Advent at. Davidson College Presbyterian Church

Transcription

1 Advent at Davidson College Presbyterian Church PREPARE THE WAY by worshiping, learning, serving, loving, and giving during Advent Dear Friends, Advent is a season of penitence and preparation. In marked contrast to the culture s seasonal insistence on commerce and busyness, Advent invites us into mindful reflection on the coming of Christ into the world and participation in God s promises of hope, peace, joy, and love. This year s Advent theme here at DCPC is Prepare the Way. The theme is drawn from the lectionary passages in Matthew. Many would judge these Scripture readings to be markedly un-christmasy. However, it is this very characteristic which invites us to open ourselves in new ways to the good news which comes to us in Jesus Christ. You are invited to peruse this Advent edition of Steepletalk and ponder the many opportunities to prepare the way in your own life not only for Christmas, but for a deepened spiritual encounter with God and neighbor which will last long after the holiday ornaments have been stored. Grace and peace, Lib Prepare the Way Worship Each Sunday during Advent as the Advent candles are lit to begin worship at 8:30, 9:45, and 11 On Christmas Eve, at 4, 7:30, and 11 By reading and praying daily devotionals written by Union Presbyterian Seminary faculty and staff White Gift Christmas Pageant on Sunday, December 11, at 5 p.m. Davidson College Vespers on Sunday, December 4, at 7:30 p.m. Wholeness and Healing service on Wednesday, December 14, at 6:30 p.m. Learn By participating in a small group experience centered on developing mindful spiritual practices which allow you to slow down and sink into the Advent season Serve By volunteering at the Alternative Gift Fair during Christmas in Davidson or Room in the Inn on Friday evenings By baking cookies for the Christmas Study Break at Davidson College Love Give - By caroling around the neighborhood on Wednesday, December 21 By inviting a friend or neighbor to accompany you to DCPC worship, study, and service opportunities By contributing to the Christmas Joy Offering which supplements support for retired church workers and provides support for the PCUSA racial-ethnic schools and colleges By bringing food items for Loaves and Fishes to the White Gift Christmas Pageant By participating in the Angel Tree Project In This Issue... Advent 2-5 Session Recap / Spotlight Series 6 Children s Ministry 7 Youth Ministry 8 Campus Ministry 9 YA/F&F/ PW/ Men s Ministry 10 Music Ministry / Cong. Retreat 11 Stewardship/ Financials 12 Community Missions 13 Global Missions 14 DCPC information 16 December SteepleTalk

2 Advent Prepare The Way... Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday 27 8:30 Worship Lingle 9:45 Worship Lingle Sunday School (Various) Chapel 10:30 Congregational Mtg Sanctuary 11:00 Worship Sanctuary Sunday School 28 7:00 Advent Study Lingle :00 Advent Study Lingle 5:45 WNL C.H. Angel Tree Info. Ctr. 1 6:00 Santa (C.H.) 6:00 Alt. Gift Fair (C.H.) 6:00 Snack Shack (C.H.) 7:00 Bailey Orchestra Sanctuary 4 8:30 Worship Lingle 9:45 Worship Lingle Sunday School (Various) Chapel 11:00 Worship Sanctuary Sunday School 7:00 DC Vespers Sanctuary 5 7:00 Advent Study Lingle :00 Advent Study Lingle 5:45 WNL C.H. 8 11:45 Preschool Christmas Program 10:00 Cookie Study Break 11 8:30 Worship Lingle 9:45 Worship Lingle Sunday School (Various) Chapel 11:00 Worship Sanctuary Sunday School 5:00 White Gift Sanctuary / followed by dinner (C.H.) 12 7:00 Advent Study Lingle :00 Advent Study Lingle 5:00 Children s Choir Caroling at The Pines 5:45 WNL C.H. 6:30 Wholeness & Healing Lingle Angel Tree Deadline 15 Cong. Retreat Deadline for Early Registration 18 Joy Offering 8:30 Worship Sanctuary 9:45 Worship Lingle Sunday School (Various) Chapel 11:00 Worship Sanctuary Sunday School :30 Christmas Caroling (C.H.) :30 Narthex 11:00 Worship Sanctuary 26 Office Closed 27 Office Closed White Gift Christmas Pageant There will be a collection of food as part of the White Gift Christmas Pageant. Just as the wise men took gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh to the Christ child, all are invited to approach the manger with gifts of food (or monetary donations) which will be distributed to families through Loaves and Fishes at the Ada Jenkins Center. In keeping with the Christmas holidays, we are asking for specific kinds of food this year: Please bring any or all of the following: a canned or fresh ham, boxed stuffing, boxed potatoes, canned yams or canned fruit (no green beans, please). These foods will help their recipients eat a holiday meal. Loaves and Fishes always puts your contributions to good use as the need is great. POST-pageant White Gift Christmas Pageant Sandwich Supper It s soup and sandwiches prepared by Chef Betsy. We just ask that folks bring a donation to offset the cost of the food. Plus, there will be Christmas music! Wholeness & Healing Service The holiday season can be a difficult time for those experiencing grief and loss. You are invited to bring your tears to Lingle Chapel for A Service of Healing and Wholeness at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, December 14. And remember that Lingle Chapel is open for prayer and meditation 24/7. December SteepleTalk

3 2 Friday 6:00 Santa (C.H.) 6:00 Alt. Gift Fair (C.H.) 6:00 Snack Shack (C.H.) 7:00 Nuances Lingle 9 5:00 RITI C..H. 16 5:00 RITI C..H. 23 Half Day Office Closed 5:00 RITI C..H. 30 5:00 RITI C..H. Cong. Retreat Registration Deadline Saturday 3 8:45 Advent Study Lingle 10:00 Advent Study Pines 6:00 Santa (C.H.) 6:00 Alt. Gift Fair (C.H.) 6:00 Snack Shack (C.H.) 6:30 Open Mic Night Lingle 10 8:45 Advent Study Lingle 10:00 Advent Study Pines 17 8:45 Advent Study Lingle 10:00 Advent Study Pines 24 4:00 Worship Sanctuary 7:30 Worship Sanctuary 11:00 Worship Sanctuary 31 Alternative Gift Fair Want to give a more meaningful gift this year? Come visit DCPC's Alternative Gift Fair on Dec 1-3 (6-9 pm) in the Congregation House during Christmas in Davidson. Honor someone (who already has everything) by giving a gift to charity! You can also still sign up to volunteer to welcome guests to the Gift Fair and to visit Santa. Contact Karen@Fesperman.net to help or learn more. Davidson College Cookie Study Break (Union Atrium) Davidson College Presbyterian Church will be offering free cookies and milk in the Union Atrium on Thursday, December 11 at 10:00 pm. Please bake cookies and take them to the parlor on Thursday, December 11 by 9:00 p.m. Be sure to mark your cookies if they have nut allergens in them so that we can set them out separately. Room in the Inn (Congregation House) DCPC provides shelter to 12 homeless guests on Friday nights, December 9th through March. Volunteer Opportunities may consist of the following: Fridays: transport guests, set up beds, dinner, spend the night. Saturdays: provide breakfast, take down beds, transport guests. During the week: launder linens to be returned by Thursday. Contact: Richie King, , riking@davidson.edu Wednesday Night Live (Congregation House) Wednesday Night Live weaves the ministries and gifts of hospitality, worship, and faith formation into a night where we can grow together as the Body of Christ worshipping, learning, serving, loving, giving seeking to realize God s vision for the world. Healthy, delicious meals (vegetarian options available by request) are prepared by Chef Betsy Verhey, 5:45 6:30 p.m. in the Congregation House. Please make a reservation online or call the church office ( ) by noon on Mondays. Nov. 30: Baked Potato/Rice/Salad Bar Dec. 7: Taco Night Dec. 14: Holiday Dinner Angel Tree 2016 DCPC invites you to help sponsor dozens of families from our community during our Angel Tree 2016 project beginning Wednesday, November 30th through Wednesday, December 14th. The Angel Tree can be found on the bulletin board beside the Main Office beginning Wednesday the 30th. There will be specific instructions about how to participate in this project on the bulletin board. You may contact Stephanie Rollans (srollans@dcpc.org or ext. 12) with any questions. Please help us make the tradition of gift-giving possible for area families! DCPC Preschool Christmas Program (Sanctuary) Children from our Preschool will be singing various Christmas tunes guaranteed to put you in the Christmas spirit. All are welcome on December 8 at 11:45 a.m. Advent Wreath The workshop was a success. There a few sets of wreath form/candles available for purchase $ Please contact the church office Collected Dec. 18th. See Page 5 for details. Christmas Caroling We will spread Christmas Joy throughout the area as groups of carolers go out and sing on Dec. 21. We will gather in the Congregation House at 6:30 and will travel by foot to visit the neighborhoods around downtown Davidson. Dress appropriately for the weather and plan on being out about 1 hour. All ages are welcome. After caroling we will gather back at the Congregation House for snacks and warm drinks. Please bring a snack to share. Christmas Eve ~ Three services 4 pm A service designed especially for children and families (no childcare provided) 7:30 pm: Traditional candle lighting service (nursery available) 11 pm: Traditional service with communion (no childcare provided) Christmas Day & New Year s Day: One worship service at 11 am in the sanctuary. December SteepleTalk

4 Devotions Advent begins on November 27. Daily devotions written by Union Presbyterian Seminary faculty and staff are available in the DCPC information center. To obtain your daily devotion via each morning during Advent, follow these instructions: 1) Go to 2) Under "Follow Blog via ", enter your preferred address 3) Check your each morning during Advent! Devotions will go "Live" at 8am each day and will automatically be sent to all subscribers. Covenant (9:45 a.m. Congregation House) November 30 Rev. Charles Raynal, former pastor of DCPC will continue to teach the Gospel of John December 4, 11, 18- Greg Snyder, Professor of Religion and Chair of the Department, will discuss the Apocryphal Gospel of Thomas. These are the hidden words that the living jesus spoke, and that Didymos Judas Thomas wrote down. And he said: whoever finds the meaning of these words will not taste death. So begins the Gospel of Thomas, one of the most intriguing pieces of early Christian literature. A collection of Jeus saying that contains material familiar from the canonical gospels, it also contains much that is new, strange, and strangely beautiful. Most scholars now believe that some of the sayings may go back to Jesus himself. We learn about the circumstances of its discovery, but focus chiefly on some of the sayings and what they might mean. DECEMBER 25 AND JANUARY NO CLASS MEETINGS Maloney (9:45 a.m. Parlor) Nov. 27: Alpha and Omega: Revelation 22:11-21 Dec. 4: God Promises a Savior: Luke 1: Dec. 11 The Affirmation of the Promise: Luke 1: Dec. 18: The Forerunner of the Savior: Luke 1:1-23, Dec. 25 The Savior Has Been Born: Luke 2:1-21 Jan 1: Praising God the Creator: Psalm 33: 1-9 The Pines (Marshall Room) See Maloney Class Jubilee (9:45 a.m. Upper Room) "Conversations on Advent" Advent Prepare The Way... Like DCPC on Facebook and receive a daily Advent image in your news feed. Adult Faith Formation Faith & Life (11:00 a.m. Room 201) At 11 a.m. on Sunday mornings, a group gathers in Room 201 to explore the teachings of scripture and the themes of faith and spirituality as they intersect with life. During the four Sundays of Advent we will consider Spiritual Practices for Advent. A PDF file is available for you to read in preparation for each lesson. Nov. 27: Spiritual Practices for ADVENT Session 1 Dec. 4: Spiritual Practices for ADVENT Session 2 Dec. 11: Spiritual Practices for ADVENT Session 3 Dec. 18: Spiritual Practices for ADVENT Session 4 Small Group Advent Study Our small group Advent study this season is more heart than head. If you long to slow down and savor this holy season rather than rushing headlong into frantic holiday activities, then you are invited to carve out 45 minutes for gathering with others to learn and practice a mindful spirituality which involves multiple senses: First Week of Advent November 28-December 3 O Antiphons Centering Prayer Second Week of Advent December 5-10 Lectio divina Breath prayer Third Week of Advent December Guided meditation Finger labyrinth Several small groups which meet regularly at DCPC will be following this or a similar format. The following groups open to all- will meet in the chancel on Lingle Chapel. Monday evening from 7-7:45 Nov. 28, Dec. 5 and 12 Wednesday from noon-12:45 Nov. 30, Dec. 7 and 14 Saturday from 8:45-9:30 Dec. 3, 10, and 17 A group will also meet in the Living Room at the Pines at 10 a.m. on Dec. 3, 10, and 17. Worship First Sunday of Advent- November 27 Prepare the Way: Be Ready Matthew 24: Lighting the Candle of Hope Isaiah 2: 1-5 Robert Alexander preaching Second Sunday of Advent December 4 Prepare the Way: Turn Matthew 3:1-12 Lighting the Candle of Peace Isaiah 11: 1-10 Lib McGregor Simmons preaching The Sacrament of the Lord s Supper will be served in the pews at 8:30 and 11 and by intinction at 9:45. Third Sunday of Advent December 11 Prepare the Way: Listen and Look Matthew 11: 2-11 Lighting the Candle of Joy Isaiah 35: 1-10 Lib McGregor Simmons preaching Fourth Sunday of Advent December 18 Prepare the Way: Dance and Sing Matthew 1: A Day for Dancing by Lloyd Pfautsch presented at 8:30 and 11 Readings and music shared at 9:45 Lighting the Candle of Love Isaiah 7: December SteepleTalk

5 Color in the labyrinth using crayons, colored pencils etc. Use as many colors as possible; this will make it easier for your eyes to follow your walking finger. Choose a walking finger and breathe smoothly. As you trace the path (from the outside opening at the bottom to the center, move at whatever pace feels right for you. As you do so, you may opt to: a. Quiet your mind b. Pray for yourself or someone else c. Keep a question in mind and feel the question using your emotions At the center, pause and take several slow deep breathers (keeping your finger inside the center or place your hands comfortably on your lap). Here, many believe you are the closest to the center of your spirit and greater insight is available. When ready to leave the center, or feel satisfied (like after eating a good meal) retrace the path back out to the entrance (which now becomes the exit point). Upon leaving the labyrinth, be grateful and thankful for the opportunity to bring divine strength and insight back with you into your daily life. Finger Labyrinth Follow Christ s Lead This Advent Season Every year, society expects us to celebrate the holiday season even bigger and better than years before. This year, coming together to reclaim Advent and Christmas can be both humbling and fulfilling. As we excitedly await the birth of Christ, it s important to remember the reason for the season: the newborn Servant of All. With Christ at the center this holiday season, we can follow in his example of servant leadership by serving our brothers and sisters in faith. Through the Christmas Joy Offering, we are able to support those in our community and give them the gift of hope. Funds from the Christmas Joy Offering help the Assistance Program of the Board of Pensions provide critical financial assistance to eligible workers in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) and their families, and to qualifying retired church workers and their families. The Christmas Joy Offering also supports the education and development of our future leaders at Presbyterianrelated racial ethnic schools and colleges. These schools are dedicated to creating opportunities and environments for racial ethnic students built on a foundation of Christian values. The Offering benefits Menaul School and Presbyterian Pan American School, two secondary schools that ready students for a path of higher learning, as well as Stillman College, where graduates are prepared for lives of leadership and service. By giving to the Christmas Joy Offering, we can share in the hope of Christ and celebrate his leadership by providing support to our church workers, racial ethnic young people, and their families. Please give generously: Through your congregation Text JOY to to give $10 presbyterianmission.org/give/christmasjoy To learn more about the Christmas Joy Offering, please visit: Assistance Program of the Board of Pensions: click on Plans & Programs Presbyterian-related racial ethnic schools and colleges: December SteepleTalk

6 Session Recap The Session of the Davidson College Presbyterian Church met Wednesday, November 16, 2016The Pastor, Lib McGregor Simmons opened the meeting with prayer; Tony Abbott gave the devotional. During the meeting the Session: Approved the Baptism of Winifred Blake Whalen, born 2/16/20, the daughter of Currie Ballinger Whalen and Andrew Joseph Whalen, on at the 11:00 service; Unanimously approved as new members William E. and Mary Hill Taibl by Letter of Transfer from North Shore Presbyterian Church, Lakeshore, Wisconsin unanimously approved the Baptism and reception as new member by Profession of Faith of Catherine Nicole McDermott: Called a Congregational meeting at 10:30 a. m., in the Sanctuary for the purpose of calling an Associate Pastor; Extended an invitation to Chris Currie, First Presbyterian Church, Shreveport, LA., to preach on Reunion Weekend, ; Discussed the ninth chapter of SPIRITUAL LEADERSHIP FOR CHURCH OFFICERS. Heard a report from the Stewardship Committee: Thus far in the Stewardship Season 253 pledges totaling $1, 123, 571 have been received. In order to meet the financial obligations of the upcoming year, the stewardship and Finance Committees hope to eventually have pledges totaling $1,450, 000 and church members who have not yet pledged are reminded to do so. Heard a report from the Finance Committee: Church revenues continue to be slightly down. In view of a projected gap between projected revenues and projected expenses for 2017, Committee Chairs, now in the process of preparing budgets for next year continue to be urged to keep budget requests as nearly as possible to this year s requests; Unanimously approved a request from the Administration and Planning Committee to approve revised SOPs for committees and Session; Heard a report from Matt Wiggins on the Faith Formation program for youth of the church. Young people in the church have responded enthusiastically to this new program and 17 adult leaders are working diligently with our youth; there is still a need to engage more young people in the life of the church and a need for more adult leaders to carry out this work; Lovenia Summerville and Thomas Hazel gave a report from the October meeting of the Presbytery of Charlotte. Robert Alexander shared the pastoral concerns of the Congregation. There being no further business, Robert closed the meeting with prayer. Van Lear Logan, Clerk of Session Spotlight Series (Taking a minute to put the spotlight on unsung heroes in our midst.) Kudos to Dennis Appleyard who has been a steadfast team member of the Cookie Break Committee for the past 25 years. Twice a year on Reading Day, Davidson College students flock to the Knobloch Union atrium at 10 p.m. to devour 200+ dozen cookies washed down with 12 gallons of mostly skim milk and a sampling of soft drinks. In fewer than 45 minutes, all cookies are gone and any leftover milk is headed for Ada Jenkins with extra soft drinks donated to the DCPC Student Lounge. Dennis smiles when he talks about the Food Lion cashiers who must wonder what this "thirsty" fella is up to with a cart full of a dozen gallons of milk and a sampling of Mountain Dew! Transport of cookies, set-up, takedown and clean up goes like clockwork with this dedicated team from DCPC. We "spotlight" you, Dennis, this month for your years of devotion to this event. And a reminder to church bakers that Reading Day is December 8 and hungry students say in advance, Thank You! December SteepleTalk

7 Children s Ministry It was a joy and privilege to attend Godly Play training at First Presbyterian Church High Point in November. After our welcome dinner, 16 adults walked upstairs into the Godly Play classroom. We were asked if we were ready, and to remove our shoes (as we would be in a sacred space). We entered what seemed to be a plain room. There were short bookshelves on three sides of us displaying some simple but beautiful materials (an ark, golden boxes, the temple, a nativity scene, a baby doll in a baptism gown, a shepherd with a gate and sheep, a church calendar circle, etc.) It seemed almost too simple. We were invited into a circle as the leader sat, awaiting our arrival. With a desert box, wooden people, stones and some yarn rivers, she told the story of Abraham and Sarah. With her eyes never leaving the story, we were drawn into the Bible in a way I d never experienced. It was inviting and mysterious as we heard the crunch of wooden people walking through sand, saw God come so close to Abraham and Abraham come so close to God that he knew what God was telling him to do. Then, our leader looked up at us and asked the wondering questions so foundational to the program. Next, we went to work. working with the stories and art supplies in the room as we desired. We put our hands on scenes from the Bible and considering our place inside. Work is followed by a feast - in our case, a cookie and water- then a personal blessing. I indeed felt blessed! Driving away from High Point I called a dear friend who happens to be a pastor and one I assumed would know about Godly Play. After sharing my excitement, she shared a powerful story from her experience. She told the story of Noah s Ark to a group of elementary children and used the wondering questions. Children shared a variety of silly and serious ideas, observations and wonderings. She added an additional question: "I wonder how this story connects to what you have been learning about Heifer Project. After some thought, a third grader, Emily, said, "It's like there is this flood of starvation in the world... and by buying an animal we are creating an ark... so that one family can make it to safety." That s faith formation. Deeper than facts, richer than inspiration. Spiritual and personal within the community of faith. If you are interested in volunteering in our Godly Play Sunday School class, please contact Jenny. We are seeking one additional teacher. Training will be provided (and telling Bible stories will enrich your faith experience!). For a complete list of volunteer opportunities within children s ministries, click here or see the bulletin board outside the church office. Thank you, church, for the gift of Godly Play at Davidson College Presbyterian Church and for continuing education for my deeper understanding. Our class has been going strong for at least 8 years thanks to the leadership of Tim Slay and many other faithful teachers. May God continue to come close! ~Jenny Alexander 4 th & 5 th Graders You are invited into worship leadership for the 4 pm Christmas Eve service, designed especially for children. We have speaking, acting, and/or singing parts to fill. Contact Jenny Alexander or click here to sign up. Dec 4 th at 9:45 am we are presenting a special Sunday School event: Chrismon Ornament Making. Children will learn about the unique Christian ornaments featured on the sanctuary tree and make their very own. Hold the date! January 16 th we will celebrate the birthday of Martin Luther King Jr. with our annual mission outing. It is a day off school, but can be a day ON for learning, helping, and good fun. Preschool & Elementary Children: You are invited to be a part of the Children s Shepherd Choir on Christmas Eve (4 pm service). Just come to the sanctuary at 3:40 for instructions. Practice the first verse of Away in a Manger and you ll be ready to visit Jesus at the manger. Additional Children s Ministry Dates (all ages welcome!) Dec 8: Preschool Christmas Program at 11:45 in the sanctuary Dec 11: White Gift Christmas Pageant. Children s choirs and youth lead this annual tradition Dec 14 at 5 pm: Last children s choir practice for Primary and Junior Choirs meet at The Pines for caroling and a celebration. December SteepleTalk

8 Youth Ministry Last Month in DCPC Youth: During the month of November we wrapped up Real Talk, our Youth Group series on prayer. In Real Talk we talked about the human tendency to treat prayer like fine china: reserved for special occasions and for VIPs. But as we took a deeper look at Jesus's instructions on how to pray we discovered that prayer is meant to be real talk with a real God and there are lots of different types of conversations we can have with God. The other big event in November was our fall retreat! We traveled down to Camp Pee Dee and spent a lot of time outdoors enjoying God's creation. Our theme for the weekend was Wired which explored the idea that God created us to love God and loves other and love ourselves and we discover that wiring through nature and scripture and community. Looking Ahead: We have some great Advent events planned to help us prepare for Christmas! We will be Doing Good during Christmas in Davidson by running a snack shack for families visiting the Congregation House to meet Santa. It would be great if each family could give an hour so that we can make our community feel right at home with us! The White Gift Service will be December 11th. Any high school youth who would like to get involved as a reader or costumed character needs to be at practice during regular youth group on December 4th and before the White Gift Service starting at 3 pm. Middle schoolers will be having a regular youth group on 12/4 where we will take a look at one of the more unknown stories of Christmas that often gets overlooked. And finally we'll have our DCPC Youth Christmas Party on 12/18! Look for more details on that soon. And before we go, at this thankful time of year we'd like to thank our group of outstanding Small Group Leaders and SGL Substitutes! SGLs commit to weekly leadership of our 7 small groups and substitutes keep things humming when an SGL is away. They are: AC Keesler Adde Sharp Bonita Beeken Catherine Bragg Christina Song Christina Tarry Diana Merrifield Eric Davis Gordon Clark Grace Cain Jack MacGuire Jay Harris John Beeken John Crawford Joseph Gallagher Lee Kiley Louise Norwood Mary Muchane Monica Galloway Payton McCall Rob Collier Wallace Tarry December SteepleTalk

9 Campus Ministry Starbucks Gift Cards sent to DCPC Freshmen As DCPC s freshmen college students experienced their first mid-semester blues, they received a Starbucks gift card to let them know their church family is thinking about them. Campus Ministry appreciates your generosity for helping support this vital program! Family Weekend Ice Cream Social The last weekend of October was filled with lovely weather and Davidson families gathering for a myriad of Family Weekend activities. Among them was the Ice Cream Social hosted by Campus Ministry for UKirk and Adopt-a- Student families. Deliciousness was had by all! Claire George-Drumheller visits with Matt Begley s family J.P. Flynn enjoys some ice cream Ukirk Leads DCPC in Worship DCPC was blessed to receive the gifts of worship from Ukirk members during all services Sunday, November 13 th. Students shared their gifts of music, liturgy and interpreting God s word through sermons. The congregation was uplifted with feelings of hope shared by these young adults. J.P. Flynn delivers the sermon at 8:30 service Clara Hare-Grogg and Samantha Dhali accompany the anthem December SteepleTalk

10 Young Adults This is not an exclusive group but it is primarily for adults between the ages of single, married, with or without kids it doesn t matter. We gather for fellowship and faith formation. Join us! During December we will gather to enjoy the gifts of the season. December 5 th We will gather at the Kerr home at 7:00 p.m. 258 Pat Stough in Davidson, NC for a time of fellowship and a Christmas Movie. Bring your favorite holiday appetizer or snack to share and your own beverage. Join us on December 21 st at 6:30 p.m. at the DCPC Congregation House as we spread Christmas Joy by singing Christmas Carols throughout the streets of Davidson. If you have ideas to share please send them on to ralexander@dcpc.org. Faith and Families We believe that families are up against a lot in today's world. It is important for parents to have the support, the information, and the resources that they need to be faithful followers of Jesus Christ and to help their children grow in faith. Welcome to Faith and Families - a community of parents at Davidson College Presbyterian Church. Click here to view past Faith & Family Newsletters on our website. Presbyterian Woman As winter goes on, we think about those who are struggling to cope with the cold weather. Lydia's Loft in Huntersville is one of the biggest clothing banks in the region, assisting thousands of needy families referred from other service agencies each year. As you clear out the old and put new items in your closets, please consider donating any gently used (or new) pieces of warm winter clothing, coats, bed linens and blankets (clean and in good condition) in the marked collection bins throughout the month of January, in the hall near the church office. Here is what is especially needed: Brand New Underwear and Socks (all sizes - children through adult and plus sizes as well) New or Gently Used Towels and Sheets This project is being coordinated by Women's Circle 7. Please contact Anne Cooper with any questions at annescooper@att.net. Men s Ministry We have two weekly opportunities for men to gather for fellowship and study. Our Brindisi Men s Bible Study meets Tuesday mornings from 8 9 a.m. in the DCPC Parlor. Each week the group is led by one of its members as they study scripture together and discuss its meaning for our lives. This fall they will study the Book of Acts. Call the church office for information about curriculum. Our Friday morning group meets from 7-8 a.m. in the Parlor at DCPC (note new location). We will take a break from reading the book Outlaw Christian by Jacqueline Bussie in order to spend four weeks in an Advent series during the four Fridays of Advent (December 2, 9, 16, and 23). Join us for coffee, prayer, study and stimulating conversation. December SteepleTalk

11 Music Ministry A DAY FOR DANCING, by Lloyd Pfautsch, will be presented by our choirs on Dec. 18 at the 8:30 and 11:00 services. This delightful work presents mostly medieval English Christmas carol words set to either new music, or a new interpretation of the traditional tune. It is accompanied by woodwinds and percussion. Did you know that "carol" originally meant to dance in a ring? Carol literature and music are truly of folk origin; they are simple, direct in expression, joyful, and popular. Thus to dance to carols is entirely appropriate and in keeping with their Medieval heritage. We are forming an intergenerational group to learn a simple dance for one or two of the carols. If you would be interested, please contact Jane Cain immediately. Male and female, ages eight through adult, all are welcome. CHRISTMAS VESPERS and MESSIAH SING-ALONG The Davidson College Music Department and the Chaplain's office offer a service of lessons and carols on the first Sunday night of each December at 7:30 in our sanctuary. It is led by the College Chorale and a professional brass quintet. This year our Tower Ringers will be playing part of the prelude and one of the carols. Come early to this popular service. On Tuesday, Dec. 6 at 7:30 you are invited to a Messiah sing-along in Duke Family Performance Hall on the Davidson campus. Bring your own score, or borrow one there, or just come to listen. The North Carolina Baroque Orchestra provides accompaniment. CHILDREN'S CHOIR CAROLING The Junior and Primary choirs will sing at the Pines Health Care on Wed., Dec. 14 at their regular rehearsal time of 5:00. Parents will take them directly to the Health Care entrance and pick them up there. We will finish in time for families to attend Wednesday Night Live dinner. Congregational Retreat January 20-22, 2017 Congregational Retreat Click here to register online. Worldchanging 101: Faithful and effective engagement with a hurting world The notion of vocation, or calling, comes up again and again in the Bible, but what if there is no burning bush? What if we are not awakened in the night by the voice of God? As people who seek to be guided by the teachings and example of Jesus, we are called to have a positive influence on the world around us, to do the work of love in the world. But what, specifically, is ours to do? And what isn t? David LaMotte does not claim to have the answers to these questions, but he brings a different set of questions than the ones we most often ask, and some practical tools for discerning what it looks like for us to live faithfully in the world, both as individuals and as a community of faith. Click here for more details. Keynote Speaker David LaMotte is a professional musician, author, speaker, and workshop leader. He recently completed his sixth and final year on the AFSC Nobel Peace Prize Nominating Task Group, and is the founder and president of PEG Partners, Inc, which supports literacy, critical thought, and artistic expression in Guatemala. His recent speaking engagements have included a presentation at the PC(USA) Mission to the United Nations, a peace conference at the Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh, and speaking for the 2016 baccalaureate service at Columbia Theological Seminary. His most recent book, Worldchanging 101: Challenging the Myth of Powerlessness, is being used as a textbook at universities in the United States and Australia, and his most recent CD, The Other Way Around, debuted at #3 on the Folk-DJ music chart. Between concerts, lectures, and workshops, he has led over 3000 events, in fifty states and on five continents. He lives in Black Mountain, NC with his wife, eight-year-old son, and four chickens. December SteepleTalk

12 Stewardship We are happy to report that, as of November 14, 253 pledges, totaling $1,123,571, have been returned. Over half of the pledges returned so far have indicated an increase over 2016 and many have been for 10% or more. We are off to a great start, but we are well short of our goal of $1,450,000 in pledged income for Pledged income is the church s most reliable and largest by far revenue source and if we do not reach our goal of $1,450,000, the Session will have to make corresponding and painful cuts in proposed expenditures for To those who have pledged, thank you. If you haven t yet returned your pledge card, we need you to do so as soon as possible. The Session appreciates the generosity of the congregation. Charitable contributions made from your IRA; can this tax break work for you? Are you older than 70 1/2 with an IRA? Are you frustrated because the IRS requires you to take your annual " required minimum distribution (RMD) that you don't really need, and then pay taxes on it? Did you know it s possible to direct a portion of your taxable RMD as a contribution to the church and not have to pay taxes on that amount? If you intend to make a contribution to the church before year end (or perhaps you re planning to pay your 2017 pledge to the church before this year end), and if you re taking a distribution from your traditional IRA or inherited IRA, this income tax provision could serve you well. Discuss with your CPA or tax advisor first because a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) must go directly from your IRA custodian to the recipient and has an annual dollar cap. Regular withdrawals from your IRA are treated as taxable income, while a QCD is non-taxable and lowers your Adjusted Gross Income on which a number of other tax calculations are based. Contributing to the church in this manner enables you to meet your charitable goals while avoiding payment of income tax on the distribution. In a variety of circumstances a QCD might serve higher or lower income taxpayers, both those who itemize deductions and those who do not. Your QCD contribution must be received by the church in 2016 to count for this year, so you should begin the process as soon as you are able. The requirements for a QCD are simple but very specific, so be sure to consult your IRA custodian and your tax advisor before doing this. YEAR END DONATIONS: In order for your contributions to count in 2016, they must be received by Trish Jones or Harriett Rosebrough in the church business office (room 111) no later than noon on Friday, December 30th. Contributions postmarked by December 31st will also be counted toward Please check the church calendar to see when the office will be open over the Christmas holidays season. To pay your pledge by credit card, go to click on the Give tab and click on Online Giving. Then click on the Give Online box and follow the prompts. If you are expecting a stock, donor advised fund, or IRA donation to count toward your 2016 contributions, please contact Trish Jones at pjones@dcpc.org or x 30. December SteepleTalk

13 Community Missions Thanks for a wonderful Day of Service Thanks to you we exceeded our goal! More than 200 members and friends from DCPC joined us to serve others in the community in the name of Jesus Christ. May we continue to serve others through the year as Christ taught us. December SteepleTalk

14 Helping with FLOOD RELIEF in North and South Carolina and Beyond PRAY. Daily pray for the individuals, families, and communities who have lost so much as a result of Hurricane Matthew and other natural disasters. GIVE. Make a contribution through whatever means you can. DCPC is collected funds that will be used for the work of Presbyterian Disaster Assistance. You may learn more about what PDA is doing and may also give directly to PDA by visiting situation/hurricane-matthew-response/. ACT. We are working with PDA to schedule a work trip. Charlotte Presbytery s Disaster Response Team is still collecting CLEAN-UP BUCKETS. They have collected about 200 toward their 500 BUCKET goal. DCPC has sent 21 thanks to your generosity. We will continue to collect items and completed buckets in JETTON HALL at DCPC. You may also purchase any of the items in a bucket and bring them to DCPC if you are unable to complete an entire bucket. There are other types of kits that also need to be assembled for the work of PDA. If you would like that information, click here Global Missions December SteepleTalk

15 Global Mission Highlights Jubilee House-CDCA Global Mission would like the congregation to know where and how the funds you donate are used so we will be introducing you to some of the organizations we support. This month we are introducing you to Jubilee House- Center for Development in Central America. Many of you may be familiar with this group as they originated just north of Davidson in Statesville, NC in 1979 and we have heard and met with members of their staff over many years. They are offering an alternative gift opportunity over the holidays if you would like to support them directly and we hope you will visit their website to learn more about them and some of your pledge monies assist around the world. Many of our teams to visit our partners in Nicaragua have been able to visit their offices, farm and health facilities while there and would be happy to discuss if you are interested. Jubilee House Community Center for Development in Central America (JHC-CDCA) Nicaragua is the third poorest country in the Americas. In Nicaragua, we work with poor communities, helping them to improve people s lives. The Center for Development in Central America (CDCA) is a project of the Jubilee House Community, Inc., (JHC), a non-profit organization. It has 501(c)(3) status in the U.S. and International Mission status in Nicaragua. Our goal is to work in partnership with communities and cooperatives to facilitate empowerment. This enables them to find their own solutions to the problems they identify and connects them with resources to solve their problems. Our job is not to tell others what to do, but to first listen to the needs and then respond as we are able. The CDCA s mission is to enable communities to become self-sufficient, sustainable, democratic entities. In 1994, our work began in Ciudad Sandino, the most densely populated city in Nicaragua, and one of the poorest. Ciudad Sandino has long been the dumping ground for refugees from natural disasters and violence. Invited to work with the poor in Ciudad Sandino, we work in four main areas, integrating appropriate technology into each of them. These areas are: Sustainable Agriculture Sustainable Economic Development Health Care Education Dona Conchita and Dr Don Today we continue to work with local community leadership, building partnerships, and listening. Our sustainable agriculture and sustainable economic development projects extend across the western side of Nicaragua. Our health work focuses primarily on families living within Ciudad Sandino, while also reaching out to include those living in neighboring rural communities. Meanwhile, our educational outreach has extended into the United States, Canada, Northern Ireland, Ireland, and Taiwan. We are open to being more global. We work to connect Nicaraguans with others from around the world who have access to all types of resources. Financial resources, professional expertise, time & energy, creative problem-solving, and physical assistance are all needed. We hope you will help. December SteepleTalk

16 Davidson College Presbyterian Church Directory dcpc.org 100 North Main Street, P.O. Box 337, Davidson North Carolina Office Mon. - Fri. 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Phone: ; Fax: Pastor Lib McGregor Simmons, x20 Associate Pastor Robert Alexander, Discipleship & Mission, x25 Parish Associates Mary Margaret Porter, Sr. Adult Ministry,x34 Claire George Drumheller, Campus Ministry x15 Administrative Assistants Rhonda Boggs, x29 Julie Nardella, x10 Church Administrator Harriett Rosebrough, x19 Bookkeeper Trish Jones, x30 Director of Music Jane Cain, x 14 Associate Director of Music David Brinson, x 17 Director of Congregational Life Stephanie Rollans, x12 Staff Associate for Youth Ministry Matt Wiggins x16 Staff Associate for Children s Ministry Jenny Alexander x13 Custodian Sid Wishon, x 28 Kitchen Manager/Chef Betsy Verhey, Director of Preschool Kristin Clark, x26 or Asst. Director of Preschool Hunter Bussie, x26 or Clerk of Session Van Lear Logan, Administration & Personnel Chair Chris Ahearn, Greg Krystalowych, Faith Formation Planning Chair Sarah Henry, Community Missions Chair John Bosak, Finance Chair John Woods, Global Mission Chair Rosemary Klein, Membership Chair Lovenia Summerville, Property Chair J.D. Densmore, Planning Chair Alice Sudduth, Stewardship Chair Jennie Clifton, Worship Chair Mark Newbold, Youth Chair Becky Montgomery, Campus Ministry Chair Charles Houck, Congregational Care Chair Holly Moton, Jim Shaw, Susan Krebs, Fellowship Chair Kim Beard, SAGES Sharon Sells, Endowment Chair Jim Brueggemann, Stephen Ministry Alice Sudduth, stephenministry@dcpc.org Worship Service Schedule 8:30 a.m. Lingle Chapel 9:45 a.m. Lingle Chapel 11:00 a.m. Sanctuary Sunday School 9:45 Covenant Class Congregation House Malone y- Parlor The Pines Marshall Room Jubilee Upper Room Sunday School 11:00 Faith & Life 201 Child care provided dropoff 15 minutes before start of service(s). Nursery (birth- age 2) is downstairs, room 14. Preschool (ages 3-5) is by the ramp door, room 118. Hospitalization If you or your loved one are in an area hospital, call the Church Office to notify one of the Pastors. Baptisms & Weddings The use of the Church for Baptisms, Wedding, and other events are available to active members. Contact the Church Office. Career Transition Davidson Career Transition Group meets the first and third Wednesdays at 10:00 a.m. in room 216 at Davidson United Methodist Church. The group is free and open to those seeking new jobs. Contact DCPC member Jay Neal with questions ( ) As we pray for peace in God s world, we also remember in prayer those serving our country: Jonathan Burris Carter Chandler Bert Concepcion David Coon James Cowan Matthew Cowan Justin Davis Bradley Granville Clark Mabry Jen Larson Miller Robert Morgan Robert Proffit Andrew Scott Brion Stroud Henry White Intercessory Prayer Prayer Cards are available in the pew racks and at the church information center. Please place your request for prayer in the offering plate. You may also submit requests online by clicking the link on the website ( Requests are made known to those gathered for silent intercessory prayer on Wednesday mornings at 11:30 in the Parlor. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to join in prayer at that hour in the parlor or wherever you are. December SteepleTalk