The Saltshaker. DECEMBER 1, 2017 Volume 209

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1 The Saltshaker DECEMBER 1, 2017 Volume 209 Christmas at Altadena Valley During the month of December, join us as we celebrate Christmas - Altadena style! In keeping with tradition, several special services will be taking place, and we hope these unique services, along with other special activities will help us remember the true meaning of Christmas and the greatest gift ever given: Jesus Christ. Immanuael, God with us. O Come, Let Us Adore Him. December Sunday School We will be combining all of our adult, youth, and children s Sunday school classes this month for special programming. Here s our schedule: DEC 3 DEC 10 DEC 17 DEC 24 Congregational Meeting/Christmas Mercy Project We begin with our election of officers. Then, we will help wrap gifts and write cards for all of the kids that are part of our Christmas project with The Forgotten Initiative. Jamie and Catie Lumpkin will update us on plans to make this a special Christmas for these foster children. Pray for Me Campaign Launch This was such a wonderful experience last year, we re doing it again! The pray For Me Campaign creates a team of Prayer Champions who commit to pray for their teen for the coming year. What a blessing! Be sure to stop by the Welcome Center before December 3 to sign up for this opportunity. Then join us on December 10 to find out who is on your team! Annual Children s Christmas Pageant & Carols All children s classes (except 2 s and 3 s) will perform the Christmas story for the congregation. Then, Steve Whitner will lead everyone in the singing of some of the all-time favorite hymns that celebrate Christ s birth. 8:30 and 11:00 a.m. Worship Service only. No Sunday School Inside 2 Pastor s Pen Session Minutes 3 Meet Our New Member: Christina Thomas & New Staff Member: Elizabeth Helms 4 AVPC People News 5 Children s News God s House Kindergarten 6 Youth Happenings 7 Mercy News 8 December Birthdays Budget Reports Did You Know? DEC 31 8:30 and11:00 a.m. Worship Service only. No Sunday School Special Services DEC 10 DEC 24 Lessons & Carols Service Join us at 6:00 p.m., for a special service featuring the Chancel Choir, Bell Choir, Preschool Praisers, Gradeschool Choir, and other AVPC musicians. A reception will immediately follow. Childcare will be provided through age three. Christmas Eve Candlelight Services There will be Christmas Eve services at 4:30 and 6:00 p.m. Childcare will be provided through age three for both services. Altadena Valley Presbyterian Church MERCY: The Spirit Of Christmas pg. 7

2 Pastor s Pen Since the tragic shootings at the First Baptist Church of Sutherland Springs, Texas, I have thought some of what we should learn from that. Here are some of my thoughts. First, there is no ultimate place of safety in this world. When a church in a small town in the heart of the Bible Belt suffers the kind of tragedy we would normally associate with the most persecuted region in the world, the lesson is clear. Ultimate safety will not be guaranteed apart from the full reign of Jesus upon his return. Second, churches need to take prudent and measured steps to do what they can to protect their members from the dangers that are present in this world. From acts of violence like this one to sexual predators, the dangers are real and evil is real. That s why the AVPC deacons and the children s and youth ministries have spent considerable time studying this and writing down our prudent steps. The third lesson is that we need to be aware of the danger of overreacting out of fear. Much damage can be done when people react in fear and try to control things that we really cannot control. God s people are always called to be people who trust God. Fourth, we need to pray for God s protection of our church and the churches in our city. That is something we can do and are commanded to do. Fifth, this is an area where every-member-ministry is particularly needed. We are a family, and family members watch out for one another. If you see some suspicious behavior, don t ignore it. If it is not appropriate to handle it yourself, bring it to the attention of one of the pastors or church officers. Be careful, though, not to judge someone by their appearance. Focus on behavior, not appearance. Finally, let s pray for our surviving brothers and sisters at First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs and throughout that community. Pray for that peace that can only come from God, a God who is not a stranger to great tragedy. Brad Allison, Senior Pastor minutes Session Meeting, october 17 Preliminary 2018 Budget was reviewed. The following people were interviewed and approved for church membership: Katie Barker, Paul and Suzanne Brown, Ric and Alice Lewallen and Christine Rowlette. The following one-time mission gifts were approved: Jean Letgers ($500), Christ School Bundibugyo ($500), Restoration Academy ($1000), Hannah Davidson ($300). Christine Rowlette has been selected as our new Church Administrator. The Youth Pastor Search Committee has been established. 2

3 Meet Our New member Christina Thomas How did you first find out about our church? Marsha Wakefield told me about it, and said I could wear jeans. I was IN! What have you enjoyed about AVPC the most? The people. There is an understanding of community here that is both Bibically-based and soul-refreshing. How long have you been a Christian? I have been a Christian for 20 years. Where were you born and raised? Talledega. I remember being an athiest in the Bible belt and thinking, why am I so different? As a young WOMAN, I thought I would be. but actually I thought I would be a doctor, but actually I am a nurse and a missionary. I KNEW IS WAS GROWN UP WHEN I had to pay taxes for the first time. I ALWAYS THOUGHT IT WOULD BE GREAT TO...live on a house boat. YUMMY seafood. PEOPLE WOULD BE SURPRISED IF THEY KNEW I played my trumpet for the Queen of England - in her parade. WHEN I HAVE FREE TIME I ENJOY watching movies, reading books about WW II and fishing. MY FAVORITE MOVIE IS... Rudy. RESTAURANT IS Outback. That is the first place I would go to when home on furlough. Christina My hope for AVPC is that it could continue to be light and salt to the world, and a place of growth and community for believers. Meet Our New staff member Elizabeth Helms Our New Administrative Assistant How did you first find out about our church? I first learned about AVPC through two connections at Beeson Divinity School through my friend Amy Jackson and also from my Beeson mentor group leader, Dr. Thielman. They both spoke highly of the ministries of this church and the kind and generous members. Where were you born and raised? I grew up in Shreveport, Louisiana. My hometown is in the northwest corner of Louisiana and I lived there until I moved to Baton Rouge for college. PEOPLE WOULD BE SURPRISED IF THEY KNEW I have recently been teaching myself how to do hand embroidery. I picked up this hobby last year and have learned new stiches by watching YouTube videos. WHEN I HAVE FREE TIME I ENJOY spending my free time hiking, visiting the botanical gardens, playing board games, and cooking dinner for family and friends. My husband and I have 10 nieces and nephews (with one on the way!) and even though they all live several hours away, I love being able to spend time with them via FaceTime! my favorite book is... I have many favorite books and it is too hard to choose just one! However, I am currently reading Anne of Green Gables for the first time, and it is quickly becoming one of my favorite novels! MY FAVORITE MOVIE IS... Classic movies are some of my all-time favorites. I really enjoy pretty much anything with Audrey Hepburn, Gregory Peck, or Jimmy Stewart! my favorite restaurant IS Taco Mama. My hope for AVPC is that it could In the words of 1 Peter 3:18, I hope that all members of AVPC continue to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and that this church would bring glory and honor to him! Elizabeth 3

4 AVPC people News congratulations Congratulations to Mary-Alyx Campbell and Benjamin Robbins on their recent marriage on November 4. Mary-alyx is the daughter of Rusty and Lisa Campbell. Jameson overton will be playing the harpsichord with the alabama symphony orchestra at the alys stephens center on friday, december 15, at 7:30 pm. what an honor! New Addresses Claud & Virginia Saunders 207 Maple crest lane Rome, ga The brogan famly 801 Coronado Dr. Greensboro, NC our sympathy we extend our christian sympathy to the family of david allen on the loss of his mother, betty allen. The Evangel Christian Football team won the Alabama Christian Sports Conference League for Pictured are: John Lloyd, Luke Moore, Samuel Graham, and Davis Windsor. John Lloyd, a senior at Evangel Christian School, received the Mr. Football award for 2017 at the Alabama Christian Sports Conference. Congratulations to our young adult leader, blake harris, who will graduate from beeson divinity school, with a masters of divinity (MDiv) on december 8. Congratulations to our new administrative assistant, elizabeth helms, who will graduate from beeson divinity school, with a masters of divinity (MDiv) on december 8. Merry Christmas Everyone!! The children of AVPC wanted to thank their very own rockstar, michael whitner, for his years of service as their guitarist, and did so by presenting him with A rockstar worthy leather jacket. Based on this reaction, We think he probably liked it - great job kids! 4

5 children s ministry A big THANK YOU to everyone who helped with Trunk Or Treat this year. This was our biggest one yet and it would not have been a success without your help. Here are just a few pictures of the event. Fun at this Year s Trunk or Treat god s house kindergarten Christmas at GHK is magical. The excitement of the children in anticipation of Christmas morning fills the halls. Their laughter and sweet voices singing Christmas carols is part of the bliss of the season. One opportunity of giving that we have at GHK is through our Angel Tree ministry. Children are always ready to give to those less fortunate who may not receive anything for Christmas. I am sure our parents appreciate the chance to show their little ones how to bless others as we ourselves are so blessed. The angel names are quickly taken from our tree, shopping done, gifts wrapped, prayers shared, and blessings are delivered..all before our Christmas break. Special dates to remember: Christmas Program for 4K and 5K will be at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, December 13. All are welcome! GHK Christmas Holidays will be December 18 thru January 2 GHK Registration will be Monday, January 8, 9:00 a.m., in the Church Parlor. Beginning in December, you will find registration information online at Please note: You cannot register online, you must attend registrtion! Lou Ann Spell, GHK Teacher 5

6 Youth NEWS December 2017 pray for me kick off Join us for the kick off during the Sunday School hour. SR HIGH PARTY (Wed., December 6, 5:30-8:00 Cwynars JR HIGH PARTY (Sat., December 9, 6:00-8:00 & Angie Klose s SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT 1 2 Looking ahead... JAN 7 Youth Group resumes JAN 10 Small Group resumes JAN 28 Parent s and Youth Supper 5pm JOINT SS sr. high Jr. high 9 YG party party PRAY 10 B DAY FOR ME SS JOINT SS B DAY B DAY 30 sr. high winter retreat eve DEC sr. high winter retreat Returning to Shocco, be sure to sign up! (December 29-31) SS Attend Joint Sunday School with the rest of the church. YG Jr. & Sr. High Youth 5:00 p.m. GOODBYE BROGANS Just one snapshot of our goodbye party for the Brogans. Pray for them as they transition to adult ministry in NC. 6 HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU Tatum popwell December 11 AVERY PUGH December 23 claudia stephens December 30

7 MERCY news A Season of Giving Sharing the blessings that God has given us. thanksgiving baskets AVPC members gathered food for 30 Thanksgiving Baskets for families in need of a helping hand this holiday season. Thank you Altadena for your continued faithfulness in showing the love of God in very tangible ways. Praise the Lord for His goodness to us! operation child The youth also showed their generosity by filling shoeboxes for Samaritan s Purse, Operation Christmas Child again this year. This year they packed 26 boxes to be sent to children across the world. Thank you for your loving spirit! AVPC MERCY TEAM MISSION STATEMENT OF THE MERCY TEAM To demonstrate with humility the love and mercy of Jesus in order to advance gospel-centered reconciliation and restoration among people who are in need. Please keep members of our Mercy Team in your prayers. Members of the Mercy Team: (L to R) Michael MacCaughelty, Nancy Klose, Rob Wise, Christina Thomas, Ed Wofford, Sue Mackle, Blake Stevens, Carrie Lavendol, Darren Popwell, Nancy Jackson, Dee Mayhew, Caroline Poythress. (NOT PICTURED: Tucker Alley, Denise Davidson, Kelly Driggers, Steve Driggers, Bob Ketchum, Scott Lavendol, Tom McCallum, Mark Wilson) 7

8 DECEMBER birthdays 12/2 Melanie Richards 12/2 Ashley Hood 12/2 Jameson Overton 12/4 Jude Allday 12/4 Lucy Cwynar 12/9 Kitty Strassner 12/10 Becky Gray 12/10 Claud Saunders 12/11 Tatum Popwell 12/13 Cindy Lambert 12/13 Beth Lloyd 12/14 Ethan MacCaughelty 12/15 Judy P. Steele 12/15 James Tate 12/15 Grace Kipp 12/16 Elijah Putman 12/16 Libby Stephens 12/16 Judah Brogan 12/17 Judy Bates 12/17 Caitlin Coats 12/17 Zephaniah Putman 12/18 Jim Anderson 12/18 Steve Whitner 12/18 Katey Windsor 12/18 Naomi Washington 12/19 Merrily McCary 12/21 Jane Monroe 12/23 Chris Light 12/23 Avery Pugh 12/24 Jan Leatherman 12/25 Lee Kinnebrew 12/25 Elizabeth Ward 12/25 Jason Allday 12/27 Michael Bodkin 12/27 Elizabeth Mather 12/27 Ellie Joy Peters 12/28 Carrie Lavendol 12/28 Laura English 12/28 Heather Tate 12/30 Alexys LaBreche 12/30 Russell Lloyd 12/30 Jamie Lumpkin 12/30 Nathan Lloyd 12/30 Claudia Stephens 12/31 Tom McCallum 12/31 Kelly Driggers Did you know... 1 A. 10x B. 3x Young Adults party Come join friends on Friday, December 15, 6:30-9:00 p.m. at the home of Steve and Kelly Driggers (205 Marwood Drive, 35244) for the Christmas party of the decade. Enjoy chili and cornbread, apple cider, hot chocolate, and a bonfire to keep warm. Tacky Christmas sweaters are welcome. Hope to see you there! Women's Winter Retreat Dates Friday-Saturday, January (Retreat starts at 4:00 p.m. on Friday and will wrap up at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday) Location Children s Harbor Lodge, Alexander City, AL.Lake Martin (accommodations are lovely; private rooms are available) Cost Cost is $65.00, which includes three meals, unlimited snacks, lodging, and all craft materials. Attendance on Saturday only is $ Partial scholarships available (contact Katey Windsor). Registration To register, pick up a brochure in the Parlor or Welcome Center. All registrations must be in to the church office by January 14. Since 1973, the number of teaching elders in the PCA denomination has grown: C. 13x D. 25x (2) B According to the same publication by the PCA Administrative Committee, since 1973, the number of churches in the PCA has grown 600%, from 260 to 1, 545. ANSWER KEY: (1) D According to a publication by the PCA Administrative Committee, since 1973, the number of teaching elders in the PCA has grown from 196 to 4,961-25x. october financial report Beginning Balance 8 Income Expenses Transfer Ending Balance General Fund $-109,463 $148,195 $98,675 $-6,337 $-66,280 Missions $-36,431 $22,524 $34,508 $6,337 $-42,078 2 A. 407% B. 600% Since 1973 the number of PCA churches has grown by: C. 300% D. 535% Total $-145,894 $170,719 $133,183 $ 0 $-108,358