THE PARISH NEWS JULY/AUGUST 2019 -...

THE PARISH NEWS JULY/AUGUST 2019

Pastor’s Peace 2 New Members Class 2 Heritage Sunday 3 Honorees Report on Finding Our 4 Civility Event Being A Pilgrim 5 Facilities Master Plan 6 Melko Preservation Fund 6 Rejoining Our Dance 7 Children’s Ministry 8 Youth Ministry 9 New Associate Pastor 9 2019 Graduating Class 10 Music Ministry 11 Brenda Day Music 11 Scholarship Presbyterian Women 11 Sunday Book Club 11 Adult Enrichment 12 Program Summer Reading 12 Clerk’s Corner 13 Blood Drive 13 Coffee Hour 13 Church News 14 Comm. Nursery School 15 Clergy and Staff 15 Indonesian Fellowship 15 Summer Office Hours 15 Stay Connected 15

INSIDE THIS ISSUE: You know it by heart. You can recite it without looking. No, I am not

referring to the Fresh Prince of Bel Air lyrics; rather, the Lord’s Prayer.

“Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name…” In the Gospel

of Matthew, we find Jesus, amidst his commands for kingdom-living,

instructing his followers to pray not as the hypocrites do with their

ostentatious prayers; instead one must pray with humility, grace, and

reflection. The Lord’s Prayer, as we now know it, is a combined adapta-

tion of one of the Jewish eighteen benedictions which were prayed three

times a day as well as the Aramaic Qaddish. I say all of this not because there is a pop quiz

at the end, but so that we can understand Jesus didn’t just pull this prayer from divine

inspiration; therefore, we are automatically expected to follow it down to its very jot and

tittle. After all, the ending to this infamous prayer isn’t even part of the original prayer:

“For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory, forever. Amen.” It was added cen-

turies after by way of some additional manuscripts which included it. So, perhaps the

Lord’s Prayer isn’t as rigid as we may assume it to be. And at this point, you have to be

wondering why am I making such a big deal about all of this? Rev. Garry has so many other

articles included in this multi-month Parish News, surely this rabbling mess should not be

front page material…

…Except the Lord’s Prayer has been in the news quite a bit these past few weeks. You see,

The Roman Catholic Church (yes, you read that

right: The Roman Catholics) have been reform-

ing significant traditions and theologies as of

late. Led by Pope Francis’ encouragement in

2017 of altering the prayer, the General Assem-

bly of the Episcopal Conference of Italy moved

to change the line “and lead us not into tempta-

tion” TO “and let us not fall into temptation.” A

minor alteration with significant theological ramifications. The idea of leading creates this

complex that our God of love is the one directly moving our actions, controlling them at

will, inducing our temptations and sinful ways. Although certain perspectives and theolo-

gies of God, including some of our own hyper-Reformed, find comfort in God being a pup-

pet master, many of us finding the whole narrative to be rather disturbing. If God is the

one determining our every action and motive, then we find God to be indirectly (or directly

for that matter) responsible for all of the atrocities of our world. From polluting God’s

Creation to the Holocaust, God becomes the author of sin. I find it rather difficult to preach

an all-loving God who desires a world put back to rights when God is the one undoing all of

the Kingdom-work we are called to be stewarding. Continued on Page 2

270 Woodbridge Avenue, Metuchen, NJ 08840 | 732.491.2300 | fpcweb.org | facebook.com/fpcmetuchen

Rev. Justin D. Karmann

July/ August 2019 Page 2

PASTOR’S PEACE Continuation

Our sin nature takes a back seat to an active theodicy. For this reason, the Pope and, ironically, the Roman

Catholic Church are leading a charge for reforming the Lord’s Prayer. “Let us not fall into temptation” is an

important distinction noting that our God is nurturing, guiding, and encouraging us not to sin by the power of

the Holy Spirit. It also emphasizes the reason we pray the Lord’s Prayer. We pray for God to help us not to sin

instead of pleading with God not to lead us to sin. A rather important distinction is made within this change.

However, not everyone agrees. Many Christians feel that the prayer is the way it is and should not be changed.

The original Greek also makes this change a bit complicated. Because of all the reasons I previously men-

tioned, although I am not Roman Catholic, I find this to be a valuable and worthy alteration to our well-known

prayer. During our June Session meeting, I proposed our church also adapting this rendition of the Lord’s

Prayer. We all agreed that this is not something we can change overnight, especially since everyone knows

the prayer written or unwritten. No, if this prayer is going to change, it is because we all believe in changing it.

In the coming months, we will be hosting a second-hour forum to discuss the change and the potential posi-

tives and negatives as well as offering a better understanding of God’s role within the problem of evil. Our

Session body will eventually convene to approve the change or motion to maintain the original wording of our

revered prayer. Your opportunity now is to reflect on these words, reflect on the changes being proposed, and

wrestle with our theology of God. Who is God to you? What is God’s role in our lives? What brings you com-

fort in your understanding of God? Ultimately, why do you believe? As pastors, we look forward to walking

with you in this journey and we are excited regardless of outcome. We can thank the Pope for offering up this

opportunity for further Reformation. Ecclesia semper reformanda

Adults interested in becoming members of the First Presbyterian Church of Metuchen are invited to meet with Rev. Garry on Sundays, July 14, 21 and 28 at 10:45 a.m. The class will explore what it means to be Presbyterian, what are the current opportunities to be part of ministry, and, what mission projects and efforts are currently under way for people of all ages. On Sundays, July 14, 21 and 28 we will be in the Library located across from Room 109 in the Education building. Childcare will be provided in the nursery. On Sunday, August 4, during worship, this New Member Class will be recognized by the congregation followed by an after-worship reception in the Social Center Dining Room. Please contact the church office if you have any questions or want to confirm your attendance in these classes. Office phone: (732) 491-2300 or email: [email protected]

New Members Class

Sundays

July 14, 21 and 28


June Keehbler Member for 50 years

Cookie Simonelli Member for 50 years

Sue West Member for 50 years

June Young Member for 55 years

Mark Behrens Member for 60 years

Marnie Smith Member for 60 years

Beverly Cummings Member for 65 years

Marie Bills Member for 67 years

Dee Bonner Member for 71 years

Bill Bashew Member for 66

Joyce Bashew

50 Years (1969-2019) Ernie Docs June Keehbler Cookie Simonelli Sue West 55 Years (1964-2019) Joan Boyce Robert Boyce Betty Buzzi Donald Kennedy Elizabeth Kennedy Jean McCloughan Doris Moskal June Young 60 Years (1959-2019) Mark Behrens Jonathan Mundy

Vera Sandbeck Marnie Smith 65 Years (1954-2019) Beverly Cummings 66 Years (1953-2019) William Bashew Alethea Kinsey Marilyn Stokes 67 Years (1952-2019) Marie Bills Joanne Raison 68 Years (1951-2019) Jane R. Palmeter 69 Years (1950-2019) Barbaralee Runyon

70 Years (1949-2019) Elsie Dancs Robert Nann Sr. 71 Years (1948-2019) Nancy Ainslie (Nancy died 6/14/2019) Dee Bonner 72 Years (1947-2019) Irma Kerrison (Irma died 5/26/2019) 73 Years (1946-2019) Betty Sussick

We honor and celebrate the membership anniversary of the following church members whose life and faith inspire us. The members photographed here were able to grace the Heritage Sunday celebrated last June 2, 2019 and recognized during the worship service.


On June 6th Amanda Ripley gave a wonderful talk to our community regarding the polarization in our culture and how it often leads us to demean people who do not share our views and beliefs. So common is this treatment that we seem to be losing our ability to be civil with one another. Even before Amanda Ripley arrived she heard from colleagues that the word “civility” was not enough of a standard; civility was too low a bar. Just as we know being tolerant is not enough, we should be far more than civil with each other. No one wants to be tolerated. This was part of the conversation the next week at the men’s breakfast. Shouldn’t we strive for something greater than civility? The common wisdom of the table was, yes. And yet, there was also the pause acknowledging: what if civility has become a high bar? What if this is the most we can muster right now? We know we should be more, but what if we lack the strength and the resources? When I invited Amanda Ripley to come I had two goals: the first was that the community would gather to hear her. Just before I made the introductions at the event, I asked Brenda Redshaw if the community was in the room. She said, yes, they are. The second goal was to initiate good dialogue. We live with competing monologues today of people shouting over one another, speaking past each other, or otherwise only speaking to those of like mind. A true dialogue is when we can engage in questions (sometimes troubling questions) as a community. I believe we started to reach toward the second goal on June 6th. It was a good start. Now we need to find more ways to speak and listen. Although we can talk anywhere, a church is a unique place, a community of trust (faith). Here we may not only hear different views of fellow congregants, but we can also hear the views of those of the community-at-large.

This was a great start. I must thank the folks of the men’s breakfast who helped serve and staff the event; Dan Slobodien and all who cooked and prepped. Maggy Cook went out of her way to insure our wine was in a glass not a plastic cup. Jane Meyer was the captain of details as well as Audrey Hausser preparing all the gift baskets. And thank you Jan Margolis for the lovely jazz guitarist. This was a great moment for me to see what a wonderful staff we have. They all stepped up. Many thanks to all for a wonderful night. It was a big effort that will hopefully yield a great return.

MANY THANKS to all who made this event truly

a night to remember.


We have a date: March 3rd. Now we need to form a group of pilgrims. The goal is to have no less than 20. If we have more than 20, then we are able to be in charge of the tour. Less than 20 things can get complicated. This is a big step and a big expense. But it is also a great bargain with what it includes and a life changing experience. This will change your faith, how you read the Bible, and mostly, bring history to life. There is far too much to describe. For this reason, I will begin a series a discussions about being a pilgrim and what to expect in Israel. Even if you are not going on the pilgrimage, the conversations are engaging and helpful. For instance, we will discuss the geography of the Holy Land. Not a day goes by without an article about this part of the world. And know-ing the geography changes everything. We will also talk about the ancient Israelite civilization and how this became Judaism. This is a must before discussing the modern state of Israel. Another topic is Islam and more specifically the caliphate. This is perhaps the most difficult topic for pilgrims to grasp as there is little that is taught in public education about the rise of Islam as a whole, the Ottoman Empire more specifically. Other topics we will explore: the spread of the early church, the four centers of early Christianity, the Roman Empire and its transition to Byzantium. If this sounds like a lot, rest assured, it is. That is why we must begin preparations now. The first date for our conversations will be July 7th following worship. The brochure for the trip is the narthex of the sanctuary, outside the chapel, and in the foyer of the social center. Not only consider going, but invite a friend. This is a powerful experience to share with friends and family.

Here’s a journey unlike any other...Walk the steps where Jesus walked and deepen your faith as you explore the Holy Land with Rev. Garry and Rev. Karmann. Learn more about the Holy Land Tour by getting a copy of the brochure which gives a detailed day by day itinerary. You may avail a copy from the Narthex or from the church office. Feel free to call the office or email Rev. Fred Garry if you have any questions.

SECOND HOUR FORUM

“Pilgrimage to Israel” First in a Series

July 7th @ 10:45 a.m. in the Chapel

We are privileged to host an expert in cross- cultural Christian mission, Andrew F. Bush, who will share from his extensive experience in international missions. Andrew will join us in this forum with the Presentation of Living Stones. Whether you’re considering the Holy Land Tour in March 2020 or not, come to this Second Hour Forum and expand your knowledge and faith.


MELKO PRESERVATION FUND

If you came to the “Finding Our Civility” event, you may have seen the baskets for auction. The funds from the baskets and the event were publicized as benefiting the preservation of the church’s buildings. The baskets and the event raised over $5000 for the preservation fund. The preservation fund was not only the idea but also the initiative and leadership of the session. The Elders of the current session have donated and pledged over $8,000 to this effort. The preservation fund recognizes that a campus like ours will need emergency repairs each year without fail. Something always comes up. The preservation fund is different from the endowment, which should be drawn from only at the beginning of the year. The preservation fund is there to cover emergencies, but also to be replenished each year through efforts like the civility event or leadership gifts. The goal is $50,000. $13,000 is a great start, but it just got better. Many years ago we received a lovely gift in honor of the Melko family. For various reasons the fund was never fully utilized and has never achieved its potential. Through conversations and research a new direction has been found. The new direction is the Melko-Preservation Fund. The underutilized fund balance is $24,000. This puts the current level of the fund at $37,000. This is a truly great start. Again, the Melko-Preservation Fund is there to insure we have funds for emergency repairs, but it is also there to insure our endowment draw is once a year. We still have a way to reach our goal. If you would like to get us to the top, please consider a gift this year. Make sure your gift signifies the “Melko-Preservation Fund.” Each year we will hear a report about the growth and use of the fund. This way we will also be mindful about what it takes to keep such a large, historic campus up and running.

UPDATE We are half-way there!

As we now know, portions of our church buildings and grounds are in need of preservation, mainte-nance and repair. Some 32 projects were identified as needing attention and over 60 congregants volun-teered to tour our facilities and score and prioritize these projects.

On Sunday June 9, about half of these volunteers attended the first wave of facilities tours - where they were given scoring materials and detailed instructions on how to evaluate and prioritize the projects.

There were both physical and “virtual” tours led by: Rev. Garry, Rev. Karmann, Sue Harmon, Mike Draper, Roland Staal, Jane Meyer and Gail Stein. Our Tour Guides explained the projects and answered questions while the participants scored the projects based on criteria such as: cost, labor, usage, strategic value and risk.

Completed score sheets were collected and our Communications Committee is in the process of analyzing the results of this first wave of tours.

We invite all remaining folks who volunteered - as well as any Congregants who have not “signed up” but would like to participate.

Join us for the final round of tours:

Sunday, June 30th

In the chapel

Immediately following Worship Scoring instructions and materials will be provided. The tours will last approximately one hour. Join a physical walk through if you are able but we also offer a “virtual” (slide-show) tour option. There is a possibility of a third tour.

We want to hear from you. Hope you can join us!


Many years ago I stumbled upon a beautiful Jewish teaching. It goes something like this: once you have stepped out, it is very hard to rejoin the dance. This is a teaching about grief and mourning. In losing someone we love, we step outside of joy, the dance and celebration of life. When we grieve, the world goes on (the dance continues), but we are left outside to watch. I witnessed this truth as a young man. I watched my grandmother grieve the tragic loss of her son, my uncle. For those who knew my grandmother, the weight of grief was quite obvious as she was vivacious and loud and often times bombastic. Mourning drained her soul. For quite a long time she was quiet, and the weight of loss pressed her. And then, years later, she returned. I remember this because we were dancing. Nat King Cole was crooning, fueling the family celebration. My grandmother pulled me to the dance floor. I will never forget looking in her eyes and seeing the spirit, once lost, now return. She was there; she had rejoined the dance. In our congregation there are many people who are watching the dance; there are those who have rejoined; and there are those who fear this day, this loss will come to them soon. For some the weight of loss has never touched them and this is a remarkable gift. Yet, part of the challenge of grief is that it is not always clear what is happening and why. And what makes this even more challenging is that we do not know how long it will last. Grief touches us physically with fatigue and loss of appetite and difficulty sleeping. Grief weighs on our memo-ries and understandings and steals the energy we need to make decisions. And, mostly, grief robs us of spirit. We lose peace, patience, hope, trust. Last Spring, we chanced upon a wonderful opportunity to understand more. As we were interviewing seminari-ans for the coming academic year, one seminarian asked if we would be interested in providing an internship on grief. The seminarian’s name is Ryon. Ryon’s interest sparked a series of conversations and with the conver-sations came a year-long program. At present the program appears to be three events and as many conversa-tions as possible. The conversations we are going to engage in are very simple. We want to discern where people are in the dance of life. To achieve this discernment, we need your help. More to the point, we need your voice and experience. For some the experience of grief is all too new, for others it is decades past. We need help to understand the reality of grief in the church. Please consider having Ryon or myself or others chat with you for a brief time in the coming year. I believe there will be a great benefit to a seminarian preparing for ministry; and, I believe there will be a great benefit to our congregation to understand how and where we can care for each other.

Rejoining Our Dance by Rev. Fred Garry


Here’s a peek of the first day in VBS.

Thank you very much, our awesome VBS volunteers !


Peanut butter Jelly Nutella Fluff(ernutter) Ketchup Mustard (yellow, brown) Mayo BBQ sauce Penne pasta Pasta sauce (Alfredo, meat, marinara) Cereal Salsa Salad dressing (French, ranch, Italian)

Paper towels Napkins Snack-sized bags of chips, pretzels, Cheetos, Fritos, etc... Snack-sized cookies (Oreos, chip ahoy) Iced tea mix Lemonade mix Watermelons Brown paper lunch bags Plastic lunch bags *Please purchase plastic containers rather than glass, if available. Also, check expiration dates if donating prior to July.

Youth Mission Habitat for Humanity Trip We are collecting items for our 2019 Youth Mission trip to Roanoke Virginia at the end of July to work alongside of the Habitat for Humanity organization. Please bring these items to the Church Social Center or contact Rev. Karmann at [email protected] for further information.

We would also like to borrow 4 coolers, 1 griddle, and 2 canopies for the trip.

After much patience, prayer and perseverance (not necessarily in that order), we have an Associate Pastor following the election at the Con-gregation and Corporation meeting held on June 23. The vote was a resounding yes, and we congratulate our Rev. Justin Karmann who

will be officially installed on August 11th

along with Rev. Fred Garry. We are excited for what the future holds for Rev. Karmann as he con-tinues in his faithful service here at FPC, and the impact he has in the lives of our youth and with the church missions. We also acknowledge with much gratitude the work of the Associate Pastor Nominating Committee for their diligent work and guidance during the search process. Finally, glory and thanks to God for blessing us with “a shepherd after His own heart, who will feed us with knowledge and understanding (Jeremiah 3:15)

YOUTH GROUP: Mark your calendars for our Slime Fest Youth Group kick-off on September 11th

mailto:[email protected]


Dr. Kathleen O’Neill Darabos (Daughter of Cindy and Robert O’Neill) Completed PhD in Health Psychology and Clinical Science from the Graduate Center, City University of New York . Hayley Rose Francobandiero (Daughter of Heidi Hoffsommer and Frank Francobandiero and granddaughter of Marie Hoffsommer.) Completed BA in Psychology from Rider University and is currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health in Counseling at Rider. Connor Gil (Son of Staci and Gilbert Gil) Graduated from Penn State University with a degree in Hospitality Management, and is employed with Caesar’s in Las Vegas, NV. Lauren Hausser (Daughter of Audrey and Ken Hausser) Graduated from Metuchen High School and will be attending Keene State College. Brian Jeney (Son of Amy and Bill Jeney) Graduated from Montclair State University with a Degree in History and a Teaching Certificate, and will pursue his Master’s Degree in Special Education and Autism Development from Kean University. Sarah Jeney (Daughter of Amy and Bill Jeney) Graduated from Metuchen High School and will be attending Johns Hopkins University to study Political Science and will play for the Field Hockey team. Camille Lussier (Daughter of Lisa Lussier) Graduated from Metuchen High School and will be attending Bucknell University. Jared Manley (Son of Suzie Manley and Justin Manley) Graduated from Metuchen High School and will be attending Middlesex County College to study Environmental Science and Sustainability.

Michael Redshaw (Son of Brenda and Matt Redshaw) Graduated from Lehigh University in January 2019 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business and Eco-nomics and a major in Finance.

Rachel Sandbeck (Daughter of Sandra and Paul Sandbeck) Graduated from Metuchen High School and will be attending Montclair State University to study Theater Production and Design. Gregory Walton Shaver (Son of Julie and the late Mike Shaver) Graduated from Metuchen High School and will be attending the University of South Carolina to pursue Global Studies and Environmental Science and will be playing in Carolina Band's mellophone section. Garrett Smith (Son of Colleen and Doug Smith) Graduated from Saint Joseph High School and will be attending Penn State University. Nate Strathman (Son of Cyndi and Jeff Strathman) Graduated from St. Joseph High School and will be attending Temple University. Abby Thompson (Daughter of Jennifer and Jim Thompson) Graduated from J. P. Stevens High School and will be attending Skidmore College majoring in Environmen-tal Studies. Will Thompson (Son of Jennifer and Jim Thompson) Graduated from J. P. Stevens High School and will be attending Hofstra University to major in Journalism. Liam Walker (Son of Colleen and Tice Walker) Graduated from Metuchen High School. Liam will be attending Stevens Institute of Technology majoring in Mechanical Engineering.


Your Favorite Hymn Do you have a favorite hymn that you wish we would sing? If you do, the worship team could try to incorporate it into one of our worship services during the next few months. Please email Brenda Day at [email protected] and let her know the title of the hymn, or write on the friendship pad at church.

Summer Sundays The Summer Choir will sing in worship on July 14 and August 25. We welcome all singers starting with 7th graders. Music reading knowledge isn't necessary - just a love of singing and a desire to participate musically in our worship service. If you are interested, please come to the choir room (above the narthex) by 8:45AM. Since we don't wear robes during the summer, please dress appropriately for worship.

Contact our Music Director, Brenda Day at: (732) 491-2266, or email [email protected]

The Presbyterian Women and Moms on Monday are taking a little break over the summer months but do mark your calendars and watch out for details when they start fresh in the Fall. Here are the upcoming events: Sept. 4, Wednesday PW Coordinating Team 6:30 pm Meeting Sept. 27, Friday and Fall Rummage Sale Sept. 28, Saturday Nov. 22, Friday and Holly Fair Nov. 23, Saturday Dec. 11, Wednesday Holiday Covered Dish Noon Luncheon Jan. 26, Sunday Annual PW Brunch April 24, Friday and Spring Rummage Sale April 25, Saturday May 13, Wednesday PW 124th Birthday Luncheon

PRESBYTERIAN WOMEN

Questions about PW? Contact Lois Crespy: (908) 501-7778 or Nancy Kipnis: [email protected]

Brenda Arnold Day

Seeking applicants for the Brenda Day Music Scholar-ship. The recipient will be awarded up to $500 towards musical instrument lessons, attending an accredited music camp or vocal instruction. Eligible youth who are members or whose families are members of the Church and are entering 2nd through 12th grades with interest in beginning or continuing private music lessons are encouraged to apply. The scholarship was created in 2013 in celebration of Brenda Day’s career-long investment in the development of the love of music amongst the church youth by encourag-ing music.

Completed applications will be due no later than Rally Day, Sunday, September 8. The 2019 scholarship recipient will be announced on Sunday, September 22nd, in conjunction with the Commissioning of the Church Musicians. Additional information will be provided in the application packet. Applications are now available at the Church Office or online via the church website, click on “Forms” for the Brenda Arnold Day Music Scholarship.

If you have any questions, please contact either: Sandy Slobodien [email protected] Amy Bellisano [email protected].

MUSIC MINISTRY

SUNDAY

The Sunday Book Club is a small lively group. We normally meet on the 4th Sunday of each month except for December. We select our books for the year in June. We try and select books that may be obtained through a library. Look for our year’s list in the Sunday bulletin as well as in the September Parish News. We welcome all members— please join us! If you have any questions, feel free to email Mary Kay Dangremond at [email protected]



Adult Enrichment Committee may be reached by email:

Nancy Leardi [email protected] Pete Bellisano [email protected]

Living the Teachings of Jesus

Wednesday, July 17

7:00 pm in the Chapel

Come and be part of these spirited discussions with Pastor Garry. It’s never too late to join in! Get a copy of Pastor Garry’s supplemental essay provided in advance for some insight and to reflect on for a truly vibrant discussion. Essays are available from the Narthex on Sundays, at the church office on weekdays or through our website: http://fpcweb.org/pastor-study-essays.

Everyone’s welcome to come!

Two Bucks, Chuck! MEN’S BREAKFAST

Questions? Contact Pete Bellisano: [email protected]

Working With The

Adult Enrichment Committee

Have an idea for a program or presentation that you believe would be interesting for our church family?

The AEP team encourages you to contact us with your idea! We'll be glad to meet with you to talk through the proposed content, logistics and resources needed. The AEP team will work with you to organize the development, scheduling and delivery of the program or presentation. To contact the AEP Committee, please reach out to Nancy Leardi or me; we'd love to hear from you. Pete Bellisano, AEP Chair


Looking for something new to read this summer? Come to the FPC library and

check out our new additions written by Rev. Dr. Fred Garry:

Deliver Us: A Lenten Devotional

Finding Balance: Simone Weil and the Seven Sacraments

Morning Psalms Vol. 1: The First Fifty Psalms Adapted for Prayer and Devotion

The Mean Estate: The Meekness Born of Parables

Mopping Up

Slow to Anger

“In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus offers an impossible ethic. He teaches we must not be angry; we must not lust; we must not divorce; we must not swear; we must not retaliate; and we must love our enemy. Slow to Anger seeks to navigate this impossible ethic and render it a way of life allowing us to become slow to anger in our lives. “

Questions? Contact Helen Burr-Cackowski [email protected]

We could use a hand.

Teach our 4 years to 2nd

grade.

Lessons, activities and supplies will be provided. Parents, grandparents and adults please sign up for one of the dates below: July 7 August 18 August 11 August 25 Please contact Nancy Leardi if you can help on any of the above dates. Email [email protected] or (732)213-3984

Clerk of Session reports: 1. Rev. Garry informed Session the benefactors of the

longstanding Melko Fund have generously agreed to move the fund into the newly established Preserva-tion Fund. In turn, the Preservation Fund will now be named the Melko Preservation Fund.

2. Rev. Garry and the entire Board extended warm thanks for service well done to retiring Elders Bill Jeney, David Kozo, Diego Lijeron, and Emma Walters.

3. Session performed its annual review of the Roles and Responsibilities for Commissions and Committees handbook. Among the most visible changes approved was returning the Worship and Community Life Commission back to its former name, Worship and Music Commission.

4. Session unanimously approved new, one (1) year terms effective 1 July 2019 for Susan Harmon as Church Treasurer, and Paul Gunsser as Clerk of Session.


Make your appointment today! Two easy ways: Call 1-800-RED-CROSS ( 1-800-733-2767)

or go to www.redcrossblood.org and use

Sponsor code: FPCM

Life’s a gift. Give more life! Donate now!

Saturday, AUGUST 10, 2019 10:30 am - 3:30 pm

Do you enjoy refreshments after worship? What a great way to relax, socialize and connect with church attendees. Here you can share your ideas, recruit new members for church, committees, commissions, and have some coffee and treats.

Please help by signing up to provide refreshments for just one Sunday. If we all take a turn, it is an easy task. There are copies of instructions by the sign-up sheet.

Many ways to sign up: in the Narthex, in room 109, by contacting Carol Carr at 732-549-1766 or emailing her [email protected].

COFFEE ANYONE?

For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.

- Matthew 6:21

As you are away vacationing and enjoying family time, please remember to send in your pledge, as our monthly expenses do not take a vacation. Don't forget it is very easy to donate online right from our website or you can text to donate to 732-479-8245. We use a safe and secure site called Vanco.

We hope everyone has a wonderful and safe summer.


The summer season is one of the busiest times of year for the FPC Food Pantry. With children home on summer break and not receiving school lunch, parents, grandparents, and family caregivers have a hard time keeping up with the demands of little bellies! That’s why the FPC Food Pantry is open all summer long ready to “Feed the Need.” Please consider picking up a few items for the food pantry on your next shopping trip. Donations can be dropped off at the Social Center donation box, the Food Pantry box in the Narthex, and at the Metuchen Saving Bank. We also could use a helping hand. If you’d like to volunteer, please give Sarah Teti, our Food Pantry coordinator a call at (732) 491-2325. Thank you for everything you do for us! The Food Panty wouldn’t work with out the

love and heart of the congregation!

COMING SOON!!!

You may have noticed that it is sometimes hard to hear the pastors speaking with our hearing-assistance system being over twenty years old. With immense gratitude to an anonymous donor, we will be completing Phase 2 of our multi-phase overhaul of the Sanctuary sound system! Coming in August, look for new speakers like the one pictured, as well as a state-of-the-art hearing assistance system for those who need it. Phase 3 of our overhaul will be a dedicated camera and audio for improved and enhanced Live Streaming. - Rev. Justin Karmann and the Technology Committee

News from the Giordanos (and Mikey) Tom and Diane Giordano were at The Seeing Eye last June 28th to see Mikey’s graduation town walk through Morristown. He has learned all about being the best guide dog and missing his First Presbyterian friends.

Tom is thrilled to share this postcard received from Mikey along with a graduation picture. In another milestone develop-ment, our current in-training service dog, Yates, made it to the end of the Fuce 5K ! He slept the rest of the day!


First Presbyterian Church of Metuchen

CHURCH CLERGY AND STAFF

CLERGY

Rev. Dr. Fred Garry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 732-491-2330 Senior Pastor/Head of Staff [email protected] Rev. Justin Karmann . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 732-491-2260 Associate Pastor [email protected] Rev. Robert A. Beringer, Pastor Emeritus

CHRISTIAN EDUCATION

Nancy Leardi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .732-491-2264 Director Christian Ed. [email protected] MUSIC MINISTRY

Brenda Day . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .732-491-2266 Minister of Music [email protected] Elaine Hansen . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] Assistant Bell Director and Accompanist

SUPPORT STAFF

Sue Harmon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 732-491-2302 Director of Operations/Treasurer

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]

Jonathan Hollenbeck . . . . . . . . .. . . .732-491-2270 Facilities Manager [email protected]

Roger Donnan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 732-491-2270 Asst. Facilities Mgr. [email protected]

Vicky Lacson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 732-491-2303 Office Assistant [email protected]

Nick Spadavecchia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 732-491-2305 Communications Consultant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]

Merry Matlock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 732-491-2301 Administrative Asst. [email protected]

Sarah Teti . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 732-491-2325 Food Pantry Coordinator [email protected]

COMMUNITY NURSERY SCHOOL

Fran Brennan. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .732-491-2242 Director/Treasurer [email protected]

Colleen Smith . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .732-491-2242 Head Teacher [email protected]

Katie Murphy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 732-491-2242 Office Assistant [email protected]

First Presbyterian Church of Metuchen

Since 1991 this active ministry has worshiped, celebrated, and served in many wonderful ways: WORSHIP SERVICES 9:30am Combined service the First Sunday of the month in English Noon Indonesian language Services held every 2nd and following Sundays, plus special services on New Year’s Day, Good Friday, and Christmas Day MUSIC Nazareth Choir FELLOWSHIP Saturday home fellowship meetings, and after Sunday worship service fellowship

If you no longer have a land line, got a new cell number or email address, or if you have a preference how to receive any news from the church, you can stay connected in many ways: Check our website fpcweb.org, call, email or connect with us through social media: fpcmetuchen

From Memorial Day, May 27 till Labor Day, September 2

MONDAY - THURSDAY

8:00 AM to 4:30 PM

FRIDAY

8:00 AM to NOON

Community Nursery School ended it's 2018/2019 school year with our traditional Celebration of Song, held in the Social Center, on June 14th. Parents, family and friends came to watch our students on stage singing the songs they learned during the year. As a year end gift, CNS gave each student a yearbook. Out of our 128 students, 59 graduates will be going off to kindergarten while most of the remaining students will be back in the fall. We are thrilled to share that as a year end gift to CNS, we received two new benches for our playground! This gift was generously donated to the School by 54 past and present families. We are truly grateful for this gift! Even though CNS classrooms will be closed for the summer, the CNS office will be open on Monday and Thursday mornings from 9:00-12:00 to give tours and accept registrations for the 2019/2020 school year. Please visit the Community Nursery School website at www.communityns.org or call 732-491-2240 for more information.

First Presbyterian Church of Metuchen 270 Woodbridge Avenue P.O. Box 385 Metuchen, NJ 08840

NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION

US POSTAGE PAID

NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ

PERMIT 746

Address Service Requested

TO:

The information contained herein is for Church use only. Individuals using this information must receive permission of the Session of the First Presbyterian Church of Metuchen, NJ.

First Presbyterian Church of Metuchen is a congregation of the Presbyterian Church (USA).

To be an inclusive, connected, and loving community mobilized to serve Jesus Christ.

We are a welcoming and diverse congregation that serves God by improving the spiritual, mental and physical well-being of people in our community and beyond through worship,

education, fellowship, music, and mission outreach.

Stay up to date with just one click!

We are now using Mail Chimp to bring to you the latest church happenings. Sign up to make sure we have your correct email address. Visit the church website, send an email to [email protected] or use your cell phone to go directly to the link using this QR code. We promise not to spam you!

Parish News Submission To submit an article for the Parish News, email Vicky at:

[email protected] or see us at the church office.

Deadline for submission is the 15th of the month.

Church Office

270 Woodbridge Avenue, Metuchen, NJ 08840

Office Hours: Mon.– Thurs. 8:00 am to 4:30 pm

Friday 8:00 am to Noon

Sunday Morning Worship 9:30 am

Communion every 1st Sunday of the month

Date post:	02-Jul-2019
Category:	Documents
Upload:	trinhhuong
View:	214 times
Download:	0 times

THE PARISH NEWS JULY/AUGUST 2019 -...

Documents