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Steeplelights January 2013 Naples United Church of Christ God is still speaking,
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NUCC Steeplelights January 2013

Mar 21, 2016

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Page 1: NUCC Steeplelights January 2013

S t e e p l e l i g h t s

January 2013

Naples United Church of Christ God is stillspeaking,

Page 2: NUCC Steeplelights January 2013

2Steeplelights 0 www.naplesucc.org

From the Pastor

Dr. Ron Patterson

P.S.

I find my greatest joy

in dialogue! As always,

I am reachable.

Call me so we can

get together.

““

Following the tragedy a few weeks ago in Newtown, CT I have heard so many people suggest that something needs to change. The list included all sorts of possible changes like: more stringent gun control or easier access to guns for the ‘law-abiding’; tighter security in schools or gun toting teachers; stricter laws to punish offenders or more social services to help the mentally disabled. One media source demanded immediate action by politicians; another media source urged patience until some of the emotions cooled. It seems to me that people unable to agree on anything seem to be saying that “some-thing” needs to change while being vague about what that “something” might be.

Let me offer a few suggestions. As a follower of Jesus I am convinced that the one thing I can do is change my attitude. It has to begin with me. And if you think ‘things’ need to change it has to begin with you. What are you willing to change?

I think there is too much violence. I can’t stop it, but I can curb my own violent thoughts. I can treat others with respect and love. I can continue to repeat to myself the idea that violence begins in a heart that has trouble loving itself. That sometimes my frustration leads me to say and do less than loving things. I can remember that Jesus said violent thoughts are the same as violent actions.

I think there are too many guns! One article I read said that there are over 300 million privately owned guns in the U.S. right now and that any sort of meaningful gun control is categorically impossible with that many guns floating around. This is complicated by the well-funded special interests groups defending gun sale and distribution. I can’t control guns, but I can control the fear and insecurity that might lead me to want to stock up on arms and ammunition. I can look at the facts and struggle with my own shallow side that tries to confuse my need for ‘security’ with the trust Jesus called me to have in God. I can point out the folly of those who suggest that some guns have any other purpose than to kill the maximum number of people in the minimum amount of time.

I want to blame someone. I want blame gun owners! I want to blame the budget cutters who cut mental health funding. I want to blame the mail order ammunition suppliers who sell bullets in bulk. I want to blame those who package violence as entertainment and profit from it. I want to blame anyone who hurts any child anywhere.

But blame enables me to escape my part in the fabric of human frailty. It enables me to stop listening to the voices with whom I disagree. It excuses me from the call of Jesus to love my neighbors—all of my neighbors—even those with whom I disagree. And it makes me a co-conspirator in the very violence my faith asks me to oppose and resist.

I want change! I absolutely want change. But it has to begin with me.

May God give us the courage to change what we can!

With love, Ron

What Needs to Change?

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30 January 2013

You know how dark it was when the sanctuary lights went down on Christmas Eve? Then the light of one candle, two, three candles, and one by one hundreds of the lighted candles of the gathered community created a lovely, glorious glow for the singing of “Silent Night”. Well that’s the “candlepower” of a congregation all year long when each of us brings our own little “light” to the worship and work of the NUCC community.Together we pass along the light and love of Christ until we are all illumined by it. Together we can shine so much more brightly than any one of us alone. And if the flame of one sputters, the rest of us are there to help it burn anew. “Comfort and joy” takes on a whole new meaning with the candles of Christmas.

Starting January 6th, the theme of light continues into Epiphany, which celebrates how the birth of the Christ child was revealed to the larger world by the brilliant star the Wise Men from the East saw in the night sky. In the Sundays after Epiphany we steep ourselves in the images of the light of Christ shining into our darkened world. But Christ is not only the Light of the world; he calls and equips us to be lights into the world in his name. Christmas Eve was only the beginning, when we burned our candles and God lighted up our hearts to be hope-bringers and joy-spreaders.

May it be a new year of blessings for all,

Bev

The Board of DeaconsAs we start the new year, it is a time for reflection and a time for looking forward. We want to thank Jan Hakes, Gladys Wells, Roger Terry, Davey Scoon and Beverly Roese for their years of service on the Board of Deacons. We would also like to welcome Jim Felix, Bill Withan and new member Roger Williams to the Board.

We are grateful to the many busy hands who have helped to make our church ready for worship services.

The alter is always beautiful thanks to our members who dedicate flowers for special rememberances.

The pew racks are stocked, pencils sharpened and hymnals and Bibles are in place for our use each Sunday...all part of Sanctuary care. If you are interested in helping out with this very important job, please let the office know.

Now we would like to offer a special thank you to Jan Hakes and the Board of Deacons. Jan saw the need for a new alter cloth for the small table that we use for Communion and for services in Beverly Hall on Christmas Eve and Easter. Jan did reseach, found the best solution and your Board of Deacons is donating the new alter cloth. The new alter cloth should be here in time for February Communion Sunday.

We are very blessed with members and friends who are always willing to serve our church community in anyway they can. On behalf of the Board of Deacons, thank you! It is because of your thoughtful care, welcoming smile and all the blessing each of you bring that our church family is growing.

From your Board of Deacons, it is an honor to serve. God Bless!

Jennifer Rainey, Chair, Board of Deacons.

From the Interim Associate

Rev. Beverly Duncan

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In This Issue...NUCC StaffMinistersRev. Dr. Ronald M. Patterson, Senior Minister

Rev. Beverly Duncan, Interim Associate Minister

Rev. Dr. Kathleen Kircher, Stephen Ministry

Rev. Luvvy Kovacik, Assistant Minister

Music MinistryDr. Becky Weese, Director of Music

Christian EducationDr. Greg Smith, Adult CE

Nancy Van Fleet, Director of CE

Ronald Thompson, Youth CE

AdministrationKary Sirken, Church Administrator

Sharon Magiera, Finance Administrator

Susan Pratt, Pastoral Assistant and Membership

Kaleigh Caldwell, Administrative Assistant

Donna Blais, Publications

Gregg Lepore, Production Manager,

Susan Melick, Events Coordinator

Pat McGee, Volunteer Coordinator

Georgia Lundy, Sunday Fellowship/Kitchen Coordinator

Daniel Brower, Facilities

Hector Indart, Facilities

Precious Cargo AcademyMary Jo Welch, Director

Leanne Badham, Assistant Director

Bargain Box Thrift StoreSandy Goldstein, Manager (239) 262-3802

January 2013

2 ...........From the Pastor

3 ...........From the Interim Associate

3 ...........The Board of Deacons

5 ...........Save the Date!

5 ...........Angel Tree

6 ...........Board of Mission and Outreach

7 ........... Call to the Annual Meeting

7 ...........Offering Envelopes

7 ...........Stephen Ministry

7 ........... Bloodmobile

8 ........... National Conference for Sacred Music

8 ........... Blessing of the Pets

9 ........... 2011-2012 Tuesdays at Twilight

9 ........... 2011-2012 Sanctuary Concert Series

10 .........Wednesday Nite Live

10 ......... Ash Wednesday

10 ......... 21st Annual ProgressiveDinner

10 .........Palette Pals

11 .........Precious Cargo Academy

11 .........Bargain Box News

12-13 ...Youth Christian Education

14-15 ...January Calendar

16-19 ... Adult Enrichment Opportunities

20 .........A note from Mr. Ron

21 ......... Membership and Growth

22 .........Stewardship Letter

22 .........Scholarships

22 .........Financial Report

23 .........Endowment Committee

24 .........Book Recommendations

24 .........In Service to Our Country

25 .........Condolences

25 ......... January Lectionary

26 .........Stroke Prevention Screening

27 ......... JanuaryBirthdays and Anniversaries

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50 January 2013

500 JaJaJanuary 2013131331313133

A huge thank you to all who contributed to the Angel Tree Project. The gifts arrived beautifully wrapped and made quite an impressive display in the Narthex. Donations to the fund for grocery certificates were greatly increased by a wonderful challenge grant from an anonymous donor. We were able to give each young mother an extra amount. They were astonished and grateful! Our support adds to the encouragement they are getting from the Immokalee Teen Age Parenting Program to stay in school and get the education they need to be better parents to these precious ones.

Several of us had the joy of delivering the gifts and seeing their faces as they caught sight of the bundles. Some opened them right away and their children were wide-eyed and eager to start playing. Others were saving them for their own Christmas tree, but their smiles were full of anticipation and gratitude.

A special thanks this year to the Apple Moving company who donated a truck and driver to transport our gifts to Immokalee. Their help is very much appreciated. And many many thanks to the committee members who worked so hard to make it all happen.

Charnley Ann Marsden,Chair of the Women’s Fellowship Angel Tree Project

Save the Date!

On Sunday, January 20th, we will celebrate the ministry of the Rev. Cathy O’Connell and honor her and her spouse, Mr. Richard Anderson, with a concert and festive reception. The concert will feature a performance of Cinderella by our talented musicians beginning at 3:00 p.m.—a concert for all age groups in the congregation. Then, from 4:30 until 6:30 p.m., entertained by a Jazz Combo in our Gathering Place, we will enjoy hors d’oeuvres and pastries. This event will be family friendly and designed to include our youth and children. At 5:00 p.m. Dr. Patterson, Moderator Dudley Lyons and other church leaders will recognize Cathy and Rich. Please RSVP to the church office.

We look forward to this celebration!

Angel Tree

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The words of the angels on the hills outside of Bethlehem echo throughout our Christ-mas season. One Sunday in December was such an occasion.

You may recall last winter when we were celebrating the Mission: 1 project, we were challenged to fund 111 safe stoves, Chapina Stoves, for use in rural villages of Guatemala. We paid for far more than 111 as it turns out—and powerfully touched the lives of simple families in those villages. Recently we received a “thank-you” from those people in the form of a breathtak-ing expression of their feelings thru their own art, the art of weaving. How beautiful that our generously given dollars can translate into safe homes and the joy of artistic beauty!

Good News indeed!

Board of Mission and OutreachGood News of Great Joy!

Because of the success and model created here at NUCC for the program Baby Basics, we have opened up a new distribution site at the Lighthouse Church at Pine Ridge and 951. The leaders Krista Davis and Carol Mc Kinsey have encouraged the youth group to choose Baby Basics as their mission project. The youth are present at the distribution evening and have donated $220 for the first seven babies. The babies are invited to come to the site from a very long waiting list at Grace Place. It is our goal that as this site grows, we hope to help needy families in the Golden Gate Estates area. This new site brings the number of distribution sites to nine. Baby Basics now provides diapers to 315 babies and impacts the lives of over 1200 family members. NUCC Mission Board, the Bargain Box, the Endowment Fund and Women’s Fellowship have all been an important part of our ability to reach out to additional families who need basic essentials, diapers. As many of you know, Baby Basics is an all-volunteer program; 100% of donated funds go directly toward the purchase of diapers, unless earmarked by the donor for administration. Our families are screened through local social service agencies and at least one family member must be working and not receiving federal or state cash assistance. Thank you so much NUCC for being a part of the lives of so many babies. We know we are making a difference because families tell us they use the money that they save from not having to buy diapers to buy food. We are happy to also be a part of the NUCC focus on food initiative. We are also thrilled to announce that Baby Basics was cho-sen by Kelly Phillips Erb, taxgirl, who is a feature writer for Forbes.com as a nonprofit to be featured as one of the 12 Days of Charitable Giving. Kelly encouraged her readers to support Baby Basics. Please read the article at http://www.forbes.com/sites/kellyphillipserb/2012/12/09/12-days-of-charitable-giv-ing-2012-baby-basics-of-collier-county/. We believe that all babies deserve clean diapers.Thank you for your generous support.Best wishes for a blessed New Year.Jean Ann Lynch, President of Baby Basics of Collier County

Boarding Gate UCC for Honduras!

American Airlines leaving Miami for direct flight to Honduras on March 14 – 18, 2013! Pack your bags, check your passport (at least 90- day expiration) and come with the group to Honduras to visit the children at the Ebenezer School. We will paint and help in a number of small jobs.

Space is limited, so sign up early!

Baby Basics would like to share some wonderful news with our NUCC family.

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70 January 2013

Just a reminder that if you use the weekly Sunday offering envelopes, they are available in

the Narthex. If you would like envelopes and have not used them in the last year, please call

Sharon in the office, 261-5469.

On Tuesday, January 8, 2013, our church will begin a new training course for Stephen Ministers. Classes meet for thirteen consecutive Tuesdays in Nelson Hall from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm, as well as three Saturday retreats. This class is taught every other year and includes fifty hours of training in Christian care giving. Topics include listening skills, boundaries, feelings, assertiveness,

confidentiality, the use of prayer, and ministering to people in specific situations such as divorce, terminal illness, and grief. Stephen Ministers are also trained to recognize when a care receiver’s needs go beyond the care a Stephen Minister can provide and how to refer the care receiver for additional care. At the end of training, Stephen Ministers are assigned to a care receiver and meet with that person for one hour each week. Stephen Ministers also commit to attending one two-hour meeting a month for continuing education and supervision. Many of our Stephen Ministers are part-time residents as are many of our care receivers.

BloodmobileThis year we are looking forward to another successful blood drive on Friday, January 25, 2013. You are allowed to donate every 56 days so please plan on giving this life saving gift on that day. More details will be published in the near future.

Call to the Annual MeetingThe Annual Meeting will take place after the second service on Sunday, January 27, 2013, at 12:15 pm in the Sanctuary. Come hear about all the wonderful things being undertaken at our church, which can only occur because of your loving support through your volunteer efforts and financial generosity. We hope to see you there.

Dr. Ron Patterson, Senior Minister, Dudley Lyons, Moderator

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We welcome you to bring any pet, but make sure the animal is in a pet carrier or leashed appropriately. Bring water for your pet, a baggie to pick up after your pet, and a chair for yourself. If you plan on attending, please sign up in the Gathering Place after services.

• Date: Saturday, January 19

• Time: 10:00 a.m.

• Place: NUCC Gathering Place

• Rain: If it is raining, we will have the service in Nelson Hall on our campus.

The First Annual National Conference on Sacred Music will be held at Naples United Church of Christ onJanuary 9-11, 2013.

MorningStar Music Publishers, Augsburg-Fortress, and Hinshaw Music Publishers are joining forces to sponsor this exciting new conference in Naples, FL.

The conference is designed to provide the practicing church musician with fresh new ideas to help create a vital, growing music ministry. Worship services will be led by the Association of Lutheran Church Musicians, the Fellowship of United Methodists in Music and Worship Arts, and the Presbyterian Association of Musicians.

Our choir at NUCC will serve as the choir in residence, along with participants in the workshop. Our congregation is invited to attend an organ concert, Thursday January 10th, at 8:00 p.m. featuring Aaron David Miller. On Friday evening, you are invited to attend the Festival Concert at 7:00 p.m. No admission fee for these events. We hope to see you there!

~Dr. Becky Weese

NUCC will host a “Blessing of the Pets”!

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90 January 2013

TUESDAYS TUESDAYS Beverly Hall ~ Concert Series 2012 ~ 2013

Robin Shuford Frank

An Evening of Jazz ~Glenn and Leelo Basham

Rebecca Richardson

Adam Levin~ Photo by Jesse Weiner

$30.00 ~ Admission

90 Januararyy 2020133

Sunday, April 7th3:00 pm

Two Friends, Two Pianos, Four HandsRichard Bosworth and Alden Gatt

Wednesday, March 13th7:00 pmPurdue UniversityMen’s Glee Club

Sunday, January 20th3:00 pm

The True Story of Cinderella.A comic opera for singers.(No Admission Charge)

$20.00 ~ Admission

Artwork by Susan Pratt

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Wednesday Nite Live

The WNL January 16th Dinner Event will feature “More Tales From A Retired T-man”, when Thomas Eastwood returns again this year to speak to us on “The U.S. Intelligence Community”. This is sure to be a revealing and provocative presentation by a former counterintelligence official—an evening you won’t want to miss! Mr. Eastwood is a Retired Special Agent and Executive—ATF, Defense Department, and IRS, and is currently a noted

Lecturer, Consultant, and “Edutainer”.

Dinner is at 5:45 p.m. and will feature a menu of Chicken Marsala, Potato Gratin, French Green Beans, and Caesar Salad by caterer Artichoke & Company.

Tickets are $15 and can be purchased after church services on January 6th and January 13th, or in the church office. Children’s tickets are no charge.

Saturday, March 9th

21st Annual Progressive Dinner

What better way to meet new friends and renew old acquaintances?

Mark This Date: February 13thOn Wednesday, February 13th, please join us at 5:00 pm in our Sanctuary for our Ash Wednesday Service of Healing and Annointing followed by a Soup For The Soul Supper.

More will be in our February Steeplelights, but it’s never too soon to think about helping with the creation of our Homemade Soup! Call Susan in the office if you would like to help serve this blessed meal.

Change in Meeting Venue!We will have our monthly meeting at the private home/studio of Nancy and Darrell Seibert on Monday, January 7th at 11 am. Lunch will be provided by Palette Pals.

Palette Pals

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110 January 2013

Precious Cargo Academy Volunteer OrientationWednesday, January 16, 9:30 a.m. at PCA.Precious Cargo Academy (PCA) is welcoming volunteers. Three orientation sessions have been held, and fourteen NUCC members have committed to becoming volunteers! Volunteers typically are in a classroom once or twice a week for one and a half hours each visit and are limited to 9 hours per month. Our volunteers are truly making a difference and are rewarded with smiles and giggles!

Our children are thrilled by a new face, and our teachers and staff are grateful for a helping hand, whether it’s rocking babies, reading to children, helping with an activity or sharing a talent.

Call Precious Cargo to register (261-7442).

Bargain Box NewsYes, we all apparently survived another hectic holiday season. As we proceed into 2013, the Bargain Box wants to wish everyone a happy and healthy New Year. We had another wonderful year. The Congregation of Naples United Church of Christ and a supportive community are directly responsible for our success.

We hope to see you on January 26th when the day’s proceeds will go to Grace Place. You can help by donating, shopping or volunteering. There will be live music, a special daily discount and an hourly raffle for additional discounts. Join us for the festivities!

January has always seemed like the perfect time to clean out those closets, drawers and cabinets so that you can put away your gifts!

Remember your donations do so much for individuals less fortunate than us. Call us if your items are too big for you to bring and we will do our best to help.

We would like to remind you to save the date for our second special event, March 9th, when all proceeds will benefit The Children’s Advocacy Center.

~ Sandy, Bargain Box Manager

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Youth Christian Education

Take a look at Mr. Ron’s church facebook page, search for Ronald Thompson and Naples United Church of Christ and add him as a friend, to find out about youth events.

Dear Friends,

Blessings to you in your New Year! I look back at 2012 and I realize the incredible blessings I receive every day working with our children, youth and their families. One of the biggest challenges our families face today is that they are long on commitment but short on time. They are being pulled in so many directions that it makes it difficult to connect relationally. I am ever mindful of those “moments” when I do have the privilege to share real time with our families. It may be after Junior Disciples when parents come to pick up their children and they find a few moments to spare. It could also be at a service project when we come together to do God’s work in our community. Or maybe it is at some (almost) perfectly timed event like our Christmas Family Luncheon, where over 70 people were able to participate! Whatever the time, wherever the place, I am thankful for these moments and the opportunity I have to do what I am called to do – serve God.

I am also so incredibly thankful for all the support this congregation has given to our children and youth minis-try – from dedicated committee members to caring individuals. God has placed me in a position where I truly feel the body of Christ coming together. Sometimes the work can seem daunting, but God always provides encouragement through all of you – I am so grateful!

2013 is promising to be a wonderful year with many new and growing opportunities. One very big focus is our Mission/Synod trip in June. Our youth will attend the Week of Hope Event in San Diego before arriving at Synod in Long Beach, CA. You will be updated in the following months on these trip plans as more information becomes available. Please hold our youth and the experiences they will share in your prayers.

Mission and Outreach is part of our Christian Education and we continue to encourage our children and youth to be of service to others. That is when we truly begin to feel our faith – when we look outside of ourselves to others. The pictures here are worth many words… telling the story of our month of December and the joys, preparations and fellowship shared to pass on with love to others.

God bless the new 2013!Nancy Van Fleet

Junior Disciples Outreach Project with Rose Schmiegal

Save the Date!Potato bake

fundraiser onJan 13th!

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130 January 20130 January 2013

Fun at Children’s ChurchFamily Christmas Lunch

Children’s ChoirJunior Disciples class with Jessica Van Ord

Junior Disciples Outreach Project

Fun at Children’s Church

Grace Place Service Project Charnley playing for our youth group

Page 14: NUCC Steeplelights January 2013

January 2013 sun mon tue 1

6 7 8

13 14 15

20 21 22

27 28 29

9:00am Worship Service (S) 10:00am Stephen Ministry Pastoral Care (P) 10:00am Guest Information Brunch (N104) 11:00am Worship Service (S) 12:00pm Stephen Ministry Pastoral Care (P) 12:00pm Guest Information Brunch (N104) 12:30pm Proposed Bylaws Question/Answer

Meeting (N101) 5:00pm Confirmation Class (N101) 6:00pm Youth Group Meeting (N201)

NEW MEMBER SUNDAY 9:00am Worship Service (S) 10:00am Stephen Ministry Pastoral Care (P) 11:00am Worship Service (S) 12:00pm Stephen Ministry Pastoral Care (P) 12:00pm Potato Bake Fundraiser (MH) 5:00pm Confirmation Class (N101) 6:00pm Youth Group Meeting (N201) 7:30pm Middlers Plus Play at Theatre Zone

NUCC ANNUAL MEETINGNUCC ANNUAL MEETING 9:00am Worship Service (S) 10:00am Stephen Ministry Pastoral Care (P) 11:00am Worship Service (S) 12:00pm Stephen Ministry Pastoral Care (P) 4:00pm United Nations Holocaust Remem-

brance Concert/Reception (BH) 5:00pm Confirmation Class (N101) 6:00pm Youth Group Meeting (N201)

9:30am Monday Morning Workshop (N104) 9:30am Ethics for a Whole World

with Rev. Kircher (N101) 9:30am Yoga with Shannon (BH) 11:30am Journey to Discipleship (N101) 2:00pm Book Club Meeting (N104) 6:00pm Trustees Meeting (N104) 7:00pm VON Practice (BH)

9:30am Monday Morning Workshop (N104) 9:30am Yoga with Shannon (BH) 11:00am Palette Pals Meeting (N203) 11:30am Journey to Discipleship (N101) 2:00pm UCC Class (N101) 5:00pm Baby Basics Diaper Pick-up (WH) 7:00pm UCC Class (N101) 7:00pm VON Practice (BH)

9:30am Monday Morning Workshop (N104) 9:30am Ethics for a Whole World

with Rev. Kircher (N101) 9:30am Yoga with Shannon (BH) 11:30am Journey to Discipleship (N101) 7:00pm VON Practice (BH)

MARTIN LUTHER KING JR DAYMARTIN LUTHER KING JR DAYOFFICE CLOSEDOFFICE CLOSED 9:30am Monday Morning Workshop (N104) 9:30am Ethics for a Whole World

with Rev. Kircher (N101) 9:30am Yoga with Shannon (BH) 11:30am Journey to Discipleship (N101) 7:00pm VON Practice (BH)

8:00am Long Range Planning (ACR) 9:30am Chair Yoga with Shannon (BH) 10:00am Acts Bible Study with

Charnley Marsden (N104) 12:00pm Stephen Ministry Training (N207) 1:00pm Music Committee Meeting (ACR) 3:00pm The Bible Alive w/Rev. Bev (N101) 3:00pm Precious Cargo Meeting (ACR) 3:00pm Membership & Growth (N104) 6:00pm Evening Basic Yoga (Narthex) 6:30pm Board of Christian Ed Meeting (N101) 7:00pm Tuesday at Twilight (S)

8:00am Life Line Screenting (MH) 9:30am Chair Yoga with Shannon (BH) 9:30am Janet Rogers Watercolor Workshop

(N201/202) 10:00am Acts Bible Study with

Charnley Marsden (N104) 12:00pm Stephen Ministry Training (N207) 3:00pm The Bible Alive w/Rev Bev (N101) 1:00pm Steve Crosby “Illuminating Words

of Faith” (BH) 3:00pm Bargain Box Comm. Meeting (BB) 6:00pm Evening Basic Yoga (Narthex)

9:30am Chair Yoga with Shannon (BH) 10:00am Acts Bible Study with

Charnley Marsden (N104) 12:00pm Stephen Ministry Training (N207) 3:00pm The Bible Alive w/Rev Bev (N101) 1:00pm Steve Crosby “Illuminating Words

of Faith” (BH) 6:00pm Evening Basic Yoga (Narthex)

9:30am Learning In Retirement (N207) 9:30am Chair Yoga with Shannon (BH) 10:00am Acts Bible Study with

Charnley Marsden (N104) 12:00pm Stephen Ministry Training (N207) 3:00pm The Bible Alive w/Rev Bev (N101) 1:00pm Steve Crosby “Illuminating Words

of Faith” (BH) 6:00pm Evening Basic Yoga (Narthex)

9:00am Worship Service (S) 10:00am Stephen Ministry Pastoral Care (P) 11:00am Worship Service (S) 12:00pm Stephen Ministry Pastoral Care (P) 3:00pm Concert -

The True Story of Cinderella (S) 3:00pm Concert and Reception in

Cathy’s Honor (BH/GP/MH) 6:00pm Youth Group Bowling Night

NEW YEAR’S DAYNEW YEAR’S DAYOFFICE CLOSEDOFFICE CLOSED

Page 15: NUCC Steeplelights January 2013

What’s Happening This Month at Naples United Church of Christ

wed thurs fri sat2 3 4 5

9 10 11 12

16 17 18 19

23 24 25 26

30 31

CHORALCHORALWORKSHOP WORKSHOP 9:30amPerky Patchers(N103)12:00pm

9:30amPerky Patchers(N103)12:00pmAl Anon Meeting(N207)

9:30am Perky Patchers (N103)10:00am Bloodmobile (parking lot)4:00pm Jennifer Shores, Inc. Association Meeting (N207)4:00pm Artissone Condo Association Meeting (N104)12:00pmAl Anon Meeting(N207)

CHORAL WORKSHOP CHORAL WORKSHOP 3:30pm Junior Disciples (N207) 4:00pm Children’s Choir: K-2nd Grade (BH) 4:30pm Children’s Choir: Grades 3-5 (BH) 5:00pm Youth Choir Grades 6-12 (BH) 7:00pm Dr. Patterson’s Book Study -

Dr. Marcus Borg’s Book (N104) 7:00pm Sanctuary Choir Rehearsal (BH/S)

9:30am Janet Rogers Watercolor Workshop (N201/202)

3:30pm Junior Disciples (N207) 4:00pm Children’s Choir: K-2nd Grade (BH) 4:30pm Children’s Choir: Grades 3-5 (BH) 5:00pm Youth Choir Grades 6-12 (BH) 5:45pm WNL Dinner and Show (MH) 7:00pm Dr. Patterson’s Book Study -

Dr. Marcus Borg’s Book (N104) 7:00pm Sanctuary Choir Rehearsal (BH/S)

10:00am Peace of Mind (Presented by Fuller’s Funeral Home) (BH)

3:30pm Junior Disciples (N207) 4:00pm Children’s Choir: K-2nd Grade (BH) 4:30pm Children’s Choir: Grades 3-5 (BH) 5:00pm Youth Choir Grades 6-12 (BH) 7:00pm Dr. Patterson’s Book Study -

Dr. Marcus Borg’s Book (N104) 7:00pm Sanctuary Choir Rehearsal (BH/S)

CHORAL WORKSHOP CHORAL WORKSHOP 9:00am Stewardship Committee Meeting

(ACR) 2:00pm Dr. Patterson’s Class - Dr.Marcus

Borg’s book (ACR)

9:00am Stewardship Committee Meeting (ACR) 9:30am Precious Cargo Chapel (S) 9:30am Watercolor Workshop (N201/202) 9:30am Yoga with Shannon (BH) 10:00am Men’s Coffee (N104) 10:00am Womens’s Coffee (N104) 1:00pm Board of Missions and Outreach (N101) 2:00pm Dr. Patterson’s Class (N104) 5:45pm PCA Staff Meeting (N207) 6:00pm Yoga Lite and Meditation (BH/N) 7:00pm PFLAG (N104)

9:00am Stewardship Committee Meeting (ACR) 9:30am Precious Cargo Chapel (S) 9:30am Yoga with Shannon (BH) 10:00am Marcus Zillman Event (BH) 2:00pm Dr. Patterson’s Class - Dr.Marcus

Borg’s book (N104) 6:00pm Yoga Lite and Meditation (BH/N)

9:00am Stewardship Committee Meeting (ACR)

9:30am Precious Cargo Chapel (S) 9:30am Yoga with Shannon (BH) 6:00pm Yoga Lite and Meditation (BH/N)

9:30amPerky Patchers(N103)12:00pmAl Anon Meeting(N207)

1:00pm Stephen Ministry (N207) 6:30pm Diaconate Meeting

(ACR) 7:00pm Sanctuary Choir Rehearsal (BH/S)

9:00amStephen MinisterTraining (N207/104)

9:00amBlessing of the Pets(GP)9:00amCinderella Practice

10:00am Legal Issues for the End of Life - Jill Burzynski, Elder Attorney (BH)

3:30pm Junior Disciples (N207) 4:00pm Children’s Choir: K-2nd Grade (BH) 4:30pm Children’s Choir: Grades 3-5 (BH) 5:00pm Youth Choir Grades 6-12 (BH) 7:00pm Dr. Patterson’s Book Study -

Dr. Marcus Borg’s Book (N104) 7:00pm Sanctuary Choir Rehearsal (BH/S)

9:30am Precious Cargo Chapel (S) 9:30am Yoga with Shannon (BH) 12:00pm Living Grace Retreat Workshop

Meeting (ACR) 2:00pm Dr. Patterson’s Class - Dr.Marcus

Borg’s book (N104) 6:00pm Yoga Lite and Meditation (BH/N)

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YogaShannon Danford, Yoga InstructorYoga is the practice of stilling the body and quieting the mind in preparation for meditation. While it may sound foreign, meditation is the other half of prayer. Cost: $8 per session or $5.00 per session for chair yogaDates: Yoga: Monday and Thursdays - 9:30 – 10:30 a.m.

and Tuesday and Thursdays - 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.Chair Yoga: Tuesdays - 9:30 – 10:30 a.m.

Registration: not required, all are welcome

Single SeniorsSingle seniors will meet for lunch after the second service on Jan. 13th at Cibao Grill, 816 Neapolitan Way, Naples. The sign-up sheet is available in the gathering area on Sunday, or call the church office for reservations.

NUCC Book ClubCandy Nordland, Book Club CoordinatorExplore a new book each month alongside other book lovers. Each session is led by a different member of the group. We will review our 2012-13 book list, share our favorite summer reads and gladly welcome any new members. All sessions start at 2:00 p.m.

Date: Monday, Jan. 28: Putting Away Childish Things by Marcus Borg.

Registration: not required, all are welcome

Men’s Coffee and ConversationRev. Dr. Ronald Patterson, Senior Minister Men are invited to meet for coffee and conversation with Dr. Pat-terson on topics of current interest. Conversation is often lively, sometimes heated, but always modulated by the intersection of fact, opinion and the insights of the Christian faith. Participants are invited to share lunch together following the meeting. Nelson Hall Room 104, Thursdays (once a month) - 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Jan. 17, topic: The UCC’s slogan “Jesus Didn’t Reject People and Neither Do We”. Two articles for pre-reading are available in the church office: “A Salute to the United Church of Christ,” and one on marriage: “An Ever-Changing Union.” Free, registration is not required, all men are welcome.

Women’s Coffee and ConversationRev. Bev Duncan, Interim Associate MinisterBoth the Men’s and Women’s Coffee groups drink (coffee) and discuss topics simultaneously—but not together—on the third Thursday of the month. We meet in Nelson Hall Room 101. Upcoming date is January 17. The topic is: The UCC’s slogan “Jesus Didn’t Reject People and Neither Do We”. Two articles for pre-reading are available in the church office: “A Salute to the United Church of Christ,” and one on marriage: “An Ever-Changing Union.”Participants are invited to share lunch together following the meeting. All women of the church are welcome. Time: 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. Please come!

The Book of Acts Part 1: A God Is Still Speaking Bible StudyCharnley MarsdenThe class, a lay-led study of the first six chapters in the Acts of the Apostles, is based on the idea that God is still speaking to us as individuals and to the church through a thoughtful read-ing of the Scriptures. Participants will be asked to read the pas-sages, do some journaling, and then participate in discussion. A workbook will be provided to explain the historical setting and to suggest some themes. The content has been developed by Anthony Robinson, a pastor, lecturer, and member of the UCC Writer’s Group.

Dates: Tuesdays (Jan. 8 – Feb. 12) - 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.Registration: not required, all are welcome

The Bible Alive!Rev. Bev Duncan, Interim Associate MinisterMake the Bible come alive for you! Together we will explore 8 Bible passages, one per class, using a different Bible-study method each time. But no matter the method, each will help us seek God’s leading and be able to respond to it. Come with paper or notebook and a pen or pencil and a willingness to share insights. No advanced preparation is required, and New Revised Standard Version Bibles will be provided. In order for you to get the most from this study series, I will be limiting the class to 10 participants, both men and women. Please call the church office (261-5469) to sign up for one of the two identical offerings; whichever best fits your schedule:

Dates: Tuesdays, January 8 to February 26, 1:30-3:00 ORWednesdays, March 6 to April 24, 10:00-11:30

Reading the Bible Again for the First TimeRev. Dr. Ronald Patterson, Senior MinisterIn preparation for the February 8–10 visit by Dr. Marcus Borg, join Dr. Patterson for a study of Borg’s book Reading the Bible Again for the First Time: Taking the Bible Seriously but Not Literally. This book is a must-read for the growing numbers of Christians both inside and outside the organized church who are unwilling to abandon the modern world of science and critical thinking in order to believe, and are searching for an enlightened, modern way to understand their faith and the Bible.

Dates: Wednesdays (Jan. 9 – Feb. 6) - 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. ORThursdays (Jan. 10 – Feb. 7) - 2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Cost: $10 per book / available in the church officeRegistration: not required, all are welcome

Adult Enrichment Opportunities

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Beyond Religion: Ethics for a Whole WorldRev. Dr. Kathleen Kircher, Stephen Ministry Coordinator & Adult EducatorHis Holiness the Dalai Lama, a beloved world religious leader, outlines in this stirring work an approach to ethics that gives full respect to religion, and yet, crucially, one that does not depend on religion. The Dalai Lama’s compelling case for ethical mindfulness in everyday life and compassion as the foundation of well-being will be core to our discussions, along with other key inner values that promote spiritual fulfillment and a global world community based on understanding and mutual respect.

Dates: Mondays (Jan. 14 – Feb. 4) - 9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.Cost: $15 per book / available in the church officeRegistration: not required, all are welcome

Illuminating Words of Faith in Music and DanceStephen Crosby, Featured SpeakerThis audio/video lecture series explores faith texts as interpreted by master composers and choreographers. The works include the “Bach St. Matthew Passion”, the “Faure Requiem”, the “Stravinsky Symphony of Psalms”, the “Mozart Requiem”, and for a change of pace, negro spirituals. Selections will focus on how the musicians and choreographers enhance the texts and spiritual messages.Bio: Stephen has been a featured speaker on interfaith, music and dance topics for the Naples Philharmonic Center for the Arts Lifelong Learning Series, New York’s Chautauqua Institution, Road Scholar (Elder Hostel) programs, and other venues.

Dates: Tuesdays (Jan. 15 – Feb. 19) - 2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.Cost: N/ARegistration Deadline: Jan. 8

Common End of Life IssuesSpeaker SeriesAn exploration of the common issues we all face at the end of life led by three subject matter experts. Participants are encouraged to attend all sessions, but welcome to attend just one or two.

Dates: Wednesdays from 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

January 23: Peace of Mind: Preplanning your Final Wisheswith Debra Beckman, Advanced Planning Specialist at Fuller Funeral Homes

January 30: Legal Matters with Jill Burzynski, Board Certified Elder Law Attorney

February 6: Spiritual Matters with Rev. Dr. Ron Patterson, Senior Minister

Cost: N/A

Registration: not required, all are welcome

Knowing the Basic ABC’s of the Internet Marcus ZillmanKnowing the Basic ABC’s of the Internet When One Is Searching for Practical Tools and Resources Making Our Life More Effective and Efficient explores what you need to know to have a better online experience.

Bio: Marcus P. Zillman, M.S., A.M.H.A. is the Executive Director of the Virtual Private Library, eSolutions Architect and an Internet expert, tutor, author, keynote speaker and corporate consultant.

Date: Thursday, Jan. 24 - 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Cost: N/A

Registration: not required, all are welcome

Nutrition Myth-BustersDr. Susan Summerton, Nutrition ExpertThis session explores nutrition claims from news headlines and other popular sources. Do fats make you fat? What’s all the fuss about high fructose corn syrup? Can we just drink milk for our vitamin D intake? Are you tired of the “fishy burps” from fish oil, and, if so what should you do?

Bio: Susan earned her Doctorate in Optometry at Nova Southeastern University. She is a Certified Nutrition Specialist and is enrolled in the American Clinical Board of Nutrition Diplomat program, where she serves as ACBN liaison for all Optometrists. Dr. Summerton teaches nutrition at Hodges University as an adjunct professor.

Date: Monday, Feb. 11 - 2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Cost: N/A

Registration: not required, all are welcome

Living GraceRev. Martie McMane, UCC Pastor & Workshop LeaderDescription:Living Grace Retreat with Rev. Martie McManeMartie McMane will lead us in a retreat based on her book: Living Grace: Spirituality in the Everyday World. In her book, Martie uses the wisdom of Jesus, passages from the Bible, and compel-ling stories to offer twelve personal covenants that can lead to a more fulfilling and grace-filled life. If you are a seeker desiring a closer relationship with God, if you are a fellow traveler yearning to have “the life abundant” of which Jesus speaks, if you just sometimes wish you knew how to make life more meaningful and relationships more fulfilling, this retreat will provide you with tools for the journey and offer you spiritual encouragement on the way.

Bio: Martie is the Senior Minister of First Congregational Church in Boulder, CO. She has been a workshop leader for seventeen years, and is returning to Naples UCC by popular demand.

Dates: Friday, Mar. 1 and Saturday, Mar. 2

Cost: $85

Registration Deadline: Feb. 24

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I would like to take this opportunity to thank you so much for all the wonderful support that everyone at this church blesses me with as I work my way through online classes at Lexington Theological Seminary in Lexington, Kentucky. While thanking you, I would also like to take a moment to let you know exactly where I am in this journey that I have undertaken with God’s direction and confirmation.

The actual journey began as I received my B.A. in Church Leadership and Bible in May 2009. The next month I enrolled in a wonderful and small seminary located in an office tower in downtown Miami. This was a progressive seminary that offered a blended learning experience with online and in-class options. This school had the correct accreditation which is needed by the U.C.C. for ordination.

Sadly this particular seminary struggled financially and merged with the much larger St. Thomas University organization, also in Miami. This resulted in a new ecumenical experience with progressive Protestant theology and Catholic theological perspec-tives. Although helpful, St. Thomas lacked the accreditation that the U.C.C. recognizes.

A search began for a new seminary in late 2010. Pastor Ron discovered a new online venture being launched at Lexington Theological Seminary which had the online experience, progressive theology and proper accreditation. I transferred all of my accrued credits to Lexington in January 2011. This seminary is run by the sister denomination to the U.C.C. which is the Disciples of Christ.

This will be my second year at Lexington, where I must travel twice per year in January and June. The travel is to meet the requirements for graduate level degrees; a third of the credits earned must be completed on campus. My visits to Lexington have been wonderful as I attend classes and meet students like myself from all over the country and interact with the online professors in person. I do manage to squeeze in visits with NUCC members, Ben and Roberta Buckley and Cal Grayson, who bless me with rides to classes, motels, airport and especially restaurants that serve that famous Kentucky food.

I am currently enrolled in the Master of Divinity Program which requires 80 credits, and is equivalent to a Ph. D. degree. I find myself about halfway through with 39 credits which would be a Master of Theology degree if I chose to stop.

Recently the U.C.C. Florida Conference on Ministry began a wonderful program called “Alternative Paths to Ordination”. This program takes into consideration my 10 years of church staff and prior work experience, while validating competencies in theology and related subjects. I was approved for this special path in October of 2012 and could be ordained in late 2013 before actually graduating from seminary.

As a result, I had seriously considered completing the Master of Arts in Theology degree with my accrued 29 credits, instead of the 80 credit Master of Divinity. But with the advice of Rev. Bev Duncan, Pastor Ron, my professors and strong advice from my

wife Kristy, I have decided to continue what seems like an endless journey at a very slow pace.

My classes are very intensive, demand-ing, and yet very rewarding. I have been practicing with my new theological wings by preaching occasionally, serving as liturgist and custom writing youth curriculum for our Christian Education programs. I will branch out into Adult Ministry in 2013 by teaching an adult enrichment class, working with various committees in the church and assisting more in services. I still continue to substitute teach in the local school district part-time.

Beginning in January 2013, I will begin the online U.C.C. polity class that teaches how the U.C.C. is organized and its theology. I will also be taking a semester of World Religion at Edison State College as requested by the Florida Conference of the U.C.C., and then I will be heading up to chilly Lexington to take three credits of theology in 5 days.

If all this is not busy and exciting enough, I am almost approved for a journey to the Veteran’s Hospital in Portland, Oregon in June, July and August to undergo clinical Pastoral Education for seminarians as a Chaplain. This Hospital specializes in PTSD with troops returning from combat, palliative and hospice care, and an extensive substance abuse recovery program. This is all under the supervision of a highly respected VA Chaplain. This training is an incredible opportunity for me. I also look forward to “giving back” what was done for me, now as a Veteran.

In the midst of all this excitement and movement, many of you stop me and ask how I am doing in my seminary journey. This discussion is often difficult to have while toting my grandchildren to the car, so I wanted to write it all down and share it with all of you. The changes and learning that I am experiencing, as ministry intern in this church and as a student, are tremendous. I thank you so much for all you do in making this dream and calling, that I answer in what seems a snail’s pace, come true; but the slow pace makes for better “life changing” learning.

This has all been made possible by your support of the Church Endowment Fund and the seminarians that it supports, one of who is right here in your midst and very much appreciates all you do.

Looking forward to sharing more exciting changes with you in this new year,

Ron (Mr. Ron) Thompson

Ministry Intern

A note from Mr. Ron

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210 January 2013

New Members ~ December 9, 2012

Membership and Growth

Cynthia Chamberlin, originally Chuck and Claire Clark

Terry and Sally Pendleton Blake Helgren and Meredith Feist

Helen Weese

Guest Information Brunches, UCC Classes and New Member Sundays ScheduleJanuary 6th: Guest Information Brunch

following both services 7th: UCC History and Culture Class

2pm and 7pm 13th: New Member Sunday

February 3rd: Guest Information Brunch

following both services 4th: UCC History and Culture Class

2pm and 7pm 10th: New Member Sunday

March 3rd: Guest Information Brunch

following both services 4th: UCC History and Culture Class

2pm and 7pm

10th: New Member Sunday

Bill Rumpf Dr. Becky Weese i

Melissa Vitrella

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ScholarshipsYour Gail and Norman Thomson Scholarship Committee is receiving applications for the 2013 scholarships. Thescholarships are for any type of education: college, junior college, vocational school or others. They are available to anyone who belongs to a church or synagogue, has financial needs, has graduated from a high school or equivalent and lives inCollier County. Please contact the church office for applications. Applications must be submitted no later thanMarch 4, 2013.

Financial ReportIt’s an exciting time of the year as we come to the end of our fiscal year. We enter the last month with a net operating gain of $35,105.80 as compared to $83,901.65 in 2011. The prospects for a balanced budget for the end of the year still look positive and it all depends on current pledges being fulfilled prior to December 31.

~ Charles Hanscomb, Treasurer

Dear members and friends of NUCC,

As we enter the new year, the Stewardship Committee would like to thank the members and friends who support our operations, budget, church programs and our Mission outreach.

2012 was a great year for our church and we look forward to 2013 as being an even better year. We have so many opportunities to do such good works for our many needy mission partners as well as supporting our many church programs.

Stewardship Sunday will be on February 3rd and we would ask all of our supporters to pray about their stewardship gift and help us to make a real difference in SW Florida and beyond.

~ Thanks be to God,

Stewardship Committee

S

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Endowment Committee

Over the past year or so, we have had several articles from donors on why they chose to make their endowment gifts or commitments. One member told how she likes to honor her parents (they were some of our very first endowment donors during their lives) at special times of the year. Another couple, excited about creating opportunities in our community, started a scholarship fund that helps students, who are the first in their family to attend college here in Collier County, to get a nursing degree. A third couple with a special needs granddaughter on our weekly prayer list (who lives 1,000 miles away), established a scholarship that will help young people entering the field of educating special needs children right here in Southwest Florida.

We will have more testimonials in the months ahead; in the meantime, this article will share some of the common themes we are finding as we talk with more of you about what motivated you to make your endowment gift commitment.

The first theme is that our donors understand and are attracted to the idea that an endowment gift is designed to last in perpetuity. Unlike their annual stewardship gifts, that are essential to what our church can do right now, endowment donors like the opportunity to make a more lasting gift. Once funded, endowment gifts have their impact long after the donor has passed away. Only the “income” from an endowment gift is spent each year to address the donor’s objectives. The principal remains invested in a manner designed to preserve its purchasing power over time. Endowment gifts are gifts that truly “keep on giving.”

The second theme we are finding is that endowment gifts allow donors to follow their personal passion and priorities. Endowment donors can direct their endowment gifts to a number of specific areas of emphasis – where the future “income” from their directed gift is up to them.

The majority (60%) of our gifts so far have come in as unrestricted gifts. Those donors simply like the general idea of helping to preserve the future of what we are doing here at NUCC. They prefer to leave the specifics of how the annual income will be directed to those who

will be making decisions in the future with the best information of what the needs of the church will be at that point. These donors use concepts like “to preserve the quality and the stability that we now enjoy at NUCC” to describe why they are giving.

However, in the past year, a number of members have directed their gifts to Memorial Garden upkeep, Precious Cargo, Outreach, Music or the Building and Grounds – Emergency Fund. Most of these are estate gifts that will be funded at some point in the future. However, in accordance with the passions and priorities of their donors they will shape the future of the church that we all love.

Thus, the second theme we are seeing is that our array of choices is broad enough to let our donors make their personal choice of where their gift might be best put to work in the future. They want to leave more that an empty pew when they are gone.

Many of our donors talk about Dr Patterson’s endowment sermon as getting them to make their commitment. With beautiful examples from his own life, Dr Patterson illustrated how necessary it is to take positive, constructive actions today to provide for and preserve the future…a quince tree planted by his great-grandfather produced fruit years later that his grandmother made into the most delicious quince jelly ever. He also used the metaphor of winter wheat planted in the fall, when most crops are dying, that thrives and grows during the long mid-western winters to promise that spring will indeed come again. “When is the best time to plant a tree – fifty years before you will need it!”

Your endowment committee is here to help members and friends contemplating an endowment gift. Please call the church office (261-5469) and arrange for us to help you consider how best to make your own gift or future commitment.

Preserving Our FutureWhy are they making

their commitment?

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Book Recommendations

~ Don Snyder

“Praying Like Jesus”

by Jim Mulholland

In a time when spiritual seekers seem to be looking for a magic formula for prosperity, blessing, and protection through prayer, the author offers a different perspective. Using Jesus’ classic “Our Father” prayer from the New Testament as a framework, he offers a critique of the multimillion-selling book, The Prayer of Jabez and suggests looking to Jesus, rather than Jabez, for instruction on how to pray. The point of prayer is not to get what you want, he writes, but rather to receive what you need. There’s no pat formula for prayer here—just a call to revolutionize your prayer life through renouncing selfishness and committing to a new way of living.

“Understanding the Bible” An Introduction for Skeptics, Seekers and Religious Liberals

by John Buehrans

Neglecting the rich rhetoric and iconic power of the Bible is to ignore the impact that it has had and continues to have. Understanding the Bible is key to our being interpreters of our common heritage and is a step toward taking responsibility for our own spiritual maturation. Rather than preach about the Bible, the author shows how the Bible can offer genuine insights into human nature, human society, and how we can all relate to each other.

“The Better End”

by Dr. Dan Morhaim

Through compelling real-life stories and practical guidance, this book helps readers navigate end-of-life care for themselves and their loved ones. If you don’t plan your own end, somebody else will do it for you, as the author vividly shows in his book, subtitled “Surviving (and Dying) on Your Own Terms in Today’s Modern Medical World.” And there’s a good chance it’ll look like something neither you nor your family would have wanted.

In Service to Our Country:Sgt. Jeffrey Gase (Germany);

Matthew Knowles (Marine Division);

1st Lt. Damean Simmons (5th Tour Afghanistan);

Leroy Christiansen, (Afghanistan);

856th Quartermaster Regiment of the FL National Guards from Immokalee in Afghanistan;

Yuri Higuchi deployed in Afghanistan

Please view a printed booklet for this information.

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January Lectionary

Our music and worship resources each Sunday are based on the lectionary readings. The lectionary is a three-year cycle, which takes the reader through all the major themes in the Bible. Use these readings to prepare for Sunday and for your private devotions.

Jan 6th:Isa 60:1-6Ps 72: 1-7, 10-14Eph 3:1-12Matt 2:1-12

Jan 13th:Isa 43:1-7Ps 29Acts 8:14-17Luke 3:15, 21-22

Jan 20th:Isa 62:1-5Ps 36:5-101 Cor 12:1-11John 2:1-11

Jan 27th:Neh 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10Ps 191 Cor 12:12-31aLuke 4:14-21

Our CondolencesLorraine Teske and family on the loss of Hal.

Marsha Arthur and family on the lossof her mother Eva Brown.

Ethel Gillis and family on the loss of her sister Ruth.

Family and friends of Mary Flax.

Please view a printed booklet for this information.

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Life Line Screening’s Mobile Health Testing Units Are Coming

Where: Naples United Church of Christ

When: Tuesday, January 15, 2013Stroke and other serious problems can be avoided and treated before they become life threatening. That’s what makes Life Line Screening such a valuable service. Over 5 million Americans have already taken advantage of these important screenings—and with good reason. 80% of strokes are preventable. –Source: National Stroke Association 2007

Cardiovascular disease is the #1 killer of men and women in the United States-and a leading cause of permanent disability. The National Stroke Association (NSA) states that your risk of stroke doubles each decade after age 55. Unfortunately, many significant vascular problems go undetected until it is too late.

Now you have the opportunity to screen for potential strokes, aneurysms and heart disease before they become life-threatening.

1. Stroke/Carotid Artery Screening - Ultrasound evaluation of the carotid arteries that screens for buildup of fatty plaque – leading cause of stokes.

2. Heart Rhythm Screening (Atrial Fibrillation) - Painless 6-lead EKG (Electrocardiogram) that can detect an irregular heart rhythm. Atrial fibrillation increases the risk of stroke 5 times.

3. Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening - Ultrasound is used to screen for the presence of an aneurysm (enlargement) in the abdominal aorta that could lead to a ruptured aortic artery.

4. Peripheral Arterial Disease Screening - Evaluates for Peripheral arterial disease (plaque buildup)in the lower extremities. An individual with peripheral arterial disease is at an increased risk of heart disease.

Life Line Screening will complete all 4 vascular screenings for only $139. Add an osteoporosis screening for only $10 more. To compliment their ultrasound screenings, Life Line Screening now offers finger-stick blood tests for Cholesterol, Glucose and Liver Enzymes

You may think that your physician would order these screenings if they were necessary. However, Insurance companies typically will not pay for screenings unless there are symptoms. Unfortunately 4 out of 5 people that suffer a stroke have no apparent symptoms or warnings signs. That is why having a Life Line Screening is so important to keep you and your loved ones healthy and independent.

Pre-registration is required. Space is Limited!

Life Line Screening is offering a Helping Hand for our Outreach Needs! Special $10 package DISCOUNT for our Members and their Families, PLUS a matching $10 DONATION to the church! Must pre-register! Please call 800-324-9458 or register online at www.helpinghandsforhealth.com to take advantage of this special offer. Priority Code HSC3215.

Life Line Screening Lends a Helping Hand

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Marie Montag. . . . . . . 1/1William Thomson . . . 1/1Marilyn Sherwood . . 1/1Evelyn Rink . . . . . . . . 1/2Nancy Bruce. . . . . . . . 1/2Dick Cusic . . . . . . . . . 1/3Ralph Howard . . . . . . 1/4Larry Sette . . . . . . . . . 1/4Sue Brand . . . . . . . . . 1/4Stan Wolfe . . . . . . . . . 1/5Ruth Hoover . . . . . . . 1/5Barbara Meals. . . . . . . 1/5Bill Adams . . . . . . . . 1/5Ginny Packard . . . . . . 1/5Barbara Zielinski . . . . 1/5Harold Hasselbacker . 1/6Hillary Herstin . . . . . 1/6Julia Van Fleet . . . . . . 1/6Frances Morgan . . . . . 1/7Ann Sanderson . . . . . . 1/7Edie Horney . . . . . . . 1/7Sally Shaffer . . . . . . . . 1/7

Gloria DeLisi . . . . . . . 1/9Rose Carlson . . . . . . . . 1/9Donna Berlet . . . . . . . 1/9Gloria Collins . . . . . . . 1/9Narda Prado . . . . . . . 1/9Ken Stark . . . . . . . . . 1/10Bobbi Hoefer . . . . . . 1/10Virginia Biles . . . . . . 1/11Connie Carter . . . . . 1/11Sue McNaghten . . . . 1/11Denise Bergtold . . . . 1/11Claude Vautin . . . . . . 1/12Cynthia Dwyer . . . . . 1/12Jack Freese . . . . . . . 1/13Bobbie Hall . . . . . . . 1/13Stew Lambert . . . . . . 1/13Debbie Witham . . . . 1/13Audrey DeRango . . . 1/14David Hocking . . . . 1/14Shirley Blanton . . . . . 1/14Laurie Chozen . . . . . . 1/14David Pringle . . . . . . 1/15

Frank Harris . . . . . . . 1/15Bob Hall . . . . . . . . . 1/15Michael Campbell . . . 1/15Arlyn Moore . . . . . . . 1/16Geneva Clegg . . . . . . 1/16Maureen Zuck . . . . . 1/16Jill Crawford . . . . . . . 1/17Connie Lifton . . . . . . 1/18Judy Jorgensen . . . . . 1/18Sandy Terry . . . . . . . 1/18Beverly Roese . . . . . . 1/19Marilyn Harris . . . . . 1/19Judy Anderson . . . . . 1/20John Richardson . . . 1/20Dolle Berg . . . . . . . . 1/21Bill McNagny . . . . . 1/21Carolyn Haynes . . . . 1/21Al Hannigan . . . . . . 1/21Larry Pugh . . . . . . . . 1/22Susannah Woodside-McDonough . . . . . . 1/22Meredith Feist . . . . . 1/23

Stephanie Braun . . . 1/24Ruth Davis . . . . . . . . 1/24Chip Shotwell . . . . . 1/24Chester Heal . . . . . . . 1/26Jim Fay . . . . . . . . . . 1/26Paul Cook . . . . . . . . . 1/26Lewis Brown . . . . . . . 1/26Lois Muldowney . . . . 1/26Edie Vincent . . . . . . . 1/27Stuart Cammett . . . . 1/27Marcia Wilson . . . . . 1/27Lou Fischer . . . . . . . . 1/27Louise Altamuro . . . . 1/27Louise Brown . . . . . . 1/27Greg Gorman . . . . . 1/27Don Higuchi . . . . . . 1/28Richard Moser . . . . . 1/29Walter Bertsche . . . . 1/29Erik Noe . . . . . . . . . 1/30Diane Hamsa . . . . . . 1/30Nancy Mundth . . . . . 1/30Irma Johnson . . . . . . 1/31

Birthdays and AnniversariesJanuary Birthdays

270 JJanuuary 20130 Januuaryy 2013

Fred & Linda Smalstig .......................................... 1/1

Ron & Jane McSwiney .......................................... 1/2

Dr. Ron Patterson & Charnley Marsden ................ 1/4

Robert & Barbara Hill .......................................... 1/5

Earle & Jane Forsthoff ........................................... 1/7

George & Billie Faye Picht .................................... 1/7

Tom Jones & Susan Sorlien................................... 1/11

Charles & Maggie Lauer ...................................... 1/17

Bill & Shirley Ramsay ......................................... 1/19

Armand & Lucie Kazarian .................................. 1/19

David Burke & Greg Gorman ............................. 1/20

Al & Gloria Taylor .............................................. 1/21

Bob & Joanie Rudolph ........................................ 1/22

Carson & Mary Elizabeth Beadle .......................... 1/24

Bob & Arlene Smith ........................................... 1/27

Joseph & Louise Altamuro .................................. 1/27

Gail Cash & Rose Daigle ...................................... 1/27

January Anniversaries

Please view a printed booklet for this information.

Please view a printed booklet for this information.

Page 28: NUCC Steeplelights January 2013

Naples United Church of Christ5200 Crayton RoadNaples, FL 34103

(239) 261-5469 O Fax: (239) 261-2475

www.naplesucc.org O email: [email protected]

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FLA 34103Permit #15

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