614 488.0681 FCchurch.com March 1 - 31, 2012 Vol. 58 No. 3

17th AnnualGarage Sale

Page 13

Holy WeekSchedule

Page 2 Page 5

2011 Year End Report

Many customers who have come here a great number

of years say, ‘We’ve seen them all and your store is the best.’ This makes us feel very good."

— Mary Jean Bradley

“

(Continued, Page 4)

Trading TreasuresVolunteers Give Used Goods Second Chance Story and Photos by Michael Barber

The Trading Post rests quietly, some say invisibly, in the basement of a small, unassuming brick building. For the past 43 years, Coordinator Mary Jean Bradley has called this hushed consignment shop home.

“I was a volunteer in 1958 when the shop was located in the Old First Avenue House,” Mary Jean said. “We used the entire house. Merchandise was

located on the first and second floors and our office was in the kitchen.”

In 1968, the church needed a new meeting space for their youth program.

The Trading Post offered $32,000 toward construction of a church annex in exchange for use of the lower floor of the building.

The store and Mary Jean have been there ever since.

Though one might rush to credit her for the long-running success, Mary Jean, 89, is equally quick to acknowledge the many volunteers that make the store work. “I feel our reputation comes from them and the way they meet the public,” she said. “We really and truly could not function without these dedicated people.”

The satisfaction experienced by the workforce is evident. Arlene Keethler, a volunteer since 1988, enjoys telling stories about former clients. “One older woman came in to the store,” she said. “She needed to be sure she had something nice to be buried in. She bought a long dress and a nice pair of shoes.”

Mary Jean also shares fond memories of her customers and, perhaps, a warning to some. “Women should be careful when bringing things in to sell for their husbands,” she said. “One customer brought in her husband’s bowling ball. The next day she came rushing in to get it back. She had given us his new ball by accident. Of course, we had already sold it.”

The Trading Post has made the church its primary mission, making a pledge annually. In February, the store provided a grant in the amount of

Trading Post Coordinator Mary Jean Bradley stands ready to receive new items for resale. She plans to retire after 43 years of volunteer service.

2 March 1 - 31, 2012

firstnews ArticlesInclude the date, contact person’s name, phone number and/or e-mail address with all submissions. Submit to: email - news@FCchurch.com fax - 614 488.2763 phone - 614 488.0681

We reserve the right to edit all submissions.

The deadline for all submisssions is 12 pm, on the 15th of each month.

firstnews is a communications mission of First Community Church, published for church members and the community to share insights, educate and inform.

Editor: Michael Barber Graphic Design: Tabitha McCleery

First Community Church firstnews (USPS 196-300) is published monthly by First Community Church, 1320 Cambridge Boulevard, Columbus, OH 43212-3200. Periodicals postage paid at Columbus, Ohio. Subscription rates — U.S. First Community members - $1/year; non-pledging members and non-members - $25/year. Canadian or foreign subscriptions must be paid in U.S. dollars. For non-U.S. rates, call the firstnews office. Postmaster: Send address changes to First Community Church, 1320 Cambridge Boulevard, Columbus, OH 43212-3200.

Holy Week 2012Maundy Thursday, April 5, 8 pm

South Campus, 1320 Cambridge BoulevardCandlelight Choral Service of Holy Communion and Tenebrae

Led by Members of the Clergy with readings by members of the DiaconateChoral Music by the Chancel Choir

Ronald Jenkins, Minister of Music & Liturgy; Robert Griffith, Organist

Good Friday, April 6, 12 noonNorth Campus, 3777 Dublin RoadA Service of Worship and MusicChamber Singers and Orchestra

With portions of Handel’s Messiah as well as music of Bach, Ferguson, John Rutter, and Barber’s Adagio for Strings

presented by members of the Columbus Symphony Orchestraand the First Community Church Chamber Singers

Ronald Jenkins, Director; Robert Griffith, Organist; C. Andrew Blosser, tenorDr. Richard A. Wing, Senior Minister delivering a meditation

Worshippers are also invited to walk the outdoor Labyrinth before or after this service.-

Easter Sunday, April 8, 8:30 amSouth Campus (Burkhart Chapel)

HOLY COMMUNIONThe Reverend Mr. James M. Long, preacher

Sally R. Beske, assistant organistChildren in worship

Easter Sunday, April 8, 10 am & 11:30 amSanctuary, South Campus

The Reverend Dr. Richard A. Wing, preacher Chancel Choir with brass and tympani

Ronald Jenkins, Minister of Music & Liturgy; Robert Griffith, OrganistThe Reverend Mr. David S. Hett and

The Reverend Ms. Katherine H. Shaner, liturgists (10)The Reverend Mr. James M. Long and Sarah Kientz, liturgists (11:30)

Child care: Crib to pre-K at 10 and crib to two years at 11:30

Easter Sunday, April 8, 8:30 amGrace Hall, North Campus

The Reverend Dr. Richard A. Wing, preacher Chancel Choir with Brass and Percussion

Ronald Jenkins, Minister of Music & Liturgy; Robert Griffith, organistThe Reverend Paul E. Baumer and The Reverend Ms. Deborah C. Lindsay, liturgists

Child care: Crib to pre-K

Easter Sunday, April 8, 10 and 11:30Grace Hall, North Campus

The Reverend Ms. Deborah C. Lindsay, preacher (10)The Reverend Paul E. Baumer and Scot Nicoll, liturgists (10) The Reverend Ms. Katherine H. Shaner, preacher (11:30)

The Reverend Mr. David S. Hett and Andy Frick, liturgists (11:30)Sally R. Beske, assistant organist; Kurt Smith, guitarist

Child care: Crib to pre-K at 10 and all children in worship at 11:30

March 1 - 31, 2012 3

Forever a Beginner

Your mission, should you decide to accept it, is to strive to be a beginner again. Like a child. “Whoever becomes humble like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” Jesus rightly said that. The most important thing in Lent is to begin again.

Listen to Father Richard Rohr: “Beginner’s mind is a posture of eagerness, of spiritual hunger. The beginner’s mind knows it needs something, just as children do. This is a rare feeling in today’s

treacherously seductive culture. Because we are offered so many things that are immediately satisfying (albeit in a superficial way), it is hard to remain spiritually hungry. We give answers too quickly, take away pain too easily, and too commonly stimulate ourselves with nonsense. In terms of soul work, we dare not get rid of pain before we have learned what it has to teach us. Much that we call entertainment, vacations, or recreation are merely diversionary tactics, and they do not “re-create” us at all. The word vacation is from the same root as vacuum, and means to “empty out,” not to fill up.

“We must be taught how to stay with the pain of life, without answers, without conclusions and some days without meaning. That is the path, the perilous dark path of true prayer.”

So, in this Lenten season, I invite you not to take something up, but give something up. Give up needing to know. Give up needing to be right. Give up needing to fill every moment with activity. And, be blessed by reading Richard Rohr’s Everything Belongs: The gift of Contemplative Prayer.

Blessings to you on your Lenten Path,

–– The Reverend Dr. Richard A. Wing, Senior Minister

Soundings

WatchFirst Edition

Features the previous week’s service on ONN TV

and WBNS 10.2 via digital outlets on Sundays at 9 am.

For online Broadcast/Live Stream

go to FCchurch.com.

Dr. Wing is preparing the following sermons:

A Lenten Sermon SeriesHARD ROADSThe Footsteps of the Apostle Paul

March 11, 2012Part 1 - “An Unknown God”Acts 17:16-34

March 18, 2012Part 2 - “Bored to Death” Acts 20:5-12

March 25, 2012Part 3 - “There’s a Riot Goin’ On” Acts 19:1-10, 23-41

Looking ahead

Join Dr. Wing Sunday, March 4, 3 to 6 pmSpagio Wine Lounge1295 Grandview Avenue

$25 per person$30 at the door Advance tickets at FCchurch.com

Wine Tastingspring

eventFeaturing the newest collection of wine on

the market today!

For more information: 614 488.0681 ext 235rtaylor@FCchurch.com.

4 March 1 - 31, 2012

New Faces, Familiar Faces, Continuing Challenges

We are pleased to announce the Foundation Board of Trustees members for 2012.

Continuing to serve, in new capacities, are: Herb Johnston, Chair Doug Torrance, Vice Chair John Welty, Past Chair Buck Byrne, Programs & Projects Committee Chair Walt Neff, Policy & Finance Committee Chair Judy Reinhard, Grants Committee Chair

Matt Byrne Doug Covell Wayne Harer Scott McLaughlin Susan Murray Lee Vescelius

First Community Foundation GiftsIn Honor of: Betty O'Neill Lee BurgesRon Arledge Sally PorterfieldBaptism of Shawn Roman Scott Adams Grace Sue Adams

In Memory of: Joe Yearling Dana Deshler Dick & Norma Sims Rob & Ruth Gardner Anne & John Rarey Don & Donna Gepfert Patrick Doyle Sonya Albery Tom & Kathie Jones Jennifer & Vernon Morrison Bob Byrd Beverly & Herb Brown Conrad Shisler Lee Burges David & Elaine Smith Bob & Barbara Hudson Joyce Brennan Bob & Sally Wandel Katherine Mac Ewan Ted & Martha Poulton Nancy & Roger BakerJeannette Kuyper Bob & Sally Wandel Janet McCutcheon John & Cathy Carnahan Women's Guild Group QLibby Krouse Bill Morris Bob & Sally WandelDotti Peppe Bill MorrisErmee Dixon Dan & Carol Morris

First Community Church GiftsHeart to Heart DonationsIn Honor of:Rev. Kate Shaner Mike & Sharon TaylorMarianne Thompson Molly HoodJustin & Noelle Fields John ScurlockBetty O'Neill John ScurlockIn Memory of:C. William O'Neill on his Birthday (2-14-12) Betty O'Neill

Third Grade BiblesIn Celebration of:Avery Arkwright Julia ArkwrightPenelope Clark Ned ClarkHarrison Frenken Paul and Kristin FrenkenClara Pinta Gallapoo Gwyneth Pinta

(continued on page 14)

The Foundation Corner

–– Donald Jameson, Director of Foundation Development

New members:Jennifer FountainCheryl ZeigerMike Zook

Ex officio members:Cindy Harsany, SecretaryErick Piscopo, TreasurerPatti Link, Administrative Assistant

If you would like to become more familiar with the work of the Foundation and how it seeks to increase financial support for our church and its ministries in very challenging times, please feel free to attend a board meeting as our guest. We meet on the third Tuesday of every month at 7:30 pm in Burkhart Chapel at the South Campus. You will be welcome.

$71,500 to be used for Missions, Heart to Heart, Akita scholarships, Media, K-12 programming, Prayers & Squares and church operations.

Though the store's mission hasn’t changed much through the years, the selling climate has restyled itself considerably. “Originally, Goodwill and The Trading Post were the only resale shops in the Tri-Village area,” Mary Jean said. “Now there are five shops on Fifth Avenue alone.”

“Many customers who have come here a great number of years say, ‘We’ve seen them all and your store is the best.’ This makes us feel very good.”

Another dramatic change on the consignment horizon comes by way of an announcement that Mary Jean will retire on June 1 and that Helen Saxe will take the reigns as Coordinator.

“I have 10 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren to visit,” she said smiling. “I thought it was time to do some of the things I haven’t been able to do freely. I’m going to clean out my closets and donate the items to The Post.”

The Trading Post, located at 1944 W. First Avenue, is open Monday-Saturday, 10 am to 4 pm. They can be reached at 614 488.6564.

Trading Treasures(Continued from Page 1)

March 1 - 31, 2012 5

2011 Year End Report

Since joining the First Community Church staff in September of 2009, I have enjoyed getting to know you better, working together through financial challenges.

2011 was a year of meaningful conversations and a coming together as a church. I appreciate those who gave throughout the year, helping us

to meet our budget by a gain of $5,308.

The 2011 budget reflected an 8% reduction from the 2010 budget in revenue and expenses. The 2012 budget has

–– Cindy Harsany, Director of Finance and Operations

been increased by 3% and relies heavily on pledges and offerings. I believe we are beginning to recover from the last 3 years of decreased income, however in 2012, we will continue to work with some of the same financial challenges.

Through the year we will make sure you are aware of the finances as we continue our journey together to meet the needs of our church community.

Thank you for your prayers and support,

DESCRIPTION ANNUAL BUDGET YTD ACTUAL2012

Budget

Variance fr 2011 Actual

REVENUE

Gross Regular Pledges 2,070,000$ 2,071,283$ 2,184,000$ 5.44%Less: Unpaid Regular Pledges (61,710) - (65,520) 0.00%Net Regular Pledges 2,008,290 2,071,283 2,118,480 2.28%

New Member Pledges 27,000 21,043 20,000 -4.95%Prior Year Payments 10,000 11,138 14,000 25.69%Total Pledge Revenue 2,045,290 2,103,464 2,152,480 2.33%

Sanctuary Offerings 106,000 96,306 100,000 3.84%Fee Supported Ministries 1,627,173 1,563,889 1,651,405 5.60%Education Ministries 44,485 29,131 39,530 35.70%Facilities & Administration 2,100 1,944 2,100 8.04%Other Ministries 203,865 195,274 241,788 23.82%Foundation Annual Gift 58,000 50,000 52,000 4.00%Supplemental Gift 43,000 26,132 42,240 61.64%Other Revenue 92,600 172,210 69,400 -59.70%Grand Total Revenue 4,222,513 4,238,348 4,350,943 2.66%

EXPENSESFee Supported Ministries 1,390,595 1,351,193 1,383,772 2.41%Education Ministries 69,917 55,709 68,418 22.81%Facilities & Administration 816,346 862,750 821,304 -4.80%Other Ministries 449,363 470,993 506,898 7.62%Program Salaries & Benefits 1,496,292 1,492,395 1,570,550 5.24%Grant Total Expenses 4,222,513 4,233,041 4,350,943 2.79%

Net Revenue & Expenses -$ 5,308$ -$

2011 2012

First Community ChurchBudgeted Financial Statement for December 31, 2011

Summary Statement of ActivityBudgeted Financial Statement for December 31, 2011

Summary Statement of Activity

6 March 1 - 31, 2012

Hearing God’s Voice

When I travelled to South Africa a few months ago, I knew it would be a thrill and an honor to meet Archbishop and Nobel Prize recipient Desmond Tutu. What I did not know was what a joy it would be to come to know his youngest daughter, Rev. Mpho Tutu. Mpho and her father worked together on their book Made for Goodness. They write about the spiritual journey and the longing to know God. In the following reflection, Mpho reminds us that God speaks in the voice of the heart.

Child, do you not know my voice?It bubbles up in happy laughter;Listen to your children play.It echoes in the songs of nature,Stop and listen.I speak as fresh rain on parched ground,I speak as the summer breeze that caresses the long grass,I speak as the gurgle of the river over the rocks,I speak in the warm smiles of welcome,I speak in the tender touch of comfort,I speak in tears of joy,I speak as unquenchable hope.

I speak in the voices of those who challenge you;Mine are the words of the loving rebuke.I speak in the words of honest praise.My voice is the happy hum in your heartWhen you know you have done what is right.My voice is the churning in your spiritWhen temptation seems ready to overwhelm you.My voice whispers “courage”When the path you must choose seems too long or too hard.It is I who says, “Be still awhile,”When the frenzy wants to overtake you.

Have you not heard me yet?I am very near.I breathe in your breath,I pray in your prayer.Have you not heard me yet?Stop and see.Look, listen.Yes,That is me.

My prayer is you will experience that happy hum in your heart in the coming month and you will recognize it as the voice of a God who loves you and delights in your life.

Blessings,

Take Heart

–– The Reverend Ms. Deborah Countiss Lindsay, Minister of Spiritual Care

A Message from our Board Chair By Michael Schoedinger

I am excited for the year ahead and for the Governing Board you have elected to carry out our mission. During comments made recently at our church annual meeting, we referenced following a path that will lead to a sanctuary at our North Campus.

A building is not the goal. The goal is to create a space by which we can welcome new faces to the worship experiences of First Community Church. Over the last few years, various groups in and out of the church have been discerning how best to accomplish this. Some of these groups were “The North Campus Steering Committee”, the “Assessment Group”, consultant Gil Rendle, consultant Susan Beaumont and the Governing Board.

The conclusion of all of these folks is that 6 things need to happen before we break ground on a new worship space. Among them is hiring of an Executive Director for the church. The Governing Board has formed a task force that will begin to recruit, hire, orient and monitor this endeavor.

Our church is blessed with so much talent and wonderful programs. This person will oversee these blessings and continue to find ways to offer more meaningful programs and services to our community and our membership.

I’m sure there are many questions as you read this. We will answer these over the next few weeks. For now, we just wanted to share this information with each of you and ask for your support. If you know of anyone who may be interested in this position, whether a member of our church or not, please share this information with Cindy Harsany in the business office. I cannot think of a more exciting year before us than this year. God bless each of you.

March 1 - 31, 2012 7

Haury Explores ‘Gut Feelings’ and EvolutionIn January, MSNBC.com reported that “gut feelings may trump good old-fashioned facts, and even religious beliefs, when it comes to accepting the theory of evolution, new research suggests.”

That research was conducted by our church member Dr. David Haury and his team at The Ohio State University. Haury, who is chair of our Adult Learning Council and associate professor of education at OSU, co-authored this study published in the Journal of Research in Science Education.

Haury and his colleagues tapped into cognitive science research showing that our brains don’t just process ideas logically—we also rely on how true something feels when judging an idea. “Research in neuroscience has shown that

when there’s a conflict between facts and feeling in the brain, feeling wins,” he said. You can find a report of his study at http://researchnews.osu.edu/archive/evolutiongut.htm.

Haury was one of only nine faculty at OSU accepted last year for the prestigious award as a Fellow for the American Association for the Advancement of Science.

The C.G. Jung Association of Central Ohio offersThe Sailor Cannot See the North:The Psychospiritual Dilemma of Our TimeJames Hollis, Ph.D.Lecture, April 20 7-9 pmWorkshop, April 21, 9:30 am – 4 pmBrownlee Hall, 1320 Cambridge Blvd.

James Hollis is a Jungian analyst and author whose presentations are lucid and engaging, both for those new to Jungian thought and for those who are well-versed. Hollis takes his title from Emily Dickinson: The Sailor Cannot See the North, but Knows the Needle Can. He asks “What are the sources of guidance for a thoughtful person in our country amid political fractionation, animosity, divisive ideologies and numbing distractions – a time in which the individual has an enormous summons to social, psychological and spiritual integrity?”

This presentation will challenge the audience to assume responsibility for a thoughtful, discerned and experientially verified authority which bases itself on respect for others, but also embodies a willingness to show up, to be different and to stand for something real.

Hollis will lecture and take questions in the Friday evening presentation. Participants in the Saturday workshop are invited to bring a notebook for personal reflection and be challenged to discern their own values, be accountable for them and summon the courage to live them.

Registration is possible for Friday or Saturday only, or for both. CEUs are available for counselors, social workers and psychologists. For more information and a registration form, go to jungcentralohio.org.

Elections and AwardsAt our January 29 Annual Meeting, the following 12 people were elected to a two-year term on the Nominating Committee. They join 12 others who were elected last year. The Nominating process begins in early fall with nominations from the congregation and results in the slates of candidates for the Governing Board and Board of Deacons that will be presented at the 2012 Annual Meeting.

Nominating Committee: Kathy Cleveland Bull Robert Byrd Jackie Cherry Barb Davis Julie Helland Sarah Jonaus Janet McCutcheon William Mead Hilda Neff Walter Neff Samuel Porter III Pamela Shisler

We would also like to recognize our five Governing Board members and eight Deacons that were elected.

Governing Board: Ginny Barney Erik Clark Jamie Graver Peggy Johnson Tracy Stuck

Board of Deacons: Mary Kay Fenner Steve Brown Susan Huhta David Hogrefe Jane Ledman Scott Kingsley Julie Wilkinson Tony Moog

In addition, the following members were presented with the Service Award at the January 29 Annual Meeting.

Service Award Recipients: Dick Helland Dick and Patty Vesper

8 March 1 - 31, 2012

The Ides of March

Any student of Shakespeare relates the fifteenth of March, the “Ides of March,” to the assassination of Julius Caesar. The day is understood to be one of danger and turmoil. Actually, it was a festival day to celebrate the middle of March. Rome tended to look for any occasion to justify a party and the middle of each month (the meaning of “ides”) was often used for that purpose. Hey, we’re half way through this one, let’s celebrate!

But the Ides of March took on even darker meaning when it became Deadline Day for filing

one’s tax return with the Internal Revenue Service. File, or else! To escape the Julius Caesar connection, and to ease the strain on certified public accountants, the IRS day was moved to April 15, but the threat of the day still stands.

Hopefully, for you, the day is not a threat. It is simply a day of accounting and, whether we agree with all its uses or not, a day of determining how much money we will “give” to our government to help us have a civilized, well-defended and caring society.

We often think of tax day as a day of judgment, but it’s not. It is a day of sharing. And that’s sort of biblical. Well, it is, even though that’s something you’d expect a preacher to say, whether it seems realistic or not.

Biblical judgment, contrary to the way many preachers talk about it, is not punishment upon “sinners in the hands of an angry God,” to use the title of one of the old classic sermons. A better interpretation is that in Greek, judgment means to treat someone in a certain way. Judgment is to make things right. The Good News Jesus brings to us is that God treats us as innocent people, not as guilty people.

This is why we gladly share our resources, limited or abundant, as an act of our thanksgiving to God for choosing to treat us as innocent. This includes paying our taxes with some measure of celebration. This includes bringing our tithes and offerings of thanksgiving to God with a full and joyful measure of celebration.

Stewardship Corner

–– The Reverend Mr. Paul E. Baumer, Minister of Stewardship

New Member Information SeminarSaturday, April 14; 9:15 am to 12:30 pmBrownlee Hall, South Campus

One of the most meaningful experiences at First Community Church is when new members join our church family.

If you want to learn more about the history, theology and programs of First Community Church, or have a desire to feel more connected, join us for the Spring New Member Information Seminar.

For more information or to register for the seminar, contact Paula Russell, Director of Membership, at 614 488.0681 ext 228 or prussell@FCchurch.com.

Update Your InformationWe appreciate those who confirmed their information on Webview. We had a great response and appreciate the time many took to utilize this new tool for keeping our records up-to-date.

If you did not receive an email from First Community Church this past month regarding member information, chances are we don’t have your current email address. Please contact Paula Russell, Director of Membership, at 614 488.0681 ext 228 or prussell@FCchurch.com.

Women’s Guild Submitted by Jill Eliot

The Women’s Guild 100 years of giving continues with mention of the Spring Event. Tickets will be on sale during late March or early April for the May 12th luncheon at Brookside Country Club. All women and friends of First Community Church are invited to attend the event sponsored by the Women’s Guild. More details to come.

Joy Plassman is working on a Women’s Guild video project. This project about the Guild will take a year to complete, however a short version will be shown during services on Women’s Guild Sunday, March 4, 2012.

All Guild ladies are asked to look through their personal photograph collections for Guild pictures. If you have pictures you would like to see included in the video, please contact Joy Plassman at 614 459.1454. The pictures will not be returned to the owner and must have the name of the Guild Group, date and event included. Each Guild group will be gifted with a copy of the final video. Joy will be visiting Group meetings to take pictures to add to the project. 100 years of the First Community Women’s Guild will be documented for the ages.

March 1 - 31, 2012 9

Featured ArtistRuth Ann MitchellAfter moving to Tennessee from Dublin, Ohio in 1997, Artist Ruth Ann Mitchell left her career in real estate and found herself hooked on painting. She’s back now and the Worship and Arts Council invites you to enjoy the exciting variety of color, shape, texture and style in the exhibit of her work that is currently featured in our Brownlee Hall Gallery.

Heavily textured abstracts are the main focus of her work, inspired by her drives between Tennessee and Columbus. As the highways cut across the fields in Ohio down through the mountains in Tennessee, a fascinating and changing mixture of vistas and intersections are presented.

Also shown in this exhibit are works from her Grid series. Often during her travels she encountered and photographed stray dogs. These dogs became great subjects for this irresistibly charming series of Chuck Close-style painted works.

The Color series Window Dreams was the result of daydreaming in a class at the Armory. Her view of the beautiful sky was enhanced by her intrigue at the interesting walls around the windows in that historic building.

Though vastly different in nature, each of the styles of painting shown in this exhibit reveal the joy and skill that Ruth Ann brings to her artistry.

In her own words, “For me, the union of texture and light are the essential elements that are at times real, at other times illusionary and many times both.”

This month, take some time to explore the talent of this accomplished artist. We hope that you will be inspired as you view this work.

You can also find more of her abstract paintings at the Studios on High Gallery in the Short North. If you have questions about or interest in additional pieces or commission work, you can visit her web site at ruthannmitchell.com.

614 488.0681 • FCchurch.comemail: njones@FCchurch.com

Women’s Spring Weekend Retreat

March 23 - 25, 2012Close to Columbus...

Held at the Camp Akita Lodge, in the beautiful Hocking Hills

Cozy Accommodations, Home-cooked Meals and a Welcoming Environment

Come yourself or bring a friend, mother, sister or daughter!

A Personal Conversation with Nanci Danison about her Afterlife Experience

Have you ever

What it is like to Die?

Wondered...

Awakening The DreamerThree members of First Community Church will be facilitating an Awakening the Dreamer, Changing the Dream symposium developed by Pachamama and the indigenous Achuar people of the Ecuadorean rainforest.

The purpose of the symposium is to create an environmentally sustainable, spiritually fulfilling and just human presence on our planet. The summit will take place at The Ohio State University 4-H Center (LEED-certified facility) 2201 Fred Taylor Drive on Saturday, March 31 from 9:30 am - 4:30 pm.

First Community church has been instrumental in bringing the symposium to our community. Awakening the Dreamer will be offered as a breakout session during an important Earthkeeping Summit, co-sponsored by Ohio Interfaith Power and Light, OSU School of Environment and Natural Resources, OSU Energy Services and Sustainability, Green Energy Ohio and The Climate Change Outreach Team - OSU Extension.

To obtain further information and to register visit Interfaith Power and Light website, go to ohipl.org or contact Barb Davis at barbdavis43@gmail.com.

10 March 1 - 31, 2012

Check the website for the most up-to-date information. For additional information: Click: FCchurch.com Email: info@FCchurch.com Call: 614 488.0681 Visit: The Welcome Center at North or South Campus

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8:30 am • Burkhart Chapel, SC - Rev. Lindsay preaching9:15 am • Grace Hall, NC - Dr. Robin Meyers preaching Chancel Chamber Choir & Bell Choir 110:25 am • Grace Hall, NC - Dr. Robin Meyers preaching Kurt Smith, Bell Choir 2, Middle School Vocal Ensemble11 am • Sanctuary, SC - Dr. Robin Meyers preaching Chancel Choir

8:30 am • Burkhart Chapel, SC - Rev. Shaner preaching9:15 am • Grace Hall, NC - Dr. Wing preaching Whitechapel Ringers10:25 am • Grace Hall, NC - Dr. Wing preaching Kurt Smith, songleader & Whitechapel Ringers11 am • Sanctuary, SC - Dr. Wing preaching Chancel Choir & Cherub Choir

8:30 am • Burkhart Chapel, SC - Rev. Long preaching9:15 am • Grace Hall, NC - Dr. Wing preaching Chancel Chamber Choir10:25 am • Grace Hall, NC - Dr. Wing preaching Kurt Smith, songleader11 am • Sanctuary, SC - Dr. Wing preaching Chancel Choir

8:30 am • Burkhart Chapel, SC9:15 am • Grace Hall, NC - Dr. Wing preaching Chancel Chamber Choir10:25 am • Grace Hall, NC - Dr. Wing preaching Kurt Smith, songleader11 am • Sanctuary, SC - Dr. Wing preaching Chancel Choir

A indicates Usher assignments.

A

B

C

GUILD SUNDAY

BAPTISMS/MEXICO COMMISSIONING

MEDIA SUNDAY

A Month of Sundays

A

New and Coming Soon to the Furber Book Corner

The Underground Church by Robin Meyers will be available in the Furber Book Corner before Robin visits First Community Church as our Spring Spiritual Searcher.

The Book Corner will also carry several other titles by Meyer including: Saving Jesus From the Church, Why the Christian Right Is Wrong, and Morning Sun on a White Piano.

Also coming soon: Past Spiritual Searcher Amy-Jill Levine and co-author Douglas Knight’s new book titled The Meaning of the Bible: What the Jewish Scriptures and the Christian Old Testament Can Tell Us. These two scholars examine not only what the Bible says, but what it means.

Easter Special: The Last Week: What the Gospels Really Teach About Jesus’ Last Week In Jerusalem by Marcus Borg and John Dominic Crossan, will be available in paperback for $10.

For children: The Parable of the Lily by Liz Curtis Higgs. This is a beautiful metaphor that will help children of all ages understand the mystery that is Easter. Hardcover available for $5.

Also available: Lenten Journals from the Spirituality Network for $4. See page 16 for more information.

These items and more available at our online store: Shop.FCchurch.com

March 1 - 31, 2012 11

Facilities Update1320 Improvements By Pam Jameson, Facilities Manager

Before After Photos by Pam Jameson

The mild weather has been a blessing to us as we continue our journey addressing the improvements to our property located at 1320 Cambridge Blvd.

In order to safeguard our improvements and investments, it is necessary to also address unanticipated problems surrounding our known areas needing repaired. The following exterior and internal improvements have been performed. Improvements earmarked for spring/summer and future projects are in the planning process and will be performed as funds permit.

Exterior Improvements: $395,500Currently, the roofing project is 85% complete.•Repair, replacement of panels, doors, jambs, •thresholds and refinishing of the nine exterior wooden doors facing Cambridge Blvd.Tuckpointing exterior areas around the sanctuary, •courtyard, Burkhart Chapel entrance, three roof top chimneys, and parapet wall along the east side of the building.Rebuilt upper portion of the parapet wall including •replacement of the window angle irons. Repaired small roof over egress doors in the •courtyard. Replaced gables along upper membrane roof line •with composite materials.Installed new lighting in the alley. •Repaired steps to Lincoln Road Chapel and removed •concrete block near Burkhart Chapel, which was a tripping hazard.

Internal Improvements: $21,000

Various repairs to our boiler system, radiators, •sanctuary air conditioner and pneumatic controls.Repairs to roof drain pipes. •Repairs to selected plastered walls/ceiling, floor joists, •and carpet.

Spring/Summer Improvements: $90,000+Gutters and downspouts.•Stucco repairs.•Repairs to control boxes for air conditioning units •located on roof.*Gable repairs around slate roofline.*•Sealing exterior stone around sanctuary and •courtyard.Interior plaster repairs to areas surrounding courtyard •and sanctuary.Replace flooring on the first floor of 1320.•

Future Projects: $90,810+ Replacement and/or redesign of needed sidewalks •on property. Improved handicap access.* •Resurface parking lot.•Tree Trimming* •Windows Replacement & Joint Sealant•

*Projected Estimates have not been received. We have many areas that need attention and extremely grateful to those of you who have provided gifts towards this important and necessary project. We have received a total of $271,395 towards the project which includes a grant of $165,000 from the First Community Foundation. Not included in the gift total is a matching gift opportunity. An anonymous family has challenged our congregation with a matching $200,000 donation for 1320 Improvements. With this, your contribution will be doubled up to $200,000. If you are interested in making a special donation, please contact Cindy Harsany, Director of Finance and Operations, at 614 488.0681 x230 or send your donation with a note “1320 Matching Donation” to the Business Office.

If you are interested in receiving additional information on this project, please contact Pam Jameson at 614 488.0681 ext 232 or pjameson@FCchurch.com.

12 March 1 - 31, 2012

Gabe

On February 1, 2012, Dr. Gabe Campbell “graduated to that nearer presence of God” described by his friend and mentor, Dr. Roy A. Burkhart. Gabe was attending law school at Ohio State when Dr. Burkhart recruited him into youth ministry at First Community Church. As a result, he was my minister when I was in Junior High School and growing up at First Community Church.

A strong and charismatic leader, Gabe had a profound impact on the youth under his charge at a crucial time in their lives. His ministry centered

on Lincoln Road Chapel, where we met for worship and study. It was called the Church of the Block of Wood, and it was where I received my Block of Wood, our church’s beloved symbol of confirmation and membership. Gabe also was a great believer and supporter of Camp Akita where he deepened his ministry to youth. A strong element of his ministry was simple and direct: God loved and accepted all people and we should too. Thus, there was great emphasis in his teaching on young people breaking down “cliques” and welcoming and accepting others at church and school. As we all know, Junior High School, and now Middle School, is a time of great peer pressure when young people often divide into groups and leave others out. Gabe modeled at church and camp the inclusion of all and urged us to take “the Akita spirit” back to school after we returned from worship, summer camp or retreat. When you think about it, this really is the Gospel of Jesus Christ, who welcomed the marginalized, the poor and the oppressed. Jesus included all people in the Kingdom of God, and this message has always been a hallmark of our ministry, which is why we call our church “A Place for All.” While we may fall short of this at times, it remains our essential purpose and hope in service to others. It is the way of Jesus Christ.

Thanks, Gabe, for your message of God’s unconditional love, expressed so strongly and clearly to young people at an important time in their lives. May we continue to be faithful to your witness.

Peace and blessings,

Parish RegisterWe share the joys and sorrows of our church family in our prayers.

BIRTHSWhitney Claire Donaldson 1/30/12 granddaughter of Nancy & Mike DonaldsonSloane Katherine Stockwell 1/12/12 granddaughter of Debra Eschenbacher

BAPTISMS1/20/12 Kenzie Suzanne Zakrzewski

RECENTLY HOSPITALIZEDNancy Ewing Bill Henry Bill VerwohltPat DonovanAmy SuttonEmily RogersHaden DeRobertsJohn Butcher

DEATHSMichael Bright 1/21/12 brother of Ron BrightDean K. Reinhard 1/25/12 son of Judy & Dean ReinhardJames A. Francis 12/9/11 father of Beth Francis GuptaBill Olson 1/31/12 husband of Mary OlsonWyn Shimer 2/5/12Marjorie MacDonald 12/27/11 sister of Mary EvansLillian Smith 1/1/12 mother of Holly Brown

Call the Pastoral Care Office at 614 488.0681 ext 239, for family births, deaths, weddings, hospitalizations and birthdays of 100 years or more.

Care and Spirit

– – The Reverend Mr. James M. Long, Minister of Pastoral Care

Easter FlowersHelp decorate First Community Church for Easter Sunday with lilies and other spring flowers. Stop by the Worship & Arts table after worship services each Sunday from March 11 through April 1, or send a check for $10 for each plant to:

The Worship & Arts CouncilFirst Community Church1320 Cambridge Blvd.Columbus, OH 43212

Donations may also be made on line at Fcchurch.com on the home page under ‘Giving” tab. Place your order by Palm Sunday, April 1. Flowers paid for may be picked up following the 11:30 am service at either campus on Easter Sunday.

March 1 - 31, 2012 13

Last CallBack Bay Mission WorkcampA First Community Church adult workcamp will be going to Back Bay Mission, Biloxi, MS, May 6-12, 2012.

Due to procedural changes at Back Bay Mission, we need to have registrations to Back Bay one month before we go.

Therefore, if you plan to go or are thinking about joining the workcamp, please be sure to contact Paul Baumer and be sure he has your registration by April 2.

You can help the continuing recovery in the Biloxi area from Hurricane Katrina. Our work group is limited to eight people this year, and we are getting close to our limit. If you want to go along, register now. Cost per person is $350 which includes lodging at Back Bay Mission, food, transportation and work supplies in Biloxi. In addition, you’ll need to arrange your Columbus to Biloxi transportation. To join the workcamp, contact Paul Baumer, Minister of Stewardship, at 614 538.1090.

Mission Council’s 17th Annual Garage SaleIt’s time to mark your calendar for the 17th Annual Gigantic Mission Council Garage Sale which will be held on Friday, May 18 and Saturday, May 19. This project raises money for many charities including Habitat for Humanity, local homeless shelters, church youth mission trips to Mexico and the Dominican Republic, Mid-Ohio Food Bank, local refugee settlement, the Rafiki Orphanage in Kenya and Heart to Heart.

It takes an entire week to set things up and get ready to sell our wares. Last year nearly 300 volunteers pitched in which was our best volunteer turnout ever. Everyone can contribute to this gigantic endeavor. Here are some ideas:

• Start saving items to donate.

• Sign up to volunteer any time from Sun. May 13 through Sat., May 18. Some of the jobs include sorting, lifting, pricing, organizing, fixing, polishing, cleaning, moving and preparing lunch for volunteers. During the week we are at North Campus every day from 9am to 9 pm.

• Donate supplies such as masking & packing tape, garbage bags, Ziploc bags, shopping bags with handles, paper grocery bags, Sharpie pens, mailing labels and skirt hangers that we use during the sale.

• Donate refreshments, such as a bottle of wine, for the Friday Night Preview Sale, or home-baked goods, donuts, pop, coffee and creamer for our refreshment stand.

• Donate lunch food or a Donato’s gift card for volunteers’ lunches during the week. Donato’s cards can be purchased at the Mission Council grocery card table after church services.

• Make a small financial contribution to help us defray expenses for things like tent and table rental, advertising, and truck rental.

We will begin accepting donations at North Campus on Sunday, May 13 (Mother’s Day) from 2 - 6 pm. In the meantime, if you have large items that you would like to have picked up from your home, contact Beth Hanson at 614 488.6526 or bethhanson@wowway.com.

Mission Council will also host a Garage Sale table after church services starting in April for volunteer sign-up and other information. More information is also posted on the church website under Missions including a Garage-Sale-Week schedule and a list of the donations we will and will not accept.

Easter Offering April 8, 2012

Refugee Task Force

Helping Refugees From PersecutionLearn to Help Themselves

Be sure to catch The Ohio & Company Show on ONN as our own Dr. Richard Wing talks about his book and about all we do at First Community Church.

14 March 1 - 31, 2012

Having a Jesus Experience

One person that exudes the presence of Christ is Huston Smith.

When he preached as Spiritual Searcher at the often rustling 10:25 am service, even crying babies quieted. His very words created a palpable field of Presence—the presence that was in Jesus.

Yet Winifred Gallagher in Spiritual Genius describes Huston Smith’s “spiritual struggle with Jesus.”

Dr. Smith, who grew up with Christian missionary parents, never had “that personal experience of Jesus.”

This amazes me. I have never experienced Jesus that way either, but I have been touched by the presence of the divine that was in Jesus, including when I was in Huston Smith’s presence.

There is no other way for me to understand the experience of the Holy. There can be only one “Oneness.”

I trust the experience of those who speak of having “a personal relationship with Jesus,” but I am also convinced that the animating spirit of the divine that was in Jesus takes myriad shapes and forms. Like Wayne Dyer says, “You can call it ‘Louise’ if you like.”

In The First Messiah, Michael Wise reminds us that “The Teacher of Righteousness” (the “savior before Christ”) followed a meditation practice that opened him to “visions” and “wondrous mysteries.” The completely human person Jesus engaged in spiritual practice, too (most likely learned from John the Baptist and others) that enabled him to open in a special way to the Divine realm, giving him to know that “I and the Father are one.”

What can elude us is that it is ours to have the same experience “that was in Christ Jesus.” Here’s Richard Rohr:

“When prayer naturally matures, God is not so much ‘A Person’ out there, that I must cajole, adore and obey, but God has become the Very Ground of All Being, which is in dialogue with you, loving you…and revealing a gracious divine will in all things as they are.

“God is no longer a mere person, but all of reality itself has become personal, relational, dialogical, giving and receiving, loving and lovable.

“This is a major and important maturing in one’s relationship with God, yet so few spiritual guides know how to lead us across when we think we are losing our initial faith. You indeed are! But you are finding a much deeper faith, and you must go through this necessary trial and darkness to grow up spiritually and experience true and full intimacy with God.”

That’s what Jesus experienced. I’ll take that however it appears!

Shalom,

The Infinite Quest

– – The Reverend Mr. David S. Hett, Minister of Religious Life and Learning

First Community Church Gifts(continued from page 4)

Third Grade BiblesIn Celebration of: Hayden James Gray James and Amy GrayCourtney Jagers Chris and Susan JagersEva Johnson Betsy JohnsonJackson Jones James and Amy JonesAbigail K. Jump Jon and Michelle JumpGregory McGuire Dennis and Ann McGuireJulia Rabadam Amy RabadamMitchell Rose Greg and Tifanie RoseEvan Snyder Carolyn SnyderAvery Voss David and Laurie VossAllison Waggener Terry and Donna WaggenerSam Wyzlic Marty and Brandee Wyzlic

Mary Evans Child Development CenterIn Memory of: Dean Kirk Reinhard

Dean and Judy ReinhardBob EberhartDr. Michael HockmanJames HoweTheresa KrystofikTom and Pat LaudickOhio Regional Training CenterRebecca ReuweeMary RifePaul and Lois RifeLewis and Amy RosselliF ScheckFlorence ShamaRalph & Joan TalmageMarianne ThompsonPatricia WardJohn BeattySusan BrooksThomas and Rena BrownBuck ByrneSarah DawsonCircle #70 FCCPeggy JohnsonRobert and Cathryn KellermanDonald and Fran KirkWilliam LamkinJames and Judith LundBryon MurrayChristina NelsonJoan SantJean StanleyGerald and Roccalyn SunburyRichard VedellDeborah WagnerHeidi Harris Varner

March 1 - 31, 2012 15

Weekly Adult Learning GroupsClasses are free except where noted and open to the public. Books for most classes are available at the Furber Book Corner. For information on registration or financial aid, contact the Adult Learning Office at 614 488.0681 ext 113 or njones@FCchurch.com.

For more details on specific classes, go to FCchurch.com, search: adult learning.

Sunday Morning Seminar: Lenten StudyMarch 4: A review of Robin Meyers’ Spiritual Searcher Weekend, The Underground Church: Following the Subversive Way of Jesus. March 11- April 1: A four-week series based on Were You There: Finding Ourselves at the Foot of the Cross by Erik Kolbell. “In the Passion of Jesus we hear the story of one person but the echoes of many, for although we read it to find out who Jesus was; it is in the reading of those other characters that we find out who we are.” All are welcome to attend the free Adult Learning Sunday Morning Seminar. Simply bring your open mind, inquiring questions and challenging comments to add to the creative and stimulating mix. No meeting Easter Sunday, April 8.

Sundays, 9:30 - 10:45 am Wicker Room, South Campus

Tuesday at Ten: The Work of Amy-Jill Levine and Marcus Borg The inclusive discussion group, led by Rev. Deborah C. Lindsay, Rev. Peter Diehl and Dr. Pidge Diehl, will base winter explorations using both Amy-Jill Levine’s video series, Great Figures in the New Testament, and Marcus Borg’s book, Speaking Christian: Why Christian Words Have Lost Their Meaning and Power—and How They Can Be Restored. Lenten Schedule: March 6: Levine’s Jesus of Nazareth, March 13: Levine’s The Christ of Faith,March 20: Levine’s Judas Iscariot, March 27: Levine’s Pontius Pilate, April 2: Borg’s The Death of Jesus and Easter. Free and open to all.

Tuesdays, 10 - 11:30 amWicker Room, South Campus

Soundings: 2012 Lenten Series - Going Deeper in the Spiritual JourneyContemporary Methods for Traditional Spiritual Practice with local clergy and spiritual directors. Individual Experiences; Small Group Reflections. Open to the public, a free-will offering will be taken at each session.3/6 - Inspiration & Imagery: Heart and Soul Responses to Creativity 3/13 - Jazz Meditation & iPhone Zen3/20 - Fractals & The Spiritual Journey3/27 - Body Prayer & The Practice of Sound4/3 - The Breath of Life, The Light of God: A Holy Week Experience

Tuesdays, 7 – 8:30 pmMarch 6 – April 3Brownlee Hall, South Campus (March 6 in Burkhart Chapel, South Campus)

Men’s Study GroupJoin us for weekly discussions on a variety of biblical and religious topics. Currently: The Prodigal Son by Henri Nouwen. Contact Price Finley at 614 488.7978 or pfinley@bricker.com, or Craig Sturtz at 614 481.9060 or csturtz@ssd.com.

Wednesdays, 7 - 8 amWicker Room, South Campus

Men’s Wednesday FellowshipMembers and invited speakers discuss a wide range of topics.

Wednesdays, 7 - 8 amBrownlee Hall, South Campus

Women Living the Questions: Jesus and Buddha: Paths to AwakeningThis DVD series, featuring the contemplative psychological-spiritual teachers Richard Rohr and James Finley, serves as the centerpoint of discussion in this new series: Jesus and Buddha: Paths to Awakening, Finding the Four Noble Truths in the Heart of Christianity. Open to all women, this discussion group focuses on the spiritual search in all of its forms.

Wednesdays, 9:30 - 11 amWicker Room, South Campus

Wednesday Evening Bible StudyA time of study of scripture and prayer. Led by Rev. Jim Long. Open to all.

Wednesdays, 7 - 8:30 pmConference Room, North Campus

Saturdays with Richard Rohr & Friends The Enneagram as a Spiritual Tool for Non-Dual Consciousness ends March 10. Jesus and Buddha: Paths to Awakening, Finding the Four Noble Truths in the Heart of Christianity, begins Saturday, April 14, for seven weeks through May 26. This DVD series features the contemplative psychological-spiritual teachers Richard Rohr and Dr. James Finley (our March 2013 Spiritual Searcher). Consecutive attendance is not necessary. Open to the public; a weekly free-will offering will benefit the Spiritual Searcher/ Psychological-Spiritual Development Fund.

Saturdays through March 10, 9 – 10:30 amRoom 111, North Campus

New Series, Jesus & Buddha, begins April 14

16 March 1 - 31, 2012

Sunday Morning Lenten StudyFinding Ourselves at the Foot of the CrossMarch 11 – April 1 (Palm Sunday), 9:30 – 10:45 amWicker Room, South Campus

“In the Passion of Jesus we hear the story of one person but the echoes of many,” writes Erik Kolbell, “for although we read it to find out who Jesus was, it is in the reading of those other characters that we find out who we are.” In this series, Kurt Taube will lead a discussion on Kolbell’s book, Were You There? Finding Ourselves at the Foot of the Cross.

As individuals, we weren’t in Jerusalem during the last days of Jesus’ life, but the people who were there weren’t very different from us. The characters in the Passion story did their jobs, defended their faith as they understood it, stood in the crowd, fell asleep, ran away, returned and found faith. We can learn much about Jesus, and about ourselves, by seeing the story through their eyes.

Were You There? provides thoughtful meditations about Peter, the slave whose ear is severed, Judas, the woman who anointed Jesus, Pilate, Herod, Simon of Cyrene, the centurion at the cross, Joseph of Arimathea, Mary and many others. Erik Kolbell is a psychotherapist and ordained minister. He was also the inspiration for the character Rev. Erik Camden on the hit television series, “Seventh Heaven.” Kolbell was the first Minister of Social Justice at Riverside Church in New York City.

Lenten Journals for Your Spiritual JourneyAn anniversary edition of The Lenten Journal, a resource for your spiritual journey during this meditational season of Lent, is available now for $4 at our South Campus Furber Book Corner and North Campus Sunday bookstore.

This journal celebrates our sister organization Spirituality Network’s 25th Anniversary by selecting writings for each day of Lent from the 17 year history of The Lenten Journal, including offerings by church members Barbara Davis, the Rev. David Hett and the Rev. Jim Long as well as a host of other familiar area spiritual writers, thinkers and directors.

In her entry for Good Friday, for example, Barb Davis writes, “To truly live the Easter experience, there must be time to sit in the darkness and emptiness that follow loss and crisis in our lives.”

Equally important, each journal entry provides space for you to write your daily Lenten reflections in order to “author your own life.”

SOUNDINGS2012 Lenten Series

Going Deeper in the Spiritual Journey

Sailors the world over used to throw a weighted line into the water off of the ship to gauge the “current depth” of the water. This was known as “a sounding.” In spiritual formation, spiritual practices can become “soundings” for our soul work, accessing and gauging the depths of our own soul.

Tuesdays, March 6 – April 3 • 7 - 8:30 pmSouth Campus, 1320 Cambridge Blvd, Columbus OH 43212614 488.0681 • FCchurch.com

Contemporary Methods for Traditional Spiritual PracticeIndividual Experiences and Small Group Reflections Open to the public, a free-will offering at each session

Inspiration & Imagery: March 6, Burkhart ChapelHeart & Soul Responses to CreativityExploring our emotional, physical and intellectual responses to creativity as Spiritual Director Dan Schleppi uses photographic art as the medium for prayer and meditation.

Jazz Meditation & iPhone Zen March 13, Brownlee HallExperience jazz & media meditations as well as an “iPhone Zen” experience with the Rev. Pete Diehl.

Fractals & The Spiritual Journey March 20, Brownlee HallYour body is full of fractals. In fact, fractals are so common in nature that Spiritual Director-in-Training David Ziels calls them “one of the tools in God’s toolkit.” This evening we explore fractals in nature, art and meditation in addition to one soul’s very non-traditional spiritual journey.

Body Prayer & March 27, Brownlee HallThe Practice of SoundBody prayers combined with sound practices like chanting are simple and long-standing traditional forms of prayer. Rev. Dr. Elizabeth Reed guides us in the very simple Dances of Universal Peace this evening.

The Breath of Life, The Light April 3, Brownlee Hallof God: A Holy Week ExperienceUsing breath prayer and guided meditation, the Rev. Michael Jupin will help us explore ithe presence of the holy and divine in a more directly internal and traditional way in this experience on the Tuesday of Holy Week. Michael, a spiritual director and Episcopal priest, focuses on contemplative prayer practices.

March 1 - 31, 2012 17

THE

Underground

Church

R o b i n M e y e r s

R E C L A I M I N G T H E

S U B V E R S I V E WAY O F J E S U S

“Read this book if you dare. Become part of the movement if you are daring.”

—ARCHBISHOP DESMOND TUTU

Become Part of the

DaringMovement

if you are

Join us to find out why Robin Meyers’

will draw Christians together!controversial message

Spiritual Searcher Weekend March 2-4, 2012

1320 Cambridge Blvd., Columbus OH 43212(Corner Cambridge Blvd and Third Ave,

Grandview Heights)

Friday, March 2, 7 – 8:30 pm How I Became a Heretic

with Help from Jesus

Saturday, March 3, 9:30 – 3:30 pmThe Underground Church: Reclaiming

the Subversive Way of Jesus

Sunday, March 4Robin Meyers, guest preacher at 9:15, 10:25 and 11 am worship

Weekend, student and group rates available.

Information, fees and registration at:614 488.0681, ext. 113

FCchurch.com

Seats are filling up fast.Reserve your spot today!

March Daily ReadingsThese Bible readings are from the Revised Common Lectionary Daily Readings. In general, readings on Thursday, Friday and Saturday are selected to prepare for the Sunday reading; readings on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday are selected to reflect the Sunday lectionary.

1 Genesis 15:1-6, 12-18 Romans 3:21-31 2 Genesis 16:1-6 Romans 4:1-12 3 Genesis 16:7-15 Mark 8:27-30 4 (Sunday) Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16 Psalm 22:23-31 Romans 4:13-25 Mark 8:31-38 5 Genesis 21:1-7 Hebrews 1:8-12 6 Genesis 22:1-19 Hebrews 11:1-3, 13-19 7 Jeremiah 30:12-22 John 12:36-43 8 Exodus 19:1-9a 1 Peter 2:4-10 9 Exodus 19:9b-15 Acts 7:30-40 10 Exodus 19:16-25 Mark 9:2-8 11 (Sunday) Exodus 20:1-17 Psalm 19 1 Corinthians 1:18-25 John 2:13-22 12 1 Kings 6:1-4, 21-22 1 Corinthians 3:10-23 13 2 Chronicles 29:1-11, 16-19 Hebrews 9:23-28 14 Ezra 6:1-16 Mark 11:15-19 15 Genesis 9:8-17 Ephesians 1:3-6 16 Daniel 12:5-13 Ephesians 1:7-14 17 Numbers 20:22-29 John 3:1-13 18 (Sunday) Numbers 21:4-9 Psalm 107:1-3, 17-22 Ephesians 2:1-10 John 3:14-21 19 Exodus 15:22-27 Hebrews 3:1-6 20 Numbers 20:1-13 1 Corinthians 10:6-13 21 Isaiah 60:15-22 John 8:12-20 22 Isaiah 30:15-18 Hebrews 4:1-13 23 Exodus 30:1-10 Hebrews 4:14—5:4 24 Habakkuk 3:2-13 John 12:1-11 25 (Sunday) Jeremiah 31:31-34 Psalm 51:1-12 Hebrews 5:5-10 John 12:20-33 26 Isaiah 43:8-13 2 Corinthians 3:4-11 27 Isaiah 44:1-8 Acts 2:14-24 28 Haggai 2:1-9, 20-23 John 12:34-50 29 Deuteronomy 16:1-8 Philippians 2:1-11 30 Jeremiah 33:1-9 Philippians 2:12-18 31 Jeremiah 33:10-16 Mark 10:32-34, 49-52

Quest SinglesMarch 1, Thursday at 6:30 pmDinner at the Greek Corner1305 West Lne Avenue

March 8, Thursday at 6:30 pmDinner at Moretti’s2124 Tremont Center

March 15, Thursday at 6:30 pmTed’s Montana Grill 397 West Broad Street

March 18, Sunday at 5 pmBook Discussion: Check email or callfor book and location.

March 22, Sunday at 5 pmBarley’s Smokehouse and Brewpub Ale House No. 21130 Dublin Road

March 29, Sunday at 5 pmCabo Cocina6126 Riverside Drive

Please contact Nancy at 614 771.4869 or at ndunn4346@sbcglobal.net to confirm details before attending an event.

18 March 1 - 31, 2012

For questions or to volunteer,call 614 488.0681, ext. 113

Friday, March 26 to 8 pm

Grace Hall, 3777 Dublin Rd

Get your tickets at the door$6 per person

(children under 2 are free)

Join us for dinner at our Taco Bar

The Beach Bake Sale will provide yummy desserts

Wear your beach clothes and bring your friends for fun for all ages

Akita-style activities include:Wii games, hair art, face painting,

crafts and much more

K-5 Family Beach Party

An Invitation The Mary Evans Child Development Center has openings in Preschool and Full Day Kindergarten. Our preschool program welcomes 3, 4 and 5-year-olds. We offer part day preschool (8:30 - 1:30) 2, 3 or 5 days a week and full time childcare (7 am - 6 pm) 2, 3 or 5 days a week. Full Day Kindergarten is for children who will be 5 by September 30, 2012. The kindergarten school day is 8:30 am - 3:30 pm with care from 7:30 am - 6 pm. Enjoy the benefit of small class sizes held in one location all day. For more information or to schedule a tour contact Jamy Zambito 614 777.4099 ext. 1 or jzambito@FCchurch.com.

Parent Groups For Dads Only will meet on Tuesday, March 13 at 7 pm in the Guild Room, South Campus. For Moms Only will meet on Monday, March 12 (meeting one week early because of spring break) at 7 pm in the Guild Room, South Campus.

The topic for both Moms and Dads is how children develop a sense of spiritual life and face the big questions of life and death. What are the stages that occur naturally in young human beings? Parent Growth will meet each Monday morning in March except March 19, when we will not meet because of spring break. The group meets 9:30 - 11 am in the Guild Room at South Campus, with child care available on the second floor for $4 per child. On March 5 we will be talking about Sexuality and Gender Roles. March 12 is an open session and will probably continue a discussion of gender. March 26 is the first of the spring sessions with topics to be determined. All parents are welcome to any of these groups - for more information contact Donice Wooster, donicew@FCchurch.com or 614 488 0681 ext. 244.

Profound statements are made in our Sunday school. This feature offers insight from our youth.

The Will of God and Children

By Dawn Costin

In sifting through some old files, I came across an article that I had written in 2000 on the will of God and children. I did not realize at that time that I would spend the next 12 years collecting words of wisdom from children in our church.

On exploring the idea of God’s will, I turned to my then 11year-old son to see what he had to say on the topic. The conversation went like this:

Me: What do you think the will of God is?Son: To make everyone happy.Me: What do you think, though, when bad things happen?Son: He’s sad. He didn’t make it happen, but bad things are a consequence of life.Me: Okay, one last question, then I’ll leave you alone. When bad things happen to you, where do you think God is?Son: Right next to me. Okay, now can I watch X-Men?

March 1 - 31, 2012 19

Registration Open at CampAkita.orgCAMP AKITA2012

”Akita Folk Festival” Is NowMusic & Arts Festival at AkitaSave the dates August 24-26 for the new and improved Music and Arts Festival at Akita. As you can see by the name, we are adding arts and crafts to the festival this year. The festival was reintroduced to Akita last summer after a 27 year break. As our Mission Statement explains, “Our mission is to reunite Camp Akita Alumni and raise money for the benefit of Camp Akita and the Camp Akita Scholarship Fund. By hosting a yearly festival of music, art and entertainment we reunite alumni who have shared with us their music, spirit and much more.”

We are currently seeking musicians to perform and artisans to sell their wares. Space is limited for arts and crafts displays so sign up soon. We will give preference to First Community groups and individuals who will use their proceeds to benefit church programs. For more information, visit our website MusicAndArtsFestivalAtAkita.org.

Congratulations to our 2012 Third Grade Bible recipients:

Abigail Lauren AliAvery Diana ArkwrightPenelope R. ClarkJohn Warren DavisJack Edward FlowersHarrison Paul FrenkenClara Grace Pinta GallapooHayden James GrayPiper Parks Hiller Jessica Tyler HuckleberryCourtney Nicole JagersFinn Fredric JentgenEva Jean JohnsonJackson Godfrey JonesAbigail K. JumpJoey KennedyJ. Hunter LinvilleEvan Patrick LivelyLeah MarshallGregory Donald McGuireAudra Danielle NailleJames Stephen Nichols

Olexa Ann OwensColton PaiderClaire Gabriella PeytonLily Pierman-GoodknightJulia Lauren RabadamSam ReynoldsMitchell Davis RoseKaylie Geovanna SalinaColin Fergus SchleappiMack W. SchlembachIan Markham ScottGeorge ShadeEvan Matthew SnyderPaige E. StevensonPerry J. StevensonAvery Graham VossAllison Leigh WaggenerTeagan Clair WagnerAnna WhetzelLucie Taylor WhetzelSamuel Wyzlic

The Third Annual Akita 5K Race and Family Fun Run will be held Saturday, April 14 at Fred Beekman Park. The park is located on The Ohio State University campus, 2200 Carmack Road. Check-in is at 8:30am and the race begins at 9:15am. Refreshments and award presentation will follow immediately.

Cost is $30 for participants 13 and older, $15 ages 12 and younger and $50 for relay participants, which includes registration for 3 individuals of all ages. All registrations include a technical race shirt. Chip timers are an optional purchase for $5.

A Kids Fun Run begins at 9am. Children can run or walk up to 1 mile around the park.

All proceeds are directed toward Camp Akita scholarships for those requiring additional financial assistance and toward improving the Akita experience for all campers.

To register as a runner, walker, sponsor or volunteer, please visit our website at CampAkita.org. Note that Pre-race registration ends at 1 pm, Friday, April 13. After that time, you may register in person on race day, beginning at 8:30 am.

Financial donations to the Friends of Akita Fund are welcomed and very much appreciated and can be made through our website.

firstnewsFirst Community Church1320 Cambridge BoulevardColumbus, OH 43212

Dated Material : Do Not Delay

Periodical PostagePAIDat Columbus, Ohio

First Community Church

South Campus North Campus1320 Cambridge Boulevard 3777 Dublin RoadColumbus, OH 43212 Columbus, OH 43221614 488.0681 614 488.0681FAX 488.2763 FAX 777.4098

FCchurch.com info@FCchurch.com

No matter who you are or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here.

,THE PROGRAM STAFF OF FIRST COMMUNITY CHURCH Richard A. Wing, Senior Minister; Paul E. Baumer, Minister of Stewardship; David S. Hett, Minister of Religious Life and Learning; Ronald J. Jenkins, Minister of Music and Liturgy; Deborah Countiss Lindsay, Minister of Spiritual Care; James M. Long, Minister of Pastoral Care; Katherine H. Shaner, Minister of Mission and Youth Ministries; Sally R. Beske, Assistant Organist/Director of Youth Choirs; Dawn J. Costin, Director of K-5 Ministry; Andy Frick, Middle School Program Coordinator; Cynthia Harsany, Director of Finance and Operations; Pam Jameson, Facilities Manager; Sarah Kientz, High School Program Coordinator; Stacey Kuzda, Director of Marketing and Communications, Scot Nicoll, Director of Youth Ministry Programming; Missy Obergefell, Director of Older Adult Ministry; Randall R. Rocke, Director of Mission Through Media; Paula L. Russell, Director of Membership; Scott Walker, Director of Camp Akita Ministries; M. Donice Wooster, Director of Early Childhood Ministry.

Affiliated with The United Church of Christ and Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)

Submission Information

All news articles and photos for firstnews must be submitted to news@FCchurch.com by the published deadline (see page 2). Direct questions to Michael Barber at mbarber@FCchurch.com.

firstnews

Heart to Heart

Food Pantry Totals

For January 2012

Households served ...... 479Individuals served .....1,010Meals provided .........9,090

We wish to thank those who generously donated to Heart to Heart.

We raised $11,923.76.

A helping hand and caring heart in times of need.