firstnews614 488.0681 FCchurch.com February 1 - 28, 2015 Vol. 61 No. 2

Monthly

Bollywood & BBQ

Page 18

Volunteer Spotlight

Page 14Page 2

Pictorial DIrectory

(Continued, Page 6)

A Weekend Exploration Of ‘Spiritual But Not Religious’

Teacher/Facilitator: Dr. Linda MercadanteAuthor, Belief without Borders: Inside the Minds of the Spiritual but not Religious

Friday & Saturday,February 20 & 21

Grace Hall, North Campus

Join with the Professor Linda Mercadante, Rev. David Hett and the Center for Spiritual Search community for a weekend of learning and dialogue together, as we explore with, for and about the “spiritual but not religious” among us. Dr. Mercadante, author of the new study, Belief without Borders: Inside the Minds of the Spiritual but not Religious, leads us a Friday night information-packed lecture and a Saturday workshop full of rich dialogue about one another’s beliefs.

Friday, February 20, 7 – 8:30 pm

We begin with a lecture and Q&A with Dr. Mercadante as she discusses the exponential rise in the “spiritual but not religious” based on years of research. She details the decline of religious belonging in America and its effect on spirituality, society and individuals. Her unique exploration of SBNR “types,” will help us understand ourselves and others in a deeper way.

Following the presentation, Dr. Mercadante will be available for a book sale and signing, including her recent book on this topic Belief without Borders: Inside the Minds of the Spiritual but not Religious [Oxford University Press, 2014]. This book, already in its fourth printing, has gained much media and popular attention. Also available is her memoir of growing up in an eclectic spiritual milieu, Bloomfield Avenue: A Jewish-Catholic Jersey Girl’s Spiritual Journey.

Saturday, February 21, 9 am – Noon Workshop Saturday morning, Dr. Mercadante will show how spiritual beliefs in America are changing. We will explore four main metaphysical-theological themes together:

1) Is there a force, power or being greater than myself?

2) What does it mean to be human?

3) What is the role of community in one’s spiritual development?

4) Is there an afterlife?

Taking each of the four topics in turn, she will briefly explain the views of many SBNR interviewees on each theme. Then facilitated small groups will have a chance to express and record their own views.

Saturday, February 21, 1 – 3 pm “Master Class”(Lunch included, Noon - 1 pm) In our “master class” with Dr. Mercadante, to which all attendees are invited, we will review the group dialogue of the morning sessions, with Dr. Mercadante then helping us further clarify and articulate our own views, while also raising questions for participants to continue pondering. “There are few places these days to peacefully and congenially dialogue about metaphysical or theological topics,” says Dr. Mercadante about this unique, stimulating, and spiritually enlightening two-day workshop.

2 February 1 - 28, 2015

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 submissions 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 Admin. Assistant: Emily Rogers

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-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.

New Church Pictorial Directory It is time to create a new pictorial directory of our church family, and we are counting on your participation! Not only are church directories historically significant, but they are an excellent way for staff and members to connect names with faces and stay connected.

Lifetouch® will be doing our photography and there is no charge to the church or to you. Those photographed will receive a directory and a free 8x10. You will have the opportunity to purchase additional photos for yourself and family members, but you are under no obligation to do so. Should you choose to purchase additional photos, current special offers include a 20% discount on orders, a $10 off coupon if you schedule online and an additional $5 off your order if you bring a non-perishable food item to your photo session.

There are three easy ways to schedule your appointment:1. Go to FCchurch.com and click on the directory icon 2. Sign up following worship on Sunday mornings3. Contact the church at 614 488.0681 ext 228 or prussell@FCchurch.com

Don’t wait to schedule and don’t be left out. It won’t be complete without you.

PHOTOGRAPHY DATES:

North CampusTuesday, March 17 Wednesday, March 18 Thursday, March 19 Friday, March 20Saturday, March 21

North CampusTuesday, April 14 Wednesday, April 15 Thursday, April 16 Friday, April 17Saturday, April 18

South CampusTuesday, March 24, Wednesday, March 25 Thursday, March 26 Friday, March 27Saturday, March 28

South CampusTuesday, April 21 Wednesday, April 22 Thursday, April 23 Friday, April 24Saturday, April 25

PHOTOGRAPHY TIMES:

Weekdays: 1 – 7:50 pm Saturdays: 10 am to 5 pm

Pictorial Directory Volunteers NeededThe creation of a new church pictorial directory can only happen with the help of volunteers. It’s a great way to meet members and greet friends you may not see on Sundays. Help us by volunteering to assist with registration on photography days.

Weekday shifts:12:45 - 2:50 pm or 2:45 - 4:50 pm or 4:45 – 7 pm.

Saturday shifts:9:45 am - 12:50 pm or 12:45 – 2:50 pm or 2:45 – 5 pm.

Ways to schedule:Online on SignupGenious: signupgenius.com/go/30e054dafae23aa8-pictorialor contact Paula Russell at prussell@FCchurch.com or 614 488.0681 ext. 228 to volunteer. We really appreciate your help.

February 1 - 28, 2015 3

Dr. Wing is preparing the following sermons:

February 1, 20154th Sunday after Epiphany

NO DETOURSMark 1:21-28

February 8, 20155th Sunday after Epiphany

I DON’T THINK SO!I Corinthians 9: 16-23

February 15, 20156th Sunday After Epiphany

DON’T JUST DO SOMETHING: STAND THERE!Mark 9: 2-9

LENTEN SERIESTHE CARE & FEEDING OF YOUR SOUL

February 22Part 1 - What is the Soul?

Psalm 42:1-8/Mark 8:34-36

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

Soundings

Join Dick and Shirley Wing For LunchWatch

First EditionFirst Edition features the

previous week’s service on CW Columbus (WWHO-TV)

each Sunday at 11 am and Midnight.

Worship Live Stream

Sundays at 11 am

Waking Up

I am an eternal student of the spiritual life. There is only one guiding question: “How can we turn information into transformation?” How can we use the sacred texts, tradition, and experiences to lead people into new places with God, with life, and with themselves? Tobin Hart, author of From Information to Transformation and a professor of psychology, maps six interrelated layers of knowing and learning:

1. Information 2. Knowledge 3. Intelligence 4. Understanding (seeing with the eye of the heart); 5. Wisdom (blending truth with what is right); 6. Transformation.

Transformation, he says, is about waking up, whereas the first five are more about growing up.

Susan Cheever said recently: “All (great authors like E. E. Cummings and James Joyce) were trying to slow down the seemingly inexorable rush of the world, to force people to notice their own lives. In the twenty-first century, that rush has now reached Force Five; we are all inundated with information and given no time to wonder what it means or where it came from. Access without understanding and facts without context have become our daily diet.”

Time to wake up! Information is NOT transformation, which is the goal of every spiritual tradition. We can’t do spirituality fast or in a hurry. This is the greatest challenge in our time, both inside and outside the church. Admitting this is the first step in doing something about it.

Peace to you,

Wednesday, February 25Naples, Florida

The Club Pelican Bay707 Gulf Park Dr

Reception at 11:30 amLunch at noon

Cost $30Hosts: Buss & Lou Ann Ransom

Thursday, February 26Sarasota, Florida

Café L’Europe431 St. Armands CircleReception at 11:30 am

Lunch at noonCost $26

Hosts: Belva & Carl Aschinger

To make a reservation, send your check made out to First Community Church and send to Robin Taylor, First Community Church, 1320 Cambridge Blvd., Columbus, OH 43212 by Friday, February 13.

4 February 1 - 28, 2015

Foundation GiftsIn Memory of:Alene Hinshaw Kay Graf Emily Chidester Dick and Mollie Bassler Margaret Nourse Tom and Elizabeth Sturges Peggy Johnson Julia Wahoff Dick and Anna Greer Keith and Anne DeVoe Bob and Sally Wandel Don Miller Fred Staub Bill Morris Jeanne Blair James H. Davis Susanne Wilson Joan Mitchell Peggy Johnson John Boggs Don and Jaqueline Cherry Sallie Davis Bethge Susan V. Brooks Joseph A. Dumbauld Martin and Sandra Berisford William and Cherie ThompsonLois Smith Gene Lautzenheiser Margaret Postle Marjorie Bohl Anne Sheline Marjorie Brown Ron and Nancy LongRichard Millison Roger Meyer Patricia Mielke Bill Mielke Bert and Kathryn KramDorothy Isenagle Durham Dick and Carol TurnerLauren Levell Susan V. BrooksIn Honor of:Akita Bill Heffner Betty O'Neill Jeanne Blair Buck Byrne Lauri Sullivan Don Jameson Gary and Karen AnklowitzFoundation Ronald and Margaret Tillier Charitable FundHeart to Heart Doug and Eileen CovellJason Barger Guild Group 7 Rafiki Anne Sheline Church GiftsIn Honor of:Susie Wilson Jane RectorJames Long Robert & Shirley EdlerIn Memory of:Joe Dumbauld Richard & Isabelle Davis Mr. and Mrs. Rick Davis Mary C. Lewis Steve Kavanagh Rae Nita Elliot Vicki Harvey Carolyn SchneidererMargaret Postle Loann CraneAlene Hinshaw Loann Crane Marjorie BullErn, Hort and John Hartenfels Richard Owen

Friends of MusicIn memory of:M. Cherry Park George & Cory Wilson Glenn & Lois Zook Susan V. Brooks Sharon RichwineWalter Menendian Susan V. Brooks

Friends of AkitaIn Memory of:Lois Smith Jane Kaiser

Foundation Corner

— Lauri Speight Sullivan, Director of First Community Foundation

(Continued, Page 5)

The Perfect Gift

Last year, I wrote about how every gift to the Foundation is a gift of love; love of a particular mission, love of a favorite person or love of First Community Church. That continues, but I thought I would share a case study of one donor. For simplicity, I will refer to her as “Mrs. W,” in homage to Dr. Wing and his legacy.

At least once a month, a check comes from Mrs. W to the Foundation in one of the little white and green Foundation envelopes that are scattered in strategic places around the two campuses. Mrs. W

takes the time to fill out each line of the envelope. She lets me know if she wants this gift to be in memory of a friend or in honor of a friend. Often, she just lets the check go to the good of the Foundation, but sometimes she gets specific and requests it to go to a ministry or established fund.

Mrs. W knows each gift will be acknowledged. A letter from the Foundation will go to a family member informing a donation has been made to remember a loved one from Mrs. W. An additional letter will be sent to Mrs. W thanking her for her generosity. If she is honoring someone, the letter goes to the person being esteemed.

At Christmastime, she contacted me, as she wanted to honor eight of her friends. “We don’t need gifts anymore, but I think a contribution to thank them for their friendship for your new Heart to Heart Endowment would be good.” Taking her lead, I purchased some pretty Christmas cards to send to each friend. Inside was an insert stating Mrs. W had made a donation to the Heart to Heart Endowment in her name. I also sent Mrs. W a copy, so she could know what her “gift” looked like. One of her friends reciprocated and sent a gift in honor of Mrs. W, for the same fund.

This type of gift is perfect for birthdays, anniversaries and other big moments. We live in a time when stuff is just stuff, but a contribution to a cause can be meaningful. Gifts to the Foundation can be given via the little white envelopes or on the First Community website or a simple check in an envelope with direction for allocation. No amount is too small. Past Board Chair, Buck Byrne, asked not for a parting gift, but for me to make a donation to the Foundation. How fast could I say, “Sure!”

I smile each time an envelope comes from Mrs. W. It is like getting a call from a best friend, because she understands the Foundation and the opportunities it provides to the Church and its mission. I can also tell she values her associations at First Community Church.

So the next time you are trying to find the “perfect” gift for a friend or associate, remember the Foundation. Delivery is free.

With Grace and thanks,

February 1 - 28, 2015 5

Friends of AkitaIn Celebration of:Camp Akita Dr. & Mrs. John Klamar

General Missions Fred TruxallIn Memory of:Fred Staub Anne Powell Riley

Rafiki Keith & Anne DeVoe Pete Diehl Bette Dugger Lindsey A. Dunleavy Katie Haddox John Hoberg Scott Kingsley Sandy Pfening Jerry SayreIn Memory of:Larry Niermeyer Diane Niermeyer

Deep Griha & Friends of the Homeless Roger Allman Paul & Sandy Anderson Angie Andujar Marshall & Ginny Barney Jane Barry Jeanie Bauer Amy Becker John & Marianne Bedell Joy Benjamin Carol Berg Jim Bowman Edward Braytenbah Joe Bull & Kathy Cleveland Bull Dave & Jeanne Busch Jane Campbell Peg Carmany Susan Cecil Casey Chester Anne Cooper Dave & Dawn Costin Bruce & Ellen Crouthamel Bob & Liz Cummins Terry & Barb Davis Nancy Demuch Thomas Denune & Teresa Long Keith and Anne DeVoe Patrick Donadio & Beth Kennard Pat Donovan Jason & Elizabeth Downey Don Drabant Robin & German Dziebel Jeff Eisenman Timothy Ely Geoffrey Eriksen Steve & Nancy Falk Jamey Fauque & Brandi Lust Steven Futrell Ellen Gannon Laura Garish Ron Glaser & Jan Kiecolt-Glaser Willman Golden Barbara Hack Patti Hambley Alan & Patty Hans Kelley Heffernan Mary Heft Daniela Hendrickson Hilda Hensley Jen Henson Tim Hickin Tom & Cheryl Hoffman Bev Houseman Gavin & April Howe Jim Howe Darrel & Barb Irwin Marilyn Jennings Peggy Johnson Herb & Jeanne Johnston Larry & Sarah Jonaus Jenny Jones Jon & Michelle Jump Leslie Junk Tom & Geri Kaparos Rollie & Anne King Tommie Lanaman Tom Laudick Jim & Jane Ledman Deb Linville Jim & Clare Long Ernie & Laura Mazzaferri Tom McGaughy

Take Heart

–– The Reverend Dr. Deborah Lindsay, Minister of Spiritual Care

(Continued, Page 6)

Church Gifts (continued)

Got The Winter Blues?

Full disclosure; this column is a rerun. When I wrote about the winter blues last year, so many of you responded that I decided the information was worth repeating, particularly this key message: you do not have to feel miserable.

Do you feel down in the dumps in the grey days of February? A touch of the winter blues is pretty common. Lots of people experience a letdown after the holidays are over and let’s face it, winter in central Ohio can be pretty dreary. Who doesn’t prefer a bright sunny day to a dark, gloomy one? I

sometimes think our pre-human ancestors had the right idea: crawl in a cave and take a long nap until spring comes.

The occasional day of feeling blue is no big deal, but if you find that you don’t feel like yourself for more than a week or two, you may be suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder or SAD.

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) says SAD is characterized by recurrent episodes of depression – usually in late fall and winter – alternating with periods of normal or high mood the rest of the year. Most people with SAD are women, although it also impacts men. The onset of SAD generally begins in the 20s, but children and adolescents can be vulnerable too. The culprit is a lack of light.

The usual symptoms of a winter depression or SAD are oversleeping, daytime fatigue, carbohydrate craving and weight gain, although a patient does not necessarily show these symptoms. You may also notice the symptoms of a classic depression, such as less than usual interest in sex, lethargy, hopelessness, suicidal thoughts, lack of interest in normal activities and social withdrawal.

NAMI says that most light related winter depressions are mild to moderate and can often be successfully treated with light therapy. (Studies show between 50% and 80% of light-box users report essentially complete remission of symptoms.) Antidepressants can also help. The most important thing to know is that you don’t have to suffer. Talk to your physician about what you’re experiencing. A counselor or therapist can also help and the pastoral care office can assist you in getting connected with someone.

I’m a minister, not a therapist, but I can tell you this: you don’t have to feel miserable through the first few months of the year. Please don’t tell yourself to “Just snap out of it” or “Pull yourself up by your bootstraps” or “Fake it ‘til you make it.” These days we have good strategies and treatment for depression.

Take heart, at Christmas we celebrated the light coming into the darkness. You don’t have to be stuck in a psychological darkness during the winter months when healing and help are readily available.

Blessings,

For more information about SAD: www.nami.org www.mayoclinic.com

6 February 1 - 28, 2015

Deep Griha & Friends of the HomelessWendi McGonagill Sharon McGraw Christine McKiterick Jay & Sharon Michael Vickie Mickey Mark & Sandra Misicka Vernon & Jenny Morrison Michelle Mundy Bryon & Susan Murray Lisa Norris Betty O’Neill Terry & Cydney Philbin Cliff & Jeanine Provencal Mabel Rice Dave Richardson & Anita Somani Wayne & Cheri Rickert Mark Ringer Linda Ritter Dick & Kitty Rohrer Ralph & Jane Setterlin Steve & Kate Shaner Anne Sheline Jack & Patricia Shuter Elizabeth Sliwinski Gregory Smith Jane & George Smith Jim & Anne Stair Julie Stoltz Steve & Mary Stover Ralph & Joan Talmage Doug & Darian Torrance Eleanor & Greg Trapp Maggie Tressler Matt & Katy Ufferman Loren & Cheryl Van Deusen Bryan Webb Michael & Nan Weir Amy Wentz Bill & Susan Westbrook Bill White & Kris Reber Glenn Whitely Jerry & Roberta Williams Holly Witzel Matthew Zeiger Rachel Zynda

In Memory Of:John T. Mount Sonya AlberyEdith E Boltwood Charles & Ruth Boltwood Luigi Bortoli Lucia Bortoli Dr. Martin P. Sayers David & Elaine BuckHoward & Dottie Bartlett Bob & Karen Claussen Ann White John & Cathy Conner James Francis Sr. Beth Francis Alexis Newman Kathi Godber Gregory Hall Carolyn Hall Ed Ray Wilkin Pat Heier Loved Ones Jon & Sally Jaynes Gale Wiesman Megan Liepelt Gale Wiesman And Katie Kortney Katie LiepeltThose Who Have Passed Due To Addiction & Suicide Hope Wilson & Chris Lux William T Morrow Jeanne Morrow David E. & Jeanne M. Thierwechter Matt & Alicia MowryGary Dipercill, Lois Goebbel, Bob Johnson Judy Percell Linda Potts Gretchen Potts Dr. Martin P Sayers Marjorie Sayers Judith Lappini Coleman Jane Shoop Wyn Shimer Sandie Southern Mark C. Stull & Carol Clouse Warner Jennie Stokley Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth Watkins Larry Watkins Mom & Dad Megan Weasel Tom Wilson Suzanne Wilson

Steve AbbotBill AllmanBarbara Andersen & Jerry ToblerWayne & Mary BallantyneToni BallentineJack & Sherry BargerBill & Jean BayDebi & Phil BerthelJoan BetzCourtney & Craig BoweDebbie BowerJennifer BowerBrad & Jane BriggsLeigh BriggsMary Jane BrightHerb & Bev BrownJoe Buckley & Blair BethelDavid & Maggie BullKevin Satterfield & Barb Burgie SatterfieldJen Burns & Chris GehringJack BurtchCasey & Carol ChesterMiriam ClarkCasey ClarkMatt & Cindy CookJim CoyleLoann CraneShannon & Robert CraneSteve Crawford & Dwayne ToddCarole & Joseph DavisTerry & Barb DavisRicky & Amy DayNancy DemuchPam DoyleLindsey DunleavyDon & Jill EliotJude & Rob EndicottMason & Linda Evans

Church Gifts (continued)

(Continued, Page 7)

Celebration of GivingIt is with appreciation that we acknowledge those whose pledge to First Community Church was received after December 15, 2014.Some pledgers omitted by request.

Steven & Rhonda FeketeDon & Joni FortunateSally FreemanTim & Kelly FriarChris GageKatie GarretsonNancy GastonKen & Mary Ellen GeorgeBrian Gillespie & Scott McLaughlinJamie & Amy GraverJamie GreeneMike & Jean GriffithRalph & Dotsy GriffithGene & Carol HagemeierDuane & Bobbi HamannAllen & Liz HandlanEloise HaysDave & Loretta HeigleJack & Susan HendricksonRudy & Gudrun HerzogJudy HirschfeldDana HolmanJohn & Nancy HuneckMatt & Shannon JohnsonSteve & Betsy JohnsonSally KauffmanMary KuhnerHelen KunzeHarry LambertGloria LieserMary MarsEileen McCandlishAnnita MeyerAdam & Helen MillerAlice MillerHarry & Kitty MinckTed & Kathy MunsellDiane Niermeyer

Kevin & Heidi OrsiniJim & Beth OsteenJeff OverdorffSusan PabstMarjorie PiferSteve & Chiaki PorterRoger & Patti PostDavid & Natalie QueletteGeorge & Cathie ReichertBill & Ginny RessSandy RichClarke & April SandersJerry & Debbie SayreLisa SchoedingerMike SchoedingerEleanor SchooleySean Selsor & Jill HillMark & Cathy ShawDebbie ShoweBob SkeeleLori SmithCarolyn SnyderSteve & Mary StoverScott & Diane SturgesRalph & Joan TalmageMerydeth TiptonBrian Towns & Alicia MeckstrothBecky Wade-Mdivanian & Tigran MdivanianRebecca WalstromMike & Shirley WeaselMarilyn WenrickBill & Susan WestbrookPeggy WibleJulie WilkinsonThomas & Lowell WilliamsBrian & Felicia Wilson

“While some people are content with their religious views and feel no need to go beyond them, others today feel free to ask more questions than were previously possible. Many of these people -- often known as “spiritual but not religious” -- don’t feel organized religion allows enough questioning or debate. We would like to counter that by providing a space and ample time to dialogue about “the big questions.”

Linda Mercadante, PhD., is a historian of religions and Princeton-trained theologian with over 30 years’ experience helping individuals articulate and clarify their views on core issues that every thinking human being, at some time, has to ask. She is currently the B. Robert Straker Professor of Historical Theology at The Methodist Theological School in Ohio,

Register online at FCchurch.com/sbnr2015, or by contacting Natalia at njones@FCchurch.com, 614 488.0681 ext. 151 (voicemail only). A $50 fee covers the entire weekend (Friday night, Saturday including lunch and the master class). Persons may also attend only Friday for $15 or only Saturday morning for $35 (Friday and Saturday morning together $40). Limited scholarships available.

‘Spiritual But Not Religious’ (Continued from Page 1)

February 1 - 28, 2015 7

–– The Reverend Mr. Paul E. Baumer, Minister to the Staff

On We GoChurch Gifts (continued)

Valentine Presidents

February is a month of holidays - what with valentines and presidents et al. And, yes, like Valentine’s Day, Presidents Day has a religious basis. We remember St. Valentine as one of God’s saints helping the poor and needy. And no, this is not to say that the Presidents were or are saints.

I’m reminded of a story Abraham Lincoln liked to tell on himself: Two women were talking about whether Lincoln or Jefferson Davis would succeed in winning the Civil War.

“I think Jefferson will succeed,” the first said. “Why do you think so, said the second?”

“Because Jefferson is a praying man,” the second woman said.

“And so is Abraham a praying man,” said the first.

“Yes, but the Lord will think Abraham is joking.”

Lincoln could tell the joke because he, as all of our Presidents, was a religious man. George Washington set the tone when taking the oath of President for the first time. He extemporaneously ended the oath with the words “so help me, God.” It has been repeated by every President since.

Washington, as Jefferson and the other early Presidents, was a Deist, not a Christian, and had a very open mind toward all religions. He wrote to a Jewish congregation in Rhode Island that America “gives bigotry no sanction.” He began negotiations with the Muslim nation of Tripoli and assured them that “the government of the United States is not in any sense founded on the Christian religion.”

We are founded on belief in a Creator God who loves and welcomes all people, and who wants us to reach out to, include, and care for all persons.

Not a bad thought for Valentine’s Day and Presidents Day.

Quest SinglesThursday, February 5, 6:30 pmDinner at Carrabba’s3949 Trueman Blvd.

Thursday, February 19, 6:30 pmDinner at Hunan Lion2038 Bethel Road

Deep Griha & Friends of the Homeless In Honor of:Duncan Holland Bob & Barbara HollandDr. Gregory & Mrs. Courtney Pearson William And Marie Libby Ron Jenkins Scott & Allison Kingsley In Celebration of:Kennedy & Lyla Beebe Mark & Chrys Beebe Lucy Caskie Jared & Amy CaskieThe FCC Choir Dave & Loretta HeigleWoodrow & Roberta Broom Melanie Morrison Jay & Jon Readey Jim & Linda Readey

Heart to HeartSue Adams Paul & Leitsa Becher Sallie Davis Bethge Bob Burns Linda & John Butcher Richard & Gene Cheney Kat Cochrane-Yamaguchi Anne Cooper Doug & Eileen Covell Michael Delphia Pete & Pidge Diehl Nancy Dunn Dorothy Dutro Jeannine Farmer FCC Women’s Guild C Bob & MaryKay Fenner Don & Karen Gardiner Don & Donna Gepfert Frank Hall Ron & Sue Halley Bill & Becky Hinga Barb Hudson Peggy Johnson John & Cathy Klamar Felix & Laura Klebe Christian & Donnalynn Laver Barbara Leighner Chuck Lindquist Katie Mac Ewan Donna Melnick Bill Mielke Mr. & Mrs. Pat Doyle Linda Pack Dave & Dody Parsons Sandy Pfening Pat Poe Jason Poling & Paige Turner Ted & Martha Poulton Bob & Sarah Reid Linda Ritter Clarke & April Sanders Jan Sawyer Anne Sheline Jack & Patricia Shuter Barbara Sipp Bob & Laura Stillman Tracy Stuck Dick & Muriel Tice Tom & Gloria Turner Angela Van Fossen Jim & Debby Waddell Carolyn Warmolts Mary Weisman Bob & Jane White Alison Wisniewski

Wednesday Morning Coffee GroupIn Honor of:CCXIX John D. DickersonBuck Patton Robert and Jane T. WhiteBev, Tina and Rosann Donald & Karen GardinerJamy Zambito Dick & Julie Helland In Memory of: Warren Williams Mrs Michael WeaselCherry Park Susan Huhta Seeran and Church Traphagan Joan Sant

Spiritual SearcherIn Honor of:Rosemarie Konrath Joan Moore

Thursday, March 5, 6:30 pmDinner at Rancho Alegre1075 Dublin Road in Grandview

Thursday, March 19, 6:30 pmDinner at Starliner Diner5240 Cemetery Road in Hilliard

We singles enjoy meeting new people, so join us for one of the dinners above. Most of us are in our fifties, sixties and up, but we are an equal opportunity group and welcome all ages. We communicate primarily via e-mail, so if you are not on our e-mail list contact Nancy Dunn at ndunn1975@gmail.com or call 614 771.4869 to verify the current plans. If you have an idea for a fun activity, let Nancy know.

8 February 1 - 28, 2015

Care and Spirit

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

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

(As of January 15, 2015)

BirthsMolly Lynn Albright 12/16/2014 Daughter of Jenny & Rob AlbrightAria Maya Davis 1/8/2015 Granddaughter of Dan Davis & Vickie Murphy

HospitalizationsRita AkinsWilliam AllmanBruce HickinIsabel KesselNicolas Plummer Son of Cynthia & Doug PlummerLibby Switz Daughter of Erin Paider & Rob SwitzMary ThomasRebecca VeachDonice Wooster

DeathsJohn Ebbeler 12/11/2014 Father of Joseph (Susan) EbbelerIris Rotnem 12/12/2014 Grandmother of Helen (Bruce) VivianFred Staub 12/13/2014 Husband of Ruth StaubMarge Brown 12/14/2014Ellis Earl Hupp 12/19/2014 Father of Jennifer (Jack) ReesLydia Kriska 12/22/2014 Mother of Brian (Sally) KriskaMonnie Postle 12/26/2014 Mother of Herb PostleJoan Hesler 1/6/2015Walter Menendian 1/11/2015 Husband of Charlaine Menendian Brother of Martha (Lowell) PolandMarian Townsend 1/12/2015

Please advise our Pastoral Care Office of hospitalizations, births, weddings and deaths. Our ministers are available if you desire a visit or call during an illness, hospitalization or time of need.

The Rose – A Symbol of Caring

In our Sanctuary at 1320 Cambridge Boulevard, the cross contains certain symbols specific to First Community Church. The vertical bar has at the lower end the “Block of Wood", which is given to our young people as part of their confirmation in ninth grade. At upper end is the “Seven Keys,” which represent the “keys” to the kingdom of heaven. In a sense, the vertical bar represents our relationship with God.

The horizontal bar has the rose on the left and the open doors to eternal life on the right. A rose is

given to each child at baptism, so the horizontal bar in a real sense represents our journey of faith from cradle to grave, where death turns to new life. It also represents our relationship with ourselves and others. The Great Commandment calls us to love God and ourselves and others. (Matthew 22:34-40)

On February 14, we will celebrate St. Valentine’s Day, which commemorates a martyred bishop, but has come to be a celebration of romantic love. A most beautiful and extravagant gift often given at this time is a dozen red roses. The rose is a symbol of love and caring and has become a significant symbol of our church. It appears on our letterhead, in our logo, and on our publications.

In 1979, Mary Miller wrote in a booklet, The Symbols of First Community Church: “The Rose has for almost 30 years been the symbol of caring in our Church. It blesses each mother at the birth of a child and each baby at baptism. It visits each “sweetheart” at Christmas (those female members over 65) and those who are hospitalized. A rose graces the altar at the time of marriage and at each service of worship. It marks all the significant times of our lives and is the loving reminder of the caring presence of our Church at those times.” (p. 3)

Over Christmas, the deacons and staff of the church made rose calls to older members who have expressed a desire to receive a rose at that special time of year. It is our way of saying that you are not forgotten and we care about you.

We also sent a card to the congregation with a rose printed on one side and a New Year’s Blessing. In the New Year we are expecting to expand our contacts with our church to express our care and concern and to become more aware of the pastoral needs of our congregation. If you desire a rose call or have a pastoral need, please contact the pastoral care office at 614 488.0681 ext. 240. In the meantime, may you know God’s love and care in this moment and through the year.

Peace and blessings,

Online Lenten DevotionalFirst Community Church staff and spiritual guides will again provide daily Lenten devotionals you may access online at FCchurch.com/lent from Ash Wednesday, February 18 through Easter Sunday, April 5.

These daily devotionals linked to scripture are written by our clergy, program and general staff, and our resident spiritual directors and guides, and provide a wonderful way to begin or end each day of Lent with a unique spiritual message and can support, or be the basis of, a daily spiritual practice.

Additional Christmas Memorials Harley & Genevieve Schofield Brian A. Sherwood Rooney Seibert

February 1 - 28, 2015 9

February 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 (Sunday) Deuteronomy 18:15-20 1 Corinthians 8:1-13 Psalm 111 Mark 1:21-28 2 Numbers 22:1-21 Acts 21:17-26 3 Numbers 22:22-28 1 Corinthians 7:32-40 4 Jeremiah 29:1-14 Mark 5:1-20 5 Proverbs 12:10-21 Galatians 5:2-15 6 Job 36:1-23 1 Corinthians 9:1-16 7 Isaiah 46:1-13 Matthew 12:9-14 8 (Sunday) Isaiah 40:21-31 1 Corinthians 9:16-23 Psalm 147:1-11, 20c Mark 1:29-39 9 2 Kings 4:8-17, 32-37 Acts 14:1-7 10 2 Kings 8:1-6 Acts 15:36-41 11 Job 6:1-13 Mark 3:7-12 12 1 Kings 11:26-40 2 Corinthians 4:3-6 13 1 Kings 14:1-18 1 Timothy 1:12-20 14 1 Kings 16:1-7 Luke 19:41-44 15 (Transfiguration Sunday) 2 Kings 2:1-12 2 Corinthians 4:3-6 () Psalm 50:1-6 Mark 9:2-9 16 Exodus 19:7-25 Hebrews 2:1-4 17 Job 19:23-27 1 Timothy 3:14-16 18 (Ash Wednesday) Joel 2:1-2, 12-17 2 Corinthians 5:20b-6:10 Psalm 51:1-17 Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 19 Daniel 9:1-14 1 John 1:3-10 20 Daniel 9:15-25a 2 Timothy 4:1-5 21 Psalm 32 Matthew 9:2-13 22 (Sunday) Genesis 9:8-17 1 Peter 3:18-22 Psalm 25:1-10 Mark 1:9-15 23 Job 4:1-21 Ephesians 2:1-10 24 Job 5:8-27 1 Peter 3:8-18a 25 Proverbs 30:1-9 Matthew 4:1-11 26 Genesis 15:1-6, 12-18 Romans 3:21-31 27 Genesis 16:1-6 Romans 4:1-12 28 Genesis 16:7-15 Mark 8:27-30

Heart to Heart Food Pantry TotalsFor December 2014:

Food Collected at South = 0 lbs.Food Collected at North = 80 lbs.Food Collected at Annex = 0 lbs.Food Purchased at MOFB* = 13,697 lbs.Unique Volunteers = 22

Households served .........................286Individuals served ...........................907 Children served ...........................296 Adults served ...............................475 Seniors served .............................136Meals provided ............................8,163

Year-to-Date:

Households served ......................3,238Individuals served ........................9,061 Children served ........................4,465 Adults served ............................3,813 Seniors served .............................996Meals provided ..........................84,087

Heart to Heart offers a helping hand and caring heart in times of need.

*Mid-Ohio Foodbank

Trading Post Antique Road Show By Rebecca Wolfe

Do you have a treasure you’ve wanted to know more about?

We are looking forward to a fun event on Sunday afternoon, February 22 from 2 - 4 pm.

We will have four experts stationed in our shop to give you an appraisal, answer a question or suggest where you might sell a treasured piece.

General antiques, coins, silver and metal items, jewelry, china/glassware, military items (WWI, WWII, and Vietnam), vintage clothing and toys and antique dolls will be welcome.

It will be a great opportunity as well as a chance to see the Trading Post and perhaps find a new treasure to take home. Please bring one item per person to have evaluated.

Upcoming Financials

See the March issue of firstnews Monthly for information about the 2015 annual meeting and our 2015 operating budget.

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The Infinite Quest

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

Meditation, Mindfulness & (Not) Me

Every day, it seems, I get something in my inbox about the benefits of meditation or mindfulness practice.

Recently, the first-listed among “The Top 10 Insights from the ‘Science of a Meaningful Life’ in 2014,” speaks of a new benefit found for mindfulness practice: Mindfulness can reduce racial prejudice—and possibly its effects on victims:tinyurl.com/k84nobc

I try to meditate 30 minutes every day as a regular practice, although many schools recommend 20 minutes twice a day as a practice. Yet, any time spent regularly engaged in doing nothing, even five minutes a day, can create a sustained discipline over time. And you might add reading something short and meaningful before silence and journaling after a quiet time.

I use the Insight Timer app to set the time and the ending bell for each meditation, so I don’t have to think about when my meditation time ends. Then, in many wisdom schools, one waits to move out of the meditation time until you can no longer hear the sound of the closing bell. Otherwise there is a tendency as soon as the bell sounds to jump up and get going right away into what we think is the “important” stuff of the day.

But by waiting until the bell sound ends, you can abide just a bit longer in the meditative state, and then the practice has a chance to continue even as you leave your seat. Meditation is a practice, but a practice designed to bring that meditative consciousness—that Presence—more and more into your day.

My best time to meditate is immediately as I awaken, then I make my morning coffee. And sometimes, when I am able to rest into this meditative consciousness, the strangest thing happens. It “feels” like the movement is no longer “mine.” The perception can confuse your normal mind—Am “I” the one causing my hands and legs to lift off the chair and move into the kitchen and begin making the coffee, or is something else moving me—our normal minds need confusing!

Our egoic minds and selves like to believe that they—we—are so much in control, but the practice of mindfulness challenges this perception. That “something” moving us may be a Something: the Ground of Being.

The Lenten season, beginning February 18 this year, is a traditional time to re-instill a sustained spiritual practice for those 40 plus days. To enhance your own practice this year, you might (1) follow the daily online meditations by our staff and congregation spiritual guides as a lectio divina (sacred reading), and add a time of silent meditation following, and/or (2) participate in one of the Lenten small groups following the diverse “Ways of Prayer” through the six weeks in Lent.

In any case, you are held in the moment-by-moment embrace of Divine Love.

Shalom,

Join a Lenten GroupExperience ‘Ways of Prayer’Spiritual Guides from our congregation will lead small groups in a 6-week study expanding our understanding and practice of “prayer” during the season of Lent, beginning the week after Ash Wednesday (February 18) through Holy Week (March 29 - April 5).

Groups of six or eight participants will meet weekly (with groups meeting at staggered times throughout the week to accommodate personal schedules), led by one of our congregation’s clergy, staff, spiritual directors or guides. During the week, there are brief daily practices each participant engages in on their own, which forms part of the group discussion as each group comes together once a week.

The six week series is based around The Way of Prayer: A Small-Group Experience in Spiritual Formation. Participants will receive a guidebook written by Jean Vennard, a spiritual director and senior adjunct faculty of prayer and spirituality at Iliff School of Theology. Our facilitating spiritual directors will choose six of these sessions to focus on during Lent, with chapters such as Praying with Others, Praying with Images, Praying with Music, Praying with Our Bodies, Praying with Scripture, Contemplative Prayer, and Prayer & Social Transformation.

Some of the times being considered include, Monday 5 - 6:30 pm, Tuesday 10 - 11:30 am, Wednesday 11:30 am - 1 pm, Wednesday 6 - 7:30 pm, Sunday morning, Sunday afternoon, etc. Online registration includes more choices.

Staff, spiritual guides and directors facilitating include Lisa Bueche, Barbara Davis, Kathie Houchens, David Nickel, Rev. James Long, Vickie Murphy, Missy Obergefell, Walter Watkins and Susan Younger, among others.

A $15 fee covers some of the cost of The Way of Prayer guidebook and a simple journal. Scholarships available. Register at FCchurch.com/lenten, or contact Natalia at njones@FCchurch.com, or 614 488.0681 ext. 151 (leave message-voice mail only).

February 1 - 28, 2015 11

Weekly Adult Learning GroupsClasses are free except where noted and open to the public. Books used for classes are available at Furber Books. For information on books, registration or financial aid, contact Natalia at njones@FCchurch.com or 614 488.0681 ext. 151 (voicemail only).

For more details on specific classes, go to FCchurch.com, search: Adult Learning.

Sunday Morning Seminar - John Dominic’s Crossans’ Challenge of Jesus video-group discussion series continues. No preparation needed, and drop-ins welcome as you can make it. Each session begins with at 15-18 minute video followed by discussion. Please join us for stimulating conversations on Sunday mornings.

Sundays, 9:30 – 10:45 amWicker Room, South Campus

No class February 8 (WinterSong)

Tuesday at Ten & Tai Chi - Tuesday at 10 will be continuing the series of videos and discussions on Sacred Spaces. People are welcome to join us at any time whether you began with the series or are picking up part way through as each discussion will focus on what our own “Sacred Spaces” are. Also, at 9:30, Sally Kriska will be leading a Tai Chi for Balance in Brownlee Hall at South Campus. Although the focus is on Seniors, anyone is welcome. Walter Watkins, Pete and Pidge Diehl facilitate the series. All are welcome, old, new, male, female.

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

Men’s Study Group - The group continues a discussion on John Shelby Spong’s The Fourth Gospel: Tales of a Jewish Mystic. Men are always welcome to join us at any time. Contact Price Finley at 614 488.7978 or pfinley@bricker.com, or Craig Sturtz at 614 481.9060 or craig.sturtz@squirepb.com

Wednesdays, 7 – 8 amWicker Room, South Campus

Wednesday Morning Fellowship - Presentations and discussion of leading-edge topics. Ends promptly at 8 am.

Wednesdays, 7 – 8 amBrownlee Hall, South Campus

Women Living the Questions - In anticipation of our next Spiritual Searcher in March, we plan to read and discuss Bishop John Shelby Spong’s recent book, Eternal Life-A New Vision Beyond Religion, Beyond Theism, Beyond Heaven and Hell. We also support reading with teaching videos by Bishop Spong. We will also include a period of quiet contemplation. As always, we welcome new and returning members to join us and bring new insights to share. Contact Linda Baldeck at lbaldeck927@gmail.com or 614 459.0722.

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

Wednesday Evening Bible Study - A time to study scripture and pray. Led by Rev. Jim Long. Open to all.

Wednesdays, 7 – 8:15 pmConference Room, North Campus

Contemplative Way Group 1 - A time of sacred reading--Teresa of Avila’s Interior Castle; 30-minute meditation time; and reflection & discussion. Facilitated by Rev. David Hett and other spiritual directors. Free-will offering. Drop-ins and new participants welcome.

Thursdays, 11:45 am – 1 pmWicker Room, South Campus

Faith & Reason - John Dominic’s Crossan’s Challenge of Jesus video-group discussion series continues. No advanced preparation needed, and drop-ins welcome as you can make it. Just come and join a discussion that will add to your knowledge of history, and your understanding of the early Jesus movement. Each session begins with at 15-18 minute video followed by discussion. Facilitated by Walter Watkins, Adult Education Coordinator.

Thursdays, 7 – 8:15 pmNorth Campus, Room 111

Saturday Morning Contemplative Way Group - Sacred reading of Mirabai Starr’s newest book, a translation of The Showing of Julian of Norwich; 30-minute meditation and time for reflection & discussion. Facilitated by Rose Konrath, Spiritual Searcher committee, and Vickie Murphy, Spiritual Director. Free-will offering. Drop-ins and new participants welcome.

Saturdays, 10 – 11:15 amSpiritual Guidance Room, South Campus Annex

No session February 7. Attend Inquiry Practice instead, 9:30 am - 12:30 pm, Wicker Room

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Subscribe to your favorite church interests.

FCchurch.com/mychurch

‘Monsieur Lazhar’ Next For Film GroupAdult Learning Council Film Discussion GroupFriday, February 13 – Pizza at 6 pm; Film at 6:30 pmWicker Room, South Campus SYNOPSIS: When a popular elementary school teacher in Montreal, Canada, dies tragically at the school, Bachir Lazhar, an Algerian immigrant, is hired to replace her. While school officials seek to put the death behind them, Bachir is sensitive to the needs for the children to address the experience with openness rather than denial. Traumatized himself by personal tragedies and hiding his own risk of deportation, he puts aside his own grief to help the children work through their loss.

This film shows with sensitivity, tenderness and humor the caring of a gentle man as he seeks to work in an unfamiliar culture to teach and help to heal children affluent in material goods but deficient in their needs for emotional support.

This French Canadian film was among the finalists nominated for the Oscar for ‘Best Foreign Language Film’ in 2012. It received a very high critical acclaim with a rating of 97% based on 110 reviews. DETAILS & REGISTRATION: Monsieur Lazhar is 94 minutes long, followed by discussion. The leader for this month’s film discussion is Jennie Nickel. Please call or e-mail Jennie 614-529-9930 or jnickel@columbus.rr.com by Thursday, February 12, if you are coming and having pizza, so that we know how many pizzas to order. If you are not sure and haven’t sent an RSVP by Thursday, come on anyhow and we will share.

February Spiritual SalonChristians in a Multi-Religious America

Dr. Paul Numrich, Professor of Religion and Interreligious Relations at The Methodist Theological School in Ohio and Trinity Lutheran Seminary, kicks

off the 2015 Spiritual Salon series Wednesday, February 4, 7 -8:30 pm in Brownlee Hall, South Campus.

Dr. Numrich will present an overview of Christians in a Multi-Religious America. Multi-Religious American is the theme for the year’s Spiritual Salon lecture-discussion sessions. Columbus is the 15th largest city in the country and as such, has a diverse ethnic and religious population. Dr. Numrich will present an overview of this issue before we engage in salons focusing on individual religious traditions in the United States.

Sponsored by the Adult Learning Council, Spiritual Salons are open to the public. A free-will offering is taken at each lecture to support these adult learning programs.

Pre-registration is helpful but not required. Register online at FCchurch.com/numrichor by contacting Natalia at njones@Fcchurch.com or 614 488.0681 ext. 151 and leave a message (voice mail only).

Adult Learning Council

Film Discussion GroupSecond Friday Each MonthJanuary - June 2015Wicker Room, South Campus

Please let us know if you plan to attend by Thursday the week of the film, so that we know how many pizzas to order. If you’re not sure by Thursday, come on anyhow and we will share. RSVP to jnickel@columbus.rr.com.

January 9 February 13 March 13

April 10 May 8 June 12

Gathering & Pizza at 6 pm($5 suggested donation)Movie Begins Each Week at 6:30 pm

spiritual searcher

Jesus for 21st Century SeekersFriday, March 6 - 8

Bishop John Shelby Spong

The religion called Christianity is dying, the casualty of an expanded worldview. The God experience in Jesus—that experience upon which Christianity was built—is newly dawning and will in time create new forms through which that new vision can live. Once Jesus is freed from the prison of religion, a renaissance and a reformation are possible.

— John Spong

We are fortunate to have one of the world’s leading voices for a new vision of Jesus and Christianity for this weekend lecture series on Friday and Saturday, March 6 & 7, and as guest preacher Sunday March 8. Episcopal Bishop John Spong is the author of the bestselling books, Rescuing the Bible from Fundamentalism, and Why Christianity Must Change or Die, as well as some of his more recent titles: Re-Claiming the Bible for a Non-Religious World, The Fourth Gospel: Tales of a Jewish Mystic, and Eternal Life: A New Vision Beyond Religion, Beyond Theism, Beyond Heaven and Hell.

FCchurch.com/spong $100 Full Weekend Price through March 1. Limited scholarships available.

Presented by The Center for Spiritual Search | First Community Church North Campus

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The Concert Choir and Chamber Singers are the premier choral ensembles at Muskingum University in New Concord, Ohio, a four-year liberal arts college affiliated with the Presbyterian Church – USA. In addition to an annual tour, the choirs present numerous concerts on campus each year, both independently and in collaboration with the Muskingum Choral Society and the Southeastern Ohio Symphony Orchestra. Recent national and international tours have taken members of the choirs to New York City, Philadelphia, St. Louis, Salzburg, Vienna, and Lucerne.

The choirs are under the direction of Dr. Zebulon Highben, Assistant Professor of Music and Director of Choral Activities at Muskingum. Dr. Highben studied at Ohio State University, Luther Seminary, and St. Olaf College, and holds the DMA in conducting from Michigan State University. A frequently commissioned composer, he has won awards from ASCAP, the American Composers Forum, and the Association of Lutheran Church Musicians, and was a finalist for the 2014

American Prize in Choral Composition. Prior to his appointment at Muskingum, Dr. Highben was a full-time church musician and an adjunct faculty member at the University of Wisconsin River Falls and Luther Seminary.

The concert will feature a wide variety of sacred and secular pieces, including works by Palestrina, Nystedt, Betinis, and Paulus; music from Russia, Ireland, and Argentina; plus a selection of American folk songs and spirituals. The concert is free and open to the public, though a free-will offering will be collected to help offset the choirs’ expenses.

AshWednesdayTaizé ServiceFebruary 18, 7 pmGrace Hall, North Campus

Songs, Psalms and SilenceAn Ash Wednesday Service in the

Manner of the Community of Taizé

The Taizé style of prayer began in a small town in southeastern (Burgundy) France in 1940, when Brother Roger responded to a call to create a community where simplicity and kind-heartedness would be lived out as essential Gospel realities. It is a monastic community that seeks to create an environment where reconciliation can become a concrete reality every day. It is also an ecumenical community that includes one hundred brothers from over twenty different countries, many serving the poorest of the world’s poor. In the years following 1940, a form of community worship evolved that used a distinctive kind of music, emphasizing silence, prayer and simple spiritual themes.

In the tradition of Taizé (pronounced teh-ZAY), all participants, even readers, cantors and instrumentalists, sit among the group. This reduces distractions and helps establish an atmosphere of shared private prayer. Time is suspended in a Taizé service and silence is a central part. The songs are melodic mantras and are repeated many times, sung not as hymns, but as prayers, musical meditations that quiet the mind to allow communion with God through the heart. This evening’s service incorporates many elements of a Taizé service, along with two hymns from the St. Louis Jesuits, and choral anthems from a more historical/traditional worship style.

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CATCH Court Keynotes By Linda Larrimer

The Honorable Paul Herbert, CATCH Court (Changing Actions to Change Habits) Judge Franklin County Common Pleas Court, was Mission Council’s keynote speaker at their 2015 retreat in January.

Through his work on the bench, Judge Herbert recognized that prostitutes were victims, not criminals and came to understand that human trafficking and prostitution “are not two different things”. He knows “If you start this life at 13 or 15, it’s very hard to get out without help. That’s where CATCH Court comes in.”

Judge Herbert founded CATCH Court to assist victims of sex trafficking. His inspiring talk, “Investing in People”, demonstrates how this program of trauma based counseling and drug and alcohol treatment rather than incarceration can lead to positive changes, success in education and gainful employment. Women from CATCH Court work at Freedom a La Cart, a local social enterprise catering business that provides workforce development, employment and supportive services for victims of human trafficking. Freedom a La Cart provides kitchen services for the Community Shelter Board’s new shelter and catering services. Delicious box lunches were catered for the retreat!

Freedom a La Cart is more than just an employer as they help prepare women for economic self sufficiency by mentoring them from the moment they leave their perpetrator through gaining workforce skills. Last year Mission Council supported Freedom a La Cart with a $5,000 grant.

Volunteer SpotlightFirst Community Church programs, events, and outreach opportunities are only successful because of the enthusiastic work of our dedicated volunteers. Thank you to all of our volunteers who, each week, give their time and energy to making the mission and vision of First Community Church a reality.

Our Volunteer of the Month for February is Cynthia Shaw, a weekly volunteer with our K-5 Ministry in Sunday School.

Why Cynthia volunteers: I felt it was important to give all of my children the opportunity to have a strong connection to the church. While I felt confident in allowing my older two kids to find their way within the church and volunteer

occasionally, my youngest required more supervision and guidance. I felt strongly that I should be the one to guide him as he gained knowledge of our church and our religious beliefs.

A secondary part of this may be that because he is my youngest child, I saw the time slipping away so very quickly. As children grow and become more independent, the opportunity to be a “class helper” or attend holiday parties in the school seems to slip away. I cherish the time my child and I have together every Sunday. He says that it is “our special time.”

Each year that I have volunteered, I do have some butterflies at the beginning of the year, and a “What have I signed myself up for?” feeling. This diminishes fairly quickly once the year begins, and I see the same faces I have come to know over the years. Some members of the third grade class were even in preschool at the North Campus with my son. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn more along with the children about our faith, and what it means to be a Christian.

What Dawn Costin, Director of Children and Youth Ministries, says about Cynthia: Cynthia began volunteering as an occasional Sunday School helper many years ago, whenever possible, as she was amidst a busy life raising her three children and working outside of the home. When her youngest son, Tyler entered the first-grade, Cynthia saw the value in being a consistent leader in his classroom and volunteered most Sundays. When in need of extra volunteers, Cynthia’s husband, Dennis would also step in to help with the children. As Cynthia got to know the children in her class, she decided to stay with them another year, then another year and now plans to follow them next year as they move on to the fourth-grade.

Cynthia’s gentle leadership and care that she provides for the children on Sunday mornings is deeply appreciated by the K-5 Ministry, as well as the children and their parents. We are all blessed by her dedicated, weekly presence.

Do you know of an outstanding volunteer that should be featured in firstnews Monthly? Please contact Helen Vivian, Volunteer Development Coordinator, at HVivian@FCchurch.com

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The Women’s Guild By Jill Eliot

A FEBRUARY STORY Confucius says, “Wherever you go, go with your heart!” - and at noon on February 10, the First Community Church staff will leave their offices and go to Brownlee Hall for heart-filling afternoon. More than 100 members of the Women’s Guild prepare for the luncheon and turn Brownlee Hall into a valentine world with red, pink, and white décor.

This luncheon is the Guilds’ attempt to thank the staff who every day take care of the members of the congregation: answering phone calls, using their expertise in a vast variety of fields, making visits, answering questions, giving advice, listening, helping to solve problems, and supporting people in need of prayer and love. The accomplished barbershop quartet “What the Heck Four” will once again provide entertainment at the luncheon. These four men offer their gift of music as a Valentine thank you to the staff. As part of the event, all the staff members receive “fabulous” door prizes to carry away to their offices as a reminder of the gratitude and love of the Guild members.

FEBRUARY SHORT STORIES We will be having a welcome new members event Saturday, March 7 at Panera Bread in Mill Run from 2 - 4 pm. If you would like to learn more about FCC’s largest women’s group, we invite you join us. For more information call Estelle Scott at 614 580. 5760 or email her at emscott1037@wowway.com

Group G would like to share that their February meeting will be at The Cambridge Tea House on Thursday, February 19th at 1pm. Please contact Estelle Scott (457-1037) if interested in joining us. Group L is the newest evening group and they are welcoming new members. For more information about this group please contact Kathleen Lennon at lennon_k@sbcglobal.net or 614 459.0165

THE REST OF THE STORY Our stories of the Guild Groups continue with Group WW. The letters might mean “Wonder Women” or “Wild Women”; however WW at First Community stands for “Working Women.” The group began in 1993 with the membership consisting of career oriented women. Because of daytime jobs, meetings were and still are held on the first Wednesday night of the month. A small group of 15-18 members, most women are now in the “grandmother workforce!” Meetings are varied; from restaurants to private homes to the church, all in keeping with the evening’s program. Officers include a Chair and a Treasurer with members volunteering for specific activities. Yearly dues are minimal, however the “hat is passed” when extra funds are needed. The group has been characterized as extremely generous and supportive.

Group WW members were and are “working women”, multi-taskers and involved in volunteer activities both in the church and the local community. Members have been involved in the many Guild projects, Service Board, Garage Sale, Trading Post, Bell Choir, Board of Deacons, Mission Council, the Quest Singles Group, the Refugee Task Force, the FCC Foundation Board of Trustees, Older Adult Council and Ushering. At Christmas time, WW adopts a family, identified through Heart to Heart and this year, adopted Rebecca’s House and provided furniture, toiletries, gift certificates

for food and household items for administrators to meet the needs of Rebecca House clients.

In the community, members have been involved in teaching English as a second language for elementary school students, volunteering at senior centers, libraries, health-related groups; serving meals at homeless shelters, assisting refugee families and the interfaith hospitality network. Perhaps WW’s most important work is in reaching out to each other as they experience life’s joys and sorrows. Through a phone call, an e-mail, a card or a spoken word, the members have felt the friendship and caring of the women of Group WW. A quote by Charles William Eliot sums up this amazing group of ladies, “ “Books are the quietest and most constant of friends; they are the most accessible and wisest of counselors, and the most patient of teachers.”

The Roof Will Rise By Cheryl Zeiger

Thanks to those who generously responded to Guild Group 7’s request to “Raise the Roof For Rafiki”, they have reached and exceeded their goal.

Guild Group 7 put up $5,000 to match any donations and they are sending Rafiki a check for more than the $10,000. This money will be used to complete the project.

You have made possible a gift of $11,639 that will allow Rafiki to build a roof over the second floor of an existing building. This will allow a dental clinic, academic and sewing classrooms to be constructed. A roofer is standing by as they await our check.

16 February 1 - 28, 2015

Spring Women's Retreat

THE CELEBRATION OF ACT IIINew Archetypes and New Questions for Life After 50

with Kathy Cleveland Bull

April 24 - 26, 2015Camp Akita

What new life wants to nowemerge through me? How can that get expression now and actively encourage this? Looking at archetypes of older women from fairy tales and Greek Mythology we seek to find a pathway for our emerging self. Women in the community of all ages are welcome to enjoy a retreat in the Hocking Hills and benefit from the program. Register at FCchurch.com/spring-womens-retreat

Responding to "Why?" By Jeff Leister, Ministry of Presence

I play cards with a small group of inmates at Franklin Medical Center twice a month - along with Tom Trimble and Erin Canlas. I have often asked myself, “Why?” What am I doing here? Am I wasting my time? From my perspective of daily life, and to the casual observer, it does seem insignificant; a waste of time. But if I try to imagine life from the other side of the card table (impossible to do), where nothing changes from day to day, year to year, I think any interaction from outside would be welcome.

When playing cards, the types of questions from the guys are; Did you plant a garden? How is the garden doing? What did you plant? What is the latest news on this or that event?

The most reaction I get is when I ask the men about their occupations. They brighten up and sit up straight and we have a wonderful conversation about truck driving or having been a fighter pilot in Vietnam. We talk about childhood memories of sledding and life on the farm. Good memories of pre-incarceration days when they felt fully human.

So what does the Ministry of Presence do and why? From the outside, nothing much really. From the inmates’ perspective, we bring hope and news from the outside, that there is still “normal” out there. We take their minds off of their situation and allow them to reminisce for a few minutes.

Sometimes I need to look very closely to see the subtle hint that, yes, I am making a difference. Why? Because I brought a few moments of change to an unchanging environment and shared in our humanity.

Donations Only, Please By Rebecca Wolfe

The Tri-Village Trading Post will be celebrating its 62nd anniversary this month and after all these years it continues to be a fun and welcoming spot for people to shop. Many people come several times a week just to get a lift for their spirits.

We have always appreciated the donations of those in our church family, but now we need your support even more as we have become a donations-only store. Your generosity of donations secures our success far into the future. Profits of the store go to the missions and ministries of the church as well as a designated mission selected by our volunteers.

In 2014, we gave $5,000 to the Community Shelter Board who aid the homeless in Columbus. Our new mission in 2015 will be Freedom A la Carte, an organization that helps women caught in the web of human trafficking gain the skills necessary to do catering work and employs them so they can get on their feet.

We have donation bins at both North and South Campuses and you can always drop off at the store 10am - 4pm Monday through Saturday. We also can provide you with a tax deductible certificate. If you have questions about your donation please contact Rebecca Wolfe 614 488.6564 or email rwolfe@fcchurch.com

An Invitation To Membership By Paula Russell

If you have been attending worship for some time or are just beginning your search for a church home, we hope you can join us for our Spring Membership Seminar, Tuesday, April 7 from 6:30 – 8:30 pm in Brownlee Hall, South Campus. You will have the opportunity to meet others who are interested in becoming members, as well as Clergy and staff. This evening includes a tour of the South Campus highlighting the history of First Community Church.

On Wednesday, April 15 from 7 – 8:30 pm, we invite you to join Dr. Wing and other Clergy for a Dessert Reception at the North Campus, followed by a tour.

Following these two evenings, those who choose to become church members will join on Sunday, April 26.

For more information or to register for the Spring Seminar, contact Paula Russell at prussell@FCchurch.com or 614 488.0681 ext 228.

February 1 - 28, 2015 17

Parent GrowthMondays, 9:30 - 11 amJanuary – March, 2015Guild Room, South CampusCosts $5/session; child care available for $4/child per week

February 2 Helping Children Deal with Their Feelings

February 9 Engaging Cooperation

February 16 NO SESSION Church closed for President’s Day

February 23 Alternatives to Punishment

March 2 Praise vs. Encouragement

March 9 Freeing Children from Playing Roles

March 16 Putting It All Together/ Session to finish topics or address emerging topics

Life Line ScreeningFirst Community Church is pleased to offer Life Line Screening, a leading provider of community-based preventive health screenings, will host their affordable, non-invasive and painless health screenings on March 20.

Five screenings will be offered that scan for potential health problems related to: blocked arteries which is a leading cause of stroke; abdominal aortic aneurysms which can lead to a ruptured aorta; hardening of the arteries in the legs which is a strong predictor of heart disease; atrial fibrillation or irregular heart beat which is closely tied to stroke risk; and a bone density screening, for men and women, used to assess the risk of osteoporosis.

Register for a Wellness Package which includes 4 vascular tests and osteoporosis screening from $149 ($139 with our member discount). All five screenings take 60-90 minutes to complete. To register and to receive a $10 discount off any package priced above $129, please call 1-888-653-6441 or visit lifelinescreening.com/community-partners

All families with young children are welcome to join the Early Childhood Council

for bedtime stories, songs and a snack.

Come ready for bed, bring a pillow or blanket to cuddle with a grown-up on the floor, and enjoy!

Have fun and help others too! Bring a pair of new pajamas (infant-teen)

and/or a new story book to donate to:

Friday, February 27 6:30 pm

Brownlee Hall, South Campus1320 Cambridge Boulevard

PajamaYou are invited to

StoryTime

614 488.0681 FCchurch.com

Pajama ProgramDelivering Warm Sleepwear &Nurturing Books to Children In Need

Tuesday, February 17 Dine-In: 5:30 - 7:30 pmCarry-Out: 5 - 7 pmGrace Hall, North Campus 3777 Dublin Road, 43221

$10 per adult$6 per child (10 & under)

Prices increase to $12/adult & $8/child at the door.

Tickets available after Sunday services, at the door or online at FCchurch.com/pastadinner

Donations are accepted online if you can not attend.

Benefitting Our Mexico Mission Trip to Build Homes

18 February 1 - 28, 2015

8:30 am • Burkhart Chapel, SC - Rev. Long preaching8:30 am • Grace Hall, NC - Dr. Wing preaching9:45 am • Grace Hall, NC - Dr. Wing preaching Chancel Choir11 am • Sanctuary, SC - Dr. Wing preaching Columbus School for Girls Choir

2 pm • Grace Hall, North Campus - Annual Meeting

9:15 am • Grace Hall, NC - Dr. Wing preaching Chancel Choir11 am • Grace Hall, NC - Dr. Wing preaching Chancel Choir

8:30 am • Burkhart Chapel, SC - Rev. Baumer preaching8:30 am • Grace Hall, NC - Dr. Wing preaching9:45 am • Grace Hall, NC - Dr. Wing preaching Chancel Chamber Choir, Youth Bell Choir 211 am • Sanctuary, SC - Dr. Wing preaching Chancel Choir, Whitechapel Ringers

8:30 am • Burkhart Chapel, SC - Rev. Linday preaching8:30 am • Grace Hall, NC - Dr. Wing preaching9:45 am • Grace Hall, NC - Dr. Wing preaching Chancel Chamber Choir11 am • Sanctuary, SC - Dr. Wing preaching Chancel Choir

8:30 am • Burkhart Chapel, SC - Rev. Shaner preaching8:30 am • Grace Hall, NC - Dr. Wing preaching9:45 am • Grace Hall, NC - Dr. Wing preaching Chancel Choir, Youth Bell Choir 111 am • Sanctuary, SC - Dr. Wing preaching Chancel Choir

For additional information:

Click: FCchurch.com Email: info@FCchurch.com Call: 614 488.0681 Visit: The Welcome Center at North or South Campus

A Usher assignments.

A MONTH OF SUNDAYS

HEART TO HEART SUNDAY

WINTERSONG

1

8

15

22

1

MEMBERSHIP SUNDAY

B

C

C

A

COMMUNION

A

Guests from Deep Griha By Linda Ritter

Neela Onawale and her daughter, Ashlesha, are traveling to Columbus to share stories and to tell us about the valuable assistance that Deep Griha is providing for the people in the slums of Pune, India. Neela and her husband, Bashkar, founded Deep Griha almost forty years ago, and Ashlesha has recently become the deputy executive director.

Neela and Ashlesha will be our featured guests at the third-annual Bollywood and Barbeque event this year. You will have an opportunity to hear about the work of Deep Griha from Neela and Ashlesha, as well as from a few church families who visited Deep Griha last year. There will also be opportunities for henna painting, craft projects for young children and entertainment by young dancers from Dublin Community Church.

Please plan to attend the event on February 22 from 5 to 7:30 pm at North Campus. Dinner will be catered by City Barbeque. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under. Online registration is available and tickets will be sold at coffee hours after church services.

Neela and Ashlesha will be in Columbus for two weeks. They will participate in a worship service and will meet with groups of young people. They will also visit our Deep Griha partner churches, Dublin Community Church and First Congregational Church.

If you would like to help a child in Pune by becoming a sponsor, visit deepgrihausa.org for more information.

Sunday, February 22 • 5 pmGrace Hall, North Campus

& BarbequeBThird Annual

February 1 - 28, 2015 19

Celebrate a life event in

firstnews Monthly!

Sponsorships begin at $19

Call 614 488.0681 ext. 227

Place your sponsored message here. Call 614 488.0681 ext. 227

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Joseph A LotozoFinancial Advisor.

1840 Zollinger RoadUpper Arlington, OH 43221614-451-6004www.edwardjones.com

3.5” x 2”

Joseph A LotozoFinancial Advisor.

1840 Zollinger RoadUpper Arlington, OH 43221614-451-6004www.edwardjones.com

Sundays at 11 amand Midnight on

The CWWWHO-TV

BACK BAY

MISSION TRIPAPRIL 26 - MAY 2, 2015

THERE ARE SEVERAL WAYS TO SERVE:

WORK CAMPHOUSING RECOVERY PROGRAM

MICAH DAY CENTERSERVING THE NEEDS OF THE HOMELESS

FOOD PANTRYSTOCK & SORT FOR THOSE NEEDING ASSISTANCE

LOAVES & FISHESSOUP KITCHEN MEAL PREP & CLEAN-UP

For more information contact the Mission Office at (614) 488-0681 ext 106 or acaskie@FCchurch.com or visit FCchurch.com/back-bay-mission

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 to the Staff; 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; Mary Beth Aeh, Director of Early Childhood Ministry; Michael Barber, Director of Marketing and Communications, Sally R. Beske, Assistant Organist/Director of Youth Choirs; Tim Carlson, Director of Camp Akita Ministries and Youth Programming; Dawn J. Costin, Director of K-12 Ministry; Cynthia Harsany, Director of Finance and Operations; Pam Jameson, Director of Facilities Ministry; Bobbi Mueller, Director of Office Operations and Special Projects; Scot Nicoll, Executive Director of Camp Akita; Missy Obergefell, Director of Older Adult Ministry; Paula L. Russell, Director of Member and Visitor Services; Lauri Speight Sullivan, Director of First Community Foundation.

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

News articles and photos for firstnews Monthly must be submitted to news@FCchurch.com by the 15th of each month. Direct questions to Editor Michael Barber at mbarber@FCchurch.com

firstnews Monthly

Mail Delivery IssuesIn recent months, mail delivery of firstnews Monthly has been unpredictable. Our production remains unchanged. If you experience mail delays of firstnews Monthly, contact: CONSUMER AFFAIRS, U.S. POSTAL SERVICE1591 DALTON AVE CINCINNATI OH 45234-9631Phone : 1-800-ASK-USPS

For up-to-date information on our

capital projects visit

FCchurch.com/vision

Sunshine Music for a Winter SundaySunday February 8 | 9:15 & 11 amFirst Community Church North Campus

WinterSong

Sunday, February 8, 9:15 & 11 amFirst Community Church North Campus, 3777 Dublin Road

This Service of Music and the Word will include the installation of the newly-elected members of the Governing Board and Diaconate.

THE CHANCEL CHOIRRonald J. Jenkins, Minister of Music & Liturgy

Robert A. Griffith, Organist Sally R. Beske, pianistJulie E. Wilkinson, soprano Emily N. Rogers, mezzo soprano C. Andrew Blosser, tenor

Paul Kushious, cello(Guest artist from the Cleveland Symphony Orchestra)

Robert Royse, oboe Christian Slagle, percussion

The Reverend Dr. Richard A. Wing, homilist preaching on A RIVER RUNS THROUGH IT

There will be celebrative and meditative hymns for the congregation to sing.

The Chancel Choir will singOut of the Deep from Requiem by John Rutter

Perfect Love by Patrick HawesAll Good Gifts from the 1971 Broadway Musical, Godspell by Stephen Schwartz

Witness, an African-American Spiritual arranged by Jack Halloran

Four Craig Hella Johnson arrangements:Motherless Child, African-American Spiritual

The Gift of Love (The Water is Wide) Gabriel’s Oboe by Ennio Morricone (from the 1986 movie, The Mission)Let the River Run by Carly Simon (from the 1988 movie, Working Girl)

WinterSong

Muskingham Concert ChoirDirected by Dr. Zebulon Highben

The Concert Choir and Chamber Singers are the premier choral ensembles at Muskingum University in New Concord, Ohio. The concert will feature a wide variety of sacred and secular pieces, including works by Palestrina, Nystedt, Betinis, and Paulus; music from Russia, Ireland and Argentina; plus a selection of American folk songs and spirituals.

The concert is free and open to the public. Free-will offering.

Sunday, February 22, 3 pmSanctuary, South Campus