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FIRST CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH First Church NewsUNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST Columbus, Ohio

June 2018Volume 166 No. 6

Exciting Times in And Around First ChurchBy Rev. Dr. Tim AhrensYou can find a way into the church! But, you must try. It isn’t easy.That is the most important message as we reach the half-year mark of 2018. Orange barrels are everywhere. One-way streets have become two-way streets. Two-way streets have become one-way streets. Gay Street between Cleveland Avenue and Washington Avenue is completely gutted and is being rebuilt. None of these projects even touch the church.On our property we have three more projects in process. There is scaffolding on the north face of the Parish House as the men work on the walls of the church. All 126 windows have been removed from the Parish House. The Women’s and Family Bathroom on the lower level is being redone. And of course, The Washington Gladden Social Justice Park on the Corner of Cleveland and Broad is slowly going in. The Park will take off soon as all the underground work gets completed.We are building at First Church. With it dust and transitional space is all at play. It is an exciting time here at the church. You must come and see it to believe it.Meanwhile, ministry - beyond our ministry of space - continues to happen. Mark Williams has headed for sabbatical. He will return August 21. Dr. Karen Mozingo is filling in for the summer. We are so excited to have her on staff. Kevin Jones leaves for Europe on July 12 and won’t return from the Choir tour and his subsequent sabbatical and vacation time until November 6. Dr. Robbe Delcamp is serving our congregation from September 1-November 5. During the other six weeks, we will be blessed with guest organists. We have also received word from Marty Worth that she will retire after 14 ½ years of work on our staff. We will miss Marty when she steps down from her position as Program Manager on January 27, 2019. We will also celebrate Marty at our Congregational Meeting that day! We will work to see how we re-create a position related to her work while meeting the goals of the Long-Range Plan and the needs of the church for Communications and Care in the years to come.Our Church Council is considering many projects and other new forms of ministry and mission, too! We are excited to be sending 11 mission partners from June 3-8 to work in West Franklinton through the Gladden Community House. Thanks be to God for our youth and adult leaders who will give so much of themselves in service. Rev. Emily Corzine will work with them all on this effort.Beginning July 29 and lasting through September 2, we will have a special summer sermon series entitled, “The New Social Gospel.” Guest preachers will join me through the month as we lift-up the themes of Washington Gladden’s Social Gospel for a NEW AGE! Don’t miss the six weeks of special sermons.In the first six months we have celebrated two ordinations into Christian Ministry. We ordained Rev. Rachael Gardner Purdy on January 6th and Rev. Abby Salak Prendergast on April 28. What joy! We look forward to at least two more ordinations in the coming months. We have also celebrated our largest-ever turnout at the BREAD Nehemiah Action with 146 people coming to the May 7 Action from First Church. So wonderful!Let’s keep going and growing forward in the next few months. There are ways into the building. We have lots of parking (although you must work to get to it). We have great opportunities to serve Christ in the city! I am so excited to be your Senior Minister in these great days of the church.Love and blessings to you all!

In this issue…

Education News page 4 Music News page 6 Justice and Mercy News page 7 Church News page 8 Joys and Concerns page 10 Calendar of Events page 11 Birthdays and Anniversaries page 12

Sermon Titles in JuneJune 3 – Communion Meditation – “Which Will it Be: Do Good or Harm on the Sabbath?” The Rev. Dr. Tim Ahrens preaching Texts: I Samuel 3:1-10; Dt. 5:12-15; Psalm 81:1-10, II Corinthians 4:5-12, Mark 2:23-3:6June 10 – Texts: I Samuel 8:4-11, 16-20, Genesis 3:8-15; Psalm 130, II Corinthians 4:13-5:1, Mark 3:30-35June 17 – Texts: I Samuel 15:34-16:13; Ezekiel 17:22-24, Psalm 92:1-4, 12-15; II Corinthians 5:6-10, 14-17, Mark 4:26-34June 24 – Sermon – “Calm in Stormy Times” The Rev. Dr. Tim Ahrens preaching

Texts: I Samuel 17:32-49; Job 38:1-11, Psalm 17:1-3, 23-32, II Corinthians 6:1-13, Mark 4:35-41

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Trip to Israel / Palestine and “The Passion Play” in Oberammergau, GermanyBy Rev. Dr. Tim Ahrens I am writing to gage interest in a trip to Israel/Palestine and “The Passion Play” in Oberammergau, Germany in June 2020. That is right – 24 months from now.The Passion Play is performed in a small village in Germany once every ten years. It is an all-day event. We would take 9 days to see the Holy Lands (the early itinerary in attached above). On Day 10 we would fly to Munich and see the city and Dachau Concentration Camp. Day 11 would be the Passion Play with Day 12 being a trip to Ettal Abbey Linderhof Castle. We return to the USA on Day 13.Because the Passion Play tickets are sold in blocks and often sold out one year in advance, we are setting aside a block of 45 tickets now and securing commitments soon. We really need to have a preliminary count by June 20, 2018.Are you interested in going? Please email me back – tahrens@first-church.org, or call with questions, 614-228-1741, ext. 13. I hope we can travel together.

Pastor

Day 6 Masada - Jerusalem

Camels

Beit Shemesh

, Via Dolorosa Church of the Holy

Knesset

.

Tomb of the Prophet

Day 10 Fly backc it ti

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2018 Confirmands On Sunday, May 20, First Church welcomed six youth into membership through Confirmation. During the 11a.m. service, their mentors introduced each confirmand. Their introductions are presented below.Nick Boriin, mentor Matt Myers This is Nick Boriin. This young man comes from a strong, faithful family who plays and laughs together. I have known Nick since he was a little guy, but I have really enjoyed the opportunity to better know him, over this past year during the confirmation process. He has a great sense of humor and likes to sing in the car. With his quiet confidence, this young man from Worthington is a natural leader. Nick is a musician, an academic scholar, and athlete who loves to play basketball and lacrosse. He is a good son, a caring brother, a thoughtful friend, a loving son, and an excellent confirmand! First Church, it is my honor to present to you, Nick Boriin!Hannah Brooks, mentor Nancy Loy It has been my great pleasure to get to know Hannah Brooks, a very happy and Loving young lady. Hannah is inquisitive and enthusiastic, embracing many new opportunities this year. She loves her family, friends, new school, and field hockey team. Most importantly, she now has a greater understanding and love for God and the church. I look forward to seeing her faith grow as a member of this congregation. Hannah - Thank you for including me in this journey, and welcome to the church!” Trenton Helmer, mentor Jonathan Miller At the Maundy Thursday dinner, Trent and I talked about the tradition that Jesus was scourged with thirty-nine lashes. I mentioned that in Kabbalah, numbers have certain meanings. Trent insisted we look up thirty-nine. It turns out thirty-nine represents purification from an undesirable state and the emergence of a new entity. He immediately understood the connections with Good Friday and Easter Sunday. He wanted to know: was this a coincidence? Did someone count the lashes? Did the Romans do that on purpose? Does it mean something that thirty-nine has a three and a nine, given that three is the square root of nine? That is Trenton David Helmer. He is an honors student and a science-fiction fan. Every time you talk with Trent, either you teach him something or you learn something new yourself. He is a ravenous intellect, bursting at the seams with intelligence, curiosity, and care for his family and community.Cassidy Hopcraft, mentor Valerie Conlin-Losinski I am honored and happy to introduce Cassidy Hopcraft. Although we did not initially know one another, I am thankful to Cassidy and her family for embracing our relationship.After several months of getting to know Cassidy, I have found her nature to be: caring, loving, free-spirited, faithful, and balanced. I love her fair, inclusive and awesome perspectives on life – large or small, simple or complicated. She has shown me this intrinsic nature many times. In April during our church camp weekend at Templed Hills, I would see Cassidy lovingly with a small child on her lap – many times. Also at camp, she invited me to get in her tree hammock with her as we discussed what it means to be in the fold of the church family and her decision for her membership – by the way, the upward view of the pine trees was glorious.I am assured that Cassidy with her positive and upward view and her loving nature will be ready and willing to answer the call when our Lord asks her to do his work of networking love and togetherness. So as, Cassidy’s story evolves with high school next year and beyond, she will be an example, a shining example, for us all. Finnegan Miller, mentor Pete Boriin “My friend Finnegan Mill is on the Distinguished Honor Roll at Ridgeview Junior High in Pickerington, and is active in our church - serving as an acolyte and in youth group. Finn enjoys theater, film making, and playing his baritone horn and he is very caring - serving those less fortunate by volunteering with the Meals on Wheels program. Finn has expanded his faith journey by studying other faiths which deepened his own belief in God and in Jesus. He taught me about my own faith journey and I look forward to watching him grow in the future. It is my honor to introduce Finnegan Miller.Samantha Myers, mentor Jenny Provenzano It is my great honor to present Miss Sammy Myers. Considering her love of sports, allow me to offer some “Sammy Stats”. * She is kind, caring, and compassionate to her very core. * She is a great competitor, and loves lacrosse and field hockey. * She is a great student AND a great teacher. * She is wise beyond her years. This girl is so incredibly insightful, and she impressed me time and time again with her mature outlook on life. We took a morning walk and talk at the Spring Retreat, and in one, simple thoughtful moment, easily clarified a situation I had been struggling with for over 20 years. She is an absolute joy. Please join me in welcoming this extraordinary young woman into the membership of this church.

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Educationby Dr. Karen Mozingo, Sabbatical Replacement Christian Education Director (karen.mozingo@first-church.org) Dr. Karen Mozingo, professor of Dance and Theatre at The Ohio State University will serve in the position of Christian Education Director this summer, while Mark Williams is on sabbatical. Karen is a member of First Church, currently serves as a Deacon, and has served as a Church School teacher and director of the Christmas Play for the children the past few years. Karen is also an Associate of the Dominican Sisters of Peace. Karen is the mother of AnnaSofia and loves our church!

Hello everyone!I am happy to join the staff this summer and to serve you all while Mark is away on sabbatical. The summer kicks off with our Youth Mission trip, June 4-8. This year, the youth of First Congregational Church will serve the senior residents of West Franklinton in Columbus, Ohio, in conjunction with the Gladden Community House and their Senior Referral Program. The youth will work on several homes throughout the area with painting, gardening, cleaning and basic home repairs. During the week, they will be housed at St. Therese’s Retreat Center in Columbus. Also, the week will include visits to the homeless camps in Franklin County and a night tour of the homeless through the Columbus Coalition for Homelessness. Rev. Emily Corzine and Matt Myers will be leading the trip.A little bit about Franklinton:Today, Franklinton is an urban neighborhood consisting of about 36,000 residents. Though recent redevelopment efforts have improved the area, 56% of Franklinton residents lack a high school diploma, over 60% of residents live below the poverty line, and 93% of students at the school’s public elementary school are eligible for free or reduced lunch. A portion of the neighborhood gets its nickname of “The Bottoms” because much of the land lies below the level of the Scioto and Olentangy rivers, and a floodwall is required to contain the rivers and protect the area from floods. The low-lying bottom land was well suited for farming, with the river serving as a direct connection to the Ohio River. The 7-mile long Franklinton Floodwall has led a resurgence of development in Franklinton. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Franklinton,_Columbus,_Ohio)How you can help:The congregation is being asked to help in several ways with our Youth Mission Trip to Franklinton in June. Here are the ways you can help:1). Provide paint brushes, paint trays, yard waste bags and Home Depot gift cards.2). Join us for a morning or afternoon to help those in need of home and yard work. Contact Karen Mozingo (at the church) if you wish to join us.3). The Youth will be collecting the items listed below and distributing to the Homeless camps during the Youth Mission Trip to West Franklinton. Please place donated items in the boxes near the office by Sunday, June 3.

Join us to bless the youth:We invite everyone to join us at the 11 a.m. service on June 3, as the mission trip participants are recognized and sent on their way. Even if you cannot be at that service, please keep us in your prayers as we experience our city in new ways. Blessings to you, Karen Mozingo

6. Ponchos7. Razors/shaving gel/ tampons8. Waterless hair shampoo9. Baby Wipes10. Travel size deodorant, toothpaste, soap

1. Gallon Zip Lock bags2. Socks3. Protein/Meal Bars4. Ready-to-eat Soups5. Water bottles

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The children and youth of First Congregational Church invite you to join them in a year-long mission project called “Laundry Love.” “Laundry Love” is an initiative in partnership with individuals, groups and local Laundromats throughout the US. The initiative helps to wash the clothes and bedding of individuals and/or families living in poverty. From the infant to the aged, and across a broad spectrum of ethnicity, culture and personal story, Laundry Love seeks to nurture the well-being of each person through intentional networking and friendship.The Children and Youth will be collecting quarters and donations of laundry detergent and dryer

sheets from the congregation. We would love for members and friends to join us the last Tuesday of each month from 6 to 8pm at WashLand Laundromat, 1469 West Broad Street in West Franklinton to serve those in need. Justice and Mercy Commission, Good Samaritan Fund and The Gladden House are also partnering with this important mission. We always welcome any to come and volunteer. This mission is solely dependent on your generous giving. Please continue to save your quarters, which is our biggest need at this time. The next Laundry Love day will be June 28. We need volunteers each month! Come join us in serving those in need.

Congratulations Graduates! Dan Albrecht Dan Albrecht, husband of Neal Brower, will graduate from Capital Law School on May 20. Neal wrote of Dan: “This picture is from his first day of school in August 2015. Time flies but it’s never too late to do what you want to do!!! He will spend all summer studying for the bar exam, sit for the bar in July, and start his new job as an intellectual property attorney at Procter & Gamble in September. I am very proud of Dan!”

Steven Deliman is graduating from Cleveland State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts and Social Sciences. His major is film, television, and interactive media. He will be getting married this summer to Katie Gies.

Jordan Gies Graduating from Westerville North High School; Future Plans - exploring options.

Katie Gies Graduated from Cleveland State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Health Sciences - Pre-Occupational Therapy; Future Plans - Wedding July 7 and starting Grad School in August to pursue a Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy.

Allison Lange, the daugther of Bill and Sarah Lange, graduated from Otterbein University with a Bachelor of Science in Equine Veterinary Technology and from Columbus State Community College cum laude with an Associate of Applied Science in Veterinary Technology. Allison is employed by a local veterinarian and preparing for the Veterinary Technician National Examination.

Adam Wade graduated from Upper Arlington High School and will attend Denison University in the fall.

William Zimmerman and Luke Zimmerman are both graduating from Centennial High School on June 1, 2018. Both Will and Luke are going to Capital University studying music education.

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From the Minister of MusicBy Kevin Jones, Minister of Music(kjones@first-church.org)

Liturgical MusingsWith all choir seasons all but finished for the year, we enter Ordinary Time, liturgically speaking. It can be a time of rest, and it certainly does occupy the longest period of the church year, lasting from June 3 through November 25 this year. With such a long expanse of time, it might feel like nothing special goes on during this period. It is important for us to remember that, in the life of the church, each and every Sunday is a mini-celebration of Easter Day. Every Sunday is a Resurrection feast. If we look at each Sunday as an opportunity to worship and celebrate the greatest mystery of Christianity, we can find our renewal, refreshment, and energy to form our lives around this wonderful rhythm of celebration.-Kevin

Choir NewsOur thanks to all of our choirs for their ministry of music and worship throughout the last season. Jubilate and Exultate Choirs completed their seasons on May 20, and the First Church Ringers completed its season in late April. The First Church Choir will sing through June 3 but will then be on summer break (except the Tour Choir) until September 9. All of these people give a tremendous amount of their time and talent to glorify God and help make music a central part of our worship life together. Thank you, all.Choristers and parents: please check in with each choir’s Google calendar (on their respective webpages) to see the schedules and events for the 2018–19 program year. Please make a note of these dates and plan accordingly. A choir is a team that needs attendance and commitment. Just like a sports team, a choir team does not function well with its members missing, and although some absences are inevitable, let’s all pledge to bring our very best to the worship of God. Bon Voyage Choral EvensongPlease plan to attend the Choir’s Bon Voyage Choral Evensong on Sunday, July 8, at 4 p.m. The Tour Choir will sing music by Kenneth Leighton and the “Merton College” canticles by Ēriks Ešenvalds. They will also sing the joyful “Antiphon” by William Walton, all in preparation for their departure to England on July 12. We will also be commissioning the travelers for this mission trip during the liturgy. The Rev. Dr. Nancy Livingston will officiate, with Tyler Robertson as organist.Forty-six travelers will make their way to England that week, including a choir of 30. We will arrive in Norwich on Friday, July 13, beginning our two days of singing at Norwich Cathedral (www.cathedral.org.uk). On Saturday, July 14, we will sing Evensong, followed by Choral Eucharist on Sunday, July 15, as well as Evensong that afternoon. We will then pack up and move to Lincoln Cathedral (www.lincolncathedral.org) on Monday morning, stopping by Peterborough Cathedral on the way, and arriving in Lincoln just in time to rehearse for its 5:30 p.m. Evensong. We are then in residence at Lincoln Cathedral through the following Sunday. During our time there, we will add to the musical prayers of that community through eight different liturgies. We ask your prayers for us as we travel and represent this Congregation, this City, and this Country as musical ambassadors. If you would like to follow our travel blog while we are there, you are invited to do so! The Rev. Dr. Nancy Livingston will be writing a travelogue with pictures and daily updates. You can follow our blog at www.norwichlincolnchoirtrip2018.wordpress.com

Save the Dates!Please mark your calendars for the kick-off of the 2018–19 Concerts at First Church season. First, on Sunday, September 16, at 4 p.m., Choral Evensong will be presented by the First Church Choir featuring music by Kenneth Leighton, Stephen Caracciolo, and William Mathias. Then, on Sunday, September 30, at 4 p.m. young concert organist Monica Czausz plays a recital to kick off the Congregational Concerts series. More on this in August’s First Church News, and online at the Concerts website, www.concertsatfirstchurch.org

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Justice and MercyDepart To Serve OpportunitiesThe youth, led by staff, spend a week in Franklinton providing senior residents with property improvements. Several church members provide the lunches and dinners for the laboring Youth. Also, members donate items for the homeless.Adults are asked to deliver food boxes to homebound seniors in Franklinton on Fridays. Gladden Food Pantry staff will load the boxes into cars. Deliveries are at 9:30 a.m. or noon and take 1 to 1-1/2 hours. For details and to volunteer for a shift, contact Lindsay Blackburn, Volunteer Coordinator, Gladden Community House. Her email: lindsayblackburn.gch@gmail.com or call 614-227-1619.

Nehemiah Action 2018 More than 2500 people of faith, including 146 representing First Church, gathered at the Celeste Center May 7th for BREAD’s 21st annual Nehemiah Action. First off, we heard encouraging reports of progress made by the Crime and Violence Committee and the More and Better Jobs Committee. Next, attention focused on current work being done by the following committees:

• Juvenile Justice. Columbus School Board President, Gary Baker, agreed to- Work with the district to create a plan to implement and integrate Restorative Practices- Meet with BREAD to plan a community summit intended to strengthen public understanding of Restorative Practices- Press the Board to adopt “accountability for implementation and integration of Restorative Practices” as part of the selection criteria for the new superintendent and advocate that it be included as a metric of performance in the new superintendent’s job description and evaluation.

• Welcome Columbus. City Councilmember Michael Stinziano agreed to introduce legislation, incorporating the research of One ID Columbus, for a feasibility study for a municipal ID program by June 11th.

• Families First and Housing Now. This new BREAD committee co-chaired by Rev. Tim Ahrens made a powerful presentation of Columbus’ affordable housing crisis featuring testimonials from two individuals. The extent of the problem was clearly demonstrated when a large portion of the audience rose to its feet when asked if they or one of their friends or family members was having trouble finding affordable housing. The good news is that Councilmember Jaiza Page has agreed to develop a plan within 120 days to encourage developers to set aside 20% of their new units for affordable housing. Mayor Ginther has agreed to work with BREAD to develop a 10-year, regional affordable housing plan to begin in 2019.

BREAD did rise in Franklin County the evening of May 7. Spirits and hopes are high as we continue to hold officials accountable to solve serious problems that adversely impact the lives of local residents!

Welcome Team Meeting on June 17 at 10 a.m. Welcome Teams are needed to assist Refugees as they integrate into new lives in Columbus. Men and Women of First Church are invited to meet on June 17 at 10 a.m. in the Fanning Room. A staff member from Community Refugee & Immigration Services (CRIS) will explain how a Welcome Team works. The goal of the meeting is to form a Welcome Team.

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Church NewsBook ClubCurrent fiction and nonfictionBy Mary Jacobson, Church Vitality, Jackie Dean and Elaine WarrenWe would like to announce our first two meeting dates and selected titles:

Monday, June 4, at 7 p.m. in the Parlor.We will discuss Small Great Things by Jodie Picoult.

Monday, July 10, at 7 p.m. in the Parlor.We will discuss Defending Jacob by William Landay.

There will be light refreshments. Join us for a lively discussion and bring with you any recommendations for future selections.

Women’s RetreatSaturday, June 16, 2018 at David’s UCC, 80 W. Columbus Street, Canal Winchester, OH 43110

9:15 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Our lives are full of distractions - jobs, family, health issues - you name it, the list is endless!. Yet, we are constantly being asked to slow down, to breathe, and to live in the moment! Tzivian Gover, author of Mindful Moments for Stressful Days, states, “Living mindfully allows you to make choices from a place of compassion rather than from one of competition, and it trains you to respond with gratitude rather than with greed.”

Please join me and the women of David’s UCC, Canal Winchester, as we discover and experience simple ways to find meaning and joy in our daily lives. Program will begin promptly at 9:30 a.m. so plan to arrive by 9:15 a.m. for registration and coffee. Bring a salad to share for lunch. Maps and sign-up will be in the church office. Any questions, call Jackie Dean 614-868-0485.

Fellowship Hour in JulyBy Mary Jacobson, Church Vitality Attention all friendly people! Church growth and vitality is looking for a few good parishioners who would be willing to host fellowship hour during the month of July. These are the lazy hazy days of summer so no big spread is required. We are looking for 2-3 people to make a pot of coffee, put out some water pitchers and generally welcome visitors and members alike after the service. It will be informal and relaxed. If the weather is good we can even take it outside. Please contact Mary Anne Jacobson at 612-718-9834 or marytoddj@gmail.com if you and a couple buddies are willing to put your friendly foot forward!

Sunday Construction Progress Tours: June 3, July 1, August 5 and September 2Join The Rev. Dr. Tim Ahrens for a brief tour to get an overview of the progress of the construction projects occurring both inside and outside of First Church. Meet Rev. Tim at the entrance of the Ralph Fanning Room, located on the first floor immediately across from the original church office, after either the 9 a.m. or 11 a.m. services.

Coming Up: New Member Class on Monday, June 18 from 7-9 P.M. Interested in learning more about First Church and being part of this vibrant community of faith? Come and learn more. New Members will join at the 11 a.m. service on Sunday, June 24. For more information, please contact Rev. Emily Corzine at ecorzine@first-church.org or at 614-221-1741 x21. New member classes for the fall will be announced soon.

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2018 Schumacher Award Winners Kendall Carter: Kendall is nominated for Christian devotion to her late brother, Aidan. Aidan was diagnosed with neurofibromatosis at the age of 3. He developed tumors on his spine, brainstem, and optic nerves, and as a result, went blind. He passed away last January at the age of 15. Aidan’s needs commanded the attention, care and love of his entire family, and Kendall, his older sister, often put Aidan’s needs ahead of her own

A consistent theme across all of Kendall’s recommendation letters is Kendall’s selflessness, and her ability to love and support her brother without expecting anything in return. She accepted the fact that a lot of her parents’ energies had to go toward caring for Aidan, and one person described her as “a quiet support that others often didn’t notice, because she did not draw attention to herself.“ In addition, she could be a fun big sister, loving and teasing her younger brother. She helped him participate to the fullest extent possible in any activities that he wanted to try.

She demonstrates compassion, not just toward her brother but toward the people around her. Her relationship with her parents is full of love and respect. Another nominator wrote that Kendall gives her parents even more mature love and support that they need after losing a child, even while she herself grieves the loss of her brother.

Kendall has been able to maintain a good balance of caring for herself, even as she has selflessly cared for her family. She just completed her freshman year at Kent State University.

Emma Scritchfield: Emma is nominated by her High School Principal, with additional letters of support coming from two of her high school teachers. Emma is nominated for Christian devotion to her mother.

Emma has had to grow up quickly following the death of her father. From the age of 15, she is described by one of her nominators as being “the rock for her Mom.” Even as she has been grieving the loss of her father, she has been a steady support for her mother who is also grieving this loss of her partner.

In addition, following his death, Emma’s mother was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. This has been a very difficult diagnosis to face, and at a very difficult time. It created obstacles to daily life tasks, and Emma steps up to help her mother with those tasks. She is consistent in her unconditional support of her mom. She accompanies her to doctor’s appointments and helps her keep track of her medication. Emma also supports her mother spiritually. Another nominator wrote that Emma’s faith and her commitment to Christ have stayed strong.

Emma will graduate from Northridge High School in a few weeks and plans to pursue a career in medicine.

Zoe Tyler: Zoe is nominated for Christian devotion to her mother, who was diagnosed with cancer during the summer before Zoe’s junior year in high school. Instead of having a typical teenage summer, Zoe became a caregiver to her 5 younger siblings: 3 adopted children and 2 foster children. She continued to care for them throughout her mother’s illness, so that her dad could focus on caring for her mother. This meant driving the children to and from their activities and helping them with their homework. This work continued into her senior year. She learned to change diapers, she learned to use a lift to move a wheelchair, and she also cut coupons to make ends meet.

This past fall, Zoe arranged a flexible schedule between her High School and College courses, so that she could spend time with her mom and help with her younger brothers and sisters. As her mother grew more ill last fall, Zoe spent a lot of time with her at the hospital, so that her father could spend valuable and much needed time with the younger children in their family. Zoe would drive to the hospital in the evening, and then stay until morning, when she would return home to get ready for school.

Zoe’s mom passed away this past fall. Her nominators say that she has navigated the world of a high school student and the world of adult responsibilities without bitterness or spite, but rather, with grace, and forgiveness. She has gained strength from her faith in God, and in the words of one nominator, is the “epitome of Christian devotion.”

Zoe is graduating this year from Bloom Carroll High School.

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First Church Joys and Concerns Prayers for the Mission Trip We offer prayers for the youth and adults participating in the Mission Trip this week, as they go to the heart of West Franklinton for times of devotion, team building, and work experiences with the Senior Assistance Program of Gladden Community House and homeless camps in Columbus.

Members Jane Weddell; Grace Glaros; Mary Kay Beall Carter; Ben Wiant; Anne Hudson; Marcy Essig; Wayne Redenbarger; Andrew MacGregor; Wally Giffen; Lindy Miller; and Carl Miller; and all those mourning the loss of a loved one, including Lisa Morris and Kent Shimeall and Wyatt Shimeall and Cecilia Shanahan, on the death of their infant granddaughter / daughter Miriam Grace Shimeall Shanahan; Guy and Kathie Cole and family, on the death of Guy’s mother Nell Cole; and Carol Lowy, on the death of her husband Marc. Friends and Family Jay Ruben; Terry Penny; Mildred Livingston, mother of Nancy Livingston; Martha Dieckmann; Tim Acton; Sally Glover, daughter of Al Glover; Vic Merrett, stepfather of Melissa Prendergast; Matthew Turck, brother-in-law of Ellen and Pete Boriin; Charles Murray, father of Peter Murray; Joyce Marcum, sister of Betty Conn; and Brooke Chute, cousin of Amy Wagner; and the family and friends of Bill Broadhag.

We offer a special prayer for Mark Williams, Director of Christian Education, who began his Sabbatical on May 21.

Throughout the World We pray for all those affected by the Kilauea Volcano’s eruption in Hawaii. We pray for all affected by the crisis in Israel and Palestine. We pray for those around the world who suffer from brain diseases and their caregivers. We pray for the construction crews working on the Gladden Social Justice Park and the Building Exterior Renovation – Phase 1 projects here at First Congregational Church.

In God’s Hands: The Ecumenical Prayer Cycle: This month in the Ecumenical Prayer Cycle, we pray with and for the following people and churches:• Week of June 3: Lesotho, Namiba, South Africa, Swaziland• Week of June 10: Botszwana, Zimbabwe• Week of June 17: Malawi, Zambia• Week of June 24: Kenya, Tanzania

Missionaries This month we pray the following missionaries:• Week of June 3: Linda James serving in the Democratic Republic of Congo• Week of June 10: Martha Mensendiek serving in Japan• Week of June 17: Fritz-Gerald Joseph serving in Morocco• Week of June 24: Kearstin Baily serving in Greece

If you have any prayer requests or joys to share, please contact the church office (awagner@first-church.org or 614-228-1741, ext. 10) or one of the ministers (ecorzine@first-church.org or 614-228-1741, ext. 21 or minister@first-church.org or 614-228-1741, ext. 13).

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Sunday, June 39 a.m. – Worship: Morning Prayer and Holy Communion – Parish Hall 10 a.m. – First Church Choir Warm Up – Choir Room11 a.m. – Worship – Sanctuary Noon – Fellowship Hour – Parish Hall 12:30 p.m. – Deacons’ Meeting – Ralph Fanning Room

Monday, June 4Youth Mission Trip Monday trough Friday p.mNoon – Care Ministry – Education Wing Room A7 p.m. – Book Club – Eucation Wing Room B

Tuesday, June 52 p.m. – Worship Planning – Children’s Library5:30 p.m. – Sacred Earth – Ralph Fanning Room7 p.m. – Justice and Mercy – Ralph Fanning Room

Wednesday, June 611 a.m. – Book Study – Education Wing Room A4 p.m. – Building and Office Close

Saturday, June 98:30 a.m. – House and Grounds – Ralph Fanning Room10 a.m. – First Church Quilters – Parish Family Room

Sunday, June 10Worship: Morning Prayer and Holy Communion – Parish Hall 11 a.m. – Worship – Sanctuary Noon – Fellowship Hour – Parish Hall

Monday, June 119 a.m. – Good Samaritan Day – Ralph Fanning Room 6:30 p.m. – Christian Education – Mark Williams’ Office7 p.m. – Trustee’s Meeting – Ralph Fanning Room

Tuesday, June 12 2 p.m. – Worship Planning – Parish Family Room7 p.m. – Executive Committee – Ralph Fanning Room

Wednesday, June 139:30 a.m. – Staff Meeting – Children’s Library4 p.m. – Building and Office Close

Thursday, June 147 p.m. – Security Team Meeting – Ralph Fanning Room

Sunday, June 179 a.m. – Worship: Morning Prayer and Holy Communion – Parish Hall 11 a.m. – Worship – Sanctuary Noon – Fellowship Hour – Parish Hall

Monday, June 186 p.m. – Budget and Finance – Ralph Fanning Room7 p.m. – Personnel – Parish Family Room 7 p.m. – New Members Class – Parlor

Tuesday, June 192 p.m. – Worship Planning – Parish Family Room

Wednesday, June 20Deadline for Newsletter11 a.m. – Book Study– Education Wing Room A4 p.m. – Building and Office Close

Saturday, June 23 9:15 a.m. – Women’s Retreat – David’s UCC

Sunday, June 249 a.m. – Worship: Morning Prayer and Holy Communion – Parish Hall 11 a.m. – Worship – Sanctuary Noon – Fellowship Hour – Parish Hall Noon – Lincoln Information Meeting for Travelers – Choir Room1 p.m. – Lincoln Choir Rehearsal

Monday, June 257 p.m. – Lincoln Choir Rehearsal

Tuesday, June 262 p.m. – Worship Planning – Parish Family Room 6 p.m. – Laundry Love – WashLand Laundromat, 1469 West Broad Street

Wednesday, June 279:30 a.m. – Staff Meeting – Children’s Library4 p.m. – Building and Office Close

Thursday, June 287 p.m. – Lincoln Choir Rehearsal

June Calendar

June Offering ScheduleJune 3 Strength the ChurchJune 10 Laundry Love June 17 Community Refugee & Immigration Services (CRIS)June 24 Faith Mission Meals

June Fellowship Hour ScheduleJune 3 KingsJune 10 EphesiansJune 17 Church Vitality and Church GrowthJune 24 TBD

June Acolyte ScheduleJune 3 Finnegan Miller Jack PattersonJune 10 Mae Hubbard Ethan MurrayJune 17 Maggie Myers Matty ProvenzanoJune 24 Grace Glaros Lincoln Glaros

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6/1 Mariner Taft Grant Washington6/2 Jack Trace6/4 Katie Wagner6/5 Wyeth Rowley Henry Wade6/6 Brittney Dean Patty Pohlman Natalie Setty6/7 Lindy Miller6/8 Elin Chambers Beth Hunker6/9 Ian Jacobson Scott Jones6/10 Rick Bennett Hudson Fleurant Pat Patterson6/11 Lauren Hamman Colin Thompson Jan Wade6/12 Camryn Corzine Bill Nirote 6/13 Madeline Aeschbury Alexandria Cole JJ Cole6/15 Sam Klintworth6/17 Julie Delong Missy Zimmerman6/18 Sadie Clark Lukas Irons6/19 Shawn Dingus Carl Jacobson David Nassau6/20 Richard Mason6/21 Rick Henderson Ken Salak6/22 Cindy Deliman6/23 Evan Whaling6/24 Trenton Helmer Eric Klintworth Sarah Trace6/25 Benton Ahrens Heather Whaling6/26 Eric Boyd Lauren Holt Dan Logel Jonathan Miller Rhonda Poirier6/27 Alice Cook6/29 Andrew McWilliams Kathy White6/30 Sarah Allen Kathyrn Reed

6/1 Mary Day and Jim Fewlass Kathleen and Jason Ferguson6/2 Rebecca and Jason Allen6/7 Janet and Dan Axt Emily and Jeff Corzine Kaye and John Martin6/9 Janice and Ron Cook Mary and Charlie Weaver 6/10 Kelly Dodd and Dean Hafey6/11 Jennifer Mrozek and Gregory Buzzell 6/12 Melody and Paul Leidheiser 6/14 Gayle and Mike Henderson Shannon and Christopher Washington6/16 Debra and Fred Hadley6/17 Luke and Kirsten Ahrens Penny and Terry Casey Celeste Feather and Peter Murray6/18 Val and Phil Stichter6/19 Ann and John Aecshbury Deb and Tom Thompson6/20 Sarah Amy and David Kruk6/21 Sue and Frank Cook Janet Newcity and Chris Gelpi6/22 Wendy and Robert Reber6/23 Kosby and Kevin Carrico6/26 Virginia and James O’Neil6/27 Carol and Alex Rodriguez6/29 Pam Kallner and Russ Kelm

Member Birthdays in June Member Anniversaries in June

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CHURCH STAFFSenior Minister Timothy C. Ahrens, D. Min.

Associate Minister Emily Krause Corzine, M. Div.Minister of Music Kevin Jones, M. M.

Director of Christian Education Mark S. Williams, M. Ed.(on sabbatical June 21-August 21)

Sabbatical Replacement Director of Christian Education

Karen Mozingo, Ph.D.

Commissioned Minister for Social Justice Tom BrownfieldCommissioned Minister for

Spiritual Formation and DirectionJacquelyn Dean

Organist/Choirmaster Emeritus G. Dene BarnardJubilate and Exultate Choir Director Sandra Mathias, Ph.D.

Business Manager Sharon LeidheiserProgram Manager Martha Worth

Office Manager Amy WagnerBuilding & Grounds Superintendent Mark Dahnke

Custodians William Lee, Jimy SibrianWedding Coordinators Janet Axt, Margaret Cipriani, Diana Chandler, Amy Wagner, Katie Wagner

Nursery Staff Simone Ellerson, Natalie Barker, Taylre Arnold, Miranda Brooks

DIACONATESenior Deacon Janet Newcity

Deacons Anthony Brown, Valerie Conlin-Losinski, Bert Cook, Martha Fulleman, Shelly Gies, Todd Jacobson, Dayna McCrary, Karen Mozingo, David Nassau, Cori Page, Allison Lowery Palmer, Jorge Polo, Alex Rodriguez, James Velo

CHURCH COUNCILModerator Joe Baszynski

Moderator-Elect Lynn Wallich Treasurer Joe Hoffman

Assistant Treasurer Matt MyersSecretary Nancy Loy

Assistant Secretary Jim Griffin

COMMISSIONERSAdministration Chris Glaros, Elect - Greg Kellison

Church Growth/Vitality Tom Kiesel and Mary Anne Jacobson, co-chairs; Elect - Maria Brown and Lisa Fravel-Dean

Education Chris Gelpi, Elect - Jennifer ProvenzanoHouse & Grounds Gary Leidheiser, Elect - Mark Brown

Justice & Mercy Dawn George, Elect - Nicole MossMusic, Arts, & Heritage Joel Mathias, Elect - Drew Wade

Nominating Chair Kent Shimeall Member-at-large Pavan Peter

Youth-at-large Miriam Myers Deacon Council Representative Todd Jacobson

TRUSTEESChairperson Chris Farquhar

Treasurer Cindy ConnTrustees Brian Cave, Tom Hadley, John Martin, Sheldon Taft,

Elaine Warren, Keith White, Gerry Worth

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The First Congregational Church, UCC 444 E. Broad St., Columbus, Ohio 43215Phone: 614.228.1741 FAX: 614.461.1741 Email: home@first-church.orgWeb site: www.first-church.orgOffice Hours: Monday - Friday, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Closed Major Holidays

“An Open & Affirming Faith Community”

SUNDAY WORSHIP HOURSWorship at 9 a.m. ~ Parish Hall Worship at 11 a.m. ~ Sanctuary

TO: