April 2008
From the Pastor:
When I begin to think of the word sabbatical the first thing that goes through my mind is "renewal." For the past 17 years I have served the church faithfully as a minister of the word and sacrament. Throughout those seventeen years I have often wondered what it would be like to take time to rest for an extended period of time, time to play with my nine year old son with no interruptions, and to be in silence with God without having someone walk in wanting something.
As ministers our time is filled with the responsibility of caring for the souls of others as well as for ourselves. However, being able to do this effectively is quite challenging. Being able to get away from the grind and responsibility of caring for the parish God has entrusted in our care is truly a gift. Being able to renew the mind, soul, and body is what I feel I am being called to do at this moment in time. During our March Session meeting, the elders felt the same.
During my sabbatical I hope to be able to take a break from my pastoral duties and engage in a time of renewal. My plan is to take the time to rest, play, and engage in personal spiritual development. I have found that these things have been missing in my life for quite some time. And through the guidance of a pastoral care counselor as well a colleague group I have discovered that a sabbatical can give me the time I need to reclaim those things I have missed.
One of the things I will do during the sabbatical is rest. For the past six months I have discovered what it means to be chronically fatigued. And for seventeen years I have found myself wanting to not be tied down to a calendar or a schedule. I have covenanted during my sabbatical to not write a list of things to do. I have also pledged to sleep more than six hours a night. And I have promised my family that I would dedicate uninterrupted time to them.
It is my hope to fly to Rochester New York, the place I grew up at, and spend a week traveling around the city. During that time I hope to hike, walk and spend time resting with family. I hope to rediscover the joy of play.
Another goal I have is getting reacquainted with family and friends I have not seeing in almost 15 years. I want to introduce my son to my aunts, cousins, and friends from my home church. But this is not all I wish to do during my sabbatical.
During my sabbatical I will continue meeting with my pastoral counselor for spiritual development. I will engage in reading several books I have wanted to read but have not had the time to do so. I will attend two spiritual silent retreats and have been given access to a friend's home where I will engage in daily meditation.
Some are probably wondering how on earth I will be able to survive four day silent retreats. My prayer is that during this time I will be quiet in order to listen to God’s quiet still voice.
While I am gone the Session together with Dick Kreager will make sure that the daily business of the church continues. Pastors Ed Slusser and Tom Willadsen will offer four weeks of pastoral coverage. Last year I did the same for them during their sabbaticals.
During the three months I will be gone Elders will preach and share their journeys of faith with the congregation. This means that the congregation will also get a fresh and new perspective.
The word we will all focus on during my sabbatical is renewal. This will be a time in which the congregation will also replenish its spiritual batteries as it listen for the voice of God through the voices of its elders. The elders in turn will continue to uncover their call to be the spiritual leaders of the church.
My prayer is that when we reengage once again, we will have our strength and spirits renewed, and be ready to seek the will of God for the church.
A pamphlet that explains the sabbatical will be provided in next month’s Bridge.
Until next time.
Peace and grace,
Pastor Mara
LOVING GOD THROUGH WORSHIP
Worship for the Month of April
April 6, 2008
2nd Sunday in Easter
9:00 a.m. Worship with Communion by Intinction
Readings: Psalm 116:1-4, 12-19 and Acts 2:14a, 36-41Sermon Theme: Many churches that close do so quite worthily after years of effective and faithful ministry. It’s just that they’re eventually overwhelmed by forces beyond their control. That’s simply a colony collapse, with no disorder involved whatsoever. Still, can anything be done to reverse CCD? Luke has some suggestions when he mentions Peter’s sermon.
______________________________________
April 13, 2008
3rd Sunday in Easter
9:00 a.m. Worship
Readings: Psalm 23 and John 10:1-10
Sermon Theme: We are called to live abundantly. But how can this be done when we are not happy with our job? How does the gospel of John respond to those experiencing a miserable job?
_______________________________________
April 20, 2008
4th Sunday in Easter/ Jazz Sunday
9:00 a.m. Worship with a children’s parade of palms is scheduled
Readings: Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16 and Acts 7:55-60Worship Description: Today we celebrate a long standing worship tradition as we tap our toes and snap our fingers to the sounds of jazz. Our worship through jazz music is a favorite. Join us as we listen to soloist Fred Simon and our very own choir delight us.
_______________________________________
April 27, 2008
5th Sunday in Easter
9:00 a.m. Worship
Readings: Psalm 66:8-20 and I Peter 3:13-22Sermon Theme: You can log on to the Internet to learn how to do just about anything — except how to have hope. But you can go to first Peter and find out how even in the midst of difficulty one can find hope.
_________________________________________
Following Christ Through Learning
Disciples in Training
April 6
10:15 a.m.
Sunday School
10:20 a.m.
-The Next Door Savior
-Parenting the Early Years
April 13
10:15 a.m.
Sunday School
10:20 a.m.
-The Next Door Savior
-Parenting the Early Years
April 20
10:15 a.m.
Sunday School
10:20 a.m.
No Adult Education
April 27
9:00 a.m.
Children’s Choir Sings
10:15 a.m.
Sunday School
10:20 a.m.
No Adult Education
ADULT CHRISTIAN EDUCATION LENTEN STUDY
During the month of February, we began offering a class entitled The Next Door Savior. This is a study of what it truly means to walk with, talk with, and explore Jesus. During the study we will look at places Jesus went and the people he touched, knowing we can touch lives too. Experience an encounter with Jesus as Max Lucado clears away the clichés and confusion to reveal the full magnitude and meaning of Jesus, the God-man. The class also includes an encouraging message from Max, plus there are six testimonies from people whose lives have been touched and transformed by the Savior.
The class goes through April 13th. Join us in Fellowship Hall for this life changing class.
Moms’ Group News!
Please join us during the Sunday School hour (10:15 till 11:15) to view the video series: Parenting... The Early Years.
We will meet every Sunday in April (except for Easter Sunday) and the first two Sundays of April for this intriguing 6 week series.
During this time we will also discuss the future meeting times for this group, and
possibly throw around ideas for some fun summer meetings... Please join us!!
For more information call Julie Angell at
582-7061.
“Faith Comes By Hearing”
Bible Listening Program Continues
Let us know how listening to God's word has impacted your life. We are receiving contributions to the "Faith Comes by Hearing" ministry at this time. One hundred percent of your donation goes towards translating books of the Bible. We have asked the "Faith Comes by Hearing" ministry to put our donations towards the translation of an indigenous language in Colombia. Join us in spreading God's word. Continue listening to God’s Word.
Committees of the Church (Tell us how we are doing)
Christian Education- Maureen Streich (Elder), Pam Verkuilen (Elder), Barb Biggar, Jim and Anna Malek, and Terry Spaulding
Evangelism- Lindy Ludwig (Elder), Ruth Ann Zahn (Elder), Betty Hoytink (Elder), Dick Kreager
Personnel- Maureen Streich (Elder), Bob Lindsey (Elder), and Dennis Biggar (Elder)
Property- Dennis Biggar (Elder), Jon Stilp, Delores Luce, and Dick Kreager
Stewardship- Gail Klaeser (Elder), Bob Lindsey (Elder), and Peggy Thums (Elder)
Mission- Betty Hoytink (Elder), Milt and Lorraine Papke, Sandy Lindsey, and
Worship- Jason Harmon (Elder), Rosemary Shade (Elder), Ethan Hollenberger (Elder), and Karen Angell
Memorial- Jim LaBelle (Chair), Ethel Cowling
Sharing Our Resources Through The LAMPLIGHT LIBRARY
"Thy word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path." Psalms 119:105
Book of the Month: Angels, Miracles and Answered Prayers
Author Kelsey Tyler, Category Poetry
Ever since she witnessed her young sister's miraculous recovery from cancer, Kelsey Tyler's faith in angels, miracles and answered prayers have never wavered. Kelsey dedicated her work as an investigative reporter to collecting and sharing similar amazing stories of divine intervention in order to give others courage, strength and joy.
From biblical times to the present, humankind has been fascinated by angels.
In music, art, theater, and film, angels have enriched our lives and lifted our spirits with messages of faith, hope, and love. Science has never been able to prove their existence. It is only through personal accounts of real-life angel encounters that we may learn the true meaning of this timeless phenomenon. Author Kelsey Tyler experienced her first encounter several years ago. A camp counselor told her a strange true story that intrigued her so much, she began to wonder: Does God really use angels to minister to those who believe in Him? Soon, she began to hear more accounts of modern-day miracles. Tales of heavenly messengers offering words of comfort and hope Harrowing accounts of impossible rescues by mysterious saviors Heartwarming visitations by people who did not, and could not, exist These heartwarming stories of ordinary people touched by extraordinary events will enlighten, entertain, provoke and inspire you. But most of all, they will make you believe...
SERVING THROUGH MISSION
The Pentecost Offering/ A Letter From The General Assembly Moderator
Dear Friends,
On the Day of Pentecost, a great sound of rushing wind filled the upper room where the disciples met and tongues as of fire rested on them. In explaining this strange happening, Peter reaches back into Scripture and brings forth the words of the prophet Joel:
“‘In the last days it will be, God declares, that I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh, and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions’” (Acts 2:17).
The Spirit of God was poured out on the church that day and is still God’s gift to all believers, unto children’s children. The Spirit is no respecter of age—it often uses children and youth to accomplish God’s purposes in this world. The stories of young Miriam, David, and Samuel remind us that God chooses people not because of age, but because of heart.
What a precious gift young people are. Yet, in today’s world, many live without hope for the future or support to meet daily needs. What better place could there be to make spiritual and financial investments than in our children and youth?
The Pentecost Offering, while the newest of the PC(USA) special offerings, is also one of the most exciting. When a congregation receives this Offering, 40 percent stays with the congregation to fund mission and ministry with children at risk. At the General Assembly level, the Pentecost Offering funds ministries with children at risk, youth, and young adults. Youth ministries provide opportunities for spiritual growth and leadership development for Presbyterian youth. Young adults explore their call to mission service through the Young Adult Volunteer program. Child advocacy ministries speak and act on behalf of those who cannot protect themselves. All of these ministries act to help bring God’s love and care to younger members of God’s family.
I say again, What better place could there be to make spiritual and financial investments than in our children and youth? I encourage you to search out the needs in your community and find ways to show Jesus’ love to these “little ones” and give generously to the Pentecost Offering. Let the Holy Spirit who moved the disciples out to the ends of the earth on that first Pentecost move you to give sacrificially. Together we can have a significant positive impact on the children and youth of our churches and of the world.Joan S. GrayModerator, 217th General Assembly (2006)
MISSION NEWS
OPPORTUNITIES TO SHARE AND SERVE
WAAC continues to be in need of adult volunteers to work in the distribution center at the Winneconne elementary school. The hours are Wednesdays from 5 – 6:30 p.m. and Saturdays 9 - 10:30 a.m. If you can help, please contact Ian Livingstone 582-4085 or Helen Thomson 582-0639.
THE SALVATION ARMY office in Oshkosh, which serves all of Winnebago County, excluding Neenah & Menasha, is in need of many things which are in short supply. Items requested include:
shampoo, conditioner, disposable razors, bar soap, deodorants, toilet paper, tooth brushes and paste, condiments, canned veggies, cereal, oatmeal, and canned meats.
Please consider picking up one or more of the above items each week as you do your shopping during Lent. Remember the words of Jesus found in Matthew 25:40---“……Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brethren, you did it to me.”
The Mission Team will have a box in the Fellowship Hall to collect your donations. All items will be delivered to the Salvation Army.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
REMINDERS
Please remember to submit your festival food receipts;
You can put them in the offering plate. Proceeds go to church programs
DON’T FORGET We are part of the Morton Drug rebate program.
Just let the cashier know you would like your purchase to go toward the First Presbyterian church rebate
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
When I begin to think of the word sabbatical the first thing that goes through my mind is "renewal." For the past 17 years I have served the church faithfully as a minister of the word and sacrament. Throughout those seventeen years I have often wondered what it would be like to take time to rest for an extended period of time, time to play with my nine year old son with no interruptions, and to be in silence with God without having someone walk in wanting something.
As ministers our time is filled with the responsibility of caring for the souls of others as well as for ourselves. However, being able to do this effectively is quite challenging. Being able to get away from the grind and responsibility of caring for the parish God has entrusted in our care is truly a gift. Being able to renew the mind, soul, and body is what I feel I am being called to do at this moment in time. During our March Session meeting, the elders felt the same.
During my sabbatical I hope to be able to take a break from my pastoral duties and engage in a time of renewal. My plan is to take the time to rest, play, and engage in personal spiritual development. I have found that these things have been missing in my life for quite some time. And through the guidance of a pastoral care counselor as well a colleague group I have discovered that a sabbatical can give me the time I need to reclaim those things I have missed.
One of the things I will do during the sabbatical is rest. For the past six months I have discovered what it means to be chronically fatigued. And for seventeen years I have found myself wanting to not be tied down to a calendar or a schedule. I have covenanted during my sabbatical to not write a list of things to do. I have also pledged to sleep more than six hours a night. And I have promised my family that I would dedicate uninterrupted time to them.
It is my hope to fly to Rochester New York, the place I grew up at, and spend a week traveling around the city. During that time I hope to hike, walk and spend time resting with family. I hope to rediscover the joy of play.
Another goal I have is getting reacquainted with family and friends I have not seeing in almost 15 years. I want to introduce my son to my aunts, cousins, and friends from my home church. But this is not all I wish to do during my sabbatical.
During my sabbatical I will continue meeting with my pastoral counselor for spiritual development. I will engage in reading several books I have wanted to read but have not had the time to do so. I will attend two spiritual silent retreats and have been given access to a friend's home where I will engage in daily meditation.
Some are probably wondering how on earth I will be able to survive four day silent retreats. My prayer is that during this time I will be quiet in order to listen to God’s quiet still voice.
While I am gone the Session together with Dick Kreager will make sure that the daily business of the church continues. Pastors Ed Slusser and Tom Willadsen will offer four weeks of pastoral coverage. Last year I did the same for them during their sabbaticals.
During the three months I will be gone Elders will preach and share their journeys of faith with the congregation. This means that the congregation will also get a fresh and new perspective.
The word we will all focus on during my sabbatical is renewal. This will be a time in which the congregation will also replenish its spiritual batteries as it listen for the voice of God through the voices of its elders. The elders in turn will continue to uncover their call to be the spiritual leaders of the church.
My prayer is that when we reengage once again, we will have our strength and spirits renewed, and be ready to seek the will of God for the church.
A pamphlet that explains the sabbatical will be provided in next month’s Bridge.
Until next time.
Peace and grace,
Pastor Mara
LOVING GOD THROUGH WORSHIP
Worship for the Month of April
April 6, 2008
2nd Sunday in Easter
9:00 a.m. Worship with Communion by Intinction
Readings: Psalm 116:1-4, 12-19 and Acts 2:14a, 36-41Sermon Theme: Many churches that close do so quite worthily after years of effective and faithful ministry. It’s just that they’re eventually overwhelmed by forces beyond their control. That’s simply a colony collapse, with no disorder involved whatsoever. Still, can anything be done to reverse CCD? Luke has some suggestions when he mentions Peter’s sermon.
______________________________________
April 13, 2008
3rd Sunday in Easter
9:00 a.m. Worship
Readings: Psalm 23 and John 10:1-10
Sermon Theme: We are called to live abundantly. But how can this be done when we are not happy with our job? How does the gospel of John respond to those experiencing a miserable job?
_______________________________________
April 20, 2008
4th Sunday in Easter/ Jazz Sunday
9:00 a.m. Worship with a children’s parade of palms is scheduled
Readings: Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16 and Acts 7:55-60Worship Description: Today we celebrate a long standing worship tradition as we tap our toes and snap our fingers to the sounds of jazz. Our worship through jazz music is a favorite. Join us as we listen to soloist Fred Simon and our very own choir delight us.
_______________________________________
April 27, 2008
5th Sunday in Easter
9:00 a.m. Worship
Readings: Psalm 66:8-20 and I Peter 3:13-22Sermon Theme: You can log on to the Internet to learn how to do just about anything — except how to have hope. But you can go to first Peter and find out how even in the midst of difficulty one can find hope.
_________________________________________
Following Christ Through Learning
Disciples in Training
April 6
10:15 a.m.
Sunday School
10:20 a.m.
-The Next Door Savior
-Parenting the Early Years
April 13
10:15 a.m.
Sunday School
10:20 a.m.
-The Next Door Savior
-Parenting the Early Years
April 20
10:15 a.m.
Sunday School
10:20 a.m.
No Adult Education
April 27
9:00 a.m.
Children’s Choir Sings
10:15 a.m.
Sunday School
10:20 a.m.
No Adult Education
ADULT CHRISTIAN EDUCATION LENTEN STUDY
During the month of February, we began offering a class entitled The Next Door Savior. This is a study of what it truly means to walk with, talk with, and explore Jesus. During the study we will look at places Jesus went and the people he touched, knowing we can touch lives too. Experience an encounter with Jesus as Max Lucado clears away the clichés and confusion to reveal the full magnitude and meaning of Jesus, the God-man. The class also includes an encouraging message from Max, plus there are six testimonies from people whose lives have been touched and transformed by the Savior.
The class goes through April 13th. Join us in Fellowship Hall for this life changing class.
Moms’ Group News!
Please join us during the Sunday School hour (10:15 till 11:15) to view the video series: Parenting... The Early Years.
We will meet every Sunday in April (except for Easter Sunday) and the first two Sundays of April for this intriguing 6 week series.
During this time we will also discuss the future meeting times for this group, and
possibly throw around ideas for some fun summer meetings... Please join us!!
For more information call Julie Angell at
582-7061.
“Faith Comes By Hearing”
Bible Listening Program Continues
Let us know how listening to God's word has impacted your life. We are receiving contributions to the "Faith Comes by Hearing" ministry at this time. One hundred percent of your donation goes towards translating books of the Bible. We have asked the "Faith Comes by Hearing" ministry to put our donations towards the translation of an indigenous language in Colombia. Join us in spreading God's word. Continue listening to God’s Word.
Committees of the Church (Tell us how we are doing)
Christian Education- Maureen Streich (Elder), Pam Verkuilen (Elder), Barb Biggar, Jim and Anna Malek, and Terry Spaulding
Evangelism- Lindy Ludwig (Elder), Ruth Ann Zahn (Elder), Betty Hoytink (Elder), Dick Kreager
Personnel- Maureen Streich (Elder), Bob Lindsey (Elder), and Dennis Biggar (Elder)
Property- Dennis Biggar (Elder), Jon Stilp, Delores Luce, and Dick Kreager
Stewardship- Gail Klaeser (Elder), Bob Lindsey (Elder), and Peggy Thums (Elder)
Mission- Betty Hoytink (Elder), Milt and Lorraine Papke, Sandy Lindsey, and
Worship- Jason Harmon (Elder), Rosemary Shade (Elder), Ethan Hollenberger (Elder), and Karen Angell
Memorial- Jim LaBelle (Chair), Ethel Cowling
Sharing Our Resources Through The LAMPLIGHT LIBRARY
"Thy word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path." Psalms 119:105
Book of the Month: Angels, Miracles and Answered Prayers
Author Kelsey Tyler, Category Poetry
Ever since she witnessed her young sister's miraculous recovery from cancer, Kelsey Tyler's faith in angels, miracles and answered prayers have never wavered. Kelsey dedicated her work as an investigative reporter to collecting and sharing similar amazing stories of divine intervention in order to give others courage, strength and joy.
From biblical times to the present, humankind has been fascinated by angels.
In music, art, theater, and film, angels have enriched our lives and lifted our spirits with messages of faith, hope, and love. Science has never been able to prove their existence. It is only through personal accounts of real-life angel encounters that we may learn the true meaning of this timeless phenomenon. Author Kelsey Tyler experienced her first encounter several years ago. A camp counselor told her a strange true story that intrigued her so much, she began to wonder: Does God really use angels to minister to those who believe in Him? Soon, she began to hear more accounts of modern-day miracles. Tales of heavenly messengers offering words of comfort and hope Harrowing accounts of impossible rescues by mysterious saviors Heartwarming visitations by people who did not, and could not, exist These heartwarming stories of ordinary people touched by extraordinary events will enlighten, entertain, provoke and inspire you. But most of all, they will make you believe...
SERVING THROUGH MISSION
The Pentecost Offering/ A Letter From The General Assembly Moderator
Dear Friends,
On the Day of Pentecost, a great sound of rushing wind filled the upper room where the disciples met and tongues as of fire rested on them. In explaining this strange happening, Peter reaches back into Scripture and brings forth the words of the prophet Joel:
“‘In the last days it will be, God declares, that I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh, and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions’” (Acts 2:17).
The Spirit of God was poured out on the church that day and is still God’s gift to all believers, unto children’s children. The Spirit is no respecter of age—it often uses children and youth to accomplish God’s purposes in this world. The stories of young Miriam, David, and Samuel remind us that God chooses people not because of age, but because of heart.
What a precious gift young people are. Yet, in today’s world, many live without hope for the future or support to meet daily needs. What better place could there be to make spiritual and financial investments than in our children and youth?
The Pentecost Offering, while the newest of the PC(USA) special offerings, is also one of the most exciting. When a congregation receives this Offering, 40 percent stays with the congregation to fund mission and ministry with children at risk. At the General Assembly level, the Pentecost Offering funds ministries with children at risk, youth, and young adults. Youth ministries provide opportunities for spiritual growth and leadership development for Presbyterian youth. Young adults explore their call to mission service through the Young Adult Volunteer program. Child advocacy ministries speak and act on behalf of those who cannot protect themselves. All of these ministries act to help bring God’s love and care to younger members of God’s family.
I say again, What better place could there be to make spiritual and financial investments than in our children and youth? I encourage you to search out the needs in your community and find ways to show Jesus’ love to these “little ones” and give generously to the Pentecost Offering. Let the Holy Spirit who moved the disciples out to the ends of the earth on that first Pentecost move you to give sacrificially. Together we can have a significant positive impact on the children and youth of our churches and of the world.Joan S. GrayModerator, 217th General Assembly (2006)
MISSION NEWS
OPPORTUNITIES TO SHARE AND SERVE
WAAC continues to be in need of adult volunteers to work in the distribution center at the Winneconne elementary school. The hours are Wednesdays from 5 – 6:30 p.m. and Saturdays 9 - 10:30 a.m. If you can help, please contact Ian Livingstone 582-4085 or Helen Thomson 582-0639.
THE SALVATION ARMY office in Oshkosh, which serves all of Winnebago County, excluding Neenah & Menasha, is in need of many things which are in short supply. Items requested include:
shampoo, conditioner, disposable razors, bar soap, deodorants, toilet paper, tooth brushes and paste, condiments, canned veggies, cereal, oatmeal, and canned meats.
Please consider picking up one or more of the above items each week as you do your shopping during Lent. Remember the words of Jesus found in Matthew 25:40---“……Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brethren, you did it to me.”
The Mission Team will have a box in the Fellowship Hall to collect your donations. All items will be delivered to the Salvation Army.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
REMINDERS
Please remember to submit your festival food receipts;
You can put them in the offering plate. Proceeds go to church programs
DON’T FORGET We are part of the Morton Drug rebate program.
Just let the cashier know you would like your purchase to go toward the First Presbyterian church rebate
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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