FPC connects
The Chimes nline
Newsletter of First Presbyterian Church of Atlanta
a sermon series fall 2016
SUNDAY SCHEDULE Sunday, October 16 • Prayer breakfast - 6:30 am, Fifield Hall • Communion Worship Service 8:00 am, Winship Chapel • Worship Service 9:00 am, Fifield Hall • The Mustard Seed Bookstore Open 9:00 am - 12:15 pm • Sunday School for All Ages 9:45 am • Worship Service 11:00 am, Sanctuary • Fellowship Hour 12:00 pm • 20s/30s’ Brunch 12:30 pm, Fifield Hall
Sunday, October 23 • Prayer breakfast - 6:30 am, Fifield Hall • Communion Worship Service 8:00 am, Winship Chapel
In “Telling a Different Story,” Tony Sundermeier will preach four sermons highlighting four prevailing “stories” often told by our culture through mass media. We are bombarded by stories rooted in materialism, appearance, scarcity, and fear. As Christians, we must recognize that we have received (and should tell!) a different story. The Gospel calls us to a new way of life rooted in the Holy Spirit and the acceptance, abundance, and love of God. “Telling a Different Story” will anchor our annual giving campaign for budget year 2017 leanSERMON SERIES SCHEDULE ing into the idea that when we give to this congregation we promote the telling of a different story October 16, “You are What You Own,” in our lives, in Atlanta, and throughout the world. Proverbs 11:29 and Colossians 3:1-4 To help us “hear” a different story we have four October 23, “Image is Everything,” households that will share how First Presbyterian Genesis 1:24-27 and 1 Samuel 16:1-13 Church has helped them tell a different story. In October 30, “There is Not Enough,” worship, through video, and in Chimes’ articles we Kings 7:3-9 and 2 Corinthians 9:1-15 will hear from Damon and Renee Cosby, Carlton November 6, “You Should Be Afraid,” and Cheryl Hughes, Michael and Erin Demo, and Isaiah 41:1-10 and 1 John 4:16-21 Sumner Case and how this community of faith is helping them tell a different story.
• Worship Service 9:00 am, Fifield Hall • The Mustard Seed Bookstore Open 9:00 am - 12:15 pm • Sunday School for All Ages 9:45 am • Worship Service 11:00 am, Sanctuary • Fellowship Hour 12:00 pm • 20s/30s’ Brunch 12:30 pm, Fifield Hall
Telling a Different Story: Providentially Speaking by Carlton Hughes
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rovidence is a good Presbyterian word. It means God has a plan and I’m part of it. Naysayers tell me I’m a fatalist. I laugh when I just tell them, “I knew you were going to say that!” Everybody has plans. The difference between my plans and God’s is fulfillment time. When I plan to do something, I usually
can accomplish my task in a week or two. God’s plans sometimes take centuries to fulfill. I have an ancestor, a fifth cousin on my mother’s side named John Elias DuBose (1819-1895), who was a doctor here in Atlanta, way back before the Civil War. John was also a Presbyterian minister. About 1855, a small upstart church that was chartered only seven years earlier, was in need of a pastor. Providentially, my cousin John was available and lived nearby, so he continued on page 3
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PRAYERS FOR THOSE IN MILITARY SERVICE Lt. Karim Abu-Akel Captain Alexandria Miller-Anderson Major Charles Ayers PVT Forrest “Woody” Bass Lt. JG Benjamin S. Bondurant Maj. Jamison Bowman, Chaplain ABE3 Gregory Bridges AM3 Glenn Thomas Johnson HA Robert Louis Johnson Staff Sgt. Kevin Lee Lt. Wilson Mansfield McManus Captain John Warren Robey Captain Gabriel Rulewicz Maj. General Russell Sanborn Lt. David B. Sibley Commander Ryan Tewell Col. Roderick G. Turner III PFC Branton Wandera PFC Kevin Wandera
Pastoral Care Report (As of October 6, 2016)
BIRTHS: Congratulations to Courtney Sutherland Gray on the birth of Franklin (Finn) Scott Gray who was born on September 19th. Best wishes to Michael and Brende` Melonakos on the birth of Penelope (Poppy) Faris Melonakos who was born on Sunday, September 25th. DEATHS: Our prayers are with the friends and family of Beth Lundeen Finch, a member for many years, who died on September 28th in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. We share prayers together for the loss of Rev. Penny Hill, who died on October 4th. Our thoughts are with her family Richard, Nicholas and Kenan, and Philip and Jessica. A service was held on October 8 at FPC. RECUPERATING: Carolyn Smith, Carter Stalvey, Deborah Ann McCoy, Doug Lybrook, Earl Pettit, Elise Lowry, Jim Bynum, Jack Monday, Jonny Sundermeier, Larry Barnard, NeeNee Fortson, Owen Braun, Randy Jones, Rosemary Smith, Ruth Ann Little, Sharon Hawkins, Steve Fifield, Timothy Slaughter
COME-ON-ALONG OCTOBER 20TH!
D E C AT U R A N D E A S T AT L A N TA
COME-ON-ALONG TO DECATUR & EAST ATLANTA Date: Thursday, October 20th, 2016 Time: Meet bus behind 2nd Ponce de Leon Baptist Church at 9:30 AM Cost: $12 for Jim Howe’s guided tour & self-pay for Decatur Square Restaurant. Join us for our latest guided tour by Jim Howe of the part of Greater Atlanta that really came first: Decatur and East Atlanta. Even First Pres has some of its roots in Decatur. We’ll tour the old and the new you’ve heard about but not seen. Call Bruce Gregory for reservations (only 14 seats) at 404-228-2263 or e-mail him at bruce.m.gregory@gmail.com.
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October 16 & 23
The Chimes
Continued from front cover
became pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Atlanta from 1855 to 1858. In 1972, I graduated from college and as a part of that, I came to Atlanta with a group of other graduating seniors to have our pictures taken for the yearbook. We all were sure that in the “big city” we would find the perfect background. Of the dozens of places that would have well sufficed, our photographer chose as the backdrop Symphony Hall at Woodruff Arts Center. After an hour or so of smiles and grins, our photographer called for a lunch break. While the others walked south in search of food, I went north alone to investigate a large, beautiful church I had noticed about a block from Symphony Hall. I was elated to find the doors open. Once inside, I was impressed by the stained glass windows, the gleaming organ pipes, and its rounded pews in a square sanctuary. It was a visit I would always remember. Providentially, I had wandered unknowingly into the sanctuary of First Presbyterian Church of Atlanta. Exactly a decade later (1982), I had a wife and two children. We had moved to Florida and had begun to look for a new church. Simultaneously, my wife and I were going to a crisis of conscience. God was speaking to our hearts about finding a church that was more in line with our views on theology and lifestyle. Providentially, our real estate agent invited us to his
A NEW CHAPTER:
Presbyterian church. We’ve been Presbyterians ever since. In 1992, we found ourselves back in Atlanta. We were happy in the Presbyterian Church, so our only task was to find, from the scores of churches in the Atlanta area, “the” church God had for us. We saw a television broadcast from a local Presbyterian Church located on Peachtree Street in downtown Atlanta. We decided to visit.The next Sunday morning, we set out for the church we had seen in the broadcast. We drove north on Peachtree Street until we came to the Fox Theater where traffic completely stopped. It was 10:45 AM. As the minutes ticked by, I became concerned that we would might not make the service on time. Providentially, at 10:50AM, the traffic cleared. As we passed the Woodruff Arts Center, a strangely-familiar, sandstone edifice came into view. A sign read First Presbyterian Church of Atlanta. It was almost 11:00AM., so we pulled in. We sat in the balcony and watched the liturgical pageantry, listened to the wonderful music, led by Charlie Whitaker, enjoyed Pastor Wirth’s sermon and knew that we had completed our wilderness wandering. Providentially, we never found the church we chose that Sunday morning, but we did find God’s choice! The first 168 years of God’s plan for us has been fulfilled. The rest to be continued. The End
Sunday November 13
A DIVORCE RECOVERY PROGRAM Sponsored by the Care Ministry & Samaritan Counseling Center Of Atlanta We will offer a women’s group and a men’s group. For anyone who has gone through divorce, recently or in the past. This is a time to learn from one another as we cope and grow together.
Save the Date!
Contact Kevin Knab (kknab@firstpresatl.org) or Katie Sundermeier (ksundermeier@firstpresatl.org)
Another opportunity for youth and parents to gather for lunch and to talk about important life topics. This gathering’s theme is: Stress and Anxiety.
Runs for six weeks, each Thursday beginning Nov 3.
Sunday, 11/13, following 11am worship.
October 16 & 23
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INTRODUCING A THEOLOGY MATTERS STUDY ABROAD TRIP
SWITZERLAND 2017 MAY 11-19
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Join hosts Ryan Bonfiglio and Tony Sundermeier as we celebrate the 500th Anniversary of the Protestant Reformation. Prior to the trip, Tony will teach a special Theology Matters course on the legacy of John Calvin. Each session will focus on the historical, theological, and biblical background of one of the five pillars, or central tenets, of the Reformation: Sola Scriptura (by Scripture alone), Sola fide (by faith alone), Sola gratia (by grace alone), Solus Christus (by Christ alone), and Soli Deo gloria
(glory to God alone). An audio podcast version of the course will be available for download before the trip, while in-trip sessions (led by Ryan and Tony) will be centered on discussions about the on-going relevance of these theologies for the church today. For more information on the trip, including itinerary and cost, visit http://www.firstpresatl.org/studyabroad/ Inquire with Ryan at rbonfiglio@firstpresatl.org Scholarships are available.
COMMUNITY MINISTRIES
Community Ministries Clothing
Closet is in desperate need of men’s pants (work and dress pants) and gently used or new durable work shoes, tennis shoes and formal shoes - especially, sizes 9 – 13. No sandals please. Also, we have a disabled client who is in need of an electric wheel chair or a charger for an electric wheel chair. Contact Marie Wandera for more info
404-228-7746 or mwandera@firstpresatl.org
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October 16 & 23
FAMILY FUN DAY SATURDAY Nov. 19 11:00 AM at Glenlake Park in Decatur
Join us from 11am – 3pm at Glenlake Park, Decatur. We will have food, gifts for the boys and girls, fun activities, face painting, photo table and lots of fun activities. Glenlake Park 1121 Church Street, Decatur GA 30030
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PULLING OUT ALL THE STOPS
What Are Your Gifts? Time to assess your gifts and align your career to them?
S U N DAY, O C T. 3 0 • 6 P M
You are fortunate! This November, FPC will host a 7-session class to help you do just that!
M U S I CA S AC R A AT L A N TA
JENS KORNDÖRFER – ORGAN Bach, Vivaldi, Widor & Highlights from The Lord of the Rings
We will offer a 7-session Career Explorers course starting on
Thursday, November 3rd, @ 6 PM. (Note: We will conclude BEFORE the Thanksgiving Holiday.)
Come hear the 6,097 pipes in their entire splendor in an organ concert with major works from Germany, France, Italy and Middle-earth. This is the last concert on the magnificent Möller/Zimmer organ before it will be taken out for a major renovation in 2017. Program JOHANN SEBASTIAN BACH Passacaglia und Fuge in c, BWV 582 Jesus Christus, unser Heiland, BWV 688 ANTONIO VIVALDI Concerto in a (Arr. by J.S. Bach) LOUIS VIERNE Carillon de Westminster HOWARD SHORE & ENYA Medley from The Lord of the Rings CHARLES-MARIE WIDOR Symphonie Nr. 6 en sol mineur, op. 42, 2 (I. Allegro)
It’s a results-oriented study group focused toward those who are exploring job changes and seeking God’s calling in their career choice. Mark Myette, currently serving on Session, and an experienced talent management executive, will be organizing / leading this class along with other subject matter experts. Yes, it addresses the key items that most job seekers are needing help - resume reviews / rewrites, interview skills, salary questions and job search techniques. Wait there’s more! The class will also help you assess and understand your gifts / talents, consider alternative career directions, and then ties it together with prayer and fellowship. Drop us a line at kknab@firstpresatl.org or contact the Care office for more information!
October 16 & 23
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The Chimes CHILDREN
YOUTH HIGH SCHOOL FRIGHT FEST Sunday, October 16, 2016 Sign up now to join us for a full day at Six Flags Fright Fest. All 9-12th graders and friends are welcome. Tickets are $30 and you have until October 9th to RSVP.
Save these dates:
Hanging of the Greens: November 27 CHOA Christmas Parade: December 3 Christmas Pageant: December 11
Fa la la, Your Children’s Ministry Team
TWENTIES & THIRTIES
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October 16 & 23
MIDDLE SCHOOL RETREAT October 28-30, 2016 Save the date for our Middle School Retreat in partnership with the Calvin Center. Together, we will explore the fall holidays of All Hallows’ Eve and All Saints Day. Your youth will hear about people in the faith who have gone before them, and discuss how they can leave a legacy of faith for generations to come. Check the website for registration info. SIGNUP FOR SOMETHING We have lots of ways that you can give of your time and resources this year to help our youth group thrive. Whether it’s the all important Sunday morning doughnuts, putting in some time on a committee, mentoring young people, offering your home to a group of middle schoolers, or participating in worship. We hope you and your youth will find meaningful ways to give back and get involved in the coming year! Check the website for a complete list of offerings. Not getting our Tuesday, Youth News??? Email Jay (jyork@firstpresatl.org) to be added so you won’t miss out.
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ADULT DISCIPLESHIP
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WOMEN AT THE WELL • Fall Meeting • Monday, November 7th, 2016 6:30 pm at the home of Elise Lowry
FOCUS
(address available upon registration)
Our speaker will be
Elizabeth Appley, Esq.
First in Focus is a new Sunday School series designed to generate church-wide conversations around important topics in Christian faith and theology. Over the period of six weeks, participants gather for interactive lectures (weeks 1 and 4) and small group discussions (weeks 2-3, 5-6) in their Sunday School classes. P R A C T I C I N G
JOIN ONE OF OUR ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASSES
BEREAN BIBLE CLASS, ROOM 171 (Reception) COMMUNITY BIBLE CLASS, ROOM B202 COVENANT CLASS, ROOM 227 DISCOVERING GOD’S WORD, ROOM 317 EMMAUS CLASS, ROOM 156 FAITH & LIFE, ROOM 218 FIRST FOUNDATIONS, ROOM 330 INTERNATIONALS, ROOM 327 ON SECOND THOUGHT, FIFIELD OURS FOR TODAY, ROOM B308 THE GATHERING PLACE, ROOM 332
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All women of FPC and their friends are invited to
How to RSVP: Allison Cochran, acochran@firstpresatl.org or 404-228-7718
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Lobbyist for Presbyterians for a Better Georgia, a partnership of Presbyterian Church (USA) congregations that supports public policy efforts. More information can be found at http://www.p4bg.org
S U N D A Y
S A B B A T H
This fall’s First in Focus series considers the purpose and practice of Sabbath in our Christian lives. We will explore the historical and theological background of the biblical notion of Sabbath as well as how and why Sabbath keeping can be a meaningful part of Christian discipleship today. Oct 30
Introduction: The Sabbath Paradox
Nov 6
Sabbath in the OT: Building a Sanctuary in Time
Nov 13
Sabbath in the NT: The Work of Worship
Nov 20
The Sabbath Alternative: From Anxiety to Abundance
Nov 27
Sabbath in the City: Rituals and Rhythms for Busy Families
Dec 4
Entering God’s Rest: Silence, Stillness, and Sensual Holiness
October 16 & 23
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Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Atlanta, GA Permit No. 1521
Bi-weekly Newsletter of
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH of ATLANTA 1328 Peachtree Street, NE Atlanta, GA 30309-3209 HOW TO CONTACT US Phone/404-892-8461 Fax/404-228-7760 E-mail: youbelong@firstpresatl.org Web: www.firstpresatl.org WORSHIP Sunday Communion Service - 8:00 am Sunday Worship Service - 9:00 am Sunday School 9:45 am Sunday Worship Service - 11:00 am WEEKLY BROADCASTS Sundays live at 11:00 am On demand anytime www.firstpresatl.org/servicesonline AIB Cable Network (Smyrna Channel 22, Comcast 295) Wednesdays at 8:00 p.m.
For information about private music instruction and group music, dance, and art classes, please visit us on the web or call:
ar t s THE SCHOOL OF FINE
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF ATLANTA
WHIZ KIDS TUTORING MINISTRY NEEDS VOLUNTEERS
Katie Patterson, Director (404) 228-7753 www.firstpresatl.org/sfa
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10 YEAR S AN
WEDNESDAYS 9-1:00, SUNDAYS 9-12:15 PM (404) 201-6442 themustardseed@firstpresatl.org
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The Mustard Seed
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Fall is in the air. Time to curl up with a good book. We have books of varied subject matter that will appeal to all age groups. Let us help you pick one out.
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Tutoring and mentoring elementaryschool children in math and reading
Volunteer Tutors needed! Monday a nd Fridays 8am and 2pm during the school year (you can sign up for as little as one hour/day/week or more based on your availability). Snapfinger Woods Elementary School, 1365 Snapfinger Rd, Decatur, GA 30032