|
|
September 2000 PASTOR NOMINATING
COMMITTEE GOES TO WORK Following Presbytery approval of Old First’s Mission Vision Statement in June, the Pastor Nominating Committee (PNC) was elected at a specially called Congregational Meeting on the first possible date, July 9th, They had their first meeting two days later at the home of Pam Byers, where they met their Presbytery liaison and learned more about the formal search process. The members of the PNC from the congregation are Andy Cheng (who was elected to chair the committee), Pat Cifor, Wilson Hardcastle (Corresponding Secretary), Roger Lindahl, and Rose Marie Springer (Recording Secretary). Elders chosen by the Session for the PNC are Pam Byers, Sidney Hollar, and Esther Kim; representing the Deacons is Bill Wunsch. The PNC was excited to learn that our Presbytery liaison is the Reverend Scott Schaefer. Rev. Schaefer is Acting President of San Francisco Theological Seminary and currently chairs the Presbytery's Committee on Ministry. His experience in the national church is an enormous asset to the PNC, and his skills will be extremely valuable during the search process. The committee’s first task is to prepare a Church Information Form, or CIF. The CIF gives a demographic snapshot of the church, and describes its character, programs, and mission, as well as the sort of pastoral leadership we are seeking. A sub-committee has been formed to draft the CIF, and among other things, is charged with reducing the 53-page Mission Vision Statement into the mere 1500 characters available on the form. Bill Wunsch, one of the drafters of the Mission Vision Statement, is leading this effort and the PNC hopes to present the CIF for Session approval in September. Once the CIF is approved by Session and also by the Presbytery Committee on Ministry, it will be posted on the denomination’s website, where it will be readily visible to any minister in the PC(USA) who might be interested. At the same time, the Church Leadership Connection (the Louisville Personnel office) will be working on finding matches for Old First from the ministers who have registered with them as open to a new call. The CIF will also of course be posted on Old First’s website, www.oldfirst.org (where people can read the Mission Vision Statement in its entirety) and also, for added national exposure, on the Covenant Network site.
September 2000
PASTOR NOMINATING
COMMITTEE GOES TO WORK Following Presbytery
approval of Old First’s Mission Vision Statement in June, the Pastor
Nominating Committee (PNC) was elected at a specially called
Congregational Meeting on the
first possible date, July 9th, They
had their first meeting two days later at the home of Pam Byers, where
they met their Presbytery liaison and learned more about the formal search
process. The members of the PNC
from the congregation are Andy Cheng (who was elected to chair the
committee), Pat Cifor, Wilson Hardcastle (Corresponding Secretary), Roger
Lindahl, and Rose Marie Springer (Recording
Secretary). Elders chosen by
the Session for the PNC are Pam Byers, Sidney Hollar, and Esther Kim;
representing the Deacons is Bill Wunsch.
The PNC was excited to learn that our Presbytery liaison is the
Reverend Scott Schaefer. Rev. Schaefer is Acting President of San Francisco
Theological Seminary and currently chairs the Presbytery's Committee on
Ministry. His experience in
the national church is an enormous asset to the PNC, and his skills will
be extremely valuable during the search process. The committee’s first
task is to prepare a Church Information Form, or CIF.
The CIF gives a demographic snapshot of the church, and describes
its character, programs, and mission, as well as the sort of pastoral
leadership we are seeking. A
sub-committee has been formed to draft the CIF, and among other things, is
charged with reducing the 53-page Mission Vision Statement into the mere
1500 characters available on the form. Bill Wunsch, one of the drafters of
the Mission Vision Statement, is leading this effort and the PNC hopes to
present the CIF for Session approval in September. Once the CIF is approved
by Session and also by the Presbytery Committee on Ministry, it will be
posted on the denomination’s website, where it will be readily visible
to any minister in the PC(USA) who might be interested. At the same time,
the Church Leadership Connection (the Louisville Personnel office) will be
working on finding matches for Old First from the ministers who have
registered with them as open to a new call.
The CIF will also of course be posted on Old First’s website,
www.oldfirst.org (where people can read the Mission
Vision Statement in its entirety) and also, for added national
exposure, on the Covenant Network
site. Meanwhile, the PNC will
be looking for good candidates and reading many, many Pastor Information
Forms, or PIFs. This system of CIFs and PIFs is designed to facilitate
matching the needs and interests of Old First with candidates of similar
character and vision. And the PNC will also be actively soliciting
suggestions (or applications) from people we met at last year's Urban
Ministry Conference, and at various denominational events we have
attended. Furthermore, the PNC is asking for recommendations from friends
across the denomination. These are the first steps
of a long journey, and the PNC is grateful for the leadership of Andy
Cheng and Scott Schaefer. The
march has begun. ------------------------------------------ SUSAN YOUNG CALLED TO
NEVADA CHURCH Our former Director of
Community Ministries, Susan Young, has been called to be the first
Associate Pastor of Green Valley Presbyterian Church in Henderson, Nevada.
It’s a fast-growing church (300 new members last year!) in a
fast-growing suburb of Las Vegas. Among the more notable resident
Presbyterians are Jim Juhan and Cynthia Conners, recently of Old First. She will be ordained at
her home church, Chevy Chase Presbyterian, on October 15. A delegation of Old
Firsters plans to attend her Service of Installation at Green Valley: 3:00
p.m., Sunday, October 29. There will be a reception at the church
immediately2">Meanwhile, the PNC will
be looking for good candidates and reading many, many Pastor Information
Forms, or PIFs. This system of CIFs and PIFs is designed to facilitate
matching the needs and interests of Old First with candidates of similar
character and vision. And the PNC will also be actively soliciting
suggestions (or applications) from people we met at last year's Urban
Ministry Conference, and at various denominational events we have
attended. Furthermore, the PNC is asking for recommendations from friends
across the denomination. These are the first steps
of a long journey, and the PNC is grateful for the leadership of Andy
Cheng and Scott Schaefer. The
march has begun. ------------------------------------------ SUSAN YOUNG CALLED TO
NEVADA CHURCH Our former Director of
Community Ministries, Susan Young, has been called to be the first
Associate Pastor of Green Valley Presbyterian Church in Henderson, Nevada.
It’s a fast-growing church (300 new members last year!) in a
fast-growing suburb of Las Vegas. Among the more notable resident
Presbyterians are Jim Juhan and Cynthia Conners, recently of Old First. She will be ordained at
her home church, Chevy Chase Presbyterian, on October 15. A delegation of Old
Firsters plans to attend her Service of Installation at Green Valley: 3:00
p.m., Sunday, October 29. There will be a reception at the church
immediately following (about 4:30 p.m.) Jim and Cynthia are
hosting a dinner for Old First visitors at 6:00 p.m. Saturday. Susan writes, "I
hope you will make this an excuse for an Old First weekend in Las Vegas!
There is golf, sunshine (even in October) and lots to do.
Barry Clagett has found an inexpensive air fare on National
Airlines, about $125 round trip per person.
(It's about an 8 or 9 hour drive, pretty long for a weekend.)
We have temporarily reserved a block of rooms at the Sunset Station
hotel and casino for Friday and Saturday nights, October 27 and 28, at
$109 per night. The rooms
have two queen beds. If this
works for you, call the Sunset Station (702-547-7777) and say you're with
Old First Church. A quick
commitment will prevent these reservations from expiring." If you have questions,
ask Barry Clagett, or get Susan's phone number or e-mail
address from him. --------------------------- TWO NEW ELDERS AND ONE
DEACON ELECTED At the July 9
Congregational Meeting, Dick Bobb was elected to fill Roger Lindahl’s
unexpired term on the Session of Elders, and Marilyn Campbell was elected
to succeed Cynthia Conners. Mary Lou Geppinger will fill a vacancy on the
Board of Deacons created when Julia Fabbri resigned. AIDS WALK 2000 Sarah Taber, John Fritz,
Robin Currier, and Bryan Nichols--this year's participants in the AIDS
Walk--want to thank the congregation for their generous support.
Members and friends of Old First contributed almost $1800 to people
living with HIV and AIDS in our community. KATHLEEN CONATSER TO BE
SENIOR CENTER DIRECTOR On July 1, Kathleen
Conatser joined the Old First staff as Interim Director of the Old First
Senior Activities Center. Kathleen has been an active member of this
church for over ten years and has become known by her work as a deacon,
Co-Moderator of Deacons, Sunday School teacher, Stewardship Committee
member, Capital Campaign cabinet member, and party-planner nonpariel. Her work with the Senior
Center began several years ago when she served as the Center’s first
volunteer Parish Nurse. With more than 25 years of medical services
training, nonprofit management and fundraising skills, an undergraduate
degree in music, along with her love for Old First and our seniors, she
considers this new role “a wonderful mutual blessing.” If you’d like to know
more about the Senior Center, please stop in on Mondays between 10 am and
2:30 pm. If you’re looking
for a way to
contribute your time and
talent, remember the Senior Center. Your ideas and energy can be put to
good use! ------------------------------ FROM THE INTERIM DIRECTOR
OF HOMELESS MINISTRY Greetings! It is a
pleasure to be with you at Old First Presbyterian Church. In my short time here,
I've already had conversation with many of you regarding our ministry with
the homeless people amongst us. What I've heard from you is that you want
to offer a ministry of hospitality, but you're struggling with how to set
appropriate limits on that hospitality. While the guidelines are
very clear (posted, in fact) during the hours that the Welcome Center is
open, we don't necessarily have clear guidelines for interaction between
OFPC members, staff and homeless persons during other times (weekdays and
Sundays). I hope that during the time that I am here (through the end of
March 2001), we will be able to agree on some of these principles and find
a way to communicate them to each other. I want you, the members
of Old First, to see that this is your ministry. My job as Interim
Director of Homeless Ministry is to guide you in that ministry, to help
you discern your goals and determine the best path for reaching them, and
to assist you in reflecting on what this ministry means to your spiritual
development as people of God. I hope that we might have opportunities in
the near future to discuss some of these issues. In addition, I hope that
each of you will find a way to become involved in the Homeless Ministry,
in whatever way is most comfortable for you. Satisfy your desire for
shopping by making trips to the San Francisco Food Bank, or Costco, or to
Wal-green's for toiletry items (I will lend my truck if needed). If baking
is your passion, your creations would be most appreciated by Welcome
Center guests (use the OFPC kitchen or your own). Are you a cook? Come
prepare a meal for Welcome Center guests. Training is available. And, if you like to throw
parties, come serve in the Welcome Center. Sit down and have a good chat
over lunch. Just give me a call and I can fill you in on the details.
Kathy McAdams NEW CHURCH SCHOOL YEAR
BEGINS SEPTEMBER 10 Everyone in the church is
invited to participate in our Christian Education
program in the coming year, which begins on Sunday, September 10. We
have something to offer everyone. Plan to join us every Sunday morning for
growth in faith and fellowship. For children - Our graded
classes for ages 3 through 8th grade begin on September 10 at 11:15 am.
We will be using a new curriculum just published by the
Presbyterian Church (USA). It
is interesting, colorful, theologically sound, and age-appropriate. Both teachers and students will notice many changes for the
better. The curriculum is
based on the idea of "covenant" - our relationship with God and
each other. It begins with a
discussion of baptism and communion and continues with the Old Testament
stories of covenant. Over
half of last year's teachers are returning, and we have some new faces and
new ideas. We hope all children will join us for the kick-off
celebration on Sunday, September 10. For youth - The biggest
change in our education program will be for high school youth.
Beginning September 10, we will have a new youth fellowship program
meeting at 9:30am. We will be
meeting at that time on some Sundays, but also meet frequently after
church for lunch and activities. A
great group of adults is ready to work with these teenagers; they will
plan their activities for the year in the first few meetings. For adults - We continue
to offer two tracks of adult classes every Sunday morning fro following (about 4:30 p.m.) Jim and Cynthia are
hosting a dinner for Old First visitors at 6:00 p.m. Saturday. Susan writes, "I
hope you will make this an excuse for an Old First weekend in Las Vegas!
There is golf, sunshine (even in October) and lots to do.
Barry Clagett has found an inexpensive air fare on National
Airlines, about $125 round trip per person.
(It's about an 8 or 9 hour drive, pretty long for a weekend.)
We have temporarily reserved a block of rooms at the Sunset Station
hotel and casino for Friday and Saturday nights, October 27 and 28, at
$109 per night. The rooms
have two queen beds. If this
works for you, call the Sunset Station (702-547-7777) and say you're with
Old First Church. A quick
commitment will prevent these reservations from expiring." If you have questions,
ask Barry Clagett, or get Susan's phone number or e-mail
address from him. --------------------------- TWO NEW ELDERS AND ONE
DEACON ELECTED At the July 9
Congregational Meeting, Dick Bobb was elected to fill Roger Lindahl’s
unexpired term on the Session of Elders, and Marilyn Campbell was elected
to succeed Cynthia Conners. Mary Lou Geppinger will fill a vacancy on the
Board of Deacons created when Julia Fabbri resigned. AIDS WALK 2000 Sarah Taber, John Fritz,
Robin Currier, and Bryan Nichols--this year's participants in the AIDS
Walk--want to thank the congregation for their generous support.
Members and friends of Old First contributed almost $1800 to people
living with HIV and AIDS in our community. KATHLEEN CONATSER TO BE
SENIOR CENTER DIRECTOR On July 1, Kathleen
Conatser joined the Old First staff as Interim Director of the Old First
Senior Activities Center. Kathleen has been an active member of this
church for over ten years and has become known by her work as a deacon,
Co-Moderator of Deacons, Sunday School teacher, Stewardship Committee
member, Capital Campaign cabinet member, and party-planner nonpariel. Her work with the Senior
Center began several years ago when she served as the Center’s first
volunteer Parish Nurse. With more than 25 years of medical services
training, nonprofit management and fundraising skills, an undergraduate
degree in music, along with her love for Old First and our seniors, she
considers this new role “a wonderful mutual blessing.” If you’d like to know
more about the Senior Center, please stop in on Mondays between 10 am and
2:30 pm. If you’re looking
for a way to
contribute your time and
talent, remember the Senior Center. Your ideas and energy can be put to
good use! ------------------------------ FROM THE INTERIM DIRECTOR
OF HOMELESS MINISTRY Greetings! It is a
pleasure to be with you at Old First Presbyterian Church. In my short time here,
I've already had conversation with many of you regarding our ministry with
the homeless people amongst us. What I've heard from you is that you want
to offer a ministry of hospitality, but you're struggling with how to set
appropriate limits on that hospitality. While the guidelines are
very clear (posted, in fact) during the hours that the Welcome Center is
open, we don't necessarily have clear guidelines for interaction between
OFPC members, staff and homeless persons during other times (weekdays and
Sundays). I hope that during the time that I am here (through the end of
March 2001), we will be able to agree on some of these principles and find
a way to communicate them to each other. I want you, the members
of Old First, to see that this is your ministry. My job as Interim
Director of Homeless Ministry is to guide you in that ministry, to help
you discern your goals and determine the best path for reaching them, and
to assist you in reflecting on what this ministry means to your spiritual
development as people of God. I hope that we might have opportunities in
the near future to discuss some of these issues. In addition, I hope that
each of you will find a way to become involved in the Homeless Ministry,
in whatever way is most comfortable for you. Satisfy your desire for
shopping by making trips to the San Francisco Food Bank, or Costco, or to
Wal-green's for toiletry items (I will lend my truck if needed). If baking
is your passion, your creations would be most appreciated by Welcome
Center guests (use the OFPC kitchen or your own). Are you a cook? Come
prepare a meal for Welcome Center guests. Training is available. And, if you like to throw
parties, come serve in the Welcome Center. Sit down and have a good chat
over lunch. Just give me a call and I can fill you in on the details.
Kathy McAdams NEW CHURCH SCHOOL YEAR
BEGINS SEPTEMBER 10 Everyone in the church is
invited to participate in our Christian Education
program in the coming year, which begins on Sunday, September 10. We
have something to offer everyone. Plan to join us every Sunday morning for
growth in faith and fellowship. For children - Our graded
classes for ages 3 through 8th grade begin on September 10 at 11:15 am.
We will be using a new curriculum just published by the
Presbyterian Church (USA). It
is interesting, colorful, theologically sound, and age-appropriate. Both teachers and students will notice many changes for the
better. The curriculum is
based on the idea of "covenant" - our relationship with God and
each other. It begins with a
discussion of baptism and communion and continues with the Old Testament
stories of covenant. Over
half of last year's teachers are returning, and we have some new faces and
new ideas. We hope all children will join us for the kick-off
celebration on Sunday, September 10. For youth - The biggest
change in our education program will be for high school youth.
Beginning September 10, we will have a new youth fellowship program
meeting at 9:30am. We will be
meeting at that time on some Sundays, but also meet frequently after
church for lunch and activities. A
great group of adults is ready to work with these teenagers; they will
plan their activities for the year in the first few meetings. For adults - We continue
to offer two tracks of adult classes every Sunday morning from 9:30 to
10:30. One class will use the
new Presbyterian Church adult curriculum
written by adult teachers around the country, including our own
Erwin Barron. It is based on
the idea of "covenant" and follows the same topics as the
children's lessons. This
would be an ideal class for parents to attend, so that they can study the
same materials as their children. The
opening sessions (Sept. 1 - Oct. 1) will be a discussion of Baptism and
Communion, followed by "Bible Stories of Abraham and Sarah"
(Oct. 8-29). The other class each
Sunday will be designed for "seekers" - those who want to
explore the edges of Christian faith through challenging questions and
modern culture. "Faith and Theology in Popular Movies" will focus
on "American Beauty" Sept. 10 and 17, then "Snow Falling on
Cedars" Sept. 24 and Oct. 1.
"Political Issues and Faith" will be the topic Oct. 8-29. Children's Music and Arts
Program - In late September
we will begin our revamped children's music education program with some
drama and art in preparation for events.
This will happen at 9:30 every Sunday morning, allowing parents to
attend adult education classes. THE AL BARRIOS MEMORIAL
CHILDREN'S LIBRARY Our church library will
soon have a superb collection of religious books for children.
Thanks to a generous gift in memory of Al Barrios, we are
purchasing a collection of books suitable for children through the sixth
grade. Al Barrios loved children and loved his faith.
This collection will enable Al to continue both of these loves in
an important ministry to the children of Old First Church. The primary criterion for
the selection of these books is that they teach good theology, Bible and
religious values. "We
hope to have books that one cannot find in your school or community
library," said Erwin Barron, director of education.
"These books will enable parents to tell their children the
stories of the faith and teach the kind of values we want them to
learn." The books will
have been screened by the Christian Education committee to have the kind
of inclusivity and diversity as well as sound, liberal theology that we
value at Old First. The collection will be
located on the low shelves under the windows in the library.
Children and families will be welcome to check them out as they
would any other books (and perhaps parents will find other great books to
read while they are there). m 9:30 to
10:30. One class will use the
new Presbyterian Church adult curriculum
written by adult teachers around the country, including our own
Erwin Barron. It is based on
the idea of "covenant" and follows the same topics as the
children's lessons. This
would be an ideal class for parents to attend, so that they can study the
same materials as their children. The
opening sessions (Sept. 1 - Oct. 1) will be a discussion of Baptism and
Communion, followed by "Bible Stories of Abraham and Sarah"
(Oct. 8-29). The other class each
Sunday will be designed for "seekers" - those who want to
explore the edges of Christian faith through challenging questions and
modern culture. "Faith and Theology in Popular Movies" will focus
on "American Beauty" Sept. 10 and 17, then "Snow Falling on
Cedars" Sept. 24 and Oct. 1.
"Political Issues and Faith" will be the topic Oct. 8-29. Children's Music and Arts
Program - In late September
we will begin our revamped children's music education program with some
drama and art in preparation for events.
This will happen at 9:30 every Sunday morning, allowing parents to
attend adult education classes. THE AL BARRIOS MEMORIAL
CHILDREN'S LIBRARY Our church library will
soon have a superb collection of religious books for children.
Thanks to a generous gift in memory of Al Barrios, we are
purchasing a collection of books suitable for children through the sixth
grade. Al Barrios loved children and loved his faith.
This collection will enable Al to continue both of these loves in
an important ministry to the children of Old First Church. The primary criterion for
the selection of these books is that they teach good theology, Bible and
religious values. "We
hope to have books that one cannot find in your school or community
library," said Erwin Barron, director of education.
"These books will enable parents to tell their children the
stories of the faith and teach the kind of values we want them to
learn." The books will
have been screened by the Christian Education committee to have the kind
of inclusivity and diversity as well as sound, liberal theology that we
value at Old First. The collection will be
located on the low shelves under the windows in the library.
Children and families will be welcome to check them out as they
would any other books (and perhaps parents will find other great books to
read while they are there). The
grand opening will be held in October. Families wishing to
donate good quality religious books to the collection can contact Erwin
Barron. PEW CUSHION UPDATE
We have new cushions in every
other pew in the sanctuary. It is rather strange looking and definitely
incomplete.The material has been purchased for the remaining cushions, and
we have a fixed price for labor until Jan.1, 2001. We don't expect any one
person to come up with the $4,500 remaining to complete the project, but
would you be willing to contribute $25 or more?
Watch for announcements about this, or send in your check now
marked “for pew cushions.” Concerned
Pew Sitters (Sara
Barrios, Mary Culp & Steve Taber) A TRASH MOVING EXPERIENCE Have you walked into the
furnace room off the Fellowship Hall lately?
It's downright frightening! Things
are stored there that have not been touched in over ten years. On Saturday, September
30, a group of volunteers will dispose of most of the materials in that
room. Old furniture,
clothing, cloth, crafts, Christmas decorations, arts and crafts supplies,
and lots of junk will be thrown away! "But,"
you say, "There are valuable things in that closet I want to
keep!" We know that almost every
committee and group has things stored in that closet, and no one really
knows what is valuable and what is not.
Here is how we will deal with that. 1. Between now and
September 30, you are invited to claim anything stored in the furnace room
closet. A box of tags
is by the door. You simply
write your name on the tag and put it on the item you want saved.
Tours of the closet will be available during coffee hour, but you
can go in anytime and claim something. 2. On September 23, you
should remove anything that you want saved!
If you want it, you must take it away and store it yourself at some
location away from the church. Authorized
church committees will be allotted some storage space in the closet, but
no one else. 3. Anything left in the
closet on September 30 and not claimed by authorized committees will be
disposed of! Anyone interested in a
fun day full of trash moving is invited to participate in our clean up day
on Saturday, September 30. For
more information, call Erwin at the church. THE CHURCH OFFICE NEEDS
VOLUNTEERS Weekdays, either shift --
9 am to 1 pm, or 1 pm to 5
pm. Light office work:
copying, collating, mailing, and handling or directing phone calls
and visitors. Learn about
what goes on at Old First, while helping at the same time.
Very rewarding. Contact Jeanne Englehart at 928-7399. WELCOME
to Jacob Timothy Weems, son of
Colleen and John Weems. Born July 27; 7 lbs, 13 oz.
to Miles Berg, son of Megan
Kelsey Berg and Tyler Berg. Born August 2 in Kirkland, Washington, 7 lbs,
7 1/2 oz. NEW MEMBERS RECEIVED ON
JUNE 25 Glen Premo was raised in
Baytown, Texas and moved to southern California in his teen years. He was
baptized and attended a Baptist church in Texas, but was not actively
involved as a young person. He first became acquainted with Old First
through our community meals in the fall of 1998. When the Welcome Center
opened in February, 1999, he joined the volunteer crew. He volunteers with
the community monthly dinners and has also helped with the Senior Center.
Glen likes the family-like atmosphere at Old First. He feels supported and
nurtured here; he likes knowing that he can contribute to the life of this
faith community through worship and service. He joined by Reaffirmation of
Faith. Brian Rademacher moved
here from Colorado last summer. He was raised Lutheran and most recently
has been a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Boulder and of an
evangelical “Crossroads” church. He wants to deepen his understanding
of Scripture here and to put his faith to work (as he already has by
helping with the Welcome Center and community dinners). Brian works as a
Sales Director for Princess Cruise Lines. Despite his recent move to
Petaluma, he likes our worship, fellowship and practical witness enough to
make this his church home. He joined by Reaffirmation of Faith. Jasun Harmell grew up in
southern California, Maine, Colorado, Oregon and Washington State; he has
lived in San Francisco for nine years. As his family moved around, he
attended church sporadically, but never felt a real connection. He started
attending the Welcome Center last fall, where he first came as a client
but very soon as an active volunteer. Jasun works in St. Anthony’s
Dining Room. He looks forward to being part of a community and learning
more about living a free and Christian life. He joined by Baptism and
Profession of Faith. SESSION NOTES - JUNE 27
MEETING
The Rev. Bruce Reyes-Chow,
representing SF Presbytery’s Healthy Congregations Committee, met with
Session as the final step in Presbytery’s approval of our Mission Vision
Statement.
It was noted that Debra McGuire,
now attending McCormick Seminary and under care of our congregation, will
meet with Session in August to apply as a candidate for ordination.
It was agreed that Clerk of
Session will post Session minutes in the Fellowship Hall as soon as they
are typed and before they have been approved by Session at the next
meeting.
Rev. Davis was granted study
leave July 24-28 for a special Interim Pastors program.
Pam Free has agreed to be
moderator of the Community MInistry Task Force recommended in the Mission
Vision Report.
Community Ministries Director
Susan Young thanked Session for the opportunity to serve at Old First and
for the growth she has made in her ministry. The meeting closed with a
special laying-on of hands and blessing for Susan. ------------------------------------------- PRAYERS FOR HEALING AND
WHOLENESS This church believes in
the power of prayer. If you are in need of healing prayers for yourself or
someone close to you, please consider: First Sunday Communion --
While the congregation is coming forward to receive Communion, those
needing prayers for healing and wholeness or other concerns are invited to
receive Communion and then come to the Children’s Chapel to pray with
clergy and elders. The minister will anoint with oil those who want this
ancient symbol as part of the prayers. First
Wednesday Evening Prayers -- The 7:30 pm service on Wednesday evenings
is a small, quiet, focused gathering with a brief liturgy and time to
share concerns and ask for prayer. Old First’s Prayer
Chain -- This group of “prayer warriors” can be contacted by calling
Mary Russell or calling the church office, 776-5552. Prayers of the People
-- If you have a prayer concern you would like to have included in
the weekly Prayers of the People, please see an usher or a worship leader
before the service, any Sunday. Deacons -- In case of
serious illness, hospitalization and/or surgery, our Board of Deacons will
coordinate prayers; for example, last year when a member of the church was
undergoing many hours of major surgery, there was always someone praying
for her. Call your deacon or the church office. Clergy -- Call the church
and ask for the pastor, or see Harrell on Sunday morning. DEAR FRIENDS IN CHRIST:
The goal of the
June 11 Silent Auction was $7,000, and we netted $7,033.69. Greg
Free, my fellow Stewardship Committee member, called it "divine
conspiracy." I say Amen.
Thank you for all you have done to make this year's Auction yet another
success. And, thank you, God.
Peace and grace,
Ted Chiao Retired
Moderator, Stewardship Committee Night Ministry benefit: STARLIGHT CABARET -
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 7 This year’s fundraising
gala for the San Francisco Night Ministry will feature jazz recording
artist Wesla Whitfield and pianist Mike Green-sill in a night to remember.
(If you’ve just moved here from another planet and don’t know about
Wesla and Mike, see Will Roller’s review of Old First Concerts' 30th
Anniversary Gala.) If a memorable musical
experience and the fellowship of a number of Old Firsters isn’t enough
for you, consider the vital work of the Night Ministry, which provides
crisis counseling and referral services in the dark hours to those who are
ill, homeless, or otherwise in need. The event will be held at
the Urban Life Center at 1111 O’Farrell. Tickets are available for $25,
$50 and $100 from Carol Carter, Barry Clagett or Roger Lindahl, or through
the Night Ministry’s box office at 432 Mason. TOWARD A MORE INCLUSIVE
PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH Northern California
Presbyterians seeking a more inclusive church will flock to Old First on
Saturday, October 14, for a day-long organizing rally.
The event is hosted by Old First and jointly sponsored by local
chapters of Covenant Network, More Light Presbyterians, and That All May
Freely Serve. Howard Rice, Professor
Emeritus of Theology at San Francisco Theological Seminary and a former
G.A. Moderator, will keynote, particularly addressing the seriously flawed
theology and polity in the amendment this General Assembly sent to the
presbyteries to bar ministers from participating in holy unions, and much
more. Workshops will focus on
practical organizing in the five NorCal presbyteries both to defeat this
proposed amendment and to prepare for next year1s General Assembly, at
which the G.A. will take up (for the first time since 1997) overtures
concerning ordination standards. If you want to be part of
the action in moving our church toward a more gracious and hospitable
stand, please plan to attend. Cost
for the day is $10. As host,
Old First will also need many volunteers, especially to prepare the lunch
for the estimated 100+ participants.
To register and/or (ideally!) to volunteer, please call Pam Byers
or Susan Ashton at the Covenant Network office, 351-2196. Sunday, October 22, 4 pm fThe
grand opening will be held in October. Families wishing to
donate good quality religious books to the collection can contact Erwin
Barron. PEW CUSHION UPDATE
We have new cushions in every
other pew in the sanctuary. It is rather strange looking and definitely
incomplete.The material has been purchased for the remaining cushions, and
we have a fixed price for labor until Jan.1, 2001. We don't expect any one
person to come up with the $4,500 remaining to complete the project, but
would you be willing to contribute $25 or more?
Watch for announcements about this, or send in your check now
marked “for pew cushions.” Concerned
Pew Sitters (Sara
Barrios, Mary Culp & Steve Taber) A TRASH MOVING EXPERIENCE Have you walked into the
furnace room off the Fellowship Hall lately?
It's downright frightening! Things
are stored there that have not been touched in over ten years. On Saturday, September
30, a group of volunteers will dispose of most of the materials in that
room. Old furniture,
clothing, cloth, crafts, Christmas decorations, arts and crafts supplies,
and lots of junk will be thrown away! "But,"
you say, "There are valuable things in that closet I want to
keep!" We know that almost every
committee and group has things stored in that closet, and no one really
knows what is valuable and what is not.
Here is how we will deal with that. Join hundreds of your
concerned neighbors and friends for the Golden Gate Hunger Walk, known as
the "Crop Walk," on Sunday, October 22, at 1:00 p.m. The walk is
a community event to raise money -- and awareness -- for the elimination
of hunger locally and around the world. Walkers will meet at
Crissy Field in the Presidio and will have a choice of three scenic walks:
the newly-restored wetlands and beach at Crissy Field, a Presidio
forest trail, or the Golden Gate Bridge.
Walkers raise money by finding sponsors for the walk.
The goal this year is to raise at least $20,000 from the efforts of
Bay Area congregations. The event is sponsored by
the San Francisco Interfaith Council and Church World Service.
The local recipient agency is the San Francisco Food Bank, which
provides groceries at very low cost for Old First's Welcome Center and
monthly meals for our homeless neighbors. If you would like to get
a sponsor envelope for collecting funds or provide transportation to the
Presidio on the day of the walk, please see Bryan Nichols at coffee hour. LECTIONARY Sept. 3 -- Song of Sol.
2:8-13; Ps. 45:1-2, 6-9; James 1:1-27; Mark 7:1-8,
14-15, 21-23 Sept. 10 -- Prov. 22:1-2,
8-9, 22-23; Ps. 125; James 2:1-10 (11-13), 14-17;
Mark 7:24-37 Sept. 17 -- Prov.
1:20-33; Ps. 19; James 3:1-12; Mark 8:27-38 Sept. 24 -- Prov.
31:10-31; Ps. 1; James 3:13-4:3, 7-8a; Mark 9:3-37 Oct. 1 -- Esther 7:1-6,
9-10; 9:20-22; Ps. 124; James 5:13-20; Mark 9:38-50 --------------------------------------- PASTOR'S LETTER “And David danced
before the Lord with all his might; and David was girded with a linen
ephod. So David and all the house of Israel brought up the ark of the Lord
with shouting, and with the sound of the horn ...... And David returned to
bless his household. But Michal the daughter of Saul came out to meet
David, and said, ‘How the king of Israel honored himself today,
uncovering himself before the eyes ofs="MsoNormal">1. Between now and
September 30, you are invited to claim anything stored in the furnace room
closet. A box of tags
is by the door. You simply
write your name on the tag and put it on the item you want saved.
Tours of the closet will be available during coffee hour, but you
can go in anytime and claim something. 2. On September 23, you
should remove anything that you want saved!
If you want it, you must take it away and store it yourself at some
location away from the church. Authorized
church committees will be allotted some storage space in the closet, but
no one else. 3. Anything left in the
closet on September 30 and not claimed by authorized committees will be
disposed of! Anyone interested in a
fun day full of trash moving is invited to participate in our clean up day
on Saturday, September 30. For
more information, call Erwin at the church. THE CHURCH OFFICE NEEDS
VOLUNTEERS Weekdays, either shift --
9 am to 1 pm, or 1 pm to 5
pm. Light office work:
copying, collating, mailing, and handling or directing phone calls
and visitors. Learn about
what goes on at Old First, while helping at the same time.
Very rewarding. Contact Jeanne Englehart at 928-7399. WELCOME
to Jacob Timothy Weems, son of
Colleen and John Weems. Born July 27; 7 lbs, 13 oz.
to Miles Berg, son of Megan
Kelsey Berg and Tyler Berg. Born August 2 in Kirkland, Washington, 7 lbs,
7 1/2 oz. NEW MEMBERS RECEIVED ON
JUNE 25 Glen Premo was raised in
Baytown, Texas and moved to southern California in his teen years. He was
baptized and attended a Baptist church in Texas, but was not actively
involved as a young person. He first became acquainted with Old First
through our community meals in the fall of 1998. When the Welcome Center
opened in February, 1999, he joined the volunteer crew. He volunteers with
the community monthly dinners and has also helped with the Senior Center.
Glen likes the family-like atmosphere at Old First. He feels supported and
nurtured here; he likes knowing that he can contribute to the life of this
faith community through worship and service. He joined by Reaffirmation of
Faith. Brian Rademacher moved
here from Colorado last summer. He was raised Lutheran and most recently
has been a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Boulder and of an
evangelical “Crossroads” church. He wants to deepen his understanding
of Scripture here and to put his faith to work (as he already has by
helping with the Welcome Center and community dinners). Brian works as a
Sales Director for Princess Cruise Lines. Despite his recent move to
Petaluma, he likes our worship, fellowship and practical witness enough to
make this his church home. He joined by Reaffirmation of Faith. Jasun Harmell grew up in
southern California, Maine, Colorado, Oregon and Washington State; he has
lived in San Francisco for nine years. As his family moved around, he
attended church sporadically, but never felt a real connection. He started
attending the Welcome Center last fall, where he first came as a client
but very soon as an active volunteer. Jasun works in St. Anthony’s
Dining Room. He looks forward to being part of a community and learning
more about living a free and Christian life. He joined by Baptism and
Profession of Faith. SESSION NOTES - JUNE 27
MEETING
The Rev. Bruce Reyes-Chow,
representing SF Presbytery’s Healthy Congregations Committee, met with
Session as the final step in Presbytery’s approval of our Mission Vision
Statement.
It was noted that Debra McGuire,
now attending McCormick Seminary and under care of our congregation, will
meet with Session in August to apply as a candidate for ordination.
It was agreed that Clerk of
Session will post Session minutes in the Fellowship Hall as soon as they
are typed and before they have been approved by Session at the next
meeting.
Rev. Davis was granted study
leave July 24-28 for a special Interim Pastors program.
Pam Free has agreed to be
moderator of the Community MInistry Task Force recommended in the Mission
Vision Report.
Community Ministries Director
Susan Young thanked Session for the opportunity to serve at Old First and
for the growth she has made in her ministry. The meeting closed with a
special laying-on of hands and blessing for Susan. ------------------------------------------- PRAYERS FOR HEALING AND
WHOLENESS Presbyterian minister and
author Frederick Buechner writes: “To worship God means to serve God.
Basically, there are two ways to do it. One way is to do things, things
that need to be done — run errands, carry messages, feed the lambs, and
so on. The other way is to do things that you need to do — sing songs,
create beautiful things, give things up, tell God what’s on your mind
and heart, in general rejoice in him and make a fool of yourself the way
lovers have always made fools of themselves for the one they love. A
Quaker Meeting, a Pontifical High Mass, the
Family Service at First Presbyterian, a Holy Roller Happening — unless
there is an element of joy and foolishness in the proceedings, the time
would be better spent doing something useful.” Buechner knows what David
knew: sometimes, the appropriate response to the presence of God is
unbridled enthusiasm. The problem with enthusiasm, however, is that it
will often be met with opposition. A closer look at the David story will
reveal that his exuberant dance wasn’t the real source of Michal’s
hostility. It was David’s departure from the status quo. Michal appealed to a
sense of kingly decorum. but her words betrayed her own discomfort.
David’s near nudity was not the real issue. She chided David for not
acting like the king. Michal had grown up in a royal household. One could
easily imagine that her rebuke of David was a way of saying, “you’re
not like Saul.” In other words, David didn’t fit Michal’s
“paradigm” of kingship. David changed the status quo; Michal’s
hostility was her response to change. This biblical story, and
Buechner’s commentary, is not an invitation to jump around naked. The
point is: when change occurs, what is our response? If Michal could have
understood herself more clearly she would have seen that her hostility
was not only directed at David but also at God. “It was before
the Lord, who chose me above your father and above all his house, to
appoint me as prince over Israel.....” The interstitial space
— the interim — between your former minister and the next installed
pastor is the time to examine how a congregation responds to change. I am
delighted to join you du This church believes in
the power of prayer. If you are in need of healing prayers for yourself or
someone close to you, please consider: First Sunday Communion --
While the congregation is coming forward to receive Communion, those
needing prayers for healing and wholeness or other concerns are invited to
receive Communion and then come to the Children’s Chapel to pray with
clergy and elders. The minister will anoint with oil those who want this
ancient symbol as part of the prayers. First
Wednesday Evening Prayers -- The 7:30 pm service on Wednesday evenings
is a small, quiet, focused gathering with a brief liturgy and time to
share concerns and ask for prayer. Old First’s Prayer
Chain -- This group of “prayer warriors” can be contacted by calling
Mary Russell or calling the church office, 776-5552. Prayers of the People
-- If you have a prayer concern you would like to have included in
the weekly Prayers of the People, please see an usher or a worship leader
before the service, any Sunday. Deacons -- In case of
serious illness, hospitalization and/or surgery, our Board of Deacons will
coordinate prayers; for example, last year when a member of the church was
undergoing many hours of major surgery, there was always someone praying
for her. Call your deacon or the church office. Clergy -- Call the church
and ask for the pastor, or see Harrell on Sunday morning. DEAR FRIENDS IN CHRIST:
The goal of the
June 11 Silent Auction was $7,000, and we netted $7,033.69. Greg
Free, my fellow Stewardship Committee member, called it "divine
conspiracy." I say Amen.
Thank you for all you have done to make this year's Auction yet another
success. And, thank you, God.
Peace and grace,
Ted Chiao &nbsring this time of change. And I urge you, along
with Buechner, to find and celebrate the elements of joy and foolishness
and openness and change that God is bringing into your lives. “I am the Lord of the
Dance, said He. And I’ll lead you all,
wherever you may be, And I’ll lead you all
in the dance, said He.” To God be the Glory,
Harrell Davis SMALL GROUP: A CONNECTION
TO SOMETHING MUCH LARGER by Rod MacDonald Being a relatively new
member of this congregation, I was curious about the importance and impact
of its small groups. So I
decided to find out about the one of which I am a member. Our group doesn't have a
name, though someone thought that it had a designation of "Group
B" years ago. It has
been around since the late 70's originally meeting at Chuck Olson's house.
For the past 10-15 years it has met at the Campbells’ home.
Our current members are our hosts Bill and Marilyn Campbell, Mary
Russell, Rod & Leila MacDonald, Nancy Day and our leader Joan Dills
St. Clair. There is always
room for one more! Our format is simple,
though a foundation for things much larger.
We start with coffee and conversation, then some hymn singing, an
hour or so of study, moments of sharing personal situations and end with
prayer. Almost everyone has identified studying of books or
scriptures and sharing of personal situations as the most important. Over the years, the group
has studied diverse subjects. These include a series on the Messiah, books
of the Bible, Beatitudes and an inductive study of the Bible.
Recently, the study has been varied, ranging from a book on the
origins and formation of the Bible to Martin Luther King's "Letter
from the Birmingham Jail." The
latter was studied not only for its content, but also as a future
possibility for being added to an open canon! Currently, we are reading
"The Four Witnesses" by Robin Griffith-Jones, a minister with
the Anglican Church. This is
a book about why the Gospels present strikingly different visions of
Jesus. Thought-provoking
study of Christian religious books, searching and studying the Bible have
been valuable connecting tools to other religious endeavors.
Some members talk of spiritual growth, others about knowledge and
insights gained and in turn sharing all of these in other responsibilities
within the church. The sharing time has
proven to be a safe and loving place to explore our joys, sorrows, our
achievements and failures, our concerns and "wonderings."
It is as though we are on common ground, a sacred place protected
by trust, confidentiality and Christ's loving arms.
One member says this time of supporting each other not only helps
in personal and spiritual growth, but it is also the connection to the
"people side of the church."
It is an outstanding source for strength in our busy, stress-filled
working lives as well. One last connection, my
own! As a newcomer, had I not been invited to join this group, I'd
still be curious about small groups and their impact, and my relationship
to this church and its people would certainly be very much less than it is
today. Perhaps there is a
lesson here for all of us as we welcome new members.
Small groups are a wonderful way to become more fully involved in
the life of the church and its places beyond this world. OLD FIRST CONCERTS' 30TH
ANNIVERSARY GALA by William Roller It was a bittersweet
celebration, yet an appreciative audience who came to feel the music, at
the 30th Anniversary Gala of Old First Concerts. The performance
commemorate the outstanding dedication of retiring director Grayce dello
Joio, who now passes the baton to the capable hands of Henry Halpern. What
better tribute to her nurturing stewardship than to have the principal
performances played by the musicians of OF Concerts’ Artists’ Advisory
Committee? Board of Directors
president Christopher Burt calls chamber music “the adult beverage.”
Owing to my own arrested development, I find chamber music an acquired
taste; still, even for one who is not an enthusiast of the genre, there
were some gems to be culled. Retired
Moderator, Stewardship Committee Night Ministry benefit: STARLIGHT CABARET -
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 7 This year’s fundraising
gala for the San Francisco Night Ministry will feature jazz recording
artist Wesla Whitfield and pianist Mike Green-sill in a night to remember.
(If you’ve just moved here from another planet and don’t know about
Wesla and Mike, see Will Roller’s review of Old First Concerts' 30th
Anniversary Gala.) If a memorable musical
experience and the fellowship of a number of Old Firsters isn’t enough
for you, consider the vital work of the Night Ministry, which provides
crisis counseling and referral services in the dark hours to those who are
ill, homeless, or otherwise in need. The event will be held at
the Urban Life Center at 1111 O’Farrell. Tickets are available for $25,
$50 and $100 from Carol Carter, Barry Clagett or Roger Lindahl, or through
the Night Ministry’s box office at 432 Mason. TOWARD A MORE INCLUSIVE
PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH Northern California
Presbyterians seeking a more inclusive church will flock to Old First on
Saturday, October 14, for a day-long organizing rally.
The event is hosted by Old First and jointly sponsored by local
chapters of Covenant Network, More Light Presbyterians, and That All May
Freely Serve. Howard Rice, Professor
Emeritus of Theology at San Francisco Theological Seminary and a former
G.A. Moderator, will keynote, particularly addressing the seriously flawed
theology and polity in the amendment this General Assembly sent to the
presbyteries to bar ministers from participating in holy unions, and much
more. Workshops will focus on
practical organizing in the five NorCal presbyteries both to defeat this
proposed amendment and to prepare for next year1s General Assembly, at
which the G.A. will take up (for the first time since 1997) overtures
concerning ordination standards. If you want to be part of
the action in moving our church toward a more gracious and hospitable
stand, please plan to attend. Cost
for the day is $10. As host,
Old First will also need many volunteers, especially to prepare the lunch
for the estimated 100+ participants.
To register and/or (ideally!) to volunteer, please call Pam Byers
or Susan Ashton at the Covenant Network office, 351-2196. Sunday, October 22, 4 pm f"MsoNormal">The opening piece,
“Musica d’Amore,” by composer John Thow, emerged as a musical con-versation
among equals. Oboeist Julie Ann Giacobassi played with a simmering tension
that was a counterpoint to the string accompaniment. Violist Geraldine
Walther and harpist Douglas Rioth wove subtle embellishments to support
Giacobassi’s reeds. The variety of moods — playful, mournful,
turbulent — maintained the thread of the drama. It was a daring
composition that arrests one’s attention like a conspiratorial whisper.
Not all attendees agreed, some confiding to me they felt it a bit
overblown; however, I felt the sheer invention earned a “bravo” for a
bold work. Clearly the evening’s
crowd-pleaser was “The Heart: a Lecture.”
It was written for soprano Sylvia Anderson, who was accompanied by
pianist Matthias Kunztzsch. The text was from a medical textbook,
“Gray’s Anatomy”, with embellishments improvised by Armer. The
lyric’s comic appeal and the rhythm’s light and flirtatious cadence
had a feminine cast; the piece was a gentle and playful dare. The scope of the evening
was too broad to warrant elaboration on every performance, so it’s best
to focus on what for me was the performance highlight. Pianist Mike
Greensill opened his performance with a Gershwin medley of “Embraceable
You,” “Love Walked In,” and “I Got Rhythm.” His piano fills
accented and cued the chord changes as if he were his own percussionist;
his propelling syncopation and confident attack of the keyboard was
impressive. The three-tune set worked like a suite, as an extended
tone-poem. Midway through the performance he was joined by his lovely
wife, vocalist Wesla Whitfield. Her forceful voice lacks the power of a
torch singer, yet she has wonderful tonal clarity. She knows how to work a
phrase — letting it lag behind the beat at times, similar to the style
of Little Jimmie Scott. Whitfield charmed the audience with her rendition
of the Howard Dee/Arthur Schwartz composition, “Something to Remember
You By.” They concluded with their engaging version of “Don’t Blame
Me.” The tension and resolution of Greensill and Whitfield’s jazz
renditions projected out to the audience and established a player-listener
bond in a distinctly intimate manner. Their collective improvisation
generated unpredictable expression and a truly satisfying jazz
performance. PRESBYTERIAN WOMEN: MY
SECOND TRIENNIAL GATHERING by Carol Carter It was an absolute joy to
return to Louisville to spend time once again with 5,000 extraordinary
women — and about ten pretty decent fellas.
I wondered if the magic would return with my second experience at a
Gathering. Instead of magic there was a reaffirmation. The atmosphere
and mood was as upbeat and positive as last time. The theme of the
conference was “Sound the Trumpet: Proclaim Jubilee” (the Leviticus
text and the passage where Jesus reads that and says "Today this
scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing") -- another
reaffirmation, since we at
Old First have spent moeaturing two works by
Ralph Vaughan Williams Join hundreds of your
concerned neighbors and friends for the Golden Gate Hunger Walk, known as
the "Crop Walk," on Sunday, October 22, at 1:00 p.m. The walk is
a community event to raise money -- and awareness -- for the elimination
of hunger locally and around the world. Walkers will meet at
Crissy Field in the Presidio and will have a choice of three scenic walks:
the newly-restored wetlands and beach at Crissy Field, a Presidio
forest trail, or the Golden Gate Bridge.
Walkers raise money by finding sponsors for the walk.
The goal this year is to raise at least $20,000 from the efforts of
Bay Area congregations. The event is sponsored by
the San Francisco Interfaith Council and Church World Service.
The local recipient agency is the San Francisco Food Bank, which
provides groceries at very low cost for Old First's Welcome Center and
monthly meals for our homeless neighbors. If you would like to get
a sponsor envelope for collecting funds or provide transportation to the
Presidio on the day of the walk, please see Bryan Nichols at coffee hour. LECTIONARY Sept. 3 -- Song of Sol.
2:8-13; Ps. 45:1-2, 6-9; James 1:1-27; Mark 7:1-8,
14-15, 21-23 Sept. 10 -- Prov. 22:1-2,
8-9, 22-23; Ps. 125; James 2:1-10 (11-13), 14-17;
Mark 7:24-37 Sept. 17 -- Prov.
1:20-33; Ps. 19; James 3:1-12; Mark 8:27-38 Sept. 24 -- Prov.
31:10-31; Ps. 1; James 3:13-4:3, 7-8a; Mark 9:3-37 Oct. 1 -- Esther 7:1-6,
9-10; 9:20-22; Ps. 124; James 5:13-20; Mark 9:38-50 --------------------------------------- PASTOR'S LETTER “And David danced
before the Lord with all his might; and David was girded with a linen
ephod. So David and all the house of Israel brought up the ark of the Lord
with shouting, and with the sound of the horn ...... And David returned to
bless his household. But Michal the daughter of Saul came out to meet
David, and said, ‘How the king of Israel honored himself today,
uncovering himself before the eyes of his servants maids, as one of the
vulgar fellows shamelessly uncovers himself!’
And David said to Michal, ‘it was before the Lord, who chose me
above your father, and above all his house, to appoint me as prince over
Israel, the people of the Lord — And I will make merry before the
Lord.’”
2 Samuel 6:14-15, 20-21 Presbyterian minister and
author Frederick Buechner writes: “To worship God means to serve God.
Basically, there are two ways to do it. One way is to do things, things
that need to be done — run errands, carry messages, feed the lambs, and
so on. The other way is to do things that you need to do — sing songs,
create beautiful things, give things up, tell God what’s on your mind
and heart, in general rejoice in him and make a fool of yourself the way
lovers have always made fools of themselves for the one they love. A
Quaker Meeting, a Pontifical High Mass, the
Family Service at First Presbyterian, a Holy Roller Happening — unless
there is an element of joy and foolishness in the proceedings, the time
would be better spent doing something useful.” Buechner knows what David
knew: sometimes, the appropriate response to the presence of God is
unbridled enthusiasm. The problem with enthusiasm, however, is that it
will often be met with opposition. A closer look at the David story will
reveal that his exuberant dance wasn’t the real source of Michal’s
hostility. It was David’s departure from the status quo. Michal appealed to a
sense of kingly decorum. but her words betrayed her own discomfort.
David’s near nudity was not the real issue. She chided David for not
acting like the king. Michal had grown up in a royal household. One could
easily imagine that her rebuke of David was a way of saying, “you’re
not like Saul.” In other words, David didn’t fit Michal’s
“paradigm” of kingship. David changed the status quo; Michal’s
hostility was her response to change. This biblical story, and
Buechner’s commentary, is not an invitation to jump around naked. The
point is: when change occurs, what is our response? If Michal could have
understood herself more clearly she would have seen that her hostility
was not only directed at David but also at God. “It was before
the Lord, who chose me above your father and above all his house, to
appoint me as prince over Israel.....” The interstitial space
— the interim — between your former minister and the next installed
pastor is the time to examine how a congregation responds to change. I am
delighted to join you dure than a year studying this very thing. A dancer appeared at the
first meeting; she seemed to be all arms and legs and the true essence of
beauty and grace. She would participate in the opening and closing of
every plenary session Our music leader was so good and congenial it reminded
me of summer camp. I
discovered once again singing various hymns with 5,000 women is one of the
most spiritually moving experiences I may ever know. In the Great Hall the
afternoon I arrived, I ran smack dab into Pam Byers at the Covenant
Network table! My second
night there, the Rev. Lonna Lee (formerly Associate Pastor at Old First)
was one of the speakers and did a very good presentation on racial
prejudice. The More Light breakfast was a truly wonderful experience.
The woman minister who spoke told howliberating it was for her to
“come out” and finally be true to that aspect of her life she had been
trained to bury and be ashamed of. She
talked of the incredible support she has found from unexpected sources
both within and outside her family. The last Plenary session
before disbanding was, as last time, extraordinary.
Communion was served, and the dollar amount from our offering was
announced: $83,616 to five different organizations, including Cameron
House in San Francisco — the most ever given at a Gathering. The
beginning of this service including a segment where all attendees who are
ordained clergy put on a stole, stood where they were throughout the hall
and read responses in unison, and somehow, in some way, 5,000 attendees
were served communion without a hitch! I can say one Gathering
after the magical one, that a choir of 200 can be as exciting as a choir
of 20! As is usual from my
experience each of us were there because we really wanted to be, our
director made us both laugh and reach a bit farther than we expected we
could, there wasn’t enough time before “show time”, and somehow it
worked. I am not fond of crowds
and run from them whenever possible.
Something happens at the Gathering, though; it becomes no longer a
crowd but a really really big family.
There are workshops of every description, forums where anyone is
welcome to attend, tours of the Presbytery and the seminary, and if it is
your preference, nap time in the afternoon.
Women coming together from all backgrounds and ages, from this
country and internationally for an act of celebration of one’s own and
everyone’s spirituality is both confirming and reaffirming. It is a
feeling that one can take home and incorporate and grow from. GREETINGS FROM PALM
SPRINGS,
where today, Aug. 12, it is 114 degrees and the relative humidity
is over 60%. We cannot see the mountains because of a sandstorm that blew
in last evening; we suspect this may have come from Arizona, or from the
Juhan-Conners' new "diggins" in Nevada! This summer hasn't been
too bad because the humidity has been low, so it has been bearable — but
it will be nice to get back down to the cool 90s within a few weeks. The highlight of the
summer was a surprise birthday party for Hugh, who turned age 60 in July.
With the connivance of Richard and Jeanne Kirkwood and J Pomeroy, a
surprise party was thrown which included them, Tracy & Barry Clagett,
Nancy & Oliver Spencer, Jeanne Englehart and our friends Lawrence
Button and Stephen Leach from San Francisco, who are known to many of you
at Old First. Hugh was told
to expect a "small" dinner party at one of the local bistros but
Kirkwood "led him down the path."
She wantring this time of change. And I urge you, along
with Buechner, to find and celebrate the elements of joy and foolishness
and openness and change that God is bringing into your lives. “I am the Lord of the
Dance, said He. And I’ll lead you all,
wherever you may be, And I’ll lead you all
in the dance, said He.” To God be the Glory,
Harrell Davis SMALL GROUP: A CONNECTION
TO SOMETHING MUCH LARGER by Rod MacDonald Being a relatively new
member of this congregation, I was curious about the importance and impact
of its small groups. So I
decided to find out about the one of which I am a member. Our group doesn't have a
name, though someone thought that it had a designation of "Group
B" years ago. It has
been around since the late 70's originally meeting at Chuck Olson's house.
For the past 10-15 years it has met at the Campbells’ home.
Our current members are our hosts Bill and Marilyn Campbell, Mary
Russell, Rod & Leila MacDonald, Nancy Day and our leader Joan Dills
St. Clair. There is always
room for one more! Our format is simple,
though a foundation for things much larger.
We start with coffee and conversation, then some hymn singing, an
hour or so of study, moments of sharing personal situations and end with
prayer. Almost everyone has identified studying of books or
scriptures and sharing of personal situations as the most important. Over the years, the group
has studied diverse subjects. These include a series on the Messiah, books
of the Bible, Beatitudes and an inductive study of the Bible.
Recently, the study has been varied, ranging from a book on the
origins and formation of the Bible to Martin Luther King's "Letter
from the Birmingham Jail." The
latter was studied not only for its content, but also as a future
possibility for being added to an open canon! Currently, we are reading
"The Four Witnesses" by Robin Griffith-Jones, a minister with
the Anglican Church. This is
a book about why the Gospels present strikingly different visions of
Jesus. Thought-provoking
study of Christian religious books, searching and studying the Bible have
been valuable connecting tools to other religious endeavors.
Some members talk of spiritual growth, others about knowledge and
insights gained and in turn sharing all of these in other responsibilities
within the church. The sharing time has
proven to be a safe and loving place to explore our joys, sorrows, our
achievements and failures, our concerns and "wonderings."
It is as though we are on common ground, a sacred place protected
by trust, confidentiality and Christ's loving arms.
One member says this time of supporting each other not only helps
in personal and spiritual growth, but it is also the connection to the
"people side of the church."
It is an outstanding source for strength in our busy, stress-filled
working lives as well. One last connection, my
own! As a newcomer, had I not been invited to join this group, I'd
still be curious about small groups and their impact, and my relationship
to this church and its people would certainly be very much less than it is
today. Perhaps there is a
lesson here for all of us as we welcome new members.
Small groups are a wonderful way to become more fully involved in
the life of the church and its places beyond this world. OLD FIRST CONCERTS' 30TH
ANNIVERSARY GALA by William Roller It was a bittersweet
celebration, yet an appreciative audience who came to feel the music, at
the 30th Anniversary Gala of Old First Concerts. The performance
commemorate the outstanding dedication of retiring director Grayce dello
Joio, who now passes the baton to the capable hands of Henry Halpern. What
better tribute to her nurturing stewardship than to have the principal
performances played by the musicians of OF Concerts’ Artists’ Advisory
Committee? Board of Directors
president Christopher Burt calls chamber music “the adult beverage.”
Owing to my own arrested development, I find chamber music an acquired
taste; still, even for one who is not an enthusiast of the genre, there
were some gems to be culled. Richard, as always, is
the supreme planner (as you will remember from his days as moderator of
C.E.). If he ever gets tired
of being a dentist, he would make an ideal party planner. His practice is
going well and he is happier with his work than ever before and we are
thankful for that. His partner and staff are wonderful people and they, of
course, like Richard very much. Hugh's health is
improving after completing a pulmonary rehab program, but we still have a
lot of work ahead of us to get back to par.
Richard is, again as always, the best caregiver in the world.
The past couple of months were a little difficult, but he is there
every minute. We are still looking for
a church home. We like the
Cathedral City Presbyterian church (57 members) but they merge with the
Palm Springs church which we don't care for.
We've attended an M.C.C. church twice and were pleasantly surprised
at the services. But, don't
worry, we are not about to leave Old First.
In fact, we will see you all about the second week of September. God has been very good to
us and we hope his blessings are being showered on each of you, as well.
Love & Peace,
Richard & Hugh Home
About Us Calendar
News Worship
Education History |
Access
our news archives: