May 28, 2000
WCA Youth Camp Planning Underway
Staff Bids Farewell to Nancy Gross
Church Women Welcome Jean Ann von Rohr
Men's Ministry Begins New Program
Report from Wisconsin Congregational Association Annual Meeting
Grow Through Teen Volunteering
Sarah Edens and John Ptacin are proud to announce that the Junior and Senior high camp programs are well into the planning stages for this, the year of our Lord, 2000 A.D. Sarah will be directing the Junior High Camp and John the Senior High Camp at Camp Whitcomb-Mason, July 1622 and July 2228, respectively.
Sarah is 23 years old and a graduate student at the University of WisconsinMadison, studying physical therapy. With the exception of the past five years which she has spent in Madison, Sarah has lived in Brookfield and been an active member at FCCTosa. She was baptized and confirmed in the church, then became involved in the Pilgrim Fellowship program. She attended local meetings, statewide rallies and national meetings. She served as an officer for local Sr. High PF, secretary/treasurer for State PF and also as president at the state level for two years. After serving as a counselor at Jr. High Camp for the past two summers, she is now taking on the role of director.
John Ptacin is a three-year veteran as a director at WCA camp. Also a student at UWMadison, John, too, is familiar with this church. "I feel honored to be directing the senior high portion of this summer's program. I remember my first year of camp, the anxiety of driving to Camp Lucerne, wondering if I would enjoy camp at the ripe old age of 13. What I found that first year, and every year since, was one of the most spiritually uplifting experiences of my life, replaying itself every summer, for one very meaningful week. The camp programs have, in a sense, become a part of my life as so many of my closest friends come from this organization." John continued, "It has given me an opportunity to truly understand the meaning of God's love and what it means to have faith in Christ. Without the experiences of WCA Youth Camp, rallies, and local meetings, I would have never come to understand Christianity's place in such a troubling, perplexing world."
WCA Camp has a long-standing tradition of having two distinct components. It is a week of relaxation where one can get away, let loose, and as many campers have related, recharge for the next school year. Camp is also a time to self reflect and further define one's relationship with God and Jesus Christ. The Senior High program will delve into the intricacies of Matthew's Gospel, challenging attendees to better understand the importance of Christ in their lives. The theme for Jr. High Camp this summer is "Heroes." It will focus on five characters from the Bible, one each day, with two programs dedicated to each character. The characters will include Joseph, David, Ruth, Joshua and one other as yet to be determined. Sarah has planned projects for each day including art and theatrical presentations. She also plans on showing Veggie Tales videos during the week as they are always well received.
In addition to the programs, there are many other activities for the campers. There are organized evening activities, such as Frisbee football or counselor hunts, special interest groups each day, campfires led by the counselors each night, free time for swimming, boating, playing soccer or volleyball, relaxing and plenty of singing. Of course this is also time for meeting and making new friends, as well as strengthening old bonds.
John said he recently received a call from a camper who had some questions about this year's programs. He realized the camper had basically planned his summer around camp week and was encouraged by the enthusiasm. "There is always room for one more to come relax and share in God's love with us," said John. "With those words, I regrettably, cannot accept applications from parents with similar conceptions of their ideal vacation."
information provided by Sarah Edens and John Ptacin
After approximately eleven years, First Congregational Church staff will sorely miss the work of Nancy Gross. "She is a good friend, a great co-worker and an outstanding person," said Rani Gusho. "We will certainly miss her."
After working as a speech and language pathologist for approximately 10 years, Nancy stumbled upon her administrative position here when she was looking for a career change. She wanted a part-time schedule which would allow her to be home when her daughter finished school each day. She was on the Board of Deacons at the time. Les Grube, the administrator at that time, knew a good thing when he saw it and offered her the newly opened position.
Rani said her part-time hours are the equivalent of a full-time person. She's comfortable with all the equipment, knows a wide variety of software packages, possesses wonderful creativity, and has a willingness to try new things.
Although she's not certain where she'll be working next... or what she'll be doing, Nancy felt it was time to move on. Their daughter Ellen is now in her sophomore year at Stevens Point, and Nancy is feeling pulled in a new direction. The commute from Hartland is the one aspect of the job she won't miss. She is planning on finding something closer to home. She will, however, miss the people at FCC. "They're really a wonderful group," said Nancy. Leaving her co-workers has made this a more difficult decision. Nancy and Dennis will continue their membership here, so wish her good luck rather than good-bye. Thank you Nancy, for all you have done. *
Jean Ann von Rohr will be the speaker at the 9:00 a.m. Women of the Church meeting on June 3 in the Social Hall. Her focus will be on children's literature with a religious orientation.
Jean Ann is a graduate from Carthage College, the former director of Christian Education at a large church in Waukesha, and has worked at the Wauwatosa Children's Library for the past 25 years. As the Children's Program Librarian, her storytelling has made her quite well known to the Tosa population. In fact, she has been asked to be the Grand Marshall at Wauwatosa's 2000 4th of July parade. Additionally, Jean Ann is quite active in her own congregation at Mt. Carmel Lutheran Church, where she teaches Sunday School, among other things.
So who better to talk about gift book ideas, share some storytelling, and highlight some of the art in children's literature? The presentation promises to be interesting and enjoyable.
The turnout for this new women's group has been fantastic so far, offering fellowship for all. If you haven't given it a try yet, you're always welcome! *
In the New York Times bestseller The Gifts of the Jews (Doubleday, 1998), Thomas Cahill writes: [The Ten Commandments] "require no justification, nor can they be argued away. They are not dependent upon circumstances, nor may they be set aside because of special consideration. They are not propositions for debate. They are not suggestions. They are not even (as a recent book would have us imagine in the jargon of our day) "ten challenges." They are exactly what they seem to be and there is no getting around them or (to be more spatially precise) out from under them... They have been received by billions as reasonable, necessary, even unalterable because they are written on human hearts and always have been. They were always there in the inner core of the human person in the deep silence that each of us carries within. They needed only to be spoken aloud."
Our freedom as Congregationalists is fully expressed within the frame of the Ten Commandments. They are items not to be debated but to be expressed in action. How are you following them? It is one thing to know they are right and another to live as if we really believe it. Our capacity to live the faith is increased as we trust ourselves to the Christ. Believe in the God who believes in you!*
Your Pastor,
Lonnie
The Wednesday morning men's groups have proven over the past couple of years to be a vital new ministry of the church. The group which meets on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays recently finished the "Margins" program which discussed managing the multiple stresses. The focus of this group, as defined by its participants, is primarily fellowship and mentoring. It brings together a wide range of men who have set aside time to work on being good Christians, take some time for devotion, and uplift one another by realizing others are dealing with the same stresses and frustrations in their lives.
The second group is focused on Bible study. They recently finished their study of Romans and are now studying random scriptural passages in light of what they learned in Romans. Maurie Daignau, who facilitates these studies, said this is a great time to join the group. They study 23 passages each session following a prepared outline with questions to consider. As both groups meet at 6:30 a.m., they are obviously committed to their programs!
The group which meets on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays will be starting a new series on the hot topic of "Leadership." Lonnie will still lead this group with the help of David Mott who will be facilitating the sessions. This series is based on Dr. John Maxwell's book "The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership." Dr. Maxwell is a pastor, church builder, and author of many books. Each of the 21 laws presented is based on a biblical passage. These core principles of leadership have been made through observation and tested across time, culture, age and geography. The group will work with a video series and participants can also read the book. David said each law is covered in approximately 10 pages, so taken one at a time its a very quick, easy read. "In addition to working with a very important, timely topic," said David, "this is just a nice opportunity to improve and examine your life along with other men."
The first of these sessions will begin June 7, but men are welcome and encouraged to join either of these men's ministries at any time. Questions for the Bible Study group can be directed to Maurie Daignau, 796-1220 and questions about the Leadership series can be directed to David Mott, 771-8953.
Sunday, June 4 will mark the end of the 1999/2000 Sunday School year. The 10:00 worship will feature presentations from all the classes. Loosely linked by the theme "Jesus 2000," class contributions will include music, skits, readings and a slide show. Following this special worship time, everyone is invited to the annual ice cream social on the west lawn.
The summer schedule of activities for younger children will begin on June 11. Children's messages will be part of every worship time this summer.
First Congregational Church recently welcomed a group of new members. In addition to the sponsor program which matches current members in similar life situations to new members, FCC is now beginning a follow up program which helps create quarterly fellowship opportunities for new member classes. Hopefully, this will aid in new members getting to know others in the church, feel more comfortable and encourage further involvement. Following is some brief information about our newest members make sure to say hello when you see them. A class of confirmands was also welcomed as members. They will be featured in the next issue of the Columns.
Michelle and Kyle Bedalov were looking for a church near home
and first researched FCC on our website. "One of the first Sundays
we attended, about 30 minutes was spent singing traditional hymns. It was
terrific! And we continue to sing the traditional hymns where many churches
have gotten away from tradition," said Michelle.
Kyle is a network administrator at Cooper Power Systems and Michelle is
a homemaker. They have a one-year-old daughter, Anna.
Ralph and Norma Fernhaber came from a Presbyterian background and also found the traditionalism of FCC appealing. In addition, they like the ministers, music and sense of belonging. They have two grown children. Ralph is retired and Norma is a real estate broker.
Ralph enjoys golfing and is a volunteer for the Red Cross, Mobile Meals and is a member of the American Legion Post Firing Squad. Norma also volunteers for the Red Cross as well as the Sojourner Truth House. She also enjoys studying Spanish, playing golf, bowling, walking and spending time with her granddaughter.
Ruth Kirchhoff was introduced to FCC by a friend. She was impressed with the worship services, the congregation, the Covenant and many other aspects of FCC. Ruth moved to Brookfield approximately one year ago and enjoys travel, gardening and photography.
Kim and Dean Krotts were married here in 1998 and have now decided on membership. Dean is the vice president/general manager of Bajer Design and Kim is an interior designer. They are expecting their first child in August.
Both have been involved in Bible Study classes here and look forward to further involvement. They said they enjoyed the welcome reception they received from members and Rev. Richardson.
Dean said his interests lie in computers, woodworking and machining. Kim enjoys spending time with family and friends, entertaining, reading, walking and preparing for the arrival of their child.
Originally from Columbus, GA, Nathaniel Lynn and Felicia Thomas-Lynn have been living in Wauwatosa two years. They became interested in FCC after Felica, who is a reporter for the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, covered a story here. Nathaniel is the president of Opportunity Milwaukee Mortgage Company.
Felicia and Nathaniel said they like the order of Sunday service here and appreciated that the church is steeped in tradition. Felicia has already become involved in the book club and Nathaniel in the men's ministry program. They both enjoy reading and working in the community and Nathaniel likes to golf.
Kelly Mathwick manages the underwriting department for a local health plan and enjoys gardening, collecting antiques, and playing clarinet in the Lakeshore Wind Symphony. Through a friend in the symphony, Kelly learned of FCC. She said she loves the music, the traditionalism and preaching at FCC and looks forward to becoming more involved.
Roy and Molly Nichols found many aspects of FCC appealing including the diversity of pastors, the music, and a traditional yet applicable message.
Molly is a project manager at Bank One and Roy is a printer at Quad Graphics. They enjoy gardening, skiing and working on their home.
Julia and Eric Schmitt are another couple expecting their first child. They have lived in Tosa for six years. Julia's grandparents were members at FCC and her parents were married here. Julia and Eric most like the church because of the friendly people.
Eric works in advertising and Julia in marketing. They enjoy bike riding and working on the garden/house.
Jeff Snell is the Vice President of Development for the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee. He is married to wife Jennifer and they have a five-year-old daughter Abby. He appreciates the warm reception for children and adults, alike. Jeff has joined the Board of Stewardship and plans on becoming further involved.
Jeff said he enjoys home renovation and repair...and golf, "in spite of my score."
Anita Morland is a poet and award-winning short story writer. Now retired, Anita taught English and Latin Composition at both junior high and high school levels, as well as at Lakeland College. Anita is the mother of member Tish Read and a proud grandmother to Johnothon who was baptized here in 1989.
Peter and Michelle Schulz, along with son Daniel, are somewhat new to the church. Peter has been involved for a number of years and his family has membership here. Michelle is a hair stylist and Peter is an engineer. Peter enjoys golf, bowling and music while Michelle likes golf, family activities and educating other in her profession. *
The 40th Annual Meeting of the Wisconsin Congregational Association was held in the Meetinghouse of the First Congregational Community Church of Roscoe, Illinois the weekend of April 14th and 15th. Our very own Mary York was installed as Moderator for the year and Rev. Kathy Rust was installed as Youth and Camp Committee Member-at-Large for the next three years! Congratulations to them both.
Fourteen of twenty-four member churches were represented at the business meeting. Two new churches proudly accepted memberships The United Church of Byron (Illinois) and Faith Community Church (Franklin, WI.) As is evident by one of the newest members, the WCA is attracting churches from an ever-widening geographical area and the WCA may some day need to consider a new name which reflects this regional growth.
The theme of this year's meeting was "Holy Humor." The featured speakers Dr. John G. Duffy, assistant director of the Institute for Emotionally Intelligent Learning, Rev. Leslie Shultz, minister at First Congregational Church of Mukwonago, and Dr. Richard Buchman, retired, Ozaukee Church led a group of more than 100 participants in light-hearted but reverent antidotes and examples of the use and necessity of humor in the life of the church and in worship specifically. Next year's meeting will be held at Community Congregational Church of Kewaunee, Wisconsin and Mary will preside. She said she is "looking forward to the opportunity to share program ideas and experiences with the other Congregational Churches in the WCA.
Items of interest to FCC:
1. Our very own Sarah Edens, presently a graduate student at the University of Wisconsin in Physical Therapy, will be heading our Junior PF Camp this summer. Senior High Camp will be run by John Ptacin, also a UW student. See cover article for more information regarding these special opportunities for spiritual growth for our youth.
2. Are you aware of the WCA "Wakefield Memorial," established in memory of Ddg and Charlie Wakefield's son Clayton, that aids campers who might not be able to afford to go to camp. If you would like to donate to this worthy cause, please contact Mary York. Likewise, if you know of a worthy camper who would like to attend one of the PF camps this summer, please let Rev. Kathy Rust know.
3. It was approved that Heritage Congregational Church (Madison), Rev. Dr. Peay, pastor, and the WCA will jointly extend an invitation to host the 2003 Annual Meeting of the National Association of Congregational Christian Churches (NACC.) The proposed meeting would be held at the Monona Convention Center in Madison, which would accommodate the number of participants beautifully. This is a big commitment for the WCA which calls for cooperation of all WCA Churches to spread the responsibilities.
4. The WCA is proud to announce its own web page at www.congregational.net. FCC's Bill and Lissa Edens are the WCA Webmasters. If you have any questions regarding this web page, please contact them.
The WCA is worthy of our attention and participation. We, as a church, can gain much with our involvement with other Congregational Churches. It supports the Wisconsin Congregational Ministers Association, the Wisconsin Congregational Theological Society, Badger Congregationalists United (a monthly group of Madison college students who meet in the Union), and the junior and senior high youth retreats and camps to name only a few of its causes. Help support Mary and Kathy by planning to attend next year's 41st Annual Meeting in Kewaunee. *
Jane Jacobson, Board of Benevolences and FCC delegate to the WCA
Teens 12 years and older are invited to participate in the summer volunteer youth program at Congregational Home, 3150 N. Lilly Rd., Brookfield.
For teens, this experience is an excellent exercise in responsibility, poise, and communication, which can be helpful for work and college applications.
Residents look forward to youthful companions to assist them with walks outside in their wheelchairs, card games, crafts and friendly visiting.
Orientation will be held Saturday, June 10 from 10 a.m.12:00 p.m. Registration is required. Please call the following number: 262-781-7300.
All-Church Pig and Chicken Roast
will be held on June 7 at 6:00 on Ridge Court Circle (behind the church), weather permitting, or in the Social Hall. Please bring either a side dish, salad or dessert. Only the first 150 pre-paid reservations will be accepted, so bring your check to the church office now! Musical entertainment is also a part of the festivities. Adults are $8; children $4.
Vacation Bible School
will be held August 711. There will be a meeting on Thursday, June 1, at 6:30 p.m. for anyone interested in helping either "front line" or behind the scenes.
Senior Women meet Mon., June 12, 11:00
(Note the change of time.) The Senior Songsters from Waukesha will present our program. We plan to have our Annual June Luncheon at 12 noon. Please call Ruth Karl, 462-6407 with reservations ($7.50 ea.) by Wednesday, June 7.
Wedding
Rachelle Rae Block & Scott Kenneth Earl Fischer were married May 13, 2000.
Birth
Camille Eileen Kostick was born May 13, 2000, to Kevin and Cynthia Kostick
Part Time Office Support Position
The church needs a part-time person (approx. 2535 hrs./wk) to assist with support activities in the office. Potential candidates need to be proficient with office software, such as word processing, spreadsheets and database management; possess general office administration skills; and have excellent people skills. If you are interested, pick up an application from the church office. Please return the application, a resume and references to the office no later than June 1.
The deadline for submitting articles for the next issue of the Columns is Monday, June 12
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
Kathryn Rust, Associate Minister
Rev. Chris Rygh, Associate Minister
Rani Gusho, Administrator
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. 9, Issue 5
