M o n t h l y N e w s f r o m F P C Ty l e r • Vo l u m e 1 1 , I s s u e 1 : J a n u a r y 2 0 1 6
Who Brings Out Your Best? By The Rev. Dr. Stuart Baskin There is a piece of advice I give to young people, as they go about the business of dating and finding a life partner. I tell them, “Look for the one who brings out the best in you—the one who elicits from you the best of who you are.” I say this because I frequently see a person give in to his or her passions and fall head-over-heels for someone who brings out their worst. It is possible for two very good people to be a bad match for each other, and the best way to figure this out is to step back and ask the question, “Do I like who I am when I am with this person, or do I find myself behaving in ways I don’t like?” This little exercise requires a person to engage in some self-examination to decide what qualities they like about him or herself, and compare these qualities to the behaviors their latest flame brings out in them. It requires them to engage both their heads and their hearts in choosing a person to date and potentially to marry. This advice also extends to other ar-
eas of our lives, both individually and communally. As we head into 2016, we will be entering a heated political season as our nation sorts out some major issues and prepares to elect a new president. Now in my role as pastor, I do not endorse candidates or parties, but surely our faith can give us some guidance in our political decisions. So here’s what I have to say as we head into this political season. Electing persons to political office is somewhat like finding a mate. It is a matter both of heart and mind. We will be wooed with words that spark our passions. This is not a bad thing, but we also need to temper our passions with a healthy dose of self-reflection. Like a young person searching for a mate, we should ask ourselves, “Does this candidate bring out the best in me? Does this person bring out the best in our character as a city, a state, or a nation? Or does this person stir up in me the worst in who I am?” In short, we need to engage our heads as well as our hearts. That’s who we Presbyterians are.
i n t h i s i s s u e | H I G H L I G H T S & F E AT U R E S Living into Lent | pg 2
Potter House Needs | pg 7
Souper Bowl of Caring | pg 5
Learn more about this year’s Lenten study.
See what donations are needed to help our local ministry.
Read about Christmas Services celebrated this season.
First Presbyterian Church of Tyler, Texas 230 West Rusk Street, Tyler, Texas 75701-1696 (903) 597-6317 | www.fpctyler.com
Living Into Lent By the Rev. Pamela Leach This year’s Lenten study focuses on following Jesus. Author, Donald McKim, invites us on a journey through Lent together with Jesus as both our companion and our guide. Each week participants will consider different aspects of discipleship – meditating, praying, loving, thanking, enacting, and gathering at the cross.
Groups interested in participating can purchase books in the church office for $10 each. We are currently without a coordinating team for this study. If you would like to help make this study
available to all, please contact Stuart Baskin at sbaskin@fpctyler.com or Pam Leach at pleach@fpctyler.com, or by calling the church office at 903597-6317. Traditionally, Lent is a time of reflection on what Christ has done for the world and on how we can become more faithful disciples. The Lenten season will begin on Wednesday, February 10 and ends on March 26.
As is our tradition at FPC, small groups will gather to discuss Living into Lent weekly during the Lenten season. Yet, this book lends itself to individual study as well.
Watch for more information in the weeks to come and plan to join us for this Lenten journey.
FPC HARD HATS AT WORK By Ginny Mattox The Hard Hats are on the job! On December 2, a group of Hard Hats met at one of PATH’s 54 Community Homes. Under the supervision of PATH’s Maintenance Manager, Todd Straley, the team comprised of David Palady, Sally Smith-Garmon, Matt Gabriel, Judith Guthrie, Leslie Couch, Catherine Christian, and Ginny Mattox prepped and repainted the entire home interior. Hopes were that the house would be ready for the next family by Christmas.
Homes, located in North Tyler provide transitional housing (18-24 months) for low-to-moderate income fami-
PATH’s 54 Community 2
lies. As families transition out, there is much work to do in order to ready the homes for the next family. There is a waiting list of families who are anxious to move into these homes, however, PATH’s maintenance staff is limited in readying these homes for the next family can be slow. Therefore, FPC’s Hard Hat contribution was greatly appreciated, and plans are to schedule similar work days on a continuing basis. FPC members who worked on the latest PATH community home: David Palady, Matt Gabriel and Sally Smith Garmon.
M O N T H LY E V E N T H I G H L I G H T S Bach & The Boys
Bill Wagoner Pancake Breakfast
Sunday, January 24 | 4 pm | Liberty Hall Together with the East Texas Symphony Orchestra, the music ministries of First Presbyterian Church and Christ Episcopal Church present a concise but powerful hour of chamber music under the baton of Donald W. Duncan. With compositions by Bach, Handel, and Haydn, repertoire will include the Water Music Suite, Brandenburg Concerto movements, and more. Complimentary valet parking and a festive reception to follow; arrive early for a good seat! For more information: fpctyler.com/events/bachandtheboys or call Donald Duncan, 903-597-6317.
Sunday, January 10 | 9 am | Fellowship Hall Join us and the Men of the Church as they will be hosting the 5th Annual Bill Wagoner Pancake Breakfast. All are invited to attend a morning of pancakes and mission. Help the Men of the Church and eat some of their delicious pancakes, hot off the griddle! Visit fpctyler.com/events/pancakes for more information.
C O N G R E G AT I O N A L N E W S Membership Updates
Sunday Worship Service Schedule Change
New Members Join us in welcoming our newest member: • Candice Ngwa Marriage Congratulations to Shirley Martin and Reed Jones on their December 5 nuptials. Baptisms We are proud to have witnessed the following baptisms: • William Watson Norwood, son of Jason Norwood & Courtney Watson • Nell Frances Jackson, daughter of Ben & Frances Jackson; granddaughter of Preston & Peggy Smith Deaths Condolences to the family of FPC members who have entered the Church Triumphant: James Schmoker.
On Sunday, January 3, a single worship service will be held at 11 a.m. in the Sanctuary. Sunday school classes will not meet. Children’s Worship will meet in room M111 during the 11 a.m. service as usual. The regular Sunday morning schedule resumes on January 10.
FPC Office Closed The office and campus will be closed on New Year’s Day, (Friday, January 1) and the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday (Monday, January 18).
Chancel Flowers for 2016 All dates for 2016 to donate flowers are available! Call now to get your favorite date saved so you can honor a friend, celebrate a birthday, or memorialize a loved one by donating flowers to the Chancel. Arrangements are $80. Contact: Margaret Hilliard (903-593-1494).
s a v e t h e d a t e | FEBRUARY 2 0 1 6 Mardi Gras 2016 | Feb. 9
Boston Brass | Feb. 20
Soulfood | Feb. 21
Gumbo cook-off, chicken fingers and sides, parade, silent auction, king cakes—the whole bit.
“And the Nominees Are...” Enjoy this one-of-a-kind musical experience.
Chamber Music by Candlelight! Enjoy a unique worship event offered during Lent.
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THE MISSION STORE Yo u r m i s s i o n H Q a t F P C • M a t c h y o u r t a l e n t w i t h o u r c o m m u n i t y ’ s n e e d s
PATH (People Attempting To Help)
Sewing Bees - Sewing with a Mission
As the weather turns colder, many PATH clients are faced with the decision to heat or eat. Blankets are an inexpensive way to keep warm during the cold months and save on utility costs. Bring your donations to the PATH crates in the foyer of the Fellowship Hall and near the elevator in the main building. Additional monetary support and volunteers are always welcome. Visit TylerPATH.org.
Wednesday, January 20 | 10 am | F 101-102, Fellowship Hall Connect with sewing buffs of all ages and levels of expertise. Simple patterns and guidance provided. Help us continue the mission. For more information on the sewing bees, visit fpctyler.com/events/sewingbees. Group contact is Mollie Bobo (903-530-2772).
Knit Wits - Knitters Unite for Camp Ministry Monday, January 4 | 1:30 pm | 12338 County Road 1206 | Tyler
Save the Date: Mardi Gras 2016
Calling all knitters and knitter wannabes - we have a place for you with the Knit Wits! Our current project involves knitting items to send to Camp Gilmont in Gilmer, TX, where they’ll be available for purchase with sales directly benefiting the camp. Members are encouraged to work on personal projects, too! Each meeting comes with patterns, personal instructions, and knitting yarn. Join the group at the home of Pat Cryer. Contact: Pat Cryer (903-561-5242).
February 9 | 5:30 pm | Fellowship Hall Benefiting our global and local mission projects, the Mission Committee is sponsoring a Mardi Gras Celebration. Plans include: gumbo cook-off, parade, music, children’s activities, and a silent auction. Volunteers needed: gumbo cooks, sponsors, silent auction items, decoration or set up helpers, and parade participants. To volunteer, contact Ginny Mattox, (903-504-5016/virginiamattox1@gmail.com).
A Word of Thanks From the Schmokers
Ordination and Installation of Officers
“We would like would like to thank each and every one of you for your prayers and support in both James’ and Lees’ death this past year. If it wasn’t for our church family and friends it would be very difficult to move forward. Your prayers are felt in our lives.” – The Schmokers
Join us for our annual installation and ordination of officers for First Presbyterian Church on Sunday, January 10 at the 11 am service in the Sanctuary.
Analysis of Revenues & Expenses November 2015 Summary
Stay in the Know Stay in the know about news and events by connecting with FPC online.
MTD Actual YTD Actual YTD Budget
Revenues
$81,755
$393,362
$441,134
Expenses
$93,071
$451,816
$521,061
Net Total
($11,316)
($58,454)
($79,927)
Subscribe to the weekly e-newsletter, and you’ll receive stories, event reminders, and mission updates. You’ll even get a sneak peek into what Stuart has planned for Sunday’s pulpit! Follow the QR code above or find the e-newsletter signup link on the website at fpctyler.com.
Planned Giving Have you remembered the church and other charities in your will? If you need help, contact Nanci Pollard (903-5976317) to request information, or visit the Texas Presbyterian Foundation at tpf.org. Assistance is confidential and free of charge.
Stay in touch with us on social media, too: /fpctyler
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@fpctyler
@fpctyler
High School Small Groups start back!
PULSE Gathering (Praise. Unite. Lead. Serve. Energize.)
Wednesday, January 6 | 6 pm | Gabriel Residence We will be picking back up with our high school small group gatherings at the Gabriel’s home! We will be starting at 6 pm until 7:30pm, so come ready for another great semester of good food and great conversations with some pretty awesome people! Friends are always welcome. Contact: Neil McKown (903-279-6818).
Saturday, January 16 | 7:30 am - 5 pm | Irving, TX Join us as we will be working in our Youthquake teams and specifically looking at small group leadership! Come ready to work and have fun! Let Neil know if you can or cannot come (903-279-6818 / fpctyler.com/events/pulse).
Youth Group Kick-off for the New Semester!
Sunday, January 24 | 12 pm | The Well | RSVP by January 20
Middle Earth (Middle School Gathering)
Sunday, January 10 | 5:30 pm | The Well Join us to kick-off the new semester with the youth group! We will be talking about and begin planning for a mission project that will help support our community. There will be games and dinner will be provided. Friends are welcome! For more information and to RSVP by January 7, visit fpctyler.com/events/youthgroup.
Join us for our first Middle Earth of the new year. Come ready to have fun with good conversation. We will be continuing to work on the youth’s mission project for February. For more information, fpctyler.com/events/middleearth.
Senior High Youth Connection January 29-31 | Austin College | Sherman, TX SHYC is scheduled for any high school youth interested. We will be spending the weekend listening to keynotes, participating in small groups, playing games, singing songs, doing energizers, and spending time with a bunch of crazy Presbyterian youth from around Grace Presbytery. For more information, fpctyler.com/events/shyc. Registration closes January 17.
Confirmation Classes Resume Sunday, January 10 | 9:30 am | The Well Be ready and raring to go for our first Confirmation class in the new year! We will be reviewing what we’ve discussed from the past semester and where we will be going for the new year leading up to Confirmation Sunday. For information, contact Neil McKown (903-279-6818).
Bullet Points from October’s Session Meeting Minutes recorded by Robyn Files The Session met on November 17 and conducted the following business: • The consent agenda was approved, including the reception into active membership of Larry and Janet Burks and Steve and Susan Materi.
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A request from the Mission Committee to collect the Joy Offering on Sunday, December 20, 2015. Committee reports included a report from Risk Management that the low bid for surveillance
cameras is $31,000. This will include both live and electronic security. Both proposals were approved. Full minutes are available from the church office upon request.
largest celebration of giving and serving. Through this mission, young people learn what it’s like to make a positive difference in the world—as they collect food, raise money and volunteer to work in charities that provide shelter to the homeless, food to the hungry and compassion to those in need. Be part of this movement that is sharing God’s love with those in need. Please give generously on Super Bowl Sunday. For more information, fpctyler.com/events/souper-bowl.
Souper Bowl of Caring - February 8 More than 25 years ago, the Souper Bowl of Caring began with a simple prayer from a single youth group: “Lord, even as we enjoy the Super Bowl football game, help us be mindful of those without a bowl of soup to eat.” Since that day, more than $110 million has been raised for local charities across the country through Souper Bowl of Caring. It has become a powerful movement that is transforming the time around the Big Game into the nation’s
Steeple Times is a publication of First Presbyterian Church, 230 W. Rusk St., Tyler, TX 75701. Acting editor: Stuart Baskin. FPC reserves the right to edit and/or exclude all submissions. Submit content to Dana Durman by the 15th of the month prior to publication: ddurman@ fpctyler.com, fax (903) 597-6326, or mail. An archive of the Steeple Times can be found online at www.fpctyler.com/archive.
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Children & Youth Calendar
January
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
1
2
9
FPC office closed for the New Year’s Holiday
3 11 AM |
4
5
Worship
6
7
8
13
14
15
Senior High Small Group
6 PM |
10
Worship 9:15 AM | Ring & Sing (Gr. 3-6) 9:30 AM | Confirmation Class 9:45 AM | Sunday School 11 AM | Worship 5:30 PM | Youth Group Kickoff
11
12
8:30 AM |
17 Worship Ring & Sing (Gr. 3-6) 9:30 AM | Confirmation Class 9:45 AM | Sunday School 11 AM | Worship 8:30 AM | 9:15 AM |
24 Worship Ring & Sing (Gr. 3-6) 9:30 AM | Confirmation Class 9:45 AM | Sunday School 11 AM | Worship 12 PM | Middle School Lunch 8:30 AM | 9:15 AM |
Children's Choir (Pre-K-gr. 2) 6 PM | Senior High Small Group 5 PM |
16
7:30 AM - 5 PM |
PULSE
SHYC registration deadline!
18 FPC office closed for the Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday
25
19 CM Team Meeting
20
21
22
23
28
29
30
Children's Choir (Pre-K-gr. 2) 6 PM | Senior High Small Group
5 PM |
5 PM |
26
27 Children's Choir (Pre-K-gr. 2) 6 PM | Senior High Small Group 5 PM |
CM Open House
31 Worship 9:15 AM | Ring & Sing (Gr. 3-6) 9:30 AM | Confirmation Class 9:45 AM | Sunday School 11 AM | Worship 8:30 AM |
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Senior High Youth Connection 1/29 - 1/31
Children’s Ministry News & Events No First Friday Fun in January Due to the New Year’s holiday, First Friday Fun will not meet in January. We’ll bring back kids’ night out for the new year on February 5, from 6–9 pm, for nursery– grade 2, where we’ll learn more about love, kindness and self-control. Your children are welcome to bring friends, but please ask their parents to RSVP. For information, visit fpctyler.com/events/firstfriday.
Open House
Sunday, January 24 | during Sunday school hour | Children’s Wing You are invited to come to the Children’s Ministry area and see our new, fresh look. We are enjoying new paint colors and newly decorated classrooms. We will have some refreshments and friendly faces to greet you.
Potter House Needs Your Help! The Potter House, our local ministry that provides free housing for cancer patients receiving radiation treatments, and parents of new born intensive care parents, is needing your help to replenish its supplies. The only charge we require is a key deposit of $50, so we rely heavily on the congregation to help out in other areas. Currently, we are in need of • toilet paper • paper towels • bath and hand towels (ours have found a new home!) • queen-sized sheets • cleaning supplies (Lysol, dish-washing liquid, etc). You can check the potter house link for more information at fpctyler.com/potter-house.
S U N D AY S C H O O L
/ SMALL GROUP LISTING
westminster | Book & discussion | Lecture & discussion M 207 | The Teacher and The PreachM202 | The book of Acts | er: a dialogue | Contact: Linda Pirtle Contact: Bob Schmoker (903) 714-5746 (903) 881-9000 the forum | Lecture & discussion M102 | The book of Exodus | Contact: Chris Bunt (903) 531-3535
Sunday School @ 9:45 am faith builders
| Bible study & discussion M205 | Old & New Testament Traditions | Contact: Judith Guthrie (903) 530-3668 genesis
209ers | Young adults M209 | Eight Truths Presbyterians Affirm | Contact: Debbie Pitts (debbiepitts@gmail.com) the
Small Group Schedule
| Sermon texts 2nd/4th Mondays 10 am in homes | Contact: Lynn Holliman (903) 5349190 men
midweek oasis for moms
Wednesday, January 13, 5 pm | M107 | Contact: Pam Leach (903) 520-9138 7
| Lectionary Tuesdays 6:30 am, Premier Flexipac | Contact: Skip Womack (903) 5339433 or Bob Schmoker (903) 714-5746 men
| Book & discussion Thursdays 9:30 am, Conference Room | Land of the Bible: Beersheba, Nazareth, and Capernaum | Contact: Jan Carpenter (903) 566-8533 women
A special “thank you” to Azalea Academy For Exceptional Adults for assembling our weekly worship bulletin.
Budget & Finance. January 14 @ 12 pm — Conference Room Building & Grounds. January 11 @ 5:30 pm — Conference Room Children’s Ministry Team. January 19 @ 5 pm — Library Diaconate. January 12 @ 6:30 pm — Library Governance. January 4 @ 5:30 pm — Conference Room Mission. January 11 @ 5:30 pm — Library Potter House. January 4 @ 1 pm — Library Risk Management. January 27 @ 12 pm — Conference Room Session. January 19 @ 7 pm — M 207 Trustees. January 26 @ 12 pm — Conference Room
COMMIT TEE MEETINGS
1 Happy New Year’s Day! (Offices & campus closed). 3 Worship (one service, no Sunday school), 11am, Sanctuary. 7 Meadow Lake Bible Study, 11:45 am, Meadow Lake. 10 Installation and Ordination of Officers, 11 am, Sanctuary. 10 Youth Games and Fellowship, 5:30 pm, The Well. 13 SHYC registration deadline. 13 Midweek Oasis for Moms. 5 pm, M 107. 15 Steeple Times submission deadline. 18 Martin Luther King, Jr. Day (Office & campus closed). 24 Middle School lunch, 12 pm, The Well. 24 Fine Arts: Bach and the Boys, 4 pm, Liberty Hall. 29-31 SHYC, Austin College, Sherman, TX.
JANUARY HIGHLIGHTS
Non-Profit Organization U. S. Postage
230 W. Rusk Street, Tyler, TX 75701
PAID
return service requested
Permit No. 683 Tyler, Texas 75701-1696
To everyone at the home of: