Faith Presbyterian Church
9:30 a.m., May 11, 2008
Let the first tone of the organ be a call to quiet meditation in which all may become aware of God’s presence, and lift up a prayer for yourself and for Faith Church.
Prelude And a Dove Shall Sing..... Dennis Eliot
"See! The winter is past; the rains are over and gone.
Flowers appear on the earth; the season of singing
has come; the cooing of doves is heard in our land."
(Song of Solomon 2: 11-12)
“Spirit of God, Descend Upon My Heart” Fred Binckes
Choral Introit “The Kingdom of the Lord” Natalie Sleeth
Children’s Choir
Welcome, Announcements, and Greet One Another
Invocation
John 3:16 in Tongues
Hymn # 569 “Praise the Lord with the Sound of Trumpet”
1st verse - children only
1st verse 2nd time - children & congregation
Prayer of Confession:(unison)
Dear heavenly Father, we confess we haven’t lived as though we were completely motivated by your Holy Spirit. In fact, we admit there is a part of us which resists setting the bar higher. Forgive us for living at times one way and at times another way according to how we feel at the moment. Since our New Life comes from the Spirit, move us, we pray, to follow His leading. As we walk in the Spirit, keep us from pride and strife and jealousy. Let us be careful how we live making the most of every opportunity, knowing the shortness of our lives. This we pray in the name of Christ, our Lord. Amen.
Declaration of God’s Pardon:
People: I believe that God, because of Christ's atonement, will never hold against us any confessed sins, nor our sinful nature against which we need to struggle all our lives.
Pastor: Through Christ Jesus, we are forgiven and freed forever from judgment. Amen.
Prayer for Illumination Terry Stewart
First Lesson: Joel 2: 28 – 29, 32 NIV Terry Stewart
28I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions.
29 Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days.
32 And everyone who calls on the name of the LORD will be saved; for on Mount Zion and in Jerusalem there will be deliverance, as the LORD has said, among the survivors whom the LORD calls.
Anthem “Ev’ry Time I Feel the Spirit” William L. Dawson
Children’s Sermon
Hymn “Holy Spirit, Thou Art Welcome” insert
(Sing twice)
Second Lesson: Acts 2: 1 – 17, 22, 24, 32 – 33, 37 - 41 NIV
Terry Stewart
1When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. 2Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. 3They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. 4All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.
5Now there were staying in Jerusalem God-fearing Jews from every nation under heaven. 6When they heard this sound, a crowd came together in bewilderment, because each one heard them speaking in his own language. 7Utterly amazed, they asked: "Are not all these men who are speaking Galileans? 8Then how is it that each of us hears them in his own native language? 9Parthians, Medes and Elamites; residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, 10Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya near Cyrene; visitors from Rome 11 (both Jews and converts to Judaism); Cretans and Arabs-we hear them declaring the wonders of God in our own tongues!" 12Amazed and perplexed, they asked one another, "What does this mean?"
13Some, however, made fun of them and said, "They have had too much wine."
14Then Peter stood up with the Eleven, raised his voice and addressed the crowd: "Fellow Jews and all of you who live in Jerusalem, let me explain this to you; listen carefully to what I say. 15These men are not drunk, as you suppose. It's only nine in the morning! 16No, this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel: 17" 'In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams.
22"Men of Israel, listen to this: Jesus of Nazareth was a man accredited by God to you by miracles, wonders and signs, which God did among you through him, as you yourselves know.
24But God raised him from the dead, freeing him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on him.
32God has raised this Jesus to life, and we are all witnesses of the fact. 33Exalted to the right hand of God, he has received from the Father the promised Holy Spirit and has poured out what you now see and hear.
37When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, "Brothers, what shall we do?"
38Peter replied, "Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call."
40With many other words he warned them; and he pleaded with them, "Save yourselves from this corrupt generation." 41Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day.
Lector: “This is the Word of God.”
Congregation: “Thanks be to God for His Word.”
Sermon “The Amazing Influence of the Holy Spirit”
Pastor Green
Gathering of Tithes and Offerings
Please sign and pass the register located in the pew.
Offertory “Loving Spirit” Emma Lou Diemer
Loving Spirit, loving Spirit, you have chosen me to be—
You have drawn me to your wonder, you have set your sign on me.
Like a father, you protect me, teach me the discerning eye,
hoist me up upon your shoulder, let me see the world from high.
Response
Glory to the Father, glory to the Son,
Glory to the Holy Spirit, three in one—
As it was in the beginning,
Is now, and shall be, world without end. Amen.
Hymn # 304 “Let Us Break Bread Together” vs. 1 - 2
The Lord’s Supper
Invitation and Words of Institution
Prayer of Thanksgiving
Giving and receiving of the Bread and Cup
The inside cups are white grape juice; the outer cups contain wine.
Prayer of Consecration (in unison)
We thank you, O Lord, for this your sacred meal. Please accept our sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving; and, as we leave this table, we offer ourselves as living sacrifices-- praying that our lives may be holy and acceptable to you. In your mercy we ask you to fulfill in us the purpose of your redeeming love. Amen.
Hymn # 424 “Spirit of the Living God”
Benediction
Postlude “Holy God, We Praise Your Name” Paul Manz
Worship
…is the quickening of conscience by God’s holiness;
the nourishment of mind with His truth;
the purifying of imagination by His beauty;
the opening of the heart to His love;
the surrender of the will to His purpose;
and all of this gathered up in adoration—
the most selfless emotion of which our nature is capable, and therefore the chief remedy for that self-centeredness which is our original sin and the source of all actual sin.” -William Temple
Welcome
To all who are weary and seek rest; to all who mourn and long for comfort; to all who struggle and desire victory; to all who sin and need a Savior; to all who are idle and look for service; to all who are strangers and want fellowship; to all who hunger and thirst after righteousness; and to whosoever will come--this church opens wide her doors and offers her welcome in the name of Jesus Christ her Lord.
Guests please sign our guest book and join us in the Fellowship Hall after worship.
Babysitting is available during worship for infants up to
2-1/2 years old in the room behind the balcony. Children ages 2-1/2 through 5 will be in the Pre-School Nursery in the Education Wing. School age children worship with their parents.
New Pastor Call: The Wabash Valley Presbytery has approved the call of Rev. David Horner to become the Pastor of Faith Presbyterian Church. Rev. Horner expects to lead our worship service on June 15, 2008.
* Greeters this morning are David & Cathy McKinnis
* Java Heroes – the Bosler’s
* Participating in the speaking in Tongues this morning are: Jurgen Honig-German; Dewi Sidharta-Indonesian; Leonard Sidharta-Chinese; Olivia Lockwood-Spanish; PastorGreen-English; Sergey Dubikovsky-Russian; Olga Sededji-Ewe; Grace Sededji-French; Grieke Toebes-Dutch.
* NOTE: When wearing perfume or other strong scents please be considerate of those that may be allergic or sensitive.
Today:
9:30 a.m. Congregation at Worship
11:00 a.m. Sunday School
1:30 p.m. Tippecanoe Villa worship
3:00 p.m. Friendship House worship
6:00 p.m. Youth
This Week:
Tues., 7:00 p.m. Boy Scout Troop 338
Tues., 7:30 p.m. Tippecanoe Co. Jail Bible study
Wed., 7:00 a.m. Morning Prayers & Breakfast (Grieke Toebes)
Wed., 7:30 p.m. Bible Study at Kathy Bowker’s
PASTOR RON
PITCH-IN
Next Sunday, May 18
Come join us at noon to say thanks to Pastor Ron. We will have a surprise or two. Bring a main dish for eight or a salad.
No desserts please.
Coming Events
Sunday, May 18: Thank-you for Pastor Ron Green. Sunday, noon, pitch-in
Sunday, June 8: Reception for Ray Fancher, Executive Presbyter (after Sunday service)
Sunday, June 15: Reception for Pastor David Horner on his first Sunday at Faith Church
(after Sunday service)
Sunday, July 6: Worship on the Patio
Faith Family picnic will following the service.
Faith Presbyterian Church
9:30 a.m., May 4, 2008
Let the first tone of the organ be a call to quiet meditation in which all may become aware of God’s presence, and lift up a prayer for yourself and for Faith Church.
Hymn Sing Green Supplemental Hymnal
Hymn # 2 “God of Grace and God of Glory” vs 1, 4 5
Hymn # 32 “In My Heart There Rings a Melody” vs 1 , 3
Hymn # 6 “Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee” vs 1 and last verse
Gray Psalter Hymnal
Hymn # 249 “Holy, Holy, Holy! Lord God Almighty”
Hymn # 634 “Father, We Love You”
Welcome, Announcements, and Greet One Another
Invocation
Hymn # 436 “This Is My Father’s World”
Psalter: Psalm 127: 1 - 2 NIV (read responsively)
Barbara Knox
1 Unless the LORD builds the house, its builders labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the watchmen stand guard in vain.
2 In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat— for he grants sleep to those he loves.
Prayer for Illumination Barbara Knox
First Lesson: II Samuel 16: 15 – 17: 4 NIV Barbara Knox
15 …. Absalom and all the men of Israel came to Jerusalem, and Ahithophel was with him. 16 Then Hushai the Arkite, David's friend, went to Absalom and said to him, "Long live the king! Long live the king!"
17 Absalom asked Hushai, "Is this the love you show your friend? Why didn't you go with your friend?"
18 Hushai said to Absalom, "No, the one chosen by the LORD, by these people, and by all the men of Israel—his I will be, and I will remain with him. 19 Furthermore, whom should I serve? Should I not serve the son? Just as I served your father, so I will serve you."
20 Absalom said to Ahithophel, "Give us your advice. What should we do?"
21 Ahithophel answered, "Lie with your father's concubines whom he left to take care of the palace. Then all Israel will hear that you have made yourself a stench in your father's nostrils, and the hands of everyone with you will be strengthened." 22 So they pitched a tent for Absalom on the roof, and he lay with his father's concubines in the sight of all Israel.
23 Now in those days the advice Ahithophel gave was like that of one who inquires of God. That was how both David and Absalom regarded all of Ahithophel's advice.
1 Ahithophel said to Absalom, "I would choose twelve thousand men and set out tonight in pursuit of David. 2 I would attack him while he is weary and weak. I would strike him with terror, and then all the people with him will flee. I would strike down only the king 3 and bring all the people back to you. The death of the man you seek will mean the return of all; all the people will be unharmed." 4 This plan seemed good to Absalom and to all the elders of Israel.
Anthem “Lord of Hosts” Josef M Martin
Children’s Sermon
Hymn “I Need Thee Every Hour” insert
Second Lesson: Psalm 55: 1 - 23 NIV Barbara Knox
1 Listen to my prayer, O God, do not ignore my plea;
2 hear me and answer me. My thoughts trouble me and I am distraught
3 at the voice of the enemy, at the stares of the wicked; for they bring down suffering upon me and revile me in their anger.
4 My heart is in anguish within me; the terrors of death assail me.
5 Fear and trembling have beset me; horror has overwhelmed me.
6 I said, "Oh, that I had the wings of a dove! I would fly away and be at rest-
7 I would flee far away and stay in the desert;
8 I would hurry to my place of shelter, far from the tempest and storm."
9 Confuse the wicked, O Lord, confound their speech, for I see violence and strife in the city.
10 Day and night they prowl about on its walls; malice and abuse are within it.
11 Destructive forces are at work in the city; threats and lies never leave its streets.
12 If an enemy were insulting me, I could endure it; if a foe were raising himself against me, I could hide from him.
13 But it is you, a man like myself, my companion, my close friend,
14 with whom I once enjoyed sweet fellowship as we walked with the throng at the house of God.
15 Let death take my enemies by surprise; let them go down alive to the grave, for evil finds lodging among them.
16 But I call to God, and the LORD saves me.
17 Evening, morning and noon I cry out in distress, and he hears my voice.
18 He ransoms me unharmed from the battle waged against me, even though many oppose me.
19 God, who is enthroned forever, will hear them and afflict them— men who never change their ways and have no fear of God.
20 My companion attacks his friends; he violates his covenant.
21 His speech is smooth as butter, yet war is in his heart; his words are more soothing than oil, yet they are drawn swords.
22 Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall.
23 But you, O God, will bring down the wicked into the pit of corruption; bloodthirsty and deceitful men will not live out half their days. But as for me, I trust in you.
Lector: “This is the Word of God.”
Congregation: “Thanks be to God for His Word.”
Sermon Series: “Psalms of Comfort”
# 4 “Escape from Betrayal” Pastor Green
Gathering of Tithes and Offerings
Please sign and pass the register located in the pew.
Offertory “Nobody Knows the Trouble I've Seen” Lani Smith
Response
Blessing and glory and wisdom and power
Be to the Savior again and again.
Might and thanksgiving and honor forever
Be to our God: Alleluia! Amen. ∆
Prayer of Dedication
Joys and Concerns
Prayers of Thanksgiving and Intercession
Corinne Janovitz (Evan & Patti’s granddaughter), Kathy Skene, Amy Dale, folk in the military, Jonathan & Ali Nichols (World Concern), Jack & Mary Anne Voelkel (IVCF)
Hymn # 169 “I Will Sing of the Mercies of the Lord”
Benediction
Postlude “Postlude” L. Bottazzo
∆ © vers. Christoper Idel, 1973 ∆ 1973, Hope Publishing Co. CCLI # 387100
Worship
…is the quickening of conscience by God’s holiness;
the nourishment of mind with His truth;
the purifying of imagination by His beauty;
the opening of the heart to His love;
the surrender of the will to His purpose;
and all of this gathered up in adoration—
the most selfless emotion of which our nature is capable, and therefore the chief remedy for that self-centeredness which is our original sin and the source of all actual sin.” -William Temple
Welcome
To all who are weary and seek rest; to all who mourn and long for comfort; to all who struggle and desire victory; to all who sin and need a Savior; to all who are idle and look for service; to all who are strangers and want fellowship; to all who hunger and thirst after righteousness; and to whosoever will come--this church opens wide her doors and offers her welcome in the name of Jesus Christ her Lord.
Guests please sign our guest book and join us in the Fellowship Hall after worship.
Babysitting is available during worship for infants up to
2-1/2 years old in the room behind the balcony. Children ages 2-1/2 through 5 will be in the Pre-School Nursery in the Education Wing. School age children worship with their parents.
* Greeters this morning are David & Cathy McKinnis
* Java Heroes - The Bethel’s
* The flowers this morning are provided by Carolyn Kessler.
* Congratulations Graduates - We want to know if you are graduating this year from high school, college or graduate school. Parents and friends please help us with our list. Contact Lois Wark 743-1903.
* Sunday Evening Bible Study has ended for the school year. Look for a mid-summer announcement about dinner and a movie
(when we'll continue with our Judges theme minus lion meat and honey) ! Many , many thanks to Steve Varys for leading us!
* Library and Nursery remodeling: The buildings and grounds committee wishes to thank the following people for their help with with this large project; Grace Sededji, Carson McVay, Jim Varys, Doug Varys, Adam Beasley, Danelle Poe, Cathy Lockwood, Steve Varys, Terry and Jane Stewart, Dan and Kathy Trinkle, Kevin and Lou Ann Johnston, Stephanie Cardwell, and the Boy Scouts.
* Please Dress in Red - On May 11, we are going to celebrate PENTECOST at Faith Church. To help make this a memorable celebration our Worship and Music Committee is asking you to dress with something RED so that our whole congregation will appear a bit like those tongues of fire which accompanied this supernatural event. Plan to join us!
* NOTE: When wearing perfume or other strong scents please be considerate of those that may be allergic or sensitive.
Today:
9:30 a.m. Congregation at Worship
11:00 a.m. Sunday School
2:30 p.m. St. Mary’s worship
6:00 p.m. Youth
This Week:
Tues., 9:30 a.m. FWF Bible study at Faith Church
Tues., 7:00 p.m. Session
Tues., 7:00 p.m. Boy Scout Troop 338
Tues., 7:30 p.m. Tippecanoe Co. Jail Bible study
Wed., 7:00 a.m. Morning Prayers & Breakfast (Jan Hem)
Wed., 6:30 p.m. Choir Dinner
Wed., 7:30 p.m. Bible Study at Kathy Bowker’s
Fri. & Sat. Presbytery Meeting
Life Care
Located two blocks south of the Purdue Memorial Union in West Lafayette, IN, Life Care Services strives to meet the physical, practical, emotional, and spiritual needs of women and families facing an unplanned pregnancy. Please call 743-4488 for an appointment, or contact us at ww.lifecareservices.org
Life Care offers pre- and post-natal education and long term support even after baby arrives. Life Care Services provides parenting classes covering a wide range of topics to first time moms. Trimester and Moms' Support classes are taught by registered nurses. The parenting class is taught by a child education specialist. Post abortion counseling is available to women and men suffering from the effects of a past abortion. A Spanish speaking translator is available as needed. All services are free and confidential in a comfortable, homelike, supportive environment. We are located at 233 Harrison St. in W. Lafayette, IN.
Lafayette Urban Ministry
Touching the future by helping children and families today
Poverty is the greatest thief. More than depriving a neighbor of food or shelter or warmth, it steals away hope. While other thieves may take away the past, poverty steals the future and self-respect. LUM is in the business of restoring human dignity. Through voluntary efforts and contributions they give back the hope, the future, and the self-respect which all God’s people need and deserve. They provide financial assistance, after school care, shelter, food and support, a children’s summer camp, distribute clothing, mentor teenage girls, and have a hike for hunger. They make Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays brighter for hundreds of families. LUM’s resolution is to help God’s children in need.
“The Constancy of the Faith”
-Pastor Ron
As I write, Faith Church has just yesterday selected its new installed pastor, the Rev. David Horner. With the vote, there can be no doubt we are in a time of transition.
A year ago Stuart Robertson filled the pulpit. The excellence of his ministry with his gentleness, scholarship and meaningful prayers calls us all to thank God for his work. I remember the wedding he and I conducted as a time, which celebrated at the same time his ministry of the past, and mine as Interim in the present.
As time has rolled on, you were exposed to another model of pastoral ministry and leadership. You saw and heard how I preached, did pastoral care and aided in the ongoing work of our session. My task was, even before it began, to interpose myself between new and old to demonstrate how each pastor varies in style and word. Without being continually conscious of the yearlong process you turned from the past to the present.
During this time, I am not only aware of the transition, the ongoing changes, but realize an even more amazing matter, which has occurred. In spite of the transition I am very much aware of the constancy here, which has remained and acted as a ballast and anchor.
For example, we still have focused on the "great ends of the church": the preaching of the gospel, the nurture of the children of God, spiritual fellowship, worship, evangelism and mission. In spite of who is currently the pastor, our work is the same.
Certainly there has remained a constancy in our worship. To help clarify the basic nature of our faith, you gave me the opportunity to review with you 52 Christian core-values. I can't help but think these values were similar to the ones my predecessor related. But, it wasn't just the constancy of my efforts for when I preached, you listened. I am reminded how the Bereans were not like the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and [then] examined the scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was
true (Acts 17.11). You have been like those Bereans! I will always remember your attentiveness to God's Word. Your attention has signaled to me that the telling and receiving of the gospel is an ongoing, stable matter, important not just for this year, but is as enduring as the stars and sky.
Other constancies have continued our momentum. They include our ongoing focus on local and international missions; we have continued to be a positive influence on our community, assisting locally to those whose needs came to our attention, through L.U.M. and in our prison ministry. We have not faltered in these efforts in spite of the transition. Instead they have "breathed a lovely light".
Sadly, many churches no longer offer educational opportunity. In those churches people "catch the show and go" after a short sixty minutes. Yet, our efforts in Christian education have provided grounding and stability: children have been placed in appropriate classes, teachers have volunteered and nursery workers have been hired. Similarly in the area of adult education we have offered a variety of ongoing classes. Currently four such classes are offered each Sunday morning so that about 35+ adults regularly benefit in our classrooms as we continue to offer the chance for dialoguing with other Christians in a small group setting.
Other areas include ongoing work leading worship for five retirement homes. Mark Johnson, Hannis and Stephanie have continued to record and store a record of our morning worship services and have provided technical support as needed. Building and Grounds have month after month made important changes to the appearance and functioning of our facility: with new doors, new carpets, and new paint. All of these were done behind the scene. Kudos also goes to Congregational Life for providing just the right mix for our fellowship needs. Happily, this list could go on and on.
I close now with undoubtedly the most important reasons why we're holding together. While pastors and members have been in transition, Jesus Christ has always been a consistent presence. He changes not. He above all provides stability. Christ's presence as Lord and Savior is a great comfort when we consider our frailty and the inadequacies of our love, the bareness of our service and the small progress we make toward perfection. In him we find refreshment for our soul and are washed of our inadequacies and harshness. We are "accepted in the Beloved", our Redeemer.
What I've tried to say is that while we've been in transition, there has been a constancy to our work here worthy of recognition. How pleased I was yesterday to speak with Pastor Horner and Diane, his wife, about the legacy that is going to be handed to them. Truly it can be said, we have prepared for what lies ahead. What a privilege it has been for me to be here. You have been unforgettable. Please do not let me leave without saying goodbye to each and every one.
Sunday, May 4th Sermon: Series: “Psalms of Comfort”
# 4 “Escape from Betrayal”
Psalm 55
Sunday, May 11th Sermon: “The Imperfect are Empowered at Pentecost”
Acts 2: 1 – 17, 22, 24, 32 – 33, 37 – 41
Communion
Sunday, May 18th Sermon: Series: “Harnessing the Pentecostal”
# 1 “How the Holy Spirit Functions in the hearts of
Believers and Unbelievers”
Acts 2: 37 – 47, I Corinthians 1: 18
II Corinthians 2: 16 and 4: 4
Sunday, May 25th Sermon: Series: “Harnessing the Pentecostal”
# 2 “The Best Counselor You’ll Ever Have”
John 14: 15 – 18, 25: 26
John 16: 12 - 15
Please dress in red
On May 11, we are going to celebrate PENTECOST at Faith Church. Many special activities will be included in our worship including a performance from our children's choir. To help make this a memorable celebration our Worship and Music Committee is asking you to dress with something RED so that our whole congregation will appear a bit like those tongues of fire which accompanied this supernatural event. Plan to join us!
At its meeting on April 8, 2008 the Session has taken the following actions or was informed of a variety of activities:
The Session
Tentatively scheduled a joint meeting with the Board of Deacons for September 2008.
Authorized Pastor Ron Green to renew the existing contract for operation of Boy Scout Troop 338, involving the use of Church facilities.
Learned from Elder McKinnis on progress in the installation of new doors and painting of the Church Library.
Authorized communion to be served during Pentecost Sunday services rather than on May 4, 2008.
Confirmed the visit to Faith Church on June 8, 2008, by Interim General Presbyter of the Presbytery of Wabash Valley, Reverend Ray Fancher. He had been invited to lead the Sunday service, and wishes to meet with the Elders and Deacons at the conclusion of the service.
Learned with concern about the declining participation by the Congregation in the musical offerings of the choir. Several suggestions were advanced to increase choir membership. Those with musical talents in the Congregation are urged to participate in the choir.
Was informed of an anonymous donation for acquisition of a set of hand bells. The Session is currently studying how to engage the Congregation and how best to integrate the use of hand bells in Sunday services.
Was informed that sign up sheets are being posted for rendering assistance in organizing and participating in Summer Vacation Bible School.
Was informed that Elder Hannis Thompson has agreed to serve with Elder Grieke Toebes as a Commissioner to the Presbytery of Wabash Valley
Accepted with gratitude the donation of a defibrillator which is to be installed on the first floor of the Sanctuary. Elder Lois Wark and her son Ron were thanked for their considerable activities in securing this unit. Elder Jane Stewart has consented to be the Interim Coordinator until the Session has names a permanent Coordinator. Training sessions on the use of the unit will be announced later.
Learned from Elder Dennis Dunn about progress on fashioning a new outdoor sign.
At the time of submission of this article it was announced that the candidate for installation as permanent Pastor will conduct the Sunday morning service on April 27, 2008, and that a special Congregational Meeting will be called at 11:15 AM to act on the PNC nomination of this individual. Pastor Ron Green’s official duties will terminate on June 14, 2008.
Jurgen Honig, Clerk of Session
This is a very special time in the life of Faith Presbyterian Church. For the fourth time in our history the congregation has called a new Pastor. During a special congregational meeting on April 27, 2008, the congregation of Faith Church voted to call Rev. David L. Horner as out next Pastor.
Late in 2006, our Pastor Stuart Robertson announced that he would retire in April of 2007. After a time of reflection on the great service and friendship that Stuart and Bonnie had given our church and a major retirement party, the session appointed a committee to search for an Interim Pastor. As a result of that search, Rev. Ron Green was called to serve our church as Interim Pastor. Rev. Green served this congregation well for the past year. Rev. Green provided spiritual leadership and transitional guidance for which we are all very thankful. Thank You Rev. Green!
After the completion of an extensive congregational reflection study, the congregation elected a Pastor Nominating Committee in late Nov. 2007. That committee dedicated themselves to the task of searching for a new Pastor. Faith Church thanks this committee for their dedication and hard work that was truly led by God’s will in the search process. Thank You,
Elizabeth Goodrich, Jan Hem, Grieke Toebes, Lois Wark, Glenn Sparks, and Steve Varys.
On April 27, 2008, the Pastor Nomination Committee reported to the congregation that their work was completed and their prayers had been answered, when God called Rev. David Horner to be our next pastor. The congregation concurred with their nomination.
A resume for Rev. David L. Horner will soon be available on the Church’s web page and is available in print through the Church Office.
Rev. David L. Horner has a BA degree in Theology from Berkshire Christian College and a Master’s Degree in Divinity from Pittsburgh Theological Seminary. After ordination as a Presbyterian Minister of Word and Sacrament, he has served the Bethany Presbyterian Church in Mendenhall, PA for the past 30 years.
He has been very active in his Presbytery serving as moderator and as a commissioner to the General Assembly. He also has served as moderator to other churches on three different occasions. He has led youth groups, taught bible studies and Sunday school classes, and has developed outreach programs. One of his references said it best, “You are getting an excellent preacher, but even a better Pastor.”
Rev. Horner is the son of a retired Presbyterian minister and David and Diane have three children. Mrs. Diane Horner is a nurse and plans to continue in that profession here, as well as being active in the programs of our church.
The Horner’s will be relocating to West Lafayette to assume the Pastor position at Faith Church on June 15, 2008. Please welcome the Horner’s to our congregation.
An official installation ceremony will be planned with the Presbytery later.
Don Gentry, Chair of Pastor Nominating Committee
So many thanks are due to all of you who help make our receptions and dinners complete at Faith Church. Your response to what needs to be done is an overwhelming example of the body of Christ at work in the day-to-day activities of our church life.
So many helped for the reception on April 27 for Rev. David Horner and his wife Dianne. This list is impressive and it is good for us to see what goes into one of these events.
Chief Organizer – Cathy McKinnis
Essential “in the kitchen” help – Jean McCoy, Marcella Verplank, Nancy Dunn, LouAnn Johnston, Shirley and Jim Bosler
“Even so special” clean-up crew – John Miller and Ron Smith
And contributing cakes were - Nancy Moore, Donna Lofgren, Dessa Shinn, Joanne Kovacs, Marcella Verplank, Kris Stith, Carol Christiansen, Dennis Dunn, Deb Johnson, & Amber Latour
And the fruit bowl – Shirley Bosler, Kathy Bowker, Marilyn Hinze, Polly Tyler, Pam Kirby, Jane Mallett, Kathy Trinkle, Lois Wark, Peggy Housley, Becky Chapman, Lonni Kucik, Bobbie Kane, & Deb Fleetham
And finally, a big thank you to Shirley and Jim Bosler for the lovely flower arrangements on the tables and in the sanctuary. All the flowers were from their yard – a refreshing reminder of spring after our long winter weeks.
Jan Hem for the Congregational Life Committee
Ross and Melissa Tanner
For an update on Ross and Melissa go to: www.rossandmel.com
El Salvador – The Ross & Melissa Story
Apparently spring has sprung, and not a bud too soon. The beauty of our world is revealed to us anew each spring as gardeners everywhere push, poke and prod the soil to see what will come up this year. Is there anything more beautiful than the glorious blooming trees, shrubs and dandelions? Yes, God made them all.
Things you may not know:
• Sawyer Latour sold 100 boxes of Girl Scout cookies! Way to go, Sawyer!
• Janis Matouk is moving to Friendship House in early May. Won't it be swell to have her back on this side of town!
• The Easter Brunch was well attended and the fab food was well eaten.
• A wonderful article about Jennifer Sinclair Curtis appears in Vol. 42. No. 1, Winter 2008 of Chemical Engineering Education. This is not only a superb update (and history) of Jennifer's academic achievements but also a well-written, inspiring account of her personal journey. Copies are available in the Narthex.
• Vacation Bible School is gearing up. If you'd like to help – even for one hour of one day – please volunteer. Just like other experiences of this type, you'll learn more than the kids will. And Faith Church has been extremely fortunate to receive a great bunch of kids each year. Join us for an unforgettable experience.
• John Miller (otherwise known as John Miller) was supposed submit a puzzle (no comments, please) for this page but neither he nor the puzzle appeared, so we’ll have to wait until next time.
• Send Amy Dale a card and tell her something silly, or inspirational, or uplifting. See me if you can’t think of any of those things.
• John Goodrich will be graduating from the formidable Krannert M.B.A. program this spring. Give him a handshake and a piece of advice. You know how young people love advice from their seniors!
• If you have news, true or mostly true, let me know.
Your correspondent,
N. Dunn
For boys and girls Entering Kdgn. through 6th grade
Monday – Friday, June 16 – 20, 2008
9:00am – 12:00pm
"Journey with Joseph"
In everything God works for good!
The Faith Presbyterian Hand bell Choir is about to be born. Premium Schulmerich hand bells with beautiful, brilliant sound are headed to Faith to provide a new way to make a joyful noise.
If your heart makes music even when your voice doesn’t, you might love this. Musicians are absolutely welcome, but so is everyone else. We need members who can: 1) count to four (occasionally higher), 2) follow directions, and 3) encourage each other. If you can lift a bell and ring it, you can do this.
Choir Director Nadia Dubikovsky has agreed to help with the planning, and member Tammy Sandel will direct the group.
Several folks have already indicated an interest, but we need more. If you would like to be a ringer, contact Tammy (583-2304), Nadia (497-8923), or Stephanie Cardwell (743-3683 or office@faithpresbyterian.org). We look forward to blessings of music and the sense of unity that comes from creating something together.
Sunday, May 11 will be the last day for adult choir.
There will be summer choir for the month of June and ANYONE that would like to participate is welcome. There will no longer be Wednesday evening choir practice during the summer. Practice will be Sunday’s 8:45am – 9:15am and 11:00am – 11:30am.
Thank you all for your prayers, cards, and emails during the past two months. You have helped me so much. I have healed well from surgery. The cancer was caught early enough that the surgery removed it all, before it had a chance to spread outside the colon, so I don't need chemotherapy or radiation - a huge blessing. I give thanks to God for bringing me through this, and give thanks to all of you in my Faith family for your support.
Donna Lofgren
May 1 Marilyn Hinze
May 2 Grace Czerwonky
May 3 Laura Tyler
May 5 Robert Landolt
May 8 Jeremy Powell
May 17 James Bosler
May 20 Jackie Tyler
May 20 Alice Mundell
May 27 Eve Hanson
May 31 Jan Hem
May 6 David & Lonni Kucik
May 22 Steve & Mary Lou Varys
May 26 Donald & Penny Winship
May 26 Ken & Tammy Sandel
• Sun., May 4 St. Mary’s Healthcare 2:30pm
• Sun., May 11 Tippecanoe Villa 1:30pm
• Sun., May 11 Friendship House 3:00pm
• Sun., May 18 Davis Manor 3:00pm
• Sun., May 25 Rosewalk Commons 2:30pm
The Deacons invite you to become a part of this ministry
We invite you to join in the worship of God each Sunday morning at 9:30am and each Wednesday morning at 7:00am. We also invite you to participate in the prayers, fellowship, work and activities of this church.
For more information about this opportunity to be involved at Faith Presbyterian Church, please call or talk to any member of Session or call the church office at 743-3683.
Faith Presbyterian Church
9:30 a.m., April 27, 2008
Let the first tone of the organ be a call to quiet meditation in which all may become aware of God’s presence, and lift up a prayer for yourself and for Faith Church.
Hymn Sing Green Supplemental Hymnal
# 11 “Rejoice Ye Pure in Heart” vs. 1 – 3
# 16 “Jesus Calls Us” vs. 1, 2, and 4
# 93 “Create in Me a Clean Heart” 2 times
Gray Psalter Hymnal
# 573 “O Master, Let Me Walk with Thee”
# 634 “Father We Love You”
Introduction of Pastor Nominee Don Gentry
Welcome, Announcements, and Greet One Another Glenn Sparks
InvocationPastor Horner
Hymn # 409 “Hail the Day that Sees Him Rise”
(Gray Psalter Hymnal)
Psalter: Psalm 66: 1 - 9 (read responsively) Glenn Sparks
1Make a joyful noise to God, all the earth;
2sing the glory of his name; give to him glorious praise.
3Say to God, “How awesome are your deeds! Because of your great power, your enemies cringe before you.
4All the earth worships you; they sing praises to you, sing praises to your name.”
5Come and see what God has done: he is awesome in his deeds among mortals.
6He turned the sea into dry land; they passed through the river on foot. There we rejoiced in him,
7who rules by his might forever, whose eyes keep watch on the nations— let the rebellious not exalt themselves. Selah
8Bless our God, O peoples, let the sound of his praise be heard,
9who has kept us among the living, and has not let our feet slip.
Prayer for Illumination Glenn Sparks
First Lesson: Ephesians 1: 15 - 23 NRSV Glenn Sparks
15 I have heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love towards all the saints, and for this reason 16I do not cease to give thanks for you as I remember you in my prayers. 17I pray that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you a spirit of wisdom and revelation as you come to know him, 18so that, with the eyes of your heart enlightened, you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance among the saints, 19and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power for us who believe, according to the working of his great power. 20God put this power to work in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places, 21far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and above every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the age to come. 22And he has put all things under his feet and has made him the head over all things for the church, 23which is his body, the fullness of him who fills all in all.
Lector: “This is the Word of God.”
Congregation: “Thanks be to God for His Word.”
Anthem “Holy, True and Faithful God” Mary McDonald
Children’s Sermon Pastor Horner
Hymn # 530 “I Love to Tell the Story”
(Gray Psalter Hymnal)
Second Lesson: Luke 24: 44 - 53 NRSV Pastor Horner
44Then he said to them, “These are my words that I spoke to you while I was still with you—that everything written about me in the law of Moses, the prophets, and the psalms must be fulfilled.” 45Then he opened their minds to understand the scriptures, 46and he said to them, “Thus it is written, that the Messiah is to suffer and to rise from the dead on the third day, 47and that repentance and forgiveness of sins is to be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem. 48You are witnesses of these things. 49And see, I am sending upon you what my Father promised; so stay here in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high.”
50Then he led them out as far as Bethany, and, lifting up his hands, he blessed them. 51While he was blessing them, he withdrew from them and was carried up into heaven. 52And they worshiped him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy; 53and they were continually in the temple blessing God.
Sermon “Jesus Ascended Into Heaven,….Hooray!!”
Pastor Horner
After the sermon children in grades K-6 may leave for children’s choir
Gathering of Tithes and Offerings
Please sign and pass the register located in the pew.
Offertory “Amazing Grace” Babcock and Voss
(Marilyn and Mary Lou)
Response
Blessing and glory and wisdom and power
Be to the Savior again and again.
Might and thanksgiving and honor forever
Be to our God: Alleluia! Amen. ∆
Prayer of Dedication Pastor Horner
Joys and Concerns Glenn Sparks
Prayers of Thanksgiving and Intercession
Paul Rund’s family (Becky Chapman’s co worker), Lewis & Kari Hauer (Mike Bergmann’s sister & husband), Ezekiel Housley (Tom & Peggy Housely’s grandson), folk in the military, Hope Clinic, Priscilla Girls’ School
Hymn # 4 “Be Still, My Soul”
(Green Supplemental Hymnal)
Benediction
Postlude “Salvation Unto Us Has Come”
Dietrich Buxtehude (Germany, 1633-1707)
∆ © vers. Christoper Idel, 1973 ∆ 1973, Hope Publishing Co. CCLI # 387100
Worship
…is the quickening of conscience by God’s holiness;
the nourishment of mind with His truth;
the purifying of imagination by His beauty;
the opening of the heart to His love;
the surrender of the will to His purpose;
and all of this gathered up in adoration—
the most selfless emotion of which our nature is capable, and therefore the chief remedy for that self-centeredness which is our original sin and the source of all actual sin.” -William Temple
Welcome
To all who are weary and seek rest; to all who mourn and long for comfort; to all who struggle and desire victory; to all who sin and need a Savior; to all who are idle and look for service; to all who are strangers and want fellowship; to all who hunger and thirst after righteousness; and to whosoever will come--this church opens wide her doors and offers her welcome in the name of Jesus Christ her Lord.
Guests please sign our guest book and join us in the Fellowship Hall after worship.
Babysitting is available during worship for infants up to
2-1/2 years old in the room behind the balcony. Children ages 2-1/2 through 5 will be in the Pre-School Nursery in the Education Wing. School age children worship with their parents.
* Greeters this morning are Dan & Kathy Trinkle.
* The ushers this morning are Keith & Dottie Bundy and Chris & Carol Christiansen.
* Congratulations Graduates - We want to know if you are graduating this year from high school, college or graduate school. Parents and friends please help us with our list. Contact Lois Wark 43-1903.
* National Day of Prayer – Thursday, May 1st, marks our community observance of the National Day of Prayer—a very important day in the life of our country. Millions of Americans will join together across racial, political and denominational boundaries to pray for our nation and its leaders. The theme this year is Prayer! America’s Strength and Shield.
Do you like bells?
Would you like to play them? Look for more information in the May newsletter.
* NOTE: When wearing perfume or other strong scents please be considerate of those that may be allergic or sensitive.
Today:
9:30 a.m. Congregation at Worship
11:00 a.m. Sunday School
2:30 p.m. Rosewalk Commons worship
6:00 p.m. Youth
6:30 p.m. Bible study
This Week:
Tues., 9:30 a.m. FWF Bible study at Faith Church
Tues., 7:00 p.m. Boy Scout Troop 338
Tues., 7:30 p.m. Tippecanoe Co. Jail Bible study
Wed., 7:00 a.m. Morning Prayers & Breakfast (Lois Wark)
Wed., 7:30 p.m. Bible Study at Kathy Bowker’s
Faith Presbyterian Church
9:30 a.m., April 20, 2008
Let the first tone of the organ be a call to quiet meditation in which all may become aware of God’s presence, and lift up a prayer for yourself and for Faith Church.
Hymn Sing Green Supplemental Hymnal
Hymn # 6 “Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee”
Hymn # 38 “A Shelter In the Time Of Storm”
Gray Psalter Hymnal
Hymn # 556 “Great Is Thy Faithfulness”
Hymn # 473 “To God Be the Glory”
Hymn # 634 “Father, We Love You”
Welcome, Announcements, and Greet One Another
Invocation
Hymn # 469 “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God”
Psalter: Psalm 46 RSV (read responsively) Jurgen Honig
1God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.
2Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change, though the mountains shake in the heart of the sea;
3though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble with its tumult.
4There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy habitation of the Most High.
5God is in the midst of the city; it shall not be moved; God will help it when the morning dawns.
6The nations are in an uproar, the kingdoms totter; he utters his voice, the earth melts.
7The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge.
8Come, behold the works of the Lord; see what desolations he has brought on the earth.
9He makes wars cease to the end of the earth; he breaks the bow, and shatters the spear; he burns the shields with fire.
10“Be still, and know that I am God! I am exalted among the nations, I am exalted in the earth.”
11The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge.
Prayer for Illumination Jurgen Honig
First Lesson: II Kings 18: 13 - 25 NIV Jurgen Honig
13 In the fourteenth year of King Hezekiah's reign, Sennacherib king of Assyria attacked all the fortified cities of Judah and captured them. 14 So Hezekiah king of Judah sent this message to the king of Assyria at Lachish: "I have done wrong. Withdraw from me, and I will pay whatever you demand of me." The king of Assyria exacted from Hezekiah king of Judah three hundred talents of silver and thirty talents of gold. 15 So Hezekiah gave him all the silver that was found in the temple of the LORD and in the treasuries of the royal palace.
16 At this time Hezekiah king of Judah stripped off the gold with which he had covered the doors and doorposts of the temple of the LORD, and gave it to the king of Assyria.
17 The king of Assyria sent his supreme commander, his chief officer and his field commander with a large army, from Lachish to King Hezekiah at Jerusalem. They came up to Jerusalem and stopped at the aqueduct of the Upper Pool, on the road to the Washerman's Field. 18 They called for the king; and Eliakim son of Hilkiah the palace administrator, Shebna the secretary, and Joah son of Asaph the recorder went out to them.
19 The field commander said to them, "Tell Hezekiah: " 'This is what the great king, the king of Assyria, says: On what are you basing this confidence of yours? 20 You say you have strategy and military strength—but you speak only empty words. On whom are you depending, that you rebel against me? 21 Look now, you are depending on Egypt, that splintered reed of a staff, which pierces a man's hand and wounds him if he leans on it! Such is Pharaoh king of Egypt to all who depend on him. 22 And if you say to me, "We are depending on the LORD our God"-isn't he the one whose high places and altars Hezekiah removed, saying to Judah and Jerusalem, "You must worship before this altar in Jerusalem"?
23 " 'Come now, make a bargain with my master, the king of Assyria: I will give you two thousand horses—if you can put riders on them! 24 How can you repulse one officer of the least of my master's officials, even though you are depending on Egypt for chariots and horsemen 25 Furthermore, have I come to attack and destroy this place without word from the LORD The LORD himself told me to march against this country and destroy it.' "
Anthem “Break Forth Into Joy” Hal Hopson
Children’s Sermon
Second Lesson: II Kings 19: 1 – 4, 14 – 17, 35 - 37 NIV
Jurgen Honig
1 When King Hezekiah heard this, he tore his clothes and put on sackcloth and went into the temple of the LORD. 2 He sent Eliakim the palace administrator, Shebna the secretary and the leading priests, all wearing sackcloth, to the prophet Isaiah son of Amoz. 3 They told him, "This is what Hezekiah says: This day is a day of distress and rebuke and disgrace, as when children come to the point of birth and there is no strength to deliver them. 4 It may be that the LORD your God will hear all the words of the field commander, whom his master, the king of Assyria, has sent to ridicule the living God, and that he will rebuke him for the words the LORD your God has heard. Therefore pray for the remnant that still survives."
14 Hezekiah received the letter from the messengers and read it. Then he went up to the temple of the LORD and spread it out before the LORD. 15 And Hezekiah prayed to the LORD : "O LORD, God of Israel, enthroned between the cherubim, you alone are God over all the kingdoms of the earth. You have made heaven and earth. 16 Give ear, O LORD, and hear; open your eyes, O LORD, and see; listen to the words Sennacherib has sent to insult the living God.
17 "It is true, O LORD, that the Assyrian kings have laid waste these nations and their lands.
35 That night the angel of the LORD went out and put to death a hundred and eighty-five thousand men in the Assyrian camp. When the people got up the next morning—there were all the dead bodies! 36 So Sennacherib king of Assyria broke camp and withdrew. He returned to Nineveh and stayed there.
37 One day, while he was worshiping in the temple of his god Nisroch, his sons Adrammelech and Sharezer cut him down with the sword, and they escaped to the land of Ararat. And Esarhaddon his son succeeded him as king.
Lector: “This is the Word of God.”
Congregation: “Thanks be to God for His Word.”
Hymn # 500 “How Firm a Foundation” omit vs 3
Sermon Series” “Psalms of Comfort”
# 3 “ Escape from Vulnerability” Pastor Green
After the sermon children in grades K-6 may leave for children’s choir
Gathering of Tithes and Offerings
Please sign and pass the register located in the pew.
Offertory “If Thou But Suffer God To Guide Thee”
Helmut Walcha (Germany, 1907-1991)
(Gray hymnal, p. 446)
Response
We praise you, O God, our Redeemer, Creator;
In grateful devotion our tribute we bring.
We lay it before you, we kneel and adore you;
We bless your holy name, glad praises we sing.
Prayer of Dedication
Joys and Concerns
Prayers of Thanksgiving and Intercession
Donna Lofgren, Denise Smith (Barbara Knox’s co-worker),
Henry Dukes (Will & Sally Miller’s grandson), folk in the military, Life Care Services, Lafayette Urban Ministry
Hymn # 560 “Like a River Glorious”
Benediction
Postlude "Air" from Water Music G.F. Handel (1685-1789)
Worship
…is the quickening of conscience by God’s holiness;
the nourishment of mind with His truth;
the purifying of imagination by His beauty;
the opening of the heart to His love;
the surrender of the will to His purpose;
and all of this gathered up in adoration—
the most selfless emotion of which our nature is capable, and therefore the chief remedy for that self-centeredness which is our original sin and the source of all actual sin.” -William Temple
Welcome
To all who are weary and seek rest; to all who mourn and long for comfort; to all who struggle and desire victory; to all who sin and need a Savior; to all who are idle and look for service; to all who are strangers and want fellowship; to all who hunger and thirst after righteousness; and to whosoever will come--this church opens wide her doors and offers her welcome in the name of Jesus Christ her Lord.
Guests please sign our guest book and join us in the Fellowship Hall after worship.
Babysitting is available during worship for infants up to
2-1/2 years old in the room behind the balcony. Children ages 2-1/2 through 5 will be in the Pre-School Nursery in the Education Wing. School age children worship with their parents.
* Greeters this morning are Dan & Kathy Trinkle.
* The ushers this morning are Keith & Dottie Bundy and Chris & Carol Christiansen.
* The Faith Presbyterian Church Pastor Nominating Committee will nominate a candidate to be the next Pastor of Faith Church on Sunday, April 27, 2008. The candidate will be introduced to the congregation and will conduct the worship service on that morning. A congregational meeting has been called for 11:00 a.m. following the worship service on April 27, 2008 for the purpose of taking action on the nomination and the compensation package for the new Pastor. Don Gentry, Chair of the PNC
* Painting and carpeting of the library and infant nursery: The completion of the painting and carpeting for these rooms will be done from April 14 to 25, and they will be unavailable during this time. Please call Dave McKinnis with any questions or concerns. 463-4963
* Do you like bells? Do you like to play them? Look for more information in the May newsletter.
* NOTE: When wearing perfume or other strong scents please be considerate of those that may be allergic or sensitive.
Summer Sunday School
Help our children learn in a fun way this summer during the summer months. Traditional Sunday School will end for the summer on May 18th. A multi-age class will be held for pre-school through 6th grade from June 1 through August 3rd. Material will be available for a simple lesson with time for music and recreation. This class will be taught on a volunteer basis with a sign up in the fellowship hall. If there isn't a volunteer for the week, the children will go with their parents for Sunday School. Please help our children continue to learn about God's word.
Homeward Bound Walk
I will be participating in the Homeward Bound Walk on Sunday, April 20. I am walking to raise money for Habitat for Humanity of Lafayette for the Presbyterian Church build in 2009. Anyone wishing to contribute should give the donations to me, Daniel Trinkle, by Sunday, April 20. Please make checks payable to Homeward Bound.
VBS is Coming
Vacation Bible School will be held on June 16 - June 20. The theme this year will be “Journey with Joseph”. The sign-up sheet for teachers and helpers is in the fellowship hall.
All who are interested in helping with VBS this year, a meeting will be held on April 24, 7pm in the fellowship hall. Please attend so we may plan, and if you have questions, talk to Grieke (463-7136).
Today:
9:30 a.m. Congregation at Worship
11:00 a.m. Sunday School
No Davis Manor worship
6:00 p.m. Youth
6:30 p.m. Bible study
This Week:
Tues., 9:30 a.m. FWF Bible study at Faith Church
Tues., 7:00 p.m. Boy Scout Troop 338
Tues., 7:30 p.m. Tippecanoe Co. Jail Bible study
Wed., 7:00 a.m. Morning Prayers & Breakfast (Ann Freeman)
Wed., 6:30 p.m. Adult Choir
Wed., 7:30 p.m. Bible Study at Kathy Bowker’s
Thurs., 7:00 p.m. Vacation Bible School Staff meeting
For boys and girls Entering Kdgn. through 6th grade
Monday – Friday, June 16 – 20, 2008
9:00am – 12:00pm
Journey with Joseph
In everything God works for good!
Faith Presbyterian Church
9:30 a.m., April 13, 2008
Let the first tone of the organ be a call to quiet meditation in which all may become aware of God’s presence, and lift up a prayer for yourself and for Faith Church.
Hymn Sing Hymn # 453 “Let All Things Now Living”
Hymn # 434 “God Moves in a Mysterious Way”
Hymn # 219 “As Moses Raised the Serpent Up”
Hymn # 556 “Great Is Thy Faithfulness”
Hymn # 284 “Father, I Adore You”
Welcome, Announcements, and Greet One Another
Invocation
Hymn “I Sing the Mighty Power of God” insert
Psalter: Psalm 124: 1 – 5, 8 NIV (read responsively)
1 If the LORD had not been on our side—let Israel say-
2 if the LORD had not been on our side when men attacked us,
3 when their anger flared against us, they would have swallowed us alive;
4 the flood would have engulfed us, the torrent would have swept over us,
5 the raging waters would have swept us away.
8 Our help is in the name of the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth.
Prayer for Illumination Tom Housley
First Lesson: Psalm 42 NIV Tom Housley
1As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, O God.
2 My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God?
3 My tears have been my food day and night, while men say to me all day long, "Where is your God?"
4 These things I remember as I pour out my soul: how I used to go with the multitude, leading the procession to the house of God, with shouts of joy and thanksgiving among the festive throng.
5 Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and 6 my God. My soul is downcast within me; therefore I will remember you from the land of the Jordan, the heights of Hermon—from Mount Mizar.
7 Deep calls to deep in the roar of your waterfalls; all your waves and breakers have swept over me.
8 By day the LORD directs his love, at night his song is with me— a prayer to the God of my life.
9 I say to God my Rock, "Why have you forgotten me? Why must I go about mourning, oppressed by the enemy?"
10 My bones suffer mortal agony as my foes taunt me, saying to me all day long, "Where is your God?"
11 Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.
Anthem “Jesus Makes My Heart Rejoice”
Moravian Hymn (18 century)
Children’s Sermon
Second Lesson: John 7: 1 – 3, 14 – 15, 37 - 38 NIV
1After this, Jesus went around in Galilee, purposely staying away from Judea because the Jews there were waiting to take his life. 2But when the Jewish Feast of Tabernacles was near, 3Jesus' brothers said to him, "You ought to leave here and go to Judea, so that your disciples may see the miracles you do.
14Not until halfway through the Feast did Jesus go up to the temple courts and begin to teach. 15The Jews were amazed and asked, "How did this man get such learning without having studied?"
37On the last and greatest day of the Feast, Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, "If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink. 38Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him."
Lector: “This is the Word of God.”
Congregation: “Thanks be to God for His Word.”
Hymn # 91 “As the Deer”
(Green Supplemental Hymnal)
Sermon: Series” “Psalms of Comfort”
# 2 “Escape from Loneliness” Pastor Green
After the sermon children in grades K-6 may leave for children’s choir
Gathering of Tithes and Offerings
Please sign and pass the register located in the pew.
Offertory “Jesu, meine Freude”
Johann Walther (Germany, 1684-1748)
See gray hymnal p. 572
Response
We praise you, O God, our Redeemer, Creator;
In grateful devotion our tribute we bring.
We lay it before you, we kneel and adore you;
We bless your holy name, glad praises we sing.
Prayer of Dedication
Joys and Concerns
Prayers of Thanksgiving and Intercession
Mary Sholty, Jean Howe, Janis Matouk, folk in the military, Theological College of Central Africa, Zambia, Rich & Kathy Stuebing
Hymn “The Love of God” insert
Benediction
Postlude “Toccata in F Major”
Dietrich Buxtehude (Germany, 1637-1707)
Worship
…is the quickening of conscience by God’s holiness;
the nourishment of mind with His truth;
the purifying of imagination by His beauty;
the opening of the heart to His love;
the surrender of the will to His purpose;
and all of this gathered up in adoration—
the most selfless emotion of which our nature is capable, and therefore the chief remedy for that self-centeredness which is our original sin and the source of all actual sin.” -William Temple
Welcome
To all who are weary and seek rest; to all who mourn and long for comfort; to all who struggle and desire victory; to all who sin and need a Savior; to all who are idle and look for service; to all who are strangers and want fellowship; to all who hunger and thirst after righteousness; and to whosoever will come--this church opens wide her doors and offers her welcome in the name of Jesus Christ her Lord.
Guests please sign our guest book and join us in the Fellowship Hall after worship.
Babysitting is available during worship for infants up to
2-1/2 years old in the room behind the balcony. Children ages 2-1/2 through 5 will be in the Pre-School Nursery in the Education Wing. School age children worship with their parents.
Theological College of Central Africa
The Theological College of Central Africa (TCCA), established by the Evangelical Fellowship of Zambia in 1982, is a training centre for those wanting to enter full-time Christian service.
TCCA is fully accredited with the Accrediting Council for Theological Education in Africa (ACTEA), and is recognized by Zambia's Ministry of Education for Teacher Training in Religious Education.
Both a three-year Diploma of Theology and a four-year Bachelor of Theology degree are offered with majors in Pastoral Ministry, Education and Missions.
Mission: To train those wanting to enter full-time Christian service.
TCCA's 164 living graduates from seven African countries represent a variety of ministries: pastoral ministry, theological education, evangelism, discipleship, Christian education, community development and Bible translation.
Eighty percent of TCCA graduates are currently in full-time ministry in both urban and rural settings. Another ten percent are either homemakers or pursuing further studies.
Rich & Kathy Stuebing
Richard and Kathy Stuebing are two of the original faculty members of the Theological College of Central Africa in Zambia. Richard teaches classes and, serves as business manager and Kathy also teaches college classes designed to help both students and spouses.
* Greeters this morning are Dan & Kathy Trinkle.
* The ushers this morning are Keith & Dottie Bundy and Chris & Carol Christiansen.
* The flowers this morning are given in memory of Janis Matouk’s son, Steve Stewart (1953 – 2000).
* The Faith Presbyterian Church Pastor Nominating Committee will nominate a candidate to be the next Pastor of Faith Church on Sunday, April 27, 2008. The candidate will be introduced to the congregation and will conduct the worship service on that morning. A congregational meeting has been called for 11:00 a.m. following the worship service on April 27, 2008 for the purpose of taking action on the nomination and the compensation package for the new Pastor. Don Gentry, Chair of the PNC
* Painting and carpeting of the library and infant nursery: The completion of the painting and carpeting for these rooms will be done from April 14 to 25, and they will be unavailable during this time. Please call Dave McKinnis with any questions or concerns. 463-4963
* Do you like bells? Do you like to play them? Look for more information in the May newsletter.
* Carol Christiansen has a request from Scott Livermore to have congregational help to serve a meal before the Campus Crusade meetings at University Church. If you would like to volunteer please contact Carol.
* NOTE: When wearing perfume or other strong scents please be considerate of those that may be allergic or sensitive.
Summer Sunday School
Help our children learn in a fun way this summer during the summer months. Traditional Sunday School will end for the summer on May 18th. A multi-age class will be held for pre-school through 6th grade from June 1 through August 3rd. Material will be available for a simple lesson with time for music and recreation. This class will be taught on a volunteer basis with a sign up in the fellowship hall. If there isn't a volunteer for the week, the children will go with their parents for Sunday School. Please help our children continue to learn about God's word.
VBS is Coming
Vacation Bible School will be held on June 16 - June 20. Sign up for teachers and helpers are in the fellowship hall. Join the fun today.
All who are interested in helping with VBS this year, a meeting will be held on April 24, 7pm in the fellowship hall. Please attend so we may plan.
Homeward Bound Walk
I will be participating in the Homeward Bound Walk on Sunday, April 20. I am walking to raise money for Habitat for Humanity of Lafayette for the Presbyterian Church build in 2009. Anyone wishing to contribute should give the donations to me, Daniel Trinkle, by Sunday, April 20. Please make checks payable to Homeward Bound.
Today:
9:30 a.m. Congregation at Worship
11:00 a.m. Sunday School
1:30 p.m. Tippecanoe Villa worship
3:00 p.m. Friendship House worship
6:00 p.m. Youth
6:30 p.m. Bible study
This Week:
Tues., 9:30 a.m. FWF Bible study at Faith Church
Tues., 7:00 p.m. Deacons
Tues., 7:00 p.m. Boy Scout Troop 338
Tues., 7:30 p.m. Tippecanoe Co. Jail Bible study
Wed., 7:00 a.m. Morning Prayers (Communion
& Breakfast (Carolyn Kessler)
Wed., 6:30 p.m. Adult Choir
Wed., 7:30 p.m. Bible Study at Kathy Bowker’s
Faith Presbyterian Church
9:30 a.m., April 6, 2008
Let the first tone of the organ be a call to quiet meditation in which all may become aware of God’s presence, and lift up a prayer for yourself and for Faith Church.
Prelude “Liebster Jesu, wir sind hier” (chorale and 4 variations) (see gray hymnal, p. 280)
Johann Walther (Germany, 1684-1748)
Welcome, Announcements, and Greet One Another
Invocation
Hymn # 170 “O God, Our Help in Ages Past”
Psalter: Psalm 119: 89 - 93 NIV (read responsively)
Michael Bergmann
89 Your word, O LORD, is eternal; it stands firm in the heavens.
90 Your faithfulness continues through all generations; you established the earth, and it endures.
91 Your laws endure to this day, for all things serve you.
92 If your law had not been my delight, I would have perished in my affliction.
93 I will never forget your precepts, for by them you have preserved my life.
Prayer for Illumination Michael Bergmann
First Lesson: I Samuel 21: 10 –15 NIV Michael Bergmann
10 That day David fled from Saul and went to Achish king of Gath. 11 But the servants of Achish said to him, "Isn't this David, the king of the land? Isn't he the one they sing about in their dances: " 'Saul has slain his thousands, and David his tens of thousands'?"
12 David took these words to heart and was very much afraid of Achish king of Gath. 13 So he pretended to be insane in their presence; and while he was in their hands he acted like a madman, making marks on the doors of the gate and letting saliva run down his beard.
14 Achish said to his servants, "Look at the man! He is insane! Why bring him to me? 15 Am I so short of madmen that you have to bring this fellow here to carry on like this in front of me? Must this man come into my house?"
I Samuel 23: 7 - 29
7 Saul was told that David had gone to Keilah, and he said, "God has handed him over to me, for David has imprisoned himself by entering a town with gates and bars." 8 And Saul called up all his forces for battle, to go down to Keilah to besiege David and his men.
9 When David learned that Saul was plotting against him, he said to Abiathar the priest, "Bring the ephod." 10 David said, "O LORD, God of Israel, your servant has heard definitely that Saul plans to come to Keilah and destroy the town on account of me. 11 Will the citizens of Keilah surrender me to him? Will Saul come down, as your servant has heard? O LORD, God of Israel, tell your servant." And the LORD said, "He will."
12 Again David asked, "Will the citizens of Keilah surrender me and my men to Saul?" And the LORD said, "They will."
13 So David and his men, about six hundred in number, left Keilah and kept moving from place to place. When Saul was told that David had escaped from Keilah, he did not go there.
14 David stayed in the desert strongholds and in the hills of the Desert of Ziph. Day after day Saul searched for him, but God did not give David into his hands.
15 While David was at Horesh in the Desert of Ziph, he learned that Saul had come out to take his life. 16 And Saul's son Jonathan went to David at Horesh and helped him find strength in God. 17 "Don't be afraid," he said. "My father Saul will not lay a hand on you. You will be king over Israel, and I will be second to you. Even my father Saul knows this." 18 The two of them made a covenant before the LORD. Then Jonathan went home, but David remained at Horesh.
19 The Ziphites went up to Saul at Gibeah and said, "Is not David hiding among us in the strongholds at Horesh, on the hill of Hakilah, south of Jeshimon? 20 Now, O king, come down whenever it pleases you to do so, and we will be responsible for handing him over to the king."
21 Saul replied, "The LORD bless you for your concern for me. 22 Go and make further preparation. Find out where David usually goes and who has seen him there. They tell me he is very crafty. 23 Find out about all the hiding places he uses and come back to me with definite information. Then I will go with you; if he is in the area, I will track him down among all the clans of Judah."
24 So they set out and went to Ziph ahead of Saul. Now David and his men were in the Desert of Maon, in the Arabah south of Jeshimon. 25 Saul and his men began the search, and when David was told about it, he went down to the rock and stayed in the Desert of Maon. When Saul heard this, he went into the Desert of Maon in pursuit of David.
26 Saul was going along one side of the mountain, and David and his men were on the other side, hurrying to get away from Saul. As Saul and his forces were closing in on David and his men to capture them, 27 a messenger came to Saul, saying, "Come quickly! The Philistines are raiding the land." 28 Then Saul broke off his pursuit of David and went to meet the Philistines. That is why they call this place Sela Hammahlekoth. 29 And David went up from there and lived in the strongholds of En Gedi.
Anthem “Lord Make Us Worthy” Natalie Sleeth
Children’s Sermon
Second Lesson: Psalm 63 NIV Michael Bergmann
1O God, you are my God, earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you, my body longs for you, in a dry and weary land where there is no water.
2 I have seen you in the sanctuary and beheld your power and your glory.
3 Because your love is better than life, my lips will glorify you.
4 I will praise you as long as I live, and in your name I will lift up my hands.
5 My soul will be satisfied as with the richest of foods; with singing lips my mouth will praise you.
6 On my bed I remember you; I think of you through the watches of the night.
7 Because you are my help, I sing in the shadow of your wings.
8 My soul clings to you; your right hand upholds me.
9 They who seek my life will be destroyed; they will go down to the depths of the earth.
10 They will be given over to the sword and become food for jackals.
11 But the king will rejoice in God; all who swear by God's name will praise him, while the mouths of liars will be silenced.
Lector: “This is the Word of God.”
Congregation: “Thanks be to God for His Word.”
Hymn # 63 “O Lord, My God, Most Earnestly”
Sermon: Series” “Psalms of Comfort”
# 1 “Escape from Trouble” Pastor Green
After the sermon children in grades K-6 may leave for children’s choir
Gathering of Tithes and Offerings
Please sign and pass the register located in the pew.
Offertory “Wenn wir in hochsten Noten sein”
J.S. Bach, (Germany, 1685-1750)
When we are in utmost distress and know not where to go, and find
neither help nor advice whether we seek from morning to night
This then is our only comfort: that we call on you together,
O faithful God, for rescue from worry and misery,
and lift up our eyes and hearts to you in true repentance and pain, and seek forgiveness of sins and the alleviation of punishment......
Response
We praise you, O God, our Redeemer, Creator;
In grateful devotion our tribute we bring.
We lay it before you, we kneel and adore you;
We bless your holy name, glad praises we sing.
Prayer of Dedication
Joys and Concerns
Prayers of Thanksgiving and Intercession
Amy Dale, Tom Housley, Joanne Kovacs, folk in the military, ECHO (Education Concerns for Hunger Organization), Trinity Mission
Hymn # 169 “I Will Sing of the Mercies of the Lord”
Benediction
Postlude “Trumpet Tune in F” Roy Brunner
Worship
…is the quickening of conscience by God’s holiness;
the nourishment of mind with His truth;
the purifying of imagination by His beauty;
the opening of the heart to His love;
the surrender of the will to His purpose;
and all of this gathered up in adoration—
the most selfless emotion of which our nature is capable, and therefore the chief remedy for that self-centeredness which is our original sin and the source of all actual sin.” -William Temple
Welcome
To all who are weary and seek rest; to all who mourn and long for comfort; to all who struggle and desire victory; to all who sin and need a Savior; to all who are idle and look for service; to all who are strangers and want fellowship; to all who hunger and thirst after righteousness; and to whosoever will come--this church opens wide her doors and offers her welcome in the name of Jesus Christ her Lord.
Guests please sign our guest book and join us in the Fellowship Hall after worship.
Babysitting is available during worship for infants up to
2-1/2 years old in the room behind the balcony. Children ages 2-1/2 through 5 will be in the Pre-School Nursery in the Education Wing. School age children worship with their parents.
ECHO (North Fort Myers, FL)
Education Concerns for Hunger Organization
ECHO is a demonstration farm in North Fort Myers, Florida which has been assisting missionaries and developmental workers since 1981. It exists for the major purpose of helping those working internationally with the poor to be more effective, especially in the area of agriculture. The mission: network with community leaders in developing countries to seek hunger solutions for families growing food under difficult conditions. The vision: to bring glory to God and a blessing to mankind by using science and technology to help the poor.
Trinity Mission
Trinity Mission exists to release the hurting and needy from the burdens that have created their situation, renewing their hope for a productive life, and restoring them to wholeness and productive lives. Trinity Mission teaches people to be responsible for their lives and actions and shows them how to live with respect to the Gospel. Acceptance of people is based not on their past but on their willingness to learn how to become what God wants them to become. Welcome to Trinity Mission where God is actively involved with every resident, staff and board member’s life and Jesus is always the answer to any of life’s issues.
* Greeters this morning are Dan & Kathy Trinkle.
* NOTE: When wearing perfume or other strong scents please be considerate of those that may be allergic or sensitive.
* Prayer Hotline - If you need prayer or other help from the church or know of anyone else that does, please call one of the elders or deacons or use the new prayer hotline at prayers@faithpresbyterian.org.
“All Pilgrims Go through this Valley”
by Pastor Ron Green
During his time on earth, Jesus went through the valley of the shadow of death. That's never something to relish. But it’s comforting to know Jesus walked that same lonesome valley. I like what the apostle who wrote the Book of Hebrews commented: "In bringing many sons to glory, it was fitting that God, for whom and through whom everything exists, should make the Author of their salvation perfect through suffering." (2:10) Whatever valley you are going through, Jesus suffered more. He paid the price to be the Captain of our salvation.
Though Jesus traveled this valley floor with such finesse, the real question considered here is how well will you and I will face that same valley. In answer of this question, I've provided this exciting account, which John Bunyan gives in Pilgrim's Progress describing the traveling of the main character, "Christian,” through this dreaded valley. If you read on you'll find a great description of what he experiences and learn from him several pointers on traveling this desolate, forsaken valley.
As Christian approaches the shadow of death, he comes upon two men retreating because they found the dangers too great to face. Christian asks them what they saw. They reply "Hobgoblins, Satyrs and Dragons of the pit. We also heard in the valley a continual howling and yelling as of people under unutterable misery sitting there in affliction and irons. Over that valley hangs the discouraging clouds of confusion, and death also spreads his wings over it. In a word, it's completely dreadful, being utterly without order."
Then Christians said, '"In site of what you've said, I still see this as my path to the desired refuge.'
So they departed and Christian went on his way with sword drawn.
Writes Bunyan, "I saw then in my dream that a very deep ditch lay on the right hand for the full length of the valley. It is the ditch into which the blind have led the blind throughout the ages and where both have miserably perished. Also, on the left hand was a very dangerous quagmire into which, if a good man falls, he finds no bottom for his foot to stand on. This is the quagmire into which King David once fell and in which he would have been smothered if He who is able had not pulled him out. "
The pathway was also extremely narrow here. Good Christian therefore, was seriously challenged, for when he sought in the dark to avoid the ditch on one hand, he was close to tripping over into the mire on the other. Also, when he sought to escape the mire, without great care he would be ready to fall into the ditch. He went on like this, and I heard him sigh bitterly for beside the dangers mentioned above, the pathway was so dark here that often, when he lifted up his foot to go forward. He did not know where or upon what he would set it down next.
Christian said, "I perceived the Mouth of Hell to be about in the middle of this valley, and it also stood close to the side of the Path."
'"Now," thought Christian, "What shall I do?"
Again and again the flame and smoke would come out of it in such abundance and with sparks and hideous noises--things not able to be moved by Christian's Sword...that he was forced to put up his Sword and resort to take up another weapon called All-Prayer
I hear Christian cry out, "O Lord, save me!"
He went on like this for a great while, but the flames were still reaching toward him. He heard threatening voices and rushing about, so that sometimes he thought he would be torn in pieces or trodden down like mud in the roads. For several miles altogether he saw these frightening sights and heard these dreadful noises; and coming to a place where he thought he heard a gang of fiends coming toward him, he stopped and began to consider what would be the best thing to do. Sometimes he had half a mind to go back; then he thought again that he might be halfway through the valley. Also, he remembered how he had already vanquished many a danger and that the risk of going back might be much more than going forwards. So he resolved to go on, yet the fiends seemed to come nearer and nearer.
When they almost reached him, Christian cried out with a most earnest voice, "I will go in the strength of the Lord God." So they backed off and came no farther.
[Says Bunyan,] One thing I would not forget to tell: I took notice that how poor Christian was so confounded that he did not know his own voice, and this is how I observed it: Just when he had come close to the mouth of the burning pit, one of the Wicked Ones got beyond him, stepping up softly to him and whispering suggestions of deplorable blasphemies to him. He actually thought these had originated in his own mind. To think that he should now blaspheme the one he loved so much before challenged Christian more than anything he had met with. Yet, if he could have helped it, he would not have done it; but he did not have the freedom to either stop his ears or to know where the blasphemies came from.
After Christian had traveled in this sad condition for a considerable time, he thought he heard the voice of a man as if he were going before him, saying "Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me."
Then he was glad, and these are the reasons: First--because he gathered by it that others who feared God were in this valley as well as himself. Secondly--he perceived God was with them even in that dark and dismal condition. "And why wouldn't he be with me?" he thought, "Even though I can't feel it because of the hindrances associated with this place." Thirdly--if he could catch up with them he hoped to eventually have fellowship with them.
In time the Day broke, much to Christian's relief.
Sunday, April 6th Sermon: Series: “Psalms of Comfort”
# 1 “Escape from Trouble”
Psalm 34
Sunday, April 13th Sermon: Series: “Psalms of Comfort”
# 2 “Escape from Loneliness”
Psalm 42
Sunday, April 20th Sermon: Series: “Psalms of Comfort”
# 3 “Escape from Vulnerability”
Psalm 46
Sunday, April 27th Sermon: Series: “Psalms of Comfort”
# 4 “Escape from Betrayal”
Psalm 55
Sunday, May 4th Sermon: Series: “Psalms of Comfort”
# 5 “Escape from Frailty”
Psalm 91
Sunday, May 11th Sermon: Series: “Psalms of Comfort”
# 6 “Escape from Offensive Behavior”
Psalm 139
I wish to thank Elder Jane Stewart for taking over my duties while I relaxed in the Florida sunshine; it was 86 degrees in the Keys shortly before Josephine and I returned to the frigidities of the West Lafayette climate.
At its February 5, 2008 meeting the Session was informed about the pending replacement of the front doors, the operation of the Kids’ Club, and the reestablishment of the Communications Committee. Margaret Rogler asked to be relieved of her duties of counting the loose change in the collection plates after each worship service. A note of appreciation for her many years of devotion to this task was sent by the Session. Elder Dennis Dunn will take over the counting operation.
The wedding of Kathleen Li and Roger Taulman took place on March 6, 2008. By invitation Reverend Stuart Robertson assisted Reverend Ronald Green in officiating at this service.
At its March 11, 2008 meeting Elder Don Gentry, in his capacity as Chairman, reported on the activities of the Pastoral Nominating Committee; details are provided elsewhere in this Newsletter. The Session voted to extend the contract of Pastor Green for a second year, to take effect on May 20, 2008. A clause is attached that permits termination of the contract with a sixty-day notice if a permanent pastor is called to Faith Church before the expiration of the contract extension. Elders David McKinnis, Hannis Thompson, and Grieke Toebes will represent the Session of Faith Church at Presbytery meetings. It was agreed to continue Sunday school operations over the summer months.
Vicky Kennell has kindly consented to assume the duties of Church Librarian to enable Barbara Knox to concentrate her efforts on other church activities.
Elder Steve Varys and Lou Ann Johnston were nominated to serve as Session representatives on the standing 2008 Nominating Committee; a representative from the Board of Deacons is yet to be chosen.
Jurgen Honig, Clerk of Session
This makes it two columns in a row which means either it's a harmless addition to the newsletter or no one's noticed it yet. Either way, there are some things you no doubt do not know.
• You've probably seen the announcements in the Sunday bulletin about the Tuesday Morning Women's Bible Study. We're studying Esther; we're meeting at the church at 9:30 am on Tuesday (somewhat redundantly) and you're welcome to join us. We're working desperately to start and finish (at 10:30) on time, just so you know.
• Charlie Short has been appointed 25C district governor of Lion's International. (Charles is rather clever so don't try any puns on him.)
• If you haven't already seen them, take a look at the paintings in Pastor Ron's and Stephanie's offices. All but one have been created by Jo Honig and they're quite stunning. The exception is the one on what Stephanie and I think is the east wall of her office — that is also a beautiful painting from Ed Kirsch.
• Another artist in our midst is Becky Chapman, and we hope to have one of her watercolors hanging up soon.
• Good Friday services will be held at St. John's Episcopal church at 12:10 pm on March 22.
• Let's keep Donna Lofgren (surgery), Janis Matouk (chemotherapy) and Amy Dale (Parkinson's) in our thoughts and prayers this month.
• Two writers among us have published new books. Bert Chapman's is entitled Space Warfare and Defense: A Historical Encyclopedia and Research Guide, published by ABC-Clio. More information at: www.abc-clio.com/
Michael Bergmann also has a new tome: Justification without Awareness: A Defense of Epistemic Externalism (Oxford University Press, 2006). Your correspondent asked Mike to write a few lines about his topic, and this is (some of, thanks Mike!) what he wrote:
“A question interesting to many Christians is whether their religious beliefs are rational or (as many atheistic objectors would say) irrational. A common assumption is that religious beliefs are rational only if religious believers can produce sufficiently strong reasons or evidence or arguments for belief in God or the Bible. If they can, the beliefs are rational; otherwise not. But is that common assumption right? Is it true that religious beliefs can be rational only if religious believers can provide that sort of evidence to satisfy the objectors? One way to address these questions about that assumption is to take a step back and ask more general questions such as: What makes any belief rational? Is there any belief that can be rational if the person holding it can't produce evidence or arguments to convince those who doubt it? My book is focused not on the religious questions but on these more general questions.”
I’m sure you’ll have questions for both of these young men, so be sure to ask them directly. Your correspondent hasn’t finished reading either one of the books as yet.
Your correspondent,
N. Dunn
The school year is rapidly approaching an end and with it comes the end of traditional Sunday School for our children. Their teachers will be taking a well-deserved break. Our adult classes are going well and some will continue through the summer. So that our parents may attend Sunday School, we would like to have a multi-age Sunday School for the summer months. A simple program of stories, songs, and fun will be the order of the day. Sign up for adult leaders will be posted in
the fellowship hall.
Don't forget Bible school. We need many hands to have a successful program. We need many skills including teachers, helpers, crafters, organizers, cookie ladies, and prayers. Please see Lou Ann Johnston if you can help in this important outreach to our children and community.
The Pastor Nominating Committee, PNC, has been busy reviewing resumes, talking to prospective Pastor candidates, and reviewing materials and sermons from a select number of candidates. We have met almost once per week since we were elected. To date the committee has reviewed 32 candidates; 22 referrals from the PCUSA network, 5 who were nominated from members in our congregation, and 5 self-referral candidates. Due to the time that all materials are received from a specific candidate, the committee is further along in reviewing a few candidates then others. At this point, the committee has a short list of candidates that they expect to continue to review in the prescribed procedure of the Presbytery. All candidates that are on the short list will be reviewed and/or interviewed by the Committee on Ministry of the Presbytery before the committee can arrange to hear the person preach. The committee expects to hold interviews and listen to a sermon in a neutral church in the next few weeks for two or three final candidates.
The process is extensive but the committee feels they are making great progress and would expect to have a final candidate for nomination to the congregation in the near future. I want to thank all of the committee members; it is a dedicated and hard working group, and the congregation for your support and prayers for a successful process to call a new Pastor for Faith Church.
Don Gentry, Chair of the PNC
I want to thank the people at Faith for the wonderful support Helen and I received at the time of my surgery and recovery. Your visits, flowers, food, cards, telephone calls, and above all, your prayers made this experience a very special one, and showed me again that you were truly God’s heart, hands, and feet to us.
Grieke
This book is available at Faith Church for $5.
We are indebted to Dennis Dunn for making this possible. Thanks much!
April 1 Ian Wark
April 5 David Stith
April 7 Katie Dale
April 7 Tristan Lynn
April 9 David Sparks
April 12 David Landgrebe
April 13 Robert Dale
April 13 Donna Lofgren
April 18 Travis Dale
April 23 Brandon Bosler
April 29 Liz Evers
April 30 Camille Townsend
April 30 Oliver Janovitz
April 3 Ward & Camille Hanson
April 17 James & Marti McIntyre
April 23 Thomas & Peggy Housley
• Sun., April 6 St. Mary’s Healthcare 2:30pm
• Sun., April 13 Tippecanoe Villa 1:30pm
• Sun., April 13 Friendship House 3:00pm
No Davis Manor
• Sun., April 27 Rosewalk Commons 2:30pm
The Deacons invite you to become a part of this ministry
For those wishing to visit with Pastor Green his office hours are Tuesday and Thursday, 10:15am – 2:30 pm (lunch 12:30pm – 1:00pm), Wednesday 8:30am – 1:00pm, and Friday 10:15am – 1:00pm or by appointment.
We invite you to join in the worship of God each Sunday morning at 9:30am and each Wednesday morning at 7:00am. We also invite you to participate in the prayers, fellowship, work and activities of this church.
For more information about this opportunity to be involved at Faith Presbyterian Church, please call or talk to any member of Session, Pastor Green or call the church office at 743-3683.
Faith Presbyterian Church
9:30 a.m., March 30, 2008
Let the first tone of the organ be a call to quiet meditation in which all may become aware of God’s presence, and lift up a prayer for yourself and for Faith Church.
Prelude Mark Johnson, organist
Welcome, Announcements, and Greet One Another
Invocation
Hymn # 405 “I Serve a Risen Savior”
Psalter: Psalm 150: 1 - 6 NIV (read responsively)
Dorothy Bethel
1 Praise the LORD. Praise God in his sanctuary; praise him in his mighty heavens.
2 Praise him for his acts of power; praise him for his surpassing greatness.
3 Praise him with the sounding of the trumpet, praise him with the harp and lyre,
4 praise him with tambourine and dancing, praise him with the strings and flute,
5 praise him with the clash of cymbals, praise him with resounding cymbals.
6 Let everything that has breath praise the LORD. Praise the LORD.
Prayer for Illumination Dorothy Bethel
First Lesson: Matthew 28: 1 – 7 NIV Dorothy Bethel
1After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb.
2There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it. 3His appearance was like lightning, and his clothes were white as snow. 4The guards were so afraid of him that they shook and became like dead men.
5The angel said to the women, "Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. 6He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. 7Then go quickly and tell his disciples: 'He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.' Now I have told you."
Anthem “Break Forth Into Joy” Hal Hopson
Children’s Sermon
Second Lesson: Acts: 1: 12, 16: 1 – 10 NIV Dorothy Bethel
12Then they returned to Jerusalem from the hill called the Mount of Olives, a Sabbath day's walk from the city.
1He came to Derbe and then to Lystra, where a disciple named Timothy lived, whose mother was a Jewess and a believer, but whose father was a Greek. 2The brothers at Lystra and Iconium spoke well of him. 3Paul wanted to take him along on the journey, so he circumcised him because of the Jews who lived in that area, for they all knew that his father was a Greek. 4As they traveled from town to town, they delivered the decisions reached by the apostles and elders in Jerusalem for the people to obey. 5So the churches were strengthened in the faith and grew daily in numbers.
6Paul and his companions traveled throughout the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been kept by the Holy Spirit from preaching the word in the province of Asia. 7When they came to the border of Mysia, they tried to enter Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them to. 8So they passed by Mysia and went down to Troas. 9During the night Paul had a vision of a man of Macedonia standing and begging him, "Come over to Macedonia and help us." 10After Paul had seen the vision, we got ready at once to leave for Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them.
Lector: “This is the Word of God.”
Congregation: “Thanks be to God for His Word.”
Hymn # 396 “Low in the Grave Christ Lay”
Sermon “The Death and Birth of Ministry” Pastor Green
After the sermon children in grades K-6 may leave for children’s choir
Gathering of Tithes and Offerings
Please sign and pass the register located in the pew.
Offertory
Response
He is Lord, he is Lord,
He is risen from the dead, and he is Lord
Every knee shall bow, every tongue confess
That Jesus Christ is Lord. ∆
Prayer of Dedication
Joys and Concerns
Prayers of Thanksgiving and Intercession
Dale Housley (shoulder surgery), Corinne Janovitz (Evan & Patti’s granddaughter), Kathy Skene, folk in the military, University Church, Greg & Faith Hurst, Bolivia (SIM)
Hymn “Because He Lives” insert
Benediction
Postlude
∆ ©1987, CRC Publications. CCLI #387100
Worship
…is the quickening of conscience by God’s holiness;
the nourishment of mind with His truth;
the purifying of imagination by His beauty;
the opening of the heart to His love;
the surrender of the will to His purpose;
and all of this gathered up in adoration—
the most selfless emotion of which our nature is capable, and therefore the chief remedy for that self-centeredness which is our original sin and the source of all actual sin.” -William Temple
Welcome
To all who are weary and seek rest; to all who mourn and long for comfort; to all who struggle and desire victory; to all who sin and need a Savior; to all who are idle and look for service; to all who are strangers and want fellowship; to all who hunger and thirst after righteousness; and to whosoever will come--this church opens wide her doors and offers her welcome in the name of Jesus Christ her Lord.
Guests please sign our guest book and join us in the Fellowship Hall after worship.
Babysitting is available during worship for infants up to
2-1/2 years old in the room behind the balcony. Children ages 2-1/2 through 5 will be in the Pre-School Nursery in the Education Wing. School age children worship with their parents.
University Church, West Lafayette, IN
College is, for young men and women, an important, exciting time of learning, growing and developing friendships that will last a lifetime. Students make decisions, set priorities and develop values that determine the course of their lives for years to come. University Church fulfills its unique mission as an interdenominational ministry that touches the lives of students, faculty and staff of Purdue University and the local community. It helps students and staff discover the love of Christ and to grow in their faith through: Contemporary Sunday morning worship; hosting a variety of concerts, retreats, and relevant issue discussions; Sharing Christ’s love through Habitat for Humanity work sessions; and Spring break mission trips.
Greg & Faith Hurst (S.I.M., Bolivia)
The Hurst Family has served eight years as SIM missionaries in La Paz, Bolivia. When they first arrived to Bolivia, Greg and Faith began to disciple a group of young people in their local church in La Paz with a goal that some would eventually lead the church’s youth ministry while another group of these Bolivian young adults, and their families, would be sent out with the Hurst Family to start a new church. When Greg and Faith return to Bolivia, they will continue to prepare their church planting team to launch a new church in Mallasilla, an emerging suburb that has no Evangelical church.
In Bolivia the Hurst Family are committed to making disciples so that the Bolivian church will become a mature witness of Christ in La Paz, rural Bolivia and to the ends of the earth (Acts 1:8). Through the years their main ministry has focused on discipleship through youth ministry and church planting. Along the way, they also have helped to establish an English-speaking, Christian international school (http://www.nics.org/schools/lapaz.php ) and to start two economic development projects (www.cafeyungas.org and www.vivabolivia.org/lapazproducts) as well as have served in SIM mission leadership.
* Thank you to Mark Johnson for playing the organ this morning.
* Greeters this morning are Ken Wark & Barbara Knox.
* Ushers this week are Doug Jones & Carol Graefnitz and Dan & Kathy Trinkle.
* NOTE: When wearing perfume or other strong scents please be considerate of those that may be allergic or sensitive.
* Prayer Hotline - If you need prayer or other help from the church or know of anyone else that does, please call one of the elders or deacons or use the new prayer hotline at prayers@faithpresbyterian.org.
Today:
9:30 a.m. Congregation at Worship
11:00 a.m. Sunday School
6:00 p.m. Youth
6:30 p.m. Bible study
This Week:
Tues., 9:30 a.m. FWF Bible study at Faith Church
Tues., 7:00 p.m. Session
Tues., 7:00 p.m. Boy Scout Troop 338
Tues., 7:30 p.m. Tippecanoe Co. Jail Bible study
Wed., 7:00 a.m. Morning Prayers & Breakfast
Wed., 6:30 p.m. Adult Choir
Wed., 7:30 p.m. Bible Study at Kathy Bowker’s
Faith Presbyterian Church 9:30 a.m., March 23, 2008
Easter Sunday
Let the first tone of the organ be a call to quiet meditation in which all may become aware of God’s presence, and lift up a prayer for yourself and for Faith Church.
Prelude “The Quiet Garden” Gilbert Martin
“I Know That My Redeemer Liveth” G.F. Handel
“Crown Him With Many Crowns” Lee Rogers
Choral Introit “Sing Alleluia” Baldassare Donato
Easter Greeting
Pastor: Christ is risen!
People: He is risen, Indeed!
Pastor: Jesus Christ the Lord is risen!
People: Jesus Christ the Lord is risen, Indeed! Hallelujah!
Invocation
Hymn # 388 “Christ the Lord Is Risen Today”
Psalter: Psalm 118: 1 – 4, 15 – 17 NIV (read responsively)
Glenn Sparks
1 Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever.
2 Let Israel say: "His love endures forever."
3 Let the house of Aaron say: "His love endures forever."
4 Let those who fear the LORD say: "His love endures forever."
15 Shouts of joy and victory resound in the tents of the righteous: "The LORD's right hand has done mighty things!
16 The LORD's right hand is lifted high; the LORD's right hand has done mighty things!"
17 I will not die but live, and will proclaim what the LORD has done.
Anthem “Christ Is Arisen” Giovanni Crose
Prayer for Illumination Glenn Sparks
Scripture Lesson: Job 19: 23 - 27 NIV Glenn Sparks
23 "Oh, that my words were recorded, that they were written on a scroll, 24 that they were inscribed with an iron tool on lead, or engraved in rock forever!
25 I know that my Redeemer lives, and that in the end he will stand upon the earth.
26 And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God;
27 I myself will see him with my own eyes—I, and not another. How my heart yearns within me!
Lector: “This is the Word of God.”
Congregation: “Thanks be to God for His Word.”
Children’s Sermon
Hymn “Thine Is the Glory, Risen, Conquering Son” insert
Scripture Lesson: John 20: 1 – 18 NIV Glenn Sparks
1Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene went to the tomb and saw that the stone had been removed from the entrance. 2So she came running to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one Jesus loved, and said, "They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we don't know where they have put him!"
3So Peter and the other disciple started for the tomb. 4Both were running, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first. 5He bent over and looked in at the strips of linen lying there but did not go in. 6Then Simon Peter, who was behind him, arrived and went into the tomb. He saw the strips of linen lying there, 7as well as the burial cloth that had been around Jesus' head. The cloth was folded up by itself, separate from the linen. 8Finally the other disciple, who had reached the tomb first, also went inside. He saw and believed. 9(They still did not understand from Scripture that Jesus had to rise from the dead.)
10Then the disciples went back to their homes, 11but Mary stood outside the tomb crying. As she wept, she bent over to look into the tomb 12and saw two angels in white, seated where Jesus' body had been, one at the head and the other at the foot.
13They asked her, "Woman, why are you crying?"
"They have taken my Lord away," she said, "and I don't know where they have put him." 14At this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not realize that it was Jesus.
15"Woman," he said, "why are you crying? Who is it you are looking for?" Thinking he was the gardener, she said, "Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have put him, and I will get him."
16Jesus said to her, "Mary." She turned toward him and cried out in Aramaic, "Rabboni!" (which means Teacher).
17Jesus said, "Do not hold on to me, for I have not yet returned to the Father. Go instead to my brothers and tell them, 'I am returning to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.' "
18Mary Magdalene went to the disciples with the news: "I have seen the Lord!" And she told them that he had said these things to her.
Sermon “Stand In Triumph” Pastor Green
Gathering of Tithes and Offerings
Offertory “Christ lag in Todesbanden” (chorale and prelude) J.S. Bach (Germany, 1685-1750
(Gray hymnal p. 398)
Response
He is Lord, he is Lord,
He is risen from the dead, and he is Lord
Every knee shall bow, every tongue confess
That Jes