the
MESSENGER MARCH | APRIL 2012
BRYN MAWR PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
INSIDE THIS ISSUE: Wednesday Lenten Series led by our Pastors (page 2) Bill Arnold, BMPC’s 2012 Theologian-in-Residence, March 10-11 (page 4) Labyrinth Workshops with Gernot Candolini, March 24-31 (page 6) Earth Day Celebration with Missa Gaia, “Mass for the Earth” (page 11)
HOLY WEEK & EASTER WORSHIP (see back cover)
[ WELCOME ]
LETTER FROM THE PASTOR As a pastor, I spend much of my time explaining what we, as Christians, believe. I am either interpreting the faith so as to make it palatable to a questioner, be he confused pilgrim or skeptical agnostic, or I am looking for ways to say afresh what my listeners have already heard in the past. Instead of trying to make the faith sound more reasonable, I think I should change that kindly practice and simply say, “It takes a lot of believing to be a Christian. You probably don’t have such courage of belief. Perhaps you would be better off continuing to trust in yourself and your things.” I don’t ever really do that, but sometimes I think it may be about time that I did. This was Jesus’ way. He told the painful truth that being one of his followers would require unfettered faith, like that of a child, who believes God can do anything. Can you feel your resistance to such a posture of belief starting to rise already? Of course you can. So can we all. We don’t like being told that we should believe as children do. We say, “What does a child know about the real world?” The child’s faith is our model because it is pure. In the several occasions when Jesus brought children into his presence to use as an illustration for a lesson about our relationship to God, he seemed to understand that we often miss a basic condition of children. Jesus knew that children are not innocent. They are actually rather good at figuring out how to manipulate adults and other children to get what they want. But Jesus also knew that although children are not always innocent, they are dependent. I still remember the day Ellis Nelson, one of my teachers in the faith, pointed this out to a group of seminary students. It is the child’s dependence on adults for direction, for care, for sustenance and for love that is akin to our relationship with God. We, too, are far from innocent when it comes to our behavior before God. But we are dependent, as children are on grown-ups, and it is that dependence that gives us both our peace and our freedom. We can be at peace knowing that the loving arms of God surround us and sustain us. Thus we have nothing to fear if we, as Paul once said, “live and die unto the Lord.” And we are also a people who enjoy freedom. It is the freedom of those who have given themselves to the discipline of faith in the God of our creation. Lent has been a reminder for us of this disciplined faith and life. We approach the Easter celebration toward the close of this spring’s “lengthening of days” in the sure confidence of children of the heavenly Father who know that they are loved and can live in a hope that is eternal.
James L. Carter Interim Pastor 1 MESSENGER | March/April 2012
WEDNESDAY EVENING LENTEN SERIES:
[ SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT ]
EXPLORING THE BIBLICAL STORIES OF LENT Wednesdays, February 29-March 21, 7:00-8:30 p.m. Led by BMPC Pastors in Witherspoon Parlor Join us for this contemplative study with our pastors and consider how selected Bible stories intersect with our own lives. Wednesday Dinner is available in Congregational Hall from 5:00-6:30 p.m. prior to class. February 29: Who are You? Personal Identity in Family Life through a Scriptural Lens. Scripture: Genesis 37:1-11, led by Kellen Smith. Explore the story of Joseph and his family in the book of Genesis and consider who we are as individuals within the family systems in which we live. Emphasis will be placed on understanding our own families, who we are within them, and what that means for our lives. March 7: Encountering God in the Garden. Scripture: Mark 14:26-52, led by Sherri Hausser. Discuss the story of Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane and consider how his prayer to God and struggle within himself inform our life of faith. We also will reflect on how this garden story connects with other stories in the Bible.
March 14: The Heart of Identity—A Lesson of Purity. Scripture: Mark 7: 1-23, led by Jacqui Van Vliet. Reflect upon the issues of boundaries and identity in the context of purity as we study encounters and conflicts that occurred between Jesus, the local Pharisees and the Jerusalem scribes. March 21: Lord, Teach Us to Pray. Scripture: Luke 11:1, led by Charles Grant. Reflect on the prayers of Jesus, learn about traditional forms of prayer, and engage in prayer as meditation and petition. Participants also will have the opportunity to offer and receive prayers for healing.
Our BMPC Lenten Devotional book offers daily Scripture readings and reflections by our pastors for the days between Ash Wednesday (February 22) and Easter. Copies are available in the Ministries Center and Sanctuary or you may access each day’s reflection on the BMPC website: www.bmpc.org
SUNDAY SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT • • •
8:30 a.m. March 4–April 29: The Wisdom Jesus Book Discussion, led by Rev. Dr. Paul MacMurray, Conference Room 9:00 a.m. March 4–April 1: Reading Great Prayers through Lectio Divina, led by David Heaton, Fullerton Room 11:15 a.m. - March 4: Our Stories, Muslim Stories and God’s Story: Redux, led by Dr. Jon Pahl, Congregational Hall - March 18: Women Coping with Modern Islams, led by Dr. Theodore Friend, Witherspoon Parlor - March 25: Disaster Relief in Guatemala, led by Shaull Award Recipient Cedepca, Witherspoon Parlor - April 1: Faces at the Cross, led by J. Barrie Sheperd, Witherspoon Parlor - April 15: Our Environment, Our World: Reducing our Footprint One Garden at a Time, led by Tony Dufour, Witherspoon Parlor - April 22: Our Environment, Our World: Consequences of Some Environmental Legislation, led by Dr. Andrew Brook, Witherspoon Parlor 2 MESSENGER | March/April 2012
[CONGREGATIONAL LIFE ]
MISS J.M. ADA MUTCH FEBRUARY 3, 1905-JANUARY 27, 2012 Ada Mutch, spiritual matriarch of BMPC, died on January 27, 2012, one week before her 107th birthday. Remarkably, Ada attended worship at BMPC up to the week she died! Ada was the daughter of Dr. Andrew Mutch, BMPC’s third pastor, who brought his family here from Scotland in 1912 when Ada was seven years old. They settled into Converse House, which was built for them on church property and included a front parlor, still in use, for spending time with guests. Over the years, Ada shared wonderful memories of growing up in Bryn Mawr and at our church, which had 350 members when they arrived. Ada had a long and distinguished career in nursing and service in World War II before returning to Bryn Mawr in 1955 to become director of nursing and of the nursing school at Lankenau Hospital. After her retirement (in 1970!), she continued an active life of service in the Bryn Mawr community and in her beloved church. A memorial service for Ada was held in the Sanctuary on February 11, 2012.
Ada in 2009, Age 105
NEW MEMBERS RECEIVED IN DECEMBER
Gary Davis Wynnewood
Nate Jones Gladwyne
Daniela Davis Wynnewood
Ben Lusch Wayne
Scott Fagan Ardmore
Katie Lusch Wayne
Becky Fox Rosemont Died Dec. 28, 2011
Dayce Schrieber Ardmore
Tannia Schrieber Ardmore
Not a church member? Make BMPC your church home! Get to know us at our pre-requisite orientation on Sunday, April 15, 8:45 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. (includes lunch; childcare available). Our Session will receive those who are interested in joining our community of faith on Sunday morning, April 22. For more information or to register, contact DonnaBarrickman@bmpc.org, ext. 8809. 3 MESSENGER | March/April 2012
STORY
[ SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT ]
AS AN ENTRY INTO THE SACRED THE REV. DR. WILLIAM ARNOLD BMPC’s Theologian-in-Residence March 10-11
The Revs. Bill Arnold and Margaret Anne Fohl
All the major faiths rely on stories to lead the faithful into inspiration and service. When we as Christians speak of our faith and refer to “story,” what most often comes to mind are the stories of scripture. These are fundamental, but over the ages, more stories have added clarity and insight to those basics. William “Bill” Arnold, a former BMPC Associate Pastor, will help us explore the meaning, structure, and theology of story. A storyteller himself specializing in sacred tales, he will present a variety of selections at each session to illustrate and inspire. Events include:
Saturday, March 10, 7:00 p.m., Congregational Hall (Sponsored by Adult Education Council and Presbyterian Women): Welcome back Bill Arnold and Margaret Anne Fohl! After time for fellowship and dessert, Bill will discuss the importance and function of story, both in Christianity and in other world religions. What do stories do for us? Why are they an essential component of our faith? Sunday, March 11, 9:00 a.m., Witherspoon Parlor: Theology and story: are they the same? What is the connection between God’s creation of the world and the creation of story? Why did Jesus use stories, often in the form of parables? How have stories been used to further develop our understanding of Jesus’ message? Sunday, March 11, 11:30 a.m., Congregational Hall (sponsored by Adult Education Council and Senior Adult Ministry): Enjoy brunch while considering what makes a story “sacred” with illustrations from our Christian tradition and that of others. We will also develop our own “discipline” of listening to stories. What makes a story just a story for us, and how can stories offer an entry into the sacred? Brunch reservations: Send $15 check to Carol Schmidt at BMPC. Sunday, March 11, 1:30-3:30 p.m., Witherspoon Parlor: Storytelling Workshop. Hearing a story is not the same as reading a story. Not everyone is comfortable telling stories; some people just love listening to them. In this workshop, Bill will explore techniques and tips for both disciplines: telling and listening. And of course, he will offer more stories as illustrations. 4 MESSENGER | March/April 2012
[ CHURCH NEWS]
FORWARD IN
FAITH:
FROM OUR HOUSE TO THE WORLD BEYOND OUR WALLS
by George Henisee
Sunday, February 5 marked a key transition in BMPC’s efforts to address the building restoration needs of the church and increase the ability to annually provide for mission and outreach activities – all of which are to be funded by gifts to the Forward in Faith Capital Campaign. Following quiet discussions with various church members and the officers of BMPC, we are now reaching out to all members of the congregation. The kick-off of this “public phase” of the campaign followed worship on February 5. Adults enjoyed refreshments prior to viewing a short video, while children made arts and crafts with a campaign theme in the gym. The video, which can be viewed on the BMPC website, documents the needs of the campaign and demonstrates
NEW PARISH NURSE JOINS BMPC STAFF
Welcome Ann Fossum, R.N., B.S.N., who joined the BMPC staff in February as our Parish Nurse. Following in the footsteps of our previous Parish Nurses Kathy Kreider and Marie-Claire Higgins, Ann will work with our Care Manager Lorie Benovic and the Rev. Charles Grant as part of the care team for our congregation. Ann has 33 years of nursing experience in clinical settings, home care agencies, and nursing administration. She is a familiar face at BMPC, as she has been an active member since she joined our church 13 years ago. She, her husband Greg, and now-grown children Jennifer and Jonathan, were drawn to BMPC for our youth program as well as 5 MESSENGER | March/April 2012
the campaign’s importance to future generations of BMPC. More than 100 church officers and members serving as “visitors” plan to meet with other members. The visitors will respond to questions and ask fellow members to support Forward in Faith with their gifts and pledges. This spring, we will see preparation for restoration projects set for 2012. Work on the Chapel, repairs to the Pentecost window and the surrounding wall, and other high priority building envelope projects will become evident. Just as the generations that came before us provided the sound spiritual home that houses our community of faith today - and from which we make a difference in the “world beyond our walls” – we can now pledge to assure that our home will endure for those who follow.
Ann’s interest in the then “new” parish nurse program. Over the years, Ann has been a member of BMPC’s Health Cabinet, an Associate Pastor Nominating Committee, and the BMPC Nominating Committee. She has served as a Deacon, Stephen Minister, and camp nurse. Ann is happy to now be a BMPC staff member working Ann Fossum, R.N., B.S.N. in our faith community. She is grateful to the Parish Nurse search committee that directed her to this health ministry. She describes this as a perfect opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others, and she looks forward to helping our BMPC members integrate their lifestyle, faith and well-being.
[ SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT ]
WALKING TOWARD THE CENTER: TIME WITH GERNOT CANDOLINI March 24-31 Gernot Candolini, Austrian author, photographer, and designer of labyrinths, describes the labyrinth as one of the oldest symbolic figures of humankind. For millenia it has been scratched into rock or clay, painted on pottery, laid out with stone on the ground or drawn in old manuscripts. The labyrinth is not only a soothing design, but a metaphor of the life path. Walking the labyrinth is like looking into a mirror. Life’s Gernot Candolini questions and answers rise up and are able to open some interesting insights about oneself, life itself, God and the world. Events with Gernot Candolini at BMPC include: •
•
Saturday, March 24: - Men’s Presentation: “The Hero’s Journey to Love,” 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Sunday, March 25: - Labyrinth Build with Youth and Confirmation Class, 4:00-6:00 p.m. - Dinner with Youth and their families, 6:007:00 p.m.
•
Tuesday, March 27: - Women’s Presentation: “Connecting the Dots,” 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. - Labyrinth Walk, 11:00 a.m.-7:30 p.m. - Taize Worship, 7:30-8:00 p.m.
•
Wednesday, March 28: - Family Dinner, 5:00-6:30 p.m., $6 per person/$25 max per family - Storybuilding for Families with Introduction to Labyrinth, 6:45-8:00 p.m.
•
Thursday, March 29: - Pathways to Pastoral Insight: The Labyrinth as a Tool for Healing, Self and Others, 9:00-11:30 a.m.
•
Saturday, March 31: - Walking Toward the Center: A Presentation by Gernot Candolini, 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Cost (including lunch): $25
*All events held at BMPC. Free and open to the public unless otherwise stated; childcare available. For more information or to make reservations, call 610-525-0766, email joyce@ middletoncenter.org or visit www.middletoncenter.org
START FROM THIS PLACE I This is the circle e me; of the hours that lie befor This is my day. n; for the blessing of heave I lift myself high and ask th. ear the for the blessing of I bow myself deep and ask thanks, I receive these gifts with and open my heart. ne; W hat has been past is go fore us. be yet what has to come is k for ward to, loo I t I turn to all things tha expected. and I am ready for the un May my path be blessed. 6 MESSENGER | March/April 2012
[ LOCAL AND WORLDWIDE OUTREACH ]
THE
FIGHT AGAINST HUNGER
by Pam Haynes-Walsh
More than 4,000 homeless and hungry people live in shelters or on the streets of Philadelphia–a city which has one of the highest urban hunger rates in the nation. BMPC’s Hunger Committee was formed to respond to this local crisis. We believe that every person has a right to adequate food obtained with dignity, and we work to prevent hunger and malnutrition by providing food to people in need. The Hunger Committee’s liaison with Our Brothers’ Place and its parent organization, the Bethesda Project, is one way we address hunger among the homeless in Philadelphia. Our Brothers’ Place is a shelter located north of Center City that houses 150
men and provides day services to 200 of the homeless. Five times a year, BMPC volunteers serve casseroles made at our casserole blitzes as well as fresh vegetables, fruit, rolls and cookies. Volunteers can attest that the men are truly grateful for these nutritious homecooked meals and for the caring church members who greet and serve them.
The Hunger Committee also makes donations to the Bethesda Project, an interfaith community that serves approximately 800 chronically homeless and disabled people with a continuum of housing options, from walk-in shelters to individual residences. Each Bethesda Project facility serves three meals daily, funded
in part by contributions from BMPC Hunger Envelopes. The Hunger Committee is grateful for the volunteers of all ages who prepare casseroles and who serve Saturday noon-time meals to our homeless brothers, as well as for all who support the Hunger Committee’s crucial mission through generous donations.
A SHAULL AWARD IN CENTRAL AMERICA by Carol Schmidt
BMPC’s Worldwide Ministries Council approved an award to The Protestant Center for Pastoral Studies in Central America (Cedepca) to assist it in its efforts to reduce the risk of disaster in Guatemala. On March 25, Marcia Towers, Disaster Ministry Coordinator of Cedepca, will visit BMPC to present a program on the work it is doing to transform communities by helping local leaders prepare so that they do not have to depend solely on outside help. Providing psycho-social and spiritual care helps create an atmosphere of cooperation rather than competition and develops possibilities for increased income other than agricultural income, which is so easily affected by variable weather conditions. 7 MESSENGER | March/April 2012
Cedepca is proud of being ecumenical in a country where “ecumenical” is usually considered a bad word. Theological classes bring various denominations together to encourage respect for each other. Ninety percent of the staff are Guatemalan, making it a Central American organization rather than a U.S. based organization working in Central America. Find out more about Cedepca at www.cedepca.org or by attending the presentation on Sunday, March 25, at 11:15 a.m. in Witherspoon Parlor. The Richard Shaull Worldwide Ministries Award is an annual award for special mission projects consistent with the goals of Worldwide Ministries at BMPC and with the life and witness of Richard Shaull. Richard Shaull (1919-2002) was a member of the Presbytery of Philadelphia, Parish Associate of the Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church, and Professor of Ecumenics Emeritus at Princeton Theological Seminary. As a member of BMPC’s Worldwide Ministries Council, he helped the council increasingly move toward ministries of justice and transformation.
OUR STEWARDSHIP STORY
[ CHURCH NEWS ]
By Brad Baturka, Stewardship Committee Chair
By now you may have heard many ‘Stewardship Stories’... why our members give, how our ministries enrich the lives of BMPC members, how our contributions make a difference near and far. Our dollars fund day-to-day church operations
and our programs extend the love of Christ through care for those in need—whether in our congregation, community, or across the world.
compared to last year. If you haven’t pledged, we encourage you to do so, for every gift helps us sustain vibrant ministry.
We are grateful for the generous giving of many dedicated members—a reassuring indicator of the strength of our church despite tough economic times and a transition period in pastoral leadership. Many of you responded to the 2012 campaign with a gift that was a “stretch” for you because you want the work of God in this place and beyond to go forward.
If you have pledged, we thank you for your help to ensure a vibrant future for our church. We encourage you to share your story of love and hope for BMPC, as it might be the story that influences someone else to help us make a difference in 2012.
But our stewardship story for 2012 is not yet finished; we have not met our goal and we are behind
FOR THE LOVE OF THE CHURCH by Peter Craig
Bill Bates loves this church. Bill’s late wife, Beth, loved this church. A BMPC member for more than 60 years, Bill continues to give generously through our annual stewardship campaign. But Bill knows that someday he will not be here to write a stewardship check. Therefore, in order to give a gift that will last forever, Bill gave his retirement (401k) plan to BMPC’s Foundation for its general endowment. Bill also gave a gift to the Foundation in Beth’s memory. That gift had a particular purpose, which has been fulfilled. Now Bill has made yet another commitment to BMPC’s future, this time to the Building Preservation Fund that supports ongoing care and maintenance for our campus buildings and facilities. We invite you to consider a lifetime gift or a bequest through your estate plan as an expression of your love for BMPC and its work to glorify God. Your gift to the Foundation can make a difference...forever.
You may pledge on the BMPC website, by filling out a pledge card and mailing it to the church or dropping it in an offering plate, or by calling Sarah Miciek at 610-5252821, ext. 8817.
NORMAL MEMORY LOSS... OR DEMENTIA? By Lorie Benovic, BMPC Care Manager Do you walk into a room and forget why you went in there? Have you ever forgotten where you put your keys? How do you know when to worry about forgetfulness? On Sunday, March 4, at 11:15 a.m., Bayada, a full-service home care company, will present an enlightening program in Gloucester Room that will provide information about memory as we age. Come with questions for its nurses who will discuss “Normal Memory Loss vs. Dementia.” RSVP to LorieBenovic@ bmpc.org or 610525-2821, ext. 8833.
8 MESSENGER | March/April 2012
[ LOCAL AND WORLDWIDE OUTREACH ]
DAY OF SERVICE: SNOW DOESN’T STOP OUR
VOLUNTEERS
On Saturday, January 21, snow arrived and portions of our Martin Luther King Week Day of Service were cancelled. Our youth braved the elements and went to West Philadelphia to work with The Other Carpenter. After worship on Sunday, January 22, help was requested to do the tasks that were not completed on Saturday. A wonderful group of 30 volunteers stayed and prepared mailings for several of our mission partners: • Kirkwood Camp and Conference Center • The Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education • The Interfaith Center of Greater Philadelphia
ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL ADVENT GIFT MARKET by Mary Bassett
The Advent Gift Market (AGM) Committee thanks you for your outpouring of support and generosity to help those in need through another successful Advent Gift Market. Heartfelt thanks also are extended to the BMPC staff and many volunteers who helped to make this year’s AGM run smoothly. Without your cheerful and devoted help, AGM would not be possible! Our projects received the following amounts: Beyond Borders – Haiti Schuylkill Environmental Education Center – PA Congregational Care Council – Rainbow Fund Congregational Care Council – Middleton Center Heeding God’s Call San Francisco School and Micro-Farm – Costa Rica The Other Carpenter – Philadelphia Pagus: Africa – West Africa Singing City West Philadelphia Children’s Choir Fresh Start Resource Center - Philadelphia
$1200.00 $ 440.00 $ 320.00 $ 400.00 $ 834.00 $1764.00 $2290.00 $2054.00 $1842.00 $ 540.00
Hunger Committee Casserole Blitz ingredients Schuylkill Wildlife Rehabilitation Center - PA John Gloucester House – Philadelphia Bryn Mawr Tutoring Program Presbyterian Children’s Village – Rosemont & Phila. Main Line Adult Day Center – Bryn Mawr Appalachian Ministries Education Resource Center Re-Member/Pine Ridge Reservation – South Dakota West Philadelphia Alliance for Children - Phila.
TOTAL: 9 MESSENGER | March/April 2012
$1570.00 $ 670.00 $ 630.00 $1096.00 $ 665.00 $ 944.00 $1065.00 $1130.00 $1645.00
$21,099.00
prayers
BMPC TO CREATE WALL OF
[ SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT ]
by Jeffrey Brillhart
During the months of March and April, BMPC will welcome Philadelphia artists Maria Anasazi and George Apotsos to our Artist-in-Residence program. The eight-week residency will feature biweekly workshops that involve our BMPC congregation in the creation of a large-scale sculpture inspired by Maria Anasazi. The theme of the project is prayer. Together, the artists will invite all ages to explore, share and engage in how prayer serves their everyday lives. At the times indicated below, the participants will create a template on which to write a prayer and use it as an element of a larger piece. A 50foot metal grid will serve as a vehicle upon which prayers will be attached, creating a Wall of Prayers. Recycled paper and fabric, as well as paint, dyes and collage material will be utilized. The hope of the artists is to create an environment where the project serves as a dialog among the participants about the universality of prayer.
This work, to be displayed on our front lawn, will be created by Philadelphia artists Maria Anasazi and George Apotsos through a BMPC Music and Fine Arts Artist-in-Residence program. Congregants and friends of all ages in the community will be invited to participate by submitting their own personal prayers.
The project will culminate on Earth Day, Sunday, April 22, in an all-day participatory event. Church members of all ages as well as friends in the community may join in by writing a prayer and attaching it to the wall. The event will be held outdoors on the front lawn where the Wall of Prayers will be a semi-permanent installation. In addition, Maria Anasazi and George Apotsos will exhibit their own artwork in the galleries of the church with an opening on Sunday, April 22, at 5:30 p.m.
WALL OF PRAYERS RESIDENCY SCHEDULE WORKSHOPS WITH THE ARTISTS
Friday mornings (March 9-April 20) •
Adults and Seniors in Gloucester Room, 11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Sunday mornings (March 11-25 & April 22) •
Children, Youth, Families and Adults in Gloucester Room, 11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Wednesday afternoons (March 14-April 18) •
All ages in Gloucester Room, 4:00–7:00 p.m.
10 MESSENGER | March/April 2012
[ SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT ]
The earth is the Lord’s and the fullness thereof. - Psalm 24:1
CELEBRATING
EARTH DAY Join us as we rejoice in the beauty of God’s creation and focus on its care on Sunday, April 22: • Earth Day worship at 8:00 a.m. in the Chapel and 10:00 a.m. in the Sanctuary • “Green Tip” information from our Environmental Justice Committee to help us care for our planet • Paul Winter’s Missa Gaia (Mass for the Earth) at 4:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary • The completion and display of the Wall of Prayers. Why do we, as Christians, need to care for God’s creation? The Presbyterian Church of the USA (PC/USA) reminds us that “God’s works in creation are too wonderful, too ancient, too beautiful, too good to be desecrated.” We have been charged to till the earth and keep it.
Through this mass for the earth, your senses will take you on an ecumenical and ecological journey that embraces the sounds of nature. Listen as the calls of wolf, whale and loon join our Senior Choir, Youth Chorale, St. Andrew Boy Choir, St. Cecilia Girl Choir and Beginners’ Choir, accompanied by the Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia and a slide show of stunning nature photography. Tickets are $20 for adults; $5 for children 18 and under. Details at www.bmpcfinearts.org After the performance, view the Wall of Prayers, a large-scale sculpture that will be the culmination of six weeks of our congregation’s thoughtful work on the universality of prayer.
Don’t miss our second presentation of Missa Gaia, first performed to a packed house at BMPC in 2010.
UPCOMING FINE ARTS PROGRAMS • • •
Handbell Vespers: Sunday, March 4, 4:00 p.m., Sanctuary. Free-will offering. Jeffrey Brillhart, Organist, with Canadian Brass: Saturday, March 10, 3:00 p.m., Kimmel Center. For tickets and information, visit kimmelcenter.org David Higgs Organ Recital: Saturday, March 17, 7:30 p.m., Sanctuary. $10 for adults; $5 for children 18 and under.
11 MESSENGER | March/April 2012
[ SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT ]
VACATION BIBLE CAMP 2012:
A TIME OF DISCOVERY FOR YOU? by Marcy DelOrefice, VBC Director
VACATION BIBLE CAMP 2012: JOURNEY TO BABYLON For Preschoolers (age 3 by 9/1/2011)-Grade 5 Sunday, June 24 – Thursday, June 28 at BMPC Sunday: 3:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m. Monday-Thursday: 9:00 a.m.-12:00 noon (possible extended hours for 3rd-5th depending on leadership)
To register online as a volunteer or camper, visit http://www.bmpc.org/FamilyMinistries.htm NEW this year: make your payment online! Questions? Contact Marcy DelOrefice,VBC Director, at marcydelorefice@aol.com or 484-318-8232.
It’s that time of year again… the time when I start to think about transforming BMPC’s campus into somewhere far away, reminiscent of biblical times. The time of year when I start recruiting the wonderful moms, dads, grandparents and teens who devote a week to the children of BMPC and our community. The time of year when I start learning songs, making crafts and planning games to help teach God’s love. But most importantly, it is the time of year when I am continuously reminded of what Vacation Bible Camp (VBC) means to me: • Values: It means teaching my children the gifts of giving oneself, just as my mother taught me when she ran VBC at my childhood church. • Believing: It means believing in the power of God’s word and watching how it touches lives, changes hearts and draws children and adults closer to Christ. • Church Family: It means knowing that my family has a wonderful church family to help support us as we journey through life. Whether you are a parent, grandparent, aunt, uncle, sibling or friend, I invite you to come and discover what VBC might mean for you. As we “travel to Babylon” this summer, I promise you will see the joy, hear the laughter and feel God’s amazing love like never before. 12 MESSENGER | March/April 2012
[ SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT ]
PRESBYTERIAN WOMEN:
EVOLVING TO MEET CHANGING NEEDS by Pam Haynes-Walsh Presbyterian Women (PW) of BMPC includes all women members of the church—women of all ages and interests joined together in a supportive community of faith, fellowship and service. PW provides a unique place for women to grow spiritually and as a community through Bible study and retreats; music, literature and current events programs; Y-Group meetings; and mission activities as well as informal gatherings.
lifestyles of women at BMPC. In light of our recent challenges enlisting members to leadership positions, we plan to enter a time of discernment next fall to consider PW’s role in the church and to ensure we address the needs and interests of our community. We expect to do this while continuing PW Interest Group and mission activities.
With generous donations from its members, PW provides direct service and financial support for area women and families through several non-profit groups. We also are part of an international organization of Presbyterian Women who nurture faith and support the mission of the church, peace, and justice worldwide. We are delighted to have the pastoral leadership of the Rev. Jacqui PW has constantly evolved to meet Van Vliet as we undertake this the changing needs, priorities and
PW Coordinating Team, 2011-12
discernment process. In addition to her experience in ministry for children and families, Jacqui brings expertise in counseling, lay ministry and knowledge of PW organizations in other churches to this process. PW invites thoughts and suggestions from all and invites BMPC women to become involved in this caring community. For more information, please contact Pam Haynes-Walsh at haynes-walsh@ comcast.net or 610-667-0972.
BMPC CHURCH OFFICERS Elected at the Congregational Meeting on Sunday, January 29, 2012:
• •
• • • • •
Elders Class of 2015, for a first term: Bill Black, Karen Dunkman, Krista Vaughan, Janet White Elders Class of 2015, for a second term: Laura Getty, David Heaton, Suzanne VanderVeer Elders Class of 2013 (Youth): Ian Callahan, Grace Heard Deacons Class of 2015, for a first term: Linda Callans, Randy Cheloha, David Hastings, Jennifer Huth, Debbie Kay, Florence Zeller Deacons Class of 2015 (for a second term): Donna Richards-Bank, Elaine Robertson, Kathy Wynn
13 MESSENGER | March/April 2012
• •
Deacons Class of 2013 (Youth): Dan Petrovitch, Jennie Wilber Trustees Class of 2015 (for a first term): Bill McCormack, Brian Walsh Trustees Class of 2015 (for a second term): Keith Brinks, Fred Fletcher, Kevin Roller, Nancy Wolcott At-Large Nominating Committee Members: Don Chase, Barbara Cobb, Marcy DelOrefice, Kathy Kreider, Al Willoughby
These new officers will be ordained and/or installed on Sunday, May 13, following several weeks of training.
THE CONFIRMATION A chance to make faith a part of you. CLASS JOURNEY: A chance to become part of a faith. [ SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT ]
by the Rev. Kellen A. Smith Confirmation is a landmark. It is not quite a beginning—faith has been passed down to us and indeed began with God’s grace before we were even born. It is not quite an end —when a certain chapter of one’s faith life ends, you do not graduate or finish, you only choose how to continue. It is a time to learn, to ask questions, and most of all to slow down and reflect upon life, God, and what they have to do with one another.
In January, about 50 BMPC eighth grade youth began the journey of exploring their faith as part of the Confirmation Class. Christianity entails a lifetime of learning and we cannot possibly cover every topic in class. We can, however, engage with our Christian heritage and this particular church community to learn what faith can mean in our own lives.
The goals of Confirmation Class include discussing the basics of the Christian faith, encouraging and equipping each other for personal and communal spiritual growth, and learning to reflect upon and articulate faith in authentic ways. The Confirmands are exploring different topics during their Sunday morning gatherings such as: Who wrote the Bible, God or Humans? Why should I follow Jesus; can’t I just say I believe in him? How do you spell Presbyterian? Throughout the semester, Confirmands engage with the larger congregation and local community. Students meet regularly with adult mentors who are members of BMPC to discuss life and faith and simply have fun together. Members of the Confirmation Class also attend a service day with The Other Carpenter—an opportunity to put their faith to work by helping
those in need through housing repair projects in West Philadelphia. In May, you will have a chance to see the Confirmands’ faith first hand. Sunday, May 13, is the W.H.I.F. Expo (Window Into Faith… with an “H” for the Holy Spirit) in the Ministries Center Court, where their
projects provide views into the ways the students engage with their faith. The Confirmands will then officially join the church on Sunday, May 20, as they profess their faith in Jesus Christ. Please keep the students, their families and adult leaders in prayer as all journey together over the next few months.
UPCOMING YOUTH MINISTRY SPECIAL EVENTS MARCH
APRIL
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Sunday, March 4: Youth Ministry “Visioning” Retreat Sunday, March 18: SWELL Worship Service Sunday, March 25: Labyrinth Build with Confirmation Class, Youth, and their Families
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Sunday, April 1: Summer Trips Final Balance Payments Due Friday, April 6: Youth-led Good Friday Worship Service Sunday, April 15: SWELL Worship Service 14 MESSENGER | March/April 2012
The Messenger Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church 625 Montgomery Avenue Bryn Mawr, PA 19010 610-525-2821 The Messenger is published bi-monthly by the Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church. Periodical postage paid at Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania and additional entry. Postmaster: Send Address Changes To The Messenger Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church 625 Montgomery Avenue Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
HOLY WEEK SERVICES: Palm Sunday, April 1 • • •
8:00 a.m. - Worship with communion by intinction in the Chapel 8:30-9:45 a.m. - Breakfast in Congregational Hall, sponsored by Family Ministries 10:00 a.m. - Worship and children’s palm procession in the Sanctuary
Maundy Thursday, April 5 •
7:30 p.m. - Worship with communion by intinction in the Chapel
Good Friday, April 6 • •
12:00 noon - Experience the meaning of Good Friday in a Youth-led service in the Sanctuary 8:00 p.m. - Musical worship experience led by the Bryn Mawr Chamber Singers
Easter Sunday, April 8 •
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6:30 a.m. - Sunrise service on the lawn sponsored by Family Ministries. Continental breakfast follows. 8:00, 9:30, and 11:00 a.m. - Worship in the Sanctuary with Senior Choir and Easter Brass. (Communion at 8:00 a.m.)