Monday, February 28, 2011

A Weekly Newsletter of FPC Saint Marys Georgia February 27- March 5


Outreach Committee Challenge… You may have noticed the newly decorated box in the narthex for our food collection. Our recent stewardship campaign has made us even more aware that we have been given “more than enough” and are called to be “the salt of the earth” and “the light of the world” (Matthew 5). Most of us acknowledge how truly blessed we are and have every intention of sharing with others, but sometimes we simply do not get around to acting on those good intentions. Here is your opportunity for a more disciplined approach. When you do your weekly grocery shopping, take advantage of the BOGO (buy one, get one free) specials and pick up one or two extra items for the Helping Hands Food Pantry at Saint Marys United Methodist Church. Let’s try our best to make this a weekly habit! We have even made it a little easier for you – pick up a FREE bag today in the narthex to put in your car to remind you of the challenge. Thanks for being caring Presbyterians!

Presbytery approves Amendment 10-A The Savannah Presbytery approved Amendment 10-A at its winter meeting on Friday, February 18 which if approved this year by at least 87 presbyteries, will delete the current language of G-6.0106b and replace it with the following: Standards for ordained service reflect the church’s desire to submit joyfully to the Lordship of Jesus Christ in all aspects of life (G-1.0000). The governing body responsible for ordination and/or installation (G.14.0240; G-14.0450) shall examine each candidate’s calling, gifts, preparation, and suitability for the responsibilities of office. The examination shall include, but not be limited to, a determination of the candidate’s ability and commitment to fulfill all requirements as expressed in the constitutional questions for ordination and installation (W-4.4003).Governing bodies shall be guided by Scripture and the confessions in applying standards to individual candidates.”

The current vote tally as of February 25 is 49 presbyteries voting YES and 35 presbyteris ving NO. For more information on this amendment and other amendments to be voted on at the May meeting of presbytery, please visit http://oga.pcusa.org/generalassembly/amend.htm. In other action, the presbytery approved the 2011 Budget and officially welcomed presbyters to the 36th annual Leadership Development Conference.

New Church Directory… This week we will be putting the finishing touches on a NEW church directory. Sorry, no pictures this time but it will be an updated listing of all of our members and friends of First Presbyterian Church.

Faithful Stewards… If you attend First Presbyterian Church and have not made a pledge to the annual stewardship campaign, please find a stewardship letter and commitment card in the narthex today. THANK YOU for supporting our common work together.

Caravaners Plan March Event… Do you like to camp and enjoy the outdoors? The FPC Caravaners have planned a weekend event which will be held at Crooked River State Park March 4-6. As always, this group invites members and friends of the church to come and join them in their fellowship together. Even if it’s just to sit around the campfire, come and join the fun. For more information please call Debbie Davenport (882-5303) or Chuck Fulton (729-8184)

Confirmation Classes to Begin Next Sunday… During the Season of Lent our youth ages 12 and older who have not been confirmed will meet with Pastor Rick and several elders during an intensive seven week course. The classes will officially begin on Sunday afternoon March 6 at 3:30 p.m. in the manse. Confirmation is scheduled for Easter Sunday, April 24, 2011. For more information please see Pastor Rick.

Brass Choir Rehearsals… Rehearsals will begin on Tuesday March 1 for the Saint Marys Easter Brass Choir! If you have an old horn, dust it off, and start warming it up a bit. Plans are underway to have a group ready to present an Easter fanfare. For more information, please call Chuck Fulton (729-8184).

Road Trip to North Georgia Mountains… Our own Jeremy Douylliez was cast this week as the character Dill in Piedmont College’s spring production of To Kill a Mocking Bird. A number of you have indicated a desire to see Jeremy perform, and so an overnight trip to Demorest, Georgia is being planned for April 9-10. An itinerary of the trip can be found in the narthex today.

Annual Church Retreat Moved to October 7-9… The annual church-wide Congregational Retreat has been moved to the fall! Plans are underway for a great time as we invite the Allenhurst Presbyterian Church (Ben Beasley’s congregation) to join us. Rumor has it that there is a softball challenge underway with Saint Marys United Methodists as well. Save the dates now!

Thank You! “I thank my God every time I remember you.” (Philippians 1:3) For the support you have provided us in so many ways. We are inexpressibly grateful. In Jesus’ Love, Mary Kay and Don Weise

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