February 2020Issue 72Volume 2

First United Presbyterian Church1303 Royal Heights Road • Belleville, IL 62223

618.233.0295 • www.firstunitedpres.org

We are a Christian church that glorifies God through meaningful worship, active discipleship,

faithful service and nurturing fellowship.

Be Set Free crutches

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First United Presbyterian Church,Belleville, Illinois

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WORSHIPSCHEDULE

February 2 8:00 & 10:30 am

Super Communion Sunday

Luke 22:7-30; 1 Corinthians 11:17-34

February 9 8:00 & 10:30 am

Crutches of Technology

Proverbs 3:5-8

February 16 8:00 & 10:30 am Crutches of Lust

James 1:12-16

February 23 8:00 & 10:30 am

Crutches of Substances

1 Corinthians 6:9-14

February 26 Ash Wednesday

6:30 pm(FUPC Chapel)

Crutches

When I was in 8th grade, I broke one of my legs. Over the course of my recovery, I became quite adept at moving on

my crutches. I developed a sort of rhythm as I would cruise down the hallways between classes. In my head, it was “crutches-swing-hop-hop-crutches-swing-hop-hop.” If you can’t picture it, trust me… it was amazing. Then in 9th grade, I broke the other leg. All those skills of moving quickly on crutches paid off as I got even faster. They let me leave each class a little early at the high school, so I had wide open spaces to cruise quickly between classes. I figured out that I could actually move quicker with my crutches than when I was walking on my healthy legs. But you know what? I never once considered keeping the crutches once I was able to walk without them.

In our lives, we develop spiritual and emotional crutches. They usually form out of something that is broken within us. We use

these crutches to avoid pain, take shortcuts, and move a little faster through life’s obstacles. Not all crutches are good, though. Some become destructive or addictive. Technology. Lust. Substances. These are just three of the areas where we have developed crutches. Technology is giving our brains hits of dopamine that entice us to bury our lives into an obsessive relationship with our phones and computers. Lust is fueled by online porn that is just one Google search away from leading to an epidemic of porn addiction in our modern society that rivals any drug or drink. And then we turn to substances that we eat, drink, smoke, or take in by some other method. We go for a quick fix to feel better even after we realize just how temporary those substances can be.

In the last three weeks of February, we will look at our unhealthy crutches and decide if we are ready to lean on our faith when

walking through life hurts too much. Something is broken, but perhaps we need a better recovery plan. I hope you and your friends will join us for worship.

In Christ, Pastor Rob

Ash WednesdayWe will gather in the Chapel for Ash Wednesday on February 26 at 6:30 pm. This service will prepare us for the journey to Easter. We invite you to mark the season as holy and join us for worship. We will take the mark of ashes upon ourselves (on hands or foreheads… your choice) as a sign of our repentance and our preparation for what God might do next in our lives.

Ministering to God’s People

Family News Information current as of January 26

In Our Prayers

February 2USHERING 8:00 amConi JacksonKathy SchmidtUSHERING 10:30 amAdrian CroissantNathan DyerWill GagenGavin GuinnJohn GuinnMandy GuinnDennis HubbardGrace KearnsMarrisa KearnsSusy RybickiColin WiltsieLITURGISTDelaney GilesPHONEMary TeagueBUS DRIVERDanny HalelCOUNTERSBill BeebeKevin MederCOFFEE HOURLankford FamilySOUND OPERATORAl KrausVIDEO OPERATORRich StehnachCHILDCARE ATTENDANTSLaura Hall

February 9USHERING 8:00 amDan BainterLou Stark USHERING 10:30 amBrenda DollSharon GaskillMarian & Jim MorrisBetty ScherrerEric WhiteACOLYTESJames JensenOlivia KrausLITURGISTRachel LankfordPHONEJane WilkinBUS DRIVERMatt HallCOUNTERSBill BeebeKevin MederCOFFEE HOURDeaconsSOUND OPERATORDan HarresVIDEO OPERATORAlex TambalaCHILDCARE ATTENDANTSMeg Friedewald

February 16USHERING 8:00 amBillie & Steve ChaneyUSHERING 10:30 amCyndi & Ed LangenAmber LankfordRachel LankfordShawn Lankford Doris MintahLily MokriakowBruce ReederSharon & Larry ScottACOLYTERyley BreeceLITURGISTKristen LinkPHONEPam HalelBUS DRIVERKevin MederCOUNTERSAl KrausAndy LinkCOFFEE HOURPotlucks with a PurposeSOUND OPERATOR Mark VandiverVIDEO OPERATORRich StehnachCHILDCARE ATTENDANTSTerri Vandiver

February 23USHERING 8:00 amDan O’SabenTerri O’SabenUSHERING 10:30 amAmy AbernathyGrace FarinasDelaney GilesDan HarresGrace KearnsMarissa KearnsRon LanterMike MooreACOLYTEKayta GilesLITURGISTJoe Fedak PHONELinda Gurr BUS DRIVERRoger Cox COUNTERSAl KrausAndy LinkCOFFEE HOURNorma Mason & Susy RybickiSOUND OPERATORDave EppsVIDEO OPERATORAlex TambalaCHILDCARE ATTENDANTSDiane Winland

For the family of Norma Bojarski, who died on December 26. For the family of John H. Slagle, who died on January 12, in O’Fallon. For Jennifer, Scott, Camden, and Ryley Breece and family on the death of his mother, Kathy Breece, who died on January 16 in North Carolina. For Diana Umali on the

Our Deepest Sympathy

Sally & Jim BeairdNicole BreiningDoug BridgesBob CookIrene CoverdellMarguerite FrenchSue Hall Helen Handley-FabreJune Johnson

Lucile KattyAlbert Killmeier (Marti Gibson’s brother) & familyLaura MailanderEvelyn MeyerLane MillerRon ReineckerMarge Schanuel

Steve SchmidtLarry SchrammIsabelle Vogel Rev. Marney Wasserman

All world leadersAll missionaries Our enemiesOur eldersOur deaconsOur trustees Our Church staffOur Stephen Ministers

Presbyterian Community PreschoolOur efforts to grow spiritually Our efforts to express our faith clearlyOur efforts to discover & use our spiritual gifts

Our efforts to serve the communityOur efforts to care for one anotherOur efforts to reach new believersPeople who are depressed and anxious

death of her father, Reuel Umali, who died on January 18 in St. Louis. For Jim Nicholas and family on the death of his wife, Donna Nicholas, who died on January 18 in Florida.

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FUPC Women's CirclesThree women’s groups meet monthly with the purpose to nurture women’s faith through prayer and Bible study. All women are invited to attend any of the circles. More information can be obtained by contacting the leader. • Lydia Circle, 6:00 pm, February 13, Room 200, contact Shirley

Samples, 624-3340• Hannah Circle, 11:30 am, February 19, Eversull Hall, contact Carol Purviance, 250-5688• Lamplighters Circle, 1:00 pm, February 18, Conference Room (200), contact Amy Brummitt, 235-4226

Cursillo NewsFebruary 7-8: Cursillo Ultreya EventCursillistas, do you need some time to refresh and renew your relationship with God that blossomed at your Cursillo Weekend? A 4th Day, 18-Hour Retreat will be held at St. George’s Episcopal Church in Belleville from 7:00 pm on Friday, February 7, until 1:00 pm on Saturday, February 8. This event will be filled with fun, fellowship, singing, sharing, learning and worship. Out-of-towners will be provided lodging at the homes of local Cursillistas. A conference fee of $20 covers two meals, supplies and scholarships. To register, please contact Erin McCrary, mccrary.erin@gmail.com or 322-9144. June 18-21: Cursillo 2020Please mark your calendars for this event on June 18-21 at Todd Hall. More information to come!

February 23: The Gathering 2020Each year the Center for Racial Harmony celebrates the amazing acts of compassion, kindness and courage by

the youth in our community. First United Presbyterian Church has opened its doors and its heart to provide a perfect venue for this event. Last year we celebrated 49 youth who demonstrated, in unique and special ways, how to make a difference. Please join with us for the 2020 Gathering on Sunday, February 23, at 3:00 pm to recognize the advantages of church/school partnerships and all the mutual benefits and opportunities such relationships provide. ~ Robert Wells: Member, First United Presbyterian Church and Ambassador, Racial Harmony

March 14: Worship SummitAll members of the congregation are invited to a worship summit on Saturday, March 14, from 9:00 – 11:00 am. The Worship Committee needs input from all different kinds of worshipers, whether you love the ideas or you love the relationships that worship brings. This is part of our Vision 2020 Goal in which we seek to attune worship to the needs of all present. Let’s have a lively discussion and consider the possibilities!

FAMILY FUN NIGHT (Sponsored by Children's Ministry)

• An Evening of PLAY for adults & children!• For families with children from birth – grade 5 • Active games• Table games• Snacks

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• More relaxed than Sunday mornings• Less hectic than Wednesday evening

drop-offs and pick-ups• Invite other families for a night of fun!

February 21, 6:30 – 8:30 pm

Adult Discipleship

FUPC 101 New Member Classes(Sundays, 9:15 am, Vista Room, 206)• February 9: FUPC 101 – What We Believe A great class for new people looking to learn more about our church or for long-time members looking for a refresher! This is the first in a three-week series. This week we will chat about what we believe about God, church, faith, etc. Explore what Presbyterian Christians believe and the basic faith teachings of our church.• February 16: FUPC 101 – Our Church’s Mission Another great class for new people exploring or long-time members getting better connected. This is the second in a three-week series. This week we will explain the goals and mission of our church as we seek to glorify God through our church’s worship and activities.• February 23: FUPC 101 – How to Get Connected New to the church or just looking to get better connected with the church? This week we will give you an overview of all the wonderful ministries of our church and then show you how we help each other get connected to activities, ministries and meaningful experiences within our church.

Adulting (Sundays, 9:15 am, Library)• February 2 & 16: Grab a cup of coffee and join other

adults in the Library for conversation about everyday life and faith (2/2) and a discussion of faith questions (2/16). • February 9: Yoga with Tina Steibel of Yoga without Walls. Bring a yoga mat if you have one. Tina will have a few extras. Wear comfy clothes that will allow full range of motion and meet in the Library .• February 23: Pastor Rob Dyer will lead a discussion based on his February sermon series: Crutches. “Not all crutches are good…Some become destructive or addictive. Technology. Lust. Substances. These are just three of the areas where we have developed crutches.”

Chair Yoga(3rd Sunday, 9:15 am, Eversull Hall) February 16: Tina Steibel of Yoga without Walls will lead a time of chair yoga and meditation. Wear clothes that will allow full range of motion.

Thoughtful Christian Gathering (Sundays, 9:15 am, Conference Room, 200)• February 2: Books Between the Testaments Have you ever noticed that some Bibles have the words "with Apocrypha" written on their spines? In the Revised Standard Version of the Holy Bible, these words refer to nineteen books or parts of books placed after Malachi and before the Gospel of Matthew. Participants will learn how these books come to be placed in the middle of the Bible. (Dan Harres)• February 9, 16, 23: Exodus In week one, participants will consider the events of Moses’ birth, the importance of names, and God’s actions during the exodus event leading to the liberation of the Hebrew people. In the second session, participants will review the establishment of the covenant between God and Israel at Mount Sinai and reflect on how we experience the covenant today. And in week three, participants will explore what is learned about God when people break the covenant and consider where “golden calves” are worshiped today. (Dan Harres & Sheila Misselhorn)

Per Capita is a fundamental way in which all of the nearly 10,000 congregations and mid councils of our Presbyterian Church (USA) denomination connect, participate and share in the work of the wider church.

Per Capita is the primary source of funding for the Office of the General Assembly and is how Presbyterians mutually and equitably share the costs of coming together to discern the Spirit’s leading for the future.

Per Capita provides the Office of the General Assembly with the means to strengthen the connections of our work and build lasting relationships to help all Presbyterians share God’s love through mission and ministry. When churches are overwhelmed by a tragedy or simply seeking guidance for their next steps, the presbytery, synod, and Office of the General Assembly offer support, services, and more to equip churches at the local level.

What is Per Capita?All Presbyterians are called to take part in the ecclesiastical and administrative work shared by the whole church though Per Capita giving. We are a fortunate church blessed in many ways. This is a way that we share our blessings with others in our denomination to keep our common mission moving forward with encouragement and collective wisdom.

The 2020 Per Capita apportionment is $32. First United gives an offering of $32 for each member. For many years, the church has had a tradition of each member giving a separate offering designated towards “Per Capita” to cover this. You can either give in this way or simply add $32 per member in your household to your regular offering to help us support the greater mission of the Church and the support of our denominational churches worldwide.

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Adult FellowshipSand DollarsFebruary 7: The Sand Dollars will meet in Eversull Hall on Friday, February 7, at 6:30 pm for dinner and a meeting. If you are a family (children included), couple, or single adult and would like to share a meal in a very relaxed atmosphere with Christian fellowship, please come and join us. Anyone interested, please contact our Skippers, Brenda and Joe Fedak, 233-1213, or Jan and Dennis Nevois, 277-4383. At our January meeting, we installed officers for 2020: Skippers – Jan and Dennis Nevois and Brenda and Joe Fedak; Pursers – Nancy and Bob Lonsdale; Log Keepers – Jeff and Kay Schanuel.Fish Fry Fridays During Lent, please join us at one of the different fish fry venues each week beginning February 28. For information, call either number listed above.

January and February: Helmsmen Due to recurring weather issues, the Helmsmen voted to suspend meetings for January and February. Our next meeting will be on March 21. However, we will continue to have weekly Friday night dinners at various local restaurants and welcome anyone who would like to join us. For the Friday dinners, contact Frank Carter, 628-1893.

February: Merry MatesMerry Mates will not meet in February. The next meeting will be Friday, March 13, in Eversull Hall. For more information, contact Carol Purviance, 250-5688.

February 17: Family Stories’ Life GroupHumans are wired for sociability, attachment, affection and companionship. That is the way God made us. We crave connection. But no screen, Facebook post, tweet or Instagram image

can provide what the live, face-to-face story sharing experience can. Meet with others at The Abbey on Monday, February 17, (Presidents' Day) at 9:00 am for a chance to share your stories and listen to those of others. Location: The Abbey, 5801 W. Main St. Belleville, Illinois.

February 25: Faith in FictionWe will discuss The Warmth of Other Suns: The Epic Story of America's Great Migration by Isabel Wilkerson. This is the story of the migration of southern blacks to the urban areas of the north and west in hopes of finding a better life for themselves and their families. We will meet Tuesday, February 25, at 9:00 am in The Commons. If you have any questions, call Susy Rybicki, 792-9458.

Potlucks with a Purpose Happy New Year! Welcome to another opportunity to enjoy fine fellowship, eat delicious food, and assist worthy causes. The Potlucks with a Purpose life group for women meets once a quarter, starting

in January, on the 4th Tuesday of the month. At the meeting on January 28, we enjoyed our meal and heard from Kimberly Richey, the featured speaker, about Marion Medical Mission.

Our meeting on October 22 featured Ms. Claire Byrne, from the Hawthorn Leadership School for Girls, in St. Louis. Her presentation was both informative and quite enjoyable. The group donated 316 “dining out” dollars ($316) to this school, which endeavors to enhance and encourage the academic and personal lives of young women coming from St. Louis City Schools.

Potlucks’ next activity will be hosting Coffee Hour, with a Valentine’s Day theme, on Sunday, February 16. Please notify Sheila Misselhorn, 791-5156 or misselhorn417@gmail.com), if you can help set up, clean up, or provide treats for the table. Our next meeting will be held on April 28 at 6:30 pm in Eversull Hall. We welcome new members, so please join us. Just bring a dish (homemade or store-bought) to share and whatever amount you wish to donate. We look forward to having you there.

QuiltersThe FUPC Quilters had a busy close to 2019.•  This  group  has partnered with the KIF1A organization to provide quilts for children with the rare genetic disorder of KIF1A. The first quilt was delivered to the group’s local coordinator, to be mailed to a KIF1A parent in Louisiana in time for Christmas.•  At Christmas, donated $350 to Hines Uganda Ministries.•  Donated  eighteen  quilts  to  the  Belleville  Violence  Prevention Center.•  Enjoyed our  annual  Christmas  gathering  at  the  home of  Billie Chaney, and a good time was had by all!

Inclement WeatherIn case of snow and/or ice storms, you can check for cancellation of services and/or scheduled activities by going to Channel 5 or KSDK.com, Channel 4 or KMOV.com, First United’s website (www.firstunitedpres.org), or FUPC’s Facebook page or group. If you are signed up to receive the eWeekly each week, you will receive an email. Not signed up? Send a request to lorlet@firstunitedpres.org.

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Ways to Serve and Give

One Great Hour of SharingLent is traditionally a season of fasting and prayer. During this time Christians pay close attention to spiritual disciplines, a deeper understanding of what God is doing in our lives and in the world. During the coming weeks, let us come together to open our doors as well as our hearts to share the love of Christ through our ministries of justice, compassion and joy. One Great Hour of Sharing helps those who are vulnerable in our world today: those who are hungry, who are suffering from disaster or who are dealing with oppression and injustice in society.

On the Sundays leading up to Palm Sunday, you will have the opportunity to give generously to three ministries of PC(USA): Presbyterian Disaster Assistance, Presbyterian Hunger Program and Self-Development of People. The Worship Committee is grateful for your enthusiastic support of these missions. Look for pew envelopes in March!

Hospitality MinistryThank you to all the Coffee Hour hosts in January. This ministry is a valuable time spent with our church family and friends. It is especially nice to see children interact with adults and to watch friendships bloom and grow. We have cut down on the amount of coffee we make each Sunday resulting in less waste. The coffee grounds are available for anyone’s compost pile and left-over coffee makes good iced coffee during the week for anyone interested.

As you continue to sign up to host coffee hour for the remainder of the year, the Hospitality Ministry would like to suggest that you refrain from submitting purchase orders whenever possible. We truly appreciate all contributions to our Sunday morning gatherings.

February 22: Project Compassion DayJoin us for the next Project Compassion Day on Saturday, February 22, at 8:00 am in the FUPC parking lot. On the fourth Saturday of the month, Project Compassion packs and delivers items for the homeless on both sides of the river. The collection of items is ongoing. Needed are single serving items of food: granola bars, water, noodles, snack crackers, and dried fruit; personal hygiene items needed: adult and children’s socks, wash cloths, toothpaste, toothbrushes, mouth wash, deodorant, and soap. All items can be left in the marked bags outside the Sanctuary. Contact Dennis Hubbard, 920-6594. Thank you.

ONE GREAT HOUR OF SHARINGSPECIAL OFFERINGSHUNGER • DISASTER • DEVELOPMENT

Text SHARING to 56512 to learn more about how your gift to One Great Hour of Sharing makes a difference, or visit www.pcusa.org/oghs.

You shall be called repairers of the breach — Isaiah 58

Providing relief from natural disasters, food for the hungry, and support for the poor and oppressed. 

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February 27: NAMI Family Support GroupThe National Alliance on Mental Illness S o u t h w e s t e r n Illinois is pleased to announce a support meeting for family members and other caregivers of individuals with mental illness on the 4th Thursday of every month from 7:00 – 8:30 pm at Faith Lutheran Church, 520 E. US Hwy 50, O’Fallon. Contact Julie Swogger, 301-919-7307.

NAMI Family Support Meetings are led by family members of people with mental illness, are free to participants, and are confidential. You will benefit from the experiences of others, discover your inner strength and empower yourself by sharing your own experiences in a non-judgmental space.

Sunday Mornings for Children & Youth (9:15 am)• Infants & Toddlers Childcare is available all morning at First United. • Ages 3 – PreK: Preschool Sunday School ClassFor children who have turned 3 through pre-kindergarten, they hear Bible stories and participate in a wide range of activities such as storytelling, music, crafts, and movement. • Grades K-5: FaithQuest FaithQuest is the Sunday morning program for children in grades K-5. Bible stories and concepts are taught using activities that actively engage all the senses. Students hear the same Bible lesson as they "rotate" through different learning areas to experience the story through several different ways. During February, rotations will be Miracles of Jesus and Bible Discovery. • Grades 6-8: KIX (Kids in Christ) Sunday SchoolStudents delve more deeply into the meaning of the Bible, expanding their knowledge. They also share fellowship, discussing their everyday joys and challenges with each other.• Grades 9-12: TIM (Teens in Ministry) Sunday SchoolStudents participate in discussions and Bible study each week, using a variety of curricula, all designed to help them continue growing in their knowledge of God's work.

Sunday Mornings for Children during 10:30 WorshipChildren's Chapel, for ages 3 through 3rd gradeDuring the 10:30 worship service, all children ages 3 and up attend the first part of the worship service with their families. After the pastor shares time with the children, students ages 3 through 3rd grade are invited to leave with Worship Leaders and Greeters to attend their own carefully designed, age-appropriate worship time in Children's Chapel. Parents are always welcome to keep their children with them in worship. During February, the children will hear the stories of Follow Me, A New Teaching, Jesus Calls the Twelve, plus Jesus and the Paralytic.

Families of Kindergarteners A 3-week Bible Discovery Class will be held for kindergartners and their parents or grandparents during the Sunday School hour on the Sundays of February 23, March 1 and 8, with the Bible presentation on March 8 during the 10:30 worship service.

Wednesday Evenings for Children at FUPC (5:30-7:30 pm)Typical evenings include games, dinner, Bible study with response activities, and worship. For more information on these groups, contact Stephanie Foltz, Director of Christian Education.

• Infants through 3 years: GLC (God’s Loving Care) • Age 4–2nd grade: GFF (God’s Faithful Friends) • Grades 3-5: PYC (Presbyterian Youth Club)

Homework Club (7:30-8:00) is provided for those children with older siblings in KIX/TIM or whose parents are in choir practice.

Wednesday Evenings for Youth at FUPC (6:00-8:00 pm)Typical evenings include dinner, worship and discussion plus games and homework. For more information on these programs, contact, Kaitie Kautz, Director of Youth Ministries.

• Grades 6-8: KIX (Kids in Christ) • Grades 9-12: TIM (Teens in Ministry)

Children & Youth Life The typical schedule for KIX and TIM is (5:30-6:00 pm) Homework and Games,* (6:00-6:30 pm) Dinner; (6:30-7:30 pm) Worship/Discussion; (7:30-8:00 pm) Homework and Games* (*Arrive early or stay late for games, fellowship or doing homework.)

Youth Bus Transportation Bus transportation to the church is available on Wednesdays for PYC, KIX, and TIM students. If you need a ride, contact Kaitie Kautz, kkautz@firstunitedpres.org or 233-0295 or, no later than 2:00 pm on a Wednesday.

Wednesday, February 12: Summer Trip Payment DueYour next Great Escape and Mission Trip payment of $100 is due. Haven’t signed up for these amazing weeks yet? No problem, you can still sign up! Scholarships are available; talk to Kaitie Kautz for more information.

Monday, February 17: KIX - STL GetawayThe KIX (grades 6-8) STL Getaway is on Monday, February 17. We will meet at the church at 12:30 pm for an afternoon of service and fellowship. There is no cost, so invite your friends!

Menu for February

Canned Tuna (water packed)

Macaroni and Cheese

Canned Green Vegetable (low or no salt)

Canned Fruit (lite or in fruit juice)

Powdered Milk

Additional Items:Baby Care Month

Diapers

Diaper Wipes

Formula (with iron)

GIVE-A-MEAL-A-MONTH

Monetary donations always welcome.Coordinated by FUPC Mission Committee

Worship Pledges & Contributions Attendance* as of December 31, 2019Week 1 65 - 237 - ** Estimates of Giving $125,746.07 Week 2 46 - 263- ** Loose Offerings 1,387.42 Week 3 41 - 223 - ** Per Capita 107.00Week 4 37 - 288 - ** Schnucks eScrip Cards 8.25Dec 24 254 - 180 Capital Campaign Funds 3,854.87Week 5 31 - 211 - ** Additional Information: Online Giving*** 8,538.00*8:00-10:30-Wednesday** No Worship* ** The Online Giving amount is not a separate income; it is incorporated in the other income categories.

If you have questions, please contact the Budget Committee Chair, Elder Lorenzo Clayton, 541-0101.

December 2019

Ordination and Installation Sunday - January 5

Welcome, Charese!

Class of 2020 Nominating Committee At-Large Members

Linda Gurr, Marian Morris, Jim Nicholas, Emily Wilson

Ushers, Class of 2020

Adrian Croissant, Nathan Dyer, Gavin Guinn, John Guinn, Mandy Guinn, Dan Harres,

Ron Lanter, Betty Scherrer

Ushers, Class of 2021

Amy Abernathy, Dan Bainter, Sharon Gaskill, Bob Gibson, Marti Gibson, Cyndi Langen,

Ed Langen, Amber Lankford, Shawn Lankford, Kathy Schmidt

Ushers, Class of 2022

Brenda Doll, Grace Farinas, Dennis Hubbard, Marian Morris, Jim Morris, Bruce Reeder,

Susy Rybicki, Sharon Scott, Larry Scott, Lou Stark

Ushers, Class of 2023

Will Gagen, Coni Jackson, Grace Kearns, Marissa Kearns, Doris Mintah, Mike Moore, Dan O’Saben, Terri O’Saben,

Jim Rosborg, Eric White

2020 Usher Coordinator

Marian MorrisDan WagnerSusy RybickiJim MorrisRon Lanter

2022 Deacons

Jan Dorris John Rushing

2022 Elders

Martha TambalaHospitalisy

Ken StangeEvangelism

Jo Ann Rushing

Kevin MederYouth Ministry

Sue Perez

Roger CoxPersonnel

2022 Deacons 2021 Trustees

Mike GilesBetty Scherrer Chuck Thurig Nancy Kreeb

2022 Trustees

P H O T O B Y S T E P H A N I E F O LT Z

The Personnel and CE Committees would like to welcome Charese Jennings to the childcare staff. She joins Egin Willis on Wednesday evenings, caring for and sharing God’s love with the children in GLC (God’s Loving Care, infant-3 years). She has experience in childcare from working at the local YMCA. She is a graduate of Belleville East where one of her teachers was Sheila Misselhorn. Please introduce yourself to Charese if you are in the building on Wednesday evenings.

Early Registration for 2020-2021 School YearThe Presbyterian Community Preschool, which meets on the lower level of First United, is offering early registration for $35 until March 3. After March 3, the registration fee increases to $45. Families can call the Preschool, 233-4809, to learn more or to schedule a Meet and Greet. Offered for next year are a MWF class for 3s, a TTh class for 3s, and a TTh class for 4s. Please share this information with any family or friends who might be interested in enrolling their children. Additional details can be found here www.firstunitedpres.org/youth/community-preschool Volunteer and Donate: Preschool Spaghetti Dinner The Preschool Board is seeking volunteers and donations for the annual Spaghetti Dinner and Silent Auction sponsored by the Preschool. The fundraiser will be Friday, March 20, from 6:00-8:00 pm in the Gym. Items are needed for the silent auction. Youth and adults are needed to help in many areas; check out the Sign Up Genius page for details. https://tinyurl.com/rltqybr Look for ticket information in the March Steeple. For information on volunteering or donating, contact Caryn Meder, 558-4641, or Christy Howenstein, 670-7961. Check us out!We have a Facebook page! Please visit our “Presbyterian Community Preschool” page and like us. Visit often to learn what is happening in the classrooms.

Presbyterian Community Preschool Corner

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 1

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 2Souper Bowl of Caring 8:00 am Worship 9:15 am Confirmation Class9:15 am Sunday School 10:30 am Worship

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 39:00 am Needs Among Us Meeting6:00 pm Metro East Chorale7:00 pm Church Volleyball

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 49:30 am Quilters 9:30 am Staff Meeting6:00 pm Woodcarvers

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 58:30 am Men’s Bible Study5:30 pm Children’s Programs5:30 pm Youth Homework and Games6:00 pm Children and Youth Supper7:00 pm Chancel Choir

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 69:00 am Presbytery Meeting (St. Mark's, Ballwin, Missouri)10:00 am Equipping Team10:00 am Prayer Quilters10:30 am Parish Nurse Available6:00 pm Illinois Heat Volleyball

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 76:00 pm Illinois Heat Volleyball6:30 pm Sand Dollars

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 8

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 98:00 am Worship9:15 am FUPC 101 Class9:15 am Sunday School 10:30 am Worship12:00 pm - 3:00 pm Leadership Summit

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 105:00 pm Youth Ministries6:00 pm Metro East Chorale6:00 pm Woodcarvers7:00 pm Church Volleyball7:00 pm Trustees

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 119:30 am Quilters9:30 am Staff Meeting6:30 pm Session

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 128:30 am Men’s Bible Study2:00 pm Personnel Committee5:30 pm Children’s Programs5:30 pm Youth Homework and Games6:00 pm Children and Youth Supper7:00 pm Chancel Choir 7:00 pm Deacons

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 137:30 am Veterans’ Group Breakfast (Belleville Denny’s)10:00 am Prayer Quilters10:30 am Parish Nurse Available6:00 pm Evangelism6:00 pm Illinois Heat Volleyball6:00 pm Lydia Circle

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 146:00 pm Illinois Heat Volleyball7:00 pm MaryMarthas (Offsite)

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 157:30 am Veterans’ Group Breakfast (O’Fallon Denny’s

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 168:00 am Worship9:15 am FUPC 101 Class9:15 am Sunday School10:30 am Worship

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 17Church Closed for President's Day Steeple Deadline 9:00 am Family Stories' Life Group (Off-site)12:30 pm KIX - STL Getaway6:00 pm Metro East Chorale6:00 pm Woodcarvers7:00 pm Church Volleyball

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 189:30 am Quilters9:30 am Staff Meeting1:00 pm Lamplighters5:30 pm Budget/Finance Committee5:45 pm Christian Education Committee

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 198:30 am Men’s Bible Study11:30 am Hannah Circle 4:00 pm Member Connections5:00 pm Worship Committee5:30 pm Children’s Programs5:30 pm Youth Homework and Games6:00 pm Children and Youth Supper7:00 pm Chancel Choir

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2010:00 am Prayer Quilters10:30 am Parish Nurse Available6:00 pm Illinois Heat Volleyball

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 216:30 pm Family Fun Night

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 228:00 am Project Compassion Day (Deliver Items to Homeless)

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 238:00 am Worship9:15 am FUPC 101 Class9:15 am Sunday School10:30 am Worship 3:00 pm The Gathering 2020 (Racial Harmony Awards Event)

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 246:00 pm Metro East Chorale6:00 pm Woodcarvers7:00 pm Church Volleyball

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 259:00 am Faith in Fiction9:30 am Quilters9:30 am Staff Meeting

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 268:30 am Men’s Bible Study9:00 am Prayer Shawl Ministry5:30 pm Children’s Programs5:30 pm Youth Homework and Games6:00 pm Children and Youth Supper6:00 pm Mission Committee6:30 pm Ash Wednesday Worship Service at FUPC

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 279:00 am Steeple Volunteers10:00 am Prayer Quilters10:30 am Parish Nurse Available6:00 pm Illinois Heat Volleyball

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 286:00 pm Illinois Heat Volleyball

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 29

Calendar of Events February 2020

S AV E T H E D AT E

March 14TIM Lock-in

(Teens In MinistryGrades 9-12)

March 20Spaghetti Dinner & Silent Auction

(Sponsored by Preschool)

March 25Rotary Club

Chili Day

April 6Preschool DQ

Fundraiser

April 9Maundy Thursday

April 10Good Friday

April 5Palm Sunday

March 28PYC Mystery Day

Legacy Let First United Be Your Valentine and remember the church in your estate plans.

Year-End Giving Statements If you have not yet received your Year-End Giving Statement, let the Church Office know. Please feel free to call the Financial Secretary, Cara, between 12:30-4:30 pm, if you have questions or concerns about your statement.

Per CapitaThe Per Capita apportionment for 2020 is $32.

THE STEEPLE1303 Royal Heights RoadBelleville, IL 62223

Publication Postage

USPS 442-180Belleville, IL

PAID

F I R S T U N I T E DP R E S B Y T E R I A N

Senior Pastor / Head of Staff rdyer@firstunitedpres.orgThe Rev. Robert J. Dyer

Associate Pastor alysdahl@firstunitedpres.org

The Rev. Alexandra K. Lysdahl

Director of Christian Education sfoltz@firstunitedpres.org

Stephanie Foltz

Director of Youth Ministries Director of Equipping Ministries

kkautz@firstunitedpres.orgKaitie Kautz

Director of Music ajensen@firstunitedpres.org

Andy Jensen

Pianist/AccompanistDiana Umali

Worship Music LeaderMat Conway

Office Staff (8:00 am - 2:00 pm) lorlet@firstunitedpres.org

LuAnn Orlet

Financial Secretary (12:30 pm - 4:30 pm) cbarrett@firstunitedpres.org

Cara Barrett

Art Director jhalton@firstunitedpres.org

Jody Halton

Director of Audio/Video Ministries videoministry@firstunitedpres.org

Loren Elliott

Childcare ProvidersCharese Jennings, Kyla Riley, Egin Willis

Parish Nurseajlied1@aol.comJoyce Lied, RN

The Steeple Articles and Suggestions

TheSteeple@firstunitedpres.org

OUR STAFF

ASH WEDNESDAY SERVICE

February 26 6:30 pm

First United Presbyterian Church Chapel

FUPC 101 NEW MEMBER CLASSES

Sundays, February 9, 16, & 23 9:15 am