By Glen Miles, Senior Minister

We talk a lot about love in the church. God is love. "Love God and love your neighbor," is an instruction heard often. I have a framed page from one of the original printings of the old King James Bible on the wall in my office. The page contains one of my favorite verses, “let us love one another because love is from God; everyone who loves is born of God and knows God.”

Faith gets quite a bit of attention as well. Jesus chastises his

frightened followers when he and the disciples get caught in a

storm while sailing across the Sea of Galilee, asking , “Why are

you afraid? You of little faith.” However, in another story

from Mark's gospel, Mark makes it clear that being honest with God about our doubts and lack of faith is okay. The father of a child in dire need of help cries out, “I believe! Help my unbelief.” As a pastor, I know many of us, including me, have found ourselves in this very place. I am certain Mark includes this story as encouragement for all who experience “unbelief.”

Love and faith are key elements of the Christian faith, but sometimes I feel like "hope" the middle element in the apostle Paul’s famous words to the church in Corinth, is forgotten. Paul wrote, “faith, hope, and love abide, these three; and the greatest of these is love.”

Hope feels dangerous because we seem to be trained at an early age to be careful about it. Many

years ago, when I was applying for a position as the senior minister at a fine congregation in

Georgia, a pastor friend said to me, “Don’t get your hopes up. That’s a great church. There will

be many, many fine pastors applying.” I think he meant well.

I got the job. I believe partly because of the simple fact that hope plays a big role,

not only in my life, but also in my ministry. I am always hopeful. Even when things seem

tough and difficult, I wake up in the morning believing, hoping, that there must be a way

through. No matter how tough the day may seem, there must be a path forward. I don’t mean an easy way through, but a way that is going to bring out the best in those around me.

The French philosopher Teilhard de Chardin notes, “The world will belong to those who brought it the greatest hope.” Hope takes work. Hope is more than wishful thinking. Frederick Buechner writes hope is based on the promise “that at some unforeseeable time and in some unimaginable way (Christ) will return with healing in his wings."

Do you feel the joy and the intense hope built into that statement? The Christian hope is God

will ultimately come back to creation not to destroy, not to condemn, but to provide healing for

the world, for all of us, for everyone, Christian or not. 

Hope is the promise of already, not yet. A reminder that the best is yet to come.

By Jodi Patton, Governing Board Chair

February proved a productive month for your Governing Board!

A few of the highlights:

CONSTITUTION: In the February Governing Board meeting, the Governance Review Committee made a final recommendation of the proposed Constitution amendments. After further comprehensive review and discussion, the Governing Board earnestly agrees the proposed amendments to the Constitution will provide the highest and best governance oversight for our church. The Governing Board approved bringing forth a vote to our congregation of the proposed amendments in a Special Congregational meeting sometime in March. For details click here.

FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY: In January, we conducted an executive session conversation of the 2019 budget overage. We continued this discussion in February, sighting specific objectives for ensuring a balanced 2020 budget. Although decision-making involving cost-reduction is always hard and unpopular, it is necessary in order to safeguard First Community will be in the position to financially support the many ministries we offer well into the future. Our church treasurer, Jason Milligan, remarks, “Our budgetary goals must include supporting our Mission Imperatives; continued expense controls; and a stewardship plan that is long-term and robust to enhance pledging and other revenue streams.”

2020 STRATEGIC PLANNING: A Kick-Off Retreat will be held in early March as consultant Reverend Sarai Rice with Congregational Consulting Group leads us through the onset of the Appreciative Inquiry Planning model. We are pleased to announce our 2020 Strategic Planning Team comprised of church members:

Stay tuned . . . updates on the Planning Team’s progress will be reported in the coming months.

First Community Foundation Provides Critical Support to Heart to Heart

By Chris Montgomery

The Foundation is highlighting recipients of its grants in this space to show how vitally important your donations are. In this installment, we are focusing on the Heart to Heart food pantry. 

In January alone, Heart to Heart served 441 households and 1,612 individuals, providing 14,508 meals. That’s just one month . What you may not know is how Heart to Heart is funded. It receives donations from First Community members and other individuals and third parties, not the church itself. And the First Community Foundation helps fill in the budgetary gaps, providing critical support to the mission. 

One Foundation fund — established by Doug and Darian Torrance — is committed exclusively to supporting Heart to Heart, paying for food, administrative costs, and other day-to-day expenses related to supporting its mission.

“We definitely appreciate all of the contributions we receive from the Foundation. They help us tremendously,” said Lamar Graham, Director of Heart to Heart.

Click here for more information about how to donate to Heart to Heart. 

Baptismal Font in the Sanctuary at First Community North 

By Glen Miles, Senior Minister

The beautiful baptismal font in the Sanctuary at First Community North has been placed at the entrance to this holy space as a reminder of our journey through the sacred waters of grace. Each time we enter and leave the Sanctuary it is as though we are once again experiencing our baptism. 

You may have noticed the base of the font is wrapped in Jerusalem stone. Philip Markwood, the architect, notes this emphasizes permanence and harmonizes it with the flooring.

Markwood goes on to say, “I think knowing the stone came from the Holy Land makes it an

object without borders.” I love that idea. There is an old biblical teaching that suggests all

ground is sacred. The Jerusalem stone takes us back to the ancient roots of our faith but

reminds us that God’s Spirit abides where she will.

Placing it at the entrance also provides plenty of space for the extended family to gather with the one being baptized. Through the use of the new technology in the room, all will be able to see the sights and hear the sounds of these beautiful and blessed events. Mr. Markwood sounds like a preacher, and a good one, when he writes, “Since the Church is the people, not the building, the location symbolizes entrance into the Family of Faith.”

Amen to that. The next time you find yourself in the Sanctuary at First Community North, say a brief prayer of thanks for this beautiful reminder of God’s grace and love.

Click the link below to read these stories and more.

By Phil Hawley

Dominica Rosario’s dream of reopening the entire high school at the Dominica School and Orphanage (DSO) has finally been achieved. Through the support of the Dominica School and Orphanage Support Fund of the First Community Foundation (DSOSF), new classrooms were built, certified high school teachers were hired, and the first senior class to graduate from the DSO since 2014 graduates on June 25.

Many of the seniors will pursue some type of postgraduate education, either at the University in Santo Domingo, at smaller colleges, or at vocational schools. The DSOSF has committed to provide scholarship money to allow the two top seniors of the graduating class to attend the University in Santo Domingo for the next four years.

The DSO continues to grow and improve. There are 537 students at the DSO this year—up from 320 five years ago. Of those, 342 are in the social program, which means they pay no tuition or food costs. Many of them are either orphans or were abandoned, including Haitian children with no birth certificates .

Five major infrastructure projects at the DSO were completed in 2019 with DSOSF funds. These included installation of security fences and security cameras, replacement of the bare concrete floors with tile floors, ceiling repairs, installation of 19 new toilets, and a complete renovation of the kitchen.

Dominica recently wrote “the DSOSF donors allowed us to make great changes in our facilities in 2019. The burden of educating and feeding these children raised in extreme poverty feels less oppressive now.”  

Thanks to the donors who have made the progress of the past five years possible. To learn more about the DSO and the DSOSF, click here.

Seven students in the class of 2020 who are receiving academic honors.

New Director of Music, Dr. C. Andrew Blosser

By Deb Humphrey, Search Committee Member

I’d like to take this opportunity to tell you about the process the committee followed as we were charged with the search for the First Community Director of Music.

The committee members were: Dr. Glen Miles, Lois Zook, Rev. Jim Long, Aaron Carmack, Arthur Marks, Rick Greene, Joan Talmadge, and me.

We began meeting in September of 2019. Our first task was to fine-tune and finalize the Director of Music job description. We then posted the job description in several locations. We were very pleased, not only with the numbers, but also with the caliber of candidates.

The candidates qualifications were quite impressive. This nationwide search received interest from all over and we received resumés representing a dozen states. After reviewing the resumés, the committee conducted phone interviews. We then selected candidates to interview in-person. The committee engaged in extensive open and honest conversation, discussion, and debate.

After prayerful consideration, we determined the best fit for First Community was in our midst already. We are very pleased Dr. C. Andrew Blosser accepted the call to serve as Director of Music, and Ms. Amy Johnston Blosser accepted the position of Associate Director of Music. They bring wonderful expertise, energy, and compassion to this church.

We look forward to continued excellence and growth of our music ministry at First Community under this leadership.

The Sunrise Mass , by Ola Gjeilo, takes listeners on a journey through major elements of our existence. Gjeilo uses the Ordinary of Mass and sets it to themes of celestial beings, the rising of the sun, the hustle and bustle of the city, to the idea of one’s self awareness.

Please join us at First C0mmunity North at 9 and 11 am to hear this beautiful work.

At First Community, there is a choir for every child in kindergarten through high school. 

Kindergarten-grade 5 choirs and youth bell choir meets on Wednesday evenings at North. Vocal Ensemble for grades 6-12 meets on Sunday evenings following Crossroads from 5-5:30 pm. 

For more information contact Sally Beske.

Join in the excitement of our new organ by bringing treats to the organ builders. 

The Klais team is going back to Germany April 1, and then returning to us in May to complete construction. If you are at First Community North, you may be able to hear the organ while voicing and tuning is taking place. The organ builders are there working extra hours. Many thanks for supporting them with your home baked goodies.

By Robin Hood, Congregational Care Coordinator

May 2, First Community South

In All Things Give Thanks

Presentation by Kathy Cleveland Bull

The Burkhart Luncheon welcomes all women of First Community members ages 70 and older. We invite you to join us for this very special event in its 79th year. Beginning at 11:30 am, we will hold a reception in the Crane Welcome Center, followed by lunch in Brownlee Hall.

This year’s program, In All Things Give Thanks, is sure to inspire with special guest speaker, Kathy Cleveland Bull.

Our generous sponsors this year are Friendship Village of Dublin (reception), Brookdale Trillium (lunch), First Community Village (desserts), Dublin Retirement Village (goody bags), and Wesley Communities (centerpieces).

If you have not received an invitation in previous years but would like to be added to our mailing list, please contact Robin Hood, at (614) 488-0681, ext. 235

Family Camp is the ultimate opportunity to experience the magic of summer camp at Camp Akita as a family! Through a specifically designed program, each family will be led through a weekend by Akita staff that includes a good balance of family time, kid interaction, adult socializing, off-the-wall fun, and the stillness of a spiritual retreat. Getting outside of the city allows time to get unplugged and enjoy valuable time as a family. Family Camp is September 4-7 (Labor Day weekend).

Is your child not registered for summer camp yet? We still have openings in most age groups. Visit campakita.org/summer, email [email protected] or call (614) 488-0681, ext. 113 for more information. 

Quest Singles

If you are a single who enjoys meeting new people, join us for a dinner and/or book discussion. Most of us are in our sixties and up, but we welcome all ages. If you would like to be on our e-mail list, contact Nancy Dunn or call (614) 771-4869 for more detail about current plans. 

 

If you have an idea for a fun activity, let Nancy know.

 

Thursday, March 5

6:30 pm

Dinner at Urban Myer’s Pit House

6632 Longshore Street

Dublin

 

Sunday, March 15

5:30 pm

Book Discussion

Trail of Broken Wings

By Sejal Badani

MCL Cafeteria at Kingsdale

 

Thursday, March 19

6:30 pm

Dinner at the Whitney House

666 High Street

Worthington

Thursday, March 6, 1 pm

Location: First Community South Library

March book selection:

Where the Crawdads Sing

By Delia Owens

“Time ensures children never know their parents young.” 

―  Delia Owens

In our March gathering, we will discuss this best-selling coming of age story that is also a murder mystery. Inspired by a real-life case, the book’s main character is a young girl who copes with abandonment by immersing herself in nature. Suspicion surrounds her, and she is tried for the death of a local boy.

ElderWisdom is a discussion group that meets to explore books and topics that focus on the spiritual aspects of aging.

Join us! All ages are welcome. It is not essential to have read the book prior to the gathering. 

Contact Lorelei Lanier Lotozo at (614) 209-7125 or Jim Long, Minister of Pastoral Care, with questions, or to add your name to our email list.

By Sarah Kientz, Minister to Camp Akita and Young Adults

My close friend, Hamp, experienced an accident that left him paralyzed in September. I recently visited Hamp’s childhood home where he’s navigating the furniture in a power wheelchair and braving his new quadriplegic life.

In many ways, Hamp hasn’t changed: we watched the same old movies, sang our favorite songs, and ate the food we loved while living in Nashville. My first night, I cheered as Hamp ate a chicken tender on his own. The range of motion in his hands is returning, slowly and wobbly.

The second night, we ate spaghetti. The end of dinner left marinara sauce on Hamp’s shirt and noodles on the floor. He bristled with frustration. “It was a messy meal for all of us,” I offered. “And you’re doing so great!”

“I’m proud I’m improving,” Hamp said, “and I’m also frustrated that I’m learning to feed myself again at age 30.” 

There’s a verse in the gospels wherein Jesus offers some domestic advice: don’t patch an old cloak with unshrunk cloth, and don’t put new wine in old wineskins (Mark 2:21-22). The infrequent cloak-patchers and wine-storers among us might eagerly move on from such verses.

Yet all of us try to do new things in old ways. We all yearn to quickly patch up life’s torn fabric. Maybe you’re navigating a move, a new job, or a family member in need. Maybe, like Hamp, you experienced a loss that left you relearning the basics and rearranging life’s furniture.

I find it comforting that Jesus acknowledges our desire to fit a new life into old packaging. Bad news, Jesus warns: those wineskins will “burst.” Sounds messy!

But here’s the good news: Jesus didn’t say to toss the wine or throw out the favorite shirt. We don’t have to cast aside all we hold dear. We simply need to treat our newness with special care and lots of grace. So keep the old friends, sing the familiar songs, and cook the timeworn recipe. Just be sure to patch up the holes with those of us who have also been through the wash a time or two.

Artist name: Brittni Hall

By Tracy Morrison Dickens

A new exhibition of artwork by artist Brittni Hall is currently on display in Brownlee Hall in First Community South through the end of March. The exhibit is titled Movement of Dreams and features abstract oil paintings influenced by spacial and oceanic imagery, and by the scenery of the surrounding areas of Columbus. Born and raised in Columbus, artist Brittni Hall resides in and maintains a studio in Grandview. Her techniques include using solvents such as liquin impasto and walnut oil, along with various sizes of palette knives. Cloth and brushes come in handy when creating the wispy, smoke-like effect in her paintings.

The Worship and Arts Council invites the community to view and enjoy this exhibition. The paintings are available for purchase, and the artist also does commissioned work. For more information about artist Brittni Hall, please visit hallartdesigns.com

By Rebecca Wolfe, Director of the Tri-Village Trading Post

Let the March winds blow – the Trading Post will be ready. We will have fun new colors on display in all your apparel needs. Being in the middle of Lent, we will also have Easter décor abounding to decorate your home. We seem always to have bright baskets ready with goodies to fill them. Come first to the Trading Post to check out whatever your need may be for this holiday time.

We also look forward in March to outfitting your little ones for the warmer weather ahead. We have been the lucky recipient of great children’s clothes from the brands you love and are anxious for you to clear our racks. 

So, visit us March 16-21 for a whale of a children’s sale! 50% off boys and girls clothing from newborn to size 16. As always, we are open Monday – Saturday, 10 am-4 pm.

By Ann Eliot

It was one of the March days when the sun shines hot and the wind blows cold: when it is summer in the light and winter in the shade.

Charles Dickens

Special Event! Betty O’Neill Presidential Primary Election Day Bake Sale

(March 17)!

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a reprise of the Betty O’Neill Election Day Bake Sale! The bake sale will be held on Tuesday, March 17, the day of the Ohio Presidential Primary. The sale will be held at both North and South locations and will primarily be baked goods. If you are interested in donating baked goods, please bring them to the church Monday night or early Tuesday morning. They should be individually wrapped with prices attached. Leave them in the kitchen and mark them "For the Bake Sale."

Breakfast at Tiffany’s – Women’s Guild Spring Event (April 4)

The annual Women’s Guild Spring Event will be held Saturday, April 4, at 10:30 am at Scioto Country Club. “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” will feature a brunch, raffle of a Tiffany Cross, and entertainment by Rachel Sepulveda who will perform songs from the classic Audrey Hepburn movie and other music from that time.

Tickets will be on sale after services beginning Sunday March 1 and continue every Sunday in March. Tickets are $28 and raffle tickets will also be available at $5 a piece or 5 for $20. You do not have to be a member of the Women’s Guild (or even a church member) to attend.

We Love You Luncheon

Dear First Community Staff,

It was the pleasure of the Women's Guild to host the We Love You Luncheon in your honor. You strive every day to make First Community and our community at large a place of love, acceptance, and faith. We thank each and every one of you for your hard work and dedication throughout the year. Please know you are appreciated!

Membership:

If you are interested in joining the Women’s Guild, please contact Nancy Withers, Membership Chair, at (614) 571-4469, or email

By Terry Davis, Task Force Member

An overflow crowd of 140 participants of all ages required extra tables to be set up for “The Law and Guns 101” forum, sponsored by FCC’s Gun Violence Prevention and Safety Task Force (GVPSTF) on Monday evening,

February 3.

Senior Minister Dr. Glen Miles opened, and Ted Celeste moderated the expert panel as they each briefed the crowd on their specific fields. Daniel Tokaji, Professor of Constitutional Law at the OSU College of Law, explained what the 2 ^nd Amendment does and doesn’t say about gun ownership; Melanie Tobias, Deputy Chief of Staff of Columbus City Attorney, brought Ohio law into very understandable focus; and Ben Kessler, Mayor of Bexley spoke to the struggles of local legislators to make it all happen locally. The audience was extremely engaged, and the Q and A discussion with the panelists was energetic and informative. Kudos to Dick Meyer, task force member, who organized the panel and event.

A recurring theme after this and the last event is “How can I get involved? – Find my angle?” That will be the focus of the next event by the GVSPTF, chaired by Loretta Heigle. Stay tuned for details. Click the link below to watch the presentation.

Calling all photographers! The Visual Arts Advisory Committee is seeking quality photographs to be considered as part of our visual art displays at First Community North and South. The photos maybe of people, places, or programs that capture the essence of our church community.

 

Get your cameras ready, focus, shoot, and send us your printed or digital high-quality photo, preferably 300 psi, and no larger than 8x10 inches. Submitted images may not be returned to the sender.

Deadline for submission: May 1, 2020.

Click here to contact Pam Jameson for questions and to send images

By Rev. David Hett

In his new book, The Universal Christ , Richard Rohr says: “Today on many levels, we are witnessing an immense longing for the mature feminine at every level of our society—from our politics, to our economics, in our psyche, our cultures, our patterns of leadership, and our theologies, all of which have become far too warlike, competitive, mechanistic, and noncontemplative. We are terribly imbalanced.”

This weekend is about restoring that balance for all genders. Mirabai Starr, recently named one of the “100 Most Spiritually Influential Living People of the World,” is the premier guide in helping us all Reclaiming the Divine Feminine.

Friday, March 6, 7 -8:30 pm: “The Divine Feminine Across the Spiritual Traditions”

Saturday, March 7 (10 am – 4 pm) and Sunday, March 8 (8:30 – 10 am): Retreat Workshop—“Living the Fierce and Tender Wisdom of the Divine Feminine”

Sunday, March 8, 10:30-11:30 am: Contemplative Experience (Free, Open to All): “Restoring Masculine/Feminine Balance”

Scholarships available. Questions? Contact Tom White or Rev. David Hett.

Sunday, March 8

10:30 – 11:30 am

Grace Hall, First Community North

Whether or not you are attending The Burkhart Center’s weekend “retreat” with spiritual guide Mirabai Starr, all are welcome to this free, open to the public, reflective worship experience led by Starr and Rev. David Hett, Minister of Religious Life & Learning, at the conclusion of her weekend visit.

Please join the The Burkhart Center’s Spiritual Searcher team for this ceremony of chant, sacred readings, and quiet reflection. Included will be sacred chants from the Hindu tradition, called Kirtan, that can be both quietly moving and lively interactive, led by local Kirtan musicians, the Bhakti Mamas.

(Pictured right: Mirabai Starr teaching in Grace Hall, 2014)

Members and friends of The Burkhart Center and First Community “spark more joy” at the Burkhart Center Fund-Raising Event at NatterDoodle Studio (3516 N. High St.) this winter, hosted by Burkhart’s “Coffee & A Love Revolution” Group.

March 19, 7 -8:30 pm

First Community South, Brownlee Hall

Prayer and affirmations enjoy a prominent place among all the major religions, as well as contemporary teachings. In this informal evening program, Avery Solomon will share some practices for prayer as praise, affirmation, and remembrance. Through discussion and questions, we'll explore how we can create a space for grace to enter our lives. 

Avery Solomon, a long-time friend of The Burkhart Center, is a teacher and researcher at Wisdom's Goldenrod Center for Philosophic Studies in Hector, New York. He brings a wide background of experience from many spiritual traditions and teachers and a sense of humor to serious matters.

All welcome. No pre-registration necessary. Free-will offering taken at the door; suggested $10 donation, but all gifts welcome. Information also available here.

Beginning Sunday Morning, April 19

8:30 am – 9:45 am

First Community South.

Priscilla Mead and Loretta Heigle will be facilitating a version of this First Community-produced series for six weeks beginning April 19, during the Sunday Morning Seminar time at First Community South. Registration will be requested for this class, and will be available soon, along with more details in the April firstnews and The Burkhart Center newsletter.

Click here to receive The Burkhart Center’s e-newsletter.

March 15 – April 5

8:30 – 9:45 am

Wicker Room, First Community South

As The Burkhart Center continues plans to bring Gregory Boyle here in Spring 2021, the Sunday Morning Seminar this month contains a four-week preview of some of Father Boyle’s inspirational work with gang members as described in his books, Tattoos on the Heart: The Power of Boundless Compassion and Barking to the Choir: The Power of Radical Kinship .

Kate Hauk, with her background as a United Church of Christ minister, leads this series, offering participants an opportunity to experience and savor the depth of Father Boyle’s reflections and explore places where Fr. Boyle's reflections intersect our own life experiences. 

Jesuit priest and founder of "Homeboy Industries,” the largest gang-intervention and rehabilitation program in the world, Father Boyle is a gifted storyteller, inspiring all of us to seek "a compassion that can stand in awe at what the poor have to carry rather than stand in judgment at how they carry it.” Questions? Contact Rev. David Hett.

By Lisa Bueche, Burkhart Center Steering Committee

We are proud to announce Rev. David Hett, First Community Minister of Religious Life & Learning and Spiritual Director of The Burkhart Center, is the recipient of the “Hope for Today” award by the Spirituality Network, sponsor of the Living Faith Awards, a 30-year-old institution in Columbus.

While Rev. Hett will be joining other distinguished First Community members who have received a Living Faith Award, the Hope for Today award goes specifically to an exemplary interfaith contemplative teacher.

 

David is being recognized for the educational gifts he brings to First Community, and for reaching beyond the circle of his congregation by steering the Spiritual Searcher program of The Burkhart Center the past 22 years. It is his passion that has allowed well-known contemplative teachers from across all spiritual traditions to be experienced by the larger population of Ohio and beyond, including Mirabai Starr coming to First Community this month.

Throughout his ministry here, David’s sermons and articles always reflect the importance of approaching Christianity through a contemplative lens. He has, and continues, to lead small groups introducing members of the congregation to the value of contemplation. David truly walks his contemplative talk in his personal commitment to the rigorous contemplative study through the psychological-spiritual Diamond Path of the Ridhwan School.

Rev. Hett will be honored along with other award recipients at the Living Faith Awards Breakfast on Thursday, May 28, beginning 7:45 am at the Jewish Community Center, 1125 College Avenue, Bexley, and is open to all. Please consider joining us by registering here.

Sunday, April 5, 2020, 1-5 pm

First Community South, Brownlee Hall

Fee: $50 early bird by March 22. 

$65 After March 22.

Over the last three decades, Russ Hudson has established himself as one of the top teachers and developers of the Enneagram personality typology in the world today. The Burkhart Center and The Enneagram Institute of Ohio are excited to bring Russ to Columbus for a transformational afternoon intended to expand your self-awareness and further your discovery of the gifts of the Enneagram.

Whether you are new to the Enneagram or knowledgeable, you won’t want to miss this rare opportunity to engage with Russ, co-author of five best-selling books on the subject including The Wisdom of the Enneagram and Personality Types, in order to deepen your experience of this ancient, yet contemporary, psychological-spiritual tool. Questions? Contact us or email [email protected]

After meeting twice in February, this monthly group discussing emerging concepts of God, spirituality, and religion, will not meet in March, but once again on Saturday, April 11, from 9:30 – Noon in the Guild Room at First Community South.

Rev. David Hett, Spiritual Director of The Burkhart Center, facilitates wide-ranging conversation based on weekly columns by young voices out of www.progressingspirit.com , and on video lectures by past Burkhart Center Spiritual Searchers like Marcus Borg, Amy-Jill Levine, John Shelby Spong, and others.

Participants are encouraged to subscribe to www.progressingspirit.com to receive these weekly writings. For information or to register, contact David .

The Adult Learning Council is presenting an experimental class at First Community North from 9:45 – 10:45 am, somewhat between the two Sunday morning services at that location, inviting congregants leaving from the 9 am worship or coming to the 11 am service to attend a discussion based on the idea that words and values matter, and that how we live them is important.

Words Matter , with facilitators Cathie and Bruce Hickin and Carolyn Leick, begins on Sunday, April 19, 10 am in North Narthex Room 101. All welcome to attend; no pre-registration necessary.

Sunday Morning Seminar

Tuesdays, 8:30 – 9:45 am

First Community South, Wicker Room

March 1: Conclusion of study of Mirabai Starr’s newest book, Wild Mercy: Living the Fierce and Tender Wisdom of the Women Mystics, prior to her 2020 Spiritual Searcher weekend here Friday, March 6 – Sunday, March 8.

March 8: No class in order to attend Reclaiming the Divine Feminine retreat with Mirabai Starr.

March 15 – April 5: The Work of Father Gregory Boyle , founder of Homeboy Industries, author of Tattoos on the Heart: The Power of Boundless Compassion and Barking to the Choir: The Power of Radical Kinship .

Christianity: Perspectives & Insights

Christian Myth-Busters: Moving Beyond Biblical Literalism

Sundays weekly at 4 – 5:30 pm

North Narthex, Room 101

This class, during the Crossroads Youth program and preceding the 5:30 pm Worship Service, is free and open to all adults. This biblical study focuses primarily on the work of past Spiritual Searcher Bishop John Shelby Spong, as well as other biblical scholars.

Tuesday at Ten

Tuesdays, 10 – 11:30 am

First Community South, Wicker Room

March 3: Conclusion of study of Mirabai Starr’s Wild Mercy: Living the Fierce and Tender Wisdom of the Women Mystics.

March 10 and 17: Reflecting on Mirabai Starr’s 2020 Spiritual Searcher weekend here Friday, March 6 – Sunday, March 8, Reclaiming the Divine Feminine . Facilitated by Rev. David Hett.

March 24 – April 14: Living the Questions DVD series basis for discussion of religion and important theological concepts. Short videos include many of our past Spiritual Searchers discussing their ideas.

Tai Chi for Balance

Tuesdays, 9:00 – 9:45 am

First Community South, Brownlee Hall

Forty-five minutes of easy, relaxed moves that will strengthen stability, balance, agility, and health, as well as provide a calming meditative experience during these stressful times.

No fee or pre-registration required. Questions, contact facilitators Sally Kriska :

(614) 203-7913 or Diane Sturges . Both are certified teachers in Tai Chi for Balance levels 1, 2, and 3, Guang Ping Style.

Wednesday Morning Fellowship

Wednesdays, 7 – 8 am

First Community South, Brownlee Hall

Both men and women enjoy the fellowship and weekly presentations and discussion of leading-edge topics. Ends promptly at 8 am. Open to the public. Facilitated by Lee Vescelius



Women Living the Questions

Tuning into Inner Guidance

Wednesdays, 9:30 – 11:30 am

First Community South, Wicker Room

Weekly discussions based on the book In Touch  by John Prendergast, and other resources. Questions? Contact Linda Baldeck : (614) 459-0722

The Contemplative Way

Thursdays, 11:45 am – 1 pm

First Community South, Wicker Room

An opportunity for a lunchtime meditation practice. Sacred reading and discussion of Cynthia Bourgeault’s book, The Heart of Centering Prayer followed by a 30-minute silent meditation starting around 12:15 pm each week. Facilitated by spiritual directors and group participants. Questions?

We share the joys and sorrows of our church family in our prayers.

As of February 26, 2020

BAPTISMS

Serena Rose Irene Wiegand 12/3/19

Daughter of Jessica & Russell Wiegand

Crosby John Cooper 1/12/2020

Son of John and Jessica Cooper

Grandson of John and Helen Cooper

Hayden Marie Patton 1/18/20

Daughter of Sara and Brett Patton

Granddaughter of Mark and Molly Miely

Niece of Matthew Miely

Matthew Vannata 1/18/20

Evan David Tomlin 1/26/20

Son of Allison and Gabe Tomlin

Grandson of David and Linda Fontana

Eric Rosene Toop and Patrick Rosene Toop 2/22/20

Sons of Laura Rosene and Scott Toop

BIRTHS

Maggie Adare Gentzel 7/24/19

Daughter of Caroline and Eric Gentzel

William Stewart McKitrick 1/3/20

Son of Jack and Elizabeth (Betsy) McKitrick

Grandson of Tom and Pam Stewart

Great-grandson of Nanette Bradley

Carina Glada Delery Bull 1/3/20

Daughter of Haley Cleveland Bull and Michelle Delery Stratman

Granddaughter of Kathy Cleveland Bull and Joe Bull

Ina Rose Cowles 1/23/20

Great-niece of Pam Cowles

Maeve Rosemary Gatts 2/5/20

Daughter of Jessie and Geoff Gatts

DEATHS

Carlos Clayton 11/7/19

Father of Ann (Charlie) Jacob

Kyle Christensen 11/12/19

Son of Dean (Judy) Christensen

Shirley Bull 11/26/19

Mother of Leslie (Bill) Junk

Grandmother of Erin & Steven Junk

Sue Knell 11/30/19

Loralee Henry 11/30/19

Barb Kessinger 12/1/19

Mother of Amy (Jared) Caskie

Grandmother of Lucy & Ben Caskie

Diane Fauque 12/4/19

Mother of Jamey (Brandi Lust) Fauque

Grandmother to George Lust and Sawyer Fauque

Stephanie M. Kaylor (12/4/2019)

Daughter of Michael and (Jayne) Kaylor

Howard Sprecher 12/6/2019

Husband of Dace Sprecher

Vivian Woods 12/12/19

Mother of Larry E. (Annita Meyer) Woods

Lewis Wayne Lemley 12/24/19

Brother of Jayne (Michael) Kaylor

Ann Gordon Bateman 12/28/19

Mother of Katy (Steve) Brown

Grandmother of Emily and Jessica Brown

Mike Neri 1/1/20

Son of Tony and Peg Neri

Wayne Ramga 1/5/20

Father of Deb Humphrey

Grandfather of Amy Humphrey

Norma Shilliday Sims 1/6/20

Leah Mae Griffith 1/12/2020

Mother of Robert Griffith

Judith (Judy) Wright 1/21/2019

Rachel Williams 1/28/20

Sister of Paul (Sandy) Anderson

Mary Campbell Lewis 2/8/20

Sister-in-law of Patty Wetherbee

Sally Norris 2/9/20

Mother of Carole (Paul) Chidester

Grandmother of Caroline Chidester and Geoff Chidester

Robert (Bob) Holland, Sr. 2/10/20

Husband of Barbara Holland

John Bien 2/14/20

Brother-in-law of Rose Konrath and Rich Wharton

Patricia Marie Powell 2/13/20

Cousin of Anne Powell Riley

Neela Onawale 2/22/20

Mother of Ashlesha Onawale

Please send notifications of Weddings, Births, Hospitalizations or Deaths to Robin Hood, Congregational Care Coordinator, (614) 488-0681 ext. 235. Our Pastoral Care staff is available if you desire a visit or call during an illness, hospitalization or time of need.  

Church Gifts

Mike and Mollie Zook

Paul and Sandy Anderson

 

In Memory of:

Dorothy Cowles

Pam Cowles

Loralee Henry

Jorgen and Christina Dahl

Courtney Dunbar

Theodore and Ruthann Flor

Rick Hollander

Philip Armbruster

Bruce and Denise Pontious

Bruce and Catherine Hickin

Margaret Phillips

Chad and Jenny Boyer

Anne Z Robbins

Linda Filer

Dad

Karen Kern

Jan Keethler

Rick and Tamara Willimott

Connie

Bob Burns

Dan Hinton

Juanita Hinton

Bert Kram

Jim and Sandy Turner

Rachel Williams

Glen and Julie Miles

In Honor of:

Roger and Nancy Baker

Beverly Jones

Betsy McCollum

Miles McCollum

Eugene McVey and Keith McVey

Kelley Heffernan

Jim Long

Guild Group 7

Gun Prevention and Safety Task Force

Ginny Barney

Prayers and Squares

Michael and Elizabeth Delphia

Scott Van Hooser

 

In Celebration of:

Doug Graham

Dan Riffle

Abigail Harr

Sally Whiting

 

Prayers and Squares Gifts

Michael and Elizabeth Delphia

Scott Van Hooser

In Honor of:

Kate Shaner

Anonymous

The Burkhart Center Gifts

Anne Cooper

Dan Davis & Vickie Murphy

Mike and Laura Elliott

Virginia Frick

Cara Shary & Tom Griesemer

Bob Jacques

Judith Koob

Cynthia Kuhn

Lisa Norris

Christoph & Kit Schmauch

Tom White

Ed Wojniak

In Honor of:

David Hett

Guild Group Seven

Coffee & A Love Revolution

Natalie Pariano—NatterDoodle

Christmas Mission

Deep Griha & Friends of the Homeless

Rebecca and Jennifer Adams-Fisher

Susan Parker and Nancy H Amberg

Gary Anderson

Frank and Angela Andujar

Julia Arkwright

Philip Armbruster

Lorel and Roger Au

Gregg and Suzanne Bachmann

Peg and Mark Bainbridge

Jane Barry

Amy Becher-Smith and Brian Becher

Marianne and John Bedell

Bethany Bell

Edward Braytenbah

Donna and William Buhl

Clara Callahan

Margaret Carmany

John and Catharine W Conner

Chanelle and Kylie Coulon

Liz and Robert Cummins Jr

Ashley Davis

JR and CL Davis

Kat Bar and Charles Deemy

Katherine and Richard Dodson

Lindsey Dunleavy

Gayle and Larry Dunn

Jeffrey Eisenman

Gail M Evans

Sharon and Mark Fenstermacher

Laura B Garish

Doug and Jan Garver

Rodney Geitgey

Annie Gephart

Grace Gephart

Emily and Kyle Gephart

Brian Gillespie

Cynthia and Willman Golden

Mary and James H Gossard

Edward Greunke

Jennifer and Gregory Hargett

John Hartman

Mary Ann Heft

Hilda Hensley

Faye and Richard Herriott

John Maiberger and Linda Hift

Gail and Jerry Wayne Hoskins

Beverlee Houseman

April and James Gavin Howe

Tom and Tanya Irelan

Barb and Darrel Irwin

Margaret Johnson

Vickie and Robert M Johnson

Connie and Brian Johnston

Sarah and Lawrence Jonaus Jr

Michelle and Jonathan Jump

Anne and William Kientz II

Susan Carol Knoll

Natalie and John Kompa

Mary Whitman Kuhner

Anne Larrison

Sonnie and Wilbur Lawrence

Clare and James M Long

Katie and Jeremy Main

Nancy and Larry Main

Carole Myser and Eileen Martin

Lisa and Joe Martin

Angie and Anthony M Matessa

Nancy Mattern

Laura and Ernest Mazzaferri Jr

Lisa McCann

Michelle and James McClure

Betsy and Gregory M McCollum

Jim McCormick

Julia Shivener and Stephanie McCormick

Mimi and Peter B McGinty

Emily and Keith Ryan Meadows

Larry Woods and Annita M Meyer

Betsy and Michael Miely

Julie and Glen Miles

Michelle Howell Mundy

Barbara Murray

Lynda Murray

Rachel and Stephen Mushrush

Jon and Jennifer Newman

Lauren and Jonathan Norelli

Jeff and Lisa Norris

Melissa and Ryan O’Dell

Brenda and Don Osuga

Michelle and Randal Ott Espinoza

Cynthia Owens

Rachel and Rebecca Palmer

Ken Kovaleski and Jodi Patton

Jennifer and Christopher Lee Peterson

Cydney and Terry M Philbin

Pat and William B Porterfield

Megan and Christopher Potts

Thomas Potts

Lionel Properties LLC

Steve Ransan

Mabel Rice

Linda M Ritter

Betty and Randall Rocke

Beth and David Roden

Katherine and Richard N Rohrer

Claudia and David Ruedrich

Nancy and David G Rummel

Beth and Scott Ryan

Karen and James Saponaro

Sara and David Smith

Peggy and George G Stokes

Cathy and Darryl Sycher

Joan and Ralph W Talmage

Darian and Douglas Torrance

Eleanor and Gregory Trapp

Meredith and James Trapp

Joy and James Jay Tredway

Margaret Tressler

Katy and Matthew Ufferman

Thomas Unger

Judy Long and Charles Vachris

Jim Voelker

Reassa and Owen Douglas Wagner

Kelsey and Scott Dennis Walker

Carolyn Warmolts

Shirley and Michael Lee Weasel

Kris Reber and William White

Peggy and Steven Williams

Katherine Wirth

Holly Witzel

Joe Wolde

Debbie and Paul Yerian

Cheryl and John W Zeiger

Mark and Julie Zogbaum

In Celebration of:

Olivia Seiler

Frances Robbins and John Seiler

In Honor of:

Noelle & Justin Fields

Anne Fields

Julia & Samuel Russell

Paula Russell

Susan Langner

Laura and Michael Elliott

In Memory of:

Dr Lloyd F Miller

Beth Miller

Mother Alice Mary

Anonymous

Mary Thomas & Susan Thomas Furry

Amy and Brock Harris  

Barbara Kessinger, mother of Amy Caskie

Kathleen Lennon

Cheryl and Loren M Van Deusen

Bert Kram

Betty and Neil Drobny

Billy Frederick

Nina and Robert Frederick

Brett Jones, Popcorn Guy

Courtney Jones

Burton Cantrell

Cindy and Richard Peyton

Dana Ciccone

Janet Ciccone

Don & Jill Eliot

Ann Eliot

Edith Boltwood

Ruth and Charles Boltwood

Eliot F Richardson

Anita Somani and David Richardson

Esther & Harold Albery

Sonya Albery

Fred & Ruth Staub

Tawana and Michael Thorn

Gregory Hall

Carolyn Hall

Haden DeRoberts

John Goff

Jenny Fountain and John Goff

Harriet Brown

Howard & Dottie Bartlett

JoAnn Boswell

Karen and Robert B Claussen

Henry & Mary Ellen Briggs

Jane and Bradley F Briggs

John F Neff

Carol Filkins

Kyle Robert Vesper

Richard Z Vesper

Mark Smith

Jennifer and Ben Smith

Marshall Barney

Virginia Barney

Mary & Russ James

Patti Heintzelman

Mary Keys Thomas and Susan Thomas Furry

Nan and Michael Weir

Megan Patrick Fedorko

Holly and Samuel Linzell

Michael Goble, KIA Afghanistan 12.22.19

Sharryn and Graham Webb III

Roseanne Schlatter

Tamara and Richard Charles Willimott  

Ralph Setterlin

Jane Setterlin

Ray & Alice Barry

James M Howe

Rhys Grunewald

Elizabeth & Ivy and Jeff Grunewald

Rose Burks

Rita and Thomas W Trimble      

Rudy Raduegge

Sandy and Mark Ringer

Sam Gruwell

Susan and Christopher Petersen

Shirley Bull

William and Leslie Junk

Wyn Shimer

Todd and Sandie Southern

Christmas Presence

Margie and Gerald Aeh

Allan Becker

Nancy and Millard B Byrne

Linda and Robert K Cannon Jr

Janet Ciccone

Barb and Terrance Davis

Joe and Mary Duchi

Amy Gray

Molly and Craig Stephen Hagkull

Hilda Faye Hensley

Beverlee Houseman

Ann Knodt

Mary Whitman Kuhner

Cindy Larimore

Jeff and Patricia M Link

Clare and James M Long

Nancy and Ronald K Long

Carol and Richard Meyer

Gary Muratore

Susan and William Napier

Brenda and Don Osuga

Cydney and Terry M Philbin

Jenny Lou Renkert

Linda M Ritter

Christoph and Kathryn Schmauch

Barbara Sipp

Elizabeth Sliwinski

Leah Miller and Jack Thrush

Darian and Douglas Torrance

Cheryl and Loren M Van Deusen

Jean Verwohlt

Rose Konrath and Richard Wharton

Linda Williams

Rebecca and Gary Wolfe

Cheryl and John W Zeiger

In memory of Garry Wilson

Julie and John Frary

Heart to Heart

Lynne Ayres

Anthony and Nancy Bachman

Charles and Linda Baldeck

Marna Beatty

Robert and Linda Cannon Jr

Anne Clifford

Colin’s Coffee

Columbus Food Adventures

Terry and Barb Davis

Jeffrey Eisenman

Barbara Falkenberg

Jeannine Farmer

Alice and Price Finley

James Flynn

Doris Gamble

Dan Gesler

James Francis and Merry Hamilton

Dennis and Susan Heebink

John W and Judy Hoberg

Carrye Jenkins

Thomas and Kathleen Jones

Joan King

Patricia M and Jeff Link

John and Michele McCandless

Curtis McCollum

Zachary and Amy McManus

Darryl and Linda Menerey

Derek and Tiffany Meyer

Gary Muratore

Carl and Linda Nelson

Jonathan and Lauren Norelli

Jeff and Courtney Oakley

Elizabeth Ortlip

Brent and Julie Osborn

Don and Brenda Osuga

Richard Paltani

Jodi Patton and Ken Kovaleski

Patsy Poe

Gretchen Potts

William Proy

John Ragin

Joseph Ray

Wayne Werner and Cheri Rickert

Dick and Kitty Rohrer

David and Valerie Ruddock

Mark Scranton

Thomas and Pamela Stewart

Stephan W and Mary Stover

Scott and Laura Rosene Toop

John and Donna Vogelpohl

James and Debby Waddell

Charles Webb

Michael and Nan Weir

Ruth M Whitehouse

Tom Williams

Kendra Wilt

Tim and Courtney Zeigler

Women’s Guild Group R. S. Z.

In Honor of:

Lamar Graham

Susan K Dunlap Potts

Doug and Darian Torrance

Dr. Marilyn G Hood

Dean and Judy Reinhard        

Lee Burges

Brian Gillespie

Liz Condos

James and Kathleen McGinnis

Matthew Bachman

Christopher and Lee Ann Ruess

Laura Oldham at Starburst Media

Kevin Satterfield and Barb Burgie-Satterfield

Stephen and Marisa Barsotti and Family

Mary Moldovan

In memory of

George Condos

Liz Condos

Refugee Task Force

Barbara Falkenberg

Carol and Dick Meyer

Share and Learn Garden

Kathleen Lennon

General Missions

Brian & Sally Kriska

In Honor of:

Don & Karen Gardiner

Christina Gardiner

Scott Gardiner

January 2019 Contributions

Heart to Heart

Tom and Pam Dobies

Ann and Charlie Jacob

Lynne Knapp

Rebekah Murray

Stephen Mushrush

Duke and Jill Thomas

Sheri VanCleef

Jean Verwohlt

Marilyn Wenrick

In Celebration of:

Jim Ledman’s 80 ^th Birthday

Jim and Jane Ledman

Sue Coady and the Bridge Club

George Norris

Hunger Hoedown

Steve and Sandra Young

Glenn and Lois Zook

In Honor of:

Eagle Scout Murphy

St. Agatha Church

Doug Perry

Alice Finley

Terry Davis

Kathleen Dunn

In Memory of:

Greg Longworth

Jared and Amy Caskie

Share & Learn Garden

Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation

Refugee Task Force

Charlie Nichols

Church Gifts

Friends of Music

In Honor of:

Lois Zook

Elizabeth Sliwinski

Dean & Judy Reinhard

Louise Kutz

Sally Beske

Gisela Josenhans

Meredith Trapp

Guild group Seven

In Memory of:

Jim Decker

Rob & Julie Cannell

Foundation gifts

In memory of Shirley Bull

George and Linda McCutchan

Patricia R. Donnally

Catherine Wheaton

Diana and Bill Arthur

Dr. James McCracken

Marjorie Bohl

Jean Brandt

Nelson French

Akita

Susan Anderson

Klamar Family

Bill Heffner

Catherine Wheaton

James B and Portia P. Hanson

In Memory of:

John Klamar

Gloria and Tom Turner

Domenica Orphanage and School

Suad Abdullahi (honor of Phil Hawley)

Guild RSZ

Arron Melvin

Austin Hawley

In Memory of:

Jean Griffith

Charlotte Search

Doug Ream

Marlene Y. Berwanger

Robert Byrd

Guild Group 7

Loralee Henry

Thomas Frye

Diana and Bill Arthur

Jan Bourke

Doug and Darian Torrance

In Honor of:

Guild Group 7

S usan Potts

Heart to Heart

Dr. and Mrs. Matt Paulson

In Memory of:

David Smith

Amanda Abraham

Dorothy Cowles

Anita Meyers

Friends of Akita Fund – February 2020

In Celebration of:

Camp Akita

Jon Costin

Mackenzie Cummins

Sharon Fenstermacher

David & Karyl Hanhilammi

Ryan Harer

Mike & Jayne Kaylor

Martha Livingston

Suzanne & Jonathan Lucas

Stacy McVey

Lisa Norris

Jodi Patton & Ken Kovaleski

Jennifer & Chris Peterson

Pat Porterfield

Dick & Kitty Roher

Bill & Linda Ryan

Tamea Sutphen & Julie Sutphen Phelps

Ralph & Joan Talmage

Benjamin & Alexandra Texler

Sharla Thomas

Scott Toop & Laura Rosene

Meg & Dick Wagner

Andrew & Caren Wildman

Mike & Mollie Zook

Sarah Kientz and Susan Langner

Satterfield Family

The Kearney Kids

Anonymous

The Texler Family

Anonymous

In Honor of:

Kirsten Knodt

Ann Knodt

Lorena & Carl Long

Elizabeth Miclette

Sam McCollum

Miles McCollum

Greg & Betsy McCollum

In Memory of:

Rev. John Cairns

Dave & Loretta Heigle

Megan Patrick Fedorko

Kirsten Knodt & Mairead Reddy

Tyler Patrick & Meredith DiMola