the chimes - razor planetthe mission statement of fallbrook presbyterian church: to bring people...

May

2012

Vol. 31, No. 5

�

�The Chimes FALLBROOK PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

463 South Stage Coach Lane ~ Fallbrook, California, 92028 ~ Phone (760) 728-5804 ~ Fax (760) 728-3865

From Pastor Jerome 1

May Events 3

Children’s Ministries 4

Feature: New Mem-bers & Belonging

5

Student Ministries 6

From the Flower Fields 7

Mission Opportunities 8

Faith Matters 10

Church Family News, Birthdays and Prayer Requests

12, 13

Quick Look at Dates 14

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:INSIDE THIS ISSUE:INSIDE THIS ISSUE:INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

An IMPORTANT MESSAGE to our Church Family from Pastor

Jerome regarding our search for a Denominational affiliation.

FPC + NWAC FPC + NWAC FPC + NWAC FPC + NWAC –––– PCUSA x EPC > ECO = Huh???? PCUSA x EPC > ECO = Huh???? PCUSA x EPC > ECO = Huh???? PCUSA x EPC > ECO = Huh???? MAKING SENSE OF ALPHABET SOUP!MAKING SENSE OF ALPHABET SOUP!MAKING SENSE OF ALPHABET SOUP!MAKING SENSE OF ALPHABET SOUP!

I don’t know about you, but I hate math. Now, my wife, on the other hand,

loves it … and she’s very good at it too. Almost every afternoon and eve-

ning, students from Fallbrook High meet with Terri around our kitchen table

to decipher and solve some of the most mind-numbing algebra and trigo-

nometry problems known to man. Well, okay … maybe that’s a bit of an ex-

aggeration. But that’s how it seems to me, the Arithmetic Neanderthal of our

family. If you want to see my eyes glaze over and witness my mind being

transported to a thousand distant shores, just start quoting numbers at me.

Just like that, I go into a self-induced coma and I’m done … I’m gone.

LIGHTS OUT! Nobody’s home! … It’s truly a sad and unfortunate phe-

nomenon … but I assure you, it’s the truth.

Lately, I’ve been pondering our church’s denominational pilgrimage, and it

struck me just how confusing our own journey must sound to anyone who’s

not fortunate enough to know the “deciphering code.” I mean, have you ever

heard more alphabetical symbols bantered about in your life? PCUSA …

NWAC … EPC … ECO … Say what? So, tell me again … “Who’s on

first?” … and where are we in the process? It’s enough to make you pull out

a denominational calculator (if only one existed!).

Again, I’m no math wizard, but let me see if I can (hopefully) help tutor you

through the theological malaise and update you on the latest news in our jour-

ney.

Concerned by the increasing, disturbing trend towards theological liberalism

in the PCUSA (Presbyterian Church of the U.S.A.), the NWAC (or, New

Wineskins Association of Churches) formed in 2005 in order to take a stand

for biblical orthodoxy and sound a call for a return to a more biblical and

evangelical understanding of Presbyterianism. Our church (FPC) aligned

with this group around this time (as did many other Presbyterian churches

(Continued on page 2)

We remember . . .We remember . . .We remember . . .We remember . . .

The Chimes May 2012

The Mission Statement of Fallbrook Presbyterian Church: To bring people into a relationship with Jesus Christ, grow them up as His lifelong disciples, and gather them into a

Christ-centered community where they can experience and express God’s love.

around the nation), and after disaffiliating with the

PCUSA in 2008, we became part of the New Wine-

skins Transitional Presbytery. Having renounced

my ordination with the PCUSA, they allowed me to

continue my ministerial duties in a recognized,

“connected” capacity as a Presbyterian minister.

They have provided a very supportive and encour-

aging “home” for us during a particularly challeng-

ing and disorienting time, and, as of this writing, we

continue to be officially connected with them and

under their protective umbrella.

This summer, in July of 2012, the NWAC will offi-

cially dissolve and become part of the EPC

(Evangelical Presbyterian Church). The EPC was

formed and established in the 1980’s, once again as

a protest against the liberal theological tendencies

within the PCUSA. When we first disaffiliated

with the PCUSA, it was our original intention to

join with this denomination (as we made clear to

our congregation at the time). But upon further re-

search (including a personal meeting between three

EPC pastors and our session last year), we were not

comfortable making that step due to what our elders

perceived as a particularly strong Calvinist flavor

evident in their teachings, and especially in regards

to their doctrine of predestination. While we ac-

knowledge predestination as a valid doctrine when

it is correctly interpreted and understood in its

proper context (e.g., see Romans 8:29), we strongly

disagree that a doctrine of predestination to eternal

damnation is taught by the Bible. On the contrary,

the Scripture is crystal clear (in numerous places)

that the Lord is “not wanting anyone to perish, but

everyone to come to repentance” (2 Peter 3:9). We

bless our brothers and sisters in the EPC, and appre-

ciate their evangelical convictions, but joining with

them was simply not a right “fit” for our congrega-

tion due to this theological disagreement.

Recently a new group has emerged from within the

PCUSA known as The Fellowship of Presbyteri-

ans (that’s right, no initials, believe it or not!).

This is a loose organization of evangelical and

Bible-believing Presbyterian churches and pastors

who are planning to remain in the PCUSA, but (as

they put it) “live in a different way” among those

with whom they are in disagreement. They are not

interested in fighting to renew the PCUSA by “out-

voting” the opposition, etc. But rather, they simply

desire to “change their mind” by living with them

and among them “in a different (Christ-honoring)

way.” Weary of all the in-fighting and “name-

calling,” they would rather stay where they are, but

focus all their energies on being more intentionally

missional and evangelical in their Christian minis-

try. They define their mission as “to build flourish-

ing churches that make disciples of Jesus Christ.”

They define some of their key values as: Jesus-

Shaped Identity; Biblical Integrity (they believe

“the Bible is the unique and authoritative Word of

God that teaches all that is necessary for faith and

life”); Thoughtful Theology; Accountable Commu-

nity; Egalitarian Ministry (“we believe in unleash-

ing the ministry gifts of women, men, and every

ethnic group”); Missional Centrality (“we believe in

living out the whole of the Great Commission – in-

cluding evangelism, spiritual formation, compas-

sion, and redemptive justice – in our communities

and around the world”); and Kingdom Vitality (“we

believe congregations should vigorously reproduce

new missional communities to expand the Kingdom

of God”).

Intimately related to the Fellowship of Presbyteri-

ans, but “just outside the boundary of the

PCUSA” (i.e., existing as a separate denomination

from them), is the newly formed ECO (or, Evan-

gelical Covenant Order of Presbyterians). This

group wants to remain in civil, peaceful correspon-

From Pastor Jerome (Continued from page 1)


May 2012 The Chimes page 3

M

A

Y

21212121stststst Annual Fallbrook CROP Annual Fallbrook CROP Annual Fallbrook CROP Annual Fallbrook CROP

Hunger WalkHunger WalkHunger WalkHunger Walk May 6, 2012, 1 p.m.

Fallbrook Food Pantry

They agreed we should go to the Gentiles, and they

to the Jews. All they asked was that we should con-

tinue to remember the poor, the very thing I was ea-

ger to do. The Apostle Paul, Galatians 2:9-10

CROP began in 1947. Today, CROP means

Churches Responding to Overcome Poverty, with

Hunger Walks providing opportunity for interfaith

hunger education and fundraising. Why do we

walk? Hungry people in developing countries typi-

cally walk up to six miles a day to get food, water

and fuel and to take their goods to market. By par-

ticipating in our 3-mile walk, we symbolically join

in solidarity with their struggle for existence. We

walk because we want to join others in ending their

hunger. 75% of the money our community raises

goes toward world hunger relief. The remaining

25% is given to support the work of the Fallbrook

Food Pantry. If you have any questions about this year’s CROP

Walk, please contact Paul Patterson at fallbrook-

[email protected] or call him at 760.659.8005.

National Day National Day National Day National Day of Prayerof Prayerof Prayerof Prayer Thursday, Thursday, Thursday, Thursday,

May 3, 7 p.m.May 3, 7 p.m.May 3, 7 p.m.May 3, 7 p.m. Methodist ChurchMethodist ChurchMethodist ChurchMethodist Church Join us as we pray for

our nation with the rest

of our community!

Boy Scouts MeetBoy Scouts MeetBoy Scouts MeetBoy Scouts Meet All Mondays in the CACAll Mondays in the CACAll Mondays in the CACAll Mondays in the CAC

6:30 p.m.6:30 p.m.6:30 p.m.6:30 p.m.

For information, please call

Rhonda Hill,

Chartered Rep. of

Fallbrook Presbyterian

Church Troop 755

760-504-6808

Golf With The Golf With The Golf With The Golf With The CommunityCommunityCommunityCommunity

May 12May 12May 12May 12 Save the date for a fun-filled

time golfing in the tournament

with brothers and sisters from

many of Fallbrook’s churches.

Men’s Life Bible StudyMen’s Life Bible StudyMen’s Life Bible StudyMen’s Life Bible Study Wednesdays at 7 a.m.

in Nalbach Chapel The study focuses on the New Testament of Gala-

tians. God seems to be calling our church to a new

awareness of our need to reach out. As we do so,

we might wonder “What place should obedience

and good works have in our Christian lives?” Men

of every age are welcome to join in these lively dis-

cussions. Chuck Boatman is the discussion facilita-

tor. You are welcome to join in any time.

W.O.W. Presents W.O.W. Presents W.O.W. Presents W.O.W. Presents Fresh EncounterFresh EncounterFresh EncounterFresh Encounter

(7 Sessions) Continuing May 3-31 9:15 a.m.

Fresh Encounter by Henry Blackaby, Richard

Blackaby and Claude King guides believers

through the biblical pattern of experiencing God’s

presence that leads to revival in the church, a spiri-

tual awakening in the world. As churches today

search for the right ministry to reach their commu-

nity, the Blackabys’ teaching will help them return

to their “first love” of Christ so He can work pow-

erfully in them and through them. Come join us!

The Chimes May 2012

Children’s Ministries Happenings!Children’s Ministries Happenings!Children’s Ministries Happenings!Children’s Ministries Happenings!

With Springtime Comes Renewal!

Now is the Time to refresh our rela-

tionships with God, Family and

Friends!

“I have learned that to have a good friend is the

purest of all God’s gifts, for it is a love that has no

exchange of payment.” Francis Farmer

According to Childhood developmental specialists

every child makes their first true friend when they

are 3 to 4 years old. Without speaking a word to

each other, they find happiness just being together.

They learn that friendships aren’t perfect, yet for

them, everyday is precious and new. They do not

expect perfection from each other, just returning

love when they receive love themselves. They just

love being with each other. Before this stage of

development they are very selfish. Kids play and

work beside each other but never with each other. I

call it the “ME” stage. It’s their way or the high-

way. I think we return to the “Me” stage when we

get older.

Let’s get back to when we were four. At this age

we become good listeners or not. This is a very

important quality in picking a good friend. Chil-

dren are not pretentious, they take you as you are,

good, bad, or indifferent. They truly love you for

who you are. Though love is deeper, friendship is

wider and so forgiving.

Another quality in picking our friends is if we feel

safe around them. It’s an inexpressible comfort,

having no judgment in each other’s words or ac-

tions. Just let it all out, just as you are. When I lis-

ten to the preschool children’s conversations while

playing in the sandbox, they don’t talk much. They

just love playing next to each other in pretend play

or not. As they talk, they hear each other, they un-

derstand each other, they are each other’s friend. A

child’s idea of friendship is living it, enjoying it,

tasting it, smelling it, and feeling it.

God blesses us with the gift of making friends. It

involves many things, but above all, the power of

going out of one’s self, and appreciating whatever

is noble and loving in one another. (Thomas

Hughes) I believe this is a mysterious meeting in

life when someone acknowledges who we are and

what we can be. Sometimes people come into your

life and you know right away they are meant to be

there. God opens our eyes to them. No friendship

is an accident. Friendships should be effortless,

like a cat purring. Friends old and new serve a pur-

pose, teach you a lesson, or help you figure out who

you are.

Don’t ever take friendship for granted. Preschool-

ers don’t! You can’t buy it or command it, but you

can lose it. It must be refreshed. Hugs are wel-

comed and needed. Let your friends know how you

cherish him or her by telling them your relationship

is worthy. This is done by not meeting your friends

halfway but a little more than halfway. Friends add

a cherished richness and worth to your life.

Spring time always reminds me to let my friends

know how much they mean to me. I love to write

short sweet notes, make phone calls, and sometimes

send silly presents just to let them know I love them

and cherish their friendship.

I charge all of you this spring to be a good friend

and let God’s greatest gift to us know how precious

they are in our lives.

Children’s Ministry Happenings! April 15th, Sunday school’s “Elevate” started a

new series called, The Mysteries of God!

Preschool registration for the 2012-2013 school year is in full swing. Please tell your neighbors

and friends about our wonderful preschool and

staff. 760-728-1032



Feature of the Month:

BELONGING

One Couples Story

After one and a half years of being a “Regular

Attendee” we decided to attend the March 31st

membership class. It turned out to be a most

worthwhile and informative time. As you would

expect or you have experienced, Jerome does a

great job. One area that he covered was titled

“How does one become a Disciple in the early

church?” We are very familiar with the three T’s

(Time, Talent, Treasure) but not familiar with

the three B’s (Believe, Belong, Behave). Very

interesting. Believing in God and Jesus was

easy. Belonging to a church body was something

we have practiced for over 40 years in many

different churches. Behaving, well, let’s not go

there. Let’s just say we remain a work in pro-

gress.

Returning to Belonging continues to emphasize

that we have always believed that Membership

equals Commitment and is the ultimate in saying

to our fellow believers that we want to join with

you in fellowship and worship.

What happened next is something that I have

never experienced before. Arriving at church the

next day Terry Bibbens (representing the Elder

Board) congratulated us on becoming new

members. A tremendous feeling of belonging

came over me as we walked to our favorite pew.

While sitting there I became very misty eyed

over this new feeling. Our first order of business

was completing the registration card and signed

in as a Member; we were no longer Regular

Attendees.

The process was complete. We now “Belong.”

Bill & Wilma Chain

Welcome and CongratulationsWelcome and CongratulationsWelcome and CongratulationsWelcome and Congratulations to Our New Members to Our New Members to Our New Members to Our New Members

On April 15, 2012 our congregation was delighted to receive the following friends into

our church family.

Bill & Wilma Chain Karen Morris

Gayle Kott Paul Patterson

Debbie Mack Rod & Windy Smith

Ellen Morris

We welcome these friends as new members and pray God will bless them and the fellow-

ship of believers with their presence. Please read the following article written by one

couple who shares the significance of their experience.

The Chimes May 2012

Fallbrook Presbyterian Student Ministries Mission Statement:

To grow Christ-dependant students who maintain Godly character,

demonstrate the love that comes from a relationship with Jesus Christ,

and equip them for the realities of life with the infallible truths from God’s Word.

Student Ministries

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geared�towards�worship�of�Jesus.�

The 463 Project

Every Sunday except

Communion Sundays

during 2nd service.

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The 463 Café Hours Thursdays and Fridays

after school from 3 to 7 p.m.

We�sell�Pedro’s�tacos�and�sodas.��Come�eat�and�hang�out�with�us.�

Call Banning or Meghan at 760-728-5804 for more details!

www.463ministries.com

May 13th, Children’s Service on Mother’s Day.

All FPP’s children’s programs will take part in the

service. AWANA, Los Amigos, Sunday school kids

and the preschool cherub choir will be performing

that special Mom’s Day. A yummy pancake break-

fast will be held in between services to help fund-

raise for the preschool.

May 9th & 16th Kids in Communion Class-Must

call Beth Ann at 760-728-5804 and reserve a spot

now. Jerome is the facilitator. Third Grade on up

are invited. Will meet from 4 to 5 p.m. in the Sanc-

tuary. Includes a pizza dinner.

May 17th AWANA’s Annual Awards Night will be

held in the Sanctuary at 6:30pm.

May 22nd Los Amigos-Annual Family Dinner

with their tutors is on the calendar.

May 29th– Los Amigos End of the Year Pool

Party.

In God’s Love,

Beth Ann Murray

Children’s Ministries (Continued from page 4)


From the FPC Flower FieldsFrom the FPC Flower FieldsFrom the FPC Flower FieldsFrom the FPC Flower Fields

For troubled mothers:

He’ll See Them Home Don’t despair so of your children,

God will bring them to the fold —

Because He died to save them,

They’re special to the Lord.

He knows how much you love them,

He loves them even more.

As long as you hold on in prayer,

He’ll not close the door.

Even now He sees your tears,

And He whispers tenderly,

Of love that conquered all —

That all men might be free.

So lay them at His altar,

Let go and leave them there—

God will be faithful to your trust

He won’t withhold His care.

His hand will ever nurture,

No matter where they roam—

And He won’t be satisfied

‘Til He sees them safely home!

—Joyce Henning

Flower Ministry co-chairs are Elissa Taylor

and Miriam Kirk. Spring quarterly leaders are

Karin Crawford 760-731-0733 and Pat

Halibozek 760-451-0960.

Designers for May are:

May 6 Bette Dennis, Shirley Strong

May 13 Barbara Sciarra

May 20 Karin Crawford, Dara Johnson

May 27 Elissa Taylor

Fellowship builds us up and binds us together.

In gladness I go forth each day

Expectantly to serve and claim

The happiness that service gives

When freely rendered in Christ’s name.

—Anon.

In His Service,

Patricia Reilly

760-731-2877

Flower Dedications (as of time of publication)

May 6 In memory of loved ones — by Ellen Morris May 13 In loving dedication to oll our mothers — Happy Mother’s Day May 20 Happy Birthday to my dear friend, Helen Bright! — by Alicia Elliott

May 27 In loving memory of my husband, Lou — by Betty Westerveld

What a wonderful spirit-filled ministry we have with our flower “girls!” They need

little leadership, no reminders; they pick up what needs to be done and do it. I am list-

ing names (hopefully no one is left our) because Easter was such a joy! All have the

heart of a servant for God. Jean Tiffany made her yearly Easter lily creation with lilies

she grows. The Johnson ladies—Teresa and Dara — created a purple statice-covered

cross for the center of Jean’s arrangement. Lovely! Peg Sweet, Miriam Kirk, Bette

Dennis, Pat Halibozek (those pew bows had pow!), Pat Cox, Alicia Elliott and Sherry

McFarland worked hard for Easter and all through the year. Thank you!

If you would like to dedicate flowers for a Sunday service in the future, you may use the form found on page 8 of this publication.

The Chimes May 2012

Local Missions Local Missions Local Missions Local Missions • Brother Benno’s — May 25 (4th Fridays)

(breakfast for the homeless). Call Chris Walls,

760-723-9468. • Bread of Life — May 21 (3rd Mondays). Luke

14:13: “But when you give a banquet, invite the

poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, and you

will be blessed. Although they cannot repay

you, you will be paid at the resurrection of the

righteous.”

We feed the poorest of the poor once a month in

Oceanside. We need volunteers to serve two

hours once a month. Meet at the church at 4:45

p.m. by the CAC. Please join us. Contact Jeff

Graflund, 760-723-0098 [email protected]. • Fallbrook Pregnancy Resource Center —

We are always in need of disposable diapers,

especially in the larger sizes, and baby wipes. If

you would like to donate these items, please

bring them to the Church Office and we’ll see

that they get to FPRC. For other information

please call Miriam Kirk at 760-451-9337 or

www.pregnancyfallbrook.com.

Mission / Ministry Opportunities & ReportsMission / Ministry Opportunities & ReportsMission / Ministry Opportunities & ReportsMission / Ministry Opportunities & Reports

Flower DedicationFlower DedicationFlower DedicationFlower Dedication If you are interested in dedicating flowers in honor of loved ones or to celebrate special occasions, please fill out the following and put it with your $20 donation (marking your check memo “flower dedication”) either in the collection plate or in the Church Office. Call Pat Reilly 760-731-2877 or Miriam Kirk 760-451-9337 if you have questions. Name: ______________________________________ Preferred Date of Dedication: ____________________

Phone: _____________________________________

Please word my dedication as follows:

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________


dence with the PCUSA, but also desires to be rec-

ognized as a separate, distinct entity from them. As

they put it, “We are not trying to clean our hands of

something so dirty we have no relationship with it.”

For this reason, some of their critics have accused

them of “wanting their cake and eating it too.”

Nevertheless, like the Fellowship, they are more

interested in positively stating and living out what

they are “for,” rather than in putting all their energy

into what they are “against.” Again, as they put it

themselves: “If you want to be independent, not be

bothered, and just be ‘safe,’ ECO is probably not

for you.” They deeply desire to remain a

“connectional” church (i.e., in vibrant fellowship

with, and under the authority of, the larger Presby-

terian Church), and they adhere to the same key

values promoted by the Fellowship (as mentioned

above).

On March 15, several of our elders, Pastor Greg

Coppock, and I attended a West Coast Fellowship/

ECO conference in Newport Beach. It was the per-

fect opportunity for us to explore what they are all

about since they were meeting right here “in our

own back yard.” All of us were deeply impressed

by their honesty (they openly admitted the theologi-

cal confusion, apostasy, and sad state of affairs that

presently exists in the PCUSA, and they boldly pro-

claimed that the denomination is “dying,” as is

Mainline Christianity in general across the United

States). “We have become too pluralistic in the

PCUSA,” they painfully acknowledged, “so that

now ‘anything goes.’” We were also largely in-

spired by their vision of creating something new

and biblically vibrant and transformative for the

glory of Jesus Christ. They are profoundly Re-

formed in their theology (in the best sense of the

word). I , for one, was quite impressed by their

Confessional Standards and their Biblically solid

Essential Tenets. Worshipping with these brothers

and sisters was inspiring and truly compelling. The

speakers (including John Ortberg, Pastor of Menlo

Park Presbyterian Church) were all exceptionally

eloquent, passionate in spirit, and biblically sound.

At the end of the day, we were all in unanimous

agreement that we were glad we had come and had

personally fellowshipped together with this very

godly and sincere group of believers. We all

agreed to pray fervently for them in this new, excit-

ing venture. We also agreed, however, that it was

way too soon to make any ultimate decisions re-

garding joining this fledgling denomination. Too

many questions remain about how the PCUSA will

respond to their desire to be “connected” to them,

and yet “separate” from them at the same time. So

far there has been no official response from Louis-

ville (denominational headquarters of the PCUSA)

in this regard, but things should most likely become

clearer after their upcoming General Assembly in a

few months. Ideally, the ECO desires that churches

be “graciously dismissed” by the PCUSA into their

fellowship, rather than instigate a more contentious,

unilateral disaffiliation (as our church did). On the

other hand, they openly and gladly welcome

churches such as ours into their affiliation. Trou-

bling questions and serious concerns certainly re-

main about uniting with a group so closely affili-

ated with the PCUSA, especially when we origi-

nally obeyed what we discerned to be God’s call to

“come out from among them.” So, at this point, at

least, in regards to the ECO, we must continue to

wait, watch, and pray.

Finally, the session is also exploring a group known

as the National Covenant Association of Churches

(yes, that would be the NCAC for those of you still

counting letters!). This is not a formal denomina-

tion but simply an affiliation of various denomina-

tional and non-denominational churches who all

affirm the same biblical essential tenets and ethical

imperatives while still retaining their particular de-

nominational distinctives (e.g., various and differ-

ing forms of church governance, sacraments, etc).

We are still exploring the possibilities and any po-

tential pit-falls here.

Folks, in conclusion, to sum up, by definition, we

are presently an independent Presbyterian Church.



The Chimes May 2012

Faith Matters

As Irons Sharpen Irons

By Marcy Burge

Ahhhh friendship, what a blessing. Ahhhh spiritual

friendship, what a gift! As I reflect on my life, I can

think of so many who have broadened my spiritual

foundation with friendship, laughter and sacred in-

sight that has warmed my tired heart and brought

unbridled joy to my soul. There is nothing like a

friendship where God is smack in the middle and is

the topic of conversation. It is such a joyous cele-

bration of the sacredness in life!

My closest confidants and dearest friends are God-

fearing and loving men and women. They have a

sacred glow about them that can only be catego-

rized as heavenly. All of us tout our imperfections

but God reminds us of our royal priesthood as his

sons and daughters in Christ and that means every-

thing to us and is the basis of our very being. There

is no greater thrill for us than hearing a profound

sermon, going to a conference which inspires our

faith or being part of God’s mission for us in the

world. There is no time for small talk, and the love

we hold for each other is genuine, deep and com-

passionate where we are safe to share our hearts

and struggles.

As I reflected on these sweet friendships with each

one of my closest friends recently, individually they

all came to the same conclusion. Our friendships

began when we linked up through faith. Sometime

it meant bringing the gospel to one in need; another

through a devastating loss of a loved one in Grief

Share, a Christian based grief recovery group here

at the church; some through small groups where we

shared our souls and faith; others as we were seek-

ing God through prayer groups or Sunday services.

But all of them had one magnetic reality that

brought us together… our God! That is why being

in community is so important. How shallow and

depressing my life would be without these magnifi-

cent relationships based on our faith in God.

When I was early in my walk of faith I came across

the scripture, “If you follow me, I will give you

brother and sister, mother and father,” which I have

found to be so true. One of my closest friends, a

very seasoned Christian, recently said as much as

she loves her family, and she truly does, there is so

much more depth she has found in her spiritual

family. The family God provides brings such pro-

found, deep and powerful relationships where he

reigns in our hearts and minds. Oh the joy! Oh the

love he has given us for each other! And isn’t that

exactly what he intended when he said “love one

another as I have loved you”?

As much as others argue that they don’t need a

church body to worship God, I believe the commu-

nity of believers will hold us up in our darkest

hours and touch us deeply with their walk of faith

as irons sharpen irons. If the group members are

truly seeking God, a wonderful chain of events will

take place… they will become the hands and feet of

Jesus to you and you will also be that for them. If

they are following the precepts set out by our Lord

to “love one another as I have loved you,” you will

be the recipient of that love and the provider of love

and comfort to others. And even through the every-

day trials of life, we will begin to experience

heaven on earth through the love and care of others

and be that love and care as well.

Recently, I spent the day with a young friend of my

son, Chris’, who gave his life over to Christ in a

deep and profound way. He left old friendships

behind that were unhealthy and knows that in order

to stay the path he needs to be in relationship with

fellow believers. He even said he doesn’t have

time to share his life with non-believers because it

is a waste of time. They are following self-directed



That is who we are, for the time being, at least, and

we need to simply recognize and accept this. There

is no higher court at this time holding us account-

able or under their authority and jurisdiction. The

truth is we are “running out of letters,” so to speak.

In other words, there are no more official, estab-

lished Presbyterian denominations for us to choose

from. In the meantime, then, short of becoming

non-denominational or joining a denomination that

is completely unaffiliated with our own Presbyte-

rian heritage, we do not have much choice except to

continue to wait upon the Lord and his perfect will

for our beloved congregation.

Interestingly, this year marks the 50th anniversary

of our church’s existence and ministry here in Fall-

brook. How fascinating that God, in his Sovereign

Wisdom, seems to be doing a whole new thing

among us, at this particular time, as he calls us ever

deeper into compassionate ministry, and a walk of

continued faith and trust IN HIM ALONE. On

April 27 (which will have passed by the time this

article is printed), our session is having a 24 hour

prayer vigil in order to discern God’s new name for

our church. Our plan is to narrow down the possi-

bilities to no more than three and then to present

them to you, the larger church body, for your

prayerful consideration, in a soon-to-be-announced

all-church congregational meeting.

Friends, God is on the move among us in a very

unique and unexpected way. None of us chose or

devised this journey by human design. None of us

came up with a five year plan or specific strategy

that produced these particular results. On the con-

trary, from the beginning, we have been led on an

unimaginable Divine Quest without the aid of es-

tablished maps or human ingenuity. All of us have

been sincerely and prayerfully trying to walk in

step with the Holy Spirit and with God’s perfect

will and plan for us. I feel so privileged to be a part

of such a beautiful, courageous, Christ-honoring

fellowship of disciples. May the Lord empower us

to “stay the course” (as Pastor Greg always says),

and not to grow weary in well-doing, as we con-

tinue to worship and fellowship and minister to our

world with the joy of our Risen Savior. I don’t

know about you, but for me, that’s the kind of Di-

vine Logic that all “adds up” in the end!

“Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and

knowledge of God! How unsearchable his judg-

ments, and his paths beyond tracing out! … To Him

be glory forever! Amen.” (Romans 11:33, 36)


lives with no spiritual anchor so that they do the

right thing in life… they are floating about on their

own whims. What this young man has learned is

when people are tethered to God, they are life giv-

ing and loving following the footsteps of their Mas-

ter and what can be better than that?

There is something so rich about sharing faith, shar-

ing lives and being there for one another, but it may

mean moving out of our comfort zone, trusting

when we have been hurt before and giving up our

anonymity for a piece of heaven. So if you have

never been part of a small group… go ahead jump

in over your head, share a hug, and be a part of

God’s master plan to bring more love into this

world. I truly would be lost without my spiritual

friends.

Just remember… if you take the first step to walk

into a Bible study, or be a part of a small group, or

extend yourself at a church service, your new best

friend may be waiting to greet you, and God will be

there to link the two of you at the heart!

As Irons Sharpen Irons (Continued from page 10)

The Chimes May 2012

Condolences to families and friends Condolences to families and friends Condolences to families and friends Condolences to families and friends who have lost loved ones

recently. May God’s promise to be with you be especially real right now — and may you know the gentle comfort of His healing touch. Joella Olson Joella Olson Joella Olson Joella Olson in the loss of her brother and sister.

Newsletter Deadline for the June 2012 issue:Newsletter Deadline for the June 2012 issue:Newsletter Deadline for the June 2012 issue:Newsletter Deadline for the June 2012 issue:

4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 15

A Reminder: Please include your name and phone number with

your submitted article. Please note that I reply to all e-mails that I

receive. All submitted articles are subject to editing with regards to

subject matter, space requirements and timely submissions.

—Ann Seymour, Editor phone: 731-9629;

fax: 731-9629; please call first so I can turn on the fax machine;

e-mail address: [email protected] May 15May 15May 15May 15

Happy Mother’s Day!Happy Mother’s Day!Happy Mother’s Day!Happy Mother’s Day!


Prayer Reminders

Baby Brooklyn (Jeff & Ann Graflund’s granddaughter, Karen Austin, Elizabeth

Baumgart, Martha Baylor, Jake Berger, Jay Bibbons, Pat Boatman, Liz Boggs, Mark

Bowers, John Bowling, Sam Britton, Marcy Burge, Marina & Michael Burke, Cody

Cantarini, Joe Bill Carter, Hailey Dugas, Ann Dunbar, Dick Eckhardt, Bonnie Eddy,

Joan English, Maggie Donovan, John Gollner (Sherry’s dad), Sandy Goodman, Henny

Goresky, Joe Hammer, Eleanor Hayhurst, Jeri Heiser, Adrienne Hess, Carol Kroeger,

Lois Mikulsky, Conrad Murphy, T.J. Murray, Steve Perham, Agnes Poppel, Sharon

Miller Puett, Marlene Schmidtke, Bruce Sharp, Kylen (Rick & Linda Shirey’s

granddaughter), Bita Snyder, Peg Stanley, Marilynne Stransky, Shirley Strong, Dot

Tibbets, Juliana Tipton and Hannah Wilson.

Please keep our church family overseas and their families in prayer: Joey Alley, Bryan

Brooks, Jason Carter, David Cooke, John Daniel, Serafina Edwards, Matt Harvey, Kevin

Low and J.P. Stalnaker. If you know of someone who needs prayer, please inform the Church Office, 760-728-5804.

News From the Church Family!News From the Church Family!News From the Church Family!News From the Church Family!

1 Bette Dennis Robert Lieber Cindy McAvoy 30 Bob Norton 31 Brianna Rothert 32 Pam Suchoski 33 Sawyer Knox Jeff Low Bonnie McIver 7 Nicholas Kohout 8 Audrey Aston 10 Karen Clark Karen Morris

12 Juliana Tipton 13 Reginald Fogg 14 April Lesher 15 Helen Bright 16 Natalie Franks Paul Ostergaard 18 Don Strong 20 Allyson Haldi 21 Brad Hamby 22 Gaston Bonenfant Colby Duty 24 Benjamin Baumgarten Sharon Callahan

David Riddle 25 Haley DeStefani Larry Knight Loren Martin 26 Sylvia Eckhardt 27 Hailey Hicks Wilbur Wagner 28 Joe Bill Carter 30 Margaret Daniel 31 Ellen Morris

Here’s who’s counting candles in May!Here’s who’s counting candles in May!Here’s who’s counting candles in May!Here’s who’s counting candles in May!

Anniversaries in May!Anniversaries in May!Anniversaries in May!Anniversaries in May!

15 Ronald & Mary James 15 Robert & Caron Lieber

The Chimes May 2012

NONPROFIT ORG U.S. POSTAGE

PAID Fallbrook, CA

Permit #22

Quick Look At Schedule May 2 PW Women, 10 a.m., Chapel

May 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Men’s Life Bible Study, 7 a.m., Chapel May 3 National Day of Prayer, 7 p.m., Methodist Church

May 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 WOW, 9:15 a.m.

May 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 Men’s Group, 7 p.m., Maurer’s home

May 5, 12, 19, 26 Men’s Group w/Pastor Greg, 7 a.m. May 6 CROP Hunger Walk, 1 p.m., Fallbrook Food Pantry

May 7 Boy Scout Meeting, 6:30 p.m., CAC

May 9 & 16 Kids in Communion Class, 4-5 p.m. May 12 Golf Tournament

May 13 Children’s Service on Mother’s Day w/pancakes

May 15 Deadline for June issue of The Chimes, 4:30 p.m. May 17 AWANA’s Annual Awards Night, 6:30 p.m., Sanctuary

May 22 Los Amigos Annual Family Dinner

May 29 Los Amigos End of Year Pool Party

If you are no longer attending our church or your address has changed and this has been forwarded to you, would you be kind enough to inform the

Church Office so that we may update our mailing list. Thank you.

Join us for Sunday morning worship. Join us for Sunday morning worship. Join us for Sunday morning worship. Join us for Sunday morning worship. 8:30 Traditional Worship Service 10:30 Contemporary Worship Service

Nursery & Children’s Sunday School at both services

�The Chimes is a publication of

Fallbrook Presbyterian Church

463 South Stage Coach Lane Fallbrook, CA 92028

Phone: (760) 728-5804

Preschool: (760) 728-1032

Fax: (760) 728-3865

Email: [email protected]

Web site: www.fallbrookpres.org

Pastor�Jerome Marroquin

Pastoral Assistant

Greg Coppock

Student Ministries

Banning Cantarini

Zac Knox

Chris Low

Meghan Miller

Children’s Ministries

Beth Ann Murray, Director

Fallbrook Presbyterian Preschool

Beth Ann Murray, Director

Music Ministry

Brenda Tapley, Director

Church Organist

John Redford

Church Office

Sherry McFarland, Financial Administrator

Marcy Burge, Church Secretary

Facility Maintenance

Alex Gonzalez, Custodian

Aurelio Ferreira, Night Custodian

Angel Gaona, Gardener

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