Your Church May 2016

Volume 34 Issue 5

Contact

Information:

108 Washington St.

Monroe, MI 48161

Phone: 734.242.1545

Fax: 734-243-6120

www.monroefirst.org

Office Hours:

Monday-Thursday

9:00am - 3:00pm

Friday

9:00am - 1:00pm

Dear Friends,

We are in the season of Easter, which is the time of seeing the risen

Christ appear in various forms and places. It is also the time when he

tells us to wait and stay put. For something amazing is about to hap-

pen. He will send us a power from on high, a force that breaks down

walls, disentangles misunderstandings, and orders our lives in ways we

cannot yet fathom. This great outpouring occurs on the day of Pente-

cost in the city of Jerusalem. The disciples are gathered there to pray,

sing, and sigh a little. And there it happens: flames of fire descend on

the disciples, penetrating their ears, reordering their vision, and claim-

ing their full attention. They will never be the same after that. Jesus

had sent them the power of the Spirit, the Advocate, the Fuel that

makes them move. From then on, the disciples proclaim the risen

Christ in boldness. They share what they experience as his loving pres-

ence. They touch lives with their words and deeds—and the church

grows from there.

We surely have been seeing the power of the Holy Spirit at work here

at church. Already, way before Pentecost Sunday, we have been wit-

nessing the signs and wonders of God among us. There is a buzz of

joy, of laughter in our sanctuary during worship, in the hallways and

offices, during fellowship times and meals. And to top it all off, ten

new members will be joining us shortly.

“Come and see,” Jesus tells those who are looking for him. If you have

missed worship for some time or taken a break from church, this is the

month to return and “come and see.”

On Sunday, May 1, we will be celebrating communion (with trays)

and Diane Adams will be preaching. In the Lord's Supper, Jesus teach-

es us that we are all one, all equally called to come to the table and to

partake in the feast in which he is both host and meal.

On Sunday, May 8, we will introduce to you and receive ten new

members, celebrate Mother's Day with a surprise gift for all mothers,

and hear Shannon Costello preach.

A Message From Pastor Annemarie:

What is born of the flesh is

flesh, and what is born of the

Spirit is spirit.Do not be

astonished that I said to you,

“You must be born from

above.”The wind blows where it

chooses, and you hear the

sound of it, but you do not

know where it comes from or

where it goes. So it is with eve-

ryone who is born of the Spirit.

John 3:6-8

Please dress in red on Pentecost Sunday, May 15, for red reflects the

power of the Holy Spirit descending upon the disciples, coming down

and filling us. The session has designated the day also as Homecom-

ing Sunday where we invite to church our friends, neighbors, and

those we haven't seen with us for some time. Please be intentional

about extending an invitation and to “come and see.” Written invita-

tions will be sent out also, a reception after worship will be prepared by

our session, crafts for children and youth are offered, and laughter and

joy will be added to the menu.

The celebration of God's power continues on May 22 with Trinity

Sunday, God in three persons but one in purpose and aim. While we

cannot see God, we can observe God's handiwork in creation, hear the

words and see the deeds of his “human face,” Jesus Christ, and experi-

ence the presence of God as peace and joy given by the Holy Spirit.

(Pending the work of Nominating Committee, there may also be a spe-

cial congregational meeting for the purpose of electing new officers.)

And as if this weren't enough, we get to celebrate one more Sunday in

May, and a special one indeed. On Sunday, May 29, right before Me-

morial Day weekend, we will recognize all former and present military

personnel who are members of our congregation with gratitude for

their service. Please submit to the church office the names of those

who should be recognized.

How could you and I resist the goodness of the Lord and refuse him to

come and see! He waits, he calls, he beckons.

With joy and peace,

Annemarie S. Kidder Pastor

A Message From Pastor Annemarie:

From now on, therefore, we

regard no one from a human

point of view; even though we

once knew Christ from a hu-

man point of view, we know

him no longer in that way. So

if anyone is in Christ, there is a

new creation: everything old

has passed away; see, every-

thing has become new! All this

is from God, who reconciled us

to himself through Christ, and

has given us the ministry of

reconciliation.

2 Corinthians 5:16-18

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A Note From our CE Director: Diane Adams

Dear Friends,

Congregational Life and Discipleship is pleased to announce that Judy Chesman has agreed to moderate our committee. Judy and I will work closely in order to make this transition a smooth one.

I am pleased that Teen Group is going well. We typically have five to seven youth participate monthly. When we met on April 17, we discussed scripture and then had a lesson and discussion about the issue of temptation. The comments shared by our youth were mature and insightful. It is a delight to work with this nice group.

Seven youth from FPC have registered to attend Camp Rejoice this summer. Scholarships will be provided to assist each of the attendees. There will be more information sent to parents soon.

Many thanks to those who assisted with the preparations for the pictorial photography days in April. I am thankful for your help, laughter and direction.

It is my pleasure and honor to serve this congregation.

Peace,

Diane

CL&D EVENTS FOR MAY:

Sundays, May 8, 15, 22, 29 Adult Education/Post Resurrection Appearances of Jesus

9:30 – 10:30 Library Pastor Annemarie, Facilitator In this four-week study, we will explore the various times and places of Jesus appearing to the disciples after he had been raised. Jesus shows himself by appearing in a locked room, walking with some disci-ples on a country road, and eating breakfast with them. For fifty days after his resurrection Jesus is physi-cally present until his ascension into heaven. What is the meaning of these appearances and how do they inform our own life of faith? Bring your Bibles and an open mind.

Thursdays, May 5, 12, 19, 26 PW Bible Study/Who is Jesus?

10:00 – 11:00 Library Brenda Wilkison, Facilitator

Wednesdays, May 11, 25 Chair Yoga with Chantelle

9:30 – 10:30 Room 262 $5.00 per person

No experience is necessary!

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Church News

A Word from the Music Director: When I began working here three months ago as your Interim Music Director, I had no idea there would be so much energy, creativity, and activity going on! Even now, as we head into summer, the Staff and members and Choir are bubbling with ideas for how to make our church stronger and better. It's wonderful. I am so happy to be here among you. Here are some upcoming dates to pencil into your calendars: June 1: Picnic for Sanctuary Choir and Gloria Ringers at Winnie and Bill Findley's house. August 7 - 11: Children's Music, Art, and Drama Camp for children entering 2nd - 6th grade. Cabaret: Date TBA in the Fall. All church musical theater night with desserts. Fall Choir Retreat: Date TBA. Purpose: to learn Christmas music. Christmas Cantata: Choir with instrumental ensemble in December. Those interested in singing only in this portion of the choir are welcome. We are full of the creative Spirit and I hope you can feel it as we share our music with you on Sunday mornings. Susan Barker

“God Connection”

This morning I had a Comcast guy (the third one!) come out to fix an ongoing problem. I was frustrated that this was taking so long to fix but he fixed the problem quickly and noticed my piano in the living room. "Do you play" - Yes, it's my career. "Where? What?" I'm a church musician at 1st Presbyterian in Monroe. "I'm a Youth Pastor at Stewart Road Church of God in Monroe." And so began the conversation about our summer children's music camp. We exchanged emails and phone numbers and I will send him all the information about the camp. As he left he said, "It's a God connection."

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Church News

Staff Rev. Dr. Annemarie Kidder, Pastor akidder@monroefirst.org

Diane Adams, Interim Coordinator of Discipleship dadams@monroefirst.org

Susan Barker, Interim Director of Music Ministry

sbarker@monroefirst.org

Lori Ellison, Financial Secretary lellison@monroefirst.org

Kelly Vergowven, Office Manager info@monroefirst.org

Gary Bogedain. Sexton

Sue Bondie, Childcare

Amy Morgan, Childcare

Pentecost Homecoming Reception Sunday, May 15

12:00 P.M. Boyd Chapel

First Presbyterian Church - Monroe, MI

You are invited to a reception

immediately following 11:00 A.M. Worship

A light lunch will be served

The Holy Spirit renews and

empowers us and our church.

Your Session is initiating a friendship gathering to celebrate Pentecost on May 15, 2016.

A light lunch will be served in the Boyd Chapel after the Sunday 11:00 am Worship.

All ages are invited to share in good Presbyterian Food and Presbyterian Fellowship.

Those willing to assist may sign-up in C.E. Lobby to bring your favorite bars for dessert.

YOU REALLY DO NOT WANT TO MISS THIS EVENT!

Church News

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New Members Spring 2016

Mark Edward and Sally Eby

Mark grew up Catholic. He later was married to Sally at the First Presbyterian Church of Ypsilanti

and has served as an elder in the Peoples’ Church of Milan and First Presbyterian Church of Dundee.

Mark works in the concrete delivery business. He is a long-time Presbyterian and ordained el-

der. Mark would like to serve as an usher and become active in the Chancel Choir in our church. Mark

has been married to Sally Eby for 34 years.

Sally was raised as a Presbyterian. She was a stay-at-home mom. She comes from a family of six, and

all her siblings are still living. Sally would like to serve our church in the areas of the board of deacons,

music and the Chancel Choir, and fellowship activities.

Ronald and Ruby Pope

Ronald and Ruby were married in our church more than fifty years ago and have been attending on and

off over the years. Ronald is retired from Local 687 Construction and Ruby is retired from Standard

Federal Bank. Both will be baptized later this summer.

Michael and Kimberly Staelgraeve

Michael grew up Catholic. He attended St. Mary’s Academy and St. Mary’s Catholic Church here in

Monroe. He is a general manager at a small plastics company. In the past, he has volunteered at food

drives, efforts to protect the environment, and participated in church events. Michael would like to

serve our church in the Community of Need meals and help with computer and IT needs.

Kimberly also grew up Catholic. She has been married to Michael for three years and they are ex-

pected their first child in early July. Kimberly works at the Michigan Department of Veterans Affairs

in outreach and helping veterans and widows of veterans in the benefits department. Once their baby

is born, Kimberly would like to serve our church with the Community of Needs meals and in fundrais-

ing.

Debbi L. Burress

Debbie was born in Trenton, but grew up in Taylor, Michigan. She has lived in Monroe for many years

and attended Stewart Road Church of God. She is friends with Becky O’Bryan, who invited her to wor-

ship with us.

Dale, Mary, and Shannon DeSloover

Dale has been a lifelong Catholic and attended St. Joseph’s Catholic Church until its closing two years

ago. He is an electrician by trade and retired from Monroe Public Schools in that capacity. He has

been married to Mary for 46 years and they have five grown children and ten grand-children. Their

daughter Shannon is joining our church also. Dale would like to serve our church with the Community

of Needs meals and in other venues.

Mary has been a lifelong Catholic and, like Dale, attended St. Joseph until two years ago. She is a reg-

istered nurse who after 25 years retired from Mercy Memorial Hospital just over a year ago. Mary

graduated from St. Mary’s Academy, Madonna University, and Walden University. She would like to

continue serving our church in the areas of outreach and mission.

Finance News

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Every man according as to his purposefulness in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly or of necessity, for God loveth a cheerful giver. II Corinthians 9:7 The Finance Committee has projected a budget shortfall of approxi-mately $60,000 for 2016. The Finance Committee has reviewed the budget carefully and reduced expenditures wherever possible. We are asking our church family to prayerfully consider an increase in giving to cover church costs. The book, "Not Your Parents' Offering Plate," by J. Clif Christopher is a valuable resource to use as we question "Why do I attend church," "What are my obligations," and "Am I doing what God wants me to do." Copies of this book are available from the Board of Elders or the church library. Charlotte Frary Alan Schroeder Sue Bondie John Chesman Bob Dushane Kathy Fogle Jim Orwin Karen Winchell

Financial Notes as of March 2016

2016 2015

Income: $ 19,256 $ 34,843

Expenses: $ 22,195 $ 22,704

Difference: $ -2,938 $ 12,139

Property Committee News

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The Quilted Banners that were sewn by the “Quilting Ladies” of our church

were hung Thursday, April 21, 2016. A big thank-you to Jim Palmer of

Gratton Construction with sons Mike and Matt who volunteered their time

to complete this task.

When you are at the church, please take time to look at these eight beautiful

banners. Thank you “Quilting Ladies”!

A friendly reminder to the congregation: Please be sure to have your window sticker stating that you are a member of this Presbyterian church in your car window. (Some of you may have a new vehicle and have not updated). It is recommended that it be placed in your rear window. The Property Committee will start enforcing this policy before summer.

CORRECTION:

It was brought to the attention of the Property Committee that in the

Annual Report, credit for the improvements in the handicapped restroom

off the narthex, was not properly given. It should have been stated that

the Naomi Circle provided the funds and did the shopping for those

items. The Property Committee and volunteers helped with some of the

installations. Church funds were not used.

Martha Mary Circle will meet

Monday, May 9th at 1:00 p.m.

Please come!

The May Newsletter deadline is on

May 25, 2016. Please have all articles

submitted by this date. Thank you!

Church News

PAGE 9

MARTHA MARY CIRCLE “CONVERSATIONS”

The circle met on the 2nd Monday of April at 1:00 with eleven members and new member

Mary DeSloover present. Monthly collections were received as Chairman Helyn Schroeder

read about how the Birthday Collection supports the Presbyterian Women and improves

the lives of women and girls around the world. Devotion was shared by Ann Lux about

Earth Day along with a recycling project.

* The circle has purchased 2 new plastic carts and 2 floor mats for the Fellowship

Hall kitchen. They approved the cost of 2 subscriptions of the Horizon Magazine and 8 Bi-

ble Study books. The group finalized plans for the April 28th Community Luncheon and

look forward to the May 26th Luncheon also, hoping that their Luncheon Only Cookbook

recipes will be available for a donation. They reminded ALL WOMEN OF THE CHURCH

they are invited to attend the field trip to Sauder’s Village in Ohio on Friday April 29th at

8:45 am.

* Martha Mary women approved the purchase of 8 new chairs for the Cairl

Room. They signed up to prepare and serve the CON Meals on June 9 and August 25 in

2016. The group added making baby flannel blankets for Heart Beat of Monroe to their

fall calendar.

* Martha Mary Circle ended with a unison prayer. Thanks to Helyn S. for the tea

and Barb P. for the cookies.

SOUNDS ! DO YOU HEAR THEM?

Each Sunday, if it were not for the sound system technicians, we

would not be able to hear what is happening in our Sanctuary. Larry

Thies and Joshua McMann are here to help new technicians learn

about the equipment. Please talk to Larry, Joshua or Alice Kostoff if

you are willing to share your talent once a month in the sound

booth.

Church News

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“The Sparklers” Wednesday -- May 4 @ 1:00 pm

Do you want to join a funny group? Come shine with THE

SPARKLERS!

Really we are the girls who clean in the Sanctuary and there is a job

for everyone. If you can only work sitting down, we have the job for

you. If you can only work standing up, we have the job for you. If you

can only work on your knees, we have the job for you. If you only

want to dust, we have the job for you. If you like to play in the water,

we have the job for you. If you like the piano, we have the job for

you. If you only want to walk around and talk, we have a job for

you. If you only want to talk and not work at all, we have a job for

you. We are “The Sparklers” and we want you to join us on the first

Wednesday of every month at 1:00 to make the Sanctuary

SPARKLE!!!!!!!!

Church News

PAGE 11

First Presbyterian

Church

Public Luncheon

Thursday, May 26, 2016

11:00am—1:00pm

Hosted by the

Martha Mary Circle

Your choice of

Soup

Salads

Breads

Beverages

Only

$6.00

per

person!

108 Washington

St. Monroe, MI

Carry-out

Available!

In Memoriam

Camilla (Bassett) Carey passed away March 6,

2016. She was the only sibling of our church

friend, Nancy Rehfus. Camilla grew up at First

Presbyterian Church and was part of church life

along with her parents, Elizabeth and Lewis Bas-

sett. Camilla lived in the Trenton and Downriver

area until her death. She is survived by her sister,

Nancy, and seven children. Our deepest sympathy

to the Rehfus family in the loss of their loved

one. May the Lord Bless you and Keep you.

Church News

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May 2016 Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat

1 COMMUNION No Adult Class 10:30-Choir 11-Worship 12:15-Fellowship

2 6-Kiwanis Key Club 7-AA Mtg.

3 11-Staff 7-Al-Anon

4 12-Kiwanis 7-Choir

5 10-Bible Study 6-Community Meal 6-TOPS

6 9-TOPS 8-Heroin Anonymous

7

8 MOTHER’S DAY 8:30-Deacon Mtg 9:30-Adult Class 10:30-Choir 11-Worship 12:15-Fellowship

9 1-Martha Mary Circle 5:30-Bed Board Meeting 7-AA Mtg.

10 11-Staff Mtg. 12-Kiwanis Board 6:30-Finance 7-Mission/Outreach 7-Al-Anon

11 9:30-Chair Yoga 12-Kiwanis 5:30-WMA 6:30-Building & Property 7-Choir

12 10-Bible Study 6-Community Meal 6-TOPS

13 9-TOPS 8-Heroin Anonymous

14 8:30-Men’s Breakfast 1-Girl Scouts

15 PENTECOST 9:30-Adult Class 10:30-Choir 11-Worship 12:15-Pentecost Homecoming

16 7-AA Mtg.

17 11-Staff Mtg. 6-CL&D 7-Al-Anon

18 9-Chair Yoga 12-Kiwanis 7-Choir

19 10-Bible Study 6-Personnel & Policy 6-Community Meal 6-TOPS

20 9-TOPS 8-Heroin Anonymous

21 3-Transitions for Women 5:30-Socialites

22 TRINITY 9:30-Adult Class 10:30-Choir 11-Worship 12:15-Fellowship

23 7-AA Mtg.

24 11-Staff Meeting 7-Session 7-Al-Anon

25 Newsletter Deadline 9:30-Chair Yoga 12-Kiwanis 7-Choir

26 10-Bible Study 6-Community Meal 6-TOPS

27 9-TOPS 8-Heroin Anonymous

28

29 9:30-Adult Class 10:30-Choir Warm-up 11-Worship 12:15-Fellowship

30 OFFICE CLOSED 7-AA Mtg.

31 7-Al-Anon

DATE LITURGIST USHERS

5/1 Helyn Schroeder Carol Rabun, Kim Hooper, Gary & Jo-Ann Follbaum

5/8 Liz Cunningham Cory & Kathy Fogle, Rusty & Cathy Shorter

5/15 Kay Gawle Bill Barnes, Mark Eby, Jim Crammond, Helyn Schroeder

5/22 Sherry Hawkins Jim & Sue Heisler, Randy Stiffler, George Kostoff

5/29 Cheryl Eder Kay & John Gawle, Liz Cunningham, Ed Stehulak