Sept /Oct Messenger 2012

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MESSENGER SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2012

BRYN MAWR PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

INSIDE THIS ISSUE: Sunday School Resumes September 9 (page 2) Fall Enrichment for Adults (pages 4-5) Musical Opportunities for All Ages (page 7) Upcoming Day of Service: October 13 (page 16)

[ WELCOME ]

Letter from the Pastor The leaves have not yet turned to display their glory, but there is enough color on the occasional tree to give clue to what is to come. Like so many of you, I find these among the most glorious days of the year. The changes are gradual, as they are in spring, but now accompanied by cooling nights and still-warm days. It is what we used to call back in Missouri, “Indian Summer.” There is the appearance that nothing much is changing but, in truth, everything in nature’s fabric is in transition. Think of it as a tapestry of many shades—recognizable patterns on the one side, a confusion of threads and colors on the reverse.

Our lives together in the church, this church that is our familiar home, as well as the world-wide Presbyterian Church, present us with a metaphorical tapestry as we move into another fall season. We soon hope to be calling a new pastor, Head of Staff, to lead our congregation into the next decades. This will also be a leader of such stature and talent to provide leadership in the larger church, often behind the scenes, as the weaver’s work creates the back side of our tapestry.

Some dimensions of this transition will seem familiar: we have seen previous comings and goings of dearly beloved leaders. But other dimensions are going to be unique for us and, possibly, even confusing at first. This, too, is similar to the back side of the tapestry that will always be a blurred, even scarred version of the clearly focused front side. We will learn to appreciate both, for without the working tangle of thread patterns on the back side there will never be the clear beauty of the carefully-woven front side, the presentation side, the side that most in our community will see and remember.

We will want this public face of the tapestry to be presented with care to all who are interested. We will want those who have been confused, scarred, tangled in a web of wanderings to come to a place with others where a view of the clearer picture is available for all to see and embrace. We will recognize the many threads on both sides of the tapestry as a representation of our experience as a church family in recent years. We have seen confusion and order, disarray and beauty, obvious direction but also ambiguity regarding our course. We know both sides of our congregational tapestry and have new appreciation for how one is impossible to create without the contribution of the other.

Our time to show our true colors is soon upon us. It is a time for an embrace of the creative process that brings order out of chaos. We will show our forgiveness of the undisciplined back side of our life together and our endorsement of the new vision that will emerge on our public side. We will do this because, in spite of our tangled lives of sin, we are, nevertheless, the creation of the God who loves us still.

Acknowledge that back side, but show the world the splendor of that front side. You never know who may be watching. You never know who may be looking for an alternative to the chaos of life in these times.

Here for all the world to see is BMPC’s autumn tapestry. It is a view of God’s life with us, and our life with God in the world.

James L. Carter Interim Pastor 1 MESSENGER | September/October 2012

Children & Family Ministry

[ SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT ]

WELCOME FALL

Sunday School resumes on Sunday, September 9, in the Education Building for children age 2 through Grade 5. The schedule is as follows (child must be the age indicated by 9/1/2012):

• Age 2, Room G3 (ground floor), 10:00 a.m.

• Age 3, Room G2 (ground floor), 10:00 a.m.

• Age 4, begin in Room 106 (first floor); finish in Room 105

(Worship Center), 10:00 a.m.

Grades K-5 attend worship with their families in the Sanctuary to experience Children in Worship for the first 15 minutes of the 10:00 a.m. service. After the Children’s Moment, the children go to the back of the church where “shepherds” lead them to the Education Building for the remainder of the hour.

• • • • •

Kindergartners, Room 106 Grade 1, Room 201 Grade 2, Room 210 Grade 3, Room 204 Grades 4-5, assigned rooms on the third floor

BMPC teachers are volunteers who truly enjoy children and nurture them in a loving and faith-based environment.

During baptisms, the congregation is addressed: “Members of the church—how will you fulfill your responsibility to assist these children to become faithful disciples of Jesus Christ?”. The congregation answers: “We will welcome them into our life and worship, we will support them with our love and prayers, we will provide for their nurture in this community of faith.” In support of this promise, we provide creative classrooms with caring teachers, thoughtful curriculum and an atmosphere that helps children know they are treasured in this church. You may register your child in the classroom or in advance by contacting CarolynBeitmann@bmpc.org. Newcomers are always welcome! * Infant and toddler care is available each Sunday from 7:45-11:15 a.m. in Room 102. * Grades 6-12 meet in the Ministries Center, 10:00 a.m.

Upcoming Events: • September 9: Sunday School Classes Resume • September 23: 3rd Grade Bible Presentation during 10:00 a.m. worship, preceded by 3rd Grade Family Breakfast at 8:45 a.m., Congregational Hall • September 23: 2nd Grade Cooking Project with Hunger Committee, 10:15 a.m., Main Kitchen • September 30: BMPC Block Party, 11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m., Ministries Center • October 19: World Food Day “Doing Good Together” Event, 6:00–8:00 p.m., Congregational Hall

2 MESSENGER | September/October 2012

Vacation Bible Camp 2012

[CONGREGATIONAL LIFE ]

A SUCCESS IN “BABYLON”

Opening worship for “Babylon: Daniel’s Courage in Captivity,” led by music leader Jennie Wilber.

“Daniel” (Bruce McMurtrie) telling his story of captivity to BMPC campers.

New Members Received Last Spring

Amy Barrickman Ardmore

Trevor Bassett Conshohocken

Linda Hauptfuhrer Warren Kennan Radnor King of Prussia

Gordon Stead Wynnewood

Jennifer Palmer Conshohocken

Jamie Coates Ardmore

Ted Collett Bryn Mawr

Lora Collett Bryn Mawr

Stacey Griffin Narbeth

Lindsay Kennan King of Prussia

Jennifer Natale Havertown

Jodi Robinson Ardmore

Morgan Robinson Ardmore

Tyler Robinson Ardmore

Jade Stead Wynnewood

Steve Trempe Ardmore

Melissa Trempe Ardmore

Brian Chambers Haverford

Aurea Chambers Haverford

*Not pictured: Eleanor D’Addesi, Philadelphia

3 MESSENGER | September/October 2012

[ SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT ]

Sunday Adult Enrichment

This fall, our class topics include history, current events, and a mingling of the two. Expand your spiritual life by attending; drop-ins are welcome. Watch the worship bulletin and BMPC eNews for updates, or contact CarolSchmidt@bmpc.org, ext. 8819.

To Israel and Back Sunday, September 9, 11:15 a.m., Witherspoon Parlor. BMPC members traveled to Israel and Palestine as part of an interfaith team to visit holy sites and discuss contemporary issues. See pictures and hear first-hand accounts of the trip.

Book Discussion: American Nations by Colin Woodard Sundays beginning September 16, 8:30 a.m., Conference Room. The Rev. Dr. Paul MacMurray leads a discussion about the history of the 11 rival regional cultures of North America and helps us understand what might make voters “tick” in the upcoming election.

Old Time Favorite Hymns Sunday, September 16, 11:15 a.m., Chapel.

Participate in an informal monthly hymn sing and learn the historical background, theology, and liturgical significance of some of your all-time favorites.

Roads Not Traveled: Peacemakers in American History Sundays: September 16 & 23, October 7 & 14, 11:15 a.m., Witherspoon Parlor. Dr. Jon Pahl of Lutheran Theological Seminary offers an exploration of the history of four courageous and little known peacemakers in American history. Hear their words, learn about their methods, and assess the prospects for taking some “roads not traveled” toward greater peace in our world today.

Old Testament Resources for 21st Century Life and Faith Sundays: October 14, 21, & 28, 9:00 a.m., Gloucester Room. Dr. Dennis Olson of Princeton Theological Seminary draws from the richness and variety in the Bible to provide insight on important issues in our world and life today.

Mental Illness and Its Treatments Sunday, October 21, 11:15 a.m., Witherspoon Parlor.

Dr. Aita Susi and Dr. Seth Gillihan of the University of Pennsylvania’s Department of Psychiatry discuss the symptoms, causes, and treatment of major mental illnesses and summarize the current understanding of the many changes in this field.

Living Into the Second Half of Life Sundays beginning October 28, 11:15 a.m., Witherspoon Parlor. The Rev. Dr. R. Charles Grant presents a series on the second half of life as a time for attaining growth and fulfillment, finding deep and lasting contentment, and transitioning from the time of working for to the Sabbath time of benefitting from our labors.

Visit by Rev. Dr. Spiwo Xapile of JL Zwane Church and Centre, Guguletu, South Africa Sunday, October 28. After preaching at the 8:00 and 10:00 a.m. worship services, Dr. Xapile shares an interactive presentation about the work of his church in South Africa at 11:15 a.m. in Congregational Hall.

Dead Sea Scrolls Sunday, October 7, 11:15 a.m., Witherspoon Parlor BMPC and Main Line Reform Temple join together for a lecture about the Dead Sea Scrolls. After the presentation, those who have purchased advance tickets will travel to The Franklin Institute to see the exhibit. To register, send a $25 check per person (entrance fee) to Carol Schmidt in the church office by September 16.

4 MESSENGER | September/October 2012

[ SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT]

WEEKLY ENRICHMENT For Adults of All Ages

Horizons Bible Study. Wednesday, September 12 & Wednesday, October 3, 10:30 a.m., Rosemont Presbyterian Village Ballroom.

Led by the Rev. Dr. R. Charles Grant. Resource: Dispatches to God’s Household – The General Epistles by Nancy Benson-Nicol. Contact: Joyce Malott, okf405@rcn.com.

Preachers Brown Bag Bible Study. Tuesdays beginning September 11, 12:00 noon, Conference Room. Bring your lunch and study the scripture for the next week’s sermon with the preaching pastor. Contact: PamLloyd@bmpc.org, ext. 8806.

Women’s Coffee Cup Bible Study. Wednesdays beginning September 19, 10:00 a.m., Gloucester Room. Sponsored by Presbyterian Women, this weekly Bible study will be led by the Rev. Jacqui Van Vliet. Book to be announced. Contact: CarolSchmidt@bmpc.org, ext. 8819.

Torah (Old Testament) Study. Thursdays, 11:00 a.m., Main Line Reform Temple, 410 Montgomery Ave., Wynnewood. Members of BMPC join with members of Main Line Reform Temple for a study of the Minor Prophets, led by Rabbi Ethan Franzel. BMPC contact: Phoebe Sheftel, pasheftel@gmail.com.

BMPC BLOCK PARTY September 30, 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.

Ministries Center

Join us for fellowship and fun for all ages! The festivities will include food, music, face painting, a balloon artist, games, and more. For more information, contact the Rev. Jacqui Van Vliet at JacquiVanVliet@ bmpc.org, ext. 8810.

5 MESSENGER | September/October 2012

[ SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT ]

Youth Mission Trips:

AN INSPIRING SUMMER EXPERIENCE By the Rev. Kellen Smith

In July, BMPC’s High School Mission Team traveled to upstate New York to serve with YouthWorks, an organization that offers work ministry experiences for teenagers. On the Sunday of our departure, we were commissioned at the 10:00 a.m. worship service in our matching tee shirts, said a prayer, and hit the road. We were welcomed by the YouthWorks staff, had our orientation session, and enjoyed Spirit-filled worship and small-group time.

On our first day, after learning the safety rules, we headed to our work sites. One of our groups worked at the home of a local family and helped them stain a porch and scrape old paint off the back of the house. The other group served at a camp, clearing brush and preparing a building for painting. Throughout the week, our groups contributed to the community by weeding and mulching garden plots, painting and landscaping a local resident’s home, preparing eggs for sale and building a fence for turkeys at a farm. Others in our groups helped to run a kids club and visited a nursing home. On the last evening, we enjoyed a cookout in a beautiful setting with the community members with whom we had worked and shared stories about the week. We all felt the presence of God using our various gifts for great purposes in this community.

Middle School Urban Plunge Team (top) Our Middle School Urban Plunge to Philadelphia provided a and High School Mission Team (bottom) similarly rewarding experience. In mid-July, the group slept at Russell Byers Charter School and spent a day working at the food pantry at The Salvation Army of West Philadelphia and a day with The Other Carpenter, helping to repair the home of Ms. Suzie. Our theme verse for the week was: “Never tire of doing what is good” -2 Thessalonians 3:13.

As we accomplished needed jobs and built meaningful relationships, we were reminded of what it means to be the hands and feet of Christ in the world. We hope to continue to live the charge we received before departing: that service is not just something we do for a week over the summer, but a way to live our lives. May each of us be inspired by God to share our gifts and time with those in need around us.

SAVE THE DATE • September 9: Kick-off Sunday—Gathering in Congregational Hall for all Youth in Grades 6-12 and their parents • September 30: Youth Sunday • October 20: Youth Lock-In (overnight retreat) at BMPC

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[ SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT ]

Worshiping God

THROUGH MUSIC Fine Arts at BMPC offers many opportunities to worship God through music. Through our programs for all ages and abilities, participants give back to God by sharing their talents in the performing arts.

Children and youth from kindergarten through Grade 12 explore sacred music and its role in worship in our Choir School groups led by Jeffrey Brillhart and Ketti Muschler.

Handbell Choirs, led by Nancy Miller Junkert, include groups for Grades 4-12, as well as a newly-formed handbell choir for adults of college age and older (music experience is helpful).

Our Senior Choir is a wonderful opportunity for adults who love to sing the great sacred choral works. This group, led by Jeffrey Brillhart, sings regularly in worship and also participates in special services and concerts throughout the year. For older adults, Singing for Life is our 55+ group that focuses on stretching, breathing exercises, and vocal technique as it learns both sacred and secular repertoire. Led by Jeffrey Brillhart, this popular group has a modest fee per semester.

The rehearsal schedule for all ages is outlined below. For questions or to register, contact StephanieSpeakman@ bmpc.org, ext. 8836.

Wednesdays (beginning September 12) 4:00-4:45 p.m.

Carol Choir (Kindergarten and Grade 1) 4:00-5:00 p.m.

Jubilate Ringers (Handbells for Grades 4-8) 4:45-5:30 p.m.

Beginners Choir (Grades 2-3) 5:00-6:00 p.m.

St. Cecilia Girl Choir (Grades 4-8) 5:00-6:00 p.m.

St. Andrew Boy Choir (Grades 4-8) 6:00-7:00 p.m.

Tintinnabulators (Handbells for Grades 9-12; Grades 6-8 by invitation) 7:00-8:00 p.m.

Youth Chorale (Grades 6-12 girls and boys with changed voices) 7:00-8:00 p.m.

Adult Handbells Thursdays (beginning September 6) 7:00-9:00 p.m.

Senior Choir

Fridays (fall semester begins October 5) 9:30-10:45 a.m.

Singing for Life

SAVE THE DATE • October 14, 4:00 p.m., Sanctuary: Philadelphia Handbell Ensemble Performance • November 4, 2:00 p.m., Sanctuary: Recital by Suzanne DuPlantis and Keenan Boswell

7 MESSENGER | September/October 2012

New to the BMPC Staff Kim Black, a teacher at the Weekday School for the past 11 years, has been selected as new Weekday School Director. In this leadership capacity, Kim will continue the tradition of providing excellence in early childhood education to the Main Line community. Kim is a BMPC member who earned a master’s degree in education. She looks forward to her new role as she continues to work with the staff, families and children of the Weekday School. “As a parent of a former student, I treasured the warm, nurturing atmosphere of the Weekday School,” she said. “And as an educator, I have valued being part of a school that is a size where every teacher knows each child and we are able to watch the children grow and learn in an environment that recognizes the gifts of each child.”

[ CHURCH NEWS ]

The Rev. Graham Robinson has joined our part-time staff as Director of the Pre-Med Hospice Volunteer Program and Pastoral Visitor. Funded by a grant from the Athena Institute, this program trains and places pre-med students as hospice volunteers with a goal of developing doctors with the capacity to respond with sensitivity to persons at the end of life. The Athena grant also compensates Graham to assist our pastors in hospital and crisis care. Serving BMPC in this capacity brings Graham home to the congregation in which he grew up in the 1960s. He has been a pastor for 25 years, and his wife Jodi and three sons recently joined BMPC after the family moved here from Connecticut.

Session Priorities Approved for 2012-2013 & Beyond

By Bob Holmes, on behalf of the Session Priorities Committee

In May, Session overwhelmingly approved the 2012 Session Priorities Committee’s final report proposing strategies and recommendations across the programmatic, financial, and organizational life of the church. This followed information gathered last fall from more than 40 Session, staff, and lay leaders; initial report review in early April; and incorporation of subsequent feedback and suggestions. Some 21 recommendations are encompassed in the following six major areas: 1) Worship and Evangelism 2) Pastors and Staff 3) Facilities

4) Financial Health 5) Programs and Councils 6) Communications

A major purpose of these recommendations is to help guide development of the 2013 church budget. As proposed, the implementation of these recommendations will take place over the next 18-24 months. The Pastor Nominating Committee (PNC), Deacons, Foundation and Trustees have seen the report and will incorporate applicable portions into their work. Here are some examples:

• Stabilize the Foundation payout rate to the annual church budget; • Make e-Communications the primary (but not exclusive) means of communicating with the church membership; and • Explore a new model for “birth to death” Christian education at BMPC.

Look for ongoing updates as implementation begins this fall. Interested in reading the approved recommendations? Contact PamLloyd@bmpc.org, ext. 8806.

If you can lend

8 MESSENGER | September/October 2012

[CONGREGATIONAL LIFE ]

Bus Trip to New York Botanical Gardens Thursday, September 13

Enjoy a day at the New York Botanical Gardens to view the stunning interpretation of French Impressionist Claude Monet’s gardens at Giverny. After a guided tour of Monet’s gardens, stroll the 250-acre National Historic Landmark in the Bronx at your leisure. Lunch is on your own; bring it with you or dine in one of two on-site restaurants. Bus departs BMPC’s back parking lot at 8:45 a.m. sharp and returns by 6:00 p.m.

RSVP by September 7 with a check for $65 (to cover transportation, entrance fee and docent) made payable to BMPC Senior Adults, attention Amy Bauer. For more information, contact AmyBauer@bmpc.org, ext. 8821.

Planning Ahead:

Distributing Your Treasures Among Family Members

By Lorie Benovic, BASW, M.A., Care Manager

Many older people discover that figuring out “how to get rid of all their stuff” is not as much fun as it was accumulating it. But planning ahead and tackling the job bit by bit is much easier than waiting until “crunch time.” Many of our things are considered family treasures, regardless of their monetary value or lack thereof, and the distribution of these items can be fraught with emotion. Margit Novack, President of Moving Solutions, will discuss this topic on Sunday, September 23, at 11:15 in Gloucester Room. Her seminar, “Creating a Priceless Legacy (How to Divide Your Possessions So Your Children Don’t Argue Over Them After You Die)” will offer strategies to help you sort through decades of belongings and maintain family harmony. For more information, contact LorieBenovic@bmpc.org, ext. 8833.

9 MESSENGER | September/October 2012

[ SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT ]

SPIRITUAL PRACTICES By the Spiritual Foundations Committee

The start of the program year offers opportunity for renewed focus on spiritual life. “Practices” are ways to strengthen this focus. For example, the regular involvement of BMPC’s Youth with The Other Carpenter is a practice that relates to the discipline of service. Additional practices include worship, sabbath keeping, discernment, hospitality, spiritual friendship and the following: • Lectio divina, prayerful reading, is an ancient method for praying with scripture. It can be exercised individually or, as in a recent class given by the Adult Education Council, with a group. For a description of lectio divina, see “Lord, Teach Us to Pray,” a manual by the PC(USA)’s Office of Spiritual Formation, or visit gamc.pcusa.org/ministries/spiritualformation/practices/#3.

• The “examen” is a technique of prayerful reflection on the day’s events in order to discern God’s direction. It “can help us see God’s hand at work in our whole experience.” “Sleeping with Bread, Holding What Gives You Life” by Dennis, Sheila and Matthew Linn explains the technique and presents personal experience, including use with children. For more information, visit www. ignatianspirituality.com/ignatian-prayer/the-examen/.

• The labyrinth is an ancient tool for prayer and meditation. The “Lord, Teach Us to Pray” manual states that as we seek Christ’s guidance while walking, we have a chance to lay our hearts open before God. The Middleton Center for Pastoral Care and Counseling provides a labyrinth at scheduled times.

For more information, visit www.middletoncenter.org or www.pcusa.org/resource/walking-labyrinth.

Other practices are described in “The Sacred Way, Spiritual Practices in Everyday Life” by Tony Jones, and online at www.presbyterianmission.org/ministries/spiritualformation/practices/.

Tai Chi: Good for the Mind, Body & Soul

By Joyce Krajian

Want a great way to reduce stress? Need more energy for your daily routine? Wish you had stronger legs for better balance?

Looking for non-competitive, gentle exercise?

Tai Chi is a series of slow dance-like movements designed to promote balance, flexibility, coordination, and enhanced energy.

Sometimes viewed as moving meditation, it has been used for stress management, concentration, and general relaxation. Tai Chi is a discipline that integrates body, mind, and spirit and enables participants to develop a deeper awareness of self. It also has been recognized as a valid therapy by the American Arthritis Association.

The Middleton Center offers a weekly 90-minute Tai Chi class, taught by Rich McKenzie. Rich has been studying Tai Chi since 1977 and teaching since 1980. Drop in for a sample class any Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. beginning September 11 in the Gym. For more information, call The Middleton Center at 610-525-0766.

10 MESSENGER | September/October 2012

[ SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT ]

Fall Offerings at The Middleton Center

By Joyce Krajian

The Middleton Center extends its welcome to both the BMPC family and the wider community.

Through its many services and resources, it offers encouragement and support as you listen to your deepest longings and the voice of God. It invites you to bring questions and concerns, joys as well as sorrows, and your desire to find peace in body, mind and spirit to its classes and groups or to a oneon-one relationship with a therapist, addictions or bereavement counselor, spiritual director, or its new Life Coach.

Nancy Clifford, M.A., a life coach and educator, recently joined The Middleton Center community of caring professionals. In her practice, Life-Fit Coaching, Nancy specializes in transition and reinvention. She helps clients discover their passion, purpose, and signature strengths; make “good-fit” career and life choices consistent with their most authentic self; and build successful relationships. Through guided self-discovery and exploration, Nancy helps empower clients to seek satisfaction, create change, and design a life they love.

To schedule an appointment with Nancy or any one of The Middleton Center practitioners, call 610-525-0766.

A Unique Opportunity to Engage with Nancy Clifford!

WOMEN’S PERSONAL GROWTH GROUP Midlife Reinvention: Creating a Life You’ll Love!

Tuesdays, September 25, October 2, 9, 16 7:00–8:30 p.m., Converse House Parlor Yearning for change but don’t know where to start? You may know how to give to others, but what do you need for yourself? Connect with other women who will listen to your stories, reflect your greatest strengths, offer support and guidance, and help turn obstacles into opportunities. Embrace the gifts of balance, choice and purpose that “coming of age” offers. Help infuse more meaning into your life by exploring who you are, where you have been, and where you are going. Fee: $80 for four group sessions. To register for this opportunity led by Nancy Clifford, call The Middleton Center at 610-525-0766.

Nancy Clifford

Save the Date!

DR. DAN GOTTLIEB:

Parenting from the Heart: Using Self-Knowledge to Raise Healthy Children Tuesday, October 23, 7:00-8:30 p.m.

Main Line Reform Temple, 410 Montgomery Avenue, Wynnewood Dr. Dan Gottlieb

Year Two of “Parenting on The Main Line” begins with keynote speaker Dr. Dan Gottlieb. This program, co-sponsored by The Middleton Center and Main Line Reform Temple, brings together parents in an interactive environment to explore positive parenting. For more information, call The Middleton Center at 610-525-0766 or visit www. parentingonthemainline.com.

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[ SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT ]

Changing Roles of Women at BMPC: PAST, PRESENT & FUTURE

By Pam Haynes-Walsh

Presbyterian Women (PW) hosted a panel of four respected church members last spring to address changing roles of women at BMPC. Ruth Watermulder, Lynn Yeakel, Courtenay Wilcox, Laura Getty and audience members engaged in a lively discussion of the evolution of women in leadership, women’s ministry, Presbyterian Women, and the future of Presbyterian Women at BMPC. Shared church leadership among women and men, the importance of leadership training, the need for a place for women to develop spiritually and have fellowship and shared mission, and changes in church and cultural trends were highlighted. Comments included the following: “Inclusion, sharing leadership and helping people who want to become leaders is very important. Not every woman is born a leader, but many leaders are born women… Here (at BMPC), leaders need to work from the bottom up. Teaching this would be a great function for PW.” “Presbyterian Women has given me a launching pad for lots of different opportunities—not only in this church, but in the larger Presbyterian church. That’s what I’ve been so excited and grateful for.”

“We still need a place where women can gather together to develop their own inner spiritual lives and relate them to others--to create fellowship bonds so they can do what they and the church want to be involved in.”

“PW has been the epitome of relational programming…a hallmark for what a relational programming model could be in this church.”

“In terms of discernment, Y-Group is a good model of something that’s working. It has fellowship and devotions, incorporates a topic of interest at each meeting, has socials off-campus that include men and has been a great entry point to the church.”

“PW should not be afraid of change. The culture of the church is changing and PW needs to be willing to change with that.”

This fall, we will enter a time of discernment to consider PW’s role in the church and to ensure that we address the needs and interests of our community. To learn more, contact CarolSchmidt@bmpc.org, ext. 8819.

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[CONGREGATIONAL LIFE ]

WHY THE FOUNDATION

Must Grow By the BMPC Foundation Board

Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church’s impressive buildings proclaim its ministry and its status as a vibrant, lasting institution. The scope and depth of that ministry have expanded greatly over the years, along with BMPC’s campus that now includes a greatlyimproved Sanctuary (new organ, air conditioning) and refurbished Chapel, Ministries Center, and Education Building.

BMPC’s programs and physical plant are supported by the annual contributions of the congregation and the BMPC Foundation. The Foundation currently has assets of about $30,000,000.

The Church’s annual budget is currently about $3,600,000, of which approximately $1,000,000 is provided by the Foundation–a contribution based on a percentage of the value of the funds in the Foundation, consistent with the general, prudent practice of charitable foundations.

The Foundation’s contribution–made possible by your generous gifts–allows the Church to create and sustain programs that it could not otherwise afford.

The Foundation’s continuing ability to make that contribution depends, however, on the continued generosity of members of BMPC’s congregation and their families and friends.

Our congregation is composed of people who have found fulfillment in BMPC’s programs and ministries.

We are a church of choice, as distinguished from a church of convenience. BMPC recognizes that it must meet spiritual, educational and other needs. It is the diversity and quality of its programs that distinguish it from the churches our members pass on their way to our doors.

To ensure continued renewal, growth and service, BMPC must maintain and even expand programs that 13 MESSENGER | September/October 2012

“

To ensure continued renewal, growth and service, BMPC must maintain and even expand programs that make important contributions and/ or respond to new challenges.

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make important contributions and/or respond to new challenges. As the costs of these programs grow, the contribution by the Foundation must also increase.

This growth in contribution can take place only if there is growth in the Foundation’s assets.

BMPC’s successful programs should not be limited at a time when expansion is critical–new opportunities should not be met by an automatic “we can’t afford it.” The Foundation Board urges everyone to consider supporting the Foundation, which in turn supports the indispensable ministry of this great church.

For more information, contact Maureen Murphy, Director of Stewardship and Development, at MaureenMurphy@bmpc.org, ext. 8807.

[CONGREGATIONAL LIFE ]

Planned Giving at BMPC Giving for the Future

Making a planned gift is not just for those who have wealth or special financial expertise but for anyone with a generous spirit who, while still living, wants to designate his/her gifts for the future. At Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church, we are grateful for those who have gone before us who gave gifts that fund current needs and also provide long-term benefits.

What Is a Planned Gift?

A planned gift is a gift from your assets or estate such as a bequest, life insurance, real estate, or personal property. There are many gifting options, including outright gifts of cash or assets, a charitable gift annuity, charitable remainder trust, or charitable lead trust. We strongly urge our donors to work closely with their financial advisors to determine the most advantageous estate plan.

Why Consider a Planned Gift?

Your legacy gift ensures the continued vitality of Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church from one generation to the next.

A planned gift brings a sense of fulfillment to the donor and may also provide the donor with financial benefits, including tax savings, reduced capital gains and estate taxes, and release from financial management. For more information, contact Maureen Murphy, Director of Stewardship and Development, at MaureenMurphy@bmpc. org, ext. 8807.

SEGA GIRLS’ SCHOOL IN TANZANIA Receives BMPC’s 2012 Shaull Award Tanzania is one of the poorest countries in the world with 36% of people living below the poverty line and only 8% of girls attending secondary school.

In response to this, the Sega Girls’ School provides impoverished, orphaned and vulnerable adolescent girls with quality, participatory academic and business education. Sega also offers career development and life skills training which engage the students in community service.

In Tanzania, this school is a model for how to develop school-based businesses for sustainability and learning purposes. It sits on 23 acres, has developed a poultry farming business, runs entirely on solar energy, and has an organic garden that produces 50% of the school’s vegetables.

The Shaull Award from BMPC will enable Sega to install a rainwater harvesting system with 12 waterharvesting tanks and hook-ups.

To learn more about the Sega Girls’ School, visit http://www. nurturingmindsinafrica.org/ id17.html.

14 MESSENGER | September/October 2012

[ SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT ]

Meet the Rev. Dr. Spiwo Xapile

By Joanne Hanna

Following a 1990s BMPC tradition of inviting international pastors to serve as “Missionaries in Residence,” the Rev. Dr. Spiwo Xapile, his wife Zethu, and their two children arrived in Bryn Mawr in early May 1996 for a one-month stay.

We learned so much from these Presbyterian friends! Apartheid had ended only four years earlier, resulting in enormous change in South Africa. Returning for additional visits, Spiwo spoke about the plague of HIV/AIDS that continues to devastate his community and the vital role his church, J.L. Zwane, plays in the support of its many afflicted members.

BMPC’s Senior Choir visited Guguletu in the summer of 2007. We joined in worship, visited members’ homes, and sang with the Siyaya choir that brings HIV/AIDS education to people through music, dance and theater.

We now look forward to Dr. Xapile’s visit with us in October when, representing one of the longest mission relationships of our church, he will share stories about God’s work in Guguletu, where “protecting the dignity of the individual, developing human capital and rescuing hope through Word and Deed with Christ in the center of our lives” guides its mission. You won’t want to miss this opportunity to learn about the exciting ministry of J.L. Zwane Church!

To learn more about the vibrant, dedicated community that J.L. Zwane Church has become, visit http://www.jlzwane.sun.ac.za/.

The Rev. Dr. Spiwo Xapile (top) and J.L. Zwane Church (bottom)

Save the Date!

Sunday, October 28

The Rev. Dr. Spiwo Xapile, Pastor of J.L. Zwane Presbyterian Church in Guguleto, South Africa, preaches at the 8:00 and 10:00 a.m. worship services and speaks at 11:15 a.m. in Congregational Hall.

15 MESSENGER | September/October 2012

[ LOCAL AND WORLDWIDE OUTREACH ]

Eugene C. Bay Fund Award Recipients

By Courteney Willcox

The Eugene C. Bay Fund Committee is thrilled to announce recipients of the third cycle of the ECB Fund Award. After examination of 27 potential and worthy candidates, the committee selected Arch Street Preschool, The Studio at Beacon, and Presbyterian Children’s Village.

The award was granted to these recipients because they: • hold the promise of systematic change • address the physical, emotional, educational and/or spiritual needs of urban residents, especially children • contain a self-help component and offer the opportunity for transformation • possess a willingness to take risks and have a likelihood of success • include opportunities for BMPC congregational involvement • demonstrate quality leadership and organization

Arch Street Preschool, opening in 2012, is an exceptional faith-based center city preschool for children from diverse backgrounds in Philadelphia.

The Studio at Beacon is an innovative Kensington neighborhood organization that invites people of all ages to grow together through arts, learning and faith.

Presbyterian Children’s Village goes the extra distance to offer a family coaching program that puts a caseworker in the home to guide and support parents who have attended PCV parent support classes.

Consistent components in each program are tremendous enthusiasm and a faithful response by each organization to God’s call to care for one another. The Eugene C. Bay Fund is pleased to be able to encourage each recipient’s outstanding vision.

Eugene C. Bay Fund recipients will be recognized during the 10:00 a.m. worship service on Sunday, September 16.

Please join us in the Ministries Center Court after the service to learn more about these worthwhile programs.

CONGREGATION-WIDE DAY OF SERVICE Saturday, October 13 9:20 a.m.–1:00 p.m.

All ages, all skills, and all interests are invited to join in on the fun for BMPC’s Congregation-wide Handson Day of Service. We’ll gather in the Ministries Center for devotions and then disperse to prepare casseroles, garden, complete home repairs, and prepare mailings. Not only will the day be a great service opportunity, but it’s also a wonderful family activity! Watch for sign-up details in the Sunday worship bulletin, eNews and the Outreach kiosk in the Ministries Center Court. For more information, contact CarolSchmidt@bmpc.org, ext. 8819.

SAVE THE DATE: Congregation-wide Days of Service in 2013 will be held on January 26 and May 18.

16 MESSENGER | September/October 2012

[ LOCAL AND WORLDWIDE OUTREACH ]

It’s Never Too Late to Succeed

By Pinkie Hamilton

Every spring, BMPC’s Hunger Committee hosts a brunch for the local groups we support. Each group has its own approach to the issue of poverty: some run care cupboards, some provide hot meals at fixed locations, some offer services for the elderly, and some distribute infant formula and diapers.

One of the more unusual approaches is Derek Felton’s Fresh Start program. Derek himself grew up hungry, “dumpster diving,” and eating whatever he could find. He served jail time and knows how hard it is to live without hope. But with help, he learned to read (at the age of 38) and earned a college degree. He now feels that he has a mission to help others. Derek distributes bags of packaged food and cleaning Hunger Committee Brunch, Spring 2012 supplies, but he finds that one of the most basic problems for those in poverty is their ignorance about how to handle money. So once a month, he offers a self-help workshop on a specific issue such as how to pay off debt, how to fix a credit rating, or how to budget spending. To encourage people to attend, he has what he calls a “hook”: a big, full breakfast. The response has been great, attendees have proposed new “help topics,” and a new group wants to participate.

The Hunger Committee welcomes participants from our church who are interested in the problems of hunger.

Join us and be inspired, as we have been, by people like Derek. For more information, contact Dave Hastings at dhast99@yahoo.com.

Peacemaking Offering for 2012

By Phoebe Sheftel

We Christians long for a more just and peaceful world where the worth of every person is valued; where greed no longer rules and hunger no longer plagues; where bullets and bombs no longer devastate.

At BMPC, we honor the individual and community path to peace with the collection of the Peacemaking Offering on World Communion Sunday (October 7). The Peacemaking Offering undergirds a variety of efforts working for peace with justice. In a 2010 report, Gun Violence, Gospel Values: Mobilizing in Response to God’s Call, the General Assembly of our denomination, the PC(USA), challenged our society’s fatalism and numbness in accepting the highest gun death rates in the world. It proposed a new “spiritual awakening” approach: a church-related, community-based strategy inspired by the work of Heeding God’s Call, a faith-based movement to prevent gun violence that arose from work first initiated at BMPC .

In other areas, BMPC’s Peacemaking Committee has worked to increase interfaith understanding by bringing together more than 25 faith groups at an annual Lower Merion Interfaith Thanksgiving Service.

The committee also offers educational presentations on topical issues such as the Occupy movement and recent transitions in Egypt and the Near East.

Our church retains 25% of the Peacemaking Offering for its own programs.

Last year nearly $2 million was given nationally. BMPC’s Peacemaking Offering brought in $4,600, which provided $1,400 for the congregation’s use. Prayerfully consider how your offering can make a difference when it is combined with hundreds of others. Envelopes will be available at church on October 7 and 14, or you may send your offering directly to the church.

17 MESSENGER | September/October 2012

WHY I ATTEND CHURCH

[ SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT ]

By Donna Barrickman

Theodore Roosevelt, the 26th president of the United States, suggested 10 reasons for going to church in a 1917 interview with Ladies Home Journal. These reasons were printed on the cover of BMPC’s worship bulletin on June 5, 1960. Times (and language) have changed, but the ideas are worth repeating: 1. In the actual world, a churchless community, a community where people have abandoned and scoffed at or ignored their religious need, is a community on the rapid downgrade.

2. Church work and church attendance mean the cultivation of the habit of feeling some responsibility for others and the sense of braced moral strength, which prevents a relaxation of one’s own moral fiber.

3. There are enough holidays for most of us.

Sundays differ from other holidays, among other ways, in the fact that there are 52 of them every year. On Sunday, go to church.

7. One will take part in singing some good hymns.

8. One will meet and nod to, or speak to, good, quiet neighbors. One will come away feeling a little more charitable toward all the world, even toward those who regard churchgoing as rather a soft performance.

9. I advocate joining in church works for the sake of showing faith by works.

10. The person who does not in some way, active or not, connect oneself with some active, working church misses many opportunities for helping one’s neighbors, and therefore, incidentally, for helping oneself.

The Scriptures advise us “not to give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another....” (Hebrews 10:25). Hope to see you in church!

4. Yes, I know all the excuses. I know that one can worship the Creator and dedicate oneself to good living in a grove of trees, or by a running brook, or in one’s own house, just as well as in a church. But I also know as a matter of cold fact the average person does not thus worship or thus dedicate oneself. If one strays away from church, one does not spend that time in good works or lofty meditation.

One looks over the colored supplement of the newspaper.

5. One may not hear a good sermon at church.

One will hear a sermon by a good person who is engaged all the week long in a series of wearing, humdrum and important tasks for making hard lives a little easier.

6. One will listen to and take part in reading some beautiful passages from the Bible. And if one is not familiar with the Bible, one has suffered a loss.

Not a member of our community of faith? Learn more about us at our fall orientation on Sunday morning, October 7, 8:30 a.m.–12:00 noon, followed by lunch (childcare available). After attending orientation, those who wish to join BMPC will be received at a breakfast meeting of Session on Sunday, October 14.

For more information, or to register, contact DonnaBarrickman@bmpc.org, ext. 8809.

18 MESSENGER | September/October 2012

The Messenger Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church 625 Montgomery Avenue Bryn Mawr, PA 19010 610-525-2821 USPS #341840 The Messenger is published by the Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church.

Periodical postage paid at Wayne, Pennsylvania and additional entry.

Postmaster: Send Address Changes To The Messenger Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church 625 Montgomery Avenue Bryn Mawr, PA 19010

Protect Yourself from Flu Viruses

By Ann Fossum, R.N., B.S.N., Parish Nurse

Influenza is a serious illness, so be sure to get the flu vaccine during this time of year. The flu season begins in October and lasts through May. The annual vaccine (either the flu shot or the nasal spray) is the best way to reduce the chance that you will get the flu and lessens the chance that you will spread it to others. When more people get vaccinated against the flu, fewer flu viruses can spread through our community, so getting vaccinated is a win-win situation for all!

Anyone who is at least six months of age should get a flu vaccine this season. It is especially important for people with chronic lung disease, asthma or diabetes to get a flu shot. It is also recommended that people 65 years and older, pregnant women, and all health care workers get the vaccine.

You should get vaccinated against influenza as soon as the flu vaccine becomes available in September.

Flu vaccines are offered in many locations including doctors’ offices, minute clinics in pharmacies, health departments, and in some workplaces and schools. Most insurances offer full coverage to members who get the vaccine, and the vaccine is free to those with Medicare insurance. If you find that you have to pay, it usually costs $25. Main Line Health will be offering its annual FREE flu immunizations at many sites in our community. For locations and times of vaccine offerings call 1-866CALL MLH or visit www.mainlinehealth.org after September 10. If you have questions or need help finding a flu vaccine location, contact AnnFossum@bmpc.org, ext. 8832.