In the Heart of Naples with the Love of God
October 2017
IN THIS ISSUE From Rev. Goodrich
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Worship & Music
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APNC
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Finance
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Congregational Care
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Missions
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Christian Education
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Presbyterian Women
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Calendar
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Facilities
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Education
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News & Events
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Rev. Craig Goodrich, Senior Pastor/Head of Staff For days after Hurricane Irma hit Naples on Sunday, September 10, the question many of us asked is “Does the Church have Power?”
craigg@fpcnaples.org
Ministries. In addition, the Associate Pastor Nominating Committee is hard at work. As you can see from these pages, the month of October brings many mission opportunities as well as the Fall Festival on Wednesday, October 25 (Mark your calendars to volunteer for this great community event). Presbyterian Women and Women of the Way begin meeting and the Men’s Morning Fellowship continues.
Of course, to be more specific, that question addressed electricity only. From a deeper perspective, the “power” of the love of God was not knocked out or destroyed by Irma. Rather, in many ways, this power was let loose and made known in many acts Regarding worship, we will celebrate World of compassion and kindness, care and service, in the Communion Sunday on October 1 with Iglesia name of Christ. Nacion Santa Internacional, (Cumberland Presbytery Naples is recovering, as is our congregation and our Church), which meets weekly in our Chapel. Led by facilities. We did not have a service here on Pastor Ramon Garcia and Loida Garcia, who is also September 10. And on September 17 we had the our receptionist, we are looking forward to this time privilege and blessing of worshipping with Moorings with emphasis on our unity in Christ. Presbyterian in their generator-cooled gymnasium. On October 8, we begin a sermon series that seeks But this past Sunday we regathered in our Sanctuary to answer the question “Why Church?” Sermons will and proclaimed and confirmed “Power On!” be based on “the Great Ends of the Church” the Damage to the church building is still being assessed, but appears to be relatively minimal. The needs in our greater community are being evaluated by our Mission Committee. Should you desire to give to hurricane relief efforts you may give to either or both (1) Presbyterian Disaster Relief (“PDA”) our denomination’s relief efforts which addresses victims of Harvey, Irma and Maria or (2) to local efforts. In each case checks should be made out to First Presbyterian Church of Naples and note either “PDA – hurricane” or for local mission “FPCN Mission – hurricane.” Thank you! And speaking of giving, let’s all keep up with our pledges and giving to empower the general operations and ministries of our congregation.
classic “purpose statement” of our denomination that goes back to 1910. Here they are: (1) the proclamation of the gospel for the salvation of humankind (2) the shelter, nurture and spiritual fellowship of the children of God, (3) the maintenance of divine worship, (4) the preservation of the truth, (5) the promotion of social righteousness and (6) the exhibition of the Kingdom of Heaven to the world. I am excited about this emphasis in preaching. Our music program is truly a gem of this Church. And on page 3, you will also see that Brice Gerlach has put together another fantastic Season of Music.
Finally, September has been a month in which we have said farewell to a number of the “saints” of our congregation. Their names are included on page 14. As for other matters in the life of the congregation, Please remember them with thanksgiving and offer though slightly delayed, facility renovations prayers and expressions of sympathy for their continue. We were back in our beautifully renovated families. Spencer Hall this past Sunday. The work on the Faithfully and Gratefully, second floor offices and the kitchen is nearing completion. You have a wonderful staff who are supremely dedicated to their work. We are happy to welcome new staff member Nickie Hannula who will be working in Administration. We continue to search for two part time positions: Director of Children and Family Ministries and Director of Youth and Family
Worship & Music
Dr. Brice Gerlach, Director of Music, briceg@fpcnaples.org
From the Pulpit October 1 World Communion Sunday Combined Service with Cumberland Presbyterian Church and Rev. Ramon Garcia October 8 “Why Church? To Proclaim the Gospel” Rev. Craig Goodrich October 15 “Why Church? To Build Community” Rev. Craig Goodrich October 22 Rev. Bill Crawford October 29 Reformation Sunday Kirkin’ O’ the Tartans “Why Church? To Worship Always” Rev. Craig Goodrich
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A Season of Music Please mark your calendars for the 2017-2018 Concert Series season. Sunday, November 5, 2017 at 4 p.m. Naples Philharmonic Youth Chorus Saturday, December 2, 2017 at 7 p.m. (tickets available at artis-naples.org)
Handel’s Messiah with the Naples Philharmonic Orchestra and the Naples Philharmonic Chorus Sunday, December 10, 2017 at 4 p.m. Chancel Choir Christmas Concert Sunday, February 18, 2018 at 4 p.m. Clarinet Trio with Daniela Shtereva, violin, Nicolay Plagov, clarinet and Milana Stretzeva, piano Sunday, March 4, 2018 at 4 p.m. Adam Brakel, organ Sunday, March 18, 2018 at 4 p.m. Simon Thomas Jacobs, organ Sunday, April 8, 2018 at 4 p.m. Catherine Lan and Tao-Lin, piano
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APNC
Barbara Weiss, Chair, apnc@fpcnaples.org
Your Associate Pastor Nominating Committee has kept in touch throughout “nature’s interruptions” and happy to update the congregation that we have been diligently working on the Minister Information Form. Much thought, discussion, and prayer has led us to identify the characteristics, abilities, and responsibilities of our next Associate Pastor. Keep our committee in your prayers. If you’d like to contact us or make a comment please email us at apnc@fpcnaples.org
Finance
Endowment Committee Think ahead. You have a will and an IRA/retirement account. You think you are all set. Remember...the beneficiary form on your IRA trumps your will. Check to make sure your beneficiaries are correct. If you are interested in learning more about how you can help First Presbyterian Church of Naples, please contact Endowment Committee Chair Linda Gadkowski at 508.778.6126 or Rev. Craig Goodrich. Remember please, these thoughts are general in nature and are not meant to be specific as to your personal situation or to take the place of your professional advisors.
Online Giving Did you know you can make your gifts online? You can pay for Chancel flowers, make a donation to the Benevolence Fund, Missions, Preschool Angel Fund, Feed the 5,000, Stewardship, Season of Music and more.
Visit our website at www.fpcnaples.org and look for the “GIVE online” link at the bottom of the home page. Here you will be able to establish a secure online account. For more information or if you need help setting up your account, please contact Steve Bowser, Director of Finance.
Congregational Care
Shirley Hagerson, Director of Congregational Care shagerson@comcast.net
WHAT DOES IRMA HAVE TO DO WITH THE SENSE OF A GOOSE? “Bear one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” Galatians 6:2 As you observe a flock of geese flying in their “V” formation, you may think of parallels with our human “flock.” In this formation, each goose flaps its wings to create an uplift for the goose immediately following. This makes the trip for the whole flock easier than if each bird was on its own. When the lead goose gets tired, it rotates back in the “V” and another goose takes the lead. The geese honk from behind to encourage those up front. When a goose gets sick or hurt and falls out of formation, two geese go with it to provide aid. When the hurting goose is able to fly, they set out together to catch up with the flock. In short, they bear each other’s burdens. Aren't there times when each of us is strong enough to lead and also times when we could gain strength from another? Members of our church are supportive of each other throughout the year. However, the stress, deprivations and destruction caused by Hurricane Irma highlighted our efforts to “bear one another’s burdens.” We were reminded that our treasures are not possessions, but relationships. After Irma, people tracked one another down, shared news, found those in need and filled that need, offered supplies and housed those without power. Even in challenging times, aren't we blessed by our faith and by our supportive church community?
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Perhaps you or someone you know is like the sick, tired or hurt goose and needs someone to help. If such is the case, please stop by the Stephen Minister table on Sunday or call our church office. Stephen Ministers are laypeople—Christian men and women—trained to provide one-to-one care to people experiencing a difficult time in life, such as grief, divorce, job loss, chronic or terminal illness, relocation, or separation due to military deployment. Stephen Ministers come from all walks of life. Their commonality? A passion for bringing Christ’s love and care to people during a time of need. Stephen Ministers Serving First Presbyterian Church Cynthia Anderson Carolyn Bennett Janie Casassa Tom Clark Isabelle Connell Marilyn Currier Katie Geshay Andie Goodrich Carol Graham Betsy Grant Shirley Hagerson Chris Jones Walter Gadkowski Jack Marsh Saralene Oldham Gary Root Suzanne Rose
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Missions
Pat Nordbrock, Committee Chair, patnordbrock@gmail.com Mision Peniel Work Day Friday, October 27 afternoon/early evening serving opportunity at Mision Peniel: Come join us for a work afternoon/ Habitat for evening at Mision Peniel Humanity in Immokalee. The church van will leave at 1 p.m. Workday and return at 7 p.m. Volunteers will package food, Thursday, October serve hot meals, and sort and assist with the 12 grab your work distribution of clothes, shoes and household items. gloves and come Please sign up in Spencer Hall! We are hoping to be along. We will travel 14 to 16 volunteers strong! from church at 7:15 a.m. and will return
around 12:30 p.m. You do not need to be an expert in any field of construction to volunteer. Sign up in Spencer Hall. Questions? Contact Jeanne Perkins 239.732.7426. Preparation and Serving Dinner at St. Matthews House Friday, October 13 Calling all cooks, salad makers, ice cream scoopers and servers to prepare and serve dinner to the residents of St. Matthew's House. We will work from 2-6 p.m. and you may choose to work a shift or for the entire time. Sign up in Spencer Hall. Questions? Contact Betty Plum 239.732.8799. Mision Peniel Collection Sunday, October 15 and 22. Right now, most needed items include grocery-style tote bags, men's and women's tennis shoes, pillows, sheets, bath towels, diapers sizes 5-6, kitchen pots and pans, BASIC kitchen utensils, and toiletries.
Please be part of the “Feed the 5000� food drive. Your gift will help restock the pantry of Helps Outreach and provide food for families in Collier County. Helps Outreach has a very simple mission: they receive and distribute anything of value to needy families. Each recipient that requests assistance is counseled about their spiritual well being as well as financial need. Suggested items are: Coffee Sugar Powdered milk Pasta Pasta sauce Dried beans Canned fruit Peanut butter Jam or jelly Hot or cold cereal Canned tuna/chicken/meat Ushers will have a Publix bag available as you leave the Sanctuary on the first Sunday of Octobert. Food donations will be collected at the 6th Street church entrance on the second Sunday. If you prefer, checks may be made payable to "First Presbyterian Church" with the memo marked "Feed the 5,000" and placed in the collection plate. Please no open containers or out of date food.
Christian Education
Jen Breen, Admin. Assistant, jenb@fpcnaples.org
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Presbyterian Women
Carolyn Mollers, Moderator , mmollers@aol.com
PRESBYTERIAN WOMEN, “SEEKING AND SERVING”
Book Club: Members select a book to read and discuss it over several weeks. Contact Andie Goodrich for more information.
First Presbyterian Church of Naples is an active place where women of all ages and interests come together to enjoy the many opportunities for spiritual growth, fellowship and stewardship.
Sew & Sews: Women who like to sew, knit and crochet gather the second and fourth Thursdays to work on numerous mission projects. They’ve sent dresses to Africa, and knitted hats, shawls and afghans to Guatemala.
All women of the church are invited to participate in any of these activities whether available one month, several months or year – round. Please join us. Everyone is welcome! The Gathering: This meeting on the first Wednesday of the month features a special program and tasty luncheon at noon for members and guests. Circles: Circles are smaller groups that meet once a month. This year they will be using the Presbyterian Women’s study of Hebrews, “Cloud of Witnesses.” Circle women also take turns hosting the Gathering and baking cookies to serve with punch on Sunday between services. Faith/Joy Circle meets the third Tuesday at 9:30 a.m. in Room 204 Love & Friendship meets the third Wednesday at 9:30 a.m. in the Parlor
Peace with Honor Circle meets the third Wednesday at 1 p.m. in the Parlor Sunshine Circle meets the third Wednesday at 12 p.m. in the Youth Room WOW – Women of the Way: This group meets weekly on Thursday mornings and features a short term study series on various subjects. See information to the right.
Prayer Shawl Ministry: Many women participate in knitting and crocheting prayer shawls for those needing some special comforting. Missions: Presbyterian Women support numerous mission efforts with the Thank Offering, Feed the Hungry and Least Coin programs. Needs both local and worldwide are met in various ways. Save the dates: October 18, 2017 The Gathering program will be an introduction to this year’s Presbyterian Women’s study, “Cloud of Witnesses.” Rev. Goodrich will present the introduction to this study on the book of Hebrews. Reservations ($7) may be made in Spencer Hall on Sunday. November 1, 2017 The Gathering program will feature “Fall Fashion from Chico’s.” Reservations ($7) may be made in Spencer Hall on the last two Sundays in October.
Calendar
Sandy Poore, Director of Facilities, sandyp@fpcnaples.org
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October SUNDAY
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
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9:30 a.m. Communion Worship
4 p.m. APNC
11 a.m. Alzheimer’s Support Group
8 a.m. Men’s Morning 7 p.m. Cumberland Fellowship Church 9:30 a.m. Sew & Sews 3 p.m. Youth Group 7 p.m. Chancel Choir rehearsal 7 p.m. Cumberland Church Music
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9:30 a.m. Worship 12 p.m. Cumberland Church
1 p.m. Worship and Music Committee
8 a.m. Facilities Committee 2:30 p.m. Missions Committee
3 p.m. Youth Group 7 p.m. Chancel Choir rehearsal 7 p.m. Cumberland Church Music
7 a.m. Habitat for Humanity Work Day 9:15 a.m. Women of the Way 10 a.m. Sew & Sews 7 p.m. Cumberland Church
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9:30 a.m. Worship 10:30 a.m. Seekers and Joiners 12 p.m. Cumberland Church OUTREACH DEADLINE
4 p.m. Adult Edu- 3 p.m. Finance cation meeting Committee 5:30 p.m. Deacons Meeting
8 a.m. Men’s Morning Fellowship 12 p.m. Presbyterian Women Gathering 3 p.m. Youth Group 7 p.m. Chancel Choir rehearsal 7 p.m. Cumberland Church Music
9:15 a.m. Women of the Way 7 p.m. Cumberland Church
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9:30 a.m. Worship New Member Acceptance 12 p.m. Cumberland Church
10 a.m. Personnel Committee
4 p.m. Session
5:30 p.m. Fall Festival 9:15 a.m. Women 1 p.m. Mision Peniel of the Way Work Day 10 a.m. Sew & Sews 7 p.m. Cumberland Church
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O’ the Tartans
9:30 a.m. Worship 12 p.m. Cumberland Church
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FRIDAY
SATURDAY
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This calendar does not necessarily include all events that are scheduled. For additional information, call or visit the website www.fpcnaples.org. Contact Director of Facilities, Sandy Poore to reserve a room for your meeting.
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Facilities
Sandy Poore, Director of Facilities, sandyp@fpcnaples.org
Facilities
We would like to thank the very dedicated volunteers who helped get our Sanctuary ready for worship by washing each and every pew, the Bibles, hymnals and Friendship Pads, pulpit, lectern, Choir rails and Communion table. You all are what makes our church dynamic. Our team included: Barbarann Budd Libby, Conner and Grace Biehl Teresa and Annabel Doane Katherine Drysdale Chuck and Dorothy Gomori Don and Kathy Grandi Margret Green David Lovingood Deborah Meeson-Vige Dottie Morse Jane Payne Saralene Oldham Patty Rutzler
Sandy Poore, Director of Facilities, sandyp@fpcnaples.org
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Education
Men’s Morning Fellowship ALL women of the church are invited to be part of this growing fellowship of study and care where friendships are formed and no one is on the sidelines. Join us from October 12 - November 17. Our focus will be the Beatitudes from Jesus' Sermon on the Mount in the gospel of Matthew. We'll explore in-depth these "attitudes that ought to be" which bring a transformative message of hope and change to followers of Jesus, change that begins on the inside and moves outward in love and compassion. Gathering time is Thursdays, 9:15 11 a.m. in Spencer Hall. Sign-up and study materials are available in Spencer Hall on Sundays. For further information contact Jill Crawford: jillccrawford@gmail.com or 508.207.5105.
Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.
The Men’s Morning Fellowship will continue on Wednesdays, October 4 and 18 beginning at 8 a.m. October 4 the topic will be “Men and God” led by Larry Comstock. October 18 the group will be led by Gary Nordbrock. Please be reminded that gatherings are open to all men of the church so please join us as you are able.
News and Events
Kathleen Law, Communications, kathleenl@fpcnaples.org
My family and I would like to take this opportunity to express our deepest appreciation and thanks for the kindness you have shown to us during the past six years. It has been a special time of showing your love and support to us and to our Mission in Naples. FPC, you have been so kind and generous allowing us to enjoy your facilities, to be able to reach out to people in our community, as well as the name of our Church Holy Nation International. We want to take the message of Jesus Christ to all the nations represented and living here in SW Florida. 1 Peter 2:9 says you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light‌let me assure you that you are that chosen people and that you are in our prayers now and always. Gratefully, Pastor Ramon Garcia
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News and Events
Kathleen Law, Communications, kathleenl@fpcnaples.org
Lifeline Screening at First Presbyterian Church Monday, November 6 Why get screened? If you are over fifty, if you have diabetes, high cholesterol or high blood pressure, or if you have a family history of stroke or heart disease, you may be at risk, even if you feel great. Actually four out of five people who suffer a stroke have no apparent symptoms and nearly 30% of strokes occur under the age of 65. The good news is that according to the National Stroke Association, 80% of strokes can be prevented.
Pre-registration is required. Call 1.888.653.6450 or visit www.lifelinescreening.com/communitycircle
In Memoriam Donna Wyant September 2, 2017
Doris Norgart September 4, 2017
John Nicholson September 7, 2017
Jim McLaren September 8, 2017
Donald “Bill” Ester September 11, 2017
Marjorie Gunden September 26, 2017
Marlene Heeman September 27, 2017
* Carotid Artery (Plaque) - $70 * Heart Rhythm (Atrial Fibrillation) - $70 * Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm—$70 * Perpheral Arterial Disease—$60 Osteoporosis Risk Assessment—$60 * Package 1—4 tests—$139 Package 2—all tests—$149 Call for appointment Register now for a $10 discount off package rates 1.888.653.6450
Membership at First Presbyterian Church One becomes a member of the church by professing faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. We receive members by a first-time profession of faith, by letter of transfer from another church or by a reaffirmation of faith in Christ. If you would like to become a member of this church or if you have questions about the church, we invite you to come to the Seekers and Joiners Class on Sunday, October 15 in the Parlor following the worship service to learn more or visit the Welcome Table following the worship services. New members will be received on Sunday, October 22. Contact Joanne Slager, jjslager493@aol.com, 239.272.1568 for more information.
News and Events
Kathleen Law, Communications, kathleenl@fpcnaples.org
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Please welcome the newest addition to our team Nickie Hannula has joined our team as an Administrative Assistant. Her office is located in the upstairs office area. Nickie is a native of Naples, Florida. She went on to explore the mountains of Colorado and then on to Texas before returning home to Naples. She has worked for Collier County Government, in the hospitality industry and most recently, Kensington Golf & Country Club where she supported all departments including Membership, Food & Beverage and Communications. Nickie and Ben are the proud parents of five children! She is looking forward to being a part of the First Presbyterian family.
STAFF Name Phone: 239.262.1311 Minister Rev. Craig Goodrich, Senior Pastor
Ext.
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craigg@fpcnaples.org
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briceg@fpcnaples.org
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jenb@fpcnaples.org
Office Steve Bowser, Director of Finance Loida Garcia, Church Receptionist Nickie Hannula, Administrative Assistant Kathleen Law, Communications Coordinator Sharman Pfaus, Executive Office Manager
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steveb@fpcnaples.org loidag@fpcnaples.org nickieh@fpcnaples.org kathleenl@fpcnaples.org sharmanp@fpcnaples.org
Facilities Marc Donell, Maintenance Sandy Poore, Director of Facilities
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marcd@fpcnaples.org sandyp@fpcnaples.org
Preschool Ashley Houk, Preschool Director Liz Psota, Preschool Administrative Assistant
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ashleyh@fpcnaples.org lizp@fpcnaples.org
Music Dr. Brice Gerlach, Director of Music Ministries Christian Education Jen Breen, Administrative Assistant to CE Bethany Gordon, Sunday School Lead Ashley Hancock, Nursery Care Lead
Non-Profit Org. Postage PAID Naples, FL 34102 Permit No. 8
First Presbyterian Church of Naples 250 Sixth Street South Naples, FL 34102 www.fpcnaples.org 239.262.1311
Join us On Sunday, October 29 at 9:30 for
Kirkin’ o’ the Tartan With The St. Andrews Society and The Harp and Thistle Pipe Band
a.m.