FROM THE PASTOR. December 2015

Transcription

1 December 2015 FROM THE PASTOR Friends, You ve heard the Christmas story about the twin 5-year old boys, one an optimist and the other a pessimist, haven t you? Their father, a psychiatrist, decided to try an elaborate experiment to test his son s personalities. On Christmas Eve, he had the boys sleep with their mother. Meanwhile the father filled the pessimist s bedroom with expensive, elaborate toys; the optimist s room he filled with horse manure. On Christmas morning he announced that Santa had visited each of their rooms. The pessimist slouched to his bedroom, opened the door, and saw the beautiful presents. These toys are all so shiny and new, he said to his father, But within a month, they will all be broken and useless. I wish Santa had not brought them at all! The optimist entered his room, piled high with manure. His eyes brightened, his hands flew up into the air, and he dove headlong into the smelly stuff and began clawing around. Hearing the commotion, his father rushed to the room and stuck his head in the door. What are you doing, son? he asked. I m looking for Santa s gift! exclaimed the optimist. With all this manure, there s got to be a pony in here somewhere! I thought of this story when I realized that for many persons this holiday season will be marred by the most recent terrorist attacks in Paris, Beirut, Mali, and other locales. In the midst of such naked atrocity, it s easy to become jaded and pessimistic: naysayers in a world that seems to have turned a corner toward brutal violence and evil. But I am reminded of Madeline L Engle s prescient words: This is no time for a child to be born, with the earth betrayed by war and hate, and a nova lighting the sky to warn that time runs out and the sun burns late; that was no time for a child to be born, in a land in the crushing grip of Rome honor and truth were trampled by scorn yet here did the savior make his home. When is the time for love to be born? The inn is full on the planet earth, and by greed and pride the sky is torn yet love still takes the risk of birth. I suppose that being an optimist is a risk, especially in this dangerous, changing world in which we live. But being a pessimist is even riskier: it risks not recognizing God s grace and love in the midst of challenge and fear. It risks not finding Christ in the face of an immigrant or a refugee. Being a pessimist risks not reconciling with a friend or with our enemies. Presents do get old and worn. Gifts are sometimes misused and broken. But the promise underneath all this manure that seems to be filling our globe today is that God is Light, and in him there is no darkness at all.* As we walk in that Light, we become more than optimists. We become people of hope. And our hope is not illusory; it finds its footing in a hope-filled child born in Bethlehem and raised in a war weary place called Nazareth. If such a place could produce the Savior of the world, what might this violence-filled sphere we call home produce in us? Christmas should bring out the eternal optimist in all of us. For unto us a child is born; unto us a Son is given. Happy Advent and a Merry Christmas, *I John 1:5

2 The Lighthouse page 2 FROM SESSION At its November meeting, Session: Session News Received a report from the Deacons about recent Deacons half-day retreat. Heard a report about feedback and positive comments about the Presbytery meeting hosted by St. Andrew s on November 10, with special thanks to the Hospitality and Outreach Team for the coffee, refreshments, and delicious dinner. Heard a report from Paul Davidson, candidate under care, about the progress of his ordination examinations and thankfulness for a pastoral call received and accepted from Packwood Community Presbyterian Church in Packwood, Washington. Reviewed the financial reports from the Treasurer and the first draft of the 2016 Budget. Heard a report of results and follow up on Stewardship pledges. Heard a report from the Pastor and approved plans for Rev. Suzanne Malloy to preach on Sundays December 27 and January 3, during Dr. Becker s vacation. Set the date of the Annual Meeting of the Congregation for Sunday, January 31, 2016 at 10:30AM in the Sanctuary. Purposes: Annual Reports received, 2016 Budget presented, approval of Pastor s Terms of Call. Added Sig Wathne as a member of the SAIL Team. Approved the purchase of new window blinds for the Christian Education Building per request from the Children s Ministry Team and the Preschool Director, for use as needed and in case of lock down, at a cost of $2,670. Approved the purchase of up to two new wired microphones for use in worship music. Sandy Thoits, Clerk of Session Our Mission Statement We worship Jesus Christ together consistent with Reformed/Presbyterian tradition, while: Learning God s Word and spreading the Gospel Supporting each member of our Church family Caring for others through mission and service throughout our community and the world Openly affirming all forms of diversity in leadership, worship and ministry Our Vision Statement As God calls us and equips us by the Holy Spirit, we strive to: Be a loving, connected family-in-faith of all ages Affirm Christ s teaching as the source of spiritual nourishment Grow in discipleship, leadership and service Share the joy of God s love with all

3 The Lighthouse page 3 PRESBYTERIAN WOMEN S CHRISTMAS TEA Sunday, December 6, 6, at 2:00p.m. in Morgan Hall All women of the church are once again invited to enjoy the Presbyterian Women's Christmas Tea. This annual event is a delightful way to kick off the Holiday Season and share fellowship with each other. Please mark your calendars for this special occasion. All women of St. Andrew's are invited. WOMEN OF ST. ANDREW S ARE invited to a Christmas Breakfast at the home of Bobby Rubin, December 15th anytime after 9:30a.m., 215 E. Mission in Santa Barbara. Come and see the special collection of Nativities and enjoy a Christmas Blessing. Questions call ANNUAL REPORTS ARE DUE MONDAY, JANUARY 4, 2016 THE FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTIONS From The Finance Committee: our pledge receipts as of the end of October are $199,260. The budgeted amount for that period of time is $208,107 which gives us a shortfall of $8847. NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING OF THE CONGREGATION Sunday, January 31, 2016 at 10:30AM in the Sanctuary Purposes: Annual Reports received 2016 Budget Presented Approval of Pastor's Terms of Call 2016 PLEDGE CARDS are still being received. Please turn in your Stewardship SAIL pledge commitment card by placing it in the offering plate on Sunday or to the church office. Extra pledge cards are available on the table in the narthex, in the pew pockets or in the church office. Thank you for your gifts in Christ for ministry and mission.

4 The Lighthouse page 4 CHILDREN S NATIVITY Once again our children will be blessing us with a retelling of the Christmas story in worship on December 21. All children who would like to come practice and perform this pageant are welcome to join us. There are also jobs for youth to help with reading or special music. Contact Julie Sommers if you are interested in helping ( ). Rehearsal on Saturday, December 19, 9-10a.m. Performance on Sunday, December 20, 9:15-10:30a.m. Arrive for costume at 9-9:15a.m. Sit with parents in worship Gather in Narthex at the appointed time for the play Process and perform the Nativity Pageant WHITE GIFTS ON DECEMBER 20 At the end of the Children s Nativity, the congregation is encouraged to bring to the manger gifts of canned food wrapped in white tissue paper. The donations will be given to the Foodbank. COMMUNITY OF FRIENDS HOLIDAY BASKET DRIVE The Mission Team is seeking items to fill holiday baskets that will go to needy working families in our local community. Last year Community of Friends was able to help over 175 families have a better holiday. Bring your donated items to St. Andrew s no later than 12/13/15 You are invited to Hollister School MPR on Saturday, December 12, 8a-1p to put together these baskets. Cocoa mix/tea/coffee Cookies (fancy in a can) Sparkling juice/cider Tree ornaments New books Cake/cookie mixes Muffin/bread mixes Holiday paper plates/napkins Chocolate Candy/small toys for stockings

5 The Lighthouse page 5 Advent at St. Andrew s November 29 9:30a Worship-First Sunday of Advent December 6 9:30a.m. Worship/Communion 11a.m. Adult Ed. Class 2:00p.m. Presbyterian Women s Christmas Tea in Morgan Hall 6p.m. PYF Gingerbread Houses, pizza dinner December 13 9:30a.m. Worship Choir Christmas Concert Alternative Gift Faire 11a.m. Adult Ed. Class 6p.m. PYF Progressive Dinner December 20 9:30a.m. Worship Children s Sunday Children s Nativity Pageant Receive White Gifts gifts of food Alternative Gift Faire 6p.m. PYF at the church, White Elephant Gift Exchange December 24 7p.m. Christmas Eve Service 8p.m. Reception in Morgan Hall POINSETTIAS Poinsettias may be ordered in memory of, or in honor of a friend or loved one. Please use the order blank in the Sunday order of worship. Plants are $5 each. Make your check payable to Ariel Bowers. All orders need to be turned in by December 13.

6 The Lighthouse page 6 ALTERNATIVE GIFT FAIRE CHRISTMAS JOY OFFERING Your Mission Team will be conducting the annual Alternative Gift Faire on December 13 and 20 immediately after the Sunday worship service. This event allows you to make a gift in honor of someone dear to you. We will provide you with a card you can give to that person so that he or she will know that a gift in his or her honor is helping someone in need this Christmas. This year you can contribute to a variety of worthy causes. World Church Service - Help poor rural families in developing countries achieve self-reliance with the use of seeds and tools, improve a family s health and food security by providing them with 50 baby chicks who will become egg-producing chickens, provide blankets to persons in need of warmth after a disaster. Santa Barbara Food Bank - Support the backpack program that provides good nutritious food to schoolchildren who do not have enough to eat during the weekends. Transition House - Provide clothing and school supplies to local students who temporarily reside at that facility for the homeless. Unite-to-Light - Provide solar powered lights for students and their families who lack electric power in their homes. The Unite-to-Light program was developed by our own John Bowers and others on the UCSB staff. THE CHRISTMAS JOY OFFERING WILL BE RECEIVED ON SUNDAY, DECEMBER 20. This is one of four PC(USA) annual offerings. Funds collected are used to provide financial assistance to current and former church workers and their families and to enable deserving students to attend Presbyterian related racial ethnic colleges and schools. The several church related schools and colleges provide education to Blacks, Latinos and Native Americans who might not otherwise receive an education that can help bring them out of poverty. When you do your Christmas shopping this year, please think about helping out others who are in more need than we are by participating in both the Alternative Gift Faire and the Christmas Joy Offering. BIRTHDAYS BEING CELEBRATED IN DECEMBER 01 - Harold Englund 17 - Michael Shinn 02 - Robin Knauss 18 - Alyssa Wilson 03 - Stephanie Acuna 20 - Joan Cyr 04 - Carolin Allbright 21 - Stephen Lee, 07 - Sean Russo, Twyla Grier Allison Russo, 24 - Steven Henderson, Charles Spencer Catherine Montgomery, 08 - Carol Stewart Terry Staten 10 - Stacey Voigt 27 - Samantha Alverez, 13 - Noah Keyzer Matthew Arnold 14 - Eliza Woodard 29 - Michael Padden-Rubin 16 - James Carroll 31 - Robert Rinker

7 The Lighthouse page 7 PYF HIGHLIGHTS PYF November News A BIG THANK YOU to Capt. Kirk Grier and First Mate Porter Spencer for casting off with the PYF crew for a fabulous, sunny and fun sailing adventure!! PYF DECEMBER SCHEDULE Sunday, December 6, 6:00 8:00PM Annual construction of the Gingerbread Houses and related fun. Needed: Pizza dinner host Please reply if you can bring pizza for the dinner (PYF funds will reimburse for pizza cost Sunday, December 13, 5:00 8:00PM Progressive Dinner. Get out your fancy duds and celebrate the holidays in style. Grads invited join us if you re in town. Appetizer Grier; Soup & Salad Henderson; Main Course Zink; Dessert Russo (@church). Sunday, December 20, 6:00 8:00PM PYF at Church. White Elephant gift exchange.

8 The Lighthouse page 8 Welcome New Members on Sunday November 1 New Members with Dr. Brett Becker and Clerk of Session Sandy Thoits. L-R Carole Shapiro, Shirley Guenthart, Stacey Voigt, Willy Voigt Meditation for December LET GOD HELP HE has helped so many through so much. And HE will be there for you In your most personal moments And through all the times of your life, Whether they are troubled or triumphant. Take comfort in that thought. Hold it inside you this day and all the days of your life. DECK THE HALLS Decorating the Sanctuary party Saturday, December 5, 10:00a.m. Refreshments and live music. All are welcome. Hosted by the Worship Team. By Alin Austin (From GOD IS ALWAYS WATCHING OVER YOU)

9 The Lighthouse page 9 14 th ANNUAL SANTA BARBARA MISSION CONFERENCE Reconciling All Things Will be held January 22-23, 2016 at First Presbyterian Church Santa Barbara. Join us for this year s Santa Barbara Mission Conference and be inspired to engage in works of reconciliation reconciling races, genders, cultures, caring for creation, reaching children at risk, caring for the poor and more. Choose from 11 workshops with distinguished mission leaders. Featured speakers are Brenda Salter McNeil and Soong-Chan Rah. For more information online and to register go to: sbmissionconference.org Registration flyers are available in the Narthex. ST. ANDREW S PRESCHOOL NEWS This is my favorite time of the year. The senses are alive with the smells, sights, and sounds of Christmas. The children at the preschool will be using all of their senses (as they do every day) to experience this special time of the year. We will incorporate in our curriculum cooking, learning Christmas music, and having plenty of art projects with sparkles and color. We are having our annual PJ Party, where we gather with our school community and share hot chocolate, cookies, and time playing games and doing crafts. We will end the evening at the church watching the PreK class present a small Christmas play. We will also set a stable up in the Housekeeping room (#3) for dramatic play, as we hopefully help the children to realize that the special baby is the reason for the Christmas season. This is a time of true giving, and joy for the Father so loved us he gave his Son as a gift to all of us, so we could have eternal life. All children are gifts from our Heavenly Father, and we at the preschool value each child as a special child of God. Merry Christmas, and Happy New Year, Cindy NOVEL BOOK GROUP The Novel Book Group will be meeting at the home of Linda Wisner on December 19, 2015 at 10:00 a.m. We will be having brunch and a wrapped book exchange. If you have questions call Linda or Bev Ford. Church Work Day December 19, 9:30 :30a-12n

10 The Lighthouse page 10 CBT INFORMATION Do you know what CBT stands for? It stands for Capital Improvement, Maintenance and Beautification of Church Campus Team. The vision statement for CBT is Consistent with our St. Andrew s Vision Statement of being a loving and connected family in faith of all ages. We seek to be effective stewards of our campus, not just for ourselves, but for our neighbors and for future generations. To these ends, we seek to: (1) Commit to a wise and sustainable approach to use of our financial resources and our buildings and grounds resources; and (2) Upgrade and maintain our buildings and grounds including signage and beautification. This team was set up to use the land sale monies to beautify and maintain the church campus. You have probably noticed the new bathrooms in the Sanctuary and the carpet in Morgan Hall that are two projects the CBT completed. The Team has also hired a landscape architect for ideas on how to beautify our grounds, keeping in mind our drought and California native plantings. We are also going to have some small gatherings so that we can listen to you the congregation for your ideas on what you would like to see happen on the campus and answer any questions you may have. The dates and times of the three meetings we are holding are: Saturday, January 16, 9a.m.; Wednesday, January 20, 7p.m.; Sunday, January 31, 11a.m. (following the Meeting of the Congregation). If you are unable to attend one of these meetings, or prefer to talk to a team member or , please do so. You can Linda Gunther at llgunther@cox.net or Rachel Tobler at Rmtobler@earthlink.net and Linda or Rachel will send these s to the whole team as well as give you a response. Blessings, CBT members: Linda Gunther and Rachel Tobler, Co-Chairs; Merlyn Cummings, Willy Hughes, Mike Shinn, Porter Spencer, and Paul Zink Team Members Presbytery Meetings Presbytery Meeting Dates for 2016 Saturday, February 6, 9:30a Saturday, May 12 Saturday, September 24 Tuesday, November 15

11 The Lighthouse page 11 Tripping Away From Ignorance It seems like a lifetime ago that I returned from a witness trip to Israel and Palestine, but less than a week separates my privileged Santa Barbara lifestyle from my oft-troubling journey in the Holy Land. Accompanied by 27 other global witnesses (fourteen others from the U.S., three from Canada, five from Sweden, three from the UK and one from France), I traveled through Israel and Palestine to better understand the roots of my Christian faith, and to educate myself regarding the modern-day conflicts between Israel and Palestine. I was comforted by the beauty and familiarity of ancient liturgy and icons, even as I was humbled by my colossal ignorance of the injustices wrought by fear, politics and religion. Not only did I witness the travails of life under occupation, but saw first-hand resolve strengthened by faith, family and tradition. Garbage-strewn streets and crumbling foundations of bulldozed, generations-old homes belied the stoked embers of faith, hope and love. What do I do with my experiences of witnessed occupation: how do I use these disturbing memories, emotions and images of injustice to obey the imperatives of the prophet Micah: to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God? The redemptive cross that arises in the center of my Christian faith is the ultimate intersection of justice and love: what are my own next steps to bring about transformative justice? I will need time to organize my thoughts and discern God s intentions for me. In the meantime, I will begin sharing photos and videos of my time in Israel and Palestine, and pray for true peace between Israel and Palestine. A fellow Presbyterian on the trip alerted me of an organization within PC (U.S.A.) that is promoting peace in Palestine and Israel. The Presbyterian Peace Fellowship brought this statement to General Assembly just last year: Theologically, we believe that it is always appropriate to examine our own fundamental assumptions. This is what it means to us to be reformed and always being reformed. Our commitment is to remove the log from our own eye before being concerned with the speck in the eye of a sister or brother. For this reason, it is reasonable for us to examine the role that Christian Zionism has played in creating the unsustainable dynamics of the occupation of Palestine by the State of Israel. Our primary concern here is to examine our own complicity as Christians not to condemn others for their own. Similarly, we feel compelled as citizens of the United States to question our own government s role both positive and negative in situations of violence and conflict around the world and in our own communities. It is time for me to remove that which blinds me to oppressive practices in the world, in our nation, and in my own life, and to evaluate my complicity through action and non-action. I invite you to join me in study, dialogue and sharing. God s Peace, Suzanne Malloy

12 St. Andrew s Presbyterian Church Dr. Brett Becker, Pastor 4575 Auhay Drive Santa Barbara, CA Phone: Fax: Web: Facebook: St. Andrew s Presbyterian Church 4575 Auhay Dr. Santa Barbara, CA 93110