First Presbyterian Church of Highlands

MISSION PARTNERS HCCDC……………......2 CHURCH HAPPENINGS..3

WHAT WOULD WE DO

WITHOUT YOU? TEFAP MISSION OPPORTUNITY MULLEN LECTURE….….4 JULY CONCERTS………..5 BIRTHDAYS & ANNIVERSARIES TREASURER’S REPORT WOMEN’S STUDIES PRAYER LIST…………...6 CALENDAR…………......7 FOURTH OF JULY CONCERT LECTIONARY...……..…..8

JULY 2017

FROM THE PASTORS

Back in 1980, Claudia Minden Weisz wrote a poem called, “And God Said No.” What follows is a rendition of that poem:

I asked God to take away my pride.

God said, “No.” God said it was not for him to take away my pride. But

For me to give up my pride.

I asked God to make my handicapped child whole. God said, “No.” God

said her spirit is whole. Her body is only temporary.

I asked God to grant me patience.

God said, “No.” God said that

patience is a byproduct of tribulation. Patience isn’t granted. It’s earned.

I asked God to give me happiness.

God said, “No.” God said he gives

blessings. Happiness is up to me.

I asked God to spare me pain.

God said, “No.” God said,

“Suffering draws you closer to me.”

I asked God to make my spirit grow. God said, “No.” God said I must

grow on my own, and be prepared

for pruning that will make me more

fruitful.

I asked God to help me love others, as much as he loves me. God said, “Ah,

finally, you have the idea.”

Now, you may disagree with some of these remarks. Yet, each remark has a ring of truth about it. After reading these points one is

reminded that Jesus said, “To whom much is

given, much is required.” As Claudia Weisz’s words from God note, we are responsible for much in our lives that counts for God’s

blessings. We are called to do our part in the life of faith. Despair arises when we live in a fantasy world where we think God magically intervenes to make our lives good and right. God is not a

four-leaf clover, but rather “the way and the truth.”

It is not easy to hear that God leaves us to do our part. We would prefer to have God fix our lives. Claudia Weisz wanted God to fix her life; give her a humble heart, healing, patience,

happiness, a painless life, spiritual wisdom, and love for others. These are things all of us desire and pray for because they are so good. Yet, the truth is God does provide us these things, in ways we might not imagine, when we do our part in faith. These good things come when we exercise love for others and a proper love for ourselves in the presence of God. It is well to remember that even in the valley of the shadow of death, God is with us and that nothing can separate us from the love of God.

Yes, much is required of us who cast our lives with faith in God. Much is left for us to do. It demands a strong will, a determination of

spirit, and an unfailing trust in God. Those who exercise these qualities see the presence of God in their lives.

Page 2

A little over 12

years ago a small

child care facility

staffed by volunteers

was being housed in

the basement of our

church. Realizing the

overwhelming need

for more space and

the need to offer care to more children, this small group

of volunteers developed a three step plan which included

additions and renovations to the current site as well as

plans to build a child development center across the

street. The plans were approved by the Session and

accepted by the entire congregation. The Highlands

Community Child Development Center opened its doors

in February of 2005.

Today the Center has an

enrollment of 66 children, with a

waiting list. The Center is greatly

appreciated by the families as well

as the businesses in our area. Most

importantly, we are making a

difference in the lives of so many

children. The outstanding staff of

10, along with director Pat Hedden,

teach not only the skills and knowledge needed to

prepare each child to enter kindergarten, but also life

lessons like sharing, problem solving, planning and

carrying out ideas. They are exposed to the arts, taught

computer skills and encouraged to check out books from

the on site library. They are also made to feel loved and

cared for by the entire staff.

Our children are told about God's love and care for us and how important it is to share that love with others through both word and deed. The older students walk across the street once a week for a message delivered by pastors Curtis and Emily, followed by music with Miss Angie.

The Child Development Center is governed by an

independent board of 12 members who carefully

oversee the daily operations of the Center, handle the

task of raising money and making sure that monies are

wisely spent. A number of our church members serve on

this Board.

The Center always welcome visitors who wish to tour

its facilities. They ask that you call first to schedule a

time. You will love OUR children. We, the church, made

a commitment and a promise to the Child Development

Center at its inception, and we continue to be one of its

strongest supporters.

Mission Partners

Highlands Community Child Development Center

Page 3

CHURCH HAPPENINGS

Our former pastor Rev. J. Hunter Coleman was back in the pulpit for our Heritage/Pentecost Sunday worship service on June 4th, and assisted in serving the Sacrament of Communion. A special guest was Rev. Tempe Fussell, wife of Rev. Dr. Curtis Fussell.

Our Chancel Choir member and one of our newest church members, Garrett Whipkey, sang Come Thou Fount Of Ev'ry Blessing during the Offertory on June 11th.

Lots of clapping, toe-tapping and singing along accompanied the bluegrass-gospel songs of our guest musicians on Sunday, June 18! We were pleased to welcome the Silly Ridge Roundup Band, comprised of Marie Dunkle, David Goodrow, Knight Martorell, and Hank Belew.

Our soloist on June 4th was choir intern Jacob Plaisted who sang Spirit of Faith Come Down.

Chancel Choir member Mozelle Edwards was recognized at our June 4th service for over 50 years of service in the Chancel Choir.

It is a rare Sunday morning that the child of one of our pastors receives the Sacrament of Baptism during the worship service. This joyous event occurred on June 11th, when our Pastor Emily and Kevin's little girl

Clara Margot Gates-Wilmarth was baptized into the Kingdom of God and into the fellowship of First Presbyterian Church,

to the smiles and tears of the entire congregation.

The Sacred Sounds Bell Choir opened both our 8:30 and 11:00 services on June 25th with Bell Peal No. 1 by Hal Hopson. Guest Musicians Franklin Keel, cellist ,and Candace Norton, flutist ,accompanied the Chancel Choir for our Anthem at 11:00, Children of the Heavenly Father. Our Mullen Lecture Series speaker Rev. Dr. Randall Balmer preached a sermon entitled “The Pharisees Lament” at our 11:00 service.

What Would We Do Without You?

Over the months and years, we have offered thanks to so many in this community of faith who serve and give lovingly. Every time we turn around, we see more folks giving of themselves, generously, for the sake

of the body of Christ. This month we give thanks for those who we don’t see, but who give and give and give. You - the caregivers, the friends and neighbors who offer kindness and compassion, who bring meals,

who give rides to the doctor or hospital, who write notes, who make phone calls, who pray – thank you. Your loving kindness matters and helps make this family of faith whole.

Curtis & Emily

Page 4

The Emergency Food Assistance Program

In 2009, the Food Pantry of Highlands needed extra space to store and distribute food to people qualifying for TEFAP benefits. (TEFAP stands for The Emergency Food Assistance Program.) The session welcomed the

ministry into our church, opening the doors to Coleman Hall for packing and distribution. Kitty Byers along with Barbara Landwehr helped kick it off, and since 2009, Barbara has been coordinating volunteers from our

congregation and the community to assist with the program, and she has amassed quite a list of dedicated people who have given their time and energy to serving in this important aspect of the Highlands community’s life. Many thanks to all! If you are

interested in participating with TEFAP, please contact Barbara at dlandwehr7@aol.com or 787-1230.

TEFAP Volunteers Since 2009

Elaine Andrews * Mary Jo Askew * Teri & Ron Bauer * Martha & Richard Betz * Chris Boltz * Wilda Boyette *

Pud† & Patrick Brogan† * Elizabeth Bryant * Kitty Byers† * Kaye & Tony Cole * Hunter Coleman * Sally Copeland *

Louise Demetriou * Genie Farmer * Betty & Don Fisher * Molly & Bill Gahagan * Enrique Goana *

Carol & Travis† Goodloe * Ann Greenlee * Mary Heffington * Jackie Hills * Skip Hughes * Sheryl James *

Judy & Tom Joyner * Barbara & Doug Landwehr * Heather Mangum * Scott McDuff * Marge & Duane Meeter *

Steve Mehder * Vivian Melicio * Patsy Mullen * Frances Oakley * Hilda Patrick * Don Paulk† * Donna Philips *

Hillrie Quin * Rene & Jim Ramsdell * Ana Reyes * Jacky Reyes * Lori Schmidt * Darlene & Scottie Scott *

Sandi & Bob Shipp * MaryAnn Sloan & Skip Taylor * Suzanne Sloan * Gena Smith * Teeter Smith *

Dale Sticka * Janey Swift * Janet & Jeff Thompson * Bob Tietze * Janice Topping *

Gerri Tulley & Dick Greer * Betsy & Wright Turner * Jill Wolfe * Brenda & Butch Woodward *

Donna Woods * Ginny Wright

2017 Mullen Lecture

Once again, the Mullen Lecture Series featured a very well known and dynamic speaker. Rev. Dr. Randall Balmer is the John Phillips Professor of Religion at Dartmouth College where he chairs the Department of Religion. He is an American author, a historian of American religion and an Episcopal priest.

Many thanks to the congregation for supporting this lecture series named in honor of Rev. Dr. Don Mullen. The lecture was well attended by many members of this congregation and beyond. Thanks as well to the Mullen Lecture Series Committee and those who provided the delicious reception after the lecture.

Volunteers Needed!!

PWNC Missions Committee Presbyterian Disaster Assistance

Mission Trip to Kinston, NC October 8-13, 2017

Help victims of Hurricane Matthew. Cost is $150.00 per person, including

food and lodging

More information and sign ups at http://presbyterywnc.org

Page 5

Church Happenings

Page 6

Please keep in your prayers these members and friends of the congregation: Frances Boggess (Sally Copeland’s niece), Kyle Clark and family upon the death of Keith Clark,

Shirley & Bill Cochran, James H. Crawford, Jr. (Betty Fisher’s brother),William Creswell, Cam Dowdle (Nancy Lowe’s nephew), Alice Gadilhe, Jo Ann Lacy, Mary Langham,

Becky Locke (Nancy Curlee’s mother), Chuck Lucas (Chad Lucas’ father), Mae Potts, Veda & Jimmy Sherard, Shannon Sticka, and Kevin Tietze.

Please keep in your prayers these members in the community and beyond: Bill Harrell, K.C. Hembree, Herb James, Jeff James, Linda James, Frank Jemison, Cherry Martin, Jim Shearon,

Sandra Simmons, Nan Souma, Yancey Stribling, Ivy Stubbs, John Tastinger, John Tastinger, Jr., Matilda Tastinger.

May 2017 Treasurer’s Report

Operating Income and Expenses Budget Actual Difference YTD Income 249,581 247,420 (2,161) YTD Expenses 335,186 302,963 32,222 Net Income (85,605) (55,543) 30,061

Please keep your pledges current!

July Birthdays July 1 Kent Mergler July 2 Gerri Tulley July 3 Edwin Hussey Blake Young July 5 Elaine Andrews July 9 Delaine Langston July 10 Judith Maner July 11 Dee Carnes July 13 Avary Doubleday July 14 Pat Patrick July 15 Pam Peacock July 17 Bill Matthews July 21 Ann Sullivan July 22 Jim Browne July 24 Marty Boone Shirley Hightower July 26 Stella O’Hara July 27 Carol Criminger July 28 Don Stewart July 29 Janet Thompson July 31 Judy Thomas

July Anniversaries

July 1 Bummie & Sid Nurkin July 5 Mary & Howard McMillan July 11 Ann and Herb James July 16 Bessie and Leland Speed July 16 Betty and Don Fisher July 20 Jackie and Dick Hills

August Birthdays

August 1 Olivia Holt August 2 Tricia Graves August 3 Julia Hussey August 4 Lucy Kuhne August 5 Leslie Stewart Phyllis Tietze August 12 Gerry Doubleday August 13 Skip Hughes August 15 Linda Lancaster Anthony Moye Obie Oakley August 17 Lil Harting August 18 Cynthia Strain August 20 Cindy Cox August 23 Frances Oakley August 25 Betsi McLure August 26 Anne Harvey August 27 Perry Calico August 30 Barbara Landwehr August 31 John T. Rymer

August Anniversaries

August 6 Hilda & Pat Patrick August 7 Pam & Bill Peacock August 8 Kay & James Cook August 17 Judy & Kent Mergler August 19 Bev & Hillrie Quinn August 21 Ann & Bill Carpenter August 22 Sandi & Bob Shipp August 24 Emily Wilmarth & Kevin Gates August 29 Lucy & Jack Kuhne

Women’s Studies

We will meet Wednesday, July 12th in the library at 10:15. We will continue to study “Names of God” and will discuss the third

lesson, God’s Personal Name. Please bring a sandwich and something to share for

lunch. All ladies of the church are welcome. Come and bring a friend.

BIRTHDAYS &

ANNIVERSARIES

In Sympathy

Please keep Kyle Clark

and family in your prayers upon the death of his father, Keith Clark.

Also, Veda and Jimmy

Sherard upon the death of their daughter. Sandra

Bethea.

And the family of Veronica Vogt upon her

death.

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First Presbyterian Church of Highlands

471 Main Street

P. O. Box 548 Highlands, NC 28741

828-526-3175

Fax: 828-526-0784

E-Mail: fpch@frontier.com Web Page: fpchighlands.org

Sanctuary hours for meditation are

9:00 to 4:00 p.m. Office hours are 9:00 to 4:30

Monday—Friday Church Sunday School 9:30 a.m.

8:30 a.m. Church Services June through Labor Day weekend Communion served every Sunday

11:00 a.m. Communion served the first Sunday of every month

Session

Class of 2017 Vision 20/20, Tom Joyner

Adult Education, Chad Lucas Congregational Care, Deborah McKnight

Class of 2018 Personnel, Mike Campbell

Worship, Kat Evans Finance, Tom Smith

Mission, Gerri Tulley

Class of 2019 Children’s Ministry, Kay Holland

Congregational Care, Carol Hughes Clerk of Session, Delaine Langston

Membership, Donna Philips

Ministers The Congregation

Staff Jennifer Creswell, Administrative Manager

Christy Kelly, Administrative Assistant Steve Mehder, Church Treasurer

Michael Lancaster, Director of Worship/Music

Angie Jenkins, Organist/ Music Coordinator

Marty Rosenfeld, Food Coordinator Kyle Clark, Property Manager

Janice Mathis, Nursery Assistant Mozelle Edwards, Judy Mouchet and

Rita Paoletti, Sonshine School Directors

Briana Jenkins, Sonshine Assistant

Pastors Curtis Fussell

Emily Wilmarth

Lectionary for July

Lectionary Texts for July As you prepare to come to worship, here are the scripture texts

that will make up the services during the month of July:

July 2 Gen. 22:1-14 4th Sunday after Ps. 13 Pentecost Rom. 6:12-23 Matt. 10:40-42

July 9 Gen. 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67 5th Sunday after Ps. 45:10-17 or Song of Pentecost Sol. 2:8-13 Rom. 7:15-25a Matt. 11:16-19, 25-30

July 16 Gen. 25:19-34 6th Sunday after Ps. 119:105-112 Pentecost Rom. 8:1-11 Matt. 13-1-9, 18-23

July 23 Gen. 28:10-19a 7th Sunday after Ps. 139:1-12, 23-24 Pentecost Rom. 8:12-25 Matt. 13:24-30, 36-43

July 30 Gen. 29:15-28 8th Sunday after Ps. 105: 1-11, 45b or Ps. 128 Pentecost Rom. 8:26-39 Matt. 13:31-33, 44-52