Friday, August 18, 2023 Newsletter
SUMMER WORSHIP
10:00 a.m.
In the Sanctuary
(in person and livestreamed on Facebook and our website)
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A MESSAGE FROM THE REV. J.C. AUSTIN:
EXPANDING OUR LEADERSHIP
As most of you know, one of the great blessings we have had as a congregation is the service of Cindy Simmons and Steve Simmons as “Parish Associates.”
In the Presbyterian Church (USA), ordained Ministers of Word and Sacrament are not members of congregations; they are members of the Presbytery. The position of Parish Associate was created so that Ministers of Word and Sacrament who are not serving a pastorate can still affiliate with and contribute to a local congregation.
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Cindy and Steve have contributed here at First Pres in an astonishing number of ways, from preaching and worship leadership to teaching in children and adult education ministries to providing pastoral care to singing in the choir!
The beauty of a Parish Associate position is that it is extremely flexible, and can be tailored to the particular gifts and calling of the Minister in question.
I am delighted to announce that we have two new Parish Associates, in addition to Cindy and Steve, as of this summer!
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Ginny Smith and Richard Smith are both ordained, retired ministers living at Kirkland, and they were approved as Parish Associates by the Session last spring. In fact, Ginny preached just last week! They are a wonderful addition to our congregation and to our ministry together, and I am grateful for the gifts and enthusiasm that they bring.
Let’s meet them here:
The Reverend Dr. Virginia B. "Ginny" Smith is retired Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) clergy, having retired from her work as Associate Executive Presbyter for Ministry in Chicago Presbytery in 2011. She received her Master of Divinity degree from Princeton Theological Seminary, Princeton, NJ, and her Doctor of Ministry degree from McCormick Theological Seminary, Chicago, IL.
In addition, during her 41 years of ordained ministry, she served as associate pastor at the First Presbyterian Church, Red Bank, NJ; pastor of the Onondaga Valley Presbyterian Church, Syracuse, NY; associate pastor/head of staff at First Presbyterian Church in the City of New York; and pastor/head of staff at Hopewell Presbyterian Church, Hopewell, NJ. From 1996-1999, she served on the faculty at McCormick Seminary as Mohr Professor of Ministry.
In 2012 she received Professional Certification in Spiritual Gerontology from the Johnson Institute, St. Louis, Missouri. She served on the staff at the Spiritual Renewal Center, Syracuse, NY, as a spiritual director and workshop leader from 2012 until moving to Kirkland Village in 2022.
Since her baptism at the Hillside Avenue Presbyterian Church, Orange, NJ, on October 1, 1944, she has not known a day when she was not a part of a Presbyterian congregation.
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A local church community has always been at the center of her life. As retired PCUSA clergy, she has found it essential to her spiritual well-being and her relationship with the God she knows in Jesus Christ to find a congregation where she can use the gifts God has given her for the good of Christ’s Church and the well-being of others. She has found such a community at First Presbyterian Church of Bethlehem. |
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Since Ministers of the Word and Sacrament are members of the Presbytery, serving as Parish Associate in a local church is how she can be “officially” connected to a congregation and continue to volunteer in whatever ways are helpful to the Pastors, the congregation, and the community at large. She has truly found a church home at FPCB and believe that the gifts God has given her, as well as her education and experience can be of benefit as we journey together.
The Rev. Dr. Richard W. Smith was raised in an American Baptist Church in Brockton, MA, 20 miles south of Boston. After graduation from Eastern Baptist Seminary in Philadelphia in 1973, he served his first church in Vermont and was Ordained in 1974 by the Vermont Baptists Association. In 1979 he received the Doctor of Ministry degree in Pastoral Care and Counseling from Andover Newton Theological School. He also served churches in Connecticut, Erie, PA, and Syracuse, NY.
Richard was received into the PC (USA) in 1995 by the Presbytery of New York City. Since then, he has served churches in Brooklyn, four churches in Chicago, and a Church in New Jersey. He had training in Interim Ministry and most of his Ministry as a Presbyterian has been in Interim situations.
As an Honorable Retired Pastor, since 2012, he likes to use the gifts he has been given (while he is still able) which is why he looks forward to serving as a Parish Associate. Richard likes to visit, teach (he has certification in Spiritual Direction), preach on occasion, and help where needed.
He is an avid photographer, and combines that with Spirituality in a course he has taught called “Contemplative Photography.” He enjoys photographing birds, seashores (Cape Cod), landscapes, and an on occasion, portraits.
Ginny and Richard have three adult children and eight grandchildren. We welcome them to First Pres!
Grace and Peace,
J.C.
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This week’s sermon: Tough Words to Swallow by the Rev. J.C. Austin
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We post the video of each week’s services and sermon text on our website: fpc-bethlehem.org
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TO DOWNLOAD AND PRINT on 8.5" x 11" paper for Sunday
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FOR SUNDAY’S IN-PERSON WORSHIP:
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Child care will be available from 9:45 - 11:15 a.m. this Sunday morning; please ask an usher for directions.
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Your children are a joy in our worship services, and should the need arise, “kid bags” are available for their use. They are in the Narthex.
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We offer nametags for folks to wear – these are for everyone! You can pick up as you enter the worship space; please clearly PRINT your first name.
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CONGREGATIONAL TOWN HALL FOR NEXT SUNDAY, AUGUST 27
The First Pres Board of Trustees will offer a comprehensive report on the church’s cash flow and capital expense issues, as well as possible strategies for addressing those issues.
The Session has affirmed the Trustees’ request for doing this, and we have scheduled a Congregational Town Hall on these issues immediately after worship on Sunday, August 27. The Town Hall will be offered in person in the Sanctuary and also livestreamed via Facebook and on our website.
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LEMONADE ON THE LAWN
Our hospitality time, “Lemonade on the Lawn” returns this week for after-worship fellowship.
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We are looking for other groups or families to take on the hosting duties. Basically, you will need to provide a few treats to eat and to get the beverages, cups and napkins, ice, and coolers out of the church kitchen. Clean-up is as simple as returning those items to the kitchen.
We have an opening for September 3.
It’s easy to sign up on this online form or call the church office at 610-867-5865. We’ll also have a paper sign-up form at each event. |
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LEHIGH VALLEY PRIDE IS COMING: THIS SUNDAY, AUGUST 20
The Rev. Suzanne Trump
We are excited to join some of our local Presbyterian colleagues to have an “expansively welcoming” presence at this Sunday’s Lehigh Valley Pride Festival.
For 30 years people in the Lehigh Valley have gathered to celebrate our sisters and brothers who are part of our LGBTQ+ community.
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Two things are new this year. First, the Pride Festival will be held this Sunday, August 20 from 2 - 8:30 p.m. at The SteelStacks on the south side of Bethlehem, and will feature free admission.
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Second, in addition to partnering with our siblings in faith from First Presbyterian Church of Allentown, we will have a second booth and be joined by members of Faith Presbyterian Church in Emmaus and College Hill Presbyterian Church in Easton.
Prior to the Pride Festival there will be an opportunity to gather in an interfaith time of worship and praise on Saturday, August 19, at 8 p.m. at the Bradbury-Sullivan LGBT Community Center, 522 Maple St., Allentown. On Sunday, August 20 there will be a flag raising in Easton at 9 a.m. and a parade in Allentown at 11 a.m.
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FOR YOUR LISTENING PLEASURE…
Today's Guest Organist
We are pleased to welcome Dr. Barbara Thomson as our guest organist for Sunday’s service. She currently serves as Artist-Lecturer in Organ at Moravian University. Critically acclaimed for her technique and musicianship, she has concertized across the United States and Europe, including performances at the Cathedral of Notre Dame in Paris, St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Dublin, and in Austria, Germany, Italy, Holland, and Serbia.
In this country she has also performed at Lincoln Center, Trinity Church Wall Street, the Riverside Church in New York, the Kennedy Center and the National Presbyterian Center in Washington, DC. She was a founder of and performer in the North Jersey Bach Festival, and recorded for Voice of America, Radio Bremen (Germany), Spectrum Records, and Vermont Public Radio.
A former professor at a number of universities, Dr. Thomson graduated Phi Beta Kappa from the Pennsylvania State University with a double major in organ
performance and theory/composition. She has a Master of Music degree from the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, NY, a Doctor of Musical Arts degree from Peabody Conservatory in Baltimore, and done further study at the Hochschule für Musik und darstellende Kunst in Vienna, and post-doctoral work in choral conducting at Westminster Choir College.
Next Sunday: Special Prelude
Next Sunday (August 27) we invite you to come to the 10 a.m. service early, to enjoy a special prelude beginning at 9:40 a.m. by soprano Meredith Hoffmann-Thomson, accompanied by her mother, Dr. Barbara Thomson (above). She will also sing during the service.
Ms. Hoffmann-Thomson has been a regular soloist with the Salzburger Landestheater over the past three seasons, performing in a multitude of productions such as Elettra in Idomeneo and Erste Dame in Die Zauberflöte as well as modern works and oratorios with conductors Mirga Grazinyte-Tyla and Adrian Kelly.
She has an extensive, international operatic experience. In 2012 she took home the grand prize in the international competition Concours FLAME in Paris, France. She has also received awards with the Palm Beach National Competition (Florida) and the Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions.
Her musical education began with piano and bassoon lessons, and she received her first vocal education from McGill University (BM) while studying with Lucile and Dr. Robert Evans. Ms. Hoffmann-Thomson completed her Master's Degree in voice performance at The Mozarteum in Salzburg, Austria and additionally was a member of the international opera studio “Gerard Mortier” at the Salzburger Landestheater.
Next Sunday Afternoon: Tuba Recital
Also for next Sunday (August 27), you are welcome to attend a recital of music for tuba, and tuba with piano in the Sanctuary. It will be presented by Bill Nazzaro and Atsuko Hanson at 3 p.m. in the Sanctuary.
Bill is a graduate of the New England Conservatory, and performs with the Bethlehem Municipal Band and Allentown Municipal Band. Atsuko is a graduate of the Nuremberg Conservatory and works as a pianist at Kutztown University.
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DO YOU FEEL CALLED TO SERVE?
Although it seems early to begin the process, as a congregation, we will soon be embarking on the important process of selecting our next group of leaders. Over the next few weeks we will be introducing you to the various positions that will be available – Elders, Deacons, and Trustees - and meet some of our current leaders.
Elders comprise the Session of the Presbyterian Church which is, in essence, the decision-making body of the church. They recommend and approve all program and policy implementation and modifications in the church. Elders serve a three year term and the Session meets monthly; Elders generally serve on one or more committees, which also usually meet on a monthly basis.
Current Elder JoAnne Turcotte says, “I found this quote spoke to me: ’Elders are the designated leaders of the church, and the flock is entrusted to them by God. They are not to lead for the pay or the reward but because of their desire to serve and shepherd the flock.’
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“Being an Elder is a large commitment - one of time and mental energy, but I am proud to be entrusted with being a part of our Church’s leadership.
"Although I have been a member of our congregation for over 35 years, I have never felt more involved and connected to our other church members. It has been such a blessing for me.”
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JoAnne is pictured, second from right, with Jack Walker, The Rev. Sue Bennetch and Marie Rosenthal
The Elders serving alongside JoAnne are Jan Bickford, Jennifer Cole, Jon Conrad, Linda Filipovits, Jim Halkins, Kari Keyock, Ted Masthay, Kim Miner, Al Philpotts, Steve Samuelson, Donna Taggart, and Jim Tintle.
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HI NEIGHBORS – BACK ON MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 18 |
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Plans are in full swing for this fall’s session of Hi Neighbors, our popular speakers program!
The organizers have planned a full calendar of ten exciting programs highlighting travel, entertainment, history and a host of other topics of general interest. These programs are free and open to all.
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The sessions will begin on Monday, September 18. We’ll meet in Fellowship Hall, beginning at 9:30 a.m. for a social time. The one-hour programs begin at 10 a.m. (although sometimes we go longer if there are a lot of questions for our speakers!).
We’ve also scheduled a “field trip” for Monday, October 9, so watch for those details as well, in case you’d like to register to ride the provided bus.
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SOME “HOUSEKEEPING” NOTICES FOR YOU
Space Reservations
We are happy to provide space for church-related meetings and gatherings. We do, however, need to know when and where you would like to meet – whether for a one-time meeting, or a series. This way they can get on our schedule and facilities calendar, and you can be assured of the space and any amenities you may need.
leave a message for her at 610-867-5865. Thank you!
Building Closure
We have scheduled electrical work to be done by PPL for Tuesday, October 3: the entire building (including the Preschool) will be closed all day. We apologize for any inconvenience. If you need to reschedule space for a meeting/gathering, please contact Carol Burns (see above).
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13th ANNUAL PRAYER SHAWL GATHERING |
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For years, until the pandemic hit, the annual Prayer Shawl gathering would grace a Sunday afternoon in September. We are very thankful that the crafters of the Cathedral of The Nativity decided that it was time to restart this blessed event! Please join us on Sunday, September 17 from 2-4 p.m. at Cathedral Church of the Nativity, 321 Wyandotte St.
We’ll share a couple of hours of fellowship and refreshments. This is open to all Prayer Shawl, Charity or Community Crafters. There is no charge to attend, but you are asked to RSVP by Wednesday, September 6 to Sally Snyder at
610-442-7576.
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You are welcome to bring samples of your work and copies of your favorite patterns (no copyrighted work, please, unless permission has been granted). |
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CHILD CARE HELP NEEDED
Our Sunday morning Child Care program is hiring! We are looking for workers to provide care during Sunday morning worship services, to kiddos infant to age 5. Knowledge about littles, and experience working with them is a plus.
The summer shifts run from 9:45-11:15 a.m.; from September-May it is from 8:45 a.m.-12:15 p.m. (in the summer the workers are paid for the full 3.5 hour shift).
Clearances are required (the church will pay for these), and they must be at least 18 years old. The starting pay is $14, and employees cannot be church members.
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PRESCHOOL MUM SALE: PLACE YOUR ORDER!
Time to order these gorgeous, 9" mums - available in 5 fabulous colors.
Only $8 each. Order by Monday, September 11 for pick-up on
Wednesday, September 20.
(forms also available in the Narthex on Sunday morning)
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CARE CONCERNS AND HOSPITAL VISITS
If you are hospitalized, please tell the hospital our church code is 724. Also, please call the church office at 610-867-5865 to let us know as the hospitals do not always collect this information. After hours, leave a message or call our answering service at 610-778-7003.
PRAYER REQUESTS...
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Send us your news and photos to share:
**Deadline for the next week's newsletter:
WEDNESDAY at noon**
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Your likes / comments / shares help us spread the word about First Pres!
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TO JOIN OUR LIVESTREAM WORSHIP SERVICE
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Visit our Facebook page and look for the post with our live feed
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If you don’t have a Facebook account, go to our website to view the service - click on the "Watch the Service" button
- Please check in with a comment so we know you’ve joined us!
- Captions will now be available on our livestream, for those who would like to use that feature
To watch a video – available after the services have aired: Visit our website archives
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THIS SUNDAY
- 9:45-11:15 a.m.: Child Care (ask ushers to direct you)
- 10:00 a.m.: Summer Worship, in-person in the Sanctuary and livestream on Facebook Live and our website
- 11:00 a.m.: Lemonade on the Lawn outdoor fellowship time
WEDNESDAYS: 7 p.m. - Overcomer’s Outreach Christian 12 Step Recovery Group weekly meeting, via Zoom.com (NEW! meeting #: 868 2214 2960; passcode: OO-Beth)
CHURCH OFFICE AND BUILDING INFO:
Regular office hours are Monday - Thursday from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Many of the office staff are working remotely for some of the time, so please make an appointment if you need to see someone specific. The answering service (610-778-7003) can take your urgent pastoral concerns, 24 hours a day.
IN CASE OF BAD WEATHER: Look for updates on our website (fpc-bethlehem.org), Facebook page, and WFMZ (channel 69 and wfmz.com). We will also put the info on our church phone message, 610-867-5865.
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FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF BETHLEHEM |
First Presbyterian Church of Bethlehem, 2344 Center Street, Bethlehem, PA 18017 610-867-5865 | info@fpc-bethlehem.org
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