Christmas Love

Sunday morning at Peace we will read the story of the angels and shepherds coming to see the glory of God.    Apart from the love that came down, where would we be?    We’d be lost in the grief that surrounds us, but because of the Incarnation we know a love that gives us hope, peace, and joy!  8:30 or 11:00, we hope to see you!

Thank you all for your involvement at Peace over the last year, as we settled in our new home.   Thank you for your gifts, for your labors of love, and for your vision for all Christ can do among us.

On Christmas Eve there will be readings, candles, communion, and special music at all three services – just slight variations in the music groups for each service at 5:00, 7:00, and 9:00.   Invite someone and by all means, pay attention to warmly welcome anyone you do not recognize.   Help others find a seat on Christmas Eve –slide down, make room in the Inn, so to speak, and encourage them to come back in the new year.   The love of Christ propels us to continue to be kindest, the friendliest, and the most genuinely caring and interested.   That’s how we build peace and Peace!

Our Christmas Eve Lessons and Carols is patterned after the beautiful Festival of Lessons and Carols from Kings College Chapel of Cambridge, which is broadcast around the world on public radio on Christmas Eve at 10:00  am EST.   To learn more go to http://www.kings.cam.ac.uk/events/chapel-services/nine-lessons.html

Last but not least, those of you who are blessed to be over seventy, the President just signed the U.S. House and Senate extension of the IRA Charitable Rollover.   You can transfer as much as $100,000 from an IRA directly to a charity without tax penalty.   We would be happy to be your charity of choice!  Send to the Peace Building Fund 12705 State Road 64, Lakewood Ranch, 34212!

Peace and good will to all,

Elizabeth

At Peace With Mary

Tomorrow we will focus on the faithful trust of Mother Mary, the favored one, the blessed, who brings us joy!.   We are reading the Annunciation and the Visitation – in other words, the angel comes see to Mary to announce that she is with child from the Holy Spirit and Mary goes to see her relative Elizabeth, who is pregnant with John. 

You will be glad to sing some of your favorite carols this week and next.
The crèche is now in place and beautiful poinsettias have arrived, thanks to your gifts.   The tree in the lobby is surrounded by bikes and other gifts for the four families of Beth-El.

The Mission Team has announced that our benevolent giving (giving to needs outside our own congregation) is now at the 13% mark.  This makes my Christmas to see your generosity!   Building fund gifts have been rolling in, along with new pledges for 2015.  The Session was able to move forward with a budget for next year, pending a few adjustments. Thank you so much.  When we all work together, each doing what she/he can, it is a wonderful thing.

The Sunkenbergs are now grandparents to twins – Ethan Henry and Evelyn Rose.   Pray for those precious little four-pound preemies.   I’ve been playing nurse again to Rebecca who had wisdom teeth out yesterday, so thanks for understanding my delay in writing you.   Of course, many of you are often delayed in reading my emails, so it may not matter!  :  )  

Remember to invite friends and family to Christmas services.    God bless all the choirs and readers and communion servers and luminary helpers.   See the bulletin for coming activities.

Peace to all of you!

Elizabeth
 

Attachments

• bulletin-2014-12-14- page 03- Third Sunday of Advent.doc
• bulletin-2014-12-14-insert- Third Sunday of Advent.docx

 

The Dawning of Peace - The Second Sunday in Advent

On the second Sunday of Advent, we move from the hope of comfort to the dawning of peace, as we read Zechariah’s Song in Luke 2 in our morning services.

Our evening Service of Hope (AKA Blue Christmas Service) will be held Sunday afternoon at 5:00.   Come to light a candle for the victims and families of the triple homicide in Bradenton, especially the people at Bayshore Baptist.   Come to light a candle for someone you will miss at Christmas.   Come to light a candle for the Syrian refugees, displaced, tired, and hungry.   Come to give comfort and hope to others who are lighting candles.  Savory refreshments will be served after the service.

Angel tree gifts are due back on the 14^th.  Checks may be written to Peace with Angel Tree in the memo.  Alternative Giving opportunities are still available, I did not send you an email on “Giving Tuesday” but any extra year-end giving to the operating or building fund will be much appreciated.   Remember that if you know you cannot give as you intended, we are gracious and understanding.

The Session and Building Vision Team had a joint meeting to view elevations and interior views of the new sanctuary.  They have decided to have a dinner meeting in February to present the plan to the congregation.   The usual Annual Congregational Meeting and Ordination/Installation will beJanuary 25 at 9:30.

⁷⁸ By the tender mercy of our God, the dawn from on high will break upon us, ⁷⁹ to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace."  (Luke 1:78-79)

Peace to you,

Elizabeth

Advent is Here!

Advent means coming.  Christmas is coming and Christ is coming again, and we are coming ‘round to our second year of worship on our new property.   Sunday’s scripture is Isaiah 40:1-11.  We will reflect on the hope that this comforting passage brings us.   No matter how much violence we see in the world, no matter how complicated life is, there is always more reason to hope because of the Incarnation – Christ is with us!

And speaking of hope, our special Service of Hope (also sometimes called “Blue Christmas” service) will be held on December 7^th at 5:00.  This service and the reception that follows seeks to offer support to all who find the holidays difficult.

It’s time to order poinsettias in memory or honor of the ones you love.  This year we will purchase them, if you will leave us a $10 check, clearly marked for poinsettias.  They will be planted at Peace, unless you want to take them on December 28.

There are a few angels left on the tree for those who would like to make Christmas brighter for four families at Beth-El.  Plus the Mission Team is still offering you the opportunity for Alternative Giving.   It is always so encouraging to me to watch Peace meet and exceed the commitment to give away a tithe every year -- yes, 10% of our budget is always given "to care for the needs of others."

The fall newsletter is attached with our thanks to Diane Brinkmeyer and Peter Miller.

We are grateful to those of you who have made pledges for 2015.  No matter the size of the pledge, we are grateful to know you are making commitments to put Christ first.  God has great things in store for us this year!

Peace and prayers for everyone, every day!

Elizabeth

Attachments

Peaceful News Fall 2014.pdf

Dedicating Our Pledges to God

We had a delicious Gratitude Feast on Wednesday night, our last Wonderful Wednesday of the fall.   We were inspired to hear the grateful testimonies of four Peace people whose ages spanned 60 years.

With hearts full of gratitude for God’s gifts, we bring our gifts this Sunday.  All are encouraged to prayerfully consider your pledge for 2015 and to complete the pledge form attached and bring on Sunday (forms in the bulletin also). 

Our scripture reading is 1 Thessalonians 5:1-3,8-18.  It describes the perspective of a grateful Christian.  New member, David Klement will share his thoughts on gratitude, and there will be special music at both services.   The video-based class “Jesus and the Gospels” resumes this week in the Gathering Room.   Read your bulletin and the monitors for more announcements.

In the afternoon, some folks will set off for Godspell and others for kayaking.  Thirty to forty of us were thoroughly engaged Friday night by our own brother, Anderson Kajang, Cameroon-American, who led the Faith and Film discussion of Mary and Martha, a movie which helps us to feel the tragic pain of malaria, which still kills more than half a million children every year, more than 80% of them in Sub-Saharan Africa. 

If you are out of town, pledges mail be mailed to the church, or turned in next Sunday.   They will be handled confidentially.  We do hope everyone will participate as a sign of your commitment to Christ and the ministries and mission of Peace.

Peace to you,

Elizabeth


 

Attachments

• pledge card.doc

 

At Peace - Lot's of Gratitude!

You did it again, you generous people!   You increased your giving to the Manatee Food Bank for hungry people on Halloween – 13,600 lbs. of food.   Special thanks to the Mission Team, and to Weston, Summerfield, and University Park, where Peace’s food drive is tradition!

It’s always gratitude season, but as we get closer to Thanksgiving, we must count our blessings.   Give thanks to God for every day of life and its gifts to you.   Give thanks to God for every person in your family, even the one who drives you crazy.

Give thanks for Peace Church, for the amazing way God has led us from several people around a kitchen table, to twenty-five on Sunday nights at Living Lord Lutheran, to less than a hundred at SCF, to more than one hundred at MAR, to nearly three hundred of us after one year in our beautiful new home!   So many interesting people, with different journeys of faith, all coming together as one in Christ.   Give thanks with a grateful heart.

This Sunday we read in chapter 24 the challenge of Joshua to the people to put God first.   “Choose this day whom you will serve, but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”   Choosing to put God first means giving back.  Pledge forms will be in the bulletin for you to take home and prayerfully consider.

Don’t forget the Gratitude Dinner on Wednesday at 5:45 for a 6:00 start.   Bring your favorite foods.   Everyone, please come, even if you have to arrive at 6:30 empty-handed.   No problem.   This will be our last Wonderful Wednesday until mid February.

If you want something to do on Wednesdays, it is a great time to join the Christmas choir!

Also, remember Kayaking and Godspell – two separate fellowship activity options for Sundayafternoon, November 16!   Speak to Pastor Neil or Elder Eirinn.

Peace,

Elizabeth
 

Attachments

• bulletin-2014-11-09 - page 03- 22nd Sunday after Pentecost.doc
• bulletin-2014-11-09- page 04 - 22nd Sunday after Pentecost.doc
• bulletin-2014-11-09-insert-22nd Sunday after Pentecost.docx

 

Food For All Saints and Souls

Friends in Christ, I hope you are collecting piles and piles of food from your neighbors.  If not, I hope you will write a fat check to Peace with memo (Food Bank) because we want to surpass our total from last year – 11, 515 pounds of real food for real hungry people.   We CAN make a difference! Besides, if you don’t contribute something for the hungry this Sunday, then the scripture reading will make you feel guilty.   It is the Parable of Lazarus and the Rich Man.   It is one of those reversal of fortune passages that is hard to hear, if you live comfortably.   Not sure if I can avoid stepping on our toes this week, but I trust the Spirit will make it a good news day. It’s All Saints & All Souls Sunday at Peace, so we will begin our service with the naming of special persons who have died, who are still very much with us.  Then we will sing For All the Saints.  Toward the end of our worship we will have a Call to Gratitude every Sunday until Thanksgiving. Lastly, a short-notice invitation to all newcomers to Peace – and anyone who has never spent any time in the Deibert house:   You are invited to a very casual dinner from 5:30 – 8:30 on Sunday night, the 2nd.  Children, food, and beverages of all types are welcome.   We will grill some chicken and make some cabbage/kale slaw for your good health.   Come when you can; leave when you must.   Write back to let me know IF you are coming.   No pressure – just want to spend some time building friendships.   6421 Blue Grosbeak Circle, 34202  (756-8153) Peace to you all, Elizabeth

 

Reformation Sunday - Kilts welcome!

Dear Peacemakers,

We had a Wonderful Wednesday this week as we welcomed thirty children from the community, along with their parents for a great dinner (thanks Sue and Marnie) and program called “Let’s B Safe” thanks to your Peace and Global Witness Offering, 25% of which is to be used locally. 

We are continuing our stewardship season with Putting God First in Living and Giving.  “First” Devotional books are available for those who will use them at home.   The video and discussion classShiny Gods, led by the Gratitude Team, will continue in the café.   We had excellent attendance!   If you missed the first day, no worries.   You can come any one or more of the four weeks.  Mark your calendar for the Gratitude Feast on Wednesday, November 12 at 6:00.

This Sunday our friend, Rev. Dr. Taylor Hill, is preaching on the Great Commandment.  Pastor Neil is coming in his Scottish kilt to celebrate Reformation Sunday.   He and Rev. Dr. Clough (rhymes with enough), known to us as Bill, will be celebrating at table.   The Gospel Guys are singing at early service and the choir will surely show up in full number for the 11:00!   Richard and I will officiate at Marilyn Tucker’s installation at Forsyth Presbyterian Church in S. Georgia on Sunday.

Counting my blessings, many of which are YOU!  What a talented, devoted, and generous group of people you are!

With love,

Pastor Elizabeth
 

Attachments

• bulletin-2014-10-26 - page 03- 20th Sunday after Pentecost.doc
• bulletin-2014-10-26- page 04 - 20th Sunday after Pentecost.doc
• bulletin-2014-10-26-insert-20th Sunday after Pentecosta.docx

 

New Elders, New Class, New Members

This Sunday at Peace we will have a brief congregational meeting at 9:30 to elect elders for the class of 2017, and one youth elder for a year’s term.  The nominating committee recommends the following people for ordination and/or installation: Barb Day (Fellowship Team), Matt Grantham (Youth), Linda Kocourek (Gratitude Team), Anderson Kajang (Worship Team), and Don Simpson (Building Vision Team).   If you have any concerns about the ability of these persons to serve in a leadership role, please write back to me.

After the congregational meeting, grab a coffee and participate in the four-week class offered by the Gratitude Team in the Café’ – Shiny Gods: Finding Freedom from Things that Distract Us, a video-based discussion of what it mean to put God first in living and giving. 

The Mission Team will be distributing brochures for the Halloween Food Drive, and we’re  gearing up for our Outreach Event on Wonderful Wednesday, the 22^nd – Let’s Be Safe.   We need warm and friendly faces to help us welcome at least sixty guests.

Our scripture for Sunday, 1 Timothy 6:6-19, invites us to put all our hope in God rather than material wealth -- “to do good, be rich in good works, generous and ready to share…so we may take hold of the life that really is life.”

We will say good-bye to old friends and welcome a few new ones on Sunday.  Hope everyone will be back this week.  God wants to see you in worship and so do we!

Peace,

Pastor Elizabeth

Wednesday and Sunday

Just to remind you our regular Wonderful Wednesdays begin tonight with dinner at 5:45, praise and prayer at 6:30, and small groups at 6:45.   Choir members and elder nominees will stay on from 7:30-9:00.  Yes, a full but fun night for everyone.  Food will be generously provided by Sue Donovan and Marnie Whitehead, and we hope you will toss in about $4 per teen/adult to cover expenses.  Adult groups will be led by Dana Scott and Chip Schaaff -- Christian Living and Peacefulness  and by Prof. Shannon Jung -- Faith, Poverty, and Affluence.

Sunday we will be blessed to consider the great Philippians 4:  Rejoice in the Lord always...Do not worry about anything but in everything by prayer and supplication, let your requests be made know to God, and the peace that passes all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus."   See if you can memorize that before Sunday!    Send me any messages you get from the Holy Spirit as you do so.

In case you are curious, the Session will be considering the new sanctuary design and elevations at their Thursday meeting this week.   If the essence of design is approved, the Building Vision Team will ask the architect and builder for a more detailed design with cost estimates.   We hope to share these with the congregation at our annual meeting in late January.  Then we will begin fund-raising for that building in earnest.   This fall's pledge campaign (Gratitude Season) will be focused on the operational needs of Peace for ministry and mission.  You are a generous church!

Keep the commandments and keep praying!    God is with you.

Elizabeth

 

World Communion Sunday

About seventy-five of us had a Wonderful Wednesday at the International Food Festival this week.  If you missed it, we hope you might come next Wednesday.   We learned some Twi from Ghana, Shona from Congo, Spanish from Argentina, and some Latin, Hebrew, and Arabic for our worship on Sunday.  Sounds difficult, but it’s not – really. 

We trust you will sing along with us for World Communion Sunday, when we will hear the Ten Commandments and consider their ethical promise for a peaceful existence together on God’s good earth.   Don't forget the special Peace & Global Witness Offering (especially the children of Syria).

Tomorrow – Saturday at 9:00 – is a work day on the property.   Inside and outside jobs are available for anyone who would enjoy two hours of comradery.   Also tomorrow at 10:00 Toni Muirhead will lead the first meeting of the Peaceful Potters.  (bring some money for supplies, which Toni is providing).

There’s a blood drive on Sunday for all who are able to give.  

I have heard that all three adult classes – Jesus and the Gospels, the Robin Williams Memorial Class on Mental Illness, and the Wired Word are going well.   Thanks, leaders and participants.

In fact, they’ve been so good, I can’t get any folks considering membership to attend my All About Peace and the Presbyterians class!   Do I need to offer this on a Saturday morning?   Next joining day is October 17, assuming that works for our new friends at Peace.

Lastly, an invitation to all early birds to attend the 8:30 service.  There are about fifty to seventy-five really friendly people there.   Later service is getting a bit crowded.   Come early, if it suits you!

Peace to all,

Elizabeth

Attachments

• bulletin-2014-10-05-insert-17th Sunday after Pentecost.docx
• bulletin-2014-10-05 - page 03- 17th Sunday after Pentecost.doc

 

 

Don't Miss the 9:45 hour!

Dear Friends,

This week in worship we will consider the value of community over personal conviction as we read Romans 14:7-23.  Of even greater significance this week, we begin a new season of lively learning in our Sunday school at 9:45.  Adults, you have several varied options:

Room 19: “Jesus and The Gospels” – Come walk with Jesus Christ through the Four Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, guided by the wise and learned counsel of one of the finest New Testament teachers living and teaching today, Luke Timothy Johnson.

Gathering Room: “Robin Williams Memorial Group: Living Gracefully with Mental Illness and Disability” – Come walk with Christian sisters and brothers who struggle with various afflictions of intellect and spirit, including cognitive disorder, addiction, personality or eating disorder, dementia, anxiety, depression, intellectual disability, brain injury, obsessive-compulsive disorder, psychosis.  Celebrate the glory of God that has been ours through the joy given by Robin Williams in spite of his hidden torment.

Room 9: “The Wired Word” – Come engage a relevant current event through the lens of Scripture.  The “father” of Presbyterians, John Calvin of Geneva (1509-1564), viewed the Bible as a pair of spectacles, through which we must carefully look if we want to clearly understand what we see in creation and culture.  Come put your biblical spectacles on and discuss current events more meaningfully.

Room 13: “All About Peace & the Presbyterians” (offered to those considering membership, this one-hour course orients you to this church & denomination.  It will be offered a couple of different times before a new group joins in October.)

For children and youth:

Childcare is provided all morning by a licensed, kind, and experienced provider, Damaris Luna.  (Pray for her, as her family experienced a tragic loss last week in the death of her children's father.)
PK-2^nd graders in Godly Play, approaching Bible stories (Montessori-style) through wonder & play, an ideal curriculum for our youngest learners.
3^rd-6^th graders learning Bible stories through art, video, drama, cooking, software, and games.   This workshop rotation keeps the active ones engaged.
7-12^th graders developing skills for living the Christian life through Bible, worship, and service. This sofa-conversation with a devoted elder and licensed mental health counselor is top-notch for youth.

Hope to see you Sunday!   Bulletin pages attached (error -- Faith & Film was last night -- not next Friday.)

Grace and peace,

Elizabeth

 

Attachments

• bulletin-2014-09-14 - page 03- 14th Sunday after Pentecost 1.doc
• bulletin-2014-09-14- page 04 - 14th Sunday after Pentecost.doc
• bulletin-2014-09-14-insert-14th Sunday after Pentecost.docx

 

Open House

 

This Sunday we’re reading the story of Moses and the burning bush, where God tells Moses that his name is “I Am Who I Am.”  Plus we’re reading the story where Jesus asks the disciples, “Who do you say that I am?”  We move from mysterious, wholly-other God to God-in-human-flesh, Messiah.

It is an exciting day. At 9:30, we will hold a congregational meeting to elect an elder nominating committee.  Nominees are Rebecca Deibert, Linda Juillerat, Mickey Miller, Ivy Ruark, and Chip Schaaff. 

After the meeting, we will hear about exciting new learning opportunities for all ages.  We are kicking off the new year of nurturing discipleship with a brunch and open house.  Connect with people you have not seen in a while.  Come, admire all the improvements in the building!   Hear about small groups and other ways to be involved at Peace.  Our big thanks to the Children, Youth, & Families Team, Pastor Neil, and the Adult Education Team for their good planning.

I am pleased to announce that Wednesdays nights will be added to Peace’s communal life this autumn.   A season of seven weeks will give us time to open with an International Food Festival on October 1^st and end with Gratitude Dinner on November 12^th.  The five middle weeks, we will eat, celebrate God’s goodness in praise and prayer, and enjoy a variety of other activities in our various age-groups – finishing by 7:30 so choir can practice at their usual time.  This is for all ages.  We hope you will take part.

Please sign up to participate in the October 1 International Food Festival this Sunday.  Debby will not be in town to orchestrate so we need lots of energy behind this great event. This is the Wednesdaybefore World Communion Peacemaking Sunday.

Do you want to become a better listener, a more compassionate friend? Consider Stephen Ministry training at Peace. Sign up and come to the info session on Sept. 22.

Blessings and peace to you all, especially those struggling with health or family issues,

Pastor Elizabeth

Attachments

• bulletin-2014-09-07 - page 03- 13th Sunday after Pentecost 1.doc
• bulletin-2014-09-07- page 04 - 13h Sunday after Pentecost.doc
• bulletin-2014-09-07-insert-13th Sunday after Pentecost.docx

Labor Day Weekend

Dear Friends of Peace,

The Peaceful News is attached for your enjoyment!   Don't forget to click below.

This Sunday's service will focus on the Challenge of Authentic Christianity from Romans 12:9-21.  The sermon will be given in tandem by Pastor Elizabeth and Rev. Dr. Richard Deibert.  

Our Open House Brunch is at 9:45 on September 7 -- not this Sunday but next.  Learn about activities for children and youth.  Hear about adult classes and small groups.   Worship at 8:30 or11:00.   A brief congregational meeting to elect an elder nominating committee will take place at 9:35.

Peace to you,

Elizabeth

 

Attachments

• Peaceful News Summer 2014.pdf

 

Metamorphosis

Metamorphosis -- that's the subject for Sunday worship from Romans 12:1-8 -- being transformed by the renewing of your minds that you may discern what is the will of God.  Don't forget the Psalms discussion at 9:45 -- these prayers can change your life!   Changing our lives -- that's what the Spirit of God aims to do to make us more and more into the likeness of Jesus Christ.

Remember that September 7 is our Welcome Back Brunch and Open House.   It's a great opportunity to hear from the Children, Youth, and Families and Adult Education Teams about all they have planned for the fall!   In addition, we invite those who are leading small and special interest groups to set up tables to chat with folks over coffee about opportunities for involvement.

We will have a brief Congregational Meeting at 9:30 in the chapel on September 7 to elect persons to serve on the elder nominating committee.  They will have the important job of discerning the will of God in providing a slate of four nominees for elder, class of 2017, and possibly one youth elder for election by the congregation.

Pastor Neil is looking for some loaner kayaks for a coming youth outing.

Read the attached bulletin for more info on life at Peace.

With love and prayers,

Pastor Elizabeth


Attachments

• bulletin-2014-08-24 - page 02 - 11th Sunday after Pentecost.doc
• bulletin-2014-08-24 - page 03- 11th Sunday after Pentecost.doc
• bulletin-2014-08-24- page 04 - 11h Sunday after Pentecost.doc

 

Dear Peacemakers,

We welcome Rev. William Kemp to the table and the pulpit.  Our text this week is Genesis 32:22-31.  He will be joined by two of his grandsons – Jacob and Jared Jordan.  Jared will be youth liturgist and Jacob will be at the piano.

There will be fun in the sun at Coquina Beach Pavilion with our annual Peace Family Picnic.  Main course will be provided but please bring beverages, chairs, and maybe a desert or salad to pass around.  There will be a $3.00 donation to help defray the cost of the meat.  Fun starts  at 9:00 amand goes to about 1:00. For more info please contact Dan Grantham  gran3766@verizon.net .

Our mission team wants to thank everyone for  helping us surpass last year’s totals.   Our Peace family collected 80 backpacks, lots of school supplies and $775 in cash, which we used to buy many supplies. The children from the Charter School on the Beth-El campus, and the worshipping congregation there will be so grateful.  School supplies will also be given to VBS participants and other local community children.

This Sunday we will have our Blood Drive from 9:30 – 12:30.  There are only 4 people who have signed up so please consider giving the gift of life to someone.   Our Psalms class will continue this week between services.

We are all so thankful that our Youth and Adults have returned from Montreat and have so many wonderful experiences to share with us in the next few weeks.  Pastor Elizabeth and all the Deibert clan return on the 5^th of August and she will be worshiping with us on August 10. 

It has been a privilege to hold down the fort these past 8 weeks.  Thank you again to all the Pastors who  proved once again that we are so blessed to have them share their talents at the pulpit.  Thank you to everyone who rallied at the church to make sure I was well fed and had help for anything.  And most of all thank our Lord, Jesus Christ for our Pastor Elizabeth and all that she does for our church.  I have even more respect for her after these weeks alone.

May our Lord bless us and keep us safe as we end our summer vacations and gear up for the fall season.

Hugs to all,

Gia, the pianist, organist, choir and bell director, Gospel Guys leader, office manager, power point gal, and occasional chef.

Greetings Peacemakers,

This Sunday Rev Grant Lowe will be preaching on “Jesus’ revolution of love and justice”.   He will be assisted by daughter Joy and grand-daughter Sara Rea.  How blessed we are at Peace for many 2 and 3 generation families.  Grant, Gail, Joy and Sara Rea were among the first 20 or so that attended services on Sunday night at Living Lord Church.

We will be gathering in our care cluster groups after 1^st service to meet our leaders and to share some personal moments.  This Sunday is also the last day for school supplies for Beth El.  Last year we delivered 75 back packs and it would be wonderful to exceed that number this year.   If you haven’t had time to shop, a nice big check will do just fine.  Please put “school supplies for Beth El” in the memo of the check.

We bid a sad “farewell” to Mike, Debby, and Matt Clay.  They are moving to Orlando this weekend.  Thank you to all three for your loving service to our congregation.   May our Lord Jesus Christ be with you and keep you safe in your move.  Remember, you always have a home at Peace.

Don’t forget the Women’s craft sessions on the first and third Friday of the month.  Next one is August 1^st from 10:00 – 11:30.  Everyone is invited.

On August 2 from 9:00am to 1:00 we are having our Family Picnic at (gulf side)Coquina Beach Pavilion.  Bring your own beverages and your own chairs.  We will supply the food. $3.00 donation.  For further details please contact Dan Grantham    gran3766@verizon.net.

I would like to thank Kim Adams, Bill Clough, Peg Papsch, David Mullen, Grant Lowe and Bill Kemp onAugust 10 for preaching and sharing the table with us during Pastor Elizabeth time of renewal.   It was a joy working with all of you and I am looking forward to working together next year.

It is so wonderful to be in our new building on 23 acres of heaven.   I try to go outside everyday to just say “thank you Lord for our new home”.   There have been many activities during the summer which keeps us connected.  I feel so fortunate to work in the office and have people come in to say hi or ask if there is anything they can do.  WE ARE A CHURCH and it’s GREAT.

Hope to see many of you this Sunday.
Peace,
Gia the piano lady

Coming Up at Peace

Sunday, July 6th, 8:30 and 11:00 at Peace!

Come hear Jenny Sheffield and Rebecca Deibert speak at both services about their recent Peace-supported mission experiences in Haiti and Guatemala.

 

9:45 Each Sunday: Summer in the Psalms Bible Study.

Grab your coffee and come to the large gathering room next to the chapel.

Our Summer Choir sings every Sunday at 11 a.m.
Rehearsal at 10:30.  All ages and abilities welcome!
_______________________________________________

Upcoming Fellowship Events

►This Sunday, July 6 at noon...

Young Adult Cook-out from 12 to 3 at MacQueens.  Email Michelle,michmacqueen@gmail.com, if you need directions.

►Saturday Evening July 12 at 6 p.m...

Sunset Gathering at Holmes Beach. Bring your own chair and picnic food/beverages. All members invited! Email Eirinn Camphire e.eirinn@gmail.com for details.  Sponsored by the Mom's Fellowship.

►Wednesday Evening July 23 from 6 to 8 p.m.

Church Family Fellowship Cook-out and Clay Art Project at the church. Led by Dana Scott, Chip Schaff, and artist Toni Muirhead.

All ages. Details to be emailed. Email Dana, dspeacemaker@gmail.com for details.

►Saturday August 2nd...

All Church Beach Party. Details coming. Save the date!

Sponsored by the Men's Fellowship.

______________________________________________

Photos this week at the Peace Facebook Page:

•             Elizabeth and the Worship Team at the Montreat Worship Conference.

•             Youth group descending upon IHOP.

•             Cedarkirk Campers

•             Photos of Sarah and Matt leading last Sunday's worship.

Peace People Announcements

Hello Peace People!

While Elizabeth is away I'll be sending the weekly Peace email.
This Sunday, June 29th at both services:

Youth Sermons by Sarah Schoeffel and Matthew Grantham! ~Not to be missed~

Also this Sunday the 29th:

Mom's Group goes to lunch at noon.

Youth Fellowship goes to IHOP at noon.

UPCOMING DATES:

Sunday July 6th at both services, Rebecca Deibert and Jenny Sheffield will be speaking about their recent church-supported mission trips. (See photo below.)

Saturday Evening, July 12th, the Mom's Fellowship invites all church members to an evening picnic at Holmes Beach, 6 p.m. Bring your own food/drink. See Eirinn Camphire or Dana Scott for details.

Wednesday Evening July 23 is Church Family Nite. We'll cook-out at the church at 6 pm, then get hand's on with a clay art project with artist Toni Muirhead and a related devotion by Chip Schaff.  More details to come.

SAVE THE DATE:

August 2nd, Saturday morning for the All-Church Beach Party sponsored by the Men's Fellowship.

REMINDERS:

The ALARM system is now active at church. If you are unlocking or locking up, remember to use the code!

The church's Facebook Page has new photos of our Cedarkirk campers, youth in mission, our New Members, and more!  If you're on FB, search for Peace Presbyterian near Lakewood Ranch.

Neil

P.S. If your group would like an announcement included in the worship bulletin, see Gia. For the weekly email, see me.

_____________________________________________

Rebecca in Guatemala
 

 

Farewell and Keep the Faith

People of Peace,

Thank you for such an overwhelmingly positive send-off.    I will enjoy my break, but will truly miss seeing you.   What a great congregation you are!    Please bear with me in this long epistle, as it is my last for a while.

Remember to coordinate all event dates with Pastor Neil and Director Gia.   Remember to welcome all guests as if they are your long-lost friends.  Introduce them to others.   For support in difficult times, call the church office, or connect with a favorite retired minister or a Stephen Minister, or a member of congregational care. 

The alarm system will be in force as of this Monday.   Key holders:  remember the large gratitude rock will guide you.   Jim Robinson’s cell number is 941-961-0420.   Put it in your cell phone now. 

Martha Waldrop is now officially the leader of our Peace Planters and Pruners, a sub-group of the Property Management Team.   Please check with her before planting anything.   Property Management also invites you to stay green at church by careful attention to the recycle can in each room for plastics, bottles and cans.   Paper can be recycled in the bin closest to the photocopier.

Hazell Miller’s car (rear bumper) was damaged while she was attending the 8:30 service several weeks ago.   If anyone knows what happened, please speak to her. 

Thanks to our seminary graduate, our youth, our staff, and our retired ministers for their worship leadership these next seven weeks.   Deep gratitude to Gia and Neil for all their extra effort in my time away.   Please offer the support of your presence and encouragement as often as possible.   Converse with worship leaders each week from 10:00-10:30 in room 9.

Most Sundays will include a 9:45 study of a favorite Psalm in room 19.   Attend as you are able.   There will be soon another summer Sunday of extended fellowship time to connect with the whole congregation between services, as we did last week.   Watch for more info on that.

The Daniel Plan (a small group focused on faith, fitness, food, and friends) will start July 10 – every Thursday at 7:00 for six weeks.   www.danielplan.com 

There are special family and all church events being scheduled by Pastor Neil and the Children, Youth & Families Team.   Next Sunday, the 29th, there are a couple of lunch bunches after the11:00 service:  the Peaceful Moms (Crisper’s) and the Youth (IHOP).   Montreat youth meeting at 9:45 next Sunday.

Find attached the eight summary pages of our 2014 Sharing the Vision.    If you would like to read all of the raw data, you may borrow a spiral bound copy from the front desk.  Thanks everyone!

Also attached is a letter from PC(USA) leaders explaining the recent action of the General Assembly regarding marriage – not applicable in Florida but in other states.  If you have questions, our teaching elders (ministers) will be available to discuss it.  Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep.  Live in harmony with one another.

Check out the stakes in the field – a footprint of building phases to come in 2016 and beyond! 

I am signing off now, but you will continue to be in my prayers and in my heart.

With love and gratitude,

Elizabeth

Attachments

•             VISIONING REPORT TO SESSION..doc

•             Marriage Decision.doc

•             bulletin-2014-06-22 - page 03- 2nd Sunday after Pentecost.doc

 

Trinity & Father's Day Brunch

Dear Peacemakers,

 

It’s Trinity Sunday and my last with you for a while.   Thanks, by the way, for the great encouragement I have received from so many to enjoy this time of renewal.   In case any of you are wondering, this is NOT a time to figure out a new call, but to seek spiritual renewal to continue this ministry with you at Peace.   Why would anyone want to leave now?    This is a great time to be at Peace!

 

I have the privilege of preaching this week on the words that I usually pronounce as a blessing each week:   May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all.   This will have even more meaning as I depart for seven weeks.  The sermon will be about living the wonderful Trinitarian life, which is different from being triangulated in all your relationships – not recommended by psychologists.   So come to hear about the difference between triangulation and our Trinity of Divine Love!

 

Don’t forget the Father’s Day Offering of personal items for the farmworkers in Immokalee, many of them dads struggling to provide for their families.   (see the attached bulletin for more info.)   Thanks for the Pentecost Offering – nearly $1600 raised as of last Sunday to help young adults in year-long volunteer mission like our own Russ Kerr.   We will send off our short-term missionaries – Jenny and Rebecca – with our prayers.   

 

We will welcome many new members on Sunday morning.   Those of you planning to join, please be present tomorrow (Saturday) at 10:00 for the new members’ orientation class.   One of my greatest joys in ministry is building relationships with new folks and helping you all to connect with each other.

 

We have the joy of spending an entire hour this Sunday connecting with friends from the “other” service.   (no classes or vision work)   Thanks to Sue and Bob Seiter for their gift of a delicious Father's Day brunch at 9:30, and thanks to all the members of the Fellowship Team who work so well together to provide coffee, snacks, and a good time of conversing each week.

 

Peace to all,

 

Elizabeth

  

Attachments

• bulletin-2014-06-15 - page 03- Trinity Sunday.doc
•  bulletin-2014-06-15 - page 04 - Trinity Sunday.doc
• bulletin-2014-06-15-insert-Trinity Sunday.docx

Pentecost

What a joyful community we are when we find unity in Christ’s Spirit while we celebrate our diversity of interests and gifts!    It is Pentecost this Sunday, the 50th day after Easter morn, when we celebrate with red clothes, red ribbon prayers, and red flowers, the fiery presence of God’s Spirit in our midst!

We will hear from Russ Kerr about his call to service as a Young Adult Volunteer in Mission.   Please give generously to the Pentecost Offering which supports his call, as well as other ministry with young, young adults, and at-risk children.

We will commission Matthew Grantham for his service as a Young Adult Advisory Delegate to the General Assembly, the national, biennial meeting of the Presbyterian Church (USA).   Matt is the one YAAD with six adults (3 ministers and 3 elders) serving from Peace River Presbytery.

We will complete our 2014 Sharing the Vision time by inviting you to attend the goal of your choice to refine and prioritize the ideas for that goal at 9:45.   Thanks to all who have led these classes and to Grant Lowe for orchestrating this process.

The bells will ring at 8:30, and the choir will sing at 11:00.   We will say “thanks” to all who have taught classes this year, nurturing the discipleship of children, youth, and adults at Peace. 

Bulletin pages attached.   Missing from calendar is the thank-you luncheon on Saturday, the 14th for the devoted Fellowship Team members.  

What a great God, what a great congregation, what great gifts!   Varieties of gifts given for the common good.  

Pentecostal peace to you,

Elizabeth

Attachments:

bulletin-2014-06-08 - page 03- Pentecost.doc

bulletin-2014-06-08 - page 04 - Pentecost.doc

bulletin-2014-06-08-insert-Pentecost.docx

Glad for Grads!

Congratulations to our 2014 high school graduates:  Abigail, Amanda, Danielle, Emily, Julie, Liz, Sarah!   We also remember Tim, graduating in Vero Beach, and Ernie, who is departing for college, having spent the last year with us at Peace while attending SCF.  We give thanks to God for your accomplishments and for your future full of promise. 

Our graduates are ascending to young adulthood just as we celebrate the Ascension of Christ this year. Ephesians 1:15-23, the Ascension Day epistle lesson, invites us to pray for a spirit of wisdom and revelation as we come to know God, that with the eyes of our hearts enlightened, we may know what is the hope to which God has called, what are the riches of God’s glorious inheritance among the saints, and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power for us who believe. (bulletin pages attached)

On Sunday, please take a moment to sign the gift books for our grads and enjoy cake and time to mingle with our young stars.  When you are not signing books and talking to our glad grads, please write a prayer joy or concern on a red ribbon to prepare for Pentecost, next Sunday.  Write a gratitude prayer for Pastor Neil's new granddaughter!  He hates to miss Sunday but he and Malinda are welcoming little Evelyn to the world in Colorado!

Our special PC(USA) offering for Pentecost, June 8 (red day) will support the ministries of our denomination to youth, young adults and at-risk children.   Forty percent of our offering will directly support our own Russ, young adult volunteer in mission next year.

The peace of Christ be with you all,

Elizabeth

Attachments

bulletin-2014-06-01 - page 03- 7th Sunday of Easter.doc

bulletin-2014-06-01 - page 04 - 7th Sunday of Easter.doc

bulletin-2014-06-01-insert-7th Sunday of Easter.docx

New perspectives from new people!

One of my favorite roles as pastor for Peace is spending time with new people.  Not only do I get to know them but I get to see Peace through their eyes.   Sometimes I am reminded of some very significant things.  For instance, for a new member it is challenging to figure out all the small group activities at Peace – what it is, who is in charge, when does it happen?   Also, it can be difficult to put names and faces together – even for long-term Peace people, but especially for someone new.

Thanks, new friends, for helping Peace grow toward fuller maturity in Christ.   We are eager to learn from you, and to help you build friendships at Peace and find your place to serve.   New members week-end is June 14-15. 

This week in worship we are reading Jesus’ promise of the Spirit, our Advocate, who dwells with us and in us, giving us the power to love.   John 14:15-27   There will be special music in celebration of Memorial Day.

Find attached two pages from Sunday's bulletin, to keep you informed.   By the way, if you have a church key, be sure to learn about the alarm code before next week.   There will be a separate email.

Peace to you all,

Elizabeth

Attachments

bulletin-2014-05-25 - page 03- 6th Sunday of Easter.doc

bulletin-2014-05-25-insert-6th Sunday of Easter.docx

Paint, Particularity and Pluralism

Dear Peacemakers,

What does it mean to have a Christian identity in a multi-faith world?   That’s question we will seek to answer as we read Jesus’ words from John 14, “In my Father’s house, there are many dwelling places…I go to prepare a place for you…I am the way and the truth and the life.   No one comes to the Father except through me.” 

Richard and I are traveling today to attend the graduation of Marilyn Tucker, our seminary intern of summer 2012, in Atlanta.   We will be back Saturday night.   Anderson Kajang is flying back to Cameroon to see his wife and daughters, after three years apart!

This week-end at Peace some gals are painting, some guys are paint-balling, and some Peace folks are dining together.   Have fun everyone!  

Sharing the Vision at 9:45 continues to enrich our lives.   Grant Lowe is sending documents to those snowbirds and those teaching on Sunday mornings, hoping to get some input from those who missed this important vision work. 

Starting next week-end, our security system will begin to be used.   If you are a key holder, you will want to watch for information about the code to disarm.

See the attached bulletin page for more information about what is happening at Peace.   If you're thinking about being a peacemaker (joining Peace) then mark June 14-15 in your calendar so we can celebrate and welcome you.

Blessings,

Elizabeth

Attachments

bulletin-2014-05-18 - page 03- 5th Sunday of Easter.doc

Being a Dynamic Church!

	I was so glad that seventy-five or eighty of you participated in our introductory Sharing the Vision time last Sunday at 9:45, helping us chart Peace’s future, as we examine our past and present.  This week we will begin our weekly discussion of Peace’s goals – Inspiring Worship, Authentic Relationships, Nurturing Discipleship, Compassionate Outreach, and Responsive Stewardship.   Each group will address one goal per week, in a different order.   Then on the final week (June 8) you can choose your “favorite” goal to put lasting emphasis on the report that will shape Peace’s future. Because of the wonderful providence of God, we have a scripture for this Sunday’s worship that speaks to all five goals – Acts 2:14,32-33, 36-47.   “Day by day, as they spent much time together in the temple, they broke bread at home and at their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having the goodwill of all the people.   And day by day the Lord added to their number those who were being saved/made whole/healed.” What makes for a dynamic, a Spirit-ed church?    Come Sunday to reflect on that with us. Speaking of dynamic, I am so pleased to see how many of you are ready and eager to share your gifts.   You have ideas which you bring to me or to a team, and then you volunteer to lead the effort.   That’s how this church will expand and thrive!    Keep up the good work, and don’t overwork – share your load with others. You have continued to amaze me with your generosity.  From special building gifts to youth fundraising to One Great Hour of Sharing and our young mission travelers, you have not stopped giving.   We hope you know - that while we offer many special opportunities for giving, we do not expect everyone to give to everything.   Yes we do hope everyone gives to the Operating and Building Funds in gratitude to God for all our blessings.   All the other offerings are the icing on the cake.   And you seem to like icing!   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 Cor. 9:8) I give thanks to God for the privilege of living with you in this abundance at Peace! See you at 9:45 and at whatever worship service you prefer.   Snowbirds and travelers, we miss you already.   Come back soon and be a blessing wherever you are! Please check the attached directory.   If we have anything wrong, write me back, so it can be fixed before we print a few copies.  This info is for Peace people and purposes only. Guard one another with your life and Christ's love. Peace, Elizabeth   Attachments Peace Participants May 2014.pdf

The Peaceful News!

Our Spring newsletter is attached, thanks to Diane Brinkmeyer and Peter Miller. 

Our gratitude to all who participated in Holy Week services -- what a meaningful time we shared.  Many of you have asked about attendance numbers:

Maundy Thursday -- 62
Good Friday -- 95
Easter Sunday -- 227 (9:30 service most attended)

We are very pleased to have had so many guests at these services!  Thanks to the Outreach Team for their advertising efforts and to each of you who told your friends and family members.

Thanks also for surpassing our One Great Hour of Sharing Goal -- $4800 has been collected to assist with hunger, poverty, and disasters here and abroad!

Read about this Saturday's 5:00 Italian Dinner and this Sunday's 9:45 Share the Vision Together in the attached newsletter.  It's going to be another great week-end at Peace!  Hope to see you.

Don't forget the attachment -- if you have any trouble downloading, copies are available at church.

Easter hope and peace to you,

Pastor Elizabeth

Attachments

Peaceful News Spring 2014.pdf

 

 

Holy Week at Peace -- April 17-20, 2014

Dear Friends,

A twenty-two year old man came into church today looking for a phone to use, as his cell had died.  Once inside he realized that he needed more than a phone.  He needed to be heard and to gain a little hope.  In some way, we all come to church seeking to be heard and looking for hope.  This is the week-end for bountiful hope!  No conflict, no problem, not even death can take our hope away forever.  Thanks be to God for raising Christ from the dead.  We live as people with hope!

Maundy Thursday at 7:00 – a time to remember Christ’s call to love one another.

Good Friday at 7:00 – a time to reflect on Christ’s loving sacrifice

Easter Sunday at 8:00, 9:30, and 11:00 – a time to joyfully celebrate the new life we have in Christ!

Remember the One Great Hour of Sharing Offering.   Fill those fish boxes & offering plates to help the hungry, the poor, and those struck by disaster.  Thanks to all who already gave!

Looking ahead,

Saturday, April 26 at 5:00 – a time for good food, fun, and fundraising for the youth.  Bring those door prizes and silent auction items in as soon as possible.   Put them in Room 17.

Sunday, April 27 at 9:45 –the first of six weekly small groups to discuss the Goals of Peace.    Please plan to participate as we need YOUR perspective.

April 27-May 11 -- Mission Team Diaper Drive for Mother’s Day

Grace, mercy, and peace to you all,

Elizabeth

Peace to You -- Holy Week 2014

Hello Peace Friends, Come join in...come to earlier services if you can, to help us with crowding in our new chapel on 12705 State Road 64.

April 13, Palm Sunday Worship 8:30 & 11:00 with new gift - a pre-owned Johannus organ!  Lively learning for all ages at 9:45.  From 11:45-2:00, hot dogs, egg hunt, fishing, balloon tether rides (weather permitting), and more...get to know our new Pastor to Youth & Families, Neil MacQueen.

April 17, Maundy Thursday Worship 7:00.  Seated around tables of six, we will hear Jesus' mandate that we love one another, sharing together in the Lord's Supper.

April 18, Good Friday Worship 7:00.  Dramatic readings and reflective  music and prayers will help us appreciate Christ's loving sacrifice as we conclude outside around the wooden cross.

April 20, Easter Sunday Worship at 8:00, 9:30, and 11:00.  Both 9:30 and 11:00 services will culminate with the Hallelujah Chorus sung by the Voices of Peace!

The One Great Hour of Sharing Offering will be collected on Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, and Easter Sunday to help with hunger, development in impoverished communities, and disaster relief.  Let's exceed our goal of $3000 for needy people.

April 26 -- Saturday after Easter Sunday -- Italian Dinner at 5:00 with a caberet-style show and silent auction.  All proceeds will support our youth.

For six Sundays starting April 27, you are invited and encouraged to participate in shaping the future of Peace.  At 9:45 each Sunday between the two services, a vision retreat in one hour segments.

Whether you are a regular at Peace or have not come in a while, we welcome you to join us for Holy Week to hear anew the great story of God's love in Jesus Christ.  It is an exciting time to be part of an inspiring, authentic, nurturing, compassionate, and responsive congregation situated on a peace-ful new site.  Come and see.  Invite a friend.  Pass it on.

Peace to you, friends!

Pastor Elizabeth