Pastor Elizabeth's Blog

This Week at Peace - - January 29, 2012

2012-01-27T10:27:00.001-08:00

Dear Peace Family,

Tomorrow’s memorial service (officiated by Peace) celebrating the life of
Gretchen Frueh will be held at 2:00 Saturday at First Presbyterian at 2050
Oak Street, Sarasota with reception to follow. I know that
many of you will want to be there to support John and the family.

Sunday at Peace we will read the story of Jesus’ calling the
fishermen. We’ll think about what it means for us to follow
Christ. Five new elders will be ordained for service on the
session. Pray for Andrew Deibert, youth; Kathy Flora, Jenny
Sheffield, Don Simpson, and Mark Winters.

Right after worship, we will set up for our soup and bread lunch.
If you did not sign up for food, just bring a crock pot of soup, some bread,
cheese, or whatever…along with your own soup mug or bowl. We will
slurp sumptuous soup while hearing of the 2011 progress and 2012 plans of
Peace from Ministry Team Leaders and Elders.

We have a great Peace Presbyterian folder for each individual or family,
containing a new photo directory of current Peace participants, along with a
current address directory, 2012 budget, and the annual report summary.
We will be finished with lunch and meeting by 12:30, but you can slip
out if needed. No Lively learning groups will meet, but
young children can escape to childcare after eating.

God has richly blessed us in the short time we have been a church – just 2 ¼
years ago we were officially chartered. We’ve grown from 20 to
200 in six years of worship! I am so grateful for each of you and
your commitment to making Peace what we are today!

Peace,

Elizabeth

This Week at Peace - - Jan. 22, 2012

2012-01-20T18:39:00.000-08:00

Peace Presbyterians,

This week in worship we will read the story of Jonah and consider what it
means to obey: to go and do as God calls. Read the little humorous book
of Jonah before Sunday. See how mad Jonah gets when God forgives
those people of Ninevah.

Pray for the unity of the Presbyterian Church USA, as the Fellowship of
Presbyterians is gathered in Orlando to form a new Reformed body called the
Evangelical Covenant Order of Presbyterians. We are not sure
whether this new group means some churches will exit our denomination or
whether they will remain while keeping a distinct identity within the
denomination.

I am excited to let you know that seven older youth are camping in Key West
with Pastor Tricia, Bill Clough, and Jenny Sheffield, as
chaperones. What a joy to have a growing youth program! Last
week-end, nearly the same number of younger youth were traveling.

The Building Vision Team has now met twice with the Lawson Group, our
architectural firm, to work toward a Master Plan for Lorraine Road.
Ideas from our vision retreat two years ago were shared with Lawson and
Kelle, who are getting on board with who we are at Peace. Come to the
congregational meeting next Sunday, the 29th to hear more about the
steady progress of this team and our other great ministry teams at Peace!

New elders will be ordained in worship on the 29th. We will share a soup
luncheon, and the meeting will follow. No Lively learning that
day. Please bring your own soup bowls or mugs in plastic bags, so
you can sample lots of yummy soups, without worry of heat or spillage.
And you can wash your own darn dish when you get home!

Peace to all,

Elizabeth

Attachments:

The Interpreter - January 2012.pdf

This Week at Peace - - January 15, 2012

2012-01-13T19:03:00.000-08:00

Dear Peace and Friends,

We begin a six-week series on what it means to be called by God to listen,
obey, follow, trust, proclaim, and pass the torch. This week we
will read the story of Samuel, who heard God calling in the night.
(I Samuel 3:1-20). We will also give thanks for Dr. Martin
Luther King, Jr, who heard God's call to speak out courageously
about injustice.

On January 29 we will ordain new elders for a three year term on
session. After worship that day, a delicious soup luncheon will be
shared by all, during which ministry teams will share briefly their
accomplishments in 2011 and their goals for 2012. This annual
meeting on the congregation is a great time to get on board with
Peace. Please sign up to bring soup or bread. Photo
directories will be distributed.

Week nights at Peace are full of fruitful activities. Just this
week, we have had four ministry teams gathering for prayer and work, nine
people training in the Stephen ministry of caregiving, two choirs totaling 35
music-makers, a class discussing how the brain perceives of God, and a movie
considering the power of courageous friendship to transform lives.

We have noontime daily prayers of staff and volunteers, the Men’s Prayer
Breakfast, the Beth-El Volunteers, and the Saturday morning women walking,
talking, and praying. The Younger Youth are leaving for a mystery
trip tomorrow, and the Older Youth, next week-end. Youth who remain are
learning about death, dying, and heaven. Dinner Groups are
gathering this Sunday night. Our new roller-coaster ride with
Richard through the Book of Revelation on Sundays at 11:30 is underway with
high attendance.

It is an exciting time to visit Peace, to get more involved at Peace, to ask
questions about Peace, to invite a friend to Peace, to do something new at
Peace. Our average Sunday morning attendance is around 120
now – a great size for getting to know people. Come soon!

Peace to you,

Pastor Elizabeth

This Week at Peace - - January 8, 2012

2012-01-06T13:53:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends,

Most of you have heard that our dear friend, Gretchen Frueh, died on the last
day of 2011. "She lived with lung cancer for over four years with
a deep faith, dignity, grace, and unconditional love." A
memorial service, officiated by Peace, will be held at 2:00 pm Saturday,
Jan. 28 at the First Presbyterian Church, 2050 Oak Street Sarasota,
FL. A reception, hosted by PEO will follow at the church.

This Sunday at Peace we will look at the early “defining moments” of Jesus’
life – his presentation in the temple as an infant, his temple visit at
age twelve, and his adult baptism by John. These
are scriptures for Epiphany and Baptism Sundays.

Speaking of Epiphany, you are invited to the Deiberts’ for a very casual
Epiphany party tonight – lots of candlelight and friendship – no agenda, no
stress. Come to 6421 Blue Grosbeak Circle 34202 (Greenbrook
Run 756-8153) If you have leftover finger foods, bring
them, If not, just stop by anytime between 7 and 10.

May the Light of Christ burn brightly in our souls!

Elizabeth

This Week & Next at Peace - - Jan 1, 2012

2011-12-30T04:27:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends,

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! I know I speak for Gia and Tricia, as well as for the Deibert family, in saying how grateful we all are for the cards and gifts we received from you. Thank you very much for your kindness. We are also extremely grateful for your meaningful participation in our Advent and Christmas services.

We Deiberts are loading the car to travel to NC and will likely pass Tricia, Clay, and kids along I95 tomorrow as they return from SC.

Sunday’s New Years Day service will be a New Covenant Service at 10:00, in the Wesleyan/Methodist tradition, led by Pastor Tricia. Next Sunday is Baptism of the Lord Sunday, so for two weeks, we will be thinking about the covenant we have in Christ, and how we can more fully commit ourselves to a life of faithfulness in Baptism.

In 2012, we will have new opportunities to learn and grow. I hope one of your resolutions might be to participate in our second hour at Peace, or to become more involved during the week at Peace. It is in the work, prayer, and laughter of ministry teams, classes, choirs, and other small groups that relationships are forged and faith really grows.

You are all invited to stop by the Deiberts at 6421 Blue Grosbeak Circle (Greenbrook Run) for Epiphany, January 6, which this year is Friday. This is the day after the 12^th day of Christmas. This will be a very relaxed gathering. Bring finger foods and/or drinks, only if you have some leftover from the holidays. No pressure to come, or to RSVP, or to bring anything. The gift will be togetherness , especially for the sake of newer friends at Peace.

May the last half of your Christmas season be filled with the faith, hope, and love of a newborn Prince of Peace!

Elizabeth

Christmas Peace to All!

2011-12-22T11:11:00.000-08:00

Come to Peace Presbyterian Church to hear the story that has brought the gifts of HOPE, JOY, PEACE, and LOVE to countless people for more than two thousand years.

Christmas Eve at 6:00 Find joy in the familiar Lessons and Carols, Communion and Candlelight, led by children, youth, and adults.

Christmas Day at 10:00 Be at peace to hear about God’s greatest gift, the Word made flesh, the light that shines in the darkness.

New Years Day at 10:00 In God’s love we can all begin again

Our address is 10902 Technology Terrace, near Central Park on Lakewood Ranch Blvd

Listen to the original Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols (started in 1918) live from Kings College Chapel, Cambridge, England. As the Peace Men’s Quartet would say, “Turn your radio on” (prior to 10:00 am on WSMR 89.1 on Christmas Eve) .

See below Our Gratitude for Peace’s Advent Generosity:
Thank you for over $500 in Angel Tree Gifts to our dear friends in Vero Beach, who are so grateful for your love.

Thank you for supporting Beth-El. Pastor Ramiro Ros of the Beth-El Presbyterian congregation was very appreciative of the gifts for 3 unemployed families in Wimauma who are in extreme need this season. There were a total of 10 people with 4 angels for each person fulfilled carefully by donors ( 2 clothing items, shoes and one special wish) A total of 8 bicycles and helmets were donated. In addition, twenty gift cards worth $20 each were purchased with donated cash. These will be used throughout the year as people come in for help.

Thank you for over $1600 given to Alternative Gifts International: Our top recipients were “Helping Hungry & Homeless Americans” with groceries; “Empowering Tibetan Girls” through education; providing “Hens for Health” to children in Bolivia, to alleviate hunger and poverty through hands-on education; providing “Wholesome Meals for Haiti’s Children”; sending high quality formula to facilitate “Health & Hope for Orphaned Infants” in China.

Thank you for special end of year gifts of $5600 and $10,000 and $50,000 to Peace’s operating and building fund needs for 2012, and for all the regular giving which flows in weekly to supply our ministries and mission. Thanks for over $800 in donations for the Christmas wreaths designed by the youth.

Pledges for 2012 are 28% higher than in 2011, and your actual giving is exceeding pledges this year by about the same percentage – that’s $70,000 more received in offerings from the congregation than was promised.

Finally, thank you for the spirit of hope, joy, peace, and love that fills the room whenever we are together, people of Peace. Glory to God in the highest and peace to God’s people on earth!

Pastor Elizabeth

This Week at Peace - December 18, 2011

2011-12-17T12:03:00.000-08:00

Friends of the Prince of Peace,

As we come to the end of Advent and enter Christmas, let us remember those for whom this is a difficult season. For those in our congregation who miss someone or anticipate a death or long recovery, for people in the Philippines, and for many others rebuilding their lives, let us come together to care for the needs of others Sunday afternoon at 5:00. Light a candle of hope and remembrance in a brief and inspiring Blue Christmas prayer service at 5:00.

Our morning worship at 10:00 will be joyful, as we read the Christmas story and reflect on the amazement of the shepherds and all who heard their news. Having held ourselves back from a full array of Christmas carols, tomorrow we will “pull out all the stops” to celebrate the way God made himself known in the Incarnation, the birth of Jesus Christ, the newborn King.

I am pleased to announce that it appears that MAR will allow us to use Conference A (choir section) of the Event Center 24/7 beginning in 2012 on a monthly basis, as needed. I am sure you will rejoice with me that a special gift was given this week to make that extra lease possible, that our growth as disciples of Jesus Christ will not be hindered by space.

It warms my heart to see Peace people being so generous. Thank you for all the angel tree gifts, all the gifts for the PC(USA) Joy Offering to assist ministers and racial ethnic colleges, all who helped the youth program with wreath donations, and special end of year gifts to the building and operating funds of Peace. It takes all of us doing what we can, working together, to build this community of Peace. See the attached newsletter to read more about our friends at Beth-El.

The session (board of elders and pastors) is committed to keeping Peace generous with a 10% benevolence. That is, the church will tithe 10% of budget (through budget items and special offerings) to missions beyond the church. Thank you for being serious about compassionate outreach to those in great need.

Keep your focus this week. Here’s a 10 minute youtube video from a pastor friend of the Kopels that might help you --http://youtu.be/xjgREu_yctQ It is easy to slip into frenetic activity and forget the reason for the season. Be at Peace to remember what matters:

Tomorrow at 10:00 and at 5:00 (Blue Christmas)
Christmas Eve at 6:00 and Christmas Day at 10:00 (no lively learning)
New Years Day at 10:00

With joy, hope, peace, and love,

Elizabeth
Attachments:

• B_E_11 Dec News[2].pdf

This Week at Peace - - 11 December 2011

2011-12-09T16:22:00.000-08:00

Dear Peace Family,

Our Advent season at Peace has been especially meaningful, thanks to the dedication of Jane Taylor, Drew Jordan, Peter Miller, and Chris Camphire, our outstanding Advent Players Group.

We will continue our gradual crescendo from Advent waiting to Christmas joy, adding a few more familiar carols each week. This week we read the story of the Visitation of Mary with Elizabeth, followed by the Mary’s Song, the Magnificat. Come ponder with us why Mary is called “blessed” by all generations and hear the beloved "Ave Maria."

Remember to bring your Angel tree gifts this week-end, if possible. You may still order Alternative Gifts International, and, you may donate to the Joy Offering of the PC(USA), which supports retired ministers, ministers with special needs, and racial ethnic colleges.

We are grateful for the generosity of Peace people, who put the needs of others before their own wants. Thanks to all who may have given or are considering special year-end gifts to Peace’s ministry and missions. If you cannot give extra money this time of year, consider giving your time or even your blood! The bloodmobile will be in the parking lot this Sunday between 11:00-1:30. All who wish to go caroling with the youth this Sunday, meet at church at 2:00.

The Outreach Team has prepared special invitations to our Christmas services for you to share with friends, family, and neighbors, so please pick up as many as you can use on Sunday. Envelopes will be available for those who wish to mail them.

December 18^th at 5:00 Blue Christmas Service of HOPE
When the holidays are hard, light a candle of hope and remembrance.
Christmas Eve at 6:00 Service of JOY
Find joy in the Lessons, Carols, Communion, and Candlelight, led by children, youth, and adults
Christmas Day at 10:00 Service of PEACE
Hear the story of Christmas peace, along with the stories behind the Christmas Carols
New Year’s Day at 10:00 Service of LOVE
In God’s love, we can all begin again!

May the hope, joy, peace, and love of Advent be yours!

Elizabeth

Christmas Peace to You!

2011-12-02T06:49:00.000-08:00

We hope you will be at PEACE this Advent and Christmas! Join us for our special services during the holiday season:

December 4, 11, and 18 at 10:00 “Comforted,” “Blessed,” and “Enlightened”

December 18 at 5:00 Blue Christmas Service
This is an informal service of prayer and candle-lighting to remember those we miss in the holidays.

Christmas Eve at 6:00 Lessons & Carols Candlelight Service
Hear all the carols and stories of Christmas. This service will be led by children and youth, with a little help from pastors, music director, and choirs. Communion will be served.

Christmas Day at 10:00 A Celebration of Christ’s Birth

New Years Day at 10:00 God Makes All Things New

If you come this Sunday, the 4th, you can still take part in our Alternative Gifts International, which allows you to give meaningful gifts to family, which benefit those in foreign lands, whose need is great.

You can also be part of our Angel Tree Giving to local families in need. You can still purchase a handmade fresh Christmas wreath from the youth at Peace.

Come to Movie Night on Friday, the 9^th and view an inspiring film about an unforgettable Christmas during WW2. Joyeux Noel

Did you know that the Peace congregation has expanded by more than 20% in the last year? Our pledged giving is up 25% in a down-sized economy. If you haven’t been with us in a while, we’d love to see you again.

Come and see what’s happening with Peace at 10902 Technology Terrace. That’s in the Realtors Event and Conference Center along Lakewood Ranch Boulevard, across from Central Park.

May Christ fill you with all comfort and joy!

With love,

Pastor Elizabeth

This Week at Peace - November 20 - 27

2011-11-21T14:01:00.000-08:00

Oops, I accidently clicked "hide this message from non-leaders of this email group, so I'm the only one who received This Week At Peace last week.

Let me wish you all a "Happy Thanksgiving" and welcome you to the Season of Advent, which begins Sunday with a focus on "Being Prepared" (Mark 13:24-27). I think you'll love the opening of the service, thoughtfully prepared by our dramatic readers, Peter, Drew, and Chris, led by Jane Taylor, not to mention the dynamic choir piece at offering. We Deiberts are traveling mid-week, but will be back for church Sunday. Hope to see you then.

Special giving opportunities in December: Alternative Gifts International, the Angel Tree (for Beth-El Farmworker Families) & the Joy Offering (for retired Presbyterian ministers & racial ethnic colleges.

May you be given grace to love those with whom you spend Thanksgiving, as well as to be thankful for those whom you miss.

Last week's note below.

Dear Peace Family,

It brings me great joy to announce that we have almost reached our big, holy, audacious goal this year. Last January, we prayed for a great year in membership in our new location. We said “Let’s hope for twenty new family units this year.” We are at the end of November with seventeen new family units (singles, couples, families), and there are at least ten more who are considering. Those of you who are new members in 2011, thank you for the joy you bring us!

As we challenged ourselves to choose gratitude and generosity, even in harder economic times, we knew that we would need to surpass last year’s giving by nearly 50K to move confidently into 2012. I am encouraged to report that we are $40K above last year’s giving of $209,000, and with a few more promises, we will be strong. Thank you for catching the vision of Peace and stretching yourselves in faithful giving.

Pray for Elders Elect (Kathy Flora, Jenny Sheffield, Don Simpson, Mark Winters, and Andrew Deibert—youth) who are training for ordination, and give thanks for Elders whose term on session is ending in January. (Chuck McClurg, Robin Miller, Rod Scott, and Barbara Staton).

We come to the final Sunday of the church year, Christ the King. Our scripture is the story of the sheep and the goats from Matthew 25, a passage which always challenges us to examine our compassion for the “least of these.” Remember that you can make a difference for the needy by participating in our Alternative Giving International program.

Kickball & Hotdogs in LWR Adventure Park (Greenbrook Blvd) has become a relaxing and enjoyable intergenerational experience for the Peace family. Hope you can join us tomorrow at 3 and bring a friend. There was a great article about Peace’s Faith & Film Night in today’s paper! Don't forget to sign up for December Dinner Groups tomorrow.

We are praying for all who find the holidays difficult, especially those who are grieving. We remember Karen Lowder, who is having a memorial service for husband Barry Sunday afternoon, and Diane Engster and Bill Yolton, who lost both Bill’s daughter and Diane’s father in a two week period.

With gratitude for each of you,

Elizabeth

This Week at Peace -- November 13, 2011

2011-11-11T14:56:00.000-08:00

We come to Peace’s final week of Gratitude Season, realizing that we are only beginning to appreciate our debt to God for our abundant comforts, challenges, and blessings. We will read the story of the Ten Lepers that Jesus healed, and will hear his disappointment that only one returned to say thanks. I pray Christ will not be disappointed with us, but that he will see by our level of giving how truly grateful we are for the healing work he does in our lives -- body, mind, and soul.

If you cannot be with us in person this Sunday to give thanks to God with your promise to support the ministries of Peace, please mail in your pledge card before Thanksgiving. We are eager to have 100% participation as a sign of our mutual commitment to the vision for Peace Presbyterian. Because of your growing generosity in response to Christ’s amazing grace, Peace’s has future filled with hope. The more generous you are, the more your faith will flourish and the more we can accomplish for God’s glory. Pledge cards, as well as offerings, will be brought forward in worship, as the choir sings a rousing Gospel piece, “We Shall Be Thankful.”

On this Veteran’s Day 11-11-11, let us give thanks for all who have sacrificed for us, and let us plan to make sacrifices of a financial nature ourselves. Let us pray for peace to prevail around the world, even as we pray for Peace to grow and flourish here in this community, that we might be a be blessing to many, just as we have been so richly blessed. Jesus said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” He also said, “Do not store up treasures on earth, but store up treasures in heaven, for where your treasure is, there will be your heart also.”

With gratitude for a vibrant, committed congregation of friends whom we dearly love,

Elizabeth

This Week at Peace -- November 6, 2011

2011-11-06T14:47:00.000-08:00

Dear Peaceful Friends,

I hope as we move through November, you are choosing gratitude over grumbling, worship over whining, service over selfishness, compassion over contention, thanksgiving over thumb-sucking, generosity over greed, Christianity over culture. This Sunday we read 2 Corinthians 9:6-15 and consider the connection between gratitude and generosity. Paul challenges the church in Corinth to remember that they will reap what they sow.

Early on Sunday, November 6, you have the gift of an extra hour. Why not come early and help us set up the place for worship? Learn how it is done from the devoted early crowd, led by Jim and Sherry Robinson. If you’re busy cooking for our Gratitude Brunch, we’ll appreciate that just as much. Remember there also will be setting and re-setting to be accomplished after worship and after lunch. So don't miss an chance to help out.

We will FEAST on gratitude this Sunday, no matter what kind of food you might enjoy at our brunch. We will talk about being truly thankful. Speaking of thanksgiving, I am grateful for new members joining and new participants getting connected. I am grateful for the gifts for the Manatee Food Bank already lining the halls of our ministry center. I am thankful to serve, with devoted colleagues, a church that is so generous with time, talent, and treasure. Watch for your letter from the Gratitude (Stewardship) Team.

Stephen Ministers begin training for a life of Christian caregiving this week-end. Pray for Stephen Leaders (Nancy Hughes, Barbara Staton, Betty Clough, Elizabeth Deibert, and Gretchen Frueh-- in absentia) and for Stephen Ministers (Emily Miller, Bob Cutler, Dana Scott, Nancy Hogue, Gertie Rineer, and Barbara Noto).

With gratitude for YOU!

Elizabeth

This Week at Peace - - October 30, 2011

2011-10-27T13:48:00.000-07:00

Peaceful Friends,

My heart is full of gratitude for you. Thanks be to the Spirit of Christ, your faith is growing and our church community is thriving, as you get increasingly involved in the ministries and mission of Peace with your time, your talent, and your treasure. Nothing brings me more joy than seeing you step up your commitment to the Christian faith – by joining the church, attending a ministry team meeting, staying for lively learning, making a financial pledge, or taking on leadership responsibility in the church. If it makes me joyful, then Christ must be ecstatic when we commit ourselves to grow as his disciples.

The session will share brief life/faith stories with those considering membership this Sunday at 11:30. If you have been thinking about it, now’s a good time to consider making a commitment to Christ at Peace. Covenant with us to build this community! We will not twist your arms, but it really boosts our spirit when you say, “I’m in. I’m with you.”

This week we will be challenged by Jesus’ parable of the rich fool, who built bigger barns so he could keep all his stuff. (Luke 12:13-26) You can help your neighbors unload some of their food stuff by participation in Peace’s Halloween Offering.

This Sunday, which is close to All Saints and Reformation Day, we will remember with thanksgiving those who have gone before us – those family members and friends, whom we love and miss, as well as those saints and reformers who are our forebears in the faith.

Please don’t miss our Feasting on Gratitude Brunch next Sunday, November 6^th. This will be a great time of fellowship on a day when you have the gift of an extra hour. Spend it with us at Peace. Sign up to bring food or help this Sunday.

With gratitude for every one of you,

Elizabeth

This Week at Peace - - October 23, 2011

2011-10-21T04:38:00.000-07:00

Dear Peacemakers,

We continue our Gratitude Season this Sunday with a focus on Ephesians 2:1-10 and the connection between guilt, grace, and gratitude. I hope you are planning to be part of our fun Feasting on Gratitude Brunch on November 6 after worship. No classes that day but lots of thankful sharing over the meal, plus some gratitude-building activities for the kids.

It is time to deliver the Halloween “Trick hunger-Treat the hungry” flyers to your neighbors so they will be prepared to offer you real food (not just candy) on October 31. Pick up your flyers and instructions on this mission outreach event Sunday.

The Session (leadership board of elders and pastors) made two monumental decisions this past week. First, we decided to hire an architect (The Lawson Group, very experienced in church building) to lead us through a three month process to design a Master Plan for our property on Lorraine Road. This will lead to capital fundraising efforts beginning sometime in 2012. Secondly, Session decided to negotiate with MAR (Realtors) the 24/7 lease of a third of the Event Center (the choir side of sanctuary) to accommodate our larger weekday activities. Most significantly, this lease, if signed, will provide for the security of our temporary home (including Sunday worship) for the next three years. We know that all of you agree that securing our current location is crucial for Peace’s development, so please continue to be generous in your gifts to the operating fund. We are excited about our future here and on Lorraine Road and hope that these plans, coupled with your giving and the continued growth of Peace, will land us in a building by the end of 2014 or early 2015.

The Nominating Committee (Eirinn Camphire, Peter Miller, Don McIlwain, Dana Scott, and Sara Rea Jensen) are bringing before you on Sunday the following nominees for election to serve as elders for the next three years: Kathy Flora, Jenny Sheffield, Don Simpson, and Mark Winters. They also recommend that Andrew Deibert, high school senior, serve as youth elder for a one year term. There will be more information about the nominees in the bulletin Sunday and the congregational meeting will take place at the end of service. Any questions, write me back.

We could use your help, if you are able-bodied. Peace has some chairs currently stored at Pine Shores Presbyterian Church in Sarasota. They need to be moved from an office to a storage room. Show your gratitude for the generosity of our friends at Pine Shores by coming to help move the chairs. Meet at Peace at 8:00 this Saturday morning, the 22^nd or come to Pine Shores on your own (6135 Beechwood Ave – NW of Clark and Hwy 41).

You are always encouraged to be at Peace!

Elizabeth

This Week at Peace - - October 16, 2011

2011-10-14T04:00:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends of Peace,

We are not waiting until November to be thankful. No Gratitude Season begins right now at Peace! In the next weeks at Peace, we will find countless ways to be grateful to God, despite all the uncertainties of life. Hope you will join us at 10:00 on Sundays and that you will be our guest at a Feasting on Gratitude Brunch on November 6 after worship.

Since we moved into our new location in the Event and Conference Center one year ago, we have sixty-five NEW Peace participants, some of whom have joined and others coming regularly. What a blessing!

Here's the latest at Peace: We sent a dozen away on a youth retreat at Cedarkirk this week-end (no regular youth program on Sunday evening). We expect to see about twenty adults at Monthly Movie Night tonight. Sunday afternoon, Peace people are going to an Open House at Beth-El Farmworker Ministries in Wimauma, a Presbyterian mission where Peace has 8-10 volunteers every week.

It's time to start "tricking hunger and treating the hungry" with our Halloween Food Drive. You may also support the Food Bank by attending Empty Bowls Lunch in LWR with Peace Friends on Friday, October 21. The Sisters of Peace Craft Luncheon is next Sunday, the 23rd. The Adventure Park Kickball Picnic is going to be a blast on November 20th with players from 7 to 70.

Every week the men of Peace gather for breakfast and authentic man-share time at 7 on Tuesdays at Crisper's, while the women are multi-tasking with a Prayer Walk on Saturdays at 10 in the lovely lakeside streets near the church ministry center.

Choirs are rehearsing again and a drama group will soon start to meet. Stephen Ministers are being trained to provide care for those in difficult seasons of life, and the Peace Care Team continues to pray for each Peace participant by name every day and particularly for those who have requested the prayers of Peace.

There's more to tell, but I'll stop and simply say to you: Be at Peace with us!

With gratitude,

Pastor Elizabeth

This Week at Peace - - October 9, 2011

2011-10-09T04:47:00.000-07:00

This week in worship we examine the two Biblical references to the Lord’s Prayer from Matthew and Luke, and consider the three versions of the prayer in English and ponder the petition: “Forgive us our debts, trespasses, sins AS we forgive… " Many of you have asked over the last five years, why we use the ecumenical version of the prayer, and recently the Session agreed with the Worship Team and me that it would benefit all of us, especially the children, to develop a level of comfort with all three versions of the prayer. Hope you can come Sunday and please consider staying for the worship discussion afterwards. Express yourself, learn from others, and grow faith with friends at Peace.

Thank you for your concerns and prayers for Peace’s home security. We are feeling more encouraged about the possibility of negotiating a new lease with the Realtors, but it could require some extra giving next year. The Session of Elders will soon meet to discuss this matter in detail.

The Adventure Park Hot Dog and Kickball Event has been postponed to Sunday, November 20^th when we hope EVERYbody can participate in the fun. See the Fellowship Board for the MANY activities coming soon, and make your reservations for ticketed activities, like the Christmas Story in Sarasota.

Come to the Open House at Mission Beth-El NEXT Sunday afternoon (16^th) and learn about the Presbyterian ministry to farmworkers in Wimauma, 30 minutes north on 301. Carpools will leave from Peace at 2:30 and 3:00.

Remember that Ministry Team meetings are a good way to connect, pray, and serve. Meetings are listed on the back of the bulletin. Pray for the Nominating Committee, who will soon present a slate of elders for election, possibly as soon as next Sunday, the 16^th.

Finally, let me say what a joy it is to welcome new members and to see so many new faces at Peace. Do ask questions, get to know one another, and celebrate God’s goodness all around!

With gratitude for the love of Christ which binds us,

Elizabeth

This Week at Peace - September 29, 2011

2011-09-29T04:52:00.000-07:00

Sojourners called Peace,

God provided water from a rock in the wilderness, so I’m confident that God will provide a new home for Peace, when the Manatee Association of Realtors sells their buildings. But I’m going to join the Israelites of Exodus 17 and grumble.

If you saw the East County Observer today, you may have surmised that the Realtors Board did not sign an addendum to our lease contract, which would have secured us as tenants utilizing the Event Center. They apparently needed more selling flexibility than they were willing to admit. We suggested that we could lease more space from them, but that was not enough. Zoning restrictions do not currently allow a church to purchase the buildings, and we have learned that a change in the zoning was unlikely.

So, as much as we have enjoyed our 2010-2011 home, and as fruitful as the Event Center has been for Peace Church, we could be on the road again with our growing church family. We will keep you informed. Our Building Vision Team is working diligently to recommend to session an architect to design a master plan for our land on Lorraine Road, but these things take time and money. So bear with us. And pray with us.

This Sunday we look at the 10 Commandments as God’s gift to wandering, grumbling people. We will collect the Peacemaking Offering as it is World Communion Sunday. Think of those in warn-torn countries, dangerous communities, or desperate homes, where there is no peace. Remember all the places where there is hatred, injury, doubt, despair, darkness, and sadness. Then give generously to sow love, pardon, faith, hope, light, and joy, as the St Francis prayer says. The choir will sing “Make Me a Channel of Your Peace” as we exercise trust that “in giving of ourselves that we receive, and in dying, we are born to eternal life.”

Grateful to journey with you,

Elizabeth

This Week at Peace -- September 25, 2011

2011-09-25T04:28:00.000-07:00

Dear Peacemakers,

It brings me great joy to see so many new faces in the Peace family. As the song goes, “Make new friends, but keep the old. One is silver and the other, gold.”

Time is running short for those who want to sign up for Stephen Ministry Training. Please email back immediately if you want to reserve a spot. Autumn training will include two week-ends (Friday night-Saturday – to be determined) and then January-March, one night/week.

Pray for the nominating committee and for persons who may be wondering “Am I really called to serve as an elder?” It is a high calling, but not a heavy burden at Peace because we have such a talented group of Ministry Team Leaders, who carry a large part of the work load.

Peace Sisters – ideas luncheon this Sunday at 12:30 and prayer walk every Saturday at 10. Peace Brothers – 6:45 Prayer Breakfast. Any guys interested in a monthly evening meeting?

Youth Fellowship has a full schedule of activities. Kudos to Pastor Tricia and advisors.

Autumn Activities at Peace:

Choirs Potluck tomorrow (Sat) night and rehearsals begin in October

Oct 2 World Communion Sunday – Peacemaking Offering collected (25% kept for our local efforts)

Oct-Nov Neighborhood Dinners: Get to know your closest Peace neighbors. Sign up Sunday. Maybe you’re willing to host one?

Oct 16 Adventure Park Hot Dogs and Kick Ball -- 3:00PM to 7:00PM Sign up to bring a dish to share.

Oct 16 Beth-El Farmworkers Mission Open House -- Meet at Peace at 3:00 to carpool with friends

Oct 21 Empty Bowls Benefit Luncheon LWR -- Support Manatee Food Bank $20; meet at Peace at 11:30 to carpool

Nov 6 Gratitude Brunch after worship here at Peace – celebrating God’s goodness with table talk

Thanksgiving Day at Troyer’s Dutch Heritage -- 30 spots reserved for Peace people at 11:00

Dec 4 – The Christmas Story in Sarasota

As we grow, it is not always easy to keep a finger on every pulse, so please do not hesitate to call if you need support. Your pastors, music director, elders, and your congregational care team are praying for you.

God's grace and peace to all,

Elizabeth

This Week at Peace - September 16, 2011

2011-09-16T18:39:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

We hope you will be worshiping with us this Sunday, as we explore the generous hospitality of Jesus in the Parable of the Laborers in the Vineyard (Matt 20:1-16) and his teaching on whom we might help or invite to dinner. (Luke 14:1-6; 12-14) This is our final week in the Foundations of the Presbyterian Church and our question is "Who is going with us?" We are called to be open to all whom Jesus calls into our midst and open to the reforming power of the Holy Spirit in our common life.

It's a great time to join Peace! Come to an 11:30 gathering this Sunday to learn more about being part of the Peace family. Then you'll be ready on World Communion/Peacemaking Sunday to stand with others in worship who are declaring their trust in Jesus Christ, renouncing evil and affirming their reliance on the grace of God, and intending to be active and responsible in the worship, ministry, and mission of the church. There are many different ways to be a faithful member. Think about it and let me know if you're ready. It would make my day!

Peace to all,

Elizabeth

This Week at Peace - September 9, 2011

2011-09-09T18:42:00.000-07:00

As a Christian and an American, on the 10th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks I commit myself to work for building peace in my community and the world, and to love my neighbors by standing against hate and fear.” I hope you will join us in affirming this commitment to peacemaking on Sunday in worship, after we toll the bell in remembrance of those who died on and after that horrific day.

We will pray in song,
God, give us faith and wisdom to be your healing hands;
Give open minds that listen to truth from all your lands.
Give strength to work for justice; Grant love that casts out fear.
Then peace and not destruction will be the victor here.

There’s an Interfaith Service for Peace and Understanding at our sister church, First Presbyterian in Sarasota at 5:00 Sunday evening.

Our series on the Foundations of Presbyterianism continues, this week with a sermon on Colossians 1:3-14, an encouragement to meet the goal by leading lives worthy of Jesus Christ: being fruitful, wise, strong, thankful and patient.

Peace’s goals are inspiring worship, authentic relationships, nurturing discipleship, compassionate outreach, and responsive stewardship. For one hundred years, the goals of the Presbyterians have been
The proclamation of the gospel for the salvation of humankind
The shelter, nurture, and spiritual fellowship of the children of God
The maintenance of divine worship
The preservation of the truth
The promotion of social righteousness, and
The exhibition of the Kingdom of Heaven to the world.

These goals tell us where we are going. Sometimes when life is too busy or when really bad things happen, we need to be reminded of who we are and what really matters. A couple of weeks ago at a Peace, we heard a quote from C.S. Lewis, "Christianity, if false, is of no importance, and if true, of infinite importance. The only thing it cannot be is moderately important.

Come, do something infinitely important with us Sunday morning. Our mission is to make God known, by growing as disciples of Jesus Christ, building a community of peace, and caring for the needs of others.

New people, new classes, same great God!

Peace be with you all,

Elizabeth

This Week at Peace - September 2, 2011

2011-09-02T10:16:00.000-07:00

Peaceful Friends,

Members of the Coalition of Immokalee Workers and their supporters are cycling from Immokalee to Lakeland, hoping to speak to Ed Crenshaw of Publix. If you would like to support their efforts to secure a penny more per pound for tomato pickers, then please meet at Rivers Edge Publix Hwy 64 at 1:30 today. We are loyal Publix shoppers and people who peacefully seek justice for the poor in Jesus’ name. For other events related to this peaceful act of justice, see this link: http://www.interfaithact.org/pilgrimage

This Sunday morning, Peace will have a Festival of Singing (and you thought we already sing a lot at Peace?) This is our third week in the series on the Foundations of the Church. We will examine what makes us who we are by focusing on the church as body of Christ – people of faith, hope, love and witness, and by reflecting on the marks of the church, according to the Nicene Creed – one, holy, catholic (universal), and apostolic (connected/sent). Our meditation on each of the four parts – one, holy catholic, and apostolic – will be concluded with a related hymn or song.

After worship and fellowship, please consider staying to learn more about Stephen Ministry, a program of Christian caregiving. If you decide to train this year as a Stephen Minister, you will develop so many helpful relational tools – listening, speak the truth in love, praying for others, etc. So come, learn more about how to become a Stephen Minister this Sunday at 11:30.

Next Friday, our Faith and Film Night feature is Invictus, a great film about rugby and race relations! Come watch and discuss the movie, led by our own David Thomas, retired professor of film studies and rhetoric.

Finally, remember our Belonging to God questions from last Sunday – to be known this week – Who are you? I am a child of God. What does it mean to be a child of God? That I belong to God who loves me. Weave these into your soul for the reassurance they bring.

Peace to all,

Elizabeth

This Week at Peace - August 26, 2011

2011-08-26T05:00:00.000-07:00

You are invited to Peace’s “Back to Church” Sunday celebration this week. After worship, we will have a relaxed “lite bites” lunch and will hear about some of the learning opportunities at Peace for the coming year. Bring a salad or something to share -- maybe even a new friend! Kids, come ready to bounce through an obstacle course outside. Youth, come ready to wash cars and adults, your donations are very much appreciated!

In addition to the fun we have planned, we will have a brief congregational meeting to elect a nominating committee who will guide us to the election of four elders for class of 2014. The nominees for the nom com are: Eirinn Camphire, Peter Miller, Don McIlwain, Dana Scott, and Sara Rea Jensen.

I rejoice in announcing that Rob Tuite is being weaned off the respirator, and is having some success with sitting up in a chair for a brief period. Thanks be to God for this miracle! Thanks to you, friends, for your prayers and your generous donations to defray medical expenses for the Tuite family.

Pray for those who may be affected by Hurricane Irene, including Nancy Bonnell in NJ.

We continue this week with our reflection on the new Presbyterian Foundations, which are rooted in the ancient Church. Colossians 1:15-20 and Philippians 2:5-11 are among the oldest pieces of Christian liturgy. Both are thought to have been sung by the early church. “Who’s in Charge?” is our question as we look at the supremacy of Christ as Head of the Church.

I am very pleased to announce that Mike and Debbie Clay, Mary Ann and Dan Grantham and kids (Matthew, Nathan, and Clare), Jenny Sheffield, and Bob Cutler will be re-affirming their faith, after having met with the Session to join Peace! Welcome to these newest members of the family.

Don’t miss the attachment:

1. a new Peace directory is available at church. Let us know if you find errors.

2. a letter from Peace’s Stephen Leaders, inviting you to consider training to be a Stephen Minister. Learn more about this valuable ministry of Christian caregiving next Sunday 11:30-12:30. Even in a congregation of 175 people, there are many issues of grief and depression, there are healthcare struggles and life transitions, where Stephen Ministers can ease the way, providing a listening ear, not taking the place of the pastor, but adding a new dimension of Christian compassion.

Peace be with you all,

Elizabeth

Stephen Min letter 8-24-11.pdf

This Week at Peace - - August 19, 2011

2011-08-19T06:49:00.000-07:00

Dear Peace Family,

Kim and all the Tuites are grateful for your prayers for Rob, who survived his first surgery with complications, and is facing another one tomorrow – Saturday. Because of the expensive drain on family resources during months of critical care, we will collect a special offering for the Tuites this Sunday. Look for the basket in the fellowship area.

We had a meaningful service of prayer last Sunday at 11:30, thanks to the faithful leadership of Pastor Tricia, and the involved participation of nearly fifty of you, including Director Gia, still recovering.

This Sunday we begin a new series on The Foundations of the Church. About every generation, the Presbyterian Church (USA) does a major revision of our Book of Church Order and produces a new hymnal. The new “Foundations” and “Polity/Government” were approved in July of this year, and the new hymnal is due by 2014.

Sunday’s sermon is on The Mission of the Church, or “What are we doing?” We will read the first sermon of Jesus, and the first sermon of Peter for guidance. The men’s ensemble will bless us with lovely music. The session will be prepared to meet with anyone who would like to join Peace at 11:30.

Next Sunday, the 28^th is Back to Church Sunday at Peace. It’s a great time to invite your friends and neighbors. We will share a “Lite Bites” lunch of salads and such, and there will be a bounce house for kids of all ages. We will hear of new opportunities to grow as disciples of Jesus Christ through our 2011-12 Lively Learning Hour. Thanks to all who are stepping up to lead, assist or participate in classes this year. Never stop growing and learning.

On that same day we will have a brief congregational meeting to elect a nominating committee. Thus far the slate of nominees includes Eirinn Camphire, Peter Miller, Don McIlwain, and Dana Scott. Other names may be added to this slate. Once elected, this committee will seek your input and will bring a slate of nominees for election as elder in early October.

Please read the attached "Parish Paper" on why people connect with Christ and a congregation -- very helpful.

Peace to all of you,

Elizabeth

Attachments:

Parish Paper September 2011.pdf

This Week at Peace - August 5, 2011

2011-08-05T04:48:00.000-07:00

Dear Peacemakers,

Thanks to all of you who are wearing multiple hats at Peace during the summer months, covering for folks who are out of town.

Thanks to all of you who are hanging in there with involvement, even with occasional critique, because you did not do it the way another thought it should be done. Let’s all remember to “wag more, bark less.” Everyone needs a good pat on the back for helping.

Thanks to all of you who step up and care for your Peace family, even if you don’t know exactly what to do. By doing something and by praying, you show how much you care. As 1 John 3 says in so many different ways, “Love one another and so fulfill the law of Christ.”

This Sunday we read the story of Jesus going away to pray, then walking across water to calm the fears of the disciples in the rough seas. If you’re in a rough patch, try not to miss worship. (Matthew 14:22-33.)

The new PEACE plastic name tags are available for order at the Fellowship Board. Cost is $8.25 for your choice of a magnet/pin/clip. Checks payable to Suzi Regulski Shirey (or cash) needed at time of order.

You will soon see a “for sale” sign on the Manatee Association of Realtors property. Peace is not leaving; our lease is being secured. In fact, the Realtors are probably not leaving either, rather they will lease back from a new owner. The Session and Building Vision Team are prayerfully and deliberately considering all our options , including the purchase of one or both buildings, as well the protection of our lease interests. Pray with us for the Spirit’s guidance as we consider our future. Speak to Tom Ciechanowski (Clerk of Session) or Bob Donaldson (Building Vision Team Chair), if you have questions.

Peace to you, your neighbors and to the world.

Elizabeth

This Week at Peace - - July 22, 2011

2011-07-22T10:56:00.000-07:00

Dear Peacemakers,

As I sit here, trying to finish the sermon, I am reeling from today’s news of the sudden death of 26 year old Zachary Day, a young man, whose family members were charter members of Immanuel Presbyterian Church in Montgomery, AL. I’m reading about the famine in Somalia and the acts of terror in Norway. And the scripture I’m preaching on says, “All things work together for good for those who love God.” It teaches that the Spirit groans with us with “sighs too deep for words.” It says that “nothing can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.” I encourage you to study the scripture (see attachment) prior to Sunday’s worship, as it is a rich resource for our faith.

Pray for our youth, who are completing conferences and returning home Sunday night. Pick up school supplies or backpacks for the children of Beth-El Farmworker Ministries. Remember that we will have the opportunity to give blood on Sunday after worship and until 1:30. See the attached invitation to our first VBS and third Musical, Lightshine.

Let us continue to prepare for our Wills Emphasis Sunday. I challenge you to view this video online, whether you are able to attend our Wills Emphasis Seminar at 11:30 or not. You can make a difference for Peace for years beyond your own life. However, you can be certain -- no one will pressure you to make any decisions. This seminar is purely informational. http://www.presbyterianfoundation.org/WillsEmphasis.aspx

Peace be with all of you,

Elizabeth

Attachments:

This Week at Peace - - July 15, 2011

2011-07-15T10:46:00.000-07:00

Dear Peacemakers,

Let’s remember our scriptural journey in July worship. We were challenged by the Apostle Paul to set our minds on the things of the Spirit (Romans 7-8) to live in the freedom of Christ, and then exhorted by Jesus (Gospel of Matthew, chapter 13) to sow, till, and weed God’s garden so that seeds of Gospel might grow in our souls and our community. This week we read Psalm 139 and consider how intimately God knows us and how well God loves us. Please take your bulletins home each week, so you can read the texts for the coming week, not to mention pondering the scripture and affirmation of faith from each Sunday’s worship.

Peace is having our first Vacation Bible (& Music) School this summer. Lightshine will happen August 8-12 for ages 4-5^thgrade with youth assisting, 9-12 each day. Then on Sunday the 14^that 11:30, our youth will take lead roles in the musical, as directed by Gia, while all the kids sing songs about light of God which guides our steps. A fellowship lunch will follow. Will you help nurture the faith of young ones? Speak to Elizabeth or email back if you are willing assist or be on call in case our numbers grow. Families of Peace, please let us know if your kids are coming.

Next Sunday, the 24^th, the Suncoast Bloodmobile will be in the parking lot from 11:00-1:00 for any who would like to give blood.
The following Sunday, the 31^st, Mark Shoemaker of the Presbyterian Foundation will lead an adult discussion at 11:30 on planning giving. Do you have a will? Have you ever considered tithing 10% of your estate to the church when you die? Would you like to hear about investment opportunities which benefit both you and the Presbyterian Church?

Our middle and high school youth leave for Montreat and Presbyterian College tomorrow with Pastor Tricia and Chip Schaaff and friends from First Presbyterian, Sarasota. Pray for their spiritual growth.

Peace to all,

Elizabeth

This Week at Peace - July 8, 2011

2011-07-08T06:40:00.000-07:00

Peacemakers,

When I got home from three weeks away in June, my surprise anniversary gift from Richard was a beautifully-tended garden. He had planted new trees and flowers, trimmed hedges, added bark and stone edging. It was lovely. For most of our marriage, I have been the gardener, but lately Richard has a new appreciation of how flowers, trees, and even weeds teach us about our life with God.

This Sunday’s text is the Parable of the Sower from Matthew 13:1-9; 18-23, which teaches us that we all are gardeners with God. We are called to germinate the good news of Christ’s love. “Our mission is to make God known -- by growing as disciples of Jesus Christ, building a community of peace, and caring for the needs of others.” (Peace Mission Statement)

We will send off our youth and their chaperones Sunday with a prayer, as they get ready for their conferences in Montreat and at Presbyterian College. They depart next Saturday. Thanks to all of you who made this trip possible with your participation in the Italian Dinner and Talent Show!

We will begin collecting school supplies for the children of Beth-El Farmworker Ministries (see the email from the Mission Team earlier this week).

Mark your calendars for a great opportunity provided by our Stewardship Team to think about financial planning, your will, and how you can effectively plan for the future with gratitude and generosity for all God’s goodness (July 31).

Be fruitful and prayerful!

Elizabeth

This Week at Peace - - July 1, 2011

2011-07-01T05:18:00.000-07:00

In the last three weeks, I attended 16 worship services, not one of which did I lead. I cannot begin to describe how refreshing it is to be the hearer of a sermon, the receiver of communion and liturgy, after months and years of preaching them week-by-week. This experience, along with the perspective gained from being in the company of other pastors reflecting on their ministries, has renewed me. Thank you.

At the Credo conference, I learned some valuable lessons and established some goals related to “speaking the truth in love,” rather than avoiding conflict, about “equipping the saints for ministry” because that multiplies the ministry God can do through us, and about remembering that “Christ is our peace,” and on him we depend and together grow into “a dwelling place for God.” (Eph. 2 & 4) It is easy for a pastor to feel like the church’s progress rests entirely on his or her shoulders, but that is not healthy, as we all know. So I return and find that Peace is doing quite well without me – great news!

This Sunday, we read Romans 7:18-8:6, where the Apostle Paul describes the struggle to be faithful, to live according to the Spirit. My sermon title is “Land of the Free?” Four Men of Peace will be singing in their worship debut. Hope you will be with us, but if you’re traveling, we’ll hope to see you soon.

Grace and peace,

Elizabeth

This Week at Peace, June 26th

2011-06-25T19:11:00.000-07:00

Greetings, Peace family,

Not so long ago I was preparing the confirmands for their examination, and we reviewed the three most important books for Presbyterian Christians. Do you know what they are? In descending order of importance, they are the Bible, the Book of Confessions, and the Book of Order.

While it is not official until the Office of the General Assembly receives notification from presbyteries that have voted, as of June 7, 2011, the proposed new Form of Government (FOG) has been approved by a majority of our 173 presbyteries, and will replace the current version within the Book of Order of the church’s Constitution. New FOG is a better organized and more compact version of the current Form of Government. If you would like to read more on this, please visit:
http://www.pcusa.org/news/2011/6/7/churchwide-letter-concerning-new-form-government/

The Deibert family is away this Sunday in Montgomery, AL as they celebrate the 20th anniversary of Immanuel Presbyterian Church, the other new church development Elizabeth and Richard co-pastored. Elizabeth will be back in the office Tuesday. Rev. Bill Kemp will be leading us in worship and preaching on Genesis 2, where God asks Abraham to sacrifice his son Issac, whose birth was so long waited. May we also put our trust in the LORD.

Please keep the Burkholder family in your prayers as Jim is at Sarasota Memorial Hospital having surgery today.

Peace and many blessings,
Tricia

This Week at Peace, June 19th

2011-06-18T04:51:00.000-07:00

As it was my rotation to write for the Faith and Values column in the Bradenton Tribune this week, I was able to reflect upon my personal observation of Father’s Day. I’m fortunate to have a spouse whose fathering improves my mothering, whose children find him both hilarious and nurturing. I also feel blessed to have been raised in a home where because my own father was absent, members of my family, neighborhood, and church community acted like surrogate fathers to me. So I wish a Happy Father’s Day to those of you who are fathers, have been fathers, who struggle to be father’s, and who are like fathers to children not your own.

This secular holiday lends itself for an interesting reflection on this Trinity Sunday. How amazing is our God, who like a father, runs to the prodigal.

The Deibert family is away this Sunday for the Worship and Music conference in Montreat, NC. Rev. Grant Lowe will be leading us in worship and preaching on the creation story. Father’s Day is one place to start when we ask where we came from, what kinds of genes we inherited, and what we may be like. A larger answer, however, is in Genesis 1 where God is the creator, and we are created in God's likeness.

There is still time to sign up and pay Suzi Regulski Shirey this Sunday for the upcoming baseball game on June 26. In order to get the group price, we need 10 people. Tickets must be purchased in advance. See Suzi or the fellowship table for more information.

Peace and many blessings,
Tricia

This Week at Peace - - June 9, 2011

2011-06-09T04:36:00.000-07:00

Dear Peacemakers,

I am taking a moment away from a wonderful conference called CREDO in rolling hills of upstate NY, to write this email to you. Thirty-two Presbyterian ministers between ages 40-55, following a pattern started by the Episcopalians, are taking an eight-day break from ministry for guided reflection on our spiritual, vocational, financial, and emotional health. It has been a very meaningful time of study, worship, refreshment, and discernment. There are six of these conferences per year, significantly funded by the Presbyterian Board of Pensions.

Sunday is Pentecost, and Pastor Tricia will be preaching. She will be assisted by our friend, retired minister and presbytery executive, Rev. Grant Lowe. Director Gia will begin rehearsal for the summer musical at 11:30, and all who have nurtured the faith of children, youth, or adults will be thanked for their teaching with a fire-red “Pentecost” plant. Don’t forget to wear red for Pentecost, as we celebrate the fire of the Spirit!

I am seeing your email nearly every day, though I do not have time to respond. Know that you are in my prayers while I am away, and that I am grateful for the ministry we share. So many of my new friends have been pleased and inspired to hear about you and the progress of Peace Presbyterian Church!

Some of you may have heard that the new Form of Government of the PC(USA) has been passed by a majority of the presbyteries, and will go into effect in July. Most of you will notice little or no difference in the way Peace is run. Proponents of the six-chapter nFOG (Your pastors are among them) say it is designed to be flexible and recognizes the changing nature of the church. The current 18-chapter Form of Government was adopted in 1983 and has been amended hundreds of times.

The major difference between the proposed nFOG and the current Form of Government is not in what governing bodies are expected to do, but in how and who does it, said the Rev. Dan Williams, co-moderator of the nFOG task force. If you want to read more, see this website link: http://oga.pcusa.org/formofgovernment/

Peace,

Elizabeth

This Week at Peace - - June 3, 2011

2011-06-03T13:17:00.001-07:00

Dear Peacemakers,

I am so excited about all the new people at Peace this spring -- new adults, new young adults, new youth and children! You are a blessing to us, and we look forward to getting to know you better, even as we struggle to say good-bye to friends who are moving on! Young adults -- 19-35 -- you are invited over to the Deiberts for a last-minute, informal meal tomorrow -- Saturday night at 7:00. 6421 Blue Grosbeak Circle 34202 756-8153

Yesterday was the 40^thDay after Easter, Ascension Day. This Sunday we will celebrate the power Jesus gave us to be his witnesses, even as we revel in the promised presence of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost – celebrated next week . Trinity Sunday follows on Father’s Day this year, and then we’re into the long season of ordinary time.

The Mission Team invites all adults to a special one-time Lively Learning session on Disaster Preparedness and Relief this Sunday. We also encourage you to bring a special offering for Pentecost, to Family Promise of Manatee County, the ministry to homeless families with which we are involved. Part of the offering will go to other PC(USA) projects for children & youth at risk.

The Fellowship Team invites you to two casual and fun events to build relationships: Stories and Sweets on June 15 – bring a cool summer dessert and hear and/or share a story (3-5 min long) which is inspiring, funny, or otherwise interesting to hear. Mark your calendars for the Fireworks Night at the Bradenton Marauders Baseball Game at McKechnie Field on July 3. More info later.

Our musical rehearsals start on June 12^th. The youth of Peace will be featured in Light Shine, but there will be parts for children too. So children and youth will spend part of the Lively Learning hour with Director Gia and the other part with various other teachers all through summer. August 8-12 we will have Vacation Bible School in the mornings and will culminate with the musical production on Sunday, the 14th at 11:30. An exciting new class for adults, called Seasons of the Spirit, will begin on Pentecost!

Summer shalom to you all,

Elizabeth

This Week at Peace

2011-05-27T12:54:00.000-07:00

Peace-makers,

What a wonderful time we had together last week-end! Great Movie Night on Friday, Delicious Dinner and Talent Show on Saturday, and meaningful Confirmation Day on Sunday!

This week our focus is on the Church – what it means to be the household of God, living stones, built into a spiritual house, with Christ as our cornerstone. Put a rock in your pocket (something we’ve been doing at Peace as a reminder to be grateful for God’s gifts) and remember that you are a living stone – part of God’s house.

Please remember to bring non-perishable food for the hungry people of Manatee County, and/or easier, write a check this Sunday to Peace with Food Bank in memo. Think of the sacrifices that others have made for your freedom, your protection, your dignity, and make the effort to care for those who do not have enough food on their tables.

Coming events in June:

It’s Hurricane Season and you’ve seen what havoc can be made by tornadoes. Learn about disaster preparedness and relief efforts from Peace’s friend Kathy Broyard on June 5 at 11:30.

Pentecost Offering to help Youth & Children. The Mission Team has decided that our portion will go to Family Promise of Manatee , the wonderful ministry of hospitality to homeless families in our area.

Stories and Sweets on June 15th at 7:22. Summer is a great time for building relationships. If you have a short story (3-5 minutes) to tell (funny, serious, inspirational) or if you just want to spend time relaxing with Peace friends. Bring desserts of all kinds to share.

Finally, I encourage to read the Session Highlights from May to hear exciting news about the work of the Building Vision Team and to see that nametag options will be available for you soon, thanks to the Fellowship Team.

No matter what kind of nametag you wear, just remember that the purpose of nametags is to build relationships, ones that enrich life. Our goals at Peace: Inspiring Worship, Authentic Relationships, Nurturing Discipleship, Compassionate Outreach, and Responsive Stewardship.

Peace to all of you,

Elizabeth

This Week at Peace - - May 18, 2011

2011-05-18T13:53:00.000-07:00

Dear Peace-full Family,

We Deiberts had a wonderful time at daughter Emily’s graduation from Davidson College in N. Carolina. I hear you had a great Sunday with Morgan’s sermon, and Tricia’s and Gia’s usual strength, Memorial Day food drive info, and all the fellowship, worship, service, and learning that make Peace a such a meaningful church.

This is a wonderful week-end at Peace:

Movie Night at church on Friday. Come at 7ish and the highly recommended film for all ages “Millions” will start at 7:30.

Italian Dinner and Talent Show at First Presbyterian, Sarasota on Oak Street at 5:00 Saturday night. Door prizes will be part of the fun offered by Fellowship Team. If you have a prize to contribute, just bring it. (call Peggy D for more info 907-3924) And don’t forget your checkbooks!

Sunday morning we will confirm the baptism of four of our teens – Amanda Aungst, Rebecca Deibert, Liz Shirey, and Tim Tuite. Pray for them, and come be part of this big moment in their lives, as they promise to be disciples of Jesus Christ. The choirs have some beautiful music planned. Thanks to Pastor Tricia and the confirmands' mentors and parents for their commitment to working with the teens toward this day!

Peace to all of you!

Elizabeth

This Week at Peace - - May 11, 2011

2011-05-11T19:39:00.000-07:00

Dear Peacemakers,

Don’t miss hearing Rev. Dr. Morgan Roberts preach this Sunday! We Deiberts will be in NC attending daughter Emily’s graduation from Davidson College. Pastor Tricia will be leading a confirmation retreat most of the week-end, preparing our confirmands to share their faith with the session over lunch on Sunday.

Don’t miss the Peace Italian Dinner and Talent Show – this year on Saturday, May 21st, at First Presbyterian, Sarasota because we outgrew Northminster’s fellowship hall. If you are planning to share your talent, speak to Gia Sunday after worship, or better, email her now. diapason08@verizon.net We need a head count for the dinner, so please sign up on Sunday, or email Peggy at Pdonald2@hotmail.com and tell her what you’d like to bring (salads with dressing, bread, and desserts) and whether you can help with set up or clean up or both. The evening begins at 5:00.

The Mission Team will share with you Sunday about their Memorial Day Food Drive and their educational opportunity on June 6 to learn about disaster preparedness.

You may hear in the news that a majority of presbyteries in the PC(USA) have voted in favor of the changed language for ordination standards, amendment 10-A. This is joyful, long-awaited news for some of us, and grievous, worrisome news for others of us. I pray that we Presbyterian Christians will hold together in our common ground in the Lordship of Jesus Christ.

Peace and love to all,

Elizabeth

"Faith Column" in Bradenton/LWR Herald

2011-05-05T05:29:00.000-07:00

Below is the first offering from Peace for the faith column in Bradenton/LWR Herald. Tricia and I are in the rota now.

Like many, we have experienced mixed emotions as the details of bin Laden’s death emerge. We are relieved that the person who master-minded 9/11 and other mass murders is no longer available to direct acts of terror. Yet when we see Americans cheering on the streets outside the White House, and when we hear interviewees gushing, “I hope to God he rots in hell!” we are disturbed that so many Americans are allowing bin Laden’s hatred to justify their own hate.

All major world faiths place singular value on the dignity of human life, even when that dignity becomes distorted by evil. Our Christian faith tells us clearly that every human being is created in the image of God, no matter how grave their sins. While we believe that all vengeance belongs to the Lord (Romans 12), we do not think that it was unethical for our government, not bound by the theological ethics of Christianity, to decide that the safety of humanity required the death of this human being. The lesser evil of bin Laden’s assassination was justified when compared with the greater evil of his continuance as a living symbol for terrorism.

Our grave concern is that we, the American people, cease gloating in his death. Be relieved, yes. Be glad for justice, yes. But do not celebrate the tragedy of a necessary assassination. To do so is not only wrong, according the beliefs of all major faith groups, but profoundly unwise. If we truly want terrorism to decline, then we need to concern ourselves with the humanity of all people, even our enemies. We need to rise above the demonizing behavior of playground children, who behave according to a simplistic view of good and evil – “us” and “them.” We need to exercise self-control (Galatians 5) and work tirelessly on developing the spirit of mercy and peacemaking, especially with those whose distorted image of God seeks to solve injustice with acts of hatred. Yes, it is the tragedy of the human condition that protecting the world from modern terrorism will sometimes mean shooting an unarmed human being in front of his teen daughter. But let us remember the humanity of that girl and let us weep over the horrifically diminished humanity of her father.

We close with the reflection of a Presbyterian friend, not too far from Abbottabad, Pakistan, who recalls the words of Martin Luther King, Jr: “‘I mourn the loss of thousands of precious lives, but I will not rejoice in the death of one, not even an enemy. Returning hate for hate multiplies hate, adding deeper darkness to a night already devoid of stars. Darkness cannot drive out darkness: only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate: only love can do that.’ It is not the funeral of Osama Bin Laden, which will solve the world’s troubles or bring ultimate peace. It is the funeral that we remembered on Good Friday of Jesus Christ that gives us hope for the world. He willingly died for each of us because of His great love for us!”

Rev. Elizabeth M. Deibert, Pastor of Peace Presbyterian Church
Rev. Dr. Richard I Deibert, physician and theologian

This Week at Peace - - May 5, 2011

2011-05-05T05:02:00.000-07:00

This Saturday, Peace is offering two exciting fellowship activities: Peace will gather at Lido Beach at 5:00. Bring some food and drink and enjoy watching the amazing Florida sunset while building authentic relationships with your church family. (Peggy at 907-3924) Or for Cedarkirk fans, there’s a great 7:00 concert celebrating Cedarkirk’s 40 years of ministry. Tickets to hear Denver & the Mile-High Orchestra at Newsome High School are $15. (Suzi at 355-5928)

On Sunday we will journey with Jesus’ Mother Mary, giving thanks for her faithfulness, a model for all of us, male and female. The Sisters of Peace have invited you to wear a hat in celebration of Mother’s Day, but I am confident they will understand if you don’t have one, or if yours is ugly. (This is not a replay of the Royal Wedding, so girlfriends, you do not need to go shopping unless you want.)

It’s time to get excited about the May 21st Italian Dinner (delicious food prepared by our resident Italian Musician) and Talent Show. The food and the fun get better every year! And the venue will be much more spacious at First Presbyterian, Sarasota on Oak Street, even if we have to drive further. We will begin at 5:00 according to Pastor Tricia, so get your acts of all kinds together (speak to Gia ASAP because the talent slots are filling) and save your dollars, so we can raise big bucks for our teens to travel to Montreat for the best youth conference around.

Pray for our 8thand 9thgrader confirmands who are preparing to confirm their baptisms and commit to a life of discipleship on May 22nd. This is the beginning of their journey and not the end. Support them, be good models of faith for them. Encourage one another and be grateful for the gifts of every single person at Peace. “They’ll know we are Christians by our love … Love is patient and kind ... not envious, boastful, arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way…”

The Ministry Team Leaders and Session have a new challenge for all at Peace – that we dedicate the 15 minutes prior to worship and the 15 minutes after worship to doing two things exclusively:
1. rejoicing in the goodness of God and expressing gratitude and affection for our church family
2. welcoming our guests at Peace with great warmth and interest

Gotta tall metal filing cabinet you don't want? Peace music department in need.

With gratitude for each of you,

Elizabeth

This Week at Peace - April 29, 2011

2011-04-29T10:33:00.000-07:00

What a joy to see 170 faces on Easter morning! If you were not there, we missed you! Christ is risen. He is risen indeed! This Second Sunday of Easter, we get to ease off our Easter exuberance to think about doubt and faith and the peace that Christ brings into the room. Hope you will be back for this wonderful reading from the second half of John 20. Hear the Peace quartet sing a wonderful arrangement of the Lord’s Prayer.

To those of you who are snowbirds, who have left already and are soon leaving, we will miss you terribly over the summer. Think of us while you watch spring blossoms unfold.

We will be giving thanks this Sunday for ALL the people who assist with worship – all our choirs, our communion servers and liturgists, our children serving as acolytes, our sound system princes and set up crew champions. Our new/old friends, the Waldrops (Martha is a master gardener) have delivered to Peace a lovely weeping bottle brush tree to be planted Sunday as a regular reminder of the gifts of these dedicated souls who prepare well and arrive early.

Say a prayer of gratitude that God spared the lives of our friends, the Simpsons, who happened to be with friends in Tuscaloosa, AL, when the tornado came through and demolished everything in sight, including the Simpson’s car. I know you are praying for those who have experienced tremendous losses.

Pray also for our confirmands – Amanda, Tim (Harry), Liz Shirey, and Rebecca -- preparing to reaffirm their baptism on May 22nd.

Consider what you’re missing if you don’t stay for Lively Learning opportunities. Peace has many great offerings, made all the better by engaged participants. New class led by Chip Schaaff, beginning in a week on the challenging issue of life management – building the peace of Christ into our daily lives.

While sipping coffee, take time to complete that Time and Talent form “Gratitude Leads to Service”, which many of you promised to Robin two weeks ago.

Find out Sunday during fellowship about the Cedarkirk gathering and the beach gathering on May 7th. Great ways to build your Peace friendships!

Peace be with you,

Elizabeth

Good Friday & Easter at Peace

2011-04-21T19:16:00.000-07:00

Come and walk the lonesome valley of “Jesus’ Last Day” with us. Gathering around tables, we will begin with the Last Supper he shared with his disciples. Then we will journey with him through his betrayal, arrest, judgment, trial, suffering and death. Meaningful music, prayers, and visual arts will guide our deep reflection on God’s wondrous love.

Be at Peace at 7:00 Friday night. (We're in the Manatee Association of Realtors Event & Conference Center, corner of Technology Terrace and Lakewood Ranch Blvd., near Central Park.)

On Sunday morning at 10:00 we will ring in Easter with bells and trumpets and voices, in a grand celebration of new life in worship. This will be followed by joyful, warm fellowship for adults and a fun egg hunt for children, guided by youth and some devoted adults.

This Sunday’s resurrection story from the Gospel of John invites us to "Look Again!" Don’t be content with the first look, because you might have missed something. If you see only frustration, emptiness, and death, look again! God has some surprises for you.

Spring of 2006 when Peace first began worship, we were a fledgling group of forty. But now in 2011, look again! We have 160 people! One year ago we were significantly stalled in our momentum at SCF (formerly MCC) tucked away in the Corporate Park off University. We rose from that tomb of gloom, and entered this wonderful new home, where we are blessed with many new Peace friends!

Come look again at Peace. Come, look again into the tomb of all despair threatens you and find new life in Christ!

Peace be with you,

Pastor Elizabeth

This Week at Peace - - April 15, 2011

2011-04-15T08:55:00.000-07:00

Palm Sunday, Good Friday, and Easter. Holy Week. There is no more special time of year. I wish it had a set date like Christmas. It slips by us sometimes, with little notice, but I bet you know what today, April 15th, is. I hear it every year – “Oh yeah, which Sunday is Easter?” So are you ready for Easter? Get ready by being in worship on Palm Sunday April 17 and Good Friday, April 22. Get ready by making sure this coming week is reflective, sacrificial, and prayerful.

Come to church tomorrow (Sat) at 1:00 and help us decorate the large wooden cross with palm branches. Come on Holy Saturday (next week – same time) to re-decorate with lilies and fresh palms for Easter. BYOF - Bring a lily or white flowering plant to celebrate resurrection on Easter.

Set aside extra offering money for our One Great Hour of Sharing, so you can make a difference in the lives of those who are hungry or suffering from disasters. It is so easy to forget the people of Japan are still struggling. Live more simply this week so someone else can simply live.

This Sunday, please take home some Holy Week postcard invitations to tuck into the doors of 10-20 neighbors or to mail to friends. Many people who are not ordinarily in church will consider going on Easter. So invite them!

We celebrate this Sunday Jesus’ final entry into Jerusalem with palm branches and song. We reflect on the last week of his life. We share a special brunch together, even as we consider how grateful we are for all eleven of Peace’s ministry teams, run by six or eight good people like you.

Children and youth will have classes right after the brunch this Sunday. They and their teachers should gather at the front of the buffet line. Thanks to all who are assisting the Fellowship Team with the meal. Adults will not have classes on Palm Sunday or Easter. On Easter the youth will assist with the children’s egg hunt at 11:30. The youth will have their own egg decorating party at the Lowe's house the day before, from 2-5.

Our 7:00 pm Good Friday service will reflect on the last day of Jesus’ life, beginning with the Last Supper he shared with his disciples. This service of communion, with readings, prayers, music , and increasing darkness will help you appreciate the meaning of death. Where is the power of resurrection without death? Don’t miss it.

May this be a Holy Week in your life. No, make this be a Holy Week in your life by the way you live and pray through it.

God be with you.Grace and peace,

Elizabeth

Easter is Coming!

2011-04-08T04:19:00.000-07:00

Friends of Peace,

This Sunday we anticipate the good news of Easter with the death to life story of Lazarus! Come, experience new life with the people of Peace. Make lasting friendships. Build peace all around.

"The Last Week" Palm Sunday at 10:00 with tasty brunch to follow
"The Last Day" Good Friday at 7:00 pm with quiet reflection to follow
"The New Day" Easter at 10:00 with lively egg hunt to follow

Postcard copies an invitation will be distributed on Sunday, so you can invite your friends and neighbors. It is exciting to be filling up our new worship space, and even more exciting that one third of you (all ages) are involved in leading worship through various forms of music!

Coming April Activites at Peace:

April 15 Movie Night at 7:00, viewing Gosford Park (R)
April 27 Sisters of Peace Sunset Kayaking and Yoga at Lido

Grace and peace to you,

Pastor Elizabeth

This Week at Peace - - April 1, 2011

2011-04-01T19:49:00.000-07:00

Gia, Tricia, and I will not be able to make it this to worship this Sunday, but I'm sure everybody will pitch in and all will go well. Note the date of this email and you will understand what I mean.

How’s your eyesight? Mine’s terrible without glasses. And even with my glasses, sometimes I don’t see what I need to see. I ignore the person who needed me to listen. I speak too quickly what I think I know. Vision has more to do with the Spirit in us, than with our eyes. Hope to “see” you Sunday.

For the next three weeks during Fellowship we will open our eyes to all that God has done (gratitude) and how God may want us to respond (stewardship of our time and talent). Listen for God’s call to service through Peace’s ministry teams, each of which is a nurturing group committed to orchestrating one part of Peace’s life. You could be blind at the moment to some form of service and some group of people in which you would really thrive. Give it prayerful thought and action.

New Members and Prospective Members – please join us at 11:30 for the next two Sundays. Hear more about Peace and the Presbyterians. Connect with people and see how your story intersects with ours.

Fellowship Activities coming: Passion Play in Wauchula on April 9. (Email Nancy Hughes nanskodi@gmail.com) Movie Night on April 15 at Peace.

Worship Services not to be missed: Palm Sunday 10:00 with brunch to follow, Good Friday, April 22 at 7:00, and Easter Morning 10:00 with egg hunt to follow.

Peace’s week to help Family Promise is April 10-16. Please email Eirinn Camphire, if you’d like to be added to her support team so you might assist sometime (e.eirinn@gmail.com)

Finally, I'm hoping you might be using the prayers I sent last week. Yes, there are more! Find the evening prayers from the Book of Common Worship. They work any time after 12:00 noon and before midnight.

Grace and peace,

Elizabeth

This Week at Peace - March 25, 2011

2011-03-25T18:16:00.000-07:00

Your Peace staff and volunteers have added a brief prayer service to our work day. We are using the daily morning prayers from the Book of Common Worship, which I will attach, in case you’d like to join us in praying each day at noon. You can use this wherever you are. Stop for five minutes and remember who is in charge of this world.

This week’s scripture, Romans 5:1-5 invites us to move from suffering to endurance to character to hope. College daughter Emily says this is her favorite scripture, and it is truly a gem!

A few dates to remember: Discover Your Gifts begins Sunday 5-6 for 8 weeks! Couples at Peace will enrich your relationship – three weeks Wednesdays at 6:15. Sisters of Peace, let Suzi Regulski Shirey know if you’re coming to the 2:00 Tea Party (not the political group) on April 2. Nancy Hughes needs checks asap for those going to the Passion Play in Wauchula on April 9.

New and prospective members – learn more about Peace and about the Presbyterian Church by attending a class April 3 and 10 from 11:30-12:30. Everyone, mark your calendars now for our Good Friday Service on April 22ndat 7:00.

On Sunday we will celebrate the new membership of Martha and Bob Waldrop and of Kristina Pino, joining with her children, Ethan and Grace! The Mission Team will encourage you to keep the Lenten discipline of sharing by making small yet significant sacrifices for the sake of others.

Pastor Tricia requests your prayers as she, along with a couple of other adults, will supervise Peace’s first ever “lock-in” with nearly a dozen youth tonight! Thank God for our ministry center, because no sane adult would invite such a large group of teens into their home for the night.

Finally, a special request from our friend Glenn Kiplinger (wheel-chair bound) who lost his beloved wife, Martha, one month ago: Please consider providing a home for Martha’s Jack Russell Terrier, Parker, who is too difficult for Glenn to manage in his new assisted living facility.

Peace to all,

Elizabeth

Attachments:

Morning Prayers from the Presbyterian Book of Common Worship.docx

This Week at Peace - - March 18, 2011

2011-03-18T12:32:00.000-07:00

Ten people from Peace attended the Presbytery’s Main Event, this year featuring a professor on the subject of CONVERGENCE WORSHIP. I am attaching Mickey Miller’s notes as well as two articles by Dr. Cherry, for those who are interested in learning more. (below)

One of our take-home messages is that we should not spend more time in announcements than we spend praying in worship, so we are trimming our announcements and counting on you to read This Week at Peace and TAKE YOUR BULLETIN HOME to be informed of all Peace’s opportunities for mission, fellowship, and learning.

The Fellowship Team invites you to ADULTS NIGHT OUT (bring friends if you’d like) at Demetrios, 17220 Cortez Road, Bradenton, 34207. Nancy Hughes is making reservations. nanskodi7@gmail.com

See the life of Christ enacted in the outdoor arena at Wauchula’s annual PASSION PLAY on April 9th. Arrange your tickets ($18 adults, $16 kids) through Nancy and Bob Hughes.

The Mission Team believes that members of Peace have won the lottery! Just tick off our blessings: we’ve been born in the United States, we enjoy clean water and abundant food; we are free to move and communicate and organize. Get your SHARING CALENDAR for Lent, and grow in gratitude. Note: Family Promise Garage Sale – First Presbyterian, Bradenton, 15th St W and Manatee Ave 8:00-2:00.

We are all concerned with the tragedy in JAPAN. Let me remind you that one-third of our One Great Hour of Sharing Offering (collected on Easter or before) will be given to Presbyterian Disaster Assistance, working in Japan and other areas of desperate need. We will sing a prayer for the Japanese this week, in place of our Doxology.

Sunday’s SERMON will be a dialogue between Pastor Tricia and me about the most often quote verse of scripture: John 3:16 God so loved the world… I’m hoping to see YOU this Sunday!

And if you’d like to view A MOVIE, The Postman (Il Postino), with Peace friends, we’ll see you tonight!

With love and deep gratitude for our community of faith and our Lord’s love,

Elizabeth

Attachments:
Presbytery Main Event Convergence Worship Summary.doc
Convergence Worship.pdf
Cherry-article-My-House.pdf

Peace be with You!

2011-03-09T18:31:00.000-08:00

Peace Family and Friends,

As we spring forward with our clocks this week, Peace Church moves to a weekly 10:00 worship hour, because we have heard that many of you would appreciate that. For those who liked the earlier hour, we thank you for bearing with us while we try the new schedule for a few months.

Today is Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent, a time to renew your commitment to Jesus Christ. We had a syrupy good Fat Tuesday Pancake Br-inner last night, raising $500 for the Peace Youth. We look forward to being marked with the sign of the cross tonight at 7:00, asking God to wash clean our hearts.

Did you know that the most substantial Christian formation happens in churches where intergenerational relationships provide loving support and steady encouragement for faithfulness? There are relationships of convenience – and then there are relationships of commitment. We are committed to sticking with you, through thick and thin. Come, be part of the inspiring, authentic, nurturing, compassionate, and responsive life of Peace Presbyterian on Lakewood Ranch Blvd at Technology Terrace.

New learning opportunities coming to Peace soon – Couples “at Peace”, Spiritual Masters, Discover Your Gifts, Revelation. Fellowship activities abound too! You should have seen the Peace family (ages 7-57) playing kickball together in the park. Call or email to learn more.

Peace be with you all,

Elizabeth

This Week at Peace

2011-03-04T18:39:00.000-08:00

This Sunday we celebrate the Transfiguration, which reminds us of the dual nature of Jesus Christ, a human in whom God’s majestic glory resided. Amazing!

Tomorrow ten people from Peace are going to the “Do the Right Thing” March in Tampa to support the Coalition of Immokalee Workers in their quest for just pay. Meet at church at 10:30 if you’d like to go.

Fat Tuesday Brinner at church from 6:00-7:30 on March 8 is a great opportunity to invite a friend to enjoy Peace fellowship, while supporting the youth group and filling up on yummy pancakes and sausage!

Our Ash Wednesday service at 7:00 on March 9 is a great way to begin a meaningful Season of Lent.

The Youth will be participating in a Crop Walk for Hunger. Find out more Sunday.

Final reminder: Nursery volunteer list will soon be published. Let us know if you feel uncomfortable taking a single turn annually in rocking the babies and reading to the preschoolers. Choir members will offered a turn in summer only.

Last opportunity to sign up for the Presbytery’s Main Event on March 13 (brochure attached)

Note that we will spring forward on March 13 to our trial schedule for 6 months: 10:00 Worship, 11:00 Fellowship, 11:30 Lively Learning.

Our Couples at Peace Class will begin again soon. Speak to Chip Schaaff if you would like to participate. Invite some friends too.

A spiritual gifts class, Discovering God’s Vision for Your Life, will run for 8 weeks on Sunday evenings, beginning on March 27, led by Bill Clough. The materials are produced by Stephen Ministries and are excellent.

The peace of Christ surround all of you who are struggling with grief, illness, or anything else. Take some time to pray today, as it is World Day of Prayer.

Elizabeth

Attachments:

2011 MAIN EVENT REGISTRATION BROCHURE.pdf

This Week at Peace - - February 18, 2011

2011-02-18T17:15:00.000-08:00

Dear Peacemakers,

After analyzing the feedback from the congregational meeting survey, the session decided to try “springing forward” on the first Sunday of Lent, March 13 (the day our clocks change) to a 10:00 worship service. After six months, we will evaluate and if needed, we will “fall back” to 9:30 on the analogous Sunday in the autumn. We believe this change to 10:00 could help with our growth. We know that the change, while just half an hour, will not be the personal preference of some of you, but we pray you will bear with us as we try this new time.

We are delighted that Don and Judy Simpson and Roy Green met with the session to join last Sunday. We will welcome them into membership this week. Soon we will host another “All About Peace” membership class for those of you who have not had the chance to participate in that.

Another decision from the February Session Meeting was based on a recommendation from the Admin Team to increase Gia’s position to include visual arts (powerpoint prep), beginning in March, on a trial basis. We are grateful for the volunteers who are assisting with other parts of the role Judi Creneti played over these last five years, and thankful for the smooth transition that Judi has helped facilitate. February 27th is Judi’s last Sunday as a member of Peace’s staff. I am sure you will want to express your gratitude to her.

We will celebrate the Sacrament of Holy Baptism for Wells Thomas this week! Some of you may want to fulfill your baptismal promises to Wells by helping Tricia on Wednesdays when she works in our ministry center. Our 8th and 9th graders will soon begin their preparation for confirmation, with the hope of confirming their baptism on May 22.

Martha Kiplinger’s baptism is now complete in her death last Sunday, the 13th. A service of witness to the resurrection, celebrating her life will be held in our “sanctuary” on Saturday, February 26th at 11:00. Join me in praying for the Kiplinger family, especially Glenn.

We rejoice with Jim and Sherry Robinson in the marriage of their son Kevin to his beloved Jaime this week-end. If you’d like to contribute to the church’s gift to the couple, an envelope will be in the fellowship area.

Yes, on Thursday, February 24th the Sisters of Peace are at Beth Palmer’s “Dining for Women Potluck” at 6 and on Saturday, the 26th at 6:30 the Peace Choirs will be the best at the Harvest Methodist Family Promise Benefit Concert. Other possible activites below. If you need to know more, ask someone Sunday or email back.

Peace to you all,

Elizabeth

http://www.ciw-online.org/dotherightthing/index.html

This Week at Peace - - February 11, 2011

2011-02-12T02:39:00.000-08:00

Congratulations, Peace, on helping the Youth reach their Souper Bowl tackle hunger goals! Virtual Souper Bowl rings to all of you! Now if you want to do justice, as well as love kindness, mark your calendar for the Coalition of Immokalee Workers March in Tampa—March 5.

Pray for your friends at Peace. We have several who have spent time in the hospital over the last week. Others are going through challenging times with stress, loss, and difficult relationships. Speaking of relationships, Jesus offers some big challenges in the Sermon on the Mount text this week:

Regarding anger, insults, and bitterness, Jesus insists that we need to be working on reconciliation. This is humbling and hard work, given the propensity of our relationships to go awry in small and large ways. Regarding fidelity, Jesus seems to be saying that adultery is about our eyes and heart, as much as our beds.

Movie Night is this coming Friday – viewing and discussing the movie “Doubt.” Kickball and hot dogs at Greenbrook’s Adventure Park on February 20th starting at 3:00. Bring a side dish to share. The Peace Choirs are singing in a Family Promise fundraiser at Harvest Methodist Church on February 26th. Every one of these activities is an opportunity to invite a friend to enjoy the warmth of Peace’s fellowship.

Wells Thomas, infant son of our Pastor Tricia will be baptized at Peace on February 20th! What a joy to celebrate the grace of God in his life and ours and to have him be the first one baptized in our new beautiful baptismal font, a gift from Presbyterian friends in Naples!

Peace to you all,

Elizabeth

This Week at Peace - - February 4, 2011

2011-02-04T18:56:00.000-08:00

Dear Peacemakers,

At the end of worship the Peace Youth will collect the special Souper Bowl Offering which they have designated for Beth-el Farmworker Ministries. Help them reach goals of 200 items of non-perishable food and $400.

The Wired Word Class has invited representatives from the Coalition of Immokalee Workers to share at 11:00 the successes and struggles to achieve fair pay (justice) for farmworkers. See your Lively Learning emails.

Sunday’s scripture tells us that we are the salt of the earth and the light of the world. Come and consider what it means to be flavorful and bright in today’s world.

You will have one last opportunity to contribute to the parting gratitude gift for our good friend and former guitarist, Joe Sardo. See Mickey Miller on Sunday.

Hope you were able to attend the Annual Meeting last Sunday. If not, pick up one of the booklets so you know what’s happening.

And here are some highlights from recent Session meetings and the Congregational Meeting:

New Members: Bob Stuckey, Janet & Rick Grogan and their son Trevor have joined the church.

New Elders: Shirley Blair (Admin) , Nancy Hughes (Congregational Care), Drew Jordan (Youth & Children), and Jim Padula (Adult Education) are now ordained, installed, and serving.

New Leaders and Openings: Peggy Donaldson is replacing Dana Scott in Fellowship with support from Bob Hughes and Elder Rod Scott; Stewardship has a new member in Tracy Jordan, who has also offered to help with church bulletins.

New Confirmation Classes: Pivotal Opportunity for 8th-9th graders to confirm the promises of their baptism by claiming their own faith in Christ. Held with First Presby, Sarasota, this spring.

New Dates: Movie Night on February 18th , Kickball & Hot dogs in the Park on February 20th, Sisters of Peace Dining on February 25, Fat Tuesday Brinner and Ash Wednesday Service second week of March. The Main Event of Presbytery on March 12th, Couples at Peace Enrichment to run again in mid-March, due to popular demand.

New Gifts to the Building Fund: $20,000 from our sister church, Moorings Presbyterian in Naples, and $50,000 from an anonymous donor in the congregation!

New Operating Budget: We approved a budget of nearly 260K (18K less than last year), bringing us to financial independence! Trimming down required some hard losses in Personnel and Mission, though we will manage by end of 2011 to give away about 13% of revenues when you count our special offerings.

Peace to you and to the Middle East, especially Egypt,

Elizabeth

This Week at Peace - - January 26, 2011

2011-01-26T04:11:00.000-08:00

It is with a full measure of gratitude mixed with sadness that I share with you this note from Peace’s guitarist, Joe Sardo, whose music and good heart blessed us:

Hi Elizabeth and all,

I pray this e-mail finds everyone well and in good spirits. Today the Lord shines on us with new opportunity and new ways to praise Him!

First let’s rejoice in this wonderful basic fact. New journeys for me and for Peace!! I am taking the option generously given to me, to move on from this point and not return. I wish not to say goodbye to you all, but to leave under the radar without a buzz. My time at Peace has been so filled with love and support, I feel that even with me physically not being there, the spirit of the songs I sang and the love shared will be evident in the success of the building of this beautiful church called “Peace”!! I took notice that you included my name on the charter cross picture hung in the hall. It has been an honor and a pleasure. Pray for me as I will pray for you.
To just say “Thank you” is surely an understatement!! But THANKS with all my heart!

God Bless!!
Joe

This is a season of change for Peace — new location for ministry, new financial independence and staff changes, and new growth. Come hear more about Peace and our vision for the future at our congregational meeting this Sunday after worship. The meeting will be finished by 11:15 with a lunch of pizza and salad to follow. Elementary kids will have supervised recreation during the meeting. Preschoolers will be in the nursery.

Grace and peace to you all,

Elizabeth

This Week at Peace - - January 21, 2011

2011-01-21T04:38:00.000-08:00

This “Jesus calls us in, sends us out, bearing fruit in a world of doubt.” These are words from our lively Caribbean song last Sunday, as Pastor Tricia called us to be the hands and feet of Jesus. We continue the theme of our call to ministry this week as we read Matthew 4:12-23, the story of Jesus calling fishermen to follow him and catch people. We will reflect on how well we are following through with following Jesus.

We will commission a team of Stephen Ministry Leaders, who have attended training conferences to bring this wonderful ministry of Christian caregiving to our congregation and friends. Our plan is to offer classes on Understanding Your Spiritual Gifts this spring, and then to offer Stephen Minister Training in the fall. You will learn more about this on Sunday and in the coming weeks.

All couples who want more peace and joy in their most significant relationship: come to a Wednesday evening short-term (3-4 wks) enrichment course led by Chip Schaaff this Wednesday night from 6:00 to 7:30. Invite your friends and neighbors, especially if you see the stress in their eyes. We all have room to improve our communication skills!

Sisters of Peace, save the date: Thursday, February 24 at Beth Palmer’s house at 6104 Winchester Place, Sarasota (Palm Aire – Mote Ranch). Learn about the program Dining for Women and about women in El Salvador in particular. More info later…

We have a growing group of volunteers stepping forward to help with managing the church office and preparing for worship – many people trying to fill Judi Creneti’s shoes. Do you have three hours to help each week, even if only for several months?

Last reminder, members: Please opt out of nursery duty if you feel you cannot handle it. Write Pastor Tricia. tdthomas@peacepcusa.com Otherwise, you will have the joy of holding baby Wells (no diaper changing) and learning the names of all our preschoolers one Sunday this year. Our certified childcare provider, Damaris Luna, will guide you.

Our annual congregational meeting will be held after worship on January 30th. Each ministry team will prepare a brief written report of their members and purpose, 2010 accomplishments, and 2011 goals. Lively learning (Sunday school) will be replaced by this meeting and the lunch which will follow. We hope you will be part of this important day for Peace!

Peace to you,
Elizabeth

This Week at Peace - January 13, 2011

2011-01-13T04:17:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends,

Sometimes God surprises us! I came to Stephen Ministry Training this week out of a sense of obligation to Gretchen Frueh, Barbara Staton, Betty Clough, and Nancy Hughes, Peace’s Stephen Ministry Leaders. I knew this 35 year-old ministry of training church members to provide skilled and compassionate Christian care for people in need was valuable. But I had no idea just how enriching this week could be for me, as I reflect on ALL of Peace’s ministry. More on this in the weeks and months ahead…

The four elders you elected last fall have studied and trained, prayed and shared faith journeys, and in December they were approved by the session for ordination and/or installation this Sunday. Nancy Hughes and Jim Padula will be installed, as they have been previously ordained as PC(USA) elders. Shirley Blair and Drew Jordan will be both ordained and installed. Please keep these new elders for Peace (Class of 2013) in your prayers as they begin their valuable servant leadership.

It brings me great joy to tell you that the Grogan Family — Rick and Janet (Daily) and their son Trevor, along with Bob Stuckey, met with several elders and a pastor last Sunday to commit themselves to membership at Peace. They will reaffirm their faith in worship on Sunday.

I want to thank all of you who are making our fellowship time more enjoyable by participating in the snack rotation. When nearly everyone takes part, no one has the responsibility too often. You received the schedule in last week’s email. If you need to make adjustments or want to add your name, please let Suzi Regulski Shirey know. ikslugers@gmail.com

We want our nursery volunteer system to work the same shared way as snacks. Members, we’d like to add your name to the list to be in the nursery during worship once each year , UNLESS you choose to opt out by writing Pastor Tricia rompandrun@hotmail.com You would be assisting our professional childcare provider, Damaris Luna, to show Christ’s love to our babies and preschoolers by being that extra caring adult in the room (no diaper changing required). Choir members would be assigned in summer and snowbirds in winter. If health or other reasons make this difficult for you, just contact Pastor Tricia at the email address above. Otherwise, consider it your privilege to learn the names of our young ones and to fulfill your baptismal promises to nurture them in faith.

Pastor Tricia is preaching Sunday on John 1:29-42. “We Have Found the Messiah” Don’t miss out!

Grace and peace to you from Orlando,

Elizabeth

This Week at Peace - - January 7, 2011

2011-01-07T17:16:00.000-08:00

Dear Peacemakers,

Judi and Frank Creneti were among the first people to sit around a table and imagine a church, later to be named Peace. Judi has worked diligently and with great care as pastors’ assistant for five years. She brought her artistic ability and worship sensibilities to the preparation of visual arts each week, including the powerpoint and the printed bulletin. She has served as master administrator of our communication website CCB, along with maintaining other administrative and worship records.

For the last six months, she has prayerfully considered whether God might be calling her to devote more time to creative activities, both in and beyond Peace’s congregational life. She enjoys operating out of her home and does not feel called to “manage” Peace’s new office. So she has decided to resign, effective the end of February. She has met with me and with the Admin Team to discuss the transition.

The good news is Judi and Frank will continue to be a blessing to Peace in so many ways. The challenging news is that we must find a way to parcel out some of Judi’s responsibilities, as we prepare for a new position to be developed at Peace. Please consider whether God is calling you to be involved in the church office (we already have two mornings covered). There are a wide variety of tasks to be taken up by volunteers in the transition time – some which need to happen at church and others which you might do from home.

It is a new year and time for all of us to consider what new things God might be calling us to do. Sunday’s service will focus on our baptismal identity and the impartiality of God’s love. Pick up a Bible and read Acts chapter 10, especially verses 34-48.

One of the new things Peace is doing this year is Stephen Ministry, a system of congregational caregiving. You will hear more about it on Sunday from Gretchen Frueh, as you send Betty Clough, Nancy Hughes, and me off to do the training that Barbara Staton did last summer.
Let’s expand our ministries, expand our reach, expand our love to include all the people God loves.

Copies of the new directory of participants are available this Sunday, along with offering envelopes. Help us to get all your info correct.

Peace,
Elizabeth

Christmas Peace to You!

2010-12-23T10:49:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends,

May the true gifts of Christ-mas – light for our darkness, peace for our conflict, hope for our fear, and joy for our sadness – be yours this year.

Hope to see you at Peace on Christmas Eve at 6:00 (corner of Technology Terrace and LWR Blvd) for a wonder-filled service of lessons and carols ending with communion and candlelight and real people (including “Baby Jesus” Wells Thomas) in in the nativity scene.

On Sundays, the 26th and the 2nd, we’ll gather for a relaxed morning with coffee and fellowship at 9:30 and worship at 10:00. Don’t miss these opportunities to experience the real meaning of Christmas.

You can hear the original Nine Lessons and Carols service (every year from 1918) from Kings College, Cambridge, England, broadcast live around the world at 10:00 am EST on Christmas Eve. Tune in to WSMR 89.1 or WUSF 89.7 at 9:50 while you are cooking or wrapping those last presents.

Finally, if you’re interested in helping Peace assist Mission Beth-El in packing food for the hungry over the holidays, meet at Sweet Bay on Mondays, the 28th and 3rd at 8:30 for a morning of meaningful work.

Christmas peace to you,

Elizabeth Deibert
Pastor, Peace Presbyterian
10902 Technology Terrace
Lakewood Ranch, FL 34211
Tel:941-753-7778

This Week at Peace - - December 16, 2010

2010-12-16T03:32:00.000-08:00

Dear Peacemakers,

Thank you for the gifts of the Spirit which you have given this year: For your love of God and neighbor, in faithful worship and compassionate outreach. For the joy of the Holy Spirit which you exhibit in laughter and good will at team meetings and choir. For the peace you seek in listening to and valuing the perspectives of others. For your patience in waiting for leases to be signed, for new team leaders to emerge, and for new people to discover this wonderful community of faith. For your kindness in being the most genuinely caring and welcoming congregation I know. For your great generosity in giving your time and your treasure, big investments with overflowing gratitude to God. For your faithfulness to both prayer and mission. For your gentleness in forgiving one another and your self-control in managing frustrations and uncertainties. May the Spirit continue to make us fruitful!

Because of all these gifts and many more, my joy is abundant on good days and my hope is sustained on hard days. I pray the same is true for you. On Sunday at 9:30 I’ll be “jumping for joy” as we come to the wonderful birth narratives and hear how the baby in Elizabeth’s womb (John) leapt for joy upon a visit from Mother Mary. Sunday’s Longest Night Service 7-8 will be more somber, as we acknowledge the reality of Christmas conflicts and losses, seeking to renew our hope in the Light of the world.

Your faithful Mission Team wants to remind you to bring your Angel Tree gifts this Sunday. Know that you can volunteer to pack food with other Peace folk on different days during the holiday season. Mondays, December 27 and January 3 will replace the usual Thursday schedule. Call Junie Miller for more info. 752-7163. Find attached a newsletter from from our mission near, Beth-El Farmworker Ministries.

Your diligent Admin Team reminds you that this is great week for extra end of year giving. What a difference these gifts can make!

Advent light, peace, hope and joy to all,

Elizabeth

Attachment:

Mission Beth-El News.pdf

This Week at Peace - December 8, 2010

2010-12-08T04:04:00.000-08:00

Dear Peacemakers,

Great job with Funday Sunday! It was wonderful to see your outstanding teamwork, friendly spirit, and unflappable character even with the rainstorm. Thanks to everyone who came and who helped make it a great day for Peace and for the fourteen families who were our guests!

Now it is time to make sure we take care of all our Angel Tree Gifts for Beth-El Farmworker Ministries. Remember that you can share the more expensive gifts for teens or share the expense of a first bike for kids. Just write a check with a note in the memo, saying which gift you’d like to help purchase (bike, Ipod, camera). You showed amazing generosity with the Alternative Gifts International with 21 families giving away over $2600! Wow.

You will hear about the Joy Gift Offering this Sunday, as well as learning about opportunities to serve in worship in 2011. Pastor Tricia is preaching on hope from Matthew 11:2-12 and Revelation 21:3-4.

Sisters of Peace will gather Friday (tomorrow) at 7:00 for a caroling party at Shirley Blair’s (formerly Berg) house at 6610 Cooper’s Hawk Court, that’s Greenbrook Vistas. Bring a dozen cookies and a $10 wrapped ornament to share. Friends welcome. Wear a Christmas hat and call Shirley to let her know you’re coming (201-6559)

We’re having a Longest Night Service on Sunday night, the 19th at 7:00 in the music room. This is a simple service to remember those who have died and to light a candle, praying for God to bring hope, peace, and joy into all the dark corners of the world.

Our Christmas Eve service is from 6:00-7:00 and will be beautiful and meaningful for all ages as we hear the Christmas story and carols, and watch the living nativity scene take shape. The service will end with communion and outdoor candlelight. Eat early or eat late, but don’t miss the meaning of Christmas at Peace. Pick up a few simple invitation cards in worship Sunday to invite your friends and neighbors.

Christmas hope be yours,

Elizabeth

This Week at Peace - - December 3, 2010

2010-12-03T15:10:00.000-08:00

Peacemakers,

We’ve arrived at our long-awaited Fun-day Sunday. Hope you have invited friends and neighbors, as this is going to be a great day for all of us! If you haven’t been at Peace in a while, this is a wonderful time to re-connect, see our new place.

Here’s the schedule: Set up for worship and for Funday at 8:00. Worship at 9:30. Greet worship guests and take care of final details at 10:30. Funday 11:00-1:00. Childcare 1:00-4:00. Those who are not assisting with childcare, clean up. At 5:00 collapse in the easy chair at home.

Remember to bring all the Fruits of the Spirit to this day – love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. In addition to exhibiting all those wonderful fruits, you might wear blue, maybe even Peace shirt, if you have one.

Our worship service focuses on the Peaceable Kingdom from Isaiah 11:1-10. The rest of the day we live out the peaceable kingdom by giving families a great day of refreshment.

We’re thankful for each of you and for the amazing generosity we see your offering of time and in the funds pledged for 2011. We’re eager to see everyone meaningfully involved in the life and ministries of Peace. With your commitment, we will continue to grow into an exciting future with God’s help.

Thanks to Fellowship, Evangelism, Education, and Mission Teams for your outstanding and enthusiastic preparation!

Advent peace,
Elizabeth

Thanksgiving Peace!

2010-11-23T07:23:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends of Peace,

We hope you can join us for FUN-DAY SUNDAY activities on December 5th from 11:00-1:00 with free childcare provided by qualified adults from 1:00-4:00. Weekly worship with Peace is at 9:30 at 10902 Technology Terrace at the corner of Lakewood Ranch Blvd, near Central Park. (This is our new location!)

You are invited to share a Thanksgiving meal with various people from the Peace family at Troyers Dutch Heritage in Sarasota on Thursday. Email asap dspeacemaker@gmail.com if you are interested in joining this relaxed meal of twelve or so.

This November at Peace we have been building our gratitude attitude. We’re breathing in gratitude and breathing out generosity. As Thanksgiving approaches, know that we are grateful for your connection to Peace. May each of us learn a deeper trust in the providence of God, so we will be truly content and thankful for all we have been given.

Mark your calendar for a Peace-filled Christmas Eve: Lessons, Carols, Communion, Candlelight, and a Live Nativity 6:00- 7:00. What could be better?

Hope to see you December 5th for the family-friendly festival! See the attached flyer for FUN-DAY details or go to www.PEACEpcusa.com All welcome!

Thanksgiving peace to you!

Pastor Elizabeth Deibert

Peace Presbyterian Church
10902 Technology Terrace
Lakewood Ranch, FL 34211941-753-7778

Attachments:
Peace Funday Sunday Flyer.pdf

This Week at Peace - - November 17, 2010

2010-11-17T04:16:00.000-08:00

Dear Peacemakers,

Our Gratitude Season culminates this week as we bring our non-binding financial pledges for 2011 to God in worship this Sunday. If you have not received your pledge envelope, know that extras are available at church Sunday morning or you can call us at 753-7778. At the time of offering, we will bring our promise cards forward to signify our commitment to Christ and our enthusiasm for the mission and vision of Peace Church.

If you are not in town, please mail your promise card to 10902 Technology Terrace, Lakewood Ranch, 34211 or bring it the following week. Even if you are not ready to make a pledge right now, we invite you to be part of Gratitude Sunday and simply bring your Sunday offering to the plate joyfully.

Sunday’s scripture commends the “cheerful giver“ To increase your good humor, joy, and cheer in preparation for Gratitude Sunday, you can view The Gratitude Dance at

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R9z2ELaBVJY

or the Tithe Rap at

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PwfMMN71xUw

or Clay Thomas’ outrageous video for First Presbyterian of Sarasota

http://www.youtube.com/user/firstpressarasota#p/a/u/0/IG8XRIJpFyk

This is an exciting time to be part of Peace, as we grow into our vision “to be an intergenerational , diverse community of fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ who reach out with the good news of Christ’s love, who grow strong in the service of God and neighbor, who send one another out with the joy of the Holy Spirit.”

NOTE: Movie Night on Friday will be held at Chuck and Sue McClurg’s house at 7:00, not at the church as originally planned.

FUN-DAY SUNDAY activities on December 5 from 11-1 are coming together with your help! We have invited the community through postcards, ads, and school flyers, and we hope you will sign up to welcome and assist, if you have not already. Call the church office if you don’t catch someone on the Fellowship Team this Sunday. We’re also providing childcare from 1-4, so you might offer to help with that too.

With a heart full of gratitude for each of you, especially our new friends at Peace,

Elizabeth

This Week at Peace - - November 12, 2010

2010-11-12T05:37:00.000-08:00

Dear Peacemakers,

I am pleased to announce that the Nominating Committee now has a full and promising slate of elder nominees for your consideration: Shirley Blair, Nancy Hughes, Drew Jordan, and Jim Padula. These four dedicated members have been involved in a variety of capacities at Peace. They have prayerfuly considered the call and are prepared to stand for nomination. Should you elect them at our congregational meeting at the end of worship this Sunday, they will have several weeks of training before being ordained and installed in January for a three-year term. Read more about these elder nominees in your bulletin on Sunday.

Gratitude Sunday is next Sunday the 21st. We have been so richly blessed. Now is the time to prayerfully commit our non-binding financial pledges to God for all the 2011 ministries of Peace. Pick up your envelope, a gratitude rock, and some good courage at church this Sunday. If you’re not there, we’ll mail your envelope. Help Peace move into our first full year of financial independence in our new leased building. God will rejoice in your step of faith and expression of thanksgiving.

Funday Sunday is coming soon – December 5th from 11-1 Sign up to help with food, fun, or friendly fellowship on that day as we welcome the community to our new church. Those who have been background checked, be ready to help with childcare from 1-4, if needed. Invite your neighbors, family, and friends. See attached flyer.

The Youth will be supplying beautiful fresh evergreen Christmas wreath for your generous doantions. Place your order soon, because they may all be sold by the end of Funday Sunday.

Peace and gratitude to you,
Elizabeth

Attachments:
Peace Funday Sunday Flyer.pdf

This Week at Peace - November 5, 2010

2010-11-05T05:34:00.000-07:00

Dear Peacemakers,

If you forget to reset your clock this week-end, don’t worry. The Property Team can always use your help setting up at 8:30! This week’s sermon is “The Secret” from Philippians 4:10-20. You’ll have to come to find out. The Seekers of Peace are singing again!

Speaking of secrets, the nominating committee is still working on a slate of elder nominees. It is crucial that committee and nominees have ample time to prayerfully consider the gifts and the call to service, so we ask for your patience.

Wow, is the room beside my study full of Halloween Offering food already and more to come!
Thank you.

I hope you have marked your calendars for Funday Sunday on December 5th from 11:00-1:00 with free childcare offered from 1:00-4:00 as a gift to our community. We are reaching out, hoping to connect with households in the 30-50 age-group with their children. You can help make this a great day by bringing food, staffing booths with activities, or just by being a welcoming, friendly face. Joe will be singing and jamming on his guitar. The youth will sell wreaths and wash cars. The mission team will highlight opportunities, including Alternative Gifts. The education teams will have brief learning and craft opportunities in the building. This festival of Peace will be fun!

To all of you struggling with relationship conflicts, job losses, and health problems, our prayers are with you. Feel free to call 753-7778 or come by the church for support. The Deiberts’ new HOME number (if needed) will be 756-8153.

Peace to you,
Elizabeth

This Week at Peace - - October 29, 2010

2010-10-29T04:49:00.000-07:00

Peacemakers,

This Sunday we dedicate our new ministry center with prayers of thanksgiving and blessing! We remember in prayer all the saints who have gone before us. We read the 1 Kings 17 story of God’s provision in the life of a prophet, a widow, and a boy. They have little but in their trusting and sharing, discover plenty.

Don’t miss a very popular adult class called “Enough” which had 25 participants last week but we will not call that enough! There are still Dinner slots in the next two week-ends for those who have not Feasted on Gratitude. We have third quarter giving statements for you. Please find yours in the attractive wooden, hinged box.

Hear Sunday about Alternative Gifts International, a wonderful new opportunity from our Mission Team and Betty Clough to make Christmas giving doubly meaningful.

And mark your calendars for Fun-day Sunday, December 5th. This is an all hands on deck event, so sign up to help Peace to welcome new friends and grow. See attached the flyer that will go to school bookbags, along with a postcard via mail to neighbors ages 30-50.

Pray for Peace – peace in our homes, as we struggle to find harmony and love one another… peace in our church to bring a contagious joy to our community…peace in country as we go to the polls remembering the dignity of all candidates and all people….peace in our world as our global connections make life simpler and more complex.

A Congregational Meeting is scheduled for next Sunday to elect elders, and assuming the Nominating Committee is able to complete their discernment process, we will meet after worship on the 7th.

Remember the Halloween Food Offering. Drop your ten flyers off asap, if you have not already.

Peace and love to you,
Elizabeth

Attachments:
Funday Sunday Flyer2.pdf

This Week at Peace - - October 22, 2010

2010-10-23T04:50:00.000-07:00

Dear Peacemakers,

We are completing our series on the Goals of Peace with the Story of Zacchaeus, the little man who met Jesus personally and became a responsive steward of his wealth.

We begin a new five week-long adult class called “Enough” led by Tom Ciechanowski, Mark Winters, Robin Miller, and Sue Seiter. Don’t miss this chance to grow in wisdom, simplicity, contentment, and generosity in these challenging times of recession.

Please pray for our Nominating Committee – Tom Ciechanowski, Ivy Ruark, Dana Scott, Peter Miller, and Bob Seiter – and for the four persons whom God may be calling to serve on the session for the next three years. The congregational meeting to elect elders is November 7, right after worship.

Next week, on Reformation Sunday, we will dedicate our beautiful new ministry center during worship. Pastor Tricia will be back with Baby Wells, so it is sure to be an exciting day!

It’s all set. We will hold our Peace Festival called Funday Sunday on December 5, after worship. We need everyone to pitch in and make it a great success.

There’s a new team forming – the Property Team! Speak to Jim or Sherry Robinson, leaders, if you are willing to play a role in set up, break down, clean up, or other property stewardship work.

It is a joy to be in our new church home. God has richly blessed us. Come and see! Are you feasting in gratitude? Participate in one of the dinners to celebrate your blessings with Peace friends.

Keep being inspiring, authentic, nurturing, compassionate, and responsive. By God’s grace we are a wonderful church, and getting stronger every day!

The Congregational Care Team of Peace is praying for you by name daily, and even more often if we know you are struggling in body, mind, or spirit. Keep in touch.

With love,

Elizabeth

This Week at Peace - - October 15, 2010

2010-10-15T09:26:00.000-07:00

Friends,

We’ve talked about Inspiring Worship, Authentic Relationships, and Nurturing Discipleship — the first three goals of Peace. This week we move to Compassionate Outreach, as we read Jesus Christ’s first proclamation in Luke 4:14-22.

To put it simply, our outreach is two part — living God’s love in word and in deed. Evangelism focuses on the loving word (telling people about Christ, inviting them into Christian life) and Mission focuses on the loving deed (caring for them like Christ would).

Of course, we are strongest when we are able to inject a spirit of compassionate outreach into everything we do together. We stop judging one another and seek simply to help one another fulfill the Great Commandment, appreciating the God-given value of every human person.

A correction to bulletin and newsletter — Movie Night is TONIGHT at 7 at Chuck and Sue's house. Woody Allen’s “Whatever Works.”

Hope to see YOU this Sunday.

Prayerfully,
Elizabeth

This Week at Peace -- October 8, 2010

2010-10-08T17:23:00.000-07:00

Peacemakers,

It is a joy to be settling in our new home – having ministry teams and choir groups and staff here! In a few weeks, it will be time to dedicate this wonderful new gift from God on a Sunday in late October, and to FEAST on GRATITUDE. Some of you will remember last year as we chartered that we gathered in homes to “feast on gratitude.” Gratitude dinners will rock your socks and your bellies, so sign up for a dinner this Sunday or email Kim at ktuite1@verizon.net October 22-23 or November 5-6.

This week’s theme is “Nurturing Discipleship” and the text is one of my favorites from 2 Timothy 1:1-14. I hope you will make that extra effort to be here and even maybe to stay to nurture your own discipleship. Join a class or a one-time small group to consider ways of reaching out.

We are grateful for all of you who are helping with set up, break down, and clean up on Sundays. We are now forming a Property Team and would love to have you join it, especially if you are not otherwise committed at Peace. Let me know if you’re interested in serving in this extremely valuable way.

Peace to you,

Elizabeth

We're In !

2010-10-01T14:21:00.000-07:00

Come tonight (Friday) 7:30-9:00 for a trailer unloading party. We’re beginning to move into our 9 rooms — though we don’t have our specially ordered furnishings yet.

Come Sunday and help set up at 8:00, or come to worship at 9:30, special congregational meeting at 10:30, fellowship at 10:50, lively learning at 11:15. It’s time for a fresh new start at Peace!

Our new church address is 10902 Technology Terrace, Lakewood Ranch 34211. That’s on Lakewood Ranch Blvd, midway between Hwys 70 and 64.

Blessings,
Elizabeth

This Week at Peace - - October 1, 2010

2010-10-01T05:06:00.000-07:00

Friends,

I had a stress test today, but while there realized that the real stress was not the treadmill in the cardiologist’s office. The real stress test has been the four weeks on the treadmill of lease negotiations. Talk about running in place and going nowhere and feeling pressure in the heart muscle….

Well, finally, by the grace of God and the patience of Job, we are having a signing meeting with MAR tomorrow at 1:00. Hallelujah! We can unload the trailer and all the stress of our uncertainty about church home. God is good! Lively learning classes can begin now, and we can settle in and discover the new possibilities for ministry with week-day and week-night space available. Get ready to grow, Peace!

You’ve shared this stress of the move, and you have other stressors too — at work, at home, with health, with relationships. When your soul is bowed down, remember that your hope is in God. Remember to wait quietly for the rescue of God. Because the steadfast love of the Lord never ceases. God’s mercies never come to an end. They are new every morning, new every morning. Great is your faithfulness, O Lord. Great is your faithfulness. (adapted from Lamentations 3, read tonight at Cong Care team meeting)

Remember the Peacemaking Offering is this Sunday. We focus on Peace’s second goal — Authentic Relationships — as we come together on World Communion Sunday.

We will have a congregational meeting immediately after worship this Sunday to elect an elder nominating committee. The session’s designees are Tom C. and Ivy R. Three adults more plus a youth are needed. Please speak to whomever you’d like to nominate to see if he or she is willing.

Peace made the presbytery’s newsletter! See attached. If you haven’t seen our new home yet, this is a great Sunday to come.

Grace and peace be with every one of you,

Elizabeth

Attachments:

The Interpreter - October 2010 issue.pdf

This message is from Peace Presbyterian. Peace Presbyterian treats your personal information with the utmost care. To report abuse, please contact our office at (941) 753-7778.

At Peace -- September 23, 2010

2010-09-23T12:57:00.000-07:00

We are making progress in executing the lease on the new building, after a delay due to the illness of MAR’s lawyer. A real estate lawyer and member of 1st Presbyterian, Sarasota, is providing our counsel. Thanks for your patience and for all the gifts to the furnishings fund, totally $1500 after just two weeks!

After worship this week, the Evangelism Team strongly encourages you to stay for an hour of vision work, called Reaching Out: Ideas for Connecting with Our Community. With gratitude in our hearts, let’s seize the moment to prayerfully consider new ways to fulfill our mission to make God known! Be ready on Sunday to answer these questions: What/who brought you to Peace? And why did you stay?

There will be a Congregational Meeting on October 3 following worship to elect a nominating committee to guide the election of four elders for the class of 2013. The session designates two elders to serve on this committee, one who must be on the session and able to moderate the committee. These elders are Tom C., moderator, and Ivy R.. You will have the opportunity to nominate three more adults and a youth to serve. Begin your prayerful thought now and discuss the availability with anyone whom you would like to nominate to this committee (not to office of elder). These persons cannot be clergy, or currently on session. They must be active members (not affiliates) and need to know the congregation well. The nominating committee will have two meetings in the month of October to prepare a slate of elder nominees. I am sure they will welcome your input after they are elected to serve.

There are two opportunities to help Family Promise in October. October 10-16 (meals — Christian Retreat nearby) and October 31-November 6 (meals and overnight — Westminster, Bradenton). Eirinn C. will tell you more.

Remember the Steele family, in the loss of Judi’s mother, Hazel Paul. There will be a memorial service for family members and a few close friends in the Steele’s home on October 3rd at 2:00. In Christ, all shall be made alive!

Current sermon series is on the five goals of Peace Presbyterian: Inspiring Worship, Authentic Relationships, Nurturing Discipleship, Compassionate Outreach, and Responsive Stewardship.

Peace to you, every one!

Elizabeth

This Week at Peace -- September 17th

2010-09-17T05:52:00.000-07:00

Dear Peace People,

The lesson of patience is learned only one way – by waiting uncomfortably long. Many of you are waiting for new jobs, improved health, diminished grief, harmony in relationships . Peace is still waiting to sign the lease on our new center for ministry, but we think that the extra time and care we’re giving will make it worth the wait. If you have not yet seen our new worship space, come and see!

This week in worship, instead of focusing on one particular scripture, we are examining the whole story of God’s people through the lens of the major themes in scripture – Creation, Covenant, Exodous, Exile, Christ, and Church.

Next Sunday the Evangelism Team invites you to stay for the Lively Learning hour to dream dreams and see visions of outreach for Peace Presbyterian.

Lively learning classes for the fall are now scheduled to begin October 3rd. An ad hoc committee met at the site this past week to discuss room usage and furnishings. We are so grateful for the $850 given last week to our special fund for furnishings. Remember that each table costs $70-100, and each child-size chair about $25. Any special gift you can offer to the “fund for furnishings” will be much appreciated.

Our Funday Sunday may well be the 14th of November, giving us time to settle and to plan for a great open house for the whole community. On this Sunday and any Sunday, remember that loving God and loving people is what matters most. Pay attention to the Spirit of the Lord and spirit of each other.

International Day of Peace is this coming Tuesday. Many people of different faiths are committing themselves to pray for peace for one minute at noon on September 21. Let’s join them. http://amillionminutesforpeace.org/

Sunday, October 3 is World Communion/Peacemaking Sunday. You will hear more about that in worship Sunday. First Presbyterian, Sarasota is having a special workshop on Environmental Stewardship on Saturday, October 2 from 10-12. Call 955-8119 to register. http://www.firstpressarasota.org/tendingtoedenwithbookgroupincluded_000.pdf

Pastor Tricia and Baby Wells are doing well. Our love and prayers to them and to all of you, especially if you are experiencing life as challenging or difficult.

Peace to you,
Elizabeth

This Week at Peace - - September 10th

2010-09-10T06:39:00.000-07:00

Thanks be to God for the newest little peacemaker among us! (photo attached) On Wednesday morning at 8:18 Pastor Tricia gave birth to a beautiful baby boy, 7’14’‘ pounds and 20 inches long. She and Clay have spent time pondering his name, and the final conclusion is Wellspring Olson Thomas. They will call him Wells. Tricia and Wells will go home today, and hope to make it to the Sisters of Peace Dinner/Baby Shower!

Many of you will be wondering if we have signed the lease yet, and I’m still hoping today might be our day. But given the uncertainty, we will not try to set up for Lively Learning classes this week. We will only provide the CCB training postponed two weeks ago when this moving opportunity came our way and required a special meeting. Adults and youth are invited to spend some time with Richard at 11:15, learning how to more effectively use our web-based communication system. Emily Miller has photos of most of you who are regular attenders. If you are not opposed, we will put your photo in, so we can print a photo directory.

We invite you to make a special gift this Sunday to Peace’s ministry wing! Write a check to cover the cost of a child-size chair or table, a white board, or office chair, a folding table for adults or youth or give the furniture for a whole room. Gifts will range from $25-$500. More information will be available on Sunday.

Finally, let me remind you that First Presbyterian Church with leadership from Clay Thomas, is holding an Interfaith Service for Understanding and Peace – Jews, Christians, and Muslims remembering victims, denouncing hate, and working for peace – Saturday, September 11th 7:30 at 1st Presbyterian, Sarasota on Oak Street. I plan to be there and hope many of you can come too, as a witness to peace, in this fractured world of ours.

Peace,
Elizabeth

Attachments:
Photo of Wells.pdf

Come and See Our New Home!

2010-09-04T08:29:00.000-07:00

10910 Technology Terrace, on Lakewood Ranch Blvd, one mile north of Lakewood Ranch High School & YMCA and one mile south of Crowders Ace Hardware. Look for signs. (Peter and Robin Miller will be at the college to “catch” anyone who goes there.)

September 5 Schedule:

8:00 Finish setting up for worship & fellowship
9:30 Celebration of Singing & Prayer
9:45 Worship
11:00 Fellowship & Touring
11:30 Session Meeting (open to all)
12:00 Clean up and vacate the building (deadline – 2 pm, not 12:30)
12:30 Go home or enjoy a celebration lunch with Peace family members at Asian Cuisine or another restaurant of your choice

Glory to God in the highest and peace to God’s people on earth!

This Week at Peace -- Sept 1 -- Moving!

2010-09-01T07:15:00.000-07:00

Dear Peacemakers,

“I was glad when they said to me, Let us go to the house of the Lord“ (Psalm 122) Going to the house of the Lord means traveling to a different place this Sunday! YES, WE ARE MOVING! We had an open session meeting last Sunday morning and invited everyone present to participate in a discussion about this exciting possibility. The Peace Session and Admin Team have been involved all week in negotiating a great deal for Peace’s future.

For more than a year, we have searched for a ministry outpost for Peace to use all week. Thanks be to God, we now have it! We will have access to the 300-seat auditorium on Sunday mornings from 8 am until 2 pm free of charge while we lease 2500 square feet of attached office/ministry space. We are committing to three years for the nine-room suite, at a flat rate for more than we would be paying for the college. So we will need all of you to do what you can these next years to support our new mission to reach out, grow strong, and send our congregation out beyond the confines of SCF (MCC) to a more visible and hospitable venue.

What new opportunities for ministry will be ours at a central location during the week? Youth activities, music groups, after school ministry, support groups, movie nights, counseling, ministry team meetings! The rooms are not large, but they will be ours 24/7! We will still have some set up for worship, but this Sunday should be our last trailer unloading/loading, as next week we can move into the building when all legal lease documents are signed. Thank you, Jesus!

Peace’s new home is in the Manatee Association of Realtors Conference Center at the corner of Lakewood Ranch Blvd and Technology Terrace. It is one mile north of Lakewood Ranch High School and one mile south of Crowders Ace Hardware. We expect to be able to put a large sign on the north face of the building, but this Sunday look for our small Peace signs.

This Sunday we will have worship only – starting with a celebration of singing at 9:30 to allow the lost to find us before the full service begins at 9:45. In addition to on-site greeters, we would like to have a volunteer or two to go to SCF from 9:00-9:35 to bring any guests who might show up there. After worship and fellowship, we will tour the space and imagine the possibilities of our new home.

Moving is stressful, whether moving out of a personal home or moving to new church house. I am excited and a little nervous. But hearing the enthusiasm of the congregation, session, staff, and Admin team this week has reassured me of the wisdom of this move, as I hope it does you. Write back with any questions, concerns, or joys. May the Holy Spirit continue to carry us into the future!

Hope to see you Sunday at Peace, 10920 Technology Terrace on a corner of Lakewood Ranch Blvd near Central Park. 34211.

See attached images.

Joyfully yours,
Pastor Elizabeth

Attachments:
New Home for Peace!.pdf

This Week at Peace - - August 26

2010-08-26T04:37:00.000-07:00

Peacemakers,

Do you ever feel like things are changing too fast? This week’s scripture lesson from Hebrews 13 tells us “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” That verse used to irritate me because I thought it made faith seem static and uninteresting. I usually heard it quoted by rigid people who were stuck in their ways. Well, now in the middle ages of life, I see Christ as a wonderful, stabilizing force when everything else seems to be shifting beneath our feet.

As autumn cranks up again, things are happening at Peace which you need to know. First of all, we are excited about the work the Building Vision Team, now meeting to interview architects. We will be working over the next year to develop a master plan for our site that will be exciting to all of us. A year from now, we might be ready for a capital campaign to fund our first phase of building, which we hope will commence sometime in 2013.

In the meantime, our Admin Team is looking hard at alternative meeting sites for the next couple of years, as the college is significantly increasing our rent. It would be wonderful to have a space we could use during the week, and we might need to consider a local school cafetorium. We need more visibility, and we will be open-minded and flexible. The church is the people – and we have the most beautiful and interesting church around!

Now is the time, friends, to celebrate our mission and keep our hope alive. “Our mission is to make God known by growing as disciples of Jesus Christ, building a community of Peace, and caring for the needs of others.” Sing it with your lives.

See God fill you with peace in abundance for all the trials of life,

Elizabeth

This Week at Peace - - August 22 -- Godspell!

2010-08-21T04:55:00.000-07:00

Come hear “God’s Spell on the World” in the Beatitudes from Matthew 5:1-12 at 9:30 and stay to cheer on the Players of Peace as they bring us their version of Godspell, the musical, at 11:15. There will be plenty of room for both laughter and tears. Friends welcome!

Here’s the 12th century prayer attributed to Saint Richard, Bishop of Chichester, words translated from Latin, which inspired the the pop chart hit of 1972, Day by Day

“Thanks be to Thee, Lord Jesus Christ, for all the benefits which Thou hast won for us, for all the pains and insults which Thou hast borne for us. O most merciful Redeemer, Friend, and Brother, may we know Thee more clearly, love Thee more dearly, follow Thee more nearly, day by day.”

Peace to all who are poor in spirit, mourning, meek, hungry for right, merciful, pure in spirit, peacemaking, and persecuted for doing right for God.

With love,
Elizabeth

PEACE be with you

2010-08-19T06:07:00.000-07:00

Friends of Peace,

This Sunday we will read these words from scripture: Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen…So let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus… (Hebrews 11-12)

I wonder how you are doing in this race of life. At Peace we do not promise answers to all the hard questions, but we do promise a community of supporters who are exercising their faith muscles, building endurance for the challenges and blessings of life as we try to follow Christ. We promise you a drink of cool water, some encouragement, and daily prayers for the world, as well as you personally — you specifically, by name. We promise to cheer you on, especially when the road is hard or long. We promise to seek with you the real meaning of life, looking beyond the obvious facts to the mysteries of God.

No church is perfect, but if you’re looking for authentic relationships and inspiring worship, come to Peace. If you have kids and would like them to be lovingly nurtured and known by name, come to Peace. If you want to make a difference in this community through compassionate outreach, come to Peace. If you’re not connected to a faith community in a way that transforms your life, come to Peace.Be at PEACE with us.

Come tomorrow to SCF (formerly MCC) in Lakewood Ranch for worship at 9:30 or come next Sunday, the 22nd, when worship will be followed by the Peace Players (mostly children & youth) performing some wonderful excerpts from Godspell, the musical!

New lively learning and musical opportunities for all ages begin the first Sunday of September, after families have had time to settle into a new school year. Enrich your world with more than physical, mental,and recreational activities. Grow your spiritual life too.
Come as you are. All are welcome, and I mean ALL.

Peace to you,

Pastor Elizabeth Deibert
www.PEACEpcusa.com

This Week at Peace -- July 29, 2010

2010-07-29T13:53:00.000-07:00

Peacemakers,

For a small congregation, we have a lot happening. Of course, in a church of our size, we know more of these happenings. We hear about new grandchildren, broken arms, rehab stays, declining parents, cancer treatments, joblessness among the relatives. I’m glad to be connected to each of you in this meaningful way. Let’s keep praying for one another in the good times and the bad, because no matter what is happening in life, what we really need is the Holy Spirit to make us more Christ-like. Thank you for your prayers as I travel to a family funeral in N. Carolina. I’ll be back very late Friday night.

In preparation for Sunday, please read Colossians 3:1-14, a challenge to know the truth of who you are and to live into it. Be the new you, the you that God in Jesus Christ calls you to be. Clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, patience, forgiveness, and above all, love. Wear these virtues daily, hourly. This is who you really are and God is doing everything possible (without removing your freedom) to get you to be who you are. Work with God’s Spirit on this. See you Sunday!

In a pastoral letter from our General Presbyter, Graham Hart, he asks the question:

“In Peace River Presbytery and in each of our congregations, how can we create space for a civil, generous, robust, non-anxious, non-reactive conversation among us who first and foremost, now and eternally, define ourselves as followers of ‘The Way’?”

Let’s lead the way in creating such space for generous conversation at Peace Presbyterian and around Lakewood Ranch.

With love,

Elizabeth

This Week at Peace -- July 22, 2010

2010-07-22T18:28:00.000-07:00

Dear Peacemakers,

I am thankful for those of you who have either agreed and disagreed with me, allowing for meaningful discussion on the controversial issues coming out of the General Assembly. I certainly do not have all the answers, nor does the Assembly. The more than seven hundred elders and ministers, who struggled together to represent the PC(USA), were often divided in opinion, but we carefully debated and prayerfully discerned as best we could.

If you are uncomfortable with those discernments, know that there is still room at the table for you. We are all Christian people along the journey of life, seeking to be devoted disciples, led by Christ’s Spirit. So let us continue to respectfully engage one another, and spur one another on to greater faithfulness. A congregation named Peace must always be committed to peace-filled relationships, speaking the truth as we see it – in love.

The Mission Team encourages you to bring backpacks and school supplies for the school children served by Beth-El Farmworker Ministries this Sunday. If you are able to assist with Family Promise the first week of August, I think Eirinn is still looking for people to serve as overnight hosts. 920-5217

We focus this Sunday on Jesus’ teaching about prayer from Luke 11:1-13. A wonderful verse from the text is this: “If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him.” Pray for the Holy Spirit, my friends.

Kim Adams will be commissioned this Sunday for her preparation for ministry at McCormick Seminary in Chicago. We will be sad to see the Adams family move away, but glad that they are following the call of the Lord.

The grace and peace of the Lord be with you all,

Elizabeth

This Week at Peace - - July 18 - - Links to GA

2010-07-18T14:16:00.000-07:00

The links to read more about our denomination’s General Assembly issues were not hot after all.

So here’s a website address:

http://ga219.pcusa.org/

and some particular links again:

Civil Union and Marriage FAQ
http://oga.pcusa.org/ga219/pdf/civilunion_final_FAQ.pdf

Form of Government FAQ
http://oga.pcusa.org/ga219/pdf/FOG_final_FAQ.pdf

Middle East Peacemaking FAQ
http://oga.pcusa.org/ga219/pdf/middleease_final_FAQ.pdf

Middle Governing Body Commission FAQ
http://oga.pcusa.org/ga219/pdf/MGB_final_FAQ.pdf

Ordination Standards FAQ
http://oga.pcusa.org/ga219/pdf/ordstandards_final_FAQ.pdf

Response to Arizona ImmigrationLaw FAQ
http://oga.pcusa.org/ga219/pdf/AZ_immigration_FAQ.pdf

Peace,

Elizabeth

This Week at Peace - - July 18th

2010-07-15T17:17:00.000-07:00

Friends,

Thanks for allowing me time away to be refreshed. Being in Montreat for the two conferences (youth and music & worship), seeing extended family, and then serving as a commissioner to the 219th General Assembly (national meeting of PC USA) has been both exhausting and exhilarating. Thanks for managing well in my absence and welcoming me back so warmly. Being back home to quietly give thanks for 25 years with Richard has been wonderful.

I will share some of my experiences of the General Assembly the next two Sundays in our lively learning hour. Please read below the pastoral letter from the leaders of our denomination and find attached a summary of the proceedings.

But before reading that, read this note from Pastor Tricia: This Sunday the LWR community is invited to a Freewill Donation Spaghetti Dinner to benefit Rachael Jaworski, friend of many of our youth. To defray Rachael’s medical expenses, 100% of the donations will be matched by Thrivent and go the Jaworski Family. The meal will be served between 12-2 PM at Risen Savior Church (right beside our Peace property) at 14605 59th Avenue E (corner of Lorraine Rd and 59th Ave E). A group of us will be leaving after Lively Learning on Sunday. All are welcome!

Sunday night the Sisters of Peace will enjoy a sunset dinner at Sharky’s. Friends welcome. Let Sue Seiter know.

In preparation for Sunday worship, read the prophet Amos, especially chapter 5:14-15; 21-25.

Peace,

Elizabeth

MINNEAPOLIS
To Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) congregations:

Grace and peace to you in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

“Out of the believer’s heart shall flow rivers of living water” (John 7:38)….

Just one week ago, the 219th General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) convened with Scripture and music and prayer. Commissioners and advisory delegates from every presbytery across the church gathered around the baptismal font with hopeful expectation of what God’s Spirit would do in and through them as they sought to discern together the mind of Christ for the PC(USA).

As the week progressed, prayer was a foundational part of each day’s deliberations and decisions, and the presence of the Spirit was palpable!

“Out of the believer’s heart…

While all assemblies are significant, this one holds particular significance in the life of the PC(USA). Among the assembly’s decisions – to be ratified by presbyteries – are the addition of the Belhar Confession to The Book of Confessions and a revised Form of Government. Both of these items give a clear signal that we are a church that is not afraid to change – an important perspective to have in these days of great change in the church and the world.

The assembly celebrated and was greatly encouraged by the commissioning of 122 young adult volunteers and 17 new mission workers for service around the globe. Commissioners voted unanimously to renew the call to “Grow Christ’s Church Deep and Wide” and were inspired by the stories of congregations that are growing in evangelism, discipleship, diversity, and servanthood. They celebrated the generosity of Presbyterians who have contributed more than $10.5 million to relief and redevelopment work in Haiti in the wake of January’s devastating earthquake.

The assembly also engaged in discussion about significant matters of faith and life – ordination standards, justice and peace in the Middle East, and civil union and marriage, to name just a few.

Information on the more than 300 assembly actions is available. Answers to frequently asked questions about the items that have already garnered media attention are attached to this letter. We commend these resources to you for their accurate and straightforward information.

Civil Union and Marriage FAQ
Form of Government FAQ
Middle East Peacemaking FAQ
Middle Governing Body Commission FAQ
Ordination Standards FAQ

While the content of the assembly’s decisions is important, what may be of equal or greater importance is the manner in which commissioners and advisory delegates did their work. They debated, but did not fight. They tackled tough issues while refraining from tackling each other. They placed great value on finding common ground as they displayed gracious, mutual forbearance toward one another. They sought the will of God within their actions, rather than regarding their decisions as the will of God. One commissioner called the experience of seeking – and finding – common ground truly “miraculous.”

In short, this assembly exhibited to the whole church and, indeed, to our society and the world a way to engage in difficult issues while maintaining respect for one another. To put it another way, they exhibited well what it means for the church to “a provisional demonstration of what God intends for the world” (Book of Order, G-3.0200).

…shall flow rivers of living water.”

Just a few short hours ago, the 219th General Assembly ended in the same worshipful manner with which it began, as well as with a similar same sense of hopeful expectation that the hard work done in Minneapolis will continue forward across the church.

Michael East and Caroline Sherard, elected by their peers as co-moderators of the young adult advisory delegates to this assembly, shared their thoughts in a blog entry:

If all our commissioners and advisory delegates returned to their places of community and encouraged others to continue similar stories, what great things could be next for the PC(USA)? These narratives have the ability to inspire discussions on new, creative, and innovative ways of being the Church. At the heart of being Presbyterian is the principal belief that our discernment is best done when we gather together. Being able to gather in one place, as one people, for the one Church is a powerful and transformative experience—one which dramatically shapes future generations.

The assembly has commended to the church a number of items for further study, out of which is hoped will come, as Michael and Caroline write, “new, creative, and innovative ways of being the Church.”

May the good and faithful work begun in Minneapolis truly be just the beginning of a season of respectful, earnest, and gracious engagement – both in our words and in our deeds – all for the sake of the gospel.

In the name of Jesus Christ our Lord,

Elder Cynthia Bolbach
Moderator, 219th General Assembly

The Rev. Gradye Parsons
Stated Clerk of the General Assembly

The Rev. Landon Whitsitt
Vice Moderator, 219th General Assembly

Elder Linda Bryant Valentine
Executive Director, General Assembly Mission Council

Attachments:

aib-2010-forprint.pdf

This Week at Peace - July 11, 2010

2010-07-09T10:50:00.000-07:00

Dear Peace friends,

This Sunday we are privileged to hear the Rev. Bill Clough bring the Word. He will be focusing on Luke’s gospel, Luke 10:25-37. After a brief hiatus from Lively Learning last week, this week classes will resume as normal following our Fellowship time.

Traveling mercies to pastor Elizabeth as she makes her way home from General Assembly (GA) back to Lakewood Ranch on Saturday. For those who were able to follow along via the live link, we were witnesses to heavy discernment of several hot item issues. Peace to those commissioners who have served our church by their presence at GA, especially to our pastor who we know spent intentional time in study and prayer before and during her time in Minneapolis.

Peace, Salaam, Shalom,

Tricia Dillon Thomas

This Week at Peace

2010-07-02T12:36:00.000-07:00

Peace friends,

I hope those of you in town for the July 4th weekend will join us this Sunday for worship. I will be preaching a brief sermon on 2Kings 5:1-14, where Naaman the leper seeks to be healed. A significant portion of the service, however, will be a time for prayer and meditation. There will be a variety of ways offered for the congregation to experience prayer.

There will be no Lively Learning following worship and fellowship time this Sunday. Please, join us next week to pick back up on offered classes.

Elizabeth is leaving for General Assembly today. Please keep her and all commissioners in your prayers as they seek to discern how the Holy Spirit is moving individually within them as well as within the greater body. If you are interested in following General Assembly live, please visit http://ga219.pcusa.org/.

Finally we have a special request from Beth-El for help next Thursday, July 8th. Due to the July 4th holiday, no youth groups are scheduled and the supplies delivery won’t be until Wednesday. They will be hard-pressed to fill 400 grocery bags for distribution without a lot of help on Thursday. If you can go, meet at Sweet Bay parking lot (west end) at 8:30 next Thursday to form carpools. Call Junie Miller with any questions.

Peace, Salaam, Shalom,
Tricia

This Week at Peace - - June 27, 2010

2010-06-25T12:31:00.000-07:00

Gentle friends~

Exhausted and yet renewed the youth and I arrived back to sunny Florida last Sunday. Thanks to all who supported our trip to the Montreat Youth Conference with your money, time, and prayers. Towards the end of the week we were challenged and called to move out into the world and become a part of the Cloud of Witnesses that have come before us, walk along beside us, and go before us. I’m sure all of us would love to share our experiences to any listening ear!

This Sunday our guest preacher is David Thomas. David will be preaching on Galatians 5:1, 13-25. Come hear David preach about the Fruits of the Spirit.

Also on Sunday the Fellowship Team is hosting a Family Picnic at Coquina Beach. Everyone needs to bring their own picnic, including drinks. The Fellowship Team will provide the supplies for fun! We’ll be at the beach from 4 until sunset.

Peace, Salaam, Shalom,

Tricia

This Week at Peace - - June 17, 2010

2010-06-17T12:28:00.000-07:00

Dear Peace Family,

I am writing this from the lovely mountains of N. Carolina where a dozen Peace people are growing in faith at the Montreat youth conference. Last night in worship, our own senior in high school, Patrick Tuite, did a beautiful job reading scripture to the congregation of 1200 youth and their leaders. Tricia and the others on the planning team have done a great job pulling these first two weeks of youth conferences together around the theme, “In these Waters.” Kim Adams and about fifty others have led small groups of teens in hour-long sessions twice each day this week. Jason, Richard, and I have kept the Peace house together and well-fed, as “back home” leaders. We sit on our porch every morning, giving thanks to God for the sound of the running stream and the privilege of being involved in shaping the lives of young Christians. At dinner every night, we recite the opening of Psalm 121 – I lift my eyes to the hills. From where will my help come? My help comes from the Lord who made heaven and earth. Thank you for supporting us in this immensely valuable trip.

Things to remember at Peace:

Father’s Day Food Drive this Sunday

Beach party at Coquina. Bring your own picnic food and frisbees. June 27 from 4 until sunset.

Mickey Miller is preaching on Luke 8:26-39 this week and Bill Kemp is celebrating at the table of our Lord.

Peace to you,
Elizabeth

This Week at Peace -- June 11, 2010

2010-06-11T10:10:00.000-07:00

Dear Church Family,

We are collecting a Father’s Day Food Offering for the Manatee Food Bank. In memory or honor of your dad, bring all kinds of non-perishable food, maybe even a favorite veg or meat of your father, so we can ease the burdens of hungry families in our county. Father’s Day is the 20th, but feel free to bring it this week, especially if you plan to be away next Sunday.

On Thursday June 17, 2010 from 11:00 am – 12:30 pm the Mission and Justice Committee of Peace River Presbytery invites you to the Presbytery office to meet, ask questions and learn from the Rev. Dr. Nuhad Tomeh, PC(USA) Regional Liaison for Syria, Lebanon, Iraq and the Gulf. (lunch not included). Or even closer, you could attend at Northminster Presbyterian, corner of Lockwood Ridge and University, at noon on Friday, the 18th. (355-4729) Dr. Tomeh also currently oversees the Iraq relief and rehabilitation program for the Middle East Council of Churches. For more information on Dr. Tomeh, go to the Mission Connections website: http://www.pcusa.org/missionconnections/profiles/tomehn.htm

This Sunday’s scripture, Luke 7:36-8:3, challenges us to broaden our understanding of God’s mercy in the way we view ourselves and others, and how deeply we respond in gratitude to God. Gratitude rocks! Find your Bible and rock. Read the scandalous story of the woman who anointed Jesus without shame in front of the self-righteous Pharisees. She demonstrates overflowing, unabashed gratitude for Christ’s love!

Traveling mercies on our senior high youth, who are traveling to Montreat on Saturday for a wonderful conference.

Hope to see you Sunday, if you’re in town.

Grace and peace,

Elizabeth

This Week at Peace -- June 3, 2010

2010-06-07T15:30:00.000-07:00

Dear Peacemakers,

As Richard and I have college daughters coming and going, I am reminded of how precious is time with people we love. Make sure you are spending time with people you love and not just busying yourselves with mundane tasks. Perhaps you might use this slower season of summer to have Peace friends and neighbors over to build relationships. For those of you in the north and others whom we have not seen lately, we miss you and pray for God’s grace to abound in your lives.

Mark your calendars for the next Peace fellowship event – a Coquina Beach Party. Bring your own picnic food on June 27 from 4:00 to sunset. S’mores will be provided for dessert.

We are now in the long season of ordinary time in the church, but God’s Spirit is still doing extraordinary things. Pray for the Spirit to work in the lives of our children and youth, who are finishing school, and who at Peace are beginning a summer musical. This year, we will do scenes from Godspell – parables and songs. It’s a great time to invite young friends to participate. Occasional vacation Sundays are expected, but we hope to continue with strong family involvement over the summer for a great production on August 22.

The Property and Building Vision Team has been examining the materials of several different architects. We plan to start interviewing in August. With an architect on board in the fall, we will be in the best position to consider carefully the kind of structure we need on Lorraine Road to further our worship, ministry, and mission in the short and long term. We appreciate all the input we got from you at our building retreat the end of February, and we look forward to sharing initial design plans and gathering your response in the late fall.

A few of our ministry teams are taking a break in June or July, but our prayer groups continue – the men every Tuesday morning at 6:30ish at Crisper’s on 70 and the women have two monthly options — morning and evening. For June the dates are June 8 at 6:30-8:00 at Suzi Regulski Shirey’s house in Palm Aire and June 17 at 10:30-12:00 at Junie Miller’s in Summerfield. We’re using a very simple but profound book of meditations by Joan Chittister called “The Breath of the Soul,” passed along to me by Gretchen. Women, if you are interested in a monthly group and would prefer a lunch meeting or another time, please let me know.

Presbytery Newsletter attached.

Peace to all of you,
Elizabeth

Attachment:

Interpreter June July 2010.pdf

This Week at Peace - May 28, 2010

2010-05-28T13:59:00.000-07:00

Peacemakers,

After a red and Spirit-filled Pentecost Sunday, we also had a Spirited and meaningful Presbytery meeting yesterday in North Port. Our own Kim Adams was joyfully received as an Inquirer for Ministry. This is the first step, the second being Candidacy, and the third Ordination. Kim will begin seminary at McCormick in Chicago this fall. We will miss Kim, Jason, Emma, and Andrew very much, but we commit to support them financially and prayerfully as Kim studies for the ministry.

This Sunday is Trinity Sunday, the day we celebrate the mystery of God’s triune being. Richard will be preaching on portions of John 14 and 1 John 4. I am spending some time this week, preparing for service as commissioner to General Assembly, the national meeting of Presbyterians (USA) which happens every two years. You may learn more about what the denomination is discussing by going to www.pcusa.org and clicking on the General Assembly link.

If you have not experienced one of the Nooma classes with the senior highs and adults (Pneuma is Spirit in Greek), I think you are missing some provocative videos and discussions. Nooma and The Wired Word will continue into the summer, but after this week’s lively learning on the Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper, all the kids of Peace will be involved (in one way or another) in preparations for the summer musical, Scenes from Godspell. Experiences like this in childhood last a lifetime.

At Presbytery we heard the PC(USA) national coordinator for church growth, who reminded us that church growth depends primarily on two things:
1. Prayer and an openness to the new things the Spirit may be calling us to do
2. Congregation members building relationships with people beyond the church family.

Consider a dinner group or dessert night with a few neighbors or work colleagues this summer. Invite a couple of Peace friends to come along.

The epistle lesson for this week has been meaningful to me through the years. Here’s a nugget for you: “…suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not disappoint us because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit…” (Romans 5:1-5) Meditate on this.

Peace to you,
Elizabeth

This Week at Peace - PEACE be with you

2010-05-22T04:13:00.000-07:00

Hey,

Put on something red and come, celebrate Pentecost with Peace this Sunday! Pentecost is the 50th day after Easter, the day the Church (not A church, but THE Church) was born!

Happy Birthday Church! You’ve had some good years and some bad years, some good deeds and some bad ones, but you’re still here, thanks to the Holy Spirit of Christ who is relentlessly calling you again and again to faithfulness, despite your miss-steps.

The Spirit has been here from the beginning of time, as the breath in our souls, the wind of our wings, the creator and sustainer of all that is good and beautiful. The Spirit is the One interceding for us when we find it difficult to pray with “sighs too deep for words.” (see Romans 8:12-27)

Come, celebrate this nearer-than-your hands Spirit, this fiery, unpredictable Spirit. Come, be a little more filled with this quiet, renewing, indwelling Spirit of the Living God.

We worship at the State College of Florida in Lakewood Ranch at 9:30, and we serve God everywhere Peace people are. Directions and more info at www.PEACEpcusa.com

Coming soon to Peace – “Godspell” the Broadway Musical, performed by Peace kids, youth, and even a few adults. Wanna be part of the fun? (all levels of talent welcome) Rehearsals at 11:00 June 6-August 15. Performance on August 22.

Friends, we are not perfect (who is?) but we are real. And we’re aiming to be more fully at peace with God, ourselves, and others. That’s the essence of living, we think. Hope you’ll consider joining us in this spirit-filled adventure.

Peace to you,
Elizabeth

This Week at Peace - May 14, 2010

2010-05-17T06:17:00.000-07:00

Dear Peacemakers,

I am writing this week’s email from Westminster Presbyterian, where Richard and I are serving an overnight hosts for Family Promise. If you were in church Sunday, you heard Eirinn Camphire share her enthusiasm for this wonderful ministry. The current families in the program could not be any more courteous and appreciative. I just met a preschooler who reached out his hand and introduced himself with more poise than some teenagers I know. Peace’s portion of the PC(USA) Pentecost Offering on May 23rd will support this ministry to homeless families. The other 60% will go to the Presbyterian Church’s ministry with at-risk children, youth, and young adults.

You have received emails from Pastor Tricia regarding the exciting 5:00 Saturday evening Italian Dinner and Talent Show, which we await with eager anticipation. Yummy spaghetti and meatballs made by a real Italian chef, our own multi-talented Gia, will be worth the big bucks for our youth program! Northminster Presbyterian Church is at the corner of Lockwood Ridge Road and University Parkway. You are encouraged to bring your own plates to save the environment, but if you forget, the Fellowship Team has you covered.

As this night comes to an end, let me remind you that prayers are being offered by your church family for all of you going through difficult seasons of illness, grief, relational turmoil, transitions, financial strain or discouragement of any sort. You are not alone. Reach out to your Peace family and others who care. Pastor Tricia led a beautiful service of wholeness for teens and parents last Sunday night.

This Sunday’s text is the story of Paul and Silas, stuck in prison, but finding their way to freedom by singing God’s praise. The same is true for all of us – that we may find our truest freedom in the Spirit in the power of joyful and prayerful music.

Peace be with you,
Elizabeth

This Week at Peace - May 6, 2010

2010-05-17T06:13:00.000-07:00

Peacemakers,

See this note of gratitude from Gretchen:

*Thank you doesn’t begin to express the humble gratitude I feel toward each person in the Peace family who wrote, spoke or thought a special message to me last week. Reading the ones collected in the book is an overwhelming experience. Praying for Peace Presbyterian Church at each step of the way has been a very important part of my own spiritual development and I thank you for the opportunity. I’ve loved greeting new people and finding out a little about them, and I thank you for taking over that very rewarding task now that I can no longer do it. Supporting John and me on this journey that we didn’t choose, but through which we have come to know God in a more intimate way, has kept us going in ways that you can’t imagine. Thank you for the tangible help, and thank you even more for your prayers.

You each have your own burdens, some of them very heavy. You each show courage and strength every day in the way you live your life. You each have something unique to offer to Peace and to one another. I appreciate what Peace has become, and I know that God will continue to work through our congregation. One of the most hopeful verses in the Bible to me is John 1:5, The light shines in the darkness and the darkness did not overcome it. I will continue to pray that Peace will keep the Christ-light shining in the darkness*.

This week’s text is Acts 16:4-15, the story of Lydia’s heart being opened by the Spirit of God.

Don’t forget that you have the opportunity this Sunday (Mother’s Day) to bring disposable diapers or other gifts for expectant mothers served by Beth-El in Arcadia.

Be sure to sign up for the May 15 5:00 Italian Dinner and Talent Show at Northminster Presbyterian (corner of Lockwood Ridge & University). Sign up your friends, who might come along for the fun! Proceeds are for our older teens who are attending the life-shaping Montreat Youth Conference. The Fellowship Team invites you to bring your own dishes from home (BYOD)to save the environment. Paper will be provided to those who forget. The Talent Show is looking VERY interesting.

Congrats, love, and prayers to our college graduate, Amanda!

Peace to you all,
Elizabeth

This Week at Peace - - April 29, 2010

2010-04-29T19:41:00.000-07:00

Peacemakers,

Relay for Life this week-end – Stop by and greet your Peace friends and meet others who are participating in this benefit for the American Cancer Society, especially our own Barbie Osterling, who has been a key player in Relay for many years. I will lead opening and closing prayers. Friday 6 pm – Saturday 1pm at Lakewood Ranch High School.

This Sunday – Open Minds from Acts 11:1-18. Read how Peter changed his mind.

Women’s Monthly Prayer Groups – one on the first Tuesday, this Tuesday at 6:30 at the Shireys’. Call Suzi for directions. The other on the third Wednesday at 10:30 at Deiberts’.

Your Mission Team gives you many opportunities to give money or time to help others. We understand that you will pick the ones which you want to support and that you will not see these as competing with your regular giving to Peace’s operating budget.

Are you around this spring and summer? Maybe you have a little more free time? Sign up for a dinner group to meet once for a shared meal with six or seven Peace friends. Email Kim to sign up ktuite1@tampabay.rr.com

Get out those poems and kazoos, fiddles and tap shoes. We’re ready to witness talents we’ve never seen before. Spaghetti Dinner and Talent Show Saturday, May 15 at 5. Sign up to help soon. “It’sa for the bambinos.” (for the Youth Conference)

Peace to all, especially those in seasons of change,

Elizabeth

This Week at Peace - April 22, 2010

2010-04-22T04:56:00.000-07:00

Dear Peacemakers,

This week we begin a series of sermons from the book of Acts, in which people are transformed by the Holy Spirit of the Risen Christ. Any of you who want to read ahead and send your ponderings are encouraged to do so.

Acts 9:1-22 – Open Eyes: Saul/Paul and Ananias
Acts 11:1-18 – Open Minds: Peter
Acts 16:9-15 – Open Hearts: Lydia
Acts 16:16-34 – Open Doors: Paul, Silas, the Jailer

The Administration Team has nearly completed all the staff and pastoral reviews. We are blessed to have such a capable staff at Peace, working alongside all of you dedicated volunteers. Remember that I am the full-timer at Peace. Pastor Tricia works 15 hours/week. Judi and Gia work 20 hours/week each. Joe and Damaris are with us on Sunday mornings. Gia and I take Mondays off. Tricia works Tuesdays and week-ends mostly. Judi works Tuesday through Thursday.

David Mullen, Gia Havener, and others are teaming up for a musical benefit at Mattison’s to benefit New Town! “Better Git It in Your Soul: an evening of jazz, blues, R&B, and soul” Pay $20 at the door Friday night, April 23rd at 7:30 – Mattison’s on 41.

Sunday afternoon at 3:00 Peace will gather at Adventure Park in Greenbrook for a cook-out and kickball game.

Next Friday night-Saturday morning (April 30-May 1) we will participate and support others who are involved in the Relay for Life.

The Mission Team invites you to consider celebrating Mother’s Day by giving diapers and baby clothes to expectant mothers served by Mission Beth-El’s outreach to Arcadia. Please also speak to Eirinn Camphire about assisting with Family Promise during the week of Mother’s Day.

Spaghetti Dinner and Talent Show is at Northminster Presbyterian, corner of Lockwood Ridge and University, on May 15. Don’t miss this youth fun’raiser for the whole church family.

Peace to all,
Elizabeth

This Week at Peace - April 16, 2010

2010-04-16T14:43:00.000-07:00

Peace People,

In Sunday’s text from John 21, Jesus helps the disciples catch some fish. He provides food and then challenges Peter to demonstrate his love for him by feeding and tending others.

Thanks to all who are tending the needs of people served by Beth-El Ministries. In the first quarter of 2010, Peace people have donated 574 volunteer hours. Special thanks to Jim P., Mission Team Leader, who is transporting food from Wimauma to Immokalee every Wednesday. For information on Beth-El visit the Beth-El website at: www.beth-el.info/

Twelve to twenty of us are going to participate in the march and /or rally for Fair Food Practices. We’ll be leaving from church at noon to drive to Lakeland. You’re welcome to join us. Others are writing letters to Publix to encourage the penny per pound raise in wages for farmworkers.

Our week to tend to the needs of homeless families in Family Promise begins on Mother’s Day, a day we will also collect disposable diapers and baby clothes for expectant moms served by Beth-El. What better way to celebrate Mother’s Day than to give to needy mothers or assist families in the housing crisis? Speak to Eirinn about providing a meal, sleeping over at Westminster Presbyterian, or helping her with Saturday’s nurture of the families.

On the home front, pray for Peter M., who will have stents placed in several arteries next week and for Ivy R., whose mother died April 15th. Ivy was singing to her when she took her last breath.

Sunday, April 25th we will gather at Adventure Park in Greenbrook for a relaxing and fun time from 3:00 until dusk. Bring our own food for grilling and a side dish or beverages to share. The energetic of all ages will play a big game of kick-ball.

Peace at the LWR Relay for Life April 30-May 1 – Great opportunity to connect with people, to honor or remember those you love who have had cancer. Come walk at the high school bus loop, help with Peace’s table, donate for luminaries to light up the world with hope. Ask Barbie or Jean B. how to get involved.

Mark your calendars for the 2nd Annual Spaghetti Dinner and Talent Show (and start preparing your act – all ages and all abilities!) This youth fund-raiser will happen at Northminster Presbyterian on Saturday, May 15th.

Peace to all who are carrying heavy burdens and to those who are helping shoulder those burdens,

Elizabeth

This Week at Peace - April 9, 2010

2010-04-09T04:37:00.000-07:00

Dear Peacemakers,

What a wonderful Easter week-end we had together! Thanks to all who helped make our Good Friday Stations of the Cross meaningful through art, readings, music. And what a joy to have 149 people in worship on Easter morning, for Word & Sacrament, prayers, glorious music, delicious food, fellowship, and Easter eggs. Most of all, thanks be to God for the new life we have in the Resurrection of Christ.

This Sunday we will read the story of Doubting Thomas and hear Jesus say three times, “Peace be with you!” Come and discover peace between doubt and faith.

We will hope to extend peace to our neighbors as we learn more about the Coalition of Immokalee Workers and their struggle for fair wages. I hope you can stay for the special presentation at 11:00. At least ten of us are planning to attend the freedom march and rally the following Sunday, the 18th in Lakeland. If interested, speak to Grant Lowe.

For those who have tickets for Godspell this Saturday at 2:00, the carpool leaves from Sweetbay, Hwy 70 and I75 at 12:45. For those who want tickets, there could be some left. Check here: http://www.tbpac.org/shows/show.asp?showId=2314

Several of you have sent The Global Village to me in the last month. It is worth viewing. www.scribd.com/doc/23456047/Global-Village

April 21- Women’s Morning Prayer Group at Deiberts’ 10:30-12
April 25 – Adventure Park in Greenbrook Village 3-6
April 29-May 1 – Relay for Life (American Cancer Society) at Lakewood Ranch High

Peace,

Elizabeth

Celebrate Easter with Peace

2010-04-01T05:30:00.000-07:00

Come worship with a loving church community where all people are embraced, hope triumphs over despair, and peace passes understanding. We believe the journey with Christ is a continual call to renew our faith. Come grow with us! Future home on Lorraine Road.

Good Friday 7 pm (children welcome)
Easter Sunday Celebration 9:30 am
Sunday Egg Hunt & Brunch 11:00 am

Peace Presbyterian Church meets at SCF (formerly MCC)
7131 Professional Pkwy 34240
off University Pkwy in Lakewood Ranch

http://www.peacepcusa.com/
941-753-7778

This Week at Peace - - March 28, 2010

2010-03-25T04:13:00.000-07:00

Peacemakers,

I challenged you in Sunday’s sermon to take a day to stop and pray every hour. I started on Monday and found it very meaningful, even though I only managed 10:00-2:00 and 5:00-10:00. Then Tuesday, I did not do it at all. Today (Wednesday) I’m trying again but am finding the timer is crucial for keeping the discipline. Please find attached some prayers and scripture which have inspired me.

The Mission Team reminds you to tally all your receipts and complete the Lenten Challenge by examining how much more than seven dollars per person per day (food stamps) you spend on food each week. Write a check to Peace (designated for the Food Bank) with the difference – the difference of one day, or better – one week, or best – all of Lent. Beth-El Ministry to Farmworkers has just lost a Monday afternoon food distribution team. If any of you are interested in filling a Monday slot, let Junie Miller or Jim Padula know.

The Fellowship Team encourages you to go to Godspell in Tampa on April 10, and come to Summerfield park on April 25 for an evening of grilling, kick-balling, and general outdoor fun. It has been wonderful to see this schedule working and if a few more will help with clean-up, it will be perfect!

The Worship Team and Session invites you to partake fully in Holy Week and the Evangelism Team invites you to include your friends (postcards will be distributed this Sunday to help you.) Palm Sunday marks the beginning of Holy Week. All three choirs are participating this Sunday. It will be a wonderful day to reflect on the entry of Jesus into Jerusalem and his weeping over their/our misunderstanding of the things that make for peace.

We Deiberts want to encourage you to make Maundy Thursday a special day of reflection on the life of Jesus, even though we do not have a service. Here’s an idea for those who are not attending a local service: come to the Deiberts to view a timely portion of the Jesus of Nazareth movie and share a simple meal of cheese, fruit, and crackers and good conversation. 7:00. Let us know if you’re interested.

Our Good Friday Stations of the Cross is at 7:00 at the college. This service of increasing darkness will walk us prayerfully with scripture, music, and art through the last events of Jesus’ life – from his struggle in Gethsemane to his crucifixion.

Our Easter celebration of the resurrection will be followed by a wonderful brunch and egg hunt. We hope to see you on both Good Friday and Easter morning for a full life-renewing experience.

Blessings on all of you and especially those for whom we are fervently praying,

Elizabeth

Attachments:

Prayers from the PC(USA) Book of Common Worship.doc

This Week at Peace - March 21, 2010

2010-03-18T13:15:00.000-07:00

Peacemakers,

I challenge you to ponder Paul’s words to the Philippians between now and Sunday, “I regard everything as loss because of the surpassing value of know Christ Jesus my Lord.” Has the value of knowing Jesus Christ captured you like that? This kind of transformation does not happen overnight, but through the steady re-setting of priorities, the RE-newal of your life.

It’s time to order your $18 tickets for the Passion Play in Wauchula on March 27. Attending on the eve of Palm Sunday will set you up for a good Holy Week. Please email by Sunday night or look for the sign-up sheet or speak to Dana or Rod Scott on Sunday.

Also, the Fellowship Team is switching week-end dates for the Godspell musical event in Tampa and the Kickball Cook-out in the Park because the park was unavailable until later. Godspell – April 10 matinee and Park Picnic – April 24 or 25.

The Property and Building Vision Team continues to visit churches. If you’d like to come tour and give your opinion on the “good, bad, and ugly” of church design, speak to Joyce Brown or Gail Lowe. Next visit – March 23 afternoon.

Movie Night at McClurgs tomorrow at 7:00, the 19th – viewing “New in Town.” Call Sue and Chuck for directions.

Remember the Lenten Challenge (bring beans this week) and the One Great Hour of Sharing on Easter. View this video to be inspired. http://vidego.multicastmedia.com/player.php?v=q400q421

The choirs (all three of them!) have been working hard on music for Palm Sunday, Good Friday (7:00) and Easter. Don’t miss these special services in the holiest of all weeks in the year. You owe it to yourself, to God, and to those whose life you influence.

Wanna help with 11:00 Easter brunch or egg hunt? Write back.

All Communion servers for 2010 (and those who’d like to be included) will meet with the Worship Team right after worship on Sunday.

Peace to you,

Elizabeth

This Week at Peace - March 14, 2010

2010-03-12T14:24:00.000-08:00

Peacemakers,

Remember that nearly every Peace event is an opportunity to invite a friend. Here are some special dates for you to remember from mid-March to end of April:

Movie Night at the McClurgs – March 19
Youth Crop Walk on Siesta Key – March 21
Middle School Youth Egg Decorating Party – March 26
The Passion Play in Wauchula – March 27 (order tickets now)
Palm Sunday – March 28
Good Friday – April 2 – 7:00
Easter Worship – April 4 – 9:30 — One Great Hour of Sharing Offering
Easter Brunch and Egg Hunt – 11:00
Church Family Cook-out and Kickball in the Park – April 10
The Musical Godspell in Tampa – April 24 (order tickets now)
Relay for Life – April 30-May 1

Please see the summary of the brainstorming session we had the end of February with regard to Peace’s future building. We talked about the five goals of Peace and how those goals could be met with property and building. While we may not be able to afford everything we want in the first phase of building, we had many good ideas.

The Fruehs appreciate the meals you have brought. Emily Miller will be coordinating as we go forward. The Donaldsons are grateful for your prayers for their family. Next hearing is the 15th.

Come hear Clay Thomas preach on my favorite stories from Luke — the Parables of the Lost and Found (chapter 15) this Sunday. And pray for Tricia and Clay as they are expecting a new baby again!

Remember the Lenten Challenge from the Mission Team. We hope you have had a meatless meal this week and plan to bring in a can of meat, tuna, or peanut butter for the hungry in Manatee County on Sunday.

A prayer from St. Patrick:

Christ be with me, Christ within me,
Christ behind me, Christ before me,
Christ beside me, Christ to win me,
Christ to comfort and restore me,
Christ beneath me, Christ above me,
Christ in quiet, Christ in danger,
Christ in hearts of all that love me,
Christ in mouth of friend and stranger.

Peace to all the world,

Elizabeth

This Week at Peace - March 7, 2010

2010-03-04T07:57:00.000-08:00

Peacemakers,

We had a wonderful time dreaming at our Building Vision Workshop last Saturday, as we looked at Peace’s mission, vision, and goals, and then shared our ideas about what kind of building would facilitate and further our ministry. One would expect to hear conversation about functional and beautiful space for worship and music, fellowship and education. But there were many creative ideas about stewardship of outdoor space, and deep concern that our building be a hospitable place for mission.

Speaking of mission, the Peace middle schoolers and adults are going to volunteer at Mission Beth-El this Saturday morning, leaving at 9:15 from Sweet Bay on Hwy 70, with sack lunches in hand, and returning around 1:30. If you’ve never been to Beth-El and wonder why we are so enthusiastic about ministry there, it’s time to come.

The Presbytery’s Main Event is at Faith Presbyterian in Cape Coral Saturday, March 13, and the theme is the Spirituality of Aging. Contact me if interested, so we can register and travel together. Richard and I plan to go.

Ruth Smith, mother of Joyce Brown, is the first member of Peace Presbyterian, to enter the church triumphant since we chartered as a church. Many of you never met Ruth because she was residing in a nursing home in Sarasota, but she received home communion once a month with us, and at Christmas about twenty Peace adults, youth, and children sang carols in her room. Ruth’s memorial service will be conducted by Peace in the chapel at Church of the Palms this Friday at 11:00. Come if you are able.

In preparation for Sunday, please read Isaiah 55 and ponder what it means to re-turn to God.

We are really pleased with your responses to the Time and Talent Survey and with the determination of leaders to communicate well with those who volunteered. Thanks everyone, especially Stewardship Team!

Peace to you,
Elizabeth

This Week at Peace - February 28, 2010

2010-02-23T07:02:00.000-08:00

Peacemakers,

I’m writing you early in the week because….

It would help to know if you’re coming to our BUILDING VISION Retreat this Saturday from 9:00-12:30. We’ll gather near our property at Risen Savior Lutheran Church on Lorraine Road, north of Hwy 70 to "Imagine the Future of Peace." Please give a quick REPLY, as the planners have worked hard to make this a fruitful day! Childcare provided at the Deiberts. "It’s only half a day."

This Sunday in our Lenten Season of RE-NEWAL we move from RE-PENTting of sin to RE-SISTing temptation. The story of Jesus’ struggle in the wilderness from Luke 4:1-13 will be at the heart of our service.

Remember to complete your TIME AND TALENT Survey. Over half of you have already turned them in, and it is amazing to see how committed you are to the future of Peace – to praying and to working together. My heart is filled with gratitude for your devotion.

Week One – LENTEN CHALLENGE: Remember to save your food and household supply receipts for all of Lent. This week do a "matching meal" for the poor this week by buying extra food, a gift card, or writing a check on Sunday.

The highlights from our January Session meeting are available. The February meeting was a joint meeting of Session and Ministry Team Leaders. Highlights will be on the opportunity table on Sunday morning.

We Deiberts will have friends from N.C. at church this week. Their 13 year-old daughter, who has cerebral palsy,is usually quite vocal during worship. She participates in an appropriate way for her cognitive development, so we hope you will not be too distracted.

Speaking of distractions, some of you have noted that departures during the service are much more noticeable now that we are using the door near the pulpit – to allow more room for our growing music program. Let’s all try to make our entrances and exits at the least distracting times. One day soon, we’ll design a building with rear exits!

Pray for one another. Be strong in Holy Spirit and in the strength of God’s mighty power.

Peace,

Elizabeth

This Week at Peace - February 19, 2010

2010-02-19T11:44:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends of Peace,

You are invited to begin the journey of Lent 2010 with us this Sunday 9:30 at the State College of Florida, Lakewood Ranch (formerly MCC). In worship we will receive the sign of the cross in ashes, to mark our belonging to Christ in life and in death. The theme for the Lenten season is "RE-new Your Life."

The Mission Team will provide weekly opportunities to grow in awareness of hunger issues and to make a difference during this Lenten season of sacrifice. The Adult Education Team will provide a class for old, new, and prospective members called "All About Peace" and new class on "Centering Prayer" at 11:00. The Good Friday and Easter Choir begins rehearsing this week – the 24th – six weeks of joy on Wednesday nights!

There were many smiles last Sunday when the Fellowship Team surprised the congregation with Valentines, reminding us of the One who loves us best! In all your relationships remember the Lenten Path of Blessing. From now until Easter, re-commit yourself to…

Fast from pessimism; feast on optimism.
Fast from criticism; feast on praise.
Fast from self-pity; feast on joy.
Fast from bitterness; feast on forgiveness.
Fast from idle gossip; feast on purposeful silence.
Fast from jealousy; feast on love.
Fast from discouragement; feast on hope.
Fast from complaining; feast on appreciation.
Fast from selfishness; feast on service.
Fast from fear; feast on faith.
Fast from anger; feast on patience.
Fast from self-concern; feast on compassion for others.
Fast from discontentment; feast on gratitude.

Peace people will gather for a Building Vision Workshop on February 27 from 9:00-12:30 at Risen Savior Lutheran Church on Lorraine Road, next door to our five acres, just north of Hwy 70. At this mini-retreat we will imagine the future of Peace as we discuss how Peace’s mission might translate into physical space – yes, a permanent facility from which to engage Christ’s ministry! We will listen to the Spirit and one another, beginning a process toward building in the next couple of years. All interested in shaping Peace’s early-stage building vision are welcome!

For more information about Peace, go to our website, www.PEACEpcusa.com

Peace be with you,