February 20, 2014 AMBASSADOR First Presbyterian Church 524 South Duncan, Stillwater, Oklahoma 74074

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1 February 20, 2014 AMBASSADOR First Presbyterian Church 524 South Duncan, Stillwater, Oklahoma First Presbyterian Staff Interim Pastor Sue Trei-Conrad Associate Pastor Leah R. Hrachovec Director of Children & Youth Ministry Katie Burgoon Youth Ministry Assistants Kristina Earl Nathan Woods Older Adult Ministry Coordinator Margy Knox Director of Music & Chancel Choir Heather Lanners Organist Rebecca G. te Velde Church Administrator Cathy Fairbanks Financial Secretary Rosemary Angel Office Assistant Mary Beth Garoffolo Custodian Mike Flowers Building Supervisor Peter Thomas Ambassador Designer Mary Woods Presbyterian Preschool Director Dana Brown Childcare Coordinator Kristen Kulling University Coordinator Darcy Castleberry Church Office Main: (405) Fax: (405) Web Address A Note from Pastor Sue It is month two already! You all continue to be very gracious and welcoming to me. Every week, I am getting to know more and more of you - and sometimes, even names are attached! But even though I am still getting your names down, your faces are familiar. It is one of the benefits of leading and assisting in worship. I get to look at you. I notice where you sit. I notice when you are not there. I look for you ushering or hosting if you re not in your usual place. One of my practices is to walk the sanctuary rows and pray for those who sit in those rows. Your faces appear to me like a slide show, and you are in my prayers. But it causes me to wonder, Why do you sit where you sit? Some of you bunch together, others like some space. There are some who sit towards the front and are engaged with Leah or me as we preach, and some who are towards the back, often ready to assist with a need. Some of you are in the balcony and you all have the best view of the choir loft! Give some thought as to why you are sitting where you are. What - if anything are you trying to tell others? Are you aware of folks you don t know? If so, do you introduce yourself to them and let them know you haven t met them yet? Are you willing, then to sit with a visitor and extend a welcoming presence? Perhaps you are the one who closes his eyes and lowers his head during a sermon - others may think you re sleeping when you are seriously concentrating. For members, sitting close together is warm and intimate; for visitors, the congregation may feel closed. Be mindful of how and why you sit where you do, and that it can communicate intentional and unintentional things. Become differently aware of how we interact with one another during our time of worship, so we might always welcome the strangers among us. And as always, let us praise God. Sue

2 The Ambassador 2 First Presbyterian Church PRAYER CONCERNS If God speaks to us at all in this world, if God speaks anywhere, it is into our personal lives that he speaks. Frederick Beuchner, originally published in The Sacred Journey Jacquie Adair Louree Alexander (Carter/Shaw) Jean Ames Gene Anderson Noel Bagwell (Clark) Lauren Balletto (Rohlfing) Emily Bandurski (Hrachovec) Jean Berry Carol Bischoff (Silver) Jeff Black (Fowler) LeNell Bowen (Myers) Laura Bradley (Ainsworth) Wanda Bradley Ken Breuninger Kirby Brock (Dearinger) Charles Bruce Vivian Burgoon (Burgoon) Pat Campbell (Campbell) Wayne Cartwright (Koeppe) Mary Ann Chambers (Chambers) Wally Christian (Parsons) Allison Christy (Breuninger) Abby Clapp (Clapp) Barbara Contardi (Houston) Lisa Cook Don Cooper Dona Cooper Joyce Cox (Jaynes) Anita Davis (Kelly/Myers) Richard Davis (Burgoon) Beth Delametter (Gumm) Missy Detwiler Lori Fagan Carol Fairbanks (Fairbanks) Al Farmer (Silver) Ralph Fox (McKinley) Walt Freese (Stotts) Adam Frohling (Eastman) Ed Gallegos (Wilkinson) Marty Gallup Alice Giacobbe (Parsons) Robert Gibson (Wilkinson) Al Goodbary (Olson) Norma Hall Chris Halsrud (Savage) Adelia Hanson (Jaynes) Jodi Haun Kendall Harvey (Shaw/Career) Woody Hedrick (Jaynes) Nelda Hershberger (Knox) Kathy Holliday (Wilkinson) Chuck Hopkins (Burks) Ann Houck (Houck) Winfrey Houston Sandy Ives Patty Jacobs Janice Jadlow (Olson) Marjorie James (Clark) Christopher Johnson (Burgoon) Steve Johnson (Johnson) Cindy Johnston (Myers/Kelly) Carl Jones Nelma Karnes (Jones) Sandy Keller (Phillips) Tara Kerr Tom Koehn (Good) Tom Kunz (Shaw) Phyllis Leaghty Pam Leslie (Frohock/Leffingwell) Kathy Lisi (Holland) James Lodrigue Wendy Long (Burgoon) George Lowrey (Houston) Donna Lowry (Anaya) Tom Lutjens (Beckstrom) John Martin (Sat. Brunch) Tessa Martin (Savage) A. J. Mason (Wilkinson) Ray Matoy Jim McConnell (Wilkinson) Kathy McNeal (Tyrl) Lydia McNeal (Groshong) Bernie & Joyce McNickle (McNickle) Art McSparen (Knox) Philip Meadows Joe Myers Bob Neal (B. Phillips) Hugh Nichols (Collins) Tom Nixon (McGaw) Christine Parson (Rex) Sterling Powell (Gelder) Wayne Prater (Good) Pat Razook Leslie Roark (Frohock) Virginia Rogers (Osborn) Joe Roscoe Sophie Rowe (Houston) Julie Rozman ( Becky te Velde) Neil Sandvold (Shawley) Regina Sharp (L. Smith) Hunter Shedrick (Gumm) Steve Shedrick (Gumm) Beverly Smith (Ainsworth) David Smith (Cooper) Grace Smith Linda Stangl Mattie Stanley (Lanners) Ophellia Steptoe (Fairbanks) Jeanine Stevens (Nipp) Naomi Stevenson (A. Houston) Andy Stone (Stone) Sarah Sturzenbecker Carl Swanson (Swanson) Amber Teeman (Frohock) Gayle Thomas Larry Watkins (Beckstrom) Paige Weitkamp (Edwards) Arvilla West Laura Wever (Tyrl) Nona Wilhm (PW Bowling) Lynda Williams Lynn Witzen (Stewart) Betty Woods (Woods) Names in parentheses indicate the church family member requesting prayer for a nonmember. Please notify the church office if persons may be removed from the Prayer List. Thanks! Larger Church: Latin America and the Caribbean Synod of the Southwest (NM, AZ) Synod of the Sun (OK, TX, AR, LA) In the Service Members & family members of our church family who have been deployed in service to our country: MAJ Charley Fairbanks (Fairbanks) CPT Laura Kerns (Kerns) (If you also have family members who are serving, please call the office with their names to be included in our prayer list, here and in the weekly bulletin)

3 The Ambassador 3 First Presbyterian Church Staff News Associate Pastor Leah Hrachovec will be out of the office February 27-March 1 attending Solar Under the Sun Board Meeting in Arkansas. Katie Burgoon, Director of Children and Youth, will attend Spring Break Mission Camp at Dwight Mission March and will be on vacation March Former Staff Members Gordon Edwards new address is: edwards.pax@gmail.com Please do not use bge41340@swbell.net. IN MEMORIAM Gerald Stotts Joined First Presbyterian Church February 28, 1965 Entered the Church Triumphant January 19, 2014 Jesus said, I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me shall never die. SORROW The family of Gerald Stotts Donna Koeppe and family in the death of her father, Doyle Cartwright The family of Joan Wittwer The family of Kyle Mattingly Jim Beckstrom and family in the death of his father Bob The family of Ernest Hodnett Presbyterian Women honored Reverend B. Gordon Edwards with an Honorary Life Membership in Presbyterian Women for his tireless support of the women of First Presbyterian Church, Stillwater, OK. On January 8, 2014, Presbyterian Women took the opportunity to thank Gordon for his unwavering advocacy. Gordon has welcomed each of us with his caring hands and hugs into the community of Christ. He has nurtured our faith through sermons and presentations. Perhaps most significantly, he has inspired us as we see him live his own response to Jesus Christ daily. Faithfully Gordon prays for peace throughout the world. Gordon celebrates our diversity and embraces each of us as a child of God. We love you Gordon and celebrate claiming you as an official life member of Presbyterian Women. NEWS ABOUT PW PW activities are for all Presbyterian Women Yearbooks are available at the Information Center. Our second 2014 Luncheon was held February 12, at which time Marie Abraham Robinson, Wings of Hope director, shared information with us on the services this agency provides for victims of domestic violence in our area. The next luncheon is scheduled for March 12 and Angela McLaughlin will be our speaker on economic development. All women and guests are welcome. The meal is catered, cost is $5, and reservations are due Monday, March 10, to your Circle caller or the Church Office ( )or fpchurch1889@swbell.net. The annual Blanket Offering will be taken during worship services on Sundays in February. Remember only $5 will purchase a blanket that will keep someone warm or give them shelter in this cold weather, as well as protection from too much sun if it is too warm. See more details included with your Sunday worship bulletin. Other regular PW activities on the schedule: (for more details--refer to yearbook) Second Mile Sewing Church Fellowship Hall 1st, 3rd, 5th Weds. 9:15am Circle l Hospitality Area March 26 9:15am Circle 2 Small Dining Room, FH March 26 9:15am Women's Bowling League Every Thursday Peace and Grace, Sydney Reding, 2014 Moderator sydney.reding@sbcglobal.net

4 The Ambassador 4 First Presbyterian Church 4 th Annual Shrove Tuesday Dinner What: Fourth Annual Shrove Tuesday Pancake Dinner When: Tuesday, March 4th, 5:30-6:30 pm Where: First Presbyterian Church, Fellowship Hall, the corner 6th & Duck Who: For all ages! The community is invited. Serving: Pancakes, sausage and beverages Donations appreciated. FYI: Shrove Tuesday (also known as Pancake Day), is the day before Ash Wednesday, the 1st day of Lent. It is celebrated throughout the UK and parts of the US by the cooking and eating of pancakes--a last feast before the fasting and self-denial of Lent. In some places pancake races are held where participants toss a pancake as they run. There are some great YouTube Pancake Day videos. The Tuesday before Ash Wednesday is also known as Fat Tuesday or Mardi Gras, because of the tradition of eating rich food before fasting for Lent. Ash Wednesday Service March 5 ~ 6:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary The Sacrament of Communion and the Imposition of Ashes A Note From Saturday Brunch: Saturday Brunch continues to be an exciting place each and every Saturday morning from 11-12:00. If you find yourself with some extra time, please know that you are always welcome to stop in and enjoy a meal with us! If you are interested in volunteering, know that we would love to have you, please contact Missy Wilkinson at arwilk@aol.com. After three and a half years, our toys and books for our children's area are looking very old and forlorn. We are in need of any toys, puzzles, books or games that your children may have outgrown. There is a donation box by the library and we would be grateful for any and all donations! BRUNCH WISH LIST: *a 4th Saturday dishwasher *new/used puzzles, toys, games, books *Sunday coupon inserts *sandwich size baggies *travel or full size soaps, shampoos or toothpaste Come join us, it is a great way to spend your Saturday morning!!! EVERY WEEK ~ EVERYBODY! 11:00 a.m. - Fellowship Hall Come Dine or Visit or Help! Labels for Education and Betty Crocker Labels Bring your Campbell s Labels for Education and Betty Crocker points to the Hospitality Area Kitchen. As usual the following criteria for labels is as follows: The Campbell s Soup Labels for Education program requires that we remove the WHOLE LABEL from the container so that is includes the UPC bar code and picture next to it. That should be a Campbell Soup kid or a fat pencil. Not only Campbell-named products, but also Franco- American, Pepperidge Farm, Swanson, Market Day, Prego, and V8 labels are eligible. Labels or lids may be deposited in the container provided in the church kitchen so that they can be sent to Goodland Academy for redemption under the Labels for Education program. Save the Date! Storyteller Hiroko Fujita is returning March 30 Sunday Evening, March 30 (time TBA) is an opportunity to hear Storyteller Extraordinaire, Hiroko Fujita at First Presbyterian Church. This will be Mrs. Fujita's only storytelling performance in Stillwater this year and you won't want to miss it. Watch for details to come. Hiroko Fujita is a wonderful storyteller for all ages from Kashiwa City, Japan. She has been to Stillwater 14 different years to enthrall audiences with her stories, culture, toys, and language. A great evening is in store for children and teens, their parents and grandparents, and in fact, the whole community.

5 The Ambassador 5 First Presbyterian Church Intergenerational Mission Trip - Sharing Talents in Tokio! Did you know that there's a Tokyo in the U.S? Ok, well, it's Tokio, and it's a small town in North Dakota. The congregation of Bdecan Presbyterian Church in Tokio, ND, has invited an intergenerational mission team from our congregation to work and serve with them in areas of need in their church and community. "Bdecan" (pronounced Bah-DAY Chan) means "Wood Lake" in the Dakota language. Bdecan Presbyterian Church is the only Native American Presbyterian Church in the State of North Dakota. It was founded as a mission church in 1879 and formally organized in Bdecan Presbyterian Church is a member of the Dakota Presbytery, and is located on the Spirit Lake Reservation in north-central North Dakota. This mission trip is open to youth and adults ages 14 and up. The mission team will depart on Saturday, July 5, and return to Stillwater on Sunday, July 13.This will be the longest driving trip FPC has undertaken for a mission trip, but there will be lots of fun along the way! Stops include Sunday worship with Presbyterian friends in Sioux City, IA, and a baseball game against the OKC RedHawks. Come be part of this opportunity to deepen relationship among friends here and those living in lands north. Early registration for the team is now through February 24. After that date, if there is still space (we are limited to 30 team members), we will be inviting others in Cimarron Presbytery to join us. The registration deadline is April 27. Registration forms are available at the Information Center and online. Mission Trip Fund - Raiser Who: Members and Friends of FPC What: The Mission and Youth Committees are inviting you attend the Mission Trip Fundraiser Soup Lunch and Silent Auction Where: First Presbyterian Church Fellowship Hall When: Sunday, February 23 rd after the 11 a.m. service Why: To raise funds for the Summer 2014 Intergenerational Mission Trip Cost: $5 suggested donation for lunch; your generosity is appreciated Lenten Devotions Lenten Devotion materials will be available for pick up beginning March 2 nd from display on the wall across from the Information Center in the Narthex. This year, we have several options for all ages: Lenten Activities & Devotions for the Family A collection of daily activities for families with children. Daily activities include: journaling, singing, praying, crafts, community outreach, cooking, and puzzles. Sent into Lent: 2014 Lent Calendar for Teens Brief, spiritual reflections for each day in Lent. Each day, with eyes focused on Christ's cross, teens will be encouraged to answer their call as God's sent servants. What s Next, God? How do our Christian beliefs impact how we manage our time in this high-tech, fast paced world? These insightful devotions help us contemplate how we have used (or misused) our time in the past and how we can maximize our time in the present and future to proclaim Christ crucified. The Vineyard and the Cross The complexity of a vineyard, the miracles that occur throughout the cycles of the seasons and the craft of the grape growers humbly fulfilling their vocation, all provide us with a rich lens to rediscover and invigorate our own lives as followers of Christ. Take a walk through the Vineyard, being led by Christ, as we drink in what our Lord has to say through the imagery of wine in the shadow of his sacrifice for us.

6 The Ambassador 6 First Presbyterian Church Pastor Nominating Committee We are listening. When someone in the congregation makes a comment to a member of the PNC, we do listen and it is relayed to the entire committee. The committee is working at a steady pace meeting several times each month. Currently, we have had 45 matches through PC(USA), 19 self-referrals and over 200 hits on our MIF. In an earlier meeting we narrowed the candidates to 11 and are in the process of pairing down to 4 or 5 candidates. Some may have taken a position already or are in the process of talking to another church or do not feel they match our needs. We will start an in depth look at each of the candidates to see if we want to continue the process with them. That means checking their references, viewing some of their sermons and having a Skype interview. The process is very deliberate and time consuming. As we move forward, we will get additional PIF s (resumes) and will evaluate them as they come in. At some point, if we believe we have a sufficient amount of qualified candidates we will stop receiving PIF s. It is possible we will not have a candidate we feel is a good fit and have to expand our sources for new candidates. K. Cohlmia, Chairperson Be a Bench Potato with Becky te Velde Have you ever wondered what it is like to experience Sunday worship at the organ console? Many of you have told me you would like to do just that, so here is your official invitation! Anyone 7 years old or older (there is no upper age limit) is welcome to come and experience worship at the organ during a service and see what transpires behind that red curtain. (Hint: it is not scary!) At 11:00 services, there is the bonus of experiencing the choir with surround-sound! Sign up at the Hospitality Desk: choose a Sunday service and leave me your contact info. Or you can me at rgtevelde@brighok.net or call Two s company on the organ bench - come and visit! Taking Faith Home How do we carry each Sunday's message into the rest of life? FMC subscribes to Taking Faith Home, a weekly ½ page resource to help individuals and families keep up faith conversations and actions throughout the week. This resource can now be distributed electronically! Lhrachovec@swbell.net and include "Subscribe" in the subject line of the . Women s Retreat Ready for Spring? Imagine a weekend away with rolling hills, blooming dogwoods, and time to think, read, sleep, pray, exercise, and make new friends. All women of the church and their friends are invited to the Spring Women's Retreat, April 5-6. We will meet at the church, and then drive to beautiful St. Crispin's Episcopal Conference Center in southeastern Oklahoma. We will do some guided study together and also give you plenty of time to do whatever else renews your spirit, mind and body. Registration is $85 for a double room and four meals ($105 for a single room.) Each participant will also receive a copy of One Thousand Gifts: A Dare to Live Fully Right Where You Are by Amy Voskamp. See Leah if you have any questions. I will attend the Women s Retreat, April 5-6! Name: Preferred Phone #: Special Accommodation/Dietary needs: Check all that apply: I would like a SINGLE room ($105) I would like a DOUBLE room ($85) I would like to room with: I have no roommate preference I can drive my car & take passengers **Drivers will be compensated for gasoline. I need a ride to the retreat. Office use only: Cash/Check # Amt.

7 The Ambassador 7 First Presbyterian Church From the Mailbox Thank you so much for the floral arrangement and the prayer shawl. Both meant a lot to me as I continue on my journey to battle cancer. It was so comforting to know you are thinking of me. God bless you all! Linda Stangl Dear Holiday Program Participants Thank you for your support of Payne County Youth Services, Inc. As an agency we are truly blessed to have such a caring community. You have made a real difference for so many youth and their families this holiday season and we know the families join us in thanking you for your generosity. We hope you have a wonderful year. Janet Fultz, Executive Director Angie Freeny, Program Directory Payne County Youth Services Dear Friends We would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your Christmas gift donations and time spent supporting our agency. It is truly appreciated and made a significant difference in our ability to serve individuals who are facing very difficult situations. It is so reassuring to know that we have partners such as you in our community who are sensitive to the needs of those who have suffered harm at the hands of an intimate other. Your gift allowed us to respond to some of the special needs of our clients. Once again, thank you for your generosity this Christmas season. Peggy Fleschute, Victim Advocate Astrid Lorbeer, Child Advocate Wings of Hope Family Crisis Services Thank you so much for your generous $500 donation for our FUMC Child Share Co-op. Without your support and belief in this project it would be difficult to make this calling a reality. We cannot express how much we appreciate it. Thank you again. FUMC Child Share Co-op The Stotts family would like to thank Team 3 for all the time and effort that went into the food preparation. We would also like to thank the Church congregation for all of their thoughts and prayers during Gerald s illness. The Stotts Family Thank you for your generosity in allowing our singers and audience to invade your Fellowship Hall on Saturday, January 11. We found the Presbyterian facility to be above-the-top for convenience, parking, cleanliness, sound along with the kindness of Cathy and Margy with setting up the event and the gentlemen that were there early and late to cater to our needs. They were a blessing to us! We hope that we will have another opportunity to work with you for our monthly Gospel with A Purpose and For HIS Purpose events. Thanks and God Bless! For HIS Purpose Linda Parks, Sheryl Beeler, Dale Frost, Stan Tunnell We want to thank First Presbyterian Church for your $150 contribution to Special Olympics Oklahoma s Summer Games. Your contribution will be used to help shape the future of these Special Olympics athletes. More than 4600 athletes from across Oklahoma participate in this three-day event hosted by Oklahoma State University. These athletes compete in athletics (track & field, bocce, bowling, golf, horseshoes, powerlifting, unified 3-on-3 basketball, unified softball and motor activities training. Special Olympics inspires greatness in everyone it touches athletes, coaches, volunteers, family members and supporters. There are many children and adults with intellectual disabilities who will benefit from sports training and competition this year. First Presbyterian inspires greatness in each athlete who benefits from gifts like yours, while the courage and dedication of many athletes inspires greatness in each of us. Thank you again for your support. Adrian DeWent, President Derek Cain, VP Development and Marketing Special Olympics Oklahoma

8 The Ambassador 8 First Presbyterian Church Session Summary The Session met at its monthly Stated Meeting on Tuesday, February 11. Interim Pastor, Sue Trei- Conrad, served as moderator: Presbyterian Women will receive donations on Sunday, February 16 for Church World Services Blanket Sunday. Stillwater Makes a Change (SMAC) will share with Seasoned Adults about their efforts to fundraise this spring for Turning Point Ranch. Committees were asked to consider donating baskets and items for the Silent Auction during the Mission Lunch Fundraiser on Sunday, February 23, Communion dates were approved for the year during the 11:00 service, special services, as well as two summer services. The next time communion will be celebrated at a special service is Ash Wednesday, March 5, and at the late worship hour on Sunday, March 9. The Trustees continue to do an outstanding job as they create a maintenance manual, and address the needs of the church building as they arise. Donna Koeppe was reappointed for a six year term on the Endowment Committee. The session acted favorably on the Signage Task Force Report. We are moving toward an LED sign that will be visible as we drive on 6th Street. It will be on a seven foot stand, with full color screen. In addition, a sign like the one on 6th and Duncan will be created for the corner of 6th and Duck. Session allocated $27,000 for these upgrades to our property; however the bid for all the work is about $3,000 more. Session Organization The Session is organized into the following areas of responsibility. Members of the congregation join them in the work. If you have an interest in serving in an area, please contact one of the elders assigned to that ministry and volunteer. Do not be shy. As Presbyterians, we believe that the synergism of the Spirit increases with greater involvement and more people. CLERK: John Gelder CHILDREN S MINISTRY: Becky Bair; Eric Savage YOUTH MINISTRY: Sandy Cohlmia; Tim Krehbiel ADULT MINISTRY: Andrea Arquitt; Lynn Wenig FAMILY MINISTRY: Connie Stiegler; Kelly Nipp UNIVERSITY MINISTRY: Donna Koeppe; Gary Simpson WORSHIP AND MUSIC: Dustin Reavis; Jim Showalter FELLOWSHIP AND MEMBERSHIP: Ted Smith; Helen Brake EVANGELISM: Mary McKinley; Margy Knox, Jenna Fowler STEWARDSHIP: Kay Keys; Edna Visnic FINANCE: Margie Keener; Charles Bruce WORLD MISSION AND DENOMINATIONAL CONCERNS: Mike Woods, Julie Bills TRUSTEE LIAISON: Nancy Franklin PERSONNEL: Dennis Ferrell; Mary McKinley; Nancy Franklin ENDOWMENT LIAISON: Gary Simpson NOMINATING COMMITTEE: Tim Krehbiel; Mike Woods The website's address is: Ten Things we learned at Dwight Mission Family Camp by Claire, Quinn, Josie, Kim, and Thad Leffingwell 1. It makes parents really happy to get a break from cooking, cleaning, and carpooling! 2. Families can have some wonderful quality time when internet and television are not available. 3. Everyone is welcome, no matter where you are from or who you are! 4. You get to dance and be silly with your family without worrying who will see you! 5. The counselors plan games, crafts and entertainment for you! 6. Its fun to meet other Presbyterian families from all over Oklahoma. 7. You get to sing at the top of your lungs, praising God through music! 8. Outdoor worship is amazing! 9. It's easier to hear God when you are out in nature. 10. You get to spend an entire weekend with your family and friends in the best place ever, Dwight Mission! Register for 2014 camps at Dwight Mission at Plan to attend the 2014 Family Camp!!!

9 The Ambassador 9 First Presbyterian Church Adult Education Painting the Stars When I have a terrible need of dare I say, 'religion'? then I go outside at night and paint the stars." -- Vincent Van Gogh Celebrating the communion of science and faith, the new course Painting the Stars explores the promise of evolutionary Christian spirituality. Featuring over a dozen leading theologians and progressive thinkers, this sevensession course explores new fields of science and their relation to our search for truth, meaning, and a closer connection to God. Each session will include conversation around readings, a 20-minute video presentation and guided discussion. Led by Interim Pastor Sue Trei-Conrad. Meets in the South Fellowship Hall. This 7 week series ends March 2. Next in the Being Reformed Sunday School series: The Prophets Still Speak A six-session study Feb 23 - Mar 30 Old Testament prophets were concerned with many of the same issues as Christians today: issues of righteousness, obedience, social justice, and visions of hope for the future. This study explores how what the prophets proclaimed to the people of their time still has urgency and importance for our time, as well. Author Dr. Tull is Professor Emerita of Old Testament at Louisville Presbyterian Seminary. She works to help others draw nourishment from their deep spiritual roots and from the breadth of the created world, both cultural and natural. She writes, teaches, and speaks in a variety of venues, leads pilgrimages across town and around the world, and serves in editorial and consulting capacities for several publishers. She is a Climate Reality presenter and regional coordinator for Sustainable Indiana Leaders: Andrea Arquitt and Leah Hrachovec In addition to these classes, you are always welcome to join our ongoing Adult Christian Education Offerings: Seasons of the Spirit, a class exploring each Sunday's Scripture passages used in worship Led by Denise Rex meets in North Fellowship Hall Abiding Bible Study, a course that studies the whole of the Bible chapter by chapter Led by Dan Grischkowsky meets in the Library Notes from the 2nd Milers Within the next month, the nd Mile Sewing quilt will be on display in the Narthex and available for silent auction bids. We believe its beauty will create interest and the proceeds from the silent auction will be used for our charitable projects. Do watch for it! New members are always welcome. The fellowship is fantastic and projects to fit your talents can always be found. Our prayer shawl ministry is available to those who knit or crochet, or donations are welcome for the purchase of yarn. Stephen Ministry When you or someone you know needs care Anyone going through difficult times may need someone to care, listen, and share God s love on a one-to-one, confidential basis. Our Stephen Ministers are available to walk with you through difficult days. Contact a pastor or Stephen Ministry Referrals Coordinator Carolyn Caldwell , carcaldwell@sbcglobal.net The report of our charitable activity is available in the 2013 Annual Report of the church. We invite your attention to it.

10 The Ambassador 10 First Presbyterian Church DEACON S Thank you for helping with School Supplies Project The Deacons want to thank the congregation for their generous donations to the School Supply and Yearbook project. Your heartfelt contributions totaled $ and have made it possible to touch the lives of many selected students who will benefit from your gifts. The school counselors at the Middle School and Junior High will help us direct the assistance in the necessary direction this upcoming year. Thank you again! Love Feast Our church serves Love Feast on the 3 rd Wednesday of each month from 6:00-6:30 p.m. at the south campus of First United Methodist Church, 2823 S Husband. If you are interested in helping serve or cook, please contact Deacon Beth Atess (bethatess@aol.com or ). Deacons Food Offering Basket Your gifts of non-perishable food and personal items to the shopping cart in the Narthex are more valuable and more appreciated than ever during these difficult economic times. The items are distributed to local agencies who help those in need. All items are appreciated but please consider bringing a sack with items that could create a meal for a family (such as spaghetti sauce, noodles, vegetable, and fruit.) Look for items that are simple to prepare and shelf stable. Home Communion The Board of Deacons is able to take Communion to members who are homebound. Please notify Deacons Gerrit Cuperus ( ) or Brandi White ( ) or the Church Office ( ) if you or someone you know would like Communion brought to their home. Children s Christian Education Check out the Worship Bags, they have lots of neat stuff in them, just for younger worshippers! They are there for children to move, bend, and make things in worship. We know that sometimes, little hands need to be busy, so please encourage your child to use the pipe cleaners and feel free to take home their creation! Fun in Faith presents Hoagies & Hoedowns Sunday, March 9 12:00 p.m. ~ Fellowship Hall Grade school children and their families are invited to this time of sharing faith, fellowship, food and fun! Come learn some square dance moves, make some crafts, enjoy hoagie-style sandwiches, and more. Call the church office to make reservations - we want to make sure there's enough for everyone!!! SpiritLink Use it or Lose It! The Parable of the Talents Begins February 23 Do you bury your talents? Through art, games, mission activities, and storytelling children will dig up their talents and learn that when they offer them in faithful stewardship, they can accomplish God s mission in the world. One special activity puts the children in the role of the three servants as they are given money and instructions. As they focus on stewardship and mission they will explore how they can be Christ s light shining in the world. Happy Birthday! First Presbyterian Church wants to wish a happy birthday to: Luke Miller February 24 Corey Lovern February 25 Paisley Koeppe March 5 Margaux Melancon March 12 Ella Driskel March 17 Vacation Bible School Vacation Bible School will be here before you know it! Grab a hammer, find a paintbrush, and put on your creative thinking cap! At the Workshop of Wonders VBS this June, kids will imagine and build with God! You are invited to discover how the ordinary becomes extraordinary with God! Children will be introduced to new ways to participate in the creative life of God, the one who works wonders. Workshop of Wonders is easy to lead with exciting workshops such as interactive Bible stories, games, music, science, crafts and more! Contact the Church Office or Leslie Baldwin to be part of the creative fun!

11 The Ambassador 11 First Presbyterian Church SEASONED ADULTS We had a wonderful time at our Seasoned Adults Gathering on President s Day. Some of our military veterans told us a little about their military experiences and again we honored all branches of the service by singing their anthems. Sharing their story was Dave Harnly & Gene Anderson (Air Force); Dennis Ferrell (Navy); Pat Razook & Larry Perkins (Army). By the way, we have good voices in our group!!! Marilyn King is such a joy and an amazing entertainer she has joined us every President s Day for the past six years!!! On March 17, Ed Long and Gladeen Allred will join us to share their mission trip to the Congo. I know they had a wonderful trip and we will be the recipients of their experiences. Sarah Carpenter, co-chairman of the Stillwater High School Stillwater Makes a Change (SMAC) joined us briefly to share the high school s fundraising plans to aid Turning Point Ranch, a therapeutic riding facility for children and adults with special needs or emotional problems. They have a goal of $30,000 and a dream of $40,000!! There are seventy-five high students involved in this endeavor and they have reached out to individuals, businesses, corporations, civic groups, and churches to let Stillwater know about SMAC and their needs. If you need additional information, you may let me know. Blessings, Margy FELLOWSHIP All University students (Presbyterian or not!) are invited to join in any of our fellowship and study opportunities. Whether you are interested in an in-depth Bible study, a chance to engage in mission and service, or just some time to meet other students and talk about life and faith, there s a place for you here. Bible Study Students are invited to University Bible Study every Wednesday at 11:00am near Caribou Coffee in the OSU Student Union. Note that this is a new time for a new semester! All students are invited. Faculty and staff of OSU, please come by and say hello! Lunch Out The last Sunday of the month is usually Lunch Out, in which we treat University students to lunch at a local restaurant. Sunday, February 23rd is the last Sunday and for Lunch Out we are going to the Mission Lunch and Silent Auction in the Fellowship Hall following the 11:00am service. Hear about a great opportunity for mission service this summer. It s open to University Students and everyone ages 12 to adult. Movie Night Our next Movie Night is Tuesday, March 4th. Come enjoy homemade dinner, desserts, a great film, and the company of one another and church members who want to get to know you. Movie Night meets at the home of Nancy and Gary Simpson 1706 Westridge. University Coordinator Darcy Castleberry if you would like a ride: darcyfc@okstat .okstate.edu Financial Secretary Rosemary Angel is our new Financial Secretary. She is still learning all about FPC and the hundreds of accounts, groups, offerings we have. Her office hours are: noon to 5 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. You can also reach her at accountantfp@swbell.net. Please help her feel welcome at FPC. FRIEND US ON FACEBOOK! Stillwater FPC has a Facebook page. Be sure to like us to keep up with all the news, upcoming events, and photos related to Stillwater FPC! Per Capita Did you pledge to give $39 per member Per Capita payment in 2014? If so, have you made your contribution? Please indicate Per Capita on the memo line.

12 Ash Wednesday Service March 5 6:00 p.m. In the Sanctuary Visit us on the web at Worship at First Presbyterian Morning Prayers - 8:45 a.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday Worship Center The Sacrament of Communion and the Imposition of Ashes Sunday Worship Schedule Worship - 8:30 & 11:00 a.m. Sunday School - 9:45 a.m. Midweek Communion 8:30 a.m. Wednesday Worship Center Sue Trei-Conrad...suetc@swbell.net Leah Hrachovec...Lhrachovec@swbell.net Katie Burgoon... childrenandyouth@swbell.net Church Office & Cathy Fairbanks...fpchurch1889@swbell.net Rosemary Angel...accountantfp@swbell.net Rebecca te Velde...rgtevelde@brightok.net Heather Lanners... heather.lanners@okstate.edu Margy Knox...mhknox@sbcglobal.net Peter Thomas..collectorbooks@gmail.com Kristina Earl...kdearl@okstate.edu Dana Brown...prespreschool@gmail.com Nathan Woods...nathan.woods@okstate.edu Mary Beth Garoffolo...officeassistant1@swbell.net Darcy Castleberry...darcyfc@okstat .okstate.edu Nonprofit Org. U.S. POSTAGE PAID Stillwater, Oklahoma Permit No. 143 Deadline for Next issue: Thursday, March 13

13 The Ambassador 13 First Presbyterian Church For ALL 6th-12th graders Sundays, 5:00-6:30 p.m. in the Youth Suite Come to youth group for ping pong, pool, music, snacks, games, Bible study, and prayer. The theme for the school year is "Part of HIS World." Retreats and service opportunities are also offered throughout the year. Youth Ministry Staff: Katie Burgoon, Kristina Earl, and Nathan Woods Sponsors: Preston Bobo, Thad & Kim Leffingwell and Rusty Rex Monday Lunches Calling all High Schoolers! Ramen Noodle lunches will be the 2nd & 3rd Mondays of the month in the Hospitality Area. Lunches will be from 12:15 to whenever you have to go back to class. Bring your friends and come for some tasty Ramen Noodles. It s free, its fun, it s fantastic! March 10, April 14 & 21, May 12 & 19 Children, Youth, and Parents: If your child plays a sport, has a choir recital, or any other special activity that they would like Katie to come see, please let her know by contacting her at the Church Office and she ll put it on her calendar. Youth Small Groups Are you ready to strengthen relationships, learn more about scriptures, and deepen the content and practice of your faith? Our small group ministry is dedicated to these kinds of goals. Regardless of who you are, you will benefit from committing to a small group of spiritual friends who will encourage you to dig deeper and explore further. Small Groups meet in the Youth Suite on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month from 7:00-8:30 p.m. This Spring, we will be watching episodes of the History Channel The Bible: The Epic Miniseries, reading the scriptures that the show illustrates and then exploring how Hollywood changed the Bible. Happy Birthday!!! PYG wishes a very Happy Birthday to: February 20 Jamison Hoover February 20 Austin Miller February 21 Alexandra Thomas March 7 Anna Long Mid High FroYo Do you like Frozen Yogurt? Do you like to hang out with other kids in the Youth Group? Then do I have good news for you! Starting this semester, Katie will have FroYo with you twice a month at Orange Leaf (506 N. Main St). 1 st & 4 th Mondays of the Month at 4:00 (Come when you can. Katie will be there from 4:00 to about 5:15.) March 3 and March 24, April 7 and April 28, May 5 Youth Calendar PYG will continue exploring the theme of Part of HIS World for the Spring Semester. Copies of the Spring Youth Newsletter were mailed out earlier in the year and extra copies are available for pick up in the information racks in the Narthex. February 23 10:00 a.m. Mission Trip Fundraising Lunch & Silent Auction 26 7:00 p.m. Mid High & Senior High Small Groups March 2 5:00 p.m. PYG: Spiritual Disciplines Discipline & Living the Word 3 4:00 p.m. Mid High Orange Leaf (506 N Main St) 9 5:00 p.m. PYG: Spiritual Disciplines Fasting & Silence 10 12:15 p.m. Senior High Ramen Noodle Lunch 12 7:00 p.m. Mid High & Senior High Small Groups 15 8:00 a.m. Leave for Spring Break at Dwight Mission

14 The Ambassador 14 First Presbyterian Church Youth Sunday School Classes Middle School (6th and 7th graders) Meets in the Youth Suite BLUE Room The Bible The Story of God s Faithfulness is a survey study of the Old Testament which helps younger youth see the whole picture of the story of God s people in the Bible. The class will cover the Old Testament from Adam and Eve, through the story of the Exodus, the Kings, the Prophets, and the Exile. Teacher: Tim Krehbiel Junior High (8th and 9th graders) Meets in the Youth Suite ORANGE Room Delve into the tough questions about relationships and human sexuality. What does it mean to honor my parents? What makes a good friend? How do I honor my body? What does it mean to be made in God s image? Teachers: Aaron & Sonya Herndon Senior High (10th - 12th graders) Meets in the Youth Suite Using Talksheets, High School youth will have discussions that matter about themselves, their beliefs, their questions, their lives. Students will dive into provocative, compelling, discussion-starting questions that focus on relevant, real-life topics that focus on faith, God, and being a Christian in a secular world. Teacher: Katie Burgoon Spring Break Camp at Dwight Mission March Cost: $ $50.00 a person (after a $75.00 church scholarship & $25.00 Cimarron Presbytery scholarship) Depart from FPC 8:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 15th Return by 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 18th Registration Deadline: March 2nd Youth Quake April 4-6 Central Christian Camp, Guthrie, OK Cost: $80.00 $50.00 a person (after a $30.00 church scholarship) Depart: FPC; 4:30 p.m. Friday, April 4 Return: 1:30 p.m. Sunday, April 6 Registration Deadline: February 28th Senior High Coffee Fellowship Senior High Youth are invited to meet Katie at Red Rock (on Boomer) on Wednesdays at 7:30 a.m. for coffee and fellowship. The church will be picking up the tab! 2014 Dwight Mission Summer Camp Schedule Registration is now open at for summer camp for grades 3 to graduated seniors plus a Family Camp option for all ages. Each Stillwater FPC camper (3 rd to 12 th grade) receives one $50 scholarship. Request the scholarship by informing the Church Office of the camper s name, camp attending and requesting payment be sent to Dwight Mission. Dates Camp Grades May Family Camp June 1-7 Elementary Camp I 3-5 Junior High Camp I 6-9 CIT (Counselor-In-Training) June 8-11 Tiger Camp 3-4 June 8-14 Explorer Camp 3-6 Junior High Adventure Camp 6-9 June 9-13 Day Camp 1-6 June Elementary Camp II 3-5 Junior High Camp II 6-9 All Ages 12-Grad Senior High Adventure Camp 9-Grad July 6-12 Night Owl Camp 6-12 July 6-19 LIT (Leadership-In-Training) Two Week Camp 6-9 July Weekend Adventure 6-12 July Elementary Camp III 3-5 Junior High Camp III 6-9 July Senior High Gathering 10-Grad Keurig Coffee Pot in the Youth Suite Don t forget to stop by the Youth Suite kitchen before Sunday School and make yourself a cup of coffee, hot tea, cider, or cocoa! The drinks are free to you thanks to the Sheerar Children and Youth Endowment.