December 2019Issue 71

Volume 12

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.

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First United Presbyterian Church,Belleville, Illinois

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WORSHIPSCHEDULE

December 1 8:00 & 10:30 am

God Among Us: Mind Matthew 24:36-44

December 8 8:00 & 10:30 am

God Among Us: Feet Matthew 3:1-12

December 15 8:00 & 10:30 am

God Among Us: Heart Mathew 11:2-11

December 22 8:00 & 10:30 am

(Choir Cantata, 10:30 am) God Among us: Hands

Matthew 1:18-25

December 24 Christmas Eve

4:00 & 7:00 pm

December 29 8:00 & 10:30 am Keeping the Light Mathew 2:13-21

God Among UsChristmas is coming!

Does that strike fear or joy? A little of both?

Getting ready for Christmas evokes a host of emotions and memories. The good news is that we are celebrating that

Jesus came. God came among us in Jesus to save us. And since that time, we have been part of the Body of Christ so that as we live faithfully, we might be signs to one another of God among us. When you serve with your mind, heart, hands or feet, you participate in a blessing. You become a part of the light that God intends to shine in this world.

Once again, we will fill our December church days with celebrations, service, worship, songs, care, and community.

Signs of God’s light will be shining all around us. We will walk through this month knowing the reason for this season in our hearts. And that reason has the power to brighten our days and the days of those around us.

During times when the memories, emotions, or tasks seem too much, look for God’s light around you. When you feel a bit

of that Christmas joy, celebrate that God’s light is shining among and through you. God is among us in so many ways. Let’s make Christmas a time when we see that with clarity and purpose.

In Christ, Pastor Rob

2019 Advent Devotional Straw for the Manger: Creating a Matthew 25 Advent SeasonDuring this holy season of Advent, you are invited to follow Jesus’ command to love one another and care for “the least of these” as found in Matthew 25:31-46. This year’s devotional is very special. The Rev. Sherry Blackman, a Presbyterian pastor, chaplain and award-winning writer and poet, challenges us to fill our days of Advent with simple, practical and loving deeds that help our neighbors – calling each act of kindness a piece of “straw” for the manager to make a soft bed for the Christ child when he arrives on Christmas. You will be encouraged to invite your family, church friends, and those in your community to join you in adding straw this Advent season, so that together you prepare for Christ’s birth. An added bonus to this year’s devotional is the space provided each Sunday of Advent to jot down your reflections and prayers. A limited number of these devotionals are available on the table outside the Chapel and in the Commons.

Ministering to God’s People

Family News Information current as of November 25

In Our Prayers

December 1USHERING 8:00 amConi JacksonKathy SchmidtUSHERING 10:30 amAdrian CroissantNathan DyerWill GagenDennis HubbardGrace KearnsMarrisa KearnsSusy RybickiColin WiltsieLITURGISTJim NicholasAMBASSADORSBrenda & Roger DollPHONEMary TeagueBUS DRIVERDanny HalelCOUNTERSJoe HarnistDennis HubbardCOFFEE HOURHospitality MinistrySOUND OPERATORAl KrausVIDEO OPERATORAlex TambalaCHILDCARE ATTENDANTSGigi CoxKaren & Pete Thompson

December 8USHERING 8:00 amDan BainterLou Stark USHERING 10:30 amBrenda DollSharon GaskillGavin GuinnMandy & John GuinnMarian & Jim MorrisBetty ScherrerACOLYTESJames JensenOlivia KrausLITURGISTMelissa EppsAMBASSADORDaphne SumnerPHONEJane WilkinBUS DRIVERMatt HallCOUNTERSJoe HarnistDennis HubbardCOFFEE HOURMerry MatesSOUND OPERATORDan HarresVIDEO OPERATORRich StehnachCHILDCARE ATTENDANTSLaura HallSeon Choo Kim

December 15USHERING 8:00 amDonna BockBillie & Steve ChaneyUSHERING 10:30 amCyndi & Ed LangenAmber LankfordRachel LankfordShawn Lankford Lily MokriakowBruce ReederSharon & Larry ScottACOLYTERyley BreeceLITURGISTChuck ThurigAMBASSADORRosemary EhrsteinPHONEPam HalelBUS DRIVERKevin MederCOUNTERSAl KrausAndy LinkCOFFEE HOURMerry MatesSOUND OPERATOR Mark VandiverVIDEO OPERATORAlex TambalaCHILDCARE ATTENDANTSAmy AbernathyMeg Friedewald

December 22USHERING 8:00 amDan O’SabenTerri O’SabenUSHERING 10:30 amAmy AbernathyGrace FarinasDelaney GilesDan HarresACOLYTEKayta GilesLITURGISTJoe FedakAMBASSADORSharon GaskillPHONELinda Gurr BUS DRIVERRoger Cox COUNTERSAl KrausAndy LinkCOFFEE HOURNorma MasonDiane RichardsonSOUND OPERATORDave EppsVIDEO OPERATORRich StehnachCHILDCARE ATTENDANTSKeely & Mike GilesTerri Vandiver

December 24USHERING 4:00 pmTBDUSHERING 7:00 pmTBDLITURGISTLorenzo ClaytonCOUNTERS 4:00 pmAl KrausAndy LinkCOUNTERS 7:00 pmBill BeebeKevin MederSOUND OPERATOR4:00 pm Al Kraus7:00 pm Mark VandiverVIDEO OPERATOR4:00 pm Alex Tambala7:00 pm Rich Stehnach

December 29USHERING 8:00 amConi JacksonKathy SchmidtUSHERING 10:30 amAdrian CroissantNathan DyerWill GagenDennis HubbardGrace KearnsMarrisa KearnsSusy RybickiColin WiltsieACOLYTE Volunteers Needed LITURGISTLinda KempferAMBASSADORRosemary EhrsteinPHONEMary TeagueBUS DRIVERDennis HubbardCOUNTERSAl KrausAndy LinkCOFFEE HOURCoffee Cake SundaySOUND OPERATORDan HarresVIDEO OPERATORAlex TambalaCHILDCARE ATTENDANTSDiane Winland

For Rosemary and Fred Ehrstein and family on the death of Fred’s brother, Thomas Ehrstein, who died on October 28. For Allen Schmidt and Kathy Schmidt and family on the death of Allen’s mother, Wanda Lee Schmidt, who

Our Deepest Sympathy

Sally & Jim BeairdNicole BreiningDoug BridgesIrene CoverdellMarguerite FrenchHelen Handley-FabreSue HallJune JohnsonLucile Katty

Albert Killmeier (Marti Gibson’s brother) & familyHenri & Ted LawrenceLaura MailanderEvelyn MeyerLane MillerNancy & Ron ReineckerDon Rhodes

Marge SchanuelSteve SchmidtMarilyn SnowdenIsabelle 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

died on October 31 in Highland, Illinois. For Betty Scherrer on the death of her niece, Nancy Moneyhun, who died on November 14 in Indiana.

FUPC CirclesThree women’s groups meet monthly with the purpose to nurture women’s faith through prayer and Bible study. • Lydia Circle, 6:00 pm, Thursday, December 12, Room 200, contact Susy Rybicki, 792-9458

• Lamplighters Circle, 11:30 am, Tuesday, December 17, St. Clair Country Club in Belleville, contact Amy Brummitt, 235-4226• Hannah Circle, 11:30 am, Wednesday, December 18, Bella Milano in O’Fallon, contact Carol Purviance, 416-4842

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What Have The Trustees Been Doing?With the help of many volunteers, we had two very successful “work days” on October 12 and 19. Projects completed:•  Repaired blackboard legs in Vista Room•  Replaced light bulbs in office area•  Rehung fire extinguisher in Gym•  Removed  brackets  on  window  from  old  blinds  in  FirstXpression.•  Hung elevator note•  Fixed radiator cover in Vista room  •  Reworked  the  custodian  room  to  be more  useful  to church members•  Removed broken closet door from Kaitie’s office•  Removed  two  back  pews  in  Sanctuary  for  handicap access (added chairs)•  Removed  two  back  pews  in  Chapel  for  handicap access (added chairs)

The trustees send a big shout out of thanks to the following people: Dan Bainter, Joe Fedak, Pam & Danny Halel, Ellen Hall, Rick and Pat Hargrove, Dennis Hubbard, Marian & Jim Morris, Jim Nicholas, Mark Nicholson, Bruce Reeder, the Stephens family (Anne, Kevin, Jack & Luke), and Charlie Swartwout.

With a little luck the flat roof repair should be underway by the time you receive this Steeple.

Maintaining your church is similar to maintaining your own home, except it is much larger with more opportunities for repair. This can only be accomplished with the help of members of the congregation. Your skills are needed to accomplish these tasks and are always

appreciated. Some projects are just too large or require skills we do not have, and then we must hire someone to do them for us.

We thank you for your willingness to help, either physically or financially. ~ On behalf of the Trustees, Dick Palmer, President

From the DeaconsLast month the Deacons provided "Homeless Handbags" to  the  church  office.  Forty-seven  packages  were made that contain cereal bars, water bottles, socks, and hygiene items; these will be kept in the church and given out to those in immediate need. The Deacons continued to care for our congregation last month by making 39 calls, providing 59 visits, and sending 111 cards. As a broader view of our work, we are not only tracking how many contacts we make monthly (combining calls, visits, and cards), but also keeping track of this information on an annual basis. Projected congregational contacts by the end of 2019 will exceed 2000. ~ Thank you, David Misselhorn, Deacons’ Moderator

10th Annual Christmas DinnerFirst United will have a Christmas dinner in Eversull Hall on Christmas Day. This is for people who will not have family with whom to celebrate. Please feel free to invite non-members as they are also welcome. Organizers donate turkey, ham, potatoes, stuffing, and all the fixings. You do not have to bring anything; just plan on good fellowship! The meal will be served at 2:00 pm, but come at 1:00 pm for appetizers and Jackie’s peppermint punch. The organizers hope to find someone to take their place. However, if no one steps forward, this will be the last year.

Adult Discipleship

Presbytery Recognizes First United

Adult Discipleship Schedule in DecemberDecember 1, 8, 15, & 22: Regular classes at 9:15 amDecember 29: No classes

Thoughtful Christian Gathering (Sundays, 9:15 am, Conference Room, 200)Advent Study: Finding Our Place at the MangerWe see the nativity scene throughout the Advent season on greeting cards, under Christmas trees, or brightly illuminated on the lawns of public places. This scene depicts a romanticized version of Jesus’ birth narratives found in Matthew and Luke, complete with wise men who traveled long distances to join the shepherds and holy family. Yet these paintings or figurines can lead to a glossed-over experience of the individual characters and their importance in our lives.

The purpose of this study is to look beyond the presentation of the nativity scene so that participants can find their place at the manger. Each session will examine what we know about those who were there to witness the birth of Jesus: Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, and the wise men. Throughout each session, participants will not only look at these characters in Scripture but also how they speak to us in our modern context so that we may find where we fit in as we await the joy of Jesus’ birth.• December 1: Participants will discuss the gifts and call of Mary

At the recent Presbytery Gathering on November 9, our FUPC congregation received certificates recognizing two significant contributions:

The Four4Four Certificate celebrates five consecutive years of faithful stewardship by our congregation as we join with other PCUSA congregations supporting all four denominational special offerings: Peace & Global Witness, Pentecost, One Great Hour of Sharing, and Christmas Joy.

and how their own gifts call them to prophetic action. (Danny Halel)• December 8: Participants will reflect on Joseph’s willingness to obey God’s voice and his commitment to showing forbearance. (Danny Halel)• December 15: Exploring the role of the shepherds in the nativity story, participants will discuss how God is found in everyday activities and think about how they might share the good news with others in authentic ways. (Jim Nicholas)• December 22: Participants will consider what the wise men teach us about the journey of faith. They will also choose which character has meant the most to them. (Jim Nicholas)

Adulting (Sundays, 9:15 am, Library)• December 1, 15 & 22: Grab a cup of coffee and join other adults in the Library for conversation about everyday life and faith. • December 8: 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.

Chair YogaDecember 15: Tina Steibel of Yoga without Walls will lead a time of chair yoga and meditation. Wear clothes that will allow full range of motion, and come to Eversull Hall.

The Certified Hunger Action Certificate is a local recognition of our previous achievement in becoming a Hunger Action Congregation dedicated to addressing hunger needs in our area. The local recognition from the Presbytery also came with a check for $250 to be used in our ministries towards hunger issues.

Adult FellowshipUpdate: Veterans’ Life Group• November 9: The turnout for our first Community Pancake Breakfast was much better than in past years as we served about 100 people! For the first time we advertised it as a “community event” and look forward to an even bigger turnout next year. The goal is to have the pancake breakfast be an annual FUPC community outreach event. During breakfast, we showed the WWII Veterans’ Digital Display for all to see their family and friends who had served. Thank you to those who donated at the breakfast. The funds will be used for veterans’ and community activities in 2020.

• November 10: Veterans’ Day Sunday was also well attended and included the Digital Display of loved ones who served, as well as a display of several WW II Uniforms. There were also photographs and keepsakes. The day was complete with a WW II Celebration Cake. As a surprise, Diane Richardson presented two Quilts of Honor to church members Ron Lanter and Kevin Stephens. Since November 2017, seventy Quilts of Honor have been awarded to First United members. (Thank you, Diane!)• Thursday, December 12: Fellowship Breakfast, 7:30 am, Denny’s in Belleville • Saturday, December 14: Fellowship Breakfast, 7:30 am, Denny’s in O’Fallon.• Sunday, January 26: Next Veterans’ Life Group meeting, 11:45 am, Conference Room

Shawn and I wish to thank each of you for the love, friendship, and support you provide to your Veterans’ Group. It is much appreciated and allows us to expand our community and veteran outreach. We look forward to an even more active 2020. ~ Blessings, Ken and Shawn

December 13: Merry MatesMerry Mates will gather on Friday, December 13, at 6:00 pm in Eversull Hall for hors d’oeuvres, a short business meeting, and then  a white  elephant Gift  Exchange. New officers  for  2020 will be installed: President, Carol Purviance; Vice Presidents, Claudia & Marvin Brinkley; Secretary, Jean & Andy Morgan; Treasurer, Carol Ripley; and Co-Chaplains, Erma Jean & Dale Vandiver. Any and all are invited to come enjoy a fun evening of food and fellowship! For more information, contact Erma Jean and Dale Vandiver, 233-6833.

December 16: Family Stories’ Life GroupDo you remember the book A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens? If you were having a visit from the ‘Ghost of Christmas Past,’ what stories would he help you recall? Bring those memories with you to Coffee With Christ cafe, 6 Wade Square (intersection of Hwy. 161

and Lebanon Avenue, Belleville) on Monday, December 16, from 9:00-11:00 am. Enjoy hearing the family stories of your church friends.

December 17: Faith in Fiction (third week of month)This month, we will discuss Blood and Thunder: The Epic Story of Kit Carson and the Conquest of the American West by Hampton Sides. This narrative begins in 1846 with the arrival of the Army of the West marching through Santa Fe to claim the western territory from Mexico. Due to Christmas we will meet Tuesday, December 17, at 9:00 am in the Commons. If you have questions contact Susy Rybicki, 792-9458.

December 21: Helmsmen Christmas GatheringThe Helmsmen will gather for a Christmas dinner and party at 6:00 pm at Fletcher’s Kitchen and Tap, located at 1524 Clinton Hills Parkway, Swansea (site of former Clinton Hills Golf Course) on Saturday, December 21. The dinner cost is $10.00 per person (excluding cost of beverage, other than water). Your entrée choice of beef, chicken, or fish should be given to Amy Brummitt; make payment for dinners to Joyce and Dwight Lied. Entrée selection and payment are due by December 12 to guarantee your reservation. As always, monthly gatherings as well as our weekly Friday night dinners at various local restaurants are open to anyone who would like to join us.

Menu for December

Canned Ham

Canned Sweet Potatoes

Canned Green Vegetable (low or no salt)

Canned Pineapple (lite or in fruit juice)

Biscuit Mix (no eggs required)

Powdered Milk

Additional Items:Baby Food Month

Baby Fruits (plastic containers)

Baby Vegetables (plastic containers)

Baby Cereal (Rice, Barley, Mixed)

GIVE-A-MEAL-A-MONTH

Monetary donations always welcome.Coordinated by FUPC Mission Committee

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Give-a-Meal-a-Month (GAMAM)Thank you for supporting this program! The menu above suggests non-perishable items to buy during December. All items collected are taken to the Catholic Urban Program Food Bank which ministers to families in the Metro East. Fill your own bag and bring the items to the church. Monetary gifts are also welcome; make checks payable to First United Presbyterian with the memo to GAMAM.

A group of nine intrepid high school students and four adults traveled to St. Louis for a

Saturday afternoon adventure. The day began with a ride on The Wheel, one of several new attractions at Union Station. Next, came a

TIM (Grades 9-12) Adventure Dayvisit to the nearby Soda Fountain for sweet treats. They concluded the day's activities at the Ronald McDonald house by preparing a delicious taco bar and chocolate chip cookies for families staying there.

P H O T O S B Y K A I T I E K A U T Z

Sunday School Schedule in DecemberDecember 1, 8, 15, 22: Regular classes at 9:15 amDecember 29: No Sunday School

Sunday Mornings for Children & Youth (9:15 am)On Sundays, there are classes for students ages 3 through high school. Childcare is available for infants and toddlers all morning at First United. • Ages 3 – PreK: Preschool Sunday School ClassThis class is for children ages 3 through pre-kindergarten. Children 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 kindergarten through grade 5. Recognizing that children learn differently and through repetition, major 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 December, rotations will focus on the Prophets Jeremiah and Isaiah. • Grades 6-8: KIX (Kids in Christ) Sunday SchoolThis group meets in a room specifically set aside for them. These students delve more deeply into the meaning of the Bible, expanding their knowledge. Another very important component is the fellowship they share, discussing their everyday joys and challenges with each other.• Grades 9-12: TIM (Teens in Ministry) Sunday SchoolTeens meet in a room specifically set aside for them. Students participate in discussions and Bible study each week. They use 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 gradeFirst United recognizes the importance of even our youngest members experiencing worship with the rest of our faith community. During 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 adult Worship Leaders and Greeters to attend their own carefully designed,

Children & Youth Life age appropriate worship time in Children’s Chapel. Parents are also always welcome to keep their children with them in worship. During December, the children will make their way to Bethlehem as they hear the stories of the Prophets, Mary and Joseph, the Shepherds, the Magi, and then on Christmas Eve, they will meet the Christ Child.

Children’s Chapel on December 24: Christmas EveJust prior to the sermon during each Christmas Eve worship service (4:00 and 7:00 pm), children ages 3 through 3rd grade will be invited to go to Children’s Chapel to hear the story Christmas: Meeting the Christ Child. They will return to worship in the Sanctuary following the sermon.

Families of Kindergarteners Looking ahead to 2020, kindergarten families mark your calendars for the Bible Discovery Class. This 3-week class will be 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. Information will be sent to families in January. For more details now, contact Stephanie Foltz.

Wednesday Evenings for Children and Youth at FUPCThe Christian Education Committee offers three programs for children on Wednesday evenings. For more information on these groups, contact Stephanie Foltz, Director of Christian Education.• Infants through 3 years old: GLC (God’s Loving Care) (5:30-7:30 pm) In addition to lots of TLC (tender loving care), there is play time, Bible story time, and a response activity. They join older children and youth for dinner. (Childcare until 8:00 pm is provided for children whose parents are in choir or those with older siblings in KIX or TIM.)• Age 4 – 2nd grade: GFF (God’s Faithful Friends) (5:30-7:30 pm) Students gather for game time, dinner, Bible story time, response time with craft or service, and worship. • Grades 3-5: PYC (Presbyterian Youth Club) (5:30-7:30 pm) For PYCers, there is game time, dinner, Bible study time, service opportunities, worship, and lots of fellowship. • Homework Club (7:30-8:00 pm) is provided for those in GFF and PYC with older siblings in KIX/TIM or whose parents are in choir. Students should bring homework or a book.

The Youth Ministries Committee offers programs on Wednesdays for youth in grades 6-12. 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) 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.) •  TIM Christmas Party will be on December 4 at 6:00 pm.•  KIX Christmas Party will be on December 11 at 6:00 pm.

December 18, 25 and January 1: No GLC, GFF, PYC, KIX, and TIM Youth GroupWe will not meet over Christmas. Enjoy the holidays!

Worship Pledges & Contributions Attendance* as of October 31, 2019Week 1 38 - 213 - 33 Estimates of Giving $49,702.20 Week 2 40 - 197 - ** Loose Offerings 407.38 Week 3 43 - 206 - ** Per Capita 141.00Week 4 39 - 199 - 30 Schnucks eScrip Cards 21.38 Capital Campaign Funds 2,706.87*8:00-10:30-Wednesday Additional Information: ** No Worship Online Giving*** 7,663.00 * ** The Online Giving amount is not a separate income, but is incorporated in the other income categories.

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

October 2019

December 7: Breakfast with Santa The Presbyterian Community Preschool invites you to spend a special morning with Santa on Saturday, December 7, starting at 10:00 am. Come to Eversull Hall and enjoy a yummy breakfast of donuts, muffins,  juice,  hot  chocolate  and coffee. Bring a camera to take your

Presbyterian Community Preschool Corner

P H O T O B Y L I N D A H A N G S L E B E N

own family photo with Santa! The cost is $3 per person or $15 per family. Enter through the Royal Heights Road entrance.

December 19: Preschool Christmas Pageant The children and staff of the Presbyterian Community Preschool invite you to attend the Blue Room Christmas pageant on Thursday, December 19, at 10:00 am in the Sanctuary. Come experience the Christmas story through the acting and songs of children!

On November 12, First United members, Joyce and Dwight Lied were honored

at the Mary McHugh Citizens of Character Dinner sponsored by The BASIC Initiative. They continue to make an impact on the community in numerous ways. At church they serve as deacons, trustees, ushers, and elders; they are involved in mission work and Stephen Ministry; both help with a summer sack lunch program for children; Joyce volunteers her professional skills as Parish Nurse. Contributions in the

Joyce and Dwight Lied Honored

P H O T O S B Y R O B D Y E R & D W I G H T L I E D

community include: volunteer for Belleville Helping Belleville; Dwight is a board member at the Community Interfaith Food Pantry and helps rehab homes with Neighbors for Renewal; Joyce serves on the Family Hospice board.

First United is blessed to have these dedicated servants in our church family. Many FUPC

members attended the event to show their support and appreciation. Thank you Joyce and Dwight for all you do!

December 7: Salvation Army Bell Ringing at St. Clair SquareOn Saturday, December 7, from 9:00 am until 7:00 pm, our church will again help with ringing bells to collect needed funds for the Salvation Army. We will be a presence at three major entrances at St. Clair Square. This is a great family mission project where all ages can actively engage for this great cause! Sign up in Cornell Commons on Sunday, December 1, or contact Nancy Kreeb, kreebnja@hotmail.com.

December 8: Donations for Christmas FamiliesOur church family is sponsoring 35 families for Christmas this year! A big thanks for the individuals, families and groups who have agreed to sponsor a family! Please make sure all of your donated items are labeled with the family’s number and brought to church by Sunday, December 8.

December 8 & 15: Merry Mates Cookie WalkIt is almost Cookie Walk time again, time to choose your own assortment of delicious homemade cookies and candies. Come one, come all to Cornell Commons on the Sundays of December 8 and 15, where Merry Mates will host! You can surprise grandchildren, grandparents, friends, co-workers and, of course your own family by purchasing these

fabulous Christmas treats for only $6 per pound.

Cap and Mitten Trees Join Hannah Circle members in contributing warm, comfortable caps, hats, gloves and mittens for the little ones at Kindercottage, infant through school age. Please bring your items and hang them on the tree outside the Chapel or the tree in the Sanctuary Narthex. The trees will be up through Sunday, December 8. Located in East St. Louis, Kindercottage is one of the ministries First United has supported for many years.

Christmas Joy (a Four4Four Offering) A Perfect Gift this Advent SeasonIn the lead-up to Christmas, many of us spend time in search of the perfect gift — the gift that communicates to friends and family how well we know and love them. We search our memories for what gift might cause the faces of our loved ones to light up. We scour the stores and shops, hoping to come across the one thing that will communicate a depth of love that our words cannot.

As important as gifts are for loved ones, we have an opportunity to give gifts that help many people we do not even know through the Christmas Joy Offering. These gifts in particular draw us back to the manger and God’s perfect gift to us — Jesus Christ. Jesus came to live among us, bringing light into darkness, and reconciliation to God and to one another. A perfect gift from a gracious God.

Ways to Serve and GiveDuring this Christmas and Advent Season, we celebrate leadership: past, present and future through support of the Christmas Joy Offering. We do so because church leaders greatly impact our lives of faith, walking with us down the path to be more like Jesus.

We want those church leaders and their families who may be grappling with a critical financial need to have the resources they need; these are provided through the Assistance Program of

the Board of Pensions. We also support the offering to help our future leaders in the church and the world, like those educated at our Presbyterian-related schools and colleges equipping communities of color. Supporting these students helps the whole church develop leaders who reflect the wideness (expanse?) of God’s intended diversity.

For those supported through the Christmas Joy Offering, this help is truly a gift from above. May our gifts, and the leaders who receive them, point us always to the truth of the one whose birth we celebrate, Jesus Christ — the truly perfect gift.

Please give generously: You can use the special Christmas offering envelope in your offering box or one of the special envelopes in the pew rack. ~ Thank you As of November 11, our church family has generously given $1,404 to the Peace & Global Witness Offering. The 25% to be used locally will be in support of Racial Harmony. Your contribution is greatly appreciated. ~ Worship Committee

Hospitality MinistryWith the cooperation of our church groups, the Hospitality Ministry provided weekly coffee hour fellowship, including several memorable themed Sundays and special events in 2019. Please help us again as fresh ideas and energy each week make our coffee hours great opportunities to visit with friends and network on church projects.

We are monitoring supplies and coffee usage to avoid waste, stay within budget, and go a little greener, all the while providing a pleasant time of fellowship. Ideas being considered are biodegradable disposable cups and plates instead of styrofoam and perhaps a cup rack for cups from home. We are open to suggestions as we strive to be more earth friendly. December 22 and 29 still need hosts. On the 29th, everyone is invited to share their bounty by donating left-over Christmas treats. The 2020 signup sheet is by the kitchenette. We appreciate your participation!

News from UKirkRev. Max Hill has been installed as the new UKirk pastor. To support this ministry by preparing dinner on Sunday evenings for college students at St. Louis University and Washington University, go to the link: https://tinyurl.com/vgrcewz

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 18:00 am Worship 9:15 am Sunday School 10:30 am Worship12:00 pm Home-Centered Communion

MONDAY, DECEMBER 26:00 pm Metro East Chorale

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 39:30 am Quilters 9:30 am Staff Meeting6:00 pm Woodcarvers

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 48:30 am Men’s Bible Study4:00 pm Member Connections5:30 pm Children’s Programs5:30 pm Youth Homework and Games6:00 pm Children and Youth Supper6:00 pm Mission Committee6:00 pm TIM Christmas Party7:00 pm Chancel Choir

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 510:00 am Equipping Team10:00 am Prayer Quilters10:30 am Parish Nurse 6:00 pm Illinois Heat Volleyball

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 66:00 pm Illinois Heat Volleyball6:30 pm Sand Dollars

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 79:00 am Salvation Army Bell Ringing at St. Clair Square Mall10:00 am Breakfast with Santa (Preschool Sponsored)

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8Merry Mates Cookie WalkDonations for Christmas Families Due8:00 am Worship9:15 am Confirmation Class9:15 am Sunday School 10:30 am Worship12:00 pm Youth Ministries

MONDAY, DECEMBER 96:00 pm Metro East Chorale6:00 pm Woodcarvers7:00 pm Trustees

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 109:30 am Quilters9:30 am Staff Meeting6:30 pm Session

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 118:30 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 Supper6:00 pm KIX Christmas Party7:00 pm Chancel Choir 7:00 pm Deacons

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 127:30 am Veterans’ Group Breakfast (Belleville Denny’s)10:00 am Prayer Quilters10:30 am Parish Nurse6:00 pm Illinois Heat Volleyball6:00 pm Lydia Circle

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 136:00 pm Illinois Heat Volleyball6:00 pm Merry Mates7:00 pm MaryMarthas

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 147:30 am Veterans’ Group Breakfast (O’Fallon Denny’s)

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 15Merry Mates Cookie Walk8:00 am Worship9:15 am Sunday School10:30 am Worship and Congregational Meeting12:00 pm Veterans’ Group

MONDAY, DECEMBER 16Steeple Deadline 9:00 am Family Stories Life Group (Off-site)6:00 pm Metro East Chorale6:00 pm Woodcarvers

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 179:00 am Faith in Fiction9:30 am Quilters9:30 am Staff Meeting11:30 am Lamplighters at St. Clair Country Club5:30 pm Budget/Finance 5:45 pm Christian Education

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18No Children & Youth Activities8:30 am Men’s Bible Study11:30 am Hannah Circle Christmas Luncheon (Bella Milano)5:00 pm Worship Committee7:00 pm Chancel Choir

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 1910:00 am Prayer Quilters10:00 am Preschool Christmas Pageant10:30 am Parish Nurse Available6:00 pm Illinois Heat Volleyball

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 206:00 pm Illinois Heat Volleyball

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 216:00 pm Helmsmen at Fletcher's Kitchen and Tap (Former Clinton Hills Golf Course)

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 228:00 am Worship9:15 am Sunday School10:30 am Worship and Christmas Cantata

MONDAY, DECEMBER 236:00 pm Woodcarvers

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 2412:00 pm Church Office Closes  at Noon4:00 pm Christmas Eve Service (Sanctuary)7:00 pm Christmas Eve Service (Sanctuary)

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 25Christmas Day - Church Closed1:00 pm Christmas Day Dinner

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 266:00 pm Illinois Heat Volleyball

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 279:00 am Steeple Volunteers6:00 pm Illinois Heat Volleyball

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 28

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 298:00 am Worship No Sunday School 10:30 am Worship

MONDAY, DECEMBER 306:00 pm Woodcarvers

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 319:30 am Quilters No Staff Meeting

Calendar of Events December 2019

S AV E T H E D AT E

January 2Annual Reports

Due

January 5Ordination & Installation of

Officers

January 26Annual

Congregational Meeting

January 26 &February 2

Souper Bowl of Caring

January 2: Annual Reports DueAll annual reports from the staff, session committees, deacons, trustees, and life groups need to be emailed to LuAnn Orlet (lorlet@firstunitedpres.org) by Thursday, January 2, 2020. The Annual Congregational Meeting, for the purpose of receiving and reviewing the annual reports, will be Sunday, January 26, after the 10:30 service. Thank you!

Prayer Shawl MinistryThe Prayer Shawl knitters will not meet in December but will resume on Wednesday, January 22. Choose one of the many lovely shawls to offer comfort during the holiday season and for other issues any time.

December 15: Congregational MeetingA Congregational Meeting will be held on Sunday, December 15, in the Sanctuary immediately following the 10:30 worship service for the purpose of electing Elders, Deacons, Trustees, and the Nominating Committee Members-at-Large; to approve the terms of call for the pastors; and for revision of the bylaws.

Legacy Remember First United in your year-end estate planning.

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/Accompanist Diana Umali

Worship Music Leader Mat 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 ProvidersKyla Riley, Egin Willis

Parish Nurse ajlied1@aol.comJoyce Lied, RN

The Steeple Articles and Suggestions

TheSteeple@firstunitedpres.org

OUR STAFF

Sunday, December 22Christmas Cantata

(10:30 Service)

Christmas Eve4:00 pm and 7:00 pm

(Children’s Chapel during sermon at each service)

Sunday, December 298:00 & 10:30 am

(No Sunday School)

CHRISTMAS SERVICES