the Ambassador 1 First Presbyterian Church Pastor B. Gordon Edwards Associate Pastor Leah R. Hrachovec Director of Youth & Family Ministries Jenna Campbell Youth Ministry Assistant Wyeth Leslie Older Adult Ministry Coordinator Margy Knox University Coordinator Jill Chancellor Pastor Emeritus James Struthers Director of Music & Chancel Choir Heather Lanners Organist Rebecca G. te Velde Church Administrator Cathy Fairbanks Financial Secretary Dallas Barnes Christian Education Assistant Lucy Newlin Custodian Mike Flowers Childcare Coordinator Kristen Kulling Building Supervisor Peter Thomas Church Office MAIN: (405) 372-5580 FAX: (405) 372-2089 Web Address www.stillwaterfpc.org AN EDWARDS EPISTLE O ur patterns change as a new academic year commences. Our routines are altered as we orient ourselves once again. We adapt to more traffic and anticipate activities of the Fall: meeting new teachers and classmates; band contests and performances; two-a-days for teams; back into the ballet shoes; academic discipline; and, a break in the heat and drought. Change affects our lives in small and large ways and we are challenged to adapt. (Adapting is a daily process for your church staff with the renovations of the building this summer; we are eager for patterns to settle and return to more routine ways.) At our annual meeting last January, you included within my Call a six to eight week Sabbatical in 2011. After several months of exploring and inquiring about various possibilities, in June the Spirit began to quickly create an opportunity to return to the Middle East (Palestine, Israel and Jordan) and connect with our Christian brothers and sisters there and have some interfaith conversations with the Jewish and Muslim communities. The Session last week approved my request to be on Sabbatical leave this September 26 through November 13. The Evangelical Lutheran Church Bishop in Jordan and The Holy Land, The Rt. Rev. Dr. Munib Younan, has extended an invitation to work through his office and with his staff. Since being there in 2004 and 2005, my heart has been restless to return and to hear how best the Christian community here can be more faithful members of Christ s Body with them in light of current political and faith dynamics. I am eager to hear their stories and to share the presence of the Risen Christ with them. Their faithful witness to me of the strength of the Holy Spirit continues to inspire my faith after these years. For me, the reconciliation of peoples and faiths present in the Middle East are central for world peace. So, this requires some adaptability in our community of faith, as well. I know you will continue to assist our staff and officers in carrying out our ministry. It is a difficult time (when wouldn t it be?) to be gone as a new year of church school starts in newly renovated spaces, as the season of stewardship takes place and as plans for Advent and Christmas develop. I am grateful for this opportunity, for my competent, trustworthy colleagues and for all of you. I am confident the Spirit of the Risen Christ will be at work with you and with me during this time. To God be the glory! Grace and Peace!
the Ambassador 2 First Presbyterian Church PRAYER CONCERNS Rejoice always, pray constantly, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. - 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 RSV Jean Ames Kay Baker Sarah Barr (G. Smith) Twink Barr (G. Smith) Will Barr (G. Smith) Steve Bender (Arquitt) Bill Beindorf (Gumm) Julie Bills LeNell Bowen (Myers) Leon Boyer Wanda Bradley Chowning Brake (Brake) Robert Branson (Frohock) Sharon Cape (Shaw) Keenan Carter (Kraemer) Lanna Carter (Boyer) Audley Cavanaugh (Alspach) Richard Cavett (Boyer) Allison Christy (Breuninger) Abby Clapp (Clapp) Mike Clemens (Clemens) Lisa Cook Don Cooper Dan Condit (Carter/Shaw) Sharon Corley (Corley) Sue Cornish (Stiegler) Rick Coutant (Olson) Mildred Crayton (Ward) Margaret Cross Pete Davis Lori Fagan Carol Fairbanks (Fairbanks) Eryn Fawcett (Stone) Will Foubert (Wilkinson) Robert Gibson Rick Graham Bud Gray (Breuninger) Hunter Griffin (Jones) Barbara Gunter (Edwards) Norma Hall Adelia Hanson (Bruce) Karl Harman (Schlais) Dorothy Hayes (Piersall) Nelda Hershberger (Knox) Bill Holland (Holland) Keith Humphrey (Good) Jim Huwe (Baker) Shannon James (Stone) Kim Jenkins (PW Bowling) Gay Johnson June Johnson Cindy Johnston (Myers/Kelly) Noah Kiser (Reding) Lori Jo Knoles (Wilkinson) Sarah Krivy (Hensley) Suzi Kucko (Woods) Jim Leonard (Plaxico) John Lowrey (Houston) Todd Lowry (Anaya/Boyer) Tom Lutjens (Beckstrom) Patty Manning (Cook) Ray & Helen Matoy Rhonda McKee (Wilkinson) Philip Meadows Margaret Meyer (Brake/Taylor) Melvin Miller (Miller) Laura Mitchell (Kulling) Cindy Nelson Tom Pogue (Schlais) Rich Poynter (Cook) Bill Raun (Stiegler) Allen Reding Jack Riley Leslie Roark (Frohock) Betty Scott Steve Shedrick (Gumm) David Smith (Cooper) Grace Smith Mary Lee Smith (Parsons) Naomi Stevenson (A. Houston) Gerald Stotts Betty Stratton Bob & Jenny Tanton (A. Houston) Gayle Thomas Rhonda Tolliver (Newlin) Jim Trapp Dan Tripp (Baker) Don Tripp (Baker) Petra & Martin Vinar (Henderson) Charles Walker Lucille Wickstead Alicia Wilhelm (Preschool) Nona Wilhm (PW Bowling) Roland Wilkinson (Wilkinson) Tracy Wilkinson (Aresco) Bettie Wilson Lynn Witzen (Stewart) Cathey Wollenberg (Ewing) LARGER CHURCH: Synod of the Mid-Atlantic (DE, MD, NC, VA) Synod of the Northeast (CT, MA, ME, NH, NJ, NY, RI, VT) SORROW Family of Becky Thedford Furtado Quinn Baldwin and family in the death of his grandmother, Frances Quinn Marsha Chapman in the death of her daughter and grandchildren Family of Ellis Brown, brother-in-law of Margy Knox Family of Evelyn McDonald Family of Ernest Bradley Family of Shay Ross, brother-in-law of Mike Flowers Glen & Betty Bays in the death of their son, John Family of Samir Tanious, brother-inlaw of Steve Stone Family of Katie Reavis Womack Family of Jordan Morris BIRTHS July 18 Collyn Rae Corley daughter of Ky & Jessica granddaughter of Katie & Phil August 1 Jeanne May Stone daughter of Corey & Vandy granddaughter of Steve & Cheryl August 16 Gibson Todd Hensley son of Tyler & Jason brother of Rylee nephew of Hanna & Aaron Hensley MARRIAGES July 29 Jordan Baldwin & Dennis Anderson Names in parentheses indicate the church family member requesting prayer for a non-member. Please notify the church office if persons may be removed from the Prayer List. Thanks!
the Ambassador 3 First Presbyterian Church ANNIVERSARIES 30th Donna & Edwin Koeppe August 15 63rd Madaline & Bob Harding August 13 IN THE SERVICE Members & family members of our church family who have been deployed in service to our country: SPC Micheal Casteel (SPD) SGT Anthony Gillilan (Savage) SGT William Hedrick (Savage) SGT Ricard Inciarte (SPD) LTC Shannon Jordan (SPD) SPC Joshua Taff (E. Williams) CPT Mark Weber (Arquitt) MG Tod Wolters (Wolters) (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) Praise and Thanksgiving for the safe return from deployment: SPC Erika Stormont (Stangl) MSG Steve Morwood (Morwood) STAFF NEWS Associate Pastor Leah Hrachovec will be out of the office on vacation August 18-21. Pastor Gordon Edwards will be out of the office on vacation September 11-25. IN MEMORIAM Ernest Bradley Joined First Presbyterian Church September 26, 1966 Entered the Church Triumphant June 23, 2011 Katie Reavis Womack Joined First Presbyterian Church February 9, 2010 Entered the Church Triumphant August 14, 2011 Jesus said, I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me shall never die. WORSHIP SCHEDULE Due to the renovation projects, we continue with one service of worship at 9:30 a.m. followed by Fellowship Time at 10:30 a.m. in Fellowship Hall through Sunday, September 4. Following summer worship services at 9:30 a.m. there will be a time of fellowship and goodies hosted by various groups in Fellowship Hall. Hosts are: August 28 Chancel Choir and Worship & Music Committee September 4 Adult Education On Sunday, September 11 we return to two services: 8:30 and 11:00 a.m. We will gather in the Sanctuary at 9:30 for Rally Day activities followed by tours of the renovated spaces and a time of food and fellowship. Church School classes for all ages begin Sunday, September 18. Sunday, August 21 Potluck Summer Lunch (see back cover) WELCOME, WYETH LESLIE! We welcome to the staff Wyeth Leslie as our new Youth Ministry Assistant! Wyeth will be working with PYG on Sunday evenings and with our Mid-High Small Group Bible study. Hello First Presbyterian Church! My name is Wyeth Leslie, I am 22 years old and currently wrapping up college here at OSU. I m originally from Edmond, Oklahoma where I attended UCO before transferring here to Stillwater. I m continuing to work towards a major in English, which will be happening fairly soon barring any last minute impulsive major changes. In my spare time, I enjoying being with my close friends, playing guitar, reading, writing, and taking pictures in and around Stillwater. Upon post graduation and entering the real world, I hope to be able to do long term mission work abroad, specifically in Japan. I love working with youth as they can be so honest and engaging in actively exploring the Gospel and the world around them. They can also be very ignored and I would like the chance to help teens find their voices. I had the chance recently to meet and hang out with many of the church s youth during a Saturday hangout and I was blown away by the politeness, respect, and energy that the kids have here at First Presbyterian. I am greatly looking forward to getting to know the youth and everyone else in the church better as this position begins. Thank you all for allowing me this opportunity to continue growing in maturity and in Christ. Sincerely, Wyeth Leslie
the Ambassador 4 First Presbyterian Church CHILD/YOUTH TEACHERS TRAINING Sunday, August 28 10:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m. (lunch will be served) South End of Fellowship Hall For all 2011-2012 Sunday school teachers, SpiritLink shepherds and teachers, and Children & Worship volunteers. Get equipped by examining topics which will help you have a successful year with your class. We ll look at the big picture and goal of teaching, as well as spend time with teaching logistics (calendars, supplies, class lists, classroom management, etc.). Please RSVP to the Church Office so we know how many to prepare for (372-5580 or fpchurch1889@swbell.net). Child Care will be provided let us know when you RSVP how many children you will have in child care. CHILD PROTECTION POLICY TRAINING For all interested in working with children/ youth at FPC Sunday, August 28, 2011 1:00-2:00pm South side of Fellowship Hall This training is for anyone currently working with or who would like to volunteer with children/youth at FPC. Whether you work on an on-going basis with them or you just want to volunteer every once in a while, we can create a safer environment if we have trained volunteers. The training is good for three years (if you have attended in the last three years, you do not need to attend). MOVE IN CELEBRATION Wednesday, September 7 5:30 p.m. The summer s renovations are nearing the end and we need many volunteers to help us move back in these beautiful spaces. Meet in the Fellowship Hall for a quick meal, and then it s off to moving in! Bring your whole family - all ages can contribute! We ll have jobs for everyone: moving boxes, organizing, dusting, etc. It will be a fun time of fellowship and celebration for the new spaces 9/11 COMMUNITY OBSERVANCE An interfaith community observance of the 10th Anniversary of the September 11, 2001 World Trade Center/Pentagon/Flight 93 tragedies is being planned for Sunday, September 11, at 3:30 p.m. on the oval and lawn at the Stillwater Public Library (where the Community Band Concerts are held). The observance will include representatives of the Christian, Muslim, and Jewish communities and of the first responder services. This is an opportunity for everyone to recommit to be peacemakers within a world in which the inhumanity of terrorism, violence, and enmity creates pain and suffering. Let us affirm that the children of God are makers of peace. (The observance will be moved inside the Library if the weather so dictates.) MOVING DAY HELP REQUESTS The Embracing the Future (ETF) team is pleased to announce that the renovation of the preschool and the children/youth ministry spaces on the second floor of the church is on schedule and nearing completion. That signals the need for volunteers to help move furniture and equipment from the current temporary storage spaces: the choir room (second floor) and the multi-purpose room (MPR) back into their assigned spaces. The preschool program will commence on Tuesday, September 6 and FPC s Rally Day will take place on Sunday, September 11 during the Sunday School hour. Of necessity, the bulk of the moving work will take place over Labor Day weekend: Friday-Monday, September 2-5. However, some cleaning and organizing of furniture and other items can begin before that. Thus, volunteers are requested to contact the Church Office, 372-5580, to indicate the times you could be present to help. Even if you can only work one or two hours into your busy schedule, that would be most helpful. The congregation and the community will be most pleased and amazed at the transformation of our church home for our current and future ministries. The help of congregational members and friends with the transfer of the church s inventory of furniture, equipment, and accessories back to their rightful spaces will be greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance for responding to this call.
the Ambassador 5 First Presbyterian Church FROM THE MAIL BOX: My family, Libby, & I want to thank all of you for your support, thoughts, and prayers during Becky s sickness and ultimate death. She brought much light and love into many hearts during this time. The service was wonderful, the reception so nice, and a special thanks to Gordon, Leah, and the Second Mile Ladies. - Tom Thedford and Libby Stott Thank you for your prayers for Ellis. Although he didn t recover, his death was so easy. I appreciate being the recipient of a prayer shawl. I feel it will be very comforting at times of solitude. Margy loves the Stillwater Presbyterian Church and feels so much a part of the activities. I pray that God will bless your ministry and those you pray for each day. Sincerely, - Nellie Brown (sister of Margy Knox) Thanks so much. A simple act of kindness has a beauty all its own. (inscription on greeting card - ED) I cannot begin to tell you of the joy I felt when you shared the prayer shawl with my friend. I told Margy that my New Jersey friend had expressed a desire for a Prayer Shawl. Peggy, my friend, is what I call a rose that has grown from a tiny bud to a full blooming rose. It is beautiful to watch God s work in people. Peggy has lived with many difficulties and has found God s work to be the answer for peace in her heart. God has used her as a tool for her family to draw closer to him and each to do his work in their own way. Thanks again and may God continue to do his will through the Prayer Shawl Ministry. - Gale Hansen Thanks for the prayer shawl. It was laid on his feet immediately. Everyone was amazed when I told them about the Prayer Shawl Ministry at First Presbyterian Church. We thank Leah for driving to St. Anthony s in the triple degree temperature to deliver the shawl. We thank you for the prayers and keep them coming. - Gerald & Nevalyn Stotts I did not realize how touching the Prayer Shawl Ministry truly is until Gordon offered to send one of the beautiful shawls to my dear friend Onnalee Harrels. Onnalee has been ill since she had a liver transplant and received repair surgery recently. Thank you for being such a supporting Church family. With love and appreciation - Bob & Madaline Harding Thank you for the Peace Candle! We join you in the prayer for Peace! - First Presbyterian of Galion, Ohio Thanks to all the folks who brought food after my surgery. Edwin & I survived well because of your kindness. A special contribution has been made in gratitude and appreciation for you to the compassionate meal fund. - Lisa Cook Thank you so much for the two beautiful prayer shawls you made for us. John started his treatments today at OU Cancer Center and the shawls came long with us. It is so nice to feel surrounded by love and prayer, especially at a time such as this. We went into this journey knowing God would provide for us, and He has, in working through your thoughts and prayers. We are so very blessed in so many ways, and we THANK YOU for being one of them. We believe this is a powerful ministry, and we thank you for all you have done for us, as well as for many, many others. Thanks and Blessings, - Heidi and John Castro and Family. Dear First Presbyterian Church Members, On behalf of the staff and clients, I would like to thank you for collecting and donating prizes for MPower. Every day we play bingo at lunch and each client wins a bingo prize. The activity and prizes bring much joy to our workplace and without your gifts it wouldn t be possible. Thank you for your donations. - Amy Spiva, MPower On behalf of the Stillwater Community Health Center, I would like to than you for your generous gift. With your help, we can continue to serve our low income clients, and continue to fill our pharmacy needs. Thank you again! - Debbie Traugott, Director Stillwater Community Health Center Thank you for allowing Payne County Youth Services the use of your Fellowship Hall for our June 13-16 Within My Reach class. We appreciate your generosity as we strive to reach the youth and families of Payne County. - Janet Fultz, Executive Director, Payne County Youth Services; and Angie Freeny, Within My Reach Coordinator Thank you for helping the Stillwater Middle School yearbook. Your purchase of 14 donated yearbooks helped us greatly. We appreciate your support and generosity! The Stillwater Middle School Yearbook Staff thanks you again for all you kindness! Sincerely - SMS Yearbook Staff (continued, next page)
the Ambassador 6 First Presbyterian Church FROM THE MAIL BOX, CONTINUED Thank you for your donations to Dwight Mission totaling $1172.95. Where would we be without the generous people who support us with their prayers and financial contributions? Dwight Mission values your support and will be good stewards of all that it receives. We look forward to your continued support - Peter Newbury, Executive Director Agency for Dwight Mission (Editors note: These funds purchased supplies for the Dwight work weekend at the beginning of the summer including lumber for a deck project). On behalf of the individuals who have suffered domestic violence and sexual assault, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the First Presbyterian Church for their donation to our agency. It is truly appreciated and will make 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 will allow us to respond to some of the special needs of our clients. Sincerely, - Ralph Lindsey, Executive Director, Stillwater Domestic Violence Services CONNECT: A SERIES FOR FAMILIES Tuesdays, September 20, 27, and October 4 5:30-7:30 p.m. ~ Hospitality Area Dear Love Feast Ministry Partners, My name is Kyle Anderson and I am the new Associate Pastor of the Stillwater First United Methodist Church. Thank you on behalf of all those who have received a meal prepared by your hands The Love Feast is truly and ecumenical ministry, bringing together a number of churches and organizations with the common passion for meeting the needs of the underprivileged and the hungry of Stillwater. This ministry would not exist without your support and hard work. Once again, thank you for your ministry and your continued dedication and contributions to the Love Feast. I look forward to serving with you here in the Stillwater community for years to come. Blessings, - Pastor Kyle Anderson EXPECT YOUR CALL Do not be surprised when you receive a call from an Elder. The members of the Session are attempting to contact every household within the congregation in the next few weeks encouraging you to participate in Rally/Celebration Day September 11. This is, also, an opportunity for you to express your hopes for the ministries of First Presbyterian and to share with them any concerns. (Before the Elder calls, reflect on God s call to you as a disciple and your response to that call; you could share some of your reflections with the Elder about how God s call to you is related to First Presbyterian Church.) Open to all families in the church, Presbyterian Preschool, and the Stillwater community with children ages 6 and under. Connect through Fellowship Enjoy a free, kid-friendly meal with your family. Connect with other families in the church and the community. Learning Learn about faith formation and important child development findings presented by Holly Hartman, Director of Presbyterian Preschool, and Jenna Campbell, Director of Youth and Family Ministry. This Fall s theme: Questions Kids Ask. Does God have a Daddy? Is Jesus dead or alive? How can God be everywhere? Why do we close our eyes when we pray? We ll explore the questions kids ask about faith and look at our response through a theological and developmental lens. Play Children will enjoy playing together in child care with supervision by trained adults. Each session will end together as a family with storytelling by Nancy Simpson. Please RSVP to the Church Office, to youthandfamily@swbell.net, or online at www.stillwaterfpc.org/connect by the Monday before the Tuesday event so we may plan appropriately for dinner and child care. We are able to accommodate children 8 and under in child care.
the Ambassador 7 First Presbyterian Church FIRST WEDNESDAYS AT THE WELL Due to the renovations, the Well will begin in OCTOBER. Every first Wednesday, we will gather to explore our faith together and enjoy fellowship and learning together in an intergenerational community. 5:30-6:15 p.m. Dinner Together (you don t even have to cook!) 6:15-7:30 p.m. Intergenerational Learning/Worship This year s theme for the Well: The Epic Story Gather with all generations to explore God s story together. We ll trace the narrative of God s big story, focusing on the Old Testament this year. October 5 - Creation November 2 - The Fall December 7 - Advent Spirituality Center A special note to families with young children: we would love to have your family attend the Well. We want to cover your children (and you as parents!) with love and understand that children need to move around and talk. Our programming is planned with the audience in mind - all ages! Children are invited to plug into the program as they are able or we ll have a few children s materials in the Fellowship Hall (so they will still be a part of the larger group) if they need to focus their energies in a more age-appropriate way. Of course, child care is always provided should you prefer that option. We hope you ll give it a try and let your children experience life in the community of faith. PLEASE CONSIDER STEPHEN MINISTRY TRAINING Class begins October 3, 2011 Our next class of Stephen Ministry training begins October 3. The class is a continuation of the ecumenical Stephen Ministry training provided by our congregation along with St. Francis Xavier and St. John Catholic parishes, First United Methodist Church, and Sunnybrook Christian Church. These classes prepare persons to be involved in care-giving ministry within their own participating congregation. The class will meet on Monday evenings from 6:30-9:00 p.m. for 20 weeks. The cost of materials is $50; scholarships are available. Stephen Ministers provide on-going, one-to-one Christian care to persons experiencing difficult times in life such as illness, divorce, job loss, grief, etc. The training gives participants knowledge into such situations along with listening and communication skills, spiritual tools such as prayer and scripture, assertiveness and boundaries training as well as how to know when to refer to medical or mental health professionals. The skills learned in Stephen Ministry benefit participants in their own family relationships as well as caring relationships among fellow church members or persons from the community. Please prayerfully consider joining in the upcoming Stephen Ministry training class. Contact Kay Stewart, Training Coordinator, at 377-5310 or kay.stewart@suddenlink.com for more information or speak to one of our Pastors who are also Stephen Leaders. FALL 2011 MEN S RETREAT!! The second Men s Retreat will take place on September 23-25 at Western Hills Guest Ranch near Hulbert, Oklahoma. Plans are to meet at the church and travel to Western Hills on Friday September 23. Activities such as fishing, hiking, golf, horseback riding, board games, and cards will be mixed in with spiritual activities on Saturday. Sunday morning worship will conclude the weekend s activities. Registration for the retreat is $75 and includes two nights at Western Hills Guest Ranch and four meals. More details will be available closer to retreat time. Fill out the registration form and return it to the Church Office with the fee by Sunday September 11. See you at Western Hills!
the Ambassador 8 First Presbyterian Church PYG CALENDAR August 19-20 4:30p-7:00a Stillwater Relay for Life @ Sunnybrook Christian Church 24 6:00-6:45p Sweet Treats at Orange Leaf Yogurt (506 N. Main) (stop in for some fellowship mid-week!) 31 6:00-6:45p Sweet Treats at Orange Leaf September 4 No PYG Labor Day Weekend 11 5:00-7:00p PYG Kick-Off and Watermelon Olympics 14 5:30-7:00p Mid High Small Group 16 7:00-11:00p Friday Night Live 18 5:00-7:00p PYG and Parent Check In 20 7:00-9:00p Senior High Small Group 25 5:00-6:30p PYG 28 5:30-7:00p Mid High Small Group PYG WATERMELON OLYMPICS AND WELCOME BACK COOKOUT Sunday, September 11 5:00-7:00 p.m. Front Lawn/Courtyard It s back to school and back to PYG! All youth 6th- 12th grade are invited for a fun time of Watermelon Olympics and yummy food. We ll provide the all the fixin s for hamburgers, drinks, and paper products - please bring a side item to share. Wear clothes you don t mind getting sticky! PYG AND PARENT CHECK IN MEETING Sunday, September 18 5:00-7:00 p.m. ~ New Youth Suite Youth-bring your parents! Parents-bring your youth! We hope to use this time with the parents to highlight the year and go over important dates, discuss ways you can be involved in the faith life of your child, and unveil exciting new plans for youth ministry. Parents-please bring your calendar to this meeting. Some of you parents have had kids in youth group for a while, and some of you are new to this. We ask for new and experienced alike to be present at this September 18 meeting. We have a great schedule planned for the year, including many ways for youth to build community and continue to grow in faith. Come and find out how you can be a part of this! PRESBYTERIAN YOUTH GROUP (PYG) For all Youth grades 6-12 New Youth Suite (2nd floor) Sundays, 5:00-6:30 p.m. PYG is a time for youth to explore faith in community together. At PYG, youth can expect music, snacks, games, group building activities, hanging-out time (relaxed discussion), Bible study, and prayer. Service and mission, retreats, and trips are also offered throughout the year. SMALL GROUP BIBLE STUDIES 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: Read: Think: Pray: Live like our Lord Jesus. Mid High Small Group (6th-8th grades): 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month, 5:30-7:00 p.m. at the Razook s house (5116 W. 8th). First one begins Wednesday, September 14. Sr. High Small Group (9th-12th grades): Schedule TBD. Come to the first meeting on Tuesday, September 20, 7:00-9:00 p.m. and we ll determine the schedule! Meets at the Cohlmia s (2807 S. Sangre) YOUTH MINISTRY STAFF: Jenna Campbell, Director of Youth and Family Ministry Wyeth Leslie, Youth Ministry Assistant (Read about Wyeth on page 3!) YOUTH SPONSORS: Thad and Kim Leffingwell Lisa McGaw and John Gelder Kelly Nipp Rusty Rex
the Ambassador 9 First Presbyterian Church ABOUT YOUTH MINISTRY AT FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH Youth Ministry Mission Statement: The youth ministry of First Presbyterian Church accompanies and empowers youth on their journey to be life-long disciples who live out their faith by loving, serving, and growing in Christ. Youth Ministry Core Values: As we engage in youth ministry at FPC, we will be: Welcoming We invite all youth to be part of an accepting, fun, and inclusive community Joyful We celebrate with Christ the exploration of life in the Spirit Spiritual We believe and live in the presence of God in and around us Loving We celebrate and care about each individual as a child of God Faithful We trust and seek the guidance of God through the Holy Spirit YOUTH FAN CLUB - IT'S FOR EVERYBODY! Do you want to support the youth of our church? Do you like to attend musical or sporting events? Then come be part of the Youth Fan Club! What will the Fan Club do? The Fan Club will attend 3 youth activities this fall semester as a group. Possibilities include an orchestra concert, a drama production, a football game, a cross country meet, etc. We will sit together to show our support for the youth of our church that are participating in the activity. So the youth will recognize us, we will all wear Youth Fan Club T-shirts that James Causley is designing for us! If you would like to join the Youth Fan Club, please let Brenda Johnson or Jenny Fowler know! Brenda: (brendajohnsonok@suddenlink.net or 547-0027); Jenny: (fowlerxthree@gmail.com or 742-5059). NEW YOUTH CURRICULUM PLANS UNVEILED Back in May, several individuals committed to the health and success of youth ministry at FPC gathered with the Youth Christian Education Committee and a consultant from Youth Ministry Architects to formulate a curriculum plan for youth ministry. Curriculum plans place our youth ministry on an intentional track. When developing the plans, the group asked the questions, What do we want youth to know, feel, and do in their seven years in our program? When they graduate from this program, what tools do we want them to take with them into the rest of their lives? The answers to those questions resulted in seven year curriculum paths for Sunday school and Sunday evening youth group (PYG). Parents, youth, and congregants can be assured that we have a plan for what we are teaching and what experiences we are offering to our youth. Please contact Jenna Campbell if you would like to view these impressive spreadsheets that will guide the programming of our ministries. Youth Sunday School Curriculum Plan: 6th/7th grade class: a two year revolving curriculum based on Bible Literacy. The first year focuses on a survey of the Old Testament, the second year on the New Testament. 8th/9th grade class: a two year revolving curriculum based on the themes of Healthy Relationships and Human Sexuality the first year and Confirmation the second year. 10th/11th/12th grade class: a three year revolving curriculum. Each year includes several themes including Bible Literacy, Theology, a Biblical character study, and Christian Living. Presbyterian Youth Group Curriculum Plan: A seven year revolving curriculum plan, the PYG plan incorporates themes of Community, Social Justice, Christian Living, Bible Literacy, Healthy Relationships, and Worship Education. PRESCHOOL NEWS FROM HOLLY HARTMAN The Preschool will move back into the beautiful new North Wing over the Labor Day weekend, and begin its 37th year on Tuesday, September 6, with 91 children enrolled. There are still spaces in some of the classes, which are offered each weekday morning for children 10 months through 5 years of age. All members of the congregation are invited to drop in on our busy children and teachers to witness the nurturing, fun activities that take place each day in this vital outreach to the Stillwater community by the Presbyterian Church.
the Ambassador 10 First Presbyterian Church MONTHLY INCOME REPORT: July 2011 Year to Date % of Budget Giving: $033,779) $277,519) 51.98 Other Income: $001,730) $012,379) 34.59 Total Income: $035,509) $289,898) 50.88 Expenditures: ($041,539) ($333,358) 58.51 Net Loss: ($006,030) ($043,460) MORE STEWARDSHIP THOUGHTS FOR 2011 We are never more like God than when we give. - Charles R. Swindoll We make a living by what we get out of life, but we make a life by what we give. - Author Unknown Each of you must give as you have made up your mind, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to provide you with every blessing in abundance, so that by always having enough of everything, you may share abundantly in every good work. - 2 Corinthians 9:7-8 CHILDREN AND WORSHIP RESUMES SEPTEMBER 11 Children and Worship starts again September 11 in our new worship space located in the Westminster Room (formerly the pink Chapel), south end of the church. We meet each week during the school year following Time with Children during the 11:00 service (except on holidays). The bulletin will indicate whether or not Children and Worship is in session. Children and Worship follows an age appropriate order of worship similar to the adult service. Activities include singing, sign language, experiencing Bible stories, and praying together. Bible stories are told using wooden figures, buildings, felt, and sometimes the Desert Box. Children are encouraged to wonder about the biblical stories and the mysteries of God. During our Response Time the children have a chance to work with the story materials themselves, do art work or puzzles, or look at books. Children ages 3-yrs old through 3rd grade are invited to attend. Children will follow the banner out of the Sanctuary to the Westminster Room. Parents: pick up your child in this place after worship. - Brenda Johnson Expenditures are right on schedule; however receipts are currently behind about 6%. If you have questions regarding your giving statement, contact Dallas Barnes, FPC s Financial Secretary, at 372-5580. Dallas is an OSU student; his FALL 2011 office hours are 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, and Friday; and 9:00 a.m. to Noon, Tuesdays and Thursdays. SESSION SUMMARY The Session met in its Stated Meeting on Tuesday, August 9, in the Dining Room of Fellowship Hall at 5:30 p.m. Associate Pastor Leah Hrachovec opened with prayer. Bill Henley served as Acting Clerk for this meeting. Minutes of the June 14 stated meeting and the July 10 called meeting were approved. Our open letter regarding the Enid church and our desire for church unity received one reply from a member in Cushing; no response from Enid. Members received youth Sunday School & PYG Paths - plans to ensure coverage of essentials such as Bible literacy, spiritual practices, reformed theology, what is the church, Christian living, and other areas. The Family Ministry Council is conducting their annual review of the child protection policy. The June 30 and July 31, 2011 Membership Reports were approved, both showing 539 members. Calling cards were distributed to all Session members with a request that one calls 12 individuals or households named on the cards, to make contact with all FPC members, give them information about fall events, and learn of any prayer requests/concerns. Finance Committee reported a current $43,459.75 operating budget deficit through the end of July. Pledge giving is slightly behind for the year to date, and there is slight overspending in some accounts. Personnel Committee presented a new Sabbatical Leave Policy for full-time pastoral and Christian Education staff. The Policy was approved with small amendments, along with a Sabbatical Leave Proposal from Pastor Edwards. Trustees recommended approval of a proposed Japanese-style Peace Garden and reflection area in the southwest corner of the courtyard, which was approved by Session. Nominating Committee reported progress in the formation of a new slate of church officers. Where appropriate, Session members were encouraged to discuss leadership with members in their calling card phone calls.
the Ambassador 11 First Presbyterian Church DEACONS CORNER N O T I C E: The next Deacons meeting has been postponed one week to Thursday, September 15 Transforming Homes & Lives Energy Makeover Day is October 22. Teams of trained volunteers from FPC and other local faithbased organizations will help transform lives and lower energy bills by giving area homes an Energy Makeover on that day. This program sponsored by Central Rural Electric Coop is designed to make a difference in the lives of people struggling to pay their utility bills. Simple weatherization improvements such as caulking, weather stripping, and changing light bulbs will be performed. Our volunteer installers will be trained on dates yet to be scheduled. More volunteers are welcome. Contact Deacon Gerald Stangl (377-3400). Homes to be made over on that day (October 22) are needed. These can be from the community at large or within the congregation. Your home does not need to be served by CREC to qualify. Homes can be registered at www.theenergymakeover.coop by clicking the Request assistance link, or by contacting Deacon Gerald Stangl. An advance inspection visit will be scheduled to determine materials needed. Food Offering During these times, your gifts of non-perishable food items to the shopping cart in the Narthex are more valuable and more appreciated than ever. The food is distributed to local agencies who help those in need. Suggested items to bring include canned meats, fruits, vegetables, soups, mac & cheese, peanut butter, powdered milk, pasta, baby food. Let s strive to fill the cart each week to assist our neighbors. Help Requested: Life Skills Classes at Mission of Hope The Board of Deacons is requesting help to present 1-hour classes to residents of Mission of Hope (local homeless shelter at 1804 S. Perkins Rd.). This is a high priority ministry that FPC Deacons have been involved with for years, and residents have provided a lot of positive feedback on the help received from these presentations. Content for each topic is available in electronic and hard copy formats. Classes are offered on the first and third Wednesday of each month from 7:00-8:00 p.m. on the following topics: Getting Organized Finding a Job Keeping a Job Money Management Problem-Solving and Decision-Making Hygiene and Sanitation Nutrition and Physical Health Goal-Setting and Prioritizing. If you have expertise in any of these topics and would be interested in presenting to Mission of Hope residents, please contact Deacon Jason White at 405-614-2846. Love Feast Help! Can you cook spaghetti, heat sauce and a vegetable or mix up some chili? Then you are qualified to be a Love Feast cook. Deacon Quinn Baldwin needs volunteers to do those tasks the afternoon of the 3rd Wednesday of the month. The supplies will be in the kitchen to accomplish the task. Then other volunteers arrive after 5:00 p.m. to pick up the meal, take to Southern Heights, and serve. Please consider sharing an hour or two of your time next month. Sign up on the bulletin board near the Information Center or contact Quinn (714-8662). FPC s next scheduled Love Feast date is September 20. DEAR CHANCEL CHOIR MEMBERS AND FUTURE CHOIR MEMBERS! Our 2011/2012 season is beginning a bit later than usual due to the exciting renovations at church! I am very excited to announce that we will officially move our robes, music, and rehearsals downstairs to the new Westminster Room (formerly the old pink Chapel.) Everyone who enjoys singing and making music is invited to join choir (youth and adults!). We meet weekly on Wednesday evenings, 7:30-8:30 p.m. (Child care is available), and Sunday mornings at 10:15 a.m. Our first rehearsal is Wednesday, August 31, 7:30 p.m. (location of the first few rehearsals will be in the Sanctuary as we work on moving). Our first official day in the choir loft will be Rally Day (September 11) when we are back to two services. If you don't sing but do play a musical instrument, please see me (Heather) - I would love to get you involved in our music program in some meaningful way. I look forward to seeing you all soon. Chancel Choir and the Music & Worship Committee host Fellowship after church on August 28. See you there! Heather Lanners, Music Director (heather.lanners@okstate.edu)
the Ambassador 12 First Presbyterian Church CZECH MISSION TRIP FOLLOW-UP LETTER Thank you all for your support of the Czech Mission. Please read this letter from one of this year s young leaders. These young people have grown their faith through the past camps and Premek expresses that experience quite eloquently. - Bob & Barb Henderson Dear Ann and Kerry, American camp 2011 is almost over, so I think, that now it is time to summarize the results. It was our 8th camp! Unbelievable!!! I was on every one of them, so I think that I m kind of old dog, who can compare it and maybe find some deeper ideas in it. Your president writes every year a State of the Union address, so I ll try to do something similar. I m writing you, because (maybe I m wrong) for me Ann Salmons and Kerry Ebert are like American parents of this project, so you have right to know, how is your baby after 8 years of living. Well, I can tell you, that your camp is doing well. I was thinking about all camps a lot during this last week, and I recalled the story from your history, the oldest story, the story of the pilgrim fathers A group of people, who believe in God and his love, went to a different country and tried to do something good and they succeed. Of course, there is a lot of differences, but for me there is a clear message. Like pilgrim fathers you took your families, spent lots of money and time to get to a place, which you don t know, somewhere behind the ocean, 10,000 miles away, among people with different language and culture, where you knew just family of Pastor Jan. I think it s incredible and definitely same like pilgrim fathers. God didn t control people like puppets, he is more like a sign, which show us the best way for us, and the choice depends just on our decision. You decided to take this task, and during one week you planted here in Poliĉka seeds of love, understanding and sharing. We were kids at that time, I was just a 12 year old boy, only one in my family who speaks a little English, but I understood how wonderful the camp is. And during time new people have come like Jarda, Martin, Jitka, Dan and so many others. I think, that I can say, that you and your friends from USA plant a seed in every helper and volunteer at the camp. In Luke 8:4-15 we can read: While a large crowd was gathering and people were coming to Jesus from town after town, he told this parable: A farmer went out to sow his seed. As he was scattering the seed, some fell along the path; it was trampled on, and the birds ate it up. Some fell on rocky ground, and when it came up, the plants withered because they had no moisture. Other seed fell among thorns, which grew up with it and choked the plants. Still other seed fell on good soil. It came up and yielded a crop, a hundred times more than was sown. I think the seed is like volunteers, some of them went away, some of them were really excited the first time, but then they stopped, but some of us stay. Well, look at us now!!! Previous camps were prepared by Ann, Kati, Jeremy, and Jamie and a lot of other people from USA, but the people and kids for whom you did it were growing up during that time. We are not kids anymore, we are young adults and we are able to prepare the camp by ourselves. Unbelievable, your small seeds grew up into young trees and you made a big group of young people, which want to continue with the camps in Poliĉka. Congratulations!!! You connected people from different countries, generations and faiths in the big arms of Jesus love. It definitely doesn t mean that we don t need you anymore! Like kids needs their parents their whole life, the parent will take care of children, even if they are big and independent. It just means that we are big enough to take care of some work, not to disturb you with every tiny problem. It means, that we can do the work, the skits, background, games etc. and you can just come to see kids and your old friends and see, how something, which you hardly started, can go on its own with the people, which you have raised in love and trust in love and God. I know how you took care of the camp this year, even though you couldn t be here. Your friends told us about your work in USA, which helps a lot. Thank you mum, dad, and all American friends, Premek (young camp tree, which you planted) Cimarron Presbytery Website www.cimarronpresbytery.org FRIEND US ON FACEBOOK! First Presbyterian Church-Stillwater, OK
the Ambassador 13 First Presbyterian Church ADULT SUNDAY MORNING CLASSES All classes begin September 18 9:45-10:45 a.m. Short-Term Classes These classes run September 18 to November 6. The History of Religion in America Dr. Jim Showalter is offering the second of a twopart series: The History of Religion in America. Showalter is a professor at Langston University and has a passion for sharing American history and the sometimes surprising roots of religion in our country. Join for a great hour of learning and discovery. Everyone is welcome, even if you did not participate in Part 1 of this series. Discovering God s Vision for Your Life: You and Your Spiritual Gifts Do you want to explore the spiritual gifts that God has given you? Would you like to find out how to better match your service to God with what you really enjoy? Come discover your spiritual gifts and become involved in gifts-related ministries. In this course, you will discover your own spiritual gifts using the Haugk Spiritual Gifts Inventory; learn about spiritual gifts, calling, and discipleship; and find your motivation for ministry and service. Pick up your workbook at Rally Day, September 11. Leader: Pastor Leah Hrachovec Worshiping with Children Worshiping with Children can be both a joy and a challenge. Join parents and others who worship with children in the pews in a study and discussion on how to enhance and encourage the worshiping experience of children and the whole family as we faithfully nurture children in our midst. Leader: Jenna Campbell, Director of Youth & Family Ministry Long-Term Classes Abiding Bible Study (Sept-May) This class moves sequentially through the Bible with study and discussion of a passage each week. Meets in the Library - all are welcome. Leader: Dan Grischkowsky Seasons of the Spirit (Sept-May) Our worship services usually focus on readings from the Revised Common Lectionary, which is a 3-year cycle of readings from the Old Testament, Psalms, Epistles, and Gospels. This class follows the lectionary cycle along with worship, so that the passages studied usually align with those you will hear in the worship service that day. The visual, literary and other arts are also used to open opportunities for new perspectives on Scripture, life and faith. Meets in the Dining Room of the Fellowship Hall. Leader: Denise Rex Look for more information on Advent and Spring season Adult CE classes in the Christian Education booklet, being mailed soon! FELLOWSHIP University Fellowship Committee Hosts Welcome Dinner The University Fellowship Committee is hosting a dinner for our returning and new university students on Sunday, August 28 at 6:00 p.m. in our Fellowship Hall. An invitation has been extended to all students coming to OSU from PC(USA) churches in Oklahoma. The University Fellowship Committee supplies the entrée. All church members, particularly those employed by OSU, are invited to bring a side dish or dessert and join in welcoming these students to our congregation and community! Also, if you are an active OSU staff member, you are invited to bring copies of your business card to the dinner. Mark your calendars now and plan to join our mission of welcome and outreach. Welcome (and Welcome Back) Students!!! If you are in college courses (at OSU or elsewhere), you are invited to be part of our University Fellowship. Weekly Bible Study: Join us for our first weekly Bible study night on Tuesday, August 30 at 8:15pm at the OSU Library Café (north entrance of the Library). We explore the study Luke for Everyone. Movie Night: Join us for our first movie night of the fall semester @ Nat and Leah s house! Tuesday, September 6, Dinner at 7:00 p.m. and Film at 8:00 p.m. Film. Enjoy homemade dinner and dessert, and stay for a viewing and discussion of the 2009 film Get Low, about a reclusive man (Robert Duvall) who wants his funeral held while he is still alive. For more information e-mail Pastor Leah (Lhrachovec@swbell.net), or visit our page on the church website: www.stillwaterfpc.org/#/grow/university
the Ambassador 14 First Presbyterian Church NEWS ABOUT PW On Wednesday, September 14, we gather for our PW Luncheon at 11:45 a.m. in the Fellowship Hall. Dr. Gay Washington, Director of Special Education for Stillwater Public Schools, will present the program: What s the Good News in the Stillwater Schools. The cost of the luncheon is $4 and reservations are due to the Church Office by Noon on Monday, September 12. Devotion will be given by Nellie Stallard Circle. The PW coordinating Team will meet at 10:00 a.m. in the Library prior to the luncheon. Product Label Reminder: Bring Labels for Education and Betty Crocker points to the Hospitality Area Kitchen. PW Circles will resume the 4th week of September. Bring your offerings of Least Coin and 2nd Mile Giving to meetings. Second Mile Sewing continues to meet on the 1st, 3rd, and 5th Wednesdays at 9:15 a.m. in the Fellowship Hall. A donation box is in the Narthex for your sewing and crafty items. GET THE AMBASSADOR IN A FLASH! HOW? Contact Cathy Fairbanks fpchurch1889@swbell.net or 372-5580 Satisfaction guaranteed, or we ll switch you back! PRAYER SHAWL/SQUARE MINISTRY A Ministry of Second Mile Sewing During the summer months we have continued to knit/crochet our prayer shawls. At the time the Ambassador article is being written we have already completed 63 shawls this year. Our group has also been busy making more prayer squares. Our newest member to contribute to this project is Margie Keener. In the late spring 3,200 members of our Oklahoma National Guard were called up to go to Iraq/ Afghanistan this summer. This is the largest number of Oklahoma National Guard members ever called up at one time. Our goal is to send as many prayer squares as possible to these Oklahoma Guard Members. To date we have completed some 1600 squares. Shipment of the squares will be made very soon. We continue to welcome new members as well as contributions of yarn or cash to purchase yarn or material. Large quantities of yarn/material have been used to complete these projects. We represent our church as we show God's love and care to those individuals we touch. We have also had many special thanks from Military Members who have received prayer squares. Any questions concerning our work can be directed to Jane Durham (372-7096) or Mary Jane Phillips (707-9192). (See page 5 for thank you letters from shawl and square recipients.) SEASONED ADULTS We had a wonderful time at our July indoor picnic, watching the movie, Secretariat. It was wonderful. I think all attending enjoyed the movie as well as the fellowship. I look forward to the start of our fourth year! Our September meeting will be Monday, September 19 in Fellowship Hall, at 6:00 p.m. We will have a catered dinner prior to our program. Carol Dvorak, a financial planner from Perry, Oklahoma, will share her Africa trip with us. I believe the Botswana presentation will be most interesting and enlightening. Circle September 19 on your calendar and plan to attend. Jim Williams suggested that I contact Carol and she graciously agreed to join us for the evening. At this date, the October 17 program is TBA. However, November will be our own Heather Lanners to entertain us with a piano recital. YEA!!! For December, we will join in the annual all church Chili Supper and Christmas Caroling event scheduled for December 18. That is always fun!!! We have a wonderful group of men and women taking part in the Lectionary Bible Study each Thursday at 10:00 a.m. Why don t you consider joining us? Our summer heat wave has been horrendous it certainly kept me under the air conditioner! I hope all of you are staying well and drinking plenty of water. Our recent rains (not the wind storm) were certainly a welcome sight. If I can assist you in anyway, please give me a call at 707-0808 or contact the Church Office at 372-5580. Transportation is always available for any church activity. For that matter, if you need transportation at anytime, please let us know. Blessings, Margy Knox
the Ambassador 15 First Presbyterian Church CHILDREN S SUNDAY SCHOOL IS READY TO GO!!! Preschool/Kindergarten Class Children preschool to kindergarten age are invited to join in play, games and songs as we explore God s love, grow in faith, learn how to share God's love with others using the Walk with Me curriculum. This class meets in the 3-yr old s Room of the Preschool Wing. Teachers: Kristine Waits and Courtney Savage SpiritLink!!! (for grades 1-5) SpiritLink is a rotational Sunday School in which students move to a different room each week to learn about Bible story or theme in different ways, using art, science, computers, cooking, puppets, movies or storytelling, and more! The 2011-2012 theme for SpiritLink is Covenant Renewal. Units include: Noah, Some Son (Advent/Christmas), David, Scrapping through Holy Week, and Soaring with the Holy Spirit. Join in our first SpiritLink Unit of the Fall! Noah September 18-October 23 In the man Noah, God found someone who respected God and lived a righteous life. God s heart still had hope because of Noah. We learn that sin separates us from God and God grieves. Thankfully, God always desires reunion with us and provides us a path to a fresh start. Children will enjoy art, creating a Rainbow Promise t-shirt; explore the hugeness of the Ark in Modern Magi; and through drama and stories in Burning Bush and On Location learn how they too can put their faith in action. The six-sunday unit includes one all-music Sunday and one Celebration Sunday on October 23 (parents, siblings, and everyone in the church are invited!) Note Change: SpiritLink begins with LinkUp at 9:30, with music and fun led by Heather Lanners. This year, LinkUp moves to a beautiful, new location! Meet for LinkUp at the beginning of SpiritLink in the Westminster Room (formerly the south pink Chapel.) Students will move with their Shepherds to upstairs workshop classrooms at 9:45 a.m. NURSERY VOLUNTEERS Do you enjoy reading, coloring, pasting, and snacking? If yes, come join the fun in the nursery. Visit and play with our youngest members. If you would like to volunteer, contact Kristen Kulling at m.kulling@sbcglobal.net EMBRACING THE FUTURE Renovations at our church continue to go well. The bids on many of the portions of the project were under the estimates projected by our general contractor, Lambert Construction Company, and the demolition of the floor in the multipurpose room for the ramp has been completed. The committee had concerns that something would be discovered under the floor that would have a major impact on the budget. There was nothing found under the floor to require costly repairs. If other surprises emerge, they will be covered by our contingency that was held back. Because of the lower bids and the lack of need for funds for the ramp, some extra funds were available. Although nothing was included in the original project for the offices, it had already been determined that the heating and air-conditioning duct work being done in the upstairs halls and rooms would require new ceilings and lighting for the offices. Because there were funds available, the Embracing the Future Team believed that it was an opportune time to proceed with needed renovation of the offices. Since construction crews were already on site and the equipment was in place, doing this necessary work now will cost considerably less than it would at some future time. This includes widening of office doors, new ceiling and lighting, skim-coating the walls, and new carpet. The Session concurred with this decision at its called meeting on July 10 and approved an expansion of the scope of the project to include limited renovations to the Staff offices as long as funds were available. Specializing in Fairly Traded Coffee ~ Gifts ~ Olive Oil ~ Jewelry ~ Accessories ~ Cocoa Open each Sunday between and after Worship. Weekdays with Staff assistance.
the Ambassador 16 First Presbyterian Church Sunday, August 21 ~ in fellowship hall Potluck Summer Lunch Please bring a dish to share and come enjoy lunch with friends: catch up with old ones and make some new. The dish could be homemade, store-bought, or take out. The focus is on fellowship. Visit us on the web at www.stillwaterfpc.org Summer Sunday Schedule (through September 4) Worship - 9:30 a.m Fellowship Brunch - 10:30 a.m. (Church School is on hiatus during this time) Morning Prayers - 8:45 a.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday Worship Center Midweek Communion - 8:30 a.m. Wednesday - Worship Center Regular Sunday Schedule (begins September 11) Worship - 8:30 & 11:00 a.m. Sunday School - 9:45 a.m. (Join us for Rally Day, 9:45 a.m. September 11!) B. Gordon Edwards... bge41340@swbell.net Leah Hrachovec...Lhrachovec@swbell.net Jenna Campbell... youthandfamily@swbell.net Wyeth Leslie... wyeth.leslie@okstate.eu Margy Knox...mhknox@sbcglobal.net Church Office & Cathy Fairbanks...fpchurch1889@swbell.net Lucy Newlin... cefpcstw@swbell.net Dallas Barnes...fpaccountant@swbell.net Heather Lanners...heather.lanners@okstate.edu Peter Thomas...admin@childrensbookmarket.com Nonprofit Org. U.S. POSTAGE PAID Stillwater, Oklahoma Permit No. 143 Deadline for Next issue: Friday, September 16, 2011