The Messenger Saint Andrews Presbyterian Church 2201 Springdale Avenue at Magnolia Avenue Charl otte, NC 28203 Teleph one: (704) 375-7793 E-Mail: [email protected]Website: www.stapresb.org . Even many days later, I am still reflecting on the sermon that Dr. Richard Boyce gave at my ordination service. Thinking back to my first day supplying the pulpit at St. Andrews last August, who would have imagined that we would be celebrating a new chapter in the life of this church, as well as my own life, on the cusp of spring in 2013? At that point in time last summer most of us we would have thought “otherwise”; in fact, so many voices seemed to be saying that it would be “otherwise” - and yet, there was a stronger, deeper, more persistent voice that rose above our own and called us to a new vision of hope. There are challenges, to be sure, but there is already growth, within our congregation and literally outside our doors, as we sow and plant and nurture this community of faith. This is my first call, so I am pretty sure that I will make mistakes. I’m also sure that I have a lot to learn about being a pastor. But there are a few other things I am equally confident about…First, is that God is at work here in our midst and we have an open invitation to participate in what God is doing. Second, that we are a loving community who not only welcome the neighbor and friend, but also share the belief that God’s family is wonderfully diverse…bringing a richness of backgrounds and gifts to share in our common faith. Third, we have enormous possibilities before us and we are eager to explore this new path that is unfolding at St. Andrews! God has surprised us with this wonderful spring – a time to celebrate March 2013 Thinking Out Loud. .
Transcript
The Messenger Saint Andrews Presbyterian Church
2201 Springdale Avenue at Magnolia Avenue Charlotte, NC 28203
Even many days later, I am still reflecting on the sermon that Dr. Richard Boyce gave at my ordination service. Thinking back to my first day supplying the pulpit at St. Andrews last August, who would have imagined that we would be celebrating a new chapter in the life of this church, as well as my own life, on the cusp of spring in 2013? At that point in time last summer most of us we would have thought “otherwise”; in fact, so many voices seemed to be saying that it would be “otherwise” - and yet, there was a stronger, deeper, more persistent voice that rose above our own and called us to a new vision of hope. There are challenges, to be sure, but there is already growth, within our congregation and literally outside our doors, as we sow and plant and nurture this community of faith. This is my first call, so I am pretty sure that I will make mistakes. I’m also sure that I have a lot to learn about being a pastor. But there are a few other things I am equally confident about…First, is that God is at work here in our midst and we have an open invitation to participate in what God is doing. Second, that we are a loving community who not only welcome the neighbor and friend, but also share the belief that God’s family is wonderfully diverse…bringing a richness of backgrounds and gifts to share in our common faith. Third, we have enormous possibilities before us and we are eager to explore this new path that is unfolding at St. Andrews! God has surprised us with this wonderful spring – a time to celebrate even in the midst of Lent. A time to remember that it could have been “otherwise” and yet here we stand, to offer our praise and thanksgiving together!
It is my hope that we will always be a true family in Christ; that we will remember our baptismal vows, and care and nurture and lift one another up in our life of faith as we live out God’s call for us to love one another as we are so deeply loved by God. For my part, I will endeavor to lead with integrity and love – open to the movement of the Spirit and the call to bring you God’s Word in both faithful and creative ways. I will also endeavor to remember the Words of Rev. Jill Duffield who presented my charge…and when you ask me if I “have a minute” I will do my best to always say “yes.”
Thank you St. Andrews for welcoming me so warmly into your family and for allowing me to share my call to ministry with you!
Let us continue to remember those that we know who are physically, emotionally and spiritually in need.
A special day in the life of St AndrewsOn Sunday, February 24th at 4:00 p.m. , St Andrews held a special service to
officially ordain and install their new pastor, Rev. Nadine Ellsworth- Moran. It was a special day in the life of our church. Approximately 100 participants enjoyed a moving and meaningful service of scripture, song, and preaching. A reception followed in the fellowship hall. We thank all the members and friends who helped get the service, food, and church yard ready for this special day!
On Sunday, March 31, we will be collecting the
“One Great Hour of Sharing” offering during the morning
worship service.
Since 1949 Presbyterians have joined with millions of other Christians through One Great Hour of Sharing to share God’s love with those in need. Your generous gifts assist those affected by natural disasters, provide food to the hungry, and assist in helping to empower the poor and oppressed.
Easter Lilies available for purchase
Easter lilies will be available to purchase in honor or memory of a loved one.
The lilies will be placed in the sanctuary on Easter Sunday.
Cost is $8.00 per lily. A sheet is located on the table in the back of the church to write your memorial. Please designate
your cash or checks to Easter Lilies. Deadline is Sunday, March 17 th .
A special thank you to all those who have been working on our landscaping projects in the church yard! As you may have noticed, mulch has been laid out, flowers planted, and trees removed. Thank you to Thomas Rhodes, Chuck Burch, Bill Moran, Bryan Raughley, Charles Ferguson, David Ellsworth, Cindy and Wayne Rosenthal. We also appreciate those who have made monetary donations to this project.
Krystal Black, Barbara Blocker, Grace Daniels,Tina Eason, Johnny and Ethel Guy, Geraldine Jones, Fran Michaels, Tom Moseley, Heather Siebert, Linda Strickland, Kathy Stubbs, Thelma Thacker, Mildred Williford, Lisa (Margaret Morgan’s daughter), Breit Family, Lauren Turner (8 year old who
has had a recent recurrence of leukemia), James Deas, Lummie Young, Debrah Greth (open heart surgery), Doris Yongue, Amanda Beaty (loss of her mother).
From the Church Office
A reminder that the church office hours are
Tuesday 8:30 a.m.-1:45 p.m.
Wednesday 8:30 a.m.-1:45 p.m.
Thursday 8:30 a.m.- 2:00 p.m.
Please submit bulletin announcements by Wednesday, 9:00 a.m. each week.
February Messenger information is due Monday, March 25th
