AN EDWARDS EPISTLE

S tillwater, as do many communities, schedules its activities around the calendars of the schools. Family options change as the school

bells begin ringing and many activities associated with school communities (band, athletics, social clubs, academics) resume. This influence, also, impacts the life of our congregation, individually and communally.

We have enjoyed the change of pace the summer brings. The casual and wonderful contacts we have enjoyed at the fellowship times following our one service have assisted us to know one another better and/or to catch up with some the developments in the lives of our friends. Thanks to all of the groups who supplied us with “the goodies” that sweetened our visits.

Now, we return to our more regular schedule of 2 services (beginning Sunday, August 29), church school classes and resumption of some of specific ministries (Stephen Ministry training, University ministry, etc.). Our preaching returns to the lectionary. (Leah and I hope that our series this summer on what it means to be created in the image of God for our day to day lives has provoked thought and growth in faith.) We’ll be examining Scriptures centering on the development of Christian disciples.

As we “begin” another year together, I encourage you to examine your own commitment to developing your personal discipleship. This is an intentional decision we are to make - how am I developing my faith and my life as a disciple of Jesus Christ? Athletes who undertake two-a-days know the intentionality required for development. Do we as Christians?

All of us are called to worship God together. Am I being intentional in my participation in common worship with my brothers and sisters in Christ? All of us are called to grow in our faith. Do I have an intentional source for educating myself in the faith? All of us are called to service in the name of Christ in the world. Am I intentional in the mission of Christ to serve my neighbors and the world? We need to be able to articulate the specific ways we are worshiping God, growing in our faith and serving in the mission of Christ.

I encourage you to examine the various opportunities presented in the life of this community of faith to meet these three aspects of faithful disciples. Christ needs you; we, the Church, need your faithful presence and your personal expression of being Christ’s disciple. Let us strengthen the Body of Christ individually and together.

Grace and Peace!

Church Office MAIN: (405) 372-5580 FAX: (405) 372-2089

Web Address www.stillwaterfpc.org

Pastor ··················B. Gordon Edwards

Associate Pastor ···················Leah R. Hrachovec

Director of Youth & Family Ministries ························Jenna Campbell

Youth Ministry Assistant ································· Riley Kern

Older Adult Ministry Coordinator ·······························Margy Knox

University Coordinator ································· Tina Dicks

Pastor Emeritus ······················· James Struthers

Director of Music & Chancel Choir ·······················Heather Lanners

Organist ·················Rebecca G. te Velde

Church Administrator ······················· Cathy Fairbanks

Financial Secretary ·························Misty Gonzales

Christian Education Assistant ······························ Lucy Newlin

Church Office Assistant ······················ Veronica Kadavy

Custodian ···························· Mike Flowers

Childcare Coordinator ··························Kristen Kulling

Young Adult Volunteer ······················Sarah Chancellor

Building Supervisor ··························· Peter Thomas

PRAYER CONCERNS “As a dialog and a union

with God, prayer has the effect of holding the world together.”

-John Climacus, 6th Century monk

Jean Ames Margie Anderson Rodney Baker (Baker) Roger Banks (te Velde) Alan Barr (G. Smith) Caroline Bennett (Brosi) Leon Boyer Ernest & Wanda Bradley Chowning Brake (Brake) Robert Branson (Frohock) Ellis Brown (Knox) Virginia Buchanan (Newlin) Thomas Campbell (Alspach) Keenan Carter (Kraemer) Ken Case Charlotte Chamberlain (Alspach) Michael Chapman (Jones) Abby Clapp (Clapp) Mike Clemens (Clemens) Mike Coday (Shawley) Janet Cole Trish Colier (Cook) Lisa Cook Jan Cook Sue Cornish (Stiegler) Rick Coutant (Olson) Mildred Crayton (Ward) Margaret Cross Pete Davis Max Dominick Marge Dyck (Good) Linda Egner (Shawley/Schoenhals) Anne Ewing Lori Fagan Linda Fansler Glenna Fearing Veta Jo Fenimore Becky Furtado (Thedford) Lawrence Gibbs Margaret Glenn (Nunley) Bud Gray (Breuninger) Norma Hall Dorothy Hays (Piersall) Nelda Hershberger (Knox) Bill Holland (Holland) Kim Jenkins (PW Bowling) June Johnson Cindy Johnston (Myers/Kelly)

Tonya Jones Suzi Kucko (Woods) Phyllis Leaghty June Lewis Gladys Loghides

(Foster) John T. Long (Jones) Patty Manning (Cook) Sandy Massey (Arquitt) Ray & Helen Matoy Jim McConnell (Wilkinson) Philip Meadows Margaret Meyer (Brake/Taylor) Jennifer Miller (Newlin) Nora Nagaruk (Stangl) Cindy Nelson Robert Pevler (DeHoogh) Bill Raun (Stiegler) Peg Romshe Kaci Ronne (Campbell) Phyllis Sanders Wills Setzler (Knox) Steve Shedrick (Gumm) David Smith (Cooper) Grace Smith Mary Lee Smith (Parsons) Naomi Stevenson (A. Houston) Joe Truett (Carter) Petra & Martin Viran (Henderson) Charles Walker Brent Westerman (Stiegler) Lucille Wickstead Mike Wieder (Jones) Nona Wilhm (PW Bowling) Tracy Wilkinson (Aresco) Cathey Wollenberg (Ewing) Sophia Wolniewicz (Dorr) Kristen Wray (Alspach)

(Names in parentheses indicate the church family requesting prayer for a non-member.)

Church: Synod of Mid-Atlantic (DE, MD, NC, VA) Synod of the Northeast (CT, MA, ME, NJ, NH, NY, RI, VT)

(Please Notify the church office if persons may be removed from the

Prayer List. Thanks!)

SORROW

Helen Brake and family in the death of her brother,

Thurman Brake, Jr.

Pat and Bob Goff in the death of their granddaughter,

Lyndsey Hulsizer

Rob Horton and family in the death of his mother Frances Horton

Family and friends of Sharon Felible

Family and friends of Peter DuBois

Family and friends of Ray Murphy

Danette Baker and family in the death of her grandmother,

Lora Tripp

Family and friends of Bob Fenimore

Edna Visnic and family in the death of her husband, Sam

MARRIAGES July 10

Rachel Fagan and Adam Judd (in Van Alsteen, Texas)

July 12 Katie Reavis & David Womack

IN THE SERVICE Members & family members of our church family who have been deployed in service to our country:

CPL Peter Butz (Clair) CPT Casey Campbell MAJ Jeff (J.J.) Fair SPC Matt Krehbiel MSG Steve Morwood (Morwood) Joshua Taff (E. Williams) SPC Craig Wensell (Houck) CPT Mark Weber (Arquitt)

(If you also have family members who are serving, please call the office with

their names to be included in our prayer list, here and in the weekly bulletin)

STAFF NEWS

Gordon Edwards, Pastor, will be on vacation August 16-September 6.

Rebecca te Velde, Organist, will be on vacation September 9-13.

Cathy Fairbanks, Church Administrator, will be out of the office August 23-25.

FORMER STAFF NEWS

Carmen & Stephen Dale announce the birth of twins, Thomas Andrew and Clara Elizabeth on Thursday, June 24 in Frisco, Texas. Stephen worked as a custodian at First Presbyterian as a college student. He and Carmen were married here January 31, 1998. (Photo of the babies is on bulletin board in south hall)

SPECIAL ANNIVERSARIES Happy Anniversary to those in our congregation who celebrate special anniversaries this month:

40th Joe & Mary Dillingham

July 4

57th Frank & Mary Jane Phillips

August 2

IN MEMORIAM

Bob Fenimore Joined First Presbyterian Church

November 1, 1953

Entered the Church Triumphant July 28, 2010

Jesus said, “I am the resurrection

and the life. Whoever believes in me shall never die.”

AUGUST WORSHIP SCHEDULE We continue with one service of worship at 9:30 a.m. followed by

fellowship brunch in Fellowship Hall at 10:30 a.m. through Sunday, August 22. Summer Brunch Host Schedule: August 15 Youth CE and Family Ministry August 22 Choir and Worship & Music

REGULAR WORSHIP SCHEDULE RETURNS AUGUST 29

On Sunday, August 29 we return to the regular schedule of TWO worship services at 8:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. Rally Day activities will begin at 9:45 a.m. that day in Fellowship Hall.

The following Sunday, September 5, regular Church School classes for all ages begin at 9:45 a.m.

“WELCOME BACK!” COOKOUT Join the Evangelism, Membership, and Fellowship Committee

following the 11:00 a.m. service on August 29 for the annual Welcome Back Cookout! There is no need to bring anything except your appetite, and perhaps a friend. Vegetarian options will be available. Donations to offset food costs will be greatly appreciated.

See related articles in this issue of the Ambassador, plus the Christian Education Booklet, in your mailboxes soon!

TEACHER TRAINING

For all 2010-2011 Sunday school teachers/shepherds Sunday, August 22 10:45 a.m.-1:00p.m. - Lunch will be served

Get equipped by examining topics which will help you have a successful year with your class. We’ll look at the big picture and goal of teaching, as well as spend time with teaching logistics (calendars, supplies, class lists, classroom management, etc.). Please RSVP to the church office so we know how many to prepare for (372-5580 or fpchurch1889@swbell.net).

CHILD PROTECTION POLICY TRAINING

For all interested in working with children/youth at FPC Sunday, August 22 Immediately following Teacher Training (app. 1:00 p.m.) South side of Fellowship Hall

This training is for anyone currently working with or who would like to volunteer with children/youth at FPC. Whether you work on an ongoing basis with them or you just want to volunteer every once in a while, we can create a safer environment for ALL if we have trained volunteers. The training is good for three years (if you have participated in this within the last three years, you do not need to attend).

PEACE CANDLE On Sunday August 8, Cathy and Steve Fairbanks presented a peace

candle to FPC. They was received the candle from First Presbyterian Church of Independence, Missouri, after worshipping there.

While on a trip to Russia in 1986 a group of American Christians worshiped at a Russian Orthodox Church. After the service an elderly woman pushed three rubles into the hands of the minister leading the group and asked him to buy a candle and light it at services in his church as a symbol of peace. Later congregation members decided to purchase more candles and invited members to send them to other churches.

First Presbyterian Church of Stillwater, Oklahoma, is now a “peace church.” The peace candle will be lit at each worship service. It is our intent to pass a peace candle on to out-of town visitors. Hopefully they will take the candle to their home church and present it as a symbol of peace so those congregations can also pray for world peace.

Please help us with this initiative. If you meet an out-of-town visitor during worship, go to the new information center in the Narthex and get a peace candle to give to our guest. (Marked sacks contain candle and explanation.) Tell them the story behind the candle and ask them to take it back to their church and pray for world peace. Every prayer helps!

PRAYER SHAWL/SQUARE MINISTRY Our prayer shawls and squares continue to be an

important part of this ministry. Our Galveston Texas Mission Team and the Czech Republic Mission Team have extended God's love to those they have served

through our prayer shawls and their mission work. Many here in Stillwater have also received our prayer shawls, either by request or through members of FPC. A request for our prayer shawls was received from the Pastor of FPC Bayou Blue Church

in Louisiana and they have been shipped and received with much appreciation.

In 2009 we sent 125 prayer squares to a Chaplain in Afghanistan for his unit. In June we received a letter of appreciation from Chaplain Dewell with a photo of the Task Force Unit he served. A portion of that letter reads as follows: "Please accept my deepest thanks and gratitude for your recent generous contribution and support given to the Indiana and Kentucky Army National Guard Soldiers of Task Force CYCLONE serving here in Afghanistan. Kind care packages like yours help us get through the long months separated from our families that we love and miss so dearly. As the Task Force Chaplain I personally thank you for providing me means to keep unit and Soldier morale higher than I could do on my own without your efforts. It means you care about us all!! Thank you for that!!" - Chaplain Lieutenant Colonel Russell L. Dewell

Chaplain Dewell requested that we please send some to Chaplain C. H. Gunderson who would be taking his place. Chaplain Dewell and his unit returned home the end of June. Those prayer squares have been sent to Chaplain Gunderson.

We have also begun a prayer square ministry to the residents of the Gulf Coast. 230 squares have been given personally to Pastors in the New Orleans and Bayou area by Brenda Phillips. Brenda reports that the squares were received with much appreciation and praise. They are so grateful that we are remembering them with prayer. The tags that go with these squares read as follows:

Into your pocket put this SQUARE Know it comes along with PRAYER

Alone? You're NOT, as GOD is there! Forgotten? NO, because WE CARE!

First Presbyterian Church Stillwater Oklahoma Gulf Coast Oil Spill

We welcome a new member, Claudia Roach.

We continue to pray for new members. If you are interested, please contact Jane Durham (372-7096) or Mary Jane Phillips (707-9192). It is awesome to serve our God through these shawls and squares and see God at work through these gifts.

NEWS ABOUT PW Mark your calendar for these events!!!

▪ Friday, August 27, we will gather for

our Summer PW Gathering at the home of Margie Keener, 2017 Highland Ct., at 6:00 p.m. A light supper will be served. As always, this will be a time of food, fun, and fellowship!

▪ Our church will host the Cimarron and Indian Nations

presbyteries’ PW Fall Gathering here in Stillwater, Saturday, August 28. This gathering is a wonderful opportunity to hear Rev. Judye Pistole from Alva, who will give an overview of the 2010-2011 Horizons Bible Study, Journeys Through Revelation: Apocalyptic Hope for Today. Registration and refreshments will begin at 9:30. Cost is $10 which will include lunch in Fellowship Hall. Since we need a count for lunch please make your reservation with Mary McKinley (377-4367 or mck2@brightok.net) by Monday, August 23. The $10 can be paid when you register at the door.

▪ On Wednesday, September 8, we gather for our PW

Luncheon at 11:45 a.m. in the Fellowship Hall. Kay Keys, Director of the OSU English Language Institute, will give a program on “Global Perspectives.” The cost of the luncheon is $3 and reservations are due to the Church Office by Noon on Friday, September 3. Devotion will be given by Nellie Stallard Circle. The PW Coordinating Team will meet at 10:00 a.m. in the Library prior to the luncheon.

MISSION OPPORTUNITY FOR PW

When Bob and Barbara Henderson travel to south Texas in January they are planning to take items to the Meadowlark Ministries who work with the Nowata Indians on the edge of Progresso, Mexico. There are

about 35 families there who don’t even speak Spanish. The Meadowlark Ministries make ‘Bags of Happiness’ to distribute to these families as well as helping at six learning centers and orphanages.

When our Circles and luncheons resume in the fall you will be given more information about this project and a list of items that are needed to fill the ‘bags of happiness’. In the meantime you might like to start saving the following items that are used for their ‘fire starting’ kits:

Paper towel tubes Toilet paper tubes Dryer lint Used dryer sheets Cardboard egg cartons Sawdust Old Crayons Old candles

PW Circles Return Regular Circle meetings resume the 4th week of

September

The Ohana Circle will reconvene September 26! We are so excited to begin a newly released Bible Study on DVD entitled Jonah: Navigating a Life Interrupted by Priscilla Shirer Several members asked for an in-depth Bible Study that included “homework.” We are very enthusiastic about this study in the Word of God. The LifeWay (www.lifeway.com) site describes this study as follows:

"What do we do when God interrupts our lives? Many times, like Jonah, we run! In this 7-session Bible study, Priscilla redefines interruption and shows that interruption is actually God's invitation to do something beyond our wildest dreams. When Jonah was willing to allow God to interrupt his life, the result was revival in an entire city.

Please join us on Sunday, September 26 from 5:00-6:30 p.m. in the library as we learn to listen for the voice of God. Member books are $10 each and will need to be ordered in the next few weeks. Please contact Mindy McCann (780-1122) or Missy Wilkinson (arwilk@aol.com) with questions or if you would like to order a workbook. We invite you to embark on this journey with us - it will not disappoint!

Second Mile Sewing... ... continues to meet on the 1st, 3rd, and 5th Wednesdays 9:15 a.m. in the Fellowship Hall. A donation box is in the

Narthex for your sewing and ‘crafty’ items.

PRESBYTERIAN WOMEN BOWLING = FUN! FUN! FUN! Begins Thursday, September 7

Teams are forming and bowlers are needed!

Come join a wonderful time of fellowship and exercise as we bowl at Frontier Lanes on Thursday mornings at 9:10 a.m. Cost for bowling each week is $7. Substitutes are also needed. No experience is necessary! We just have a great time together!

To join or get more information contact:

Rita Breuninger - 372-3298 Rosetta Silver - 372-6915.

YOUTH MINISTRY MISSION STATEMENT The youth ministry of First Presbyterian Church

accompanies and empowers youth on their journey to be life-long disciples who live out their faith by loving, serving, and growing in Christ.

YOUTH MINISTRY CORE VALUES As we engage in youth ministry at FPC, we will be:

Welcoming: We invite all youth to be part of an accepting, fun, and inclusive community

Joyful: We celebrate with Christ the exploration of life in the Spirit

Spiritual: We believe and live in the presence of God in and around us

Loving: We celebrate and care about each individual as a child of God

Faithful: We trust and seek the guidance of God through the Holy Spirit

PRESBYTERIAN YOUTH GROUP (PYG)

For all youth grades 6-12 Senior High/Junior High Youth Lounges (2nd fl) Sundays, 5:00-6:30 p.m.

PYG is a time for youth to be in community together. At PYG, youth can expect music, snacks, games, group building activities, hanging out time (relaxed discussion), Bible study, and prayer. Service and mission, retreats, and trips are also offered throughout the year.

Youth Ministry STAFF: Jenna Campbell, Director, Youth & Family Ministry

Riley Kern, Youth Ministry Assistant

Youth SPONSORS: Thad and Kim Leffingwell, Kelly Nipp, Rusty Rex

SMALL GROUPS (9TH-12TH) Are you ready to strengthen relationships, learn

more about scriptures, and deepen the content and practice of your faith? This year, PYG offers a small

group ministry dedicated to these kinds of goals.

Regardless of who you are, you will benefit from committing to a small group of spiritual

friends who will encourage you to Read-Think-Pray-Live like our Lord Jesus. Be on the lookout for more information coming soon!

PYG FALL CALENDAR

August 20-21 7p-7a Relay for Life - Couch Park (Team PYG youth arrive by 5p) 22 No PYG 29 6-8p PYG Watermelon Olympics and Welcome Back Cookout September 4 TBA PYG Tailgating Tent (see article) 5 9:45a Sunday school classes begin No PYG Happy Labor Day! 11 TBA PYG Tailgating Tent 12 5-7p PYG and PYG Parent Meeting 18-19 PYG Fall Retreat 25 TBA PYG Tailgating Tent

WATERMELON OLYMPICS & WELCOME BACK COOKOUT

Sunday, August 29 6:00-8:00 p.m. Front Lawn/Courtyard

It’s back to school and back to PYG! All youth 6th-12th grade are invited for a fun time of Watermelon Olympics and yummy food. We’ll provide the all the fixin’s for hamburgers and hotdogs, drinks, and paper products - please bring a side item to share. Wear clothes you don’t mind getting sticky!

PYG FALL RETREAT AT SKY RANCH September 18-19 6th-12th grades Leave Saturday, 8:00 a.m. - Return Sunday, 6:30 p.m Registration DEADLINE: Wednesday, September 1 (permission form and $75 due in the church office). Fee includes all meals for the trip. Permission forms will be available SOON on Lucy’s door or the website.

It’s time to connect as a youth group and Sky Ranch (near Miami, OK) is a great place to do it! Here’s a glimpse of what we’ll be doing on the retreat:

▪ Learn more about one another through fun games and good discussions

▪ Learn more about God through dynamic Bible studies and thoughtful reflection

▪ Soar through the sky on a 2,000 ft long zip line (in harnesses of course!). It’s the longest one in Oklahoma!

▪ Play paintball or go on a horseback ride!

▪ Swim together-they have a Blob and a SuperSlide!

YOUTH NEWS CONTINUED, NEXT PAGE

, CONTINUED

DO YOU TEXT? Sign up to receive texts from FPC about youth

ministry happenings. The new texting service FPC is registered for will allow us to:

▪ Communicate with youth

▪ Connect with youth volunteers

▪ Keep parents in the loop

Let Jenna Campbell know if you want to receive texts about youth ministry at FPC. All she needs is your cell phone number and cell phone carrier (AT&T, Verizon, etc.). Contact Jenna at 372-5580 or youthandfamily@swbell.net or send her a text!

PYG AND PYG PARENT MEETING

Sunday, September 12 ~ 5:00-7:00 p.m. Hospitality Area/Multipurpose Room

Youth-bring your parents! Parents-bring your youth! We hope to use this time with the parents to highlight the year, go over important dates, discuss ways you can be involved in the faith life of your child, and get health forms filled out for each child.

Parents - you’ll receive the new health forms in the mail. Please bring the following to the meeting: completed forms, copy of health insurance card (if not already on file at church), and your calendar.

Some of you parents have had kids in youth group for a long time, and some of you are new to this. We ask for new and “experienced” alike to be present at the September 13 meeting. We have a great schedule planned for the year, including many ways for the youth to build community and continue to grow in faith. Come find out how you can be a part of this!

First Wednesday of the Month 5:30-7:30p.m.

Fellowship Hall

Wednesday at the Well is an intergenerational time of

fellowship, learning, sharing, and worship.

Dinner is served at 5:30, followed by intergenerational learning and worship. Dinner is $4.00/person (maximum

of $16/family). Reservations are due in the Church Office the Tuesday before the Wednesday meal.

2010-2011 Theme: Living Well at the Well

Christian Practices for Everyday Life We hunger for a meaningful way of life. We want a

faith that makes a difference not just on Sunday mornings, but in our homes, communities, and the world. Each month, Well participants will explore different Christian practices and discover how to participate in these practices as a way of responding through action to God’s love.

SEPTEMBER 1 - PARTICIPATING IN COMMUNITY We are especially reminded at the beginning of a

new school year of the many choices we have on where we spend our time and how we participate in various communities. How do you participate meaningfully in your family, church, community, and the world? Identify gifts and talents that can help you best choose how and where you spend your time.

A SPECIAL NOTE TO FAMILIES WITH YOUNG CHILDREN:

We would LOVE to have your whole family attend the Well. We want to cover your children (and you as parents!) with love and understand that children need to move around and talk. Our programming is planned with the audience in mind - all ages! Children are invited to plug into the program as they are able or we’ll have a few children’s materials in the Fellowship Hall (so they will still be a part of the larger group) if they need to focus their energies in a more age-appropriate way. Of course, child care is always provided should you prefer that option. We hope you’ll give it a try and let your children experience life in the community of faith.

STILLWATER RELAY FOR LIFE August 20-21 7:00 p.m. -7:00 a.m. Couch Park

The whole community is invited to attend Relay for Life, a community event and fundraiser for the American Cancer Society. The night kicks off with the opening ceremonies and survivor lap at 7:00 p.m. The luminaria ceremony will be at 10:00 p.m. There will be fun activities all night long! Closing Ceremonies take place at 6:30 a.m. All are welcome!

Support Team PYG (Presbyterian Youth Group) and Team Claire members in their quest to raise money for the American Cancer Society. Team PYG members should arrive by 5:00 p.m. to set up the campsite.

FELLOWSHIP All University students (Presbyterian or not!) are

invited to join in any of our fellowship and study opportunities. Whether you are interested in an in-depth Bible study or just some time to meet other students and talk about faith stuff, there's a place for you here at First Presbyterian.

The church is offering a Welcome Dinner for students on Sunday, September 12 at 6:00 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall. Students don't need to bring anything, just yourself and a friend if you want! You'll get to meet other students and also members of the church who are part of the OSU community and want to meet you!

WEEKLY FELLOWSHIP

Tuesday Night Bible Study starts August 31, 8:15-9:15 p.m. at Starbucks (on Hall of Fame) - the drinks and desserts are on us Our first Bible Study series: Balance. How do we navigate competing pressures? What does it mean to live a well-integrated life? Bring a Bible and a friend (if you want).

MONTHLY FELLOWSHIP

Movie Night! begins Tuesday, September 7, with Dinner at 7:00 p.m. and film at 8:00 p.m. Movie Nights happen the first Tuesday of each month, instead of Bible Study. In September we will be watching The Messenger. Movie Night includes REAL dinner on REAL plates, at Leah and Nat's house (call church office for directions).

Lunch Out: One Sunday a month, students will meet after the 11:00 a.m. worship service and go out to lunch together. Lunch is free - the place is decided by those who gather. Lunch Out will usually gather on the last Sunday of the month. Starts September 26.

LARGER CHURCH FELLOWSHIP

These First Presbyterian Church events may interest you, and we would love to see you at any of them.

• Chancel Choir Rehearsals begin Wednesday, August 24, 7:30 p.m.

• Regular Worship - August 29, 8:30 & 11:00 a.m.

• Rally Day - August 29, 9:45 a.m.

• Rally Day Cookout - August 29, Noon

• Wednesday at the Well - September 1, 5:30 p.m.

• Regular Adult Sunday Classes begin September 5, 9:45 a.m.

Join men of all ages in a retreat for rest, fellowship and recreation. The retreat takes place in cabins at Roman Nose State Park in Oklahoma, where hiking, golf, and other activities are available. Riley Kern offers music at vespers on Saturday evening, and worship is led on Sunday by Gordon Edwards.

More information on registration to follow in the bulletin and on the website

CHANCEL CHOIR REHEARSALS RESUME!

Dust off those vocal chords and come join the choir. All are welcome to join in great singing and great fellowship. We meet Wednesday evenings from 7:30-8:30 p.m. and Sunday mornings at 10:15 a.m. Choir rehearsals begin Wednesday, August 25 (child care is provided).

The choir will be back in the loft on Rally Day Sunday, August 29.

“LABELS FOR EDUCATION” AND BETTY CROCKER POINTS!

Bring your Campbell’s “Labels for Education” and Betty Crocker points to the new Hospitality Area Kitchen.

As usual the criteria for labels is as follows: The Campbell’s “Labels for Education” program requires that we remove the WHOLE LABEL from the container so that is includes the UPC bar code and picture next to it. (A Campbell Soup kid or a fat pencil.)

Other products included are Franco-American, Pepperidge Farm, Swanson, Market Day, Prego, and V-8 labels and lids. These may be deposited in the containers in the Hospitality Area Kitchen so that they can be sent to Goodland Academy for redemption for items they need.

REPORT FROM THE “EMBRACING THE FUTURE” TEAM The Embracing the Future Team has been meeting on a regular basis to select an architect for the

renovation project. Three firms made presentations to the team. The team has selected Jana Phillips of Brown Engineering, P.C. She will be joined by interior designer, Jeanne Phillips. They will be working with Lambert Construction to complete the report for an October congregational meeting. The report will contain three levels of renovation for the congregation’s consideration.

Phase II of the church modernization and renovation work is rapidly drawing to a close. Three mini-but-important projects have been completed very recently (July 2010). They were:

1. Capstone head-joint cleaning and restoration: This work, executed by Mid-Continental Restoration Co. of Fort Scott, Kansas at a cost of $9,938, involved complete cleaning of old mortar and caulking on the head-joints of all the capstones on the main church building with the exception of the bell tower. The joints were then caulked and sealed with highest quality material available on the market. This job will provide our church facility with a sound weather preventative seal and preserve our investment in a new roof and windows for years to come.

2. Replacement of the bell tower roof: The entire flooring of the top (exterior) floor of the bell tower roof was removed and replaced with a new, state-of-the-art membrane, flashing, sealant caulking and a newly fabricated hatch cover. This labor-intensive effort was conducted by Oklahoma Roofing Company of Oklahoma City, and cost approximately $7,400.

3. Guttering leaf guard and water “re-routing” project: This project entailed cleaning of all horizontal gutters and (vertical) downspouts on the entire perimeter of the main church building, installing heavy-duty wire-mesh leaf guard strips on the gutters, and re-routing (rain) water atop the new porch vestibule with the use of new, large downspouts, etc. at the SW corner of the courtyard. This project was tasked to Camco Home Improvement, Inc. of Stillwater at a cost of $4,117.

In summary, this completes the bulk of the work on Phase II. Questions and comments are always welcome as we move from Phase II to Phase III of “renewing our church home”.

WHAT IS A COLUMBARIUM?

The term comes from the Latin word columba or “dove.” It is a peaceful respectful site to place the ashes of a person following cremation. Niches are provided for the placement of an urn or other container holding the ashes of the deceased. A columbarium can be located either outside or inside.

On August 3, fourteen people attended a meeting to discuss a columbarium for First Presbyterian Church. The group is enthusiastic and anxious to see this addition to our facility become a reality. Five companies are being contacted to make presentations and help us with ideas for placement, configuration, and cost. Watch for notice of future meetings in the church bulletin and the Ambassador.

If you are interested in this project or are considering purchasing a niche, please contact Nancy Franklin (624-0947), Allen Reding (372-6894) or Maxine Mulvey (624-7685) for information or come to the next meeting.

WOMEN’S RETREAT (April 2-3, 2011) Sat-Sun

All women of the church are invited to join in this weekend for rest, new friendships, and spiritual exploration. We will return to the beautiful and newly renovated St. Crispin’s Episcopal Retreat Center in Wewoka, Oklahoma. The theme follows Methodist pastor Jan L. Richardson’s meditations, art and prayer in her new book In the Sanctuary of Women.

Mark your calendars and plan to attend the Spring Women’s Retreat!

FAIR TRADE STORE The Fair Trade Store will be open every

Sunday between and after worship services. Stop by on your way to the to check out the unusual and lovely gift items and as always there are coffee, olive oil, spices, and chocolate!

Thank you to the members of the church who recently served as ushers and helped with the reception following Bob's Memorial Service. A special thanks to the women who prepared the delicious sandwiches, cookies, fruit and punch. We all appreciated the OSU theme and our wonderful air conditioning in the church and the Fellowship Hall. Love in Christ, Veta Jo Fenimore, Beth Atess and Jo Ellen Jones

To our friends at FPC: Thank you for your generous donation to Team

Claire and Relay for Life. We appreciate all the support and encouragement in our efforts to raise money for the American Cancer Society. Kim & Thad Leffingwell

Dear FPC family, I wanted to thank you all from the bottom of my heart

for the prayer shawl I received after my graduation. Also I wanted to thank each and every one of you for completely fulfilling the commitment you made at my baptism. I am truly blessed to have been raised by such wonderful people, you have made me who I am today. Love always, Abby Stokes

Dear members of First Presbyterian Church I have recently moved to Tulsa. I do appreciate your

many kind and thoughtful ways of making me feel a part of your family. God’s blessing for your warm and loving care for each other. Respectfully, Virginia Thomas

Dear Church Family Thank you for my 3rd grade Bible. Right now I am

using it to memorize James 1. My Bible has explanations of the verses on each page so I understand what it means a little more. Thank you again. Love, Kaleigh Wilkinson

Sharon so enjoyed the Prayer Shawl you all gave her. She was so proud to show it to everyone who came into her room. Thank you very much for your prayers, visits, and the thoughtfulness you have shown her. Toni Carpenter

To Everyone at FPC Thank you for the many prayers, phone calls, hugs,

and cards during my brother’s illness and also for the prayer shawls given to us and our mom. I cannot express how much your support has meant to me. God bless you, Helen Brake

Board of Deacons and First Presbyterian Church

Thank you so much for your generous donation of $300 to the Saville Center! This gift brings us one step closer to breaking the cycle of child abuse…one child at a time.

By providing legally sound forensic interviews in a safe, homelike environment for children, The Saville Center aims to reduce the trauma of abused children in our community. Organizations like ours could not survive without the generous contributions of time and resources by our donors. You are appreciated beyond measure! On behalf of the children and families we serve, Brandi White, Executive Director

Dear FPC Thank you for your June 8 generous gift of $300 from

the Board of Deacons of First Presbyterian Church in support of the Payne County Youth Services Shelter. Your kind and thoughtful donation is appreciated.

Your support of PCYS and its programs is a gift that we do not take lightly. We appreciate your assistance as we strive to meet the many needs in our communities. Janet Fultz, Executive Director

Stillwater Volunteers Thank you so much for all of your help repairing the

damage from Hurricane Ike. Y’all were a terrific group to work with and we hope to see you again. Galveston residents are noticing the hard work that volunteers are putting in and are very thankful for your sacrifice of time and sweat. Thanks again! Maggie, Leslie, Nikki, Josie, Courtney, Carolyn, Luke, Travis Great crew and great work – servant hearts all! - Gary You guys are great! Thanks! - Jim (Editor’s note: this note was sent from the Episcopal Diocese of Texas where FPC 2010 Mission Team stayed and worked in June)

We just wanted to make a small donation to say thank you and show our appreciation to you for allowing us to use your facilities for trainings. You have a beautiful church! If our organization could ever be of any assistance to you, please don’t hesitate to contact us! Sabrina Price FOCUS Institute of Stillwater

FROM THE MAIL BOX:

Letters continued, next page.

FIND US ON faceboofaceboofaceboofacebookkkk™!

Are you on Facebook? Keep up to date with FPC happenings and connect with other members and

friends of FPC…join our Facebook group! First Presbyterian Church-Stillwater, OK

STEPHEN MINISTRY: GOD GIVES THE GROWTH Training Begins October 4 Plant the Seed: Consider God’s Call

Stephen Ministry is our congregation’s one-to-one caring ministry. Your Stephen Leaders invite you to consider how God could be planting the seed of caring ministry in your heart. God works through Stephen Ministers to bring hope and healing to those who need a Christian friend.

Water the Seed: Stephen Ministry Training Our next Stephen Ministry training class begins

Monday, October 4. The class will meet each Monday evening from 6:30-9:00 p.m. for 20 weeks. The location will rotate between participating churches: First Presbyterian, First United Methodist, Sunnybrook, and St. John and St. Francis Catholic churches.

Training will equip you to show God’s mercy and compassion to another who is hurting. You will learn to

▪ Listen

▪ Be assertive

▪ Explore feelings

▪ Pray

▪ Maintain Confidentiality

▪ Focus on Caring

▪ Leave the results to God

Water the Seed: God Will Make It Grow Caring nurtures the seed of God’s love - in the care

receiver’s heart and in yours. Care receivers and Stephen Ministers often praise God for the personal and spiritual growth that come from a Stephen Ministry relationship.

For more information about Stephen Minister training, contact one of our pastors or Stephen Leaders Kay Stewart: 377-5310, kay.stewart@suddenlink.net Carolyn Caldwell: 372-8208, carcaldwell@sbcglobal.net

SESSION SUMMARY The Session met on July 13 in its Stated Monthly

meeting and considered the following items of business:

▪ discussed the Parish Paper “Should Our

Congregation Use Internet Social Media?”

▪ noted that there is a 2010 Operating Budget projected shortfall and asked the committees to watch expenditures and to inform the congregation of this possibility

▪ celebrated that 112 children were enrolled in VBS – over 80 were from non-Presbyterian families

▪ scheduled the University Community Welcome

Back Gathering for Sunday, September 12

▪ approved updates in the position descriptions for the Associate Pastor, Director of Family and Youth, Older Adult Ministry Coordinator, Church Administrator, Church Financial Secretary, Administrative Assistant, Director of Music, and Organist

▪ informed that the Personnel Committee will be

conducting Annual Reviews with the professional staff in the next month

▪ received an update from Embracing the Future

Team who are interviewing 3 architectural firms for this phase of renovation

▪ received a word of appreciation from the Bayou Blue

Presbyterian Church in Louisiana for our support of their community

▪ heard a report on Rebecca Chancellor’s

Ordination and the presentation of the “Children of the World” stole given by our congregation to her at that time

▪ received a summary of four General Assembly

actions

▪ had a brief discussion on the Cimarron

Presbytery’s Triennial Visit with our two pastors and the Session in May

UPENDO KWANZA! LOVE FIRST! You are invited to a Potluck Dinner to hear a report

on the Kenyan Mission Trip from the Menja Family (Robert, Eunice, Yvonne, and Rita). See who received the water straws, water pump, pencils, and school supplies that YOU helped provide in May.

When: Sunday, September 26, 6:00 p.m.

Where: Fellowship Hall

Who’s invited: Our whole church family

Bring: main dish, salad, vegetable, or dessert to share. Beverages and table service are provided.

Our beloved American friends,

We are sending you our love from the English Camp 2010 in Polička. We know you would all love to be here and we miss you very much. We have done our best to keep the Camp in the same enthusiastic spirit that you helped to create. We have done so in your name too and we hope you will be happy with the results.

Pavla Mlynkovar, Jarda, Misa, Zuska P., Honza, Bara K., Jitka, Hanka, Ylanda, Eva, Dan, Mariska, Karolina, Ondra, Marta Dusova, Nicole, Madla, Martina, Kristina, Daniela, Jeri, Adam, Petra W., Hanka S., Ester

FROM THE MAIL BOX, continued

FROM THE ORGAN BENCH: THE AGO 2010 NATIONAL CONVENTION My heartfelt thanks go out to the FPC congregation once again for allowing me to attend the national convention

of my professional organization, the American Guild of Organists, in Washington, D.C. July 4-9. A few of the highlights from our dawn-to-midnight schedule include the opening convocation at Washington National Cathedral (including stunning brass, organ and choral music, rafter-raising hymn-singing, and a memorable homily by AGO national chaplain Rev. Thomas Troeger) and a monumental concert in the same space 12 hours later on the same day, a spectacular organ recital at National Presbyterian Church. There was a fascinating class by Dr. Leo Rozmaryn called “The organist from fingertip to brain and back again”, an unforgettable organ concert at the Naval Academy Chapel at Annapolis, and a grand closing concert of organ and choral music at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. Reconnecting with colleagues in elevators, on buses, in subway trains and in the Exhibit Hall was also a source of joy. My mother Myrtle Groom attended the convention with me, so it was also a special time with her.

Much productive time was spent in the Exhibit Hall, which was filled with music publishers, organ builders, and many organ- and choral-related businesses and organizations. I purchased new music, both for solo organ and organ plus other instruments (stay tuned!), and also ordered a new light for the music rack on our organ console, which was needed in the wake of the electrical upgrades and alterations in our sanctuary. The light was custom-built for our organ - visit the organ console anytime to see it! I also received the happy news from the U.S. Editor at Oxford U. Press that a couple of my Hymn Miniatures have been selected for two other publications, and that this book sold out at the convention!

Being in Washington, D.C. on July 4 was a special treat that included attending morning worship at Washington National Cathedral, with an afternoon patriotic concert in the same place [www.nationalcathedral.org/events/OR20100704.shtml, click “Watch Video”], and the National Symphony Orchestra concert with an array of guests on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol (broadcast live on PBS).

Thank you for the battery-recharge I got from this convention! If you would like to see my D.C. photos, visit http://picasaweb.google.com/rgtevelde/AGODC2010Convention#.

Grace and peace, Rebecca te Velde, organist

The Youth CE Committee, always intent on helping build a sustainable youth ministry at FPC, continues to work on our 3-year revolving goals. Currently, we are focusing on the following:

1. Through the efforts of the Embracing the Future Team, we are working to revitalize youth areas of the church so that they not only meet the needs of our youth programs but they also are attractive and inviting to our youth and their friends.

2. By the end of 2010, we intend to have a system in place that will allow us to track our youth's attendance at all church events.

3. We are developing a system by which we can publicize our youth's church, school, and extra-curricular activities.

4. We are developing a small-group ministry for high school students.

If you have questions about these goals - or, for that matter, any of our other goals - please feel free to call one of us.

Sandy Cohlmia, chair Jenna Campbell, Jenny Fowler, Judy Holland, Brenda Johnson, Riley Kern, Youth Ministry Assistant, Ethan Rex, Rusty Rex

YOUTH TAILGATING TENT This fall, our youth are going to "man" a tailgating tent

at the September 4, 11, and 25 OSU home games. They will be selling pop, bottled water, and Cowboy “tattoos”. James Causley has donated his parking lot at For Pete's Sake (the corner of Knoblock and Elm) for this activity. Monies raised will support youth ministry programs at FPC.

Plan to stop by for a cool drink and a tattoo on your way to support our Cowboys!

NEWS FROM THE YOUTH CE COMMITTEE

MONTHLY INCOME REPORT:

July 2010| Year to Date|

Giving: $041,024) $286,875)

Other Income: $001,085) $014,279)

Expenditures: ($042,406) ($328,006)

Income Less Expenditures: ($000,297) ($026,852)

Total Income: $042,109) $301,154)

2010 PER CAPITA The 2010 annual payment is $36.00 per member.

A one-time contribution to the Operating Budget in that amount will help defray per capita payments to the PC(USA) and Cimarron Presbytery and help ease the budget crunch. Just mark “per capita” in the memo line of your check. Thank you.

DEACON’S CORNER Jesus said “I tell you the truth, whatever you did

for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.”

Matthew 25:40 Saturday Brunch

Looking for a place to minister? Looking for a way to be the "hands and feet" of Christ? If so, FPC has a brand new ministry! We will serve a free and nutritious brunch every Saturday from 11:00 a.m.-Noon.

Stillwater sees a staggering number of individuals and families in need of basic nutrition. For months we have prayed, planned, visited and called churches that serve community meals, ordered food, priced eating utensils, asked for donations, formed committees, and prayed some more. To be honest, we anticipate "bumps in the road" realizing that a ministry of this magnitude will not be without challenges. There are, however, things we can promise about the brunch. As we open our doors each Saturday, guests will be treated with dignity. They will experience an atmosphere of grace, joy and hospitality.

Our many volunteers will be involved in serving and cleaning up. Just as their efforts are a demonstration of God's love and mercy, we also have a great need for volunteers to sit and enjoy a meal with our guests. This is the single most important part of this ministry. You don't even need to let us know you are coming to eat. You have a standing invitation to come enjoy a wonderful brunch at your church.

Contact: Terry Henley (707-0863) or Missy Wilkinson (377-1431)

Community Food Offering During these difficult economic times, your gifts of

non-perishable food to the shopping cart in the Narthex are more valuable and more appreciated than ever. The food is distributed to local agencies who help those in need. Suggested items to bring include canned meats, fruits, vegetables, soups, mac & cheese, peanut butter, powdered milk, pasta, baby food. Let’s fill the cart each week to assist our neighbors.

Love Feast Volunteers are always appreciated to assist with food

preparation, serving and cookie baking for Love Feast on the 3rd Wednesday of each month. Sign up on the bulletin board in the south hallway or contact Deacon Quinn Baldwin (714-8662). FPC’s next scheduled Love Feast dates are August 18 and September 15

FROM THE FINANCE COMMITTEE Through the ministries of FPC, Stillwater we are the

“enfleshment” of God’s image in this world. While the image is glorious beyond description the current state of the operating budget supporting these ministries is not.

Through the end of July, in support of Community Service, Worship, Education,

Evangelism & Fellowship, Pastoral Care, Denominational Support & Global Mission we

have spent $26,852 more than income received during the same period. God appreciates all that you have done through your personal stewardship, yet more is necessary to continue our ministries throughout the remainder of the year.

The Finance Committee asks each member of the Congregation to contribute an additional $50 per month each month for the remainder of the year. If 200 members respond to this request the additional income would provide an additional $40,000 of support for the ministries of FPC, Stillwater during 2010.

Over the remainder of the year Session will work to trim expenditures where possible. However, there is much less potential for reduced expenditures this year relative to 2009.

If you realize that God has blessed you with sufficient financial resources, please give thanks for this blessing through your response to this request.

Sincerely,

Members of the Finance Committee: Tim Krehbiel, chair Larry Caldwell, Dewey Clapp, Edwin Koeppe, Tim Schlais, Arletta Webster, Mike Woods

OPPORTUNITIES FOR FAMILIES

• Get Splash-ed! Splash!, a monthly newsletter, is

sent to families with children from birth to age three.

These newsletters are full of developmentally appropriate ideas

for Bible stories, devotions, prayer, worship, music, and playtime. Members and regular visitors will receive these newsletters. Do you have grandchildren or a family friend you would like to send them to? Let us know and you can purchase one through the church!

• Family Ministry Newsletter Families with children age 3 through 5th grade will

receive a newsletter in the mail every two months full of ideas and inspiration for the nurture of your family’s faith at home. Find information on church and community events that would be particularly family-oriented, interesting articles related to faith development, and highlights from the Nurture E-Newsletter. If you would like to receive this newsletter and are not on our mailing list, please contact the Church Office.

CHILD PROTECTION POLICY REVIEW

The Family Ministry Council recently conducted its required annual review of the Child Protection Policy and these changes were proposed to Session. Interested persons can review the updated policy at www.stillwaterfpc.org or read a hard copy located at the Information Center.

Friendly reminder: all volunteers who work with children or youth must be approved through our Child Protection Policy. Level 1 or Level 2 volunteer packets can be found at www.stillwaterfpc.org or on Lucy Newlin’s office door. Please begin your volunteer service only after you’ve received your volunteer status notification letter. Thanks for your help in ensuring that this community of faith is a safe, loving environment for our children and youth.

• Volunteer, Level 1 – an individual who is invited to assist with a single or short-term activity and has limited responsibility for a group of children and youth.

• Volunteer, Level 2 – an individual who is assigned to and/or given responsibility for a group or groups of children or youth on an on-going basis or who is responsible for a children or youth overnight.

ADULT SUNDAY MORNING CLASSES

Abiding Bible Study (September-May) This class moves sequentially through the Bible

with study and discussion of a passage each week. Meets in the Library - all are welcome. Leader: Dan Grischkowsky

Seasons of the Spirit (September-May) Our worship services usually focus on readings

from the Revised Common Lectionary, which is a 3-year cycle of readings from the Old Testament, Psalms, Epistles, and Gospels. This class follows the lectionary cycle along with worship, so that the passages studied usually align with those you will hear in the worship service that day. The visual, literary and other arts are also used to open opportunities for new perspectives on Scripture, life and faith. Meets in the Dining Room of the Fellowship Hall. Leader: Denise Rex

New: Offerings Fellowship (September-May)

God's blessings abound in our community of fellowship at First Presbyterian. We will focus on small group building and growing with the children of our congregation. Our class will join with SpiritLink for Celebrations as they complete their rotations. This will give the children an opportunity to share their growing faith and knowledge (and most likely grow our faith and knowledge too). Meets in Hospitality Area. Facilitators: Michael & Kristen Kulling

New: Book Group Join us this year as we explore a variety of books

that explore faithful living in a complex world. Leaders: Gordon Edwards and Leah Hrachovec

• Three Cups of Tea (September 5-October 10) Greg Mortenson and journalist David Oliver Relin, recount the journey to successfully establish schools in some of the most remote regions of Afghanistan and Pakistan.

• Same Kind of Different as Me

(October 17-November 21) This book chronicles, in alternating first-person narrative, the story of friendship between Denver Moore and Ron Hall. Their unlikely story of connection, hope, and faith is startling and inspiring.

• Advent series (starts November 28) Book TBA.

Have you read a book that inspires, challenges or changes you? Let us know; it may be a book we should read together. Contact Gordon or Leah with ideas for our Spring series.

SPIRITLINK!!! Our elementary age Sunday School, SpiritLink,

begins the year with a look at “Great Moments of Faith,” plus some changes to classes and format.

But first, you may want to know “Why the name SpiritLink?” Our community of faith takes very seriously our commitment to the nurturing and growth of our children’s faith. The name SpiritLink represents our desire to Link our children to the word of God, to loving Christian mentors, to meaningful

mission, and to a vibrant faith community. All this is possible through God’s Holy Spirit; thus: SpiritLink.

Changes, changes!! - SpiritLink classes are grouped according to age, with some flexibility to meet each child’s needs and to keep the classes balanced. This year, the classes have new names according to our theme: the “Transformers” (1st/2nd grades) and the “Fireballs” (3rd/4th/5th grades). We hope this will promote more meaningful interactions during class times. Also, we will all meet together, as a group, for Music Sundays with Heather Lanners and for Celebration Sundays. Celebration Sundays will be a review for the children and a presentation for parents, as they get a glimpse of their children’s spiritual journey in SpiritLink. Parents: Celebration Sundays will be: October 10, November 21, January 23, March 6, April 17, and May 22.

The Great Escape: Exodus and the Ten Commandments - We begin the year with a look at the Hebrews’ escape from Pharaoh, and God’s gift of the Ten Commandments. All children 1st-5th grade are invited to escape from Egypt with Moses and the Israelites to the base of Mt. Sinai where the commandments were given. (runs September 5-October 10).

Throughout the rest of the year, we will see God’s power with Elijah in large and small matters of faith; discover the Christ child in new ways during Advent and Christmas; witness the miracles of Jesus and hear what He said about the two greatest commandments; explore “secret code names” for the Messiah; and learn how Passover and Easter are related.

PRESCHOOL SUNDAY SCHOOL If you have a child 3 to 5 years old, please come

join Suzii Parsons and Leslie Baldwin in the north preschool wing on Sunday mornings, at 9:45 a.m. They follow d e ve lo p m e nt a l l y ap p r o p r i a t e curriculum to introduce our littlest ones to the love of God and Jesus.

SEASONED ADULTS Our summer picnic in the cool

Fellowship Hall was great fun! Peter Thomas cooked some good hamburgers and brats and everyone brought tasty side dishes. No one went home hungry! Suzanne Carpenter led us in a few old favorites with her ukulele, then we watched the movie The Blind Side.

Our next Gathering will be Monday, September 20 at 6:00 p.m. in Fellowship Hall. I am excited about the group that will entertain us! The “A Cappella Ensemble” are members of the Stillwater Community Singers. They sing old favorites that I know we will enjoy. Peter Thomas will again cater our dinner, so I do hope you will put this on your calendar!!

Our Thursday Morning Bible Study is expanding! We do welcome new folks to join us. It gives you an opportunity to study the Lectionary Bible verses that are part of the following Sunday’s sermon. Either Gordon or Leah (depending on who is preaching) leads the group. There is wonderful discussion!!

One of the Deacon’s newest ministries is the Valet Parking Service, prior to our worship services. This gives us on opportunity to be of service to our members. Please let me know if we can serve you.

Another new church ministry is the Saturday Morning Brunch. If any of you would be willing to host, cook, set-up, or clean-up some Saturday morning, please give Missy Wilkinson a call. She can be reached at 377-1431.

Please remember that I am here to serve you, so do not hesitate to give me a call if you have needs. My telephone number is 707-0808.

In Christ, Margy Knox

Fun in Faith Fun in Faith Fun in Faith Fun in Faith FELLOWSHIP Mark your calendars for a year of fun fellowship

for your elementary age children! This year we are meeting in conjunction with some Family Ministry* events so the whole family can attend. We will also have some old favorites and some new mission opportunities as we provide bonding time for your younger youth. The dates are:

August 13 - Family Movie Night* November 19 - Sorting Party for Bedlam Canned Food Drive* December 10 - Jammies for Jesus/Parents Night Out February 6 - Lunch and Lap Blankets (a mission opportunity) March 26 - to be announced.

Nonprofit Org. U.S. POSTAGE

PAID Stillwater, Oklahoma

Permit No. 143

Deadline for Next issue: Friday, September 17, 2010

Visit us on the web at www.stillwaterfpc.org

B. Gordon Edwards ......................bge41340@swbell.net Leah Hrachovec ................... Lhrachovec@swbell.net Jenna Campbell ..............youthandfamily@swbell.net Riley Kern .......................riley.kern@gmail.com Margy Knox .................... mhknox@sbcglobal.net Church Office & Cathy Fairbanks ................ fpchurch1889@swbell.net Lucy Newlin ........................cefpcstw@swbell.net Misty Gonzales ................. fpaccountant@swbell.net Veronica Kadavy ........... officeassistant88@swbell.net Heather Lanners .......... heather.lanners@okstate.edu Peter Thomas ... admin@childrensbookmarket.com

Morning Prayers - 8:45 a.m.

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday Church Library

Midweek Communion Service - 8:30 a.m.

Wednesday - Church Library

Sunday Morning Worship

One Service 9:30 a.m. through August 22

Beginning August 29

Two services: 8:30 & 11:00 a.m Sunday School: 9:45 a.m.

Want to learn more about Christian Education opportunities this year?

Whether you are 2 or 102,

RALLY DAY, AUGUST 29,

is the perfect day to explore the possibilities for individuals and families. Staff and volunteers will

be at hand in the Fellowship Hall at 9:45 a.m. (between the morning worship services) to present this year’s offerings, introduce you to teachers, guide you to

classes that may interest you, and help you get connected to Christian Education at First Presbyterian.