First Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) 205 East Lake Street, South Lyon, MI

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1 November 2015 The First Word Page 1 The Vol. 17 No. 11 November 2015 First Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) 205 East Lake Street, South Lyon, MI COMMITTEE SPOTLIGHT: PROPERTY & FACILITIES Dear FPCSL members, Over the course of the 2015 calendar year the Properties & Facilities Committee has steadily been busy completing a number of projects. Although we still have plenty of tasks that remain to be tackled, we are happy with the progress to date and are thankful for the generosity of our membership and others in the community that have contributed to our ability to accomplish these tasks. Some are quite evident while others are more subtle, however they were all in the effort to continue preserving the heritage of FPCSL so that we can enact our mission goals. Here s a recap of completed projects, projects in process, and what to expect in our journey into 2016: Our major one, which falls under the subtle category, was the completion of the flat roof renovation. The existing roof and flashing along the side edges was removed, disposed and we now have a brand new flat roof covering and flashing protecting the Educational wing, the main vestibule as well as the bell tower roof. Yes, it was a rather invisible improvement as the only glimpse you can see of it is at the top of the western stairway s 2 nd floor window. A couple years ago when we kicked off the Legacy campaign we projected an estimate of this procedure to be in excess of $41,000. We are pleased to report that we delivered it at $25,000, or 40% below the estimate. On the other hand, one of the most visible improvements was the restoration and refurbishment of the double front doors. The tried and true saying You never get a 2 nd chance to make a 1 st impression was never more evident than in the look of the front entry door. Last winter the wood was separating to the point you could see daylight right through it from the inside. Today, under the skilled craftsmanship of

2 Page 2 The First Word November 2015 our artisan Gary Tomei we have a gleaming double door set that s inviting to members as well as visitors (even though most members enter through the parking lot). Another visible improvement, both from the inside as well as the outside, was the replacement of all the first floor windows in the Manse. Those guys who say We are the factory, Wallside Windows, did an excellent job on the 2 nd level windows last year, and came back in 2015, still maintaining their pricing and finished off the job. The attentiveness to the interior windowsill finishing and the decorative mullions in the top half of the windows contribute an attractive touch to the period of the structure itself. Our ambitious team member Jeanette Asiala supervised the refinishing of the Sanctuary entrance side entry door with a gleaming white coverage, as well supervising a number of projects that some of the girl scouts participated in such as painting the trim of the Manse garage and yard equipment shed, painting the railings around the church entranceways, and refreshing the playground area behind the educational wing, among others. Just recently our electrician installed some 20 amp circuits to the front of the Sanctuary south wall, which will enable us to have some decorative lighting in that area this Christmas season. We still have in process (a) the replacement of the Fellowship Hall exit door so that it is up to code with a panic bar and to inhibit any water intrusion in from the stairwell, (b) re-facing the stucco painted wall sections around the educational wing, and (c) adding window well covers over the east side basement glass block windows prior to the end of the year. On our to do list for 2016 is to replace the polycarbonate coverings over the stained glass windows which are showing signs of cloudiness from UV deterioration, removing the gable trim sections on the Sanctuary and the decorative cornice pieces around the bell tower and replacing with a similar look but with modern day composite materials. Although these products have been selected, completion could be delayed over the winter with weather issues. Hopefully you have all been proud of the way our grounds have looked over the season through the diligent efforts of our landscaping team Gary Cooper, Claude Danielson, Stephanie Horlocker, Aaron Weinburger, Ron McClintock and our unofficial P&F committee person Lynn Morgan who keeps our mowers, snow throwers & leaf blowers all in tip top condition. Pete Eichinger

3 November 2015 The First Word Page 3 REMEMBER to set your clocks back one hour on Saturday night, October 31st. That way you will be on time for church on Sunday morning, November 1st. *It s also a good time to check your smoke detectors. ALL CHURCH WORKDAY Saturday, November 14th at 9:00 a.m., there will be an All Church Workday to clean up the church grounds and gardens of the fallen leaves. Lunch to be provided. A NOTE FROM EVERYONE EATS Thank you to everyone who has helped make October so good. The November meal is on the 18th. In addition, we have been invited to repeat our famous pumpkin pies for the holiday meals on Thanksgiving eve and December 23. If anyone is cleaning out their closets, looking for their winter clothing, E1E will accept clean good condition winter coats, heavy sweaters, and boots for either gender. Consider going with us. There is plenty of fellowship and fun. HANGING OF THE GREENS On Saturday, November 28th, the Church Design and Beautification Committee invites you to our annual Hanging of the Greens starting at 9am. Join us as we decorate the church in preparation for Advent and the Christmas season. There is something for everyone and all are welcome to join in the fun. ANNUAL ADVENT POTLUCLK Please plan to attend our Advent Potluck on Sunday, November 29th following worship. What a great way to start out the Advent season by having fellowship with the members of our congregation, along with some really great food. We are so blessed.

4 Page 4 The First Word November 2015 BELL RINGERS NEEDED! Whether you have played an instrument for years or are new to musical ensembles, we invite you to join the FPC handbell choir for rehearsals this fall. We will be preparing music for the December 20 th Lessons and Carols service. If you have questions or concerns, please contact Sally Messner, Music Director. The handbell choir will rehearse on the following Thursday evenings from 6:30 to 7:15 pm: 12, 19 November and 3, 10, 17 December. We look forward to seeing you! A NOTE FROM THE PASTOR: OCTOBER MONTH OF MISSION, A SUCCESS! During this season of gratitude and thanksgiving, I d like to thank everyone who gave of themselves during our Month of Mission. It was a busy month at FPC and as always our congregation stepped up to the challenge. How did we do? Take a look: Our congregation gave almost $400 to our denomination s Peace and Global Witness Offering. 25% of that offering will go to our very own Capernaum Health Clinic. We were visited by one of our missionaries, Elisabeth Cook, and heard of the amazing work she is doing in Costa Rica. Our PW Sock -tober drive brought in more than 500 pairs of socks to be distributed to Active Faith, Everyone Eats, and the Second Mile Center. 65 blankets were prepared and donated to the PWPD In-gathering and will be donated to cancer centers across Southeast Michigan. (Fun fact: Did you know Active Faith is a recipient of the PoD In-gathering? Another example of Christ s love knowing no borders.) At Everyone Eats we served 160 meals to the homeless and poor in midtown Detroit. Our children made special Halloween cards for those who are unable to worship with us. I was also invited to speak and share our ministries at the Presbytery s Month of Mission Breakfast. It is always a joy to share the work we do with others. I know that we do much more than what I ve listed above, and we do it year round. So once again, I want to thank you for allowing me to be a partner in the work that you do. You truly are the hands and feet of Christ in the city of South Lyon and beyond; and I am humbled to serve along side you. With Peace and Grace, Pastor Mike

5 November 2015 The First Word Page 5 FOR and ABOUT SOUTH LYON PRESBYTERIAN WOMEN The Circle of Hope will be meeting in the Parlor on Wednesday, November 11 at 12:15 p.m. Marilyn Birckelbaw will be our Hostess and Dorothy Esbrook will present the Mission Yearbook of Prayer. Bring a sandwich to share. The Roll Call word is Thanks. The 3 rd Lesson in the Presbyterian Women s Bible Study, Come to the Waters. Absence of Water Thirst and Longing will be discussed at 11:00 in the Library prior to the Circle of Hope meeting. This has been an interesting study so far as we have joined our Presbyterian Sisters in an intriguing conversation last month regarding Baptism and renewal of our Baptism vows. If you haven t been part of the study, consider joining us this month...we d love to have you be part of our group! The November 4 th meeting of the Presbyterian Women of the Presbytery of Detroit will l be held at the 2 nd Mile Center at 9:30 a.m. If you would like to attend, please let Barbara Greene know. Cost for Lunch is $8.00. A New Circle is Forming! Any and all women who do not attend the Circle of Hope are welcome to join. Our 1 st meeting will be at Anne Lyke s home at 7 p.m. on November 30 th. Fellowship and a meal to start. Contact info: Dixboro Rd., South Lyon and Looking forward to seeing you! Prayer Shawl group meets the 2 nd Monday of the month in the Parlor. Join us if you can either knit or crochet. We will also be starting our 2016 Mission Project of fleece blankets with crocheted edge. In 2015 we completed over 60 that were taken to the Ingathering in October. Lively conversation happens while we are stitching, but if you can t make it to the meeting, you are welcome to knit or crochet at home. Speak to Vonda Boatman or Gwyn McClintock for patterns for Prayer Shawls or directions on fleece blankets. Remember the Purpose of Presbyterian Women: Forgiven and freed by God in Jesus Christ, And empowered by the Holy Spirit, We commit ourselves: To nurture our faith through prayer and Bible Study; To support the mission of the church worldwide; To work for justice and peace; and To build an inclusive, caring community of women that Strengthens the Presbytereian Church (USA) and Witnesses to the promise of God s kingdom

6 Page 6 The First Word November 2015 GINGERBREAD HOUSE CONTEST Join us on Saturday, December 5th from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for our 3rd Annual Cool Yule Gingerbread House Contest. Either bring your own structure or purchase a kit for $ There will be plenty of treats to decorate your tasty home. Bring your children or grandchildren. Invite your neighbors. All are welcome to join the fun! A Day of Christmas Joy Tuesday, December 22, 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. A Day of Christmas Joy is a day out for parents to shop or relax, and a day of Christmas VBS for kids in grades K-5, lunch included! Participating families will also be encouraged to join us for 10:30 worship on Sunday, December 27, when they will share the story of Christmas in worship. We are looking for leaders, particularly for crafts. Each leader will have a station to do his or her own craft from 9:00-10:30 and from 1:30-2:45. Games will run 10:30-11:30 and 1:30-2:45. In between, have a break, take a rest, and enjoy the kids and the program! There is a sign-up sheet on the Friendship table, or see Pastor Jo to join in the fun! Children can be registered on the church website at Schedule of Events 8:45-9:00 Registration/ Drop Off 9:00-10:30 Crafts/ Gift-Making 10:30-11:30 Games 11:30-12:15 Lunch & Break 12:15-1:30 The Christmas Story & Music 1:30-2:45 Games & Crafts 2:45-3:00 Closing 3:00-3:15 Pick-up

7 November 2015 The First Word Page 7 FROM THE DEACONS Fall is such a beautiful time of year with all the colors. God has created a beautiful painting all around us. It is a time when we are looking forward to upcoming holidays and all we are thankful for in our everyday lives. Our Church, our Pastor, our family, our friends, our health, our ability to help others and the list goes on. Once again the Deacons will be adopting some children for Christmas. So be on the lookout for the Adopt-A-Family tree going up in November. Again there will be ornaments with tags for items the children are wishing to receive. Choose a tag or two, sign it out in the notebook, place the tag with the unwrapped gift when you bring it back. Dates will be provided when we get them. Take a few minutes and reflect on what you are thankful for today. Peace and Love, Gwyn McClintock Deacon Christmas Wreaths And Poinsettias WREATH AND POINSETTIA ORDER FORM No. of wreaths x $25 ea. = No. of poinsettias Help decorate our sanctuary for the Christmas season by purchasing a live wreath and/or poinsettia. Dedicate it in memory or in honor of a loved one. Complete the form below and return it to the church office by December 6th, with your payment. You may also place it in the offering plate, or mail it to the church office. x $15 ea. = In honor/memory of Name

8 Page 8 The First Word November 2015 Session Notes October 2015 Present: Moderator Rev. M. Horlocker; Clerk-Elder A. Lyke; Elders D. Beckstein, R. Cue, P. Eichinger, B. Greene, K. MacNish, R. McClintock, M. Mueller, D. Rae; Treasurer R. Weinburger; Deacon Representative G. McClintock. Absent: Elder K. Colley, T. Goodman. Spend up to $200 on Cool Yule float and $100 on sponsorship for Cool Yule. Authorized Pastor s vacation Sunday 15 November through Wednesday 18 November. Decommissioned Legacy Committee with joy & thanksgiving for a job well done. Authorized Capernaum Health Clinic to be recipient of the 25% of the Peace & Global Witness offering (the portion retained for local mission, $100). Change the wedding policy. Set the annual congregational meeting for 31 January 2016, snow date 7 February Authorized $270 to replace window on west side of Parlor & on the Manse sun porch. Gave permission to Property & Facilities Committee to spend funds as necessary per the scope of the Legacy Plan. Transfer $30,000 from Legacy savings account to an investment account for replacing the shingled roof at the appropriate time. Purchased an additional hymnal accompaniment set. Approved a one-day Vacation Bible School on Tuesday 22 December from 9am to 3pm, with $100 for budget. Moved Communion from 1 November to 8 November due to Consecration Sunday. Authorized Active Faith & Capernaum Health Clinic to receive 50% each of the Christmas Eve offering. Decorate a tree at Abbey Park s Festival of Trees with any monetary awards to go to Second Mile Center. Elected for one-year terms: Clerk of Session Anne Lyke; Clerk of Session, protem, Barbara Greene; Treasurer Bob Weinburger; Chair of Nominating Committee Tom Goodman. Set prices for wreaths $25 and poinsettias $15. Approved contracting with Metro for snow removal of parking lot at the per push and/or salting of lot. Authorized up to $800 for electrical improvements and modifications. Approved spending up to $50 for Kid s Connection supplies. Approved $4579 for new bath liner for the manse. Respectfully submitted, Anne Lyke Clerk of Session

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10 Page 10 The First Word November 2015 Prayer requests received during the month of October. please pray for... the family of Bob Callsen the family of Susan Zahn the family of Danny Heinenger Barbara Johanningsmeier s cousin, recovering from cancer, and her cousin s son-in-law, recovering from surgery Ron McClintock Sister Marie Evelyn Ed Beckstein s brother Ray Ruth Azar, who continues to heal from her car accident Heather Mueller, recovering from hand surgery Kay Fisher s sister, Arlene Joe and Beth Daniel s granddaughter, Bailey Fesler Eleanor Donley Edna Carey Terry and Dorothy Tennant all affected by the shooting in Oregon, and for us all that we might work together to keep it from happening again for our wonderful new music director, Sally Messner Our Shut-ins and Homebound Jane Beckstein Joan Borsh Millie Bunn Elaine Callsen Bill & Glenna Clogg Eleanor Donley John Fowler Edna Hope Betty Ross Shirley Westacott Our Men Serving in the Armed Forces Dante Panicacci Kenny Bond Ben Bond Brian Petersen Jared Roth Our Friends Under the Care of Presbytery Anne Lyke Ruth Azar Request prayer by calling the church office at (248) or online at Please let your Deacon know how your prayer is being answered. If you do not know who your Deacon is, contact the church office.

11 November 2015 The First Word Page 11 Important Dates in December Mark your calendars now!!! December 20th: Lessons and Carols at 10:30 a.m. December 21st: Blue Christmas: Service of Hope and Remembrance at 7:00 p.m. December 22nd: A Day of Christmas Joy, one-day VBS 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. December 24th: Christmas Eve Candlelight Service at 10:30 p.m. VETERAN S DAY Veterans Day has its roots in what was called Armistice Day, the day when a peace agreement was signed with Germany ending World War I. Armistice Day was established with a proclamation by President Woodrow Wilson which reads in part: Armistice Day will be filled with solemn pride in heroism of those who died in the country s service and with gratitude for the victory, both because of the thing from which it has freed us and because of the opportunity it has given America to show her sympathy with peace and justice in the councils of the nations. On June 1, 1954, Armistice Day was renamed Veterans Day to honor all U.S. veterans. On Veterans Day this year, let us remember and honor those men and women who gave of themselves, and let us continue to pray for our men and women currently serving in the military. SUNDAY WORSHIP 10:30 AM Rev. Michael Horlocker, Pastor mhorlocker1@gmail.com Office Hours: Monday - Thursday Rev. Joanne Morgan, Parish Associate joanne.marie.morgan@gmail.com Office Hours: Wednesday Laura Goode, Administrative Assistant office@fpcsouthlyon.org Office Hours: Mon., Wed., Thurs. 9-3 Office is closed on Tuesdays & Fridays Sally Messner, Director of Music sally.messner@gmail.com Bob Weinburger, Treasurer Peggy Hart, Custodian Office:

12 Page 12 The First Word November 2015 First Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) 205 East Lake Street South Lyon, MI Mission Statement: We are sent out by Jesus Christ to feed God s people spiritually, physically, and lovingly; planting seeds of hope, compassion, and justice within and throughout South Lyon and wherever else the Holy Spirit leads us.