Christmas Peace to You!

Merry Christmas, Family and Friends of Peace!  This Sunday morning at 8:30 and 11:00 we will read about Joseph and consider what it means to receive the gift of peace at Christmas.   Hope to see you on Christmas Eve at 5:00, 7:00, or 9:00 for a wonder-filled, one-hour service of lessons, carols, communion, and candlelight as we celebrate the birth of our Savior. 

You can hear one of the most beautiful and well-known Lessons and Carols Services for one hundred years, broadcast live around the world from Kings College Chapel in Cambridge.  Tune to Classical WSMR 89.1 & 103.9 (WUSF Public Media) a little before 10:00 am on Christmas Eve.  It will run again at 6:00 pm.

Thanks for all the wonderful house-warming gifts for our new Peace-ful home on State Road 64.  The wish list total of donations and gifts is now more than $25,000.  Pledges and early gifts for 2014 are approaching $300,000. 

You helped four families at Mission Beth-el to have a much happier Christmas with your angel tree gifts!   We fulfilled our commitment to give away a tithe - 10% of our budget to benevolence, even in a year we were buying property.

Tonight (Fri) the families of Peace (moms, dad, and kids) gathered at the church for a night of grilling and chilling and what a good time we had.  How nice to have a building where children and youth can make lasting memories of fun, free-play at church!  A number of new friends are planning to join Peace in February.

We will dedicate the land and building to the glory of God with thanksgiving on January 26th at 4:00.

May Christ bring you all the gifts that are enduring and may you discover ways to use those gifts to make this world a place of greater peace for all people.

With love and joy,

Elizabeth

 

 

Prepare the Way

Peaceful Companions in Christ,

The new church is beginning to feel like home.  Thank you for the generous spirit you brought to our first week there.   For all the encouraging emails, good suggestions, and helpful comments, we are grateful.   For all the special gifts, wish list items, hours of labor, and 2014 promises (pledges), we are especially thankful! 

In case you are wondering, last Sunday in worship we had nearly 78 at 8:30 and 100 at 11:00.   We had 32 present for beautiful candlelight Service of Hope that our Stephen Ministers planned.
This week the choir is singing at 8:30 and the Bell Choir and Gospel Guys are providing music at the11:00 service.  Thank you, musicians, for your flexibility and your devotion to glorifying God and inspiring the congregation.

This week we consider the extended family of Jesus and their role in preparing for the Christ.   We will read Zechariah’s song from Luke 1 and his son John the Baptist’s call to prepare in Matthew 3. 

Christmas Eve services will be at 5:00, 7:00, and 9:00.  These services will be similar in content and style, with different readers and musicians.  You can choose the time that works best for you. 

If you want to be included as a Peace Pioneer (one who journeyed with Peace to grow in God’s grace in the “promised land” on SR64), please respond now by emailing back with your full name, as you want it listed.  Sunday is the deadline for signing up to be included in the graphic art piece that Peter Miller is designing.

Advent peace to you,

Elizabeth

                                                         

Happy Thanksgiving with Peace

Paul said to the Philippians, ⁴ I'm thankful for all of you every time I pray, and it's always a prayer full of joy. (Phi 1:1 CEB)

We rejoice in our new home at 12705 E. State Road 64, which is looking more beautiful every day, because of your gifts of time and energy.   Your love of Jesus Christ, your warm spirit, and your generosity have carried us to this new place in our journey.   We will gather there for worship this Sunday at 8:30 and 11:00.   Connect with one another at 9:45 in our café, gathering room, or multiple classrooms.

For those who missed Peace in the news, here are links to the three articles:
http://www.bradenton.com/2013/11/16/4832392/peace-presbyterian-church-moves.html

http://www.heraldtribune.com/article/20131118/ARTICLE/131119638/0/search

http://www.yourobserver.com/news/east-county/Front-Page/1113201330344/Church-finds-home

Don’t miss Sue and Bob Seiter’s Thanksgiving story today in the Herald Tribune:
http://www.heraldtribune.com/article/20131127/ARTICLE/131129653/2416/NEWS?Title=Lakewood-Ranch-couple-gives-thanks-for-love-and-live

We rejoice with Tricia and Clay Thomas on the birth of their healthy baby girl on November 25.  Go to Facebook to see beautiful photos!

Happy Thanksgiving to you, Peace family and friends!   Hope to see you soon.

Pastor Elizabeth

Last Day at Realtors (MAR)

In some ways it feels like we’ve already moved, but we will return to the Realtor’s building one more time. It will be our last Sunday there, and the last Sunday in the church year (Christ the King Sunday), and the last Sunday before Thanksgiving. So we will give thanks for our last three years, for Christ’s who has been with us, and for so many blessings to come.   Big, big thanks to all who have donated time, energy, materials, possessions, and money to our new home at 12705 State Road 64.   You will not believe all the home improvements of the last week!   Come and see on Sunday as we pack up the last items at MAR and tour once again after worship.   Work is still available for those who are eager. For all who donated or will donate to Presbyterian Disaster Assistance in the Philippines, we have special cards that you can give to relatives, if you’d like your donation to be an alternative Christmas gift.  You can also direct gifts to the tornado victims in the Midwest. Thank you for the forty pledges for 2014 that we received last week and for all who will remember to make a commitment this Sunday or to mail or email the pledge in.  The pledge page is attached in paper and electronic forms and will be in the bulletin again this week. Also attached is the Peace Christmas Wish List.  Many of you have been asking what extra gifts you could make to Peace to help with special move-in costs.   This list will be in your bulletin Sunday too. On Thursday, I preached at the quarterly meeting of Peace River Presbytery and took the opportunity to thank all the people in our thirty-seven sister churches who have helped Peace to reach this milestone.   They are very happy for us, and thankful for the way lives are being transformed by this community of Christian faith, hope, and love. Speaking of hope, our Service of Hope, a meditative service for all who find the holidays hard and those who want to support them, will be on December 1 at 7:00 pm.  That’s the day we move into the new chapel and have worship at 8:30 and 11:00 with coffee, conversation, and classes in the middle. With gratitude for each of you, Elizabeth   Attachments Electronic Pledge Form for 2014.pdf Printable Pledge Page.docx Wish list for Property.docx

Dedication and Renovation

It has been home improvement week at Peace, thanks to the efforts of so many.   This Sunday we hope all of you will come after worship for a tour of the new ministry center.   If you can stay to work on Sunday, the men’s prayer group will serve you lunch.   Remember to wear or bring your work clothes, if you’re planning to tackle one of many jobs.   If you cannot stay, we understand, but don’t let that keep you from a quick tour.   We are grateful for all gifts of any kind – time, talent, and treasure -- but we do not want anyone to feel pressured – only invited.

This Sunday Kids Club will be packing up items (snacks, jerky, wet wipes, toothbrushes, sunscreen, sanitizer, single drink mixes) for the troops from Manatee County.   Youth Group will be preparing exam care packages for our college students (gum, candy, notes of encouragement). 

The Mission Team has wisely decided that we should collect a special offering for Presbyterian Disaster Assistance in the Philippines.   Let’s bring a measure of hope to people in such a desperate situation by giving what we can.  Write checks to Peace with Philippines in the memo.   This makes a good alternative Christmas gift.   We can provide cards for that or for any extra giving you might decide to do for Peace’s building in honor of someone.   Cards with special inserts will be available beginning next  Sunday, the 24^th.
  
This is Dedication Sunday, the day when we encourage you to make a pledge to give to Peace Presbyterian Church in 2014.   Thanks to your generosity, thirty-five children and youth are growing in Christian faith.  Thanks to your generosity, two staff members can give nearly all their time to developing this new church.   Thanks to your generosity, Peace can keep a commitment to give away 10% of our income, approximately $28,000 this year, to missions beyond the life of Peace.   Thanks to your generosity, Peace now has a home from which to better fulfill our purpose:  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.   It is a great privilege to be partners with Christ in creating a Christian community that will love God and neighbor long after we are gone.

The pledge page is attached for your prayerful consideration.    There’s an electronic version (if you prefer to email it straight to Elder Mark Winters and a printable version to bring with you to church on Sunday.   Copies will also be available at church on Sunday – at the Realtors’ Building, that is.

I invite you to reply to me (it will come only to me) if there is someone you have observed being very generous (giving first fruits of time, talent, or treasure) to Peace, whom you think should be thanked for all they have given.   Sunday’s sermon will be filled with your thanksgivings.

With abundant gratitude for each of you,

Elizabeth
 

Attachments

• Electronic Pledge Form for 2014.pdf
• Printable Pledge Page.docx

 

Moving with Gratitude

This week at Peace we focus on gratitude, reading Psalm 145 and feasting together after worship.  I hope you have been working on your 100 reasons to give thanks to God.   To help you get started, I invite you to name family and friends, faith communities, teachers and leaders, country and community blessings,  service and helping professionals, hobbies and joys, beauties and wonders, comforts and conveniences, and more…..We will feast on the 10,000 reasons we have to give thanks to God at our Sunday brunch.   If you did not sign up for food, bring anything.  Most of all, bring a grateful heart.

Our church is especially thankful this year to be closing on our new property in Gratitude Season.   God has been so faithful to us!   We invite you to help with our momentous Saturday move from warehouse to Aurora.   Please contact Neil (neilmacqueen@gmail.com or 614-527-8776) if you can help load the truck at the warehouse at 8:00.   Otherwise, meet us at 12705 Hwy 64 at 9:00 or later for cleaning and unloading.  Lunch is being provided.   Joyous confirmation of closing will be sent to you on Friday!

Last but not least, we invite you to consider your pledges to Peace to the 2014 operating fund and to the building fund (2013-2015) if you did not already participate.   We would not be where we are without the generosity of so many of you.   Did you know that covering the salaries of your small staff costs more than $3000/week?   Gia and I are in this work for the spiritual rewards, but we are always grateful to be able to pay our bills, just like you.   And Peace has so many exciting, growing possibilities on the horizon now, we must make sure we can support them.

Peace is a generous church.  We have always given away at least 10% of our budget to worthy causes beyond ourselves.   Remember that a financial consultant told us we might raise half a million dollars in abuilding campaign, but we doubled that, thanks to you!   Many of you who are living month-by-month decided to give 50% more each year by adding a building pledge.   Others chose to take money from savings/retirement accounts to create this lasting legacy – a home for Peace’s ministry. 

Why pledge instead of giving occasionally?   Because it helps both you and the church to be better stewards of resources.    Why be generous?   You want to say thanks to God and to be part of the building the legacy of this new church.   What if your circumstances change?   Your pledge(s) can also be adjusted.
Attached is a pledge page, which you can complete and send directly via email to Mark Winters, our Stewardship elder any time before November 17.   He will confirm reception of it.   You may also mail them to 10902 Technology Terrace, 34211, until the end of November.  If you prefer hard copies to electronics, pledge forms will be available this Sunday and next.   

Each of you must give as you have made up your mind, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.    And God is able to provide you with every blessing in abundance, so that by always having enough of everything, you may share abundantly in every good work.”  (2 Corinthians 9:7-8)

Also attached are the bios of two elder nominees – Roger Kragt and Henry Sunkenberg -- for our brief congregational meeting this Sunday.

With deep gratitude for each of you,

Elizabeth
 

Attachments

• Elder Nominees for Congregational Meeting on Sunday.pdf
• Electronic Pledge Form for 2014.pdf

 

Baptism, Saints, Kickball

Dear Peace Family, This week in worship we celebrate the Baptism of Jordan Duncan, while also remembering all the saints who have gone before us in the Christian faith.  Reading Luke 6, the Blessings and the Woes, reminds us that living the faith is challenging.   It is not for wimps. Sunday after worship, the youth, children, and families will play kickball and share a pizza picnic at Greenbrook Adventure Park.  Anyone is welcome to join in, but let Kris Pino (780-8808) know you are coming, so she orders enough pizza ($10/family or $5 for an individual)  Bunco for Moms on Saturday night has been postponed but the Asolo Tour on Saturday morning is on!  Call Lucy Kemp, if you have questions (751-9062) Six days to closing on the Aurora Property on Hwy 64, we hope and we pray.  Don't stop praying or giving!  Please turn in all keys to the office wing of MAR.  We do not live there anymore.  Call my cell phone (779-4900) because the office phone is at Aurora being checked only once or twice/week.  Assuming all goes well (you will hear from me!) we will move from warehouse to Aurora on Saturday, the 9th at 9:00.  Then on Sunday, the 10th, we will feast on Gratitude after worship at MAR.  Please sign up to bring food to this fabulous celebration because we have “Ten Thousand Reasons” to bless the Lord.  Prior to the Feast on the 10th, we will have a brief congregational meeting to elect two more elders. Unfortunately, David Mullen and Roy Green are no longer able to serve, but the nominating committee confidently recommends Roger Kragt and Henry Sunkenberg.  Elected elders will prepare for three months prior to ordination and installation. Peace to all of you, Elizabeth

Moving and Shaking!

“All my bags are packed and I’m ready to go.”  Thanks to many energetic people, ably-led by the positive Property Management Team, the boxes and bags have gone to a warehouse.   Tomorrowwe move the furniture -- ours, not MAR’s.  We will continue to worship at MAR until December 1.  Young, strong backs will be most appreciated Saturday at 9:00.  On Sunday after worship, after lively learning, and after youth group’s outdoor scavenger hunt at 12:30, we will finish cleaning up the ministry wing, and we will say a prayer of thanksgiving for all the Christian nurture that has happened there in the last three years.

In Sunday’s worship we will read from Luke 18 a parable and a story which teach about the value of humility.  In the reading of these two together, we find new insight into why Jesus challenged the rich young ruler to sell his possessions and give money to the poor.  We’re in Gratitude Season at Peace, and our Feast on November 10^th is going to be a perfect moment to celebrate closing on the property! 

I am pleased to announce that the Peaceful News is being published again, thanks to the journalism of Diane Brinkmeyer in tandem with the graphic art skill of Peter Miller.   Find attached the Fall edition.   There will be paper copies at church for any who have trouble downloading it.

There are many activities at Peace during the month of November.   Please read your bulletin so you don’t miss out!   I am attaching the insert which has dates.

Peace is on the move!  Come along with us.  Be part of the family for real!  Stay Sunday at 11:30 to have a conversation about membership.

Peace,

Elizabeth

Attachments

• Peaceful News Fall 2013.pdf
• bulletin-2013-10-27 - insert 23rd Sunday after Pentecost.docx

 

Peacemaker Today Friday at 7:30 pm

Last Sunday you heard about the Halloween Food Drive and you may even have a flyer, but what we really intended was for you to take at least five or ten flyers to share with neighbors, so we can multiply the offering to the Food Bank, and share our church’s missional focus.   More flyers available this week.

It is getting very exciting over at the Aurora Property.  The carpet and tile were cleaned by professionals, and the nine bathrooms were scrubbed by dedicated Sherry while Jim and Denny carefully removed hornets’ nests. 

Tonight at the Session meeting, the Building Vision Team was authorized to spend up to $40,000 on necessary improvements, such as cleaning the A/C units, purchasing a used pulpit and communion table, moving forward with signage, separating the water meter from the missionary village, buying rolling fellowship carts, tables, and projector, and ordering major landscape work.  Other teams are involved in many of these decisions.  A few will be working Saturday to pressure-wash the building and remove some debris in the courtyard.  A major workday is planned forNovember 17, after we close. 

Thanks to all who have helped pack boxes.  We hope to have small item moving day on Wednesday at 9:00 and large items Saturday at 9:00.  We will confirm the Wednesday date, after we secure Aurora’s permission on Tuesday. 

We began our Gratitude Season a week early with the story of the ten lepers last week.  This Sunday we continue with the imperative in Deuteronomy 8 and Mark 8 not to forget what God has done and can do.  We see God’s goodness in the gift of this land through your generous giving.  Gratitude Feast is November 10.

This Sunday after worship or after lively learning (whichever suits you best) you are encouraged to enjoy a Pre-Siesta Fiesta.  Taco bar provided by the youth families, and lemonade provided by Kids Club.  Donate to support the kids, instead of the local restaurant this week.

Finally, please do come tomorrow night – Friday 7:30-8:30 to learn from Rev. Helavio Poget from Madagacar and Doug Tilton, PCUSA liaison for Southern Africa about what peacemaking means in their contexts.  They have come a long way to share so we can drive a short distance to listen.

Peace, love, and prayers,

Elizabeth
 

Planning Board Approval!!

The October 10th meeting at the Planning Commission of Manatee County was delightfully uneventful.   Our proposal to purchase and to build on the Aurora Property on Hwy 64 was approved unanimously and without comment or question.   Give God all the glory, but give the leaders of the Building Vision Team a pat on the back.

Sunday’s Gospel lesson is the story of the ten lepers healed by Jesus.  Only one returns to give thanks.  Let us not forget the Author of all Blessings.  We have ten thousand reasons to sing God’s praise!  Count your many blessings, and give thanks with a grateful heart to the Holy One.

Speaking of gratitude, what a delicious and delightful World Communion and Peacemaking Festival we shared.  Thanks to all the adventuresome chefs from each ministry team and to the Fellowship Team for great organization!  Special thanks to all who authentically share their country and culture with us, like Anderson, helping us to learn and grow as disciples of Christ, who breaks down all walls that divide us.  Don’t forget that our International Peacemaker from Madagascar will be here next Friday night, the 18th at 7:30. 

As for this week-end, we have Faith & Film, viewing the viewing 42, the inspiring story of Jackie Robinson Friday at 7 and on Saturday morning, a carpool leaving from Peace at 8:50 to hear the stated clerk of the General  Assembly  (prominent leader in the PCUSA) Rev. Gradye Parsons.  All are invited.  Thanks to all who have signed up to give blood this Sunday after worship.  There are still some open spots.

The Pre-Siesta Fiesta will be our next church-wide meal on October 20^th.  Support the youth instead of the restaurants this week.  Taco bar and fresh lemonade at 11:30 or 12:30.

Moving days are coming – October 23 and 26.   We will clear out the ministry wing at MAR by Oct. 28and continue to worship there through November.   Stay tuned for work details at the new property.   You will not be busy between Thanksgiving and Christmas, will you?   :  )

Most of all, give thanks.  Be joyful.  Be flexible.  Do not fret about anything.   Wait patiently for God is good.

Peace,

Elizabeth

World Communion/Peacemaking/International Food!

Dear Peacemakers,

Sunday will be a joyful celebration of our unity in Christ (John 17 & Ephesians 4) as we explore the beautiful diversity of God’s  people.   Thanks to all who are bringing food to help us connect with Argentina, Cameroon, China, England, Jamaica, Haiti, Madagascar, Poland, and Spain.  Chefs, we hope you will bring your own serving utensils – to ensure that we have enough.  Come, one and all to enjoy worship and our international food-tasting festival afterwards. 

Feel free to wear international clothing, even just something made in another country (that should not be difficult).  Add your unique flavor to the day.  Make special offerings to promote peace and understanding around the world, as well as in our own community.  

The nominating committee presents to you the following names for your prayerful consideration for service as ruling elder, class of 2016:   Nancy Hogue, Linda Juillerat, David Mullen, and Chip Schaaff, and Emily Gartenberg (youth, class of 2014).   We will have a congregational meeting on October 13 to elect elders.   Elders who will complete their term of service at the end of this year and rotate off Session are Shirley Blair, Nancy Hughes, Drew Jordan, Jim Padula, and Liz Shirey (youth).  We are grateful for their service.

Welcome new members to Peace!  Attached is the latest list of members and participants.  Everyone, please check for accuracy.   We will not print until next Sunday – after you’ve let us know of any corrections.   It goes without saying that this list is for church and friendship purposes only.

Our Aurora property purchase and building plan goes before the planning board of Manatee County this Thursday at 9:00 and before the zoning commission on November 7^th.   We expect a positive outcome but appreciate your prayers.   Thanks to all who have begun the process of packing up rooms.

Praying for peace and unity in our hearts, homes, communities, churches, Congress, and world,

Pastor Elizabeth

Saturday is International Day of Peace and an exciting day of relationship-building at Peace Church!  The Brothers of Peace have a second golf outing – this one in Englewood where Drew Jordan works.   The Sisters of Peace will walk and pray per usual at 8:30.  Eight Peace youth and their chaperones are leaving around 8:00 for a fun day at Cedarkirk with other Presbyterian teens.   A few folks will gather briefly at the new Aurora property at 10:00 for more vision work related to room usage.  The single women of Peace are sharing a Saturday night dinner (call Ivy 359-1320) and the Peace Dinner Groupies have decided to go to  Gecko's Grill and Pub (SR 70), Twelve Oaks Plaza, 7228 55th Ave., E. Bradenton on Saturday evening at 5:30.   Call Martha Waldrop (776-1146) if you’d like to join in – all are welcome! On Sunday, we will read from Genesis 28 the story of Jacob’s dream of the ladder, a sign to him of the faithful presence of God in his life.  I’m hearing great reviews of the new Bible class – the Sermon on the Mount and of Nooma, Rob Bell’s video-based guide to seeing life from a Spirit-ual perspective.  The youth and children are settling into their new lively learning opportunities.  If you peek into the Middle School room, you’ll want to stay after you see the wonderful new chairs they’ve added. If you’ve been thinking of making Peace your church home – officially – this Sunday is a great one to sit down with the elders at 11:30 to swap a few life stories.   We love new family members at Peace, but we try to give you all the space and time you need! Pray for our nominating committee and for those who are considering nomination to serve as elders for the next three-year term.  We will have an election in early October.  Speaking of early October, remember our international food festival on October 6 after worship.  Sign up to help and plan to enjoy! Pray for Peace Church and for peace in our homes, communities, and around the world!  Spend more time praying for peace and working for peace in small ways all around you, than fretting over all the places where there is no peace. Peace to all of you! Elizabeth

Doing Right!

Dear Peacemakers,

Bill Clough’s sermon this Sunday will invite you to do the right thing – no matter what day it is!  The Gospel lesson is Luke 13:10-17, a story of Jesus healing on the Sabbath.  I’m sorry to miss worshiping with you, but we are flying to N. Carolina to celebrate my mom’s birthday and our son’s family week-end at college.  We will return on Monday afternoon.

Youth – don’t forget that Sunday is Survivor Games on Turtle Beach with First Presbyterian, Sarasota at 12:30.  Matt and Jenny are chaperoning.  Bring some money, in case you need to pick up lunch on the way.

Kids Club – don’t forget that you are rocking out with a Christian Praise Band, after sharing lunch on Sunday.

Everyone – don’t forget that our International Food Festival is next Sunday, October 6th after worship.  Bring food or décor from one of these countries:  Argentina, Cameroon, China, England, Jamaica, Haiti, Madagascar, Poland, and Spain.  Dress in ANY kind of international clothing you might have.  We will collect the World Communion/Peacemaking Offering.

Most importantly, pray for peace for people everywhere.  You may use the attached document, A Season of Peace for your daily devotions over the next month, as we prepare for the visit of our international peacemakers from Madagascar.  Let there be peace on earth and let it begin with me.

With love and gratitude,

Pastor Elizabeth
 

Attachments

path_of_peace_daily_reflections_2013.pdf

path_of_peace_daily_reflections_2013.doc

 

Molded by God

This Sunday we welcome more new members and think about what it means to be “Clay in the Hands of God,” as we read Jeremiah 18:1-11 and 2 Corinthians 4:7-11.   You would do well to read these verses before Sunday.   Over the week-end at Peace we have Movie Night (Fri  7), Mom’s Night Out (Sat  6:30), and Youth Pool  Party and Parents’ meeting (Sun  4)

I have not allowed myself to get excited early about our new property on Hwy 64 because we are still waiting for zoning approval to close in November.    But now it is impossible to hold back the dreams of all the things God can do with us in a new, permanent home.   It is not perfect, but there is so much potential.   I am much more enthusiastic about this building and land than I ever was for the Faith Church property.  The Outreach and Building Vision Teams are meeting together  to discuss signage – permanent signage – after eight years of hassling with signs up and signs down every week-end.

Our prayers continue to be with all who are struggling, especially the Seiter family.   Our Stephen Ministers are active supporting people who need extra support, and the Congregational Care Team prays for every single one of you – every day.   Pray also for the Nominating Committee, discerning the next class of elders for Peace.

Last but not least, let us remember to pray for peace in Syria and other troubled regions of the world, even as we prepare for our World Communion/Peacemaking Sunday, where we will enjoy a food festival and peacemaking activities for children after worship.   A special offering taken that day will support our own peacemaking efforts, as well as peace around the world.   Two peacemakers from Madagascar are coming to speak to us on Thursday, October 17.   “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God.”

Peace to you!

Elizabeth

 

Lively Learning September 8th!

Life is chocked full of both joys and sorrows.  Our joy this week at Peace is in celebrating the baptisms of David, Zoe, and Amanda Thornton.  Our sorrow is over Bob Seiter’s stroke.  Sue appreciates your prayers, cards, and emails.

This Sunday we read of the inescapable presence of God in our lives in Psalm 139. 
Our Autumn Lively Learning begins again with classes for all ages at 11:30!

• PK-2nd graders are in Godly Play, where they engage the major stories of the Christian faith with wonder and creativity.

• 3rd-5th graders are in the Lion’s Den where they will delve into Paul’s letters using the We Believe curriculum.
• Middle School Voyagers will travel this fall with Joseph (of the OT) to discover that even when others do you harm, God intends him it for good.

• High Schoolers will connect the Bible to their modern lives in meaningful ways.

Adults have the following options:

• The Sermon on the Mount -- a devotional conversation on the heart of Jesus' teaching.
• Nooma – a video-based series by Rob Bell promoting spiritual reflection on life’s experiences.
• Worship Reflection – a discussion of worship & its connections to your life.
• All About Peace and the Presbys – a one-session overview for prospective members.

On Saturday morning, Ministry Team Leaders and Elders are going to the new building on Saturday at 10:00 to begin a discussion of room usage.  Meanwhile, some faithful chair loaders are meeting Jim Robinson at Pine Shores Presbyterian at 6116 Crestwood Ave in Sarasota at 9:00 to collect the 150 chairs they are storing for us.   Others are needed at 10:30 at the new Walmart on Hwy70 and I75, where you will travel together to a “free” storage unit where those chairs can be cleaned and stored until we can put them in our new chapel.   If you can help with cleaning or moving chairs, please contact Jim and Sherry Robinson.  907 8041 or e mail:  kjamesrobinson@hotmail.com

The peace of Christ be with you all!
Elizabeth

 

Summer's Over - September 1, 2013

This Labor Day week-end at Peace, we will read the story of Moses and the Burning Bush and will be reminded of the transcendence -- the holy otherness -- of God.    Four families will re-affirm their faith as they transfer membership to Peace!    Sally Schoeffel will share briefly about her mission trip to Ecuador.  The Peace Fellowship Team will enjoy a planning lunch for team members and helpers on Sunday after worship.   Elders will meet with more who are planning to be new members of the Peace family!

This Saturday at noon, the Peace Men’s Fellowship  is gathering at Mark Winter’s house for a good time of football and food.   (Call Mark 723-9425 – carpoolers could travel from church at 11:45) Peace and justice lovers will be supporting farmworkers in their quest for fair wages at Bay Street in Sarasota at 2:00 (leave from Peace at 1:30), while some church family members may be traveling to join other Presbyterians at Cedarkirk for a day of fun.

Thank you for your wonderful support of the Shoes for Orphans project which is now complete.    We collected and purchased 80 pairs shoes and they have been labeled by the Kids Club and their families with loving messages of Peace.   Thirty of you stayed to discuss how we might continue to improve Peace’s commitment to be a welcoming, open, friendly, inviting church.    Beth-El Baggers have started their Thursday morning food packing for farmworkers.  (call Junie 752-7163)

There are seven youth and five adults signed up to Rock the Universe with Christian Bands in Orlando on September 6.   There were fourteen women at the singles dinner last week-end, and there’s a Mom’s Night Out at Suzi’s on Sept. 14, the night after we gather at church for our first Faith and Film Night of the season:  Smoke Signals on Friday the 13^th.

Summer’s over.    It’s going to be an interesting autumn at Peace!

With love and prayers,

Pastor Elizabeth

Be Welcoming!

This Sunday at Peace we will read several different scriptures, all of which point to the value of being a welcoming congregation.   Some of you might be thinking that Peace already is warm and friendly, so why focus on that?   Because it takes every single one of us working together to be truly welcoming.   One unfriendly experience can spoil a guest’s first impression of our church and of Christ’s love.  Those who have agreed to play the particular role of greeter need to stay for the 11:30-12:00 presentation, but we hope most of you will.   You were welcomed warmly when you arrived at Peace, so be reminded about how to pay it forward. New Members Orientation is this week and next at 11:30 for those interested in joining Peace.  Youth Group meets for some brainstorming and lunch at 11:30, and Kids Club will tag the shoes for orphans and enjoy lunch as well.   This is the last week to help Kids Club with new shoes for orphans in Central and South America.   You may write a check to Peace, with orphans in the memo.   Thanks for your generosity with this and with school supplies for Beth-El children of farmworkers. During the announcements, we will have a brief congregational meeting to elect a nominating committee, who will guide us to the right slate of elders for the class of 2016.   Nominees for Nom Com are Jenny Sheffield (leader), Nancy Hughes, Mickey Miller, Bill Clough, and Kelsey Scott.

Pot Luck and Pool Party

Peaceful Friends,

This Sunday we gather to worship, remembering all the faithful who have gone before us in Hebrews 11.   Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.

We celebrate all the faithful currently around us by bringing school supplies for children at Mission Beth-El and by sharing a potluck pool party, starting at noon on Sunday.  Come one and all, when you can and if you can, even if you did not sign up.  Sabal Harbour Clubhouse directions: West on Hwy 70 to Lockwood Ridge/45^th St E.  Take a right and then take the second entrance into Sabal Harbour.   You will see the clubhouse.  Call 941-779-4900 if you are lost.   By God's grace, you will be found.

This Sunday at 4:30 at the Burns Court Theatre in Sarasota, you may view Trigger:The Ripple Effect of Gun Violence.  A panel discussion, hosted by Pine Shores Presbyterian, will follow.
Soon we will be celebrating all the faithful who will come after us, as we move to our new property – the assurance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
We are so glad that YOU are at Peace with us, and pray that with you, by you, and for you, Peace’s goals are being met through inspiring worship, authentic relationships, nurturing discipleship, compassionate outreach, and responsive stewardship.
Speaking of compassionate outreach, those who are interested in supporting the Presbytery’s ministry of compassion in Immokalee are invited to come with me to an exploratory meeting next Wednesday from 2:00-3:30 at Covenant Presbyterian in Ft Myers.   Leave from Peace at 12:15.
And next Sunday, the 18th you are invited to stay after worship for a conversation about being a welcoming congregation.   This is one of Peace’s strengths, and we want to keep building on it – by being intentional about everyone building relationships with everyone who comes to Peace.  

School Supplies for Beth-EL

This Sunday’s parable from Luke 12:13-31 helps us to see the foolishness of fretting over money and the futility of accumulating too much stuff.  Come and be challenged with me to find contentment in a simpler life of trust.

Don’t forget that we are collecting school supplies for the next two weeks for the needy children at Beth-el Farmworker Ministry in Wimauma.  Imagine the relief you can provide to parents and the joy you can give a child.   Take some time this week – the list of needed items is below and will be in the bulletin again on Sunday.   Anything you can give is greatly appreciated.

I drove to the Aurora Ministries property the other day, and enjoyed some peaceful time watching the wildlife: two deer and a flock of white ibis.   The due diligence on the property is going well, thanks to the good work of the BVT.   We are still hopeful about a November closing.

Next Sunday, August 11, at noon, ALL of you are invited to a Pool Party and Potluck Lunch at the Sabal Harbour Clubhouse.  Drinks will be provided by our gracious host, Kris Pino.   Sabal Harbour is just north of Hwy 70, on 45^th St. East (Lockwood Ridge).

Next Sunday August 11, at 4:30 Pine Shores Presbyterian invites you to Burns Court, Sarasota, to view the documentary produced by Presbyterian Disaster Assistance:  “Trigger-The Ripple Effect of Gun Violence”  A panel discussion lead by community representatives will follow the movie.

Peace to you,

Elizabeth
 
Attachments

• School Supplies for Beth.docx

Peace Family,

Three of us went today to hear Pastor Leon Dorleans of Haiti Outreach Ministries speak at a Presbyterian Church in Punta Gorda.  How exciting to hear about a thriving ministry of worship, education, orphanage, and healthcare! 

Session met Thursday night and here are some highlights:  The Building Vision Team has secured zoning board dates, which point to a late November closing and a final move in early January.   At that time the Sunday morning schedule will include worship at 8:30 and 11:00 with fellowship/learning in the middle.  Plan to connect with all your Peace friends in that middle hour, whether you worship early or late.  In September a new set of outdoor greeters will enhance our warm welcome at Peace and a new buddy system will help new members find their way to meaningful involvement.
  
Sunday’s Gospel reading is the story of the sisters, Martha and Mary.  We will reflect on the significance of doing nothing but listening. The Summer Family Choir is great fun.  Anyone may join just by showing up at 9:15.  Family Fun will include making “You are beautiful!” mirrors for residents of The Windsor at 11:30.  A new Fellowship Team is emerging.  Stay and share your ideas with Kathy Flora after worship.

Thanks for your continuing generosity, which keeps the ministry of Peace thriving.   Hope to see you Sunday!

Christ’s peace to all,

Elizabeth  

Dear Peace-ful Family,

It has been an interesting year with curves in the road!   Thanks to God we are a healthy congregation (see below the definition of a healthy congregation).  Support for purchasing the Aurora Property was very strong at the congregational meeting last Sunday as well as at the meeting with the Presbytery trustees.   Energy is mounting as we anticipate change and growth in November with gratitude for our Building Vision Team.   We are pleased to announce that pledges and gifts to the building fund exceed the one million mark!

This Sunday’s scripture is Colossians 1:3-14, a passage about growing in God’s graces – growing in faith, hope, and love and leading lives that are pleasing to God. 

Please remember to bring children’s books for Beth-El, and families are encouraged to stay and make bookmarks to accompany the gift of books.   All about Peace and the Presbyterians will be offered again to those considering membership and others who would like to learn more about your congregation and denomination.

The Search Team – Shirley Blair, Rebecca Deibert, Dan Grantham, Drew Jordan, Grant Lowe, Dana Scott, Liz Shirey -- met with me last Sunday to begin the process of helping the session understand staffing needs in the wake of Tricia’s departure.   

Healthy congregations...                                                                                                                 

1.       accept differences  (rather than deny them)

2.       focus on their strengths  (rather than weaknesses)

3.       focus on mission  (rather than unity, the past, survival, the minister, an issue)

4.       respond to anxiety and change  (rather than reacting to it)

5.       manage conflict  (instead of denying it)

6.       act flexibly and creatively  (instead of rigidly)

Peace be with you, in all the challenges of life.   We are praying for you daily, and "in our prayers for you we always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ..." (Colossians 1:3)

With love,

Pastor Elizabeth

Saturday Tour and Sunday Meeting

How wonderful it was to sing with 1000 Christians in Montreat and to sit in the pew for nearly a dozen services in the last two weeks.   Both you and I got a break from my own preaching.  Thank you to Bill, Grant, and Neil for doing such a great job leading worship and to Gia for always managing the music and the office so beautifully!

If you missed the Aurora Property tour last Sunday, I hope you will be able to join us tomorrow (Saturday) anytime from 2:00-5:00.   We’ll be at the gate ready to welcome you into your potential new home!   On Sunday at 11:30, the Building Vision Team will present current data regarding that property, and the Session will invite you to make a prayerful decision about moving forward with that contract to purchase 23.5 acres and 13,820 SF of building space for ministry.  For those who are out of town, there is an attachment with photos and floor plan, but the best selling point for the property is the "peaceful feeling of the whole site."

Tomorrow’s service will give us time to reflect on the goodness of God who faithfully brings his people safely to their destination (Psalm 66) and who calls us to a life of going, risking, trusting to live the good news of Jesus Christ (Luke 10:1-9).

For those interested in making your commitment to serve Christ at Peace, let’s talk about a good date for joining in July.   (Email back)  If you have not attended an All About Peace and the Presbyterians Class, it will be offered on the 14th after worship, not this Sunday. Our special Beth-El bookmark making activity for families is also being postponed a week, due to the Congregational Meeting.

It’s a great week to be at PEACE!

Elizabeth      

Exciting News for Peace!

Exciting news!   We now have a contract to purchase the Aurora Ministries Property on Hwy 64 and a zoning application turned in to the county office!   You are invited to tour the property on Sunday, June 30 at 11:30 or Saturday, July 6 at 2:00.  There will be a Congregational Meeting on July 7 after worship to hear the Building Vision Team’s report, ask questions, and make a decision regarding this new potential site for Peace.   If you have questions, please ask Don Simpson or Bob Donaldson.

Great generosity!   We have secured a $23,250 grant from the Presbyterian Church of Dunedin to assist us in securing a permanent home.  Thanks to Sue Seiter for making the connection with Dunedin.  We are grateful to God for the connectional PC(USA) and for people like Dana Francher, whose generosity exceeds her length of life, and enables her congregation to be a blessing to others

Montreat Magic!  It was wonderful to arrive for the final worship service with the youth on June 14, concluding with candlelight around Lake Susan in Montreat, and a surprise good-bye party for Pastor Tricia, orchestrated entirely by the youth.

This week in Montreat over 1000 people – children, youth, and adults of all ages – are attending the Worship & Music Conference, the largest annual gathering of Presbyterians!   I hope that many of you will consider attending next year.  Even if you don’t want to make music with the bells or the choirs or the instrumental groups, you would be inspired by the daily worship in the beautiful setting of these mountains.

BOOKS FOR BETH-EL – Beginning June 23rd and continuing through July 7th, the children and youth are sponsoring a book collection for Beth-El.  Please consider donating any gently used children’s books. If you have none in your collection at home, please consider visiting the Goodwill Book Store and purchasing a child’s book to donate.  Picture books through upper-elementary level are welcome -– but especially those for younger children.  Donation bins will be in the entry area each Sunday through until July 7th.

Stay tuned for some Family Summer Fellowship activities happening soon!

Grant Lowe is leading worship on Sunday.   He will help the congregation explore the meaning of “Thy Kingdom Come.”

Peace to you all,

Elizabeth

Dear Friends,

Here’s a little Peace news for the next couple of weeks:

The Building Vision Team has approached Manatee County officials with our zoning application for the new potential property.  We hope a contract will follow.  We know you will want a full report before voting about this new prospective home for Peace.  The Outreach Team is working on a new set of outside greeters, while the Stewardship Team is recruiting people to serve as “buddies” to new members.

I will be in Montreat, NC from June 14-30 arriving for the last evening worship with the youth, attending the Worship & Music Conference, and spending a week with my family, ending the time with a nephew’s wedding.  In an emergency, you may reach me at: 941-779-4900, but otherwise, take good care of one another – as our text last week said, “Contribute to the needs of the saints; extend hospitality to strangers. Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep.  Live in harmony with one another.”

Bill Kemp will be preaching and celebrating this Sunday on Galatians 2:15-21 and Luke 7:36-50: “A Doctrine that Doesn’t Like Walls.”  Grant Lowe brings the Word and Sacrament on the 23^rd.   His text is Matthew 6:9-13, most particularly, the phrase from the Lord’s Prayer:  “Thy Kingdom come; Thy will be done.”  Neil MacQueen is taking the lead on Sunday, the 30th, and he says his sermon is already taking shape in his head, as he packs up boxes to move with the family to a new house.

Faithful Director Gia will be back from the Youth Conference and back in the office sometime next week.  Family Choir begins on July 7^th – Sunday rehearsals at 9:15. 

Peaceful Moms (with kids under 21) Sleepover at Eirinn Camphire's house on July 5 at 5:00 will be fun.  Sounds like eight are already looking forward to it.

Thanks to Tricia for posting on Peace’s Facebook page this three minute taste of the youth conference at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7JI0AmBNEPU . 

If you are traveling, go with the grace and peace of Christ.  Hope to see you soon.

Prayerfully,

Elizabeth