The Pastor s Ponderings... February 2019

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1 P a g e T H E M E S S E N G E R F e b r u a r y 2 0 1 9 The Pastor s Ponderings... February 2019 Anticipation... Anticipation as Carly Simon sang back in 1971 is keeping me waiting.

1 1 P a g e T H E M E S S E N G E R F e b r u a r y The Pastor s Ponderings... February 2019 Anticipation... Anticipation as Carly Simon sang back in 1971 is keeping me waiting. And so it is for us, at Lower Brandywine, as we begin February At our Annual Congregational and Corporation Meeting last Sunday, the congregation voted to adopt a co-pastor model, our Pastor Nominating Committee having identified after many months of prayer and deliberation a wonderful candidate for just such a call. But for now we wait, as the prescribed process required by Presbyterian polity (our form of government) nears its completion. And we are confident that God having led us thus far will see us through! And so while we wait a few thoughts about anticipation: * It enhances the anticipated event or experience: think of a wedding following a long engagement, or your annual family vacation. Children and Christmas also come to mind. * It provides time and motivation for preparation: Our PNC has developed a comprehensive plan for the strategic success of our new pastoral model, and logistically speaking we are actively turning the Library into an office for our anticipated co-pastor. * It also encourages watchfulness lest we miss the event when it finally occurs. Here, I am reminded that Daniel foretold the timing of the coming of the Messiah, but perhaps because of the long duration of the period of waiting God s people ultimately failed to recognize him. Hence, Jesus related lament (Luke 19:41-44). So, let us make good use of all of our times of waiting. And, along the way, we have and may we enjoy the Apostle Paul s assurances: I am confident of this, that the one who began a good work among you will bring it to completion by the day of Jesus Christ. (Philippians 1:6) For it is God who is at work in you, enabling you both to will and to work for his good pleasure. (Philippians 2:13) It is a joy to be anticipating with you! Dave Lovelace

2 P a g e T H E M E S S E N G E R F e b r u a r y 2 0 1 9 LECTIONARY READINGS FOR FERUARY BIRTHDAYS AND ANNIVERSARIES Year C FEBRUARY BIRTHDAYS FEBRUARY Fourth Sunday after Epiphany February 3

February 17 Jeremiah 17:5 10 Psalm 1 1 Corinthians 15:12 20 Luke 6:17 26 Seventh Sunday after Epiphany February 24 Genesis 45:3 11, 15 Psalm 37:1 11, 39 40 1 Corinthians 15:35 38, 42 50 Luke 6:27 38

2 2 P a g e T H E M E S S E N G E R F e b r u a r y LECTIONARY READINGS FOR FERUARY BIRTHDAYS AND ANNIVERSARIES Year C FEBRUARY BIRTHDAYS FEBRUARY Fourth Sunday after Epiphany February 3 Jeremiah 1:4 10 Psalm 71:1 6 1 Corinthians 13:1 13 Luke 4:21 30 Fifth Sunday after Epiphany February 10 Isaiah 6:1 8 (9 13) Psalm Corinthians 15:1 11 Luke 5:1 11 Sixth Sunday after Epiphany February 17 Jeremiah 17:5 10 Psalm 1 1 Corinthians 15:12 20 Luke 6:17 26 Seventh Sunday after Epiphany February 24 Genesis 45:3 11, 15 Psalm 37:1 11, Corinthians 15:35 38, Luke 6: /01 Jacob Csuy 02/03 Mimi Lovelace Genevieve Crampton 02/06 Trude Holmes 02/09 William Sudell 02/11 Sandra Messikomer Nancy Plerhoples 02/12 Harold Kenton Harold Salmons III 02/14 John Danzeisen 02/16 Madison Armstrong 02/18 Clint Veasey 02/19 Phil Calabrese 02/20 List Holt Darlene Sullivan 02/21 Kate Connolly 02/23 Art Beebe 02/24 Steve Ernst 02/28 Weston Wright The Church Office will be closed on Monday, February 18 th in observance of President s Day. Beginning February 3 rd : Contemporary Service at 9:00 AM Traditional Service at 10:30 AM

3 P a g e T H E M E S S E N G E R F e b r u a r y 2 0 1 9 We meet Sundays at 9:00 AM in the Social Hall meeting area. All are welcome!

Brown Bag Bible Study (Pastor Dave) Studying: Lectionary Readings We meet Thursdays at 11:30 AM. Lunch starts at 11:30 a.m., which may be truly brown bagged or ordered from our wonderful caterer, Betsy Coons.

3 3 P a g e T H E M E S S E N G E R F e b r u a r y We meet Sundays at 9:00 AM in the Social Hall meeting area. All are welcome! Sunday School for Grades K 5 (Barbara Sypher) Meets every Sunday except Communion Sunday at 9:15 AM in rooms 4 & 5. Brown Bag Bible Study (Pastor Dave) Studying: Lectionary Readings We meet Thursdays at 11:30 AM. Lunch starts at 11:30 a.m., which may be truly brown bagged or ordered from our wonderful caterer, Betsy Coons. Indeed, many of us have a standing order with Betsy to enjoy her specialty of the day! Book Club (Susan Latimer) LIFT for Grades 6-12 (Becky and Sean Kennedy) Living in Faith Together We will meet most Sundays at 5:00 PM. A detailed calendar will be provided. You DO NOT have to be a member of LBPC to participate. EVERYONE IS WELCOME! Women s Group (Joan Wysham) Meets the second Tuesday of the month at Noon. Just Desserts Reading: Scoop, by Evelyn Waugh We will meet Thursday, February 21 at 6:00 PM at Station 52. Come a little early to enjoy drinks and conversation! Sunday Morning Bible Study (Dave Robertson) Studying: Paul s Letter to the Corinthians We meet Sundays at 8:45 AM in the Library. All are welcome! Sunday Morning Topical Study (Don Coats) Watching: Myth with a Thousand Faces Interviews with Joseph Campbell Reading: How Jesus Became God by Bart Ehrman Meets monthly. This month s gathering is on Friday, February 15 th at 7:30 PM at the home of Bob and Sue Hartman. All are welcome! Spiritual Pairings (Sandra Borror) Meets the fourth Tuesday of the month at 7 PM. A series of explorations to rediscover early saints, philosophers, theologians, and teachers who influenced the development of the Christian Church. While some had ideas that may seem archaic, you may be surprised to find wisdom nuggets and inspiration that are still relevant today. At each meeting, we ll explore a pair of teachers and their common themes. Feb 26 - Martin Luther and Ignatius of Loyola Mar 26 - Teresa of Avila and John of the Cross Apr 23 - Francis de Sales and Jane de Chantal May 28 - TBD

4 P a g e T H E M E S S E N G E R F e b r u a r y 2 0 1 9 A reminder that LBPC is scheduled to deliver Meals

Book Swap Sunday, February 3rd Join Us for Just Desserts February 15 th at 7:30 PM Time to clean out some

Leave what you don t want and pick up some new material.

Souper Bowl of Caring at the home of Bob and Sue Hartman Sunday, February 3 Souper Bowl of Caring before and

No LIFT It s going to be the Patriots and the Rams battling it out for the Super Bowl Champion title.

Youth will be located in the Sanctuary and Social Hall to take your donations.

4 4 P a g e T H E M E S S E N G E R F e b r u a r y A reminder that LBPC is scheduled to deliver Meals on Wheels February 4-8. Mark your calendar! Book Swap Sunday, February 3rd Join Us for Just Desserts February 15 th at 7:30 PM Time to clean out some book shelves? Bring your unwanted books, CDs and DVDs to the Social Hall. Leave what you don t want and pick up some new material. Leftover books will be donated to the Unvionville High School Used Book Sale. Souper Bowl of Caring at the home of Bob and Sue Hartman Sunday, February 3 Souper Bowl of Caring before and after services. No LIFT It s going to be the Patriots and the Rams battling it out for the Super Bowl Champion title. Help LIFT battle hunger in our area by donating CANNED GOODS, SOUP or MONEY before and after services! Youth will be located in the Sanctuary and Social Hall to take your donations. Donations will benefit the Delware Food Bank. Sunday, February 10 Home Invasion at the home of Dara and Robert Main. Dinner at 5:00 PM PCUSA Faith Questions, Grace and Gratitude: What is Grace? Sunday, February 17 NO LIFT Take a break! Sunday, February 24 Dinner at 5:00 PM PCUSA Faith Questions, Grace and Gratitude: Why Do I Need God s Grace? The Sr. Choir will resume its normal rehearsal schedule in February. See you there!!

5 P a g e T H E M E S S E N G E R F e b r u a r y 2 0 1 9 February

on a national scenic byway?? That s right!

known as Kennett Pike) and continues for 7.

From Wilmington, take Delaware 52 (Pennsylvania Avenue) to Delaware

5 5 P a g e T H E M E S S E N G E R F e b r u a r y February Events Did you know Lower Brandywine Presbyterian Church is located on a national scenic byway?? That s right! The byway begins at the Pennsylvania State line at Delaware 52 (also known as Kennett Pike) and continues for 7.3 miles into the city of Wilmington. From Wilmington, take Delaware 52 (Pennsylvania Avenue) to Delaware 100 (Montchanin Road). Continue for 5.1 miles until the byway ends at the Pennsylvania State line. Visit for more info.

6 P a g e T H E M E S S E N G E R F e b r u a r y 2 0 1 9 Start Date Start Time Subject 02/03/2019 4th Sunday in Ordinary Time Sacrament of the Lord's Supper and Good Samaritan Book Swap Souper Bowl

6 6 P a g e T H E M E S S E N G E R F e b r u a r y Start Date Start Time Subject 02/03/2019 4th Sunday in Ordinary Time Sacrament of the Lord's Supper and Good Samaritan Book Swap Souper Bowl of Caring 8:45 AM Adult Bible Study 9:00 AM Adult Topical Study 9:00 AM Contemporary Worship Service 10:00 AM Fellowship: Coffee & Conversation 10:30 AM Traditional Worship Service 11:30 AM Fellowship: Coffee & Conversation 02/04/2019 7:00 PM Alateen (Teen & Tween Rm.) 7:00 PM Al-Anon (Sunday School Room 4) 02/06/ :00 PM Al-Anon (Sunday School Room 4) 6:30 PM Handbell Rehearsal 6:30 PM Youth/Children's Choir Rehearsal 7:30 PM Music Rehearsal 02/07/ :30 AM Brown Bag Bible Study 02/10/2019 5th Sunday in Ordinary Time 8:45 AM Adult Bible Study 9:00 AM Adult Topical Study 9:00 AM Contemporary Worship Service 10:00 AM Fellowship: Coffee & Conversation 10:30 AM Traditional Worship Service 11:30 AM Fellowship: Coffee & Conversation 3:00 PM Astral Harp - Janet Witman 5:00 PM LIFT 02/11/2019 7:00 PM Alateen (Teen & Tween Rm.) 7:00 PM Al-Anon (Sunday School Room 4) 02/12/ :00 PM Women's Group 6:00 PM Book Club 7:00 PM Centerville Civic Association in Social Hall 02/13/ :30 AM Mission Committee Meeting 12:00 PM Al-Anon (Sunday School Room 4) 6:30 PM Handbell Rehearsal 6:30 PM Youth/Children's Choir Rehearsal 7:30 PM Music Rehearsal 02/14/ :30 AM Brown Bag Bible Study 02/15/2019 7:30 PM Just Hartman

7 7 P a g e T H E M E S S E N G E R F e b r u a r y /17/2019 6th Sunday in Ordinary Time 8:45 AM Adult Bible Study 9:00 AM Adult Topical Study 9:00 AM Contemporary Worship Service 10:00 AM Fellowship: Coffee & Conversation 10:30 AM Traditional Worship Service 11:30 AM Fellowship: Coffee & Conversation 02/18/2019 ** Church Office Closed ** 7:00 PM Alateen (Teen & Tween Rm.) 7:00 PM Al-Anon (Sunday School Room 4) 7:00 PM Finance & Administration 02/20/ :00 PM Al-Anon (Sunday School Room 4) 6:30 PM Handbell Rehearsal 6:30 PM Youth/Children's Choir Rehearsal 7:30 PM Music Rehearsal 02/21/ :30 AM Brown Bag Bible Study 7:00 PM Laura Densmore - Photographs of Birds 02/24/2019 7th Sunday in Ordinary Time 8:45 AM Adult Bible Study 9:00 AM Adult Topical Study 9:00 AM Contemporary Worship Service 10:00 AM Fellowship: Coffee & Conversation 10:30 AM Traditional Worship Service 11:30 AM Fellowship: Coffee & Conversation 5:00 PM LIFT 02/25/2019 7:00 PM Alateen (Teen & Tween Rm.) 7:00 PM Al-Anon (Sunday School Room 4) 7:00 PM Session Meeting 02/26/2019 7:00 PM Spiritual Pairings - A sampling of early Christian spiritual teachers 02/27/ :00 PM Al-Anon (Sunday School Room 4) 6:30 PM Handbell Rehearsal 6:30 PM Youth/Children's Choir Rehearsal 7:30 PM Music Rehearsal 02/28/2019 NCP Beach Cambridge Maryland 11:30 AM Brown Bag Bible Study 6:00 PM Parenting with Love & Logic presented by Shari Cissel

8 P a g e T H E M E S S E N G E R F e b r u a r y 2 0 1 9 Lower Brandywine Presbyterian Church 101 Old Kennett Road ~ Wilmington Delaware

net Linda Natali, Church & Cemetery Manager Linda.natali@comcast.net Dr. Donna Beech, Music Director Beechmartin@msn.

8 8 P a g e T H E M E S S E N G E R F e b r u a r y Lower Brandywine Presbyterian Church 101 Old Kennett Road ~ Wilmington Delaware Rev. David E. Lovelace, D. Min., Pastor Revdel@comcast.net Lisa Chase, Minister in Trainin ChaseLS1@verizon.net Linda Natali, Church & Cemetery Manager Linda.natali@comcast.net Dr. Donna Beech, Music Director Beechmartin@msn.com Phil Calabrese, Contemporary Music Director Philip.calabrese@gmail.com Barbara Sypher, Dir., Children & Youth Ministries Barbarasypher@live.com Becky Kennedy, Office Assistant Lbpc@comcast.net

The Pastor s Ponderings... January 2019

1 P a g e J a n u a r y 2 0 1 9 The Pastor s Ponderings... January 2019 What Is Your Word of the Year for 2019? As 2018 drew to a close, publishers of various dictionaries revealed words they considered