John Calvin Presbyterian Church

Announcements:

CONGREGATIONAL VITALITY RECOMMENDATIONS:  Are you interested in the topic of Church growth, and vitality? Are you concerned about the current trend of membership decline in the world wide church but don’t know what you can do here at JCPC to stem the tide and grow the church? This month we will be highlighting a few books on this crucial topic. We will have five book recommendations which can each be found at the PCUSA webstore or Amazon. Many of these books even have discussions topics and questions which would be perfect for a small group study, so grab a few friends and check out the books. Our second book recommendation is:Neighborhood Church Transforming Your Congregation into a Powerhouse for Mission by Krin Van Tatenhove Rob Mueller: How can we embody the values of love, grace, and justice? As faith communities, how can our collective embodiment of these values shine even brighter?

YAV CLOSING WORSHIP, VOLUNTEER CLEANING DAY, WISHLIST: It’s Been a wonderful year but it’s time to say goodbye to our amazing YAV’s. There will be a closing worship service at Lakeview Presbyterian Church, July 25th at 6:00 PM. On July 29th from 9am-noon, please join the YAV’s for a deep clean of the beloved “Big Green House” at 4225 Franklin Ave, New Orleans. All ages of cleaners are welcome! Inside we will clean the floors, appliances, windows, and furniture. Outside we’ll weed, mow, and rake gravel. YAV Site Coordinator Dan Wally Lang will coordinate volunteer signup, supplies, and snacks. RSVP via email at dan@pbysouthla.org. For the coming year NOLA YAV is delighted to welcome three Young Adult Volunteers from Scotland!  Because they will be traveling internationally we hope to provide the following household items in gently used or new condition: 3 sets twin Linens/comforter, 3 pillows, 2 bicycles (Medium, large) 3 umbrellas, sunscreen, bug spray, twin memory foam mattress topper, shampoo, and conditioner. Please contact dan@pbysouthla.org if you can provide any of the following items by August 20, 2023.  

Announcements:

CONGREGATIONAL VITALITY RECOMMENDATIONS:  Are you interested in the topic of Church growth, and vitality? Are you concerned about the current trend of membership decline in the world wide church but don’t know what you can do here at JCPC to stem the tide and grow the church? This month we will be highlighting a few books on this crucial topic. We will have five book recommendations which can each be found at the PCUSA webstore or amazon. Many of these books even have discussions topics and questions which would be perfect for a small group study, so grab a few friends and check out the books. Our second book recommendation is:Sailboat Church: Helping Your Church Rethink Its Mission and Practice By Joan S. Gray: Is your church a rowboat church or a sailboat church?

Rowboat churches depend largely on human effort. When church budgets shrink and membership declines, rowboat churches frantically row harder against a current, often frustrated and disappointed at their efforts. Sailboat churches, on the other hand, take up the oars, hoist sails, and rely on the Holy Spirit to guide them.

Arguing that churches should be “sailboats,” Joan S. Gray encourages readers to shift concern from the many daily, practical concerns of their local church to fresh ideas that can be found using the guidance of the Holy Spirit. The book includes forty days of sailing prayers, quotes from Scripture, brief reflection questions, and an extensive bibliography that is arranged by theme. Perfect for groups to read together, this book will help leaders reframe their church’s mission and practice with the Holy Spirit as their guide.

Announcements:

CONGREGATIONAL VITALITY RECOMMENDATIONS:  Are you interested in the topic of Church growth, and vitality? Are you concerned about the current trend of membership decline in the world wide church but don’t know what you can do here at JCPC to stem the tide and grow the church? This month we will be highlighting a few books on this crucial topic. We will have five book recommendations which can each be found at the PCUSA webstore or amazon. Many of these books even have discussions topics and questions which would be perfect for a small group study, so grab a few friends and check out the books. Our second book recommendation is: Authentic Congregations By Willam Hopper

Using case studies of authentic congregations–diverse Presbyterian congregations that are responding creatively and effectively in their social contexts–William Hopper draws insights for all congregations desiring more lively worship, service, and witness. He offers wisdom for congregations about how to engage controversial issues and develop faithful ministries in challenging times.

GLASS RECYCLING: Ever wish you could recycle your glass jars instead of tossing them in the trash. Well you are in luck. Kelly and Sam are collecting glass to be recycled by the Glass Half Full, a company that recycles glass to be used as sand in duster relief and coastal restoration. Please make sure all glass is rinsed out with no lids and place it in the bin in the Choir Room. 

PRAYER GROUPS: Our prayer groups will continue to meet in July, but before church instead of after. Each group will meet for about 15 min. The group leader will give a short lesson on prayer. Then the group will pray together for a specific area, ministry, or group of people. Sign up to be a leader or participant using the insert in the Bulletin. Place the insert in the offering plate or give it to Louise after the service. 

VBS VOLUNTEERS: It’s Summer and that means VBS is right around the corner. We already have 30 kids signed up and hope to get more. As always we can’t do this wonderful program without lots of help. Please use the link, QR code, or insert in the bulletin to sign up to help. We would love to have anyone and everyone that wants to help, even if you can’t volunteer everyday. We are especially looking for group leaders, an adult activity leader (possible only two days), Bible/Story leader, Snacks coordinator and teens to help with the groups. Please use this link https://bit.ly/JCPCVBS23Volunteers  or the insert in the Bulletin to sign up to help.

GOODBYE to SAM: Sam Garnett, our organist for the last three years, has been offered a new position. His last Sunday with us will be July 30th. Kelly Cuppett will continue as music staff. 

YAV CLOSING WORSHIP, VOLUNTEER CLEANING DAY, WISHLIST: It’s Been a wonderful year but it’s time to say goodbye to our amazing YAV’s. There will be a closing worship service at Lakeview Presbyterian Church, July 25th at 6:00 PM. On July 29th from 9am-noon, please join the YAV’s for a deep clean of the beloved “Big Green House” at 4225 Franklin Ave, New Orleans. All ages of cleaners are welcome! Inside we will clean the floors, appliances, windows, and furniture. Outside we’ll weed, mow, and rake gravel. YAV Site Coordinator Dan Wally Lang will coordinate volunteer signup, supplies, and snacks. RSVP via email at dan@pbysouthla.org. For the coming year NOLA YAV is delighted to welcome three Young Adult Volunteers from Scotland!  Because they will be traveling internationally we hope to provide the following household items in gently used or new condition: 3 sets twin Linens/comforter, 3 pillows, 2 bicycles (Medium, large) 3 umbrellas, sunscreen, bug spray, twin memory foam mattress topper, shampoo, and conditioner. Please contact dan@pbysouthla.org if you can provide any of the following items by August 20, 2023.  

Announcements:

CONGREGATIONAL VITALITY RECOMMENDATIONS:  Are you interested in the topic of Church growth, and vitality? Are you concerned about the current trend of membership decline in the world wide church but don’t know what you can do here at JCPC to stem the tide and grow the church? This month we will be highlighting a few books on this crucial topic. We will have five book recommendations which can each be found at the PCUSA webstore or amazon. Many of these books even have discussion questions which would be perfect for a small group study, so grab a few friends and check out these books. Our first book recommendation is: The Welcoming Congregation: Roots and Fruits of Christian Hospitality By Henry G. Brinton: This practical book by pastor and writer Henry G. Brinton studies the biblical basis for Christian hospitality and how it is practiced in congregations today. While recognizing the challenges for embracing all people in the life of the church, Brinton offers a helpful guide for creating a hospitable congregation and welcoming others through spiritual formation, reconciliation, and outreach. He includes discussion questions and an action plan in each chapter.

Announcements:

LGBTQIA+ READING RECOMMENDATIONS: June is PRIDE month. Which makes it a great time to further our understanding of our LGBTQIA siblings, celebrate diversity within the church and affirm our commitment to love and welcome all into our church. Each week we will have a book recommendation to help you on this journey. This week’s book is: UnClobber: Expanded Edition with Study Guide: Rethinking Our Misuse of the Bible on Homosexuality by Colby Martin. Armed with only six passages in the Bible―often known as the “Clobber Passages”―there has been a faction in the church whose position has been one that stands against the full inclusion of our LGBTQ siblings. UnClobber reexamines each of those frequently quoted passages of Scripture, alternating with author Colby Martin’s own story of being fired from an evangelical megachurch when they discovered his stance on sexuality. UnClobber reexamines what the Bible says (and does not say) about homosexuality in such a way that sheds divine light on outdated and inaccurate assumptions and interpretations. This new edition equips study groups and congregations with questions for discussion and a sermon series guide for preachers.

PROGRAM OF HOPE: It is our turn again to provide lunch!  POH is up and running, and doing so much more with every month. We have 4 weeks this time.  June 21, and 27.  We need help every Wednesday. With a special performance, training on how to administer Narcan for the volunteer, and giving out all that clothing we collected we have a lot going on. Please see Sharon Fortin or Richard Britson for more information.  

PRAYER GROUPS: This summer we will be starting small prayer groups. These groups will meet after church in June and before church in July. Each group will meet for about 15 min. The group leader will give a short lesson on prayer. Then the group will pray together for a specific area, ministry, or group of people. Sign up to be a leader or participant in using the insert in the Bulletin. Place the insert in the offering plate or give it to Louise after the service. Join us after the service even if you didn’t sign up. We will be praying for the men of the Church. 

CAMP AGAPE: Pastor Aaron and Louise will be out of town this week taking several kids to Camp Agape. Please keep everyone in your prayers as they embark on this fun week. The office will be closed while they are away. 

Announcements:

READING RECOMMENDATIONS:  Selfless: Becoming Christ-Centered in a Self-Centered World. None of us think we are self-centered; we know for a fact that our friends, spouses, and neighbors are selfish. But not ME! This very thought is a clue that we are the one that needs to change the central focus of our lives-away from ME and onto HIM! In the process of becoming Selfless you will come face to face with the reality that we all are carriers of this trait. We are allowing this sin to infiltrate every area of our lives. We are the ones responsible for allowing our self to stifle our purpose and the joy of fulfilling His plan in our lives and in our culture. We have made this life and this world about us, not about HIM. • Self less is a call to action; it begins with you and me • Self less will empower you to fulfill your calling • Self less men and women will develop into Self less families • Selfless churches will finally have the growth that they are seeking. Cultures change and nations change when we as individuals change. You will not be satisfied with your life as you know it. You will recognize the lies and the defeat of your previous perspective. You will never return to your self-centered self. YOU won’t be there!

LGBTQIA+ READING RECOMMENDATIONS: June is PRIDE month. Which makes it a great time to further our understanding of our LGBTQIA siblings, celebrate diversity within the church and affirm our commitment to love and welcome all into our church. Each week we will have a book recommendation to help you on this journey. A Time to Embrace: Same-Gender Relationships in Religion, Law, and Politics William Stacy Johnson As rhetoric continues to heat up on both sides of the debate over same-gender unions, clearly reasoned statements are in short supply. Watching this debate unfold, William Stacy Johnson found that he could be silent no longer. The result is this finely honed book.In A Time to Embrace Johnson presents a brilliant analysis of the religious, legal, and political stakes in the debates over gay marriage, civil unions, and the place of committed gay couples in a democratic society. Carefully weighing the pros and cons from across the moral and religious spectrum, Johnson here offers a fresh, thought-provoking examination of one of the most controversial issues in the West today.

PRAYER GROUPS: This summer we will be starting small prayer groups. These groups will meet after church in June and before church in July. Each group will meet for about 15 min. The group leader will give a short lesson on prayer. Then the group will pray together for a specific area, ministry, or group of people. Sign up to be a leader or participant in using the insert in the Bulletin. Sign up for one Sunday or a few, it’s up to you. Place the insert in the offering plate or give it to Louise after the service.

Announcements:

DEVOTIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS: Pentecost: This Story is Our Story: Robert Menzies lays out clear, compelling, and concise truths about the relevance of the Pentecostal experience for Christ’s followers today, tomorrow, and the day after that. He does not agonize over whether this experience is right or wrong…he explains simply and clearly that the story of Pentecost found in the book of Acts is the story of every believer. With a keen intellectual presentation that is both informative and intriguing, he explains that Pentecostalism is Christ-centered and Bible-based. It is the model for the mission of the church.

OFFICE HELP: Louise and Rev. Aaron will be out of the office from Monday May 29th to Friday June 9th. So Louise is looking for a few people to cover the office from 9:00 AM – Noon two or three days each week. Please let Louise know if you are available to help out. 

OPINIONS NEEDED: Please see the insert in the Bulletin and let us know what kind of classes, activities or events you would like to see us organize. Place your insert in the offering plate or give it to Louise at the end of the service. We can’t wait to hear from you! 

PRAYER GROUPS: This summer we will be starting small prayer groups. These groups will meet after church in June and before church in July. Each group will meet for about 15 min. The group leader will give a short lesson on prayer. Then the group will pray together for a specific area, ministry, or group of people. Sign up to be a leader or participant in using the insert in the Bulletin. Sign up for one Sunday or a few, it’s up to you. Place the insert in the offering plate or give it to Louise after the service.

THANK YOU!!!: A big thank you to everyone who helped make our summer kick off a success. We love these times of Fellowship and we couldn’t do it without your help. 

EVENTS AND MEETINGS THIS WEEK:

6/1 – 10:00 AM – PW Council Meeting 

     –  7:00 PM – Hymns and Beer Love Edition

6/4 – 10:30 AM – Worship Service (No Children’s Church) 

John Calvin Presbyterian Church

-Prayer List-

May 21st

DON’T FORGET TO JOIN US IN THE FELLOWSHIP HALL FOR FOOD AND FUN AFTER THE SERVICE

Announcements:

DEVOTIONAL SPOTLIGHT: Mother Daughter Speak: Lessons on Life Mother-daughter relationships can be wonderful and powerful. They can also be stressful, challenging, and painful; yet they are often delicate and tender. After losing her mother, Kim shares that strengthening her own mother-daughter relationship was more important than ever.

OPINIONS NEEDED: Please see the insert in the Bulletin and let us know what kind of classes activities or events you would like to see us organize. 

Announcements:

DEVOTIONAL SPOTLIGHT: Contemplations from the Heart: Spiritual Reflections on Family, Community, and the Divine How do we find God in a world where God often seems to be hidden? How do we love one another and seek social justice? This series of theological and spiritual reflections on family and community helps readers see spirituality in daily life, exploring current issues such as global warming, environment, racism, child rearing, and sexism in relation to the church to offer readers new insights and directions for living as faithful Christians.