Sunday School A, Class News · rediscover the ancient Advent tradition of celebrating with the...
Transcript of Sunday School A, Class News · rediscover the ancient Advent tradition of celebrating with the...
A publication of First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), Tulsa Vol. 18, Number 23 December 6, 2013
First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) 913 S. Boulder, Tulsa, OK • 918.582.8237 • fcctulsa.org First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) 913 S. Boulder, Tulsa, OK • 918.582.8237 • fcctulsa.org
The First Christian Church VISION (USPS 012-958) is
published semi-monthly for its members by First
Christian Church at 913 South Boulder Ave., Tulsa,
OK, 74119-2097. Periodicals postage paid at Tulsa,
OK. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to VISION,
913 S. Boulder Ave., Tulsa, OK 74119-2097.
Serving Schedule Sunday, December 8
Elder Prayers: 10:30 Mike Miller, offering; Meredith Miller, communionScripture Reader: Sandra LewisElder of the Week: (December 9) James HowardCommunion Preparation: Duska VogelDeacons serving communion: Raylene Barclay, Christy Brooks, Don Brooks, Jim
Freeman, Mary Garner, Joyce Kendall, Bobbie Lewis, Barbara Pollard, Caleb Allen.Greeters: James and Mary Lynn HowardFlowers for Sunday, December 8: The flowers are given by J. Alan & Mary Lou Gibson in celebration of their 53rd wedding anniversary on December 10th.Flower delivery week of December 8: Bill Osteen
Serving Schedule Sunday, December 15Elder Prayers: 9:00 Rihab Garner, offering; Bob Garner, communionScripture Reader: James HowardElder of the Week: (December 16) Kay ThompsonCommunion Preparation: Sandra LewisDeacons serving communion: Raylene Barclay, Christy Brooks, Don Brooks, Jim
Freeman, Mary Garner, Joyce Kendall, Bobbie Lewis, Barbara Pollard, CalebAllen.
Greeters: Raylene Barclay and Ruthie WildmanFlowers for Sunday, December 15: The flowers are given by Carolyn Dyer in
memory of her mother, Hazel Wiemann. Her 100th birthday would have been onDecember 18th. The flowers are also in memory of her son, Steven Dyer, Jr. andher grandson, Richard Dyer, Jr.
Flower delivery week of December 15: Helen and Bill Pummill
CONGREGATIONAL MEETING - SUNDAY, DECEMBER 22After both worship services to approve 2014 Budget
Aga-Patrian
Next Sunday: Our focus will be on thechildren: we feed them breakfast at 10:00AM (Jane will send out an e-mail for foodsign-up), and we will have a craft table atthe Advent Festival, Noon - 2:30.Last Sunday: Romans 8: 18-30Class Concerns: Pray for all our classmembers who couldnʼt be with us today.9 Present. RG
Double Ring
Next Sunday: Bob RorschachLast Sunday: Clarke Kendall taught aboutthe parable of the Good Samaritan.Visitors: Wally and Darla Cox, Nickʼsparents.Upcoming Events: Christmas party onDecember 16th (Mon.) 6:00 pm, FH.Celebrations: Charles Crewsʼ birthday34 Present. JAGHomebuilders
Next Sunday: Richard Lawson will teach.Last Sunday: Carol Lawson gave ourlesson.Upcoming Events: Jazz to the World -donʼt miss it! Dec. 5th at 7:00 PM. Also,Homebuilders Lunch at First Watch onFroday, Dec. 6 at 11:30Celebrations: Hope you had a happyThanksgiving - we are thankful for all ourblessings.Class Concerns: Barbara Griffinʼs family;so many others!16 Present. LS
Sojourners
Next Sunday: Jeremiah, Chapter 8.Upcoming Events: Advent Festival nextSunday - we have a booth. ChristmasParty December 15 after church at EthelBrownʼs.Celebrations: Celeste Barrowʼs birthday6 Present. CD
Sunday
School
Class
News
9:00 am Traditional, Sanctuary
10:00 am Breakfast for Children
10:15–11:00 am Sunday School
11:15 am Common Ground
Fellowship Hall
6:00 pm The Loft
(1st
and 3rd
Sundays)
Page 8
As we concluded our JYF session on the 5 Elements of
Worship, the children were able to decorate their own
personal apron to wear for Thanksgiving. As we learned
about Worship each session the children cooked and
prepared a food item to eat or take home to their family.
Our intention was that as the children had this ‘hands-on-
experience’ they would retain more of the information
we were teaching and be able to share that with their
family (along with the
foods and recipes).
The finale was great
fun as they colored and
used their individual
artistic skills to express
themselves.
They have been
encouraged to wear their aprons as a reminder to be
helpful and serve others through the holidays.
Children’s Ministry Concludes Hands-on Study of
According to Director of Children’s
Ministries, Bevery Vale Brown, the Advent Fes-
tival on December 8 is a family-oriented event
with food, fun and fellowship. “ Parents can
work with kids in making the various projects,”
says Brown. “ It takes about an hour and a half
to complete them.” The activites follow a de-
licious lunch prepared by Rev. Carol Lawson,
and concludes at
2:30. The follow-
ing week is Santa’s Workshop on Dec 22. JYF is also
having a Christmas lunch and party on that day. Some-
thing new to First Christian’s Christmas traditions, the
“Sparkle Tree.” The tree is hung with dozens of white
stars upon which are written suggestions for service
and caring to others. Invite your friends & family to
FCC!
Christmas Celebrations Continue with
Advent Activities
December 8
10 – 10:30 Breakfast for
everyone
10:30 – 11:15 Sunday School
11:15 – 12 Worship
12:30 - 2:30 Lunch for all
Advent activities after lunch
Booths:
· Cookies Decorating & Eating
· Badge Making
· Art Projects
· Goodie Bags
· Visit & Photo with Santa
· Barbeque Sandwich Lunch
· Candy Cane Crafts
· Christmas Tree Decorations
Christmas stories every 30 minutes
and sing-along Christmas Music
an Old-fashioned “Advent Festival”
Five Elements of Worship Program
First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) 913 S. Boulder, Tulsa, OK • 918.582.8237 • fcctulsa.org First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) 913 S. Boulder, Tulsa, OK • 918.582.8237 • fcctulsa.org Page 7Page 2
Prayers and Cares
HOSPITAL
St. John Medical Center: Jarrod Elmore (no visitors or calls)
BIRTHS
Cayluhm Leon Dawson (11 lbs 22 in) 12-02-13 to Amanda & Jedidiah Dawson
DEATHS
Barbara Griffin - Memorial Service, Jan. 7 at 11 AM in the Chapel
HEALTH
John and Donna Ackenhausen
Kay Bauter
Shirley Bennett, cancer
Mardell Campbell
Jerry Carlton
Pat and Jim Dalby
Jeff Daniel
Della Davidson
Dollie Dorough, back surgery
Linda Douglas
David and Beth Dunning
Carolyn Dyer
Jarrod Elmore
Krista English, cancer
Jerry Gay
Les and Marcia Hames
Hope Harder
OTHER
Turner and Anderson families
Louis Hayward
Hugh Henderson
Brandy Iliff
Dan Kimes, organ tuner
Paul Moffett
Rossie Patterson
Veda Riggs
Ethan Wesley Rosell, infant great-grand
nephew of Jimmie and Karen Younger
Sarah Jane Sackett
Beverly Southard
Cynthia Stevens
Libby Stoppard
Les and Wanda Warehime
Anne Webb
Arthena Young
“A real Advent wears pink...”
This past Sunday we started a
new Christian Year and began to
observe the season of Advent, a
season that prepares for the coming
of the Lord and the celebration of
Christmas. We’ve decked the halls
with garland and evergreens, trees
and wreaths, bows and candles and
nativity scenes, and the colors of red
and green. While those colors are
associated with the holiday season,
they actually aren’t the liturgical colors
for Advent or Christmas!
In ancient times, the dyes used
to make purple cloth were very
expensive, something only a king or
queen could afford. For the early
Church, the forty-day season of Lent
was the preparation for the Risen
King, and so purple paraments and
banners and stoles were used to
announce the message, “Prepare the
way of the Lord!” and help the Church
make the journey to the cross and to
Easter beyond.
Right in the middle of Lent, the
early Church took heart in the coming
of Easter and to rejoice in the promise
of salvation. So instead of dark and
heavy purple, for one Sunday they
lightened things up a bit and used
rose or pink colors everywhere as an
expression of joy.
shortened to only four weeks a long
time ago, and the holiday season
seems to be one of feasting more
than fasting, Advent still follows the
pattern of Lent by using purple colors
to announce the message “Prepare
the way of the Lord” and help us
make the journey to Bethlehem and
the birth of Christ our Lord.
Similarly, we use rose/pink colors in
the middle of our Advent worship to
help us rejoice in the promise of our
coming Savior. (Remember the one
pink candle??)
December 15 is Gaudete
(Gauw-deh’-teh) Sunday, which
takes its
n a m e
from a
Latin word
meaning
“rejoice.”
As part of
our rejoicing, everyone is
encouraged to wear something pink/
rose in color, much like wearing red
for Pentecost. Yes, a real Advent
season wears pink, so let ’s
rediscover the ancient Advent
tradition of celebrating with the
color pink and watch our joy blossom
as a rose among us!
“Joy to the world, the Lord is
come.
Let earth receive her king.
Let every heart prepare him
room,
and heaven and nature sing!”
Santa’s Workshop
For Children: games, dolls, sports
items, toy cars, books, art supplies
Thank you for helping us with this
mission and outreach project!
Cassie Gray
Some ideas for gifts:
For Adults: DVDs, CDs, books,
games, car care items, sports items,
picture frames, photo albums,
kitchen items, slippers
I survived my
three
Thanksgivings. I
went to Norman
the weekend
before and had it
with 29 of my
cousins I had not
seen in a long
time. It was
great! Then the lovely dinner we had at
church, thanks to Jane McKinney and
her fabulous crew. Even if I did put my
food on my napkin and stuff my
donation in Tom Nulf’s coffee, it was
fun. Some days you just can’t take me
out in public.
Kay Thompson went to Indianapolis
to play with her Hargrove kids and
celebrate Isabelle’s birthday. She got
back in time to go with Paul to Ft. Worth
and have Thanksgiving with their other
daughter’s family.
James and Mary Lynn Howard and
their daughter Cynthia and son-in-law,
Andy, went to Hot Springs to celebrate.
I think Andy needed a “road Trip” after
being cooped up so long. He is healing
nicely after his fall.
ritual was to go to the family party,
leave to play the late evening service
at FCC, go home and take care of the
milk and cookies, and then carry all
the presents down from the attic to
the tree. Sometimes I had to
assemble something and would
never really get any sleep, but that
was okay.
The snowy Christmas Eves have
been my favorites. I know they’re not
good for attendance, but FCC sure
looks pretty and inviting on snowy
nights.
One Christmas Eve I got to stay
home. I, and millions of others
watched FCC on the ABC Television
network.
They annually broadcast a
protestant Christmas Eve church
service, and at midnight, cut to the
Vatican in Rome. We had pre-taped
the service, and Dr. Griggs gave us
Christmas Eve off to stay home and
watch us on TV. Of all the churches in
the country, they chose to broadcast
us. Wow.
Recently I ran across a video of
the broadcast. Seeing myself
reminded me of those “before and
after” pictures they show of the
presidents.
Our church is very different
from those heady days. Yes, we’re a
lot smaller, but in some ways, I think
we’re a lot healthier.
Interestingly, our worship has
evolved over the years into
something that is uniquely us.
(Cont. p.7)
Strangely enough, Advent gets
its colorful traditions from the season
of Lent. While the original forty-days
of Advent got
Come for one or both!
Choral singing is addictive. Choral
singing is fun. It’s the ultimate team
effort, and is a very rewarding
experience.
Paul Pinkosky, Director of Music
and Organist
This year all of our
FCC children will have
the opportunity to
shop for their family
on December 22.
Please help us provide
our children with the
opportunity to experience the joy of
giving to others.
We need your help stocking the
shelves with gifts for all ages. Children
will shop for gifts for all members of
their family. Please limit gifts to
$10.00. Unwrapped gifts should be
brought to church by December 15.
Wednesday, December 11Mid-Week Peak Continues
5:30 Light Supper, FH - $5.006:00 Fall Bible Study, FH
the Book of Genesis
Joyce Marston went to Austin for
her Holiday, and got to see her
granddaughter who lives in New
York. That was fun!!
The Rorschachs had a big reunion
at Inverness Saturday night. It was
the Hermes family from Sapulpa.
That is Bob’s mother’s family. They
had about fifty folks, and seemed to
be having a grand time.A little girl
asked her mother where humans
come from. “Well, honey, God made
Adam and Eve, and they got married
and had children and that is how it
all got started.” Two days later she
asked her daddy the same question.
“The human race evolved from apes
over a million years.” The confused
girl returned to her mother and told
her what her daddy had said. “Well,
dear, it’s very simple, I told you
about my side of the family and he
told you about his.”
See you in church, Ruthie
Advent has always been my
favorite time of year. It’s a time of
changing seasons, anticipation, new
beginnings, and for FCC, beautiful
moments of worship in a beautiful
atmosphere.
I’ve had the privilege of sharing
this special season with my FCC family
for some time now.
Back when I began, my girls were
quite young. My annual Christmas Eve
People from vastly different
church backgrounds find something
familiar and comfortable here. I think
that’s kind of a rare thing.
Just like the architecture of our
church campus, our worship is a blend of
both ancient and modern that somehow
work together as a whole (where else can
you go from the Byzantine Empire to the
Jetsons in one city block?).
As we enter this holy season, I
invite anyone who has “the call” to come
and sing with our amazing Sanctuary
Choir. Rehearsals are at 7:00 on
Wednesdays immediately following
Pastor Michael’s awesome bible study.
Page 2Page 2 Page 3
CARD OF THANKS
Amanda and I would like toThank everybody at FirstChristian for their manythoughts,prayers,and cardsduring my mom's illness. Andtheir continued support whenmom passed away. It reallymeant alot to both of us andhelped us through somedifficult times. We love youall!
God Bless
Terri Phillips
Grateful Hearts
A welcoming place in a beautiful space!
Next time you come to our sanctuary, pause at the room across from
southeast entrance to see how Molly Krumme and Jane McKinney
have transformed the
former Friendship-
Galilean room into a
lovely multi-purpose
area. WWBS funds
have made it possible
to have a private room
for prayer, family group
gatherings at weddings
and memorial services,
guests and small
groups.
YEAR END GIFT REMINDER
As you consider your charitable giving for the rest of this year, the following are things to consider in your
planning:
1. The gift of appreciated stocks, bonds, or mutual fund shares to fulfill pledges can be a great tax
advantage. With today’s stock market this may not be advantageous unless the stock shows an
appreciated value. The donor gets to deduct the full value of the property on the day the gift is
donated, and to avoid capital gains taxes as well, if itemizing deductions on Income Tax returns.
But start soon to allow time to complete the transaction before December 31st. Call your tax
advisor or Mary Byrne for details.
2. IRA Charitable Gifts If you are over 70 ½ and have a traditional IRA, you may request your IRA
administrator to make direct distributions up to $100,000 in 2013 to the church or other charities. It
will not be counted as a taxable distribution to you, and it can be counted against your required
minimum distribution if you choose. This window of opportunity closes as of December 31, 2013.
You may want to pay your pledge for 2014 in advance to take advantage of these tax savings.
2. For 2014 consider using Automated Bank Drafts to pay your pledge. You can choose the 3rd
and/or the 18th of the month to have the authorized amount withdrawn. Allow two weeks to get
started. Over 50 busy members are currently using this service to save time and checking costs and
to maintain their peace of mind. Questions? Call Mary Byrne at 582-8237, Ext. 113.
3. REMEMBER! All gifts to be included on your 2013 Income Tax return as charitable deductions
must be delivered to the church or postmarked by December 31st
. The church office will close
at 5:00 PM on Tuesday, December 31st
.
If you are behind on your 2013 General Fund pledge, please make every effort to catch up by December
31st. Let’s finish this year with extra giving and start next year on sound footing as careful stewards of this
church and its resources. A heartfelt Thank You to all of you who have faithfully supported the ministries
we provide here.
Page 4
The 2013 Christmas Offering for
Regional Ministry
Disciples congregations will be receiving
these offerings on December 15 and 22
Your gifts to the Christmas Offering support all the
ministries of your regional church
The ministries of your regional church bring gifts:
v Of care and nurture of congregations and pastors through the
Regional Commission on Clergy
v Of summer ministries to children and youth who attend camps
and conferences sponsored by the Commission on Children,
Youth and Young Adults
v To those who lost homes and were injured or lost loved ones
during the May tornados
v Of consultation and direction to congregations seeking
transitional pastors or installed pastors
v Of education and resources through the annual Leadership
Training School.
Child Development
Center
Christmas Celebration
Friday, December 13
at 4 p.m.
The children will be singing carols
and Christmas songs for parents.
CDC Director Melinda Burkhardt
says it’s a great for families to
share the spirit of this joyous
holiday.
A Service of Hope and Solace
Friday, December 20th
7:00 p.m. in the Chapel
The holidays are supposed to full
of joy, but for many of us finding it
is an enormous challenge. While
others are singing and shopping
and seemingly happy, some
struggle with depression, grief,
anxiety, sadness, or a sense of loss.
For those having the “Christmas
blues,” the bright lights and
sparkling traditions only heighten
the struggle to find joy.
“Blue Christmas” is a worship
service uniquely fitted to those
who find at “the most wonderful
time of the year” a paradoxical
increase in genuine feelings of
sadness and grief. True joy does
not exclude grief – it incorporates
it. “Blue Christmas” offers a special
and honest recognition of the
struggles that many people face
during this season.
All are welcome to share in this
special service and find hope and
solace in Christmas once again, and
find the Light in the darkness.
THANKSGIVING OUTREACH REPORT
Thank you FCC family and friends!
Because of your generosity we were able
to provide 85 complete Thanksgiving
meals including a turkey, side dishes and
a pumpkin pie. Thank you to Jim
Alspaugh, Beverly Vale Brown, Nick and
Samantha Cox, Robin Dowling, Jason
Duncan, Ben and Cassie Gray, Richard
Lawson, Theresa Starling, Dwight
Wallace, and Megan and P.J. Wilson for
helping distribute these gifts. It was such
a blessing to serve in this way.
FCC Activities and Opportunities
Page 2Page 2 Page 5
Wednesday, December 410:00 Staff Meeting, EFH1:30- 8:00 LifeTouch Church Directory
Photos Taken, Parlor1:30–4:40 TCC Memoirs Writers Class, LibraryMid-Week Peak5:30 Light Supper, FH –$5.006:00 Bible Study, FHAdult Choir Program7:00 Sanctuary Choir, Choir Rm.
Thursday December 510:00 Outreach Opportunity - Snack
Pack Packing, NFH1:30 - 6:30 LifeTouch Church Directory
Photos Taken, Parlor7:00 “Jazz to the World” Sanctuary, Reception in FH following
Friday, December 611:30 Homebuilders Lunch, FirstWatch 68th & Memorial1:30 - 8:00 LifeTouch Church Directory Photos Taken, Parlor
Saturday, December 7Communion Preparation: Duska Vogel1:30 – 4:30 LifeTouch Church Directory Photos Taken, Parlor
Sunday, December 8Second Sunday of AdventNEACCO Prayer Calendar: Disciples Village – Barbara Sales; Christmas Offering9:00 Traditional Worship Service, Sanctuary10:00 Breakfast for the Children, FH10:15-11:00 All Sunday School classes11:15 Worship in Common Ground, Fellowship Hall12:30 ADVENT FESTIVAL, FH12:30 - 2:30 Children and Youth inAdvent Festival
CONGREGATIONAL MEETING
Congregational Meeting on onSunday, December 22 follow-ing both worship services to
approve 2014 budget.
Monday, December 9Elder of the Week: James Howard8:00 Prayer Breakfast, FirstWatch,8101 E. 68th St., Devotion: James Howard7:00 Camp Christian Board Meeting, NFH
Tuesday, December 109:30 Prayer Group, Library
Wednesday, December 1110:00 Staff Meeting, EFH1:30–4:40 TCC Memoirs Writers Class, LibraryMid-Week Peak5:30 Light Supper, FH –$5.006:00 Bible Study, FHAdult Choir Program7:00 Sanctuary Choir, Choir Rm.
Thursday, December 125:00 – 7:00 Outreach opportunity: prepare and serve meal for folks at Day Center for the Homeless, 415 W. Archer; Sign-up sheets in Main Street lobby
Friday, December 134:00 CDC Christmas Program, Sanctuary
Saturday, December 14Communion Preparation: Don Swanson8:00 – 1:00 Midtown School of Performing Arts Rehearsal, Sanctuary11:00 – 1:00 Disciples Women Christmas Lunch, FH
Sunday, December 15Third Sunday of AdventChristmas OfferingCommunion to Home-CenteredNEACCO Prayer Calendar: Tulsa Interfaith Alliance – Jay Hoyt9:00 Traditional Worship Service, Sanctuary10:00 Breakfast for the Children, FH10:15-11:00 All Sunday School classes11:15 Worship in Common Ground, Fellowship HallSantaʼs Workshop setup after church, Homebuilders Rm.Sojourners Class Party, Ethel Brownʼs1:30 – 3:30 Recital for Midtown School of Performing Arts in Sanctuary, then FH till 6:006:00 The Loft Worship Service, north end of the Youth Lounge, 4th floor
Monday, December 16Vision published – covers 3 weeksElder of the Week: Kay Thompson8:00 Prayer Breakfast, FirstWatch, 8101 E. 68th St., Devotion: Kay Thompson5:30 Double Ring Christmas Dinner, FH
Tuesday, December 179:30 Prayer Group, Library6:00 Ministry Council, EFH
Wednesday, December 1810:00 CDC Chapel Time, Rm.2231:00 Staff Meeting, EFHMid-Week Peak5:30 Light Supper, FH –$5.006:00 Bible Study, FHAdult Choir Program7:00 Sanctuary Choir, Choir Rm.
Thursday, December 1911:00 Happy Timers, Sanctuary and
FH: A Merry Musical Medley fromthe Merry Men of FCC
7:00 Elders Christmas Gathering, Harvard ParkVillage, 5206 S. Harvard Ave.
Friday, December 207:00 “Blue Christmas: A Service of Hope and Solace,” Chapel
Saturday, December 21Communion Preparation: Barbara Pollard & Caleb Allen
Sunday, December 22Fourth Sunday of AdventChristmas OfferingNEACCO Prayer Calendar: OK Center for Community & Justice – Nancy Day9:00 Traditional Worship Service, Sanctuary – Congregational Meeting Part 1 following10:00 Breakfast for the Children, FH10:15-11:00 All Sunday School classes11:15 Worship in Common Ground, Fellowship Hall – Congregational Meeting Part 2 followingCHILDRENʼS PROGRAMS (Pre-K – 5th grades)
Noon – 2:30 (Junior Youth Fellowship) 3rd floor childrenʼs roomsYOUTH PROGRAMS (6th – 12th grades)
Noon – 2:30 (Chi Rho and CYF), 4th
floor Youth Rooms
Attendance and Gifts
December 6: Jerry ParkerDecember 7: Brooklin Knight,Sandra LewisDecember 8: Takoda Dawson,Shirley PlemonsDecember 9: Doug Thompson, JackWilsonDecember 10: Sara Rogers, DickWillhourDecember 11: Nita Griggs, JackVandervort, Laurita WilliamsDecember 12: Cassie GrayDecember 14: Lindsey EllerbachDecember 15: Michael WaltonDecember 17: Marianne MoffettDecember 18: Kaleb BowlinDecember 19: Caleb Allen, Mary LouGibson, Heather MurphyDecember 20: Velma Pishel,Montana PoorboyDecember 22: Christy BrooksDecember 25: Diane SmalingDecember 26: Bob GardnerDecember 27: Pauline Adkins, JohnAlspaugh, Susan Clay, HaroldHatfield, Maggie LargessDecember 28: Jack Elswick, GrantParkerDecember 29: Rick BowlinDecember 31: Becky Gray
Page 6
Sunday, November 24
Worship10:30 Sanctuary (one service) 164The Loft na Total Adults 164Children 70Total Worship Attendance 234
Sunday SchoolPreschool 23Elementary 47Youth 32Adults 68
Total Attendance 170
FinancesGeneral Fund $ 3,965.00Sunday School 17.00Loose Offering 30.00 Total $4,012.00
WWBS Fund $260.00Thanksgiving Offering 50.00
Gifts Given
Sunday, December 1
Worship9:00 Sanctuary 9711:15 Common Ground 40The Loft 24 Total Adults 161Children 71Total Worship Attendance 232
Sunday SchoolPreschool 21Elementary 50Youth 22Adults 77
Total Attendance 170
FinancesGeneral Fund $ 20,756.83Sunday School 18.00Loose Offering 60.00 Total $20,834.83
WWBS Fund $ 846.50Christmas Offering $ 60.00Week of Compassion 50.00
Double Ring Scholarship FundIn memory of Ruby McKee, given by
Double Ring ClassIn memory of Lon Canada, given by
Double Ring Class
Camp Christian UpdatesIn honor of J. Alan and Mary Lou Gibsonand their 53rd wedding anniversary onDecember 10th, given by
Richard and Peggy Ziglar
Week of CompassionIn honor of Mary Howardʼs 101st Birth-day November 22nd, given by
Richard and Peggy Ziglar
Thanksgiving OfferingIn memory of Jack and Betty Billingsleyand Ruby McKee, given by
Richard and Peggy Ziglar
Budget Contingency FundIn memory of Alonzo F. Canada III,given by
Bill Clark
We have received 114 commit-ment cards for 2014. We are grate-ful to all who have generouslyresponded with their gifts of time,talent and treasure! One hundred ten people havepledged $401,904 for next yearʼsministries! If you have not yet doneso please send your pledge card inthis week, or call or e-mail MaryByrne at [email protected] ifyou prefer, and weʼll include yourresponse with our gifts to God forthe coming year.
Blessings,Mary Byrne
Thanks Receivedfor Outreach Gifts
Christian Church in OklahomaJohn 3:16 Mission
Phillips Theological SeminarySalvation Army
Christmas Eve Services
First Christian Church Downtown Tulsa - 5:30 PM & 11 PM
First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) 913 S. Boulder, Tulsa, OK • 918.582.8237 • fcctulsa.org First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) 913 S. Boulder, Tulsa, OK • 918.582.8237 • fcctulsa.org Page 7Page 2
Prayers and Cares
HOSPITAL
St. John Medical Center: Jarrod Elmore (no visitors or calls)
BIRTHS
Cayluhm Leon Dawson (11 lbs 22 in) 12-02-13 to Amanda & Jedidiah Dawson
DEATHS
Barbara Griffin - Memorial Service, Jan. 7 at 11 AM in the Chapel
HEALTH
John and Donna Ackenhausen
Kay Bauter
Shirley Bennett, cancer
Mardell Campbell
Jerry Carlton
Pat and Jim Dalby
Jeff Daniel
Della Davidson
Dollie Dorough, back surgery
Linda Douglas
David and Beth Dunning
Carolyn Dyer
Jarrod Elmore
Krista English, cancer
Jerry Gay
Les and Marcia Hames
Hope Harder
OTHER
Turner and Anderson families
Louis Hayward
Hugh Henderson
Brandy Iliff
Dan Kimes, organ tuner
Paul Moffett
Rossie Patterson
Veda Riggs
Ethan Wesley Rosell, infant great-grand
nephew of Jimmie and Karen Younger
Sarah Jane Sackett
Beverly Southard
Cynthia Stevens
Libby Stoppard
Les and Wanda Warehime
Anne Webb
Arthena Young
“A real Advent wears pink...”
This past Sunday we started a
new Christian Year and began to
observe the season of Advent, a
season that prepares for the coming
of the Lord and the celebration of
Christmas. We’ve decked the halls
with garland and evergreens, trees
and wreaths, bows and candles and
nativity scenes, and the colors of red
and green. While those colors are
associated with the holiday season,
they actually aren’t the liturgical colors
for Advent or Christmas!
In ancient times, the dyes used
to make purple cloth were very
expensive, something only a king or
queen could afford. For the early
Church, the forty-day season of Lent
was the preparation for the Risen
King, and so purple paraments and
banners and stoles were used to
announce the message, “Prepare the
way of the Lord!” and help the Church
make the journey to the cross and to
Easter beyond.
Right in the middle of Lent, the
early Church took heart in the coming
of Easter and to rejoice in the promise
of salvation. So instead of dark and
heavy purple, for one Sunday they
lightened things up a bit and used
rose or pink colors everywhere as an
expression of joy.
shortened to only four weeks a long
time ago, and the holiday season
seems to be one of feasting more
than fasting, Advent still follows the
pattern of Lent by using purple colors
to announce the message “Prepare
the way of the Lord” and help us
make the journey to Bethlehem and
the birth of Christ our Lord.
Similarly, we use rose/pink colors in
the middle of our Advent worship to
help us rejoice in the promise of our
coming Savior. (Remember the one
pink candle??)
December 15 is Gaudete
(Gauw-deh’-teh) Sunday, which
takes its
n a m e
from a
Latin word
meaning
“rejoice.”
As part of
our rejoicing, everyone is
encouraged to wear something pink/
rose in color, much like wearing red
for Pentecost. Yes, a real Advent
season wears pink, so let ’s
rediscover the ancient Advent
tradition of celebrating with the
color pink and watch our joy blossom
as a rose among us!
“Joy to the world, the Lord is
come.
Let earth receive her king.
Let every heart prepare him
room,
and heaven and nature sing!”
Santa’s Workshop
For Children: games, dolls, sports
items, toy cars, books, art supplies
Thank you for helping us with this
mission and outreach project!
Cassie Gray
Some ideas for gifts:
For Adults: DVDs, CDs, books,
games, car care items, sports items,
picture frames, photo albums,
kitchen items, slippers
I survived my
three
Thanksgivings. I
went to Norman
the weekend
before and had it
with 29 of my
cousins I had not
seen in a long
time. It was
great! Then the lovely dinner we had at
church, thanks to Jane McKinney and
her fabulous crew. Even if I did put my
food on my napkin and stuff my
donation in Tom Nulf’s coffee, it was
fun. Some days you just can’t take me
out in public.
Kay Thompson went to Indianapolis
to play with her Hargrove kids and
celebrate Isabelle’s birthday. She got
back in time to go with Paul to Ft. Worth
and have Thanksgiving with their other
daughter’s family.
James and Mary Lynn Howard and
their daughter Cynthia and son-in-law,
Andy, went to Hot Springs to celebrate.
I think Andy needed a “road Trip” after
being cooped up so long. He is healing
nicely after his fall.
ritual was to go to the family party,
leave to play the late evening service
at FCC, go home and take care of the
milk and cookies, and then carry all
the presents down from the attic to
the tree. Sometimes I had to
assemble something and would
never really get any sleep, but that
was okay.
The snowy Christmas Eves have
been my favorites. I know they’re not
good for attendance, but FCC sure
looks pretty and inviting on snowy
nights.
One Christmas Eve I got to stay
home. I, and millions of others
watched FCC on the ABC Television
network.
They annually broadcast a
protestant Christmas Eve church
service, and at midnight, cut to the
Vatican in Rome. We had pre-taped
the service, and Dr. Griggs gave us
Christmas Eve off to stay home and
watch us on TV. Of all the churches in
the country, they chose to broadcast
us. Wow.
Recently I ran across a video of
the broadcast. Seeing myself
reminded me of those “before and
after” pictures they show of the
presidents.
Our church is very different
from those heady days. Yes, we’re a
lot smaller, but in some ways, I think
we’re a lot healthier.
Interestingly, our worship has
evolved over the years into
something that is uniquely us.
(Cont. p.7)
Strangely enough, Advent gets
its colorful traditions from the season
of Lent. While the original forty-days
of Advent got
Come for one or both!
Choral singing is addictive. Choral
singing is fun. It’s the ultimate team
effort, and is a very rewarding
experience.
Paul Pinkosky, Director of Music
and Organist
This year all of our
FCC children will have
the opportunity to
shop for their family
on December 22.
Please help us provide
our children with the
opportunity to experience the joy of
giving to others.
We need your help stocking the
shelves with gifts for all ages. Children
will shop for gifts for all members of
their family. Please limit gifts to
$10.00. Unwrapped gifts should be
brought to church by December 15.
Wednesday, December 11Mid-Week Peak Continues
5:30 Light Supper, FH - $5.006:00 Fall Bible Study, FH
the Book of Genesis
Joyce Marston went to Austin for
her Holiday, and got to see her
granddaughter who lives in New
York. That was fun!!
The Rorschachs had a big reunion
at Inverness Saturday night. It was
the Hermes family from Sapulpa.
That is Bob’s mother’s family. They
had about fifty folks, and seemed to
be having a grand time.A little girl
asked her mother where humans
come from. “Well, honey, God made
Adam and Eve, and they got married
and had children and that is how it
all got started.” Two days later she
asked her daddy the same question.
“The human race evolved from apes
over a million years.” The confused
girl returned to her mother and told
her what her daddy had said. “Well,
dear, it’s very simple, I told you
about my side of the family and he
told you about his.”
See you in church, Ruthie
Advent has always been my
favorite time of year. It’s a time of
changing seasons, anticipation, new
beginnings, and for FCC, beautiful
moments of worship in a beautiful
atmosphere.
I’ve had the privilege of sharing
this special season with my FCC family
for some time now.
Back when I began, my girls were
quite young. My annual Christmas Eve
People from vastly different
church backgrounds find something
familiar and comfortable here. I think
that’s kind of a rare thing.
Just like the architecture of our
church campus, our worship is a blend of
both ancient and modern that somehow
work together as a whole (where else can
you go from the Byzantine Empire to the
Jetsons in one city block?).
As we enter this holy season, I
invite anyone who has “the call” to come
and sing with our amazing Sanctuary
Choir. Rehearsals are at 7:00 on
Wednesdays immediately following
Pastor Michael’s awesome bible study.
A publication of First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), Tulsa Vol. 18, Number 23 December 6, 2013
First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) 913 S. Boulder, Tulsa, OK • 918.582.8237 • fcctulsa.org First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) 913 S. Boulder, Tulsa, OK • 918.582.8237 • fcctulsa.org
The First Christian Church VISION (USPS 012-958) is
published semi-monthly for its members by First
Christian Church at 913 South Boulder Ave., Tulsa,
OK, 74119-2097. Periodicals postage paid at Tulsa,
OK. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to VISION,
913 S. Boulder Ave., Tulsa, OK 74119-2097.
Serving Schedule Sunday, December 8
Elder Prayers: 10:30 Mike Miller, offering; Meredith Miller, communionScripture Reader: Sandra LewisElder of the Week: (December 9) James HowardCommunion Preparation: Duska VogelDeacons serving communion: Raylene Barclay, Christy Brooks, Don Brooks, Jim
Freeman, Mary Garner, Joyce Kendall, Bobbie Lewis, Barbara Pollard, Caleb Allen.Greeters: James and Mary Lynn HowardFlowers for Sunday, December 8: The flowers are given by J. Alan & Mary Lou Gibson in celebration of their 53rd wedding anniversary on December 10th.Flower delivery week of December 8: Bill Osteen
Serving Schedule Sunday, December 15Elder Prayers: 9:00 Rihab Garner, offering; Bob Garner, communionScripture Reader: James HowardElder of the Week: (December 16) Kay ThompsonCommunion Preparation: Sandra LewisDeacons serving communion: Raylene Barclay, Christy Brooks, Don Brooks, Jim
Freeman, Mary Garner, Joyce Kendall, Bobbie Lewis, Barbara Pollard, CalebAllen.
Greeters: Raylene Barclay and Ruthie WildmanFlowers for Sunday, December 15: The flowers are given by Carolyn Dyer in
memory of her mother, Hazel Wiemann. Her 100th birthday would have been onDecember 18th. The flowers are also in memory of her son, Steven Dyer, Jr. andher grandson, Richard Dyer, Jr.
Flower delivery week of December 15: Helen and Bill Pummill
CONGREGATIONAL MEETING - SUNDAY, DECEMBER 22After both worship services to approve 2014 Budget
Aga-Patrian
Next Sunday: Our focus will be on thechildren: we feed them breakfast at 10:00AM (Jane will send out an e-mail for foodsign-up), and we will have a craft table atthe Advent Festival, Noon - 2:30.Last Sunday: Romans 8: 18-30Class Concerns: Pray for all our classmembers who couldnʼt be with us today.9 Present. RG
Double Ring
Next Sunday: Bob RorschachLast Sunday: Clarke Kendall taught aboutthe parable of the Good Samaritan.Visitors: Wally and Darla Cox, Nickʼsparents.Upcoming Events: Christmas party onDecember 16th (Mon.) 6:00 pm, FH.Celebrations: Charles Crewsʼ birthday34 Present. JAGHomebuilders
Next Sunday: Richard Lawson will teach.Last Sunday: Carol Lawson gave ourlesson.Upcoming Events: Jazz to the World -donʼt miss it! Dec. 5th at 7:00 PM. Also,Homebuilders Lunch at First Watch onFroday, Dec. 6 at 11:30Celebrations: Hope you had a happyThanksgiving - we are thankful for all ourblessings.Class Concerns: Barbara Griffinʼs family;so many others!16 Present. LS
Sojourners
Next Sunday: Jeremiah, Chapter 8.Upcoming Events: Advent Festival nextSunday - we have a booth. ChristmasParty December 15 after church at EthelBrownʼs.Celebrations: Celeste Barrowʼs birthday6 Present. CD
Sunday
School
Class
News
9:00 am Traditional, Sanctuary
10:00 am Breakfast for Children
10:15–11:00 am Sunday School
11:15 am Common Ground
Fellowship Hall
6:00 pm The Loft
(1st
and 3rd
Sundays)
Page 8
As we concluded our JYF session on the 5 Elements of
Worship, the children were able to decorate their own
personal apron to wear for Thanksgiving. As we learned
about Worship each session the children cooked and
prepared a food item to eat or take home to their family.
Our intention was that as the children had this ‘hands-on-
experience’ they would retain more of the information
we were teaching and be able to share that with their
family (along with the
foods and recipes).
The finale was great
fun as they colored and
used their individual
artistic skills to express
themselves.
They have been
encouraged to wear their aprons as a reminder to be
helpful and serve others through the holidays.
Children’s Ministry Concludes Hands-on Study of
According to Director of Children’s
Ministries, Bevery Vale Brown, the Advent Fes-
tival on December 8 is a family-oriented event
with food, fun and fellowship. “ Parents can
work with kids in making the various projects,”
says Brown. “ It takes about an hour and a half
to complete them.” The activites follow a de-
licious lunch prepared by Rev. Carol Lawson,
and concludes at
2:30. The follow-
ing week is Santa’s Workshop on Dec 22. JYF is also
having a Christmas lunch and party on that day. Some-
thing new to First Christian’s Christmas traditions, the
“Sparkle Tree.” The tree is hung with dozens of white
stars upon which are written suggestions for service
and caring to others. Invite your friends & family to
FCC!
Christmas Celebrations Continue with
Advent Activities
December 8
10 – 10:30 Breakfast for
everyone
10:30 – 11:15 Sunday School
11:15 – 12 Worship
12:30 - 2:30 Lunch for all
Advent activities after lunch
Booths:
· Cookies Decorating & Eating
· Badge Making
· Art Projects
· Goodie Bags
· Visit & Photo with Santa
· Barbeque Sandwich Lunch
· Candy Cane Crafts
· Christmas Tree Decorations
Christmas stories every 30 minutes
and sing-along Christmas Music
an Old-fashioned “Advent Festival”
Five Elements of Worship Program