Christmas Peace to You!

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

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

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

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!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 !

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

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

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

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

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!

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!

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

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!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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,

This Week at Peace - February 14, 2009

Dear Peacemakers,

This week, the lectionary’s schedule of readings would have us focus on Jesus’ transfiguration, a wonderful story full of mystery. However, with Valentine’s Day falling on Sunday, I decided to preach about love, a subject best understood by looking at Jesus Christ, not at the culture’s pre-occupation with romance and personal satisfaction. So read 1 John 4:7-21 before Sunday.

For all responsible church members and those considering membership, who want to learn more about Peace and about Presbyterianism, there are two options in the immediate future:

1. Come to the Deiberts (6421 Blue Grosbeak Circle, 34202 – in Greenbrook Run 753-7778) from 10-12 am on Saturday, Feb. 13. OR
2. Come to Lively learning at the college from 11-12 this Sunday and next (Feb. 14 and 21)

Please take time this Sunday to complete the Time and Talent Survey, if you were among the large group of Peace people who were away last Sunday. Peace depends on the gifts and devotion of people like you! Speaking of gifts, we have new offering envelopes for your use in 2010.

And sign up to bring food (especially cooked sausage or bacon) to the Fat Tuesday Brinner, our youth fundraiser at Summerfield Park 5:30-7:30 Feb. 16. Lent begins on Wednesday, and we will sanctify a Holy Lent with ashes on the first Sunday of Lent.

Tom Knierim needs a partner (who is not attending Movie Night at the Deiberts) to serve as overnight host at Family Promise (ministry to homeless families) on Friday night, the 19th starting at 7:30. This is an easy job, if you sleep well. You’d have your own Sunday school bedroom with a cot. Or, if you prefer, come spend part of Saturday at Westminster when Eirinn Camphire is there to orchestrate Family Fun Day. Eirinn – 920-3876

Finally, mark your calendars for Our Building Vision Workshop on Saturday, February 27 from 9:00-12:30 at Risen Savior Lutheran on Lorraine Road. Be part of shaping the future of Peace, as we examine Peace’s Mission, Vision, and Goals and begin a conversation in small groups about the kind of space needed for our ministries.

Read about life in Pakistan in the attached letter.

Peace to you and to all whom you love and to all whom you find difficult to love,

Elizabeth

This Week at Peace - February 4, 2010

You are a GENEROUS congregation. $5100 to Haiti and can openers too! Did you see the photo of Emma and Grace with 40 can openers on the front page of the East County Observer?

This Sunday we join the Youth in the annual SOUPER BOWL of CARING. www.souperbowl.org In the twenty years of this special offering, 62 million dollars has been collected, 100% of it given to the feed the hungry. The monetary goal for this year’s Souper Bowl is $600 and the food goal is 225 cans/boxes. Come prepared to "fill the pot"for our recipient, Mission Beth-El. Remember: in difficult economic times, the poor suffer most. All are invited to come work at Mission Beth-El this Saturday morning, leaving from Sweet Bay on Hwy 70 at 9:15. (See Pastor Tricia’s email for detail)

You are an INVOLVED congregation. Nearly all of you are involved in one of the ministries of Peace, some of you in multiple ministries. You are giving your TIME and TALENT to make Peace the strongest church we can possibly be. Commitments are for a season. Interests, availability, and energies shift, but the mission of Peace moves on. New people come and want to get more involved. This Sunday during the time of offering, we will prayerfully discern our 2010 call to serve. Peace would not be here, but for the dedication of YOU! Peace will not continue to thrive and grow, but for the dedication of you!

ALL ABOUT PEACE is a two-hour experience of learning more about our congregation Peace and our denomination, the Presbyterian Church (USA). If you have not participated in any of the predecessors of this class, you should plan to be there or have your membership revoked (just kidding). Two options – Saturday, February 13 from 10-12 at the Deiberts’ or Sundays, February 14 and 21 at the college during Lively Learning.

Did someone mention pancakes in Summerfield Park? Yes, on Tuesday, February 16 from 5:30-7:30, the youth invite you to their FAT TUESDAY BR-INNER.

It is exciting to IMAGINE THE FUTURE OF PEACE. Come to our building vision retreat on February 27, 9:00-12:30 at Risen Savior Lutheran on Lorraine Road.

We are invited to the Peace River Presbytery’s Main Event.

You are a DEVOTED congregation. Keep offering God your worship – heart, mind, soul. Keep building authentic relationships. Keep nurturing all ages in discipleship. Keep reaching out with compassion and deep respect. Keep responding to God’s blessings with grateful and generous hearts.

And the peace of the Lord will be with you,

Elizabeth

This Week at Peace - January 29, 2009

Peacemakers,

All the staff members of Peace are grateful for your support and love. Clay and Tricia are home and surgery is not imminent; evaluation will continue.

Presbyterian Disaster Assistance (PDA) continues to respond in Haiti. As of January 28, 2010, $409,000 of the 1.2 million raised, has been sent to assist with emergency needs. Peace has raised over $5000 for Haitian relief. PDA is not requesting material aid, other than the preparation of Gift of the Heart hygiene and baby kits, to replenish the supply after more than 35,000 kits have been directed to Haiti. Volunteers are not requested at this time. Hear a video report from the leader of PDA.

http://vidego.multicastmedia.com/player.php?v=ci2p07bi

This Sunday, bring DONATIONS OF CAN OPENERS to Peace to send with food distributions through Agape Flights, an ecumenical ministry out of Venice.

This week in worship we ponder our own response to being called by God, as we see the resistance that the prophets initially experienced in Isaiah 6 and Jeremiah 1. John B. will share briefly his sense of call to involvement with Peace’s ministry and next week, we’ll hear from Barbara N.

The Stewardship Team will distribute a Time and Talent Survey which we hope all will complete by February 7. This survey allows you to see new ways of being involved and to express where and how you’d like to connect with Peace. You can even tell us that you need to be relieved of certain responsibilities too.

Family Promise, our ministry to homeless families, needs help on February 14th (dinner) or 15th (day center assistance) or 20th (play day at Westminster). Email Eirinn to offer your time and compassion.

Souper Bowl week-end is coming up. More info at church on Sunday. Save the dates – Fat Tuesday "Brinner" on February 16 and the morning of February 27 – Imagine the Future of Peace Building Vision Retreat.

Peace and love be yours,

Elizabeth

This Week at Peace - January 23, 2010

We know you are as heart-broken over the suffering in Haiti as we are. The Peace congregation had collected close to $2000 for Presbyterian Disaster Assistance in Haiti by last Sunday. Now with the check received today, we have nearly $3500 ready to be sent to those who are helping in Haiti.

Add your contributions by sending a check to Peace Presbyterian, 6421 Blue Grosbeak Circle, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202. 100% of your gift will go to the needy. See attachment or read more the Presbyterian response to the earthquake in Haiti by going to http://www.pcusa.org/pda/response/latinamerica/haiti-index.htm

Come to 9:30 worship at Peace this Sunday and pray for the Haitian people. Learn about ways to get involved in hands-on help with several Peace members.

At 11:00 join a group of adults who will wonder together how faith works in the lives of those who hold it when they are in deep trouble. Lots of questions, difficult to answer…let us ponder together. Discussion questions attached.

For directions or more information about Peace, go to www.PEACEpcusa.com

Other dates to consider:

Feb. 6-7 Souper Bowl Service Blitz and Offering for Mission Beth-El, local ministry to farmworkers. This activity sponsored by the youth of Peace to include all ages 2-92.

Feb. 13 All About Peace Presbyterian 10-12 am at 6421 Blue Grosbeak Circle 34202 Learn more about this congregation in a relaxed atmosphere

Feb. 16 Fat Tuesday Pancakes in Summerfield Park 5:30, a fund and fun-raiser for Peace Youth and all who care about them. Please come support.

Feb. 27 Imagine the Future of Peace — be part of initiating a very preliminary vision for Peace’s building on Lorraine Road.

Keep in touch with Peace. Visit us when you can. We still meet at MCC, which is now called State College of Florida, 7131 Professional Parkway, in the Corporate Park, off University Blvd.

Peace be with you and with all who suffer,

Elizabeth