Announcements Archives - Page 9 of 11 - John Calvin Presbyterian Church

Announcement 9/10/23

Posted on Sep 7, 2023 in Announcements |

Announcements:

RESTOCK THE CLOSET: The food pantry has been used quite a bit this summer. We are running low on small toiletries, diapers both adult and child sizes and Shelf stable food items. We would love some help restocking or with the $25 gas and Walmart gift cards we give out. Please see Louise if you have questions.

SCHOLARSHIP SINGERS: The Session has approved the funds to hire three university music students as Scholarship Singers. These students will augment the choir and bring new ideas to our music program while receiving training, mentorship, and experience in music ministry. We are exploring grants to help offset the costs, but we also welcome donations from anyone who wishes to support the development of new church professionals. If you’d like to assist financially with this program beyond your existing pledge, please give via your usual method and specify that it is for the Scholarship Singers.

FELLOWSHIP OPPORTUNITIES: On Sept. 13th enjoy lunch and an afternoon of Art at NOMA. We will meet at the church at 10:30 AM to carpool. We will get lunch at Outback steakhouse first and then head to NOMA. The Museum is free to Louisanna residents on Wednesdays so please make sure to bring your ID to show residency.

Also join us Sept. 28th for our next Tablecloth Dinner at Saltgrass, 4860 Veterans Blvd, Metairie, LA 70006. Cocktails at 6:00 PM and dinner at 6:30pm you will be able to order off the menu and receive separate checks.

PW NEWS: Games days are starting back up this month. Join us the 2nd and fourth thursday of each month in the Library for fun and fellowships. Grace Circle is also coming back this month on Tuesday the 19th. Grace Circle will meet every third Tuesday at 10:00 am. They will be using the study: Sacred Encounters: The Power and Presence of Jesus Christ in Luke-Acts By Olive Mahabir.

THANK YOU NOTE: I wish to thank everyone for all the love and support I have received since the death of Jim and my recent hand surgery.

From all the offerings of food (everyone knows I love to eat), going to the grocery etc.

Also Sandy made sure I had a birthday cake since Jim’s Funeral was on my birthday. It was so delicious. Sue made me a wonderful meal which included these great chocolate cookies. Thank you again.

With love and Gratitude, Beverly Kennedy.

BIRTHDAYS: Raju Thomas 9/13, Hans Wandfluh 9/13, Paula Palermo 9/14, Sandy Crafill 9/15, Briana Mayfield 9/1

Books On Spiritual Practices: There is more to do with the start of the school year, sports activities, and even fellowship opportunities. The busyness of life can make it hard to make time to focus on our spiritual life. This month’s CE reading recommendations all center around engaging in spiritual practices to strengthen ourselves, our families and the community we have chosen to be with. Most books are made for families but that doesn’t have to be just you and your kids or even immediate family, it can also be friends or small groups. So grab a partner, your family or group and dive deeper into your faith and time with God. Getting It Together: Spiritual Practices for Faith, Family, and Work by Carol A. Wehrheim As modern persons struggle to cope with the many commitments that consume our lives and the increasing–and seemingly insurmountable–demands on our time, Carol Wehrheim offers this much-needed work. In Getting It Together, she offers a direction toward relief, showing how a Christian foundation of faith can provide a sense of balance amidst the struggle. Each chapter begins with a selection from Scripture and concludes with a spiritual discipline. Including both a participant’s section and a leader’s guide, Getting It Together is ideal for group study.

STARTING THIS FALL: We have so many wonderful programs starting up on September 17th for all ages. At 9:15 am adults can join us in the library for a new Adult Sunday School series called Off the Deep End taught by Briana Mayfield, where you will dive deeper in the scripture each week. Youth of all ages are welcomed to join us upstairs in the youth area for a time of Fellowship and snacks also starting at 9:15, the kids will also have access to the switch and Elementary classroom. On the 1st and 3rd Sundays of the month the Middle and High School youth will have Sunday School where we will discuss Spiritual Habits to have a deeper relationship with God. Children’s church will offer lessons for PK – 2nd grade and 3rd – 5th grade Students to study the Narrative Lectionary. Each group will be studying the same scripture that Pastor Aaron is preaching on, engaging with it in an age appropriate manner. My hope is that Children’s church teaches our kids that Church is for everyone, not just the grown ups. By offering them a lesson during church that is meant for them they learn that Church is for them.

Announcements 9-3-23

Posted on Aug 31, 2023 in Announcements |

Announcements:

RESTOCK THE CLOSET: The food pantry has been used quite a bit this summer. We are running low on small toiletries, diapers both adult and child sizes and Shelf stable food items. We would love some help restocking or $25 gas and walmart gift cards. See Louise if you have questions.

Books On Spiritual Practices: As the summer draws to a close the weather cools, but our lives seem to only heat up. There is more to do with the start of the school year, sports activities, and even fellowship opportunities. While these can all be wonderful experiences and opportunities, the busyness of life can make it hard to make time to focus on our spiritual life. This month’s CE reading recommendations all center around engaging in spiritual practices to strengthen ourselves, our families and the community we have chosen to be with. Most books are made for families but that doesn’t have to be just you and your kids or even immediate family, it can also be friends or small groups. So grab a partner, your family or group and dive deeper into your faith and time with God. Faithful Families: Creating Sacred Moments at Home Paperback by Traci Smith. Add family faith moments to your daily routine with little or no prep, and share meaningful spiritual experiences with your children! Traci Smith, a pastor and mother of three, offers ways to discover and develop new spiritual practices as a family, whether you’re a new seeker or a lifelong follower. Faithful Families is brimming with easy, do-it-yourself ideas for transforming your family’s everyday moments into sacred moments.

MUSEUM TOUR: On Sept. 13th. Join us for lunch followed by an afternoon of Art at NOMA. We will meet at the church at 10:30 AM then head to the museum. The Museum is free to Louisiana residents. You can use the insert in the bulletin to sign up or speak with Beverly Kennedy.

ALL CHURCH AND COMMUNITY PICNIC: Please plan to join us on September 10th for our all Church and Community Picnic. We have lots of volunteer opportunities, however even if you can’t volunteer we hope you will join us for this great fellowship opportunity. Sign up to volunteer or let us know you are coming using the inset in the Bulletin. Please plan to bring a Picnic side or dessert to share. Oh and Saints fans don’t worry we plan to have the game projected so you won’t miss a moment of the game and we will outdoor water activities for the kids.

GET INVOLVED IN CHRISTIAN EDUCATION: We have a great year planned and would love for you to get involved. Here is what we are looking for:

Sunday School teachers for our middle and high School youth which will meet twice a month at 9:30 AM. They will be using the Spice Rack Curriculum: Habits.
Nursery volunteers.
Teachers for our age PK- 2nd grade Children’s Church. They will be using a narrative lectionary Curriculum. While we don’t have younger children in the church yet we still want to be prepared to provide a children’s church and nursery option if we do have families worship with us. Louise will work with those who are interested to

STARTING THIS FALL: We have so many wonderful programs starting up on September 17th for all ages. At 9:30 am adults can join us in the library for a new Adult Sunday School series called Off the Deep End

taught by Briana Mayfield, where you will dive deeper in the scripture each week. Youth of all ages are welcomed to join us upstairs in the youth area for a time of Fellowship and snacks also starting at 9:30, the kids will also have access to the switch and Elementary classroom. On the 1st and 3rd Sundays of the month the middle and High School youth will have Sunday School where we will discuss Spiritual Habits we can form to have a deeper and stronger relationship with God. Children’s church will offer lessons for PK – 2nd grade and 3rd – 5th grade Students to study the Narrative Lectionary. Each group will be studying the same scripture that Pastor Aaron is preaching on, engaging with it in an age appropriate manner. My hope is that Children’s church teaches our kids that Church is for everyone, not just the grown ups. By offering them a lesson during church that is meant for them they learn that Church is for them

Announcements 8-27-23

Posted on Aug 25, 2023 in Announcements |

Announcements Continued:

Books on being Presbyterian: Would you like to get more familiar with the Presbyterian Churches beliefs? Do you have questions about our reformed tradition? Well you’re in luck because this month the Christian Education recommended reading list is all about what it means to be a Presbyterian. This week’s recommendation is: Presbyterian Questions, Presbyterian Answers and More Presbyterian Questions, More Presbyterian Answers, Revised edition By Donald K. McKim Presbyterians often have questions about Presbyterian theology and beliefs that are basic to Christian faith itself. Featuring a unique question- and-answer format, More Presbyterian Questions, More Presbyterian Answers is an expansion of the best-selling Presbyterian Questions, Presbyterian Answers. It is an accessible and concise treatment that provides a sampling of these questions on important topics and brief but complete answers from a distinguished Presbyterian theologian.

GET INVOLVED IN CHRISTIAN EDUCATION: We have a great year planned and would love for you to get involved. Here is what we are looking for:

Sunday School teachers for our middle and high School youth which will meet twice a month at 9:30 AM. They will be using the Spice Rack Curriculum: Habits.
Nursery volunteers.
Teachers for our age K- 2nd grade Children’s Church. They will be using a narrative lectionary Curriculum.

Louise will continue to teach the 3rd to 6th grade Children’s Church. While we don’t have younger children in the church yet we still want to be prepared to provide a children’s church and nursery option if we do have families worship with us. Louise will work with those who are interested to come up with a schedule for teaching/volunteering. Please see Louise if you have any questions or use the insert in the bulletin to sign up.

FLOWERS: Flowers today are given by Denis McCrea in memory of his parents, who passed away.

RESTOCK THE CLOSET: The food pantry has been used quite a bit this summer. We are running low on small toiletries, diapers both adult and child sizes and Shelf stable food items. We would love some help restocking or gas and walmart gift cards. See Louise if you have questions.

Announcement 8-13-23

Posted on Aug 11, 2023 in Announcements |

Announcements:

The revised edition has been updated to include recent changes in the new Form of Government and the Confession of Belhar, among others. Ideal for personal and group study in churches, Presbyterian Beliefs includes ten unique case studies and questions for considering how to apply Presbyterian beliefs to church and daily life.

CHOIR IS BACK: Choir rehearsals continue this Sunday. Rehearsals will continue to be on Sundays after services and will finish no later than 1pm every week. We’ll start singing in services again on September 10th, the Sunday after Labor Day weekend. We would love to have you join us. Please see Kelly Cuppett for more information.

SAINTS and POTLUCKS: We are looking at scheduling Saints game potlucks for the noon games in Sept. and October. These events would be very easy with set-up and clean-up being done by those enjoying the game and taking place the day of the game. Those interested in participating would bring a dish to share and then head over to the fellowship hall after church to set up tables, chairs, potluck and watch the game. After the game those involved would clean up. Louise can help set up activities for kids as well. We would love to find a sports enthusiast to head up these events. Please see Louise if you are interested.

ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASSES: We will be starting adult Sunday school in September. This year the CE Committee would like to try something new. We would like to offer several short classes taught by a variety of people. If you have ever thought about teaching a bible study but didn’t want to make a long term commitment this is for you. Choose a book, a study, or a topic you are interested in teaching and sign up using the insert in the bulletin or speak with Louise.

RESTOCK THE CLOSET:

The food pantry has been used quite a bit recently and we are running low on small Toiletries, and diapers both adult and child sizes. We would love some help restocking. Shelf stable food items are also always appreciated.

Order of Worship 8-06-23

Posted on Aug 3, 2023 in Announcements, Orders of Worship |

SERVICE FOR THE LORD’S DAY

Tenth Sunday After Pentecost

August 6th, 2023 Ten Thirty in the morning

Minister: Rev. Aaron Ochart

Lay Leader: Mary Antil

Please silence all cell phones.

Bold face indicates congregational participation.

Please stand, in body or spirit

THE PEOPLE ARE GATHERED IN

PRELUDE “Hope, Op. 38 No. 4” Felix Mendelssohn

PROCESSIONAL HYMN [BLUE#411] [GTG#744]

“Arise, Your Light is Come!”

1 Arise, your light is come! the Spirit’s call obey;

show forth the glory of your God, which shines on you today.

2 Arise, your light is come! Fling wide the prison door;

proclaim the captive’s liberty, good tidings to the poor.

3 Arise, your light is come! All you in sorrow born,

bind up the brokenhearted ones and comfort those who mourn.

4 Arise, your light is come! The mountains burst in song!

Rise up like eagles on the wing; God’s power will make us strong.

WORDS OF WELCOME

ADORATION

CALL TO WORSHIP Micah 6:8 (MESSAGE)

ONE: God has already made it plain how to live, what to do, what GOD is looking for in men and women.

MANY: It’s quite simple. Do what is fair and just to your neighbor, be compassionate and loyal in your love, and don’t take yourself too seriously- take God seriously.

PRAYER OF THE DAY

God of the oppressed. You call us to righteousness in our relationships, to treat you, our friends, our family, and complete strangers well. You call us to justice, to be fair in our practices, and to treat everyone with equity. You call us to humility, not thinking of ourselves as better than others. You call us to work in the world for peace, justice, freedom, and human fulfillment. Help us to lives lives worthy of your gospel. In the name of Jesus Chirst, our Lord. Amen.

HYMN [BLUE #563] [GTG #339]

“Lift Every Voice and Sing”

1 Lift every voice and sing till earth and heaven ring,

ring with the harmonies of liberty.

Let our rejoicing rise high as the listening skies;

let it resound loud as the rolling sea.

Sing a song full of the faith that the dark past has taught us;

sing a song full of the hope that the present has brought us.

Facing the rising sun of our new day begun,

let us march on, till victory is won.

2 Stony the road we trod, bitter the chastening rod,

felt in the days when hope unborn had died.

Yet with a steady beat, have not our weary feet

come to the place for which our parents sighed?

We have come over a way that with tears has been watered;

we have come, treading our path

through the blood of the slaughtered,

out of the gloomy past, till now we stand at last

where the white gleam of our bright star has cast.

3 God of our weary years, God of our silent tears,

thou who has brought us thus far on the way;

thou who hast by thy might led us into the light,

keep us forever in the path, we pray.

Lest our feet stray from the places, our God, where we met thee;

lest, our hearts, drunk with the wine of the world, we forget thee;

shadowed beneath thy hand may we forever stand,

true to our God, true to our native land.

MESSAGE FOR THE CHILDREN

RESPONSE HYMN [GTG#749]

“Come!, Live in the Light!”

1 Come!, live in the light!

Shine with the joy and the love of the Lord!

We are called to be light for the kingdom,

to live in the freedom of the city of God.

We are called to act with justice; we are called to love tenderly;

we are called to serve one another, to walk humbly with God.

REPENTANCE

CALL TO CONFESSION

SILENT CONFESSION

PRAYER OF CONFESSION

God of grace, love, and communion, we confess that we have failed to love you with all our heart, soul, and mind; and to love our neighbor as ourselves. We ignore your commandments, stray from your way, and follow other gods. Have mercy on us. Forgive our sin and raise us to new life that we may serve you faithfully and give honor to your holy name. Amen

ASSURANCE OF PARDON

GLORIA PATRI [BLUE#579] [GTG#581]

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost

As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be,

world without end, Amen, Amen.

THE WORD READ AND PROCLAIMED

SCRIPTURE [Pew Bible NT 53 or 57] Luke 1:46-55

And Mary said,

‘My soul magnifies the Lord,

and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,

for he has looked with favor on the lowliness of his servant.

Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed;

for the Mighty One has done great things for me,

and holy is his name.

His mercy is for those who fear him

from generation to generation.

He has shown strength with his arm;

he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts.

He has brought down the powerful from their thrones,

and lifted up the lowly;

he has filled the hungry with good things,

and sent the rich away empty.

He has helped his servant Israel,

in remembrance of his mercy,

according to the promise he made to our ancestors,

to Abraham and to his descendants for ever.’

[Pew Bible OT #816 or 866] Micah 6:1 – 7:7

Hear what the Lord says:

Rise, plead your case before the mountains,

and let the hills hear your voice.

Hear, you mountains, the controversy of the Lord,

and you enduring foundations of the earth;

for the Lord has a controversy with his people,

and he will contend with Israel.

‘O my people, what have I done to you?

In what have I wearied you? Answer me!

For I brought you up from the land of Egypt,

and redeemed you from the house of slavery;

and I sent before you Moses,

Aaron, and Miriam.

O my people, remember now what King Balak of Moab devised,

what Balaam son of Beor answered him,

and what happened from Shittim to Gilgal,

that you may know the saving acts of the Lord.’

‘With what shall I come before the Lord,

and bow myself before God on high?

Shall I come before him with burnt-offerings,

with calves a year old?

Will the Lord be pleased with thousands of rams,

with tens of thousands of rivers of oil?

Shall I give my firstborn for my transgression,

the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul?’

He has told you, O mortal, what is good;

and what does the Lord require of you

but to do justice, and to love kindness,

and to walk humbly with your God?

The voice of the Lord cries to the city

(it is sound wisdom to fear your name):

Hear, O tribe and assembly of the city!

Can I forget the treasures of wickedness in the house of the wicked,

and the scant measure that is accursed?

Can I tolerate wicked scales

and a bag of dishonest weights?

Your wealthy are full of violence;

your inhabitants speak lies,

with tongues of deceit in their mouths.

Therefore I have begun to strike you down,

making you desolate because of your sins.

You shall eat, but not be satisfied,

and there shall be a gnawing hunger within you;

you shall put away, but not save,

and what you save, I will hand over to the sword.

You shall sow, but not reap;

you shall tread olives, but not anoint yourselves with oil;

you shall tread grapes, but not drink wine.

For you have kept the statutes of Omri

and all the works of the house of Ahab,

and you have followed their counsels.

Therefore I will make you a desolation, and your inhabitants an object of hissing;

so you shall bear the scorn of my people.

Woe is me! For I have become like one who,

after the summer fruit has been gathered,

after the vintage has been gleaned,

finds no cluster to eat;

there is no first-ripe fig for which I hunger.

The faithful have disappeared from the land,

and there is no one left who is upright;

they all lie in wait for blood,

and they hunt each other with nets.

Their hands are skilled to do evil;

the official and the judge ask for a bribe,

and the powerful dictate what they desire;

thus they pervert justice.

The best of them is like a brier,

the most upright of them a thorn hedge.

The day of their sentinels, of their punishment, has come;

now their confusion is at hand.

Put no trust in a friend,

have no confidence in a loved one;

guard the doors of your mouth

from her who lies in your embrace;

for the son treats the father with contempt,

the daughter rises up against her mother,

the daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law;

your enemies are members of your own household.

But as for me, I will look to the Lord,

I will wait for the God of my salvation;

my God will hear me.

ONE: The Word of the Lord

MANY: Thanks be to God

SERMON “Working in the World for Peace, Justice, Freedom, and Human Fulfillment” Reverend Ochart

RESPONSE

AFFIRMATION OF FAITH “A Brief Statement of Faith”- Jesus

In life and in death we belong to God. Through the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit, we trust in the one triune God, the Holy One of Israel, whom alone we worship and serve.

We trust in Jesus Christ, fully human, fully God. Jesus proclaimed the reign of God: preaching good news to the poor and release to the captives, teaching by word and deed and blessing the children, healing the sick and binding up the brokenhearted, eating with outcasts, forgiving sinners, and calling all to repent and believe the gospel. Unjustly condemned for blasphemy and sedition, Jesus was crucified, suffering the depths of human pain and giving his life for the sins of the world. God raised this Jesus from the dead, vindicating his sinless life, breaking the power of sin and evil, delivering us from death to life eternal.

With believers in every time and place, we rejoice that nothing in life or in death can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. Amen

ANNOUNCEMENTS

RECEIVING OF TITHES AND OFFERINGS

OFFERTORY “Hanna’s Song” Spoken Word

DOXOLOGY [*BLUE#592] [GTG#606]

Praise God from whom all blessings flow;

Praise God, all creatures here below;

Praise God above, ye heavenly hosts;

Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen.

THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY COMMUNION

THE GREAT PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING

ONE: The Lord be with you.

MANY: And also with you.

ONE: Lift up your hearts.

MANY: We lift them to the Lord.

ONE: Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.

MANY: It is right to give our thanks and praise.

ONE: …Therefore with all creation we sing your praise:

MANY: Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might, heaven and earth are full of your glory. Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest.

ONE: … Praise to you, Lord Jesus:

MANY: Dying you destroyed our death, rising you restored our life. Lord Jesus, come in glory…

Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory, forever. Amen

ONE: … The gifts of God for the people of God.

MANY: Thanks be to God.

HYMN [*BLUE #525] [GTG#69] “Here I Am, Lord”

1 Im the Lord of sea and sky, I have heard my people cry.

All who dwell in dark and sin my hand will save.

I, who made the stars of night, I will make their darkness bright.

Who will bear my light to them? Whom shall I send?

R: Here I am Lord, is it I Lord? I have heard you calling in the night.

I will go Lord, if you lead me. I will hold your people in my heart.

I, the Lord of snow and rain, I have borne my people’s pain.

I have wept for love of them. They turn away.

I will break their hearts of stone, give them hearts for love alone.

I will speak my word to them. Whom shall I send? (refrain)

3 I, the Lord of wind and flame, I will tend the poor and lame.

I will set a feast for them. My hand will save.

Finest bread I will provide till their hearts be satisfied.

I will give my life to them. Whom shall I send? (refrain)

PARTING PRAYER

Grant unto us, O God, the fullness of your promises.

where we have been weak, grant us your strength;

where we have been confused, grant us your guidance;

where we have been distraught, grant us your comfort;

where we have been dead, grant us your life.

Apart from you, O Lord, we are nothing,

in and with you we can do all things. Amen.

CHARGE AND BENEDICTION

RESPONSE [GTG# 747] “The Lord Now Sends Us Forth”

The Lord now sends us forth with hands to serve and give,

to make of all the earth a better place to live.

The angels are not sent into our world of pain

to do what we were meant to do in Jesus’ name;

that falls to you and me and all who are made free.

Help us, O lord, we pray, to do your will today.

POSTLUDE

“Galante, Op. 5 No. 1” Enrique Granados

Announcements 8-06-23

Posted on Aug 3, 2023 in Announcements |

Announcements:

Books on being Presbyterian: Would you like to get more familiar with the Presbyterian Churches beliefs? Do you have questions about our reformed tradition? Well you’re in luck because this month the Christian Education recommended reading list is all about what it means to be a Presbyterian. We are bringing you a list of four books that can help deepen your understanding of what it means to be a Presbyterian. This week’s recommendation is: The Presbyterian Handbook, Revised Edition: By Donald K. McKim. The Presbyterian Handbook, Revised Edition provides historical and up to date theological information about Presbyterian beliefs alongside fun-filled facts and practical tips on being a churchgoing follower of Jesus Christ. Complete with illustrations, the book presents a wonderful combination of vast truths, complex details, and bits of humor about Presbyterian understanding of the Christian life. This unique and incredibly handy resource is perfect for Presbyterian youth, adults, students, families, and all those interested in learning about much of what encompasses life in the church.

CHOIR IS COMING BACK: Choir rehearsals start this Sunday. Rehearsals will continue to be on Sundays after services and will finish no later than 1pm every week. We’ll start singing in services again on September 10th, the Sunday after Labor Day weekend. We would love to have you join us. Please see Kelly Cuppett for more information.

SAINTS and POTLUCKS: We are looking at scheduling Saints game potlucks for the noon games in Sept. and October. These events would be very easy with set-up and clean-up being done by those enjoying the game and taking place the day of the game. Those interested in participating would bring a dish to share and then head over to the fellowship hall after church to set up tables, chairs and potluck. After the game those involved would clean up. Louise can help set up activities for kids as well. We would love to find a sports enthusiast to head up these events. Please see Louise if you are interested.

Announcements 7-30-23

Posted on Jul 29, 2023 in Announcements |

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:Ten Essential Strategies for Becoming a Multiracial Congregation by Jacqueline J. Lewis And John Janka: How do churches build immunity from racial and ethnic tensions that threaten to divide rather than unite congregations?

Jacqui Lewis and John Janka believe that the answer lies in the development of multiracial, multicultural communities of faith. Born of the authors’ work with The Middle Project, an institute that prepares ethical leaders for a more just society, this book is a collection of wisdom and best practices. Here you will find lessons, questions for conversation, and spaces for journaling.

In welcoming communities of faith where everyone is accepted just as they are, we can lead the way toward racial reconciliation and dismantle the prejudices that segregate our houses of worship.

WORK DAY: Do you have a favorite hymn you would like us to sing in worship? Let us know using the insert and it just might be included in worship in the future.

FAVORITE HYMN: Do you have a favorite hymn you would like us to sing in worship? Let us know using the insert and it just might be included in worship in the future.

BIRTHDAYS: Jeff Ferguson 7/31, Janet Capiton 8/2, Randall Antill 8/2

SAINTS and POTLUCKS: We are looking at scheduling Saints game potlucks for the noon games in Sept. and October. These events would be very easy with set-up and clean-up being done by those enjoying the game and taking place the day of the game. Those interested in participating would bring a dish to share and then head over to the fellowship hall after church to set up tables, chairs and potluck. After the game those involved would clean up. Louise can help set up activities for kids as well. We would love to find a sports enthusiast to head up these events. Please see Louise if you are interested.

ANNOUNCEMENTS 7-23-23

Posted on Jul 22, 2023 in Announcements |

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?

The answers to these questions must always unfold right here, right now, exactly where God has planted us. Neighborhood Church acts as a resource to inspire churches to become a vibrant and engaging community partner with the families and neighborhoods living around them. Congregational decline continues across all mainline denominations. Van Tatenhove and Mueller believe that, parish by parish, we can reverse this trend. They dare to have an audacious hope for local congregations not only as signs of God’s kingdom but as life-giving institutions that anchor their neighborhoods. Drawing on their combined sixty years of parish experience, wisdom from Asset-Based Community Development, and compelling case stories, Van Tatenhove and Mueller do more than just call us to incarnational ministry. They give practical, essential tools.

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 group will continue to meet in July before worship at 10:10 AM. 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.

FAVORITE HYMN: Do you have a favorite hymn you would like us to sing in worship? Let us know using the insert and it just might be included in worship in the future.

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 7-16-23

Posted on Jul 16, 2023 in Announcements |

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.

GOODBYE to SAM: Sam Garnett, our Music Director and 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.

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.

FAVORITE HYMN: Do you have a favorite hymn you would like us to sing in worship? Let us know using the insert and it just might be included in worship in the future.

. 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 7-9-23

Posted on Jul 6, 2023 in Announcements |

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.

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.

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.