August 25, 2002
Is everyone ready to kick off a great Sunday School year? Join us and get set o begin on Rally Sunday, September 8th. We are anxious to see everyone's smiling face. A great team of teachers and volunteers is on board to help the young people of our church learn more about God. These faithful volunteers will be commissioned during the worship service.
In addition, during the worship service, some of the children who participated in this year's Vacation Bible School will be singing a few of the songs they learned.
Finally, in connection with this year's theme, "Hands to Work, Hearts to God," the children will be gathering in B6 to learn about some of the mission work the youth of our church did this summer as the "big kids" share some of their experiences with the younger children. Children should go to church with their parents first, and will be dismissed to the Social Hall during the service. Don't miss this exciting morning! *
"Faith Mountain" Vacation Bible School was held the week of August 5 through August 9. Approximately 70 children entering K5 through 6th grade spent the week learning about men and women of the Bible who pushed their faith to the limit. Each day they started with a short play and then rotated between art, snack, music and games. They also spent class time in their "base camp" tents which were set up in the Social Hall.
The culminating event was held Friday when students had the opportunity to test their extreme faith by climbing the rock wall. Adventure Rock brought the portable wall to the circle on Ridge Court. At 11:00 a special music presentation was given by the children in the Social Hall for family and friends followed by a VBS celebration picnic. During the week the children also tried to collect a mountain of toiletry items for the Morgan Scott Project located in the Appalachian Mountain Range. Special thanks to all of the many volunteers who made this such an exciting and meaningful week. *
Each day, almost imperceptibly, the days are growing shorter. Soon, for some too soon, we will be back in the ordinary routines that come with the autumn. Our lives will once again pick up the rhythm of work and school and church activities. The routines of our daily lives offer us a great deal of comfort and we should learn not to take them for granted. It is in the very ordinary things of our lives that we can discover God at work. The smallest, most commonplace activity can become the means by which God draws us close and deepens our relationship. Our task is to cultivate a sense of God's presence with us so that we can listen with the ears of our hearts for God speaking in the midst of our ordinary tasks. Such a sense of presence will make all the difference in how we grow as followers of Jesus Christ.
In the sixth chapter of Matthew's Gospel, Jesus offers some profound words on cultivating the Divine presence and living in true simplicity. Jesus reminds us of God's care for the "birds of the air" and the "lilies of the field" and that God's care for us is even greater because our Heavenly Father knows our needs (Matthew 6:23-32). He says that we are to, "seek first God's kingdom and God's righteousness, and all these things shall be yours as well" (Matthew 6:33). The Shakers heard this message and put it this way, "Hands to work and Hearts to God."
Our theme for Rally Sunday, and for the whole programming year ahead, is that marvelous motto: Hands to Work and Hearts to God. There is much to do here at First Congregational Church. The summer has been good and now it is time for us to establish our routines and to grow together in fresh and new ways. So, we put our hands to work, and as we do, we open our hearts to God. The small things we do around here, helping at a dinner, becoming involved in a clean-up day, taking the time to call someone we've not seen at church for a while (and the list could go on and on) all become ways that we become aware of God's presence and love. While our work can become a prayer the great spiritual teachers tell us that we shouldn't forget the importance of prayer. If we are offering our hearts to God, then we should be taking some time however brief to pray, to read a passage of Scripture and do some other spiritual reading. Hands to Work and Hearts to God also implies our growth through study.
My first three months at First Church have been wonderful. I look forward to all of us growing in God's love together as we turn Hands to Work and Hearts to God. As ever:
Yours for the Congregational Way,
Steve
Rev. Steven A. Peay, Ph.D.
Senior Minister
First Church has been working toward becoming increasingly supportive of activities at the Congregational Home. One area in which assistance is needed involves leading the congregation in hymns at the church services on Sundays. For two months, Carol Wittig has helped in this area. "I'm definitely not a vocal soloist," said Carol, "but just being there and standing to let the congregation know it's time for a hymn helps jump start the group."
It is also the responsibility of the song leader to find people who are willing to offer their musical talents to enhance the church service. They have enjoyed the talents of a women's quartet as well as soloists on cello, saxophone and viola.
Carol Wittig is interested in talking to anyone who has a musical talent to share. Any volunteers will be most appreciated and welcomed by the residents as well as Rev. Goldsmith. If you are interested, please call Carol at 771-6459. *
Rally Sunday is September 8, 2002. Each year, Rally Sunday marks the beginning of a new church programming year, and with it, the excitement and anticipation of the coming year. This year promises to be a special one. It marks the opening of a new and dynamic chapter in our church's life and story.
It is our responsibility, both individually and collectively, to discover ways in which we can serve our gathered congregation. Have you considered singing in one of our choirs?
The choirs rehearse on Thursday evenings and sing each Sunday. The Pilgrim Choir sings weekly at the 8:45 service. The Chancel Choir sings at the 11:00 service. The Pilgrim Choir rehearses on Thursdays from 6:45 p.m. to 7:55 p.m. and the Chancel Choir rehearses from 8:00 p.m. to 8:55 p.m.
It has been said that two great benefits a person receives as a church choir singer are: 1) As you sing, you lift your faith; and 2) you always have a reserved seat on Christmas and Easter.
We cordially welcome new singers. Please consider this carefully. If interested, please notify the church office at 414-258-7375 so folders, music and other details are set for you. Our first rehearsal will be Thursday, September 5, 2002.
The new programming year brings with it a number of opportunities for adult education and spiritual growth. The Sunday morning offerings will be taking on a new appearance and a new name this September. "First Things At First" will offer a variety of topics by experienced presenters on a rotating schedule. The first Sunday of each month will be given to a Biblical topic. The second Sunday will take up some aspect of church history. The third Sunday will explore some aspect of religious tradition. The fourth Sunday will be devoted to some topic of current interest or applied faith. The fifth Sundays will be more of an 'open mike' or 'everything you always wanted to ask' days. The 10 AM gatherings will be held in the Social Hall with participants seated around tables (and with coffee and refreshments also available). Classes begin September 22.
Wednesday evenings will be devoted to the various series, classes, and small group studies that are already meeting, or are waiting to be formed. Wednesday noons, beginning October 2nd, there will be a brief worship service in Memorial Chapel followed by "Spirituality on Rye" at 12:30. The "Spirituality on Rye" sessions will be led by Dr. Peay. You are invited to 'brown bag it' (drinks and perhaps a dessert will be provided). The real nourishment at these luncheon sessions will be discussion on some aspect of Spirituality.
As the year unfolds there will be more and more opportunities opening up. Watch the Sunday Bulletin and the Congregationalist for topics, presenters, and schedules. If you don't see what you're looking for, contact Dr. Peay, Rev. Rygh, or a member of the Christian Education Board. We're out to put Hands to Work and Hearts to God; come along and join us!
VBS travels to CH
On Sunday, August 11th, 21 children sang at the Congregational Home's church service. Directed by Michelle Russ, they sang the songs they learned earlier in the week at Vacation Bible School. The residents were delighted to see so many smiling children singing with such enthusiasm. Thanks to all who participated.
Congregational Home Variety Show
Calling all grade school children! Join us on Thursday, October 10, at 6:30 p.m. as we put on a Variety Show at Congregational Home. To be part of this fun and exciting evening, call Carla or Carrie at 414-258-7375.
K.I.S.S. helps at Congregational Home
The program "Kids in Special Service" or K.I.S.S. was implemented last September and it is a volunteer program for the teens of our church to help the residents at the Congregational Home. Twice a month, Carol Witting transports teens to the Home to assist the residents by transporting them to the church service at 11:00 a.m. and then take them back to their rooms after it is over.
This has proven to be a very positive program for residents and teens alike. Additionally, the generations are getting to know one another through wonderful conversations to and fro.
The staff is very thankful for the helping hands morning schedules are very busy and any help is much appreciated. If any other teens are interested in volunteering, please call Carol Wittig, 771-6459 and you will be added to the list.
We welcome our newest members.
Mary Beth and Carey Adams were introduced to First Church by friends and members David and Jennifer Wareham. Mary Beth is a sales manager for UPS and Carey is a student. The couple is expecting their first child in December.
Milwaukee residents, Mary Beth and Carey are active in the community, including involvement with the Channel 10 Auction, Children's Hospital Miracle Network, and Metcalfe Park clean-up.
Dr. Deborah Harding and Daniel Johnson live in Greendale. Deborah is a principal in the Antioch school system and Dan is a computer software instructor at MATC/WCTC. They will be married here at the church in September. Deborah is interested in teaching adult education classes and Dan is interested in helping as a liturgist. They have known Doug Lobb for several years.
Donna Cummings is the mother of member Bill Cummings. Donna lives in Brookfield and is retired. She joined at the same time as her friend, Ted McQuillin.Ted lives in Greenfield and is also retired; however, he has served as a volunteer fireman for several years.
Heather and Andy Schueler are residents of Wauwatosa who drove by the Church one day and decided to stop in. Now we welcome them as new members. Heather is a chiropractor with Falls Medical and Andy is a chiropractor with a clinic in Saukville.
Julia and Bladen Burns, also residents of Tosa, were introduced to the church by the Hawthornes, Cummings and Warehams. Julia is an Organizational Development Consultant with Talen Genesis and Bladen works in Institutional Sales with Strong Capitol Management. Julia volunteers with the Milwaukee Achiever Program.
Kerri Christianson lives in Brookfield and Michael Simmons lives in Milwaukee. Introduced to the church by Connie and Harold Simmons (Michael's parents), the couple plans to be married in the coming year. Kerri is a Senior Financial Specialist with Northwestern Mutual and Michael is a Portfolio Manager with Simmons Financial Management.
PLEASE NOTE THAT THE DATE HAS BEEN CHANGED TO SATURDAY,
OCTOBER 19TH, 2002.
Please place this date on your calendar and join us for a day of fellowship
and the great First Church tradition, food.
The fun will start at 9:00 am. * Lunch will be served at about 1:00.
The day should finish at 3:00 pm. Childcare is provided and there's plenty of work both inside and out!
Come for part or all, either way your help will be appreciated.
Watch for futher details!
The Communications Committee wants to enhance the information and enjoyment you receive in the monthly newsletter. Starting with this issue, a new feature in the First Congregational Columns will be the recipe of the month. By gathering the favorite recipes of our members and friends we will have a bounteous participation in the cookbook being produced by the National Association of Congregational Christian Churches. The cookbook is being created in celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the NA in 2004.
Does your family have a favorite supper dish or dessert? Is there an historic recipe you have received from your grandmother? Have you created a special treat that you would share with others? Please send in your recipe, with a brief story as to how the recipe came about, to be published in future issues of the Columns.
Our first contributor is Julie Peay, wife of our Senior Minister. Her selection is "Cranberry Yam Bake " and she states: "This is one of the recipes that Donna L. Weihofen, R.D. M.S. selected for her book Mom's Updated Recipe Box published in 2000. Donna is a well known nutritionist and lecturer at the University of Wisconsin Madison Comprehensive Cancer Center. She is featured regularly on local and national television shows and has authored other publications. Steve and I first met Donna at a wedding reception. Her down to earth manner and appreciation for the presentation of our dinner made us curious. She was the only one at the wedding photographing the food!! We have used her book for suppers at home as well as large gatherings. This one has been a crowd pleaser and I hope others will enjoy it as well."
Cranberry Yam Bake
Serves 6
2 tablespoons flour
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup quick-cooking oats, uncooked
3 tablespoons butter or margarine, melted
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
29 ounces canned yams or sweet potatoes, drained
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Butter a 1 1/2-quart casserole. In a medium bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, oats, butter, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir until well mixed. Add cranberries and yams. Toss gently. Spoon into casserole. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes or until cranberries have popped and are tender.
Note: I have doubled and quadrupled the recipe with great results. Also, it can be baked ahead and warmed in the Microwave oven when needed.
Nutritional information per serving:
Calories 275
Fat, gm. 6
Protein, gm. 4
Carbohydrate, gm. 51
Cholesterol, mg. 5
Fiber high
20022003
Time: 9:00 a.m.
$5.00 per person
DATES
September 7, 2002 Molly O'Connell
"From the Womb to the Tomb"
October 5, 2002 Rachel Olson
"Behind the Scenes of Greater Milwaukee"
November 2, 2002
"Nurturing Your Mind, Body and Spirit"
January 4, 2003 Pat Schwai
"Unexpected Blessings"
February 1, 2003 Louise Hedrick
"Antique Dolls and Miniatures"
March 1, 2003 Acacia Theater
April 5, 2003 Lynette Lehmann
"Spring into the Garden"
May 3, 2003 TBA
Mark your calendar! Invite a friend!
Join us for an exciting year ahead!!!
ATTENTION, all First Church member families! The Communications Committee needs your talents and creativity. They are in the process of updating all of the Church's written communications and promotional materials with a fresh new look. Rather than hiring a public relations company to do this work, the Committee chose to seek out the talents of First Church members and ask for participation in a contest.
The contest will have two distinct parts which will be judged separately
by the Communications Committee.
1) Design a black and white line drawing of our church steeple which the Committee feels is our "trademark." Include only the steeple, not the church. The design must be vertical and drawn with black ink on an 8 x 10 sheet of white paper. Do not fold it.
2) Write a tag-line or "slogan" which captures the spirit of First
Congregational Church. The tag-line may contain no more than six key words. (You need not count the, a, an, of, and, etc.) Our current tag line is "An Historic Church with a Relevant Message."
* Entrants for both contests must be members of our church family.
* You may enter either contest or both, but please limit your entries to three per person.
* Entries must be delivered to the First Congregational Church office and received no later than 5:00 p.m., November 1, 2002. Attach your name and phone number to entries.
* Your participation in this contest is truly a service to your faith community and a gift of your time and talents.
* By entering this contest you are (i) agreeing to transfer to First Congregational Church all rights for the Church to use your entry, without cost or recognition, and (ii) acknowledging that all decisions of the selection committee are final.
Summer has been a busy time for the facility staff. Several projects were recently completed with more in the works.
Replacement of the front sign.
Volunteers constructed a new sign and sign post to replace the deteriorating one that resides in front of the church
Men's restroom
The lower level. Men's restroom repairs and remodeling are complete. The restroom now has two new urinals with sensor controls on the flush cycle and a new ceramic tile floor. The sinks and the toilet were rebuilt with new parts to improve their operation and lower maintenance cost.
Child care rooms.
The Nursery and the 2-year-old room have been completely renovated. New ceilings and light fixtures provide a brighter and more uniform light level at reduced electrical usage. There are new sinks and cabinets. New play and nursery equipment were added to provide a safer environment for the children. The wall to wall carpet provides a comfortable play surface for the children. New tile at the sinks and doors provides easier cleanup of water splashes and winter traffic mess.
The windows have been returned to working condition so they can be opened for ventilation as the outside weather permits.
Nave/Social Hall air conditioning
The Nave/Social Hall air conditioning system has a new compressor and other parts that have returned it to a fully reliable and functional system.
West property line fence
The fence along the west property line of the parking lot was replaced. First Church provided the lumber and other materials. The three neighbors abutting the church property provided the design and the labor.
Projects in the works.
* Painting of the east side of
the church.
* Repair and painting of the nave ceiling.
* Repair of the floor and replacement of the carpet in the first floor halls.
* Replacement of the column bases on the west porch.
* Repair and resurfacing of the parking lot.
* Consideration of the need for increased handicap and disabled parking.
* An information kiosk for members to find out 'what is going on' and 'how to get there from here'.
* Improved signs for finding the many rooms in the building.
"Experiencing God: Knowing and Doing the Will of God" is the new series which will be used by the Women's Bible Study group.
This small group study not only helps you to know and do God's will,
but helps you to understand the importance of His timing
as well.
The series will begin on September 11, meeting at 7:00 on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of each month. It is a video and workbook format. Workbooks will be available the first night for $13.00, but pre-registration is very helpful for ordering purposes. Call the church office at 258-7375.
Any woman from confirmation-age on up is encouraged to attend.
Alzheimer's Support Group
Staff at Congregational Home have started an Alzheimer's/Dementia Support Group, and would like to invite family and friends of individuals with Alzheimer's or a related dementia to attend our meetings.
The meetings are to provide support and to educate individuals who have loved ones with Alzheimer's/Dementia. Families and friends face day to day challenges and could benefit from support of others who have gone through the same type of experiences.
On the third Tuesday of the month at 3:00, the support group meets in
the Chapel of Congregational Home. The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday,
August 20th at
3:00 p.m.
If you are interested in attending our group, please call Meredith Turner, Director of Social Services or Denise Kwiatkowski, RN coordinator at 262-781-0550.
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,
Barb Dunham, Rod Schmidt, Bill Edens,
Arlette Lindbergh, Bill Edens
*
Rev. Steven Peay, Ph. D., Minister
Rev. Chris Rygh, Associate Minister
Rev. Charles Goldsmith, Ph.D.
Congregational Home Chaplain
Rani Gusho, Administrator
Lee Jacobi, Director of Music
Betty Dethmers, Organist
Sally Boyle, Secretary
Anne Callen, Office Manager
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 8
