First Presbyterian Church NON-PROFIT ORG. 300 South Main Street, P. O. Box 1038 US POSTAGE Greensburg, Pennsylvania 15601-5038 PAID Phone: 724.832.0150 fax: 724.832.0152 GREENSBURG, PA Email: [email protected]PERMIT NO. 428 NEW!!! Website: www.firstpresbyteriangreensburg.com SUNDAY MORNING SCHEDULE Sunday School at 9:00 a.m. Worship 10:00 a.m. Nursery Care provided ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED DEADLINE FOR JANUARY ISSUE: MONDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2018 Email submissions to [email protected]or mail to church office. The Coulter Society asks that you please consider remembering our church in your will! CHURCH STAFF Rev. Dr. Martin R. Ankrum, Pastor / Head of Staff Rev. Nicole C. Atkinson, Associate Pastor for Youth and Educational Ministries Dr. John B. Salveson, Minister of Music / Organist Jill Linsz, Children’s Music Assistant Lu Ann Peters, Financial Secretary Kimberly A. Stoner, Executive Secretary Keith L. Huey, Sexton Shannon M. Reid, FPC Preschool Supervisor Wendy H. Matchett, FPC Preschool Teacher Wendy McCann, FPC Preschool Teacher Michelle Stefl Harbaugh, Assistant to the Minister of Music Ron Vorel, Housekeeper Richard P. Fabery, Assistant Sexton Matthew B. Cohen, Assistant Sexton Julia Schaming, Arianne Winkleblech, Nursery Care Mr. Edgar B. Highberger, Minister of Music, Emeritus December 2018 FIRST NEWS: A MONTHLY NEWSLETTER MY FAVORITE CHRISTMAS SERMON Christmas is a marvelous time of the year. That goes without saying, I suppose. But it can be a difficult time to write a sermon, for how does one really adequately proclaim the truth of this wondrous story of God coming to us? That’s why I always re-read my favorite Christmas sermon to start the sermon-writing juices flowing. Below are two paragraphs from my favorite Christmas sermon, delivered by the great Swiss theologian, Karl Barth to prisoners in the jail in Basel, Switzerland: “This, then, is the Christmas story. You see, we cannot possibly hear this story and not look away from ourselves, from our own life with its cares and burdens. There he is, our great God and Saviour, and here we are, human beings, and now it is true that he is for me, [he] is for us. Impossible to hear his story without hearing our own. It is the great transformation that has been worked in us once and for all, the great joy it has released in us, and the great calling we have received to set out on the way he shows us.” “What shall we do now? Shall we continue in our old ways, in absentmindedness, in disbelief, perhaps in some lofty Christian sentiments? Or shall we awake and rise, set out on our journey and turn about? The angel of the Lord does not compel anybody. Even less can I compel! A forced listening to the Christmas story, a forced participation in the story is of no avail. We must willingly listen, [We must] willingly participate.” This then is our willing participation in the wondrous story … to turn in gratitude to the One who grants this world peace and offer our most humble thanks. Further to live our lives as expressions of that one life that enlightens all human life and all creation … that light which is coming into the world even now … This is what is truly marvelous: God for us; God with us. Merry Christmas, -Martin
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First Presbyterian Church NON-PROFIT ORG.
300 South Main Street, P. O. Box 1038 US POSTAGE
Greensburg, Pennsylvania 15601-5038 PAID
Phone: 724.832.0150 fax: 724.832.0152 GREENSBURG, PA
“Creator of the stars of night, your people’s everlasting light,
O Christ, redeemer of us all, we pray you, hear us when we call.”
9th
century hymn
Growing up in North Dakota, one notices stars. There could be many
reasons for that. There wasn’t much light pollution, so the stars were
easy to see. But it’s further north than here, and winter nights are very
long. As the days shortened in the northern hemisphere, seeing the
first stars a little after four wasn’t unusual, and seeing them at eight in
the morning wasn’t either. December and January were dark.
So we learned to take comfort in the stars. The darkness that could at
time feel like a tomb was penetrated by those specks of light, reminding us that day would come
again. The night sky held little miracles, if one watched. Stars that seem to twinkle, and
northern lights that danced in the midnight sky.
For me, that night sky always held out promise. The promise of one who would come in ways I
didn’t expect. This was not one who came smiting my enemies, but came as a child, conceived
by a not yet married teenager, from a remote village. Sure, the family had great connections,
they could trace themselves to the great King David – who himself was only the youngest
shepherd boy.
The stars became, for me, a symbol of the one who came, who still comes. The One who
promises to be always with us. The One who promises to raise us to new life, the One who
welcomes children, and strangers, and (sometimes with a bit of coaxing) “those people.” This
one, who came as a Child was Jesus. Though born of nothing, this Jesus is the Christ, the Son of
God, and a star would reveal him to the nations – but that’s later.
Now, we wait, and look at the stars, remembering that Christ comes, to and for each of us.
May your wait be holy, and your Christmas celebration joyous.
“At your great name, O Jesus, now all knees must bend, all hearts must bow: all things on earth
with one accord, like those in heaven shall call you Lord.”
John Salveson, Minister of Music and Organist
WANT TO IMPACT THE LIVES OF OUR KIDS? How about helping them grow in faith!? In this
format, a Bible story is taught for 4 weeks using a variety of methods (art, drama, cooking,
music, games, science, & video.) Our kids love it, teachers enjoy the flexibility, and most
importantly, our children are growing in their faith! Want to help out this year? Talk to Niki!
OUR CHILDREN ARE HAVING A GREAT TIME GROWING IN FAITH! For December, we’ll finish
our “Advent & Christmas” rotation, then have some Christmas fun! There will be no Sunday
School on the last two Sundays of December. See you in January for “Daniel & the Lions!” In
this format, a Bible story is taught for 4 weeks using a variety of methods (art, drama, cooking,
music, games, etc.) Want to help our kids grow in faith? Talk to Niki to learn more!
K-2nd
Grade 3rd
-5th
Grade
Dec. 2nd
Games (Fletcher
Room)
Cooking (Kitchen)
Dec. 9th
Gathering Storytelling Room (3rd
Floor, Room #1)
Dec. 16th
Gathering Storytelling Room (3rd
Floor, Room #1)
Dec. 23rd
No Sunday School
Dec. 30th
No Sunday School
AUGUSTINE ON THE CHRISTIAN LIFE - SUNDAY
MORNINGS AT 9 A.M. On the Christian Life is a
well-attended Sunday morning adult education
class that seeks to provide a greater understanding
of the Christian faith through examination of the
life and thought of a great theologian. Our group
has studied Dietrich Bonhoeffer, John Calvin,
Jonathan Edwards and Martin Luther in the past.
This year, we will be reading about and discussing
the faith of one of the earliest theologians,
Augustine of Hippo. Dr. Ankrum leads this class.
THRU THE BIBLE … Are you interested in learning the whole story of the Bible? Have you ever
read the Bible in its entirety or at least wanted to? Then this adult study group is for you!! We
will gather in the Assembly Room for an hour a month to go through the Bible from Genesis to
Revelation! We will not meet in December but will resume on Monday, January 28, 2019 at
7 p.m. to discuss the Book of Numbers.
LAST TUESDAY BOOK CLUB is always looking for readers of fiction willing to discuss what they
find in the novel assigned for the month! We are a very friendly group who enjoy getting
together to talk about the meaning and significance of good literature and Christian faith. Dr.
Ankrum usually leads our discussion. We will not meet in December but will resume on
Tuesday, January 29, 2019 at 7 p.m. when we will discuss All Quiet on the Western Front by
Erich Maria Remarque.
THE MEN’S BREAKFAST & BIBLE STUDY meets at Eat’n Park on Rt. 30 E. each Wednesday
morning at 7:45 a.m. for a time of fellowship, study and, of course, breakfast. We are now
studying the Gospel of Luke under the leadership of Dr. Ankrum.
THE FAITH & FAMILY GROUP meets on the third floor of the CE Wing at 9 a.m. every Sunday
during the academic year (Sept. – May) to discuss topics related to our faith and family
relationships. The group is composed of young couples, singles and any in the church who are
concerned about issues related to faith and family. Join us!
STEPHEN MINISTRIES AT FPC: Is there someone you know or you yourself who could use a
little encouragement? Our Stephen Ministers have been trained to be a good listening ear and
caring heart. If you would like to suggest someone to the care of our Stephen Ministry, please
see either Sandra Beauregard or Rev. Atkinson.
Congregational Activities from the
Membership & Evangelism Committee
CORNERSTONE GATHERING: ALL ARE INVITED!
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 8, 6:00 P.M. Cornerstone is a gathering of folks from FPC on a monthly
basis for dinner and conversation. December’s dinner will
be at Noviello’s Sunset Café, 302 S. Urania Avenue,
Greensburg. We are anticipating a large group so please
sign-up as soon as you can. Reservations for the restaurant
will fill up quickly due to Christmas parties. Sign up
during coffee hours or call Kim at the church before
December 5. See you there!!!
THE LUNCH BUNCH - TUESDAY, DECEMBER 11– 11:30 A.M.
APPLEBEE’S NEXT TO THE WESTMORELAND MALL In December, we’ll be meeting in
the dining room. Afterwards, you may see the movie of your choice. Please sign up during
coffee hour or call the church office!
Redstone Highlands
Caroling Party
Sunday, December 16 - 6:00 p.m. Calling all children, parents, families, singles, members and
friends of First Presbyterian Church! Come on out Sunday,
December 16 to Redstone Highlands and spread a little
Christmas cheer! We’ll be gathering at 5:45 p.m. to ready
ourselves at the Miller Chapel at Redstone for the caroling party
at 6:00 p.m. This is always a highlight of the Christmas season
for us and for the residents of Redstone!
Christmas Eve @ FPC 2018
Christmas Eve Services – Monday, December 24
Celebrate Christ’s Birth!
5:00 PM – Children’s Service in the Sanctuary Join us for a simple expression of worship and adoration of the arrival of the Christ Child. God’s
children of all ages will delight in this worship experience!
9:00 PM – Communion Service in the Memorial Chapel A service of worship for Christmas Eve in the quiet beauty of our chapel including a brief Christmas
Eve homily and the sacrament of Holy Communion celebrated.
11:00 PM – The 54th Annual Festival of Lessons and Carols
Patterned after the well-known service that originated at Kings College Chapel in Cambridge,
England, this service takes place in the sanctuary.
Please join us for any or all
of our Christmas Eve Services …
and consider bringing a friend with you!
ON THE VERGE OF SOMETHING WONDERFUL!
ADVENT 2018
Sundays in Advent: December 2 – 10:00 a.m. “The Coming Kingdom of Hope”
Communion Service
Dr. Martin Ankrum preaching
December 9 – 10:00 a.m. “An Uplifted Head”
Dr. Martin Ankrum preaching
December 16 - 10:00 a.m. “He Shall Be Our Peace”
Dr. Martin Ankrum preaching
December 23 – 10:00 a.m. “Uexpected Heroine”
Rev. Nicole Atkinson preaching
Wednesdays in Advent – A Chapel Service – 7:00 p.m. Join us for a brief half-hour worship service for the Wednesdays of Advent in our Memorial
Chapel. Guest musicians will bring their gifts and talents to accent the reading and preaching
from significant stories from the Gospel of John and the prayers of the hopeful people of God.
Take some time for meditation during this busy Advent season on Wednesday, Dec. 5, 12 & 19
at 7 p.m.
“On the Verge of Something Wonderful” - 2018 Advent Devotional Each Advent season, Dr. Ankrum produces a daily devotional to assist the congregation in our
observation of this holy time. The devotional was mailed in mid-November, if you didn’t
receive one, please ask an usher in worship for one or call the church office. This year, the
devotional will focus on reading through the Gospel of John.
Circle Meetings for Presbyterian Women
ABIGAIL CIRCLE MEETS WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 12 @ 10:30
A.M. … Our Bible study this year is God’s Promise – I am With
You. We meet in the Refectory (the small dining room just off the
Dining Room). If you have any questions, please see Peg Carpenter,
Circle Chairperson or call the church office.
NEW CIRCLE OPPORTUNITY TO BE HELD AT REDSTONE
HIGHLANDS DECEMBER 13 - The members of the former Lois
Circle are reconvening as a new circle to be held at Redstone
Highlands in Greensburg on the second Thursday of each month at
10 a.m. The circle will meet in the Highlanders Room and will be led by the Rev. Bobbie
Hineline. You do not need to be a resident of Redstone to participate. If you are interested in
this new circle, please call Linda Turin or the church office.
AN OPEN INVITATION to members and friends of First Presbyterian Church to join the Monday
Morning Sewing Circle that meets at 9:00 a.m. Monday mornings in the Fletcher Room. You
don’t have to be an expert tailor to hem the cotton flannelette baby receiving blankets or to sew
the “little dresses for Africa”. If you are interested, please contact Sylvia Carlson at 724-755-
2288 for information. Membership at this church is not a requirement. Anyone is welcome.
A Report on the Capital Campaign Pledges totaling $729,913!
Donations received $570,538!
New Sanctuary Sound System – COMPLETED Sanctuary Roofing – COMPLETED Sanctuary Masonry Work – COMPLETED* Stained Glass Restoration – TWO WINDOWS COMPLETED Interior Restorations – In Progress Sanctuary Air Conditioning – COMPLETED Donation to Pine Springs Camp – Second installment COMPLETED (*The contracted masonry work has been completed, but we have discovered additional work for which we are currently receiving bids
LOOKING FOR US ONLINE? Not only do we have a Facebook Page
(facebook.com/firstpresbyteriangreensburg) but we also have a BRAND NEW website! Check it
out and let us know what you think! You can find it at www.firstpresbyteriangreensburg.com.
ATTENTION!!!! When sending mail to the church office, please be sure to include “P. O. Box
1038” on the address line to assure delivery. Though we have had this P.O. box for many years,
new policies at the post office have enforced the use of this designation.
Saturday, January 26, 2019
9 a.m. - Noon The annual joint meeting of our Session and the Board of Deacons will be held on Saturday, January 26,
2019 from 9 a.m. – 12:00 noon. If you are a member of either board, please mark your calendars and plan
to be present for this all-important gathering to plan for the coming year.
CHRISTMAS CARDS OF OUR CHURCH NOW AVAILABLE!
The Nativity Window at First Presbyterian Church has been
a source of inspiration and beauty since its installation in
April 1942 as a gift given to the memory of Rebecca Coulter
Barclay by Mr. and Mrs. John Barclay, Jr. Fully restored and
returned in the spring of 2018, four scenes from the Nativity
Window have been photographed and lovingly featured in
newly-created Christmas cards for sending to family, friends
and business associates and to proclaim the glad tidings of
the season, bearing witness to the Gospel ministry we share
here at church each week. A 12-pack set of cards featuring
the Annunciation, the Birth, the Visit of the Shepherds and
the Visit of the Wise Men are available for $20.00 following worship services and through the
church office during the week. Pick up a set or two soon as these are in limited production and
make great conversation starters for our church. Glory to the newborn King!
Y-FI Y-Fi is now on the 1
st & 3
rd
Sundays from 12pm-2pm
(unless otherwise noted.)
12/2 – “Paul: The Apostle
Who Literally Preached a
Kid to Death”
Stay Tuned for Our Winter
Topics!
Dec. 2nd
November 18 @ 12p.m. – 1:45p.m. - Y-Fi is
continuing its weird journey in our series “THAT’S IN
THE BIBLE?!” You thought you knew all of the stories in
the Bible from Sunday School? Think again! Come hear
about the time that the Apostle Paul, in his zeal to preach
about the risen Christ, talked for way too long and caused a
kid to die…weird, huh? Thank you Sherman family for
lunch today! (Please note the earlier end time today!)
Dec. 9th
@ 11:30am-4:30pm – Y-Fi Serves! Second
Sunday Supper! We’ll start with ordering lunch and cooking up some food for our guests at
our free community dinner! Make sure you bring a change of clothes to church and be
prepared to SERVE!
Dec. 16th
@ 3:30pm – Y-Fi Plays! Christmas Party! Come to the Atkinson home to play
games and enjoy some time together during the Advent season. Bring a gift under $10 for our
gift swap; families are invited to join us (RSVP to Niki). We’ll then head to Redstone
Highlands down the street for our annual caroling service. Pick up is at Redstone Highlands
at 7:45pm.
SENIOR HIGH YOUTH! Join us on Sunday
mornings at 9am to
learn more about
“Walking the Walk.”
Go on mini-field trips,
share your take on
current events, and
write care cards to those
who need care. Every
Sunday is different.
We’d love to have you walk with us.
Jan. 6th
@ 4pm-7pm…Young Adult Dinner @ the Atkinson Home! Join us for a homecooked
meal and a wonderful time of catching up with each other and looking forward to what’s in store
for the spring! Home for the break? This dinner is a great opportunity to join us!
Our church’s preschool held its
inaugural school year in the fall of 1972.
Since then, we have served hundreds of
families and children as they grow in
their education and what it means to be a
positive part of this world. As a part of
the Greensburg community, our
preschool has had times when it has
needed to adapt to the changing needs of
its community members. Our open enrollment begins on Thursday, January 3, 2019, with some
new class opportunities to better allow us to partner with children and their families.
Here’s a sneak peek just for you!
Pre-K offering Monday-Friday (with option for *FULL DAY!)
Classes for 4 year olds on Monday, Tuesday, & Thursday (Morning AND Afternoon!)
2 Day and 3 Day classes for 3 year olds!
(*Monday, Tuesday, & Thursday A.M. or
Tuesday & Thursday P.M.)
*2 - 1 Day classes for 2 year olds! (Tuesday
or Thursday A.M.)
*Brand New Offering!
Register at
www.fpcgpreschool.weebly.com on
January 3!
PRESCHOOL HAPPENINGS… Check us out at
www.fpcgpreschool.weebly.com The website contains lots of
information about our preschool, including upcoming events, our
education methods, and more! Know someone looking for a