Dr. Norman M. Pritchard, Pastor

941-383-8833

Web-site: www.christchurchlbk.org E-mail: info@christchurchoflbk.org

TO:

Christ Church of Longboat Key, Presbyterian U.S.A. 6400 Gulf of Mexico Drive Longboat Key, FL 34228

After Easter Rev. Dr. Norman M. Pritchard, Pastor In my previous ministries, and especially my more recent ministries in Australia and Michigan, I found Easter to be something of a puzzle. Easter Sunday, of course, was invariably glorious: the church was upbeat: the church was packed, the flowers were magnificent, the music was marvelous, the choir was in stellar form and everything about the worship experience was celebratory. As, of course, it should have been: Easter is the best news the world has ever been given. And then what happened? The crowds disappear; everything returns to normal; the joy and the celebration seems to have faded. The Sunday after Easter is traditionally known as Low Sunday. The original reason behind the name, according to the Oxford Dictionary of the Christian Church was to establish a contrast to the ‘high’ celebration of Easter the previous Sunday. Many pastors, feeling somewhat cynical because of the contrast between Easter Sunday and Low Sunday attendances, comment sardonically, that the ‘low’ refers to the attendance figures! (We’re in a different situation in Longboat Key, of course, because Easter falls around the end of Season when we lose so many friends who return home for the summer.) It does seem strange, however, that for many people the celebration of Easter should seem to produce so little lasting effect. It was utterly different in the New Testament church. The impact of Easter made everything new. First the apostles were renewed. The gospel accounts are quite unsparing in their honest accounts of the failure of Jesus’ twelve disciples to support him and be with him in the ordeal of his passion. The Fourth Gospel’s account of the events of Easter notes that the disciples huddled behind locked doors for fear of the Jewish authorities (John 20:19), and yet within a few weeks the same people were openly and defiantly proclaiming Jesu and daring the authorities to do their worst (Acts 3 and 4 for example). Even more dramatically, the followers of Jesus, faithful Jews all and recipients of the tradition about the sacredness of the Sabbath, apparently without controversy or dispute,

Members of Session:

Class: 2020 Jean Buckley, Worship 2021 Jan Cady, Grateful Giving 2020 Noel Ebrahim, Clerk of the Session 2022 Fred Finks, Worship/Spiritual Growth 2020 Angela Freeman, Membership 2020 Charlie Gorham, Membership 2021 Mark Hausberg, Admin/Finance 2021 Jack Isherwood, Spiritual Growth 2021 Karen Jennings, Caring Ministries 2022 Elaine McClure, Personnel 2022 Sally Rauch, Mission 2022 Bill Wartinbee, Fellowship

Deacons:

2021 Roger Brown 2020 Duane Compton 2022 Susan Crumpler 2021 Karen Gardiner 2022 Debra McKenna 2020 Susan Stuckert

The Pastor’s Page abandoned the Sabbath as the day of worship and instead began what later became th4e universal Christian practice of worship on the first day of the week, renames as ‘The Lord’s Day’ in acknowledgement of the fact that that was the day on which Jesus was raised from the dead. And then, as an indication of the inroads the resurrection of Jesus made into their everyday living, a lively expectation developed that Jesus would return soon to wind up history and complete the coming of God’s kingdom. That being so, the need to hang on to earthly possessions was no longer important, and so began the sharing of goods and distribution among the poor as anyone had need. In addition to those details, of course, the followers of Jesus quickly discovered that the story of what God had done in Christ was too good not to share and at first individually and then later institutionally, Christian mission was born.

So, in a very real sense, Easter ushered in dramatic changes from which we still benefit, and which we seek to explore in our worship and our living.

Worship in May

May 5 The Simple Gospel John 21:15-23

May 12 Mother’s Day Remembering Forward 2 Timothy 1:3-7

May 19 Make it Happen John 10:11-18

May 26 Looking Over Your Shoulder John 21:20-25

MAY 2019 CHRIST CHURCH OF LBK MONTHLY NEWSLETTER VOL IX, ISSUE V

THE GRAPEVINE

“I am the vine, you are the branches.”

OFFICE HOURS: Mondays, Tuesdays & Thursdays 8:30 - 1:30

Vision Statement: “Growing in Jesus’ Name”

Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved,

clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another.

Forgive as the Lord forgave you. Colossians 3:13-14 NIV

Let us pray that as we continue to develop the fruit of the Spirit, others may see God’s love in us. They will know that we choose to offer daily prayer for those in need. Holly Braun, Prayer Chain contact Jean Gorham, Prayer Chain Coordinator

April 1 was the final Men's Club Breakfast for the 2018-19 series. At that meeting, Nels Ackerson shared some of his experiences as an attorney and more specifically talked about his involvement in setting up a legal practice in Egypt. This generated many questions which Nels welcomed and answered. The Men's Club Breakfasts will resume in November. See you then.

DEACON OF THE MONTH … SUSAN CRUMPLER Susan Crumpler may be unique in the Christ Church congregation. She was born in St. Petersburg, Florida, and has lived her whole life in Florida. She has spent most of her life learning or teaching music. Piano lessons began at age five and by the time she was twelve she had already started playing the organ. Upon graduation from Boca Ciega High School in Gulfport, Susan enrolled at St. Petersburg Junior College, then transferred to the University of Florida and graduated in 1972 with a Bachelors of Music degree in Music Education. In 1978, she returned to school and received a Masters in Music degree in Choral Directing from the University of South Florida, Tampa. Susan’s music career has been full and varied. Her first job after graduation was teaching school at St. Stephen’s grades K through 12 and then at Manatee High School. During this time, she also ran her own music studio for over 25 years where she taught piano, organ and guitar to children and adults. Prior to coming to Christ Church, Susan served as music director/organist for seven other area churches including St. Georges Episcopal, West Bradenton Baptist, and Roser Memorial Community. Susan has been a member of the Sarasota-Manatee American Guild of Organists for over 35 years. She is the current treasurer, and she and her husband Dan are responsible for the group’s website and newsletter. Susan found her way to Christ Church through this organization when Robert Romanski was looking for a substitute organist. Susan is a new Deacon and feels that God has called her to this position. When she stepped away from the organ bench she wondered what else was in store for her. She is excited to learn about being a deacon and providing service to those in need. The Crumplers have been members of Christ Church since 2014. They live in Bradenton and have a daughter Sunny and a son Daniel. Besides her music, Susan enjoys reading historical fiction novels, gardening, and traveling. Once again, our congregation answered the request for donations, so generously, that we already

had more than enough to put together baskets for the ladies and their children at Learn to Fish. Your response was overwhelming, awesome, over the top, as you can see in the photo. Thanks to you, the ladies had a truly wonderful Easter surprise.

Growing in Jesus’ name through Bible studies,

Sunday School, small groups, and special events.

"TEACH US TO NUMBER OUR DAYS, THAT WE MAY GAIN A HEART OF WISDOM.”

Psalm 90:12 Sunday School meets after the 10:00 AM worship service at 11:15 in the Meeting Room of the Office Building. Dr. Pritchard is starting a new study from the book “Eternity is Now in Session” by John Ortberg. Recommended at our recent Enrichment Weekend with Dr. Doug Pratt, John Ortberg’s book opens up for us one of the most familiar - and often misunderstood - concepts in the Christian faith about Eternity. The sessions will include study of a key passage in which John Ortberg discusses 5 topics. Time for question and discussion then concludes each meeting. Reading Ortberg’s book will be helpful, but not essential to gain from the sessions. They will be available at a discounted price at the Activities Tables. We look forward to this study with great anticipation. All are welcome; no prior Bible Study experience needed. No sign-up necessary either. Just show up. Men’s Bible Study: Mondays at 9:00 AM in the Meeting Room. We will begin a new study May 13th”. No prior Bible Study experience is necessary. Registration is not required but we urge you to sign up even if you may miss some sessions. (Each lesson is independent of the others.) Sign up at the Activities Tables in Fellowship Hall or contact Bill Johnson with any questions . Women's Bible Study meets on Wednesdays at 10:00 AM in the office building Meeting Room. We will study "Prayer, Does It Make a Difference?" by Philip Yancey starting Wednesday, May1 through Wednesday, June 6. We will explore through this study the fundamental, challenging, perplexing and deeply rewarding aspect of our relationship with GOD: prayer. To find out more, get a study guide or sign up, visit the Spiritual Growth Activities Table in Fellowship Hall or contact Jean Buckley .

Introduction to the Bible and Personal Bible Study Monday, May 20, 11:00 AM <or> Tuesday, May 21, 1:00 PM in the Conference Room. Each session lasts 1 ½ hour and combines the content of Introduction to the Bible and Introduction to Personal Bible Study. Select a day that works best for you. Come learn easy, simple methods to help you in developing a daily personal time with God and His Word. “Teaching informs, small groups motivate but personal study TRANSFORMS.” No Bible knowledge required!! Sign-up is required at the Spiritual Growth Activities Tables in Fellowship Hall, or contact Barbara Grimes.

Children’s Sunday School: Christian activities are available for children in Fellowship Hall during the 10:00 AM service. Your child/grandchild can participate in fun, engaging lessons based on stories from the Bible. If an instructor is not in attendance, there are books and toys available on the Children’s Table, and you can hear the sermon from this location. Fellowship Hall can also be used as a place to feed your child. If you would like further information about this program, you may contact Cathy Weaver. Christian Reading Matters Book Club: We just finished up with our April discussion of The Kindness Challenge by Shaunti Feldhahn. This book is in our library. There will be no meeting during the summer months. Watch for the next meeting to appear in the Grapevine or on Christchurchlbk.org website under LEARN. Feel free to contact me if you have any questions or comments. Kristine Bemko. Small Group Study 2019: If you are interested in attending a Home Small Group during the summer, contact Fred Finks. Additional small groups will begin October 14. What are Small Groups? Small groups of 8-12 adults are led by a facilitator, meet once a week in a warm and inviting atmosphere at a Host home. Individuals and couples at all levels of their faith and stages of life are welcome. So if you want to build relationships, explore truths in the Bible, grow spiritually and support each other in prayer, experience Small Groups. Host homes will be available in west Bradenton and throughout Longboat Key for both afternoon and evening gatherings. Check the bulletin for updates or the Spiritual Growth Activities Tables in Fellowship Hall.

Watch the Good News Live from Christ Church Thanks to the many church members and visitors who have watched our Sunday morning service broadcast live. The service is available on smart phones, tablets, and computers. The easiest way to access the service is www.bit.ly/cclbksermons or www.christchurchlbk.org and follow the YouTube link on the bottom of the front page.

The live-stream committee that has set-up the equipment and has broadcasted over 47 Sunday services is Dan Crumpler, Ravi Venkataraman and Bill Buckley. A total of 3,342 people have viewed these services at this point. Our church now broadcasts a live stream on Sunday at 10:00 a.m. with modern digital systems. If you are comfortable using an Ipad or computer, and willing to assist periodically, we need additional people trained to operate the system as backups. The Sound and Lighting committee also needs help on Sundays. Please contact Bill Buckley (941) 726-3443 or wsbpiper@verizon.net) for either or both needs.

WELCOME TO OUR CHURCH

FAMILY, BONNIE!

BONNIE WILLINGS and her husband Lou Colombo are from

Traverse City, Michigan. They have been coming to this area

for eight years. Lou is a retired engineer from Ford, and Bonnie

is retired from health education and Planned Parenthood.

The Willings have 12 nieces and nephews of whom some are

great-niece and nephew.

Bonnie was driving by Christ Church, decided to attend, and is

now an affiliate member. Please welcome Bonnie.

Thursday, May 2, is National Day of Prayer, and the Sanctuary will be open for private prayer and meditation between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Please join with others across the nation in this meaningful time for our voices to come together.

Our Highlighted Collections for May

If you are facing issues related to family, aging, or illness, you may find our Family collection of texts on these complex subjects helpful and reassuring. Be inspired by the words of God and learn from the experiences and expertise of others as you live through these difficult times. We have numerous Vintage Cookbooks on display that should trigger happy memories from earlier days. Whether you are looking for simple comfort foods or something gourmet, these time-tested recipes might be just what your palate desires. Brad Thor, previously an award winning producer and host for public television, is now an international bestselling author of military thrillers. His novel, The Lions of Lucerne, was named one of the “10 Best Political Thrillers Ever”. He continues to consult for the Department of Homeland Security and is active in politics. In addition, we offer our Instrumental CDs, as well as numerous “new to us” faith based, nonfiction and fiction books and DVDs.

Library Hours are: 9:00 to noon Sundays,

8:30 to 1:30 Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Canasta

Our last two games for the season will be Tuesdays, May 7 & 21. We will meet at 1:00 p.m. at the Tidy Island Association Clubhouse, 139 Tidy Island Blvd, Bradenton. A sign-up sheet will be available in church or contact Bonnie Wright. We’d love to have you!!

MAY 20 - 2:00 p.m. Conference Room

“Before We Were Yours” by Lisa Wingate

Coming up in the fall ...

OCTOBER 21 - 2:00 p.m. Conference Room

“The Silent Patient” by Alex Michaelides

A crowd of over 90 members and neighborhood guests enjoyed a catered Italian dinner at the third

Wednesday Night Dinner on March 20. Everyone enjoyed the musical performance by The Fox Run Duo

who sang classic ‘folk revival’ songs from the 60’s.

HOPE SEEDS had an “emergency” seed packing day at Trinity Methodist Church and CHRIST CHURCH VOLUNTEERS answered the call. Cyclone Idai swept through Mozambique, Malawi and Zimbabwe in March destroying towns and villages in its path. Hundreds of people were killed and hundreds of thousands more have been affected by what the UN says could be “one of the worst weather-related disasters ever to hit the southern hemisphere.” The seeds packed will be shipped immediately to partner organizations to help ease the suffering and bring hope in the name of Christ. Many thanks to Rebecca McPheters, Carole McLaughlin, Nick Kovalakides, Wiley Osborn, Dick McLaughlin, and Ann Quackenbush for donating their time.

Christ Church began its journey with Turning Points in 2014. We thank everyone for their continuing support, whether it be by donating clothing, shoes, money, or your valuable time. We have three members volunteering there on a weekly basis; one now serves as Treasurer of the Board. The need in our community does not seem to be abating, despite the relatively good economy. Being able to respond to people’s needs, which range from basic things like food and clothing, to more complicated issues like housing and healthcare, propels Turning Points each and every day. We can only help our community in need because of your support … we thank you. Turning Points’ annual report through 2018 shows that the Open Door welcomed 4,502 people - more than half of them women and many accompanied with children. Here, they had access to food and hydration, hot showers, restrooms, clothing, phones, computers, mailroom services, laundry services, employment assistance, bicycles for transportation, and more - in a compassionate, non-judgmental environment.

Last year, their case managers assisted 2,374 adults with 1,783 children, who were either homeless or had fallen behind in their rent. About 40% of those applicants succeeded in avoiding or overcoming homelessness. Supporters like you helped 10,241 clients last year: 48% men; 52% women; 36% for the first time; 21% under age of 16; 253 were homeless veterans; and 3,306 were literally homeless. Volunteers at Turning Points logged 56,500 hours last year. If you would like to volunteer or need more information, please contact Cheryl Hedger at Turning Points (941) 747-1509 or Sue Wertman. Submitted by Sue Wertman, Mission Committee

The children’s program on Sunday mornings strives to teach them about Jesus in a fun and

interactive way. The children have been learning about "Making Fishermen of Men," which also

included a craft kit showing Jesus, Peter, and James with a net. The butterflies are to illustrate

change which lead into our discussion about Jesus and how he changed and is always in our

heart. The eggs have in them symbols that represent the events that took place from the time

when Jesus rode on a donkey to Jerusalem to his resurrection. The children also made a

decorative hanger to put on their door.

The Missions Committee, with donations from the congregation, put together 22 Easter baskets for the ladies and their children at Learn to Fish. Thank you for bringing brightness to their lives this Easter.

SMALL GROUPS GATHER AT SEVERAL HOST’S HOMES: A potluck dinner brought the small group’s study of “Presbyterian Questions, Presbyterian Answers” to a close. Thanks to Dick and Nancy Cardin for their leadership and to all the participants for the lively conversations.

CHRIST CHURCH OF LONGBOAT

KEY

TRIP TO ISRAEL

SEPTEMBER 2020

Christ Church will be hosting a trip to the Holy Land in September 2020, led by Dr. Norman Pritchard and Dr. Fred

Finks. The trip will be ten days in length with an optional trip to Jordan and Petra. Highlights will include Jerusalem, the Old City, Mt. of Olives, the Garden Tomb, Caesarea and Galilee, Bethlehem, Dead Seas and Masada. Brochures will be available soon detailing the trip and costs. Persons who are interested should sign up in Fellowship Hall or

contact Dr. Finks for more information.

Congratulations to the 30 plus members who participated in the CPR classes, including the use of our two AEDs. Thanks to the Longboat Key Fire Department for our excellent instructors.

May 12th is Mother's Day. Our webmaster, Dan Crumpler, is asking for your help again in getting out the news that we are putting together a special Mother's Day recognition page on the church website. Please email your digital photos to Dan at dan.crumpler@gmail.com and include a caption of who it is and the year it was taken. Full-size pictures only as thumbnails are too small.

CHRIST CHURCH SAYS “GOODBYE”

Sixty-nine attended the “end of season” party at the Cedars on Friday, April 5. Everyone enjoyed a buffet array of substantial hors d’oeuvres and beverages. Highlight of the evening was the ice cream brownie dessert. The

blue skies and balmy breezes made for a wonderful evening for members of Christ Church to wish safe travels and Godspeed to those heading to northern homes. We look forward to your return!

M A Y SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY

1 10:00 am - MR

2 Sanctuary open 10:00 am - 2:00 pm

3 10:00 am - MR

4

5 10:00 am WORSHIP COMMUNION 11:15 am SUNDAY SCHOOL

6 9:00 am - MR 1:00 pm — CR SPIRITUAL GR.

5:00 pm CHOIR (dinner & last rehearsal)

7 9:30 am - CR WORSHIP 1:00 pm -Tidy Isl

CANASTA

1:30 pm - CA BRIDGE

8 10:00 am - MR

9

10

11

12 10:00 am WORSHIP 11:15 am SUNDAY SCHOOL

13 9:00 am - MR

14 9:30 am - CR FELLOWSHIP

1:30 pm - CA BRIDGE

15 10:00 am - MR

16 17 18

19 10:00 am WORSHIP 11:15 am SUNDAY SCHOOL

20 9:00 am - MR 11:00 am - CR INTRO to BIBLE & PERS BIBLE STUDY

2:00 pm - CR

21 9:00 am - CR SESSION

1:00 pm - CR INTRO to BIBLE & PERS BIBLE STUDY

1:00 pm -Tidy Isl CANASTA

1:30 pm - CA BRIDGE

22 10:00 am - MR

23 24 25

26 10:00 am WORSHIP 11:15 am SUNDAY SCHOOL

27 9:00 am - MR MEN’S CLUB

28

1:30 pm - CA BRIDGE

29 30 31