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“Informing and Inspiring the Central Ohio

Faith Community”

BE MINDFULAnd now we welcome

the new year, full of things that have never been.

Have a Joyful New Year

Every civilization has had its form of “Happy New Year!” And so do we. Most interesting to me is how it has become a time of self-examination. How did I do this past year? What do I want to accomplish in the new year? How are things going with me? So, we look backward, thinking about the pluses and minuses of the past months. For me, it was a most unusual year, much of it spent recovering from

two major surgeries and finding how much aging slows down one’s ability to crank up and get going again.

Mercy. I hope your year was better! Be that as it may, why do we do this self-examination, sometimes resulting in New Year resolutions et al? I think a bigger part of it than we realize is that we hope it will show us how we are leaving a mark. What did we contribute to the world this year? Who did we help? How did we accomplish our hopes for the year and what new hopes has that generated? I think that we Christians stand in a pretty good place with all of this. We come to the new year having just celebrated Christmas, a holiday which affirms that God is with us in a very personal way. God has come to us and lives our life with us in Jesus of Nazareth, Jesus the Christ.

At the close of the year and at the edge of the new year, we are assured that the glory and saving power of God has been revealed and our hearts are filled with the light of God’s good news. That light shines in our present and will shine in our future, as Jesus tells us in John’s gospel, “so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.” Happy New Year. Enjoy it!

South Campus Welcome Center ApprovedAwaited project to begin construction spring 2017

n By Michael Barber

On November 28, the Governing Board of First Community Church authorized the construction of the South Campus Welcome Center project.

Corna Kokosing Construction Company is the Construction Manager for the project, which is budgeted at $1,382,000. Construction is scheduled to begin in the spring of 2017, on or before April 1. The Welcome Center will provide an accessible entrance to the church from the parking lot.

It will also be home to the receptionist which will be relocated from its current location at South Campus.

The Welcome Center is part of a Capital Projects Campaign, which began in March of 2013 when the Governing Board of First Community Church authorized the formation of the Capital Projects Committee (CPC).

The task of this team, led by church member Paul Anderson, was to determine what facilities were needed to realize a vision of growth in ministry as presented by Senior Minister Dr. Richard Wing during the Annual Meeting just one month before.

Senior Minister Vote Jan 8Congregation Convenes to Consider Dr. Glen Miles’ Call to First Community Church

n By Michael Barber

The members of First Community Church will have the opportunity to formally consider a new Senior Minister candidate on Sunday, January 8, 2017 - the first vote of its kind in more than 23 years.

Rev. Dr. R. Glen Miles will preach two sermons; the first at 9:15 am at North Campus (3777 Dublin Road) and the second at 11 am, South Campus (1320 Cambridge Boulevard). Directly following the 11 am service at South Campus, a congregational vote will be taken at noon to determine whether to call Dr. Miles to First Community Church as Senior Minister.

There will be no 8:30 or 10:30 am services that day.

Dr. Miles is ordained by the Disciples of Christ and is currently serving as the Senior Minister of Country Club Christian Church in Kansas City, Missouri.

He is passionate about both preaching and teaching and he is experienced in the leadership and administration of a large church.

Most importantly, Dr. Miles has a conviction that the love and grace we experience in Jesus Christ have the power to transform individuals, communities and all of creation.

Dr. Miles earned the Doctor of Ministry at Claremont School of Theology in Claremont, California and the Master of Divinity degree from Emmanuel Christian Seminary in Johnson City, Tennessee.

He and his wife Julie have been married for 37 years and have two sons, Nate and Steven.

Senior Minister Dr. Richard A. Wing announced his retirement in June of 2015. Shortly after, the Governing Board appointed church member Ginny Barney to lead a committee in search of Dr. Wing’s replacement. They recommended their candidate after an 18-month nationwide search.

“Let me say that we had the honor of speaking with a wide variety of clergy and Dr. Miles was the clear leader among them,” Mrs. Barney said. “The Search Committee was unanimous in our choice and we are excited for the congregation to come to know Dr. Miles as we have.”

REV. DR. R. GLEN MILES

Rev. Paul BaumerMinister to the Staff

SAVE THE DATEAnnual Meetingof First Community Church

January 29, 20172 pm

Grace Hall, North Campus3777 Dublin Road, 43221

2 JANUARY 1 - 31, 2017 | firstnews

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The deadline for all submissions is 12 pm on the 15th of each month. We reserve the right to edit all submissions.

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Letters to the Editor

Dr. Richard WingSenior Minister

DONATED GLASSES FIND NEW HOMES

We’re ready to ship 130 readers to Back Bay mission. That makes 220 readers this year.

The Tri-Village Trading Post has received 243 glasses cases this year. As you may know, some people donate the cases with their glasses. Many cases are pretty beaten up. Some are like new.

Three hundred sixty three glasses were collected at the Trading Post, 235 at South Campus and 57 at North. That’s 655 glasses in total.

— Charlie Jacob

PA PEN-PAL JOINS PRISON MINISTRY

In July, I received from my brother a copy of an article published in firstnews highlighting his son-in-law’s Ministry of Presence to Ohio inmates. I contacted Jeff (Leister) via email to share my admiration of his service to the ministry. Living in Pennsylvania, I said something to the effect of “Gee, I wish we lived closer….I would become involved.” Jeff’s almost immediate response was “Well... If you’re serious….” Even though it was an email, I could almost see the twinkle in Jeff’s eye. We continued the discussion and I was told there is zero pressure to go forth, but if I want to become involved he had in mind an inmate who would probably be a good match for an ongoing pen-pal relationship.

Christmas: A Time to Eliminate Hurry

Christmas is the season for giving. We got that notion from those three wise Zoroastrians from the east, who brought Jesus some very expensive gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.

Today these would be a Rolex gold President watch, Clive Christian’s Imperial Majesty cologne at $215,000 for 16.9 oz (look it up; I’m not kidding) and finally, the finest of massage oils of your choice.

When coming to Jesus, cheap gifts are out of the question, and forget the gift cards. When Jesus turned thirty, he taught about what gifts God wants from us. God wants us to give up our penchant desire for perfection, because “the demand for the perfect is the enemy of the possible good” as Richard Rohr says. God wants you to give up your penchant desire for egoistical perfectionism that gets in the way of the good you can do, but don’t do because you can’t do it “perfectly.” God also wants you to give up hurry. God doesn’t know what to do with us in relentless perpetual motion. God doesn’t condemn, but grieves. God is like the parent who cannot find a wayward child after she stormed out of the house 15 years ago to some place out west.

God misses you like a good parent misses a lost child and God can’t reach you as you worship at the altar of perfectionism and hurry. In the words of Dallas Willard, “YOU MUST RUTHLESSLY ELIMINATE HURRY FROM YOUR LIFE.”

And perfection.To this day, humans can’t find God. But by giving up perfectionism and hurry, it clears the way for God to find us, as God did in a barn in Bethlehem.

With name and ID number glaring at me from my computer screen, I thought “What am I doing and how am I going to do this?” I grew up in small town Pennsylvania. I knew nothing about prisons or prisoners. The closest I had ever been to a prison was a quick drive-by in the nearest city 20 miles away. In my first correspondence, I offered the basic information, stating I am a 70-year-old grandmother who loves to be active: running, golfing, pickle ball and I’m a Philadelphia Flyers fan (but don’t hold that against me). I sent my first email and wasn’t sure if I’d receive a reply, but I was pleasantly surprised when I received a “let’s see” response from my new pen-pal. He felt we had enough mutual likes to at least start some conversations. Surprisingly, after both our initial hesitations the letters took off. We now share almost daily updates. After the second or third letter, my husband Bill asked to become involved, and there was no turning back. Although being imprisoned for almost 16 years serving life, our inmate has managed to find his own inner peace in a chaotic surrounding that I will never be able to understand. He has graciously shared that peace with us, has been a shoulder to lean on during some difficult family problems and has wisdom of life far beyond the bounds of a jail cell and far beyond our comprehension. In addition to his outlook on life, he is an accomplished artist who has graced us with countless gifts of his creations.

We have now traveled from Pennsylvania twice to visit and I hope to make as many trips as possible to share more time with him in person. My heart was pounding on our first visit as we checked in and waited to meet face-to-face. We had conversed and knew he was very soft-spoken and serious. What would we talk about for hours, not really knowing each other? It didn’t take long until we felt we knew each other for years and were old friends. By the end of our first visit, we even saw a hint of a smile – a rarity from him. By our second visit, he was actually laughing out loud with us – a priceless gift.

Luke 6:38 tells us to “Give and it will be given to you.” We have received more than we have ever given. If you are a person wanting to become involved in giving of yourself, or someone who has a void to fill, or maybe even sitting on the fence trying to decide whether to join this ministry,

I say whole-heartedly jump in head first. Our lives have been changed forever, and yours will also in a win-win situation.

— Donna SmithMillersville, Pennsylvania

ALL ABOUT YOU

As you read your way through this issue of firstnews, you will see many different bylines. Some are employees of First Community Church; however, the vast majority of the articles are written by passionate church members.

As people engage in church life, they are often inspired to spread the good news of a far-reaching ministry.

Firstnews is always honored to receive messages from our community of faith. If you are active in a church program or mission, or a reader who wishes to comment, I encourage you to connect with us at [email protected]

— Michael Barber, Editor

CORRECTIONIn the December issue of firstnews, names for inmates Fred Gadson (Page 1 photo) and Frank Gordon (Page 3 photo) were reversed. We regret the error.

firstnews | JANUARY 1 - 31, 2017 3

A MONTH OF SUNDAYS

DECEMBER 25 C

CHRISTMAS DAY

10:30 am Grace Hall, NC Rev. Long preaching

JANUARY 1 A

NEW YEAR'S DAY

11 am Sanctuary, SC Rev. Shaner preaching

JANUARY 8 B REV. DR. GLEN MILES' TRIAL SERMONS WITH CONGREGATIONAL VOTE

9:15 am Grace Hall, NC Dr. Glen Miles preaching

11 am Sanctuary, SC Dr. Glen Miles preaching

12 pm Sanctuary, SC Congregational Vote

JANUARY 15 C

BAPTISM SUNDAY

8:30 am Burkhart Chapel, SC Rev. Rinker preaching

9:15 am Grace Hall, NC Dr. Wing preaching


11 am Sanctuary, SC Dr. Wing preaching

JANUARY 22 A

8:30 am Burkhart Chapel, SC Rev. Long preaching




JANUARY 29 B

3RD GRADE BIBLES

8:30 am Burkhart Chapel, SC Rev. Hett preaching




2 pm Grace Hall, NC Annual Meeting

A Indicates Usher Assignments

For more information:

Click: FCchurch.com

Email: [email protected]

Call: (614) 488-0681

Visit: The Welcome Centers

Going Liminal

Rev. David HettMinister of Religious Life and Learning

In my travels I notice how easy it is to lose attentiveness. Over-saturation of our senses tends to dim our alertness. A deluge of sense impressions tends to distract the heart from single-minded attention. This gives me a new appreciation for hermitage, a fresh

understanding of what solitude is all about. The hermit—the hermit in each of us—does not run away from the world, but seeks that Still Point within, where the heartbeat of the world can be heard.

— Brother David Steindl-Rast, The Way of Silence

Winter, by nature in the northern hemisphere, is a “liminal” phase of life: an in-between time when life lies dormant. Our bodies seem to respond this way as well, like bears in cold weather, going into “torpor,” a light kind of hibernation when wakefulness is still near. And so winter is a ripe time to give our souls some liminal space. This concept of liminality came up in a teaching by John Davis on “Life Transitions as Doorways to Transformation.” John is one of the senior teachers of the Diamond Approach and an expert in Rites of Passage wilderness experiences, and says that every transition has the same

underlying shape: “It begins with an ending and ends with a beginning.” And, every transition or rite of passage has three “stages.” It begins with a death: something ends, a loss, a letting go—like our northern hemisphere season of Autumn. Then there is an in-between stage, which is the “liminal” or “threshold” phase—Winter. Finally, there is a new birth. After the dormancy of winter comes a new Spring. Something is birthed, and we come into our lives again in a new way. A rebirth. A transformation. This might result in a new mission or calling; a new understanding of our way of being in service to the Divine. You might hear in this the primary meaning of the Christian myth: Jesus undergoes death at the hands of Empire, enters the tomb for three days (a holy amount of time), and is resurrected as The Christ. But right now we inhabit winter, the liminal phase. Anthropologists first coined the term from the Latin word, limen, which means “edge” or “threshold” or “limits,” when we reach the limits of our known world. In anthropology liminality “is the quality of ambiguity or disorientation that occurs in the middle stage of rituals. During a ritual’s liminal stage, participants ‘stand at the threshold’ between their previous way of structuring their identity, time or community, and a new way which the ritual establishes.” I think the words

“ambiguity” and “disorientation” are keywords in our transition time. In this liminal space, I’ve been feeling a need, and even a pull, toward removing the many distractions from my day in order to simply spend some time in quiet reflection, just to center down into my heart and body and soul to listen to far deeper wisdom than just what my ordinary mind keeps putting out. It’s really not all that easy, even with years of practice. Brother David Steindl-Rast calls ‘listening’ the key word of the spiritual discipline he follows. “This means a special kind of listening, a listening with one’s heart. In order to listen with my heart, I must return again and again to my heart through a process of centering, through taking things to heart. Listening with my heart I will find meaning.” Meanwhile, the end of the season of Christmas sends us off to follow a star. And Sister Joan Chittister invites us to use this liminal time of year to inquire in this way: “What is it for which you are spending your life? What is the star you are following now? And where is that star in its present radiance in your life leading you?” Or, as the poet Mary Oliver asks so well, “Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?”

Shalom.

n By Nick Graves Haden DeRoberts, a very close friend to First Community Church and Camp Akita, passed away on Sunday, December 4 at age 24.

Haden was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia in 2011. His journey through treatments and procedures was marked with both celebrating times of remission and enduring through the complications until his final days.

Yet Haden’s health is one tiny pebble in a mosaic of what made him whole. Haden’s illness was certainly a huge part of his life, but in no way did he let it define him. Haden was defined by his unconditional acceptance, his love for music, his inspirational story, his grace and strength, his willingness to share everything, his lust for life and his constant support to each and every person he met.

Haden’s wisdom, courage and beautiful outlook on life impacted countless people, including his Akita campers. To me, Haden was a fellow Akita staff member, the “deep one,” always with a coffee cup in hand, yet quick to laugh at himself and let out his goofy side. Even now, as we grapple with the tragedy of losing him, he is still shining an abundant light of knowledge and

positivity on all of us. On October 30, Haden served as the speaker at our Crossroads Youth Program. He chose to speak about what community means to him and how it has affected his life. Perhaps the most important thing he said to the middle school and high school students was “People need people.” It is truly amazing that Haden’s own words are exactly what we need in the wake of his passing. This faith community is better described as a family; a family that shares a deep sadness, but also a family that shares in joyous love.

The news of his passing quickly spread to fellow “family members” living throughout the country, forming a web of countless phone calls filled with tears and memories. I can truly say that the presence of this entire family was palpable in Haden’s hospice room, just as his presence will be with us now, whenever and wherever we gather.

On the evening of December 4, Crossroads was remarkably beautiful. Haden’s father Jeff, himself a valuable leader of our Crossroads family, joined us just hours after Haden’s passing to share the news of his loss first-hand.

We were also joined by a group of Haden’s closest friends, all there to remember what First Community Church meant to Haden and to remind Jeff how important he is to us. That is what Haden taught all of us: no matter what we are going through, the people in this community will always be there in times of sadness and difficulty. Together we walk through even the darkest of days, hand in hand, sharing love, joy, and hope.

The amount of love shared among this family is found nowhere else. It is truly unparalleled. Neither distance nor death can separate us from such perfect love. Haden is and forever will be a part of this family and he will always be a part of us. Always. Now, more than ever, we know it is true; “People need people.”

Haden’s Shining Light


PARISH REGISTER

We share the joys and sorrows of our church family in our prayers.

As of December 14, 2016

BAPTISMS

11/27/16Flynn O’Neill Hines Paulson Son of Sarah & Matt Paulson

DEATHS

11/11/16Cynthia “Thia” Prebus

11/15/16Marge Newberry Mother of Janet DeRoberts Grandmother of Jack & Haden DeRoberts

11/20/16Miriam Clark Mother of Miranda (Craig) Kauderer

11/20/16George Henry Karrer Brother-in-law of Joy Converse

12/4/16Haden Richard DeRoberts Son of Jeff DeRoberts Son of Janet DeRoberts Brother of Jack DeRoberts

12/6/16Anne Sheline

Please send notifications of weddings, births, hospitalizations or deaths to [email protected] or (614) 488-0681 ext. 228.

Our Pastoral Care staff is available if you desire a visit or call during an illness, hospitalization or time of need.

Christmas is a Season

ElderWisdom

Nurturing the Spirit of Giving

n By Julie Richards Seventy-two middle and high school students gathered at North Campus to share a meal before leaving to shop for six Heart to Heart families. We were fortunate to have twenty-six adult volunteers who graciously agreed to transport the group to Target at Mill Run.

Once at Target, we divided into groups by grade level. Each group was given the names of people for whom they were shopping and a wish list of items for each individual. Requested items ranged from very practical gifts like towels, and pots and pans, to joyful gifts like dolls and art supplies.

Each group made sure the children got items they needed, such as coats and boots, as well as something they wanted like a book or special toy. In this season when our children are given so much, it is valuable for them to take time to thoughtfully give to

others. Experiences such as these help our amazing young people grow into empathetic, generous adults. Thank you to everyone who donated to this important mission. We hope you had a Merry Christmas and enjoyed the blessings of the season with those you love.

When I was young, I was always let down after Christmas Day was over. It is such a special time of year, and I loved the music, decorations, special events at church and school, family gatherings and gift giving.

I have remained very nostalgic about those days, although probably no particular Christmas had all of the special moments that I remember as I reflect back upon it. Nevertheless, I am certain of my feelings on December 26. It was over.

Of course, I did not understand that the church calendar has the Season of Christmas continuing through January 5. The twelve days of Christmas end with the Epiphany of the Lord on January 6. In my ignorance, the famous carol The Twelve Days of Christmas made no sense. What are these days about?

The twelve days of Christmas are not simply a way to extend the party or an excuse for procrastination, although both are possible responses. Rather, it is a genuine opportunity to reflect on God’s great gift of God’s very own self in Jesus Christ. The incarnation is baffling in so many ways. Emmanuelle. God with us. But it is very good news indeed in an often dark and troubling world.

In his book, Starlight: Beholding the Christmas Miracle All Year Long, John Shea reminds us that that a shining star is a powerful image of Christmas, of Christ lighting our way out of darkness. He says that real darkness has a way of stirring up fear in us. Starlight allows us to see in the dark.

Shea recognizes that Christmas can be a time of depression and sadness for many, rather than a time of peace, joy and love. Our feelings are not congruent with the message of the season:

We are supposed to be soaring and we are crashing. We are out of sync

with the season and no amount of encouragement can turn us around.Feelings do not respond to determination and willpower. (p. 171)

We can be brought down by the loss of a loved one or by circumstances in our lives and the world which are not what we would have them be.

He says we counter this with the message of Christmas peace. This is not just an inner calm which may be momentary or an assurance of well-being in the midst of life’s challenges and difficulties. It is genuine reconciliation with ourselves and others. It is genuine reconciliation of peoples, all different, but bearing the image of a loving God.

This is the message we carry into the twelve days of Christmas and indeed throughout the year.

This is the light shining in the darkness.

Rev. James LongMinister of Pastoral Care

n By Missy Obergefell

“Human knowledge is never contained in one person. It grows from the relationships we create between each other and the world, and still it is never complete.” - Paul Kalanithi, When Breath Becomes Air In our January ElderWisdom gathering, we will discuss

this important and thought-provoking book. Both informative and profoundly poetic, it is the memoir of a 36-year-old budding neurosurgeon and new father who finds himself facing a terminal cancer diagnosis.

He writes this book to explore the existential questions that face him. What makes life worth living when you’re

dying? How do you nurture a new life while you’re losing your own? What is the essential nature of the relationship between doctor and patient?

ElderWisdom is a discussion group that meets monthly to explore books and topics that focus on the spiritual aspects of aging. All ages welcome.This gathering will be

Thursday, January 26 at 1 pm in the Older Adult meeting space on the second floor of the South Campus.

Contact Lorelei Lanier Lotozo at (614) 209-7125 or Missy Obergefell, Director of Older Adult Ministry at (614) 486-0681 with questions, or to add your name to our email list.

Eat Pasta, Ease Poverty n By Nick Graves

Each March, a group of about 70 high school, college and adult participants spend spring break building homes for impoverished families in Tecate, Mexico.

Working with Amor Ministries, an organization devoted to providing homes for families in need, our group will build 6 homes in 5 days. Mexico has over 40 million citizens living in poverty, many are homeless.

This mission trip allows participants to put their faith in action through tangible acts of service to help our neighbors in Mexico.

How does eating pasta help this life-changing experience?

The annual Pasta Dinner is our largest fundraiser to support the Mexico Mission Trip. It is crucial in making our trip a reality. First Community Church covers approximately 10% of each participant’s cost.

Donations make it possible for high schoolers to experience a more powerful spring break by truly making a difference for six families in need. By traveling to another country, participants are immersed in an environment that may look like nothing they have ever seen. They are

encouraged to step out of their comfort zones, both physically and emotionally.

The primary goal of the Mexico Mission Trip is to ease the burden of poverty on families we serve, while also instilling a sense of perspective, humility and gratitude in each participant.

This trip is an incredible experience that would not be possible without the support of our congregation and community. Come out and enjoy classic Italian cuisine, served by the trip participants, on Tuesday, January 17 from 5:30 pm -

7:30 pm and help make this trip a reality.

Visit FCchurch.com/mexico to learn more or to donate to this very important mission. You can also visit amor.org to learn more about our partner organization, Amor Ministries.

To purchase tickets for the event, please visit FCchurch.com/pastadinner.

If you are unable to attend, we welcome all donations, no matter the amount.

WE WANT YOUR NEWSFirstnews is dedicated to providing readers with quality news and features each month.

We are particularly interested in receiving information directly from members regarding their participation in church events and programs.

We invite you to submit story ideas, completed stories and photographs for consideration.

Please contact Michael Barber, firstnews Editor, at [email protected] or visit FCchurch.com, click Firstnews Extra


n By Kirsten Dove About 40 elementary-aged children enjoyed making gifts for their friends and family on Sunday, December 11, at the North Campus. The children were taking part in Christmas Workshop, previously know as Christmas Craft Shop, a special event sponsored by the K-5 Ministry for more than 60 years. This year, the event was moved from a Saturday morning to a Sunday morning in hopes of reaching more participants, and the idea was successful.

With families busier than ever, finding time to do everything can be difficult. By holding the workshop during worship times, the children could attend when they would ordinarily be in Sunday school and while their parents were in church. The projects this year were focused on making presents that the children could give to their friends and family rather than tree decorations or things the kids would keep. At each station the children were asked to think about whom they were making the item for and how they could personalize it.

The gifts included tile coasters, prayer rocks, beaded bracelets, paper bookmarks, painted tea towels, embossed

metal disks (for keychains or necklaces) and decorated trinket boxes. The last of the eight stations was for wrapping and tagging the gifts. The workshop also employed about 20 middle-and high-school aged youth as “elves” who helped the children with their crafts and directed them as they moved from station to station. Proceeds are mostly used to cover the cost of the event, with surplus used in support of K-5 Ministry programs.

Jackie CherryChurch Historian

JANUARYREADINGSThese Bible readings are from the Revised Common Lectionary Daily Readings. In general, readings on Thursday, Friday and Saturday are selected to prepare for the Sunday reading; readings on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday are selected to reflect the Sunday lectionary.

1 Ecclesiastes 3:1-13 Revelation 21:1-6a Psalm 8 Matthew 25:31-462 Genesis 12:1-7 Hebrews 11:1-123 Genesis 28:10-22 Hebrews 11: 13-224 Exodus 3:1-5 Hebrews 11:23-315 Joshua 1:1-9 Hebrews 11:32-12:26 Isaiah 60:1-6 Matthew 2:1-12 Psalm 72 Ephesians 3:1-127 1 Kings 10:1-13 Ephesians 3:14-218 Isaiah 42:1-9 Acts 10:34-43 Psalm 29 Matthew 3:13-179 Genesis 35:1-15 Acts 10:44-4810 Jeremiah 1:4-10 Acts 8:4-1311 Isaiah 51:1-16 Matthew 12:15-2112 Isaiah 22:15-25 Galatians 1:6-1213 Genesis 27:30-38 Acts 1:1-514 1 Kings 19:19-21 Luke 5:1-1115 Isaiah 49:1-7 1 Corinthians 1:1-9 Psalm 40:1-11 John 1:29-4216 Exodus 12:1-13, 21-28 Acts 8:26-4017 Isaiah 53:1-12 Hebrews 10:1-418 Isaiah 48:12-21 Matthew 9:14-1719 1 Samuel 1:1-20 Galatians 1:11-2420 1 Samuel 9:27-10:8 Galatians 2:1-1021 1 Samuel 15:34-16:13 Luke 5:27-3222 Isaiah 9:1-4 1 Corinthians 1:10-18 Psalm 27:1, 4-9 Matthew 4: 12-2323 Judges 6:11-24 Ephesians 5:6-1424 Judges 7:12-22 Philippians 2:12-1825 Gen. 49:1-2, 8-13, 21-26 Luke 1:67-7926 Deuteronomy 16:18-20 1 Peter 3:8-1227 Deut. 24:17-25:4 1 Timothy 5:17-2428 Micah 3:1-4 John 13:31-3529 Micah 6:1-8 1 Corinthians 1:18-31 Psalm 15 Matthew 5:1-1230 Ruth 1:1-18 Philemon 1-2531 Ruth 2:1-16 James 5:1-6

Someone I Really Did Know:Caroline Thomas Harnsberger

The lady I want to introduce this month is probably the most fascinating, witty and charming person I have ever met, and she shared her gifts not only with our congregation, but also with the world. Her father, James

O. Thomas, was one of the organizers of Grandview Heights Congregational Church and served for many years as our treasurer. He farmed a 358 acre tract of land at the southern edge of Grandview where his family, that included six children and two grandparents, lived in a large house atop a hill overlooking Goodale Boulevard. When he sold the farm in 1916 to the Upper Arlington Real Estate Company, the family watched as their land was subdivided into small plots for houses and Northwest Boulevard was built right through their corn fields. The Thomas’s were a very musical family and after Oliver Weist formed his first choir in 1916, James, his wife and the older children all became members. Daughter Caroline also excelled in violin and frequently played during worship services. After graduating from high school, she attended Northwestern University before enrolling in The Juilliard School of Music to further her violin studies. Archival worship bulletins from the late teens and early 1920’s frequently note that Caroline was scheduled to play while home from New York. In 1922, she also played at Carnegie Hall.

Our worship bulletin dated May 24, 1925, invited all young musicians to meet with Miss Caroline Thomas who has accepted the post of Orchestra Director. “We are expecting great things under her leadership. This is a great opportunity for our young people to be associated with one so talented as Miss Thomas.” However, Caroline did not stay in Columbus for long, as she was given the opportunity to further her violin studies at the Conservatory of Paris where she married petroleum engineer Audley Harnsberger in 1926. They settled in Winnetka, Illinois, where during the next fifty years Caroline raised three children, painted, researched and wrote nineteen books, and was a founding member of the Evanston Symphony Orchestra where she played violin for 37 years. She also ran a music store where she not only sold, but also repaired violins and other stringed instruments.

At age 59, she learned to fly as her husband’s co-pilot and wrote A Pilot’s Ready Reference Manual. Her name on this book listed only her initials as her publisher thought such a book written by a woman wouldn’t be taken seriously by pilots. However, it proved so popular that twelve editions were eventually published. As a child, her father had introduced her to Mark Twain’s wit and wisdom and this interest continued throughout her life. Eventually she read every one of his 52 books, but was frustrated at not being able to locate specific quotes. She began indexing his work which led to her first book, Mark Twain at Your Fingertips. In the 1940’s she met his daughter, Clara

and they became fast friends, continuing a twenty year correspondence that resulted in 800 letters. She eventually wrote nine books about Twain and became known as the ultimate authority on his work. She served as script consultant for television and stage productions and maintained friendships with Twain impersonators Hal Holbrook and Richard Henzel. Caroline also met playwright George Bernard Shaw at his English country home and after he died she received permission to publish a book of his quotations. One project led to another and before her writing career ended, she had compiled a volume of Lincoln quotes, authored a biography of Robert Taft, published a volume of Greek and Roman myths, produced a history of Winnetka and wrote the story of her father’s life and times which is a treasure for local historians. Following her husband’s death, Caroline returned to Columbus and moved to First Community Village in 1984 where her mother had been one of the first residents of Hillside Hall. This was where I had the opportunity to meet and interview Caroline and I became utterly enchanted by this remarkable woman.

The family of my friends Penny and Bill Pettus sort of adopted Caroline into their family and she was their frequent guest for holidays and Sunday dinners. She also was a speaker for our Guild Group Q and enchanted us with her stories and vivacious personality. Caroline died in 1991 at the age of 89, but if there was ever a lady who lived a full and fascinating life, her name was Caroline Thomas Harnsberger.

Workshop Teaches Joy of Making, Giving

Third grader Zoe Snyder, left and second grader Marisen Post prepare to design and paint a tea towel during the Christmas Workshop.

Baptism Sunday

n By Paula Russell

Our next baptism Sunday during worship will be January 15 at both the North and South Campuses.

To schedule a baptism or for more information, please contact Paula Russell, Director of Congregational Care, at [email protected] or (614) 488-0681 ext. 228.

If you are scheduling a baptism for the first time at First Community Church, there will be a baptism class on Tuesday, January 10 from 7-8 pm in the Wicker Room, South Campus.

Rev. Jim Long, Minister of Pastoral Care, will explain the meaning and practice of baptism and what occurs during the baptism.

Leigh Anne Easterling, Director of Early Childhood Ministries, will share the many opportunities at First Community Church for families with young children.


They were also responsible for determining cost and to find a way to pay for the Projects that will deliver a sanctuary to North Campus while providing much-needed improvements to South Campus and Camp Akita.

The team worked closely with church members Nan Weir – serving as Owner’s Representative and Bruce Pontious – serving as Fundraising Counsel.

The Campaign Goal for all Projects is $13.7 million.

As of November 30, pledges total $10,903,242 with $2.4 million in discussion.

Women’s Guild n By Jill Eliot

We Love You LuncheonWe will be writing a new story as the First Community Women’s Guild hosts the 38th annual We Love You Luncheon for the church staff.

This traditional celebration began in 1979 when Jinny Frick, the Guild Vice President, conceived the idea of holding a luncheon to honor the hardworking church staff members. That year, Jinny did it all - invitations, decorations, angel food cake for dessert and a full meal with the help of Ruth Draper, Guild President, and Elsie Dunnington.

After that initial effort, Jinny turned over her recipes and the luncheon responsibilities to all the Guild Groups. Jinny still helps each year with preparation, set up, serving and clean up. We all thank you, Jinny, for your leadership.

This year’s luncheon will be held Tuesday, February 7, at noon in Brownlee Hall. Members from all the Guild Groups are helping with the luncheon. Our celebration of staff will convey our loving appreciation. To help with the luncheon, contact Chairperson Loretta Heigle at (614) 488-1541

Join UsIf you are looking for a group to spend time with, to laugh with, to cry with, to serve

others with, join a Women’s Guild Group and your soul will blossom. Gerard deNera stated, “Every flower is a soul blossoming in nature.”

The Women’s Guild is comprised of all types of women including daughters, mothers, wives, sisters, grandmothers, aunts and cousins. We are happy and busy, kind and considerate, young and old.

We are there for each other in times of happiness and joy and in times of sadness and grieving. We are friends for life and we are most certainly friends in Christ. Our good works stand as the bow on top of our gift of more than 100 years of service to our beloved church.

If you are interested in learning about the Women’s Guild, contact Estelle Scott at (614) 457-1037 or [email protected]

Soup & Casserole SaleCan we prepare dinner for you? The ever popular Soup & Casserole Sale is Sunday, January 15.

This is a wonderful opportunity to treat yourself and your family to a delicious meal on a cold day. Sale is at both campuses after worship at the Guild tables.

Contact April Howe at (614) 538-1449 or [email protected]

Foundation Corner n By Walter Neff

Recent grants from First Community Foundation include a wide variety of needs.

$2,610.20 was granted to Camp Akita to purchase Alpine Tower equipment, low initiatives and team building materials and sleeping bags for Akita Backcountry. Funding will come from the Rick Parker Memorial Fund.

A grant for $4,000 was also approved for Camp Akita to purchase a walk-behind stump grinder. Funding for this grant will be from the Mary Bangle Johansmann Memorial Endowment Fund and the Ken Brant Fund.

Camp Akita also received a grant of $6,540 for the Executive Director and 5 Akita staff members (three of which are new program directors) to attend the American Camping Association National Conference in 2017.

This request includes conference fees, hotel, flights, rental car and a meal stipend. The funding for this grant will come from the Ralph and Mary Johansmann Program Staff Development Endowment Fund.

A grant of up to $2,800 for improvements to the Men’s Restroom in the Annex Building, to include new

sinks, faucets, flooring and paint was approved. Funding will come from the Arthur Sanders Honor Fund.

$2,000 was granted to fund the payment for the former K-12 Director to organize and advise on a three-year curriculum to be used in the middle and high school Crossroads program.

The curriculum is to include pertinent Christian topics found in both the Hebrew Bible and New Testament. Funding will come from the Don & Donna Gepfert Youth Fund.

Older Adult Ministry was granted $5,000 for funds to continue support for some of our members who have modest financial means.

This specifically provides grocery gift cards to several members on a regular basis, in addition to one-time needs for unexpected circumstances. The funding will come from the Nancy Heath/Ruth and Dick McNeal Endowment for Older Adults.

The Senior Minister Search Committee was granted $15,000 for the ongoing expenses related to the search, including travel, administrative support, background checks, psychological test and mailings. Funding for this grant will come from the Robert and Mary Jane McCormick Fund.

The Share and Learn Garden activity was granted $1,500 to help offset the estimated cost ($3,600) for a drip irrigation system.

This would save water and use the volunteers more efficiently. Funding will come from the Huntzicker/Ruth and Dick McNeal Endowment Fund.

First Community Village Health Care Center was granted $950 towards the completion of Phase Three of the Health Care Center renovations. This phase includes locks and alarm systems. Funding will come from the Lillian and Shirley Wheeler Endowment Fund.

North Campus Safety and Security Improvement was granted up to $27,000 for implementing Phase 1 (of 2) of security improvements at the North Campus as a result of a Spring 2016 security assessment from the Columbus Police Department.

This is not an upgrade, rather the beginning of an actual safety/security system for North Campus and is a multiphase project. Funding will come from the Ken and Marty Fishel Endowment Fund.

WELCOMEFROM PAGE 1

Rendering of the exterior view of the South Campus Welcome Center by Phillip Markwood Associates.


There are some things in this world that will never cease to baffle me. People who put ranch dressing on their pizza; praying (sincerely) for your sports team to win; fashion. But perhaps one of the most baffling things of all is being told I can’t or

shouldn’t talk about something because it is too political.

As though politics should be off-topic for a minister – as though a minister (and, by extension, the Church) isn’t allowed to take sides.

Claiming something is too political has become the great deflection of our day. Label something political, and you have automatically changed the conversation. It suddenly becomes divisive, a thing on which we must agree to disagree and discuss no further. The thing is, many a politically contentious issue is not solely political in nature; it very often contains both moral and theological components as well.

Take slavery, for example. Believe it or not, in the antebellum United States, slavery was considered a politically contentious issue. The country was very much divided over it, and Christians could be found on both sides. However, slavery was (is) undoubtedly a moral issue as well; namely, “is it morally acceptable

to own another human being as property?” Theologically speaking, “do some human beings inherently hold more worth than others?” Ought these questions to be decided by politicians or theologians? Or might the theologian’s answer help to influence the politician’s policy?

Of course, politics can seem an unnecessary and frivolous pursuit for all those on whose lives it has little bearing. Again, take the issue of slavery - if you were white and relatively untouched by the institution of slavery, you might find it at least a little annoying that the issue was spoken of in church, in a place that was, in your view, supposed to be reserved for worship and reverence. But if you were enslaved, there could hardly be question as to where you stood, as to what God had to say about your situation, and about whether or not those who professed Jesus as Lord ought to stake their claim on your behalf in this supposedly “political” fight. So did the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. observe in his famous Letter from a Birmingham Jail:

“In the midst of a mighty struggle to rid our nation of racial and economic injustice, I have heard many ministers say: “Those are social issues, with which the gospel has no real concern.” And I have watched many churches commit themselves to a completely other worldly religion which makes a strange, un-Biblical distinction

between body and soul, between the sacred and the secular…Over and over I have found myself asking: “What kind of people worship here? Who is their God? Where were their voices when the lips of Governor Barnett dripped with words of interposition and nullification? Where were they when Governor Wallace gave a clarion call for defiance and hatred? Where were their voices of support when bruised and weary Negro men and women decided to rise from the dark dungeons of complacency to the bright hills of creative protest?”

This same reasoning, of course, can and should be applied to any moral issue that, for whatever reason, is deemed political in nature: the proper stewardship of Creation; the protection of equal rights for all who bear the image of God; the fair and just distribution of our planet’s resources.

These are moral and theological issues that can and must be addressed by the Church. After all, they are clearly addressed in Scripture.

As we experience the season of Christmas, I would challenge us all to remember that Jesus did not just come to us for some intangible, spiritual liberation. Jesus’ birth was itself a political act – his mere existence challenged the authority of King Herod, and this political resistance didn’t end with his birth. Though it is hard to comprehend in today’s separation

of Church and State society, in Jesus’ day and age religion and politics were indistinguishable. The religious elite with whom he argued daily – the Pharisees – were politicians in their own right. True, their power may have been stripped by Rome, but the people still looked to them for religio-political guidance.

Should Jesus therefore be accused of mixing faith and politics when he speaks against these political leaders? Should he be accused of improperly bringing religion into politics when he challenges the death penalty for a woman caught in the act of adultery? Should he be accused of becoming too political when, in violent protest, he upends the tables of the money-changers and drives them out of the temple with a whip?

In point of fact, he was political. And it was precisely why he was executed. For faithfully challenging the status quo. For daring to speak and act on moral and theological issues, which were framed as political issues. So, too, are we, the Church – the Body of Christ – tasked with refusing to remain silent. Politics is not mere frivolity – it affects the lives of real people, and for many it can mean life or death. So, politics is absolutely not a forbidden topic for ministers or for the Church.

In fact, wherever politics has the capacity to degrade the image of God in a human person, the Church has not only the authority, but indeed the mandate to speak.

A Political Church

Rev. Christopher RinkerClergy Associate


Friday, January 13Wicker Room, South Campus6 pm gathering and pizza ($5 donation)6:30 pm film begins Civil unrest and violence destroys the Kadam family restaurant and kills their wife and mother. Mr. Kadam takes his five children from India to Europe for a new life. With the help of an acquaintance, Marguerite, the Kadams settle in the south of France and open a new cafe in direct competition with a nationally recognized first class restaurant. The owner, Madam Mal, has every intention of thwarting their success. Mr. Kadam responds in kind and the battle is on. This movie entertains with wit, culture clash, great acting and beautiful scenery.

The Adult Learning Council's film discussion of The Hundred Foot Journey will be facilitated by Laura Elliott. Please RSVP by Thursday, January 12 to Jennie Nickel at (614) 529-9930 or [email protected]

Hunger Hoedown n By Linda Larrimer

Get ready to have some western fun at the 2017 Hunger Hoedown and support the work of our Heart to Heart Food Pantry. Join friends and family on Friday, February 3 from 6 to 8:30 pm for square dancing with our own professional caller, Eddie Powell.

There will be western music, crafts for kids and a raffle drawing for prize baskets as well as Donatos pizza, salad and desserts.

Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for ages 3 - 12 and free to children under 3. Raffle tickets are $1 each or 6 for $5. You’ll receive one free raffle ticket with your admission. Purchase tickets after church services at both North and South campuses January 15 through 29.

All proceeds benefit our Heart to Heart Food Pantry. Director Lamar Graham is dusting off his cowboy hat, pulling on his boots and looking forward to seeing you at the Hunger Hoedown.

The Hundred Foot JourneyFilm Discussion Group

Participants of the 2016 Hunger Hoedown enjoy music, dancing and fellowship.

Heart to Heart offers a helping hand and caring heart in times of need.

Donation Needs for January: Soups

NOVEMBER 2016 MONTH YTDHouseholds 481 4,596Individuals 1,504 15,340 Children 484 5,032 Adults 753 7,648 Seniors 267 2,360Total Meals 13,536 138,060

Heart to Heart Food Pantry Totals


Gift Bibles for Third Graders

Have a Baby, Get a Blankie

SUMMER CAMPSession 1 June 6 – 12 9th–2017 GradsSession 2 June 13 – 18 7th–8th gradesSession 3 June 19 – 23 5th–6th gradesSession 4 June 24 – 29 7th–8th gradesSession 5 June 30 – July 3 3rd–4th gradesSession 6 July 6 – 12 9th–2017 GradsSession 7 July 13 – 18 7th–8th grades1, 2, 3…Akita! July 17 - 19 1st–3rd gradesSession 8 July 20 – 24 5th–6th gradesSession 9 July 25 – 30 7th–8th gradesSession 10 July 31 – August 4 5th–6th gradesSession 11 August 7 – 9 3rd–4th gradesSession 12 August 10 – 13 5th–6th gradesFamily Camp September 1 – 4 All ages

L.I.F.E. GUARDSession A June 6 – 18* 2017 Grads onlySession B June 19 – July 3* 10th–2017 GradsSession C July 6 – 18* 10th–2017 GradsSession D July 20 – 30* 10th–2017 GradsSession E July 31 – August 4* 10th–2017 GradsSession F August 7 – 13* 10th–2017 Grads*Each L.I.F.E. Guard session consists of camp segments. Between each segment, campers leave camp and spend one night at home.

AKITA BACKCOUNTRYSession B1 June 13 - 18 9th–2017 GradsSession B2 June 19 – 23 6th–8th gradesSession B3 June 24 – 29 9th–2017 GradsSession B4 June 30 – July 3 ** 6th–8th gradesSession B5 July 13 – 18 9th–2017 GradsSession B6 July 20 – 24 6th–8th gradesSession B7 July 31 - August 4 6th–8th grades**All-Girls Only session

CAMP AKITA SUMMER 2017

MEMBER REGISTRATION OPEN NOW | CAMPAKITA.ORG OPEN REGISTRATION BEGINS 9 AM JANUARY 7

n By Scot Nicoll

Jim Turner first came through the gates of Camp Akita when he was 7 years old for the inaugural Family Camp in 1949. Jim has served on the Akita Council, First Community Church Governing Board, and has stayed an active member of the congregation. When were you on staff?I worked at Camp Akita in the summers from 1960-1963. I was never a counselor, because I had joined the military reserve and had to leave for two weeks of service every summer. I worked in the kitchen and did odd jobs. They let me drive the camp truck to Lancaster and Logan to get supplies. I remember one Christmas driving the camp truck with a trailer to Akita to get Christmas trees for the church. I think I was 16 years old at the time. Your family is a four generation camp family. How have you all been involved?My parents were Family Camp campers, I was a camper and on staff. I have two children, Dan and Jamie, who were campers and counselors. Now my grandchildren are campers at Akita. What is a memory that has stayed with you from your Akita experiences?I remember Gabe Campbell pulling a group of us aside at Akita one time and telling us, “If we aren’t here for everyone at camp, even the ones who don’t fit in, what is the church for? Treat them right.” That was an important lesson that has stuck with me. Making sure everyone is included and feels welcome. What is it like sending your grandkids to Akita?Thrilling, I love the chaos involved at check-in. When I was a camper our

parents drove us to Akita. We used to get so excited when we saw the steeple of the white church because it meant we were almost there. I hope the kids today feel that same excitement when they see the white church from the bus. During the course of my conversation with Jim, he brought up a sense of disappointment that the sign had been moved off the fireplace and hung on the stairwell. He remembers seeing the sign behind Dr. Burkhart as he spoke to the campers and it had a huge impact on him. The sign says,

BE SILENTHear the voices of day and nightBE STILLKnow thyselfBE AWAREFind the secret

Do you think it should be moved back to the fireplace? Let us know your thoughts by emailing [email protected]

Camp Akita Alumni Conversations

JIM TURNER

Christianity 101Sundays, 7-8:30 pmRose Wing room 215, North Campus

Do you wish you could remember what you learned in Sunday school or in preparation for confirmation?

Or maybe you never went to church much as a child. Do you sometimes wish you could volunteer in Sunday school or Crossroads, but you’re afraid the kids will know more than you do?

When people here at the church talk about books by Marcus Borg or John Shelby Spong, do you wonder who they are talking about? And “Progressive Christianity”—what’s that all about?

Christianity 101 is trying to figure it all out. The class meets on Sunday evenings at North Campus from 7 to 8:30 pm. The class is for adults who want to discover what Christianity means at First Community Church.

Explore together with others who are wondering and discovering.Subjects to consider might include

grace, what is God, Communion, Jesus vs. Christ, omnipotence, the Trinity, the resurrection, the inerrancy of the Bible, Old Testament heroes, the Psalms, the New Testament, the parables, miracles, the Bible, the Ten Commandments, the Greatest Commandment, and so on.

Drop in on any Sunday to see what the class is about. There is never any need to prepare ahead, although we do read and discuss books. December’s book is Awaiting the Already, by Magrey deVega, a Bible study of the birth narratives in the four Gospels. Some participants are also using Prepare the Way, by Pamela Hawkins, an Advent devotional. In January, the group will return to considering The Heart of Christianity.

Contact Kirsten Dove at [email protected] if you want to know what chapters for a given week.

n By Kirsten Dove First Community Church is pleased to present gift Bibles to its third graders. The gift of a Bible is symbolic of a milestone in the children’s faith development. The Bibles will be presented on January 29 during the 10:30 am service at the North Campus and the 11 am service at the South Campus.

To reserve a Bible for your third grader, go to FCchurch.com/k-5 and follow the links to third grade Bible presentations. For your child’s Bible to be personalized with his or her name, your registration must be submitted by January 20, 2017. Contact Kirsten Dove at (614) 488-0681 ext. 116 or [email protected]

If you are a First Community Church member and a new baby has joined your family, we would love to present your child with a comfort blankie. Blankies are handmade by Barb Davis and Sally Wandel, two of our Prayers & Squares quilters. These soft, cuddly

blankies represent our love and our prayers for a life of abundant blessings.

Contact Paula Russell, Director of Congregational Care at [email protected] or call (614) 488-0681 ext 228.


Recipe and photos courtesy of budgetbytes.com

VEGETABLE STIR FRY WITH NOODLESPREP TIME: 15 mins Total Cost: $4.46COOK TIME: 10 mins Cost Per Serving: $0.74TOTAL TIME: 25 mins Serves: 6 INGREDIENTS

2 Tbsp vegetable oil $0.04½ head purple cabbage $0.912 green bell peppers $1.002 carrots $0.271 yellow onion $0.422 3-oz. bricks of ramen noodles $0.54

INSTRUCTIONS

Remove the core and any wilted outer leaves from the cabbage, then cut it into very fine strips. Cut the onion and green bell pepper into thin strips as well. Use a large holed cheese grater to shred the carrots.

In a small bowl prepare the sauce by stirring together the soy sauce, brown sugar, sriracha, and corn starch.

Begin to cook the noodles according to the package directions (boil for 3 minutes, or until tender). Drain the cooked noodles in a colander.

Heat the vegetable oil over medium high heat in a large skillet until it is hot and shimmering. Add the vegetables and sauté for only a few minutes, or until the vegetables just begin to soften. Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet and continue to sauté for one to two minutes more, or until the sauce has thickened and coated all of the vegetables. Turn off the heat.

Add the cooked and drained noodles to the stir fried vegetables and toss to combine. Top with sliced green onions and a handful of fresh cilantro, if desired.

Heart to HeartRecipe

¼ cup soy sauce $0.403 Tbsp brown sugar $0.052 Tbsp sriracha (or less) $0.181 Tbsp cornstarch $0.043 green onions, sliced $0.33handful cilantro (optional) $0.28

Love it or Hate it – Winter is Here

n By Rebecca Wolfe

The Tri-Village Trading Post is just the place to embrace winter. You’ll warm up with the smiles of our staff as well as lots of things you need to keep the cold at bay. If Santa didn’t bring you that cozy coat, toasty gloves or handsome hat – you can find them in our shop.

We have kept back winter’s best just for you. Columbus is just about to chill out and we want you to be ready. But if you are lucky enough to be planning your winter vacation or cruise, we still have you covered.

Make sure to ask our staff for that special something you are looking for that is out of season. The Trading Post also has a wish list for our customers.

Just register your name and phone number in our Wish Book and we’ll give you a call if we find your item in our storage or it comes in. Winter is a great time to rest and renew curled up with a good book and a cup of cocoa. We have a wonderful selection of good books as well as CDs for you to enjoy. It is also the season to layout a jigsaw puzzle for anyone who stops by to warm himself in your home.

So, winter is a special time that you can choose to love with the right elements. We look forward to serving you at the Trading Post.

Please Note: The Trading Post will be closed for the holidays December 17 through January 2.


QUEST SINGLES

We singles enjoy meeting new people, so join us for one of the dinners and/or the book discussion below.

Most of us are in our fifties, sixties and up, but we are an equal opportunity group and welcome all ages.

We communicate primarily via email. If you are not on our list, contact Nancy Dunn at [email protected] or call (614) 771-4869 to verify the current plans.

If you have an idea for a fun activity, let Nancy know.

DINNER AT THIRD & HOLLYWOOD

Thursday, January 56:30 pm1433 West Third AvenueGrandview Heights

BOOK DISCUSSION

Sunday, January 155:30 pmMCL CafeteriaThree Sisters, Three Queens By Philippa Gregory

DINNER AT PALLE (BY MORETTI’S)

Thursday, January 196:30 pm1021 West Fifth AvenueGrandview Heights

DINNER AT CUCO'S TAQUERIA

Thursday, February 26:30 pm2162 Henderson

DINNER AT MONTGOMERY INN

Thursday, February 166:30 pm4565 West Dublin-Granville Road

BOOK DISCUSSION

Sunday, February 195:30 pmMCL CafeteriaNews of the WorldBy Paulette Jiles

A New Group for Reading and DiscussionMuch Matters Much Matters is designed as a small group book discussion about thoughtful matters related to our social, civic and spiritual life, facilitated by church member, Shah Hasan. Those interested will meet once a month beginning in January (date and location yet

to be determined) from 6 - 7:30 pm on a weekday evening. This group is for people who also like to read non-fiction, and who like to share in conversation with others about their reading. The first book is already selected—White Trash: the

400-Year Untold History of Class in America by Nancy Isenberg—and the group will thereafter collectively decide on future books to read, and dates, places, and times to meet. During our inaugural meeting in January, the Much Matters group will gather and discuss the Introduction and

first five chapters of our first book, White Trash. If you are interested in joining Much Matters, or if you have questions, email Shah Hasan at [email protected]

Reimagining Outmoded Christian Beliefs Saturday, January 1410 am – NoonGuild Room, South Campus Facilitated by Rev. David Hett, this group has been working on various concepts in Christian theology and understanding, based on Bishop John Shelby Spong’s work. While Bishop Spong continues in recovery from a stroke earlier this year, we read

essays by him and others related to a new vision of Christianity for the 21st century. We also use video excerpts and/or lectures by or about these exciting, relevant ideas for revitalizing the church. New participants are welcome and will receive weekly writings in this series. RSVP at FCchurch.com/2016/01/12theses

The Biblical Model of a National LeaderSaturday, January 2110 am – NoonGuild Room, South Campus During the celebration of Jesus’ birth, we read and sing the words from Isaiah 9:6, “For unto us a child is born…and he shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” In this short study based on Walter Brueggemann’s brand new Advent meditation, Names for the Messiah, Rev. David Hett will summarize the Bible scholar’s interpretation of these four descriptions. Isaiah 9:2-7 is originally a coronation hymn for a new

Hebrew king, and therefore these four titles present a basic biblical model for national leadership. In his Advent study, Dr. Brueggemann explains the original meaning of these terms, and also suggests how they apply or not to Jesus, the one who embodies these attributes for Christians. Since Jesus is the leader of the church, discussion questions focus on how the church is or should be carrying out the tasks of the Messiah, the true leader anointed by the Divine. Register at the door or at FCchurch.com/2016/12/biblical-model

Stories, PJ’s and GenerosityThe Early Childhood Council is hosting our annual Pajama Story Time in Brownlee Hall on Saturday, February 4, 10 - 11 am.

Wear your pajamas and bring a blanket for the floor.

This is a wonderful way to hear new stories while enjoying valuable family time.

Please consider bringing new pajamas and/or a new storybook to donate to the nationwide Pajama Program.

Pledge 2017The Stewardship Committee of First Community Church encourages everyone to participate in the 2017 pledge campaign.

To date, the total amount of pledges is $1,510,880. The total needed to operate in 2017 is $2,220,000.

If you have not yet pledged, please do so today!

You can pledge online at FCchurch.com/giving or use the pledge card sent to you by U.S. Mail. Pledge cards are also available at the Welcome Centers at both North and South Campuses.

Closed December 17 - January 2


WEEKLY ADULT LEARNING GROUPS Classes are free and open to the public. For information on books, registration or financial aid, contact Natalia at [email protected] or (614) 488-0681 ext. 105.

For more details on classes & events, visit FCchurch.com/the-Burkhart-Center

MORNING SEMINAR

Sundays, 9:30 – 10:45 amWicker Room, SCOur 2017 classes begin January 8 with a four- week series presented by Bruce and Cathie Hickin. The group will view videos based on The Great Emergence by Phyllis Tickle. The book is available for $13 in the church bookstore.

TUESDAY AT TEN

Tuesdays, 10 – 11:30 amWicker Room, SCThe class will resume from the holiday break on January 10 with a TED talk on healing the American divide, featuring Jonathan Haidt. After a divisive political campaign and in light of the upcoming inauguration of a new president, we will try to look to our philosophical, social and religious traditions to inform the way forward.

Beginning January 17, and continuing throughout the spring, the group will be using a “Great Courses” video-led program entitled Exploring the Roots of Religion. Professor John R. Hale has divided his course into six themes: In the Beginning, Quest for the Afterlife, Reconstructing Ancient Rituals, Lost Gods and Fallen Temples, Sacred Landscapes, and Communities of the Spirit. Nothing to read or buy - just join us as we explore what our most basic human drives for meaning entail and what that means to the questions we ask today.

MEN’S STUDY GROUP

Wednesdays, 7 – 8 amWicker Room, SCThe group is reading and discussing Christianity After Religion by Diana Butler Bass. Contact Price Finley at (614) 361-6567 or [email protected], or Craig Sturtz at (614) 481-9060 or [email protected]

CONTINUED ON PAGE 13

Youth Bell Choir 2 members (from left) Anna Lenhart, Logan Roney, Sophia Lenhart and Paige Kingsley.

Youth Choirs January is a great time to join the youth choirs. Register online at FCchurch.com/youthchoirs

Youth Vocal Ensemble for middle school and high school youth begins the new year on January 8, just prior to Crossroads, from 6-7 pm in room 118 at the North Campus.

Kindergarten through fifth-grade choirs start up after the holidays on Wednesday, January 11. There are limited bell choir openings in both the beginning and advanced groups. Contact director Sally Beske for more information at [email protected]

Special Education Seminar for Parents Saturday, January 21, 201710 am to NoonBrookwood Presbyterian Church A parent with a good understanding of the special education process and community resources can greatly reduce family stress caused by student failure, multiple student removals, suspensions and/or expulsions. A parent with knowledge of community resources can find community assistance for their student including psychiatric care, counseling, social skill building group activities and recreational opportunities.

● Help for Students with Learning, Cognitive, Behavioral, Physical, And Mental Health etc.

● Learn How and When to Effectively Request Special Education Identification.

● Gain an understanding of the Special Education Evaluation Process including the Time Frame.

● Learn about how the Individual Education Program (IEP) Process Can Assist Students with Learning, Behavioral, Physical and Placement Issues.

Ellen L. Wristen, attorney and long time advocate for families with students experiencing learning and/or behavioral issues at school.

She is now serving as the Executive Director of Brookwood Academy, a public charter school focusing on serving students in grades 4 through high school with behavioral and/or social interaction issues. Dr. Denise Lewis, L.P.C. NCC, a counselor experienced in assisting families find resources in the community to assist in addressing student and family issues. Brookwood Presbyterian Church, 2685 E. Livingston Ave., Columbus, Ohio 43209. Call (614)-235-3451.

Enter through the double doors in the courtyard off the parking lot behind the sanctuary.

Seminar fee is $5 per individual payable at the door. Scholarship assistance available.

No child care available. Reservations required.

It is with gratitude that First Community Church accepts the following gifts. FOUNDATION GIFTSIn Memory of: Patricia Huey Carey Don Jameson Connie Clark Susan Brooks Betty O’Neill Lajos & Wilhelmina Szabo Miriam Clark William & Diana Arthur Betty O’Neill Lajos & Wilhelmina Szabo Annita Meyer & Larry Woods Rev. Dr. Joseph C. Dana & Dorothy P. Dana Orrin M. & Helen R. Wood Bob & Harriet Dana Emmy French Nelson French Jean B. Hesby Jean B. Hesby Estate “Jeff” Keeler Jr. Julie and Brent OsbornIn Honor of: Betty O’Neill’s Election Day Bake Sale Support Lee Burges Christmas Wishes to Betty O’Neill Roma Jeanne Blair Dominica School & Orphanage Patricia Dempsey Mr. & Mrs. David Heigle Steve & Catherine Kennedy Matt & Ellie Zeiger

Friends at Diane’s Christmas Luncheon Cheryl Zeiger Friends of Music Brian and Connie Johnston Phil Hawley Women’s Guild Group 7 Heart to Heart Endowment Fund Doug and Darian Torrance Heffner Akita Endowment The Heffner Fund/Bill Heffner The First Community Foundation Board of Trustees Rosemarie Konrath and Richard Wharton The Women of Guild Group 7 Cheryl Zeiger

CHURCH GIFTS

In Memory of: Bill Henry Pat and Janet Hannaway Amy Jo Sutton Paul Sutton

THE BURKHART CENTER Cynthia Kuhn

GENERAL MISSIONS Brian & Sally Kriska Sue Coady

CHRISTMAS PRESENCE Barb Andersen Kathleen Barbarita Linda Butcher Couples Circle #35 Barb and Terry Davis Carla Edlefson Mary Gossard Ricky and Karen Greene Molly Hagkull Carrol Hauck Hilda Hensley Gail Hervey Brian and Connie Johnston Kathleen Lennon Judy Long Jennifer Morrison Linda Murray Heidi Orsini Jenny Lou Renkert Bobbie Reynolds Maryann Rinsch Linda Ritter Doug Torrance Sally Wandel Bryce Wessel Women’s Guild RSZIn Memory of: Betty Aldridge Lynn Wells Walter Menendian Charlaine Menendian In Honor of: Rebecca Wolfe Joan Talmage Lamar Graham Jane and Jim Ledman

HEART TO HEART2016 IN-KIND DONATIONS Pat Blume Michael Delphia Marcia Early Nancy & David Evans Ralph Henricks Pam Hussin Michelle Kozak Kathleen Lennon Trisha McDaniel Amin Mohammed Estelle Scott Liz Sliwinski William Stanley Kathy Waldrep Betty Westerheide FCC Women’s Guilds FCC Women’s Guild X HEART TO HEART Jerry and Margie Aeh Crystal Allen Phil Armbruster Damon and Ann Baker Toni Ballentine Dave and Mona Barber Ginny Barney Jane Barry Jane Belt Carol Berg Martin Berisford Dan & Kathy Binau Mary Jean Bradley Susan Brooks Bob Burns



2017 Board of Deacon CandidatesWe welcome the candidates for Board of Deacons for 2017 at First Community Church. Church members will vote on the candidates at the Annual Meeting on January 29, 2017.

Crystal AllenCrystal joined the church in 2006 and has 2 children. She is a Senior Director, Strategic Consulting at Casey Family Programs. She currently helps as a volunteer on Sundays for Grocery Cards for Mission Council. She has been on the Mission Council for several years including, Secretary, Shrimp

Boil Chair, President and Past President. Crystal also was active in the Hilliard Education Foundation for 10 years and served in a variety of positions including President for 2 years. In addition, she was Chair of Hilliard City School District Bond Levy in 1999 and co-Chaired the Operating Levy in 2000.

Dawn CostinDawn has been a member of First Community Church since 1997 and has 1 son. She was previously the Director of K-12 at First Community Church and currently works as a consultant. She was the Director of K-5 Ministries for 14 years and the Director of K-12 Ministries for 3 years. Dawn

has also been active as a K-5 Sunday school teacher and 6 – 12 grade Crossroads Leader. In addition, she helps with Monday Night Meals. Dawn volunteers at Flying Horse Farms and Gladden Community House. She has been a Board member of Franklin County Mental Health Association, member of Columbus Federation of Settlement Houses and a volunteer at Scioto Darby Elementary School.

Beverlee HousemanBeverlee has been a member of First Community Church since 1959. She currently is an active member in Guild Group 7. She has previously participated in church as a member of the Women’s Board and Service Board. She also was active in the Worship and Arts Council. Beverlee has been

active on Sundays as a Sunday school teacher and has performed in Vaud-Villities.

Tony KeeferTony is a fifth-grade teacher in Dublin City Schools. He has been an active member of First Community Church since 2005 and joined with his wife and 2 children. Tony served on the Worship and Arts Council and was a part of Friends of Music. He has also participated in the Mexico Mission Trip this past year. Tony is currently a member of the Akita Council and Friendship Circle 91. He also has been active in the community as a Dublin Soccer League and Dublin United Soccer Coach, as well as a monthly volunteer at the Dublin Food Pantry.

Dennis McGuireDennis joined the church in 1998. He has previously been on the Governing Board and on the Telemission Team (our previous Friends of Media ministry). Dennis also participated in worship during the holidays by lighting an Advent Candle.

Ann PatrickAnn joined the church in 1965. She is a retired teacher, but still subs occasionally. Ann has been active in many areas of First Community Church. She currently is a member of Friends of Media and Guild Group 7. Ann also volunteers for Heart to Heart and Friends of the Homeless.

Ann has previously participated during worship by lighting the Advent Candle on Sunday. She has also been previously active in the youth department, helping teach Sunday school and as a volunteer with Akita and Christmas workshops.

Ken PatrickKen is a realtor and is an active member of First Community Church with his wife, Ann. He is a member of Friends of Media and has participated with his family in the lighting of the Advent Candle during worship on Sunday. Ken also served two terms on the Worship and Arts Council and

volunteers where needed.

Andrew WildmanAndrew is in Sales and Marketing as an IT Manager at the Paul Peterson Company. He has been a member of the church since 1989. He currently is in Friendship Circle 81, the Chair of the Akita Council and also helps as a volunteer during Akita check-in. Andrew has also been a member of the Early Childhood Council, a

Sunday school leader for High School and Middle School and has helped serve Friends of the Homeless.

He has been active throughout his life in church from attending preschool to High School Sunday school and choir, and also served Akita as a L.I.F.E. Guard/Alpha Group member and Camp Akita staff member.

MORNING FELLOWSHIP

Wednesdays, 7 – 8 amBrownlee Hall, SCPresentations and discussion of leading-edge topics. Ends promptly at 8 am.

WOMEN LIVING THE QUESTIONS

Wednesdays, 9:30-11:30 amWicker Room, SCAn ongoing group to examine personal, social and spiritual issues in our world today in light of contemporary and traditional teachings. Resources have included works of Cynthia Bourgeault, Eckhart Tolle, James Finley, Pema Chodron, Michael Singer, Joan Chittister and Richard Rohr, as well as guest speakers. Contact Linda Baldeck at [email protected]

BIBLE STUDY

Wednesdays, 7 – 8:15 pmConference Room, NCLed by the Reverend Jim Long. The group will study the Gospel of Mark. No meeting December 28.

CONTEMPLATIVE WAY

Thursdays, 11:45 am - 1 pmWicker Room, SCThe group’s sacred reading time will be spent with Cynthia Bourgeault’s new book, The Heart of Centering Prayer: Nondual Christianity in Theory and Practice. The short sacred reading & discussion time is followed by a 30-minute silent meditation each week. Facilitated by Rev. David Hett and other spiritual directors.

WEEKLY ADULT LEARNING GROUPSCONTINUED FROM PAGE 12

John and Linda Butcher Chris and Marcel Casavant Ted and Bobbie Celeste Ned and Nicole Clark III Sue Coady Dennis and Brenda Conard Joy Converse Doug and Eileen Covell Janet Cox James Deeter Marlene Deringer Carol Deshler Pete and Pidge Diehl Mike and Nancy Donaldson Neil and Betty Drobny Beth Dropkin Joe and Mary Duchi Lindsey Dunleavy Gussie Dye-Elder Bob and Anne Eberhart Bob and Shirley Edler

Jamey and Brandi Fauque Jinny Frick Liz Galbreath Leslie and Matt Gill Ron and Jan Glaser Elizabeth Glover Doug and Ann Graham Rick and Karen Greene TR Gross Jr David and Karyl Hanhilammi Beth Hanson Greg and Jennifer Hargett Katie Harper Mitch and Jennifer Harville Nancy Heath Bill and Hilda Hensley Dana Holman Marilyn Hood Mary Helen Hopkins Kathie and David Houchens Gavin and April Howe

Jim Howe Barb Hudson Susan Huhta Darrel and Barb Irwin Ann and Charles Jacob Chris and Susan Jagers Jon and Sally Jaynes Marilyn Jennings Peggy Johnson Ty Johnston Herb and Jeanne Johnston Larry and Sarah Jonaus Jr Tom and Kathleen Jones Bill and Sue Judy Lona Kemmerling Anne Klie Richard Klitch Joan Knies Paul Kramer Mary Ann Krauss Louise Kutz

Christian & Donnalynn Laver Jim and Jane Ledman Deb Linville Jeremy and Katie Main Bob and Margaret Mathis Steve & Patty McClarren Stephanie & Julia McCormick Sharon & William McGraw Derek and Tiffany Meyer Ryan and Amy Miller Mark and Sandra Misicka Kay Moore Steve and Rachel Mushrush Suzanne and Newcomb Mary Nicolls Andrew and Lauren Norelli Lynn Parker Susan Parkins Dave and Dody Parsons Jodi Patton Maureen Penman

Sandy Pfening Terry and Cydney Philbin

Pat PoeGreg and Stephanie ReedBobbie ReynoldsMabel RiceLinda RitterCalloway & Lindsay RobertsonDick and Kitty RohrerJudy and Ed RossJan SawyerGlen SchmidtMargaret SchorrTrey Setterlin IIIJack and Patricia ShuterGeorge and Beth Simeon JrNicholas SimeonBarbara SippJane and George SmithSteve and Debbie Steidle

CHURCH GIFTS - CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12



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CHURCH GIFTS - CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13

Maura StevensonLee and Lindsey Swad IIILes and Cynthia SzaszMike and Tawana ThornCathy TillingDoug and Darian TorranceBrian and Alicia TownsGreg and Eleanor TrappMaggie TresslerFred TruxallMark and Katherine TuckerLoren and Cheryl Van DeusenJohn and Donna VogelpohlJim and Debby WaddellJennifer and Scott WeaverMichael and Nan WeirMary WeismanLynn WellsMarilyn WenrickAmy WentzGeorge and Cory WilsonBrian and Monika WinerDonice Wooster

Michael and Diane Zmuda Couples Circle #35In Celebration of: Lamar Graham Ryan and Becki HarrIn Honor of: Lamar Graham Anonymous Lynne Ayres Jared and Amy Caskie

Don and Jackie CherryMike and Charlotte CollisterBruce and Cathie HickinDoug & Robin KnaupKathleen LennonRalph and Joan TalmageBob and Sally WandelKathleen Lennon

Loren and Cheryl VanDeusen Kathleen Lennon Sheri Van Cleef Ann Chambers Charlie Vachris & Judy Long Bonnie Bishop Steve and Kate Shaner David Hett Mike and Laura Elliott Deborah Lindsay Ted Celeste Women’s Guild Group Q Heart to Heart volunteers Dave & Loretta Heigle Jim and Jane Ledman Bill and Susan Napier John Patton John and Judy Hoberg Virginia Barney Tommie Lanaman Warren Cooper Betsy Morrison In Memory of: Bowen Gillespie Brian Gillespie & Scott McLaughlin Mr. & Mrs. William Hardin Joan Hardin Weiser Bill, Robert and Billy Henry Pat and Janet Hannaway Benjamin Harris Dan and Sharon Harris Ann Holland Anonymous Dietman W. Knodt Dietmar Ann Knodt Betty Kurtz and Cliff Parsons Dustin Chura Jim, Jeretta and Jan Long Bob and Laura Long Rev. Mary C Martin Anonymous Margaret Joan Vogelpohl Nancy Roth Jan Shelby Dave Shelby

Roseanne Schlatter Rick and Tamara Willimott Doris Ackerman Renee Corna Susan Truitt Ronald Smith

OCTOBER SPECIAL OFFERINGFOR HEALING ART MISSIONSIn Honor of: Sandy Anderson, OD Susan Huhta

FRIENDS OF AKITA FUND In Memory of: Charles Baxley Tricia Baxley Miriam & Connie Clark Ruth Gingrich Peggy Johnson Cynthia Rieth John Williamson Dick & Kitty Rohrer Haden DeRoberts Susan & Bryon Murray Megan Patrick Fedorko Kirsten Knodt & Mairead Reddy Meredith DiMola & Tyler Patrick Ann & Ken Patrick Andrew WildmanIn Honor of: Andy Frick Stacy McVey John Myers Rob Myers Scott Walker Steve WalkerIn Celebration of: Camp Akita Carrie & Andy Narcelles Doug Plummer Brian Reynolds Alissa Sway Mike Zook

FRIENDS OF MUSICIn Honor of: Ron Jenkins Julie & Brent Osbornn Memory of:Bryce Alden Brown, St. Louise KutzThelma Ross Bobbie Reynolds YOUTH CHOIRSIn Honor of: Sally Beske Claire Esmond Joy Converse Louise Kutz Dave & Loretta Heigle Molly, Craig, Brady & Connor Hagkull Tom & Kitty Snyder Thomas & Zoe Snyder Tom & Kitty Snyder Rose Hokanson Lynne Hokanson Ann Baker Claire Esmond The Christmas Musical Ron Jenkins & Will Davis Julie & Tony Keefer Tom & Pam Stewart Amy & Ryan MillerIn celebration of: Lilly Barney Iola LanamanIn memory of: Kent Brandt Jean Brandt Nancy Neri Rick, Tamara, Kyrsten Kyler Willimott


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No matter who you are or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here.Affiliated with The United Church of Christ and Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)

THE PROGRAM STAFF OF FIRST COMMUNITY CHURCH Richard A. Wing, Senior Minister; Paul E. Baumer, Minister to the Staff; David S. Hett, Minister of Religious Life and Learning; Ronald J. Jenkins, Minister of Music and Liturgy; Deborah C. Lindsay, Executive Minister; James M. Long, Minister of Pastoral Care; Christopher B. Rinker, Clergy Associate; Katherine H. Shaner, Minister of Mission; Michael Barber, Director of Marketing and Communications, Sally R. Beske, Assistant Organist/Director of Youth Choirs; Leigh Anne Easterling, Director of Early Childhood Ministries; Pam Jameson, Director of Facilities Ministry; Bobbi Mueller, Director of North Campus Administration & Akita Operations; Scot Nicoll, Executive Director of Camp Akita; Missy Obergefell, Director of Older Adult Ministry; Julie Richards, Director of K-12 Ministry; Paula L. Russell, Director of Congregational Care; Tom White, Director of Finance.

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