The Mission of First Presbyterian Church of Port Charlotte...
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FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 2230 Hariet Street Port Charlotte, FL 33952 (941) 625-5045 www.fpcpc.com JANUARY 2020 Happy New Year
Transcript of The Mission of First Presbyterian Church of Port Charlotte...
The Mission of First Presbyterian Church of Port Charlotte is
to reflect God’s light and love, empowering Christ-like living.
Ministry Staff
Janet Hart, Pastor Secretary [email protected]
Diego Valencia, Maintenance [email protected]
Christy Blue, Choir Director [email protected]
Session
Class of 2019: Joan Barry, Rebekah Baird, Richard Lund
Class of 2020: Sandy Asaro, Lynn Webster, Elaine Woods
Class of 2021: John Gamble, Ernest Rose, Laverne Sinkia
Deacons
Class of 2019: Andy Buell, Clarence Diersing, Gay Sorensen
Class of 2020: Judi Anderson, Norma Campbell, Donna Young
Class of 2021: Barbara Edwards, Jean Heim, Sandee Pellerin
Trustees
Richard Lund, President John Gamble, Vice President
Ambrose Woods, Treasurer Sandy Asaro, Secretary
Class of 2018: Clarence Diersing, Member at Large
Class of 2019: Bob Hull, Member at Large
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 2230 Hariet Street Port Charlotte, FL 33952 (941) 625-5045 www.fpcpc.com
JANUARY 2020
About Holy Week
Happy New Year
DECEMBER SESSION MEETING HIGHLIGHTS
The Session ordinarily meets on the 2nd Sunday of each month and receives the meeting agenda on the 1st Sunday
of the month. If, at any time, you have any questions or concerns for the Session, please send that information
to our Church Secretary by the end of the previous month so the Session has time to prayerfully review.
By Sandy Asaro
In faithfully following God’s calling to her next chapter of ministry, the pastoral
relationship has been dissolved between Rev. Terri Jo Crego and FPCPC, effective
December 31, 2019.
o We are deeply grateful for the leadership and love that Rev. Crego shared with
our church when she answered God’s call to come here 4 years ago, and wish
her well as she answers God’s call to become the pastor at Bee Ridge
Presbyterian Church in Sarasota.
The Session is at work to discern the next steps as we transition leadership together:
o Steps have begun to find an Interim Pastor who will lead us during our
transition.
January 5th: General Presbyter Melana Scruggs will lead worship
January 12th: Begin Pulpit Supply until we have an Interim Pastor
Our new officers were elected at the Congregational Meeting:
o Class of 2022 Elders: Joan Barry, Alzie Lee, and Ron Smith
o Class of 2022 Deacons: Veronica Betts, Brad Messick, and Pauline Paquin
o Class of 2021 Trustee: Nancy Sharpless
The November Membership report reflects 135 Active Members and 6 Affiliate
Members.
The November Financial report was reviewed and reflects the following:
o November Monthly Revenue of $21,919.02 and Monthly Expenses of
$20,258.05 with a Monthly Surplus of $1,660.97.
o Year to Date (YTD) Revenue of $279,751.69 and YTD Expenses of
$299,019.06 with a YTD Deficit of $19,267.37
Communication with the congregation is important to us and will continue at this time
with weekly emails, weekly bulletin announcements, and monthly newsletters.
o Publications will continue to be updated on our church website.
Please be in prayer for Rev. Terri Jo Crego as she follows God’s call in her life of
ministry, our Interim Pastor that God is preparing to lead our church family in transition,
and also for one another as we prepare for the next chapter of ministry that God is
preparing to do through us.
SOUPER BOWL of CARING
Sunday, February 2nd
10:00 a.m. in Worship
The youth of First Presbyterian Church Port Charlotte will be participating in the Souper Bowl
of Caring again this year and invite you to be part of this life-changing movement.
On Sunday, February 2nd, you are invited to wrap a dollar bill, a ten dollar bill, any
denomination of a bill, or a check made out to FPCPC and earmarked “Souper Bowl of
Caring” around a can of soup. Use a rubber band to hold the bill in place and bring it to church
that morning. Our children and youth will be in the Narthex to collect your donation. Last year
our church family brought in $1,733 and 706 cans! The children and youth challenge our
church family to match or exceed our donations from last year. All proceeds stay at our
church and will used with our Food Pantry Ministry. Please pray about how you can make
a difference tackling hunger here in our community, and support our youth as they raise money
and cans of soup for our Food Pantry. Start now-Double your donation by watching for Buy
One-Get One soup sales at Publix and Winn Dixie. Please see Nancy Sharpless if you have
any questions.
The Souper Bowl of Caring began with a simple prayer: "Lord, even as we enjoy the
Super Bowl football game, help us be mindful of those who are without a bowl of soup
to eat" and inspired a youth-led movement to help hungry and hurting people around the
world. This prayer, delivered by Brad Smith, then a seminary intern serving at Spring
Valley Presbyterian Church in Columbia, SC, gave birth to an idea. Why not use Super
Bowl weekend, a time when people come together for football and fun, to also unify the
nation for a higher good: collecting dollars and canned food for the needy? Youth could
collect donations at their schools and churches in soup pots, and then send every dollar
DIRECTLY to a local charity of THEIR choice.
The senior high youth of Spring Valley Presbyterian liked the idea so much they decided
to invite other area churches to join the team. Twenty-two Columbia churches
participated that first year, reporting their results so a total could be determined, and
then sending all $5,700 they had raised to area non-profits.
That was 1990. Since then, ordinary young people have generated an extraordinary more
than $100 million for soup kitchens, food banks and other charities in communities
across the country. In addition, hundreds of thousands of youth have experienced for
themselves the joy and satisfaction of giving and serving, inspiring people of all ages to
follow their generous example. The Souper Bowl of Caring empowers youth and unites
communities around the time of the Big Game to help those in need.
PEOPLE ENJOYING PEOPLE GROUP (PEP) OF FPCPC
2020 SPRING SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES
Saturday, January 11th - Let’s go antiquing or collecting at the Galleria Mall Antiques &
Collectibles at 5260 Duncan Road (U.S.17) in Punta Gorda. There are interesting
shops in this small mall. Meet at the church’s Palm Garden at 2:00 p.m. to carpool.
We’ll end the day at Royal Thai Oriental Restaurant at 4214 Duncan Road at 5:00 p.m.
for supper. You may meet us in your vehicle at either place if you wish. Please RSVP
to Janet Scott at 941-999-7913 or email her at [email protected] or Jan Baker
at 386-972-3915 or email her at [email protected].
Friday, February 14th or Saturday, Feb. 15th – Enjoy the Greek Fest at Holy Trinity Greek
Orthodox Church at 24411 Rampart Road in Port Charlotte 33980 (off Kings Hwy.)
from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. The festival features authentic Greek food, pastry, church
tours, a live Greek band. At designated times, there will be Greek dance lessons, grape
stomping, and pride of Greece dancers. Admission/parking fees are not stated. We will
decide on date and times. Please RSVP to Janet Scott at 941-999-7913 or email her at
[email protected] or Jan Baker at 386-972-3915 or email her at
March – We will visit the Military Heritage Museum in their new home on Marion Avenue.
We may have a special event featuring one of our PEP members. There is no cost to
visit the lower floor attractions. The cost is $10 for upper floor attractions. Please
contact Jackie Witt at 585-356-2568 or email her at [email protected].
April - We’ll take the cruise out of Fisherman’s Village up the Peace River for 3.5 hours.
Please contact Jackie Witt at 585-356-2568 or [email protected].
Friday, May 9th or Saturday, May 10th – We’ll visit Peace River Botanical & Sculpture
Gardens at 5827 Riverside Drive in Punta Gorda. It’s open 10 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.
Tuesday through Sunday. This is a new park featuring commissioned sculptures and
growing plants. Admission is $10. We will have lunch at Zoet’s by Winn-Dixie on
Hwy. 17 toward Punta Gorda proper. Please contact Jan Baker at 386-972-3915 or
email her at [email protected].
FROM THE DEACONS
Your Board of Deacons provides information and help, such as
Dates, Times for Church Socials, and Special Events
Someone to talk to if you’re not feeling well
Assistance getting to doctor appointments or to church
A voice for your concerns or suggestions
While we deacons are not “super powered,” we are here to help you find the answers and care
for your needs. Your well-being is our primary concern. Please call Janet Hart, our pastor
secretary, at 941-625-5045 and tell what you desire, and she will call one of us to help you.
May you find Peace, Good Health, and Spiritual Fulfillment as we begin 2020.
Happy New Year!
Your Board of Deacons,
Andy Buell, Clarence Diersing, Gay Sorensen
Judi Anderson, Norma Campbell, Donna Young
Barbara Edwards, Jean Heim, Sandee Pellerin
SECRET SISTERS MEETING
Saturday, January 11th
1:00 p.m.
New Life Center
The Secret Sisters will meet in the New Life Center on Saturday, January 11th. This group
is open to all women – young and old. Names are drawn, and each person leaves little gifts
for special occasions throughout the year. It’s really a lot of fun, so please come join us. For
more information, please contact Sandy Kruse at 941-629-4494.
CHILDREN AND YOUTH SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASS
9:00 – 9:50 a.m.
Youth Room
Our children and youth Sunday School students will learn about the escape of Jesus and his
family to Egypt, who Jesus is, and the baptism of Jesus. They will participate in activities to
illustrate the experiences of Jesus, his parents, and his disciples. These will help them in their
response to daily challenges.
January 5th Escape to Egypt: Children and youth will learn how God protected and
provided for Joseph, Mary, and Jesus as they fled from Bethlehem to Egypt
to protect Jesus from Herod, who wanted to kill Him. They will also learn
how God protects and provides for us. (Matthew 2:13-23)
January 12th Jesus the Word: Children and youth will discover what it means for Jesus to
be God’s Word in the world, so they will be able to share the good news with
others. The children will use various materials to weave a tapestry as a
reminder that Jesus is God’s Word in the world. (John 1:10-18)
January 19th Jesus’ Baptism: Children and youth will understand that when Jesus was
baptized, the Holy Spirit came in the form of a dove and landed on Jesus.
When we accept God’s gift of salvation, we also receive God’s Spirit who
changes our lives. Children will make magnets as reminders that God’s Spirit
changes us! (Matthew 3:13-17)
January 26th The Lamb of God: Children and youth will discover what it means for Jesus
to be the Lamb of God. They will make graffiti wristbands to remind them
that we are set free by Jesus. (John 1:29-42)
By Veronica Betts
ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL
9:00 a.m. – 9:50 a.m.
Parlor
In January, we will continue studying the Bible in chronological order. Currently, we are
in Ecclesiastes. We plan to study the rest of the Bible and hope to finish it before the year
2020 is over. We meet every Sunday morning at 9:00 a.m. in the parlor, and we would be so
happy to have new participants to join us in this journey.
By Theresa Phillips
OUTREACH
Thank you so much to each and every individual for generosity of time and toys that helped
make this year's Santa Run and Salvation Army Angel Tree Program a success. This was
Sandee Pellerin's 7th year organizing the Santa Run, which is co-sponsored by First
Presbyterian Church and our church neighbors in Zone 3 Area of Port Charlotte as well as local
merchants. First Presbyterian Elves and our own Santa handed out gifts to over 300 children
in the Parkside neighborhood that surrounds our church. We look forward to your continued
support in 2020.
The January Communion Offering will benefit the Red Cross, which, every 8 minutes,
responds to a disaster by providing emergency shelter, hot meals, and financial support to
families in need. When you look for the helpers, you’ll know that there’s hope.
By Joan Barry
NOMINATING COMMITTEE
On January 5th, we will be installing three elders, Class of 2022: Ron Smith, Alzie Lee,
and Joan Barry as well as three deacons, Class of 2022: Brad Messick, Veronica Betts, and
Pauline Paquin, and one trustee, Class of 2021 Nancy Sharpless.
DISASTER PREPAREDNESS AND SAFETY COMMITTEE
The Disaster and Safety Team want to remind all that in case of the fire alarm sounding,
please leave the building. Everyone should go to the closest exit. Also just a reminder to use
the sanctuary doors after 9:45 a.m. as the other entrances are locked during service.
REMINDER ABOUT PARKING
Please remember it is illegal to park in a handicapped space without a current, displayed
disabled parking permit or license plate at any time, regardless of whether or not the church is
“open.” Our volunteers, visitors, and congregants would appreciate people not parking in
handicapped spaces if they don’t have a handicapped placard.
PAULINE PAQUIN IN CONCERT
January 19th
4:00 p.m.
Our very own, one and only, Pauline Paquin will be performing in a First Presbyterian
Church Port Charlotte benefit concert on January 19, 2020 at 4:00 p.m. Refreshments will be
served following her concert. Tickets are $10/adult and $5/children and will be available in
January. This is a major fundraiser for First Presbyterian Church, so please plan to attend.
By Laverne Sinkia
A NOTE FROM PASTOR TERRI JO CREGO
Dear FPCPC Friends,
Thank you for your generosity expressed in so many ways as we have celebrated the ministry
and journey taken together. You are a blessing to me, and I am grateful to this congregation
for your support of me as your pastor. I could not have asked for a better group of people
with whom to serve in my first call as a pastor.
As I said in my previous letter, I am confident God has a good future planned for you, and
this wonderful family of faith will continue to grow to become an even more vital witness
for God in Port Charlotte and beyond. I am grateful for sharing one chapter of a long story
God is writing of faithfulness and service through First Presbyterian Church.
As Presbyterians, we believe that the pastor is not the head of the church; Christ is the head
of the church. As the Book of Order says, “Christ provides for the church all that it needs to
fulfill its mission and ministry.” Be assured, the Session and the Presbytery are already at
work to partner with you as you walk through this transition. There will be a new pastor who
will lead you all in the next chapter, conducting memorial services, weddings, and baptisms.
That will be their ministry and mine no longer, unless asked by him/her. For those with
whom I am “friends” with on Facebook, I will be closing that social media tie to honor
presbytery ethics of pastoral dissolution of call, while holding you close in my thoughts and
prayers.
May God’s blessings surround you. May your next chapter tell of God’s generosity, grace,
and love. And may you go forth in grace and gratitude.
Rev. Terri Jo Crego
FOOD PANTRY
Tuesday, January 7th and January 21st
9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Wednesday, January 8th
5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
The First Presbyterian Church Food Pantry made Christmas dinner merrier for all of our
clients. Every client who came to the food pantry in December received a $10 gift card for
either Publix or Winn Dixie grocery stores. Harry Chapin provided 20 cards, H.E.L.P. Charlotte
County and other friends of the pantry either provided funds or purchased cards for 130 clients.
A $10 gift card may not sound like much, but when most of your paycheck or Social Security
check goes for rent, electricity, water, medical expenses and gas for the car that $10 card can
buy a special roast or dessert for the holiday dinner. The pantry volunteers heard many say, “I
am so grateful” and “thank you.”
Now for your first assignment for 2020! Read those Winn Dixie ads on Tuesdays and the
Publix ads on Wednesdays. Look for those BOGOS on SOUP! Yes, it’s that time of year! We
are gearing up for “Souper Bowl” Sunday. The Super Bowl football game is being played in
Miami on the first Sunday of February, February 2, 2020. Once again, our Youth Group will
be collecting soup for the Food Pantry. The favorite flavor in the pantry is – yes, you guessed
it – chicken noodle, especially a brand that all you need to do is dump the can into a bowl and
microwave. New England Clam Chowder and Loaded Potato are other favorites. The least
favorite soup? Tomato! Maybe it’s because we only rarely get cheese slices for that good grilled
cheese sandwich to go with the soup. We collected 706 cans last year. The Youth Group will
expect an even higher number this year but you always meet - and raise - their challenge!
Don’t forget to read those BOGOS so you can get more for your buck.
The Food Pantry served 197 duplicated households in November. The number of
unduplicated people served was 438; that number rises to 567 duplicated people.
MAY YOU HAVE A BLESSED AND HAPPY 2020!
By Nancy Sharpless
CHANGING LIVES
MISSION STATEMENT: “Reflecting God’s light and love, empowering
Christ-like living”.
As the Christian Education Committee engaged in visioning about how God is changing lives
through our work, a key Bible Scripture that emerged was Romans 12:2, “Do not be conformed to this
world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of
God—what is good and acceptable and perfect.” (NRSV)
As we are charged with leading educational opportunities for people of all ages, we consider
Jesus’ command to go out and make disciples of all nations. One of the primary purposes of Christian
Education is to strengthen Biblical background, in order to integrate our values to Christ’s teachings
for the purpose of making disciples of Christ. Children and youth are invited to participate in Sunday
School, Youth Group, and Confirmation. Adults are invited to participate in Sunday School, Bible
Study, and Presbyterian Women. When people of all ages are intentional about attending Christian
Education opportunities, they are provided with tools to be Christ’s disciples in the world around us.
Transformation is another way God is changing lives through Christian Education. As we come
together to study and learn more about God’s Word, we are changed by the Holy Spirit. Transformation
is a process that we undergo as we seek to become more like Christ, which we cannot do alone. Our
lives are transformed when we learn together in community and seek to discern the will and work of
God together.
Another significant theme is the importance of building relationships. All children, youth, and
adults are loved, welcomed, and accepted here regardless of what life experiences and backgrounds
they bring to us. Our church is a safe place for people to belong and find a place as part of our family.
As leaders are intentional about building relationships with all who come, self-esteem gets boosted and
trust is built in deeper ways. People can also find hope for their journey ahead knowing that they are
supported and cared about, even when things may not be going well for them in that season of life.
Christian Education opportunities help people discover their roots and to see that everyone has a
purpose and that they belong. When people see a calling or hope, they can explore it further and live
into the calling.
Christian Education also involves putting our faith into action by serving others. Throughout
the year, opportunities are created for us to be the church in the world. Monthly, our children and youth
help to prepare goods for the food pantry. Seasonally, we take an intergenerational group to Beth-El to
serve migrant farmworkers, gather and distribute school supplies for kids in our community, and take
cookies to our neighbors and invite them to join us for our Christmas Eve service. Education is not
about learning things for ourselves and keeping it to ourselves. It is about deepening our knowledge of
God’s Word, being transformed into people who are more Christ-like, building relationships when we
come together in community, and going out in the world to serve others.
Our church mission statement is to reflect God’s light and love, empowering Christ-like living.
We directly try to reflect God’s light and love in each other and ourselves in a variety of Christian
Education opportunities. Each of our efforts at Christ-like living can set an example for others and
empower people to also strive for Christ-like living in their surroundings too. We share our faith in our
contexts at church and beyond by how we respond in different situations and the attitude that we exhibit.
As we are becoming transformed by Christ and a deeper understanding of God’s Word, we are more
likely to respond in loving ways that model Christ’s example for us.
FOOD PANTRY
Tuesday, January 7th and January 21st
9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Wednesday, January 8th
5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
The First Presbyterian Church Food Pantry made Christmas dinner merrier for all of our
clients. Every client who came to the food pantry in December received a $10 gift card for
either Publix or Winn Dixie grocery stores. Harry Chapin provided 20 cards, H.E.L.P. Charlotte
County and other friends of the pantry either provided funds or purchased cards for 130 clients.
A $10 gift card may not sound like much, but when most of your paycheck or Social Security
check goes for rent, electricity, water, medical expenses and gas for the car that $10 card can
buy a special roast or dessert for the holiday dinner. The pantry volunteers heard many say, “I
am so grateful” and “thank you.”
Now for your first assignment for 2020! Read those Winn Dixie ads on Tuesdays and the
Publix ads on Wednesdays. Look for those BOGOS on SOUP! Yes, it’s that time of year! We
are gearing up for “Souper Bowl” Sunday. The Super Bowl football game is being played in
Miami on the first Sunday of February, February 2, 2020. Once again, our Youth Group will
be collecting soup for the Food Pantry. The favorite flavor in the pantry is – yes, you guessed
it – chicken noodle, especially a brand that all you need to do is dump the can into a bowl and
microwave. New England Clam Chowder and Loaded Potato are other favorites. The least
favorite soup? Tomato! Maybe it’s because we only rarely get cheese slices for that good grilled
cheese sandwich to go with the soup. We collected 706 cans last year. The Youth Group will
expect an even higher number this year but you always meet - and raise - their challenge!
Don’t forget to read those BOGOS so you can get more for your buck.
The Food Pantry served 197 duplicated households in November. The number of
unduplicated people served was 438; that number rises to 567 duplicated people.
MAY YOU HAVE A BLESSED AND HAPPY 2020!
By Nancy Sharpless
CHANGING LIVES
MISSION STATEMENT: “Reflecting God’s light and love, empowering
Christ-like living”.
As the Christian Education Committee engaged in visioning about how God is changing lives
through our work, a key Bible Scripture that emerged was Romans 12:2, “Do not be conformed to this
world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of
God—what is good and acceptable and perfect.” (NRSV)
As we are charged with leading educational opportunities for people of all ages, we consider
Jesus’ command to go out and make disciples of all nations. One of the primary purposes of Christian
Education is to strengthen Biblical background, in order to integrate our values to Christ’s teachings
for the purpose of making disciples of Christ. Children and youth are invited to participate in Sunday
School, Youth Group, and Confirmation. Adults are invited to participate in Sunday School, Bible
Study, and Presbyterian Women. When people of all ages are intentional about attending Christian
Education opportunities, they are provided with tools to be Christ’s disciples in the world around us.
Transformation is another way God is changing lives through Christian Education. As we come
together to study and learn more about God’s Word, we are changed by the Holy Spirit. Transformation
is a process that we undergo as we seek to become more like Christ, which we cannot do alone. Our
lives are transformed when we learn together in community and seek to discern the will and work of
God together.
Another significant theme is the importance of building relationships. All children, youth, and
adults are loved, welcomed, and accepted here regardless of what life experiences and backgrounds
they bring to us. Our church is a safe place for people to belong and find a place as part of our family.
As leaders are intentional about building relationships with all who come, self-esteem gets boosted and
trust is built in deeper ways. People can also find hope for their journey ahead knowing that they are
supported and cared about, even when things may not be going well for them in that season of life.
Christian Education opportunities help people discover their roots and to see that everyone has a
purpose and that they belong. When people see a calling or hope, they can explore it further and live
into the calling.
Christian Education also involves putting our faith into action by serving others. Throughout
the year, opportunities are created for us to be the church in the world. Monthly, our children and youth
help to prepare goods for the food pantry. Seasonally, we take an intergenerational group to Beth-El to
serve migrant farmworkers, gather and distribute school supplies for kids in our community, and take
cookies to our neighbors and invite them to join us for our Christmas Eve service. Education is not
about learning things for ourselves and keeping it to ourselves. It is about deepening our knowledge of
God’s Word, being transformed into people who are more Christ-like, building relationships when we
come together in community, and going out in the world to serve others.
Our church mission statement is to reflect God’s light and love, empowering Christ-like living.
We directly try to reflect God’s light and love in each other and ourselves in a variety of Christian
Education opportunities. Each of our efforts at Christ-like living can set an example for others and
empower people to also strive for Christ-like living in their surroundings too. We share our faith in our
contexts at church and beyond by how we respond in different situations and the attitude that we exhibit.
As we are becoming transformed by Christ and a deeper understanding of God’s Word, we are more
likely to respond in loving ways that model Christ’s example for us.
A NOTE FROM PASTOR TERRI JO CREGO
Dear FPCPC Friends,
Thank you for your generosity expressed in so many ways as we have celebrated the ministry
and journey taken together. You are a blessing to me, and I am grateful to this congregation
for your support of me as your pastor. I could not have asked for a better group of people
with whom to serve in my first call as a pastor.
As I said in my previous letter, I am confident God has a good future planned for you, and
this wonderful family of faith will continue to grow to become an even more vital witness
for God in Port Charlotte and beyond. I am grateful for sharing one chapter of a long story
God is writing of faithfulness and service through First Presbyterian Church.
As Presbyterians, we believe that the pastor is not the head of the church; Christ is the head
of the church. As the Book of Order says, “Christ provides for the church all that it needs to
fulfill its mission and ministry.” Be assured, the Session and the Presbytery are already at
work to partner with you as you walk through this transition. There will be a new pastor who
will lead you all in the next chapter, conducting memorial services, weddings, and baptisms.
That will be their ministry and mine no longer, unless asked by him/her. For those with
whom I am “friends” with on Facebook, I will be closing that social media tie to honor
presbytery ethics of pastoral dissolution of call, while holding you close in my thoughts and
prayers.
May God’s blessings surround you. May your next chapter tell of God’s generosity, grace,
and love. And may you go forth in grace and gratitude.
Rev. Terri Jo Crego
CHILDREN AND YOUTH SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASS
9:00 – 9:50 a.m.
Youth Room
Our children and youth Sunday School students will learn about the escape of Jesus and his
family to Egypt, who Jesus is, and the baptism of Jesus. They will participate in activities to
illustrate the experiences of Jesus, his parents, and his disciples. These will help them in their
response to daily challenges.
January 5th Escape to Egypt: Children and youth will learn how God protected and
provided for Joseph, Mary, and Jesus as they fled from Bethlehem to Egypt
to protect Jesus from Herod, who wanted to kill Him. They will also learn
how God protects and provides for us. (Matthew 2:13-23)
January 12th Jesus the Word: Children and youth will discover what it means for Jesus to
be God’s Word in the world, so they will be able to share the good news with
others. The children will use various materials to weave a tapestry as a
reminder that Jesus is God’s Word in the world. (John 1:10-18)
January 19th Jesus’ Baptism: Children and youth will understand that when Jesus was
baptized, the Holy Spirit came in the form of a dove and landed on Jesus.
When we accept God’s gift of salvation, we also receive God’s Spirit who
changes our lives. Children will make magnets as reminders that God’s Spirit
changes us! (Matthew 3:13-17)
January 26th The Lamb of God: Children and youth will discover what it means for Jesus
to be the Lamb of God. They will make graffiti wristbands to remind them
that we are set free by Jesus. (John 1:29-42)
By Veronica Betts
ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL
9:00 a.m. – 9:50 a.m.
Parlor
In January, we will continue studying the Bible in chronological order. Currently, we are
in Ecclesiastes. We plan to study the rest of the Bible and hope to finish it before the year
2020 is over. We meet every Sunday morning at 9:00 a.m. in the parlor, and we would be so
happy to have new participants to join us in this journey.
By Theresa Phillips
OUTREACH
Thank you so much to each and every individual for generosity of time and toys that helped
make this year's Santa Run and Salvation Army Angel Tree Program a success. This was
Sandee Pellerin's 7th year organizing the Santa Run, which is co-sponsored by First
Presbyterian Church and our church neighbors in Zone 3 Area of Port Charlotte as well as local
merchants. First Presbyterian Elves and our own Santa handed out gifts to over 300 children
in the Parkside neighborhood that surrounds our church. We look forward to your continued
support in 2020.
The January Communion Offering will benefit the Red Cross, which, every 8 minutes,
responds to a disaster by providing emergency shelter, hot meals, and financial support to
families in need. When you look for the helpers, you’ll know that there’s hope.
By Joan Barry
NOMINATING COMMITTEE
On January 5th, we will be installing three elders, Class of 2022: Ron Smith, Alzie Lee,
and Joan Barry as well as three deacons, Class of 2022: Brad Messick, Veronica Betts, and
Pauline Paquin, and one trustee, Class of 2021 Nancy Sharpless.
DISASTER PREPAREDNESS AND SAFETY COMMITTEE
The Disaster and Safety Team want to remind all that in case of the fire alarm sounding,
please leave the building. Everyone should go to the closest exit. Also just a reminder to use
the sanctuary doors after 9:45 a.m. as the other entrances are locked during service.
REMINDER ABOUT PARKING
Please remember it is illegal to park in a handicapped space without a current, displayed
disabled parking permit or license plate at any time, regardless of whether or not the church is
“open.” Our volunteers, visitors, and congregants would appreciate people not parking in
handicapped spaces if they don’t have a handicapped placard.
PAULINE PAQUIN IN CONCERT
January 19th
4:00 p.m.
Our very own, one and only, Pauline Paquin will be performing in a First Presbyterian
Church Port Charlotte benefit concert on January 19, 2020 at 4:00 p.m. Refreshments will be
served following her concert. Tickets are $10/adult and $5/children and will be available in
January. This is a major fundraiser for First Presbyterian Church, so please plan to attend.
By Laverne Sinkia
PEOPLE ENJOYING PEOPLE GROUP (PEP) OF FPCPC
2020 SPRING SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES
Saturday, January 11th - Let’s go antiquing or collecting at the Galleria Mall Antiques &
Collectibles at 5260 Duncan Road (U.S.17) in Punta Gorda. There are interesting
shops in this small mall. Meet at the church’s Palm Garden at 2:00 p.m. to carpool.
We’ll end the day at Royal Thai Oriental Restaurant at 4214 Duncan Road at 5:00 p.m.
for supper. You may meet us in your vehicle at either place if you wish. Please RSVP
to Janet Scott at 941-999-7913 or email her at [email protected] or Jan Baker
at 386-972-3915 or email her at [email protected].
Friday, February 14th or Saturday, Feb. 15th – Enjoy the Greek Fest at Holy Trinity Greek
Orthodox Church at 24411 Rampart Road in Port Charlotte 33980 (off Kings Hwy.)
from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. The festival features authentic Greek food, pastry, church
tours, a live Greek band. At designated times, there will be Greek dance lessons, grape
stomping, and pride of Greece dancers. Admission/parking fees are not stated. We will
decide on date and times. Please RSVP to Janet Scott at 941-999-7913 or email her at
[email protected] or Jan Baker at 386-972-3915 or email her at
March – We will visit the Military Heritage Museum in their new home on Marion Avenue.
We may have a special event featuring one of our PEP members. There is no cost to
visit the lower floor attractions. The cost is $10 for upper floor attractions. Please
contact Jackie Witt at 585-356-2568 or email her at [email protected].
April - We’ll take the cruise out of Fisherman’s Village up the Peace River for 3.5 hours.
Please contact Jackie Witt at 585-356-2568 or [email protected].
Friday, May 9th or Saturday, May 10th – We’ll visit Peace River Botanical & Sculpture
Gardens at 5827 Riverside Drive in Punta Gorda. It’s open 10 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.
Tuesday through Sunday. This is a new park featuring commissioned sculptures and
growing plants. Admission is $10. We will have lunch at Zoet’s by Winn-Dixie on
Hwy. 17 toward Punta Gorda proper. Please contact Jan Baker at 386-972-3915 or
email her at [email protected].
FROM THE DEACONS
Your Board of Deacons provides information and help, such as
Dates, Times for Church Socials, and Special Events
Someone to talk to if you’re not feeling well
Assistance getting to doctor appointments or to church
A voice for your concerns or suggestions
While we deacons are not “super powered,” we are here to help you find the answers and care
for your needs. Your well-being is our primary concern. Please call Janet Hart, our pastor
secretary, at 941-625-5045 and tell what you desire, and she will call one of us to help you.
May you find Peace, Good Health, and Spiritual Fulfillment as we begin 2020.
Happy New Year!
Your Board of Deacons,
Andy Buell, Clarence Diersing, Gay Sorensen
Judi Anderson, Norma Campbell, Donna Young
Barbara Edwards, Jean Heim, Sandee Pellerin
SECRET SISTERS MEETING
Saturday, January 11th
1:00 p.m.
New Life Center
The Secret Sisters will meet in the New Life Center on Saturday, January 11th. This group
is open to all women – young and old. Names are drawn, and each person leaves little gifts
for special occasions throughout the year. It’s really a lot of fun, so please come join us. For
more information, please contact Sandy Kruse at 941-629-4494.
DECEMBER SESSION MEETING HIGHLIGHTS
The Session ordinarily meets on the 2nd Sunday of each month and receives the meeting agenda on the 1st Sunday
of the month. If, at any time, you have any questions or concerns for the Session, please send that information
to our Church Secretary by the end of the previous month so the Session has time to prayerfully review.
By Sandy Asaro
In faithfully following God’s calling to her next chapter of ministry, the pastoral
relationship has been dissolved between Rev. Terri Jo Crego and FPCPC, effective
December 31, 2019.
o We are deeply grateful for the leadership and love that Rev. Crego shared with
our church when she answered God’s call to come here 4 years ago, and wish
her well as she answers God’s call to become the pastor at Bee Ridge
Presbyterian Church in Sarasota.
The Session is at work to discern the next steps as we transition leadership together:
o Steps have begun to find an Interim Pastor who will lead us during our
transition.
January 5th: General Presbyter Melana Scruggs will lead worship
January 12th: Begin Pulpit Supply until we have an Interim Pastor
Our new officers were elected at the Congregational Meeting:
o Class of 2022 Elders: Joan Barry, Alzie Lee, and Ron Smith
o Class of 2022 Deacons: Veronica Betts, Brad Messick, and Pauline Paquin
o Class of 2021 Trustee: Nancy Sharpless
The November Membership report reflects 135 Active Members and 6 Affiliate
Members.
The November Financial report was reviewed and reflects the following:
o November Monthly Revenue of $21,919.02 and Monthly Expenses of
$20,258.05 with a Monthly Surplus of $1,660.97.
o Year to Date (YTD) Revenue of $279,751.69 and YTD Expenses of
$299,019.06 with a YTD Deficit of $19,267.37
Communication with the congregation is important to us and will continue at this time
with weekly emails, weekly bulletin announcements, and monthly newsletters.
o Publications will continue to be updated on our church website.
Please be in prayer for Rev. Terri Jo Crego as she follows God’s call in her life of
ministry, our Interim Pastor that God is preparing to lead our church family in transition,
and also for one another as we prepare for the next chapter of ministry that God is
preparing to do through us.
SOUPER BOWL of CARING
Sunday, February 2nd
10:00 a.m. in Worship
The youth of First Presbyterian Church Port Charlotte will be participating in the Souper Bowl
of Caring again this year and invite you to be part of this life-changing movement.
On Sunday, February 2nd, you are invited to wrap a dollar bill, a ten dollar bill, any
denomination of a bill, or a check made out to FPCPC and earmarked “Souper Bowl of
Caring” around a can of soup. Use a rubber band to hold the bill in place and bring it to church
that morning. Our children and youth will be in the Narthex to collect your donation. Last year
our church family brought in $1,733 and 706 cans! The children and youth challenge our
church family to match or exceed our donations from last year. All proceeds stay at our
church and will used with our Food Pantry Ministry. Please pray about how you can make
a difference tackling hunger here in our community, and support our youth as they raise money
and cans of soup for our Food Pantry. Start now-Double your donation by watching for Buy
One-Get One soup sales at Publix and Winn Dixie. Please see Nancy Sharpless if you have
any questions.
The Souper Bowl of Caring began with a simple prayer: "Lord, even as we enjoy the
Super Bowl football game, help us be mindful of those who are without a bowl of soup
to eat" and inspired a youth-led movement to help hungry and hurting people around the
world. This prayer, delivered by Brad Smith, then a seminary intern serving at Spring
Valley Presbyterian Church in Columbia, SC, gave birth to an idea. Why not use Super
Bowl weekend, a time when people come together for football and fun, to also unify the
nation for a higher good: collecting dollars and canned food for the needy? Youth could
collect donations at their schools and churches in soup pots, and then send every dollar
DIRECTLY to a local charity of THEIR choice.
The senior high youth of Spring Valley Presbyterian liked the idea so much they decided
to invite other area churches to join the team. Twenty-two Columbia churches
participated that first year, reporting their results so a total could be determined, and
then sending all $5,700 they had raised to area non-profits.
That was 1990. Since then, ordinary young people have generated an extraordinary more
than $100 million for soup kitchens, food banks and other charities in communities
across the country. In addition, hundreds of thousands of youth have experienced for
themselves the joy and satisfaction of giving and serving, inspiring people of all ages to
follow their generous example. The Souper Bowl of Caring empowers youth and unites
communities around the time of the Big Game to help those in need.
The Mission of First Presbyterian Church of Port Charlotte is
to reflect God’s light and love, empowering Christ-like living.
Ministry Staff
Janet Hart, Pastor Secretary [email protected]
Diego Valencia, Maintenance [email protected]
Christy Blue, Choir Director [email protected]
Session
Class of 2019: Joan Barry, Rebekah Baird, Richard Lund
Class of 2020: Sandy Asaro, Lynn Webster, Elaine Woods
Class of 2021: John Gamble, Ernest Rose, Laverne Sinkia
Deacons
Class of 2019: Andy Buell, Clarence Diersing, Gay Sorensen
Class of 2020: Judi Anderson, Norma Campbell, Donna Young
Class of 2021: Barbara Edwards, Jean Heim, Sandee Pellerin
Trustees
Richard Lund, President John Gamble, Vice President
Ambrose Woods, Treasurer Sandy Asaro, Secretary
Class of 2018: Clarence Diersing, Member at Large
Class of 2019: Bob Hull, Member at Large
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 2230 Hariet Street Port Charlotte, FL 33952 (941) 625-5045 www.fpcpc.com
JANUARY 2020
About Holy Week
Happy New Year
