First Press First Press is the monthly newsletter of First Presbyterian Church of Honolulu 45-550 Kionaole Road, Kane‘ohe, HI 96744
MAY 2012 | Volume 17 | Issue 3
Spiritual Life Survey How are you doing? We want to know. IN THIS ISSUE
Farewell to Jay Jarman Story on page 2
PASTOR'S LETTER
SINGLES' ‘OHANA
A Bittersweet Hoopla
How Are You Doing? We Want to Know.
by Shirley Cavanaugh More than 50 people in the Singles’ ‘Ohana celebrated St. Patty’s Day in grand style. The usual hoopla was a bittersweet time—a time to say aloha to Parish Associate Jay Jarman, “coach” for the Singles’ ‘Ohana for more than five years. Jay is answering God’s call to devote full-time to Common Grace, the nonprofit organization he founded that matches people from churches across O‘ahu to serve as “aunties” and “uncles” to mentor at-risk children in public elementary schools. After several of Jay’s self-described “silly” games at the hoopla, it was time to bid a fond farewell to the coach who brought raucous laughter—always with the fullest audience participation—to each event. Gail Takagi summed up the evening, “The fellowship and aloha for Jay was great and it was also great to see oldtimers attend the function.” She affirmed his God-given talent, “He was a super MC.” In an e-mail to the Island-Wide Singles’ Ohana, Jay signed off: “My five-plus-years’ adventure with Singles’ Ohana is over. You have made it a great ride for me and I thank each of you. You ate a ton of buffet food, pinned on your calligraphic nametags, played a million silly games, wore outlandish costumes, mummified each other in toilet paper, applauded dozens of musicians, listened to my commercial messages for Jesus, boldly brought your friends hoping they would still be your friends after they experienced the phenomenon known as SINGLES’ OHANA DINNER & HOOPLA.”
Spiritual growth is a life-long process of becoming more and more like Jesus every day. The more we trust in Him and the more we give control over our lives to Him, the more we are conformed to His image. Colossians 3:10 says that as we take off the “old self” and put on the “new,” we are renewed as we learn to know our Creator and become like Him. We believe that spiritual growth should be an objective for every believer. We also believe that the church plays an important role in supporting and encouraging that growth, whether you’re just starting to explore the Christian faith or you’re a long-time Christ-follower. To allow us to support your spiritual growth, we want to know how you’re doing by asking you to take part in an ANONYMOUS online survey called the Spiritual Life Survey between May 5th and 20th. It will take about 35 to 40 minutes of your time. Then an expert
Jay leaves a huge void in the ministry but he goes with the blessings of the hundreds of people in the Singles’ Ohana as he answers God’s greater call to help the children of Hawai‘i.
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third-party research organization will compile all results and create an analysis for the church leadership that will help us develop effective strategies meant to promote spiritual growth for everyone. All adults who call First Prez their church are highly encouraged to take the survey. Just look for an invitation from us by e-mail. No need to fret if you don’t have access to a computer. We will provide a computer you can use on specific dates at our church campus. The more people who take the survey, the more accurate the picture we will get of how we are doing spiritually as a church. Keep in mind that this survey is key in helping us shape our decisions on creating the best possible ministry strategies to serve you. Let’s say, “Yes!” to the Spiritual Life Survey!
Nancy Van Allen, Gail Takagi, Russell Yamada, Jay Jarman, Shirley Cavanaugh and Doug Stiles
WOMEN'S MISSIONS
Appoline by Julie Lockyer Being on the Women’s Ministry is a blessing in so many ways! One of those ways is being able to sponser an LDP (Leadership Development Program) student through Compassion International. It is because of you, our congregation, and the money raised through our Bazaar, that we are able to sponsor Uwizeyimana Appoline.
IMPACT (MISSIONS)
Our Latest Partner in Swaziland Mission Trip Info Meetings: May 20 & 27, 11 am, First Prez We are very pleased that First Prez has partnered with Advocates for Africa’s Children and the Mgambeni Philadelphia Assemblies of God Church in Swaziland! This church is located in a remote area of Swaziland and is gravely impacted by the HIV/AIDS pandemic. Schools in this area report that 70% of their students have lost one or both parents to HIV/AIDS. In this context, the Philadelphia Church ministers to more than 250 orphaned children, most of whom live with relatives who do not have the resources to care for them. The Philadelphia Church trains older orphaned children how to grow their own food, and feeds 220 children 3 times per week. In addition, they commercially farm vegetables and chickens in order to pay for orphans’ school fees and uniforms. Advocates for Africa’s Children has also provided two clean water wells for the community. The partnership with First Prez is committed to improving and expanding existing projects so that the Philadelphia Church can care for more orphaned children sustainably. First Prez is helping the church expand the existing poultry business, improve and expand the commercial farming operation, and provide a meeting place for the Church. The Philadelphia
Church places so much priority on the care of orphans that they have not yet been able to build an adequate structure in which to meet. Consequently, when it rains, or is too cold or too hot, people cannot meet together for worship. First Prez is helping them convert an existing structure to a meeting hall so that they will not only have a place to worship but also to minister to the children. There is still much to do! The community has more than 800 orphans. Through the Church-to-Church partnership (C2C), we plan to expand the projects so that the Philadelphia Church can sustainably care for all of these children in need. As the church cares for orphaned children, they learn of the compassionate God who cares for orphans in their distress, and is a father to the fatherless. Join the First Prez mission team from October 13 to 23 in Swaziland as we work together with the Philadelphia Church encouraging them, praying with them, and loving on the kids. We would especially love to have medical personnel join us on this mission trip to provide medical and dental services in this remote village that has no clinic. Contact Heidi Lum at heidi. lum@afachildren.org for more information on joining the First Prez team.
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Appoline is an orphan from Rwanda who lost her parents at a young age to genocide. She has grown into a beautiful young woman who loves the Lord. She is an inspiring student studying law at National University of Rwanda. Appoline also receives in-depth Christian leadership training. She is a hard worker and tries to live her life pleasing God. We are fortunate enough to have her in our lives and see how God answers our prayers, helping her achieve her goals so that she can get her degree and help others. Appoline plans to use her degree to “Live an exemplary life so that people will admire her lifestyle and be drawn into the Kingdom of God!" She asks us to pray for her upcoming school year so she can succeed with excellence. Please join us in keeping her in prayer throughout the year and see God’s plan for her be unveiled!
See more Women's Ministry News on
• Page 5 - Women's Way Event • Page 7 - Women's Bible Study
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Life Ministries
RAA! (Retired Active Adults)
A Tour of the FBI Building
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Wednesday, May 30, 9:45 am by Jane Tai Have you ever wondered about this widely-known agency of the United States Federal Government? What do they do? What areas of crime and protection do they cover? Do they all wear black suits, white dress shirts, ties, and carry guns? Just for starters, here are some of the FBI’s responsibilities: Protect the United States from: terrorist attack, foreign intelligence operations and espionage, cyber-based attacks and hightechnology crimes, protect civil rights, and combat: public corruption at all levels, transnational/national criminal organizations and enterprises, major white collar crime, significant violent crime, support federal, state, local and international partners, and upgrade technology to successfully perform the FBI’s mission. We will have the opportunity to visit the Honolulu office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) , thanks to FPC’s Hal Marshall, a 31-year FBI Special Agent, retired. FBI Supervisory Special Agent Anthony Lang will be guiding us through the large grey stone structure and there, we will be given a presentation/discussion on the famous Palmyra Island Double-Murder Mystery, a twisting/turning saga of events which led to a made-for-TV movie and the famous novel entitled, “And The Sea Will Tell.” Never-before-seen physical evidence will also be displayed. This all happens on Wednesday, May 30. We will meet outside the Federal Building at 9:45 am. Bring a sweater/ light jacket for comfort and your picture ID for their security check. After the presentation, we will head over to Restaurant Row to have (no-host) lunch at the Bonsai Restaurant. Sign up at the RAA! table on Sundays, May 20 and 27, after the 8 and 9:30 am services.
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Chaplain Jensen and some of the injured in combat benefitting from the Wounded Warrior Program.
MEN'S MINISTRY
Men's Dinner with Chaplain Steve Jensen Tuesday, May 29, 6 pm, Fellowship Hall The Men's Ministry is honored to welcome Chaplain Steve Jensen as our speaker for this month's monthly dinner. Chaplain Jensen is a retired Navy commander who donates his time at the Wounded Warrior Battalion WestDetachment Hawaii. The Hawaii Wounded Warrior Program assists Marines injured in combat with handling the transitions they face; physically, mentally, and professionally. It helps connect wounded warriors and their families to the community by providing opportunities to meet people through social events, career assistance, and acts as a liaison to local businesses and organizations. Chaplain Jensen joined the Navy reserves in 1973, then active duty in 1976. He has held many positions over the years, including several on base. He has been a base chaplain, director of Chaplain Religious Enrichment Development Operation Hawaii, and a regimental chaplain for the 3rd Marine Regiment. Today he plays many roles in the Hawaii Wounded Warrior Program, including mentor, counselor and military liaison. As a liaison, Steve helps the community become involved with the military. He joins the warriors and their families in
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canoe paddling and social activities. He also volunteers with the Veterans Affairs Institutional Review Board. He continues to search for new ideas he can use to help the wounded warriors and the community. “Just because you take off the uniform doesn’t mean that you no longer care,” Jensen said. “I feel honored and privileged that these folks invite me into their lives and share with me some of the challenges and struggles they have and allow me to work with them.” We hope that many of our men will join us on this dinner on the day after Memorial Day, where we will learn about another way to support our soldiers who have returned and who have sacrificed a lot for all of us. Please sign up at the Men’s table on Sundays this month. [Thanks to Kristen Wong of Hawaii Marine Lifestyles newsletter (6/17/11 issue) for much of this information.]
Spring Life Training Classes begin May 6th with a bunch of new topics along with those that remain by popular demand. Pick up a brochure at LIfe Ministries and "Get in the Game!"
WOMAN'S EVENT
Women’s Way by Angela Cherland
Ingried Friedberg doing crafts with the moms and babies at Women's Way (see article on right)
CONGREGATIONAL LIFE
The Good Samaritan Fund by John Cook, Moderator of the Deacons Okay, we know the story of the Good Samaritan. But what is THE GOOD SAMARITAN FUND at FPC? Who is in charge of it and what are the responsibilities of the team assigned to administer this fund? As a matter of interest, who comprises this team? The purpose of the Good Samaritan Fund is to provide resources to fill the needs of our members and regular attendees, assuring that as First Presbyterian Church grows we will be better able to meet needs of those in our church family God has given us to care for. To that end, a committee has been established requiring at least five deacons, including a Chairperson and the Board of Deacons Moderator. This team receives requests for financial assistance to assist members and regular attendees in times of financial need and/or hardship. When the basic needs of our congregation are compromised, and monies are required for basic needs such as rent, (basic) telephone service or utility bills, disbursements are possible. Transportation needs, a job, child care and assistance with medical appointments could come within the realm of assistance. The board is even authorized to make immediate funding available for food for a needy family.
There are limits on available funds. The disbursements are limited to $1,000 per 12 months per member or regular attendee. Disbursements up to $50 are authorized to relieve an immediate crisis, permitting an opportunity to respond quickly to an obvious need. The Good Samaritan Team, elected from within the Board of Deacons, receives requests from the Pastoral and/or office staff. The requests are then forwarded to the Deacon Team for resolution. All efforts are taken to insure confidentiality; a timely resolution to the need is a great priority. How is the program funded? Why, you the members and regular attendees of First Prez make this opportunity possible. Through individual donations, The Good Sam Fund receives on-going supplements of income. Should the funds become expended, they can be refreshed from Special Easter and Christmas giving. Importantly, anyone can make a donation to this fund whenever the Lord moves you. So, please don’t be afraid to ask for assistance when the need arises. And please do not hesitate to consider the Good Samaritan Fund when you are looking for a way to invest in the Lord’s Kingdom!
FIRST PRESS
On March 31st First Prez volunteers shared a heartfelt afternoon with the women of Women’s Way, a substance abuse recovery program for new and soon-to-be moms. Volunteers facilitated an afternoon of prayers, an Easter egg hunt, crafts, play with toddlers and babies, and together everyone shared a delicious lunch. At the end of the lunch each woman of Women’s Way received a large canvas bag filled with all the generous donations from the First Prez congregation. The women of Women’s Way expressed their gratitude with big hugs and a prayer for all of the volunteers. Their gratefulness was moving, and a reflection of how God works within everyone’s hearts, especially during tough times. This annual volunteer event was planned by the Women’s Ministry Team and supported by the generous donors and volunteers of First Prez. The donations of items for moms, babies and toddlers were impressive. Enough money was collected to have the lunch provided by Diamond Head Grill. A total of 16 volunteers participated at the event: Aianna Wong, Angela Cherland, Cat Wong, Cathy Rubasch, Emma Wong, Grace Cherland, Ingrid Friedberg, Jenni Huxel, Judy Ensing, Joy Higgins, Margaret Jefferies, Mary Fisher, Nelda Hawley, Sean Cherland, Sheri Wong, and Stella Eccleston. Something incredible also happened during the event. One of the women from the Woman’s Way program opened up to volunteer Jenni Huxel, and Jenni, along with Judy Ensing, had the privilege of leading her to accept Christ. It was a beautiful moment recognizing God was present and working through the team to help someone seek Christ in helping her through her struggles.
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People
PRAYERLINES
Lark or Owl? Part 2, by Patti Marshall
Last month we explored the lark-those who meet with God in the morning. This month we’ll explore those who might be owls-the ones who are more effective when they spend their evenings and nights in prayer. Jesus often prayed late in the evening after an intense day of ministry, He would withdraw to a quiet place to pray. Sometimes He would pray all night (Mt. 14:23). Jesus came at the end of the day to be alone with God, to rejoice, relax, and release the worries of the day. Owls end their day with prayer because it’s an opportunity to: • Celebrate victories–Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God after a particularly difficult day (Acts 16:25). Evening prayer can change your day’s perspective! • Chill out with God–The TV is often a “relaxer” after work. However, a worship CD is one of the best “unwinders” there is. • Put away the watch–evening prayer helps to focus on prayer and meditate on the Word without time constraints. The busyness of the day has passed and there is finally quiet. • Be available for intercession–God uses people who are willing and available for intercession. Keep a listening ear open. You might get a request. • Put the issues to bed–Praying and releasing the worries of the day to God will bring peace and rest. Prayer always makes a better night’s sleep. Powerful prayer lives are cultivated by spending quality time with God, no matter what time of day it is. God is always ready for us to come into His presence. Is your current prayer time a good fit for you? Are you able to be alert, undistracted, and consistent? Experiment with praying at different times of day. Who knows, a morning lark could turn into a night owl, or vice versa. —Sarah Boor. Pray! March/April 2006
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All the Good Things
What's the buzz with First Prez people by Marcia Wright The sun is coming up earlier now. The birds awake long before I want to. But this is May. It’s hard to stay abed when the sun is shining and the LORD calls us.
good laugh when they saw each other at a recent 7 am shoot for a Bank of Hawaii TV commercial. Both were extras for the commercial. FPC’ers are everywhere!
When morning gilds the skies my heart awaking cries: May Jesus Christ is praised! Alike at work and prayer, to Jesus I repair: May Jesus Christ be praised! Translation by Edward Caswall.
Carol Anne Gordon was accepted into the Master’s program for Social Work at the University of Southern California. Never fear, you will all still be seeing her in choir and the bell choir as she will be taking online classes. Congratulations, Carol Anne.
Dear FPC friend Ann De Bruin is now a grandmother! Her daughter Jessica, married to Pastor DeWayne Strange, gave birth to an 8 lbs. 6 oz. baby boy. Connor Ray Strange was born on February 29 in Richmond California where they are living now. DeWayne is a pastor at Faith One Community church in El Cerrito, CA. Jessica is a school counselor at Washington High School in San Francisco. Congratulations! A number of our FPC members and friends were involved in the moving musical “Titanic”. I actually went to see the play on the 100th anniversary of the tragic sinking. Megan Mount was the music director for this production, and I must say the music was fabulous. Scott and Zenia Moura were in the cast and often center stage for their roles. And also our dear friend Arlene Koh was in the orchestra. Great job, gang! Briana and Christa Langdon, daughters of Adriene Langdon and granddaughters of Joan Young, recently were awarded first place in the National Competition at Disneyland as members of Drill Team Hawaii. And a small aside, if you are an avid watcher of our new Hawaii 5-0 keep an eye out… the location director came by to take a look at the Young’s home. Nothing official yet but you may see some part of their residence in an upcoming episode. Woo hoo! Bill Baist and Shirley Cavanaugh had a
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Adele Chong just happened to pick up a free magazine at City Mill and who should she see in an ad for flooring but Wally Miura. Of course, this makes sense since Wally owns Wally’s Flooring. Good job, Wally! Joe Grimes and Earl Morihara held a very successful seminar on March 23 at the Hawaiian Islands Ministries 2012 annual conference at the Honolulu Convention Center, called “No shame fo talk Pidgin fo help yo local frenz come tight wit Christ.” Joe estimates that 30 or 40 people attended it, mainly people we had not known before. One guy from Molokai said, “Get plenny Bibles, but Da Jesus Book, dass da one I read ery day.” For those of you interested in reading “Da Jesus Book” online click on http://www.pidginbible.org and choose which passages of Da Jesus Book or Da Befo Jesus Book you want to read. Please continue to keep Joe and Barbara Grimes in your prayers as they put the finishing touches on the Bible in Hawaii Pidgin. And now, friends, I hope you will be filled with hope as you await with anticipation to see all the Good Things the LORD will share with you. Remember nothing is too big or small for GOD (or for my article for that matter) so send me the news and share your good things. Aloha no. marciaw@ hawaiiantel.net
WOMEN'S BIBLE STUDY
A Beth Moore Study in James Fridays starting June 1, 5:307:30 pm, Glass Classroom
What good is your faith? The Book of James forces us to face the implications of faith. Be inspired to put your faith into action in practical ways as you get to know both the man and the Book of James. CHILDREN'S MINISTRY
Ko‘olau Kids News by Karen Makishima
MOVIE NIGHT
Everyone had a wonderful time at our Family Movie Night! (See above photo.) Families gathered on Friday April 13th to be pampered by our Children’s ministry team. There was a yummy buffet of nachos, orange slices, pizza…and special popcorn treats. Families gathered for wonderful fellowship and playtime to watch the new ‘Muppets’ movie. Our very own Lauren McCartha (Early Childhood Coordinator) led the children and parents in some fun worship dances during intermission. A big ‘THANK YOU’ to Shelly Tokunaga - May who coordinated the production of this event. It went off without a hitch. Looking forward to seeing you next time!
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL 2012
Come one, come all to our Vacation Bible School (VBS) program! VBS will run from June 4-8 from 9 am to noon. We are looking forward to opening this wonderful program up to our church and community. The theme this year will be SKY... Everything is possible with God (Mark 10:27). This event would not even come close to being successful without the amazing volunteers that have supported in the production year after year. We are looking for YOUR support again this year. If you
feel led to volunteer, please contact Karen Makishima at Karen@fpchawaii.org. We look forward to working with you this year.
NEW CHILDREN’S PROGRAM COORDINATOR
We are happy to announce that the we have a new Program Coordinator. Shana Cooney has come on board. Originally from California, Shana has a 22-month old daughter named Abigayle. When not at work, you can find them kayaking or hiking. Welcome, Shana!
SERVING OPPORTUNITIES
We are looking forward to giving our teachers the summer off to rest and refuel. Please consider volunteering as a teacher or a helper for our summer program. Training and support will be provided for our super user -friendly summer curriculum. If available to serve in our Early Childhood program (Nursery, Toddler or Preschool), please contact Lauren at lauren@fpchawaii. org. For our Elementary program (K–5th Grade) please contact Karen at Karen@ fpchawaii.org or 440-6564.
FIRST PRESS
James, Jesus’ own brother, started out as a skeptic. See how one glimpse of the resurrected Savior turned an unbeliever into a disciple with Beth Moore’s Bible study, James: Mercy Triumphs. Once you get to know both the man and the Book of James, you’ll never be the same again. Join Beth Moore in this study as she explores such concepts as joy, hardship, faith, wisdom, single-mindedness, the tongue, humility, prayer and more. This interactive Bible study features seven weeks of personal daily assignments and weekly group sessions with video. We will start the Bible Study on June 1, open to women of all ages and stages of their faith journey. Sign up and reserve your copy of James: Mercy Triumphs on Sundays at the Front Desk or call Sarah Williams at 440-6553 for more information. Hope to see you there!
Mother's Day Brunch Sunday, May 13, Fellowship Hall
Pamper Mom and make your reservations now! Seatings at 9:30 am, 10:30 am, 12 pm and 12:30 pm. Prices include tax & gratuity: $45 adults, $22 kids 6-10 yrs old, free for kids 5 and under. Reservations required: 954-7000.
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45-550 Kionaole Road Kaneohe, HI 96744 RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED
WORSHIP SERVICES
Sundays at 8, 9:30 and 11:11 am Visit our website at www.fpchawaii.org
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MAY 2012 Upcoming Events May 4-6 May 6 May 5-20 May 12 & 26 May 13 May 16 May 20 May 20 & 27 May 27 May 29 May 30
Women's Retreat Spring Life Training Classes begin Spiritual Life Survey Second Worship Mother's Day Brunch (Ko‘olau Ballrooms) Alpha Course Celebration Dinner Blood Drive Swaziland Mission Trip Informational Meetings Ministry Fair Men's Dinner RAA! Tour of FBI Honolulu Office
Recurring Events
Write a caption for this photo, and enter to win! Post your suggestion on our facebook page: www.facebook.com/firstprez or email it to shay@entheos-i.com and we'll post it for you. Captions with the most "LIKES" will be published in next month's First Press. Winner will receive a $10 gift certificate to Ko‘olau Kitchen. Go now to www.facebook.com/firstprez, and enter your caption as a comment on this photo!
Sundays Tuesdays Wednesday Thursday Fridays
Worship Services at 8, 9:30 and 11:11 Mighty Moms The Gathering Choir Practice Women's Craft Group, F2, 5th Quarter
First Press can be viewed online at www.fpchawaii.org/?page_id=19 Submit articles by May 15 for the June 2012 issue to: shay@entheos-i.com We reserve the right to edit articles submitted. To unsubscribe, e-mail pkamahele@fpchawaii.org. Art director • Shayna Kusumoto; Copy editors • Ralph Kam, Patty Kamahele, Ivonne Litchkowski, Rosella Shishido, Linda Verdugo, Sarah Williams