AUGUST 2012 LINK for Website

Warm Summer Greetings, Meteorologists tell us this has been one of the hottest summers on record across the nation. With bank thermometers reaching too far into the triple digits, thousands of church groups still piled into vans, trucks and planes to venture into new mission fields to give aid, support, wisdom and love to brothers and sisters in Christ who are in need of support. I am thankful Fort King is one of those churches that heard Jesus’ call to go and serve. This summer we officially sent twelve people into the mission field beyond Ocala. Earlier this summer we sent Dr. Pam Lewin to Jamaica to serve with the Jamaica Ecumenical Medical Mutual Mission (JEMMM) as they sought to provide health care to those in need. We sent ten Ft. King family members to Chavies, Ky. in early July to sweat off numerous pounds and to repair homes so families there might be warmer, dryer and safer. This church also sent Kaitlyn Fuller to the Presbyterian national convention called the General Assembly (GA). Maybe GA is not what many think as a traditional mission field, but you can listen to stories from Kaitlyn and she’ll tell you otherwise. We sent these twelve out of our community, but every day we send over a hundred into the mission fields of Ocala. I am thankful for a church family that takes to heart the words of Matthew 25: 30-40 and seeks to serve our siblings in Christ. I encourage you to turn to the Missions page to read about some personal accounts of this summer’s missions. Blessings,

”

Pastor ........................................ Andy Gans Visitation Pastor (Ret.) ............ Tom McNeil Music Director........................... Rick Roberts Executive Assistant ................... Chris Muramatsu Nursery Attendant .................... Tammy Keeslar Proofreaders.............................. Susan M. Jensen and John Stewart

Contributors ...............................Members of Ft. King Assembling .................................Phyllis Altonn, Kay Dahlen, Dorothy Decker, Joyce Gauntt, Eleanor Hayesmore, Pat Merrill, Carol Primm, Roselle Pringle, Judith Simonin, Aileen Zimmer . Bulk Mail Handling...................John Stewart

694Office: (352) 694-4121 694FAX: (352) 694-5226

13 NE 36TH AVENUE OCALA, FLORIDA 34470

www.fortking.org [email protected]

ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE
Fort King Presbyterian Church Financials Effective 6/30/12
Monthly Budget Actual June 2012 Delta Budget - Actual Budget Year-To-Date Actual Delta Jan –Jun Budget 2012 Actual 2011 June Actual Delta 2012 YTD -2011YTD

Income Estimate of Giving Mortgage Reduction Other Income Total Income Total Expense Net Surplus/ Deficit Endowment 22,297 0 0 22,297 21,587 710 19,705 (2,892) 75 75 133,783 0 0 133,783 129,522 4,261 143,801 1,050 11,730 156,581 124,638 31,943 10,018 123,128 1,050 11.730 3,370 50 10,673 (2,320) 11,680 30,034 184 29,849

(3,540) (3,540) 16,240 (6,057) 16,891 (4,696) (651) (1,361)

22,798 126,548 (4,885) 124,454 27,682 2,094

0

0

0

0

200

200

39,611

(39,411)

CONGREGATIONAL CARE
August Birthdays

2

CONGREGATIONAL CARE
Earth Matters
By Lucy Beebe Tobias That Styrofoam egg carton you took out of the refrigerator this morning has a shelf life of hundreds of years. Oh dear! Made of foamed polystyrene, otherwise known as plastic number 6, these eggs cartons can be recycled and used over and over again to make more egg cartons, packing peanuts, foam utensils. This is a good thing since plastic is non-biodegradable. Instead it photo degrades, meaning sunlight breaks it down into smaller pieces. But still, those pieces are around. For our Earth Care Congregation that keeps on caring at Fort King we have an easy recycling routine for those egg cartons. Bring them to church and put them in the Interfaith box. Every Wednesday they are picked up, taken to Interfaith, and used to package eggs that come in large containers – then these are distributed to clients in need. Ah, such a simple, elegant way to keep egg cartons out of the landfill and in the recycling loop. Speaking of recycling, Fort King has stepped up our Earth Care Congregation pledge with the installation of a new recycling dumpster and reducing the size of the church’s garbage dumpster. See the church bulletin board for what can and cannot be recycled. This is especially useful for church members living in the county who lost convenient recycling locations when the city of Ocala removed their recycling centers in favor of curbside recycling for residents. There is a Hebrew saying for our earth care efforts – “Te kun olaum”. Thank you to Gene and Melba Moore for telling me about this phrase. It means: “Heal the world” – and we’re doing it one egg carton at a time.

Thank You
A special “thank you” to Alan Mease, one of the Church Tool Guys for coming to the house so quickly to secure the fallen garage door. We are so grateful. Laurel Marshall Pat Wood, Guardian

Thank You
Thank you to all who, with creativity and hard work, made our 2012 VBS experience a real highlight. The difficulty of naming everyone who contributed to VBS’s success speaks to the reason Fort King is the great congregation it is – the number of people who came together to provide exciting, meaningful, and timely programming, along with wonderful food and fellowship. We feel blessed to be members of the Fort King family. Dick and Margy Marshall

3

CONGREGATIONAL CARE (continued)
Advanced Directives and Health Surrogates.
One of the major issues for hospital personnel is what to do if a person is admitted in critical condition without being able to communicate their wishes concerning health treatments and the who the person is who has been designated to share decision making with hospital personnel – your health surrogate. Most often it is a difficult subject to talk about, but probably the most important at any age, but especially as we get older. None of us know when we suddenly might be in an accident or have sudden onset of a serious medical condition in which our condition interferes with our ability to voice our choices regarding medical interventions. Some examples such as being put on ventilators to assist in breathing, feeding tubes when you are unable to eat, or even life saving resuscitation of your heart. You may want everything done to save your life or nothing done, or somewhere in the middle. No matter your desires, it should be put in writing and shared so family, friends and your pastor know what you wish. The process is really simple: just filling out two papers which you can get on line at Munroe’s web site (www.munroeregional.com – search on “medical care decisions”), or you can download the form from Ft. King’s web site (www.fortking.org - select “Our Ministries” and “Congregational Care.”) Following are some suggestions from Munroe’s site: What do I do with my completed advance directives? • If you have designated a healthcare surrogate, give a copy of the written designation form to that person. • Give a copy of your advance directive to your physician for your medical file. • Make sure your family knows about your advance directive and where the written forms are located. • Keep a copy of your advance directive in a place where it can be easily found. • Keep a card or note in your purse or wallet that says you have an advance directive and where it is. • If you change your advance directive, make sure your physician, attorney and/or family has the latest copy. Bonnie is drawing up a simple form that can be used by the church. Once approved, you will be able to complete the form and leave it on file at Fort King. For now, think about your decisions, your choices of health advocate, and start discussing your decisions. If you already have the papers completed, this might be a good time to review your choices and begin sharing them with the significant people in your life both near and far. It is one of the most important gifts you can give friends and family. Your choices! God Bless You, Submitted by Bonnie Penso Schulze, Health Ministry

The Nurse Is Back in Connecticut
Bonnie is willing to answer emails sent to [email protected] or calls at (203)266-7149 related to any questions you have. She will also try to refer you to someone locally if that is what works for you. Just leave a message and Bonnie will get back to you.

4

CONGREGATIONAL CARE (continued)
Angel Tree - Thank You
Congregational Care Ministry thanks members of Ft. King for taking an angel from our Christmas in July Angel Tree. We would love to hear about your experience and discuss if this is something we should do every year. Please submit your input to Rebecca Bishop at [email protected] before Congregational Care Ministry meets again on August 5th.

DISCIPLESHIP
Children’s Discipleship Ministry Sunday School Teachers Needed
The Children's Discipleship Ministry is in need of teachers for the Fall. The job requirements for this valuable position consists of 1) love of children; 2) patience; 3) willingness to teach three Sundays out of one month per year during worship; and 4) the desire to show children the love of Christ. No previous experience required. Materials will be provided for each lesson. We will be using the "Walk With Me" curriculum from Faith Alive. There will always be two teachers at each session. If you are interested, please contact Bernice Henry.

New Beginnings…“Caring For God’s World”
It is time again to begin new classes for Sunday School as we celebrate our theme "Caring for God's World." Our annual "Rally Day" will be held on August 19, 2012. We will celebrate with a covered dish breakfast in the Fellowship Hall beginning at 9:15 a.m. Please bring your favorite breakfast dish to share and meet the new teachers for this fall. After breakfast, the children and youth will go to their classes and meet briefly with their teachers (parents are welcome to come also). The adults will remain in the Fellowship Hall and hear a brief synopsis of the topics to be offered in the adult classes this year. Because school starts the next day, we want to also begin our participation in the Food 4 Kids program so that children in this program will have what is needed at the beginning of the year. Please bring your donations for the Food 4 Kids program with you to the breakfast. Please come, bring your dish, your Food 4 Kids, and join us as we celebrate the new year!

5

DISCIPLESHIP (continued)
Adult Discipleship
What a journey it has been! “Rabbi” Tom McNeil started his leadership of the Adult Education class on February 12. The series began with understanding the “world” in which Jesus lived, covering life under the Greek, Roman, and Judaic cultures. This was followed by a study of “The Meaning of the History of Israel to the First Century CE”, and the “Social Meaning of Life” in Jesus’ time. “Rabbi” Tom then gave his attention to the numerous parables Jesus taught along with Jesus’ intentions as to their meaning. This remarkable and informative series will come to an end on August 12. We are deeply indebted to “Rabbi” Tom for his guidance during this walk through the life of Jesus. “Thank you” seems deeply inadequate, but it will have to do. Thank you, “Rabbi” Tom! We appreciate your willingness to share your extraordinary knowledge and your leadership skills with us. August 19 is Rally Sunday; you will find information about this activity on the previous page.. On August 26, Anthony Clegorne will begin a series on “Presidents of the United States: God, Guns, Guts and Glory.” This study will be an examination of the United States culture through an analysis of our Chief Executives. Our nation was formed as an experiment in democracy. In a world of kings, queens, emperors and potentates, an American President – elected by the people every four years – was a recipe for disaster. Yet 236 years later, our nation, led by 44 different men, through war and peace, in good times and bad, still stands as a beacon of freedom and hope for the world. Our democratic system can be traced back to John Knox and the Presbyterian Church. So it is fitting that in this presidential election year, we examine our history, our heritage, through the amazing variety of the men we have chosen to lead us during the life of our republic.

Library Corner
If you did not get to experience the enthusiasm and joy expressed by the Watoto Children’s Choir when they performed in our sanctuary a few years ago, you can now see and hear them in a recorded concert from Los Angeles. This 2-disc DVD was donated by Andy Gans and includes a short documentary explaining the history and mission of the Watoto Children’s Choir. Pastor Andy has also given to the library a DVD recording of the January 16, 2011 performance at FKPC by the Marion Civic Chorale. Both of these visual music recordings are available for check-out. Thank you Pastor Andy. Pat Merrill has donated a copy of John Dominic Crossan’s book The Greatest Prayer: Rediscovering the Revolutionary Message of The Lord’s Prayer. Thank you, Pat. The two most recent books purchased by the library for our collection of “earth care” books are The Good Food Revolution: Growing Healthy Food, People, and Communities by Will Allen; and The Green Gardener’s Guide: Simple, Significant Actions to Protect & Preserve Our Planet by Joe Lamp’l. Be sure to check the bulletin board outside the library door each month for a more detailed description of some of our recent additions or items of topical interest. The library is open every Sunday morning; other times by request.

6

DISCIPLESHIP (continued)

Women’s Retreat
Attention ladies. It’s time to mark your calendar for Fort King’s annual Women’s Retreat at Camp Montgomery. The retreat will be held November 2nd - 4th. Our theme for this year’s retreat is “Expectations.” We are pleased to have Rebecca Gillespie, pastor of Middleburg Presbyterian Church as our Spiritual Leader and Facilitator this year. The costs, including meals and supplies are as follows: ∗ The Inn (2 nights) $149.00 ∗ Cabin (2 nights) $117.00 ∗ Cabin (1 night - Sat. before breakfast) $86.00 ∗ Cabin (1 night - Sat after breakfast) $78.00 ∗ No lodging (Sat. before breakfast) $45.00 ∗ No lodging (Sat. after breakfast) $37.00 The deadline for the $25.00 deposit is October 1st. If you would like to make payments toward the cost, Bernice Henry will be glad to receive them. If you have any questions concerning the retreat, you can call Chris Berryhill at 622-6613.

FELLOWSHIP
Fort King Presbyterian Annual Ice Cream Social is finally here!
When: August 5th at 6 PM Where: Fellowship Hall Bring your appetite for ice cream and a donation for Habitat for Humanity. They need construction supplies like tools, work gloves, water bottles. They also provide Gatorade and snacks to work crews and could use these items also. A no-cost donation of a recipe for the official Habitat for Humanity recipe book would also be appreciated. Lastly they need breakfasts and lunches for a crew working on their new offices in the middle of August (sign-up sheets will be at the event!) The Fellowship Ministry will supply the ice cream. Feel free to bring toppings/other goodies! See you at the social!

7

GROUP ACTIVITIES

Men’s Night Out
Men’s Night Out will not meet in August, but will resume in September. Check next month for September 10th’s location.

Presbyterian Women Circles
All women of Fort King are Presbyterian Women and are invited to participate in all the activities of Presbyterian Women. If you have not attended a Circle meeting before, plan to start in September with our new study. Esther Circle meets on the 2nd Monday of the month at 7:00 p.m. in members’ homes. Deborah Circle meets the 3rd Tuesday at 10:00 a.m. in the Session Room. In September, we will begin a new study, Dispatches to God’s Household: The General Epistles. These letters were meant to inspire and comfort the faithful in first-century Asia Minor, and they continue to speak to us today as we grapple with how to live in a community as disciples of Christ. It will teach us what it means to live in a community and what it means to belong to the household of God.

Domestic Violence Rape Crisis Center
Thank you to the congregation for all the donations you have provided for the Domestic Violence Rape Crisis Center. Please continue to place your contributions in the box in the Narthex. Presbyterian Women have made individual tote bags filled with toiletries for the women that come into the Rape Crisis Center.

Card Making Ministry
Come join us on the 2nd Friday of every month at 10:00 a.m. until about Noon. We will meet off-site. Please contact Prudence Pritz if you are interested in joining this group.

8

GROUP ACTIVITIES (continued)

Crafts Group
Please join the Crafts Group on Thursdays from 1:00 - 3:30 PM in the Fellowship Hall. We work on individual projects and joint projects.

Sassy Seniors
The Sassy Seniors meet on the 2nd Wednesday of the month. August’s luncheon will be at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 8th at Braised Onion 754 NE 25th Ave 620-9255.

MISSION
Blood Drive
The Mission Ministry would like to inform the congregation that the Bloodmobile will be at Fort King on August 12th. Donation times are from 9AM to 10:15AM and 11:30AM until 1PM. A ministry member will be in the narthex on July 29th and August 5th to sign up donors. Please sign up we need blood very badly.

9

MISSION (continued)

Appalachia Service Projects
June 30th through July 7th, 10 members of the Ft. King family went to Chavies, KY to serve a mission through the organization Appalachia Service Projects (ASP). Following are some personal reflections on the mission trip. Carole DeLucian Following are my thoughts regarding the 2012 ASP Mission to Chavies, Kentucky. This was my first ASP mission trip so I was very excited, had high expectations and wasn’t disappointed. The home that we worked on was nestled on the side of a mountain holler with very little room to place ladders and tools. Our team was given the daunting task to finish putting on a tin roof, and put up soffit and fascia. This involved painting, measuring, cutting, remeasuring and re-cutting, drilling and so much more. Most of all it required team work. That demands patience with yourself and others. But then again it was an opportunity for me with God’s grace to develop a deeper understanding and compassion for myself and others. The family that we came to know may have been in need of a clean, safe home to live in, but that didn’t make them any less in the eyes of God or in the eyes of our team. We came to realize that they had an extended family for support, they had a dying relative nearby and this brought family from all around to visit. They loved to pick wild flowers and had dogs as companions. The grandmother, caretaker of a 3 year old little girl, loved to spend hours with her granddaughter coloring. And although they allowed the granddaughter to walk around barefooted she wasn’t allowed to play bubbles in the street. We are not so different. I enjoyed most of all getting to know the youth. Poor Andy had an all female team. Yet he must be proud of how each teenager, Catey, Larsen, and Kim, accepted his direction and worked in difficult conditions putting on that tin roof, learning to use power tools and painting. And I enjoyed getting to know the volunteers from other states as they shared their stories, tears and joys at the end of each work day. And I feel blessed for having met the people in the community that opened their hearts and shared their life stories with us. For me that always makes the world a smaller, kinder place in which to live. Kim Douglas I thought ASP was and is a very meaningful, God-filled place. You meet lots of well-rounded, Godly people. Not only that, but you serve a family that needs help, and you grow in your faith. I always have a wonderful time at ASP, and thanks for giving me the chance to go and be of service.

10

MISSION (continued)
Bill Reed What I learned: These people have not given up. The individuals that I talked to had a positive outlook and were outgoing and friendly. I wonder how I would react in their situation. Before we criticize others, let us work with and for those in the circumstances of the residents of Perry County. These are not isolated cases. A week on this or any mission trip is truly a humbling experience. It makes me realize all that God has done for me and my family. As the old saying goes: Don't criticize others until you have walked in their shoes. Catey Gans This was my first year on ASP and I kind of had a picture in my mind of what it was going to be like, however I was wrong. ASP was so much more touching than what I was preparing myself for. The lives we touched will remain in my heart forever. By working on our site I learned not only how to use different kinds of tools, but how unfortunate people are living only a few states north. Nothing can prepare you for facing the reality of poverty in your own country, even if you’ve done mission work in a third world country. By going on this journey through a less fortunate area I really realized how snobby I can be and how much I take for granted, but that just helped me to grow closer to God. It helped me to pray for my attitude and pray for my relationships with friends. I highly recommend participating with ASP.

Church Without Walls - Youth Reach
Church Without Walls - Youth Reach helps families and children who have been earmarked by courts, schools or themselves as in trouble and needing education and support. Youth Reach teaches a 9-week curriculum during which these families and children in need become stronger, bonded families. Church Without Walls - Youth Reach is asking for our help to raise funds to continue their programs. Ruby Tuesdays at 3500 SW College Road in Ocala is helping in a fundraising effort. Bring your family and friends and eat at Ruby Tuesdays at 3500 SW College Road in Ocala on Wednesday, July 31st or Wednesday, August 8th; present the flyer found on the bulletin board and on the Narthex table to your server; and Church Without Walls -Youth Reach will receive 20% of your purchase.

11

MISSION (continued)
We Were All Meant For Mission
By Pamela Lewin M.D. The word “mission” is derived from the Latin word for “sending.” Those of us in healing professions who selfidentify as followers of Christ recognize that we have a purpose as the body of Christ. We, as the Church, His Spiritual body, must finish what He started in His physical body. The mission? Introducing people to God by showing love and fostering peace. So we take this commission very seriously. Members of the St. Augustine Mutual Mission (called SAMM) and the Jamaican counterpart, the Jamaica Ecumenical Mutual Mission (JEMM), involving Presbyterians, Methodists, United Church of Jamaica and the Cayman Islands and the Moravian Church and others, have been engaged in a mutual mission program for over thirty years. The medical/dental aspect of the program started in 1992 with service performed in Jamaica, West Indies. To give some ideal of how necessary a program such as ours is in Jamaica, one must grasp a few facts. Jamaica is an island, approximately the size of the state of RI, population about 3million inhabitants. Nearly 1/4th of the population is scattered in rural areas, with limited direct access to medical care, though there are many physicians available in the urban areas. Traditional medical care, as we know it, is prohibitive in cost and many turn to herbalists and other healers or treat themselves with home remedies, along with a strong dose of spirituality and prayer. Fortunately, there are several groups such as ours that serve the island on a regular basis, bringing medical, dental and ophthalmic care for little or no cost to those who are most in need but are unable to pay. I became actively involved in the Medical Mission program in 1992, serving on the volunteer team annually for one week in June. We are often impressed by the ability of the simple country folk to make do with so little. Their utter dependence on God’s grace to complete their healing through ministry like ours is really very humbling! The surprising lesson we repeatedly learn is that when we set out to bless others with our skills and help, we in turn, receive many blessings by the love that is shared with all of us. Although it is a great responsibility, it is a big privilege to be used in this way by God. Mission has eternal significance. It is not necessary to quit your job and go into full-time ministry. God wants you to share the good news where you are. One thing I have learned on these trips: Though we tend to be compulsive about getting donations and acquiring and administering medications, it really is not about the medicine. The God who can use dirt and spit to accomplish healing can use whatever we offer for the benefit of others. To date our trust has never been disappointed: God is good all the time.

1. This infant is 4 months old, but looked like a 1-month old. The team put together and provided formula and clothing for her, much to the delight of her caretakers! 2. This lady is not pregnant, but has a swelling in her abdomen up to the level of her diaphragm. She was referred for testing and treatment. 3. Optometry clinic. 4. Roommates at work.

12

MISSION (continued)
220th General Assembly From a First Time YAAD’s View
Exhaustively rejuvenating. That is the phrase I would use to describe General Assembly (GA). My travels to GA went well and the 14 hour orientation in three different rooms off of the same hallway in the Wyndham Grand Hotel was very informative and made me very excited for the week. On Saturday, I attended all of the programs that were available and was able to talk to the Moderator and Vice Moderator Candidates before we elected them Saturday night. I also was informed about the possible consolidation of all the Special Offerings, there are still four: Pentecost, Christmas, One Great Hour of Sharing, and the consolidation of World Communion and Global Fund. As well, I attended the big session meeting, Plenary, with everyone on Saturday and it was nerve racking. On Sunday, I attended worship at Westminster Presbyterian Church which has over 1,700 members and 900 on a given Sunday with three worship services: 8:30 Casual, 9:45 Contemporary, 11am Traditional. I choose to go to the Traditional service and enjoyed hearing the pipe organ played for most of the hymns. The rest of the day I was at Plenary and there was discussion about the candidate for Vice Moderator. Earlier in the year the former 2012 Vice Moderator candidate performed a marriage for a same sex couple which is against ordination policies. There was question about her having the position: since she had not followed the “rules,” would she follow them as being second-in-charge of the Presbyterian Church (USA)? She was voted in but resigned on Tuesday due to Commissioners attacking her and the PC (USA) on social media, email, Facebook, twitter, etc. On Monday and Tuesday I was at committee meetings, Church Polity, from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. with 41 other people. We discussed the policy of how property is to be handled when a congregation decides to leave the PC (USA), the fundamentals of who is welcome in the universal Church, the process of when an elder or pastor is accused of sexual misconduct and if he/she is allowed to be involved in the congregation during the investigation. We wrestled with personal convictions and getting lost in parliamentary procedures. Under the advice of the Advisory Committee on the Constitution with the guidance of Paul Hooker, who was an information guru for my committee, we were able to come to a majority vote on everything that was brought to us. We prayed. We cried. We laughed. We energized. We worshiped. We grew as siblings in Christ. On Wednesday, Plenary started at 2 p.m. and continued until Saturday at 1:30 a.m. We finished everything we needed to in similar circumstance with the emotions that were felt in my committee. Some of the following were big issues and the results are listed: • PCUSA is still investing in CAT, HP, and Motorola through the Pastors’ pension stocks • We are abstaining from products by Israeli companies that have plants on occupied Palestinian land • Sexual orientation does not exclude a person from being a pastor • Marriage is between a woman and a man I greatly enjoyed all of the email, prayers, and support. Here are some numbers: • • 160+ high school and college students 660+ commissioners, ruling elders and pastors. • • • 6 missionaries 6 ecumenical advisors 20+ seminary students.

~YAAD Kaitlyn

13

GENERAL ASSEMBLY
A Fireworks spectacular: The 220th General Assembly Of The Presbyterian Church (USA)
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania — June 30-July 7. 2012 By Jack Haberer, Outlook editor The 220th General Assembly reached its zenith — literally — when the commissioners ascended to the rooftop terrace of the David L. Lawrence Convention Center to enjoy Pittsburgh’s spectacular Fourth of July fireworks display. Funny thing about fireworks: as dramatic and stunning as they can be, when all is said and done, nothing much has changed. Fireworks of other kinds were exploding throughout the week at the assembly, but not much changed either. Even seasoned observers kept finding themselves whiplashed by climactic moments of high drama, but most episodes concluded with the status quo intact. This year’s drama began two weeks prior to the assembly when the Outlook broke the story that vice-moderator candidate Tara Spuhler McCabe had signed the marriage license of two women in Washington, D.C., even though the PC(USA) defines Christian marriage as being between a woman and a man. McCabe’s running mate, Neal Presa, was elected on the fourth ballot, prevailing over three other nominees with 52 percent of the commissioners’ votes. They confirmed McCabe’s election a day later, but on July 4, troubled by criticism and facing the possibility of ecclesiastical discipline, she resigned from the post, stunning many. Presa nominated a Colorado pastor, Tom Trinidad, to replace McCabe. Divestment. Gasps sounded again when, by a minuscule margin, the assembly rejected a plan to withdraw church investments from three companies accused of complicity in the Israeli oppression of Palestinians. In a move closely watched by the secular media and by Jewish groups, the assembly voted 333-331 to favor “creative engagement” and investment rather than divestment of more than $17 million in pension and foundation investments from Caterpillar, Motorola Solutions and Hewlett-Packard. Marriage. Recognizing the volatility of the issue, the assembly pulled back from taking a stand on same-gender marriage. An assembly committee had recommended approving a proposed amendment to the PC(USA) constitution to change the definition of Christian marriage in the Book of Order from being between “a man and a woman” to being between “two people.” The assembly voted 308-338 not to send the proposed amendment to the presbyteries. It also did not approve an authoritative interpretation to give ministers the discretion to perform same-gender weddings in states where it is legal. Instead, the assembly voted for presbyteries and congregations to “enter into a [two-year] season of serious study and discernment concerning its meaning of Christian marriage.” Mid Councils. Declining to follow the lead of the Commission on Mid Councils, the assembly voted not to allow the creation of nongeographic presbyteries during a “designated season of experimentation” in the PC(USA). The commission had argued for constitutional changes, including dissolving synods as ecclesiastical entities, intended to reduce a layer of hierarchy and encourage innovation in mission. The assembly did vote to create an administrative commission to continue discussing those issues, plus a task force to examine racial ethnic ministries in the PC(USA). Special Offerings. A special committee formed by the 2010 GA proposed bold changes to the four major church-wide special offerings, along with modernizing the fundraising methodologies, aiming to increase the giving by 50% by 2020. The assembly rejected all changes to offerings allocations. It endorsed the new fundraising strategies and asked the commission to lead in their implementation and monitoring for the next two years. In Other Actions, the assembly … • Introduced UKIRK Ministries (i.e., University Church), signaling a new direction for PC(USA) collegiate ministries; • Launched the 1,001 Movement to form 1,001 new worshiping communities in 10 years; • Changed the name of the elected General Assembly Mission Council to Presbyterian Mission Agency Board; and staff to Presbyterian Mission Agency; • Declined to eliminate the constitutional language that church property is “held in trust nevertheless for the use and benefit” of the denomination; • Asked the Board of Pensions to consider sharing its benefits program with the Evangelical Presbyterian Church; ECO: A Covenant Order of Evangelical Presbyterians; and other possible partners; • Sent for presbytery approval a proposed constitutional amendment to the denomination’s ordination standards, stating that each candidate’s manner of life should include “repentance of sin and diligent use of the means of grace;”

14

GENERAL ASSEMBLY (continued)
• • • • •
Endorsed the DREAM Act (Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors) and renewed the church’s advocacy for and work with immigrants; Directed the Committee on the Office of the General Assembly to study presbyteries’ ability to pay obligatory per capita funds; Sent a new translation of the Heidelberg Confession to presbyteries for adoption, and recommended that the 2014 GA consider adopting the Belhar Confession; Declined to allocate $137,000 to do a study of women’s status in the church; Issued statements on racism, incarceration, economic reconstruction, the housing and mortgage crisis, the EPA, workers’ rights and income equality, corporal punishment of children.

SESSION
Session Notes - July 19, 2012
Celebrations Brandon Powell has been accepted at the University of Florida Darren Strawder just had a birthday. Randy Butler’s granddaughter is on the way home from the Gulf VBS was successful with 101 or 102 attendees. The 2012 Nominating Committee is in place and has begun the work of selecting the next class of elders. This Discovery Class has 8 attendees. ASP Mission Group was able to accomplish a lot and had a safe trip. Rick Roberts is on board and is bringing stability to the music program. Jackson Carroll is a year old. Montreat was a powerful experience. Motions Motion to call a Congregational Meeting on August 30 for the purpose of electing a slate of Elders for the Class of 2016. Motion to approve the City of Ocala’s removal of nine pine trees along the NE 36th Avenue property line where they are interfering with the electric lines. Motion to write a letter of gratitude to Paul Hooker for his work with the Presbytery of St. Augustine over the last seventeen years. Motion to approve the 2012 Budget as amended on July 19, 2012.

Elder Nomination
Please obtain approval from nominee before submitting. Please place in offering plate or deliver to the Church Office. I would like to place the following member’s name into consideration for Elder: Name ________________________ Phone __________________________ E-Mail _________________________________

15

WORSHIP
Something to Think About ACTS 2:22-36: Kerygma of the First Century Church
Acts 2:22-36 is a Christian theological interpretation of “Jesus of Nazareth” (v. 22) who has become “Jesus, Lord and Christ” (v. 36). It presents the first century Christian Church’s kerygma/”proclamation” to both the Jewish and Greco-Roman societies; it represents a theological interpretation of what happened to Jesus and what his life and death means, all of which is put into Peter’s mouth. Not one item given identifies Jesus’ own perspective. “If Messiah’s suffering was ordained by the determinate counsel of God, so was His resurrection and glory” (F.F. Bruce 1955 Commentary on the Book of Acts 71). This is strictly theological belief. The first century parameters of the kerygma included the following: 1. Jesus’ authority is traced back to “patriarch” David. Quotations from the OT to proof-text Jesus’ authority did not come from the Hebrew text of the OT, but from the Greek translation/paraphrase called the Septuagint (LXX). The differences between these texts are significant. It was only the LXX that would allow the “OT” to be used to proof-text Jesus as Messiah = Christ. The Hebrew text for Psalm 16, on the contrary, was a Confession (“You are my Lord”) followed by thanksgiving and blessing, specifically for “salvation from imminent death” (E. Gerstenberger Psalms I 91); the Psalm in Hebrew is a confession of one’s affiliation with the Jewish community (See also S. Mowinckel 1979 The Psalms in Israel’s Worship I, 241). 2. Jesus’ ministry was approved by God which is evidenced in the “mighty acts” performed by Jesus. 3. The “Men of Israel” (a generalization!) put Jesus to death and unwittingly fulfilled God’s will as set forth in the “Scriptures” = the Greek OT = LXX. 4. God’s approval of Jesus’ work on the Cross is evident by God’s raising and exaltation of Jesus. 5. Jesus is therefore “Lord and Christ.” This is the new confession that distinguished some early Christians from other Christian sects and from Judaism. Jesus is called “Lord” and “Christ” based on the Greek text of Psalm 2:7f. Now, this flies in the face of the Judaisms (Pharisees, Sadducees, Essenes, Ebonites, etc.) of the first century CE, and it is a religiopolitical declaration of open conflict with the Caesars, emperors of Rome, who were called “Son of God,” “divine,” “Savior,” “good,” “Lord,” who were treated and acted as though they were gods. To say that that crucified Galilean peasant, Jesus of Nazareth, is “Lord and Christ” is a direct affront to the Emperor and all who represent him. It was punishable by death (see “The Martyrdom of Polycarp” in 160 CE in Smyrna). Therefore, while we may focus on the Religious and spiritual aspects of this first century confession, this kerygma is also a religio- political attack on the “powers that be”, the powers that arrogate to themselves the authority of God in order to benefit themselves and their “friends,” and to crush anyone who would get in their way or be critical of them. This is serious stuff. What exactly do we mean when we say “Jesus is Lord and Christ”? Unless there is political significance to our confession, we are only uttering words and more words. That may maintain a safe, comfortable, and secure “religion,” but it is certainly much less than what that first century confession meant! Does our “confession” and kerygma challenge the “Caesars” of our own society and culture? Really something to think about. We need to talk with each other. Shalom, Tom

16

WORSHIP (continued)

With A Song In My Heart
The question of whether or not to applaud in church is an on-going issue in denominations throughout the country. It is the cause for downright feuds in some congregations. Thankfully, we don’t have those ugly debates here at FKPC, but sometimes people have asked me about the appropriate use of applause in a worship setting. Here are a few of my thoughts on the subject. When a soloist, children’s choir, Praise Team, Chancel Choir and/or other musical offering has been inspiring, uplifting, or just darn terrific, it is often the listener’s natural response to participate by applauding. They are saying in effect, “Yes, amen!” We can’t help expressing, in a physical way, our feelings and gratitude. It can also be a form of emotional release - the listener’s way of joining in with the musicians. We have a very supportive congregation who really appreciates our musical efforts. While it is not necessary to say, “Thank you,” through applause, after every anthem, hymn, offertory of special music, it’s our way of letting the musicians know that we appreciate their efforts. Sometimes the music is quiet and reflective, and enthusiastic applause doesn’t fit with the overall feeling or mood the piece generates. After the last note fades we take a breath, sigh, maybe shed a tear or two. Is applause appropriate then? Has it become a habit we think we need to do or the musicians won’t feel we liked the music? As a musician for many years in worship music in a variety of churches, as well as in many community secular venues, I am aware of the different nuances in the listener’s and musician’s feelings. As Director of Music in worship, I don’t acknowledge applause except by a smile as we move to the next part of worship. The music is given to and for God’s glory, not the musician’s glory. It’s different in a concert situation; when the choir, instrumentalist, or vocalist is finished with a piece, I gesture to them, a very public move that focuses on them and encourages applause. They have worked hard, done a great job, and deserve our thanks. Nothing I’ve said is meant to discourage you from applause that’s coming from your heart. Maybe we’ll just think a bit about the situation the next time in worship there’s a hesitation after the last note fades. Sometimes that barely audible breath, sigh, or a tear or two is all that’s needed to let the musicians know how you feel. We know God hears - and approves. With a song in my heart, Rick

17

WORSHIP (continued)

Flower Calendar
Please note: I am trying to “work ahead” on the flowers, so if you would like to provide flowers to commemorate a special event/occasion/memory etc. for a specific date, please call Nancy Hall at 694-3221 as soon as possible. Please also note: It is never too early to call to select your chosen date. As of this mailing, the following people will be providing flowers in August through December 2012. If you can provide flowers for a date in 2012 or 2013, please call Nancy Hall. Thank you. Thank you to these people as they share in donating the flowers for the following worship services. August 5, 2012—In loving memory of Wilbur E. Hall from his daughter, Doris, and her husband, Steven Charleston August 12, 2012—In loving memory of Bruce from Prudence and Sharon August 19, 2012—From the Clegornes in honor of the Clegorne family birthdays - sons Nicholas and Patrick and Anthony’s mother and father August 26, 2012—In celebration to God on our anniversary from Dave and Marianne Fullarton September 2, 2012—In loving memory of Lucille Rowoldt from Louise Olivarez September 9, 2012—From Jack and Sue Harshman in honor of our 60th wedding anniversary September 16, 2012—In celebration of our 65th wedding anniversary from Glendon and Mildred Shank September 23, 2012—In loving memory of Julien from Kay Dahlen September 30, 2012—From Dorothy Roth in loving memory of Merl on their wedding date October 7, 2012—In loving memory of Ken from Shirley and the family October 14, 2012—From David and Martha MacKay in celebration of their 27th wedding anniversary October 21, 2012—In celebration of their 59th wedding anniversary from Dick and Margy Marshall October 28, 2012—In celebration of our 46th wedding anniversary tomorrow from Melvin and Jean Winkler November 4, 2012—From Debbie and Larry Bush in celebration of our 26th wedding anniversary November 11, 2012—OPEN (Veterans’ Day) November 18, 2012—From Joy Hunt in memory of my beloved husband, Jim November 25, 2012—OPEN December 2, 2012 - December 30, 2012—Poinsettias

18

1

2 11:00 Adult Discipleship Ministry 1:00 Crafts

3

4 9:00-3:00 Turning Point Set-up Ice Cream Social

4:15 Fellowship Ministry

8 6 7 5 9:00 - 11:45 Library 7:30 Men’s Bible 9:15 Adult Study 9:30 Prayer Education Shawl 10:00 Choir Practice Ministry 1:00 The Sassy 10:30 Worship Seniors 11:30 Picnic Lunch (Off-Site) 5:00 Congrega6:00 Evangelism tional Care Ministry Ministry 5:00 Property 6:00 Ice Cream Ministry Social 5:15 TOPS (FH) 6:00 Mission Ministry 6:00-9:00 Marions United (CE) 15 14 13 12 9:00 - 10:15 Blood 7:30 Men’s Bible Study Drive 9:00 - 11:45 Library 9:15 Adult 5:15 TOPS (FH) Education 10:00 Choir Practice 5:30 Finance Ministry 10:30 Worship 11:30 Discipleship 7:00 Discipleship Ministry Youth Ministry Child 11:30 - 1:00 Blood Drive 5:00 PYC 21 20 19 22 7:30 Men’s Bible Study 9:00 - 11:45 Library 9:15 Rally Day 10:00 Choir Practice 3:00 Pastoral Care 10:30 Worship Team 5:15 TOPS (FH) 5:00 PYC 26 2 Cents A Meal 7:30 Men’s Bible Study 9:00 - 11:45 Library 9:15 Adult Education 10:00 Choir Practice 5:15 TOPS (FH) 10:30 Worship 5:00 PYC 27 28 29

6:00 - 8:00 Marions United (FH) 7:00 AA (CE) 9 10 10:00 Card Making Ministry (off-site)

11

1:00 Crafts

7:00 AA (CE)

6:00-9:00 Marions United (CE)

16 1:00 Crafts

17

18

6:00 Session 7:00 AA (CE)

23 1:00 Crafts

24

25

7:00 AA (CE) 30 31

1:00 Crafts

7:00 AA (CE)

19

FORT KING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 13 N.E. 36th Avenue Ocala, Florida 34470

Non-Profit Organization US Postage Paid Ocala, FL 34478 Permit #100

RETURNED SERVICE REQUESTED

Label