In the Heart of Naples with the Love of God: we worship, we love, we grow, we serve
August 2021
Rev. Craig Goodrich Worship Finance Nominating Committee Session
2 2 3 4 6
Presbyterian Women Christian Education Preschool Facilities Children and Youth
6 7 8 10 12
Personnel Church News Birthdays Membership Staff
13 14 15 15 16
2 Rev. Craig Goodrich, Senior Pastor It’s August already. Wow! Where is this summer going? Wherever you are, I hope that you are finding time to rest, to pray, to be close to God, perhaps to reconnect with family and friends. And yet, it is a difficult time, isn’t it? Many of us are weary and discouraged. The pandemic rages on among the unvaccinated. We are witnessing, it seems, many “natural” disasters. The “news” is full of negativity, blame and accusation. However, in remarkable contrast to all the fear and negativity stands the gospel of Jesus Christ and the good news of God’s grace. The difference is striking! In Jesus we see compassion and mercy, words of forgiveness and healing. We see care for the poor. It was Jesus who promised, “Come to me all you who are weary and I will give you rest.” And then there are the New Testament letters so full of hopeful and encouraging exhortations to be open to the power of the Spirit, to devote ourselves to love, prayer, and doing good.
In Philippians, while in prison, Paul writes: “Rejoice in the Lord always; again, I say Rejoice. Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God which surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Jesus Christ.” He goes on to say, “Finally, beloved whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” (Philippians 4:4-9). Friends, it is important to keep our hearts and minds focused on the good. There is so much for which to be thankful. And there are so many opportunities to share the love and grace of Jesus Christ, right where we are today. Grateful? Yes! I am so grateful for this community of grace, the First Presbyterian Church of Naples. Come what may, we are journeying together as we follow our Lord Jesus Christ.
craigg@fpcnaples.org
As we look back over July, I give thanks for our elders who continue to guide us through COVID19, and for our deacons and Stephen Ministers who care for us all. I give thanks for our dedicated staff team. And I give thanks to you for your generous giving which has funded the refurbishment of our pews, sent needed funds for COVID-19 relief, and supported our general budget. Thank you! And we look ahead with anticipation and hope. You will read in this issue about our Back to School Blessing on Sunday, August 8 (page 12); the encouragement of our Green Team to be environmentally responsible (page 7); the new playground project (page 9); and the “Staff Spotlight” this month highlighting our wonderful receptionist, Angie Johnson (page 13). We also ask for you to submit names to our Nominating Committee for the offices of elder and deacon. (page 4). All this is so very, very good. So, friends, give thanks. Give thanks this day. And may the peace of God guard your hearts and minds and free you from worry and fear. Commit and hold to the good. And reach out in love and care to those in need. Faithfully and Gratefully,
FROM THE PULPIT August 1 Rev. Rex Childs “You are the Man!” August 8 Rev. Craig Goodrich “For Building Up” August 15 Rev. Craig Goodrich “Now is the Time” August 22 Rev. Craig Goodrich “To Whom Can We Go?” August 29 Rev. Rex Childs
Finance
Doug Jensen, Committee Chair, d50.jensen@gmail.com Anna Focht, Director of Finance, annaf@fpcnaples.org
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over our finances for the first half of the 2021 year, we are As we look back thankful to reflect on our successes: your generous response to both the annual Generosity Campaign and Pews & Playground Campaign, the remarkable
financial recovery of our Preschool from the impact of COVID-19, a robust online worship presence, and efforts by our staff to control costs. Meeting our fiscal year-end goals is essential, and with your help, we have reached the highest pledge amount ever, and we are able to fully fund our pew cushion reupholster costs. We are grateful for the part you have played in making it all happen! However, as we emerge from the pandemic, challenges remain, most notably in church giving patterns. Our pledge collection rate is slower than in prior years, and seasonal worship attendance is down as people adjust to the new patterns and practices that vaccinations have allowed. As we continue to navigate these unique circumstances, we are closely monitoring both our income and expense line items while considering church and community needs, and making adjustments that will favorably impact our outcomes.
After an unprecedented year and a half, we are abundantly encouraged through our faith to see God’s grace at work in the lives of our community. Thank you for your giving and all the ways in which you’ve been united with us here In the Heart of Naples with the Love of God! Finance
Playground Campaign Looking Ahead to our Future We would be honored if you would consider making a gift to help us reach our goal for this project! Playground – Donated: $65,545 Campaign goal: $82,000 How to Donate You may give by check, or give online at www.fpcnaples.org/give. Checks may be mailed directly to the church office at 250 Sixth Street South, Naples, FL 34102. Please indicate “playground” in the memo. Donations can also be made through the preschool website at www.fppnaples.org/support-our-school and click the “Donate Now” button.
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Nominating Committee
Barbara Weiss, Committee Chair, bweiss1952@gmail.com Rev. Craig Goodrich, Senior Pastor/Head of Staff, craigg@fpcnaples.org
Nominations for Church Elder and Deacon The Nominating Committee seeks your help in identifying those among us who might be ready to serve as a Ruling Elder or as a Deacon. We ask each member to prayerfully reflect on whom you believe God is calling to lead us in these two important ministries and to nominate those persons. As you pray, be especially aware of God calling you to serve! Self-nominations are especially encouraged following the long period of time when we haven’t been meeting each other and getting to know each other. The nomination process is fairly simple. If you want to self-nominate and/or nominate another, there is a separate form for Deacon Nominees and Elder Nominees. Each form begins with the Presbyterian Church (USA) Book of Order requirements for the specific ordained office. We hope this helps each member understand the sought-after qualities of elders and deacons, as well as the responsibilities held by each office. If you are nominating another, you do not need to seek the nominee’s permission to nominate them. Just nominate them and the Nominating Committee will take it from there! Nomination forms are available in the church bulletin, church office and on our website. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Barbara Weiss, Chair of the Committee at bweiss1952@gmail.com or call 239.331.7668. All nomination forms should be submitted by Sunday, September 5. Instructions on how to submit forms are at the bottom of each nomination form.
First Presbyterian Church of Naples, Florida Nomination Form for the Position of Ruling ELDER: The Ministry of Governance and Discernment Name of person being nominated: _________________________________________________ Self Nominated ____ Nominated by: _______________________________________( name of nominator) As there were in Old Testament times elders for the government of the people, so the New Testament church provided persons with particular gifts to share in discernment of God’s Spirit and governance of God’s people. Accordingly, congregations should elect persons of wisdom and maturity of faith, having demonstrated skills in leadership and being compassionate in spirit. Ruling elders are so named not because they “lord it over” the congregation (Matt.20:25), but because they are chosen by the congregation to discern and measure its fidelity to the Word of God, and to strengthen and nurture its faith and life. Ruling elders, together with ministers of the Word and Sacrament, exercise leadership, government, spiritual discernment, and discipline and have responsibilities for the life of a congregation as well as the whole church, including ecumenical relationships. When elected by the congregation, they shall serve faithfully as members of the session. [G-2.03 2019-2021 Book of Order]
Why would you/this nominee be a gifted Ruling Elder? (check all that apply) ___Leadership skill ___Mature Christian faith and capable of spiritual discernment ___Effective and clear communication skills ___Actively participates in our worship life ___Actively involved in other church functions ___Openness and willingness to partner and cooperate with other church leaders ___Knowledge/skills in areas of Christian Education, Congregational Care, Facilities, Finance, Membership & Communications, Missions, Personnel, and/or Worship & Music In your own words, please describe why you/your nominee would be a good Elder:
First Sunday of VBS— taking time to give a Father’s Day blessing. Please return this form by September 5, 2021 to the Nominating Committee c/o Sharman Pfaus via mail to: FPC Naples, 250 Sixth Street South, Naples, FL 34102 or leave it in the offering basket on Sunday to the attention of Sharman Pfaus.
Nominating Committee
Barbara Weiss, Committee Chair, bweiss1952@gmail.com Rev. Craig Goodrich, Senior Pastor/Head of Staff, craigg@fpcnaples.org
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First Presbyterian Church of Naples, Florida Nomination Form for the Position of DEACON: Ministry of Compassion and Service Name of person being nominated: __________________________________________________ Self Nominated: ____ Nominated by: _______________________________________( name of nominator) The ministry of a deacon as set forth in Scripture is one of compassion, witness and service, sharing in the redeeming love of Jesus Christ for the poor, the hungry, the sick, the lost, the friendless, the oppressed, those burdened by unjust policies or structures or anyone in distress. Persons of spiritual character, honest repute, exemplary lives, brotherly and sisterly love, sincere compassion and sound judgment should be chosen for this ministry. [G-2.02 2019-2021 Book of Order]
Why would you/this nominee be a gifted Deacon? (check all that apply) ___Cares for others ___Mature Christian faith ___Can maintain confidences/trustworthy ___Sincere compassion ___Actively involved in worship and other church functions ___Openness and willingness to partner and cooperate with other church leaders in providing ministry ___Willingness to take on assignments and see them through to completion In your own words, please describe why you/your nominee would be a good Deacon:
Please return this form by September 5, 2021 to the Nominating Committee c/o Sharman Pfaus via mail to: FPC Naples, 250 Sixth Street South, Naples, FL 34102 or leave it in the offering basket on Sunday to the attention of Sharman Pfaus.
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Saralene Oldham, Clerk of Session, solddham@helmsbriscoe.com Rev. Craig Goodrich, Senior Pastor, craigg@fpcnaples.org
Session
Session News Masks are no longer required for in-person worship if you have been
vaccinated and have adhered to the two week waiting period following your vaccine. This protocol also pertains to children of all ages.
Social distancing is discontinued and fellowship takes place following worship in Spencer Hall.
The Reopening Task Force has completed its work and have been dismissed with great gratitude. Decisions moving forward will be made by the staff and standing committees of the church.
Patty Rutzler, Committee Chair, pattyw33@aol.com Dr. Brice Gerlach, Director of Music Ministries, briceg@fpcnaples.org
Worship & Music
Join us on Sunday, August 29 when we welcome back to our worship service, The Florida Gulf Coast University Chamber Choir, directed by Dr. Trent Brown.
Presbyterian Women
Carolyn Bennett, Moderator, cjosmith341@gmail.com
Presbyterian Women helping Grace Place This year the Presbyterian Women are requesting monetary donations for Grace Place to purchase school supplies. Grace Place will be making backpacks for students Pre-K— grade 12. They have a source for bulk buying, which will give them more purchasing power.
A $100 donation can fill a backpack with supplies for the year. Please consider donating either cash or check from now through Sunday, August 8. Checks may be made payable to Presbyterian Women and note your donation is for school supplies for Grace Place. Donations may be placed in an envelope marked PW and placed in the offering basket or mailed to the church office. Your donation will help to make a difference in the life of a child. We sincerely thank you for your generous support.
Christian Education
Roni Haggart, Committee Chair, vhaggart@gmail.com Rev. Rex Childs, Associate Pastor, rexc@fpcnaples.org
The Green Team We urge you to join us in becoming passionate about saving our planet and “create your own act of green.” Let’s work together to do all we can in our homes, our communities, and through our church to make a difference. “The earth is the Lord’s and all that is in it.” Psalm 24:1
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Preschool
Teresa Doane, Elder, twdoane@hotmail.com Ashley Houk, Preschool Director, ashleyh@fpcnaples.org
Preschool
Teresa Doane, Elder, twdoane@hotmail.com Ashley Houk, Preschool Director, ashleyh@fpcnaples.org
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Fran Engelhardt, Committee Chair, engelhardtfran@gmail.com Sandy Poore, Director of Facilities, sandyp@fpcnaples.org
10 Facilities
The summer months are typically time to work on some major projects and this summer proved no different, although some were unexpected! The west parking lot developed a sink hole which turned out to be a broken drain pipe under the sidewalk and along the back drive. The pew seat cushions and choir chairs were reupholstered with new fabric and foam. The entire Sanctuary was completed in one week! An amazing effort with beautiful results. The Preschool playground was demolished and awaits new equipment. Also on the list this summer were air conditioner repairs and replacements, in part due to power surges and storms!
First Sunday of VBS— taking time to give a Father’s Day blessing.
Facilities
Fran Engelhardt, Committee Chair, engelhardtfran@gmail.com Sandy Poore, Director of Facilities, sandyp@fpcnaples.org
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12 Children and Youth
Roni Haggart, Committee Chair, vhaggart@gmail.com Nancy Van Fleet, Director of Children and Youth, nancyv@fpcnaples.org
Back to School Blessing Students teachers coaches aides administrators bus drivers Crossing guards mentors
Sunday,,- August 8
at
9:30 a.m.
Following the worship service you're invited to an open house and light lunch in the Youth room
Please rsvp to Ashley Hancock ashley.hancock@fpcnaples.org
VBS planting
Kindness Rocks from VBS
Fun after virtual VBS VBS Young Adult Planning Team
Barbara Weiss, Committee Chair, bweiss1952@gmail.com Rev. Craig Goodrich, Senior Pastor/Head of Staff, craigg@fpcnaples.org
Personnel
The pleasant and professional voice you hear on the other end of the phone when you call First Presbyterian Church is that of Angie Johnson. Angie has served as the church’s receptionist since March of 2019. She is the staff’s “professional party planner” and makes the workplace a fun place to be. Her creativity is displayed on the decorated bulletin boards located around the church grounds. The staff and Church are blessed to have Angie a part of the team! Sharman Pfaus, Executive Office Manager
Angie Johnson comes to us from Fort Wayne, Indiana. While in Indiana, she worked as an apartment property manager which transitioned children out of the foster care system. She moved to Naples when her husband, Gary, transferred to Arthrex in Naples and then to the Immokalee facility when it was completed. Angie and her husband have been together for 17 years, and married for three. They enjoy travelling back to Indiana and Michigan to visit family and friends and making delicious meals on their hibachi grill. Angie has two daughters, one stepdaughter, three grandchildren and one foster grandson. Her daughter, Jessica lives in Indiana and Angie recently flew up and brought her two granddaughters back to spend a few weeks with her. They enjoyed the beach, movies, summer camp, our own VBS, and baking goodies. Angie also has a cat, Tigger, who loves popcorn and she claims is “very spoiled.” Angie’s younger daughter, Jada, is entering her senior year at Bonita High School and is currently exploring her options for college, with Florida State on the top of her list. Angie enjoys being the staff “party planner” which includes selecting a theme, setting up decorations, and finding just the right party
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Angie Johnson
Office Assistant/Receptionist games to play. This past Christmas she had everyone involved with the “Elf on the Shelf.” The office elf was named Adam and she made sure he visited each staff member at least once, and he was usually getting into trouble! The staff is anxiously awaiting Adam’s return this December! At home Angie enjoys making crafts using her Cricut® machine and jewelry making. One of her many hobbies is baking and cooking. During the winter months she makes batches of soup and biscuits and delivers them along with blankets and care packages to the homeless in our area. She also enjoys going to the beach for walks and sunbathing and floating in her pool during her free time.
14 Church News
Scheduling Meetings & Events Please note, as we return to holding meetings and events at the church, there is the ability to offer a hybrid style meeting. This means your meeting can be held in person but for those unable to attend, they have the option to join the meeting via Zoom. We have limited availability due to space/ equipment necessities. Therefore, we will offer this service on a “first come, first serve” basis.
Stephen Ministers
Please be sure to schedule ALL meetings, whether in-person, Zoom or hybrid, through Sandy Poore, Director of Facilities, sandyp@fpcnaples.org.
Thank You Dear Friends, All of us at Columbia Theological Seminary send our greetings and our gratitude for your recent support made in honor of the Rev. Craig N. Goodrich. Your gift sustains our mission to call, prepare, and send leaders into the church and the world, deeply prepared for the challenges and opportunities of ministry. May God bless you and keep you well, Rev. Julie Bailey Director of Alumni & Church Relations Dear members of the First Presbyterian Church, Thank you for your thoughtful donation and for making the Shelter's mission a priority. We especially appreciate your help at this time with the increased challenges imposed upon our participants and staff because of the pandemic. In peace and gratitude, Cyndi Field Chief Development Officer The Shelter for Abused Women and Children
The Memorial Garden provides a place of beauty and peace to house the columbarium for the interment of ashes for our loved ones. The Memorial Garden is available for interment for members of The First Presbyterian Church of Naples and their families. Others may use the Memorial Garden based on availability and approval by the Facilities Committee. Anyone desiring to purchase a Burial Right in the Memorial Garden must submit a written application. Based upon the information contained in the application and the conditions outlined in the Rules and Regulations, the Facilities Committee will approve applications that meet the required credentials. If you would like additional information, please contact Sharman Pfaus, Executive Office Manager.
Dear First Presbyterian Church, Thank you for your recent gift to Grace Place for Children and Families and for being our partner in the mission to provide pathways out of poverty by educating children and families. Together we are helping the families we serve build a brighter future for themselves and all of Collier County. In gratitude, Lära Fisher CEO
Dear First Presbyterian Church, On behalf of those we serve at St. Matthew’s House, thank you for your generous gift, This support comes at a time in our history when the organization has been faced with the harsh reality of the COVID-19 outbreak. Thank you for joining with us in making St. Matthew’s House a place where people can come to receive life’s necessities and words of encouragement. Sincerely, Steve Brooder Chief Operating Officer
Deborah Meeson-Vige, Committee Chair, deborah.meeson@gmail.com Kathleen Law, Communications Coordinator, kathleenl@fpcnaples.org
Membership
August 1 Saralene Oldham Garrett Richter Lisa Ethier August 2 Nancy Erdly Emma Owens August 3 Dave Buley Duncan Connell Cameron Holmberg Anne Weber August 4 Augie Ingoglia Lucy Kuhne Russ Richardson Corbin Wyant
August 5 Pam Fisher Jackson Maxwell Ramona Winger
August 6 Brice Gerlach Fred Hoffman JoAnn Luster Bill Scott August 7 Jackie Cusick Jean Kasten August 8 Paul Casassa Laura Colville Linda Secrest Jan Witman August 10 Sam Allen Ali Claremont Sted Garber Pat Hueter
August 11 Jerry Perkins Dan Stellema Owen Witmer August 12 Pat Bailey Emery Holmberg Gene McCree Mary Nourse Cal Pratt August 13 Sandy Poore Geri Brandt David Brewin Tom Gallant Melanie Jones Gretchen Knoll Cathy Norris
August 15 Nancy Kiningham Michael Mans Karen Martin
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August 17 Julia Bussell Tucker Claremont John Jordan
August 27 Judy Fultz Patricia Mac Minn Nancy McLaughlin
August 18 Jolly Birtwistle Abby Byrd
August 29 George Craig Stephen McClure
August 19 William Brock Jane Graham Grant Wagner
August 30 Kristi Anweiler Linda Cleveland Terry Hoogenboom Kasey Morris Gary Nordbrock John Rader Catherine Willett
August 21 Pamela Pellerito Arie Simele August 22 Adelaine Fraley Kathleen Maier August 24 Frank Iarossi Forrest Thye Sue Vernia
August 31 Troy Bussell Gene Fraley Eileen Malstrom Patti Schubarth Bob Walkenhorst
August 26 Dot Buley Barbara Henneman Dee Hook Geoff Wardwell
Seekers and Joiners Do you want to know more about our faith, this congregation and how to become a member of our dynamic church? We want to encourage you in your journey of faith. A Seekers and Joiners class will be held in the Parlor on Sunday, August 15, immediately following the worship service. New members will be welcomed into the congregation on Sunday, August 22. Information packets are available at the exit doors. Please register by calling the church office 239.262.1311 or e-mailing Angie Johnson at angiej@fpcnaples.org.
First Presbyterian Church of Naples
Non-Profit Org. Postage PAID Naples, FL 34102 Permit No. 8
250 Sixth Street South Naples, FL 34102 www.fpcnaples.org 239.262.1311
STAFF LISTING Name Phone: 239.262.1311 Ministers Rev. Craig Goodrich, Senior Pastor Rev. Rex Childs, Associate Pastor
Ext.
2035 2027
craigg@fpcnaples.org rexc@fpcnaples.org
Music Dr. Brice Gerlach, Director of Music Ministries
2039
briceg@fpcnaples.org
Christian Education Jack Fogelman, Kidz Lab Teacher Audrey Gordon, Childcare Provider Ashley Hancock, Christian Education Assistant Nancy Van Fleet, Director of Children and Youth
2012 2029
ashley.hancock@fpcnaples.org nancyv@fpcnaples.org
Office Anna Focht, Director of Finance Angie Johnson, Office Assistant/Receptionist Kathleen Law, Communications Coordinator Sharman Pfaus, Executive Office Manager
2042 2000 2013 2036
annaf@fpcnaples.org angiej@fpcnaples.org kathleenl@fpcnaples.org sharmanp@fpcnaples.org
Facilities Lisa Ethier, Custodian Eduardo Martinez, Maintenance Sandy Poore, Director of Facilities
2016 2014 2028
lisae@fpcnaples.org eduardom@fpcnaples.org sandyp@fpcnaples.org
Preschool Ashley Houk, Preschool Director Lindsay Willkomm, Assistant Preschool Director
2009 2038
ashleyh@fpcnaples.org lindsayw@fpcnaples.org