children’s

shelves and welcome donations

(in good, clean condition, please).

If anyone would be interested in

participating in a book discussion

in the coming weeks, I’d welcome

suggestions of book titles that

interest you.

Ash Wednesday

Vesper Service

Wednesday, February 10th

at 6:00 p.m.

Start your Lenten season with this special worship experience led by Pastor

Sarah. This service is an opportunity to get focused as we begin our journey

through Lent together.

Holy Communion will be served during

worship on Sunday, February 21 and on

Palm Sunday, March 20, 2016. Please

plan to join us for these services. Come

worship, participate, commune and

rejoice in the divine majesty of Christ,

whose glory shone even when

confronted with the cross.

Upper Room

Devotionals

The Upper Room devotionals are

available in the Narthex and on the

information racks in the Memorial

Hospitality Room and outside the church

office. If you wish to contribute to defray

the cost, there is a wooden box in the

narthex.

The children's Sunday School at First Presbyterian is now an all ages class where

students will use their imagination through LEGO© creations to experience their faith and

the biblical story. Join us next week and see God at work, brick by brick.

Sunday School meets every

Sunday at 9:30 a.m. Please feel free to bring a friend!

If you are interested in helping to lead the

class, contact the Christian Ed Committee for more information.

The CE Committee will be organizing this year’s

Easter Egg Hunt. If you would like to volunteer to help out during the

morning (March 26), please contact Sarah Philion. Or she will be contacting you. 518-

929-2489 [email protected].

We are asking church members to donate fun

size candy to be used to stuff the eggs. We are also asking for a donation of jelly beans in

order to play “Guess How Many Beans” are in the jar. Please have your donations to Sarah

by March 18th.

This is a wonderful community event that attracts not only our own children, but also the neighborhood. Please join us in presenting this

to the community.

Mark your calendar Children’s Day – June 5

Vacation Bible School - July 24-28, 2016.

Watch for more information in upcoming

Couriers.

The next meeting of the Christian Education committee will be held on March 7th at 6:30 pm

in the church library. If you are interested in Christian Education and feel God calling you for

this mission, please attend this meeting!

tel:518-929-2489

tel:518-929-2489

mailto:[email protected]

Pastor Sarah will be following the

Narrative Lectionary. The following

readings will be used in worship on the

given Sunday. Please consider reading

these texts in preparation for Sunday

morning worship.

February 7 – Transfiguration

Peter’s confession, passion prediction,

bearing the cross, Transfiguration.

Mark 8:27-9:8 (Psalm 27:1-4)

February 10 – Ash Wednesday

Passion prediction,

debate about who is the greatest,

call to become a servant.

Mark 9:30-37 (Psalm 32:1-5)

February 14 – First Sunday in Lent

First Last and Last First, Rich man is

called to sell all he has and follow Jesus.

Mark 10:17-31 (Psalm 19:7-10)

February 21 – Second Sunday in Lent

Passion prediction,

Son of Man came not to

be served but to serve,

heals blind Bartimaeus.

Mark 10:32-52 (Psalm 34:11-14)

February 28 – Third Sunday in Lent

Parable of the Tenants,

Paying taxes to Caesar

Mark 12:1-17 (Psalm 86:8-13)

March 6 – Fourth Sunday in Lent

Great commandment,

scribes seek honor,

A poor widow gives all she has.

Mark 12:28-44 (Psalm 89:1-4)

March 13 – Fifth Sunday in Lent

The end of the age; call to be watchful.

Mark 13:1-8, 24-37 (Psalm 102:12-17)

March 20 – Palm Sunday

Triumphal entry

Woman anoints Jesus at Bethany

Mark 11:1-11 Mark 14:3-9

(Psalm 118:25-29)

March 24 – Maundy Thursday

Lord’s Supper, Prayer in Gethsemane

Mark 14:22-42 (Psalm 116:12-19)

March 25 – Good Friday

Mocking; crucifixion; “My God, my God

why have you forsaken me?”

Mark 15:16-3 (Psalm 22:1-2, 14-21)

March 27 – Easter Sunday

Resurrection, empty tomb,

and fleeing in fear.

Mark 16:1-8 (Psalm 118:21-27)

April 3 - Second Sunday of Easter

You Shall Be My Witnesses

Acts 1:1-14 (Mark 6:7-13)

Worship with us each Sunday

Morning at 10:30 am!

APPORTIONMENT

The Per Capita amount for 2016 has been set at $34.86 per member. Per Capita apportionment is based on membership as of

December 31, 2014. Our apportionment is based on 191 members giving a total of $6,658.32. The money is paid by our church to

cover our share of basic operation costs of our Presbytery, Synod,

and General Assembly. Each member is invited to contribute $34.86 to help pay this obligation.

Annual

Reports

Annual Reports are

available in the

church office and in

the narthex. This

annual report contain

the 2015 year-end

treasurer’s reports

as well as reports

from all the

committees of the

church. Please stop

by and pick one up if

you did not get one

earlier.

NOTES FROM THE FINANCIAL

SECRETARY

The Church envelopes for 2016 are located on the table in

the back of the sanctuary. Please pick yours up after worship

this morning. Please see Gia Cantwell if you are unable to

locate your envelopes.

If you have not already prayerfully considered the Time and

Talent Stewardship Commitment for 2016 and the

Financial Stewardship Intention for 2016 forms found in

your Stewardship packet, please return them to the church

either in the offering plate, the church office or mail in the

enclosed envelope. Additional packets are available in the

church office.

If you would like a statement of your giving for 2015,

please feel free to contact our Financial Secretary, Gia Cantwell

by calling her home phone (746- 3611) or e-mail

[email protected].

ON GIVING AND LOVING

The truth comes so often in simple sentences. For example,

isn’t it true that a person can give without real love or

sympathy (maybe to impress others, for example) but one

simply cannot love without giving? In fact, one of the clues to

how much a person loves is how much he or she gives in terms

of time, talent, friendship, service, encouragement and

prayers on behalf of others.


2016 Easter Lilies

Order Form

Easter is just around the corner! All members and friends of

First Presbyterian Church are invited to provide LILIES for our Sanctuary on Easter Sunday, March 27. The plants may be given in memory of a loved

one, in honor of someone special to you, or as a gift to the Church. Those giving plants will be listed in the Church Bulletin on Easter Sunday.

If you wish to order a plant, please complete the form at the bottom of this page and send it to or leave it at the Church Office by Sunday, March 20. PLEASE DO NOT LEAVE

IT WITH THE FLORIST. Lilies are $10.00 each this year. Make checks payable to FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (please note “Lilies” in the memo section of your check), and WE

WILL ORDER THE PLANT FOR YOU. Please fill out the form at the bottom of this page as this is the information for the Easter Sunday Bulletin. All plants must be ordered through

the Church office by Sunday, March 20.

You may take your plant after the service on Easter Sunday, March 27, but no later than

Tuesday, March 29. Unless special arrangements are made, any lilies not picked up by 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, March 30 will be distributed by the Deacons. Protective

wrappers will be in the Session Room for you to cover your plant in the event of cold weather.

Thank you for contributing to the joy and beauty of this celebration of Christ’s Resurrection.

BOARD OF DEACONS

FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

PLEASE PRINT INFORMATION AS YOU WANT IT LISTED IN THE BULLETIN:

Your Name __________________________________________________________

In Memory of _______________________________________________________

In Honor of ________________________________________________________

I will pick up my plant after the Service on Easter Sunday _________________

I will pick up my plant on Monday or Tuesday (3/28 or 3/29) _______________

I do not want my plant;

please have the Deacon’s brighten someone’s day! _________________ THE PRICE FOR THE LILIES THIS YEAR IS $10.00

REMINDER: Make checks payable to the First Presbyterian Church. Please note “Lilies” in the memo section of your check. Orders must be placed by March 20.

Our deepest sympathy and prayers

are with the following families:

Dave and Bea Mooney and family on the

passing of Dave’s cousin, Sharon.

Don and Jane Hymers and Tom and Barb Leo on the passing of Jane’s brother, Phil

Hebbard on November 11, 2015.

David, Nancy, Benjamin and Bethany Althaus on the death of David’s father,

John Althaus who passed away on December 5, 2015.

Deb and Steve Fleming and Don and

Bonnie Fleming at the passing of Steve’s mother, Irma Fleming, who passed away

on December 14, 2015.

Alberta Anderson, John Anderson and

family on the passing of Norma Wansor on December 24, 2015.

Linda and Richard Malcolm and family on

the death of Richard’s nephew, Jimmy on December 6, 2015 and Linda’s Aunt

Mable on January 4, 2016.

Scott and Betsy Clark and family on the passing of Betsy’s brother, Robert Brown

on January 20, 2016.

Frieda and Frank Snyder and Irene

Sander on the passing of Frieda’s brother, Henry Sander on January 26,

2016.

If you know of anyone who is in the hospital or in need of pastoral care, please call the church office. We would

rather be notified ten times than not be aware of the needs of the church family!

Our prayers are with those who have

recently had outpatient procedures, surgery, are facing major changes in their

lives, been hospitalized or are facing difficult health concerns.

ADDRESS and Email

CORRECTIONS

If you move or change your email address, please contact the church office

as soon as possible but at least within 30 days, with your new mailing or emailing

information. Thank you for helping us maintain communication in a timely

manner.

An early start to spring cleaning

Although Lent starts early this year, before spring appears in many areas, it’s an appropriate time for spring cleaning. Indeed,

Lent comes from old German and English words for “spring.” So, while it might be too

soon to open windows or hang clothes on the line, now is ideal for some spiritual spring cleaning.

Lent calls us to examine our beliefs, confess and dispose of old grudges and selfish habits,

dust off our Bibles for a new routine of study and prayer, air out our hearts and brighten up

our attitudes. “Lent cleaning” lets the Holy Spirit freshen our faith — and it’s never too early for that.

Birthdays in our Church Family February through March Birthdays

February 4 – Joyce Manning Joan Verspoor 5 – Marilyn Wickham

Declan Newman Elizabeth Gorsch

Gayle Olsen 7 – Olive "Petie” Gile

11 – Samantha Ladlee 12 – Whitney (Roberts) Kepler

14 – Joan L. Pawlikowski Kathy Sullivan

15 – Dylan Nealis 16 – Betty Ann Clark

Kelsey Little 17 – William Bedient

Mary Schmitt 18 – Jane Curley Eustis

19 – George Thompson 22 – John Jack 23 – Cindy Mostert

24 – Amber (Pawlikowski) Magyar 26 – Aimee Mignier

28 – Courtney Kilmer Carson King

Cody LaFever Ken Schermerhorn

Bruce Wilson

March 1 Lois Palin

Kenneth Rasmussen 2 Ashley Rosenthal

Leslie Mignier

4 Christopher Mooney Robert Wilklow

6 Tatum Kilmer 7 Colin Eustis

9 Nathaniel Mackey Rebecca Lee Vrendenburgh

10 Kathy Leahy Danielle Ennist

Anna Reinshagen 11 Donivin Allen

12 Allison Noble 14 Vance Kiviranna

Alex Beall 16 Katherine Reinshagen

18 Maddex Synan

19 Bette Braymer Jacek Holcomb

20 Garrett Ellis 21 Kathy Beveridge

Susie Little 22 Amanda Nealis

Cadence Wakin 23 Tom Philion

24 Troy Ladlee 25 “Buzzy” Verspoor

26 Natalie Austin Christa Burgin

27 Dane Vredenburgh 29 Gary DeWitt

Laura Gregory

30 Sarah (Pawlikowski) Kellogg Quentin McKeegan

Thank you to everyone who made the

Living Nativity possible and a great success this year. Because of your

generous donations of time, we were able to enhance the Christmas season for

many and remember the true meaning of Christmas. We offer a very special thank

you to Tom Leo who served as chair for the 2015 Living Nativity.

We would like to take a moment to thank

the officers that are going off the church's boards at this time for their service and

dedication to our church - from the Board of Elders, Marty Conklin, Susie Little,

Nichole Newbold and Janice Raitt; from

the Board of Deacons, we thank Kathy Beveridge, Bonnie Fleming and Don

Fleming and Sally Scrimshaw and from the Board of

Trustees, we thank Linda Burr, Jackie

Clark, and Ed Goff. Again, thank you for

all you do in service to the Lord.

Dear Church Family,

We would like to thank our church family for their expressions of sympathy and

support at the passing of David’s father.

We would also like to thank you for the many ongoing prayers, visits, cards and

caring during David’s recovery. Your support has shown us God’s love in

a very special way and is very much appreciated.

In Christ’s Love and Peace, David, Nancy, Benjamin & Bethany Althaus

Thank you so much for the lovely care package. Everything was so thoughtful. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Elise Bray

Thank you so much for the Christmas

package box.

Thank you, Kali (Thompson) and Brendan

Dear Presbyterian Women,

I would like to once again thank you for

such a thoughtful care package this Christmas. I can't help but admit that I

was a little nostalgic receiving your package this year as I knew it would be

my last. For six years I've had the privilege of receiving a little bit of home

during my finals week. I can't tell you how much this has meant to me. Looking back

I can remember years where I shared those packages with friends, years where

I really needed that little reminder that life

was bigger than finals, and years where I literally lived off that box because I had

no time for grocery shopping (admittedly that was this year). Your constant love

and kindness has meant so much. Never underestimate the power of fresh cookies

for a starving college student!!

Love always, Bethany

Dear First Presbyterian Church,

I wanted to take the time to thank you for your gracious gift baskets over the last

few years. The consistent reminder of love and God’s grace means the world to me,

especially during the extremely stressful finals period. The delicious snacks were

much appreciated during the many late-night cramming sessions towards the end

of the semester. (Especially the cookies)! Happy New Year and God Bless,

Noah J. Oliver

Thanks to all who have helped with Coffee

Hour this past year. Thank you to the men who made the coffee – you are great and

to the many who made all the “goodies”

and served.

I do appreciate all who signed up. I do

enjoy visiting with you when I call. It is great to have you say ‘yes’.

Janet

Thank you and God Bless!

Thank you for inviting me to share my journey with you! I am very grateful for

your love, support, prayers and guidance. God shows His love through the warmth

and kindness of special people like you. Thank you again!

Sam Howard

Dear Presbyterian Women, On behalf of the Delhi Children’s

Christmas Fund, I would like to thank you for your donation of $150. It is through

people like you that the children in the

Delhi School district have a wonderful holiday.

We would like to thank those who donate in memory of people who have passed on.

I know from personal experience it gives something extra to those donations.

Again thank you all for your contributions. We could not do this without you.

Sincerely Yours,

Barbara K. Sturdevant Treasurer

I would like to thank the women and the Deacons of the First Presbyterian Church

for the many beautiful greeting cards they

have sent me during the past year and for the beautiful Poinsettia and the delicious

goodies at Christmastime. I also enjoy the beautiful flowers you

bring from Sunday service. They seem to have a special meaning.

Thank you, Olga Davis

Dear Friends, (First Presbyterian Women)

On behalf of the Delaware County Chapter of Habitat for Humanity, I’d like to thank

you for your generous donation of $164.67. We are in the process of

completing a building project on Spring Valley Road in the town of Delhi for a

young family. Your donation will be used to replenish our reserve so that we can

prepare for another build possibly early this summer.

Research shows that when families take ownership of Habitat houses, the positive

effects ripple forward for generations to come.

Sincerely,

Tom Briggs

Moderator

WORSHIP

FLOWERS

February 7 – Susie Little

14 –

21 – 28 –

March 6 –

13 – Vicki Noble 20 –

27 – Lilies

February - Deacons Flower Responsibility

Joe Cantwell and Betty Bell February - Hospital Visitation/

Clothes Box/DCCCC: Heather Rosa

March - Deacons Flower

Responsibility – Heather Rosa February - Hospital Visitation/

Clothes Box/DCCCC: Joe Cantwell

LITURGISTS

February 7 – Heather Rosa 14 – Tom Philion

21 – Bea Mooney 28 – Sarah Philion

March 6 – Karen LaFever

13 – Tom Little 20 – Linda Malcolm

24 – Volunteers Welcome! 27 – Diane Maxwell

**Newsletter Deadline**

Newsletter articles are due in the office on Wednesday, March 23, 2016 in order to be placed in the

May - June Courier. If you are able to turn items in earlier, it is greatly

appreciated.

OFFICE NOTES

If you have an item or announcement to be placed in the Church Life section of the bulletin,

it must be in the office by 9:00 on Thursday morning.

The church office will be closed on Monday,

February 15 in observance of Presidents’ Day.

COFFEE HOUR

February 7 – Bonnie Fleming, Bea Mooney

14 – Kathy Beveridge, Trish Sprague 21 – Linda DeWitt, Barb Perkins,

Andy Baldauf

28 – Leslie McKeegan, Nancy Thomson

March 6 – Mac and Cheese Cook Off 13 – Nichole & Darius Newbold (Girl Scouts)

20 – Diane Maxwell, Susie Little 27 – Easter Breakfast

CHURCH BOARDS

February 3 – 6:30 p.m. Session

7 – 9:30 a.m. – Deacons 17 – 6:30 p.m. – Trustees

March 2 – 6:30 p.m. – Session

13 – 9:30 a.m. – Deacons 16 – 6:30 p.m. – Trustees

Daylight Savings

Time

Daylight Savings Time

officially begins at 2:00 am

on Sunday March 13, 2016.

Please remember to turn

your clocks ahead one hour before you go to bed

on Saturday, March 12th. We look forward to

seeing you each and every Sunday

morning!

Sunday School meets

each Sunday

at 9:30 am. Please join

us and bring a friend.

Choir News

Chancel Choir continues regular

rehearsals each Sunday afternoon at

12:00 pm. The Chancel Choir is always happy to welcome new members. If you

would like to join the choir, please feel free to come to choir practice next

Sunday!

A Pealing Sound rehearsals continue at 5:30 pm each Wednesday evening in the

Sanctuary. New members are always welcome!

Human Services

Committee

The Human Services Committee was formed with money left from the Estate of

Leona McDowell. According to the will,

money is to be used to help First Presbyterian Church Members who are in

need. The definition of “in need” is varied. In the

past, the items on the following list have been covered.

Medical bills

Fuel Bills Transportation costs (funerals,

hospital stays, medical treatment) Electric bills

Nursing home costs Funeral costs

General expenses after illness or accident

Dental bills Rent

This committee is asking that everyone keep other members in their hearts and

prayers. If you see someone in need, please call the church office.

SUPER BOWL SUB &

CHILI SALE –

All subs and chili must be picked up

following Worship on Sunday, February 7 in Fellowship Hall.

Thank you for your continued support!

WANTED

Church Organist / Accompanist

Wanted: Church Organist / Accompanist

for primarily Sunday morning worship

and choir rehearsals. Position works with

an accomplished Choir Director and an

enthusiastic Choir. We are looking for a

willing accompanist for mostly traditional

music (but with an expanding

repertoire).

Full time position open, but could share a

Part Time position.

Please respond by e-mail with resume or

qualifications to: [email protected]

or call Church office for more information

607-746-2155.

Required experience:

Church Organist Experience Preferred:

1 year

LOOKING FOR WAYS TO

SERVE?

The 2016 Flower and Coffee Hour

volunteer posters are up in Fellowship Hall. If you would like to donate flowers for the Chancel on a Sunday or if you would like to

make cookies for Coffee Hour, please sign up for any of the available Sundays. Thank

you!!!

Anyone wishing to participate in the Worship Service as Liturgist should contact

the church office.

The Child Care room needs volunteers. If you are willing to volunteer

during church service, there is a signup sheet on the door of the Nursery. If

you volunteer for the Child Care room, please make sure you are in the room after

the children are dismissed from the Children's Sermon.

Beginning February 6, Nancy will be out of the office on leave of absence. Pastor

Sarah and volunteers will be covering the work but please be aware that response

times may be slightly longer than usual. Our Elders and Deacons may be contacted

as well. Please refer to the contact information for the church board

members which appears in each Courier and is found on bulletin boards

throughout the church.

Join Us for Senior

Meals

(Anyone 60 years of age or older can participate, including younger spouses.)

CALL (607) 746-2250 for Reservations

Lunch served Monday—Friday

11:30 a.m.—12:15 p.m.

First Presbyterian Church

Conference Room

Scottish Trip Offered

Come and see some our Scottish roots this fall by joining us on a week-long trip to Scottish

Borders and Edinburgh. As a fundraiser for the Bovina United Presbyterian Church, Bovina Town Historian Ray LaFever is

organizing another trip to Scotland. The trip is scheduled for October 6 to the 14th. It will

be seven nights - three in the Scottish Borders town of Melrose and four in Edinburgh. The cost for the trip is about $3500. The trip cost

includes airfare, hotel, transport to and from the airport in Edinburgh, breakfast (except on

the day of arrival), three dinners in Melrose, a farewell dinner in Edinburgh, all the tours in the Scottish borders and a $50 donation to

the Bovina United Presbyterian Church. During our time in the Scottish Borders, we'll

visit Roslyn Chapel, Traquair House, Sir Walter Scott's home Abbotsford and the Hirsel Crafts Center. We'll also visit the four borders

abbeys at Melrose, Dryburgh, Jedburgh and Kelso, as well as make a stop at the Borders

Regional Archives in Hawick. During the stay in Edinburgh, two optional trips (for an additional cost) will be offered, one to Glen

Coe and Loch Ness and the other to Castle Stirling and Loch Lomond. Registration flyers

will be available by the late winter/early spring. Contact Ray LaFever at [email protected] or 607-832-

4609 if you are interested.


tel:607-832-4609

tel:607-832-4609

Mac and Cheese

Cook Off

Hear Ye! Hear Ye!

Calling all cooks!

Break out your recipe boxes and

fire up the stove. We are looking

for your best macaroni and cheese!

Just like the chowder cook-off last

year, we will be offering a prize for

the cook who receives the most

votes for best Mac-n-cheese.

Don't like to cook but like to eat?

Come and taste them all and vote

for your favorite and mingle.

Fellowship will provide a giant green

salad and dessert.

This all takes place Sunday, March

6 right after church.

This event is sponsored by our Fellowship Committee. The

next fellowship committee meeting will be held at 7 pm,

Tuesday February 9 in the church library.

All interested are welcome!

First Presbyterian Church 4 Clinton Street, Delhi, NY 13753

Phone: 607-746-2155 Fax: 607-746-2156

E-Mail: [email protected] Website: www.fpcdelhi.org

Reverend Sarah Hooker, Pastor Officers and Boards 2016

SESSION

2016 Joseph Maxwell, 22 Franklin Street, Delhi, NY 13753 746-3515 Renee Maxwell, 34 Clinton Street, Delhi, NY 13753 746-6128 Bea Mooney, 4537 County Highway #14, Treadwell, NY 13846 829-5507 Barbara Thompson, 517 Olin Evans Rd, Franklin, NY 13775 829-6005

2017 Gail Dibble, 113 Delside Drive, Delhi, NY 13753 746-6377 John Nealis, 3962 Peakes Brook Road, Delhi, NY 13753 746-2542 Tom Philion, 282 Delside Drive, Delhi, NY 13753 518-929-2489 VACANT

DEACONS

2016 Mary Conklin, PO Box 202, Hamden NY 13782 865-4387 Helen Rosa, 234 Honest Brook Rd, Delhi NY 13753 746-3866 VACANT 2017 Joe Cantwell, 13491 State Highway 28, Delhi, NY 13753 746-3611 Joyce Goff, 485 Dunham Road, Delhi, NY 13753 746-8709 Heather Rosa, 72 Meredith Street, Delhi, NY 13753 746-7659

2018 Marty Conklin, PO Box 202, Hamden NY 13782 865-4387 Betty Bell, 51 Hamden Hill Road, Delhi, NY 13753 746-2035 VACANT

TRUSTEES

2016 Jim Merwin, 232 Hamilton Drive, Delhi, NY 13753 746-6723 Vicki Noble, 75 Leisure Village Spur, Delhi, NY 13753 746-2013 Patrick Sullivan, 20898 State Highway 28, Delhi, NY 13753 746-3644 2017 Erica Cantwell, 160 Main St. Apt 2, Delhi, NY 13753 287-3074 Art Maxwell, 34 Clinton Street, Delhi, NY 13753 746-6128 Steve McKeegan, P.O. Box 321, Delhi, NY 13753 746-2272 2018 Bruce Burr, 27 Crestwood Drive, Delhi, NY 13753 746-3046 Tom Leo, 200 Spencer Heights, Delhi, NY 13753 746-8265 VACANT

TREASURER George Thompson, 517 Olin Evans Rd, Franklin, NY 13775 829-6005

FINANCIAL SECRETARY Gia Cantwell, 13491 State Highway 28, Delhi, NY 13753 746-3611

CLERK OF SESSION Bea Mooney, 4537 County Highway #14, Treadwell, NY 13846 829-5507

February – March Newsletter



February 2016 Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

1 Water Pipe Work

in Fellowship Hall

9:00 am Senior Fitness

10:00 am Monday Morning

Bridge

11:00 am Delaware

Opportunities

Senior Meals

2 Water Pipe Work in

Fellowship Hall

10:30 am Tai Chi for Arthritis

11:00 am Delaware Opportunities

Senior Meals

5:30 pm Weight Watchers

7:00 pm Church Growth Working

Group Interest Meeting

3 Water Pipe Work in Fellowship

Hall

7:30 am SPARKS at Crossroads Cafe


11:00 am Delaware Opportunities Senior

Meals

5:00 pm A Pealing Sound Bell Rehearsal

5:30 pm Girl Scout Troop Meeting

6:30 pm Session Meeting

4 10:30 am Tai Chi for

Arthritis

11:00 am Delaware

Opportunities

Senior Meals

5 10:00 am Yoga - "Gentle"

Yoga

11:00 am Delaware

Opportunities

Senior Meals

4:30 pm Women's Golf

Team Spaghetti

Dinner

6

7 9:30 am Deacons Meeting

9:30 am Sunday School

10:00 am Choir Gathers

10:30 am Worship

11:30 am Coffee Hour

12:00 pm Chancel Choir Rehearsal

8 9:00 am Senior Fitness

11:00 am Delaware County

Senior Council

11:00 am Delaware

Opportunities

Senior Meals

9 10:30 am Tai Chi for Arthritis


Senior Meals


7:00 pm Fellowship Committee

Meeting

10 Ash Wednesday




Meals


6:00 pm Ash Wednesday Vesper Service


Arthritis

11:00 am Delaware

Opportunities

Senior Meals

4:30 pm MWS

Committee

Meeting


Yoga

11:00 am Delaware

Opportunities

Senior Meals

13 Presbytery

Assembly

4:00 pm DCCAN

Spaghetti

Dinner

14 Valentine's Day

9:30 am Presbyterianism 101 Class



10:30 am Worship with Communion



1:00 pm Girl Scouts Troop 365

15 Presidents' Day



Bridge

7:00 pm Boy Scout

Committee Meeting



Senior Meals


17 7:30 am SPARKS at Crossroads Cafe



Meals



6:30 pm Trustees Meeting


Arthritis

11:00 am Delaware

Opportunities

Senior Meals


Yoga

11:00 am Delaware

Opportunities

Senior Meals

20

21 9:30 am Presbyterianism 101 Class



10:30 am Worship



4:00 pm Boy Scout Meeting


11:00 am Delaware

Opportunities

Senior Meals

7:00 pm MWS meeting

23 11:00 am Delaware Opportunities

Senior Meals





Meals

12:00 pm Delhi Clergy Association


25 11:00 am Delaware

Opportunities

Senior Meals


Yoga

11:00 am Delaware

Opportunities

Senior Meals

27




10:30 am Worship






Bridge

11:00 am Delaware

Opportunities

Senior Meals

March 2016 Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday


Senior Meals





Meals



6:30 pm Session Meeting


Arthritis

11:00 am Delaware

Opportunities

Senior Meals

4 10:00 am Yoga - "Gentle" Yoga


Senior Meals

5 9:00 am

Susquehann

a Valley

Presbytery

COM retreat




10:30 am Worship





11:00 am Delaware

Opportunities

Senior Meals

6:30 pm Christian Education

Committee Meeting


Senior Meals





Meals


10 11:00 am Delaware

Opportunities

Senior Meals



Senior Meals

12

13 Daylight Saving Time

starts

9:30 am Deacons Meeting

9:30 am Presbyterianism 101 Class



10:30 am Worship






Bridge

11:00 am Delaware County

Senior Council

11:00 am Delaware

Opportunities

Senior Meals

7:00 pm Boy Scout

Committee Meeting



Senior Meals





Meals



6:30 pm Trustees Meeting


Arthritis

11:00 am Delaware

Opportunities

Senior Meals



Senior Meals

19

20 9:30 am Sunday School


10:30 am Worship with Communion





11:00 am Delaware

Opportunities

Senior Meals



Senior Meals


23 NEWSLETTER DEADLINE




Meals

12:00 pm Delhi Clergy Association



Arthritis

11:00 am Delaware

Opportunities

Senior Meals

7:00 pm Maundy

Thursday

Communion

Service



Senior Meals

12:00 pm Community Good Friday

Service beginning at

United Ministry

26 10:00 am Easter Egg

Hunt

27 Easter Sunday

7:00 am Easter Sunrise Service at

Flats Cemetery

8:00 am Easter Breakfast in

Fellowship Hall


10:30 am Worship



Bridge

11:00 am Delaware

Opportunities

Senior Meals

7:00 pm MWS meeting



Senior Meals





Meals




Arthritis

11:00 am Delaware

Opportunities

Senior Meals

Please remember, the most current calendar is available on our website www.fpcdelhi.org


february - march 2016 march 2016 courier.pdf · made available a lenten prayer calendar and shares...

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