April 25, 1999
#May All-Church dinner planned
#Church auction/dinner successful
#Alice Krebs - Distinguished Citizen
#Rev. Schowalter contributor to major Biblical history
The Facilities Renewal Committee made a presentation to the Church Council at the Council's meeting in March. In this presentation, the committee reviewed all of its work, the many options that were considered during the last year, and offered a four-part plan of implementation. This article will summarize the work of the committee, the implementation plan offered to the Council and the Council's decision to make a recommendation to the Congregation.
When the Facilities Renewal Committee was formed last Spring, it was asked to examine the facilities of our church building to determine if they are meeting the needs of our growing and active congregation. The committee has been very busy over the past year examining the many rooms, hallways, classrooms and storage areas of our building. We have met with staff members numerous times to review their program needs and space requirements. We have considered the needs of our music programs, youth programs, children and adult education programs as well as the needs of the dozens of community groups that use our facilities.
We have reviewed traffic flow patterns within the building and have considered numerous options for relieving congestion in certain areas. We considered how our members, guests and visitors use our church building and how easy or difficult it is to get from one area to another. We looked at our stairways, doorways and elevator to review what might be feasible to relieve congestion during some peak activity times and make it easier for people to move about.
In addition to meetings with our staff and the Church Council, our committee has made presentations to and received valuable comments from most of our Boards and Committees and several other church groups. Following the committee's presentation at the Annual Meeting, we placed a display of possible renovation options in the hallway outside the Nave with a suggestion box. Many of you took the time to fill out suggestion forms and give us your comments and ideas.
The end result of this entire process is a four-part implementation plan that the committee presented to the Council - each one to be considered as a separate, stand-alone project, subject to approval by the congregation and available financing. The four separate tasks, in order of suggested priority, are as follows:
1. Renovation of the lower level classrooms and music
practice areas.
2. Reconfiguration of the stairway from the 1st floor to the
lower level.
3. Reconfiguration of the entrance to the Church office.
4. Replacement of the elevator.
The Council voted to recommend to the congregation that it proceed with only the first of these four tasks (renovation of the lower level), subject to available financing. This recommendation will be presented for approval by the congregation at the special meeting called for May 2, 1999. The committee will make a full presentation at this meeting and provide cost estimates of the work.
The members of the Facilities Renewal Committee are: Carla Cummings, Lee Jacobi, Doug Jacobson, Chris Rygh, Nick Sgarlata, Tom Stacey, and Merrill York. *
Doug Jacobson
Proposed lower level renovations
'A day dedicated to honoring God,' that is what Chris Rygh would like for his upcoming ordination.
May 22 is the scheduled date for the Ecclesiastical Council of the Vicinage to convene, review Chris credentials, confirm his relationship with the Church and potentially call him to ministry. June 4 is the graduation date from Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary, His ordination will beon Saturday, June 5 with a reception to follow. Then his home church in Bulington, IA will hold a service of confirmation on June 6. While many believe this would be a benchmark for Chris, he seems to view it as a natural step in his life's path.
While Chris began at Seminary three years ago, Chris said that he considered ministry as far back as high school. In 1985, Chris took his first road trip with his parents' car. Driving from Iowa, he came to FCC-Wauwatosa to join a youth group from this church as they traveled to Maine for a youth conference. At that time he met an advisor who "had a profound impact on my life," said Chris. "I strive for that type of compassionate, meaningful ministry which can gain access to souls."
At the time, however, Chris had other immediate plans. He headed to school completing both a BA in Elementary Education and his MS Ed. in Teaching. In 1994, when presented with the opportunity for an interim position as Youth Director for the NACCC, Chris filled the vacancy for one year. While planning for law school, he took a couple of seminary classes. He said that just felt right and doors began to open for him. Accepting a Fellowship from the Congregational Foundation for Theological Studies, he began his Internship here in 1996. Then hired as the Director of Student Ministries in 1997, Chris said of FCC, "the people here have always been very supporting and encouraging. It has been a big step in faith and commitment on their part. He said that he can look back very clearly over the past 14 years and see a weaving of memories and experiences that has been leading him to this point. Always quick with a metaphor, Chris likens his relationship with this church to a garden. "It takes time for a planted seed to pop through the surface. Then finally it grows and bears fruit." Originally nurtured by the youth of this church, he believes it only natural to try and give back.
Ready to mature as both a dad and a pastor, Chris considers himself lucky to live a life which is not 'compartmentalized.' "My role as a pastor is layered with my role as a dad. When I work with the youth program, I am trying to build something that will hopefully have an impact on her eternity," said Chris. With a final metaphor, Chris parallels the growth of the BASIC program here with that of his daughter Katie - full of promise and hope. *
May's All-Church Dinner is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 5. Anyone who has a collection of any type stamps, old tools, coins, dolls whatever it might be, is asked to bring it in for the program following the dinner.
Please reserve your seat by contacting the church office, 258-7375, by May 3 if you plan to attend the dinner. Also please let them know if you plan to bring a collection.
July 27 - July 29, students completing grades 68 and adult leaders from First Congregational Church Wauwatosa, along with students from seven other Wisconsin and Michigan churches will come together for a very special urban service project.
Though Christian Churches are united around the person of Jesus, the way we understand that relationship, and the way our churches act on that relationship, varies greatly. There is a lot that we can learn about our own traditions by working alongside Christians representing different perspectives.
The program will begin Tuesday evening at 7:00 p.m. All the students and adult leaders will gather at FCCTosa for worship, fellowship and sleep. The two work days follow. "Both days will be very fun," said Chris Rygh, Director of Student Ministries. Each day will begin by serving at Community Baptist's breakfast for the homeless program. The days will continue with a variety of "grunt work" tasks around Community Baptist and the surrounding buildings that it is seeking to renovate. The late afternoons and evenings will include special opportunities for recreation, worship, and fellowship. Each night will be spent sleeping at FCCTosa.
All participants students and leaders alike are required to submit a completed registration form and pay the full registration fee by the June 1 deadline. For more information or registration forms, contact Chris Rygh at 258-7375 or ryghc@firstchurchtosa.org.
While this program does provide a service and helps this urban project, participants really have a fun time in addition to getting a lot out of it, said Chris. As one of the host churches, we are hoping for a great turnout from our group. So go ahead, get involved! *
When we examine the Resurrection stories, three patterns of belief emerge. The three things are: the relationship with Jesus both before and after the Resurrection is personal. When Jesus said, "Mary," Mary knew instantly who he was. When the two disciples saw and heard Jesus break the bread and bless it, the gestures and language were so familiar that they instantly knew who he was.
The second thing that enabled his followers to know him is Scripture. On the road to Emmaus, the two disciples heard Jesus explain the Scriptures that told how God would raise him from the dead.
The third thing that enabled the followers of Jesus to believe was the community of other believers. The very first thing that Mary did after she knew was tell the disciples. The two followers of Jesus who recognized him when he broke the bread went first thing in a hurry to Jerusalem to tell the disciples. Most of the Resurrection stories are stories where Jesus appears to a group.
Stop thinking that you must profoundly understand things before you have faith. Give yourself to however much faith is in you. And even if your voice is shy, soft, and barely audible, join in the praise and acclamation for our risen Lord. Know him personally, know him in scripture and know him in community. The Lord is risen indeed! Your pastor,
Lonnie
What a success! The church auction held March 13, raised more than $4,000, approximately doubling what was made last year! All of these proceeds are going to benefit the youth of our church, such as myself, in going to NAPF (National Association of Pilgrim Fellowship) and church camps this coming summer. These trips are incredible experiences for us and we are very much looking forward to going. But as many things, they cost money. Thanks to the generous and even some extravagant bids at the auction it will be much easier for us to attend these events.
The evening began with a gourmet Italian dinner cooked by the church's very own Mr. John Sgarlata. Many youth and our mentors helped serve and took roles as waiters and waitresses for the night. As people came in, they were able to catch sight of the items that would be up for bid later that evening. This included such items as Eddie Martini's gift certificates, tanning sessions, caricatures by Robert McGee, pottery, and opportunities to babysit for Katherine Rygh! Once dinner was over and our jobs as waitstaff were at an end (for then at least), we were able to sit down and watch amazed at the auction and what it brought in.
I speak for all the youth of our church when I say that we would like to give sincere thanks to everyone who attended this benefit for us, to John Sgarlata for giving up his Saturday evening to share his wonderful cooking talents with us, and to Keith Harmon and Chris Rygh for leading the auction portion of the evening. Reflecting the success of the auction were the approximate ninety attendees, the amount that was made that night, and above all, the excitement that we all shared during the evening. It was truly a blessed evening. *
Nastassia Richardson
For where your treasure is there will your heart be also
Matthew 7:16
Greetings on behalf of the 1999 Board of Christian Stewardship. Our theme for this year is "Stewardship-A Seed We Sow" and we're excited about the idea because it expresses the connections we hope to make this year between our pledges and our commitments of time, talent and financial support. All three of these aspects joined together form the foundation on which we function, reach out, and grow. We have always been a strong and caring church family and we are looking at ways to grow stronger and to bring all of our members into the congregation as fully functioning partners in the tasks that lie ahead. One of the ways we hope to make more happen is an every member survey that will be mailed out soon. We'd like to know more about you, your thoughts about your church, your needs and how we might better fill them. We need your input and your help on this and I'm confident that you will respond. Our stewardship is what fuels the engine. It is indeed a seed we sow-not a debt we owe! *
Char Schweitzer
First Congregational Church member Alice Krebs was recently named Wauwatosa Distinguished Citizen for 1999. Nominated by not one, but four civic organizations the Neighborhood Association Council, Rotary Club, Wauwatosa Historical Society and Wauwatosa Women's Club Alice exemplifies volunteer excellence.
While Alice is very reluctant to accept this recognition, Alice's volunteerism has been felt by FCC as well as many areas of Wauwatosa. More than 20 years ago, Alice and Marty Krebs joined FCC when their youngest daughter became involved with P.F. Here, Alice has served as the chairperson for the Board of Benevolences, become involved with Mayfair Interfaith and served as the Driver Coordinator for the Mobile Meals Ministry from 19921998. Rev. Dr. Steven Peay said, "If there is anyone who is a personification of civic pride and duty, it's Alice Krebs."
In the community, from the Rotary where she was the first female president, to Froedtert Hospital where she formed the Froedtert Auxiliary organization, Alice has recruited, trained, and inspired many people.
Alice was also one of the driving forces behind the Wauwatosa Historical Society when it prepared and opened the 19th Century Schoolhouse in May of 1995. It is now a very popular field trip site which has been enjoyed by more than 1,000 children and is now part of the Tosa schools' Social Studies curriculum.
Out of the long list of community volunteer programs (most of which aren't mentioned here), Alice said that her work with establishing the Neighborhood Association Council has been the most rewarding. Alice was a founding member and treasurer of Tosa Tomorrow and worked on the Community Character Committee. This committee helped to establish the Neighborhood Association Council. According to Denise Lindberg, co-founder of Wauwatosa Tomorrow, "If Alice Krebs didn't live in Wauwatosa, there certainly wouldn't be the current 21 Neighborhood Associations contributing to our city's strong community spirit."
Since she retired from Froedtert Hospital in 1992 as Director of Volunteers, Alice has spent much of her time as a 'professional volunteer.' She is married to Marty Krebs. Marty is retired from the printing business, but continues to play trumpet at the Red Mill in Elm Grove. Marty and Alice have three children Laura, David, and Kathy and five grandchildren. Said David of his mother, "She does what she does because it is what is to be done." As Alice refused recognition in past years for her efforts, the committee took advantage of Alice's trip to Europe this year to nominate and elect her to receive this award.
As was written in the Distinguished Citizen nomination form, " Alice Krebs is a rare and remarkable individual who has made a positive difference to Wauwatosa, with no thought of glory for herself. From the youth to the elderly, from preservation to innovation, and from basic needs to enrichment programs, Alice's volunteer activities have directly touched all segments of Wauwatosa's population. With a special talent for cutting through surrounding issues and identifying specific needs, Alice sees the means to achieve the necessary results. Taking the planning a step further, Alice personally champions a project, and brings it to full and often extraordinary completion. Never hesitating to do hard work herself, she rolls up her shirtsleeves and digs in where needed! Most important of all, Alice inspires and encourages others to catch the same excitement."
Alice will be honored at a banquet on April 28, 5:30 p.m. at the Raddison, where she will receive her award. Everyone is invited to attend. The cost for the banquet is $20.
An extraordinary member of our church and the entire community, we extend Alice our congratulations as well as our thanks for all she does. *
Spring has sprung along with the church's need for some 'Spring cleaning.' On May 15, everyone is requested to volunteer for any of a variety of chores both inside and outside of 'God's House.' Some of the required tasks include:
* washing pews
* picking up the outside grounds
* repairing pillars on the back porch
* planting
* minor painting
* and much more.
The day presents us with an enjoyable service opportunity with
fellow Congregationalists and can save the church a considerable
amount of money in services which might
otherwise need to be hired out.
A gourmet lunch will be served to all who participate and child care will be available.
Please consider sharing a few hours of your time to become part of this bi-annual event. Your gift of time and energy is greatly appreciated. Sign-up sheets are in the office or you can call 258-7375, or 786-0125. God Bless! *
Chris Mason
Two worship services in May will include special musical features.
On May 2, Lee Jacobi, Director of Music, has scheduled a Hymn Sing. A Hymn Sing dedicates a portion of the service to worship through singing favorite Congregational Hymns. In past weeks, Lee has included inserts in the Sunday Order of Worship asking for the congregation's favorite hymns. He is then compiling a list and will lead us through a number of the most-enjoyed hymns.
The following Sunday, May 9, we will enjoy anthems from the Piedmont College Chamber Singers from Demorest, Georgia. The Chamber Singers, under the direction of Dr. Wallace Hinson, is a select, 35-voice choir that is known for their vocal precision and expressive singing. The choir is the touring ensemble for Piedmont College, and has represented the institution on tour all across the United States and Canada.
Piedmont College is a private, four-year, liberal arts institution located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in northeast Georgia offering Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees in 22 majors including Music Performance, Church Music and Music Education. The College, founded in 1897, is historically linked to and supported by the National Association of Congre-gational Christian Churches. *
Rev. Schowalter contributor to major Biblical history
Among the 11 contributors to an impressive new Biblical history from the Oxford University Press in England is Rev. Dr. Dan Schowalter, a member of First Church. The 643-page Oxford History of the Biblical World was edited by Michael D. Coogan, who in the preface notes that, "each of the distinguished contributors to this book is a scholar of extraordinary breadth and depth."
He adds, "They bring to their chapters different perspectives and differently nuanced interpretations of the complex and often incomplete data."
Rev. Schowalter's 42-page chapter is entitled "Churches in Context, the Jesus Movement in the Roman World." A number of historic illustrations complement the text.
Rev. Schowalter's earlier writings include, "The Emperor and the Gods: Images from the Time of Trajan."
Bruce Smith
The Second Annual Rummage Sale is planned for Friday, May 21, 9 3:00 and Saturday, May 22, 8 12:00.
Volunteers are needed for unpacking and setup the week of the sale. Please call Nancy Harmon at 778-1994 if you're willing to help.
Donations for the sale are welcomed, but please do not bring items to the church any more than two weeks prior to the sale. All donations should be in clean, useable condition. No books or magazines will be accepted.
Kosovo relief
At its April 12 meeting, the Board of Benevolences elected to send $1,000 to Kosovo through the National Association of Christian Churches' "One Great Hour of Sharing" program.
In addition, the Board of Benevolences will sponsor a special offering at the worship services on Mother's Day, May 9, to be given to the same program.
In brief/Our church family
10:00 a.m. Single Service Begins
Please note that on May 30, we switch to a single 10:00 Sunday worship service for the summer months.
Life Education
A seminar for 5th and 6th grade boys and their parents will be presented in Friendship Lounge on Monday, April 26 and Wednesday, April 28. Both sessions will be 6:00 to 7:30, allowing time for questions. This program on puberty education will be presented by Michelle Jackson, parish nurse. Sign up at the church office, 258-7375, or call Michelle, 332-1979. Parent participation and questions are welcomed and encouraged.
Circle 8
Tuesday, May 4; no regular meeting. See you at the Strawberry Luncheon at Congregational Home, 12 noon
Think Summer!
It's time to begin summer planning. Following are some summer dates you may want to set aside -
Vacation Bible School: June 2125
Jr./Sr. PF Camp: July 1824
Family Camp: August 1316
Visit Europe in 2000
Join Rev. Lonnie Richardson and others from the church as they explore our religious roots in Europe. There will be an information meeting in the chapel on Sunday, May 9, at 10 a.m. The itinerary includes the famous Oberammergau Passion Play. Departure is scheduled for August 21, 2000. For information, contact the church office at 258-7375.
New Member Classes
April 25: A People of God in Action
May 2: Connecting to God
May 9: An Invitation and Opportunity
www.FirstChurchTosa.org
Editor, Beth Linscott
Communications Committee
Jennifer Wakefield - Chairperson,
Mary York, Bruce Smith, John O'Meara, Char Schweitzer
*
Rev. Lonnie Richardson, Senior Minister
Rev. Dr. Charles Goldsmith, Minister of Pastoral Care
Chris Rygh, Director of Student Ministries
Rani Gusho, Financial Administrator
Roy Brouwer, Building Superintendent
Lee Jacobi, Director of Music
Betty Dethmers, Organist
Michelle Jackson, Parish Nurse
Betsy Isenberg, Secretary
Nancy Gross, Secretary
Charles Nelson, Administrator, Congregational Home, Inc.
Rev. Norman S. Ream, Minister Emeritus
*
Vol. 8, Issue 4
