Greeting friends,

I wanted to share this article from the April 14^th edition of Presbyterian Outlook.  The author, Jill Duffield, does a great job with the image of Holy Ghost glitter.   Let us all remember to carry some Holy Ghost glitter with us, a little sparkle even in hard times.

Grace,

Pastor Teresa

 

Holy Ghost glitter

 by Jill Duffield

As a kid, I liked glitter. A lot. I still find myself drawn to anything that sparkles. My mother called me a crow given my attraction to all things shiny. I confess that even as an adult I covet those little kid shoes that light up with each step. I remember one Easter sunrise service, the church still mostly dark as worship had not yet started, when a child made his way to the front pew with red lights blinking from the soles of his feet the entire way up the aisle. I loved the idea of that little child being a literal light to the world, or at least a blip of intermittent hope to our small congregation yet to hear the news that Christ had risen indeed. Would that our discipleship was as obvious as red, flashing lights in the middle of a dark and silent sanctuary. If only we sparkled and shone like the unicorns, hearts and stars on kindergartners’ backpacks in September. Wouldn’t it be grand if we distributed God’s grace as far and wide, as insidious and relentless, as the glitter from a Sunday school art project?

I long for some over-the-top, well-past-tacky, impossible-to-miss signs of holy glory made evident through those of us called to be salt and light. I imagine Jesus saying, “You are the glitter of the world.” Get in every nook and cranny to the point that it is impossible to clean up or eradicate. Be so generous with it that years from now it will turn up on your shirt and be inconspicuously transported out into the neighborhood. What if Jesus had said, “You are the rhinestones of the earth”? Decorate indiscriminately. Make everyone appear to be the royal priesthood God made them to be. Tiaras all around! Be the bedazzlers of creation wielding fanciful, delightful, colorful additions to anyone in need of knowing their beauty. Make sure no denim jacket, plastic bin or cotton T-shirt goes without the adornment of the Most High God. Make the clothing of Christ glisten and shine like a parade of would-be Disney princesses lined up to see the latest “Frozen” movie.

I know we are dust and to dust we shall return, but in the interim, could we be Holy Ghost glitter? Could the shoes that make us ready to proclaim the gospel include blinking lights or at least some reflective tape? I want us to call attention to ourselves in order that we might point to the source of the light in which we bask and play. I want our complete joy to be unmistakable, as palpable as preschoolers sporting superhero costumes or Queen Elsa gowns, not concerned with what’s practical or socially acceptable but motived solely by delight.

I know we are sinners saved by grace, but in that knowledge, could we be the glow sticks of God, cracked open and shaken so that we shine and create whimsical patterns in the darkness for all to see? Might we be neon beacons of possibility in the middle of someone’s dark night of the soul?

I know we are beloved children and divine images called good, fallen, corrupt, finite and flawed. But, in this time could we be Jesus’ dollar-store jewelry, too — audacious, colorful, accessible, large and loud, unmissable outward signs of unfathomable, too often invisible grace?

How about if we thought of ourselves, honestly, as Holy Ghost dust, divine dirt, Godly grit, those who apart from saving grace are worthless fire fodder, but through the love of the Almighty are deemed priceless? What if we recognized that we are this strange combination of common and sacred, totally depraved but beloved anyway, complex kaleidoscopes of Christ whose beauty is revealed when viewed through the light of the world? Wouldn’t that realization be a source of rejoicing and celebration? Wouldn’t it be a cause to get out the glue sticks and spread the glitter, break out the glow sticks and wave them with abandon or don sparkles, crowns and light-up shoes to the grocery store? We could create a parade of the redeemed and reconciled, returning prodigals and found sheep, those whose faces shine from being in the presence of God.

Grace and peace,

Jill

 

Presbytidings – March 2020

The Newsletter of First Presbyterian Church

216 West Third Street, Wayne, Nebraska 68787

(402) 375-2669 + www.fpcwayne.org

“Our chief end is to glorify and enjoy God forever.”

 

From the Pastor……

The season of Lent began February 26^th with Ash Wednesday. Christians around the world attended Ash Wednesday worship services where they received the sign of the cross on their forehead in recognition of their human mortality and sinfulness. During the forty days of Lent Christians are encouraged to engage in self- reflection, many add some form of spiritual practice to help them grow closer to God as they remember Christ’s sacrifice on the cross.

Lent is an opportunity to reflect on our lives as disciples, the direction we are heading and how we can improve our relationship with Christ. There may be times in our journey of faith that might be compared to driving down the interstate and realizing you should be going in the opposite direction or you missed your exit. Either case will require getting turned around. The immediate problem on the Interstate is that U-turns are not permitted and that is a good thing; imagine what it would be like if people were free to make U-turns wherever they wanted! No doubt there would numerous accidents and traffic would come to a standstill!  The prohibition of U-turns means that one has to go a few miles in the wrong direction in order to get turned around and get going in a new direction.

In our Christian journey we may occasionally find ourselves going in the wrong direction, in places we never intended to be. In the Old Testament book of Hosea, the prophet tells the people their sinfulness has caused them to go in the wrong direction.  The prophet says to the people;

Israel, return to the Lord your God, because your sins have made you fall.
 Come back to the Lord and say these words to him: “Take away all our sin and kindly receive us,
and we will keep the promises we made to you.   Hosea 14:1-3 New Century Version

During Lent Christians are encouraged to reflect on our lives as disciples, are we following Christ, have we made a wrong turn, are we at a dead end? Some of the signs that you are going the wrong way in your walk with Christ include not attending worship regularly, not taking time for personal Scripture reading and study, not joining in regular fellowship with other Christians. When we find we are going the wrong way, unlike driving on the Interstate, U-turns are permitted and encouraged in our journey of discipleship. In “church-speak” recognizing we need a U-turn is called confession, an important element of reformed and Presbyterian worship. Each week we come together before God and confess our individual and corporate sinfulness. In confession we ask God’s forgiveness, ask for God’s guidance and clarity of vision, strength to keep focused on Christ and not to take wrong turns or be frustrated by dead ends. Our Triune God offers each of us who humbly confess our sins mercy and grace and a new beginning. Thankfully for Christians U-turns are permitted, even encouraged, to bring us back to worship, to study and fellowship with God and other Christians. No matter how many U turns we’ve made or need to make in our lives we can be thankful that our Triune God is always ready to welcome wayward travelers’ home.

Grace and peace,

Pastor Teresa

 

LENTEN SUPPERS AND SERVICES

Our church family will gather for weekly suppers during Lent, beginning on Wednesday, March 4^th, at 6:00pm. (The sign-up sheets are on the Opportunity Table in Fellowship Hall.) Following the suppers, we will gather at 7:00pm for Lenten service.

 

“I AM”

Lent Sunday Sermon Series

During the Lenten season we will be exploring the gospel of John, especially the series of phrases by which Jesus described himself.  When Moses asked God, who he should say sent him to the Pharaoh, God answered in Exodus 3:14; “I am that I am.” The gospel of John records Jesus’ repeated use of the words “I am,” which points to his being divine. Seven times in the gospel of John Jesus uses the phrase “I am,” with each of the declarations Jesus completed a sign, a miracle. Join us for Sunday worship as we explore Jesus’ self-definitions and what he was teaching those around him as well as what it means for believers today. We will consider the seven “I Am” statements in the following order.

• “I am the bread of life” -March 1^st
• “I am the light of the world” -March 8^th
• “I am the door” – March 15^th
• “I am the good shepherd” -March 22^nd
• “I am the way, the truth, and the life”- March 29^th
• “I am the vine”- April 5^th
• “I am the resurrection and the life” – April 19^th

 

PRAYER FOR LENT

-Author Unknown

Let me keep Lent.

Let me not kneel and pray,

Forgo some trifle everyday,

Fast-and take sacrament-

And then,

Lend tongue to slander, hold ancient grudge,

Deny

The very Lord whom I would glorify.

Let me keep Lent.

Let my heart grow in grace.

Let thy light shine till my illumined face

Will be a testament

Read by all…

That hate is buried; self-crucified; new-born

The spirit that shall rise on Easter morn.

Let me keep Lent.

 

COMMUNION

We will celebrate the Lord’s Supper on Sunday, March 1, 2020. Jean Griess will serve as Communion Elder. Communion will also be served on Palm Passion Sunday, April 5^th, 2020.

 

LOVE CARVED IN STONE BIBLE STUDY

Our latest Bible study will be meeting on Tuesday, March 3^rd at 2:00p.m. at Wayne Country-view Care. All are welcome.

 

PRESBYTERIAN WOMEN & SEWING SOULS

• The Presbyterian Women meeting scheduled for Tuesday, March 3^rd at 3:00pm will be held at Wayne Country-view Care on the assisted living side.

• Sewing Souls next meeting will be held on March 18^th at 2:00pm.

 

DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME!

Spring forward one hour the weekend of March 8th. You might be caught walking into church just as worship is finishing up!

 

FPC OUTREACH/MISSION SERVICES

Pastor Teresa will lead outreach/mission services at the following locations this month:

• Brookdale: You are welcome to join Pastor for chapel on Wednesday, 3/18 at 3:30pm.

 

SESSION

The Session will gather on Monday, March 23^rd, at 7:00 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall.

 

PRESYTERIAN WOMEN SPRING GATHERINGS: JOY COMES IN THE MORNING

You are invited to the PW Spring Gatherings as noted. Please bring your favorite tea cup. No reservations are needed.

• March 28^th at Clarkson from 1-3pm
• April 4^th at Lyons from 1-3

 

MATTHEW 25  PW SPRING GATHERING PROJECT: COLLECTING EMPTY PILL BOTTLES

Many times, the pills people in developing countries are wrapped in paper scraps. The pills have no protection from moisture or the elements. And they are not safely out of the reach of small children-you can’t really safety proof a piece of paper.Those orange pill bottles we take for granted are gratefully received in many part of the world.

Please bring your empty pill bottles with all labels removed. The Matthew 25 mission states “Our pill bottle program fulfills the dual needs of improving medical care in developing countries and caring for our environment.”

 

CHANGES TO QUARTERLY AND YEAR-END STATEMENTS

The session has approved the sending of quarterly and year end statements by email.  If you would like to participate please see that the financial secretary, Anita Fuelberth, has your current e-mail address.

 

THANK YOU

“I would like to thank the session and church congregation for the framed certificate & Chamber Bucks, as well as the decorated cake and coffee held in my honor. It has been a privilege to serve as the FPC treasurer for the last forty years, but I felt this was the appropriate time for me to step down as treasurer. Being treasurer of the church is one was that I felt I could serve the church although I never thought I would do it for forty years.” John Fuelberth

 

 

March 2019 – First Presbyterian Church

Sunday	Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday
1 Each Sunday Morning: ·         Handbell Choir 8:45 ·         Worship 10:00 ·         Fellowship 11:00   10:00am Communion Kent Pulfer, communion elder	2   6:30pm Scout Den Meeting	3   2:00pm Love Carved in Stone Bible Study 3:00pm Presbyterian Women	4	5	6	7
8   Daylight Savings Time Begins – Spring Forward!   5:00pm Boy Scout Court of Honor	9   6:30pm Scout Den Meeting	10	11 10:00am Pastor at WACAM 6:00pm Soup Supper 7:00pm Lenten Service	12	13	14
15	16	17	18 2:00pm Sewing Souls 3:30pm Brookdale Chapel 4:45pm Deacons 6:00pm Soup Supper 7:00pm Lent Service	19	20	21
22	23   7:00pm Session Meeting	24   11:00am Northern Covenant Pastors Gathering	25   6:00pm Soup Supper 7:00pm Lent Service	26	27	28
29	30   7:00pm  Session Meeting	31

 

 

LOOKING AHEAD TO LENT & EASTER

Observe a holy Lenten season this year.

• We will begin Lent with an Ash Wednesday service February 26^th at 6:30pm.
• Lenten services/ soup suppers will begin weekly on Wednesdays, beginning on March 4–April 1^st.
• Palm Sunday Service with communion on Sunday, April 5^th at 10:00am.
• The Maundy Thursday service with communion will be held at 7pm Thursday evening, April 9^th.
• Celebrate the Resurrection of the Lord at our Easter Sunday service with our traditional Easter Brunch beginning at 9:00am on Sunday, April 12^th.

 

Lector/Greeter Schedule for March 2020

3/1/2020	Gordon Granberg	Phil & Jean Griess
3/8/2020	Milton Owens	Milton & Jackie Owens
3/15/2020	Jodi Pulfer	Kent & Jodi Pulfer
3/22/2020	Maria Ras	The Ras Famly
3/29/2020	Mark Hammer	The Hammer Family

 

MARCH BIRTHDAYS

(Would you like to see your birthday listed here?

Just contact the church office 402-375-2669 or fpcwayne@gmail.com)

24      Jacob B.

25      Leigh H.

28     Babs M.

29     Madison U.

 

Contact Information:

First Presbyterian Church

216 W. Third Street

Wayne NE  68787

 

FPC Office & Wayne Food Pantry:

402-375-2669

fpcwayne@gmail.com

Tuesday – Friday, 9am – 12 noon

 

Websites:

Church: https://fpcwayne.com/

Wayne Food Pantry: https://fpcwayne.com/food-pantry/

Wayne Coat Closet: https://fpcwayne.com/wayne-coat-closet/

 

FIND US ON FACEBOOK

First Presbyterian Church – Wayne, Nebraska

Wayne Food Pantry – Wayne, Nebraska

Wayne Coat Closet – First Presbyterian Church

 

Pastor Teresa Bartlett

402-375-2669 (office)

319-795-2911 (cell)

 

GET OUR NEWSLETTER BY E-MAIL

If you would like to receive this newsletter by e-mail (save a stamp, save a tree!), go to www.fpcwayne.org; on the home page, in the right hand column, there is a widget that says, “NEWSLETTER SUBSCRIPTION: Enter your e-mail address to receive Presbytidings, our church’s newsletter, by e-mail.” Enter your address in the white box, and click on the button that says, “Sign me up!” You will need to confirm your subscription through an e-mail message that will be sent to your inbox; this is safe! It is designed to keep spammers out of the picture! Share our newsletter with all your friends and family. Simple!

 

Presbytidings – February 2019

The Newsletter of First Presbyterian Church

216 West Third Street, Wayne, Nebraska 68787

(402) 375-2669 + www.fpcwayne.org

“Our chief end is to glorify and enjoy God forever.”

 

From the Pastor……

“There’s a season for everything and a time for every matter under the heavens:” 

Ecclesiastes 3:1

             The author of Ecclesiastes reminds us that there is a time for everything, that change is always happening in the world around us and in our own lives. We live in a part of the world where we can mark time by the changing seasons, each day brings new challenges and opportunities. From the time we are born until we die, we change on a variety of levels, the cellular, the physical, the intellectual.  Life is filled with constant change and it affects every area of our lives, our workplace, our homes, our social networks even the church. Seldom however, is change without some challenge; a kernel of corn planted in the ground must change from a seed, be broken open allowing a root, then the seedling and finally the stalk and ear to appear.

It’s no secret that most churches, no matter the denomination find themselves having to reassess their role in society. I recently read an article by Doug Powe and Ann A. Michel entitled “Five Emerging Trends Impacting Church Life.” Among the changes the authors noted was how the role of denominations continues to wane.  Younger people are less likely to identify as Presbyterian, Lutheran or Methodist than persons 50 or older, they join not because of the denomination affiliation, rather it may be the mission of the church that speaks to their desire to “make a difference.”  Church attendance patterns are changing, including those who self-identify as “regular attendees.” Regular attendance used to mean 3 to 4 times a month in worship now the average is twice a month.  The aging and shrinking membership in churches has led to challenges in maintaining pastoral leadership in many churches.  I thought an interesting point the authors raised was the loss of choirs in many congregations.  The article noted this change may be due to a variety of factors; aging voices, fewer people willing to commit time to rehearsals and Sunday services; however, another consideration is generational and cultural changes in how people experience and consume music. What do all these changes mean, how do we address them, do we address them or continue to hold tightly to what we have always done hoping to get different results?

Congregational vitality is an area addressed by the PC (USA) Matthew 25 initiative and defined as follows; “Building congregational vitality by challenging congregations and their members to deepen and energize their faith and grow as joyful leaders and disciples actively engaged with their community as they share the gospel of Jesus Christ in word and deed.”

          How do you define a “vital congregation”?   A vital congregation might be considered one with a large building and membership however buildings, programs and budgets are not the sole measure of a church. A vital congregation might be a group of 20 people actively engaged in working in their community, actively engaged in growing as disciples of Christ.   A vital congregation is one with a vision of the future which they are working toward together.  The Session’s embrace of the Matthew 25 initiative is our vision for the coming year.  Help our leadership envision how can we as a congregation deepen and energize our faith and engage with our community, sharing the gospel of Christ in word and deed.  How can we be more hospitable to each other and guests; how can we share about who we are and what we do?  There are many questions and challenges to consider.

In a culture when fewer and fewer people are redisposed to find their way to church on their own it’s important we consider different ways of being the church.  This might mean we try new things, new music, changes in worship. I know it’s a challenge to be open to change, I know the familiar is comfortable, but if your faith has guided you in life, if your faith has helped you walk through dark or challenging times, if your faith community has been encouraging and supportive wouldn’t you want others to experience that as well?  The gift of faith should be shared, and we must consider that we may have to let go of what is comfortable to us to invite others into a space where they can be comfortable.  This is not a new challenge this was the very challenge Jesus faced with the religious leaders of his day, the same challenge Peter and Paul faced in the early church as they talked about if Gentiles or just Jews could be a part of this new church.  While we serve a faithful and unchanging, loving God, the world God created, and its people do change.  The church, the body of Christ, follows Jesus’ pattern of being rooted in Scripture yet open to growing and changing.

Grace and peace,

Pastor Teresa

 

ASH WEDNESDAY

We will begin our Wednesday night Lenten services on February 26^th, 7:00pm. We will have imposition of ashes. Please join us.

 

COMMUNION

We will celebrate the Lord’s Supper on Sunday, February 2, 2020. Jim Curtiss will serve as the Communion Elder.

 

LOVE CARVED IN STONE BIBLE STUDY

Our latest Bible study will be meeting on February 5^th at 2:00p.m. at Wayne Country-view Care. All are welcome.

 

PRESBYTERIAN WOMEN & SEWING SOULS

• The Presbyterian Women meeting scheduled for Wednesday, February 5th at 3:00pm will be held at Wayne Country-view Care on the assisted living side.

• Sewing Souls next meeting will be held on Feb. 19^th at 2:00pm.

 

ROTARY BAKED POTATO FEED

The annual Rotary Potato Bake & Dessert Bar will be held Sunday, February 12^th from 11:00am-1:00pm at the Wayne City Auditorium. Adults $6 ($7 at the door), Children (8 & under) $3. Hot dogs will be available for the kids.

FPC YOUTH GROUP

Our FPC Youth will be hosting a game night for people of all ages in Fellowship Hall on Wednesday, February 12^th beginning at 7:00pm. Bring a friend, some snacks to share and enjoy a night out!

 

HOMESTEAD PRESBYTERY

Our presbytery will gather on Saturday, 2/15, beginning at 10:00am, at Lincoln, Nebraska.

 

SCOUTING SUNDAY

We look forward to welcoming Cub Scout Pack 174 to join us in worship Sunday, February 16^th.

 

FPC OUTREACH/MISSIION SERVICES

Pastor Teresa will lead outreach/mission services at the following locations this month:

• WAYNE COUNTRY VIEW CARE You are welcome to join Pastor for chapel on Sunday, 2/23 at 1:30pm.
• WORD IN FAITH Pastor’s article for the Wayne Herald will appear in the newspaper on March 5th.

 

SESSION

The Session will gather on Monday, February 24, at 7:00 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall.

 

KIWANIS PANCAKE FEED

Be sure to attend the Kiwanis Pancake Feed at the Wayne City Auditorium Tuesday, February 25th from 5:00-7:00pm. $7 (advance) $8 (at the door) for adults and $4 for children (up to 10 years).

 

ASH WEDNESDAY

We will begin our Wednesday night Lenten services on February 26^th, 7:00pm. We will have imposition of ashes. Please join us.

“Lent in Plain Sight”

Lenten Wednesday evening sermon series.

“God is often at work through the ordinary; ordinary people, ordinary objects, ordinary grace.  Through the ordinary God communicates epiphanies, salvation, revelations and reconciliation” writes Jill Duffield in her book “Lent in Plain Sight.” Duffield included in her devotional book some of the ordinary objects Jesus would have encountered on his way to Jerusalem; dust, bread, the cross, coins, shoes, oil, coats, towel, thorns and stones. Each Wednesday evening following our meal we will consider these ordinary objects and how Jesus might have encountered them and what it means for us to encounter and see them in a new light. “Lent in Plain Sight” reminds us that God is active all around us if we open our eyes to see and our ears to hear, it’s often in the mundane that we hear God’s voice. Please make time to join us during Lent for fellowship and worship. It is a great opportunity to invite friends to join us.

February 26^th – Ash Wednesday – Dust

March 4^th – Bread

March 11^th – Cross

March 18^th -Coins

March 25^th -Shoes

April 1^st– Oil

April 9th – Maundy Thursday – Towels

LENTEN SUPPERS AND SERVICES

Our church family will gather for weekly suppers during Lent, beginning on Wednesday, March 4^th, at 6:00pm. (Watch for the sign-up sheets on the Opportunity Table in Fellowship Hall.) Following the suppers, we will gather at 7:00pm for Lenten service.

 

LOOKING AHEAD TO LENT & EASTER

Observe a holy Lenten season this year.

• We will begin Lent with an Ash Wednesday service February 26^th at 6:30pm.
• Lenten services & soup suppers will begin weekly on Wednesdays, beginning on March 4–April 1^st.
• Palm Sunday Service with communion on Sunday, April 5^th at 10:00am.
• The Maundy Thursday service with communion will be held Thursday evening, April 9^th.
• Celebrate the Resurrection of the Lord at our Easter Sunday service with our traditional Easter Brunch beginning at 9:00am on Sunday, April 12^th.

 

FPC ANNUAL REPORT

Our Annual Meeting was held on Sunday, January 26^th. If you would like a copy of the report, you can pick up a copy on the Opportunity Table or contact Jenny at fpcwayne@gmail.com

 

FPC CHURCH DIRECTORY

The updated FPC Directory will be available on the Opportunity Table in Fellowship Hall in February.

 

FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF WAYNE

THE SESSION 2020

Elder                                                                          Class                                      

Scott McLaughlin (Property)                                   2020

Jim Paige (Property, Fellowship)                              2020

Kent Pulfer (Administration)                                  2020

Jean Griess (Worship)                                              2021

Jane O’Leary (Outreach, Worship)                         2021

Shari Dunklau (Discipleship, Worship)                  2022

John Fuelberth (Property)                                       2022

BOARD OF DEACONS 2020

Karen Johnson                                                          2020

Melissa Urbanec                                                       2020

Misty Beair                                                                2021

Karen Marra                                                              2021

Amy Bowers                                                              2022

Jan Liska                                                                    2022

 

COMMITTEES OF THE CONGREGATION 2020

Nominating Team: Phil Griess, Karen Johnson, Jan Liska, Ken Marra, & Kent Pulfer

Financial Review Team: Phil Griess, Joan Lage, & Gerard Ras

February 2019 – First Presbyterian Church

Sunday	Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday
Each Sunday Morning: ·         Handbell Choir 8:45 ·         Worship 10:00 ·         Fellowship 11:00						1   10:00am Homestead Clerk Training
2 10:00am Communion Jim Curtiss, communion elder   “Get Your Can to Church” Sunday	3 9:30am Wayne County Family Coalition 6:30pm Scout Den Meeting	4	5 2:00pm Love Carved in Stone Bible Study 3:00pm Presbyterian Women 5:00pm Confirmation	6	7	8
9	10   6:30pm Scout Den Meeting	11	12 10:30am WACAM 5:00pm Confirmation 7:00pm All-church Game Night	13 10:00am Salvation Army Meeting	14	15 Homestead Presbytery – Lincoln
16 Scout Sunday	17	18	19 2:00pm Sewing Souls 5:00pm Confirmation	20	21	22
23   1:30pm Wayne Country-View Chapel	24   7:00pm Session Meeting	25	26   5:00pm Confirmation 7:00pm Ash Wednesday Service	27	28	29

 

Lector/Greeter Schedule for February 2020

2/2/2020	Candyce Peitz	The Peitz Family
2/9/2020	Phil Griess	Phil & Jean Griess	Bev Beeson
2/16/2020	Gail McCorkindale	The McCorkindales
2/23/2020	Gordon Granberg	Babs Middleton	Karen Johnson

 

FEBRUARY BIRTHDAYS

(Would you like to see your birthday listed here?

Just contact the church office 402-375-2669 or fpcwayne@gmail.com

10      Jodi P.

20      Karen M.

25      Pat S., Gabriel P.

27      Jan L.

28     Amy B.

 

 

Contact Information:

First Presbyterian Church

216 W. Third Street

Wayne NE  68787

 

FPC Office & Wayne Food Pantry:

402-375-2669

fpcwayne@gmail.com

Tuesday – Friday, 9am – 12 noon

 

Websites:

Church: https://fpcwayne.com/

Wayne Food Pantry: https://fpcwayne.com/food-pantry/

Wayne Coat Closet: https://fpcwayne.com/wayne-coat-closet/

 

FIND US ON FACEBOOK

First Presbyterian Church – Wayne, Nebraska

Wayne Food Pantry – Wayne, Nebraska

Wayne Coat Closet – First Presbyterian Church

 

Pastor Teresa Bartlett

402-375-2669 (office)

319-795-2911 (cell)

 

GET OUR NEWSLETTER BY E-MAIL

If you would like to receive this newsletter by e-mail (save a stamp, save a tree!), go to www.fpcwayne.org; on the home page, in the right hand column, there is a widget that says, “NEWSLETTER SUBSCRIPTION: Enter your e-mail address to receive Presbytidings, our church’s newsletter, by e-mail.” Enter your address in the white box, and click on the button that says, “Sign me up!” You will need to confirm your subscription through an e-mail message that will be sent to your inbox; this is safe! It is designed to keep spammers out of the picture! Share our newsletter with all your friends and family. Simple!

 

Presbytidings – January 2019

The Newsletter of First Presbyterian Church

216 West Third Street, Wayne, Nebraska 68787

(402) 375-2669 + www.fpcwayne.org

“Our chief end is to glorify and enjoy God forever.”

 

From the Pastor….

The Church’s DNA[*] 

            People who know my mother and I say we look a lot alike, my brother has my father’s receding hairline, my niece favors her mother, my sister.  Family resemblances are often a clue to family lineage.

Traits shared by parents and children; such as hair and eye color, build, height or personality traits are all encoded in our DNA.[†] DNA is short for deoxyribonucleic acid,  which is the “blueprint” for every living thing, the fundamental building blocks for an individual’s entire genetic makeup. Except for identical twins, each person’s DNA is a unique, individualized genetic code.

I read recently that the last couple of years DNA discovery kits, such as 23 and Me have been very popular. The DNA submitted by an individual gives important genetic markers about one’s ancestry which helps in genealogy and tracing long lost family it can also point to a predisposition for certain diseases such as cancer. DNA is often used in law enforcement, as well as to establish parentage.

As Christians we trace our  family tree back to Jesus and the disciples, we can go back even farther in the family tree by looking at – Hebrews 11, where we read the names of many of the faithful; Noah, Abraham, Sarah, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, Rahab, Sampson, David. There were so many more people that God used even in their doubt and imperfection. It is spiritual DNA which links us to our spiritual ancestors, who have passed traditions, rituals and beliefs on to us. We are charged with keeping the bloodline going, passing the faith and its practices on through the church, the body of Christ, the family of God.

The Greek word for church is ecclesia- which means congregation, assembly or gathering not the building but the people. The church replicates in many different forms; store front churches, house churches, mega churches, traditional churches, coffee house churches, they are similar but not identical.

In God’s wisdom the body of Christ, the church in Wayne, Nebraska is different than a church in New York City or Taos, New Mexico, each one adapted to its particulate culture and climate, each has their own ways to worship and praise God. The DNA of faith was carried forward in this place by the foresight and vision of the charter members of this church who established a house of worship to see God’s Word was proclaimed and taught. There has been a cloud of witness’s faithfully perpetuating the faith and mission of Jesus Christ in Wayne since 1885.

Despite variances in form, churches can be identified by certain “family” characteristics as Christian. Some of the traits, the DNA of Christianity, which informs how Presbyterians worship, and connects the body of Christ through the ages include the authority of Scripture, the Word rightly preached and the administration of the sacraments of baptism and communion and nurturing a covenant community of disciples(F-1.0303 Book of Order). Presbyterians believe that we worship and serve God best when ordered according the Word of God, and by reason and sound judgment, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. The sacraments of baptism and communion as described in Scripture and our Book of Order, are a part of our spiritual DNA which connect us and nurtures a covenant community of disciples.  In addition, other genetic markers that identify us as Christians and link us to the 1^st century church include prayers and liturgies such as The Lord’s Prayer, the Glory Patria, the Apostles’ Creed and the Nicene Creed.

Just as parents pass on certain traits and characteristics to their children there is DNA unique to each denomination – Congregational, Baptist, Lutheran, Methodist, Catholic or Presbyterian. Our worship styles vary as do our forms of government, but we hold in common the Triune God, the three in one, the resurrection of Jesus Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit. We are all siblings in the faith, we are alike, but not the same.

The churches the Apostle Paul established are no longer, but others have emerged to advance the blood line of the church. All mainline denominations find themselves trying to adapt to a culture that has radically changed in the last 50 years, from a society where Christianity was predominant to one where the faith is marginalized, not by force or government, but rather by a population indifferent to a relationship with Jesus Christ and in many cases people skeptical of organized religious institutions. We have changed from a society that knew the stories of the Bible, to a generation which has little or no knowledge of the stories of the Bible, of leaders like Moses, King David, Peter and Paul, the faithfulness of Ruth, the bravery of Queen Esther and how God used them in spite of each of their flaws for God’s purpose and will.

Jesus Christ challenges us to go into the world and make disciples, to share our unique DNA, to teach and prepare the next generation. How do we make disciples in the 21^st century in this climate of indifference and skepticism? We continue to proclaim God’s truth but find new ways to share it. We continue to proclaim Jesus Christ but change how that proclamation is made from only worship on Sunday to using social media such as Facebook or via a church web page. Mission projects might be right next door or downstairs rather than miles away. Sharing our faith may take place outside the walls of the building in conversations and discussions. Bible study may incorporate the use of media such as power points or videos.

Change is a part of life, if an organism is to live it must change, grow and even sometimes adapt to its environment in order to survive. The same is true in the church, the way we operated 40 years ago is no longer attractive to today’s society. We can adapt and change that doesn’t mean we change the message of God’s love and grace; just the delivery. Change and adaptation to new things isn’t easy, but it is a sign of growth, a sign of looking to the future preparing for those we haven’t yet met. Even in the midst of change and adaptation it’s not the practices; worship, the programs or projects, it is the people that are the lifeblood of any faith community, each of you is a part of the DNA of this church, this body of believers. The testimony of your lives is the best expression of God’s love to the world.

We are interconnected and intertwined, to the past, to the present, and to what the future mission of God will be for FPC as well as the larger body of Christ. The decisions and actions, or failure to act, will have an impact on this congregation. The church of the future will not look like the church of even 20 years ago but by keeping Christ at the center, and telling how Christ has made a difference in our lives people will see the family resemblance, the face of Christ in each of ours. May God’s mission and family continue to grow through FPC Wayne and the larger body of Christ.

Grace and peace,

Pastor Teresa

 

STRAW FOR THE MANGER 

During Advent the members of FPC were encouraged to prepare the manger for the baby Jesus by doing acts of kindness or service. For each act of kindness or service members were encouraged to write their “gift” on a paper straw and add it to the manger. Our manger was empty at the beginning of Advent and by Christmas Eve was filled up nicely with gifts of kindness, hospitality and service to Christ.

In  acts of kindness and service to those we know well and those who are strangers we fulfill the intent Jesus  spoke of in Matthew 25:35-36;  “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in,  I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.”

The variety of activities and gifts were broad and ranged from gifts of service, gifts of time, gifts of hospitality as well as physical gifts. Here are some of the “gifts” the FPC members offered during Advent, some of these gifts were shared more than once.

Gifts of time and talents included;

• Making cookies for home bound folks, neighbors or friends and delivering them. Remembering teachers, roommates and friends with gifts.
• Helping at church preparing for services.
• Providing a ride for students or friends, to take them to church, allow them to do errands.
• Volunteering; Ringing bells for the Salvation Army, working at the Food Pantry, Food Truck, Coat Closet; picking up coats and or working in the Coat Closet. Meeting with Teammate Student
• Shoveled snow.
• Picked up mail or packages for someone while they were out of town and sorted and delivered mail for a friend.
• Shared donuts and hot chocolate with students.
• Gift of listening; visiting in hospital/ care facility, with a senior citizen and with a local businessperson.
• Helping people with doors, stairs etc.
• Recording radio announcement for backpack program.

Physical gifts of various kinds included donations to the Food Pantry, groceries to the Senior Center, Gifts for Kids program and Tree of Love (Secret Santa type of thing for youth and senior citizens.)

• Donated to the American Bible Society
• Brought items for the Coat Closet
• Bought dinner for a friend
• Gave a “flock of Chickens to someone” for Christmas.

Gifts of Hospitality

• Showing home to previous owners
• Christmas cards mailed with greetings and love and best wishes
• Sitting with a friend and their family in their last hours of life.
• Let someone know of lost money
• Offering grief support

What a difference these actions have made in the lives of others in just a month, the gifts bless those who receive them as well as those who gave them. Each kindness or service we offer is like a stone thrown in the pond which produces many ripples after the initial contact. The congregation is encouraged to continue to reach out beyond the walls of the church to embody the love and grace of Jesus Christ in their actions towards family, neighbors and friends as well as strangers. The world can be changed, we can be changed through intentional acts of kindness and service. In 2020 let’s continue changing the world.

 

FAITH DOLLARS AT WORK

The FPC Presbyterian Women put their “Faith Dollars” into action during Advent as they selected 4 tags from the Gifts for Kids tree at Bomgaars and made Christmas a little happier for a 4 year old girl, a 7 month old boy, a  6 year old boy and a 16 year old girl.  Thank-you to the Presbyterian Women and the many others in the congregation who contribute “Faith Dollars.” The PW generally selects special projects in the local area or local groups such as Haven House to receive “Faith Dollar” gifts.  Thanks to all for helping add more “straw to the manger”.

 

LOVE CARVED IN STONE BIBLE STUDY

Our latest Bible study will be meeting on January 8^th at 2:00p.m. in Fellowship Hall. All are welcome. Regular meetings are the 2^nd Monday of the month- January to May.

 

PRESBYTERIAN WOMEN

PW will meet Wednesday, January 8^th at 3:00pm. Regular meetings are the 2nd Monday of the month- January to May.

 

SEWING SOULS will meet on January 22^nd at 2:00 p.m. in Fellowship Hall.

 

COMMUNION

January Communion will be held on Sunday, January 12, 2020. Jean Griess will be the Communion Elder.

 

DOWNING OF THE BROWNS

Many hands light work! Please stay after fellowship on Sunday, January 12^th to take down the Christmas décor and put it away. Thank you.

 

DEACONS

The Deacons will meet Tuesday, January 21, 2020 at 3:30 pm in Fellowship Hall.

 

ALL-CHURCH GAME NIGHT!

Our FPC Youth will be hosting a game night for people of all ages in Fellowship Hall on Wednesday, January 22^nd beginning at 7:00pm. Bring a friend, some snacks to share and enjoy a night out!

 

SESSION

The Session will meet on January 25^th for elder training and planning for 2020. The retreat will be from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and include refreshments in the morning and lunch around 12:30 p.m.  All active Session members should plan to attend as we will be planning for Communion, monthly devotions, organizing Session teams as well as planning for events during the upcoming year.

 

SESSION & DEACON TEAM REPORTS DUE

2018 Session members & Deacons are reminded to compile a summary report for your area which will need to be sent to the office by Saturday, January 18th.

 

FPC ANNUAL MEETING

Our annual congregational meeting will be after worship on Sunday, January 26^th. If you are responsible for a particular ministry (e.g., music, nominating, church school, property), please submit a brief report to the church office (fpcwayne@gmail.com) by Saturday, 1/18.

 

JOHN FUELBERTH RECOGNITION

It’s with mixed emotions and sincere gratitude for his service that we are announcing the retirement of FPC treasurer, John Fuelberth. Please join us in Fellowship Hall on Sunday, January 26, 2020 after our Annual meeting for coffee and cake to celebrate John’s retirement.

 

2^nd ANNUAL FPC ‘GET YOUR CAN TO CHURCH’ SUNDAY!

Sunday, February 2, 2020 is a special collection for the Wayne Food pantry. Around the country churches and groups will be celebrating Souper Bowl Sunday by making donations to local food pantries or having food collection drives.  An item that is included in boxes for the Wayne Food Pantry patrons is canned soup, it is as item that always seems in short supply.  ‘Get Your Can to Church’ encourages FPC members to vote for the winner of the winner of the Super Bowl by bringing canned soup or cash to donate to the Wayne Food Pantry. The winner in our competition will be the team with the most cans and cash. Join in the fun on Super Bowl Sunday and help the Food Pantry with your donation.

 

WAYNE FOOD PANTRY

The numbers continue to rise at the Wayne Food Pantry. We had over 300 visits to the Food Pantry in 2019 and distributed over approximately 4,000 backpacks to the Wayne Community Schools. Our PB&J drive brought in 110 jars of peanut butter and 63 jellies. We are so thankful for the many donations that were made.

 

WAYNE COAT CLOSET

This past year we distributed nearly 300 coats to individuals & families in need. We also distributed more than 250 miscellaneous items such as snow pants, boots, hats & gloves.

 

CHURCH DIRECTORY UPDATE

Please check the FPC Church Directory proof on the Opportunity Table for any corrections or updates to your listing. A new edition will be available later this month.

 

WE ARE GRATEFUL

• I thank-you for the wonderful gift from the congregation, your generosity is deeply appreciated. Thank-you to each one who sent a card or remembered me in other ways. The gifts I treasure most however are the gifts of friendship, your support and encouragement as we work together. I give thanks for the ministry we have to share the good news of Jesus Christ. Grace and peace to each of you, Pastor Teresa

• Thank you for your generosity this Christmas season. I am grateful for your gifts and support. Jenny

 

THANK YOU TO CAROLERS

We had a group of about 15 Carolers on December 18^th who visited Brookdale, Wayne Country View Care and the Wayne Hospital.  After we completed our tour of town, we enjoyed soup, sandwiches and an assortment of desserts back at church. Thank-you to all who caroled and contributed to an excellent meal afterwards. Thanks to Jim Curtiss for organizing the event.

   

THANK-YOU PRESBYTERIAN PEALERS

If you missed worship on December 22^nd you missed hearing the Presbyterian Pealers share their talents.  The gathered congregation enjoyed many seasonal favorites during the service. The Presbyterian Pealers also participated with other Wayne Bell Choirs in Ring Around Wayne on December 1^st. It was a terrible day but a wonderful concert. The Pealers represented FPC well. Please thank all the members of the choir for their dedication and especially director Jay O’Leary.

 

CHRISTMAS POINSETTIAS

Thank you to all who provided poinsettias for Christmas Worship. They were a beautiful addition.

• John & Anita Fuelberth in memory of Elmer & Faye Peck, Dutch & Marj Fuelberth
• Phil & Jean Griess in memory of Harold & Elena Wagner, Wilmer & Elizabeth Griess
• The Hammer Family in memory of Willis Hammer & his grandparents
• Jane & Jay O’Leary in memory of Jay D. O’Leary and Jed O’Leary
• Milton & Jackie Owens in memory of Mr. & Mrs. John Owens, Mr. & Mrs. John Gesiriech
• First Presbyterian Church in memory of members & friends who have passed away in 2019: Jack Beeson, Eunice Creamer, JoAnn Owens & Jim Heins
• The Pulfer Family

 

ADVENT CANDLE LIGHTERS

Thank-you to all who assisted in worship with the lighting of the Advent Candles

December 1^st – The Hammer Family

December 8^th – The Peitz Family

December 15^th – The Peitz Family

December 22^nd – The Urbanec Family

December 24^th – The Ras Family

 

SALVATION ARMY BELL RINGERS

Several members of the congregation assisted the local Salvation Army Extension Unit by ringing bells December 7th. Thanks to Ken and Jodi Pulfer and Pastor Teresa.

 

LOOKING FORWARD TO 2020

January 12^th    Communion will be celebrated with Jean Griess as Communion Elder.

January 18^th    2019 Session Team Member reports due.

January 19^th    Pastor leads Wayne Country View Care Chapel at 1:30pm

January 22^nd   Multi-generational youth-led Game night at 7:00pm

January 25^th    Session Retreat – 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

January 26^th   Congregational Meeting – afterward FPC Treasurer John Fuelberth retirement coffee

January 29^th   Brookdale Chapel at 3:30pm

 

Lector/Greeter Schedule for January 2020

1/5/2020	Kent Pulfer	Jean Griess, Kent Pulfer
1/12/2020	Jodi Pulfer	Kent & Jodi Pulfer
1/19/2020	Milton Owens	Milton & Jackie Owens
1/27/2019	Jim Curtiss	Jim & Shari Paige	Jim Curtiss

 

January 2020 – First Presbyterian Church

Sunday	Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday
Each Sunday Morning: o Handbell Choir 8:45am o Worship 10:00am o Fellowship 11:00am			1 Pastor on vacation New Year’s Day! (office closed)	2 Pastor on vacation	3 Pastor on vacation	4 Pastor on vacation
5 Pastor on vacation   Guest Speaker: Dave Fritz	6 9:30am Wayne Co. Family Coalition   6:30pm Scout Den Meeting	7 4:00pm FCCLA packing backpacks	8 10:30am WACAM Meeting 2:00pm Bible Study 3:00pm Presby. Women	9	10	11
12 Communion   Downing of the Greens after fellowship	13 6:30pm Scout Den Meeting	14	15 2:00pm Sewing Souls 3:30pm Girl Scouts 5:00pm Girl Scouts Parents Mtg.	16	17	18 2019 Session Team Reports due
19 1:30pm Wayne CountryView Care Chapel	20	21 3:30pm Deacons Meeting	22 5:00pm Confirmation 7:00pm All-church Game Night	23	24	25 9am-1pm Session Leadership Retreat
26 Annual Congregational Meeting – Fuelberth retirement coffee	27	28	29 3:30pm Brookdale Chapel 3:30pm Girl Scouts 5:00pm Confirmation	30

 

JANUARY BIRTHDAYS

(Would you like to see your birthday listed here?

Just contact the church office 402-375-2669 or fpcwayne@gmail.com)

2        Larry H.

5        Terry B.

9       Jenny H.

10      Emily A.

11       Joyce V.

20     Kent P.

27      Jim P.

28     Jackie O.

31       Elaine F., Shannon P.

 

Contact Information:

First Presbyterian Church

216 W. Third Street

Wayne NE  68787

 

FPC Office & Wayne Food Pantry:

402-375-2669

fpcwayne@gmail.com

Tuesday – Friday, 9am – 12 noon

 

Websites:

Church: https://fpcwayne.com/

Wayne Food Pantry: https://fpcwayne.com/food-pantry/

 

FIND US ON FACEBOOK

First Presbyterian Church – Wayne, Nebraska

Wayne Food Pantry – Wayne, Nebraska

Wayne Coat Closet – First Presbyterian Church

 

Pastor Teresa Bartlett

402-375-2669 (office)

319-795-2911 (cell)

 

 

[*] From an article in Presbyterian Outlook by Rev. Christine Chakoian pastor of First Church in Lake Forest, IL.

[†] http://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/DNA

Presbytidings – December 2019

The Newsletter of First Presbyterian Church

216 West Third Street, Wayne, Nebraska 68787

(402) 375-2669 + www.fpcwayne.org

“Our chief end is to glorify and enjoy God forever.

 

From the Pastor….

During the season of Advent, we prepare for the birth of Jesus Christ and celebrate all Christ’s birth meant for humanity. Woven in and through our Advent Scripture readings as well as our hymns are themes of love, hope, joy and peace. For many the beloved seasonal hymns are an important part of Advent and Christmas preparation.  We each have our personal favorites; however, “Joy to the World” is one of the most beloved hymns of the season.

Perhaps you’ve never really thought about it but “Joy to the World” doesn’t contain any lyrics about stars, shepherds, wise men, angels or baby Jesus. The original theme of “Joy to the World,” was the second coming of the Lord based on Psalm 98.[*]  Reading the majestic words of Psalm 98:4-9 we can see echoes of the beloved hymn;

“Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth; break forth into joyous song and sing praises!

Sing praises to the LORD with the lyre, with the lyre and the sound of melody!

With trumpets and the sound of the horn make a joyful noise before the King, the LORD!

Let the sea roar, and all that fills it; the world and those who dwell in it!

Let the rivers clap their hands; let the hills sing for joy together before the LORD,  for he comes to judge the earth. He will judge the world with righteousness, and the peoples with equity.”

In 1719 Isaac Watts published a book of poems, each poem was based on a psalm, rather than just translate the original Old Testament texts, he adjusted them to refer more explicitly to the work of Jesus as revealed in the New Testament. For Psalm 98 Watts broke the psalm into two parts and summarized verses 4-9 under the name, “The Messiah’s Coming and Kingdom.” Watts interpreted the Psalm as a celebration of Jesus’s role as King of both his church and the whole world.

More than a century later, in 1839, the second half of the  poem was slightly adapted and set to music by Lowell Mason  to a melodic portion of Handel’s Messiah, the pairing  became  known  as “Joy to the World”  one of the most beloved of all Christmas carols.

“Joy to the World” wasn’t written for Advent yet it’s appropriate for the season as we celebrate the coming of the King in the manger and as we anticipate the return of the King. We commemorate the breaking through of the Light into the darkness at Christmas with Jesus’ birth, it is appropriate that we also celebrate the promised return of Christ. The church has celebrated these two arrivals almost synonymously through the song for centuries.

This year “Joy to the World” celebrates its 300^th birthday. We will be using the classic hymn as a part of our Advent candle lighting liturgy and singing a different verse each week as part of our preparation and anticipation of Christ’s birth and return. As you hear and sing this beloved carol this season, think about the words, how they apply to the Christmas story reminding us that we must prepare room for Him in our hearts and lives, and that they also point  to the reason Jesus came: to save the world!

Joy to the world, the Savior reigns;

Pastor Teresa

 

STRAW FOR THE MANGER

There are numerous traditions that people practice in the days leading up to Christmas. Some families use advent wreaths in their homes or some variation of an Advent calendar with a picture or a treat to help small children count the days until Christmas. Other practices like the Elf on the Shelf are  a fun way to remind children to be on their best behavior. Recently I heard about a Polish tradition which said if you had a piece of straw from the manger of Jesus you would be blessed. A twist on this tradition is to prepare the manger for baby Jesus by adding straw to the manger. A stalk of straw is added to the manger for each good or kind deed done for another.  In this way the spirit of kindness and generosity is encouraged as the manger is  prepared for  baby Jesus. This year during Advent I encourage the members of FPC to help prepare the manger for Jesus. Each week in the bulletin there will be a straw-colored piece of paper. You can jot down your service to others or kindness shared. Don’t include your name just a brief description of your action and add it to the manger. Here are a few suggestions:

Go Caroling

Bring 2 dozen cookies for the Cookie Project

Participate in an Angel or Giving Tree project for children or adults

Bring mittens or hats for the Deacons Tree in Fellowship Hall

Buy a toy or support a charity such as Toys for Tots

Participate as a Salvation Army Bell Ringer

Pick-up someone for church or a church event

Donate to the Wayne Food Pantry

Support alternative giving by donating to Presbyterian Giving Catalog

Support alternative giving by donating to Heifer International.

Donate to your local Hospice Program

Support your local Humane Shelter

Pay for a meal of a person behind you in the drive through

Christmas is about giving, God gifted us humanity with the first Christmas gift, let us continue the tradition of giving and sharing. Stop by the Alternative Giving Table in Fellowship Hall for additional non-traditional Christmas gift ideas.

 

CHRISTMAS POINSETTIAS

Poinsettias may be displayed in the sanctuary in honor or memory of the loved ones in your life. We will acknowledge the arrangements in the Christmas Eve program. Please inform someone Jenny in the church office of the details. You can bring them anytime. We would ask that you take them home after the December 24^rd worship service.

 

MITTEN TREE

The Deacons request your help in decorating our annual mitten tree this holiday season with gloves, hats, scarves and mittens. The tree will be in Fellowship Hall in December.

 

ADVENT CANDLE LIGHTING 2019

December 1st -Prepare Him Room (Hope)

Scriptures: Isaiah 2:1-5, Luke 1:26-38

 

December 8th -Our Songs Employ (Love)

Scriptures: Isaiah 11:1-10, Luke 1:39-45

 

December 15th – His Blessings Flow (Joy)

Scriptures: Isaiah 35:1-10, Luke 1:46-55

 

December 22nd – He Rules the World (Peace)

Scriptures: Isaiah 7:10-16, Luke (57-66) 67-79

 

December 24th – Repeat the Sounding Joy (Christ)

Scriptures Isaiah 9:2-7, Luke 2:1-14, (15-20)

 

WAYNE FOOD PANTRY

We are expecting a very busy holiday season at the Food Pantry. With gifts from the community we were able to provide eleven baskets to Wayne families at Thanksgiving, and we hope to provide about the same number this Christmastime. We will also be distributing over 120 bags with peanut butter, jelly & a loaf of bread to the children on the Wayne Schools Backpack Program. Please consider donating to the Food Pantry. There is a great need in our community, please be generous. Please contact Jenny at the church office fpcwayne@gmail.com if you have any questions.

 

COMMUNION

We will celebrate the Lord’s Supper on December 1^st with Kent Pulfer as the communion elder. Communion in January will be on the 12^th with Jean Griess serving as communion elder.

 

HANGING OF THE GREENS

We will be hanging the greens on Sunday, December 1^st after worship.

 

RING AROUND WAYNE

Hear the Presbyterian Pealers twice on Sunday, December 1^st. They will be playing at our worship service at 10:00a.m., and then again at 3:00p.m. at Wayne City Auditorium. Our thanks to Jay O’Leary and all the participants for sharing their talents with our community.

 

LOVE CARVED IN STONE BIBLE STUDY

Our latest Bible study will be meeting on December 4^th at 2:00p.m. in Fellowship Hall. All are welcome.

 

CALLING ALL BAKERS!

The Presbyterian Women will be preparing cookie plates for homebound members of the congregation for Christmas on December 4^th at 3:00p.m. FPC members are encouraged to donate two dozen holiday cookies for the cookie trays. Please have the cookies at church by December 3^rd. Thanks for helping spread some FPC joy and goodwill.

                                                                                                           

SALVATION ARMY BELL RINGERS NEEDED

Please sign-up to ring the Salvation Army Bell this season. Our church is slotted for Saturday, December 7^th. The sign-up sheet will be on the Opportunity Table. Here are the details:

1:00-3:00pm at Quality Foods

11:00-1:00pm at Bomgaars                1:00-3:00pm at Bomgaars

 

FPC OUTREACH/MISSIION SERVICES

Pastor Teresa will lead outreach/mission services at the following locations this month:

• BROOKDALE: Wednesday, December 11^th at 3:30pm.
• WORD IN FAITH Pastor’s article for the Wayne Herald will appear in the newspaper on 12/19.
• RADIO DEVOTIONS Pastor Teresa will be giving devotions on 104.9 Big Red Country KTCH the week of December 30^th – January 3^rd at 5:40am.

 

YOUTH GROUP & CHRISTMAS PROGRAM

The FPC Youth Group will meet on December 4^th & December 11^th.  Watch for details of FPC Youth participating in worship this month.

 

CHRISTMAS JOY OFFERING

Our Christmas Joy Offering will be taken on Sunday, December 22^nd & 29^th 2019. Whether providing financial assistance to current & former church workers and their families or providing opportunities for deserving students to attend Presbyterian-related racial ethnic colleges and schools, your generous gifts to the Christmas Joy Offering will bring Good News of Great Joy to the poor in circumstances or spirit.

 

SEWING SOULS

There will be no Sewing Souls meeting in December.

 

CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICE

Worship Christ, the newborn King! Tuesday, December 24, at 5:30pm. Bring your loved ones for a special candle-lit service celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ.

 

PASTOR’S VACATION & STUDY LEAVE

• Pastor will be on vacation December 25^th, 2019 – January 6^th, 2020.
• Pastor James Splitt will be leading worship service on Sunday, December 29, 2019.
• Lay speaker Dave Fritz will be speaking on Sunday, January 5, 2020 (Communion will be held on January 12^th.)
• If you have a pastoral need while Pastor Teresa is away, please contact the office at (402)375-2669 or fpcwayne@gmail.com

 

HOLIDAY OFFICE HOURS

• Monday, 12/23/2019, open 9am-1pm
• Tuesday, 12/24/2019, open 9am-1pm
• Wednesday, 12/25 – Friday, 12/27/2019, closed
• Monday, 12/30/2019, closed
• Tuesday, 12/31/2019, open 9am-1pm
• Wednesday, 1/1/2020, closed
• Thursday, 1/2 – Friday, 1/3/2020, open 9am-1pm

Pastor Teresa will be on vacation Wednesday, December 25 – Monday, January 6, 2019. Please, do not hesitate to leave a message if you have a need at either (402)375-2669 or fpcwayne@gmail.com

 

TAX REMINDER

All donations for the 2019 calendar year need to be to Anita Fuelberth no later than Tuesday, December 31, 2019 for tax purposes.

 

COMMUNION

We will celebrate the Lord’s Supper on Sunday, January 12, 2019. Jean Griess will serve as the Communion Elder.

 

SESSION

• The Session will not meet in December. They will gather for a retreat January 25^th from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Lunch will be provided.  Snow date for the retreat is February 1^st.
• 2019 Session members & Deacons are reminded to compile a summary report for your area which will need to be sent to the office by Friday, January 17th. Thank you!

 

PMC ANNUAL TREE LIGHTING REMEMBRANCE SERVICE

Providence Medical Center is hosting their annual Tree Lighting Remembrance Service on Sunday, December 8th at Providence Medical Center (Wayne).  You are warmly invited to join us for this special service.  If you have lost someone recently and would like their name included in the service and bulletin, please contact PMC Chaplain Rev. Anna Speiser at 402-375-7923 by Nov 24.

 

ALTERNATIVE CHRISTMAS GIVING

Here are some Web sites that will inspire you to give gifts that will make a real difference in people’s lives:

www.worldvision.org

www.samaritanspurse.org

www.compassion.com

www.churchworldservice.org

www.mbfoundation.org

www.heifer.org

calvincrest@calvincreat.org

specialofferings.pcusa.org/christmasjoy.html

presbyteriangifts.org

The Wayne Coat Closet

The Wayne Food Pantry

 

CHURCH RUSTIC TREASURE ACCOUNT

If you would like to donate items to the Church’s Rustic Treasure accounts, the numbers are listed below. Just take your item to the store counter, and give them the account number listed below. The proceeds will come back to us:

First Presbyterian Church #1220                 Wayne Food Pantry #442

 

Lector/Greeter Schedule for December 2019

12/1/2019	Kent Pulfer	Kent & Jodi Pulfer
12/8/2019	TBA	TBA
12/15/2019	Josephine Peitz	The Peitz Family
12/22/2019	Ken Marra	Ken & Karen Marra
12/24/2019	*****	The Hammer Family
12/29/2019	Gordon Granberg	The Ras Family

 

 December 2019 – First Presbyterian Church

Sunday	Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday
Each Sunday Morning:	8:45 Handbells	10:00 Worship	11:00 Fellowship
1 ·         10am Communion ·         11:00am ·         Hanging of the Greens ·         3pm ·         Ring Around Wayne	2 6:30 Scout Den Meeting	3 Donations for cookie trays due	4 2:00 Bible Study 3:00 PW Cookie Trays 5:00 Confirmation 7:30 Youth Group	5	6	7 Salvation Army Bell Ringing QFC 11-3 Bomgaars 11-3
8	9 9:30 Wayne Family Coalition Meeting 6:30 Scout Den Meeting	10	11 10am WACAM 3:00 Brookdale Chapel 5pm Confirmation 7:30 Youth Group	12	13	14
15	16	17	18 Sewing Souls will not meet   5pm Confirmation	19	20	21
22	23 Church Office open   No Session Meeting	24 5:30 Candlelight Christmas Eve Service	25   Church Office closed	26 Pastor on vacation   Church Office closed	27 Pastor on vacation   Church Office closed	28
29 Worship with Pastor James Split	30 Pastor on vacation   Church Office closed	31 Pastor on vacation	1 Pastor on vacation   Church Office closed	2 Pastor on vacation	3 Pastor on vacation	4 Pastor on vacation

 

LOOKING FORWARD TO 2020

• Worship with Communion will be held Sunday, January 12, 2020.
• The Session will gather for a retreat on Saturday, January 25^th from 9am-3pm.
• The FPC Annual Meeting will be held after worship at a date yet to be announced.

 

DECEMBER BIRTHDAYS

1           Brittany P.

5          Tiffanny H.

7          Candyce P.

14         Randy D.

18         Beau B.

22        Nina H.

(Would you like to see your birthday listed here?

Just contact the church office 402-375-2669 or fpcwayne@gmail.com)

 

Contact Information:

First Presbyterian Church

216 W. Third Street

Wayne NE  68787

 

FPC Office & Wayne Food Pantry:

402-375-2669

fpcwayne@gmail.com

Tuesday – Friday, 9am – 12 noon

 

Websites:

Church: https://fpcwayne.com/

Wayne Food Pantry: https://fpcwayne.com/food-pantry/

Wayne Coat Closet: https://fpcwayne.com/wayne-coat-closet/

FIND US ON FACEBOOK

First Presbyterian Church – Wayne, Nebraska

Wayne Food Pantry – Wayne, Nebraska

Wayne Coat Closet – First Presbyterian Church

 

Pastor Teresa Bartlett

402-375-2669 (office)

319-795-2911 (cell)

 

[*] Resources for this article came from  http://agodlyheritage.org/story-behind-the-song-joy-to-the-world & https://www.wordslingersok.com/2018/12/joy-to-the-world-the-story-behind-the-hymn

 

 

Presbytidings – November 2019

The Newsletter of First Presbyterian Church

216 West Third Street, Wayne, Nebraska 68787

(402) 375-2669 + www.fpcwayne.org

“Our chief end is to glorify and enjoy God forever.”

 

CONGREGATIONAL MEETING

The Session has called a congregational meeting for November 17^th following worship. At the meeting we will elect a new class of deacons and elders, receive the budget and approve the terms of call for the pastor in 2020.

 

From the Pastor….

November brings cooler days and nights, the end of daylight savings time, completion of the harvest, and Thanksgiving. Seasonal changes and cultural activities remind us that summer is gone and will soon be just a memory. Perhaps your attitude is one of sadness as long summer days slide into shorter days and longer nights.  Perhaps you’re looking forward to fall activities such as hunting, basketball season, preparing for Thanksgiving or getting a head start on Christmas shopping.

As we move into November is your attitude one of thankfulness and gratitude or anxiety and frustration?  Attitudes matter; the Apostle Paul had an attitude of gratitude even in the midst of hardship. Paul spent a lot of time in prison and wrote many of his letters while in jail. He started all but one of his letters, Galatians, by giving thanks to God for the blessings in his life, especially for Jesus Christ. Paul was humbled by Christ’s sacrifice for him and all humanity. Even amid persecution and imprisonment Paul exuded an attitude of thanksgiving which grew from his relationship with Jesus Christ. In his letters he gave thanks for Jesus Christ, friends and churches that encouraged and supported him.

Attitude mattered for the Apostle Paul; he recognized that no matter his physical circumstances his relationship with Jesus was his greatest treasure. Paul wrote in Philippians 4:11-13;

“…. for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through [Christ] who gives me strength.”

There may be many things in our lives, in the world, for which we are not thankful still we can give thanks for our blessings; our salvation through Jesus Christ, our relationships with family, friends, and our faith community.

Thanksgiving and gratitude for what Christ has done for each of us should flow from our relationship with Jesus and permeate every area of our lives. As a faith community each week we offer not only our praise but also renew our dedication to following Christ. Let us adopt Paul’s attitude to live with gratitude for large and small blessings, in good times and in hard times, not just this month when we focus on giving thanks, but always. I give thanks for God’s many blessings which includes each of you and the opportunity to serve in ministry with this community of faith.

Gratefully, Pastor Teresa

 

 What are You Thankful For?

A special project for the congregation of First Presbyterian.

Often as we are gathered around the Thanksgiving dinner table, we share what we are thankful for. Indeed, we do have much to be thankful for this year. Pastor Teresa invites you to share what you are thankful for by taking a picture of something or someone you are thankful for. The plan is for these images to be assembled into a photo collage and shared with the congregation a little later in the month, If you take a photo of a person, please make sure you have their permission. If a beautiful sunset, or fall scenery bring gratitude to mind take a photo, if a warm fireside seat on a cold night or a hot meal is what you are thankful for share a photo. Send your digital photos to Pastor Teresa at tbartlett98@gmail.com or post them on our Facebook page. Later in November we will share our blessings and offer God our thanks.

 

PRAYER FOR VETERANS DAY

God of peace,
we pray for those who have served our nation,
who laid down their lives
to protect and defend our freedom…

We pray for those who have fought,
whose spirits and bodies are scarred by war
and whose nights are haunted by memories
too painful for the light of day…

We pray for those who serve us now,
especially for those in harm’s way:
shield them from danger
and bring them home,
soon…

Turn the hearts and minds
of our leaders and our enemies
to the work of justice and a harvest of peace…

Spare the poor, Lord, spare the poor!

May the peace you left us,
the peace you gave us,
be the peace that sustains,
the peace that saves us.

Christ Jesus, hear us!
Lord Jesus, hear our prayer!

Amen.

From – ConcordPastor.blogspot.com

 

STEWARDSHIP TEAM REPORT

The results of the 2019 stewardship campaign are as follows;

• 60 letters were sent (60 represents “giving units” which may be a couple or an individual-not total number of members).
• 27 pledges were returned, the total pledged was $66,000.00

The Stewardship Team recognize that some people like making a pledge while others who give prefer not to pledge but still give faithfully, either manner is faithful. The financial support of the congregation is necessary for the on-going ministry of this congregation.

 

DID YOU KNOW?

Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) have become a great way for people 70½ or older to take all or part of their Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) from their Traditional IRA. The recent tax code changed the standard deduction for those over 65 to $26,600 for married filing jointly or $13,600 for single filers. Thus for many of us our church pledges will no longer be included in an itemized deduction. However, by making all or part of our pledge a Qualified Charitable Distribution directly from the IRA custodian or trustee to the church the distribution will not be included as taxable income to the IRA owner. Qualified Charitable Distributions can also exceed one’s specific RMD amount and still not be taxed.

While Qualified Charitable Distributions are not complex there are certain requirements and steps that should be followed so check with your tax professional.

-Ken Marra, Financial Advisor (Edward Jones)

 

COMMUNION

We will celebrate the Lord’s Supper on December 1^st with Kent Pulfer as the communion elder.

 

CALLING ALL BAKERS!

The Presbyterian Women will be preparing cookie plates for homebound members of the congregation for Christmas on December 4^th. FPC members are encouraged to donate 2 dozen holiday cookies for the cookie trays. Please have the cookies at church by December 3^rd at 2:00 p.m. Thanks for helping spread some FPC joy and goodwill.

 

“LOVE CARVED IN STONE” 2019-2020 BIBLE STUDY

Bible study is an important part of Presbyterian Women’s gatherings. This year’s study, Love Carved in Stone, A Fresh Look at the Ten Commandments is open to all who would like to participate, men and women. The group will meet at 2:00 p.m. on the first Wednesday of each month, except during Lent. Each lesson will be about thirty-five to forty minutes, depending on the discussion. Our time together is filled with learning, sharing, and laughter (lots of laughter!). We encourage all who want or need this time of spiritual connection to join us. This is an informal group that enjoys the time shared and the insights gained from time in study and fellowship. Join us!

 

LOVE CARVED IN STONE BIBLE STUDY

Our latest Bible study will be meeting on December 4^th at 2:00pm in Fellowship Hall. All are welcome.

 

PRESBYTERIAN WOMEN

The Presbyterian Women will be meeting on December 4^th following Bible study for a meeting and to prepare holiday cookie plates for homebound members of the congregation.

 

SEWING SOULS

The Sewing Souls will meet Wednesday, November 20^th at 2:00pm.

 

YOUTH GROUP NEWS

FPC Youth Group continues to meet on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month. The dates for November will be 11/13 and 11/27 at 7:30pm.

 

HOMESTEAD PRESBYTERY

Our presbytery will gather at the Laurel Presbyterian Church on Thursday, 11/21 beginning at 9:00am.

 

COMMUNITY THANKSGIVING SERVICE

Everyone is invited to gather with us at the First Presbyterian Church on Sunday evening, November 24^th for a Thanksgiving Worship Service. We will begin at 5:00pm and a soup-and-pie supper will follow in Fellowship Hall. We have a need of 4 soups and 4 pies, a sign-up sheet is on the Opportunity Table in Fellowship Hall. We are also in need of 4 kitchen hosts, please contact Pastor Teresa if you can help.

 

THANKSGIVING HOLIDAY

The church off will be open on Monday, November 25^th from 9-noon and will be closed Friday November 29^th for the Thanksgiving holiday.

 

SESSION

The Session will gather on Monday, November 25 at 6:30pm to prepare for the Hanging of the Greens on December 1^st. The meeting will begin at 7:00pm in Fellowship Hall.

 

HANGING OF THE GREENS

We will be hanging the greens on Sunday, December 1^st after worship. Stay tuned for details.

 

RING AROUND WAYNE

The Wayne community handbell concert will be Sunday, December 1^st at 3:00pm at the Wayne City Auditorium. Our own Presbyterian Pealers will be performing alongside the other local groups. Please show your support!

 

MITTEN TREE

The Deacons request your help in decorating our annual mitten tree this holiday season with gloves, hats, scarves and mittens. The tree will be in Fellowship Hall in December.

 

CONGRATULATIONS WAYNE BLUE DEVILS SOFTBALL

CONGRATULATIONS to the Sweetland family and the Blue Devil Softball team on your back-to-back State Championships! And to Rob Sweetland who has earned the 500th win for the Blue Devils! Check out the photos in Fellowship Hall.

 

SALVATION ARMY BELL RINGERS NEEDED

The Wayne Extension Unit of the Salvation Army will be conducting its Annual Bell Ringing Campaign beginning Friday, November 22. The bell ringing campaign is the primary fundraiser for the Salvation Army in Wayne. Bell ringers are needed for 2-hour time slots on Friday or Saturday beginning Thanksgiving weekend to December 21st. Churches, service organizations, youth groups and others have been invited to participate in the bell ringing project.

Ninety percent (90%) of the total funds collected in the Wayne bell ringing campaign remain in the community and assist with housing, utilities, medical, transportation and other needs of families and individuals in Wayne. This year the Wayne SA Unit sponsored a back to school drive for school supplies for elementary children. The project was very successful and helped more than 70 children with backpacks and school supplies. School supplies were also donated to elementary teachers at the beginning of the school year.

This year First Presbyterian is scheduled on Saturday, December 7^th from 11:00 to 1:00, 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. at Bomgaars and from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. at Quality Foods. The only requirements are to be friendly and welcoming, dress warmly and smile easily and say thank-you, oh yeah, a little wrist action with a bell. We can fill shorter time slots if we get more volunteers. There will be a sign-up sheet in Fellowship Hall.  Last year’s volunteers were the Hammer family, Jim Curtiss, the Peitz family and Pastor Teresa.

Participation in the Salvation Army bell ringing campaign is one way we can live into our commitment of being  a Matthew 25 congregation; as we are reminded in Matthew 25:40; ‘… whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’

Please sign-up to ring the Salvation Army Bell this season. Our church is slotted for Saturday, December 7^th. The sign-up sheet will be on the Opportunity Table. Here are the details:

1:00-3:00pm at Quality Foods

11:00-1:00pm at Bomgaars

1:00-3:00pm at Bomgaars

 

LOOKING AHEAD TO ADVENT & CHRISTMAS

• The Hanging of the Greens will take place after worship on 12/1. Stick around to help decorate our building in anticipation of Christmas!
• Begin the Advent season by supporting our Presbyterian Pealers at Ring Around Wayne on Sunday, December 1st at 3:00pm at the Wayne City Auditorium.
• Our congregation has been asked by the local Salvation Army Board to provide bell ringers on Saturday, December 7^th as noted: Quality Foods from 1-3pm, and at Bomgaars from 11am-1pm and 1-3pm. Please sign up at the Opportunity Table.
• We may go caroling to Brookdale and Careage in December.
• Our Christmas Eve Service will be held at 5:30pm.

 

THANK YOU!!!

Thank-you to the many individuals who took care of the mowing of the church lawn over the course of the last several months. Thank you also to those who planted flowers and trimmed bushes, plants and trees. Your gifts of time have made sure the church grounds were looking nice for Sunday as well as for other church and community events. Thank-you to each one who gave of their time.

 

CHURCH RUSTIC TREASURE ACCOUNT

If you would like to donate items to the Church’s Rustic Treasure accounts, the numbers are listed below. Just take your item to the store counter and give them the account number listed below. The proceeds will come back to us:

First Presbyterian Church #1220                 Wayne Food Pantry #442

 

ATTENTION LECTORS & GREETERS

In an effort to streamline our Stewardship drive this year, it was decided to discontinue the Time & Talents sign-up sheet. Jenny will continue to call on those previously listed (lectors, greeters & prayer chain) unless you contact her otherwise. Likewise, please let her know if you wish to join the others in service.

Lector/Greeter Schedule for November 2019

11/3/2019	Kevin Peterson	Kevin & Shannon Peterson
11/10/2019	Ronda Ras	The Ras Family
11/17/2019	Melissa Urbanec	The Urbanec Family
11/24/2019	tba	tba

 

November 2019 – First Presbyterian Church

 

Sunday	Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday
Each Sunday Morning: o Handbell Choir 8:45 o Worship 10:00 o Fellowship 11:00					1	2
3 ·         Set your clocks back 1 hour ·         Communion ·         1:30 Wayne Countryview Chapel	4 6:30pm Scout Den Meeting	5 7:00pm Dialogues at Ekeko Blends	6 2:00pm Bible Study 3:00pm Presbyterian Women 4:00pm NHS packs Backpacks	7	8	9
10	11 6:30pm Scout Pack Meeting	12 10:30am Organ Tuning 7:00pm Dialogues at Ekeko Blends	13 10:30am WACAM 5:00pm Confirmation 7:30pm Youth Group	14	15	16
17   Congregational Meeting after Worship	18	19	20 2:00pm Sewing Souls 3:30pm Girl Scouts 5:00pm Confirmation	21 9:00-3:00 Homestead Presbytery at Laurel	22	23
24 5:00pm Community Thanksgiving Service at FPC	25 9:00am Church Office open 7:00pm Session	26 11:00am Northern Covenant Pastors Meeting	27 5:00pm Confirmation 7:30pm Youth Group	28 Church Office Closed	29 Church Office Closed	30

 

 

 

NOVEMBER BIRTHDAYS

(Would you like to see your birthday listed here? 

Just contact the church office 402-375-2669 or fpcwayne@gmail.com)

6       Brandon B.

10     Kevin P.

12      Ken L.

12      Mark Mc.

14      Audrey H.

18      John G.

 

Contact Information:

First Presbyterian Church

216 W. Third Street

Wayne NE  68787

 

FPC Office & Wayne Food Pantry:

402-375-2669

fpcwayne@gmail.com

Tuesday – Friday, 9am – 12 noon

 

Websites:

Church: https://fpcwayne.org/

Wayne Food Pantry: https://fpcwayne.org/food-pantry/

 

FIND US ON FACEBOOK

First Presbyterian Church – Wayne, Nebraska

Wayne Food Pantry – Wayne, Nebraska

Wayne Coat Closet – First Presbyterian Church

 

Pastor Teresa Bartlett

402-375-2669 (office)

319-795-2911 (cell)

 

 

Presbytidings – October 2019

The Newsletter of First Presbyterian Church

216 West Third Street, Wayne, Nebraska 68787

(402) 375-2669 + http://www.fpcwayne.com

“Our chief end is to glorify and enjoy God forever.”

 

From the Pastor….

This Is My Church

It is composed of people just like me.

It will be friendly if I am.

It will do a great work if I work.

It will make generous gifts to many causes

if I am generous.

It will bring others into fellowship

if I bring them.

Its seats will be filled if I fill them.

It will be a church of loyalty and love,

of faith, service and laughter

if I, who make it what it is, am filled with these.

Therefore, with God’s help,

I dedicate myself to the task of being all these things

I want my church to be.

FPC is YOUR church and it will be what the members with God’s help make it. What vision of the future has God planted in your heart for FPC? If we want to be a friendly, generous, faithful, loving and serving community we need to work together to make it so. If we want to be a church known for mission beyond our Coat Closet and support of the Food Pantry and Backpack program, we can make that happen. The level of our energy, imagination, and financial support make a difference in each of us, in Wayne and beyond.

A church isn’t just a building, but a community held together through Jesus Christ. Each member of this congregation has skills and gifts they can share whether musical talents, business knowledge, the ability to teach or rapport with the youth, some have limited time, others have more availability. It takes all of us, from the youngest to the oldest, working together to be the body of Christ and advance the kingdom of God.

The Session is preparing for next year and working on the budget. The Nominating Committee has been activated and will be looking for a new class of Deacons and Elders. If you are asked by the Nominating Committee to serve, please prayerfully consider the request and how you can make a difference by saying yes.

October is Stewardship Campaign month, when we ask you to consider how we share financial support of the church and its mission in Wayne and beyond. It is not just financial support that is needed however, your support and participation in the life of the congregation is important whether mowing the lawn, playing in the bell choir, bringing flowers, serving as an usher, liturgist or fellowship host. It is also about participating with gusto in worship, praying and caring for each other and those beyond our walls. This is your church; let us dedicate ourselves to being the generous, loving, extroverted church of our Triune God.

– CU in church, Pastor Teresa

 

“DIALOGUE” A CONVERSATION ON REFUGEES AND IMMIGRATION

Refugees and immigration are very much in the news these days. You are invited to join in a conversation helping us learn from people who have experience with refugees and immigration. The First Presbyterian Church and Our Savior Lutheran Church organized an opportunity to enter a dialogue about refugees and related issues.

The discussion is guided by a series entitled Dialogues which offers unique perspectives from experienced authors from renowned organizations such as World Relief and Church World Service that provide insight into refugee stories and experiences. The following are the essays for each week’s discussion:

October 1^st – “A People Without a Place”

October 15^th – “A Global Perspective”

October 15^th – “A Network of Care”

October 22^nd – “Facing Our History”

October 29^th – “Looking for Home”

November 5^th – “Where Do We Go From Here?”

Participants can attend one or all the weekly sessions. The group will meet weekly at Ekeko Blends, 110 Main St., Wayne at 7:00 p.m. There is room for all to join the conversation. For more information or to RSVP contact Pastor Teresa via email tbartlett98@gmail.com or call the church office 402.375.2669.

 

“LOVE CARVED IN STONE”-2019-2020 BIBLE STUDY

Traditionally our women’s Bible study was part of the Presbyterian Women’s meeting. Beginning this October, the Bible study will be open to all (men and women). The subject of our study this year is the Ten Commandments. We will meet at 2:00 on the first Wednesday of each month, except during Lent. Each lesson will be about thirty-five to forty minutes, depending on the discussion. Our time together is filled with learning, sharing, and laughter (lots of laughter!). We encourage all who want or need this time of spiritual connection to join us. This is an informal group that enjoys the time spent and the insights that we gain from this experience.

We will be meeting on Wednesday, October 2^nd at 2:00pm. The discussion will be about the first commandment “I Am Your God; You Shall Have No Others”. Join us and be prepared to have an insightful and enjoyable time. – Karen Johnson

 

WORLD COMMUNION SUNDAY, OCTOBER 6^th

We will celebrate the Lord’s Supper together on Sunday, October 6. It is World Communion Sunday, a day when we share the Bread of life and the Cup of salvation alongside Christians in all different traditions, around the world. The communion elder will be Glenda McDonald.

 

Telling the Story of God’s Love: Stewardship Campaign – October 6^th to October 20^th

The familiar hymn “I Love to Tell the Story” encompasses the work of the church by telling of “unseen things above,” “of Jesus and his glory, of Jesus and his love.” Jesus was a storyteller and as a church we are to continue to tell the stories of our Triune God’s love and grace, to tell of and enact Jesus’ love to members and neighbors near and far.

As a church it is important, we continue to tell the stories of our Triune God and God’s love as well as how our lives are different because of our faith. How has the church played a part in your story, how has your faith impacted your life? We are members of this community of faith, because it is important in our life story. Do you have a favorite Bible story or biblical character that speaks to you which has impacted your life and made you think in new ways?  Perhaps  your story is like the Apostle  Paul’s who had a sudden and powerful conversion experience, or like Mary, the mother of Jesus who submitted with faith and trust to God working through her, or are you a Peter who loves Jesus but makes your fair share of mistakes. The biblical story of God’s love and grace, of our human mistakes, of our repentance and new beginnings is our story and one that a hurting world needs to hear.

The Finance Team asks your help to continue telling the story of God’s love through the sharing of your financial resources as well as your time and talent. With your support we can share the story through worship, supporting ministries of compassion and care such as the Food Pantry and Coat Closet, supporting our youth as they grow in faith, supporting and encouraging each other in times of grief and in times of celebration. We each have a part in the story of First Presbyterian and your support is needed to continue sharing God’s love with one another and our community.

Our Stewardship Campaign begins October 6^th and the Finance Team asks you to consider your giving for the remainder of this year and for 2020. You will be receiving information from the financial secretary and each individual or family is asked to prayerfully consider their circumstances and complete their 2019 pledge and determine their pledge for 2020. While you are not required to make a specific pledge, the Stewardship Team appreciates members returning the Intention of Giving for budget planning purposes by October 20^th to Anita Fuelberth. Your support helps First Presbyterian Church continue to tell the story of Jesus and his love.

 

Pastor Bartlett to Participate in Pastoral Leadership Revitalization Program

The Pastoral Leadership Revitalization (PLR) program, made possible by a three-year grant, directed by the Omaha Seminary Foundation has begun. The program seeks to help pastors find a balance between personal and profession life as well as offers support in ministry. The PLR program focuses on first call pastors and those in small and rural settings. Pastors from the presbyteries of Central Nebraska, Missouri River Valley, Missouri Union and Homestead Presbytery have been invited to participate in the 3-year program. Pastor Bartlett was invited by the Homestead Interim Executive, Stephen Earl, to apply for Pastoral Leadership Revitalization Program and was accepted. The purposes of the program are:

• To increase pastoral resilience and adaptive leadership,

especially for newly ordained and or isolated pastors.

• To stem the attrition rate of ordained and lay pastors.
• To create a network of pastoral leadership.

Each participant is assigned a coaching mentor which is a hybrid of a coach and a mentor, who will meet with participants in person or electronically monthly. In addition to regular interaction with a coaching mentor the program includes a variety of retreats. There is no expense to the churches, pastors or presbyteries as all expenses are covered by the grant from the Lily Foundation. The first retreat for Pastor Teresa is October 7th-10th, 2019. Sessions and congregations are encouraged to support their pastors participating in the program. It’s hoped that as a result of pastoral revitalization congregations will also experience:

• Improved spiritual enrichment
• Increased membership
• Increased vitality in the congregation

Please pray not only for Pastor Teresa but all the pastors and coaching/mentors who will be part of this program as well as the executive/general presbyters and the PLR staff as they embark on this revitalization program.

 

GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP AT PROVIDENCE MEDICAL CENTER

Join a welcoming and kind community of support, where you can learn tools and join others on the journey.  We will gather on Thursdays from 6:30-8:15 pm, October 3 to November 7 (six sessions) at Providence Medical Center, in Wayne.  There is no cost, snacks and beverages provided. For more information, call PMC chaplain, Pr. Anna Speiser at 402-375-7923. 

 

FALL DECORATING

If you would like to provide pumpkins, gourds or other fall decorations (artificial or real) to use in decorating the sanctuary, please bring those items to church by October 13^th and leave them in Fellowship Hall or with Pastor Teresa. If you would like to assist in decorating the sanctuary for fall, please join us on Wed., October 15^th at 2:00 p.m.

 

CHANGES IN FUNERAL POLICY AND FUNERAL LUNCH POLICY

The Session has revised and updated the funeral policy, the previous policy was 13 years old and it was time to update and bring it in line with current practices. FPC desires to offer a ministry of care and compassion to members or non-members so there is no fee building use for a funeral service, visitation or a funeral luncheon held at the church. The entire revised policy is available for review in Fellowship Hall.

Changes in recent years have led to conversations about how best to show hospitality to families of the congregation and those former members or others who ask for FPC to serve a lunch following the service. It seemed appropriate while updating the funeral policy to review and update the church funeral lunch policy, the addendum regarding funeral lunches follows. In creation of this new policy we wanted to clarify the number that could be served at church and when estimates for a funeral exceed what we can seat, what options are available. We have increasingly encountered a challenge in finding enough workers and getting donations for funeral lunches, the policy addresses those issues. Funeral practices have shifted in the last few years and funeral lunches are not as often supported by food from friends and neighbors to supplement the donations of the congregation. All these things were considered in writing this policy. It is no longer uncommon to find funeral lunches that are catered by local businesses and paid for by the family as part of funeral expenses.

The funeral lunch policy has been discussed and reviewed by the PW, the Team leaders, and the Worship team as part of the funeral policy revision which was approved by the Session. Additional changes include that we have moved to two funeral leadership teams which will rotate as per previous practice; however multiple workgroups have been merged into one. A work group with men of the congregation has also been created to assist in the set-up and take down of tables and chairs. The leadership teams will call to line up help for serving and/ or set up whether the luncheon is held at the church or off site.

The entire policy including the luncheon policy will be given to the funeral directors that FPC works with frequently so they can assist families in making decisions regarding luncheons. You are encouraged to read through the addendum and the funeral policy and if you have any questions or concerns speak to Pastor Teresa.

 

Funeral Receptions and Meals [*]

If a luncheon is desired following a funeral service held at First Presbyterian, Presbyterian Women (PW) and members of the congregation are available to provide/serve lunch given the following guidelines.

Working through the church office and Pastor it will be necessary to know preferably 2 to 3 days prior to the day of the service;

• An estimate of how many will be served.
• The Fellowship Hall at FPC can seat 90 people, for larger groups an alternate location will be needed; such as the Wayne Fire Station or City Auditorium.
• What kind of reception is desired, (see following).
• A lunch of cake and/or bars, coffee and beverages which will be prepared and served by the church.
• All meals other than cake, bars, coffee and beverages must be catered no matter the location. The work group will need to know as soon as possible who will be doing the catering and the location.

In Wayne menu options include sandwiches* or hot meals which may be provided by local business including; Vel’s Bakery, Pac N Save, Quality Foods, The Max, Tacos N More, Fourth Jug.  The caterer must supply appropriate staff for serving.

The congregation can provide cake and or bars, to supplement catered meals. The church will provide coffee and iced tea or lemonade for lunches at church as well as paper products, cups, plates, napkins and silverware.

For groups larger than 90 the lunch must be held at an alternate site and must be catered, with appropriate catering staff on hand for serving and clean-up. It is requested the caterer provide the beverages for lunches outside the church. FPC may provide dessert items (cake, bars, etc.) and be available to assist in serving the lunch offsite.

The funeral director can assist the family in coordinating with the caterer and choosing a menu and location based on anticipated attendance and availability and will co-ordinate with the Funeral work group and Pastor for serving.

Payment for the cost of the meal will normally be made through the funeral home. Financial contributions to Presbyterian Women for serving are appreciated.

 

DEACONS MEETING

The Deacons for October will be announced at a later date.

 

YOUTH GROUP

The youth group will meet on October: 9^th & 23^rd at 7:30pm in the youth room.

 

PINK FLAMINGO NIGHT AT OUR SAVIOR LUTHERAN CHURCH

Plan to join us at Our Savior Lutheran Church for their Annual Pink Flamingo Nite on Thursday, October 10^th. Providence Medical Center, Pac N Save and the Women of Our Savior have joined forces again this year to bring a fun and informative evening focused on Cancer Awareness. Tickets can be purchased at the church, area banks, Swan’s, Hair Envy and a few other locations around town for just $5 each. Proceeds going directly to the PMC Oncology Department.

 

SEWING SOULS

Sewing Souls will meet on Wednesday, October 16th at 1:00pm.

 

SESSION

The next session meeting will be held on Monday, October 28^th at 7:00 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall.

 

COMMUNITY CHAPEL SERVICES

Pastor Teresa will lead chapel services at the following locations throughout October:

• WORD IN FAITH Pastor’s article for the Wayne Herald will appear in the newspaper on October 10^th.
• BROOKDALE CHAPEL Pastor Teresa will lead Brookdale Chapel on Wednesday, October 23^rd at 3:30pm.
• RADIO DEVOTIONS Pastor Teresa will be giving devotions on 104.9 Big Red Country KTCH the week of October 28^th – November 1st at 5:40am.

 

RUNZA FEEDS THE NEED FUNDRAISER RAISES OVER $31,000, OVER $400 Locally

By Aaron Scheffler (Wayne Daily News)| September 18, 2019 (reprinted with permission)

WAYNE – Big Red County, The City and Runza wants to say thank you for all who supported the Second annual Feeds the Need Fundraiser.

On Tuesday, all Runza locations hosted this event and it was another great success. According to a release from the director of marketing at Runza, the event raised $31,783.71. Locally, $432.74 was raised for the Wayne food pantry and backpack food programs.

All day long, 10% of sales were donated to local programs focusing on youth hunger and food insecurity.

During the afternoon remote from the Wayne Runza location, Jodi Pulfer talked about the programs. Pulfer, a volunteer, said 100% of donations that make up these programs are from the community. “It’s pretty amazing when you start looking at other food pantries around the area,” said Pulfer. “Many of them will receive grant funding or funding from other sources. Every time we’ve asked or we’ve had a need, you all have been fabulous with supplying that need for us.”

The Wayne Public Schools backpack program began in April of 2013 to assist families with children who experience food-scarcity on the weekends who may have kids home alone. Each bag contains two breakfasts, two lunches, two snacks and two servings of fruit.

Volunteers will come in and pack an entire month of food. “So, we’ll pack about 120 bags for each week,” Pulfer added. “So, we’re going to be packing about 480 bags in a night. Those volunteers have ranged from the Wayne State students, to 4-H clubs, to church groups; all those types of individuals have been greatly appreciated.

The backpack program is estimating it costs about $1,000 a month to put the bags together for nine months of the school year.

The Wayne County food pantry is made up of a group of non-denominational volunteers who are housed in the basement of the First Presbyterian Church. Pulfer mentioned their goal is to help individuals and families through rough spots in life by supplying them with approximately a months’ supply of food and the pantry may be used up to three times per year for each client.

“In 2012 we had 107 households that included 450 people that utilized the food pantry,” Pulfer mentioned. “Last year, in 2018 that grew to 298 households and we served 1,119 people.”

And from this time last year, the food pantry is up about 75 people.

For those in need of food or would like to drop off food can stop by the First Presbyterian Church Tuesday – Friday from 9 a.m. until noon or call 402-375-2669. Also, the Wayne County Family Coalition, which is housed at the Northeast Nebraska Public Health Department, can get you arranged to receive food if you need it.

Like Wayne Food Pantry & School Backpack Program on Facebook for more information. The food pantry is still in need of several items as they’re running low on their canned vegetable shelves and they’re continually having to buy food these days.

 

DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME

Daylight Saving Time will end on Sunday, November 3, at 2:00am. Don’t forget to set your clocks back one hour, or you’ll have plenty of time for solitary meditation in the sanctuary!

 

Lector/Greeter Schedule for October 2019

10/6/2019	Glenda McDonald	Pat & Glenda McDonald
10/13/2019	Jeryl Nelson	Jeryl & Rochelle Nelson
10/20/2019	Candyce Peitz	The Peitz Family
10/27/2019	Kevin Peterson	Kevin & Shannon Peterson

 

October 2019 – First Presbyterian Church

Sunday	Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday
Each Sunday Morning: o Handbell Practice 8:45 o Worship 10:00 o Fellowship 11:00		1 7:00pm Dialogues at Ekeko Blends	2 2:00pm Bible Study 3:30pm Girl Scouts 5:00pm Confirmation 5:30pm Stewardship Meeting	3	4	5
6 World Communion Day (Communion Elder – Glenda McDonald)	7 (Pastor out – retreat) 6:30pm Scout Den Meeting	8 (Pastor out – retreat) 7:00pm Dialogues at Ekeko Blends	9 (Pastor out – retreat) 3:30pm Girl Scouts 5:00pm Confirmation 7:30pm Youth Group	10 (Pastor out – retreat)	11 (Pastor out – vacation)	12 (Pastor out – vacation)
13 (Pastor out – vacation)   Pr. Anna Speiser, speaker	14 9:30am Wayne Family County Coalition Meeting 6:30pm Scout Den Meeting	15 7:00pm Dialogues at Ekeko Blends	16 1:00pm Sewing Souls 3:30pm Girl Scouts 5:00pm Confirmation	17	18	19
20	21	22 11:00am Northern Covenant Pastors meet 7:00pm Dialogues at Ekeko Blends	23 3:30pm Brookdale Chapel 3:30pm Girl Scouts 5:00pm Confirmation 7:30pm Youth Group	24 10:30am Pastor at Salvation Army Mtg.	25	26
27	28 *5:40am KTCH 104.9 Moment for Living 7:00pm Session meets	29 *5:40am KTCH 104.9 Moment for Living 7:00pm Dialogues at Ekeko Blends	30 *5:40am KTCH 104.9 Moment for Living 3:30pm Girl Scouts 5:00pm Confirmation	31 *5:40am KTCH 104.9 Moment for Living	1 *5:40am KTCH 104.9 Moment for Living

OCTOBER BIRTHDAYS

(Would you like to see your birthday listed here?

Just contact the church office 402-375-2669 or fpcwayne@gmail.com)

5         Dale J.

8         John F.

10        Brook B.

14        Sydney Mc.

15        Pat Mc.

18        Ronald C.

20        Braydn Mc.

21        Rob S.

Save the Date!

• Thursday, November 21, 2019 9:00am – 3:00pm

Presbytery Meeting at Laurel Presbyterian Church, Laurel, Nebraska

• Sunday, November 24, 2019 Worship at 5:00pm, Supper at 6:00pm

Community Thanksgiving Service followed by Soup Supper

First Presbyterian Church, Wayne, Nebraska

 

Contact Information:

First Presbyterian Church

216 W. Third Street

Wayne NE  68787

 

FPC Office/Wayne Food Pantry/Coat Closet

402-375-2669

fpcwayne@gmail.com

Tuesday – Friday, 9am – 12 noon

 

Pastor Teresa Bartlett

402-375-2669 (office)

319-795-2911 (cell)

 

Websites:

Church: https://fpcwayne.com/

Wayne Food Pantry: https://fpcwayne.com/food-pantry/

Wayne Coat Closet: https://fpcwayne.com/wayne-coat-closet/

 

FIND US ON FACEBOOK

First Presbyterian Church – Wayne, Nebraska

Wayne Food Pantry – Wayne, Nebraska

Wayne Coat Closet – First Presbyterian Church

 

GET OUR NEWSLETTER BY E-MAIL

If you would like to receive this newsletter by e-mail (save a stamp, save a tree!), go to www.fpcwayne.com; on the home page, in the right hand column, there is a widget that says, “NEWSLETTER SUBSCRIPTION: Enter your e-mail address to receive Presbytidings, our church’s newsletter, by e-mail.” Enter your address in the white box, and click on the button that says, “Sign me up!” You will need to confirm your subscription through an e-mail message that will be sent to your inbox; this is safe! It is designed to keep spammers out of the picture! Share our newsletter with all your friends and family. Simple!

[*] Approved Session – September 23, 2019

* A sandwich menu with choice of meats, sliced cheese, buns or bread, pickles/relish, potato chips and salads if desired is available from local businesses.

Presbytidings–August/September 2019

The Newsletter of First Presbyterian Church

216 West Third Street, Wayne, Nebraska 68787

(402) 375-2669 + www.fpcwayne.com

“Our chief end is to glorify and enjoy God forever.”

 

From the Pastor…..

 And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you

 did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.’  Matthew 25:40

An invitation arrived in the mail earlier this year, it wasn’t addressed to an individual but to the whole church. The invitation was to be a Matthew 25 church.  A Matthew 25 church is a vision based on Matthew 25:31-46 which calls Christians to actively engage in the world around us, so that our faith comes alive and we’re open to new possibilities for ministry around us. Convicted by the biblical passage the 222^nd and 223rd (2016 & 2018) General Assemblies challenged the PC(USA) to act boldly and compassionately to serve those who are hungry, oppressed, imprisoned or poor.

Participating Matthew 25 churches can select one or more of the three focus areas of the initiative:

• Building congregational vitality by challenging congregations and their members to deepen and energize their faith and grow as joyful leaders and disciples actively engaged with their community as they share the gospel of Jesus Christ in word and deed.
• Dismantling structural racism by fearlessly applying our faith to advocate and break down the systems, practices and thinking that underlie discrimination, bias, prejudice and oppression of people of color.
• Eradicating systemic poverty by acting on our beliefs and working to change, laws, policies, plans and structures in our society that perpetuate economic exploitation of people who are poor.

I’m pleased to announce that at the June meeting the FPC Session voted to become a Matthew 25 congregation. As a Matthew 25 church, we seek to put into action Jesus’ words “…to care for the least among us…” we have the freedom to focus on one area or branch out to all three. Our initial focus at FPC will be poverty. According to Donna Frischknecht Jackson in an article for the May/June Presbyterians Today magazine, poverty is the greatest threat to the healthy development of children.  Long lasting negative consequences of poverty include inadequate quality and quantity of food, exposure to violence, underfunded schools and lack of early childhood educational opportunities, frequent housing mobility and exposure to pollution and other health risks. FPC will continue to assist people through the Food Pantry and Coat Closet, both are ways this congregation addresses issues of economic hardships in our community.

There are numerous books for study on poverty or racism which might be great opportunities for us to stretch our understanding about these issues. In addition to focusing on poverty and racism we might find that congregational revitalization may happen as our church grows in vitality and purpose as disciples. A church active in its community often attracts others to join in their work and worship.

The Matthew 25 Vision invites participation and co-operation not only within a congregation but with other groups or agencies to address poverty and racism. Members of this congregation are already actively engaged with other organizations in the community which address issues of poverty:  housing, health care, economic issues and education.

Matthew 25 is an invitation to all PC(USA) churches to serve and by doing so make the world a better place. You can learn more about being a Matthew 25 church at Pcusa.org/Matthew 25. The Session and I would be happy to hear other ideas of how you think FPC might live into being a Matthew 25 church based on the 3 focus areas. I am excited about the opportunity to see where God is leading us.

Grace and peace, Pastor Teresa

About the Matthew 25 logo:

The circular shape represents unity and equality. Like God, a circle has no beginning and no end, and it symbolizes our continuing effort to help one another. The shape also suggests a globe that points to our engagement with the world.

The three interlocking figures represent the equality of all people without gender or race bias. They have their arms around each other, symbolizing friendship, protection and service. The number three suggests the three focus areas of congregational vitality, structural racism and systematic poverty, as well as the Trinity.

The color palette is bright, lively, friendly and energetic — suggestive of our active commitment.

Finally, the legend “Matthew 25” below the symbol is the literal identification of the mark. We use a handwritten font to make the point that active engagement in the world requires human effort.

 

“DIALOGUE” A CONVERSATION ON REFUGEES AND IMMIGRATION

Refugees and immigration are very much in the news these days. The community is invited to join in a conversation helping us learn from people who have experience with refugees and immigration. Beginning September 24^th, First Presbyterian Church and Our Savior Lutheran Church, will offer an opportunity to enter a dialogue about refugees and related issues. Immigration is a complex subject and it is hoped that this conversation will help each of us gain a better understanding of the underlying issues that drive immigration including economic factors, and violence (such as war or gang violence). Participants may also recall the stories of their own families of transition and change.

The group will enter an 8-week discussion guided by a series entitled Dialogues which offers eight unique perspectives from experienced authors from renowned organizations such as World Relief and Church World Service that provide insight into refugee stories and experiences. The following are the essays for each week’s discussion:

September 24^th – “The Story We Live In” by Brianne Casey

October 1^st – “A People Without a Place” by Dr. Beth Oppenheim-Chan

October 8^th – “A Global Perspective” by Jenny Yang

October 15^th – “A Network of Care” by Sarah Krause, MS

October 22^nd – “Facing Our History” by Halima Z. Adams

October 29^th – “Looking for Home” by Aubrey Leigh Grant

November 5^th – “Where Do We Go From Here?” by Matthew Soerens

Issues related to immigration; refugees, migrants are a difficult: however, it is hoped that this time of study and conversation will expand our learning and understanding. The goal is not to cause conflict or division but to have thoughtful conversation that is informed by our Christian faith and voices of experience. These conversations will be open to the community nonetheless an RSVP is appreciated so that we will have sufficient number of books for participants. Participants can attend one or all the weekly sessions. The group will meet weekly at Ekeko Blends, 110 Main St., Wayne at 7:00 p.m.  There is room for all to join the conversation.   For more information or to RSVP contact Pastor Teresa via email tbartlett98@gmail.com or call the church office 402.375.2669.

 

SESSION

• Monday, August 26, at 7:00 p.m. Devotions: Kevin Peterson.
• Monday, September 23, at 7:00 p.m. Devotions: Jane O’Leary. Interim Executive Presbyter Stephen Earl will be in attendance.

GOLF OUTING

Like to golf? Plan on gathering for a Lutheran/Presbyterian Golf outing on Tuesday, 8/27 at 5:00pm. Supper and prizes will follow that evening. If you don’t golf, come for the social hour at 5:30pm.

COMMUNITY CHAPEL SERVICES

Pastor Teresa will lead chapel services at the following locations:

• RADIO DEVOTIONS Pastor Teresa will be giving devotions on 104.9 Big Red Country KTCH the week of August 26^th – 30^th at 5:40am.
• BROOKDALE CHAPEL Pastor will lead chapel at Brookdale on Wednesday, September 4^th at 3:30pm.
• WAYNE COUNTRYVIEW CARE: Pastor will lead chapel at Wayne Countryview Care on September 22 at 1:30pm.

PRESBYTERIAN WOMEN & SEWING SOULS

• Presbyterian Women will meet Wednesday, September 4^th at 12:30pm for a salad lunch.
• Sewing Souls will meet Wednesday, September 18^th at 1:00pm.
• The PW Fall Gathering will be held at Calvin Crest Conference Center on September 13^th & 14^th. Please see Karen Johnson for more details.

COMMUNION

• Sunday, September 8, 2019. Kent Pulfer, Communion Elder.
• Sunday, October 6, 2019. Glenda McDonald, Communion Elder.

SUNDAE SUNDAY

Please join us on Sunday, September 8^th during fellowship for our traditional Sundae Sunday.

YOUTH GROUP

Youth Group will be starting up again in September. Stay tuned for kick-off details!

CHICKEN OFFERING UPDATE

The total for the Chickens Around the World offering was $650.00!!! Thank-you for your generosity.

RUNZA FEEDS THE NEED

Our local Runza Restaurant is hosting a special fund-raiser for the Wayne Food Pantry & Backpack Program on Tuesday, September 17^th. Please support us by making plans to dine at Runza that day! Invite your friends!

AUGUST 2019 FOOD PANTRY NEWS

The food pantry has had a very busy year, we have already served nearly 700 people. The Backpack Program served approximately 4,300 food bags in the 2018/19 academic year. Please consider a donation to help our ministry to Wayne Food Pantry and Backpack Program.

WAYNE GROW AN EXTRA ROW

Consider sharing your garden bounty this year with those in need in our community. Set aside a small bag of produce, and bring it to our food pantry.  The program was well received last year. You can help make a difference!  What we don’t give away will be for sale after church each Sunday, with the proceeds of the sale going to support the Pantry.

CALVIN CREST CAMPER REPORT

Hello, my name is Nina Hammer. I am 13 years old and in 8^th grade. I have been going to Calvin Crest for 7 years. Calvin Crest is an amazing place to spend time, grow spiritually, and connect with others. Calvin Crest helps people make so many bonds with friends, most of my best friends I met through Calvin Crest because I feel God willed it for us to go at the same time and meet. Every week I went I met some of the most amazing people. One of my favorite and best things about Calvin Crest is that the people there aren’t mean, they don’t judge you, they are genuinely kind, and they are amazing children of God. Each year I have noticed how much I liked it and always wanted to go back, but this year I noticed a change in the way I felt about it. I felt more connected there with new friends than I do in my own town. The week at ranch camp it rained most days, meaning we could only ride 2 of those days out of the 4 days usually planned. On the first day we met up with our counselors, our cabin mates and the rest of the camp. We played a meet and greet game and I got to spend time with 4 crazy friends that I have now bonded to through Calvin Crest. The next day we went out to Camp Cedars, came back for lunch, had F.O.B. (nap time), went swimming, had a snack and then we had B.L.A.S.T. (Bible Learning and Study Time). This year I feel more connected with God than ever before. I could feel him in our presence when I was at camp; I could see him in everyone there. Thank you so much for helping me go to camp again this year and get away from the cruel reality of this world.

Due to technical difficulties beyond our control, we have had to change our church website address to fpcwayne.com

LECTOR/GREETER SCHEDULE – AUGUST 2019

8/4/2019	Gordon Granberg	Karen Johnson	Pat Straight
8/11/2019	Glenda McDonald	Pat & Glenda McDonald
8/18/2019	Milton Owens	Milton & Jackie Owens
8/25/2019	Jeryl Nelson	Jeryl & Rochelle Nelson

 

August 2019 – First Presbyterian Church

Sunday	Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday
Each Sunday Morning: o Worship 10:00 o Fellowship 11:00				1	2	3
4   Communion – Jean Griess, elder	5   9:30am Wayne Co. Family Coalition	6	7	8	9	10
11   1:30 Wayne Countryview Care Chapel	12	13   4:15 Deacons Meeting	14   10:30 WACAM	15	16   Homestead Presbytery Prime at Calvin Crest	17   Homestead Presbytery Prime at Calvin Crest
18 5:00 WSC Student Expo	19	20	21	22	23	24
25	26 5:40am KTCH 104.9 Moment for Living   7:00 Session	27 5:40am KTCH 104.9 Moment for Living   5:00 FPC/OSLC Golf Outing	28 5:40am KTCH 104.9 Moment for Living	29 5:40am KTCH 104.9 Moment for Living	30 5:40am KTCH 104.9 Moment for Living	31

 

AUGUST BIRTHDAYS

2          Gordon G.

3          Ken M.

8          Nina S.

12        Alissa J.

20        Russ U.

23        Hannah M.

27        Milton O.

30        Layne H.

 

Lector/Greeter Schedule for September 2019

9/1/2019	Maria Ras	The Ras Family
9/8/2019	Mark Hammer	The Hammer Family
9/15/2019	Jim Curtiss	Ken & Jan Liska	Jim Curtiss
9/22/2019	Karen Johnson	Ken & Karen Marra	Karen Johnson
9/29/2019	Mark McCorkindale	The McCorkindale Family

 

September 2019 – First Presbyterian Church

Sunday	Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday
1 Each Sunday Morning: o Worship 10:00 o Fellowship 11:00	2	3	4	5	6	7
8   Communion – Jean Griess, elder	9   9:30am Wayne Co. Family Coalition	10	11   10:30 WACAM	12	13   PW Fall Gathering @ Calvin Crest	14   PW Fall Gathering @ Calvin Crest
15	16	17   Runza Feeds the Need for the Wayne Food Pantry!	18   1:00 Sewing Souls	19	20	21
22   1:30 Wayne Countryview Care Chapel	23   7:00 Session with Interim Executive Presbyter	24   11:00am Northern Covenant Pastors	25	26	27	28
29	30	1	2	3	4	5

SEPTEMBER BIRTHDAYS

6          Anita F.

8          Sharyn P.

14        Angie N.

24        Misty B.

29        Melissa U.

30        Madison B.

 

Contact Information:

First Presbyterian Church

216 W. Third Street

Wayne NE  68787

FPC Office & Wayne Food Pantry:

402-375-2669

fpcwayne@gmail.com

Tuesday – Friday, 9am – 12 noon

 

Websites:

Church: https://fpcwayne.com

Wayne Food Pantry: https://fpcwayne.com/food-pantry/

Wayne Coat Closet: https://fpcwayne.com/wayne-coat-closet/

 

FIND US ON FACEBOOK

First Presbyterian Church – Wayne, Nebraska

Wayne Food Pantry – Wayne, Nebraska

Wayne Coat Closet – First Presbyterian Church

 

Pastor Teresa Bartlett

402-375-2669 (office)

319-795-2911 (cell)

 

GET OUR NEWSLETTER BY E-MAIL

If you would like to receive this newsletter by e-mail (save a stamp, save a tree!), go to http://www.fpcwayne.com; on the home page, in the right hand column, there is a widget that says, “NEWSLETTER SUBSCRIPTION: Enter your e-mail address to receive Presbytidings, our church’s newsletter, by e-mail.” Enter your address in the white box, and click on the button that says, “Sign me up!” You will need to confirm your subscription through an e-mail message that will be sent to your inbox; this is safe! It is designed to keep spammers out of the picture! Share our newsletter with all your friends and family. Simple!

 

 

Presbytidings – Summer 2019

The Newsletter of First Presbyterian Church

216 West Third Street, Wayne, Nebraska 68787

(402) 375-2669 + www.fpcwayne.org

“Our chief end is to glorify and enjoy God forever.”

 

From the Pastor….

We’re starting to see signs around town of Wayne’s Chicken Days celebration. The 2019 theme is “Chickens Around the World.”   We have fun in Wayne celebrating chickens, with our themed t-shirts, parades, games and food! I recently saw this year’s colorful t-shirts, which sport a design of flags from around the world, displayed at a local business.

There is currently a trend in the United States for folks to raise chickens on their properties in both rural and urban settings. The benefits of this practice include fresh eggs as well the chickens keeping pests under control. Chickens can eat many types of kitchen scraps and their manure is good fertilizer.

Some of the same benefits enjoyed by American back-yard farmers are critically important for those in poor and developing countries. Chickens can provide vital food and nourishment to families via the eggs they produce. A good hen can lay up to 200 eggs a year in addition to a steady source of nutrition, the excess eggs can be sold. Feathers may also be sold for pillows and other uses and the natural fertilizer produced used for crops. Chickens require little space and can thrive on readily available scraps; this allows families to make money from the birds without spending much feeding them.

What if instead of just celebrating chickens around the world FPC worked to send some chickens around the world? The Presbyterian Church (USA) has a Giving Catalog through which individuals or congregations can “purchase animals” such as water buffalo, goats, pigs, chickens and more. The donated funds are designated for the desired animals and distributed through the Presbyterian Mission network; you could say that it’s the Presbyterian form of Heifer International.

Recently I read about Rev. Rex Wentzel from Sioux City, Iowa who is an advocate for the Giving Catalog. Rev. Wentzel is retired and wanted to stay active in the church after he left full time parish ministry. So, like many other retired clergy, he offered his service as a supply preacher for congregations when pastors were ill, on leave or on vacation, but rather than getting paid, he asks churches to donate chickens through the PC (USA) Giving Catalog, with a lifetime goal of raising funds for 100 flocks of chickens!  Wentzel thought this was an ideal way to promote mission in the congregations he visited; as of last report he’s halfway to his goal.

This is how it works; an individual or a congregation selects an item or items from the Giving Catalog and makes a financial donation. Individuals or congregations can make a gift in someone’s honor choosing something that represents those they love. For example, my parents used to raise, and sell dressed chickens every summer for extra money. I remember them at Christmas through The Giving Catalog with a donation for chickens.

I challenge FPC to raise $100.00 (or more) for the purchase of chickens, the flocks are $25.00 each, but any amount will move us toward our $100.00 goal. The Session has given approval for a special offering on Sunday, July 14^th. Watch for the display in Fellowship Hall to remind you of the July 14^th special offering and the final nest egg received. I encourage each household to pick up a Giving Catalog from Fellowship Hall or look at it on-line at https://presbyteriangifts.org/ and consider what alternate gifts you might give to family and friends in the coming year; after all, not everyone can say they got a flock of chickens for their birthday!!

Together we can help improve the food security and livelihoods of farmers and families around the world. Through this special offering we can provide help, hope and relief to individuals, families and communities in need. United with others through the Giving Catalog, our gifts are multiplied beyond what any of us can do alone. Let’s send some chickens around the world!!

Grace and peace,

Pastor Teresa

 

SUMMER COMMUNION DATES

• Sunday, June 9, 2019. Glenda McDonald, Communion Elder.
• Sunday, July 7, 2019. Jim Curtiss, Communion Elder.
• Sunday, August 4, 2019. Jean Griess, Communion Elder.
• Sunday, September 8, 2019. Kent Pulfer, Communion Elder.

 

COME TO THE WATERS BIBLE STUDY

During the summer we are looking at the role of water in the Scriptures. The outline for this sermon series comes from the Presbyterian Women’s Bible study “Come to the Waters.” Anyone is welcome to join Pastor Teresa on Tuesday mornings at 10:30am to look at the scripture passages for the following Sunday. The study covers both the Old and New Testaments and such topics as thirst and longing, faith, forgiveness, compassion, hope, righteousness, justice and deliverance. You are asked to read the scripture passages in advance of our meeting no other advance preparation is needed. The dates and the corresponding scriptures are as follows.

June 4th – Exodus 17:1-7, Psalm 42:1-2, 63:1, John 19:28

June 11th- Joshua 3, Psalm 69:1-3

June 18th – Matthew 14:22-33

No meeting June 25^th

July 2nd- Amos 5:21-24

July 9th – Isaiah 35:1-2, 5-7, Psalm 51:1-12, Matthew 6:12

July 16th -John 4:1-30, 39-42, Acts 2:44-47

July 23 – Pastor Teresa on study leave.

July 30^th – Revelation 21-22

 

AED TRAINING

The Session recently purchased an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) which is an electronic device that applies an electric shock to restore the rhythm of a fibrillating heart. A training session is tentatively planned for July 8^th from 8:00-11:30am at Providence Medical Center for those interested in participating on the AED Response Team.   We still need volunteers. If you are already trained, we need a copy of your certification to keep on file. A sign-up sheet is on the Opportunities Table for all volunteers. Please register by June 21^st so we can confirm the training event.

 

PRESBYTERIAN WOMEN & SEWING SOULS

Presbyterian Women will resume in the fall. The next Sewing Souls meeting will be Wednesday, June 19^th at 2:00pm.

 

CHRISTIAN CROSS FESTIVAL

The Christian Cross Festival will be held at Sky View Lake in Norfolk on Friday, June 7, and Saturday June 8. Go and enjoy free admission, ministry, prayer, food, fellowship, a kid’s tent, inflatables and fireworks. Check it out on Facebook at Christian Cross Festival or online at www.christiancrossfestival.org  A fun day to fellowship in Norfolk!

 

EAGLE SCOUT COURT OF HONOR

The Worner Family and Boy Scout Troop 174 cordially invite you to attend the Eagle Scout Court of Honor for Jon Worner, Saturday, June 22^nd, 2019, 4:00pm at the First Presbyterian Church of Wayne. There will be a taco bar following the ceremony.

 

COMMUNITY CHAPEL SERVICES

Pastor Teresa will lead chapel services at the following locations through the summer:

• RADIO DEVOTIONS Pastor Teresa will be giving devotions on 104.9 Big Red Country KTCH the week of June 24^th – 28^th at 5:40am.
• CAREAGE CHAPEL Pastor will lead chapel at Careage on Sunday, June 30^th at 1:30pm.
• BROOKDALE CHAPEL Please feel free to join Pastor Teresa as she leads chapel at Brookdale on Wednesday, July 17^th at 3:30pm.

 

PASTOR’S STUDY LEAVE

• Pastor Teresa will be out on study leave June 20-23^rd and July 22^nd – 28^th.
• If you have a pastoral need while Pastor Teresa is away, please contact the office at (402)375-2669 or fpcwayne@gmail.com

 

PULPIT SUPPLY

• Sunday, June 23^rd. Father Mark Beran, Director, St. Augustine Indian Mission, Winnebago, NE
• Sunday, July 28^th, Front Porch Pickers, Wayne, NE

 

SESSION

The next session meeting will be held on Monday, June 24, at 7:00 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall. There will not be a July meeting.

 

INDEPENDENCE WEEK SCHEDULE

The church office and food pantry will be open Monday, July 1^st from 9:00-1:00pm. We will be closed Thursday, July 4^th and Friday, July 5^th.

 

TRIENNIUM

The 2019 Presbyterian Youth Triennium will be held July 16-20^th at Purdue University. Triennium is a gathering for high school age youth (entering 9^th – graduated 12^th grade) from the Presbyterian Church (USA) and the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. The theme for 2019 is “Here’s My Heart.” Gabe Peitz will be representing FPC at this event. Please keep him in your prayers especially during Triennium.

 

GOLF OUTING

Like to golf? Plan on gathering for a Lutheran/Presbyterian Golf outing in August, date to be announced.

 

COOKBOOKS

If you are looking for new recipes to try this summer, we still have a few First Presbyterian Cookbooks left.  The newly reduced price is $10.  See Karen Johnson or Jenny in the church office.

 

FLOWERS, LAWNS, FELLOWSHIP

Please consider one of the many service opportunities we have available at FPC this summer. We need flowers for worship, lawn-mowing, and people to provide and serve fellowship time after each worship service. Sign-up sheets are on the Opportunity Table to help us keep track and recognize those who help. Thank you to those who have already signed up!

 

YOUTH GROUP

Youth Group is finished for the year. Thanks to Gail McCorkindale, Ronda Ras and Jim Curtiss for their leadership of our youth.

 

2018/19 FOOD PANTRY & BACKPACK NEWS

The food pantry has had a very busy year, we have already served over 130 families.  The Backpack Program served 4,300 food bags in the 2018/19 academic year. The program will continue this summer. We would be happy to receive donations such as individually wrapped packages of nutritious food & snacks or financial donations. Contact Jodi Pulfer or Jenny Hammer at the church office: fpcwayne@gmail.com or (402)375-2669 for more details. Please consider a donation to the Wayne Food Pantry and Backpack Program ministry.

 

WAYNE GROW AN EXTRA ROW

Consider sharing your garden bounty this year with those in need in our community. Set aside a small bag of produce, and bring it to our food pantry.  The program was well received last year. You can help make a difference!  What we don’t give away will be for sale after church each Sunday, with the proceeds of the sale going to support the Pantry.

 

FPC Bowling Party – Wildcat Lanes

Sunday, May 12, 2019

(see our Media page for photos)

 

Happy Father’s Day to all the dads, stepdads, granddads, adoptive fathers, foster fathers and father figures. Give thanks to God for the men in your lives who have guided, encouraged, challenged and loved you. On Father’s Day take time to let them know you remember and are grateful.

What Makes a Dad

(Author unknown)

God took the strength of a mountain,  The majesty of a tree,
The warmth of a summer sun,  The calm of a quiet sea,
The generous soul of nature,  The comforting arm of night,
The wisdom of the ages,  The power of the eagle’s flight,
The joy of a morning in spring,  The faith of a mustard seed,
The patience of eternity,  The depth of a family need,
Then God combined these qualities,  When there was nothing more to add,
He knew His masterpiece was complete,  And so, He called it… Dad.

 

JACK BEESON

Our sympathy is extended to Bev Beeson, Jock and Brenda Beeson and the extended family of Jack Beeson.  Jack passed away on Sunday, May 26th at Providence Medical Center. Jack will be missed greatly by his family as well as his church family. Jack served the church through the years as a Deacon and Ruling elder and on many committee’s over the years. A memorial service was held on Monday, June 3^rd at First Presbyterian. As a witness to the many lives that Jack has touched through the years the church was full. We will indeed miss Jack’s wit and witness, but we thank God for the promises of Scripture that Jack has entered into his eternal reward.

Thank-you to Anita Fuelberth, Joan Lage and Jan Liska for their leadership for the Beeson funeral lunch, they did a great job of co-ordination. What I saw on Sunday and Monday was more than a congregation getting ready for a memorial service, more than people willing to be ushers and greeters. What I saw was more than the ladies of the church doing a funeral lunch, I saw the church being the church. Young and not so young, men and women, working together to care for members of the church family; that’s what being the body of Christ is about. Well done, good and faithful servants.

-Pastor Teresa

 

MANY THANKS!

“A million thanks to all of the wonderful people that stepped up Monday to set up, serve, and clean up for the lunch for the Beeson family. God has blessed First Presbyterian Church. God Bless you all.
-Anita”

 

GUIDELINES FOR ACOLYTES AND GREETERS

Attention Greeters: Please review the newly revised “Guidelines for Acolytes” the next time you assist during worship. Specifically, we are reminded that the “candle-lighting is representative of bringing the light of the Trinity into the sanctuary for the worship service.” Thank you for serving.

 

June 2019 – First Presbyterian Church

Sunday	Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday
Each Sunday Morning: o 10:00 Worship o 11:00 Fellowship						1
2 Pastor on vacation Guest Speaker, Pastor Anna Speiser	3 9:30am Wayne Co. Family Coalition	4	5 2:00pm Presbyterian Women	6	7	8
9 Communion – elder, Glenda McDonald	10	11 10:30 Bible Study	12	13	14	15
16 * Father’s Day	17	18   10:30am Bible Study	19   2:00pm Sewing Souls	20 (Pastor on Study leave)	21 (Pastor on Study leave)	22 (Pastor on Study leave) 4:00pm Jon Worner Eagle Scout Court of Honor
23   (Pastor on Study leave)   Guest speaker, Fr. Mark Beran,	24 5:40am KTCH 104.9 Moment for Living   7:00pm Session Meeting 7:30pm Scout Committee Meeting	25 5:40am KTCH 104.9 Moment for Living   No Bible Study   11:00am Northern Covenant Pastors Meeting	26 5:40am KTCH 104.9 Moment for Living   3:00pm Launch Leadership packs Backpacks	27 5:40am KTCH 104.9 Moment for Living	28 5:40am KTCH 104.9 Moment for Living	29
30 1:30pm Wayne Countryview Chapel

 

Lector/Greeter Schedule for June 2019

6/2/2019	Glenda McDonald	Pat & Glenda McDonald
6/9/2019	Melissa Urbanec	The Urbanec Family
6/16/2019	James Lindau	James Lindau/Joyce Reeg
6/23/2019	Jan Liska	Ken & Jan Liska
6/30/2019	Josephine Peitz	The Peitz Family

 

June Birthdays

2         Jean G., Jill S.

6         Connie B.

8         Brian B., Carol M.

10        Karen G.

18        Wes B.

19        Dennis S.

26        Pastor Teresa

 

Lector/Greeter Schedule for July 2019

7/7/2019	Bev Beeson	Babs Middleton	Scott McLaughlin
7/14/2019	Ken Marra	Ken & Karen Marra
7/21/2019	Jim Curtiss	Jim & Shari Paige	Jim Curtiss
7/28/2019	Phil Griess	Phil & Jean Griess

 

July Birthdays

10        Shea S.

11        Luke P.

15        Greg W.

21        Josephine P.

24        Mark H., Zach U.

27        Cate W.

29        Marta P.

 

July 2019 – First Presbyterian Church

Sunday	Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday
Each Sunday Morning: o 10:00 Worship o 11:00 Fellowship	1 9:30am Wayne Co. Family Coalition   9am-1pm Office open	2   10:30 Bible Study	3	4   Office Closed	5   Office Closed	6
7   Communion – elder, Jim Curtiss	8 8:00am AED Training	9   10:30 Bible Study	10	11	12	13
14 Chicken Days Special Offering	15	16 Triennium 10:30am Bible Study	17 Triennium 3:30pm Brookdale Chapel	18 Triennium	19 Triennium	20 Triennium
21	22 (Pastor on vacation)	23 (Pastor on vacation)	24 (Pastor on vacation)	25 (Pastor on vacation)	26 (Pastor on vacation)	27 (Pastor on vacation)
28 (Pastor on vacation)   10:00am Front Porch Pickers	29 (Pastor on vacation) 7:30pm Scout Committee Meeting	30   10:30 Bible Study	31

 

Contact Information:

First Presbyterian Church

216 W. Third Street

Wayne NE  68787

 

FPC Office & Wayne Food Pantry:

402-375-2669

fpcwayne@gmail.com

Tuesday – Friday, 9am – 12 noon

 

Websites:

Church: https://fpcwayne.org/

Wayne Food Pantry: https://fpcwayne.org/food-pantry/

 

FIND US ON FACEBOOK

First Presbyterian Church – Wayne, Nebraska

Wayne Food Pantry – Wayne, Nebraska

 

Pastor Teresa Bartlett

402-375-2669 (office)

319-795-2911 (cell)

 

GET OUR NEWSLETTER BY E-MAIL

If you would like to receive this newsletter by e-mail (save a stamp, save a tree!), go to www.fpcwayne.org; on the home page, in the right hand column, there is a widget that says, “NEWSLETTER SUBSCRIPTION: Enter your e-mail address to receive Presbytidings, our church’s newsletter, by e-mail.” Enter your address in the white box, and click on the button that says, “Sign me up!” You will need to confirm your subscription through an e-mail message that will be sent to your inbox; this is safe! It is designed to keep spammers out of the picture! Share our newsletter with all your friends and family. Simple!

 

 

 

 

 

Presbytidings – May 2019

The Newsletter of First Presbyterian Church

216 West Third Street, Wayne, Nebraska 68787

(402) 375-2669 + www.fpcwayne.org

“Our chief end is to glorify and enjoy God forever.”

 

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR GRADUATES

Congratulations to our graduating seniors: Solomon Peitz-Wakefield High, Maysn Dorey and Zach Urbanec-Wayne High. Presbyterian Women and Sewing Souls gave each of them a fleece throw on Sunday, April 28^th and we held a special fellowship after worship in their honor.

Here is a list of all our graduates:

First Presbyterian Church of Wayne High School Graduates:

Maysn Dorey             Wayne High School              Wayne State College, Pre-Vet

Solomon Peitz           Wakefield High School        Doane Univ., Mechanical Engineering

Zach Urbanec             Wayne High School              NECC, Business

Our College/University Graduates:

Logan Abraham                    NECC             Structural Drafting               May, 2019

Jaci Alexander                      NECC             Vet Tech                                December, 2018

Jacob Beair                            NECC             Graphic Design                    August, 2018

Brook Bowers                       WSC               Ag Business                           August, 2019

Sydney McCorkindale         WSC               Criminal Justice                    December, 2018

Luke Pulfer                            Iowa State      Mechanical Engineering      May, 2019

Suzanne Ras                          Morningside  Math Education                     May, 2019

Josh Stenka                            WSC               Exercise Science                   May, 2019

 

Prayer for our graduates

May God’s blessing follow you all as you find new journeys to travel.

May you walk safely along the pathways of your dreams.

May his gentle hand guide the decisions you will make and the passions that you follow.

May your hearts and lives always reflect his love and truth,

And may hope be a light within you that you carry into each new day. Amen.

 

ELEANOR EDWARDS SCHOLARSHIP AWARDED ON APRIL 28th

The Discipleship Team and the Session are pleased to award the Eleanor Edwards Senior Scholarship to Solomon Peitz of Wakefield High School and Maysn Dorey & Zach Urbanec of Wayne High School. It is appropriate as we give scholarships in her name that we should be reminded of Eleanor’s love of children and teaching and how FPC received a gift that continues to bless the youth of our community.

Eleanor Edwards was a career elementary school teacher in the Nebraska Public Schools. Her first teaching job was at the one room school in District 18 where she taught 31 students from first to eighth grades for two years. After a variety of teaching jobs and a short time at the ASC office, Eleanor and her mother moved to Wayne in 1944. Eleanor began at Wayne Community schools where she taught 6^th grade for 28 years. Eleanor was well respected by students and colleagues and her classrooms were well run. Eleanor retired from the Wayne School district in May of 1973 after 45 years of teaching.

After moving to Wayne Eleanor transferred her membership from the Welsh Zion Congregational Church west of Carroll to FPC in 1947. Eleanor was an active member, she taught Sunday school, served as church school superintendent. She was a ruling elder and president of the United Presbyterian Women; she was awarded an honorary PW membership in 1984.

Eleanor was active in the community she was a member of the Wayne Business and Professional Women, Wayne Area Retired Teachers and Delta Kappa Gamma. She liked to read, do needlework, watch sports and musicals and enjoyed traveling in the United States and Canada.

Eleanor died in 1984 and endowed the Presbyterian Church with a gift of $11,000.00. Once the account had grown with the accumulation of interest the Session decided that a book scholarship of $50.00 would be given to all FPC graduating seniors. Currently graduating FPC seniors are encouraged to make an application for the scholarship which has grown to $350.

We give thanks to God for Eleanor’s desire and ability to teach and shape the lives of so many children and that through this scholarship she continues to impact the lives of young people enabling them to further their education. We also give thanks for the forethought and guidance of the Session and their fiscal management through the years so that Eleanor’s gift can be perpetuated.

 

Women of God

“Women of God can never be like women of the world.

The world has enough women who are tough; we need women who are tender.

There are enough women who are coarse; we need women who are kind.

There are enough women who are rude; we need women who are refined.

We have enough women of fame and fortune; we need more women of faith.

We have enough greed; we need more goodness.

We have enough vanity; we need more virtue.

We have enough popularity; we need more purity.”

Quote from  Margaret Nadauld

 

AUTOMATED EXTERNAL DEFIBRILLATOR RESPONSE TEAM BEING CREATED

The Session recently authorized the purchase of an Automated External Defibrillator for the church. An AED is a lightweight, portable device that delivers an electric shock through the chest to the heart. The shock can potentially stop an irregular heart beat (arrhythmia) and allow a normal rhythm to resume following sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). [*]

Cardiac arrest can strike suddenly and not is not limited to one gender or older people. Children of any age may also experience cardiac arrest. Each year over 5,000 children die of cardiac arrest, suddenly and without warning. Often going into cardiac arrest is the first time the person knows that they have an underlying heart condition.[†]

Automated external defibrillators (AEDs) can save lives, the quicker the response to a life-threatening incident the better the chances of recovery. For example, in 2008, American Airlines celebrated 76 people being saved in the first 10 years they first put AEDs on their airplanes, with an overall survival rate of 63%. When bystanders provide CPR and use an AED before EMS arrives, 40% of the victims survive, which is much higher than the national average of a 10% survival rate.

We will need to compile a list of people to be on our AED Response Team. Volunteers must be willing to take AED training to be on the Response Team. The use of an AED will not cause any damage to the victim, as the machine will read the electrical system of the individual and only deliver a shock when necessary, the automated system means you don’t have to worry that you could make the situation worse.  Those who work in the medical field and already have training on this device would be great additions to our Response Team. Watch for the AED Response team sign-up sheet on the Opportunities Table. We will be offering training on how to use the unit, which has voice commands to walk a person through the process after we receive the unit and the training materials.

We maintain fire extinguishers in the church for emergency situations and hope we never experience a fire, having the tools to deal with a fire quickly is necessary in case of an emergency,  likewise, an AED unit allows us to be prepared should any members or visitors experience a cardiac arrest.

 

PASTOR’S VACATION & STUDY LEAVE

• Pastor will be on study leave May 13^th – 16^th, 2019.
• Pastor Teresa will be on vacation the week of May 28^th – June 3^rd. Anna Speiser will be leading worship service on Sunday, June 2^nd. (Communion will be held on June 9^th.)
• If you have a pastoral need while Pastor Teresa is away, please contact the office at (402)375-2669 or fpcwayne@gmail.com

 

COMMUNION

We will celebrate the Lord’s Supper on the following days:

• Sunday, May 5^th at 10:00am (Communion elder, Jane O’Leary)
• Sunday, June 9^th at 10:00am (Communion elder, Glenda McDonald)

 

PRESBYTERIAN WOMEN SPRING GATHERING UPDATE

Saturday April 27th, Karen Johnson, Jackie Owens and Pastor Teresa attended the spring gathering of Homestead Presbyterian Women at Fremont Presbyterian Church. The group gathered for coffee at 9:30 a.m. followed by a brief worship followed by the keynote speaker.

Keynote speaker was Kathleen Keefer who was a delegate to the 63rd Session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women. As an active Presbyterian Woman, serving as PW Moderator for the Presbytery of the Missouri River Valley, Secretary for the PW of the Synod of the Lakes and Prairies and Coordinator of the Justice and Peace Committee for PW in the synod, she not only strives to learn about the plight of women and children throughout the world but to also make others aware of situations that do not make the front page of newspapers or the typical woman’s newsfeed on Facebook. As committee chair, she sends out frequent emails citing items from the Presbyterian Women – Working for Justice and Peace calendar, news stories about the #metoo movement, children soldiers, the use of the threat of sexual assault as a weapon, and hands on mission projects such as “Days for Girls.” Keefer has 30+ years of experience in the field of child abuse investigation and child abuse prevention. This work has also brought her into the field of Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) and services to protect women and children (and sometimes men), to work toward the prevention of IPV and to support the family in these very difficult times. Keefer shared about her experience at the UN Commission on the Status of Women. Some of the topics and areas of concern that PW and other women’s groups addressed included education, health and wellness, human trafficking as well as economic issues.

The business meeting included the report of the moderator, treasurer. Reading awards were presented and Karen Johnson and Jackie Owens were recipients. A PW recommended book is Neither Wolf Nor Dog, on Forgotten Roads with an Indian Elder by Kent Nerburn, a synopsis of the book appears elsewhere in the newsletter. The group was thanked for their donations to the collection of baby items for Pine Ridge Reservation, the response has been wonderful and will be greatly appreciated. There was also a skit highlighting the upcoming Synod gathering in July and the commissioning of those who are attending the synod gathering. The business meeting concluded and the group enjoy a lovely lunch together.

 

NEITHER WOLF NOR DOG, on Forgotten Roads with an Indian Elder

by Kent Nerburn

Synopsis:  The heart of the Native American experience: In this 1996 Minnesota Book Award winner, Kent Nerburn draws the reader deep into the world of an Indian elder known only as Dan. It’s a world of Indian towns, white roadside cafes, and abandoned roads that swirl with the memories of the Ghost Dance and Sitting Bull. Readers meet vivid characters like Jumbo, a 400pound mechanic, and Annie, an 80-year-old Lakota woman living in a log cabin. Threading through the book is the story of two men struggling to find a common voice. Neither Wolf nor Dog takes readers to the heart of the Native American experience. As the story unfolds, Dan speaks eloquently on the difference between land and property, the power of silence, and the selling of sacred ceremonies.

 

SYNOD GATHERING OF PRESBYTERIAN WOMEN

IN THE SYNOD OF LAKES AND PRAIRIES

JUNE 20-23, 2019

WHO SHOULD ATTEND: Women of all ages who would like to join in Christian Fellowship and are looking for a spiritually enriching experience.

Choose from a variety of workshops including a look at the 2019-2020 Horizons Bible Study, mission speakers, justice and peace opportunities, leadership training, and some fun things.

KEYNOTE SPEAKER: Rev. Kathy Reeves, retired mission coordinator for Presbyterian Women, Inc.

PLENARY SPEAKERS: Elona Street-Stewart, synod executive of Synod of Lakes and Prairies Mary Newburn-Williams, executive presbyter of Presbytery of Missouri River Valley.

WORSHIP LEADER: Rev. Suzanne Gorhau

BIBLE STUDY LEADER: Kathleen Keefer

MUSIC LEADER: Kris Peterson

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS will include: Morning and evening worship, Bible study, selection of workshops, Hands-on mission project, Mission display, many speakers, book display, Fair trade store, and movies.

REGISTRATION COST: $200 (Scholarships are available to attend from Homestead PW-contact Pastor Teresa for more information.)

ACCOMMODATIONS AT THE GATEWAY All events for the Gathering will be held at the Gateway Hotel and Conference Center, Ames, Iowa. All participants will reserve their own rooms. Give them the dates and tell them you are with Presbyterian Women. We have rooms with 2 beds blocked off for our use. The room rate is $120/night plus taxes for 1-4 in a room.  Phone: 515-292-8600 or 800-367-2637.

More information about the Synod Gathering:

“Days for Girls” will be the hands on mission project. 

$10 gift cards from Target and Hy-Vee will be collected. The recipients will be the Butterfly Freedom House which is transitional housing for women coming out of prison and Wings of Refuge which is girls coming out of trafficking.

Marion Medical Mission and Sudanese worshipping community will be our offering recipients.

If you will be displaying a board for mission projects, justice and peace, Disaster Preparedness, etc, please let your moderator know so the committee can be notified.  This will allow for adequate space for everything to be displayed properly.

 

YOUTH GROUP

Please watch the bulletin for announcements regarding Youth Group in May.

 

COMMUNITY CHAPEL SERVICES

Pastor Teresa will lead chapel services at the following location this month:

• CAREAGE CHAPEL: Sunday, May 19^th at 1:30pm.
• BROOKDALE: Wednesday, May 22 at 3:30pm.

 

SEWING SOULS

Please watch your bulletins for the next Sewing Souls date.

 

SESSION

The Session will meet on May 20^th at 7:00pm. (Rescheduled from the original date of 5/27/19)

HOMESTEAD PRESBYTERY ASSEMBLY

Homestead Presbytery will be held on Thursday, 5/16 at the Presbyterian Church in North Bend, NE.

FLOWERS FOR WORSHIP

The Worship Team is encouraging members to sign up to provide flowers for worship.  A sign-up sheet for May and June will be on the Opportunity Table to help us keep track and recognize those who are providing flowers. Thank-you to Jeanne Griess, Jackie Owens and Jodi Pulfer for helping co-ordinate flowers for worship.

 

PW COOKBOOK SPECIAL!

Are you are looking for a great Mother’s Day gift? Our second PW cookbook is on special this summer. The cost is only $10.  See Karen Johnson or Jenny in the church office.

 

YOU ARE INVITED!

Please join Solomon Peitz and his family at a reception to celebrate his graduation from Wakefield High School, Sunday, May 19^th following a 2:30pm commencement. Location: Logan Valley Golf Course, 58472 – 858 Road, Wakefield, NE.

 

ONE GREAT HOUR OF SHARING

Here are the results of the One Great Hour of Sharing offering:

OGHS:                                    269.00

Special Project (Flooding): 250.00

Total:              519.00

 

EASTER SUNDAY WORSHIP & BRUNCH THANK-YOU

Our thanks to everyone who helped to provide for the Easter brunch, and to all those who helped to serve, and to clean-up. The church was beautifully decorated. There were around 70 people in attendance at worship that day, and it was a glorious day to celebrate Jesus’ resurrection.

 

LENTEN WORSHIP THANK-YOU

Thank-you to all who participated in our Lenten suppers and worship. Thank-you to the Session members who served as fellowship hosts each week and all who contributed food. Thank-you also to Jim Curtiss, Solomon Peitz, Mark McCorkindale, Ken Marra, Gabriel Peitz and Gordon Grandberg for participating as readers in our worship series “At the Crossroads.”

 

EASTER LILY DEDICATIONS

In Memory of…

• Archie & Irene Kreycik and Alex & Stella Liska

By Ken & Jan Liska

• Willis Wiseman, M.D.

By The Grandchildren of Will Wiseman

• Roy D. Christensen, Jean Marie Doyle, Luella & Wilmer Marra

By Ken & Karen Marra

• & Mrs. John Owens Doyle, Mr. & Mrs. John Gesiriech

By Milton & Jacqulyn Owens

• Wilmer & Elizabeth Griess, Harold & G. Elena Wagner

By Phil & Jean Griess

• Jed and Jay D. O’Leary

By Jay & Jane O’Leary

• Will Hammer, Eugene & Nadine McDowell, Arnold Hammer, and Mary Kay & Greg Meeker

By Mark, Jenny & Nina Hammer

And thank you to all those that left lilies without acknowledgement.

 

THANK YOU TO CHURCH FAMILY

Our special thanks to Pastor Teresa for her phone calls and messages of comfort, sympathy and love. It meant so much to me. Also thank you to the members of FPC for their calls and messages of caring. Verlin would want to thank you all. My family and I want you to know the Wayne church is very special to us. I can only be thankful for Verlin and my 72 years of being together. Many have not had that and to be thankful he is in a better place. Blessings to you all. Elaine

 

CALVIN CREST

There is still time to register for camp! Calvin Crest scholarship forms are available from either Pastor Teresa or Jenny. Contact us at fpcwayne@gmail.com for a downloadable copy.

 

Lector/Greeter Schedule for May 2019

5/5/2019	Candyce Peitz	The Peitz Family
5/12/2019	Kevin Peterson	Kevin & Shannon Peterson
5/19/2019	Kent Pulfer	Kent & Jodi Pulfer
5/26/2019	Ronda Ras	The Ras Family

 

MAY BIRTHDAYS

(Would you like to see your birthday listed here?

Just contact the church office 402-375-2669 or fpcwayne@gmail.com)

3         Joann P., Dave P.

10        Jeryl N.

11        Karen J., Solomon P.

12        Joan L.

14        Bo A.

15        Jordan A.

17        Jaci A.

18        Jay and Jane O.  &  Taytum S.

19        Glenda M.

22        Marie J.

24        Gail M.

26        Dale A.

 

May 2019 – First Presbyterian Church

Sunday	Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday
Each Sunday Morning: o 10:00 Worship o 11:00 Fellowship			1 2:00pm Presbyterian Women	2 Noon National Day of Prayer Service	3	4
5 *Communion	6 9:30 Wayne County Family Coalition   6:30 Scout Den Meeting	7	8 10:30 WACAM 1:00 Worship Committee 7:30 Youth Group	9	10	11
12 *Presbyterian Pealers play Mother’s Day	13 6:30 Scout Den Meeting	14 Pastor on Study Leave	15 Pastor on Study Leave	16 Pastor on Study Leave	17	18
19 1:30 Careage Chapel	20 7:00 Session	21	22 3:30 Brookdale Chapel	23	24	25
26	27 Memorial Day	28 Pastor on vacation	29 Pastor on vacation	30 Pastor on vacation	31 Pastor on vacation	1 Pastor on vacation

GET OUR NEWSLETTER BY E-MAIL

If you would like to receive this newsletter by e-mail (save a stamp, save a tree!), go to www.fpcwayne.org; on the home page, in the right hand column, there is a widget that says, “NEWSLETTER SUBSCRIPTION: Enter your e-mail address to receive Presbytidings, our church’s newsletter, by e-mail.” Enter your address in the white box, and click on the button that says, “Sign me up!” You will need to confirm your subscription through an e-mail message that will be sent to your inbox; this is safe! It is designed to keep spammers out of the picture! Share our newsletter with all your friends and family. Simple!

 

FIND US ON FACEBOOK

First Presbyterian Church – Wayne, Nebraska

Wayne Food Pantry – Wayne, Nebraska

 

Contact Information:

First Presbyterian Church

216 W. Third Street

Wayne NE  68787

 

FPC Office & Wayne Food Pantry:

402-375-2669

fpcwayne@gmail.com

Tuesday – Friday, 9am – 12 noon

 

Websites:

Church: https://fpcwayne.org/

Wayne Food Pantry: https://fpcwayne.org/food-pantry/

 

Pastor Teresa Bartlett

402-375-2669 (office)

319-795-2911 (cell)

 

 

[*] https://www.altramedical.com/ten-reasons-why-you-need-an-aed/

[†] https://www.altramedical.com/ten-reasons-why-you-need-an-aed/