firstnews614 488.0681 FCchurch.com January 1 - 31, 2015 Vol. 61 No. 1

Monthly

VolunteerSpotlight

Page 17

ChristmasMemorials

Page 16Page 8

FinancialStatement

Celebration of Giving (Beginning Page 6)

Bishop Family Pays Tribute Story by Michael Barber When Stuart Bishop reflects on his childhood, he is reminded of time spent at South Campus attending Block of Wood classes at 11 years of age and enjoying worship time with his family. “I know every nook and cranny of that place because I used to run through there as a kid,” Stuart said. “I love the old church.” Stuart’s father John and mother Helen were part of the First Community family from 1961 until the time of their

passing. Helen’s death in 2003 was followed by John’s 10 years later. Stuart remembers a humorous moment between his father and Rev. Jim Long. “A couple of weeks before my dad died, Jim visited and asked my dad if there was anything on his mind,” Stuart said. “My dad said, ‘Why would I have anything to worry about?’ After more than a few seconds, Jim said, ‘John, would you mind if I said a little prayer?’ Jim Long is a fine guy.”

“We must have an active church that ministers to the congregation and

supports the community. There is value in having ‘a place.’

— Stuart Bishop

Through these difficult times, Stuart and his family came to fully appreciate what their church meant to them. Due in large part to this ongoing relationship, Stuart, his wife Patty and sons John and Mike are supporting the Capital Projects with a gift of $100,000.

(Continued, Page 2)

2 January 1 - 31, 2014

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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.

“The church has been an important part of the community for many years,” Stuart said. “The church’s involvement goes well beyond religion. First Community needs and deserves financial support. We, as a society, need to support the church. That’s what I believe.” Although Stuart looks forward to seeing the North Campus Sanctuary complete, he sees the Capital Projects as a package deal – one that also includes improvements for South Campus and Camp Akita. “It would be an absolute mistake to separate the projects,” he said. “It goes back to what the church mission needs to accomplish. South Campus changes are needed. I’ve never been to Akita, but I know it’s a part of a lot of people’s lives. The plan is all encompassing and addresses a number of needs. People are going to support it.” Stuart and his family are firm in their belief that the future of First Community Church is dependent on a dynamic place to worship. “We need a vibrant church,” Stuart said. “Certain members die or move. We’ve got to replace those people and we need a vibrant church to do that. Many churches dry up because they haven’t been able to attract people. We must have an active church that ministers to the congregation and supports the community. There is value in having ‘a place.’ Stuart believes in the potential for growth at North Campus and is convinced the time for building is now. “North Campus is very convenient,” he said. “Demographics are changing and it’s not far from I-270. The life blood of a church is people, not only to minister, but to give money to support what they do.” “It’s the right time to have something more established there,” Stuart said.

On the Cover: Renderings for North Campus Sanctuary, Camp Akita Welcome Center and Offices and South Campus Atrium bring the Capital Projects to light.

Tribute(Continued from Page 1)

We Want Your NewsFirstnews Monthly is dedicated to providing readers with quality news and features each month.

We are particularly interested in receiving information directly from members regarding their participation in church events and programs.

We invite you to submit story ideas, completed stories and photographs for consideration.

Contact Michael Barber, firstnews Monthly Editor, at mbarber@FCchurch.com or visit FCchurch.com, click "Firstnews Extra"

“The plan is all encompassing and addresses a number of needs. People are going to support it.”

— Stuart Bishop

January 1 - 31, 2014 3

Dr. Wing is preparing the following sermons:

A LIFE THAT MATTERSSermon Series

January 4PART 1 - WHO AM I?

Psalm 1:1-3

January 11PART 2 - WHAT DO I LOVE?

Matthew 5:43-47

January 18PART 3 - HOW SHALL I LIVE

KNOWING I WILL DIE?Micah 6:6-8/Luke 12:13-21

January 25PART 4 - WHAT IS MY GIFT

TO THE WORLD?II Corinthians 9:6-8

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

Soundings

Join Dick and Shirley Wing For LunchIn Naples on Wednesday, February 25In Sarasota on Thursday, February 26

Details coming soon!To receive an invitation, please make sure we have your

Florida address by contacting Robin Taylor at 614 488.0681 ext 235 or rtaylor@FCchurch.com

WatchFirst Edition

First 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

Ripening

Richard Rohr wrote about James Finley as a young monk at the monastery of Gethsemane. Finley’s Spiritual Director was Thomas Merton. Finley was totally frustrated at his seemingly inept efforts to experience God’s presence.

Merton responded: “How does an apple ripen?”“Huh?”“How does an apple ripen?”There was a long silence.Then Merton said: “It just sits in the sun.”Don’t just do something; sit there.

Of course we need to continue to seek God, but by our own efforts alone we cannot achieve spiritual maturity. We must bring ourselves to the Light where God’s grace seasons us into juicy, sweet, flavorful ripeness. Ripening teaches us the wisdom of patience. Michaelangelo said, “Genius is eternal patience.” Genius is NOT the mind we are born with but the patience we develop in an increasingly impatient world. You can’t do spiritually fast. It begins with patience. Ripening spiritually allows us to have an increasing tolerance for ambiguity (a big word that means “I don’t know”). That tolerance allows you to live with deep joy and love midst the mysteries that will not be solved in our time. Ripening comes when we are able to pray with Thomas Merton: “MY LORD GOD, I have no idea where I am going. I do not see the road ahead of me. I cannot know for certain where it will end. Nor do I really know myself, and the fact that I think that I am following your will does not mean that I am actually doing so. But I believe that the desire to please you does in fact please you." That prayer is how I begin each day, with dreams of ripening in ways I need instead of ways I plan. Blessings to you in the New Year.

4 January 1 - 31, 2014

Foundation GiftsIn Memory of:Emily Chidester Dick and Muriel Tice Jeanne Blair Doug and Judith Sandbo Daniel and Donna Donovan Carolyn Warmolts Jinny Frick Bette Dugger Marilyn GiaimoAlene Hinshaw Betty O’Neill Robert RauchJune Palmer Betty O’NeillLewis T. Franklin FCC Friendship Circle 70 William D. Kientz Bob and Shirley Edler Dareth Gerlach Jeff and Evelyn McKitrickJoan Mitchell Vickie Imhoff Jeanne Blair David and Jeanne Schoedinger Daniel and Donna Donovan Laurel Hodery Tammy Brittian John Boggs Bill Morris Jinny Frick Betty O’Neill Ruth McNeal Patricia Mielke Dick Wood Mary Jane Hannan Brenda Hannan Marilyn Jennings

In Honor of: Guild Group 7 Mary Ann KraussMiriam Clark Betty O’Neill Rafiki Tom and Cynthia Hudson John and Cheryl Zieger David and Tracy Hoag Theodore and Elizabeth Wolf Michael and Cynthia O’Donnell James and Merry Hamilton Susan Brooks Terry and Barbara Davis Bob and Sally Wandel Ralph and Jane Setterlin Marilyn Jennings Paul and Leitsa Becher John and Ann Dickerson David and Mona Hett Paul and Susan Younger David and Loretta Heigle Marianne Anderson Gregory Esparza Barth and Barb Falkenberg Jennifer Jones

Church GiftsIn Honor ofMinisters and Staff Steven and Cynthia Rasmussen

Friends of AkitaIn Memory of:Megan Patrick Fedorko Holly, Sam, Anna, Julia & Charlie LinzellIn Celebration of:Camp Akita Sarah & Larry Jonaus Maggie Mauer The Richard B. Sneed Foundation

Friends of MusicIn honor of:Jim & Ruth Decker Gary & Sandra WegenkeRon Gardner Deborah EschenbacherSandy Anderson Deborah EschenbacherRonald Jenkins & Choirs Louise KutzRose & David Kandel Bob & Anne Eberhart

Foundation Corner

— Lauri Speight Sullivan, Director of First Community Foundation

Doorways

Conventional wisdom has the month of January named for the Roman god, Janus, a god that predates Rome and does not have a Greek counterpart.

Janus is generally depicted as two-faced, looking to the past and to the future, and often was carved into archways and door frames.

January causes many of us to reboot our lives, gazing at the past with promises of betterment in the future. All Foundation gifts are like that. They

are given in the spirit of loving a ministry and wanting it to continue forever. (Yes, “forever” may be a stretch, but it is in the ballpark.)

In the moment of past, present and future, one of the more interesting ways to give to the Foundation is with the purchase of a charitable gift annuity. We typically work with the United Church of Christ, but they are available at a number of institutions. The gift is an irrevocable agreement that the donor gives in return for a lifetime annual income to the donor, with the final proceeds going to First Community Foundation or a selected charity.

I will use myself as a simple example. If I were to give $10,000, I would get a return of 4.4% or $440 annually. I would also get a tax benefit the year the fund was established, and most of the income is not taxed until I own it for 24.1 years. The payment rate is regulated by the American Council on Gift Annuities based on my age, with the goal of preserving at least 50% of the original gift for First Community Foundation. (Any institution offering a gift annuity has to adhere to the same rates.) If I were 10 years older, the rate would go up to 5.1%, much better than the local bank.

I admit this is not for everyone, but if you have an appreciated stock and want to avoid capital gains, this is an opportunity. Or, if you got a big bonus and want to reduce taxes, a gift annuity is a good solution.

Gift annuities can be purchased in increments as low as $1,000 (and maxes out at $138,000). As with most investment vehicles, there is some flexibility when it is set up, like deferring the income until retirement for a higher payout or including more than the Foundation as a beneficiary. The website ucc.org/giving is a good place to investigate more - or come see me.

A gift annuity is a door to the past and a key to the future; it is a Janus transition tool. The charm of a gift annuity is the rate is set providing an income for living today and you know you’ve left a lasting gift for First Community Foundation.

With grace,

(Continued, Page 5)

January 1 - 31, 2014 5

Friends of Music In Memory of:Cherry Park Susan HuhtaWilliam Kientz Tanny GustafsonGisela Garbe Bob & Anne Eberhart Bell ChoirIn Honor of:Carol Neff The Whitechapel Ringers

Youth Adopt-a-Family In Celebration of: Cathy & John Conner Kelly & Connor Lape Melinda Gabriel Matt Gatsch Ian ScottIn Honor of:Mandy & Ryan Mazzaferri Laura MazzaferriEleanor Calvary and Marcy Miller Rachel Ryan

Spiritual Searcher FundIn Honor of: Rosemarie Konrath Joan Moore

Heart to Heart Crystal Allen Christine Baker Ann Bischoff Jeanne Blair Andy Brace Mary Jean Bradley John & Linda Butcher Eleanor Calvary Dean Christensen Anne Clifford Sue Coady Carol Cochrane Mike & Charlotte Collister Anne Cooper J D & Ann Dickerson Neil & Betty Drobny Lindsey Dunleavy David & Nancy Evans Barbara Falkenberg Susan Forbes Don & Karen Gardiner Ron Gardner Paul & Claire Gatsch Greg Gerhard James Gilbert Kip & Katy Greenhill Dave & Sandra Hammond Karyl Hanhilammi Ray & Susie Harpham Dave & Loretta Heigle Bruce & Cathie Hickin John & Judy Hoberg Mary Helen Hopkins Pat & MaryAnn Hopping John & Sally Hughes John Hughes Darrel & Barb Irwin Peggy Johnson

Brian & Connie JohnstonMarilyn LashBo MannarinoJ MarzellaBob and Margaret MathisGreg MaurerRichard & Carol MeyerTiffany MeyerJoan Marie MooreSteve & Rachel MushrushJoseph MyersAmanda NaprawaCarl & Linda NelsonLisa NorrisMary OlsonBrent & Julie OsbornSusan ParkinsPaul & Colette PetersonBruce & Denise PontiousSteve & Cindy RasmussenPriscilla RatliffBobbie ReynoldsRoberta Riley

Take Heart

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

Ten Secrets to Happiness

This time of year you see lists everywhere, typically related to New Year’s resolutions. Most often people resolve to: lose weight and get fit, quit smoking, eat healthier, get out of debt, reduce stress, and drink less alcohol. Recently I saw a different kind of list, from Pope Francis: the top ten secrets to happiness. Here is what this humble, reforming, boundary-stretching Pope had to say.

1. Live and let live. Everyone should be guided by this principle, which has a similar expression in Rome: Move forward and let others do the same.

2. Be giving of yourself to others. People need to be open and generous toward others, because if you withdraw into yourself, you run the risk of becoming egocentric. And stagnant water is not healthy.

3. Proceed calmly in life. The pope, who once taught high school literature, used an image from an Argentine novel by Ricardo Guiraldes, in which the protagonist - gaucho Don Segundo Sombra - looks back on how he lived his life. He says that in his youth he was a stream full of rocks that he carried with him; as an adult, a rushing river; and in old age, he was still moving, but slowly, like a pool of water. He said he likes this latter image of a pool of water, to have the ability to move with kindness, humility and a calmness in life.

4. A healthy sense of leisure. The pleasures of art, literature and playing together with children have been lost, he said. Consumerism has brought us anxiety and stress, causing people to lose a healthy culture of leisure.

5. Sundays should be holidays. Workers should have Sundays off because Sunday is for family, the Pope says. (I don’t think this would fly in the United States, but I agree with Pope Francis that sabbath is important for all of us.)

6. Find innovative ways to create dignified jobs for young people. We need to be creative with young people. If they have no opportunities they will get into trouble. Speaking about disadvantaged young people around the world, Francis says, “It’s not enough to give them food, dignity is given to you when you can bring food home from your own labor.”

7. Respect and take care of nature. Environmental degradation is one of the biggest challenges we have. The Pope says, I think a question that we’re not asking ourselves is: Isn’t humanity committing suicide with this indiscriminate and tyrannical use of nature?

8. Stop being negative. Needing to talk badly about others indicates low self-esteem. That means I feel so low that instead of picking myself up I have to cut others down. Letting go of negative things quickly is healthy.

9. Don’t proselytize; respect others’ beliefs. The worst thing of all is religious proselytism, which paralyzes: “I am talking with you in order to persuade you.” No. Each person dialogues, starting with his and her own identity.

10. Work for peace. The call for peace must be shouted. Peace sometimes gives the impression of being quiet, but it is never quiet, peace is always proactive and dynamic.

(The “Top Ten Secrets to Happiness” was published in the Argentine weekly magazine Viva in July 2014.)

(Continued, Page 9)

Church Gifts (continued)

6 January 1 - 31, 2014

Celebration of GivingIt is with appreciation that we acknowledge those who have pledged to First Community Church.

Barbara AdamsCorlene AdamsSue AdamsLaura AdkinsJerry & Margie AehRita AkinsSonya AlberyRoger & Dianne AlbrechtCarol AlfredNaeem & Kellie AliCrystal AllenMarilyn AllenCarl AndersonLarry & Marianne AndersonPaul & Sandy AndersonAngie & Frank AndujarFerne ArnettCarl & Belva AschingerLynne AyresDamon & Ann BakerCarol BakerCynthia BakerJacintha BalchCharles & Linda BaldeckMelissa & Arthur BaldwinMelanie Bales & Gilberto AlbuquerquePhilip & Nancy BallingerJason & Amy BargerMichael & Carolyn BargerJoy BarneyMarshall & Ginny BarneyDick & Mollie BasslerRich & Sharon BatesTom BattenbergJeanie & Robert BauerPaul & Jan BaumerJanice BeatyPaul & Leitsa BecherMark & Chrys BeebeJane BeltJim & Sue BenesBryan & Sally BeskeSallie & Pete BethgeJim BieberJan BillmanSteve Binder & Nancy OckayStuart & Patty BishopJeanne BlairMarilyn BoardmanMarjorie BohlDiann BowmanPat BoydBob & Barbara BoyteKay BradfordBarbara BradleyMary Jean BradleyJean BrandtJoyce BrannanSusan BrooksJerry & Harriet BrownJames & Holly BrownRegina & R BrownSteve & Katy BrownLisa & Errol BuecheDick & Shirley BullAndy BullockRob & Kim BumgarnerLee BurgesDave & Jeanne BuschJohn & Linda ButcherPeg ButerbaughBrian & Mary BuzbyBob ByrdMatthew & Erin ByrneBuck & Nancy ByrneDick & Greta CaldwellJane CampbellNancy Campbell & Karen TaylorScott Campbell & Marcie McNaryPatrick Carle & Kevin FloraRob Carlisle & Dawn Burnside CarlisleTim & Erica CarlsonWayne & Pamela CarlsonChris Casavant

Jared & Amy CaskieCarolyn Casper-DuvallMark & Blaire CatalanoTed & Bobbie CelesteDon & Jackie CherrySharon ChidesterTom ChidesterDana & Janet CicconeBiddie ClarkNed & Nicole ClarkErik & Shelli ClarkBob & Karen ClaussenMary ClementAnne CliffordKim & Cindy CloseBob & Helen ClouseSue CoadyKat Cochrane-YamaguchiNancy ColleyMike & Charlotte CollisterDennis & Peggy ConcillaLiz CondosJohn & Cathy ConnerBob CoonfareAnne CooperDon CooperCarolyn CopelandDave & Dawn CostinDennis CotsamireDoug & Eileen CovellChuck & Marilyn CozadAnne CrawfordDave & Ginny CulverBob & Liz CumminsBob & Linda CumminsBarb CunninghamJim & Ginny CunninghamChuck CurryDan & Kathy DamianoCurtis & Nicole DanielsRobert & Angela DarraghEric Davies & Donna Sigl-DaviesDan Davis & Vickie MurphyJim & Jodie DavisJamie DavisTom & Liz DavisJim & Ruth DeckerSandy & Michael DeCraneSandra DeedsNancy DellCarol DeshlerGene & Roslyn DewBen & Tracy DickensJ D & Ann DickersonBill DittyScott & Donna DoellingerPatrick Donadio & Beth KennardMike & Nancy DonaldsonPat DonovanJanet & Louis DotyJason & Elizabeth DowneyPat DoyleNeil & Betty DrobnyBette DuggerSue Dunlap Potts & Thomas PottsNancy DunnPaul & Claudia DusseauMarcia EarlyJoseph & Susan EbbelerBob & Anne EberhartBob & Shirley EdlerPete & Chris EdwardsDavid & Nancy EdwardsDean & Kay ElamMike & Laura ElliottChuck & Kay EmrickDeborah EschenbacherClaire EsmondDavid & Nancy EvansGail EvansJim EvansMary EvansJohn & Maryann EwartJim & Betsy Fahrbach

Steve & Nancy FalkBarbara & Barth FalkenbergRichard FarrLouise FennerJustin & Noelle FieldsPrice & Alice FinleyRob & Jeanne FlowersDavid & Linda FontanaSusan ForbesJohn Goff & Jenny FountainKim & Mary Beth FowlerLila & Charles FowlerRoger & Julie FoxTom & Jane FoxDave Franklin & Linda SheppardGeorge & Connie FreckerRobert & Nina FrederickCarolyn FreemanNelson & Emmy FrenchJinny FrickJennifer FryTom & Betty Lou FryeBobbie GardinerDon & Karen GardinerBob GardnerRon GardnerPam GartinMatt & Caroline GatschPaul & Claire GatschSteve & Janey GentileDon & Donna GepfertKristina GivensScott & Kristy GlaserTim Glasser & Hayley HeadDoug & Cheryl GodardJim & Sherry GordonJim & Mary GossardJamey & Amy GrayCurt GreeneRick & Karen GreeneDick & Anna GreerBrad & Abbey Jo GriffithDonn & Gayle GriffithTR GrossLynn Gutches-SnowdenGreg Guy & Lisa IngramCharles & Sara HaagBarry & Marilyn HaasBarbara HackKatie HaddoxDavid & Sarah HahnBrad & Katie HalleyBruce & Linda HalleyRon & Sue HalleyPatti HambleySarah HambleyJim & Merry HamiltonDave & Sandra HammondDavid & Karyl HanhilammiPaul HankeDavid HanscelCathy HansonBeth HansonJim & Portia HansonCheryl HarboldWayne & Paula HarerPatsy HarmonKatie HarperMary HarperRay & Susie HarphamRyan & Becki HarrDan & Sharon HarrisCindy HarsanyNancy HartmanJohn & Gloria HartwellCarrol HauckTom & Connie HawkPhil & Jody HawleyNancy HeathSusan & Dennis HeebinkJoan HeinPatti HeintzelmanBill & Laura HellandDick & Julie Helland

Daniela Hendrickson & Steve WingateHilda & Bill HensleyRichard & Faye HerriottDavid & Mona HettBruce & Cathie HickinConnie HieattDaniel & Kathleen HillBob & Laura HillBill & Becky HingaAlene HinshawDave & Tracy HoagJohn & Judy HobergDeborah HodgesDavid Hogrefe & Brian KempLynne HokansonSteve & Liz HolbertJudy HolcombRick & Jo HollanderTodd & Lara HolmanDavid & Debbie HolsteinMolly HoodMary Helen HopkinsRonald & Rebecca HordJerry & Gail HoskinsDavid & Lesley HothersallKathie & David HouchensBev HousemanJohn & Britten HoylePenne & William HuckleberryBarb HudsonTom & Cindy HudsonJohn & Sally HughesSusan HuhtaDeb HumphreyFred & Freda HuntLois HunterJames HutchinsLynda IrvinDarrel & Barb IrwinJudith IsaacAnn & Charles JacobChris & Susan JagersAl & Pam JamesonDon JamesonDebbie JatanaJon & Sally JaynesTom & Tina JelenRon Jenkins & Will DavisMarilyn JenningsDaniel JensenMarie JerencsikCraig & Mindy JohnsonJames & Betsy JohnsonPeggy JohnsonMark & Debbie JohnsonMartha JohnsonBob & Vicki JohnsonRon JohnsonBrian & Connie JohnstonLarry & Sarah JonausJ Thomas & Kathleen JonesJim & Amy JonesMartha JoyceBill Judy & Sue WilsonLeslie & William JunkJane KaiserBob KaithernDavid & Rose KandelTom & Geri KaparosJerry & Merci KatzMike & Jayne KaylorTony & Julie KeeferDiane KeelerCharles & Twi KeglerMarJean KellerLona KemmerlingJim & Edie KennedyKathleen Kennedy-Hatcher & Frank HatcherAlan & Megan KentJean KientzBill & Anne Kientz

(Continued, Page 7)

Some pledgers omitted by request.

January 1 - 31, 2014 7

Bob & Shirley KigerBob & Shirley KigerRobert & Joan KincerCynthia KingJo KingRollie & Anne KingScott & Allison KingsleyConnor & Sarah KinseyKris Kipp & Steve SmithJohn & Cathy KlamarKarl & Cindi KlamarFelix & Laura KlebeJoan KniesAnn KnodtKirsten KnodtCatherine KohnTim & Lynne KohrJohn & Natalie KompaScott & Susanne KondrackePaul KormanikBert & Kathryn KramMary Ann KraussBrian & Sally KriskaConnie KristoffTom LaffertyTommie LanamanTed & Kelly LapeLinda LarrimerMary LaRueMarilyn LashChristian & Donnalynn LaverAlvin LawrenceWilbur & Sonnie LawrenceJim & Jane LedmanDave LeeWarren & Barbara LeeBill & Dee Dee LeffelBarbara LeighnerSteven & Ashley LenhartKeith & Mandy LevellHall & Carolyn LilesDeborah LindsayPatti & Jeff LinkDeb LinvilleRob & Susan LittletonMartha LivingstonCurt LongCarl & Lorena LongJim & Clare LongMichael & Pamela LongBob & Laura LongRon & Nancy LongMark LouxKatie LownJoanne LynnLarry & Cynthie MacintoshJeremy & Katie MainAbby Retterer & Bo MannarinoDavid & Carolyn MarkworthJim MarshallJean MarshallChad & Karlye MartinAnne MasonTom and Donna MasonMonte & Laura MasonbrinkTony & Angie MatessaErnie & Laura MazzaferriMary & Jay McCarleyPeter McClellandJim & Michelle McClureGreg & Betsy McCollumJanet McCutcheonMary McDonaldMike McDonald & Connie WestGerald & Nancy McFeeleyRob & Karen McGormleyDennis McGuireLinda McGuireChristine McKiterickBrian Gillespie & Scott McLaughlinRoselynn McVeyStacy McVey & Ken DodsonEd MeadPriscilla MeadBill & Jane MeadPhyllis MeansWalt & Charlaine MenendianJohn & Tina MenkeMichelle MetzgerDerek & Tiffany MeyerMorris & Janice MeyerRichard & Carol MeyerRoger MeyerMark & Molly MielyMike & Betsy MielyMichael & Traci Mignery

David MillerMarcy MillerRyan & Amy MillerBette MillhonSharon MillhonJason & Camille MilliganHomer & Ila MincyMark & Sandra MisickaCameron & Molly MitchellJim & Jane MonroeTony & Jane MoogBryan Moore & Catherine CunninghamJoan MooreKay MooreBob MoreenJeanne MorrowMary MoyerJoe & Ellen MrochekDave & Lisa MuellerJoe & Bobbi MuellerJames MuhlbachBeverly MuhlenhauptJamie & Stephanie MullinsMary Ann MulroyMichelle MundyRichard & Kit MurphyBryon & Susan MurrayJoseph MyersMary Lou NackSteve & Susan NagyBill & Susan NapierAndy & Carrie NarcellesDana & Nestor NarcellesWalt & Carol NeffCarl & Linda NelsonRuthie NesterSuzanne Newcomb & Ted KessisCharlie NicholsPatty NicholsScoty & Ryan NicollMary NicollsJohn NimmerAndrew & Lauren NorelliGeorge & Linda NorrisLisa & Jeff NorrisSally NorrisMargaret NoursePaula & Steven NutiniBranson & Marisa NyeDan & Barb O'BrienPaige O'MahoneyBetty O'NeillSean & Cristin O'RiordanDoug & Missy ObergefellMary OlsonBrent & Julie OsbornLoa OttDave & Dody ParsonsConnie PatridgeWes & Karen PattersonJodi PattonSally PattonLynda & David PaulGreg & Courtney PearsonAmy & John PelzerMaureen PenmanMaggie PerkinsPaul & Colette PetersonRichard & Cindy PeytonGeraldine PfeilSheryl PfeilSandy PfeningMike PhilabaunTerry & Cydney PhilbinSybil PiermanSandra PinkhamWendy PintaErick & Beth PiscopoDoug & Cynthia PlummerLowell & Martha PolandJason Poling & Paige TurnerBruce & Denise PontiousDick & Maryann PorterSherlyn Porter & Allan DudekMarti & Steve PostMonnie PostleTed & Martha PoultonAnne Powell RileyDoug & Liz PutnamAmy & Michael RabadamBlake & Chris RafeldJessica RafeldDenny RameyMarjorie RamsayJim & Helen RandelsJohn & Ann Rarey

Steve & Cindy RasmussenBob RauchJoe & Susie RayAnita & Charles RayburnJim & Linda ReadeyJeff & Linda ReasingerLarry & Missy ReasingerDottie RectorBob & Sarah ReidDean & Judy ReinhardMark & Tricia ReischJana RelickJenny Lou RenkertAbby Retterer & Bo MannarinoBobbie ReynoldsBrian & Caryn ReynoldsDale & Julie RichardsDave Richardson & Anita SomaniDavid & Julie RickertWayne & Cheri RickertPaul RinnertMike Rish & Jackie Marchan-RishLinda RitterJanelle Criner & Emily RogersDick & Kitty RohrerJudy & Ed RossChuck & Dorothy RowlandTom & Mary Jo RubyDavid & Claudia RuedrichJoAnn RuskPaula RussellBecky RyanScott & Beth RyanStephen & Amy SalayEric & Anne SandstromJoan SantMerry Ann SaulsSam & Rita SchaadtRick & Barbara SchaalJohn & Deborah SchenerleinPaige & Gerard SchlembachKit & Christoph SchmauchGlen & Beverly SchmidtJohn SchmidtSusan SchneiterDave & Jeanne SchoedingerSteve SchoenyMargaret SchoorTed & Mary SchwartzAndrew & Kari ScottDavid & Estelle ScottJohn ScurlockCharlotte & David SearchBill & Dottie SeibertTodd & Kie SeipleRalph & Jane SetterlinSteve & Kate ShanerClaire SharyCynthia & Dennis ShawDave ShelbyAnne ShelineArt ShepardSusanne SherwoodConrad ShislerEric & Pam ShislerJennifer ShortLyle ShoverJack & Patricia ShuterTom & Sandy ShuttJean & Roger SicklesGeorge & Beth SimeonBarbara SippLuanne SkinnerElizabeth SliwinskiDave & Elaine SmithJane & George SmithLenny Smith & Ray PanderaPaul & Sarah SmithRonald SmithDrake & Leah SneedAndy & Jill SnyderJerry SnyderSandie & Todd SouthernCandi SpencerBarbara SpitzerHoward & Dace SprecherHelen & Jack St CyrLibby StearnsRichard & Barbara SteckelKassie SteegmanSteve & Debbie SteidleJeff & Laurie StevensonTom & Pamela StewartJane StoneDick StoneJoe & Missy Storer

Charles & Rachel StuartTracy StuckRick & Janet StuderFran StullScott & Diane SturgesTom & Liz SturgesRod & Ann SwearingenLajos & Willy SzaboLes Szasz & Cynthia GrayAnna TaftNick & Kathy TagliaferriBob & Donna TaitCharles & Carolyn TakosTalmage Family FoundationGlen TamplinTom & Janet TathamKurt & Priscilla TaubeMike & Sharon TaylorRobin TaylorFrank & Diane ThielmanIsaac & Katie ThielmanSam & Lauren ThomasDuke & Jill ThomasLauren ThomasTydvil ThomasMarianne ThompsonJonquil ThomsNed & Marti TimmonsDave & Barbara TingleyJerry Todaro & Barbara WatersDoug & Darian TorranceJim & Meredith TrappJim & Joy TredwayTom & Rita TrimbleMark & Katherine TuckerJim & Sandy TurnerMatt & Katy UffermanKen & Jan UnderwoodCharlie Vachris & Judy LongSheri Van CleefLoren & Cheryl Van DeusenScott Van HooserWendy VaughanJean VerwohltJoe & Sharon VescoDirk VoelkerSarah & Pete VolkerJim & Debby WaddellTerry & Donna WaggenerDick & Meg WagnerScott & Kelsey WalkerBob & Sally WandelJennifer WardCarolyn WarmoltsWalter WatkinsJennifer & Scott WeaverBonnie WebbMichael & Nan WeirJoan & Jeff WeiserMary WeismanJon WeltyAmy WentzDick & Patty WetherbeeBob & Sherri WhetzelBob & Jane WhiteTom & Liz WhiteRuth & Bill WhitehouseRuss & Jessica WiegandWynn WiksellAndrew & Caren WildmanSue WilkeCindy & Ed WilkinsLee & Julie WilkinsonJerry & Roberta WilliamsMarcia WilliamsSteve & Peggy WilliamsRick & Tamara WillimottDavid & Kelly WilsonGeorge & Cory WilsonHank & Martha WilsonBill Judy & Sue WilsonBrian & Monika WinerDick & Shirley WingNancy WithersSteve & Amy WolfGary & Rebecca WolfeDick WoodLarry Woods & Annita MeyerDonice WoosterDavid YoungerJohn & Jamy ZambitoJohn & Cheryl ZeigerJulie ZogbaumGlenn & Lois ZookMike & Mollie Zook

8 January 1 - 31, 2014

–– Cindy Harsany, Director of Finance and Operations

Financial Statement

First Community Church Financial StatementJanuary - November, 2014

YTD YTD (under)/overBudget Actual Difference

IncomePledge, Offerings, Contributions 2,106,537$ 1,803,943$ (302,594)$ Fee Supported Ministries (Akita, Preschools, Trading Post) 1,679,608$ 1,747,978$ 68,370$ Other Ministries 280,910$ 281,291$ 380$ Total Revenue 4,067,055$ 3,833,211$ (233,844)$

Expense (over)/underProgram Salaries and Benefits 1,418,043$ 1,439,448$ (21,405)$ Facilities and Administration 791,030$ 757,534$ 33,496$ Fee Supported Ministries 1,509,225$ 1,537,133$ (27,909)$ Other Ministries 553,504$ 460,434$ 93,070$ Total Expenses 4,271,802$ 4,194,550$ 77,252$

Net Revenue and Expenses (156,592)$

2015 Campaign Update

Thank you to all who have responded.

•Those pledging in 2015 who also pledged in 2014 have averaged a 10% increase in their pledge.

•76% of our goal has been reached.

•We are grateful to our Stewardship Campaign Committee who has worked hard this year making calls and developing the overall plan for our Fall Campaign. Our committee this year was Dianne Albrecht, Michael Barber, Peggy Concilla, Don Gepfert, Molly Hagkull, Cindy Harsany, Bill Mead, Bruce

Pontious, Judy Reinhard, Emily Rogers, Bob Wandel, Jason Downey, Felix Klebe and Gavin Howe. We were led by our Chairperson, Mary Ann Krauss.

First Community Church programming is made possible by the gift commitments of our congregation. If you have not pledged or contributed in other ways, we ask that you prayerfully consider including us in your charitable contributions.

2014 November Financial Report

Thank you to those who have supported First Community Church’s programs in 2014. We are truly grateful and hope that your life has been blessed.

The financial information above reflects the following:

• 2014 has been a challenging year to cover the budgeted expenses for all of our programs and we still need additional year-end contributions.

• In an effort to meet this challenge, program areas have significantly reduced expenses. Camp Akita, Mary Evans Child Development Center and our Preschool have provided additional revenue. Additional support for programs has been provided by the Foundation.

• Our year-end projection is that we will still need $150,000 in financial support to meet the budgeted income needed to pay for our programs. We are reaching out to some in our congregation and praying that others will be able to provide additional contributions this year.

January 1 - 31, 2014 9

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

On We Go Church Gifts (continued)

We Are Different

Jan and I have been members of First Community Church for 15 years. We looked for a church when I retired and landed at First Community. We wanted a church with good music and “where we could get lost and relax.” (We did well on the first one.) But little did we know that we had landed in a church which was very different from most churches and that we would thoroughly enjoy.

So how is First Community Church different? Our insistence on quality experiences of worship, music, mission, education, programs and ministry is one

major item. But we’re different most of all in our openness to a very wide range of theology and belief and a welcoming of each person’s faith journey. We are all following Jesus Christ but in a marvelous variety of ways. And that’s not being a bunch of heretics. Rather, it’s being a bunch of committed disciples (learners) and apostles (faithful witnessing people). So different are we that people who move from Columbus and First Community and seek a new church just like us find themselves totally frustrated. We may or may not be unique but we are certainly unusual and outstanding.

Most of us don’t realize how different and wonderful this church is. Yes, I’m bragging, which may not be very Christian, but we have something special in our community of faith, and we all need to work at keeping it strong and growing. My challenge to me and to you for this new year is to renew our role as apostles and work at three things:

One - To become aware of people who might enjoy something new and different in their faith journey and invite them to worship with us. Two - To urge fellow members who may have become inactive over the years to come on back and enjoy again who we are. Three - To be at First Community Church as often as possible.

Yeah, we’re different. Tell people about it. Enjoy it. And have a very happy 2015.

Heart to Heart Dick & Kitty RohrerKevin Satterfield & Barb Burgie SatterfieldAnne ShelineJack & Pat ShuterBarbara SippElizabeth SliwinskiJami & George SomerSteve & Debbie SteidleTracy StuckJoan TalmageNed & Marti TimmonsErin TomDouglas & Darian TorranceAngela Van FossenBob & Sally WandelWalter WatkinsMarilyn WenrickDonice Wooster

In Celebration of:Tuesday at 10 group Pete & Pidge Diehl Lydia Kriska Brian & Sally Kriska In Honor of:Sally Beske Angie Andjuar Missy Obergefell Lee Burges Ryan Cox Bob Burns Jill Thomas Biddie Clark Our Second Wedding anniversary on 12/12/14 Laura & Mike Elliott Lamar Graham and all the Heart to Heart volunteers Harr Family John and Judy Hoberg Deborah Linville Chet Hawley Nancy & Ron Norelli Joe Amy Wentz Jim Long Lynda & Paul In Memory of: J. Randolph Balch Jacintha Balch Dana Deshler Carol Deshler Emily Chidester Jim & Merry HamiltonRichard J. Shumaker David Holdsberry Marra Shumaker Carolyn Truxall Fred W Truxall Dorothy Baker Kay & Chuck EmrickRuth Smart Lynne Hokanson Robert Jaynes Sally & Jon Jaynes William J Morrow Jeanne V Morrow Faye and Jack Nimmer Jim, Joy & Alex Tredway John Boggs Sheri Van Cleef Roseanne Frushone Rick Willimott Jane & Mike Miller Anonymous

Missions Carolyn Casper-Duvall Marcia Early

South Campus ImprovementsIn Honor of:Rev. James Long Robert and Shirley Edler

Friends of the Homeless Lisa Norris

Deep Griha Lisa Norris

Volunteers Needed To Teach English By Carol Meyer

The Refugee Task Force is seeking women volunteers to teach survival English to young moms from Iraq and Afghanistan unable to attend regular classes because of young children. This would be a one-to-one opportunity to befriend a new arrival in their home while teaching basic vocabulary. Current needs are for refugees living in the Dublin-Hilliard area. Formally trained ESL teachers not required, we will provide hints and materials on how to get started. Call Carol Meyer for more information at 614 718.1831.

10 January 1 - 31, 2014

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 December 15, 2014)

HOSPITALIZATIONSRod Ebright Homer Mincy Brian NailleJim Readey Ruth StaubAli SteelmanLibby Switz Daughter of Erin Paider & Rob Switz

DEATHSJohn Doutt Jr. 11/13/2014 Brother of Mindy (Craig) Johnson & Christine McKiterickLois Lautzenheiser Smith 11/14/2014June Palmer 11/17/2014 Grandmother of Grant (Sandra) PalmerGisela Garbe 11/21/2014 Mother of Rose (David) Kandel Grandmother of Amy Kandel & Leah KandelJohn Martin Sullivan 11/21/2014 Brother of Jim (Lauri) SullivanDon Watson 11/21/2014 Father of Julie (Dale) Richards Grandfather of Sydney & Sarah RichardsPatricia DiSantis 11/24/2014 Mother of Missy (Doug) ObergefellLewis Franklin 11/26/2014 Father of Dave (Linda) Franklin Grandfather of Julie Franklin & Karen (Wes) PattersonHarry Egger 12/1/2014 Uncle of Pam (Wayne) Carlson Great Uncle of Tim (Erica) CarlsonAlene Hinshaw 12/7/2014John 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 Staub

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.

Beloved of God

One of the great joys of ministry is to participate in the sacrament of baptism. Whether baptizing an infant, child or adult, it is a sacred moment.

On the first Sunday after Epiphany, we will celebrate the Baptism of the Lord when the church commemorates the baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist in the River Jordan. The scriptures say that when Jesus came up out of the water, a voice was heard from heaven saying: “You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased.” (Mark 1:11)

The late Dominican priest, Henri Nouwen, said in Life of the Beloved that this is what God says about each of us when we are baptized: this is my beloved son or daughter with whom I am well pleased. In the case of children too young to make a profession of faith, the parents, godparents, and the church are committing to be there for the child to help him or her be nurtured in our faith and to come to the place where they choose to confirm the baptismal vows taken for them when they were young. In our church, this is on Block of Wood Sunday at the end of ninth grade.

I have been a godparent twice in my life; I have a godson and a goddaughter. In each case, they lived out of town as they were growing up; one in Washington, D.C. and the other in Houston, Texas. Thus, I was unable to be as much a part of their lives as I would have liked. However, I tried to remember birthdays, confirmations, holidays, graduations and other important events along the way. Last November, I was honored to officiate at my goddaughter’s wedding in Houston. It was a very special moment for me.

In our marriage ceremonies, we often say that the finest gift that you can give another person is exactly the person God created you to be. In a deep sense, this is what is being said in baptism. We as a community of faith are there to help raise and nurture each person baptized to become more fully the person God created them to be. Each person is made in the image of God, an “Original Blessing” in the words of Matthew Fox in a book by the same name. This is the underlying premise of our Early Childhood program and all programs of development in our church from cradle to grave.

It is especially meaningful for me to baptize the child of a couple for whom I officiated at their wedding. Their love has been blessed with a child for whom they will care and nurture in the faith. Their beloved son or daughter is beloved of God, as is each of us.

Peace and blessings,

January 1 - 31, 2014 11

January 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 (New Year’s Day) Numbers 6:22-27 Philippians 2:5-11 Psalm 8 Luke 2:15-21 2 Proverbs 1:1-7 James 3:13--18 3 Proverbs 1:20-33 James 4:1-10 4 (Sunday) Jeremiah 31:17-14 Ephesians 1:3-14 Psalm147:12-20 John 1:1-18 5 Proverbs 22: 1-9 Luke 6:27-31 6 (Epiphany) Isaiah 60:1-6 Ephesians 3:1-12 Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14 Matthew 2:1-12 7 Exodus 1:22-2:10 Hebrews 11:23-26 8 1 Samuel 3:1-21 Acts 9:10-19a 9 1 Samuel 16:1-13 1 Timothy 4:11-16 10 1 Kings 2:1-4, 10-12 Luke 5:1-11 11 (Baptism of the Lord) Genesis 1:1-5 Acts 19:1-7 Psalm 29 Mark 1:4-11 12 Genesis 17:1-13 Romans 4:1-12 13 Exodus 30:22-38 Acts 22:2-16 14 Isaiah 41:14-20 John 1:29-34 15 Judges 2:6-15 2 Corinthians 10: 1-11 16 Judges 2:16-23 Acts 13:16-25 17 1 Samuel 2:21-25 Matthew 25:1-13 18 (Sunday) 1 Samuel 3:1-20 1 Corinthians 6:12-20 Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18 John 1:43-51 19 1 Samuel 9:27-10:8 2 Corinthians 6:14-7:1 20 1 Samuel 15:10-31 Acts 5:1-11 21 Genesis 16:1-14 Luke 18:15-17 22 Jeremiah 19:1-15 Revelation 18:11-20 23 Jeremiah 20:7-13 2 Peter 3:1-7 24 Jeremiah 20:14-18 Luke 10:13-16 25 (Sunday) Jonah 3:1-5, 10 1 Corinthians 7:29-31 Psalm 62:5-12 Mark 1:14-20 26 Genesis 12:1-9 1 Corinthians 7:17-24 27 Genesis 45:25-46:7 Acts 5:33-42 28 Proverbs 8:1-21 Mark 3:13-19a 29 Deuteronomy 3:23-29 Romans 9:6-18 30 Deuteronomy 12:28-32 Revelation 2:12-17 31 Deuteronomy 13:1-5 Matthew 8:28-9:1

The Busy Person’s Retreat - An Introduction to Spiritual DirectionJanuary 11, 18, and 25, 2 - 4 pmBurkhart Chapel, South Campus Cost - $100

Many people are aware of spiritual direction or guidance as a spiritual discipline, but do not know much about it or how to engage a spiritual director.

The Spirituality Network and First Community Church are co-sponsoring an opportunity to be introduced to spiritual direction in three afternoon sessions over a three week period.

The sessions will begin in Burkhart Chapel in a general session, and then will break out into individual sessions with a spiritual director from the Network or Church.

They are on three Sundays (January 11, 18, and 25) from 2-4, and each person will be matched with a director based on information given on their registration form.

This would be an ideal way to learn more about spiritual direction. For more information, see the complete article on page 14 of the December firstnews Monthly or call Jim Long at 614 488.0681ext. 240.

You can register by calling Kathy Weatherby in the Pastoral Care Office at ext. 239.

Heart to Heart Food Pantry TotalsFor November 2014:

Food Collected at South = 526 lbs.Food Collected at North = 229 lbs.Food Collected at Annex = 210 lbs.Food Purchased at MOFB* = 12,214 lbs.Unique Volunteers in August = 40

Households served .........................366Individuals served ........................1,244 Children served ...........................457 Adults served ...............................641 Seniors served .............................146Meals provided ..........................11,196

Year-to-Date:

Households served ......................2,952Individuals served ........................8,154 Children served ........................4,169 Adults served ............................3,338 Seniors served .............................860Meals provided ..........................75,924

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

*Mid-Ohio Foodbank

12 January 1 - 31, 2014

The Infinite Quest

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

The Divine Manifestation

Every being is an abode of God, worthy of respect and reverence.

--Hindu Scripture

I believe that the truth of Jesus, the man, and the truth of Christ, the divine creative energy within us and within our world was, and is, an evolution of consciousness, making it possible that each person might grow to live as unique expressions of their divine nature.

“We are in the midst of another transformation of consciousness,” said spiritual psychologist Edward Edinger, like the one that brought Jesus into being. In the original Jesus-experience, Edinger said, “Christ was the first attempt of the God-image to incarnate and transform itself.” But in our time, an expanded manifestation of the divine is taking place: “Now, the second time around, humanity as a whole and not just one person is going to be the subject of that process. … God is incarnating in humanity as a whole.” Such an understanding comes closer to unlocking the myth of the “Second Coming.”

I’m reading now about the French theologian Henry Corbin, who devoted his life to studying Islamic mysticism. One of Corbin’s prime teachings was something called “angelology.” Roughly stated, he revisions the Sufi concept that each human being has his or her own unique angelic “archetype” that is drawing the human person into understanding his or her divine nature. The pull of this angel is not for us leave this world, but rather to integrate our humanness with our natural divinity. Some Sufis also have the concept that we have an angelic soul along with our earthy “animal” soul and that the goal of religious life is to integrate our animal and angel souls so that our drives and desires spring forth from our true nature—our deepest nature--our godly nature.

Among other elements, to follow the pathway of Jesus means discovering practices that allow us to reconnect with this basic “godness.” This divine, living, dynamic essence, which is the stuff of which we and the universe are made, brings the freshness and joy and abundance possible in each and every moment with a continual “resurrection” to new life.

If you knew yourself for even one moment,If you could just glimpse your most beautiful face,

Maybe you wouldn’t slumber so deeply in that house of clay.Why not move into your house of joy

And shine into every crevice!For you are the secret Treasure-bearer, and always have been.

Didn’t you know? --Rumi

Shalom,

2015 Spiritual Salon Series: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. Throughout the year, we will explore some of the other religious traditions in the metro area, some familiar and others not as familiar.

In April, we will hear from Dr. Jiten Ruparel, former professor at both Otterbein University and Ohio State University about the expressions of Hinduism in the United States. Dr. Ruparel was a popular presenter at last year’s Bollywood festival at the church.

To explore the Jewish tradition, Rabbi Rick Kellner from Congregation Beth Tikvah will present a lecture in June.

Speakers from other faith traditions will present lecture-discussions in the fall. All these talks will be held in Brownlee Hall, South Campus, and are open to the public. A free-will offering is taken at each lecture to support these adult learning programs.

January 1 - 31, 2014 13

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 SeminarThe class will resume on January 11, with John Dominic’s Crossans’ Challenge of Jesus. This is a video based study, so no advance preparation is necessary. Each session begins with a short video followed by discussion led by members of the Adult Learning Council. Please join us for stimulating conversations on Sunday mornings.

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

Resume on January 11

Tuesday at TenIn January the class will begin to examine the concept of “Sacred Space,” using video, personal experience and discussion to probe many questions around the meaning, activities and creation regarding sacred space (extended description elsewhere in this newsletter). Dr. William H. Cook, a specialist in medieval and Renaissance history with an emphasis on the history of Christianity, is our primary video lecturer, with discussion facilitated by Walter Watkins and Pete and Pidge Diehl. All are welcome, old, new, male, female!

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

Resume on January 13

Men’s Study GroupWe will be exploring the Book of Amos, the first biblical prophetic book written in the Hebrew Bible. 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 FellowshipPresentations and discussion of leading-edge topics. Ends promptly at 8 am.

Wednesdays, 7 – 8 amBrownlee Hall, South Campus

Women Living the QuestionsIn 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 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 amWicker Room, South Campus

Resume on January 7

Wednesday Evening Bible StudyA 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 1A time of sacred reading--Teresa of Avila’s Interior Castle; 30-minute meditation time; reflection & discussion. Facilitated by Rev. David Hett and other spiritual directors. Free-will offering. New participants welcome.

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

Faith & ReasonContinuing our study based on the video The Challenge of Jesus by John Dominic Crossan. Each session begins with a 15-18 minute video, so no advance prep is necessary. Just come and join a discussion that will add to your knowledge of history, and your understanding of the early Jesus movement. Facilitated by Walter Watkins, Adult Education Coordinator.

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

Resume on January 15

Saturday Morning Contemplative Way GroupSacred 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. New participants welcome.

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

14 January 1 - 31, 2014

Story of the Weeping Camel Next for Film Discussion Group

Friday, January 96 pm gathering & pizza 6:30 pm Film BeginsWicker Room, South Campus In 2015, the Adult Learning Council’s Film Discussion Group moves to the second Friday ofeach month, and begins the year with The Story of the Weeping Camel, on January 9, starting at 6 pm with pizza, the 93-minute film shown beginning at 6:30 pm, with discussion following led by Gail Evans.

The Story of the Weeping Camel is a beautifully photographed film documenting a few days in the life of a small Mongolian family of goat and sheep herders living on the Gobi desert. Their principal mode of transportation is by camel. One of the camels has rejected her colt and resists everyone’s loving attempts to encourage her. The resulting solution is amazing and heart-warming.

All are invited to view this unusual film involving a contemporary family from a very different culture. Please call or email Gail Evans if you are coming and whether you are having pizza, or have other questions at 614 449.1049 or gaillloyd@aol.com

Explore ‘Sacred Space’ Tuesday at TenTuesdays, beginning January 1310 – 11:30 amWicker Room, South Campus

The Tuesday at Ten discussion group, free and open to anyone interested, begins a new 2015 series that will explore the concept of “Sacred Space.”

Many questions around sacred space are to be explored, including:

• Sacred to whom? Historically? Traditionally? Personally?

• Are there “thin places?” • What happens when one

religion’s sacred space belongs to another religion?

• What does architecture tell us about the space?

• What is appropriate/inappropriate behavior in a sacred space? Is that the same or different from respectful/disrespectful?

• What activities belong in sacred space?

• What things may be brought into sacred space? Cameras? Guns?

• Is sacred space the same as sacred time? Living in the Now? Being Present?

• How can I move into sacred space? What do I do? Pray? Meditate? Be with others? Use of metaphor?

• Is my sacred space the same or different from yours?

• Can I be in sacred space without realizing it? Is that good or bad?

We will use video, primarily from Dr. William H. Cook, a specialist in medieval and Renaissance history with an emphasis on the history of Christianity. Walter Watkins, Pete and Pidge Diehl will facilitate the series.

Contact Walter Watkins, Adult Education Coordinator, at wwatkins@FCchurch.com or at 614 488.0681 ext 130.

Women’s Emerging: Joining Together to Nurture Seeds of New LifeSaturday, January 31, 9 am – 2 pmSouth Campus

Join us to make new friends and/or rekindle connections from previous women’s retreats.

The darkest days of winter have past, life energy is quickening and the earth is turning towards spring. Together we will learn about St. Brigit’s Day, the pre-Christian Celtic holiday, Imbolc, and how our relationship to the seasons can support us through life transitions. We will look for signs of spring as we walk meditatively, engage in chant, and set our intentions and decorate special boxes in which to hold them. There will also be time for a potluck brunch and sharing.

All women are welcome to enjoy this day of renewal, whether or not having ever attended a women’s retreat. A $20 fee covers supplies and professional services. Please dress for the weather and come with a dish to share for the brunch potluck.

Register online at FCchurch.com/womens-retreat-day-of-renewal/ or call the Religious Life & Learning Office 614 488.0681 ext. 151 (voicemail only). Email Natalia at njones@FCchurch.com or leave a message.

January 1 - 31, 2014 15

January Events at the Center for Spiritual Search The Center for Spiritual Search presents two opportunities for growth in January:

Rohr-Finley-Bourgeault Video Panel DiscussionWednesday, January 21, 7 – 9 pmWicker Room, South Campus

The Center hosts a replay of a December 2014 webcast featuring The Living School faculty, Cynthia Bourgeault, James Finley and Richard Rohr in a panel discussion on the theme, Is There Another Way? Teaching an Alternative Orthodoxy within the Christian Tradition. In conversation with each other and in response to participant questions, they’ll explore what it means to offer a different, but nevertheless “orthodox” way to think about and practice the Christian faith.

“Although the wisdom and mystical traditions have primarily been seen as peripheral to mainline Christianity,” says Richard Rohr, “we want to talk about what happens when we put them front and center. Can they bring hope and healing to a world and church that seem stuck in negativity and suffering? Can teaching such seeming foolishness—nondual thinking and humble action—actually transform lives?

Pre-registration is requested for this event online at FCchurch.com/2014/12/rohr-finley-bourgeault-video-panel-discussion by email at njones@FCchurch.com, or voicemail at 614.488-0681, ext. 151. (Registrations will be accepted at the door, however.) A free-will offering supporting the Center for Spiritual Search will be taken at the door.

Using the Head, Heart and Belly In Spiritual Exploration

Saturdays, January 10 & 24 and February 79:30 am – 12:30 pmWicker Room, South Campus

Sandra Maitri, author of The Spiritual Dimension of the Enneagram, and a senior teacher in the psychological-spiritual Work school, the Diamond Approach, gave three webinars on utilizing the three traditional spiritual centers—the head, the heart, and the belly—in the spiritual practice of inquiry, a personal exploration into one’s spiritual development.

Rev. David Hett, a senior Diamond Approach student, will show the video downloads of these three teachings by Sandra Maitri in this 3 week series. Each week, she gives a 40-60 minute teaching on one of the centers, also often

Bishop John Shelby Spong

Lectures, Discussion, Sunday Sermon with “An Authoritative Voice for Believers in Exile”

For those seeking to experience Christianity in a new and vibrant way, emeritus Episcopal Bishop John

Shelby Spong offers fresh spiritual ideas. Over the past four decades, he has become one of the definitive voices for progressive Christianity. For Christianity to emerge healthy in the 21st Century, he calls for a new definition of God and religion:

“God will no longer be understood as a supernatural being, who invades the world miraculously from some-where outside it. God will rather be perceived as the Source of Life calling us to live fully, the Source of Love freeing us to love wastefully and as the Ground of Being empowering us to be all that each of us can be. That is the God presence that I find in Jesus and that is why he calls me to step beyond even the boundaries of religion. Increasingly, God is for me a verb to be lived and not a noun to be defined.”

Author:• The Fourth Gospel: Tales of a Jewish Mystic• Re-Claiming the Bible for a Non-Religious World• Why Christianity Must Change Or Die• Eternal Life: A New Vision Beyond Religion, Beyond

Theism, Beyond Heaven and Hell

spiritual searcher

March 6-8, 2015

More details at: FCchurch.com/spong

called the Thinking Center, the Feeling Center, and the Body Center. She discusses how these centers can be utilized in spiritual exploration.

Each week’s session will include a 20-minute meditation, Sandra’s teaching, a time to engage in the practice, and discussion from the webinar audience as well as our own question and answer time.

Pre-registration is requested for this event online at FCchurch.com/2014/12/exploration, by email at njones@FCchurch.com, or voicemail at 614.488-0681, ext. 151. (Registrations will be accepted at the door, however.) A free-will offering supporting the Center for Spiritual Search will be taken at the door each session.

16 January 1 - 31, 2014

Ronald J. AdamsFloyd & Dorothy ArledgeSusan C. ArmstrongVirginia B. ArmstrongWarren A. ArmstrongWarren C. ArmstrongMary Ann ArthurPaul I. BainbridgeTillie BainbridgeDorothy BakerWilliam BakerJ. Randolph BalchAllen BenoitJames H. BighamMary White BillingsScott BillingsK. Spencer BillmanEd & Martha BinderDavid H. BlairWilliam R. BradleyHoward R. Brehmer, Sr.Howard R. “Skip” Brehmer, Jr.Lila & Mel BrewerCarolyn & Charles BrooksClara BrushGeorge BrushGeorge Nitschke BrushRalph Burges, Jr.Ralph & Violet BurgesDr. Roy A. & Hazel BurkhartDr. William E. BurkhartGeorge ByrdMillard F.W. ByrneNancy H.W. ByrneCraig R. CampbellDuncan H. (Butch) CampbellDebby CampbellKathryn A. CampbellRussell H. CampbellJohn J. “Jack” CannellMichael J. “Mickey” CannellArt CecilEdward (Ted) Clark, Jr.Thomas CoadyPeggy CollinsJo & John ConklinRev. Richard J. ConradJudith K. CoonfareWilliam E. Copeland, Jr., M.D.William E. Copeland, Sr., M.D.Chad & Annette CountissElizabeth Theis CourtrightThurman Thomas CourtrightJohn E. CoventryDorence S. “Doc” CowlesJulie CowlesAmy CraverCynthia CraverDolores CrawfordRay, Maxine, & Helen CumminsLeonard & Martha DavidekBill & Jane DavisIsabelle DavisMary Lea DavisMaynard & Eleanor DavisJohn & Jean DavisGinnie Perry DavisHarold & Lillian DayDavid D. DemojzesDavid DewDolly DewJeff DewClifford & Jean DiehlMozelle DiehlElla Kathaleen DimesCharles E. DobkinsKeith & Beverly DoellingerJim & Jean DonesJohn & Loreen DorseyAnn Walsh Dountz

Fred DountzCatherine DrazicDean DuggerEthel DuggerWendy EdwardsRobert EsmondJack C. EvansLloyd EvansCatherine EwingWilliam E. Ewing, Jr.Charles & Jeanne FeldpauschAl & Evalyn FendrickWesley & Edna FiantDon FlickNed & Peg FlickJoyce L. FortneyMary & Eugene FouseRobert Henry FoxElizabeth & Kurt FranckBilly FrederickJames B. FrickLee W. Funk, Jr.Louise D. FunkJim & Maxine GardnerBetty & John P. Garvin, M.D.Lesley GardnerNorman & Lucille GatschBenjamin & Eileen GehringKaren GlazeLinda GodbyBruce & Helen GonserGeorge D. GordonMiriam M. GordonMary Lou GossardLida J. GriffithRobert HaagDan & Marjorie HaagRoy HaddoxBenjamin Thomas HallPeggy A. HanhilammiPaul A. & Frances Virginia HankeJohn HartmanVirginia “Fritzi” HartmanRuth E. HeatonRobert Roderick HenryWilliam D. Henry, Jr.Joyce HensleyBrenda S. HillKenneth I. HittleRoma J. HittleRobert & Louise HoagDr. Donald E. HoffmanArthur & Eleanor HooverMartin E. HowellAnna HowlandBill & Betty HutchinsMarsha HutchinsMargaret & Andrew JackJudy IrelanRussell C. & Mary L. JamesPaul & Charlotte JenkinsByron J. JohnsonHuldah A. JohnsonLela JonesLynne Shepard JonesMr. & Mrs. Ralph E. JonesPauline & Reg KaithernRand Hamilton KampmeierLeo & Betty KaylorMarsha KeeferJeff KeelerGrandma Jo Ann KelleyFrank & Polly KennardRalph KiddHarriet KirkpatrickAunt Kitty & Uncle WardDietmar W. KnodtFred & Kewell KraussWilliam Robert KraussBill Lanier

Fern LauberHenry W. LauberDr. Philip A. LauberVance LeCroneHerb & Betty LedmanKaren G. LeeC.J. LeifeldLewis J. LemleyJoyce A. LemleyPhilip LerschEugene F. LetcherLauren Nicole LevellAnn LindsayJohnnie O. LomaxJan LongJim & Betty LongJim & Jeretta LongMabel D. & Wilfrid E. MacDonaldHarold & Helen MackensenMildred MahoneyAlan John MarkworthIsabel Duncan McCoyJohn Dent McCutcheon IIIEugene McVeyKeith E. McVeyBill MeeksRaymond & Mildred MeyerRick MeyerJeff MillerMolly MillerSalo MillerMr. & Mrs. Wm. Jacob Miller Mary & Arden MillisorAlice Missildine-KeilW. Hugh MissildineArthur F. MitchellLetha Lea MitchellPauline MitchellNelda F. MooreMarv & Sunny MooreheadRobert J. & Martha R. MorrisChuck MundyJeff MurrayBob & Phyllis MurphyLink & Martha MurphyWilliam & Martha NapierAlfred A. & Ruth W. NeffJohn NeffRobert A. NeffMr. & Mrs. Roger NelsonCatharine NicholsRevs. Josephine Z. & Charles S. NicholsMargaret M. NicholsYoshino M. NicholsCarl & Sybil NorrisC.William O'NeillClarice OwenMyrna H. PackardDean W. PalmerJune S. PalmerJudith Ann ParsonsSally PapeBob PatridgeMary Elizabeth PatridgeDr. Richard PattonIsabelle T. PearceRobert & Susan PearsonDr. Claude & Jo PerryFerd M. Pickens IIDorothy Sandles PiermanPutnam Sandles Pierman, Sr.Thomas PokorskiDonald PontiousPatricia PontiousSamuel Preston PontiousBarbara Varin PriestRobert PriestDavid & Nancy PutnamDon & Carolyn QueenRobert & Ellen Quigg

Margaret Gordon RainesNancy C. RamseyJoseph RatajczakLarry RiceEvelyn & Chester RileyLowell & Beth RileyMary & Ralph RohrerElisa C. RossiSinclair & Marguerite RusselDan RussellDr. & Mrs. Carl R. RyanNicholas SauerBob & Vivian SchmidtJean B. SelbyPaul SelbyKathy SelsorCatherine & Ralph SetterlinSteven John SetterlinJan ShelbyBeatrice ShepardJim SippCourtney Lea SmithMolly SmithArt & Adele SnashallMarjorie SnoufferBill & Juanita SnyderBob & Dottie SnyderLinda Marie SnyderMary Lou SnyderThurman & Florence SnyderWilliam T. SnyderCurtis “Pete” SohlIsabel & William SpencerDorothy & Ginny SpottsWalter SpottsPaul W. StearnsBill & Page StewartW. Wallace & Virginia StoverTodd SullivanAmy Jo SuttonThomas Harold SwearingenViolet Vivian SwearingenScott & Mary Jane SwinehartGeorge & Helen TalmageJohn W. & Patricia TicknerJohn W. & Albert K. TownsendPaul L. VanCleefSharon VarnellMr. & Mrs. Hollis B. VaughanPhilip B. VaughanStephen B. VaughanBill VerwohltBernard & Rita WaggenerHenry & Martha WagnerJerry WalshWilliam & Emily WandelCharlotte H. WatersJohn O. WatersGale WeismanCarol WetherillJohn Robert WetmoreJane Elinor WeyrichHarry Robert WeyrichBernese E. WhiteRobert L. WhiteMr. & Mrs. Bob WhitelyGeorge & Helen WilliamsJeff WilliamsWarren & Gladys WilliamsHelen WilsonJohn & Kay WintersDick WitterMargaret D. WoodAndrew WoodsDavid E. & Helen E. YoungMary Miller YoungRuth & Bob YoungFronnie S. ZookJohn J. Zook, Jr.Sarah A. Zook

Christmas MemorialsWe remember before God all those who rejoice with us, but upon another shore, and in a greater light, that multitude which no one can number, whose hope was in the Word made flesh, and with whom in the Lord Jesus we are one forevermore.

January 1 - 31, 2014 17

Trading Post ‘Snow’ Much FunJanuary brings cold weather to the area – but you can stay cozy and warm with gloves, scarves, hats and coats from Tri-Village Trading Post. We have an entire display dedicated to these sweet necessities in all colors, patterns and sizes.

Our snow and ice theme will continue with beautiful cobalt blue accessories we received. It’s fun to change out some home décor without breaking your budget. A few new inexpensive finds can brighten up your wintry spirit.

Also for winter indoor enjoyment, we would encourage you to try out a new jigsaw puzzle. It is instant entertainment for all who come to your house. Just have one out on the table for people to stop and put a few pieces in while you are dishing up the food.

As always, whenever you are thinking of cleaning out kitchen cupboards, toy bins, closets or basements remember the Trading Post for your donations. We will gladly provide you with a tax donation slip. Your donations provide “bottom line” money for our church and mission efforts. Donations are accepted every day from 10 am-4 pm or you can drop things off at donation bins located at either campus.

Heart To Heart Meets Match By Lamar Graham

Due to your care for our beloved community, I’m more than happy to say we have reached our goal of matching our $20,000 gift. However, because of your true generosity, not only did we reached our goal, but we exceeded it by $10,000.

As you can imagine, we are challenged during the holiday season to meet the growing need of people needing sustenance. For instance, this year for the month of November we saw a total of 366 clients which equated to 1,243 individuals which resulted in 11,187 meals being provided in one month. In November 2013, we served a total of 311 individuals with a total of 888 individuals which resulted in 7,740 meals being provided. With that being said, this great gift could not have come at a more perfect time.

As we move into 2015, I’m excited to announce we will continue to serve nourishment. We are also excited to continue signing our clients up for health care insurance, carrying-out cooking demonstrations, having employee/employer town-hall meetings, and of course continuing to build our beloved community through fellowship.

Finally, let me thank my awesome team. Amy Caskie is the driving force behind organizing every meeting and seeing to it that I stay on my “A game.” Lastly, the wonderful Rev. Kate Shaner is one of the greatest storytellers I’ve ever heard. She has an institution like no other, being able to relate with everyone allowing everyone to feel the passion of giving and caring for one another. To the fantastic staff and supporters of First Community Church, thank you.

Volunteer Spotlight By Helen Vivian

First 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.

Meet Jason Poling K-5 Midweek Missions Program

You can usually find Jason: Volunteering on Wednesday evenings for Midweek Missions or at the 9:45 am North Campus service.

Why Jason volunteers: “Volunteering at Midweek Missions afforded me the ability to get to know my church family, especially the church peers of my children and their parents, more in-depth. It has given me the joy and satisfaction of witnessing and, in a small way, participating in the spiritual development of my family. I find it a rewarding and important part of my life.”

What Julie Richards, our Midweek Missions coordinator, has to say about Jason: “I met Jason Poling on my very first night of working with Midweek Missions. Kids I didn’t know were coming into the room when Jason walked in and asked if he could do anything to help.

He immediately jumped in and started helping with attendance and supporting the children during our project. Jason continued to help wherever needed at Midweek every night we had it. He and his wife also started volunteering in Sunday School. I knew I could consistently count on him, which meant a lot to me during my first year in this position.”

“Before the program began this year I had a meeting with parents to explain the changes I was making and to ask for volunteers. Jason immediately volunteered to manage Wednesday night pizza. He has taken over the job of picking up the pizzas and serving the meal to 50 kids each week. He coordinates and recruits other parents to regularly help out as well.

He even brings really great pizza service utensils from his own home. As anyone can imagine, managing a weekly dinner of that size is quite a bit of work. I am thankful for Jason. He is a laid back, nice guy who goes above and beyond the call of duty by helping out Midweek Missions whenever and wherever he is needed. We couldn’t do it without him.”

Do you know of an outstanding volunteer that should be featured in firstnews Monthly? Please contact Helen Vivian, First Community’s Volunteer Development Coordinator, at hvivian@FCchurch.com to submit a nomination.

18 January 1 - 31, 2014

Amy PelzerAmy is the Division Administrator at OSU Wexner Medical Center. She joined the church in April of 2007. She served on the Service Board as a

member and Chair, and was a member of Friendship Circle #85 and Women’s Guild Group D. She has also served as an usher.

Sandy PfeningSandy has been a member at First Community since February 20, 1977. She has previously been on the Governing Board,

Service Board, Adult Learning Council, Spiritual Searcher Committee and a member and Chair of Akita Council. Sandy has also participated in Tuesday at Ten and FCC Centennial Cornerstone openings and displays. She was a part of the Foundation Heritage Society and a representative of Honoring our Heritage. In the community, Sandy has been involved in the Jung Assn. of Central Ohio and formerly served on Wellington School Board.

Chris PottsChris joined the church in 2001. He works as the Executive Director of Business Services and Human Resources for Upper Arlington

City Schools. In church, Chris was a part of the North Campus Design Committee Focus Group and was on staff at Camp Akita as a counselor and as the Adventure Program Director. He has been a leader of the Block of Wood class, High School class and on the Mexico Trip. In the community, Chris was a member on the Upper Arlington Chamber Board, on the Denison University Athletic Board of Trustees, Co-Chair of the Taste of UA Logistics and member of the Tri-Village Rotary.

Ron GardnerRon became a member of First Community Church in May of 1981. He works as the Librarian/Sales Consultant at OCLC in Dublin

and has worked with the American Library Association and other state and regional programs with libraries throughout the US. He is a current member of Friendship Circle #28 and participates in Friends of the Homeless. He is in the Chancel Choir and the past chair of the Worship and Arts Council. Ron also was a representative for Honoring our Heritage and a member and Chair of the Board of Deacons. He has previously been on the Nominating Committee. Ron was a volunteer at OCLC with annual United Way fund drive and Mid-Ohio Foodbank fund drive.

Bill MeadBill joined First Community Church June 3, 1979. He works as President of a golf car company. He has been on the Board of Deacons and

served two terms on the Nominating Committee, once as Chair. Bill participated as a member on the K-12 Council and as an Usher. Bill has also been on several Mission Trips to Mexico. He is currently on the 2015 EveryOne Stewardship Committee. In the community, he is involved in the Pi Kappa Alpha alumni association.

2015 Governing Board Candidates

Save the DateAnnual Meeting

Sunday, February 1 Grace Hall, North Campus

Check FCchurch.comfor details.

2015 Nominating Committee CandidatesCydney PhilbinSandy TurnerTracy StuckKathy TagliaferriBrian GillespieSusan BrooksHeidi OrsiniLinda SheppardCindi KlamarJamie GreeneBarb BurgieConnie Hieatt

Board of Deacon Canditates for 2015

2015 Board of Deacon Canditates will be announced at the Annual

Meeting, February 1.

Gavin HoweBrad HalleyScott WalkerDiane AlbrechtMolly HagkullFelix KlebeDenise PontiousJon WeltyCarolyn BargerFelicia WilsonBecky HarrLeah Miller Thrush

January 1 - 31, 2014 19

Meals for MissionPlease join the First Community Church family in support of our youth as they prepare to travel to Mexico to build houses for those in need.

Instead of worrying about what to make for dinner, use the coupons here and have someone else cook for you. Restaurants are donating a portion of their sales to our Mexico Mission Trip. If you can't make it out for dinner, but would still like to make a donation to the trip, please contact Tim Carlson at tcarlson@campakita.org or 614 488.0681 ext 105.

First Community Church Youth CouncilMeals for the Mission Fundraiser

Bring this coupon with you for lunch or dinner onJanuary 13, 14 or 15, 2015

and Carsonie’s will donate 20% of your purchase to the First Community Church Youth Mission Trip

Good for lunch & dinner, dine-in or take-out.

1725 West Lane Ave.Upper Arlington614 481.5555

First Community Church Youth CouncilMeals for the Mission Fundraiser

Bring this coupon with you for lunch or dinner onMonday, February 2

and Old Bag of Nails will donate 10% of your purchase to the First Community Church Youth Mission Trip.

Good for lunch & dinner, dine-in or take-out.

2102 Tremont CenterUpper Arlington

Upper Arlington • 2111 W. Henderson Rd., Columbus, OH 43220

First Community Church Youth Council

Meals for the Mission FundraiserBring this coupon with you for lunch or dinner on

Monday, January 26and City Barbeque will donate 25% of your purchase

to the First Community Church Youth Mission Trip

Good for lunch and dinner, dine-in and carry-out orders.Note: If ordering carry out for large groups, please use our Pig Up ‘n Go Menu.

Check out our menus and Order Online at www.citybbq.com

Coupon cannot be passed out on City Barbeque property. Fundraiser cannot be combined with other promotions or offers.

Not valid on gift card purchases.

We look forward to serving you to help raise money for your organization!

Sale Amt:$ _______

Coupon must by presented at time of order to receive

credit for the sale.

These are not paid advertisements.

fundraising isas easy as

ordering a pizza!Come join friends and supporters for

First Community Church’s “DOUGH” Day

SUnDay, FebrUary 8tH

From 11 a.m. to Midnight, the Donatos locations listed below will donate 20% of all Dine-In, Pick-Up, & Delivery orders to help

First Community Church raise money for their mission trip.Please give this flyer to your delivery driver.

Grandview 1612 Northwest Blvd. 486-5363

Upper Arlington 3000 Northwest Blvd. 340-0905

Mill Run 3703 Fishinger Blvd. 921-1800

Hilliard North 3817 N. Main St. 876-4444

Hilliard South 1730 Hilliard Rome Rd. 529-7200

Kenny & Henderson 4515 Kenny Rd. 459-9523

Bethel Road 2522 Bethel Rd. 442-8666

fundraising isas easy as

ordering a pizza!Come join friends and supporters for

First Community Church’s “DOUGH” Day

SUnDay, FebrUary 8tH

From 11 a.m. to Midnight, the Donatos locations listed below will donate 20% of all Dine-In, Pick-Up, & Delivery orders to help

First Community Church raise money for their mission trip.Please give this flyer to your delivery driver.

Grandview 1612 Northwest Blvd. 486-5363

Upper Arlington 3000 Northwest Blvd. 340-0905

Mill Run 3703 Fishinger Blvd. 921-1800

Hilliard North 3817 N. Main St. 876-4444

Hilliard South 1730 Hilliard Rome Rd. 529-7200

Kenny & Henderson 4515 Kenny Rd. 459-9523

Bethel Road 2522 Bethel Rd. 442-8666

20 January 1 - 31, 2014

Looking Ahead, Akita Style By Tim Carlson

The coldest days of the year are upon us and there is a lot to love about this winter season: snow days, sledding, cozy fires, glimmering icicles on the trees or a hot cup of coffee. As much as we love winter though, it’s also time to start thinking about summer at Akita. There’s a lot to be excited about.

Picture yourself sliding down the wet willie waterslides, making up goofy skits with your cabinmates, laughing and bonding with your counselors and feeling unconditionally loved by everyone around you. This year, we have increased the number of summer camp sessions to make sure even more campers can have the best days of their summer.

In addition to summer camp, we also have Akita Backcountry, an exciting program where campers learn outdoor skills such as canoeing, climbing, fishing, navigation, hiking, archery, campfire cooking, water purification, plant and animal identification and survival skills. Akita Backcountry is a relaxed program with small group sizes, so campers will form close bonds with each other as they work together to solve problems or chat over a cozy campfire.

Another option is L.I.F.E. Guard, a service-based Akita experience in which campers perform much of the behind-the-scenes work that enables camp to run so smoothly. They also have plenty of time in their own smaller community to talk with their counselors about the work they are doing or just about life as a high schooler.

Families can also enjoy Akita together at Family Camp, where we provide a great balance of family time, kid interaction, adult socializing, crazy fun, and the stillness of a spiritual retreat. We have free babysitters during morning activities and after bedtime.

It’s gearing up to be a great camp season, and we need you to be a part of it. Make sure your summer plans include Camp Akita.

Member registration for Summer 2015 at Camp Akita begins January 12.

Non-member registration begins two weeks later.

Visit campakita.org/summer.

For information, contact Tim Carlson at tcarlson@campakita.org

CAMP SESSIONS DATES

9th - 12th Grades/Recent Grads Session 1 June 5 - 11

8th/9th/10th Grades Session 7 July 12 - 18

7th/8th Grades Session 4 June 22 - 27 Session 6 July 6 - 11 Session 9 July 23 - 28 Session 11 August 4 - 9

5th/6th Grades Session 2 June 12 - 16 Session 5 June 28 - July 2 Session 10 July 30 - August 2 Session 12 August 10 - 14

3rd/4th Grades Session 3 June 17 - 19 Session 8 July 19 - 22 Session 13 August 15 - 17

Family Camp September 4 - 7

L.I.F.E. GUARD DATES

2015 Graduates Session A June 5 - 19

10th - 12th Grades/2015 Graduates Session B June 22 - July 2 Session C July 6 - 18 Session D July 19 - 28 Session E July 30 - August 9 Session F August 10 - 17

BACKCOUNTRY DATES

9th - 12th Grades/2015 Graduates Session B1 June 13 - 18 Session B4 July 6 - 11 Session B5 July 12 - 17

6th - 9th Grades Session B2 June 22 - 26 Session B3 June 28 - July 2 Session B6 July 23 - 27 Session B7 July 30 - August 3

January 1 - 31, 2014 21

CMEMBERSHIP SUNDAY

8:30 am • Burkhart Chapel, SC - Dr. Lindsay 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. Baumer 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, Junior Choir

8:30 am • Burkhart Chapel, SC - Rev. Shaner preaching8:30 am • Grace Hall, NC - Dr. Wing preaching Whitechapel Ringers9:45 am • Grace Hall, NC - Dr. Wing preaching Whitechapel Ringers11 am • Sanctuary, SC - Dr. Wing preaching Chancel Choir

8:30 am • Burkhart Chapel, SC - Rev. Hett preaching8:30 am • Grace Hall, NC - Dr. Wing preaching9:45 am • Grace Hall, NC - Dr. Wing preaching Chancel Chamber Choir, MS & HS Vocal Ensemble11 am • Sanctuary, SC - Dr. Wing preaching Chancel Choir

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 Chamber Choir11 am • Sanctuary, SC - Dr. Wing preaching Columbus School for Girls 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

BAPTISMS

4

11

18

25

1

COMMUNION/EPIPHANY

A

B

B

C

THIRD-GRADE BIBLES

Women’s Guild By Jill Eliot

First chapter in 2015, “Old cookbooks connect you to your past and explain the history of the world,” quote from Jose’ Andres Puerta. Thus using old and new cookbook recipes of love, service, happiness, joy, loyalty, sharing and caring, the Women’s Guild will kick-off 2015 with the annual Soup and Casserole Sale on Sunday, January 18. This is a wonderful opportunity to treat your family to a hearty meal on a cold day. The sale will take place after services at both campuses.

Bring cash or checkbook. Ladies providing food items are asked to include an ingredient list with each item. Soups and casseroles may be dropped off ahead of Sunday services, but must be frozen. Proceeds from the sale will benefit the many Women’s Guild missions.

The next chapter is the “We Love You” luncheon for the staff in February. More details in February’s firstnews Monthly.

Meet Group D, Determined and Dedicated Women

Group D was established in 2008 with three members. The women wanted a group where service was the focus. Group D has now grown to 19 members, with a wide age range of 30 to 82 years and professions: Nurses, Educators, Attorneys, Sales, Radio personnel and Realtor.

Group D’s “given” gifts are volunteering for our beloved church and the Women’s Guild. Members volunteer at the Mid-Ohio Foodbank, cook for the Streets Mission, Rebecca’s House and Habitat for Humanities. Each year, a family is adopted and provided with a Thanksgiving meal and Christmas gifts. An ongoing adoption is with two individuals who are alone and need assistance. Also, Group D provides gift bags for children at Thanksgiving and Christmas through Heart to Heart. In their desire to help others, the ladies have learned to become crafty by making seasonal cards for seniors. One of Group D’s members visits with residents at First Community Village on a regular basis. She shared a need for others to join in and D members answered the call. In addition, members volunteer at Kobacker House. For three years, some ladies have taught chimes to assisted living residences.

The gifts “received” by Group D are many. Most importantly, they count lasting friendships with a variety of women from many walks of life. Only through the Women’s Guild were they able to meet and form a group to fit their needs. They left the comfort zone of home and ventured forward to serve others. They grew by invitation and word-of-mouth and they always have room for one more member in their circle of friends.

“We’ll take a cup of kindness yet, for auld lang syne.”, lyrics by Robert Burns.

22 January 1 - 31, 2014

Third-Graders Receive Bibles By Dawn Costin

All third-graders will receive a Bible as a gift from First Community Church on January 25, 2015. Bibles will be presented during worship at the 9:45 am service at North Campus and the 11 am service at South Campus.

To reserve a Bible for your third-grader, please visit the K-5 Ministry page at FCchurch.com/k-5. If you would like your child’s name in the Bible written in calligraphy, please submit forms by January 5. However, reservation forms can be submitted through January 20.

Please contact Dawn Costin at 614 488.0681, ext. 109 or dcostin@FCchurch.com for more information.

Youth Choirs Gearing Up By Sally Beske

January is a great time to join youth choirs. This winter, the children and young adults in the vocal choirs will be participating in a musical from the Old Testament story of Miriam and Moses. The Junior Choir will have a talent show and all choirs will sing in worship before we break for the summer. Join us in Room 118, North Campus beginning Wednesday, January 14 for:

Kindergarten Choir, 5:30 - 6 pmCherub Choir for grades 1 and 2, 6 - 6:30 pmJunior Choir for grades 3, 4 and 5, 6:30 - 7:15 pm

Middle School and High School Vocal Ensemble rehearsals begin for the new year on Sunday, January 18 in room 118 following Crossroads. New members are welcome. MSVE 10:45 - 11:45 am and HSVE 12 - 12:45 pm.

Bell Choirs are currently full, but make sure you are on the wait list for next year.

Beginning January 14, current members of Bell Choir 1 meet from 7:15 - 7:45 pm in room 111 and current members of Bell Choir 2 will meet from 7:45 - 8:30 pm.

For additional information about youth choirs or to be placed on a bell choir wait list, contact Youth Choir Director Sally Beske at sbeske@FCchurch.com

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

January 12 Introduction to the Book: How to Talk so Kid’s Will Listen and Listen so Kid’s Will Talk By Adele Faber and Elaine MazlishJanuary 19 NO SESSION – church closed for Martin Luther King DayJanuary 26 Helping Children Deal with Their FeelingsFebruary 2 Engaging CooperationFebruary 9 Alternatives to PunishmentFebruary 16 NO SESSION – church closed for President’s DayFebruary 23 Praise vs. EncouragementMarch 2 Freeing Children from Playing RolesMarch 9 Putting It All TogetherMarch 16 Open Sessions to finish topics or address emerging topics

Open HouseCelebrating Our Early Childhood Programs

Saturday,January 2410 am - 12 pm

Events at both locations:

Mary Evans Child Development Center3777 Dublin Road, Columbus, 43221

First Community Church Preschool1320 Cambridge Blvd., Columbus, 43212 Share in the celebration of these programs with alumni, current and future families.

mary evanschild development center

614 777.4099 FCchurch.com 614 488.0681

January 1 - 31, 2014 23

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

COMPLETE HEALTH DENTISTRY • WELCOMING NEW PATIENTS

hoffmandentaloffice.com 614-451-4400

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Celebrating Our Early Childhood Programs

It’s like YouTubeTM

for church.

Sundays at 11 amand Midnight on

The CWWWHO-TV

Save the DateAnnual Meeting

Sunday, February 1

Grace Hall, North Campus3777 Dublin Road

Check FCchurch.com for details.

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