june 2015 firstnews monthly
DESCRIPTION
First Community Church, Columbus, OhioTRANSCRIPT
614 488.0681 FCchurch.com June 1 - 30, 2015 Vol. 61 No. 6
firstnews MonthlyTo Make an End is to Make a Beginning
I was driving to the airport several years ago with our good advisor and friend, Gil Rendle. He casually said to me, “Dick, I have found that the Senior Minister of a healthy church like yours needs to give a very long notice
of their leaving. Then, the church can do their search for a new Senior Minister. And it will be very important that the church knows that you are happy with your next steps.”
Following Gil Rendle’s always good advice, I have informed the Governing Board and they have affirmed the following:
n I have decided to end my tenure as Senior Minister in August, 2017.
n Given the fact that a search for a new Senior Minister often takes at least a year and a half to complete, I have also decided that it makes sense for the church to begin that search now. Our Search Committee Chair is Ginny Barney.
n Should a new hire be made before August, 2017, I will end my tenure at that time. This will allow the new Senior Minister to take over immediately.
Right now we have important work to do with our Capital Projects and the daily work of making the good things we do even better. Before Shirley and I leave, we have very big and important things to accomplish together as a congregation. There will be plenty of time for goodbyes at a future time.
Please, let’s keep our important work going!
Hear the poet T. S. Eliot: “What we call the beginning is often the end. And to make an end is to make a beginning. The end is where we start from.”
Let’s begin together to make the immediate days ahead among the most vital in our life together.
Peace to you,
Dr. Richard WingSenior Minister
Looking AheadUpcoming Sermons by Dr. Wing:
June 7 - MorningSongLEST WE FORGET (James 1: 19-25)
June 28 - 5th Sunday after PentecostMEDDLING (2 Corinthians 8:7-15)
Shrimp Boil; Fun with a Purposen By Karyl Hanhilammi
Make plans now to join us on Friday, July 24 from 6 - 8:30 pm to share an evening of great food and fellowship, as well as learn more about the Back Bay Mission and contribute to its ministry.
Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for children under 12. Tickets can be purchased after worship services, online and at the reception desks of North and South Campuses beginning June 28.
The annual summer event is sponsored by the Mission Council of the church. It provides our congregation with the opportunity to share a delicious all-you-can-eat, family-style meal and enjoy outstanding musical entertainment in a festive atmosphere.
This popular social event is also the primary fundraiser for the Back Bay Mission, an outreach program of the United Church of Christ and one strongly supported by our church through both funds and volunteerism.
Back Bay Mission began by serving poor families of seafood workers in Biloxi, Mississippi in 1922. Since then, it has evolved into a comprehensive program serving the poor and marginalized along the Mississippi Gulf Coast. First Community Church sends a contingent of workers to Biloxi each year to help the mission in a variety of ways. This year’s team of volunteers returned on May 2.
Staff UpdatesLEIGH ANNE EASTERLING is assuming JAMY ZAMBITO’S role as Administrator for Mary Evans Child Development Center as of June 2.
WENDY WILMER is moving into the position of Director of Finance and CINDY HARSANY is transitioning out of the Director of Finance and Operations role into the Executive Director role that she was officially hired for in 2013. DARIAN TORRANCE has joined us as Foundation Administrator. LAURI SULLIVAN has retired from the Director of Foundation role as of April.
July Baptisms Our next Baptism Sunday will be July 5 at South Campus 10 am worship.
If you are scheduling a baptism for the first time, there will be a baptism class Thursday, June 25 from 7-8 pm in the South Campus Wicker Room. Rev. Jim Long will explain the meaning and practice of baptism, what occurs during the baptism and what our church offers to families with children. To schedule a baptism or for more information contact Paula Russell, Director of Congregational Care, at [email protected] or 614 488.0681 ext. 228.
2 June 1 - 30, 2015
firstnews ArticlesInclude the date, contact person’s name, phone number and/or e-mail address with all submissions. Submit to: email - [email protected] 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.
Heart to Heart Food Pantry TotalsHeart to Heart offers a helping hand and caring heart in times of need.
Donation Needs for June: Tuna
For April 2015:
Food Collected at South = 20 lbs.Food Collected at North = 140 lbs.Food Collected at Annex = 0 lbs.Food from MOFB* = 14,260 lbs.Food from Giant Eagle = 0 lbs.
Unique Volunteers = 36
Served Month YTDHouseholds 346 899Individuals 1,103 2,787 Children 391 923 Adults 550 1,458 Seniors 162 406Total Meals 9,954 28,480
*Mid-Ohio Foodbank
I am writing to provide some feedback relative to the new format of firstnews Monthly. In doing so, please know that I have always appreciated your efforts and I am grateful that we have such a nice monthly publication. Let me offer some feedback for future publication. Certainly, I was very happy with the format which we have all enjoyed for many years now. One particular dimension that I miss is the visual dimension. For example, in publicizing the Adult Learning Council’s Film Discussion monthly film in firstnews, we have always had a visual that sits alongside the text and this helps bring the reader’s eyes to the news of the upcoming film to effectively publicize it.
Overall, this initial issue of firstnews seems to be a bit dry, a bit dreary and I think that more photos and visuals throughout would give it more flavor and make it more appealing. Also, I do miss the wisdom from some of the columns by the ministers. Overall, I have really valued the fact that we have this monthly publication at First Community Church and I appreciate your efforts as well as those of the many others who contribute.
— Dave Nickel
Michael, I understand that your focus group will continue to meet, at least for a while, so I would like to add my critique of the monthly newsletter to, perhaps, others.
For me, not having the clergy columns takes the heart out of the newsletter.
And, we’ve become so used to visually beautiful editions, thanks to you and Tabi, that this latest one looked a bit like it was processed on an old photo copying machine.
The bottom line is likely financial, though it’s foolish for me to speculate. As my son would say, “It’s a first-world problem, Mom.”
I love that you, Tabi and Emily do what you do in the communications department.
— Susan Brooks
Editor’s Note: We appreciate your critique and will take your advice into consideration. The decision to redesign the firstnews was not based on finances, rather an opportunity to deliver the news more concisely while creating 3 additional publications in September, Christmas Eve and Easter.
Now that is more like it. A news letter, not a letter of essays.
Thanks. I enjoy my hard copy.
— Jinny Frick
I really like the new format for the paper. It contained real “news” and the new layout is quite readable with short, succinct articles that should be of interest to all.
Jim Long’s column in the Sunday edition was very capable of standing alone. It was perhaps more meaningful because it was the only ministerial column. I like your concept of rotating authors each week. Having to write fewer columns should take a bit of pressure off our hardworking clergy, especially knowing that they are not expected to produce some thought provoking piece every month.
— Jackie Cherry
Editor’s Note: We are grateful to you, Jackie, for your dedication to firstnews. We look forward to receiving your regular articles, ‘This Month in First Community Church History.’ (See Page 4)
Letters to the Editor
Write to UsAny publication worth its weight not only publishes letters from its readers, it encourages them. We want your feedback and look forward to providing you with an open and proper platform. Send to: Michael Barber, Editor Firstnewsc/o First Community Church1320 Cambridge Blvd.Columbus, Ohio 43212
June 1 - 30, 2015 3
Board Updatesn By Erik Clark, Governing Board Chair
As you know, Dr. Wing this month announced that his tenure as Senior Minister will come to an end by August 2017 (or earlier upon the hiring of a new senior minister).
I credit Dr. Wing with rekindling my own faith journey, and I have had the honor of working closely with him on Church matters. I could never express enough gratitude for all that he has done, and I’m hardly alone in that sentiment.
When the time comes, we’ll have an event for the entire First Community family to properly celebrate Dr. Wing’s ministry here. Meanwhile, there is much to do, and the Board and Dr. Wing are committed to working together, as always, to get it done.
Among our top priorities:
1. Start our search for our next Senior Minister. The Board has selected Ginny Barney to chair the Search Committee. Together, we’ll develop criteria for selecting the remaining committee members and for guiding the search itself. We’ll keep the congregation informed and involved throughout the process.
2. Continue work on our capital projects. The quiet phase of our campaign is going very well. We plan to launch the public phase of the campaign by January, if not earlier.
3. Continue to support the Church’s engagement work. Results of our recently completed survey will help us focus those efforts. It’s all about creating deep connections by fulfilling members’ spiritual needs and providing opportunities for people to devote their talents to the Church and its outreach.
During this transition, I am confident that First Community’s enduring strengths will shine as brightly as ever. We will remain true to our heritage, and in so doing, we will start the next chapter of sharing the message and mission of God’s unconditional love.
Organizational Update Congregational SurveyWe received 537 completed surveys in April. We are excited to provide results of the surveys to the congregation.
We are in the process of
determining the best dates and presentation that would allow for a complete disclosure of the results, what they mean, what will be done with the results and allow discussion.
Finance ReportWe are truly grateful for your support of First Community Church and hope that your life is being blessed.
Our total budgeted income and expense this year is $4,676,426. Nearly half of this comes from your pledges, contributions and offerings.
The 2015 pledge budget is $2,118,000. We have received $2,036,318 in pledges through May.
In 2014, much time was spent with staff and the Governing Board Finance Committee putting together a budget that would balance. As of May, our
budget is looking good. Akita has a record number of campers; nearly 2,000 for our summer season.
We are enjoying significant enrollment at Mary Evans Child Development Center and Preschool - with wait lists - and we have more pledges than we had at this time last year.
Additionally, our financial statement indicates we have spent $60,000 less than we had at this same time last year and we have received more in contributions.
One of our budget challenges this year will be to pay for media equipment that was put into service April, 2014.
This was a $246,000 investment we felt was needed to exchange old equipment for new technology. This effort provided better quality for our viewership.
Our media focus through First Edition television programming, IMPACT videos seen on TV and FCchurch.TV and other avenues has been totally redesigned in an effort to share the ministries of our church and to make a difference.
We have much to be grateful for and are blessed.
Cindy HarsanyExecutive Director
First Community Church Financial StatementJanuary -‐ April, 2015
YTD YTD (under)/overBudget Actual Difference
IncomePledge, Offerings, Contributions 1,040,642$ 1,033,064$ (7,578)$ Fee Supported Ministries* 753,851 763,521 9,670 Other Ministries 58,637 52,022 (6,615) Total Revenue 1,853,130$ 1,848,607$ (4,523)$
Expense (over)/underProgram Salaries and Benefits 508,412$ 492,021$ 16,391$ Facilities and Administration 302,244 314,713 (12,469)$ Fee Supported Ministries 462,467 459,949 2,518$ Other Ministries 213,747 214,848 (1,101)$ Total Expenses 1,486,870$ 1,481,531$ 5,339$
Net Revenue and Expenses 367,076$ 816$
*Akita, Preschools, Trading Post
First Community Church Financial StatementJanuary -‐ April, 2015
YTD YTD (under)/overBudget Actual Difference
IncomePledge, Offerings, Contributions 1,040,642$ 1,033,064$ (7,578)$ Fee Supported Ministries* 753,851 763,521 9,670 Other Ministries 58,637 52,022 (6,615) Total Revenue 1,853,130$ 1,848,607$ (4,523)$
Expense (over)/underProgram Salaries and Benefits 508,412$ 492,021$ 16,391$ Facilities and Administration 302,244 314,713 (12,469)$ Fee Supported Ministries 462,467 459,949 2,518$ Other Ministries 213,747 214,848 (1,101)$ Total Expenses 1,486,870$ 1,481,531$ 5,339$
Net Revenue and Expenses 367,076$ 816$
*Akita, Preschools, Trading Post
4 June 1 - 30, 2015
Parish RegisterWe share the joys and sorrows of our church family in our prayers.
As of May 15, 2015:
BAPTISMS Lucille Elisabeth Hague 4/19/15 Daughter of Andy Hague & Sally Harmon-HagueCaroline Anne Skerl 4/25/15 Daughter of David & Elizabeth Skerl Andee Catherine Ely &James Joseph Ely 5/9/15 Daughter & son of Tim & Tonya ElyHadley Noelle Day 5/10/15 Daughter of Chris & Emily Day Gracen Harkin Dick 5/10/15 Daughter of Jason & Christy Dick Sydney Elaine Johnson 5/10/15 Daughter of Nick & Michelle Johnson Evan John Miller 5/10/15 Son of Ryan & Amy Miller Quincy Rose Miller 5/10/15 Daughter of Ryan & Lauren Miller Ferris Stanton Schoedinger andFoster Robert Schoedinger 5/10/15 Sons of Kevin & Jennifer Schoedinger HOSPITALIZATIONS Jim DeckerEmmy FrenchCharlaine MenendianMarc SummersDonice Wooster
DEATHSJim Mason 4/17/15Richard Ward 4/21/15 Brother of Crystal AllenJean Thompson 5/6/15Marisa Smock 5/7/15 Daughter of Jill & Chad Smock Sister of Nick & Lexi Smock Richard Messick 5/7/15 Father of Molly (Mark) Miely Grandfather of Sarah, Jayne & Matthew Miely Helen “Lennie” Campbell 5/9/15 Mother of Scott Campbell (Marcie McNary) Jeff Verwohlt 5/13/15 Son of Jean Verwohlt
Please send notifications of Births, Hospitalizations or Deaths to [email protected] or 614 488.0681 ext 228.
Back Bay Updaten By Priscilla Mead
What can be better than a road trip with 13 energetic members of First Community Church to Biloxi, Mississippi? To leave Biloxi, having helped two families rebuild their crumbling homes, served over 2,000 hot meals to hundreds of people in need, stocked a food pantry and assisted a day center to provide showers and laundry for the many homeless along the Gulf Shore.
We are home, more blessed than the people we served, brimming with appreciation for our 90-year old UCC outpost, Back Bay Mission, and for our fellow volunteers from Highland, IL and State College, PA.
Back Bay Mission is an outpost for the United Church of Christ. Fifty years ago, UCC congregations joined hands with black ministers and citizens to wade into the Gulf of Mexico as an act of solidarity for civil rights. Within months, there was not one single UCC church in Mississippi. Today there are just two UCC congregations in the entire state. But Back Bay continues without interruption, thanks to UCC youth and adults from all over the country who volunteer one week of their lives to help rebuild the hurricane-ravaged Back Bay community.
If you’ve been on the Mexico Mission, come with us to Back Bay. We promise you the same reward of work well done, jobs to match your skills and interests, exceptional comraderies and blessings far greater for us than those we serve. All that plus a comfortable bed and good eating.
Please join us for the Shrimp Boil in July. To volunteer, contact Amy Caskie at [email protected]
This Month in Church History n Compiled by Jackie Cherry
June 15, 1916: First Field Day
June 14, 1919: First movie shown in the church at the end of Field Day
June 1950: A poll of 100,000 clergymen conducted by The Christian Century named First Community Church as one of the twelve great churches in America.
June 1, 1962: Peter Diehl joins church staff as a ministerial intern
June 15, 1963: First Project Amigos trip to Latin America
June 8, 1975: Youth choirs present Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat as a worship service
June 15, 1975: Dr. Harold Englund installed as Senior Minister
June 11, 1988: Chancel Choir departs for first European tour
June 13, 1998: Celebrative Dinner honoring Ron Jenkins 25th anniversary on staff
‘Salon’ Focuses on Sikhs“The Sikh Faith: A Practitioner’s Perspective” will be a comprehensive overview of one of the youngest major religions of the world, as Dr. Tarunjit Singh Butalia discusses his own Sikh faith at our next Spiritual Salon, Wednesday, June 3, 7 – 8:30 pm in Brownlee Hall, South Campus. Dr. Butalia is a member of the Board of Trustees of the Council for a Parliament of the World’s Religions and its Executive Committee and serves as a Special Advisor with Religions for Peace – USA. Locally, he is the Moderator of the Engagement Committee of the Interfaith Association of Central Ohio.
This event of the Adult Learning Council is open to the public. A free-will offering will be taken at the door. Register at the door or online at FCchurch.com/sikh
June 1 - 30, 2015 5
June 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 Num. 9:15-23 Rev. 4:1-8
2 Exod. 25:1-22 1 Cor. 2:1-10
3 Num. 6:22-27 Mark 4:21-25
4 1 Sam. 4:1-22 1 Pet. 4:7-19
5 1 Sam. 5:1-12 2 Cor. 5:1-5
6 1 Sam. 6:1-18 Luke 8:4-15
7 1 Sam. 8:4-20; 11:14-15
2 Cor. 4:13-5:1
Ps. 138 Mark 3:20-35
8 1 Sam. 7:3-15 Rev. 20:1-6
9 1 Sam. 8:1-22 Rev. 20:7-15
10 1 Sam. 9:1-14 Luke 11:14-28
11 1 Sam. 9:15-27 Heb. 2:5-9
12 1 Sam. 10:1-8 Heb. 11:4-7
13 1 Sam. 13:1-15a Mark 4:1-20
14 1 Sam. 15:34-16:13 2 Cor. 5:6-17
Ps. 20 Mark 4:26-34
15 1 Sam. 13:23-14:23 Gal. 6:11-18
16 1 Sam. 15:10-23 Rev. 21:22-22:5
17 1 Sam. 15:24-31 Luke 6:43-45
18 1 Sam. 16:14-23 Acts 20:1-16
19 1 Sam. 17:57-18:5 Acts 21:1-16
20 1 Sam. 18:1-4 Luke 21:25-28
21 1 Sam. 17:32-49 2 Cor. 6:1-13
Ps. 9:9-20 Mark 4:35-41
22 1 Sam. 18:6-30 Acts 27:13-18
23 1 Sam. 19:1-7 Acts 27:39-44
24 1 Sam. 19:8-17 Mark 6:45-52
25 1 Sam. 19:18-24 2 Cor. 7:2-16
26 1 Sam. 20:1-25 2 Cor. 8:1-7
27 1 Sam. 20:27-42 Luke 4:31-37
28 2 Sam. 1:1, 17-27 2 Cor. 8:7-15
Ps. 130 Mark 5:21-43
29 1 Sam. 23:14-18 2 Cor. 8:16-24
30 1 Sam. 31:1-13 2 Cor. 9:1-5
Farm Event Successn By Mary Beth Aeh
Over 100 children and their families from First Community Church Preschool and Mary Evans Child Development Center enjoyed the Early Childhood Council’s Down on the Farm event April 24 at the North Campus.
As in years past, the children enjoyed our special farm animal visitors and the horseback rides. There were carnival games and crafts with prizes and many children lined up patiently to have their faces painted. All feasted on pizza and salad served by our talented preschool staff. Thanks to our many volunteers who make it a success. We look forward to doing it again next year.
Blood DriveThursday, June 18, 1 - 7 pm Brownlee Hall, South Campus
Summertime & the ‘giving’ is easy. The need for blood increases during the summer months. Register online at redcrossblood.org and enter our sponsor code: FCCSC or contact Paula Russell at 614 488.0681 ext 228 or [email protected]
Women’s Guild n By Jill Eliot
Anna Quindlen said, “Books are the plane, and the train, and the road. They are the destination, and the journey. They are home.” Come journey with the Women’s Guild as we continue with the events of Summer 2015. The Women’s Guild groups provide the fruit cobblers for the upcoming Shrimp Boil. The lady bakers need to communicate their participation to their group chairman.
The Women’s Guild will celebrate the annual potluck dinner and installation of officers on September 1 from 6 - 8 pm at North Campus. More details to come. Chairpersons of coming events are Kitty Rohrer, Group RSZ for the Betty O’Neil Bake Sale held at both campuses on November 3; Joy Plassman of Group C will chair the wreath sale, dates TBA; April Howe of Group A will chair the Soup and Casserole Sale on January 17 at both campuses and Loretta Heigle chairs the “We Love You” luncheon for the staff on February 9.
The new president of the Women’s Guild is Karen Claussen, with Janet Conrad McCutcheon serving as vice-president.
Exploring Divine Guidance: 6-week Experiential SeriesThere is an inner wisdom that can be accessed to support our spiritual journey, and this “Divine Guidance” will be the focus of a Thursday evening experiential series in June-July facilitated by Rev. David Hett, Minister of Religious Life & Learning.
Participants will meet in the Wicker Room, South Campus, each Thursday, June 4 – July 9, from 6:30 – 8:30 pm to begin part one of an exploration into what A.H. Almaas calls “True Guidance for the Inner Journey.” There will be reading and “homework” prior to the first session.
We will use his book, Spacecruiser Inquiry, for both study and practice of his method of exploring the immediacy of our personal experience. In the book, Almaas uses the metaphor of a spacecruiser to describe a way of investigating our moment-by-moment feelings, thoughts, reactions, and behaviors through a process of open-ended questioning. Thus, we will be developing a practice to experience what Eckhart Tolle has famously called “The Power of Now.”
This class requires registration at FCchurch.com/guidance, or contact Natalia at [email protected], 614 488.0681, ext. 151. Registration fee is $40, which includes a copy of the book, $20 for those who already have a copy. Fees support the Psychological-Spiritual Development Fund of the Center for Spiritual Search. For more information, contact Rev. Hett at [email protected]
6 June 1 - 30, 2015
Next Film GroupThursday, June 116 pm Gathering & Pizza6:30 pm Film BeginsWicker Room, South Campus
Words and Pictures is a contemporary (2014) romantic comedy/drama starring Clive Owen and Juliette Binoche. Owen plays a talented writer/ teacher and Binoche plays a gifted artist and teacher in the same private prep school.
Each has serious issues that surface and come to an interesting climax in a public debate with students participating, exploring which is most important to communication, words or pictures.
Please RSVP by Wednesday, June 10, to Jennie Nickel at 614 529.9930 or [email protected]
Over $10,000 Raised for Akita Scholarshipsn By Scot Nicoll
This year, we were able to raise over $10,000 for camp scholarships.
Akita Council is responsible for the success of this event. Special thanks to Tom Hoffman, a member of the Akita Council, who has organized the Akita 5K for the past 4 years. We could not have done it without him.
Camp Akita is an important ministry of First Community Church and we are so blessed to be able to offer scholarships to campers who need them. Thank you for your continued support of Camp Akita. For a full list of sponsors and pictures from the event please visit campakita.org/akita5k
Capital Projects UpdateThe First Community Church Capital Projects include several essential improvements to Camp Akita, greatly enhanced accessibility for South Campus by creating a new Atrium and Welcome Center at the south end of the facility and a new Sanctuary at North Campus.
All of these planned enhancements are designed to better accommodate our current and future ministries. For further details, please feel free to direct questions to Bruce Pontious, Nan Weir, Paul Anderson or any member of the Capital Projects Committee.
Our focus over the past several months has been securing the funding for these projects. We are thrilled with the progress thus far. Our Leadership and Major Gifts Phase (“Quiet Phase”) of the Campaign has generated more than $5.7M in signed commitments (50 gifts) and about $5.4M in gifts in deliberation.
Though all of these latter gifts may not be realized in their fullest, the CPC and the Governing Board are very encouraged by the positive momentum you, our benefactors, have demonstrated. We still have a way to go.
We are blessed with devoted Campaign Leadership in our Co-Chairs Buss & Lou Ann Ransom, Bill & Diana Arthur and Don & Karen Gardiner. Also, several individuals – Terry & Cydney Philbin, Ralph & Joan Talmage, Paul & Sandy Anderson, Buss & Lou Ann Ransom and Bill & Diana Arthur - have hosted private Campaign gatherings around Campaign support.
In the coming months, we will continue to provide updates on our Project and the Capital Campaign.
Once we reach a critical percentage of our Campaign goal, we will be launching a more Public Phase giving everyone an opportunity to participate.
It is clear that this is a pivotal time in our history. We truly believe we have an opportunity to be a part of
Camp Akita Gets a Little GreenerThe electric bill is going down at Akita thanks to a $6,000 grant from the First Community Foundation.
Camp Akita recently purchased and installed over 650 energy-saving LED bulbs, replacing the older incandescent and compact fluorescent bulbs that were previously in use. These new lights have a warm color that looks just like a traditional light bulb, but they use 80 percent less energy and will last up to 20 years. Making this change saves about $3,000 each year in electricity and maintenance costs, so the project will pay for itself in about two years.
Of the bulbs that were removed, about 200 of the more efficient compact fluorescent lamps still have useful life remaining. These were donated to our own Heart to Heart food pantry to be offered to customers for use in their own homes.
We are excited to be able to help those in need while continuing to be good stewards to our budget and our natural environment.
something very special in the life of our church. When a representative of the Campaign calls, we hope you will prayerfully consider your financial support and indeed help build upon the legacy of First Community Church.
For more information on the Capital Project visit FCchurch.com/vision
June 1 - 30, 2015 7
Volunteer Spotlightn By Helen Vivian
First Community programs, events, and outreach opportunities are only successful because of the enthusiastic work of our dedicated volunteers.
Why Jan volunteers: “Several years ago, I fell into a conversation with Ann Eliot-Naille (then manager of the Furber Bookstore at South Campus) and the next thing I knew, I was peddling
books. Joined by other volunteers, we soon offered a “bookshelf” Bookstore at the North Campus.
Working in either of the FCC Bookstores has got to be the best job ever. Both are located right in the middle of happy chaos after worship each week. Chatty and friendly members and visitors catch up with each other and meet new folks before and after Sunday services. Better yet, many are book lovers. We welcome browsers, recommendations and comments. I love the conversations I have with others each week!
We are definitely not competition for Amazon or Barnes and Noble, because after all, we are normally open for business only one day a week, with limited hours at that. But think of the quality of the setting and the conversation.”
What Emily Rogers, coordinator of Furber Bookstore volunteers, has to say about Jan: Jan has been such a help to me in keeping the South Campus bookstore up and running. She always has great ideas about how to make things more efficient. She is dedicated and works at least 3 Sundays a month. She has taken a personal responsibility for the bookstore and really strives to make it an enjoyable shopping experience. She is knowledgeable about the books we offer, so nice and incredibly witty. She has also been integral in helping to recruit additional volunteers. She is a blessing to both me and our church.
Jan BaumerBookstore Volunteer
8 June 1 - 30, 2015
Lessons from TecateAt the end of March, 47 high schoolers and 30 adults returned home from Tecate, Mexico, having built new homes, new skills and new relationships. – Tim Carlson
Jackson FurbeeFirst Mexico trip; junior at Grandview Heights High School
I went on the trip because I wanted to contribute to a cause greater than myself. I also wanted to have a new experience where I got to see a foreign culture first hand. It was exciting to meet new people, as I don’t attend the church or go to the same school as many of the other participants. I was also excited to test my Spanish skills. Most of all, though, I was excited to help change the life of a family.
On the trip, I learned that friendships can be formed incredibly quickly. I got to know people much quicker than I normally do, and that was a great feeling. I was surprised by how much technology influences my everyday life. Spending a week without it was a very positive experience. I feel I was much more engaged and happy overall.
For anyone considering going on the trip, I would tell them to have an open mind, and to be ready for a life changing experience. The friendships you form on this trip can last forever. Building a house for a family is an incredible action in itself, and the satisfaction you feel at the end is unreal.
Kevin BaxleyFourth Mexico trip; senior at Upper Arlington High School
There is something very special about the Mexico Mission Trip that is very hard to put into words. First, there is the obvious: we work with a group of people for one week, and at the end of that week, a well deserving family is given a set of keys to a new home. The day we hand the keys over, we are all overwhelmed by emotion knowing that we played a part in changing the lives of a family.
However, the thing about the Mexico trip is that it is much more than building a house. We live in tents in a dusty campground, eat beans and rice for two out of three meals each day, use primitive outhouses, and bathe creatively, if at all. It doesn’t sound so great on the surface, but through this common experience we become a much more authentic version of ourselves. For me, I know it is when I am at my best as a person and when I have the deepest sense of my own faith.
The best I can do to describe what takes place is to say, that as the walls of our houses start going up, the walls that each of us have built around ourselves come tumbling down.
Thank You, Laurin By W. James Hutchins, Foundation Board of Trustees
The members of the Foundation Board of Trustees were extremely saddened when Director Lauri Sullivan resigned in April. Lauri was highly engaged, caring, motivated, organized and did an extraordinary job in improving the operations of the Foundation.
Some of the major accomplishments during her tenure were: review and analysis of the endowments to ensure donors’ wishes are being implemented; converting record keeping from paper to a new sophisticated computer system; initiating a revised Spending Policy, enabling the Foundation to be more pro-active and responsible for grant review and approval, and adopting newly revised Educational Grant Policies and Grant Applications. She also organized a Professional Advisory Board to assist the Foundation.
Lauri substantially increased communication with the congregation to stimulate awareness of the Foundation’s mission and increase giving with one of the most significant events being the estate and gift planning seminar entitled “Leaving a Legacy of Love” held last fall. This outreach was so successful that the event will be held again September 30.
The aspiration of the Foundation is to substantially increase gifts and bequests to the Foundation in order to support the programs and needs of the church.Lauri significantly enhanced the growth of the Foundation so we can reach our aspiration and for that we are tremendously grateful. Good luck to Lauri in the future. We will miss her greatly.
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June 1 - 30, 2015 9
Church Gifts In Memory of: Sherry Barger Robert & Anne Eberhart Jeanne Blair Joe & Susan Ray Anthony & Angela Matessa Donice Wooster Hilda Henlsey Peggy Johnson Dawn Costin Dr. James Mason Marlene & Joe Berwanger
Spiritual Searcher – Imam Feisal Abdul Rauf Event October 2015 In Honor of: Rev. Dr. Deborah Lindsay Pete and Pidge Diehl
Center for Spiritual Search In Memory of: Sherry Barger Kathy Cleveland Bull
Friends of Music In Memory of: Nancy Burtch Jean Blackburn Teresa Cottingham Hilda Hensley Betty & Ron Rosbottom Ruth McNeal Hilda Hensley Betty & Ron Rosbottom Don Eliot Bobbie Reynolds Siegfried & Gisela Garbe Rose Kandel In Honor of: Robert Griffith Louise Kutz Sally Beske Louise Kutz
Heart to Heart The Jaffe Family Foundation Mary Olson In Appreciation of: Michael Singer & Robin Brydie Molly Hood In Memory of: Our mothers, Anna and Caryl Molly Hood and Marianne Thompson Ted Poulton Barbara Hudson Diane Zane Dick & Anna Greer Kay Bradford James & Holly Brown Georgine Koch Women’s Guild Group Y Ferne Arnett Paul & Claire Gatsch Dr. William R. Westbrook Sue Ralph Alene Hinshaw Women’s Guild Group Y Monnie Postle Women’s Guild Group Y June Palmer Women’s Guild Group Y
General Missions Marcia Early Sally & Brian Kriska In Honor of: Anne Sheline Dean & Judy Reinhard In Memory of: Sherry Barger Paul & Claire Gatsch Bill Ewing Dean & Judy Reinhard Women’s Guild Group Q
Habitat for Humanity Angie Andujar Carol Berg
Bryan & Sally BeskeSallie Davis BethgeLindsay CloyesJohn & Cathy ConnerChuck CurryTerry & Barb DavisCarol DeshlerBob & Shirley EdlerRon Glaser & Jan Kiecolt-GlaserJim & Mary GossardBill HensleyDavid & Mona HettBruce & Cathie HickinJessica HintonDavid HwangMarilyn JenningsDaniel JensenPeggy JohnsonRobin KelleyAnne KlieAnn KnodtMary Ann KraussTommie LanamanDeb LinvilleJim & Clare LongRon & Nancy LongTom and Donna MasonErnie & Laura MazzaferriDavid McGrawSharon McGrawCash & Cheryl MiselKay MooreMichelle MundyBill & Susan NapierDoug & Missy ObergefellJeff & Linda ReasingerBill & Ginny RessBobbie ReynoldsMabel RiceLinda RitterJerry & Sharon ScottRalph & Jane SetterlinBarbara SippCathy TillingDoug & Darian TorranceEleanor & Greg TrappDick & Meg WagnerBob & Sally Wandel
Mike & Shirley Weasel In Celebration of: Lucy Caskie Jared & Amy Caskie Casey Sedoris Adam & Helen Miller Alexander Sycher, receiving master’s degree from BGSU Darryl & Cathy Sycher
It is with gratitude that First Community Church accepts the following gifts.
In Honor of: Maggie Canavan Lynne Ayres Ned Timmons Dave & Loretta Heigle John & Judy Hoberg In Memory of: Lauren Brown Anonymous Nancy Burtch Dick & Debbi Wood William T. Morrow Jeanne Morrow Verna Alice Schaadt and Leone DeNune Sam & Rita Schaadt Kay Bradford, Group Y Lee Burges
Friends of Akita In Memory of: Anne Mason Carol Baker Vaughan & Janice Linders Bill & Kris Mason Sherry Fishel Barger Ann & Philip Wegman Kay Bradford Lee Burges In Honor of: Camp Akita Mary Smith Dave & Dody Parsons Dean & Judy Reinhard
Friends of Media In Memory of: Herman Nack Mary Lou Nack Don Eliot Marilyn & Charles Humes Susan Brooks Women’s Guild Group Q James F. and Shirley Mason, Ruth McNeal, Nancy Burtch, Patti Mielke, Sherry Barger, Jan Shelby Susan C. Benes In Honor of: Robert Gutches Lynn Gutches Snowden & Hank Snowden
Foundation Gifts In Memory of: J. Randolph Balch Jacintha Balch Sherry Barger David & Karyl Hanhilammi Marilyn Jennings Kathryn L. Bradford Frank & Kathleen Hatcher Hagop S. & Mary J. Mekhjian Jenny Lou Renkert Rose Hallarn Dana Deshler Carol Deshler William E. Ewing David & Karyl Hanhilammi Anne Mason Guild Group X Jenny Lou Renkert
Dr. James Mason Lee & Raleigh Burges Jenny Lou Renkert Dr. James & Shirley Mason Dick & Julie Helland Guild Group X Mrs. Patricia Mielke Robert & Carol Eiber Craig Welch Steve Ross Judy Ross Roseanne Schlatter Rick & Tamara Willimott Jan Shelby Dave Shelby Leah & Gene Shoemaker Kim Starr Richard L. & Marilyn A. Sims Anonymous Mark Stull Toni Ballentine Steve Sutton Lorraine S. Clark Warren & Gladys Williams Anthony & Angela Matessa In Honor of: Don Jameson Charles & Marilyn Cozad Heart to Heart Anonymous Marilyn Jennings Douglas & Darian Torrance Jill Thomas Sallie & Pete Bethge First Community Foundation Wayne Ballantyne Daniel Elbaz & Jennifer Bowden Ted & Bobbie Celeste Dana & Janet Ciccone Terry & Barb Davis Lindsey Dunleavy Ron Glaser & Jan Kiekolt-Glaser Guild Group X Charles & Sara Haag Dana Holman David & Debbie Holstein Herbert & Jeanne Johnston William Judy Robin Kelley Mary Ann Krauss Iola Lanaman Jim & Jane Ledman James & Clare Long J. Thomas & Donna Mason Janet McCutcheon Kay Moore Bryon & Susan Murray Mary Lou Nack Carolyn Amstutz Patterson Wes & Karen Patterson Linda Ritter Sam & Rita Schaadt Ralph & Jane Setterlin John V. Schmidt Mary Spurrier Tom & Pam Stewart Charles & Rachel Stuart Charles Vachris & Judith Long Kathie Wertenberger Susanne Wilson
10 June 1 - 30, 2015
BRYAN CHARD and wife, Karleya, are joining First Community because of the friendly congregation that is committed to welcoming all to the church. Bryan grew up in Marion, is an OSU alum, and enjoys sports and cycling – including Pelotonia.
KARLEYA CHARD and husband, Bryan, attend the 11 am South Campus service for the mix of traditional yet modern worship elements. Karleya works as a realtor, is originally from Mansfield, and enjoys reading, traveling, and horses.
LINDSAY CLOYES and fiancé, Calloway Robertson, attend the 9:45 worship service at North Campus. Lindsay joins First Community because it provides many opportunities to grow in her faith. When she’s not spending her time being an adoring aunt to her two nieces, Lindsay loves to run and ski.
KEVIN COURTRIGHT is interested in the inter-spiritual programs offered at First Community. Kevin graduated in May with a degree in Religion and Philosophy at Wilmington College and will be attending Methesco in the Fall. You can generally find him at the 9:45 worship service.
MATT HUTCHESON has been attending worship services with his wife Sara, member, for over a year. Matt is originally from Xenia and works in agriculture management for Seed Consultants, Inc. In his free time he enjoys outside activities, reading and writing.
JOE LOTOZO was a member of the North Campus facilities staff years ago and now joins our church as member. He is currently a volunteer with the media ministry, working cameras at the 11 am service at South Campus. He joins with fiancée, Alaina Stewart.
CALLOWAY ROBERTSON is in his third year of general surgery training at Riverside Hospital. He and fiancée, Lindsay, are getting married August 1 this year. In his free time, Calloway enjoys golf and snow skiing.
DEBORAH SCHENERLEIN loves the beauty and history of First Community’s South Campus location, and you can generally find her and her family, John, Beth, and Katie, attending the 11 am worship service on Sundays. Deborah has been a special education teacher, or involved with educational administration, for 35 years. She loves the outdoors, gardening, comfortable lawn chairs and good books.
Welcome New Members Joined Sunday, April 26, 2015
JOHN SCHENERLEIN is originally from Martins Ferry and joins First Community with wife, Deborah, and daughters Beth and Katie.
BETH SCHENERLEIN (not pictured) graduated from Capital University with a nursing degree and now works with elderly patients with dementia. She enjoys swimming, cooking, quilting, reading and outdoor activities. Beth is currently planning her fall wedding to her high school sweetheart. She joins with her family for the great message and traditional feel at worship.
KATIE SCHENERLEIN (not pictured) says that the First Community congregation is “thoughtful and curious and service oriented” and those are the reasons she chooses to join with her family. Katie enjoys reading and crafting and is interested in environment stewardship. Katie works as a lab technician for Sexing Technologies.
ALAINA STEWART joins with her fiancé, Joe Lotozo. First Community’s wonderful music program is what has resonated most with Alaina and she hopes to be able to get involved musically in some way. Alaina is an Ohio State graduate and lives in Grandview.
LIZ STRANGES and husband, BILL STRANGES, have found church home at First Community. They generally attend the 11 am service at South Campus and enjoy the preaching of Dr. Wing and clergy. Liz and Bill are both retired from Ohio State and look forward to serving others through First Community’s volunteer opportunities.
ALLISON TOMLIN grew up attending First Community Church and received her Block of Wood in 2000. She is a teacher at Upper Arlington schools. She and husband, Gabe, attend the 11 am South Campus service. The couple welcomed their first child into the world, a son, Milo Joseph, on April 28.
GABE TOMLIN enjoys attending the 11 am worship service at South Campus with wife, Allison. Gabe is accountant for the State of Ohio as well as a collegiate football referee.
SUSAN WABY recently relocated from Charleston, SC and first heard of FCC through members James and Kristin Waby, her son and daughter-in-law. Susan is retired and enjoys caring for her grandchildren during the week. She loves meeting new people. In her free time she sews, reads and spends time beautifying her surroundings through painting, fixing things up and cleaning.
Bryan Karleya Lindsay Kevin Matt Joe Calloway Deborah Chard Chard Cloyes Courtright Hutcheson Lotozo Robertson Schenerlein
John Alaina Bill Liz Allison Gabe Susan Schenerlein Stewart Stranges Stranges Tomlin Tomlin Waby
June 1 - 30, 2015 11
Weekly Adult Learning Groups For more details, visit FCchurch.com/adult-learning
Tuesday at TenThe class will resume on September 8. The fall study will focus on the Imam Feisal’s book Moving the Mountain: Beyond Ground Zero to a New Vision of Islam in America. The Imam is scheduled to be our Spiritual Searcher speaker in early October. Walter Watkins, Pete and Pidge Diehl facilitate the series.
Tuesdays10-11:30 amWicker Room, South Campus
Class Resumes 9/8
Men’s Study GroupDiscussion 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 [email protected] or Craig Sturtz at 614 481.9060 or [email protected]
Wednesdays 7-8 amWicker Room, South Campus
Wednesday Morning FellowshipPresentations and discussion of leading-edge topics. Ends promptly at 8 am.
Wednesdays7-8 amBrownlee Hall, South Campus
Women Living the QuestionsIn June, the group will read and discuss Essential Writings by Joan Chittister. Contact Linda Baldeck at [email protected] or 614 459.0722.
Wednesdays 9:30-11:30 amWicker Room, South Campus
Contemplative Way Group 1A 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.
Thursdays 11:45 am-1 pmWicker Room, South Campus
Exploring Divine Guidance, part one See Page 5 for complete description.
Thursdays6:30-8:30 pmJune 4-July 9Wicker Room, South Campus
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. Rose Konrath and Vickie Murphy facilitate. Free-will offering.
Saturdays10-11:15 amSpiritual Guidance Rm, South Annex
No class 7/4For additional information:
Click: FCchurch.com Email: [email protected] Call: 614 488.0681 Visit: The Welcome Centers
A Usher assignments.
A MONTH OF SUNDAYS7 MORNINGSONG
9:15 am • Grace Hall, NC - Dr. Wing preaching Choir & Orchestra11 am • Grace Hall, NC - Dr. Wing preaching Choir & Orchestra
10 am • Sanctuary, SC - Rev. Shaner preaching Soloist/Chancel Choir
10 am • Sanctuary, SC - Rev. Baumer preaching Chancel Choir
10 am • Sanctuary, SC - Dr. Wing preaching Chancel Choir
10 am • Sanctuary, SC - Dr. Wing preaching Soloist
C
SUMMER SCHEDULE BEGINS14 A
21 B
MEMBERSHIP SUNDAY28 C
5 ABAPTISMS
Join our Church Family:New Member Seminar New Members of First Community Church join a congregation that has fostered community and spiritual growth for 105 years through worship, mission, pastoral care and small groups. Membership Seminars are an opportunity to hear about the history, programs and inclusiveness of the church and become acquainted with clergy and staff through a relaxed atmosphere of conversation and fellowship.
We invite you to join us for our Summer Seminar:
Sunday, June 14, following worship 11:30 am - 2:30 pm (lunch included)Brownlee Hall, South CampusChildcare is provided.
For information about membership or to RSVP, contact Helen Vivian at [email protected] or 614 488.0681 ext. 161
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, Executive Director; 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 Congregational Care.
Affiliated with The United Church of Christ and Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)
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First Community Church FCchurch.com [email protected]
South Campus North Campus1320 Cambridge Boulevard 3777 Dublin RoadColumbus, OH 43212 Columbus, OH 43221614 488.0681 614 488.0681FAX 488.2763 FAX 777.4098
No matter who you are or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here.
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