January 27, 2002
Church Vision Statement Approved
FCC to Participate in Olympic Games
Kathy Koch, Back By Popular Demand
Looking Ahead to Spring Spruce-Up
Over the past year, the Long-Range Planning Committee worked on revising our ten-year-old vision statement to bring it current with new goals. The committee requested input from all members. The following statement reflects our vision for this church as passed at the Annual Meeting.
As members of the church serving in the Congregational Way, we desire the church to be a living, breathing, and integral part of our daily lives where everyone can:
The Constitution states that our purpose shall be "to bind together followers of Jesus Christ for the object of sharing in the worship of God and in making His will dominant in the lives of people, especially as that will is set forth in the life and teachings of Jesus Christ."
In keeping with this purpose, our Covenant Statement reads: "As followers of Jesus Christ, we commit ourselves to share in the worship and service of God, to grow in the knowledge and expression of our faith, to reach out with compassion to those in need, to treat each other with love and understanding, and to return to God a portion of His gifts." *
A recording of our church choir will be heard at a Prayer Service at the Winter Olympic Games in Salt Lake City later this month.
Gail Tanger, a very active member of First Congregational Church, is also a member of the International Olympic Committee. At Gail's request, the choir has recorded the piece used each Sunday as a Benediction Response, here entitled, "Go Now In Peace." This brief selection means much to Gail, and she asked if it could be recorded for use in Salt Lake City. She told Choir Director Lee Jacobi that it would be significant to her to take a part of her church with her to Salt Lake City.
On a Thursday evening between rehearsals of the Pilgrim and Chancel Choirs, the singers gathered in the sanctuary. Bob Hedrick brought recording equipment and has subsequently produced a compact disc for use in Utah.
We all extend a heartfelt "Thank You" to Gail Tanger for the opportunity for our church to participate directly in this year's Olympic Games! We wish her Godspeed. *
Koch Offers Special Workshop for Educators
On Tuesday, February 12, Kathy Koch will present a targeted workshop for Sunday School teachers, youth workers and anyone interested in working with children and youth. The focus of this particular workshop will be on motivating children to learn and succeed. "All of us are motivated," writes Koch, "but we might not all be motivated to learn and succeed. We've all met children, teens, even adults, who are motivated to fail, motivated to remain apathetic, or motivated to get into trouble." In this seminar, workshop attendees will encounter some practical, realistic, and helpful ideas to get and keep people motivated to learn and succeed.
"Though we are targeting our teaching staff," said Chris Rygh, Associate Minister, "this is really a program that has wide appeal. For example, parents may want to attend, or teachers who are working in secular settings may want to come. I think anyone who manages people would probably find this 90-minute program empowering."
Kathy grew up at First Congregational Church before pursuing a career as a teacher and reading professor. Eventually, she formed her own company called Celebrate Kid's. For close to 10 years now, Kathy has been teaching and motivating students, teachers, and parents through her powerful talks.
A second, intergenerational program also offered
Saturday evening, February 16, Kathy Koch will return to First Church for an intergenerational program entitled Life Changing Answers. All of us have five significant needs that can each be represented by a question Security: Who do I trust? Identity: Who am I? Belonging: Who wants me? Purpose: Why am I alive? Competence: What do I do well? Dr. Koch will discuss why these needs are important, why the order is significant, how the questions and their answers are interlocking and interactive, and how to work through these questions. "Regardless of your age," said Chris Rygh, "you'll connect with Kathy. She has a remarkable ability to reach out to her audiences and to draw them in-- school-age children and adults."
Two years ago, Kathy visited First Church and delivered a program entitled, How Are You Smart? in which she surveyed nine different learning styles "What struck me about her visit here last time," said Rygh, "is that everyone left feeling very affirmed. She used lots of humor and offered tons of practical application. She's just a great communicator. I can't say enough good things about Kathy and her special ministry of encouragement!"
Please sign up now in the church office if you plan to attend. Though there is no charge, we want to ensure that we have enough seating and refreshments. The program will be Saturday, February 16, starting with a reception at 6:30. The program will begin at 7:00 and last approximately 90 minutes. Guests are welcome; you are invited to bring your friends and neighbors! Childcare will be available for younger children in the nursery. *
There is no fee for attending this workshop & program, however, we ask that you make a reservation in the church office if you plan to come. A light dessert reception will start at 6:30 with the workshop to begin at 7:00. Childcare will be provided in the nursery. *
Lenten Growth
In their wisdom, scholars of old have organized the liturgical year in a wonderful fashion. Not only does the organization allow one to follow the life of Christ from the promise of his birth to death and ascension, but also the development of the Christian Church and the ministry of the early believers.
Beyond this, the emotions and realities of human life are addressed. In our lives, circumstances come upon us that seem powerful and undaunting. There are times when we are overwhelmed and see no way out of the events to which we are captive.
It is at such times when the truth of the gospel comes upon us with power, if we will allow that to happen. Only when we face the crucifixions of our own lives and allow them to die are we able to experience the reality of resurrection. Grasping this truth enables one to bask in the sheer glory of Easter.
Each of us, if we are honest, has to deal with the reality of the presence of doubts in our lives. Only automatons or non- thinkers escape this. This aspect of life exists both in and outside the Church. We will try to explore, during the Sundays of Lent, how this dilemma can be understood so that growth can occur.
I invite you now, to make worship during Lent a high priority in your schedule. I invite you to struggle with these seemingly opposites so that you will truly revel in the miracle and reality of Easter. *
Rev. Dr. Doug Lobb
The Search Committee, in line with its objective, to find and recommend a candidate for Senior Minister for First Congregational Church, sponsored an open meeting between services on Sunday, December 2nd, to inform the congregation of its progress and to field questions from interested members.
More than 70 names of candidates recommended by members and friends of the church are being considered in the process of screening credentials, scheduling interviews, and then making any necessary visitations, and finally determining recommendations to be presented to the Church Council.
In January and February, 2002, a selected group of final candidates is being considered, and candidates are being interviewed individually. Additional interviews with candidates and spouses are the usual "next step" in the process, and those are now being determined.
The Search Committee has received recommendations for candidates living in widely-diversified parts of the United States and even in other countries. Candidates are being considered regardless of their prior denominational service.
Although no firm date for presentation to the Church Council is possible in light of the various contingencies made necessary by individual circumstances in the lives of candidates, the Search Committee hopes to make a final recommendation to the Church Council by Spring, 2002. Pending approval and recommendation by the Council, the candidate then would be presented for approval to the congregation, in a meeting which will be open to all members. *
Kathryn Rust, our Associate Minister for the past two and one half years, has been called to be the Senior Minister of First Congregational Church in Mukwonago.
Kathy, a native of this area, entered the ministry after careers as a teacher and then a legal administrator for several major law firms. Leaving the legal field, she enrolled at Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary in Evanston IL, graduating with a Master of Divinity degree. After an interim ministry at Rochester, WI, Kathy was called to First Church Wauwatosa in July of 1999. Her duties here have been in the areas of pastoral care, adult education, outreach and liturgy.
Dr. Lobb stated that as Interim Minister, he has greatly enjoyed working with Kathy who is bright, hard working, and cooperative. She will, he adds, bring quality leadership, teaching and care to the Mukwonago congregation. We are all grateful for and appreciative of her ministry in our midst and pray that her tenure in Mukwonago will be both rewarding and satisfying.
Kathy will begin as the minister in Mukwonago on February 4. She will be the morning preacher here at First Church on February 3, and will be honored with a reception between the two morning services. Wish Kathy well in this exciting new chapter in her career. *
by Amanda Collis
Two days after Christmas, at 2am, twelve members of this congregation (nine youth group members and three chaperones), their luggage, a big van, and Rev. Chris Rygh (as chauffeur) all met in the church parking lot to set off toward a land unknown to us, where we would meet with thirteen other travelers from North Shore, Beloit, and Chicago-area Congregational Churches and head to Mission Mazahua, located 3 hours outside of Mexico City. Most of us, occupied with preparations for Christmas, had put off packing until the night before. Most of us could answer few questions about where we were headed and what we might experience. We knew it would be cold at night. We knew we had to drink plenty of (bottled) water to avoid dehydration. We knew dollars were worth more than pesos -- that was about it.
With so little of which to be certain, what did we encounter? If you missed them in church on January 13, Tom and Kandice Udesky, Jeremy and Ryan Schowalter, Christy Pozayt, and Caitlin O'Meara shared some of their experiences. Christy and Tom recap a little for you here:
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From Christy Pozayt:
I was one of the many who were able to go to Mexico. I will have to say that going to Mexico was one of the best times of my life. It makes me feel good to know how much we helped those who are in need. I want to continue to do that throughout my life. In Mexico, we met some of the most awesome people, and we had a chance to share our faith and worship with the local people. In addition to our contribution of labor, the opportunity to share faith was one of the greatest things that we could have experienced. Since I have been back, I know what I want to do in school and my life: study to be a missionary. I want to continue to help those in need and share my faith with others. Thank you for all the support and help.
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From Tom Udesky:
On this trip, I intended to give my services to God and the mission but ended up taking away many things from this experience. It changed my life so completely that I believe it may never be the same. I was inspired, I was challenged, and most of all, I saw the importance of life right before my eyes. I was in the midst of people doing phenomenal things. Lisa and Norberto Cortes, the owners of the mission, have solely dedicated their lives to the work of this mission. Every day, they work their fingers to the bone, attempting to better the lives of others. They have given many Mexican students hope, helping them find meaning in their lives.
Having had this experience, I now know that it isn't what you do or what you have in your life that is important; it is how you live your life and how you make use of the gifts God has given you to do His will. More importantly, I developed a deeper connection with God. In the past, I have not always had this; honestly, I have doubted the existence of God and the validity of religion. However, there is no longer a question in my mind. The things I have witnessed and been part of would never have happened without God. With the help of the passionate words of Norberto, I now know that I must perform the will of God. God has given me specific gifts and I believe there are specific actions that I must take. I look at life so differently now. I would encourage anyone, if given the chance, to take advantage of a mission opportunity such as this one. I would suspect that even if you went into it just trying to serve God, you would come out of it with a better understanding of life.
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As for me, the trip was also moving in too many ways to describe. But one of the most inspirational aspects was experiencing the honest desire of the youth of this church to be a part of God's plan and be His faithful servants. It was a joy to be a part of their laughter (of which there was a great deal), to see them hard at work, and to be included in their lives (if only for a week) and it gave me great hope that God's words are heard and heeded. As Rev. Rygh would say, "They put a smile on God's face."
All who went-- Parker Hoerz, Diana Kelling, Caitlin and Leslie O'Meara, Christy Pozayt, Will Quinn, Jeremy and Ryan Schowalter, Thomas Udesky, Diane Schowalter, Kandice Udesky, and I (Amanda Collis)-- would like to profoundly thank the congregation of this church for the spiritual and financial support. I'm sure we helped the mission in Mexico, but I personally feel as if I received more than I gave. The Lord calls us to be His servants, and these students answered His call. *
"And then I head the voice of the Lord saying, 'Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?' Then I said,
'Here am I! Send me.'"
(Is. 6.8)
The new year, 2002, got off to a wonderful start for Breakfast with the Girls with another visit from Rev. Holly Whitcomb. So many of you have told us what a great morning it was for you. We all pray that a year which has started so positively will continue in the same way!
And speaking of positive things, what could be more positive as well as fun than Barbara Brown Lee, our program leader for February 2? Barbara fascinated us all last year with her slide show and commentary on the Milwaukee Art Museum's religious collection. Her fun personality charmed even those of us who come from an "I know what I like" mind set (that would be me!). Don't miss this morning if you can help it, since with the Calatrava addition in place, she will surely have much to share.
Also, please consider participating with us in planning next year's Breakfasts! We do want to have a "next year" and new folks and new ideas would be so very welcome. See you all in February; bring a friend, and sign up please. *
Char Schweitzer
The fall workday was a great success. More than 40 members participated, accomplishing a lot of cleaning, fixing and fellowship.
The spring workday or "Spring Spruce-up" is still a way in the future. But, it is time for a gentle reminder. Please set aside Saturday, May 11 from 9 am3 pm on your 2002 calendar for our Spring Spruce-up. Lunch and babysitting will be provided. The outdoor activities are, as always, on a weather permitting basis. The rain date is May 19.
The following list identifies some of the areas in which your help is
welcomed:
Outside activities
Inside projects
Special skills
On February 17th Bill and Kathleen Sonnentag Brenckle will share a variety of musical styles for voice and guitar. they have been performing together since they were married in 1993. Sunday's selections will include songs from the Civil War era, old time gospel favorites, traditional and contemporary ballads, and perhaps even an Irish fiddle tune or two.
Bill Brenckle plays finger-style guitar, a solo guitar style which combines classic guitar technique with popular music styles. His repertoire includes traditional music from America and the British Isles as well as solo pieces by contemporary guitarists. Bill also plays bluegrass guitar with several bands around the Milwaukee area.
Kathleen Sonnentag Brenckle is best known for her work as a classical singer. She has soloed with numerous orchestras and opera companies both in the Midwest and abroad. For this second 4 o'clock concert of the season, however, she will leave her classical shoes at home. Kathleen has sung a number of times at First Congregational Church for the Sunday worship service. She enjoys exploring various musical styles with her husband.
The Brenckles welcomed their first child, Benjamin into the world in mid-September. Since then, practicing has
been a real challenge! Nonetheless, they are happy to be presenting this musical collection at First Congregational Church. * 
New Member Classes
Classes for those exploring the possibility of membership will be held February 10, 17 & 24. We will welcome new members on March 3. Classes will be held in the Parlor (2nd Floor, next to the Social Hall) at 10 am.
Circle 8
will meet at the Congregational Home on Tuesday, February 5, at 1:00 p.m. Bring a sandwich. After lunch, we will play Bunco with the residents.
Pam Parker is the new coordinator for the St. Vincent Meal program. Groups or individual volunteers willing to serve a Friday meal should contact Pam at 414-475-0044.
Going, Going, Gone!
Don't let this year's dinner/auction pass you by. Gourmet Italian Dinner served by John Sgarlata is sure to please the palette. Then sit back and get ready to have some fun during our annual auction. This year promises to be even better than last year, with more travel and performing arts packages up for grabs! Keith Harmon will be the presiding auctioneer.
Come join the fun on March 16th, 2002. Reservations are required, so please stop by the office and get your name put on the list.
PF fund raisers are a big hit!
Congratulations to PFers who managed to raise more than $500 in the holiday babysitting and gourmet coffee sale fund raising events. A "thank you" to all who participated.
The deadline for submitting articles for the next issue of the Columns is
www.FirstChurchTosa.org
Editor, Beth Linscott
Communications Committee
Mary York - Chairperson,
Nancy Fisher, Sue Rowbottom,
De McDermott,
Bill Edens
*
Rev. Dr. Douglas Lobb, Interim Minister
Rev. Kathryn Rust, Associate Minister
Rev. Chris Rygh, Associate Minister
Rev. Dr. Charles Goldsmith,
Congregational Home Chaplain
Rani Gusho, Administrator
Lee Jacobi, Director of Music
Betty Dethmers, Organist
Michelle Jackson, Parish Nurse
Sally Boyle, Secretary
Nancy Grundle, Secretary
Anne Callen, Secretary
Charles Nelson, Administrator, Congregational Home, Inc.
Rev. Dr. Norman S. Ream, Minister Emeritus
*
Congregational Columns (USPS 010-493) is published monthly by The First Congregational Church of Wauwatosa, 1511 Church St., Wauwatosa, WI 53213-2593, 414/258-7375. Periodical Postage Paid at Milwaukee, WI 53203-9998. Postmaster: Send address changes to Congregational Columns, 1511 Church St., Wauwatosa, WI 53213-2593.
Vol. 11, Issue 1
