Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church
Ministries Guide
Fall 2018
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Contents Welcome..........................................................................page 1 Mission Statement..........................................................page 2 Membership....................................................................page 3 Worship...........................................................................page 4 Sunday Schedule.............................................................page 5 Our Campus and History................................................pages 6-7 Staff.................................................................................pages 8-9 Whom to Contact............................................................page 10 Ministries Overview........................................................page 11 Children and Family Ministry........................................pages 12-13 Youth Ministry................................................................pages 14-15 Adult Education..............................................................page 16 Senior Adult Ministry.....................................................page 17 Presbyterian Women......................................................page 18 Men’s Ministries.............................................................page 19 Congregation-Wide Activities........................................page 19 The Middleton Center....................................................page 20 The Weekday School (Preschool)...................................page 21 Music and Fine Arts Ministries......................................pages 22-23 Mission...........................................................................page 24-27 Deacons Ministries.........................................................pages 28 Shared Ministries...........................................................page 29 Specialized Ministries....................................................pages 29-30 Stewardship....................................................................page 31 BMPC Foundation..........................................................page 32 Elected Leadership.........................................................page 33
Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church 625 Montgomery Avenue, Bryn Mawr, PA 19010 610-525-2821 || www.bmpc.org
Welcome! Dear BMPC Friends, I love the Apostle Paul’s description of the church as the body of Christ because the image brings to mind a living, breathing, moving, interdependent human being made in the image of God. It is impossible to capture the essence of our vibrant congregational life in any one gathering—whether it is worship, a Christian education class or Bible study, a service project, an intergenerational celebration, a shared meal or meeting. And yet through all of these activities, we can experience the love, grace, holiness, forgiveness and closeness of God revealed to us in Jesus Christ. Our life together as a community of believers is centered in worship, Christian education and nurture, so that we may be strengthened to serve as God’s church in the world. By turning these pages and catching a glimpse of our diverse offerings and opportunities, you will see how gifted our community of faith is with deep commitments, various callings, and special blessings. Moreover, I hope that you will find ways in which you can be further engaged in the ministry and mission of the church. Studies of healthy congregations show that people who attend a church are looking for a sense of welcome and belonging, as well as a place in which their gifts and talents can be used to the glory of God. This resource is intended to help you find both your place of belonging and call to service, so that whenever we gather we embody the church God is calling us to be together.
Grace and Peace, Agnes W. Norfleet Pastor
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Mission Statement This statement of purpose was adopted by BMPC’s Session in March 1997: We are a community of faith, challenged, strengthened and transformed by the God who is revealed to us in Christ. We... • welcome all who would follow Christ • prefer truth to complacency • strive to connect faith and life • serve and leaven the church, community, and wider world through compassionate and empowering ministries.
Staying Connected Subscribe to our weekly electronic newsletter, BMPC eNews, ministryspecific eNewsletters, and our quarterly mini-magazine, The Messenger, by contacting the church office or communications@bmpc.org. On our website, you will find Sunday worship bulletins, our church calendar, pastors’ columns, audio files of sermons, and ministry area updates. You may also keep in touch with BMPC at www.facebook.com/BrynMawrPres, www.instagram.com/BrynMawrPres, or www.twitter.com/BrynMawrPres. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to call or email us! *The information in this booklet is subject to change. Updates will be reflected on the BMPC website, in BMPC eNews, and in the worship bulletin. page 2
Membership As a congregation of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), we welcome all who would follow Christ to become part of the membership and ministry of our church. We would love for you to join us! New members join our church by profession of faith, reaffirmation of faith, or letter of transfer from another church. Those who have never been baptized may be baptized as part of a worship service when received into membership. Prior to that service, our Session greets and receives new members and their families at a special breakfast meeting (usually on the first or second Sunday of October, December, March, and June). To help newcomers become acquainted with our community and our sense of Christian ministry, we offer a “Discover BMPC” class leading up to new member Sundays. Inquirers are welcome, and your questions are encouraged. We look forward to getting to know you as a member of our church family!
BMPC’s Congregational Life Council is involved in efforts to share hospitality, enjoy fellowship, welcome newcomers, and increase participation. As we extend the hand of friendship, we sponsor events where we can celebrate together as a community of faith and we try to “fill the gaps” for members who may need a connecting point.
For more information, contact:
Franklyn C. Pottorff, Associate Pastor, FrankPottorff@bmpc.org Jane Wilber, Membership Assistant, JaneWilber@bmpc.org Susan Bravo, Congregational Life Council Chair, b41793@aol.com page 3
Worship Worship is at the heart of what we do at BMPC. As we come together as a community of faith, we put all else aside to glorify God. Our beautiful Sanctuary is filled with glorious stained glass windows, a magnificent pipe organ, the music of choirs, and the reassuring words of scripture and prayer. Whether you join us for 10:00 a.m. worship there or in the intimacy of our Chapel at 8:00 a.m., it is our hope that you will experience God’s presence. All those who have been baptized in the Christian faith are welcome to take communion at BMPC. The sacrament is an opportunity to renew the vows taken at baptism and our commitment to love and serve God, one another, and our neighbors in the world. Communion is offered each Sunday at 8:00 a.m. worship and on at least eight Sundays a year in 10:00 a.m. worship. Our lay-led Worship Committee serves as a forum for input and feedback to pastoral and Fine Arts staff to ensure that our worship opportunities meet the needs of our congregation. The Committee also provides logistical support for our services through volunteer ushering, parking, sound system operation, and communion preparation.
For more information, contact:
Mary French, Worship, maryfrench60@gmail.com Linda Himmelberger, Communion, himmelberger@msn.com Bart Bastian, Parking and Ushers, bart@sprayproducts.com Klaus Volpert, Sound, klaus.volpert@villanova.edu Monica Devane, Lay Readers and Logistics, MonicaDevane@bmpc.org Patti Hallowell, Flowers, augustehallowell@mac.com Rebecca Kirkpatrick, Lenten Devotional, RebeccaKirkpatrick@bmpc.org Mary Wachterhauser, 8:00 a.m. Service, mvzw@comcast.net Becky Hoy, Director of Administration and HR, BeckyHoy@bmpc.org page 4
Sunday Schedule We hope you’ll join us regularly on Sunday mornings when we set aside time to worship God and gain perspective as Christians in today’s world. Take advantage of our classes for all ages and join us for fellowship and refreshments in the Ministries Center Court. Overflow parking is available across the street behind Harcum College. 8:00 a.m. – Worship in the Chapel. A service with weekly communion. 10:00 a.m. – Worship in the Sanctuary. Traditional service and hymns with the voices of our choirs and a children’s message. 11:00 a.m. – Café in the Court. Join us for fellowship and refreshments in the Ministries Center at 11:00 a.m. (or on the front lawn in the summer), or join young families around the cookie table on the first floor lobby of the Education Building after Sunday School classes.
Childcare and Classes for All Ages
Childcare from birth - age 5 (year-round): • 7:45 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., 1st floor of the Education Building. Electronic pagers available. Sunday School (Most Sundays, September through May): • 8:45 a.m.: Art @ 9 (for age 3-Grade 5) in the Education Building, Room 201 • 10:00 a.m.: Kindergarten - Grade 5 begin worship with their families in the Sanctuary; classes for age 2 (by September 1) to age 4 in the Education Building; Youth Gathering for Grades 6-12 in the Gym followed by Sunday School classes • 10:15 a.m.: Classes for Grades K-5 in the Education Building begin after the Children’s Moment in Worship; Grades 6-12 in the Ministries Center • First Sunday of the Month: Worship Together Sunday for grades 4-12 (no Sunday School) Summer Schedule (June through August): Childcare for birth - 5 years 7:45 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. in the Ed. Bldg., Rm. 102. Summer Sunday School for Kindergarten - Grade 3 following the Children’s Moment at 10:15 a.m. in the Ed. Bldg., Rm. 202. Grades 4 12 in Worship. Adult Classes: Most Sundays at 8:45 and 11:15 a.m. See our worship bulletin for specifics. page 5
Our Campus and History BMPC was organized by 13 women and three men in 1873, when our land adjacent to the Bryn Mawr Hotel (now The Baldwin School) was purchased from the Pennsylvania Railroad. Our first building was a modest, green-stone Chapel on the site of our current Sanctuary. Our second building, a brownstone church at the site of our current Chapel, was completed in 1886 and seated 500. The vision of our congregation was apparent in 1927 when the present Sanctuary was built to seat 1,200—double the size of the congregation of that time. According to the report of the New Church Building Committee, the Sanctuary was built to “conform to the Gothic tradition, suited to the academic atmosphere of Bryn Mawr.” The old brownstone church stood next to the new Sanctuary until 1940, when its foundation and three walls became the framework of our Chapel. Three treasured Tiffany windows from the brownstone church enhance the Chapel’s north section, which follows the lines of the Old Sunday School building built in 1894. Our congregation has been committed to mission and outreach since the late 1800s, when BMPC became the first Presbyterian church in America to maintain its own foreign missionaries. Among them was Dr. William Wanless, who established a hospital in Miraj, India, that still exists today. Our commitment to the city and churches of Philadelphia was formalized with an Urban-Suburban Partnership in 1998 — the year of our 125th anniversary — and many of our current outreach efforts support Presbytery of Philadelphia ministries. Converse House was built in 1911 as the manse for our third pastor, the Rev. Dr. Andrew Mutch, who came from Scotland with his family. This building was our senior pastor’s home until 1958. It then housed our church offices until 1990, when our Ministries Center was completed, incorporating a gym and the Activities Building constructed in the 1960s. Our Fine Arts, Parish Nurse, and Social Worker offices, church library and parlor, and The Middleton Center for Pastoral Care and Counseling are located in Converse House today. Our Education Building, built in 1931 on the east end of our campus, provides space for hundreds of children for Sunday School. The Education Building is also the home of The Weekday (Pre)School and our tutoring program, which pairs suburban youth and North Philadelphia elementary school children. The Ministries Center on the west side of our page 6
Our Campus and History Sanctuary is open seven days a week as a place for youth and adults to plan activities, learn about faith, enjoy fellowship, and share resources through service to others. In the 1970s, our first full-time Director of Music and Fine Arts was hired, and an expanded program of music, art and drama took shape. Our tradition of excellence in worship music continues through our internationally-recognized Sanctuary Choir and our choirs for children and youth, handbell choir, and concerts. Changing art exhibits enrich our lives and express our faith. BMPC continues to be a place that brings people together in the pursuit of mutual understanding, leading us away from ourselves and into the mainstream of the Word of God. Today, with renovated buildings, a new organ, carillon, and church spire, we look forward to vibrant Christian ministry in the 21st century.
Top: First church building, 1870s. Bottom: Sanctuary construction, 1927.
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Staff Pastoral Staff Agnes W. Norfleet, D. Min. Pastor/Head of Staff, AgnesNorfleet@bmpc.org
Rebecca Kirkpatrick, M. Div. Associate Pastor for Adult Education and Mission, RebeccaKirkpatrick@bmpc.org
Andrew H. Mann Jr., D. Min. Interim Associate Pastor for Pastoral Care and Senior Adults, DrewMann@bmpc.org
Rachel Pedersen, M. Div. Associate Pastor for Children and Family Ministry, RachelPedersen@bmpc.org
Franklyn C. Pottorff, M. Div.
Associate Pastor forCongregational Life and Stewardship, FrankPottorff@bmpc.org
David B. Smith, M. Div.
Interim Associate Pastor for Youth Ministry, DavidSmith@bmpc.org
Program and Support Staff Amy Bauer
Assistant, Pastoral Care & Senior Adults and Youth & Young Adults, AmyBauer@bmpc.org
Kim Black
Director of The Weekday School, WeekdaySchool@bmpc.org
Jeffrey Brillhart
Director of Music and Fine Arts, JeffreyBrillhart@bmpc.org
Laura Cartledge
Assistant, Communications, LauraCartledge@bmpc.org
Andy Diaz
Facility Specialist
Pete DiRocco
Director, Facilities and Operations, PeteDiRocco@bmpc.org
Mariah Ervin
Assistant, Morning Out & Sunday School, MariahErvin@bmpc.org
Cheryl Ferry
Assistant, Accounts Receivable & Stewardship, CherylFerry@bmpc.org
Helen Hayne-Tye
Carol Cherry
Accountant, HelenHayne-Tye@bmpc.org
Monica Devane
Director of Administration and Human Resources, BeckyHoy@bmpc.org
Parish Nurse, CarolCherry@bmpc.org Assistant, Church Administration, MonicaDevane@bmpc.org
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Becky Hoy
Staff Ruth Johnson
Preferred Caterer (Independent Contractor), RuthJohnson@bmpc.org
Rebecca Kellich
Childcare Coordinator, Childcare@bmpc.org
Edward L. Landin
Assistant Director of Music, EdwardLandin@bmpc.org
Renee Malnak-Giansiracusa
Andrew Reeves Facility Specialist
Mary Richards
Assistant, Children and Family Ministry & Wedding Coordinator, MaryRichards@bmpc.org
Rich Rivera
Manager, Facilities and Maintenance, RichRivera@bmpc.org
Carol Schmidt
Social Worker, ReneeMalnak@bmpc.org
Assistant, Adult Education and Mission, CarolSchmidt@bmpc.org
Kristyn (Kiki) McKendrick
Stephanie Speakman
Sarah Miciek
Jane Wilber
Middleton Center Administrator, KikiMcKendrick@bmpc.org Director, Finance, SarahMiciek@bmpc.org
Manager, Music and Fine Arts, StephanieSpeakman@bmpc.org Assistant, Membership, JaneWilber@bmpc.org
Josue (Josh) Negron Facility Specialist
Elena Perri
Manager, Communications and Public Relations, ElenaPerri@bmpc.org
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Whom to Contact To reach a pastor or staff member, please call the front desk at 610-525-2821 to be connected with them. • • • •
Adult classes/Bible studies: CarolSchmidt@bmpc.org Baptisms: MaryRichards@bmpc.org BMPC eNews: ElenaPerri@bmpc.org Boy Scout Troop 19: Joseph Romasco, scoutmastert19@gmail.com,
267-625-6408
• Childcare: childcare@bmpc.org • Children and Family Ministry (age 0-grade 5): MaryRichards@bmpc.org
• Communications: ElenaPerri@bmpc.org • Counseling services, support groups, spiritual direction: KikiMcKendrick@bmpc.org, 610-525-0766
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Facilities use: PeteDiRocco@bmpc.org Fitness classes: AmyBauer@bmpc.org Funerals: AmyBauer@bmpc.org Giving: SarahMiciek@bmpc.org Membership: FrankPottorff@bmpc.org Men’s programs: DrewMann@bmpc.org Music and Fine Arts: StephanieSpeakman@bmpc.org Mission and Grants: CarolSchmidt@bmpc.org Parish Nurse: CarolCherry@bmpc.org Pastoral care: DrewMann@bmpc.org Preschool: Kim Black, weekdayschool@bmpc.org Senior adult programs: AmyBauer@bmpc.org Social work consultation: ReneeMalnak@bmpc.org Tutoring program: CarolSchmidt@bmpc.org Volunteering: JaneWilber@bmpc.org Weddings: MaryRichards@bmpc.org Women’s programs: MaryRichards@bmpc.org Young adult programs: FrankPottorff@bmpc.org Youth programs (grades 6-12): AmyBauer@bmpc.org
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Ministries Overview Our BMPC campus is busy seven days a week with opportunities for enrichment, fellowship, support, and service to others. We invite you to participate according to your interests. Drop-ins are welcome, and weekday childcare is often available with three days advance notice to childcare@bmpc.org. Our programs and activities are initiated and coordinated by church councils and committees that report to and are directed by our Session and Board of Deacons. As described in the pages that follow, each of these planning groups has a ministry area focus, is comprised of committed volunteers, and meets regularly from September to May. If you have questions or would like more information, call the church office at 610-525-2821 and we will be happy to assist you.
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Children and Family Ministry Children and Family Ministries Council supports the spiritual formation of children, birth to Grade 5, through Christian education in Sunday School and other activities. We partner with families and the larger faith community to nurture the faith of all our children. Sunday School is offered for all children beginning at 2 years of age. Our curriculum is enriched by worship, biblical storytelling and visual arts. This integrated curriculum builds each year helping students develop a strong sense of worship, a knowledge of scripture and a personal sense of vocation. Care is taken to ensure that our program meets the needs of children at each developmental stage. We value children as part of our whole church community and welcome children in worship. Kindergarten through grade 5 begin Sunday worship with their families at the 10:00 a.m. service. Following the Children’s Moment, they depart for their regular classrooms. On the first Sunday of every month, children in grades 4 and 5 worship with their families in the Sanctuary as part of Worship Together Sunday. Sunday School ends at 11:15 a.m. In addition to Sunday School, we offer: • Childcare: Sundays from 7:45 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. and for most other church activities (you may request childcare three days in advance of a church program by emailing childcare@bmpc.org; cancellations appreciated) •
Art @ 9: an art activity class for age 3-grade 5 on Sunday mornings at 8:45 a.m. (September-May during adult bible studies), Education Building, Room 201
•
Powell Children’s Library in the Ed. Building, ground floor
•
Fellowship opportunities with other families on Sunday mornings after worship in the Education Building lobby
•
Special events such as Family Fun Fridays with pizza and a movie, and family service projects
•
Monthly mission and service projects
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Children and Family Ministry •
Wednesdays Together Choir & Children’s program for children Kindergarten - Grade 5.
•
Summer Vacation Bible Camp in June on our BMPC campus
•
The Weekday School - a faith-based preschool on our BMPC campus
•
Presentation of Bibles in Grade 3 and Hymnals in Grade 5
•
Sacramental education around Baptism and Communion
Children’s programs take place in the Education Building located on the corner of Fishers Road.
For more information, contact: Rachel Pedersen, Associate Pastor, RachelPedersen@bmpc.org Mary Richards, Assistant, MaryRichards@bmpc.org Kim Black, Director of The Weekday School, weekdayschool@bmpc.org Gene Chang, C&FM Council Chair, gene.chang@uphs.upenn.edu Mariah Ervin, Assistant, Sunday School, MariahErvin@bmpc.org Rebecca Kellich, Childcare Coordinator, childcare@bmpc.org page 13
Youth Ministry BMPC’s youth ministry is an inclusive faith community that connects, engages and equips youth to discover and live out the gospel of Jesus Christ. We seek to embody the gospel through the words of the acronym I DREAM: Inclusion: Guided by God’s Spirit, we welcome all youth and families, thankful for their unique identities and gifts, as we seek to provide an experience of belonging for each individual. Discipleship: We cultivate an inquisitive community who journey together as youth grow, explore and are transformed by the love of God revealed in Jesus. Responsibility: We build meaningful relationships that promote accountability so that through us, God can create a community that is greater than any of us by ourselves. Engagement: We foster friendship, fellowship and fun to create joyfilled, relevant and transformative experiences. Affirmation: We approach everyone, including ourselves, with gentleness and grace so that all will know they are celebrated, loved and valued as children of God. Mission: We empower youth to share their gifts as they work for justice, freedom and peace in the community around us and the world at large. Sunday Morning Youth Gathering & Connection Groups Grades 6-12 are invited to attend our Sunday Morning Youth Gathering and Connection Groups from 10:00 – 11:15 a.m., starting in the gym. After worshiping with the youth band and hearing a sermon, we break out into age-specific Connection Groups at 10:30 a.m. for conversations about life and faith. Confirmation Confirmation is an exciting time in the life of our congregation’s 8th graders. After gathering with other youth in the gym on Sunday mornings, Confirmands meet in the Gloucester Room between 10:30 and 11:15 a.m. Each Confirmand is paired with a Confirmation Mentor who walks with them throughout the yearlong process providing support along the way. page 14
Youth Ministry Worship Together Sundays Worship Together Sundays provide children and youth in grades 4-12 an exciting opportunity to connect with the broader congregation on the first Sunday of every month. Youth take active roles in the services as liturgists and greeters. After the 10 a.m. service, all youth are invited to participate in a brief service project between 11:20 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Fifth Sunday Children & Youth Chapel Services Every fifth Sunday, children and youth of all ages meet in the chapel for an interactive worship service designed to build connections across age groups, and generate new expressions of Christian worship and practice. The Upper Room Fellowship Middle school youth (grades 6-8) meet together Sunday evenings from 5:00-6:00 p.m. for a time of fellowship and fun, then join the high schoolers as they arrive for a light dinner from 6:00-6:30 p.m. After dinner, the high schoolers (grades 9-12) take over the Loft to hang out and chat about faith and life. StudentServe (Leadership Team) This mid-week program for high school students (grades 9-12) provides a wonderful opportunity for youth to connect with friends, dig a little deeper into their faith and take on a leadership role in our ministry. The group meets after the church-wide Wednesday night dinners from 7-8 p.m. in the Ministries Center Loft (above the gym). Special Events and Service Opportunities We provide a number of special events and service opportunities for youth throughout the year. Search “youth” at www.bmpc.org for up-to-date information on current happenings and to subscribe to our email blasts. Trips and Retreats: • High School Winter Retreat during January in the Poconos • Middle and High School Mission trips in July • Camp Kirkwood for rising 6-12th graders in August
For more information, contact:
David B. Smith, Interim Associate Pastor, DavidSmith@bmpc.org Amy Bauer, Assistant, AmyBauer@bmpc.org Kathy Stevens, Youth Ministry Council Chair, kpstevens@comcast.net page 15
Adult Education Our Adult Education opportunities are designed to: •
Strengthen our understanding of worship, scripture, theology, our faith tradition, and Presbyterian heritage.
•
Challenge our understanding of God’s world and our place in it, and urge us to see life from different perspectives.
•
Heal and transform our hearts and minds so that we may serve God and others with greater conviction and effectiveness.
By offering Sunday classes at 8:45 and 11:15 a.m., we hope to make it easy for everyone to participate in learning, worship, and fellowship on Sunday mornings. We offer space and time for you to breathe deeply, think creatively, and reconnect with what is deepest in your heart as we gather for reflection, prayer, study, and conversation. Talented church members, guest academics, local experts, pastors, and visiting mission partners are among those who lead our classes. In addition to Sunday classes, we offer: • Bible studies/book discussions • Classes following some of our Wednesday Night Dinners • A Theologian-in-Residence program • Opportunities to enrich your experience of Advent and Lent We encourage you to visit The Book Center in the Court and Converse House Library (accessed via the Ministries Center) that carry an excellent selection of spiritual and theological books, class texts, bibles, hymnals, and books for children.
For more information, contact:
Rebecca Kirkpatrick, Associate Pastor, RebeccaKirkpatrick@bmpc.org Carol Schmidt, Assistant, CarolSchmidt@bmpc.org Cathy Whiteside, Adult Education Council Chair, whiteside5@verizon.net page 16
Senior Adult Ministry Our Senior Adult Ministry organizes itself around the wisdom, gifts, and needs of the senior members of our congregation, whose leadership and support are vital to the work of both our church and our community. Through our Senior Adult Council, various forms of service and education are designed to nurture and enrich the lives of these members. Some of the opportunities for service and learning are: • Men’s Book Discussion Group • Day trips and educational seminars • Sunday brunch programs • Recordings of worship services for the homebound • Medical equipment lending closet • Nursing and retirement home information • Planning and resource booklets (“Are Your Affairs In Order?”) • Church office volunteer opportunities • Main Line Adult Day Center • Singing for Life Choir (a Fine Arts Ministry) The Senior Adult Council also has a benevolence program to support local organizations that provide services to seniors in need. Individual services to enhance the caregiving of our pastoral team are provided to members through our Social Worker and Parish Nurse Programs. Our Social Worker offers assessment, consultation and referral to appropriate resources and services in the community when health, aging, or life events raise social or psychological concerns for members. Our Parish Nurse assists in the church’s healing role through a holistic health ministry dedicated to the care of body, mind and spirit. This includes assessing and identifying health and wellness needs of church members, visiting church members in their homes, and providing support and health-related information after hospitalization or during crises.
For more information, contact:
Drew Mann, Interim Associate Pastor, DrewMann@bmpc.org Amy Bauer, Assistant, AmyBauer@bmpc.org Janet White, Senior Adult Council Chair, JanetW298@verizon.net page 17
Presbyterian Women Our Presbyterian Women (PW) group belongs to an international organization of more than 300,000 women who emphasize faith, mission, and fellowship through Bible study, service projects, and social events. All women in our church and our community are welcome to join our ongoing activities. Whatever your background, you are sure to find a caring group who offer friendship and support. Our interest groups meet, study, and explore ideas in small settings; you may participate in as many as you like. Most interest groups meet from September through May. •
Coffee Cup Bible Study: pastor-led Bible study, 10:00 a.m. Wednesday mornings from September to May
•
Dimensions in Literature: book discussions on the third Wednesday of the month
•
Great Decisions: A monthly discussion that meets the last Tuesday of every month at Rosemont Presbyterian Village
•
Holy Leisure: occasional Friday evening gatherings in homes of PW members
•
Horizons Bible Study: a monthly Bible study that meets on the first Wednesday of each month at Rosemont Presbyterian Village
•
Perspectives in Music: recitals, concerts, and/or lectures related to music and how it “touches our souls”
•
Y-Group: an interest group of PW that welcomes mothers or caregivers of children of all ages with a focus on family and faith. Make new friends, share mutual support, and reach out through service projects. Usually meets on the second Tuesday of the month and also offers family outings, special events, and a book group
For more information, contact: Rachel Pedersen, Associate Pastor, RachelPedersen@bmpc.org Mary Richards, Assistant, MaryRichards@bmpc.org page 18
Men’s Ministries We offer opportunities for men of all ages including: •
A weekly Saturday Morning Men’s Group that runs from September through mid-June at 7:00 a.m. in Converse House Parlor. All ages are invited to join for fellowship and lively discussions “beyond the water cooler” on topics of interest to men. All discussions are confidential.
•
A Men’s Study Group on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month at 9:30 a.m. in Converse House. Led by Paul MacMurray, this group reads books dealing with biblical and theological study; men of all ages are invited.
For more information, contact:
Drew Mann, Interim Associate Pastor, DrewMann@bmpc.org Amy Bauer, Assistant, AmyBauer@bmpc.org Lee Comer, Saturday Men’s Group Liasion, 484-524-8271
Congregation-Wide Activities BMPC offers opportunities to enhance our life together as a congregation with intergenerational activities throughout the year. These include: • • • • • •
Wednesday Night Dinners each week in Congregational Hall (mid-Sept. through May) “Rally Day” festivities following 10:00 a.m. worship on the Sunday after Labor Day A “Blessing of the Animals” service on our front lawn in the fall “Sundae Sunday” following 10:00 a.m. worship in June Congregation-wide “Service Days” with hands-on volunteer activities, both on and off the BMPC campus Casserole blitzes to help feed the hungry
For more information, contact:
Franklyn C. Pottorff, Associate Pastor, FrankPottorff@bmpc.org Jane Wilber, Assistant, JaneWilber@bmpc.org page 19
The Middleton Center Through a generous endowment from the John Middleton Company in memory of Herbert H. Middleton, Jr., The Middleton Center opened in 1999 to care for the spiritual, emotional and relational needs of both our church and wider Main Line community. The Middleton Center invites people from all backgrounds, beliefs and faiths to enhance the connections between body, mind and spirit. Through therapy, educational programs, spiritual direction and support groups, The Middleton Center helps individuals to recognize their strengths and develop skills needed to improve the quality and fullness of their lives. Our professional services are provided on a sliding scale with a spirit of hospitality. All communications, conversations and services provided by The Middleton Center are confidential. Some special events include: •
Pathways to Clergy Renewal, a specialized program of The Middleton Center for clergy of all faiths that provides them with support, through programs and services offered by professionals who understand the unique demands of clergy
•
Bereavement specialists who provide individual counseling and a monthly bereavement support group, Searching for Still Waters
•
Monthly labyrinth (walking meditation) opportunities and occasional seminars
For more information, contact:
Drew Mann, Interim Associate Pastor, DrewMann@bmpc.org Kiki McKendrick, Middleton Center Administrator, KikiMcKendrick@bmpc.org Rich Allman, Middleton Center Council Chair, allmanr@verizon.net page 20
The Weekday School (Preschool) The Weekday School is truly “A Place to Grow.” Our curriculum for preschoolers offers a unique educational experience designed to develop a love of learning, kindergarten readiness, and roots for beginning a lifelong journey in faith. Our nurturing environment helps children discover the joy of learning as they engage in both play-based activities and handson lessons. Each day is filled with carefully planned, fun-filled activities designed with specific educational goals in mind. Through a theme-based curriculum that is rich in music and art, students are well prepared for kindergarten with strong skills in the areas of letter recognition, handwriting, science and math. Exciting enhancements include an Outdoor Learning Center where children can experience hands-on nature lessons, Kids Yoga, and an iPad lab in our new Learning Café. Weekday School students also learn about the love of God. Each week, BMPC’s Associate Pastor for Children and Family Ministries nurtures the students’ spiritual growth with Bible lessons. As their faith grows, so does their connection to BMPC as their church home. Classes are available for children ages 2 ½ through 5 with extended day options until 2:00 p.m.
For more information, contact:
Kim Black, Director of The Weekday School, weekdayschool@bmpc.org page 21
Music & Fine Arts Ministries Through weekly worship or in one of our many other programs, our Music and Fine Arts Ministries offer opportunities to share faith and glorify God through artistic and musical expression. The Music and Fine Arts Council meets regularly to plan and review programs, exhibits, budgets, and volunteer assistance for concerts and exhibits.
Mission Statement The mission statement of the Music and Fine Arts Program of Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church is to present music and the arts to glorify God and to promote diversity, tolerance, compassion and peace in the world.
Music Programs: • Concert Series: Performances of religious works by ensembles, organists or performing groups of international caliber. • Sanctuary Choir: Participates in 10:00 a.m. worship September through June; audition required. Meets Thursdays, 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. • Bryn Mawr Chamber Singers: A semi-professional group; audition required. Meets Thursdays, 8:30 - 9:00 p.m. • Singing for Life: For adults ages 55+. Meets Thursdays, 9:30 - 10:45 a.m.; no audition required. Registration fee of $75 per semester, scholarships available. • “Wednesdays Together” program: Grades K-5; meets Wednesdays, 4:45 - 5:45 p.m. • Youth Chorale: Grades 6-12; meets Wednesdays, 5:45 - 6:30 p.m.
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Music & Fine Arts Ministries • Tintinnabulators: Intergenerational handbell choir for youth and adults; ability to read music required. Meets Sundays, 11:15 a.m. 12:15 p.m. • Carillonneurs Team: Opportunity to learn to play BMPC’s 49 bell carillon. The team provides music on Sundays and for special occasions. Fine Arts Programs: •
A permanent art collection which began in the 1960s
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Rotating exhibits on BMPC’s architecture, stained glass, sculpture, and textiles, as well as exhibits by artists in the community
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Artist receptions and educational events
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“Artists’ Gathering” studio space available on Thursdays from 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. in the Gloucester Room
For more information, contact:
Jeffrey Brillhart, Director of Music and Fine Arts, JeffreyBrillhart@bmpc.org Edward Landin, Assistant Director of Music, EdwardLandin@bmpc.org Stephanie Speakman, Fine Arts Manager, StephanieSpeakman@bmpc.org Lauren Meyer, Music and Fine Arts Council Chair, meyerlp@gmail.com page 23
Mission Outreach Committee
Our church’s outreach is offered in response to God’s grace and Christ’s commandment to love one another. Under the oversight of our Outreach Committee, we offer grants that have assisted local Presbyterianrelated ministries including Broad Street Ministry, theVillage, Chester Eastside, and Central Presbyterian Church in Norristown. Grants have also assisted Philadelphia Ministries including Habitat for Humanity, The Interfaith Center of Greater Philadelphia, United Community Clinic, Turning Point, WePAC, and Urban Tree Connection. Our volunteers work with ministry partners such as these, sharing their time and talents. They also provide hands-on help through our Tutoring Program in the Education Building, now celebrating more than 50 years of pairing local youth with children from a North Philadelphia elementary school for reading and writing assistance. On Days of Service, church members and friends are invited to participate in a variety of service opportunities for all ages and abilities, including stuffing envelopes or making casseroles at the church, repairing houses or planting gardens in nearby urban neighborhoods. We package thousands of meals for Rise Against Hunger (formerly Stop Hunger Now). Our mission partners work with us to make these times of service productive and full of great fellowship.
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Mission Hunger Committee
Our Hunger Committee focuses on those who cannot obtain adequate food. We maintain freezers in the Ministries Center for casserole donations and sponsor ongoing collections of non-perishable foods to stock distribution centers and soup kitchens in greater Philadelphia. We schedule Saturday casserole blitzes, bringing volunteers of all ages together in our church kitchen to fulfill an ambitious goal of 1,600 casserole donations per year. The committee hosts an annual luncheon for those who lead the fight against hunger in our region and also seeks to make a difference in worldwide hunger issues. Hunger Fund envelopes in the Sanctuary provide resources for these contributions.
Peacemaking Committee Our Peacemaking Committee informs our congregation and mobilizes its responses toward peace, both locally and in the wider world. We offer educational programs and direct action opportunities that change yearly. Our areas of focus include building interfaith understanding, advocating for peace and justice for Christians in Israel/Palestine, and preventing gun violence resulting from illegal sales of handguns in our communities. Funds for our efforts come from the annual Peacemaking Offering collected each October on Worldwide Communion Sunday.
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Mission Environmental Justice Committee Our Environmental Justice Committee works both within BMPC and in our larger community to promote environmental stewardship and the care of God’s creation. Within a Christian framework, we are driven to respond to God’s great gift by caring for our world. We offer instruction to children, youth and adults; interact with other BMPC missions to promote environmental awareness; and work with other BMPC committees to help green the church campus. Our committee founded the Main Line Interfaith Green Group, an ongoing environmental stewardship movement.
Worldwide Ministries Committee Our Worldwide Ministries Committee connects BMPC with Christians and mission partners located beyond Philadelphia, working globally to support ministries of compassion, justice, and transformation. Our priorities are to support organizations that empower the people they serve and involve members of the served community; to build relationships between our church and like-minded partners around the world; and to educate our congregation on issues and ministries in which our global partners are involved.
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Mission Our programs include visits from our mission partners, who offer presentations about their life and work, and opportunities for mission travel and study to enrich our working partnerships and deepen our global relationships. Through our partners, we learn about challenges that face Christians everywhere and the amazing things that God is doing in our world.
Refugee Support Committee In response to the devastating worldwide crisis of more than 21 million refugees (over half are children under the age of 18), BMPC endeavors to promote self-sufficiency as we work with individuals, families and our local resettlement partner agencies. Following Matthew 25: For I was a stranger and you welcomed me‌truly I tell you, just as you did it to me the committee welcomes the stranger with housing, furnishings, food, medical, transportation, employment, education and friendship.
For more information, contact:
Rebecca Kirkpatrick, Associate Pastor, RebeccaKirkpatrick@bmpc.org Carol Schmidt, Assistant, CarolSchmidt@bmpc.org Joan LaLeike, Mission Council Chair, joanlaleike@gmail.com Heewon Chang, Worldwide Ministries Chair, hchang@eastern.edu Cindy Pierce, Outreach Chair, Cynthia.w.pierce@gmail.com Nancy Taylor, Hunger Committee, Ntaylor2948@gmail.com Phoebe Sheftel, Peacemaking Committee, pasheftel@gmail.com Courtenay Willcox, Environmental Justice Committee, mcwillcox@gmail.com Judy Sherry, Refugee Support Committee, judysherry1@gmail.com
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Caring Ministries The experience of physical, social or emotional need can serve as a portal to bring us into God’s presence. It is, in fact, holy ground. Through the ministries of the Middleton Center, Parish Nurse, Social Worker, Deacons and BMPC pastoral staff, we address human needs and together consider what the Holy Spirit is doing in our midst.
Deacons. “The ministry of Deacon as set forth in Scripture is one of compassion, witness, and service, sharing in the redeeming love of Jesus Christ for the poor, the hungry, the sick, the lost, the friendless, the oppressed...” -Book of Order, PCUSA At BMPC, Deacons focus on ministries of care and compassion, particularly for the sick or infirm, the homebound and bereaved. We also help serve communion, administer the Helping Hands program and provide other ministries including extending hospitality at Memorial Services. Social Worker and Parish Nurse. These medical and social service advocates assess the needs of the congregation and approach health and healing holistically. They practice caring presence through visitation and delivery of prayer shawls; they also build relationships, link to community resources and develop programs that integrate faith and health. The Middleton Center for Pastoral Care and Counseling offers counseling, spiritual direction, support groups and educational programs to help people experience life to its fullest.
For more information, contact:
Drew Mann, Interim Associate Pastor, DrewMann@bmpc.org Amy Bauer, Assistant, AmyBauer@bmpc.org Carol Cherry, Parish Nurse, CarolCherry@bmpc.org Renee Malnak-Giansiracusa, Social Worker, ReneeMalnak@bmpc.org Kiki McKendrick, Middleton Center Administrator, KikiMcKendrick@bmpc.org Anne Montgomery Schmid, Deacons Moderator, schmonty@comcast.net Nancy Taylor, Deacon Secretary, ntaylor2948@gmail.com Sherry Shields, Blood Drive, shieldss1@email.chop.edu page 28
Shared Ministries There are many opportunities within BMPC to help others. You can participate once a year, once a month or once a week, either at the church or in the community. Here are a few of the ways you can serve: • Assist at Wednesday Night Dinners • Volunteer as a receptionist • Support a BMPC youth as a mentor or be a “Secret Saint” for our college/student away ministry • Tutor elementary school students • Work with children/youth • Knit a “prayer shawl” • Feed the hungry at a casserole blitz • Drive older adults to medical appointments • Usher • Participate in a “Day of Service” • Join a prayer group
For more information, contact:
Franklyn C. Pottorff, Associate Pastor, FrankPottorff@bmpc.org Jane Wilber, Assistant, JaneWilber@bmpc.org
Specialized Ministries Property Committee Our Property Committee is a committee of the Board of Trustees which supports the church through stewardship of our building and landscape resources. Members of the committee offer varied skills to the church including construction project management, commercial real estate services, energy systems consulting, architectural design, materials engineering, mechanical engineering, interior design, landscape design, and project finance services. In the past five years, the committee has helped deliver, joyfully and with gratitude for generous donors, projects that include: • •
Renovation of the west transept of the Sanctuary including removal and restoration of the stained glass “Pentecost” and “Lord’s Prayer” windows and rebuilding of the masonry and roof systems. Restoration of the church tower including replacement of the spire (continued on next page) page 29
Specialized Ministries • •
Major repairs and enhancements to the campus heating, ventilating, and air conditioning systems to provide for more effective use of our spaces and better management of our energy use. Implementing an interior design manual to guide selection of furniture and finishes for the manses and meeting spaces.
For more information, contact:
Pete DiRocco, Director of Facilities and Maintenance, PeteDirocco@bmpc.org Martin Bond, Property Committee Chair, bondongrouse@gmail.com
Communications Committee The Communications Committee supports and helps advance BMPC communications to assure that our messaging is informative, effective, well-designed, and efficient. Responsible to the Session, the committee considers the use of our vehicles in a communications plan; overall editorial coverage; marketing and branding strategies; and the use of media and online resources. Recent projects and initiatives included: • • • • •
Redesign of our church website (www.bmpc.org) New editorial focus and publication schedule for The Messenger Increased use of email communications Coordination of the Annual Report and other special projects Publication guidelines and style standards
An editorial subgroup focuses on content, and a marketing subgroup helps to brand and position BMPC as a vibrant, engaging community of faith. Committee members also provide hands-on operational support as volunteer proofreaders, editors, and writers. Other church volunteers support communications through photography. While the Communications Committee attends to the form and function of our messaging, a newly-formed Technology Committee considers the church’s hardware and software needs and the use of new technologies.
For more information, contact:
Elena Perri, Communications and PR Manager, ElenaPerri@bmpc.org Laura Cartledge, Assistant, LauraCartledge@bmpc.org Amanda Beeler, Communications Committee Chair, asbeeler@gmail.com Mark Stafford, Technology Committee Chair, markholly@verizon.net page 30
Stewardship “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” - Luke 12:34 “Stewardship is how we live out our calling as followers of Christ. Stewardship is what we do after we say that we believe.” Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church has a long history of faithful giving. This response to God’s goodness enriches our church and our community, and in turn, enriches our lives. We are called “to live in gratitude and faith, not anxiety and fear.” Acknowledging that God revealed in Jesus Christ came to offer us abundance, we continue to offer our gifts, responding to the needs of the world God loves. BMPC achieves its mission in the world through the generosity of our congregation. The primary source of our financial support comes through the annual stewardship campaign. In the fall, we ask members of our congregation to make a pledge (an estimate of giving) for the upcoming year. The Joint Budget Management Committee then uses this information to create the annual budget. The annual stewardship campaign is led by the Stewardship Committee, which is comprised of volunteer church members and is supported by the Associate Pastor for Congregational Life and Stewardship and dedicated support staff. This committee seeks to help our members understand the role of giving in relationship to our Christian faith. The committee also supports efforts to educate the congregation about the missions of our church and celebrates the impact that results from our generosity. For more information, visit www.bmpc.org/giving.
For more information, contact:
Franklyn C. Pottorff, Associate Pastor, FrankPottorff@bmpc.org Sarah Miciek, Finance Director, SarahMiciek@bmpc.org Cheryl Ferry, Assistant, CherylFerry @bmpc.org Jean Reynolds, Stewardship Committee Chair, jeanbreynolds@gmail.com page 31
BMP c Foundation The BMPC Foundation encourages and receives contributions for the endowment of Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church. Composed of more than 30 individual funds, the Foundation provides sustained revenue to support more than 25% of our church’s annual operations. It also supports other ministries and mission commitments of the church as well as long-term and special needs. Gifts to the BMPC Foundation, however great or small, leave a rich and timeless legacy that will strengthen this congregation and the Christian community beyond our walls for years to come. Some funds include: The Ethel B. Foerderer Memorial Fund enables us to conduct a broad and caring ministry to the elderly, sick and needy. The William Hamilton Miller Fund provides grants and scholarships to young men and women preparing themselves for ministry. The Ruth Anchors Fund provides assistance to people in need of food and housing. There are funds that contribute to the preservation and updating of our physical facilities. Other funds support the Theologian-in-Residence program, Fine Arts Ministry, Youth Ministry, local outreach, and the Middleton Center for Pastoral Care and Counseling. Some funds are designated to provide grants, including: The Richard Shaull Fund was established as part of the mission component of BMPC’s Worship, Music and Mission capital campaign launched in 2002. It provides an annual award for special mission projects consistent with the goals of our Worldwide Ministries Council: to establish relationships to help overcome causes of needs and injustices and to support empowering, transformational ministries. The Eugene C. Bay Fund for Urban Ministry enhances the life of residents in the inner city areas of Philadelphia and the community of Chester through grants for projects that strengthen the physical, emotional, educational and spiritual lives of children. It is awarded biannually. The Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church Foundation is a Pennsylvania corporation with a board of directors elected by the trustees of the church. A member of the Foundation Board will be pleased to address any questions you have regarding the Foundation or your contribution. For more information, visit www.bmpc.org/giving/bmpc-foundation.
For more information, contact:
Sarah Miciek, Finance Director, SarahMiciek@bmpc.org Cheryl Ferry, Assistant, CherylFerry@bmpc.org Nancy Wolcott, BMPC Foundation President, nancy.b.wolcott@gmail.com page 32
Elected Leadership 2017-2018 Session
Board of Deacons
Board of Trustees
Bill McKee, Clerk
Anne Schmid, Moderator
Mark Dawejko, President
Elder Class of 2019 Rich Allman Brad Baturka + Molly Cordray (Y) Siobhan Daley-Gibson (Y) Bill McKee Lauren Meyer Cindy Pierce Eric Swanson + Cathy Whiteside
Deacon Class of 2019 Patricia Danzon Bryan Hauptfuhrer + Craig Johnson + Laurie Koziol + Jane Mackie + Sheryl Parente Vicky Peetros Anne Schmid Benjamin Schmid (Y) Holly Stafford + Grant Stevens (Y)
Trustee Class of 2019 Barbara Cobb Mark Dawejko + Kevin Duffy Peggy Hermann + Kevin Nicholson + Jean Reynolds
Elder Class of 2020 Bill Adelhelm + Heewon Chang Peter Haldy + Morris Kay + Doug McCone Kathy Stevens Susie Valerio + Elder Class of 2020 Becky Brinks + Bonnie Bay Callahan + Gene Chang + Mary French By Graf Joan LaLeike Bill Matthai Clergy Agnes W. Norfleet Rebecca Kirkpatrick Andrew H. Mann Jr. Rachel Pedersen Franklyn C. Pottorff David B. Smith
Deacon Class of 2020 Jean Bay Tim Bickhart + Marian Chitester + Tod Guernsey + Dave Heaton Anne Lee Steve McConnell Rob Mygatt Judy Sherry Susan Thorkelson
Trustee Class of 2020 Martin Bond + Tim Chitester Eric Johnson Jon Liggett + Steve Ryan Mary Wachterhauser Kent Walker Trustee Class of 2021 Louise Hill + Yardly Jenkins + Dave MacGregor Mark Stafford + Tom Willcox
Deacon Class of 2021 Bart Bastian + Colleen Bertrand Dave Bravo Dan Haller Brian Kerr Kathy Kreider Tricia Mackay Sally Nelson + Dave Reiner Sheila Rohrer Sherri Shields + Bill Shinn Jeff Swarr + Nancy Taylor+
(Y) Indicates a youth serving a one-year term as Elder or Deacon. + Indicates a person is serving his or her second three-year term. page 33