November 2023 FYI Deadline: Friday, October 20
Congregational Concerns
Consecration Sunday is November 5, but what does that mean?
Consecration means to make holy or to dedicate to a higher purpose. Each year we gather to consecrate our gifts both of time and financial resources for the coming year. On this special Sunday in November, you are encouraged to place your pledge in the offering plate during the worship service for the consecration of your time, talent, and financial commitments. If you mail in your pledge or drop it in the offering plate earlier than November 5, your pledge will still be represented in the consecration on Nov 5.
Consecration Sunday has often only focused on our financial gifts. But our church would not exist in its current state without the valuable time our volunteers give so generously. We also recognize our volunteers on this Sunday for their gift of time during the past year and their continuing gift of time in the coming year.
Congregations that approach financial stewardship from a biblical perspective do not view the money Christians give to their church merely as a way to pay its bills, but as a way to help people grow spiritually in their relationship with God by supporting their church’s mission and ministry with a percentage or portion of their incomes.
In the time leading up to this special Sunday, we encourage you to seek God’s wisdom with your time and financial resources. Giving should not bring a feeling of compulsion but should bring a feeling of joy knowing that no matter what you consecrate to God’s higher purpose it will be blessed and multiplied by God.
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” (Romans 15:13 NIV)
As we approach the 2024 Stewardship campaign, we recognize the stormy times that we have come through. We thankfully continue to worship in the Sanctuary each week and have listened to a variety of pastors who grace our pulpit each Sunday. We have vocalized the many “God Moments” throughout the year that we have experienced in our lives and in the life of this church. We know the Holy Spirit is with us. Just as Jesus calmed the storm and reassured the disciples, God is surely guiding us safely to fulfill FPCF’s destiny in our community and in the world.
In her book, “Sailboat Church,” the author, Joan S. Gray, compares rowboat and sailboat churches. We row when we believe that God left us alone to do the work of church by ourselves, and if the church can keep rowing and stay afloat, people are often reluctant to do anything else. Rowing means we are in control, and we are getting the job done. But are we, really?
A sailboat church has sails spread wide, allowing the wind of the Holy Spirit to move the church where God wants it to go. For Stewardship 2024, let’s challenge ourselves to drop the oars and put up the sails!
Please consider prayerfully and courageously how you can support First Presbyterian Church of Farmington during this Stewardship Campaign as we venture forth on the course that God has set for this church. We are just like the disciples on that boat with Jesus. Just as Jesus calmed the storm for them, he will do that for us. And while we may want to comfortably stay on shore, a sailboat church is not built to stay safe at dock but meant to be out at sea, in the world, as the Holy Spirit leads.
As we move forward, keep in mind the tenets of sailing a ship: While we cannot harness the wind (the Holy Spirit), we can adjust our sails (through prayer and trusting in God’s provision) to reach the shore that God is directing us towards (through discernment).
God, through the power at work within us, can do abundantly far more than we could ever ask or imagine. (Ephesians 3:21)
Prayerfully, Your Session Members
From the Stewardship Committee
News from the Transitional Pastor Search Committee (TPSC)
Members: Dorothy Tait (Secretary), Sally Kirsten, Bob Van Hamme, Marc Hemmye, Colleen Tavor (Chair), Michelle James (COM Liaison)
We wish we had better news but there have not been any matches from the system for 3 weeks and no self-referrals, so we do not have any profiles to review or candidates to interview. The unfortunate truth is that there just are not that many Transitional Pastors available, and we expect that may be true for Permanent Pastors as well when we begin to look for one. Pastors are retiring or leaving the profession and fewer individuals are going into the pastorate profession.
That is why a Pray-A-Thon was organized, which took place on Tuesday, September 26, 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Many congregation members joined together in prayer, in the sanctuary or at home, to pray for a Transitional Pastor, the TPSC Committee, as well as our pastor supply. There is power in prayer, and we believe that God will hear us.
Message from MJ and Pulpit Supply
I will never be a Biblical scholar, but I have read enough of the Good Book to know that God walks beside me and is always near when I need Him. I have been arranging Pulpit Supply for close to a year now and I can say the work that goes into it has, at times, tested my faith.
Admittedly, I am a bit of a perfectionist, so when things aren’t moving as quickly as I would like, my anxiety level rises exponentially. Watching the calendar dates, sending emails that often don’t get answered, explaining bulletin details, and trying to develop a friendly rapport with those we are blessed to get as speakers, can be trying at times.
However, I have experienced so many wonderful moments along this journey. I know that God has helped put so many incredible people in my path. And when things get crazy, I remind myself that God has a plan and I hear a voice telling me to breathe.
I have learned to pray better, accept that not everything will turn out the way I would like, and have learned to be grateful for each new, and sometimes unexpected, situation that comes along. I love my church, my church family for their support and the prayers given going forth with this process. ~MJ Floreno
Fall Fest Fun – The Pictures Say It All
Leadership Training – Elders and Deacons
Save the Date – Saturday, Oct 21, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
All Elders and Deacons are invited to attend Leadership Training on Saturday, October 21, 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. to be held in person in Knox Hall. A light lunch will be served. The training will be held by Beth Buelow and Dorsey Sherman, the two consultants that are working with FPCF on the Healing & Visioning Workshops to be held September – November. So far, Beth and Dorsey have held five Listening Circles, which were held in September.
The Leadership Training will be held in October, and, in November, two workshops will be held and open to the entire congregation. We encourage you to participate in this rare opportunity as we move forward as a united church.
September 2023 Session Highlights
The FPCF September Session meeting was held on September 20, 2023. Good news was reported by the Treasurer that the year-to-date revenue versus expenses remains positive. The next step will be for the various ministries and committees to plan their 2024 budgets. The Property Ministry gave an update on the paving of the parking lot and upcoming safety checks of the building.
Session approved a request for the Cantata Academy Chorale to use the sanctuary for a concert on Saturday, May 4, 2024, at 7:00 p.m., and approved sending out the first letter to the congregation on the 2023 Stewardship Campaign.
The Clerk of Session reported there were 105 people in attendance at the September 10 Communion Worship Service, which was the same day as the very successful Fall Fest. Any requests for Home Communion can be submitted to the Board of Deacons. The Healing and Visioning sessions started this month with a series of Listening Circles to be followed in October by a Leadership Development Workshop for Elders and Deacons and then in November with open workshops for the entire congregation.
A Town Hall was held on August 27 with a Transitional Pastor Search Committee update and Q&A time. The Deacons then led a group activity to create (23) cards which were mailed to elderly and shut-in church members. The next Town Hall is scheduled for Sunday, October 22, 2023, after the worship service.
The next Session meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, October 11, 2023.
Property Update
Sanctuary Pew Project: We have finished repairing, sanding, staining, and sealing the ends of the pews in the Sanctuary. Special thanks to Steve Caito for his expertise, time, and materials to replace many pieces of damaged wood veneer.
Brittany Road Project: The Brittany Road construction project is now completed, and we can use it again. The contractor that rented several areas of the church property is starting to clean up the areas that they were using. As part of the rental agreement, they have milled (removing 2 inches of asphalt) and paved our Brittany driveway. We have also received the agreed cash amount. Over and beyond our agreement, they have milled and repaved several other areas in our parking lot. Another part of our agreement states that they will repair the areas of our lawn used to store construction supplies. This is yet to be completed. The church paid nothing, other than our inconvenience this summer. Thank you for your patience.
Building Security: All members and groups that use the building must make sure the building is secure after their meeting. This means all doors are locked when the meeting is over. Do not assume that someone else will be locking the doors. Please make sure that each group, circle, meeting, etc. assigns one person to be in charge of locking the doors upon leaving the building.
How are our Utility Expenses doing against our Budget? (Through August)
Electric: Spent $8,689 YTD vs Budgeted for 2023 of $12,000
Gas: Spent $9,268 YTD vs Budgeted for 2023 of $11,000
Water: Spent $1,062 YTD vs Budgeted for 2023 of $1,500
Dumpster: Spent $715 YTD vs Budgeted for 2023 of $2,000
Upcoming Events and Mission Opportunities
Arts &Crafts Show – Crafters and Bakers Wanted
Returning by popular demand is the First Pres Arts and Crafts Show, a fundraiser for our worship and music ministry
Mark your calendar now for Saturday, October 28 from 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. and Sunday after worship from 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
The Mission Ministry Team will host a bake sale to raise funds for a Mission project. FPCF bakers are welcome to contribute all types of baked goods or jams/jellies.
To exhibit, request an application to reserve an 8’x8’ booth for both days for $45; $5 more for to add electricity. The attendance fee is $2:00 per day for visitors.
For additional information, contact Deborah Dunne Draper and MJ Floreno.
Luxury Items also Available at Craft Fair
A generous donor has donated some of her lovely luxury items to be sold at the Oct. 28 event. All of the proceeds from this special sale will go to the music program. Items include Coach purses (guaranteed authentic), an art glass vase designed by the Vinci Dynasty Gallery, exquisite lead crystal pieces (bowls and vase), cashmere sweaters (size M), a gorgeous fox fur jacket, a never-used homemade quilt, seraphim angels, jewelry, and shoes and boots (size 8). Cash or checks will be accepted. Stop by this special table if you want to add a touch of luxury to your life and help support the music ministry at our church.
Candles Along the Way – Sharing Our “God Moments”
By Vicki Najjar
Read Mary Carson’s exquisite account of her journey with the Lord as she lived in a new country, Germany. Mary will take you into her heart and soul as she describes the Holy Spirit working within her, guiding her.
When Dave’s job with Ford had us moving to Germany in 1999, it was a jarring, exciting experience. There was a new culture, new language, new currency, new shopping experiences, plus a new school for Courtney and a new job for Dave. My new job was to help the family transition as smoothly as possible. I was going to take a step back from volunteering in church and school, as I had done here; I wanted to focus on creating a comforting home situation in the midst of our somewhat chaotic German life.
I did attend Sunday worship in the American Protestant Church, but I tried to worship without being overly involved: walk in before the service and then leave. One Sunday there was a request for new people to be on the Worship Committee; I kept my hand down, as did everyone else! In a few weeks, they asked again. I did feel God tapping me on the shoulder, saying: “You can do this; you will feel more connected to Me and to this congregation.”
After prayerful consideration, I did agree to serve, and I was so grateful I did! Working with Dutch, British, and Kenyan members to provide meaningful worship for all was invigorating and educational. The door was then open for me to attend the weekly Bible study and find my new church home.
It was such an uplifting opportunity that I might have missed if I hadn’t listened to God’s voice. Sometimes that still, small voice that pushes us out of our comfort zone needs to be heard and acted on. We just have to listen and hear what God’s plan is for us.
Touched by an Angel – The Custard Pie
By Vicki Najjar
A visit to Verizon for a simple phone check turned into a lovely experience conversing with the vivacious and sweet phone technician. It all began with custard pie. Yes. Somehow, this young woman began to share her memories of her deceased grandmother in such loving terms that the very climate in the Verizon store radiated joy and love.
The remembrance was of the many eggs put into the pie and she said, “I don’t know what my grandmother put in it, but the pie was so heavenly. I have remembered it so often, but I won’t try to make a custard pie because it won’t be as good as I remember hers was.”
To this, I said, “Did you think about how happy your grandmother would be if she knew you baked that pie? She will know you baked it and she’ll beam with pride.”
The young woman, Shaunda, said she never thought about it that way, and, yes, perhaps she would try baking a custard pie. I immediately Googled a recipe, and we had great fun guessing at the ingredients and then reading the actual recipe.
Shaunda came alive, so happy, so confident, so raring to go. The pie would be baked. I stood up to leave as my phone problems were cleared up. I said, “This hug is from your grandmother!” Shaunda hugged me with all of her might. It was wonderful. What a blessing to listen and to share and to encourage this lovely young woman.
“God bless you,” were my final words.
Save the Date (Dec. 6 Daytime) for the PW Christmas Gathering
We’re trying something different this year! All (men, women, guests) are invited to our new-format Christmas Gathering. Instead of holding this popular event at night, we’re getting together at 10:00 a.m. on Wed. Dec. 6 for coffee and treats in the narthex and foyer, the program in the sanctuary at 10:30 and then a catered hot lunch in Knox Hall. Tickets ($10) will be sold in November.
The program will include Christmas music with audience participation and an original play, “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” written by Anne Sebesta and performed by Presbyterian Players.
Mmm, Mmm SOUP! For CARES
Chilly days are coming and nothing warms up a person better than a bowl of soup. The October “suggested” donation for CARES is a can of soup or a box of crackers which will go a long way in warming up our neighbors who visit the pantry at CARES. As always, we take any donations of non-perishable food as long as it isn’t expired. Household items are very much appreciated, too. Items such as laundry detergent, dish soap, paper towels and toilet paper are always welcome!
Thank you for your September donations of lunchbox items!
Mission Opportunity – Crossroads of Michigan Nov. 5
Hello all of you bakers, slicers, stirrers, choppers, assemblers, and servers! Our next opportunity for making a meal for 450 people will be on Sunday, Nov. 5. Please let me know if you are interested in joining us and I will either sign you up or send you the Sign-up Genius link when it is available from FPCN. Don’t miss out – it is the final opportunity for 2023!
Thanks, Nancy Prieskorn
Social Justice Book Club – Starting our 4 th Year and our 7th Book
The Social Justice Book Club started up again in September after our summer break. The book we have started reading is called “Demystifying Disability: What to Know, What to Say, and How to Be an Ally” by Emily Landau. The book is described as “an approachable guide to being a thoughtful, informed ally to disabled people, with actionable steps for what to say and do (and what not to do) and how you can help make the world a more inclusive place.”
The Wired Word — An Adult Curriculum
All Hail Ringers and Singers
The official start of the fall season began on Sunday, September 10. To ready the choirs, Thursday night rehearsals are underway. Bells will rehearse at 6:00 p.m. in room 209 and the chancel choir will rehearse at 7:30 p.m. in the sanctuary.
There’s always room for more members! If you’ve been thinking of ringing or singing or both, please contact Minister of Music Shari Fiore-Bloom at [email protected].
Join us for Coffee and Treats after In-Person Worship
We love seeing you back in church! And we love it when you join us after our worship service for Hospitality Time in Knox Hall!
But, if you can’t join us in person, watch our livestream.
1. Go to our Worship Services page at: https://Farmington-Pres.org/worship/sermons.
2. Click on the image that looks like this:
Thank You
First Presbyterian Preschool
A HUGE THANK YOU from FPP for participating in the MUM fundraiser. Thank you for your participation in the first MUM fundraiser for the Preschool! Your generous support is SO appreciated!
Paul McVey
Paul McVey thanks the many people who have offered prayers and sent cards during his recent shoulder replacement surgery. He reports his recovery is going well! His range of motion is improving at each therapy session and Lorrie should be able to stop her chauffeur services by October 1. The support of church family has been powerful.
Cereal for Summer Collection
A big THANK YOU from the Mission Team for your donations to the Cereal for Summer collection. We delivered 81 boxes of cereal to the presbytery in July!!!!
Property Committee
Another big THANK YOU to the Property Committee for all their efforts working with the road contractor this summer not only to bring in some cash but also get some work done on our parking lot and Brittany Road entrance. It’s beautiful!
CARES
We thank you for your generous support and thank you for seeing our vision through your eyes. The CARES organization gratefully acknowledges your generous donation and support. Please know the
contribution will be used to further our mission to meet the needs of our Community.”
Pray-A-Thon
Thank you to everyone who participated in the church Pray-A-Thon on Tuesday, September 26, from 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Some of you came to the sanctuary to pray, where soft music and candles set a meditative mood. Some of you prayed at home or wherever you were. No matter where we were, we are sure God heard our unified
prayers.
Church-Wide Prayer
A powerful tool in a church is not necessarily a program, a special service, a booklet or a flashy presentation. It’s a group of people who live what they say they believe. It’s worshiping Jesus, loving each other and caring for the community. In other words, a healthy church.
The following prayer has been suggested to be used as a church-wide prayer for groups, committees, meetings, or any gathering of church members. The Session is suggesting that First Presbyterian Church of Farmington members and friends unite in prayer often as we review, reflect and revitalize our church life. There is power when a church gathers together to pray.
Dear Lord,
We ask for your blessings on the congregation of the First Presbyterian Church of Farmington. We ask that you expand our opportunities to minister to our neighbors, both known and unknown, and to spread the good news of your Son our Savior Jesus Christ. We ask that your hand be on us as we go forth on the path that you would have us be on, that you protect us and keep us from evil and that we, in turn, do no harm to anyone. Bless us, Lord, bless us indeed! Help us to remember that nothing can happen here without you and without our willing hearts and our open hands. Guide us through this time of reflection and revitalization of our church. We thank you for your loving presence with us each day. Amen.
News from the Church Office
Newsletter Editors: Colleen Tavor and Karen (Stewart) Spica
