April 2015 LINK Newsletter
The LINK is Fort King’s monthly newsletter designed to inform our congregation about news happening both in our church and our community.
Content
PASTOR’S LETTER
He is risen! He is risen indeed!
I pray your Easter was full of joy in once
again celebrating our resurrected Lord.
Easter represents new life, new beginnings
and new opportunities. Easter reminds us
that what was once old is now new again,
and that includes our faith.
This past Lent my sermon series focused on
how we can “Ignite our Faith”, how we can
be transformed by the way Jesus lived and
by the events of Easter. Every Easter, and
the days that follow, should remind us of
why we call ourselves faithful Christians.
Easter should be the switch that ignites our
faith into action. Actions that not only
transform us, but transform the whole
world into the loving Kingdom of God
where there is neither Greek nor Jew, slave
nor free, rich nor poor, housed nor homeless, sick nor well. Easter gives you and me
the hope that one day these words will
come true in the way we care for each other. Easter also gives us the charge to get up
and move. The charge to be courageous no
matter our age or infirmities to do or say
something that creates and welcomes in the
Kingdom of God between you and me.
As we enter the long stretch between Easter and Christmas, I pray the amazing events
of Easter, and the life of Jesus the Christ are
enough of a spark to ignite your flame of
faith. May you live into the light of our risen Lord and in so doing experience the
Kingdom of God here and now!
Pastor ........................................ Andy Gans
Visitation Pastor (Ret.) ............ Tom McNeil
Music Director .......................... Rick Roberts
Executive Assistant................... Pat Brown
Nursery Attendant.................... Tammy Keeslar
Proofreaders.............................. Susan M. Jensen and
John Stewart
Contributors...............................Members of Ft. King
Assembling .................................Phyllis Altonn, Bobbie
Burns, Sue Chancey, Kay Dahlen, Joyce Gauntt,
Eleanor Hayesmore, Donna Johnson, Pat Merrill,
Roselle Pringle, Alice Reffner, Judith Simonin,
Aileen Zimmerman
Bulk Mail Handling...................John Stewart
Hallelujah,
Worship: Sundays 10:30 a.m.
Office: (352) 694694-4121
FAX: (352) 694-5226
13 NE 36TH AVENUE
OCALA, FLORIDA 34470
www.fortking.org
[email protected]
ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE
Financial Results for February 2015
February:
Income = $23,448
Budget = $23,427 Difference = +$21
Year-To-Date:
Income = $52,456
Budget = $$46,584 Difference = +$5,602
Expenses Year-to-Date:
Actual = $43,397 Budget = $46,937
Difference = -$3,540
As you can see, we held our own in February coming in at $21 over budget. There are 5 Sundays in
March so I am very optimistic regarding our results for the first quarter of 2015. Expenses remain under
budget. However, as previously stated, these expenses will catch up with the budget as the year progresses. All in all, an excellent start to our fiscal year!
Our Ministry is in need of new members. We need to grow as a church and new members with fresh ideas are always welcome! We meet on the second Tuesday of each month. Come and visit any of our meetings. See what we are all about. No Algebra. No Geometry. No Calculus. Just basic bookkeeping and a
desire to keep Fort King Church relevant.
Steve Layendecker
Chairperson
CONGREGATIONAL CARE
To Everyone Celebrating A
Birthday In April
Thanks to everyone for all your prayers and concerns.
We miss you and hope to see you soon.
Sincerely,
Doris and Steven Charleston
2
CONNECTIONS
Afriyie Bonsu-Dankyi
Rodney and Virginia Spring
DISCIPLESHIP
Sunday Adult Study
April 12 – May 31
Class 9:15 A.M. Session Room
Reading 1st C. Letters
with 21st C. Eyes
Over the past six weeks Peter Messmore helped our class meet the radical, authentic Paul. For the seven
Sundays following Easter, Tom McNeil, Mary Beth Neely, and Ray Ruark will help us read Paul’s almost
2,000 year old personal letters, especially his letter from prison to the church in Philippi, for insights on
the issues we face in our world, our country, and our church here in Ocala. You are invited to join with
Paul, Epaphroditus, Euodia, Synthche, and all the old and current “saints” as we seek God’s wisdom together.
(Please note: There will be no class on Easter Sunday)
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DISCIPLESHIP (continued)
Library Corner
HELP! The church library is running out of shelf space! So many books have been received in the last
few months (both donated and purchased) that next time you visit you will feel like a kid in a candy
store! Listed below are just a few of the most recent additions.
How to Read the Bible and Still Be a Christian by John Dominic Crossan. This is his newest book
(released March 3rd) which he talked about in some of the delightful lectures he gave here in Ocala and
at FKPC earlier this year.
The Resurrection of Jesus: J. D. Crossan and N.T. Wright in Dialogue (donated by Rhea Forman).
Thoughts about the resurrection by Crossan, a "liberal Christian", and Wright, a "conservative Christian", are presented, compared and discussed by several religious scholars.
A New Kind of Christianity: Ten Questions That Are Transforming the Faith by Brian D. McLaren, a
pastor, speaker and author. Some of the ten questions he addresses are: do we have to understand Jesus
through only an ancient Greco-Roman lens; what exactly is the good news that the gospel proclaims;
how should we think of the future and people from other faiths; and the most intimidating question of
all - what do we do next?
Also from Bruce McLaren comes his latest book We Make the Road by Walking.
Walking
Short Stories by Jesus: The Enigmatic Parables of a Controversial Rabbi, written by Amy-Jill Levine.
In the Footsteps of Jesus: A Chronicle of His Life and the Origins of Christianity. This is a big, beautiful
book from National Geographic donated by Gene Andrews and Jorine Robinson.
Being Mortal: Medicine & What Matters Most in the End by Atul Gawande, a surgeon and a professor
at Harvard Medical School. He is the author of three previous books, all bestsellers, and this current
one is destined to be another. From the book jacket comes this quote: " 'Being Mortal' shows how the
ultimate goal is not a good death but a good life -- all the way to the end."
Anne MacKay has donated 8 CDs which contain talks given by Marcus Borg at a memorial lecture series in North Carolina in 2009. With renewed interest in both Borg and Crossan, all items from our library by these two Jesus Seminar scholars have been gathered together and are displayed on the bookcase straight ahead as you enter the library. Use the many great resources your library has to offer in order to enhance your understanding of whatever religious topic you are yearning to know more about.
The library is open every Sunday from 9 a.m. until 11:45 a.m. Ask Pat in the Church Office for access at
other times during the week.
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DISCIPLESHIP - CHILDREN
Children’s Easter Egg Hunt
When: Saturday, April 4, 2015
Time: 10:00 a.m. – Noon
Ages: Toddlers through 5th grade
Hop on over with your children and grandchildren for a fun morning of games, prizes, hot
dogs, and of course CANDY!!
**Wrapped Candy and dollar store Easter Prize donations are needed. Please drop them off at
the church office by April 1st if possible. (No Plastic eggs are needed)
DISCIPLESHIP - YOUTH
K-5th grades
Our time of fellowship includes dinner, playground and spiritual development.
♦ On April 12th we will be focusing on Luke 4 (the parable of the seeds). Our
topic will include physical and spiritual gardening. Let's get our hands dirty.
♦ Our April 26 topic is Matthew 13 (parable of the field). On this evening we will
act out treasures in our hearts through drama and puppet productions.
Join us from 5-7 p.m. for evenings of exploration and learning about Jesus' presence
in our daily life.
Boy Scout Yard Sale
Boy Scouts of America Troop 196 is having their 2nd Annual Yard Sale in the Youth/
Scout House parking lot on Saturday, April 18th from 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The proceeds from this sale will help to fund Troop 196's activities throughout the
year. Please come out and support your Boy Scout troop.
Donations of gently used items are appreciated and will be accepted on April 7th and
14th at the Youth/Scout House between 7:00 and 8:00 p.m. (Please note: we apologize
but we cannot accept used computer monitors or box-type televisions.)
Thank you for your support!
5
GROUP ACTIVITIES
Crafty Ladies
Crafty Ladies meet every Thursday from 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall. We hope
to see all of you there. If you would like to join our group, come for a visit and see what we
are doing and how you can help. We welcome new people and new talents!
Men’s Night Out
Men’s Night Out will be held on Monday, April 13th at 6:30 p.m. at the home of John
Stewart. Please call John at 236-1557 to R.S.V.P.
Poetry Connection
The Poetry Connection invites you to come to a Coffee House presentation of film and poetry readings on Thursday night, April 23rd at 5:00 p.m. Light refreshments will be served.
I thank you God that I have known
And again still know
A child’s moist hand within my own.
I thank you for the warm delight
Of children’s nearness in the night .
And for the unimaginable bliss
Of healing heartache with a kiss.
~ Lena Lewin
Sassy Seniors
All widows and single ladies are welcome to join Sassy Seniors on Wednesday, April 8th at
1:00 p.m. April’s luncheon will be at the Olive Garden located at 3363 SW College Road.
Come join us!
Tai Chi Classes
Tai Chi classes meet on Thursdays at 3:00 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall. We hope that you
can join us! ~Donna Lavery and Mary Beth Neely
6
GROUP ACTIVITIES
Presbyterian Women
All women of Fort King are Presbyterian Women and are invited to participate in all activities of
Presbyterian Women.
Circle Meetings for April: Esther Circle will meet at 7:00 p.m. on April 13th at the home of Sue
Thomas. Deborah Circle will meet at 10:00 a.m. on April 21st in the Session Room.
The Coordinating Team will meet on Wednesday, April 1st, at 10:00 a.m. in the Session Room. The
Coordinating Team will be providing dinner for Interfaith on April 22nd.
Mark your calendars now for the annual church wide picnic sponsored
by Presbyterian Women immediately following worship on May 3rd, at
Coehadjoe Park. Presbyterian Women will provide fried chicken and
beverages and congregation members are asked to bring a side dish
such as salads, baked beans, desserts, and etc. A fun time is being
planned for all.
The Presbyterian Women's Coordinating Team sends a big “Thank You” to
everyone who helped make the White Elephant Sale a success. We appreciate
all the people who donated goods, baked, shopped, and volunteered. The items
left were donated to Care for America, Domestic Violence, Hospice, the public
library, and Tools for Teachers.
We can continue our benevolences to our church, missions, and charities with the money we earned.
The real joy of the sale is that over 54 people worked together in fellowship. New friendships were
formed and many happy hours were spent having fun and being good stewards of Fort King.
~ Judy Harriss
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MISSION MINISTRY
35
For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was
a stranger and you invited me in, 36 I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I
was in prison and you came to visit me.’ 37 “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you
hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? 38 When did we see you a stranger and invite
you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? 39 When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit
you?’40 “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters
of mine, you did for me.’ Matthew 25:35-40 (NIV)
One Great Hour of Sharing
On Easter Sunday April 5th, look for envelops in the bulletin to share in the One Great Hour
of Sharing. This PC(USA) wide collection enables the church to share God’s love with our neighbors-inneed around the world by providing relief to those affected by natural disasters, provide food to the hungry,
and helping to empower the poor and oppressed.
Sign-up for Interfaith Meals
Thank you to the Faith Leaders Group who served Interfaith Meals during the month of February and to the
Youth Group who served in March. The Presbyterian Women are scheduled to serve the April 22nd Interfaith Meals. We need volunteers to serve the Interfaith Meals for the following three months: May, June and
November. Please consider signing up with friends and then ask someone who has never helped with Interfaith Meals to come along.
Blood Drive
Save the Date: On April 19th the Big Red Bus will be parked in our driveway. Bill Reed will have the sign-up
sheet available on April 12th. As always, walk-in are accepted.
Mission Sunday
The Mission Ministry would like to expand on “Mission Sunday” when as a church we support 2 Cents a
Meal and Food For Kids by offering items from Fair Trade. Additional items are now available. Please
support artisans around the world as they seek to improve their living conditions.
Guatemalan Honey
Organic Hot Spicy Cocoa
Organic Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips
Organic Bittersweet Chocolate Chips
Organic Chocolate Winter Minis
$6.00 each
$7.50 each
$4.50/bag
$4.50/bag
$6.00/bag
Organic Hot Cocoa
Chocolate Bars
Organic Regular Coffee
Organic Decaf Coffee
Dark Chocolate Winter Minis
$7.50 each
$4.00 each
$7.00/bag
$8.00/bag
$6.00/bag
Ward-Highlands Elementary School
8
On April 10th the Mission Ministry will once again bring cards, bottled water and candy to the teachers and
staff of Ward-Highlands Elementary School thanking them for the hard work, love and care they give every
day to the children at their school. Many of you have already signed cards; thank you. There are still plenty of
cards that need to be written. If you prefer, you can write your own heartfelt message; otherwise a pre-written
message has been provided for you to follow. The cards, water and candy will be hand delivered to the schools
so no postage is necessary. You may either return the cards to Lorraine Fuller or drop them off at the Church
office no later than April 5th. Once again, thank you for letting the teachers and staff at Ward Highlands Elementary School know that we at FKPC are keeping them in our prayers.
PROPERTY MINISTRY
Bathrooms Transformed
Hallelujah! A word not normally used when talking about bathrooms, but in this case we are
because our sanctuary bathrooms are getting a facelift. Right after Easter work will begin on
repainting and installing porcelain tile floors in both bathrooms. New toilets (taller) and vanity
will be installed in the ladies room, along with other sprucing up items.
Please pardon our dust and any inconvenience the transformation might
cause over the coming weeks. We look forward to getting the work done as quickly
as possible.
SESSION
At its March 17th meeting, the Session heard/voted:
• After interviews and discussion with three new prospective members: The Session approved to accept into the
membership of this church: Rodney Spring and Virginia Spring as affiliate members and Afriyie Bonsu-Dankyi
as an active member by reaffirmation of faith.
• Pastor Gans introduced Rev. Charlie Rumpel of Weirsdale Presbyterian Church who is part of the “Holy Listening” visitation. After he told us about himself and Weirsdale, their programs and progress, there followed
questions and answers to and from our Elders about our church and its meaning to our members, our community and the Presbytery.
• Learned that the title of VBS this summer is “Everest.” Dates are tentatively set for June 28-July 2 with confirmation and chair to be announced.
• Approved Kelly Bush to be the new youth leader.
• The annual Easter Egg Hunt will be on Saturday, April 4th from 10 to Noon.
• One Great Hour of Sharing will be collected on Easter Sunday, April 5, 2015 which enables our church to
share God’s love with our neighbors-in-need around the world.
• Blood Drive will be April 19, 2015.
• Habitat for Humanity will be in May (specific date TBA).
• Interfaith Meals: Sign-ups are needed for May, June and November.
• Expressed thanks for the life of Ruling Elder Jim Copeland.
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WORSHIP (continued)
EASTER….PEACE
What a thrill to know that my Redeemer lives! Jesus Christ is just as alive today as
He was right after the resurrection. In fact, He is just as much alive today as He
was before the crucifixion, and even before He came to earth and was laid in the
manger.
In Job 19, verse 25, we read “I know that my Redeemer lives, and that in the end he will stand upon the
earth.” What difference does it make whether we serve a living God or one made of stone? Isn’t it just a practice we believe in? Is it a crutch to help us along our way? No! Absolutely not!
But my God is alive! The joy and the assurance that we celebrate on Easter doesn’t end when the holiday is
over and the decorations are all packed away. Walk with Christ. Talk with Him, and allow His joy to penetrate
your heart and fill your soul. Don’t live in defeat and agony as if Christ is still on in cross, or in the tomb. HE is
alive! He IS alive! He is ALIVE!
Samuel Medley wrote the poem “I Know That My Redeemer Lives” and it was set to music. It is the result of a
severe leg injury he incurred in 1759 when his ship was engaged in a naval battle with a French ship. His leg
was so damaged that amputation was imminent in order to save his life. Medley remembered what his Grandfather had taught him and he vigorously began to pray during the night that his leg be spared. The next morning,
the ship’s physician examined the leg and determined that amputation was no longer needed.
This hymn is one of great praise, especially coming from someone who did not know God’s love until later in
life. It demonstrates the peace Medley gained as a result of his realizing there is a Living God who wanted to
supply his every need. To me, it gives me peace because it reminds me that God is in my life.
I know that my Redeemer lives;
What comfort this sweet sentence gives!
He lives, He lives, who once was dead;
He lives, my ever living Head.
He lives to bless me with His love,
He lives to plead for me above.
He lives my hungry soul to feed,
He lives to help in time of need.
He lives triumphant from the grave,
He lives eternally to save,
He lives all glorious in the sky,
He lives exalted there on high.
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WORSHIP (continued)
A living God knows right where you are day by day, hour by hour, minute by minute. He sees your every
need, hears your every cry, and longs to hold you close to Himself. He is present to walk with you through
the valley. He provides a song in the night. He takes your feet from the muck and mire and plants them on
a rock. He blesses you with hope and gives joy for Life’s journey. A god with no life is unable to do these
things. He cannot see, or hear, or reach, or touch, or provide. He simply cannot.
He lives to grant me rich supply,
He lives to guide me with His eye,
He lives to comfort me when faint,
He lives to hear my soul’s complaint.
He lives to silence all my fears,
He lives to wipe away my tears
He lives to calm my troubled heart,
He lives all blessings to impart.
He lives, my kind, wise, heavenly Friend,
He lives and loves me to the end;
He lives, and while He lives, I’ll sing;
He lives, my Prophet, Priest, and King.
He lives and grants me daily breath;
He lives, and I shall conquer death:
He lives my mansion to prepare;
He lives to bring me safely there.
He lives, all glory to His Name!
He lives, my Jesus, still the same.
Oh, the sweet joy this sentence gives,
I know that my Redeemer lives!
This hymn reminds us that God does live every day in us, and that he lives for us, not just so that we may
sing his praise, but that we may be saved in Him. Just the other day while in church, I thought to myself,
why does God get to use us, and furthermore, why does He want to use us? There isn’t really any other answer to this question other than His love for us is so strong that he wants us to be with him eternally, and
the only way to do that is to live in his way. Living like Christ and like God is not an easy task, and is something that we as humans cannot do simply on our own. It takes God and His power to allow us to live a life
worthy of Him.
Why? Because Christ is alive! So rejoice, my friend, and live each day with the hope and joy and peace that
Easter brings.
With a song in my heart,
Rick
11
WORSHIP (continued)
To Be Risen With Christ
There are many facets of early Christian belief in the Resurrection:
Resurrection its connection with the coming of Christ, the
Day of Judgment, general and individual resurrections, the coming of the Messiah, consummation, etc., etc. Just
exactly what the word meant to the NT writers and believers and what it may mean for us complicates our own
understandings. I will do my utmost to make all aspects of the belief as crystal clear as possible. It does have a
focused meaning on our life together in the church, and this is exactly where we start.
The Apostle Paul, about +15 – 20 years before the NT Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke) were written (and
50 years before the Gospel of John – the “Fourth Gospel”) presented three perspectives on resurrection:
- I Thessalonians 4 (+/- 50 CE) presented an apocalyptic version, Paul’s earliest Pharisaic perspective,
a time line of coming events leading to the second coming (Parousia) of Christ, resurrections, consummation, etc.;
- I Corinthians 15 (+/- 54 CE) begins with a creedal statement Paul had received from an early Greekspeaking Jewish group of worshippers. Two notes: One does not believe in the crucifixion of Jesus: it
happened! One does believe in the Resurrection: it is not an historical event. Paul said that Jesus
“was raised on the third day,” meaning – from his point of view – that this was an act of God, not yet
a historical fact; and,
- The Epistle to the Romans (+/- 57 CE) in which Paul used the word “Resurrection,” only twice (1:4;
6:5), but affirmed “raised from the dead” eleven times; he did not give a time-line for coming future
events! Ah! That’s important.
If we may begin with the Apostle Paul’s statements in his Epistle to the Romans, he makes the following point:
The Transformation = “Resurrection” of human life, of your, my, and our life and lives, begins now;
now “in Christ”
our relationships with one another are now being “transformed,” “changed”. We do not wait for a future event to
occur! Paul clearly stated:
“Do not be conformed to this world (“Eon”, “Epoch”), but be transformed by the
renewal of your mind that you may prove/demonstrate what is the Will of God” (Romans 12:2).
It is precisely this point in the Apostle Paul that is consistent with the sayings/teaching of Jesus of Nazareth:
* In Jesus’ parables:
- The Seed Sown Secretly: Mark 4:26-29.
- The Mustard Seed: Mark 4:30-32 // Gospel of Thomas 20:26-4.
- The Leaven: Luke 13:20-21// Matthew 13:33.
That is, the fulfillment of the Kingdom of God is beyond our control, management, or manipulation. It is God’s
kingdom that is present now, even though unseen, not recognized. And, it will reach its fulfillment in its own
time.
*
In Jesus’ sayings:
“Blessed are you poor, for yours is the kingdom of God” (Luke 6:20/ Matthew 5:3/ Gospel Thomas
54);
“Behold, the kingdom of God is in your midst”=“in between you” (Gospel Thomas 113:2:4/Luke
17:20-21).
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WORSHIP (continued)
That is, for Jesus of Nazareth, the Transformation of human lives starts now, not in some distant future series of
events leading to Consummation. Jesus of Nazareth proclaimed the now-present “Kingdom of God,” yet to be
fulfilled; Paul, the now present “Resurrection”/”transformation, yet to be fulfilled!!
Paul urged that we have the “mind of Christ” which puts us in a unique position: with Jesus of Nazareth, whom
he called “The Christ,” we are to pour out our life-energies in being present to and supportive of one another as
persons. There are no boundaries on “love” for Paul or Jesus.
To the “working Body of Christ” in the world means concretely to be the continuation of the ministry of Jesus of
Nazareth. We share in his ministry; no one is his “successor”. We are companions with and representatives of
Jesus of Nazareth. We not only share in Jesus’ ministry; we must learn how he said and did things, and we must
learn how to do things in our age and time. We may live in a technologically advanced and advancing world/
civilization, but the reality is that we are still each and all human beings. We may not identify psychological disturbances and/or the effects of socio-cultural and physical oppression as “demonic,” but we must still deal with
these realities – and they are just as real today as they were for Jesus. So, learn – think and share we must in order to be the Body of Christ in the world today.
Being a member of the Church, the Body of Christ, entails questioning not only one’s socio-cultural upbringing
and assumptions, but entails confronting the dehumanization of persons by the domination–systems of this
world. And it entails critically questioning the easy identification of Church–institutional goals with meeting the
needs of human beings.
Paul’s exhortation still stands:
“I appeal to you… to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship” (Romans 12:1)
And this is followed by:
“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind… (Romans 12:2)
This is the beginning of “Resurrection” in this world. We’ve got lots to work on!
Something to think about.
Shalom,
Tom
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WORSHIP (continued)
Flower Calendar
Please Note: If you would like to commemorate a special event/occasion/memory etc. for a
specific date, please call me as soon as possible. It is never too early to select your chosen date.
Please don’t hesitate to call me if there is a Sunday you would like to commemorate by sharing
with the church some type of flowers or plant of your choice. The flowers or plant could be
from your yard, a supermarket, a florist, or etc. Thank you. ~ Nancy Hall 694694-3221
Thank you to these people as they share in donating the flowers for the following worship services:
April 5, 2015
- “If Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile and you are still in your sins.” 1 Corinthians
15:17; In memory of those who have gone before us.
(Easter) (the church is not soliciting Easter lilies for the sanctuary)
April 12, 2015
- In celebration of Trent and Liesha Herron’s 30th wedding anniversary.
April 19, 2015
- In loving memory of Ray Chancey from Sue, Laura, and Elaine.
April 26, 2015
May 3, 2015
May 10, 2015
May 17, 2015
May 24, 2015
May 31, 2015
-
In loving memory of Bruce and other loved ones from Prudence Pritz.
From Nancy Stephenson in loving memory of her parents, Ted and Violet Wikary.
From Sherry Pritchett in loving memory of my mother, Edna Hanson.
From John and Jean Stewart in celebration of their 60th wedding anniversary.
In loving memory of Andy from the Harshman family.
In celebration of our 60th anniversary from Pat and Jerry Merrill.
June 7, 2015
June 14, 2015
June 21, 2015
June 28, 2015
July 5, 2015
-
In memory of our parents, Aleta, Max, and Robert, from the Repp family.
From Bernice and Bob Henry in celebration of their 55th wedding anniversary.
OPEN (Father’s Day)
In honor of our 53rd wedding anniversary from Charles and Mary Ellen Vowinkel.
‘God Bless America’ and a special ‘Thank You’ to all those men and women who serve or have
served our country in any capacity! from Pat Brown.
July 12, 2015
July 19, 2015
July 26, 2015
August 2, 2015
August 9, 2015
August 16, 2015
August 23, 2015
-
OPEN
OPEN
OPEN
OPEN
OPEN
OPEN
From Marianne Fullarton, in loving memory of Dave on the anniversary of their wedding.
August 30, 2015 - OPEN
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April 2015
Italicized items are non-FKPC activities using FKPC facilities
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
1
Thursday
2
Friday
3
Saturday
4
7:30 - 9:00 BNI (FH)
11:00
10:00 PW
Coordinating
1:00
Team
3:00
7:00
1:30 Worship
Ministry
Discipleship
Adult Ministry
Crafts
Tai Chi
Maundy
ThursdaY
Service (FKPC)
12:00 Noon
Good Friday
Service (First
Presbyterian
Church)
10:00 - 12:00
EASTER EGG
HUNT
7:00 AA (FH)
EASTER
ONE GREAT HOUR
OF SHARING
6:30 Sunrise Service
(McPherson Complex)
9:00 - 11:45 Library
10:00 Choir Practice
10:30 Worship
6 OFFICE CLOSED
12
9:00 - 11:45 Library
9:15 Adult Ed & Youth
10:00 Choir Practice
10:30 Worship
11:30 Congregational Care
Ministry
4:00 Small Group Study
(off-site)
5:00 PYC
5:00 High Tide
13
7:30 Men’s Bible
Study
5
5:00 TOPS (FH)
6:00 Discipleship
Children’s
Ministry
6:00-8:00 Marions
United (CE)
7
8
10:00 Prayer
Shawl Ministry
5:00 Property
1:00 Sassy
Ministry
Seniors (off-site)
5:30 Connections
Ministry
7:00 Boy Scouts
(YH)
9
14
16
11
Charles
Kirk
Memorial
Service
1:00 Crafts
3:00 Tai Chi
7:00 Choir Practice
7:00 AA (FH)
17
18
7:30 - 9:00 BNI (FH)
5:00 TOPS (FH)
5:30 Mission
Ministry
6:00 - 8:00 Marions
United (CE)
1:00 Community
Worship
1:00 Crafts
3:00 Tai Chi
6:00 Finance
Ministry
6:30 Men’s Night Out
(off-site)
7:00 Esther Circle
7:00 Boy Scouts
(off-site)
(YH)
21
19
9:00 - 11:45 Library
9:00 - 1:30 Blood Drive
9:15 Adult Ed & Youth
10:00 Choir Practice
10:30 Worship
4:00 Small Group Study
(off-site)
5:00 PYC
5:00 TOPS (FH)
6:00 - 8:00 Marions
United (CE)
6:00 Session
7:00 Boy Scouts
(YH)
26
27
28
Food4Kids &
2 Cents A Meal
9:00 - 11:45 Library
9:00 - 11:45 Library
9:15 Adult Ed & Youth
10:00 Choir Practice
10:30 Worship
4:00 Small Group
Study (off-site)
5:00 PYC
5:00 High Tide
15
10
7:30 - 9:00 BNI (FH)
20
Boy Scout
Yard Sale
7:00 Choir Practice
7:00 AA (FH)
22 Earth Day
23
24
7:30 - 9:00 BNI (FH)
7:30 Men’s Bible
Study
10:00 Deborah
Circle
1:00 Crafts
3:00 Tai Chi
7:00 Choir Practice
7:00 AA (FH)
29
Turning Point
Set up (FH)
25
9:00-3:00
Turning
Point (FH)
5:00 Boy
Scouts
Training (FH)
30
7:30 - 9:00 BNI (FH)
7:30 Men’s Bible
Study
1:00 Crafts
3:00 Tai Chi
5:00 TOPS (FH)
6:00 - 8:00 Marions
United (CE)
7:00 Choir Practice
7:00 Boy Scouts
(YH)
7:00 AA (FH)
15
FORT KING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
13 NE 36th Avenue
Ocala, Florida 34470
Non-Profit
Organization
US Postage Paid
Ocala, FL 34478
Permit #100
RETURNED SERVICE REQUESTED
Label
Boy Scout Fundraiser
Ft. King’s Boy Scout Troop #196 is selling meat sticks as a fundraiser for their various scouting activities.
The meat sticks are made at Ocala based Country Meats, an FDA certified facility. The sticks sell for
$1.00 each. If interested, contact Bob Barton 425-8500. See a sample on the church bulletin board.
He is risen! He is risen indeed!
I pray your Easter was full of joy in once
again celebrating our resurrected Lord.
Easter represents new life, new beginnings
and new opportunities. Easter reminds us
that what was once old is now new again,
and that includes our faith.
This past Lent my sermon series focused on
how we can “Ignite our Faith”, how we can
be transformed by the way Jesus lived and
by the events of Easter. Every Easter, and
the days that follow, should remind us of
why we call ourselves faithful Christians.
Easter should be the switch that ignites our
faith into action. Actions that not only
transform us, but transform the whole
world into the loving Kingdom of God
where there is neither Greek nor Jew, slave
nor free, rich nor poor, housed nor homeless, sick nor well. Easter gives you and me
the hope that one day these words will
come true in the way we care for each other. Easter also gives us the charge to get up
and move. The charge to be courageous no
matter our age or infirmities to do or say
something that creates and welcomes in the
Kingdom of God between you and me.
As we enter the long stretch between Easter and Christmas, I pray the amazing events
of Easter, and the life of Jesus the Christ are
enough of a spark to ignite your flame of
faith. May you live into the light of our risen Lord and in so doing experience the
Kingdom of God here and now!
Pastor ........................................ Andy Gans
Visitation Pastor (Ret.) ............ Tom McNeil
Music Director .......................... Rick Roberts
Executive Assistant................... Pat Brown
Nursery Attendant.................... Tammy Keeslar
Proofreaders.............................. Susan M. Jensen and
John Stewart
Contributors...............................Members of Ft. King
Assembling .................................Phyllis Altonn, Bobbie
Burns, Sue Chancey, Kay Dahlen, Joyce Gauntt,
Eleanor Hayesmore, Donna Johnson, Pat Merrill,
Roselle Pringle, Alice Reffner, Judith Simonin,
Aileen Zimmerman
Bulk Mail Handling...................John Stewart
Hallelujah,
Worship: Sundays 10:30 a.m.
Office: (352) 694694-4121
FAX: (352) 694-5226
13 NE 36TH AVENUE
OCALA, FLORIDA 34470
www.fortking.org
[email protected]
ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE
Financial Results for February 2015
February:
Income = $23,448
Budget = $23,427 Difference = +$21
Year-To-Date:
Income = $52,456
Budget = $$46,584 Difference = +$5,602
Expenses Year-to-Date:
Actual = $43,397 Budget = $46,937
Difference = -$3,540
As you can see, we held our own in February coming in at $21 over budget. There are 5 Sundays in
March so I am very optimistic regarding our results for the first quarter of 2015. Expenses remain under
budget. However, as previously stated, these expenses will catch up with the budget as the year progresses. All in all, an excellent start to our fiscal year!
Our Ministry is in need of new members. We need to grow as a church and new members with fresh ideas are always welcome! We meet on the second Tuesday of each month. Come and visit any of our meetings. See what we are all about. No Algebra. No Geometry. No Calculus. Just basic bookkeeping and a
desire to keep Fort King Church relevant.
Steve Layendecker
Chairperson
CONGREGATIONAL CARE
To Everyone Celebrating A
Birthday In April
Thanks to everyone for all your prayers and concerns.
We miss you and hope to see you soon.
Sincerely,
Doris and Steven Charleston
2
CONNECTIONS
Afriyie Bonsu-Dankyi
Rodney and Virginia Spring
DISCIPLESHIP
Sunday Adult Study
April 12 – May 31
Class 9:15 A.M. Session Room
Reading 1st C. Letters
with 21st C. Eyes
Over the past six weeks Peter Messmore helped our class meet the radical, authentic Paul. For the seven
Sundays following Easter, Tom McNeil, Mary Beth Neely, and Ray Ruark will help us read Paul’s almost
2,000 year old personal letters, especially his letter from prison to the church in Philippi, for insights on
the issues we face in our world, our country, and our church here in Ocala. You are invited to join with
Paul, Epaphroditus, Euodia, Synthche, and all the old and current “saints” as we seek God’s wisdom together.
(Please note: There will be no class on Easter Sunday)
3
DISCIPLESHIP (continued)
Library Corner
HELP! The church library is running out of shelf space! So many books have been received in the last
few months (both donated and purchased) that next time you visit you will feel like a kid in a candy
store! Listed below are just a few of the most recent additions.
How to Read the Bible and Still Be a Christian by John Dominic Crossan. This is his newest book
(released March 3rd) which he talked about in some of the delightful lectures he gave here in Ocala and
at FKPC earlier this year.
The Resurrection of Jesus: J. D. Crossan and N.T. Wright in Dialogue (donated by Rhea Forman).
Thoughts about the resurrection by Crossan, a "liberal Christian", and Wright, a "conservative Christian", are presented, compared and discussed by several religious scholars.
A New Kind of Christianity: Ten Questions That Are Transforming the Faith by Brian D. McLaren, a
pastor, speaker and author. Some of the ten questions he addresses are: do we have to understand Jesus
through only an ancient Greco-Roman lens; what exactly is the good news that the gospel proclaims;
how should we think of the future and people from other faiths; and the most intimidating question of
all - what do we do next?
Also from Bruce McLaren comes his latest book We Make the Road by Walking.
Walking
Short Stories by Jesus: The Enigmatic Parables of a Controversial Rabbi, written by Amy-Jill Levine.
In the Footsteps of Jesus: A Chronicle of His Life and the Origins of Christianity. This is a big, beautiful
book from National Geographic donated by Gene Andrews and Jorine Robinson.
Being Mortal: Medicine & What Matters Most in the End by Atul Gawande, a surgeon and a professor
at Harvard Medical School. He is the author of three previous books, all bestsellers, and this current
one is destined to be another. From the book jacket comes this quote: " 'Being Mortal' shows how the
ultimate goal is not a good death but a good life -- all the way to the end."
Anne MacKay has donated 8 CDs which contain talks given by Marcus Borg at a memorial lecture series in North Carolina in 2009. With renewed interest in both Borg and Crossan, all items from our library by these two Jesus Seminar scholars have been gathered together and are displayed on the bookcase straight ahead as you enter the library. Use the many great resources your library has to offer in order to enhance your understanding of whatever religious topic you are yearning to know more about.
The library is open every Sunday from 9 a.m. until 11:45 a.m. Ask Pat in the Church Office for access at
other times during the week.
4
DISCIPLESHIP - CHILDREN
Children’s Easter Egg Hunt
When: Saturday, April 4, 2015
Time: 10:00 a.m. – Noon
Ages: Toddlers through 5th grade
Hop on over with your children and grandchildren for a fun morning of games, prizes, hot
dogs, and of course CANDY!!
**Wrapped Candy and dollar store Easter Prize donations are needed. Please drop them off at
the church office by April 1st if possible. (No Plastic eggs are needed)
DISCIPLESHIP - YOUTH
K-5th grades
Our time of fellowship includes dinner, playground and spiritual development.
♦ On April 12th we will be focusing on Luke 4 (the parable of the seeds). Our
topic will include physical and spiritual gardening. Let's get our hands dirty.
♦ Our April 26 topic is Matthew 13 (parable of the field). On this evening we will
act out treasures in our hearts through drama and puppet productions.
Join us from 5-7 p.m. for evenings of exploration and learning about Jesus' presence
in our daily life.
Boy Scout Yard Sale
Boy Scouts of America Troop 196 is having their 2nd Annual Yard Sale in the Youth/
Scout House parking lot on Saturday, April 18th from 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The proceeds from this sale will help to fund Troop 196's activities throughout the
year. Please come out and support your Boy Scout troop.
Donations of gently used items are appreciated and will be accepted on April 7th and
14th at the Youth/Scout House between 7:00 and 8:00 p.m. (Please note: we apologize
but we cannot accept used computer monitors or box-type televisions.)
Thank you for your support!
5
GROUP ACTIVITIES
Crafty Ladies
Crafty Ladies meet every Thursday from 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall. We hope
to see all of you there. If you would like to join our group, come for a visit and see what we
are doing and how you can help. We welcome new people and new talents!
Men’s Night Out
Men’s Night Out will be held on Monday, April 13th at 6:30 p.m. at the home of John
Stewart. Please call John at 236-1557 to R.S.V.P.
Poetry Connection
The Poetry Connection invites you to come to a Coffee House presentation of film and poetry readings on Thursday night, April 23rd at 5:00 p.m. Light refreshments will be served.
I thank you God that I have known
And again still know
A child’s moist hand within my own.
I thank you for the warm delight
Of children’s nearness in the night .
And for the unimaginable bliss
Of healing heartache with a kiss.
~ Lena Lewin
Sassy Seniors
All widows and single ladies are welcome to join Sassy Seniors on Wednesday, April 8th at
1:00 p.m. April’s luncheon will be at the Olive Garden located at 3363 SW College Road.
Come join us!
Tai Chi Classes
Tai Chi classes meet on Thursdays at 3:00 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall. We hope that you
can join us! ~Donna Lavery and Mary Beth Neely
6
GROUP ACTIVITIES
Presbyterian Women
All women of Fort King are Presbyterian Women and are invited to participate in all activities of
Presbyterian Women.
Circle Meetings for April: Esther Circle will meet at 7:00 p.m. on April 13th at the home of Sue
Thomas. Deborah Circle will meet at 10:00 a.m. on April 21st in the Session Room.
The Coordinating Team will meet on Wednesday, April 1st, at 10:00 a.m. in the Session Room. The
Coordinating Team will be providing dinner for Interfaith on April 22nd.
Mark your calendars now for the annual church wide picnic sponsored
by Presbyterian Women immediately following worship on May 3rd, at
Coehadjoe Park. Presbyterian Women will provide fried chicken and
beverages and congregation members are asked to bring a side dish
such as salads, baked beans, desserts, and etc. A fun time is being
planned for all.
The Presbyterian Women's Coordinating Team sends a big “Thank You” to
everyone who helped make the White Elephant Sale a success. We appreciate
all the people who donated goods, baked, shopped, and volunteered. The items
left were donated to Care for America, Domestic Violence, Hospice, the public
library, and Tools for Teachers.
We can continue our benevolences to our church, missions, and charities with the money we earned.
The real joy of the sale is that over 54 people worked together in fellowship. New friendships were
formed and many happy hours were spent having fun and being good stewards of Fort King.
~ Judy Harriss
7
MISSION MINISTRY
35
For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was
a stranger and you invited me in, 36 I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I
was in prison and you came to visit me.’ 37 “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you
hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? 38 When did we see you a stranger and invite
you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? 39 When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit
you?’40 “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters
of mine, you did for me.’ Matthew 25:35-40 (NIV)
One Great Hour of Sharing
On Easter Sunday April 5th, look for envelops in the bulletin to share in the One Great Hour
of Sharing. This PC(USA) wide collection enables the church to share God’s love with our neighbors-inneed around the world by providing relief to those affected by natural disasters, provide food to the hungry,
and helping to empower the poor and oppressed.
Sign-up for Interfaith Meals
Thank you to the Faith Leaders Group who served Interfaith Meals during the month of February and to the
Youth Group who served in March. The Presbyterian Women are scheduled to serve the April 22nd Interfaith Meals. We need volunteers to serve the Interfaith Meals for the following three months: May, June and
November. Please consider signing up with friends and then ask someone who has never helped with Interfaith Meals to come along.
Blood Drive
Save the Date: On April 19th the Big Red Bus will be parked in our driveway. Bill Reed will have the sign-up
sheet available on April 12th. As always, walk-in are accepted.
Mission Sunday
The Mission Ministry would like to expand on “Mission Sunday” when as a church we support 2 Cents a
Meal and Food For Kids by offering items from Fair Trade. Additional items are now available. Please
support artisans around the world as they seek to improve their living conditions.
Guatemalan Honey
Organic Hot Spicy Cocoa
Organic Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips
Organic Bittersweet Chocolate Chips
Organic Chocolate Winter Minis
$6.00 each
$7.50 each
$4.50/bag
$4.50/bag
$6.00/bag
Organic Hot Cocoa
Chocolate Bars
Organic Regular Coffee
Organic Decaf Coffee
Dark Chocolate Winter Minis
$7.50 each
$4.00 each
$7.00/bag
$8.00/bag
$6.00/bag
Ward-Highlands Elementary School
8
On April 10th the Mission Ministry will once again bring cards, bottled water and candy to the teachers and
staff of Ward-Highlands Elementary School thanking them for the hard work, love and care they give every
day to the children at their school. Many of you have already signed cards; thank you. There are still plenty of
cards that need to be written. If you prefer, you can write your own heartfelt message; otherwise a pre-written
message has been provided for you to follow. The cards, water and candy will be hand delivered to the schools
so no postage is necessary. You may either return the cards to Lorraine Fuller or drop them off at the Church
office no later than April 5th. Once again, thank you for letting the teachers and staff at Ward Highlands Elementary School know that we at FKPC are keeping them in our prayers.
PROPERTY MINISTRY
Bathrooms Transformed
Hallelujah! A word not normally used when talking about bathrooms, but in this case we are
because our sanctuary bathrooms are getting a facelift. Right after Easter work will begin on
repainting and installing porcelain tile floors in both bathrooms. New toilets (taller) and vanity
will be installed in the ladies room, along with other sprucing up items.
Please pardon our dust and any inconvenience the transformation might
cause over the coming weeks. We look forward to getting the work done as quickly
as possible.
SESSION
At its March 17th meeting, the Session heard/voted:
• After interviews and discussion with three new prospective members: The Session approved to accept into the
membership of this church: Rodney Spring and Virginia Spring as affiliate members and Afriyie Bonsu-Dankyi
as an active member by reaffirmation of faith.
• Pastor Gans introduced Rev. Charlie Rumpel of Weirsdale Presbyterian Church who is part of the “Holy Listening” visitation. After he told us about himself and Weirsdale, their programs and progress, there followed
questions and answers to and from our Elders about our church and its meaning to our members, our community and the Presbytery.
• Learned that the title of VBS this summer is “Everest.” Dates are tentatively set for June 28-July 2 with confirmation and chair to be announced.
• Approved Kelly Bush to be the new youth leader.
• The annual Easter Egg Hunt will be on Saturday, April 4th from 10 to Noon.
• One Great Hour of Sharing will be collected on Easter Sunday, April 5, 2015 which enables our church to
share God’s love with our neighbors-in-need around the world.
• Blood Drive will be April 19, 2015.
• Habitat for Humanity will be in May (specific date TBA).
• Interfaith Meals: Sign-ups are needed for May, June and November.
• Expressed thanks for the life of Ruling Elder Jim Copeland.
9
WORSHIP (continued)
EASTER….PEACE
What a thrill to know that my Redeemer lives! Jesus Christ is just as alive today as
He was right after the resurrection. In fact, He is just as much alive today as He
was before the crucifixion, and even before He came to earth and was laid in the
manger.
In Job 19, verse 25, we read “I know that my Redeemer lives, and that in the end he will stand upon the
earth.” What difference does it make whether we serve a living God or one made of stone? Isn’t it just a practice we believe in? Is it a crutch to help us along our way? No! Absolutely not!
But my God is alive! The joy and the assurance that we celebrate on Easter doesn’t end when the holiday is
over and the decorations are all packed away. Walk with Christ. Talk with Him, and allow His joy to penetrate
your heart and fill your soul. Don’t live in defeat and agony as if Christ is still on in cross, or in the tomb. HE is
alive! He IS alive! He is ALIVE!
Samuel Medley wrote the poem “I Know That My Redeemer Lives” and it was set to music. It is the result of a
severe leg injury he incurred in 1759 when his ship was engaged in a naval battle with a French ship. His leg
was so damaged that amputation was imminent in order to save his life. Medley remembered what his Grandfather had taught him and he vigorously began to pray during the night that his leg be spared. The next morning,
the ship’s physician examined the leg and determined that amputation was no longer needed.
This hymn is one of great praise, especially coming from someone who did not know God’s love until later in
life. It demonstrates the peace Medley gained as a result of his realizing there is a Living God who wanted to
supply his every need. To me, it gives me peace because it reminds me that God is in my life.
I know that my Redeemer lives;
What comfort this sweet sentence gives!
He lives, He lives, who once was dead;
He lives, my ever living Head.
He lives to bless me with His love,
He lives to plead for me above.
He lives my hungry soul to feed,
He lives to help in time of need.
He lives triumphant from the grave,
He lives eternally to save,
He lives all glorious in the sky,
He lives exalted there on high.
10
WORSHIP (continued)
A living God knows right where you are day by day, hour by hour, minute by minute. He sees your every
need, hears your every cry, and longs to hold you close to Himself. He is present to walk with you through
the valley. He provides a song in the night. He takes your feet from the muck and mire and plants them on
a rock. He blesses you with hope and gives joy for Life’s journey. A god with no life is unable to do these
things. He cannot see, or hear, or reach, or touch, or provide. He simply cannot.
He lives to grant me rich supply,
He lives to guide me with His eye,
He lives to comfort me when faint,
He lives to hear my soul’s complaint.
He lives to silence all my fears,
He lives to wipe away my tears
He lives to calm my troubled heart,
He lives all blessings to impart.
He lives, my kind, wise, heavenly Friend,
He lives and loves me to the end;
He lives, and while He lives, I’ll sing;
He lives, my Prophet, Priest, and King.
He lives and grants me daily breath;
He lives, and I shall conquer death:
He lives my mansion to prepare;
He lives to bring me safely there.
He lives, all glory to His Name!
He lives, my Jesus, still the same.
Oh, the sweet joy this sentence gives,
I know that my Redeemer lives!
This hymn reminds us that God does live every day in us, and that he lives for us, not just so that we may
sing his praise, but that we may be saved in Him. Just the other day while in church, I thought to myself,
why does God get to use us, and furthermore, why does He want to use us? There isn’t really any other answer to this question other than His love for us is so strong that he wants us to be with him eternally, and
the only way to do that is to live in his way. Living like Christ and like God is not an easy task, and is something that we as humans cannot do simply on our own. It takes God and His power to allow us to live a life
worthy of Him.
Why? Because Christ is alive! So rejoice, my friend, and live each day with the hope and joy and peace that
Easter brings.
With a song in my heart,
Rick
11
WORSHIP (continued)
To Be Risen With Christ
There are many facets of early Christian belief in the Resurrection:
Resurrection its connection with the coming of Christ, the
Day of Judgment, general and individual resurrections, the coming of the Messiah, consummation, etc., etc. Just
exactly what the word meant to the NT writers and believers and what it may mean for us complicates our own
understandings. I will do my utmost to make all aspects of the belief as crystal clear as possible. It does have a
focused meaning on our life together in the church, and this is exactly where we start.
The Apostle Paul, about +15 – 20 years before the NT Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke) were written (and
50 years before the Gospel of John – the “Fourth Gospel”) presented three perspectives on resurrection:
- I Thessalonians 4 (+/- 50 CE) presented an apocalyptic version, Paul’s earliest Pharisaic perspective,
a time line of coming events leading to the second coming (Parousia) of Christ, resurrections, consummation, etc.;
- I Corinthians 15 (+/- 54 CE) begins with a creedal statement Paul had received from an early Greekspeaking Jewish group of worshippers. Two notes: One does not believe in the crucifixion of Jesus: it
happened! One does believe in the Resurrection: it is not an historical event. Paul said that Jesus
“was raised on the third day,” meaning – from his point of view – that this was an act of God, not yet
a historical fact; and,
- The Epistle to the Romans (+/- 57 CE) in which Paul used the word “Resurrection,” only twice (1:4;
6:5), but affirmed “raised from the dead” eleven times; he did not give a time-line for coming future
events! Ah! That’s important.
If we may begin with the Apostle Paul’s statements in his Epistle to the Romans, he makes the following point:
The Transformation = “Resurrection” of human life, of your, my, and our life and lives, begins now;
now “in Christ”
our relationships with one another are now being “transformed,” “changed”. We do not wait for a future event to
occur! Paul clearly stated:
“Do not be conformed to this world (“Eon”, “Epoch”), but be transformed by the
renewal of your mind that you may prove/demonstrate what is the Will of God” (Romans 12:2).
It is precisely this point in the Apostle Paul that is consistent with the sayings/teaching of Jesus of Nazareth:
* In Jesus’ parables:
- The Seed Sown Secretly: Mark 4:26-29.
- The Mustard Seed: Mark 4:30-32 // Gospel of Thomas 20:26-4.
- The Leaven: Luke 13:20-21// Matthew 13:33.
That is, the fulfillment of the Kingdom of God is beyond our control, management, or manipulation. It is God’s
kingdom that is present now, even though unseen, not recognized. And, it will reach its fulfillment in its own
time.
*
In Jesus’ sayings:
“Blessed are you poor, for yours is the kingdom of God” (Luke 6:20/ Matthew 5:3/ Gospel Thomas
54);
“Behold, the kingdom of God is in your midst”=“in between you” (Gospel Thomas 113:2:4/Luke
17:20-21).
12
WORSHIP (continued)
That is, for Jesus of Nazareth, the Transformation of human lives starts now, not in some distant future series of
events leading to Consummation. Jesus of Nazareth proclaimed the now-present “Kingdom of God,” yet to be
fulfilled; Paul, the now present “Resurrection”/”transformation, yet to be fulfilled!!
Paul urged that we have the “mind of Christ” which puts us in a unique position: with Jesus of Nazareth, whom
he called “The Christ,” we are to pour out our life-energies in being present to and supportive of one another as
persons. There are no boundaries on “love” for Paul or Jesus.
To the “working Body of Christ” in the world means concretely to be the continuation of the ministry of Jesus of
Nazareth. We share in his ministry; no one is his “successor”. We are companions with and representatives of
Jesus of Nazareth. We not only share in Jesus’ ministry; we must learn how he said and did things, and we must
learn how to do things in our age and time. We may live in a technologically advanced and advancing world/
civilization, but the reality is that we are still each and all human beings. We may not identify psychological disturbances and/or the effects of socio-cultural and physical oppression as “demonic,” but we must still deal with
these realities – and they are just as real today as they were for Jesus. So, learn – think and share we must in order to be the Body of Christ in the world today.
Being a member of the Church, the Body of Christ, entails questioning not only one’s socio-cultural upbringing
and assumptions, but entails confronting the dehumanization of persons by the domination–systems of this
world. And it entails critically questioning the easy identification of Church–institutional goals with meeting the
needs of human beings.
Paul’s exhortation still stands:
“I appeal to you… to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship” (Romans 12:1)
And this is followed by:
“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind… (Romans 12:2)
This is the beginning of “Resurrection” in this world. We’ve got lots to work on!
Something to think about.
Shalom,
Tom
13
WORSHIP (continued)
Flower Calendar
Please Note: If you would like to commemorate a special event/occasion/memory etc. for a
specific date, please call me as soon as possible. It is never too early to select your chosen date.
Please don’t hesitate to call me if there is a Sunday you would like to commemorate by sharing
with the church some type of flowers or plant of your choice. The flowers or plant could be
from your yard, a supermarket, a florist, or etc. Thank you. ~ Nancy Hall 694694-3221
Thank you to these people as they share in donating the flowers for the following worship services:
April 5, 2015
- “If Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile and you are still in your sins.” 1 Corinthians
15:17; In memory of those who have gone before us.
(Easter) (the church is not soliciting Easter lilies for the sanctuary)
April 12, 2015
- In celebration of Trent and Liesha Herron’s 30th wedding anniversary.
April 19, 2015
- In loving memory of Ray Chancey from Sue, Laura, and Elaine.
April 26, 2015
May 3, 2015
May 10, 2015
May 17, 2015
May 24, 2015
May 31, 2015
-
In loving memory of Bruce and other loved ones from Prudence Pritz.
From Nancy Stephenson in loving memory of her parents, Ted and Violet Wikary.
From Sherry Pritchett in loving memory of my mother, Edna Hanson.
From John and Jean Stewart in celebration of their 60th wedding anniversary.
In loving memory of Andy from the Harshman family.
In celebration of our 60th anniversary from Pat and Jerry Merrill.
June 7, 2015
June 14, 2015
June 21, 2015
June 28, 2015
July 5, 2015
-
In memory of our parents, Aleta, Max, and Robert, from the Repp family.
From Bernice and Bob Henry in celebration of their 55th wedding anniversary.
OPEN (Father’s Day)
In honor of our 53rd wedding anniversary from Charles and Mary Ellen Vowinkel.
‘God Bless America’ and a special ‘Thank You’ to all those men and women who serve or have
served our country in any capacity! from Pat Brown.
July 12, 2015
July 19, 2015
July 26, 2015
August 2, 2015
August 9, 2015
August 16, 2015
August 23, 2015
-
OPEN
OPEN
OPEN
OPEN
OPEN
OPEN
From Marianne Fullarton, in loving memory of Dave on the anniversary of their wedding.
August 30, 2015 - OPEN
14
April 2015
Italicized items are non-FKPC activities using FKPC facilities
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
1
Thursday
2
Friday
3
Saturday
4
7:30 - 9:00 BNI (FH)
11:00
10:00 PW
Coordinating
1:00
Team
3:00
7:00
1:30 Worship
Ministry
Discipleship
Adult Ministry
Crafts
Tai Chi
Maundy
ThursdaY
Service (FKPC)
12:00 Noon
Good Friday
Service (First
Presbyterian
Church)
10:00 - 12:00
EASTER EGG
HUNT
7:00 AA (FH)
EASTER
ONE GREAT HOUR
OF SHARING
6:30 Sunrise Service
(McPherson Complex)
9:00 - 11:45 Library
10:00 Choir Practice
10:30 Worship
6 OFFICE CLOSED
12
9:00 - 11:45 Library
9:15 Adult Ed & Youth
10:00 Choir Practice
10:30 Worship
11:30 Congregational Care
Ministry
4:00 Small Group Study
(off-site)
5:00 PYC
5:00 High Tide
13
7:30 Men’s Bible
Study
5
5:00 TOPS (FH)
6:00 Discipleship
Children’s
Ministry
6:00-8:00 Marions
United (CE)
7
8
10:00 Prayer
Shawl Ministry
5:00 Property
1:00 Sassy
Ministry
Seniors (off-site)
5:30 Connections
Ministry
7:00 Boy Scouts
(YH)
9
14
16
11
Charles
Kirk
Memorial
Service
1:00 Crafts
3:00 Tai Chi
7:00 Choir Practice
7:00 AA (FH)
17
18
7:30 - 9:00 BNI (FH)
5:00 TOPS (FH)
5:30 Mission
Ministry
6:00 - 8:00 Marions
United (CE)
1:00 Community
Worship
1:00 Crafts
3:00 Tai Chi
6:00 Finance
Ministry
6:30 Men’s Night Out
(off-site)
7:00 Esther Circle
7:00 Boy Scouts
(off-site)
(YH)
21
19
9:00 - 11:45 Library
9:00 - 1:30 Blood Drive
9:15 Adult Ed & Youth
10:00 Choir Practice
10:30 Worship
4:00 Small Group Study
(off-site)
5:00 PYC
5:00 TOPS (FH)
6:00 - 8:00 Marions
United (CE)
6:00 Session
7:00 Boy Scouts
(YH)
26
27
28
Food4Kids &
2 Cents A Meal
9:00 - 11:45 Library
9:00 - 11:45 Library
9:15 Adult Ed & Youth
10:00 Choir Practice
10:30 Worship
4:00 Small Group
Study (off-site)
5:00 PYC
5:00 High Tide
15
10
7:30 - 9:00 BNI (FH)
20
Boy Scout
Yard Sale
7:00 Choir Practice
7:00 AA (FH)
22 Earth Day
23
24
7:30 - 9:00 BNI (FH)
7:30 Men’s Bible
Study
10:00 Deborah
Circle
1:00 Crafts
3:00 Tai Chi
7:00 Choir Practice
7:00 AA (FH)
29
Turning Point
Set up (FH)
25
9:00-3:00
Turning
Point (FH)
5:00 Boy
Scouts
Training (FH)
30
7:30 - 9:00 BNI (FH)
7:30 Men’s Bible
Study
1:00 Crafts
3:00 Tai Chi
5:00 TOPS (FH)
6:00 - 8:00 Marions
United (CE)
7:00 Choir Practice
7:00 Boy Scouts
(YH)
7:00 AA (FH)
15
FORT KING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
13 NE 36th Avenue
Ocala, Florida 34470
Non-Profit
Organization
US Postage Paid
Ocala, FL 34478
Permit #100
RETURNED SERVICE REQUESTED
Label
Boy Scout Fundraiser
Ft. King’s Boy Scout Troop #196 is selling meat sticks as a fundraiser for their various scouting activities.
The meat sticks are made at Ocala based Country Meats, an FDA certified facility. The sticks sell for
$1.00 each. If interested, contact Bob Barton 425-8500. See a sample on the church bulletin board.
