First Presbyterian Church

2011 Red Bank CROP Walk to End Hunger

2011-10-17T02:54:00.000-04:00

The church had a fine representation today at the 31st Red Bank CROP Walk, a 5 mile walk against hunger sponsored by Church World Service.

Memorial Service to Honor the Life of Joan Horky

2011-09-23T15:37:00.000-04:00

First Presbyterian Church Members

Joan Horky, member of our church family since 1992, passed away peacefully on September 20. Joan served the First Presbyterian Church as Elder and Deacon and was an active member of this congregation until her illness a few years ago.

Joan is survived by Herb and two children: Steve (currently of Long Island) and Terry Jo Rule, and two grand daughters – all of Michigan.

Please keep everyone of them in your prayers,

Grace and Peace,

Pastor Scott

The arrangements are as follows:
Viewing:Sunday, September 25 - 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Bedles Funeral Home
212 Main Street, Matawan
Ph: 732-566-1962
A reception at the church will follow.

Memorial Service - 4:00 p.m.
First Presbyterian Church of Matawan
883 Highway 34
Matawan, NJ 07747

A reception will follow immediately in Fellowship Hall.

Condolences can be sent to her husband, Herb at:
12 Van Ethel Drive
Matawan, NJ 07747

Irene's Aftermath on a Monday Afternoon

2011-08-29T14:36:00.000-04:00

In the aftermath of working five days with local governments and the Red Cross in shelters and around town, I stopped by the church this morning out of curiosity to check out what was going on. I followed the sound of a wet vac to the darkened fellowship hall. There Rev Scott Cupp joined myself and Kay Kniering and Sis Demarco. Barbara DeVilbiss worked the vac methodically across the floor taking up water that had leaked in.

Rev Cupp said the church and the manse, like much of Matawan had no power in general, but a single "hot" circuit was found. This allowed us to plug in the freezer and refrigerator and operate the wet vac. Sis had checked on church members and was taking flowers for visits I believe. Kay was picking up some flowers as well. We all shared stories and well wishes as Barbara wrapped up her lone task.

I received an e-mail from the Jersey Coast Chapter of the American Red Cross with this link to make donations. Please feel free to give an undesignated gift, as the funds will be spread to cover all of the local, regional, national and world disasters.

Backpacks for Education Provided by MA Rotary

2011-08-24T07:47:00.000-04:00

Photo by Chelsea Naso

Matawan-Aberdeen Patch reported that the local Rotary has provided 113 backpacks to local school children. Some will be reserved for children at the Manna House, a transitional program for homeless women and children. The rest will go to the Matawan Aberdeen Regional School District.

Last week's Matawan Aberdeen Rotary Club meeting was attended by Rev. Scott Cupp and church Office Manager June Nicora.

The Rotary Club is a major supporter of Mission Matawan, a community outreach of the First Presbyterian Church.

October 1 Interfaith Event: Meditation

2011-08-22T19:23:00.000-04:00

Local InterfaithEvent

You are invited to the annual Shanti (peace in Sanskrit)event sponsored by the Monmouth Center of World Religions and Ethical Thought (www.interfaith-mcwret.org). The eventwill be held on Saturday Oct. 1 from 4PM to 7PM. There is no need to registerand the event is free. Light refreshments will be served. The event will takeplace at the Unitarian Universalist Meeting House on 1475 West Front Street inLincroft, NJ 07738.

The keynote speaker will be Dr. V. Swaminathan. The subjectwill be meditation (dhyana); a tool to help one to attain inner peace. Dr. V.Swaminathan will describe the principles of meditation “to help one to be justoneself”. A brief practice session of meditation will be included. For more information contact JoeRitacco, Member of FPC Mission Commission and Board Member of MCWRET

Submitted by Joe Ritacco

9/11/11 Standing Together: An Interfaith Witness for Peace

2011-08-22T12:25:00.002-04:00

Members of the diverse faith communities of Monmouth County are invited to come together to the North Beach of Sandy Hook on the evening of September 11, 2011. At sunset, 7:12 PM, we will stand together in silent reflection to honor the depth of our losses ten years ago and to bridge our differences, in hope and action for peace. Following 10 minutes of silent reflection, we will greet each other with our wishes for peace. All ages are welcome.

Sponsored by the Monmouth Center for World Religions and Ethical Thought http://interfaith-mcwret.org For more information contact Rev. Virginia Jarocha-Ernst, minister@uucmc.org

Sept 11 Events

2011-08-02T20:49:00.001-04:00

Here I will post Upcoming events around the area for Sept 11. I will update THIS article as information comes to me.

Kay Hetherington of St Joseph's Roman Catholic Church in Keyport writes: "we are having a 9/11 memorial service at St. Joseph's on Sunday 9/11 at 4:00 p.m. It will be an interfaith service and all are
welcomed to come to reflect, remember and to continue to pray for peace."

Rally Day brings together Church Family, Sunday School Classes : Sept 11

2011-08-02T20:06:00.000-04:00

The Christian Education Commission is busy making plans for the beginning of Sunday School and our Junior & Senior High Programs.

Sunday School Classes will begin at 9 am for Pre-School through Adult.

We are asking all classes to attend Morning Worship and sit together with their teacher and classmates. We will dedicate our Sunday School Teachers, Youth Advisors, Presbyterian Nursery School Teacher and Staff during the 10:30 service.

After the service we will have apot luck luncheon in Fellowship Hall. Cost of admission is free, but please bring a dish of your choice, to share on the buffet table; it may be a meat, vegetable, salad, or dessert. Beverages will be provided.

Youth Groups will begin September 18th.

First Presbyterians in Minot, ND Help Flood Victims

2011-07-21T16:38:00.002-04:00

The flood waters are finally beginning to recede in Minot, ND. Although there is some warning about the waters rising again near Foxholm, residents are experiencing the all clear in some areas to begin to return home and start the long recovery process of tossing out their wallboard and beginning again. The Red Cross disaster newsroom have documented the entire process of this disaster, that has affected thousands.

The difficulty of Red Cross, Salvation Army, the National Guard and US Public Health Service officials has been remaining healthy while joining the city and state officials in bringing disaster relief to the city. The Souris river is heavily tainted by oil and pesticides.

On one of my evenings free, I read that the First Presbyterian Church of Minot, ND was going to help in a unique way. They were going to host the opening of the Lincoln Elementary School, until their building was ready to welcome students. I wrote to the church, and received this reply.

Hello Diana,

Thank you for your recent inquiry about our relationship with Lincoln Public Schools. Here is the short version. Because of the flood damage to so many of our public schools, buildings with capacity (and out of the flood zone) were targeted by the Public School Board as potential temporary locations to house school students. One of their goals was to keep as many of the kids together as they could to give them more of a sense of normalcy since so many of the families’ lives were disrupted by the flood. One of our elders is a school principal at another public school and she was asked if our church might consider hosting Lincoln School. Wanting to help the community as much as possible during this time of crisis, we said that we would gather together our session members and trustees and listen to their proposal. After a time of questions and answers they left and we voted unanimously to move ahead and organized a small committee to work out the details. Our small committee then met with the Lincoln School Principal, the superintendent, the assistant superintendent and the financial person. Both sides spent time figuring out how to make this work with the least impact to our regular everyday activities. We have agreed on everything that is to go into the contract and will be signing one soon. After that meeting many of our members (school teachers, principals, retirees) and others went to work preparing our education (Sunday School) wing for our new guests.

All I can say is that God had his hand in this from the very beginning and had all of the people he wanted prepared and ready. To quote Henry Blackaby, “God is always at work around us.” “God invites us to join him in his work.”

We are happy to be able to provide some normalcy to kids whose lives have been turned upside down and bless them and others at the same time.

His servant,

Mark Frueh / Lay Pastor
Outreach and Discipleship Coordinator
First Presbyterian Church
1000 NE 3rd St
Minot, ND 58703

Death of Kathryn Galloway, Wife of Beloved Pastor

2011-07-13T00:55:00.002-04:00

Kathryn T. Galloway, passed away on July 12, 2011 at the age of 96 years old. She was residing in Florida. Kathryn was the wife of the late Rev. Chester A. Galloway, pastor of the First Presbyterian Church from 1949 to his retirement in 1973. During that time Kathryn played a vital and active part in her husband's ministry. A memorial service is planned in the near future at Bedle's Funeral Home in Matawan at a date to be determined.

Condolences can be sent to her son, Chester W. Galloway, 258 Van Dorn Street, Keyport, NJ 07735; her daughters, Barbara J. Dincer, 3544 Westminster Way, Nazareth, PA, 18064-8007, and Terry A. Burd, 9028 SE 120th Loop, Summerfield, FL 34491.

Getting to Minot

2011-07-10T09:09:00.002-04:00

On Wednesday I received a phone call from my local Red Cross training coordinator. "Diana, there's a great need for people to help with sheltering people in Minot, North Dakota. Are you available?"

Thursday morning I was on an 8:15 flight to Fargo. From there I picked up a rental car and drove to Bismarck, ND to check in. I was told that the reason we flew into Fargo and drove 3 hours to Bismarck was because they needed rental cars in the flood zone and the rental agencies up there were tapped out.

Friday was spent travelling from Bismarck to Minot, North Dakota, a burgeoning town of about 36,000 people. The population there has swelled since 2000 people because of the discovery of oil reserves. However due to the low lying plains, whenever there is a large snow fall winter with extremely heavily rains, the snow melt results in some flooding.

The flooding was astronomical in 2011, with waters from the Souris (or Mouse) river and the Missouri running through the area. During the afternoon I arrived, the midtown was temporarily flooded due to heavy storm activity the night before. I arrived late Saturday evening to receive my orientation.

The staff conditions are under hardship status here. The water is non-potable. I was warned not to use it to brush my teeth or wash my hands or face. (I stopped at the Walmart to pick up sani cleaner, and industrial size packages of wipes). I also bought a foam and pillow for my cot, and slept in the gym with a couple hundred other volunteers. (Clients are housed nearby). I was also told that due to high staff and short supplies, there is no food for staff. We will make our arrangements for food elsewhere. As local businesses are open I don't think that will be a problem. I was also told to take care of laundering my own linens, however there are no laundry facilities. I bought six new shirts and more underwear last night as well. As for food, I will have to walk to local stores nearby and hope to find granola bars and fruit or other durable snacks that will survive in a non-air conditioned environment.

I now await assignment, whether it is client sheltering, client casework, damage assessment or bulk distribution. The clients have been in and out of shelters since May, and some have houses that are totally lost. Many are angry or upset because they have been informed by FEMA that there will be no funding, depending on their circumstances. It should be interesting.

Please keep the folks from Minot in your prayers.

Diana

Mission Matawan Update - 1 July 2011

2011-07-01T06:46:00.002-04:00

Based on an unprecedented level of committed energy by teen and adult volunteers, Mission Matawan has completed over 90% of all the requests for help for the week.

Members of our church, the St. Joseph's Church, Breakthrough in Christ Ministry and the general public have swept through Aberdeen, Matawan and Keyport.

Yesterday, we mulched a yard, sprayed 6 gallons of poison ivy spray in two other yards, painted a stairwell, hung a screen door, worked on support posts, and repaired a set of brick steps...most of that was before lunch.

With PNS inspectors working around crews, we trimmed the lengthy row of hedges front the playground in the yard out front.

After lunch we began what is potentially the largest job of all, a cleanup of a former "mini-farm" in Marlboro. Volunteers for Friday and Saturday will do well to wear long sleeves, long pants and work boots to protect from the noxious weeds and possibility of nails and other sharp objects. (Note: the severely allergic might want to give this one a pass).

On Tuesday, our middle school youth and members of Breakthrough in Christ Ministry cleaned up the Matawan Food Pantry. The online newspaper, the Aberdeen Matawan Patch came and covered much of the action.

On Wednesday, volunteers from the Jersey Coast Chapter of the American Red Cross visited. They spoke of their recent deployments in Joplin, Missouri. Frank Wroblewski presented a slide show he created from photos. Gary Olivero described the role of the American Red Cross historically, and at the local, regional, and national level.

On Thursday evening I was invited to an annual dinner of the Aberdeen Matawan Rotary, which provided a grant to Mission Matawan again this year. Thank you!

On Saturday, members of the church and Mission Matawan participants throughout the week are invited to a potluck dinner/picnic at the home of Peggy Knowles, from 4 - 8 pm. Peggy's address is available through the church directory, or you may call the church for directions. The only cost of admission is a dish (main course, side dish, or dessert).

Spring FPC Family Coffeehouse Raises Fun and Funds

2011-06-04T17:05:00.002-04:00

The First Presbyterian Church held its semi-annual coffeehouse on Friday, 3 June, 2011. There were about two dozen acts, most by church members, and attendance was estimated at over 100.

Don Day and the "Don-ettes"

The coffeehouse was started several years ago, and has, in recent years become one of the main fund raisers for Mission Matawan, a community service project that helps homeowners maintain their independence and fix their residences.

This year featured a special performance by the Mac-ettes, a tap dance group, as well as Don Day's entourage, the "Don-ettes", pictured here. About $700 was raised for Mission Matawan, which manned the kitchen.

Special thanks go out to Starbucks of Matawan, who provided the hot and cold beverages for the event.

Music Fest for Manna House - 14 May 7 pm

2011-05-01T16:37:00.000-04:00

This year marks the 25th anniversary of Manna House, a unique transitional housing program where homeless mothers and their children live together, learning to break the welfare cycle. First Presbyterian was one of the founders of Manna House in 1986.

For 15 years, Music Fest, an interdenominational music festival, has raised money for Manna House, and First Presbyterian has participated. This benefit concert is organized by volunteers and all of the funds raised to directly to Manna House. The Independent ran the press release in its April 28th Bulletin Board stating:

The annual event, which raises money for Manna House, will feature performances by singers and instrumentalists from area houses of worship. This year’s participants include First Presbyterian Church, Matawan; Cross of Glory Lutheran Church, Aberdeen; St. Benedict Catholic Church, Holmdel; St John’s United Methodist Church, Hazlet; New Light Baptist Church, Keyport; and Gethsemane Lutheran Church, Keyport.

Mark your calendars and join us!
Saturday, May 14 at 7 pm
St John's Church, Hazlet

For more information on the event, or if you wish to make a donation, contact Dr E Graham McKinley per the press release.

Coming Soon... Preview of Mission Matawan 2011

2011-05-01T13:21:00.000-04:00

April 23 Lenten Devotion

2011-04-23T07:38:00.002-04:00

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April 23

Mark 15:42-47

The Burial of Jesus

These verses of Mark are found immediately following Jesus' death on the cross. Jesus died a few hours before sundown on Friday and Jewish law prevented anyone from doing work or traveling on the Sabbath.

Joseph of Arimathea, a Jewish leader and secret follower of Jesus, went to Pilate to ask for Jesus' body. Pilate was surprised to learn that Jesus had died already and gave the body to Joseph. Joseph then took Jesus' body, wrapped it in linen and placed it in a tomb. After that, Joseph sealed the tomb with a large rock. Mary Magdalene and Mary watched as Joseph sealed the body.

In thinking about this passage, I am first struck by Joseph's actions. Joseph was an honored Jewish leader who secretly followed Jesus. He took a huge risk by going to Pilate to ask for Jesus' body and then preparing the body for burial. If any of Joseph's Jewish colleagues saw him with Jesus' body, Joseph would certainly have had a lot of explaining to do. Joseph did what he knew was right. For him, the reward, knowing Jesus received a proper burial, was greater than the risk to his reputation.

How many times do we take a risk to do what is right? If you're like me, more often than not, you shy away from a risk because you're fearful of the consequences. The consequences, real or imagined, outweigh the reward in our minds. I think this passage is showing us that sometimes we have to take a risk for what we believe in. If Joseph did not risk his image by doing what was right, Jesus' body may have been taken by the Romans or he may not have received a proper burial. Without Joseph's simple action, the outcome of the Easter story may have been entirely different. Joseph did what he could for Jesus.

Jeremy Szoc

First Presbyterian Church | 883 Highway 34 | Matawan | NJ | 07747

New Views in Blogger

2011-04-22T12:42:00.002-04:00

Now this blog may be viewed in timeslide format. Once in "views" you can select various ways of seeing our First Presbyterian articles: sidebar, snapshot, mosaic, and flipcard. The snapshop format lets you easily see artwork or photos that have been used recently.

Also you may return to a normal view. So far the feature is in testing mode.

Easter Services and Weekend Observances: Matawan

2011-04-22T09:51:00.002-04:00

Easter services and events for FPC at Matawan will be held on Saturday and Sunday, April 24, 2011 at the following times:

Prayer Vigil: Saturday, April 23, 2011, from 6 am until 6 pm
Location: Chapel
Who: Participants that have registered will attend at their appointed times

Easter Sunrise Service: Sunday, April 24, 2011 at 6:30 am
Location: Church Property outside
Hosted by the Youth Group
Followed by a light continental breakfast indoors

Fellowship Breakfast: 9 am
Location: Fellowship Hall
The church will serve homemade baked goods, hot dishes, fruit, juice, and coffee
All are invited, including the public

Musical Prelude: 10 am - 10:30 am
Location: Sanctuary
Music offerings led by Justin Ryan, Director of Music

Easter Sunday Worship Service: Sunday, April 24, 2011 at 10:30 am
Location: Sanctuary
Who: All members of the church and community

Good Friday Service: Matawan

2011-04-22T09:26:00.002-04:00

The church will have a Good Friday worship service, or Service of Tenebrae, tonight, April 22 at 8 o'clock in the sanctuary.

The word 'tenebrae' is a medieval latin word meaning "darkness". It's modern usage for the church is during Holy Week, celebrated as the Service of Shadows. As readings depict the final days and hours of the life of Jesus, candles are extinguished. At the end of the service people leave quietly to return to their homes.

A Community Good Friday service will be held for Matawan and Aberdeen, New Jersey residents at the Matawan United Methodist Church in Aberdeen, from Noon until 3 pm. Many area churches are participating and all are welcome to come. The Matawan Methodist Church is located at the corner of Church Street and Atlantic Ave, Aberdeen, NJ.

April 22 Lenten Devotion

2011-04-22T08:30:00.000-04:00

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Good Friday, April 22

Luke 23:44-49

The Death of Jesus

For me, one of the most beautiful parts of the Easter story is the extent to which the human side of Jesus is revealed. From the Garden of Gethsemane to the cross we see a Jesus who is on the one hand authoritative, determined and courageous; and on the other hand a Jesus who is troubled and fearful. He has faithfully followed his father's calling, living the life extolled in the beatitudes and revealing to us the kingdom of God; a journey that has inevitably led him to the humiliation and pain and death of the cross.

Jesus does not approach the cross as a God in human form, supremely confident in the knowledge that in just few hours he will rise from the grave. Rather we see a man, fearful of what lies ahead; but also a man with a faith firmly rooted in the love of his heavenly Father. And it is his faith that overcomes his fear (and ultimately death itself).

Jesus last words are not some grand farewell, neither are they some final message of great import to his followers. Rather they are a simple expression of trust and obedience: "Father, into your hands I commend my spirit".

Each of us, at times in our lives, is overcome with worry and doubt, pain and fear. Like Jesus, we are called to "let go" and trust - to rest in the hands of our heavenly Father and know that there is nothing that can separate us from his love and care. Jesus has shown us the way.

Bryan Ackland

First Presbyterian Church | 883 Highway 34 | Matawan | NJ | 07747

April 21 Lenten Devotion - Maundy Thursday

2011-04-21T03:47:00.000-04:00

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Maundy Thursday, April 21

Luke 22:7-23

The Last Supper

Jesus sent Peter and John to find a specific house where he would eat the Passover meal with all the disciples. He knew this would be the last Passover that he would be with them and told them that he would be suffering and fulfilling the prophecy. He also told them that he knew that one among them was going to betray him.

These verses are so important to us as Christians because Jesus, while sharing the Passover meal with his disciples, introduces the institution of the Lord's Supper.

He commended breaking the bread and sharing a cup to remember and proclaim his death. The Presbyterian Book of Order tells us that "the New Testament describes the meal as a participation in Christ and with one another, in the expectation of the Kingdom and as a foretaste of the messianic banquet". It also reminds us that each time we come to the Lord's Table we are "to actively seek reconciliation in every instance of conflict or division between us and our neighbors". We also come with thanksgiving for God's work in our world, and remembering Christ's love for us.

I believe it is also a time to pray that we do not follow in Judas' footsteps and betray Jesus in our daily lives. We should pray that we try our best to follow in His footsteps and continue to do good works in our own church and in our world.

Barbara Dodenhoff

First Presbyterian Church | 883 Highway 34 | Matawan | NJ | 07747

Lenten Devotion Soup and Supper

2011-04-20T10:02:00.000-04:00

For those of you that wish to make one of the Lenten Soup and Supper studies, tonight is the 6th and Final installment in the series: Biblical Models of Discipleship in the New Testament. The Lenten Devotional Guide prepared by church members is incorporated into the study.

The dinner portion begins at 6 pm, and includes soups and sandwiches along with hot and cold beverages, and light desserts. The study portion usually begins around 6:30 pm and runs until 8 pm.

Many church members received notice by email. For the rest, here is a link.

April 20 Lenten Devotion

2011-04-20T08:35:00.000-04:00

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April 20

Galatians 3:28

Law or Faith - The Purpose of theLaw

Galatians 3:28 ²⁸ There is no longer Jew or Greek. There is no longer slave or free, there is no longer male or female, for all of you are one in Jesus Christ.

The occasion for writing the letter to the Galatians is to address the question "Is the Mosaic Law binding on Christians?". We need to remember that the Council of Jerusalem (Gal 2:1-10), as well as the "Incident at Antioch" (Gal 2:11-14, Peter and Paul's confrontation about the Law), had not entirely answered the question. This text could be headlined:

Unity in the Body of Christ

Paul, a Roman citizen, a Gentile, in Gal 3:28, teaches the Galatians, and us:

That the Greek (Gentile) is just as much in Christ Jesus as the Jew.

That the slave is just as much in Christ Jesus as the free man.

That the female is just as much in Christ Jesus as the male.

When we humans of any and every description come into Christ sincerely, we are equally and wholly in Him and are thereby saved - irrespective of who we are, where we are, or what we are.

The main thrust of the passage before us has to do with our relationship with God. Is keeping of Jewish law and ordinances necessary to become saved? Paul answers "emphatically no" to this bone of contention. Not by keeping of the law, but by faith in Christ Jesus, sinners of all kinds and caliber are saved. Paul's emphasis was on believers' unity in Christ, not their equality with one another.

For those who have been called by God and have properly responded, social distinctions-whether national/racial, conditional/financial, or gender-recede and disappear.

Unity comes with God's calling and justification. We are united in our need for a Savior. We are united in our acceptance of His blood for the remission of our sins. We are united through common experience: We all recognize that the only reason we have physical or spiritual life is because of God's grace and mercy. We are united in our receipt of God's gifts and mercy.

Gunter Beck

First Presbyterian Church | 883 Highway 34 | Matawan | NJ | 07747

April 19 Lenten Devotion

2011-04-19T06:50:00.000-04:00

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April 19

Mark 11:20-25

The Power of Prayer

Jesus said, "So I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours."

God answers our prayers! A simple statement, but one that, at times, can be a bit difficult to believe. We don't always get what we want. Things don't work out the way we wanted. Disappointment, failure and loss are part of life. We can pray fervently for something and we don't receive it. So is God really answering our prayers?

If we trust God's wisdom, then the answer is yes! What we want and pray for may not be what we really need. In looking back at major disappointments, in hindsight, I now understand that if things had worked out "my way", it would have been a huge mistake or worse.

My mother passed away about a year and a half ago. She suffered from Alzheimer's and other health problems. I prayed for her healing, but understood that a miracle cure was very unlikely. As her daughter and caregiver, I had to make very difficult decisions. I prayed for guidance, for strength and courage. God answered my prayers! When there were difficult medical decisions to be made, the nurse practitioner at the nursing home provided me with information and advice, so I was able to make the decisions that in my heart, I knew were right. God gave me the strength and courage to get through this most difficult journey.

My mother-in-law also lived in the same nursing home and suffered from Alzheimer's. I wrote and self-published a book about our family's journey, in the hope of helping other families with a loved one who has Alzheimer's. In writing the book, I came to better understand how God did answer my prayers. In the midst of the darkness, there was joy and laughter, light and healing.

Dear Lord, may we trust in your wisdom, knowing that you do answer our prayers. May we be grateful for all of your abundant blessings. Amen.

Riina Van Rixoort

First Presbyterian Church | 883 Highway 34 | Matawan | NJ | 07747

April 18 Lenten Devotion

2011-04-18T06:09:00.002-04:00

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April 18

1 Peter 1:7

Living Hope

"These trials are only to test your faith to show that it is strong and pure. It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold--and your faith is far more precious to God than mere gold. So if your faith remains strong after being tried by fiery trials, it will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day when Christ is revealed to the whole world."

So what trials is Peter talking about? The big ones, like going through illnesses, death of loved ones, loss of a job, money losses. These things can lead to a response of, "Why God is this happening to me," and can really test our faith. Or could trials just be the everyday living sort of dealing with morning traffic on our way to work, bad drivers, snowy roads, rude, unfriendly people and situations? Peter says these trials need to lead us into an experience of God, and use our suffering to purify and deepen our faith. Perhaps God sends us trials for our probation (not our destruction), to prove our faith, our spiritual goodness; and if our faith can stand the test, God will have the glory for all to see. A tried faith is more precious than gold.

Prayer:

Lord help us this day to accept what you send each day, knowing that your comforting presence and help will with be with us keeping our faith strong to show your glory. Amen.

Ruth Wolf

First Presbyterian Church | 883 Highway 34 | Matawan | NJ | 07747

April 17 Lenten Devotion

2011-04-17T07:33:00.000-04:00

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Palm Sunday, April 17
Mark 11:1-11
Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord

And when they drew near to Jerusalem, to Bethphage and Bethany at the Mount of Olives, he sent two of his disciples, and said to them, "Go into the village opposite you, and immediately as you enter it you will find a colt tied, on which no one has ever sat; untie it and bring it. If any one says to you, "Why are you doing this?" say, "The Lord has need of it and will send it back here immediately."  And they went away, and found a colt tied at the door out in the open street; and they untied it.  And those who stood there said to them, "What are you doing, untying the colt?"  And they told them what Jesus had said' and they let them go.  And they brought the colt to Jesus, and threw their garments on it; and he sat upon it.  And many spread their garments on the road, and others spread leafy branches which they had cut from the fields.  And those who went before and those who followed cried out, "Hosanna!  Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!  Blessed is the kingdom of our father David that is coming!  Hosanna in the Highest!"  And he entered Jerusalem, and went into the temple; and when he had looked round at everything, as it was already late, he went out to Bethany with the twelve.
As we read about Jesus, entering Jerusalem in the Bible, we sense the excitement of this special day.  Men, women and children, spreading their garments and tree branches before him, shouting "Hosanna!  Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! "Blessed is the kingdom of our Father David that is come. Hosanna in the highest!"  What joy and happiness fills their hearts and souls as Jesus rides into the city of Jerusalem .
Do you feel this joy when you read this scripture passage?  They were unaware of what would take place in the days following this event.  We however, are reading this passage on the Easter side of the story.  We know what took place during the coming days that first Holy Week.  Today is Palm Sunday,  let us celebrate it as the men, women, and children did in the scripture passage and say "Hosanna!  Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord."

Prayer:
Our Lord and Redeemer, may we like the men, women, and children, who shouted praises to you on your entry into Jerusalem, join our voices of praise and thanksgiving for all you have done for us.  Be with us as we enter Holy Week may we be ever mindful of your sacrifice for us.

Eleanor Godocik

First Presbyterian Church | 883 Highway 34 | Matawan | NJ | 07747

April 16 Lenten Devotion

2011-04-16T07:45:00.002-04:00

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April 16

Genesis 1:24-25

First Story of Creation

And God said, "Let the earth bring forth living creatures of every kind..."

Animals are such a wonderful creation. Being an animal lover who was raised with many animals, e.g., birds, dogs cats and more, I remember when I was young and we went camping. We caught a lizard and we made it a home in a box with moss, rocks and, of course, water. It was so interesting to watch the lizard change it colors to blend in with its environment.

I thank God for his creations, the comfort that the animals give. The earth wouldn't be the same without these creations.

Thank you God for all the living things that you have created for us

Susan Blejwas

First Presbyterian Church | 883 Highway 34 | Matawan | NJ | 07747

April 15 Lenten Devotion

2011-04-15T00:12:00.000-04:00

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April 15

Luke 9:16

Abundant Blessings

"And taking the five loaves and the two fish, he looked up to heaven, and blessed and broke them and gave them to the disciples to set before the crowd..."

Interestingly, the miracle of the feeding of the 5,000 is the only miracle besides Jesus' resurrection that is recorded in all of the 4 gospels: Matthew 14:15-21, Mark 6:35-44 and John 6:6-13. Clearly, a remarkable event with an enormous impact to be so emphasized. In addition, Jesus performs a very similar miracle chronicled soon after this in Matthew 15:32-38 and Mark 8:1-9; the feeding of the 4,000. In all of these biblical accountings Jesus' compassion for his followers and their needs prompted the feeding of the crowds. In each account, Jesus gave thanks to God for the meager amount of bread and fish that he had and then directed the disciples to divide and distribute it so that his followers would be nourished and their hunger satisfied. Furthermore, all accounts record there was an abundance of leftover food, enough to be gathered so that none would be wasted.

In Luke 9:16 and in the others that describe the miracle, Jesus looked to heaven and blessed the food before giving it to the disciples to distribute to the people. There seems to be a great similarity between Jesus' actions in the miracle of feeding the multitudes with the biblical events of the Last Supper. Were the events of these miracles of feeding His followers a prologue to His final meal with His disciples? When Jesus blessed the wine and bread and gave it to the disciples He asked them to do this in remembrance of Him. Jesus' sacrifice, which we remember each time we celebrate Communion, was given out of compassion and everlasting love for us.

For me, this bible verse is a call to have faith; to have confidence that God will provide. It is also symbolic to me ofGod's immeasurable love for us. He provides us with spiritual blessings that nourish us beyond our human expectations and understanding. Finally, giving thanks to God reminds us of His constant and loving presence in our lives and recognition of our abundant blessings.

'Praise God, from whom our blessings flow; Praise Him, all creatures here below; Praise Him above, ye heavenly host; praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost. Amen.'

Nancy Godbehere

First Presbyterian Church | 883 Highway 34 | Matawan | NJ | 07747

April 14 Lenten Devotion

2011-04-14T07:10:00.002-04:00

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April 14

Ephesians 4:1-16

Unity in the Body of Christ

"I therefore, the prisoner in the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of the calling to which you have been called, ²with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, ³making every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. ⁴There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to the one hope of your calling, ⁵one Lord, one faith, one baptism, ⁶one God and Father of all, who is above all and through all and in all."

In this section of Paul's letter, he shows how God intends for those in the church to live and work together in unity and to grow together in maturity. What wonderful guidance for us as a church family.

Our church is incredibly diverse. We come from different parts of the world, from different faith backgrounds, are at different stages of our lives, work in different fields, live in different towns, and have quite different political perspectives. Yet, we are united in Christ - we are one family on a marvelous faith journey together because of Christ.

In sports, in business, and in our beloved church, I have personally experienced what incredible things can be accomplished when diverse groups are unified by a common goal and work together as a team. Most recently, "Ignite the Spirit" and "Spaghetti for the Soul" demonstrated yet again what we can do when we try to follow Paul's guidance in the verses above. I must say that when I am in Worship, or committee meetings, or social events with you, my brothers and sisters, I get a sense of hope, love, joy, and peace - the Holy Spirit among us.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, help us to be humble, gentle, patient, and to love one another. We pray that we can maintain the unity of the Spirit so that we can fulfill our mission to be the body of Christ and glorify God in the Matawan area and throughout the world. Amen.

Jerry Godbehere

First Presbyterian Church | 883 Highway 34 | Matawan | NJ | 07747

April 13 Lenten Devotion

2011-04-13T00:38:00.002-04:00

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April 13

John 15:12

Love One Another

This is my commandment, "That you love one another as I have loved you."

In order to understand this command, it is necessary to look carefully at how Jesus loved us and showed us that love in so many ways. He showed love by forgiving people, by healing people inside and out, by feeding people, clothing them and he showed love to everyone, even sinners and unlovable.

That is what Jesus wants us to do in this commandment. And though it is hard, it is possible. We need to find ways every day to show love to others in the same way that Jesus did, putting them on the right path and making them whole.

Prayer:

Dear God, please be with us as we love one another. It must be hard for you to see how hard it is for us to follow this commandment. Amen.

Evelyn Hartley

First Presbyterian Church | 883 Highway 34 | Matawan | NJ | 07747

April 12 Lenten Devotion

2011-04-12T07:16:00.002-04:00

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April 12

Daniel 9:9

Daniel's Prayer for thePeople

"The Lord our God is merciful and forgiving, even though we have rebelled against him."

Today's reading from Daniel reminds of God's promise. People make mistakes but we can be forgiven for our mistakes by God and we can rise above them. God doesn't turn a blind eye to our sins. Christ's death testifies to the price God paid to forgive us, before and after we became believers.

Beloved God, may your word light our lives and nourish our spirits.

Julie Holowatch

First Presbyterian Church | 883 Highway 34 | Matawan | NJ | 07747

Lenten Devotion April 11

2011-04-11T00:28:00.000-04:00

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April 11

John 14:15-21

"If you love me, you will keep my commandments"

This is one of my favorite passages, in part because Thomas Tallis wrote an elegant motet on this text. I first sang it, and loved it from first hearing it, in high school. Our Chancel Choir has sung it as well. It has no instrumental accompaniment, just the four voice parts lifted in this loving and reassuring text.

It starts out very simply, with everyone saying the words at once - a straightforward statement of fact. Those who love Jesus and His word will yearn to keep His commandments. It won't be work for us, if we truly love Jesus; it will come naturally. In the motet, when the composer gets to "And I will pray the Father," the voices all enter at different times, singing music that is similar but not exactly the same. Prayer takes many forms; not everyone prays the same way. The choir comes together on "another Comforter," but then the voice parts echo each other on the next text, in what is called polyphonic style: Each entrance is more beautiful than the last and builds on what came before. At the end, we join together once again to sing about "the Spirit of Truth."

I feel that this composer, who lived from 1505 to 1525, felt the meaning of this passage as intensely as we can today. In my New American Standard home Bible, "Comforter" is translated as "Helper." The Holy Spirit will help us to love Jesus and to keep His commandments, as we understand them. There are many; perhaps one that particularly chimes with the meaning of this passage is from John: "Love one another as I have loved you." I'm not sure we humans can love with the strength, constancy and passion with which Jesus loves us, but with the help of the Spirit of Truth, we can certainly try.

Dr. E. Graham McKinley

First Presbyterian Church | 883 Highway 34 | Matawan | NJ | 07747

Lenten Devotion April 10

2011-04-10T00:20:00.000-04:00

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5^th Sunday, April 10

John 6:12-14

Feeding the Five Thousand

Five loaves and two fishes feeding thousands with baskets of left-over..... Seems impossible, but not for Jesus.

The disciples saw the problem that they were unable to feed the people at mealtime, and they said it was "impossible" and wanted to turn the people away. But Jesus, with whom all things are possible, did not send them away. With compassion, he poured out a blessing that overflowed. He fed the hungry and even created left over... reminding us that we can't even contain all of God's blessings.

When we look at our problems or situations, we may see the resolution as impossible too, but we need to remember that in our time of need, God wouldn't turn us away either. He will work miracles in our lives too, if we ask him.

I think also, of what Jesus used to perform this miracle, five loaves of bread and two fishes blessed into abundance. Who would have thought that the offering of one boy's small meal could feed thousands of people? It does not matter how small our offerings or time or talents are, as long as we offer them to God, he will gladly accept and bless them.

Shereen Sliwowski

First Presbyterian Church | 883 Highway 34 | Matawan | NJ | 07747

Lenten Devotion April 9

2011-04-09T12:26:00.002-04:00

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April 9

Exodus 22:21

Justice for All

"You shall not wrong or oppress a resident alien, for you were aliens in the land of Egypt"

When reading this passage, one can view it in several different ways. The most obvious method is simply taking it at literal face value. The passage then takes on a political connotation, one that is very closely related to current American issues. With the exception of a very small group of people all Americans come from a family of people who were once aliens in this land. Now, the question of what to do with our resident aliens has become an issue of great political importance. Though there are many legal and financial issues that go into the debate, this passage is an excellent reminder to treat all people fairly. By remembering the struggles in all of our pasts, we will hopefully be more considerate of the trials of our brothers.

But this passage can be viewed on a much smaller scale as well. Every man has struggled through times where they felt they were the outsider. Be it a new job, a new town, or a new country, experiences of trying to fit in to a new group can be very stressful. This verse tells us to be mindful of the suffering of others. All men face similar times of uncertainty and persecution. Those who have already undergone such suffering must be even more mindful of the difficulties of others. In the same sense that the Bible tells us to do unto others as we would have done unto ourselves, it here reminds us not to oppress outsiders, for we would not want to be oppressed based on religion, nationality, or anything else.

I found this passage very meaningful because it is both straightforward and powerful. By simply following the mandate in this verse, we can all take great strides toward a more harmonious world.

Emily DeMarco

First Presbyterian Church | 883 Highway 34 | Matawan | NJ | 07747

Lenten Devotion April 8

2011-04-08T13:54:00.000-04:00

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April 8

Ephesians 2:8-9

God's Gift of Grace

"For by grace you have been saved through faith and this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God"

This passage makes me stop and wonder what does God expect from us? It says that all he wants is for us to be faithful, but how often instead do we get caught up in doing things to please God.

The gift of Grace is so awesome that it does not seem like we are worthy. We can make our selves weary doing our church work but if we do not have faith it is meaningless. God created us to do good but it is our faith that brings us salvation and it is a gift from God. Some times we get so busy living life that we forget who it is who created us and gave us this life and the gift of grace.

Prayer:

Dear God,

Please help us to be faithful servants to you and to take the time to "Be still and know that you are our God". It is you who made us and we are yours and that through our faith in you we are saved by your grace.

Amen

Laurie Koulousias

First Presbyterian Church | 883 Highway 34 | Matawan | NJ | 07747

Lenten Devotion April 7

2011-04-07T12:46:00.000-04:00

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April 7

Jeremiah 45:3-4

Using Our Gifts Faithfully

"You said, woe is me. The Lord has added sorrow to my pain. I am weary with my groaning and I shall find no rest."

These verses refer to Baruch, a young man employed to write and read Jeremiah's prophecies. Taking on this work would seem to make Baruch a faithful servant of the Lord. In his time, not unlike our time, there were figures attaining high status, wealth, and great worldly glory. Certainly taking on this role for God should yield such great things for Baruch, right? Well, the instant gratification and high status on earth didn't quite come to pass in the time Baruch expected. In fact, his life on earth probably had become much harder, encountering the dangers inherent in driving change and pushing others outside of their comfort zones. The world around him was in great turmoil ... not exactly the instant miracle he may have been expecting. And so we see him here in these verses leaning into some petty grumbling...and looking to leave this difficult work behind.

God bestows upon all of us gifts to be used to fulfill His purpose. We all want God's purpose to be fulfilled. Yet we often want to have our cake and eat it too. When we do the work, we want the instant gratification, the fame, the glory. When the going gets tough, we may want to just walk away. There are also times where we prefer the comfort of the sidelines, waiting on others to do the work.

I pray that we use our gifts faithfully and without complaint. In doing so, our works and the works of God will become more deeply rooted. We don't often see the roots growing and so we can easily be discouraged. I pray that all of us in this churchcommunity realize it is many little thingswhich lead to great things...even when the evidence is not immediately obvious.

Andrew DeChristopher

First Presbyterian Church | 883 Highway 34 | Matawan | NJ | 07747

Letter from Doug Baker, Northern Ireland Missionary 6 April 2011

2011-04-06T21:09:00.000-04:00

In an unprecedented display of unity, Constable
Ronan Kerr's coffin passes a joint guard of
honor of both his GAA and PSNI colleagues

Doug and Elaine Baker,

PCUSA Mission Co-Workers

5 Ormiston Park

Belfast BT4 3JT

Northern Ireland

doug.baker@dnet.co.uk

6^th April 2011

"A symbol of the new Northern Ireland." That is how Constable Ronan Kerr was described at his funeral today.

A bomb placed under the 25 year-old off-duty policeman’s car outside his home went off four days ago killing him, shattering his family and horrifying this society. It was a reminder of times to which Northern Ireland does not wish to return and that, although the level of violence is very much lower than it was for many years, we are still far from a settled peace.

His was the first killing of a policeman for three years. No group has claimed responsibility but everything points to ‘Dissident’ Republicans, small factions who disagree with the ceasefire of the Provisional IRA and the Belfast Agreement of 1998. This was a young Catholic officer, who had been in the Police Service of Northern Ireland for less than a year. Dissident Republican groups have been trying to kill a Catholic police officer since 2002. There have been numerous bombs placed under officers personal cars. Most have been detected and made safe. Two have blown up causing severe injuries. By targeting a new Catholic recruit they are attempting to send a message to the whole Catholic / Nationalist community not to join the police or accept the political settlement mainstream Republicanism has. Politicians, including those from Sinn Fein who once supported IRA attacks on police, have firmly condemned his murder as a senseless ‘warring against peace’ and described those involved as enemies of the people of Ireland, who used the democratic process in 1998 to endorse the political agreement the Dissident s seek to bring down.

The day after his murder Ronan’s mother, Nuala, made an emotional appeal for Catholic members of the police not to be put off and stated her belief that it is vital new recruits from Nationalist areas continue to join so that the police can reflect the diversity of this society and contribute to long-term peace and equality. She finished her remarks by urging that Ronan’s death not be in vain.

Many others have also spoken out and taken symbolic steps to recognise just what an important symbol of the new Northern Ireland he was and demonstrate their commitment to the future he embraced.

Speaking yesterday the President of the Gaelic Athletic Association in Ulster pointed out that Ronan was by religion a Catholic, by politics a Nationalist, by culture and athletic involvement a Gael, and by profession a member of the new Police Service of Northern Ireland: A combination of identities and involvements virtually unimaginable only a short time ago.

Gaelic sports are a strong part of Irish culture and have generally been linked to both Roman Catholic and Nationalist identities, with GAA clubs often organised on a parish basis and the Irish flag and national anthem used at Gaelic events, even in Northern Ireland. That has led to suspicion of the GAA by those who hold to a British and Protestant identity. But suspicion has been mutual and in 1897 a rule (Rule 21) was established by the GAA barring any serving member of the police or British armed services from membership. Likewise, from the foundation of the state of Northern Ireland in 1920, the Royal Ulster Constabulary was, for a variety of reasons, overwhelmingly (over 90%) Protestant/Unionist in its make-up. Hence GAA and police circles were virtually exclusive.

However, an integral part of the Belfast Agreement in 1998 was the renaming of the RUC as the Police Service of Northern Ireland and other changes which it was hoped would lead to greater Catholic recruitment and Nationalist acceptance of and cooperation with the police. Several years later the endorsement of the new policing structures by Sinn Fein (the main republican political party) paved the ways for more widespread nationalist engagement with the PSNI. In 2001 the GAA removed Rule 21, easing the way for young men and women, who were already GAA members, to consider a career in the police. Many, like Ronan, have. He is a symbol of the new Northern Ireland in that he straddled worlds that a few years ago would have been almost mutually exclusive.

The growing acceptance of the police service amongst the Nationalist community and GAA fraternity in particular was exemplified by a minute's silence for Ronan before last weekend's Tyrone National League match . As the small Tyrone village of Beragh ground to a halt today for the funeral, in highly symbolic scenes, local schoolchildren, Ronan's GAA teammates and scores of police officers stood shoulder to shoulder outside the church in a joint guard of honor. The young recruit's coffin, which was carried from his mother’s house by amongst others the GAA President, Tyrone manager and Tyrone captain, was then handed to his PSNI colleagues for the final stretch to the churchyard.

Political leaders and police chiefs from both sides of the border were among those who attended the funeral mass. First Minister Peter Robinson and Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness entered the church together, followed by the Republic of Ireland Taoiseach Enda Kenny and then other Northern Ireland party leaders. It was the first Catholic mass ever attended by both the DUP and UUP leaders, while the presence of Mr McGuinness and Sinn Fein President Gerry Adams at the funeral of a police officer would have been unimaginable even in the recent past. This also marked the first time the Republic’s Taoiseach (Prime Minister) attended a policeman’s funeral in Northern Ireland.

Sinn Fein President Gerry Adams, First Minister Peter Robinson (DUP,) Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness (SF), and Taoiseach Enda Kenny

Cardinal Sean Brady was the main celebrant and passionately urged the Dissidents to stop their violence, emphatically stating “you do not do this in our name.” Also present were the Church of Ireland Archbishop of Armagh; The Moderator of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland and; and the President of the Methodist Church.

Earlier in the day brave youths in the strongly Republican Bogside district of Derry painted over graffiti applauding the killers. At a peace rally outside Belfast City Hall timed to coincide with the funeral a trade union leader declared “We will not permit the clock to be turned back.” Before attending the funeral First Minister Peter Robinson said, 'The killers have succeeded in taking the life of a brave police officer but in doing so they have strengthened the resolve of the rest of our society in our commitment never to go back to the division and conflict of the last generation.'

It was an unprecedented display of unity, for which we give thanks. There need to be scores of unprecedented initiatives for reconciliation in communities throughout Ireland now to ensure that Ronan’s death is truly not in vain. Pray that politicians, church leaders and ordinary citizens have the conviction and courage to follow through.

Faithfully yours,

Doug and Elaine Baker

Diversity Art & Essay Contest to give away $10,000

2011-04-06T14:42:00.003-04:00

The following was received by Joe Ritacco:

IDC is pleased to announce the 2nd Annual Diversity Art & Essay Contestfor students 6th to 12th grade in New Jersey. Students will be awarded more than $10,000. This year's theme is Who is My Neighbor?Visit the contest web site for more information.

IDC's Art & Essay contest for middle school and high school students was held first time in 2010. We received over 750 entries from all over NJ. You can see last year's Award Ceremony and winners by visiting this link, andthis link. You may watch the video of the award ceremony, just click here.

There are important values that help keep societies afloat, with this in mind IDC has undertaken this important project. IDC organizes the DIVERSITY ART&ESSAY CONTEST to instill some of these values in our young and to give them a forum with various platforms in which they can express their understanding and analysis of these values.

The contest will be held in two categories where students will be awarded generously. More information is available at our web site.

A blog page has been posted for this event at: IDC is pleased to announce the 2nd Annual Diversity Art & Essay Contestfor students 6th to 12th grade in New Jersey. Students will be awarded more than $10,000. This year's theme is Who is My Neighbor?Visit the contest web site for more information.

IDC's Art & Essay contest for middle school and high school students was held first time in 2010. We received over 750 entries from all over NJ. You can see last year's Award Ceremony and winners by visiting this link, andthis link. You may watch the video of the award ceremony, just click here.

There are important values that help keep societies afloat, with this in mind IDC has undertaken this important project. IDC organizes the DIVERSITY ART&ESSAY CONTEST to instill some of these values in our young and to give them a forum with various platforms in which they can express their understanding and analysis of these values.

Contest will be held in two categories where students will be awarded generously. More information is available at our web site.

For further information check out our blog page with the full communication to Joe at:

http://fpcmatawan.blogspot.com/p/diversity-art-essay-contest.html

Japan Disaster Relief - Gift of the Heart Kit Collection

2011-04-04T20:52:00.001-04:00

Image from Presbyterian
Church of Pittsburgh, KS

When: Being collected from April 17th (Palm Sunday) through May 1st.

Mission Commission is collecting hygiene kits for Church World Service and our ecumenical partners for Japan disaster relief. Barbara Dodenhoff is coordinating collections of the kits.

To donate a "kit" you simply provide the following items packed into a 1-Gallon Zip-Lock Bag:

1 Hand Towel (approximately 16"x28", no fingertip or bath towels)
1 Washcloth
1 Wide tooth comb (removed from the package)
1 Nail Clipper (without metal files or emery boards, packaging removed)
1 Bar of soap, bath-sized in wrapper
1 Toothbrush in original packaging (NO TOOTHPASTE)
6 Band-Aids or other adhesive bandage strips

Look for announcements in the church, the website, and the bulletin inserts for collection points for the kits.

One Great Hour of Sharing Provides Refuge from the Floods

2011-04-03T17:54:00.001-04:00

Sharing Brings Joy. To Others, to God, and to Us.

Last summer, articles were posted about the horrific floods in Pakistan, that killed more than 1,600, rendered 10 million people homeless and affected an estimated 20 million people.

One Great Hour of Sharing (OGHS) funds made it possible for Presbyterian Disaster Assistance to work with ecumenical partners and the Presbyterian Church in Pakistan to assist communities lacking housing and medical assistance.

Since 1949, Presbyterians have joined with millions of other Christians through One Great Hour of Sharing to share God’s love with people experiencing need. Our gifts support ministries of disaster response, refugee assistance and resettlement, and community development that help people find safe refuge, start new lives and work together to strengthen their families and communities.

Where Does the Money Go?

The Presbyterian Hunger Program receives 36 percent of undesignated One Great Hour of Sharing gifts, while the Self-Development of People and Presbyterian Disaster Assistance each receive 32 percent.

Source: PCUSA

Japan Assistance

An initial $100,000 from One Great Hour of Sharing funds provided to CWS has gone towards an immediate response to 5,000 households, about 25,000 individuals, now living at 100 evacuation sites in the northeastern area of Japan – the prefectures of Miyagi, Fukushima, Iwate, Ibaragi and Tochigi.

The focus of the response is on evacuation sites where basic needs of food, water, sanitation, electricity and fuel are not being met. Response will include:

ready-to-eat food.
sanitation kits ("Gifts of the Heart") including napkins and soap, to fill the significant sanitation and hygiene gaps.
potable water, one potential substitute for water could include prepared green tea.
blankets to help protect people from the cold, which is becoming an increasingly dire need as fuel and gas supplies run out.
batteries to maintain radio contact and to enable people to receive vital news on nuclear and radiation related developments.
gas and fuel supplies.

What You Can Do

1. Give

Faithful members who share their financial blessings through the One Great Hour of Sharing offering are already helping to fund the ongoing work in Japan and around the work. Financial gifts through the OGHS offering are the most effective means of getting goods and services to the regions affected.

2. Act

Stay informed and share information about the need with others. Sign up to receive PDA Rapid Information Network (PDA-RIN) email notices to alert you of additional needs.

3. Pray

Please keep the people of Japan, Pakistan, and other areas affected by disasters, in your thoughts and prayers.

Pardon the Sabbatical

2011-04-02T16:24:00.001-04:00

Editor's note: The Blog of the FPC Matawan has been on hiatus for several months. Once the winter storms and fires picked up, I have been busy with local and regional Red Cross disaster responses. After that I just got fatigued and spent a lot of my down time relaxing.

As part of a Lenten promise, I will endeavor to post more regularly.

Anyone who would like to author pieces, or submit them to me for putting up are welcome to do so.

Appropriate topics would be mission education, mission projects, peacemaking, presbytery, general assembly or synod news, or just about anything meant to generally inform. Current events that missed the Lantern deadline could also find a spot here.

FPC History: Rev Dr William C Alexander (1889 - 1893)

2010-11-11T22:53:00.002-05:00

William C Alexander

Reverend Dr William C Alexander was minister at the First Presbyterian Church of Matawan from 23 Apr 1889 to 1893.

Through his 2 January 1892 sermon, Rev Alexander stirred the congregation to support a $6,000 capital campaign to renovate the Main Street church. Not unlike the recent Nike sneaker ad, the Reverend told the congregation, "The best way to do anything is to do it."

Presbyterians Pioneer At Matawan describes the results of the campaign thusly, "Alterations included new, semi-circular pews, mullioned windows of cathedral glass, and [a] new organ. . . . New pew cushions were bought and a beautiful carpet of terra cotta. Agra covered the floor." Crystal chandeliers from France, pulpit lights, and a choir rail with plush curtain were all donated by members and groups. Finally, a new tower designed by the noted American architect Stanford White was added to the church.

Note: With the help of fundraising by the church's women and from the proceeds of the capital campaign, the church was able to acquire a new $2,000 organ. It was placed behind the pulpit, which required some internal alterations. A blind member of the congregation operated the pump for this manual instrument from a small room behind a partition. The church sold the old organ to the Point Pleasant Presbyterian Church.

Rev Alexander subsequently served at Georgetown Presbyterian Church in Washington, DC from 1893 to 1908. He was replaced at Matawan in Jan 1894 by the Reverend Dr Alexander H Young.

The 1900 Federal Census for Washington, DC showed William C Alexander was born in September 1850 in Pennsylvania to parents born in PA. His occupation was listed as clergyman. His residence was on Newark Street. His wife of 24 years was Mary R Alexander, born in October 1850 in New Jersey to a NJ father and a PA mother. Their three children were living with them: Lewis R Alexander (Aug 1877), Elizabeth J Alexander (Feb 1880), and William C Alexander, Jr (Dec 1885). Also living with them was a black servant named Henrietta E Briggs born in Dec 1882 in Georgia.

The 1880 Federal Census for Pennsylvania showed William Alexander, age 29, born in Pennsylvania to parents born in PA living in Salisbury in Lancaster County. His occupation was minister. His wife was Mary C Alexander, age 29, born in New Jersey to a NJ father and a PA mother. Their son Lewis R appeared as Reese, age 2, born in PA, and daughter Elizabeth J appeared as Bessie, age 2 months, specified as February 1880. (Note: I could not find an online history of Presbyterian churches in the Salisbury area, but the current Salisbury Presbyterian Church was founded in the 1960's. Perhaps Rev. Alexander labored at the Pequea Presbyterian Church in nearby Gap, PA?)

View Larger Map
Pequea Church

The 1860 Federal Census for Pennsylvania showed a William C Alexander at age 10 living in Derry, Mifflin County with John Alexander (age 62) and his wife Jane (age 58).

Prayer Shawl Ministry seeks Your Wool "Extras"

2010-11-07T11:10:00.004-05:00

The Prayer Shawl Ministry was begun in 1998 by Janet Bristow and Victoria Galo, two graduates of the 1997 Women's Leadership Institute at The Hartford Seminary in Hartford, Connecticut.

Whether they are called Prayer Shawls, Comfort Shawls, Peace Shawls, or Mantles, etc., the shawl maker begins with prayers and blessings for the recipient. The intentions are continued throughout the creation of the shawl. Upon completion, a final blessing is offered before the shawl is sent on its way. Some recipients have continued the kindness by making a shawl and passing it onto someone in need. Thus, the blessing ripples from person-to-person, with both the giver and receiver feeling the unconditional embrace of a sheltering, mothering God!*

A massive explosion from a failed natural gas pipeline blasted a large crater into the Crestmoor Canyon neighborhood Sept. 9, killing seven people, injuring dozens more, and destroying 37 homes, but it did not shake the foundation of faith at Bethany Presbyterian Church. Prayer shawls were sent by Pittsburgh Presbytery to Bethany Presbyterian Church after a fire claimed the lives of a church family in San Bruno, CA. The shawls were used on the church communion table as the congregation sought spiritual healing for the families and themselves in their loss.

To Support the Deacons Prayer Shawl Ministry at First Presbyterian Church, a basket has been placed in Fellowship Hall for donations of wool (YARN). Any color, weight or texture is welcome, so please check at home and donate your "extras" to this worthy cause.

Thanks!

*From the Shawl Ministry home page

Matawan Area Food Pantry - Thanksgiving Collection

2010-11-05T13:54:00.003-04:00

With Thanksgiving right around the corner, the pantry is asking for help in collecting items for the Thanksgiving baskets that will be distributed on Saturday, November 20 to over 40 families in Matawan and nearby surrounding areas.

Drop off location: First Presbyterian Church, 883 Hwy 34, Matawan, NJ
Fellowship Hall, marked "Thanksgiving Baskets"
Place turkeys in the freezer

Deadline: THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 18 (date of basket assembly)

Food Items needed:

Turkeys
Stuffing
Mashed potatoes
Gravy
Yams
Canned veggies/soups
Pancake Mix
Pancake syrup
Cranberry sauce

If you have any questions, contact Tammy Cavanaugh or Sis DeMarco through the church.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR GENEROSITY!

Grace of Giving - Bishop Hannigan

2010-11-04T12:39:00.000-04:00

by Ministryspot

Shot on location in Bundibugyo, Uganda, this is the amazing story of Hannington Bahemuka, a man who was inspired by generosity to help rebuild his war-torn town. Commissioned by International Steward, it was created for the 2010 Lausanne Congress in South Africa. The video is on YouTube and is six minutes long.

Matawan Food Pantry in the News

2010-10-29T19:02:00.002-04:00

The Matawan Community Food Pantry published a letter of thanks and gratitude to the community for its support this past year, in the Bayshore Independent. The pantry is a social safety net program run by members of the community, and directed and coordinated by the First Presbyterian Church and Cross of Glory Lutheran Church.

Specifically acknowledged were Hazlet Boyscout Troop 92, the Matawan High School Summer Theatre, and Temple-Shalom Reform congregation of Aberdeen. Temple-Shalom made a generous donation during Yom Kippur.

The letter was signed by Tammy Cavanaugh, of First Presbyterian Church, Matawan, and Kathleen Odell, Cross of Glory Lutheran Church, Aberdeen.

PCUSA Churches in the News - Pyung An Presbyterian, Auburn, WA

2010-10-29T14:51:00.005-04:00

My Korean is a little rusty. I think I learned how to welcome missionaries to our church last year. So that's about it. But when my "Google Alert" for PCUSA churches opened up to an article about the Pyung An Presbyterian Church in Auburn, WA offering FREE medical clinics, I just had to check this out.

The church is offering (in partnership with the PCUSA), goodwill medical services to those who are in need of care. The clinics offered include free examinations and treatments in the following areas: general medicine and consultation; internal medicine; obstetric; pediatric; chiropractic; dental examination and consultation; optical/vision service; neurology; orthopedic; nursing care; pharmaceutical consultation; Oriental medicine; acupuncture; massage therapy; flu shots.

I thought of the astounding impact these types of clinics would have on Matawan, especially to the spanish speaking community.

The church is relatively new, and I found a July 2010 article in the Auburn Reporter commemorating it's opening in the area. The Pyuang An church web-site is in Korean, but there's also a rough Google translated version. I found a link to them on Facebook, but you have to send a friend request (which I did). Afterall, we're all friends, right?

Approach of winter complicates Pakistan flood relief

2010-10-28T13:40:00.004-04:00

pc(usa) has contributed $250,000 through pda; much more needed

OCTOBER 5, 2010

Presbyterian News Service

Earlier this month, Christian Hospital in Taxila,
Pakistan, delivered bed sets to 54 families in the
city of Charsadda in the district of Peshawar, which
was devastated in the flooding. Each set includes three
steel beds, mattresses polyester quilts, sheets,
pillows and pillow covers.
—Photos courtesy Taxila Christian Hospital

BY BETHANY FURKIN

As winter approaches, the summer monsoon-induced floods in Pakistan threaten to lead to more deaths and illness.

The flooding, which began in northern Pakistan and has spread to cover almost a quarter of the country, has affected more than 21 million people, according to a Sept. 24 update from Presbyterian Disaster Assistance.

About 1.8 million homes have been destroyed or seriously damaged, leaving about seven million people homeless. These people will be among those vulnerable to disease brought on by cold weather.

"Snow begins as early as October in parts of the north," said Dr. Qamar Zaman, medical coordinator for PDA partner Church World Service Pakistan-Afghanistan. “Winter is approaching, and with freezing temperatures there are a greater number of cases of lower respiratory tract infection."

In addition to respiratory infections, poor nutrition and food shortages put more people — especially children and the elderly — at risk of death this winter.

Government health care facilities have been widely damaged, leaving Pakistanis to rely on services provided by the UN and NGOs. NGOs are supporting basic health care units through infrastructure repairs, medical equipment and qualified staff, and by ensuring that essential medicines are provided at the sites.

PDA, as a member of ACT Alliance, is helping to provide free consultations, essential medicines and maternal and child health services at mobile health units. About 80 percent of patients are women and young children.

The units are also emphasizing education to prevent the spreading of water-borne disease. Another emphasis is WASH (Water, Sanitation and Hygiene). As floodplains clear, the remaining water and animal carcasses might contribute to disease outbreaks. Because affected communities continue to live in temporary settlements, there is also an accumulation of waste, with no permanent water and sanitation facilities.

Doctors give the bedding to affected families. The hospital and staff donated about $3,500 to buy the materials.

PDA is providing access to drinking water, sanitary facilities and emergency medical services, with a focus on the needs of girls, women and the elderly. Staff are providing hygiene kits, buckets, aqua tabs, water disinfectants and mobile water treatment units.

Along with its partners, PDA is providing shelter kits to some of the thousands of displaced families. These kits contain tents, blankets, plastic sheets, cooking utensils, jerry cans, oil lamps and oil.

As floodwaters recede in the north, parts of the south are still submerged. On the weekend of Sept. 19, Manchar Lake overflowed, displacing 100,000 people in Sindh province’s Dadu and Jamshoro districts.

Estimates suggest that the floods have affected more than 21 million people, including 3 million children, making this one of the most serious disasters in a generation.

"While the number of deaths is relatively small compared to large disasters like the Haiti earthquake and tsunami, in terms of the numbers of people affected and the ongoing impact, the scale of these floods is unprecedented, and the larger challenges are ahead," the PDA situation report reads.

The second appeal from ACT, released on Sept. 16, increased the amount of the appeal by more than three times, from a target of about $4,102,000 to a target of about $12,441,000.

As of the beginning of September, PDA had sent almost $250,000 through partner agencies to aid in flood relief efforts.

Presbyterians are urged to donate to PDA through the One Great Hour of Sharing offering as well as the designated Pakistan account: DR000038 – Pakistan.

Individuals can donate online or send a check indicating the account to:

Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)
P.O. Box 643700
Pittsburgh, PA 15264-3700

Presbyterians are also encouraged to act by staying informed about the situation and sharing information with others. And prayer is always needed.

"Please continue in prayer all those affected by this flooding and for those who are offering assistance. Pray for the displaced families to know they are not forgotten," the report reads.

Information furnished by Presbyterian Disaster Assistance.

Walking with Haitians Video

2010-10-28T13:28:00.000-04:00

Use this three-and-a-half-minute video to stimulate conversation and reflection about the destruction and hope that Haitians endure as a result of the January 2010 earthquake.

Note this is a large file and may take several minutes to download.

(28.8 MB)

Provided as a Resource by General Assembly Mission Council

PCUSA News:Board of Pensions appoints special committee to consider same-gender benefits

2010-10-27T17:16:00.000-04:00

Nine-member panel to carefully deliberate on GA’s recommendation
OCTOBER 22, 2010

FT. MYERS, FLA.

Thomas C. Paisley, chair of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)'s Board of Pensions (BOP) today announced the appointment of a special committee of the board to consider same-gender benefits under the BOP's healthcare and pension plans.

The nine-member special committee will be charged with developing the BOP's response to this summer's action by the 219^th General Assembly "to urge the Board of Pensions to extend benefits to same-gender domestic partners of plan members and to the children of those same-gender domestic partners."

excerpted from Presbyterian News Service

BY JERRY L. VAN MARTER link here For full article

Info Updates as of October 26, 2010 - Around the World

2010-10-26T17:17:00.005-04:00

New Book Neighbor - Christian Encounters with "Illegal" Immigration

The PCUSA News Service announced 21 Oct a new book by a pastor that says that the national immigration issue is not only a political and economic issue, but a spiritual one as well. The author, Rev. Ben Daniel serves at Foothill Presbyterian Church, in the Presbytery of San Jose, which includes people from more than 20 countries. "I started out writing this book thinking 'who is my neighbor?'" Daniel said, referring to the New Testament passage in which Jesus is asked that question. Jesus responds by telling the parable of the Good Samaritan.

Link to PCUSA on Facebook!

On Oct. 9, two Latin American denominations, both mission partners of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), merged at an assembly in Argentina's agricultural heartland.

2010 Cholera Outbreak in Haiti Reported by the CDC

An outbreak of cholera was confirmed in Haiti on October 21, 2010. Cholera had not been documented in Haiti for decades so cholera outbreaks were considered unlikely in Haiti immediately following the earthquake in January, 2010. For a cholera outbreak to occur, two conditions have to be met: (1) there must be significant breaches in the water, sanitation, and hygiene infrastructure used by groups of people, permitting large-scale exposure to food or water contaminated with Vibrio cholerae organisms; and (2) cholera must be present in the population. While it is unclear how cholera was re-introduced to Haiti, both of these conditions now exist.

CDC's Role in the Cholera Outbreak

CDC is assisting the Haitian Ministry of Health and its partners with assessments regarding adequate treatment supplies, recommendations on how to manage illness in ill persons, and how to prevent illness in those persons who are well. These efforts are in coordination with a broader U.S. Government response being led by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).

Multicultural Institute Event
NOV. 8 - 12, 2010

For more information

Aldenice Lemes
(800) 728‐7228, x5252

MONTREAT, NORTH CAROLINA | MONTREAT CONFERENCE CENTER

The Multicultural Institute offers courses to enable and inspire clergy and laity in cultivating God’s biblical vision to gather people of diverse identities into inclusive communities of faith...

PCUSA Homepage of the week is...
Lloyd Presbyterian Church of LaGrange, Georgia

Lloyd Presbyterian Church
LaGrange, Ga "just off Hwy 29"

Lloyd PC came to me via my google PCUSA church searcher this week. This is a church not unlike our own, a congregation of about 200 members with an average age of 45. I hope you enjoy their web-site. Next time you are down in the neighborhood, why don't you drop right in and say "Hey"?

What is Reformation Sunday? - 31 October 2010

2010-10-26T15:47:00.004-04:00

The Church celebrates Reformation Sunday on the last Sunday of October, commemorating a significant event in the history of the Reformed tradition. It was on October 31, 1517, that Martin Luther posted his 95 theses on the door of the church in Wittenberg.
The Presbyterian Historical Society supports congregational celebrations of this Sunday by the creation of a special reproducible bulletin cover. This year's bulletin discusses John Calvin's (1509-1564) involvement in civil government and social issues.

Reformation Exhibit

The online exhibit, Foundations of the Faith, draws on images and objects from PHS's rich collections in reformation history. It includes materials relating to such early humanists as Bernard of Clairvaux and Erasmus; the early reformers Martin Luther, Ulrich Zwingli and Philipp Melanchthon; and the founders of the Presbyterian tradition, John Calvin, Theodore Beza, and John Knox.

Monmouth Center for World Religions Sponsors "United We Sing" 21 Nov

2010-10-26T07:19:00.001-04:00

Local Interfaith Peacemaking

Submitted by Joe Ritacco

On Sunday, November 21, 2010 at 4:00 pm come and enjoy the 10^th annual

“United We Sing” event which features music, word and dance of different faiths and cultures raised in joy and gratitude. Children are especially welcome. Refreshments will be served afterwards. The event will take place at the Unitarian Universalist Meetinghouse at 1475 West Front Street, Lincroft, NJ. This event is sponsored by the Monmouth Center for World Religions and Ethical Thought (MCWRET, www.interfaith-mcwret.org). If you have questions contact Joe Ritacco of FPC Mission Commission and Board Member of MCWRET.

View the flyer!

PNS Family Seeks to "Get by with a Little Help from My Friends" 3 Nov

2010-10-24T22:16:00.002-04:00

Please Help!

On Wednesday, November 3, from 4-9 pm, Friday's on Route 9 in Old Bridge will be hosting a fundraiser for a Presbyterian Nursery School family in need of our help. Please come out and have dinner and make this a success! All proceeds will go directly to the family. To help, take a flyer, found in the narthex, which you will need to show at Friday's so that funds will be credited to the family. Any questions call Jackie Haines or Corky Farry (numbers available in the church directory) or through the church office at 732-566-2663.

Many thanks!

First Presbyterian Launches "Ignite the Spirit" Campaign 24 Oct 2010

2010-10-24T15:06:00.004-04:00

Today officially launches First Presbyterian's 3-year capital campaign to renew, rebuild, and revitalize the church building and ministry. Jerry Godbehere explained the concepts to the children during the Children's Chat with a Treasure Chest. Later in the service, Barbara Tuttle gave testimony to the joy of giving of all that she has, her time, her talents, and her treasures, in thankfulness for the wonderous pleasures of life in Christ. After church, everyone was free to pick up a packet of materials about the campaign (and if you were not there, expect a visit).

Enthusiastic volunteers assembled "Ignite
the Spirit" packets on Saturday afternoon

I should know about that packet. I was on hand yesterday at the church to see the assembly line (photo provided). Inside each package you will find the following:

A large Tri-fold Brochure - this is a keeper folks. Besides a pocket to hold all the inserts, the booklet shell itself contains most of the vital information about the campaign, including a calendar of events. The cover picture of FPC at night is gorgeous! If you or your children have done anything in the past few years at all, you might find yourselves in one of the several dozen photos on the various panels.
A cover letter explaining the contents of the packet.
A sheet showing who is on what committee, from executive director, Jerry Godbehere on down (Guess who's the "print coordinator"?)
A Campaign "Giving Map" to test our logic skills. Okay this is easy, really. If you look at the Weekly Commitment column at the bottom, and see that if 20 people, gave $5 a week that would result in a three year donation of $780 per person, or $15,600 for all 20 pledges. So even youth can make sacrificial pledges that have a tremendous impact!
A New Testament with a daily prayer reminder bookmark.
A brochure from Generis Partners, explaining how to make an "Over and Above" gift.
A DVD explaining the FPC Capital Campaign. I was going to show you this but at 18 minutes, it's a doozy. (I will try to see it I can put it up in segments of a few minutes each on youtube and embed it here).

Handbell Music rings in "Ignite the Spirit" Campaign

As for how to make an over and above donation? Especially if you are already giving all that you can for your annual pledge, this could be tricky if you don't know the secrets. This 3 year gift is meant to be s-a-c-r-i-f-i-c-i-a-l. Which means, for me, if I forsake my 5 times a week Starbucks "grande americano" at $2.70 each, and buy a tall regular coffee, I have $5 a week available for the capital campaign. And if I settle for the coffee I could make at home at least 3 times a week, that adds up to about $10 a week "sacrificed" to transform our church, or $1560!!

Looking ahead at the Campaign Calendar panel on my packet, I see we can look forward to "Emphasis Sunday" and "Big Event" Sunday. I won't give away the dates; you can check your packets, (but I hear there's going to be a party).

Coffeehouse a "Splash" for Mission Matawan 22 Oct 2010

2010-10-24T15:01:00.001-04:00

"Common Thread" performs at the semi-annual FPC
Coffeehouse

First Presbyterian's family-oriented coffee house was a big success on Friday 22 October, raising a record amount for Mission Matawan of over $500. Mission Matawan is a social safety net program that helps needy homeowners with home maintenance and yard work in the greater Matawan-Aberdeen area. Funds collected help feed the volunteers who do the work, and provide extra supplies for job work. Last year we helped 34 families during one 7-day period in June, plus other families throughout the year.

The program included many performances from church members, plus groups from the around the region (look for more info at the web-site). One former member, Dave Sturt, drove 1700 miles to visit, and played and sang with Dennis Callahan. The pair received thunderous applause.

During the course of the evening, a contest was held to guess the most hymn tunes. Yours truly got to thank everyone for coming, and Starbucks of Matawan for the Donation of Coffee, Hot Chocolate, cups, and all the trimmings. The choir and other members of the congregation very generously brought snacks to accompany the beverages.

In all, $518 was received!

The unfinished hot chocolate, apples and assorted snacks were graciously received by the Senior Highs for their lock-in and breakfast. They helped with break down and clean up at the end of the evening.

Thank you all once again, and see you at our next coffeehouse, the first Friday in June.

Children in Worship

2010-10-10T16:13:00.000-04:00

This Sunday's worship service at First Presbyterian Church of Matawan involved children in a number of ways: the rite of holy baptism, the awarding of Bibles to third graders, a rendering of Jesus Loves Me from a choir of enthusiastic tots, and the delivery of our traditional Chat for Children. The presence of children in worship is always a joy. They are both a present symbol of Christian vitality and a bellwether of church growth.

Barbara Ackland conducts the chat for children.

Rev Loril Hawk performs the rite of baptism.

219th General Assembly of the PCUSA in Minneapolis

2010-10-03T21:41:00.000-04:00

The 219th General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church USA (PCUSA) was held 3 - 10 July 2010 in Minneapolis, MN.Plenary meetings took place at the Minneapolis Convention Center on the southern edge of the city. The event was attended by 712 commissioners representing 173 Presbyteries and 200 advisory delegates, including 173 young adults, 25 theology students, 8 missionaries, and 15 ecumenical guests. Nearby Westminster Presbyterian provided hospitality.

The work of the General Assembly resulted, among other things, in proposals to revise The Presbyterian Book of Confessions (notably the addition of the Apartheid-era Belhar Confession), The Presbyterian Book of Order, and ordination standards. The GA also produced its first comprehensive report on peace in the Middle East in thirteen years.

FPC's very own Susan Ritacco served as a delegate of the Presbytery of Monmouth to the 219th Assembly.

From the Google Alerts: FPC in Bessemer City, NC

2010-10-01T22:57:00.001-04:00

Sometimes I receive "Google Alerts" about things "Presbyterian". Today I received this web page from the First Presbyterian Church in Bessemer City, North Carolina. FPC Bessemer has been serving its community since 1896.

According to the Presbytery of Western Carolina, the church has a membership of about 39 and is led by pulpit supply. However the church is cared for by co-pastors Mike Johnston and Ken Humphreys. Their web pages, though limited, pack a punch!

PCUSA Churches in the News - Goodyear Heights Presbyterian Church

2010-10-01T16:58:00.004-04:00

Goodyear Heights Presbyterian Church, answering the call of the PCUSA to "Grow Christ's Church Deep and Wide", published this message in its marquee for September 30, 2010. "Freedom of Religion Blesses All", and "Ramadan Kareem Noble Month to our Neighbors". The PCUSA news service picked up the story, which was published in a couple of Akron newspapers.

The sign at Goodyear Heights Presbyterian Church in Akron, Ohio, celebrated Ramadan and served as a symbol of hospitality to the church’s Muslim neighbors. —Photo by the Rev. Christy Ramsey

According to Pastor Christy Ramsey, the church is responding partly to the anti-muslim response in the controversy surrounding the issue of a proposed mosque close to the site of the World Trade Center in New York City. The other reason is to show love and support to a local muslim family that fellowships at the church (Beacon Journal article in Ohio.com)

FPC Leads Monmouth Presbytery Delegation to 2010 Youth Triennium

2010-09-29T13:50:00.001-04:00

Youth delegates from our presbytery and others stopped at Central Presbyterian Church in Zanesville, Ohio while enroute to the 2010 Presbyterian Youth Triennium at Purdue University in Indiana this past July.

One of our nine youth delegates has prepared an article for an upcoming (presumably October) Lantern newsletter with her impressions on this year's PYT theme: For Such A Time As This. Our thanks to Kris Schoelkopf and Robyn Ioviero for chaperoning the delegation.

Click for link to article by youth delegate Emily DeMarco.

How World Communion Sunday Became Peacemaking Sunday

2010-09-18T15:38:00.003-04:00

Presbyterians have celebrated World Communion Sunday since the mid-1930s. At that time North Americans were experiencing the economic upheaval of the Great Depression, and many were concerned about the instability in Europe and the possibility of another world war. A group of Presbyterian ministers met to pray and talk about the church’s role in such a time. Rediscovering the unifying power of Christ in the Lord’s Supper, they reaffirmed that in Christ all Christians are one, regardless of nationality, race, or ethnicity. From their meeting came the first World Communion Sunday in 1936. In the years that followed other denominations began to celebrate this special Sunday.

In the mid-1970s a later generation of Presbyterians, also experiencing a time of challenge following the country’s defeat in Vietnam, revisited World Communion Sunday. Many members of the United Presbyterian Church in the United States of America were feeling a sense of urgency to work for peace. Thirty-one presbyteries sent overtures to the General Assembly asking that the church direct energy toward peacemaking. As a result, the 187th General Assembly (1975) commissioned the Advisory Council on Church and Society “to reassess the concept of peacemaking . . . in the light of our biblical and confessional faith.” The Advisory Council created a special task force, chaired by William Creevey, then pastor of St. Peters by the Sea, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA, to study and prepare a report on peacemaking.

Members of the task force met, prayed, and studied, then came to the conclusion that peacemaking was central to the gospel and to the mission of the church, that it was at the heart of being a Christian, and that it ought to have priority in the church. Their work was a call directed at the inner life of Presbyterians to commit to work for peace individually and as a church. A commitment to peacemaking, though, would need to be reflected both in the structure and in the finance of the church so that it could be translated into action. The task force recommended creating a national peacemaking program and a special offering to fund the work of peacemaking.

According to Robert Smylie, one of the resource staff for the task force, Dean Lewis, director of the Advisory Council on Church and Society and another of the resource staff, saw that it was necessary to do something that had never been done with a special offering—recommend that the Peacemaking Offering’s receipts be divided among every level of the church so that congregations, presbyteries, synods, and the General Assembly’s program could all find creative ways to work for peace. Congregations would keep 25 percent, synods and presbyteries would receive 25 percent, and 50 percent would go to the newly formed Presbyterian Peacemaking Program.

The task force agreed that World Communion Sunday, when Christians of all nations and peoples celebrate their unity in Christ, was an ideal time to receive the offering that would be used for peace work in the name of Christ.

The 192nd General Assembly (1980) adopted the task force’s work, “Peacemaking the Believers’ Calling.” Thirty years later Presbyterians continue to work for peace and to receive the offering used to fund that work.

Thanks to Robert Smylie, William Creevey, and Dean Lewis for insights into the development of the Presbyterian Peacemaking Program and the Peacemaking Offering.

About the Peacemaking Offering

The Peacemaking Offering was created in 1980 to support the efforts of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) to live out a deeper commitment to peacemaking as part of our faithfulness to God. It is one of four special offerings designated by the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)’s General Assembly.

Most churches receive the Offering on World Communion Sunday, the first Sunday in October, which this year is October 3. We encourage churches to use whatever Sunday works best for them.

Each congregation is encouraged to retain 25 percent of the Offering it receives to use for local ministries of peacemaking within the church and its community. Twenty-five percent is used by presbyteries and synods, and 50 percent is used by the General Assembly ministries through the Presbyterian Peacemaking Program.

In accordance with the action of the 217th General Assembly (2006), we encourage congregations to consider directing a portion or all of their 25 percent of the Peacemaking Offering as a faithful Christian response to the HIV/AIDS pandemic. Find out what the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)’s International AIDS Ministries is doing.

Save the Date

2010-09-11T14:15:00.003-04:00

New Church Service Hours: September 12, 2010 (yes, this Sunday), worship hours are changed to the Fall hours of 10:30 a.m.
Sunday School Program for Children begins at 9 a.m., Nursery - Grade 12, September 12
Adult Church School begins on Sunday September 19th, at 9 a.m. Offerings Include:

A study of the book of Romans, a full year course, led by Sally Ann Jauch
Topical Studies, beginning with an overview of the General Assembly, (2 week course) led by Sue Ritacco, who was a delegate from Monmouth Presbytery, Location: Room 207
Other programs to be announced*

Take the online Survey - Laptops will be available in Fellowship Hall after worship to make access to the survey available to everyone

Upcoming Coffee House to benefit Mission Matawan - October 22

As the time approaches we will be seeking performers and volunteers to man the tables and snack bar.

* Church school info courtesy of Tom Evans, CE Commission

Exciting News as Promised

2010-09-05T15:48:00.009-04:00

You may have received an e-mail about the every member survey. If you haven't go to our link to take the survey.

Spahr Found Guilty on Same-gender Marriage Charges

2010-09-05T14:37:00.007-04:00

—Photos by Anitra Kitts, Presbyterian News Service

The Presbytery of the Redwoods Permanent Judicial Committee convicted the Rev. Jane Adams Spahr of performing same-gender marriages during the period that they were legal. The link to the full story as reported by the PCUSA is as follows: http://www.pcusa.org/news/2010/8/30/spahr-found-guilty-same-gender-marriage-charges/

The 11 page ruling acquitted Spahr on charges of performing 2 same-gender marriage ceremonies in 2005 on the grounds that since the marriages were not considered legal by the state of California at that time, then the ceremonies could not be rightfully said to be marriage ceremonies, although Spahr maintained that they were. Spahr was however, convicted of performing 16 same-gender marriages in 2008 during the time that civil marriage between homosexuals was legal.

The PJC rulled that the marriages performed by the pastor while legal under civil law, were to be differentiated from the ecclesiastical aspect of marriage as blessed by the church. In an interesting twist, the PJC did not see any contradiction with it's ruling of no foul on the "ecclesiastical" blessing of the couples wedded by Spahr in 2005.

—Photos by Anitra Kitts, Presbyterian News Service

Spahr was acquitted on charges of failing to "further the peace, unity and purity of the church", and commended the pastor "for helping us realize that peace without justice is no peace."

Oct 2 Women's Conference Tickets Selling Fast: Troccoli and Lofaro a Major Draw

2010-09-03T23:00:00.000-04:00

Despite receiving orders in over stuffed envelopes from the dunes of Neptune and the mountains of Virginia, the Spaghetti for the Women's Soul Conference still has tickets available.

The seating capacity been increased to 400 ensure that women in the Greater New Jersey area have every chance to secure a ticket. The day begins at 8 am will provide food and beverages to participants.

I personally called up one woman who lived in Long Island, who reserved 10 tickets, and asked her how she found out about our conference. She told me she never missed a opportunity to see Brooklyn natives Kathy Troccoli and Ellie Lofaro. Once they moved from out of the area, it became much more difficult get a chance to get to a conference. The Matawan church date of October 2nd is likely to be the best date she will get in the near future, so she and her friends decided to make it a field trip day.

To buy tickets and get directions, link to the forms page.

Lantern Update - September 2010

2010-09-03T00:26:00.003-04:00

A Communication from Constant Contact

	In Awe
Sometimes I stand in silence, Sometimes, in awe, I gasp At the wonders of creation Too great for mind to grasp. Oh, the mighty and the fragile God's creative hands have made. How carefully we should keep them. What trust in us is laid! Minnie Boyd Popish

September 2010

Dear Members,

Please enjoy the latest edition of The Lantern.

Click here to see the calendar for September.

Bless the lord, my soul; do not forget all the gifts of God.

Psalm 103:2

Blessings,

Stacie DeChristopher

Editor

732-566-2663

Every Member Survey Coming Soon

2010-09-02T18:45:00.006-04:00

Watch Your Email for Exciting News!.

Yes, Exciting News Coming Soon.....

September 2010

Dear Members,

Keep watching your email for important and exciting news happening at FPC - to include an invitation to participate in an on-line every member survey. Please take a few minutes to do this as we need to hear your voice!

John 15:13-15 Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends. You are my friends, if you do whatever I command you. No longer do I call you servants, for the servant doesn't know what his lord does. But I have called you friends, for everything that I heard from my Father, I have made known to you.

================================================================

Below is what we say about ourselves on our website as the Congregation of FPC.

"Welcome to the First Presbyterian Church of Matawan, NJ. We are an active community striving to be faithful disciples of Jesus Christ. It is the people of our congregation who make this church a special place. Our faith family seeks to live in a Christ-like way, to learn stories of faith, to love as God loves us, and to share the grace of Christ. We invite you to join us on our faith journey and celebrate God's love." May we all live our daily lives to be these people that we profess to be!

Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is assurance of things hoped for, proof of things not seen.

================================================================

REMINDER:

Church School for children and adults resumes on September 12 at 9:00 am. Worship Service returns to 10:30 am, with Fellowship Time at 11:30 am.

Mark 12:30 You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength.

Blessings Everyone!

Communications Team Director

Kathy Plotner

732-566-2663 Visit our website at www.fpc-matawan.org

Mission Commission Update

2010-08-22T17:27:00.006-04:00

Reported by Jim Peterson, Chair, Mission

Bulletin Board —Look for updates with Missionaries Christi and Jeff Boyd information, Crop Walk signs, Mission Matawan Thank you quotes and Photos, Peacemaking, and Help Wanted for Food Pantry unloading of food from Temple Shalom.

Food Pantry—Vacation Bible School Collected $150 in cash donations and 30 bags of groceries. About 30 families are being helped.

Upcoming Events (September/October):

Mission Luncheon
Crop Walk — October 17, 2010 in Red Bank. Look for Information soon!
Peacemaking Offering

Next Mission Commission Meeting —September 13th 2010 at 8:00pm.

Presbyterian Disaster Relief in Pakistan

2010-08-21T23:00:00.000-04:00

With thousands still living in makeshift shelters, still trying to recover from previous disasters, food and shelter are the most urgent needs in flood-ravaged Pakistan. Presbyterian Disaster Assistance (PDA) has been working quickly with our ecumenical partners on the ground to distribute essential aid to families and deliver critical relief to people affected by this crisis. Assistance includes food and non-food relief items, emergency shelter and basic health services. In cooperation with other ACT Alliance members on the ground, the emergency distribution of relief items including shelter items and food packages have reached 155,200 people in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. ACT members and our long-term ecumenical partner in Pakistan Church World Service (CWS) are working to reach even more.

Christian Education Update

2010-08-14T13:36:00.004-04:00

Reported by Diane Farry, Chair, CE

CALENDAR COORDINATION

8/25 - Sunday School Teacher Meeting 7:30 Adult Lounge
9/12 - Sunday School Resumes - Commissioning of Sunday School Teachers
9/19 - Youth Group Resumes
9/26 - Second Hour Program Resumes

Adult Education- Stay tuned for details

Sally Ann Jausch to lead a bible study class
Sue Ritacco to lead a class on the GA (short course in September)
Joe Ritacco to lead a class on issues (possibly to begin after Sue’s class ends)
George Koulousias to lead a book study
Loril Hawk to lead a class on spiritual gifts

Upcoming Peace Event - 3 October 2010

2010-08-13T14:35:00.006-04:00

11th Shanti Peace Lecture

Where: UU Meetinghouse, 1475 Front St, Lincroft, NJ 07738

When: 3 October, at 4 p.m.

Speaker: Gillian Sorensen, Senior Advisor to the United Nations Foundation

Ms Sorensen will address the world’s most pressing problems as she works to broaden UN support thorough advocacy, education, and public outreach.

With a rare insider perspective, she explores the issues that populate the headlines such as foreign policy, humanitarian relief, global public health, human rights, and regions of conflict. She inspires and mobilizes individuals, communities, and organizations with her frank and proactive message about the importance of the UN and the many accomplishments of the venerable organization.

Stepping beyond her influential role as an international civil servant, she engages and elevates the discussion around the UN, the US, and the roles they serve in the world.

Sponsored by: Monmouth Center for World Religions and Ethical Thought, www.interfaith-mcwret.org

Reporter: Joe Ritacco

Missionaries from Cameroon in Area in August

2010-08-02T20:16:00.000-04:00

Joe Ritacco reports:

Christi and Jeff Boyd , Presbyterian Church (USA) Mission Workers in Cameroon, will visit Monmouth Presbytery in August. You are invited to share in the ministry of Christi and Jeff in worship, at a special event for Youth, over food, in the garden, and more. If your congregation doesn't have a connection with a PC(USA) mission worker, this is a great opportunity to hear about the amazing things happening around the world through World Mission!
Sunday, August 15 at 9:15 a.m. - Worship at First PC, 4 East River Road, Rumson
Tuesday, August 17 from 12:30 to 2 p.m. "Sandwich Seminar" at Plumsted Presbyterian Church, 14 Front Street, New Egypt
Tuesday, August 17 from 5 to 7 p.m. - "Eat and Greet" at Allentown Crossroads Youth Center - pizza, ice cream, post-Triennium conversation, and "The Africa Game"
Wednesday, August 18, 6:30 - 8:15 p.m. Supper and Sharing at Church on the Hill, 10 Cold Indian Springs Road, Ocean - supper and sharing are free, but please R.S.V.P. by Sunday, August 8
Saturday, August 21, 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. at Westminster PC Garden, 94 Tindall Road, Middletown - tour the new PAR (Plant a Row for the Hungry) Garden, visit with representatives from Rutgers University Master Gardeners of Monmouth County, meet and greet Christ and Jeff Boyd, hear from Westminster's Garden Team about how to start a garden at your church, learn what's happening with the Food Sovereignty initiative in Cameroon.
· Sunday, August 22 at 10:00 a.m. - Worship at Church on the Hill, Ocean

Mission Matawan 2010 Set for June 26 - July 3 2010

2010-06-23T23:00:00.004-04:00

Registration forms: check
Donations: check
Client List: double check
Volunteers: highly anticipated

The executive committee of Mission Matawan is set for its final pre-event meeting on Thursday, June 24 to determine the order of projects. Of the 40 or so project requests initially received, there are still about 26 left to work on. Others were either too extensive, did not meet requirements, or were minor in nature and easily completed in an initial visit.

This year heralded a banner year for the project, in its 8th year. Mission Matawan provides home and yard assistance to the elderly, disabled, poor, and others asking for help in the greater Matawan and Aberdeen area.

Members may still sign up by contacting the church and leaving a message. The necessary registration forms can even be downloaded and completed at home, and brought in at the start of the day.

When: June 26 - July 3 (except for Sunday)
Day: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch provided by the program
Where: First Presbyterian Church, in the Fellowship Hall

Storm Brings Down Tree in Presbyterian Church Lot

2010-03-14T15:26:00.000-04:00

The high winds and rain from this weekend's storm brought down a tree on the church property. It is resting comfortably in the church parking lot. I hear that the tree took out the power line to the big parking lot light nearby. Property Commission is always looking for new members. Maybe Evangelism Commission should see if Paul Bunyon is looking for a church home?

First Presbyterian Church

2011 Red Bank CROP Walk to End Hunger

Memorial Service to Honor the Life of Joan Horky

Irene's Aftermath on a Monday Afternoon

Backpacks for Education Provided by MA Rotary

October 1 Interfaith Event: Meditation

9/11/11 Standing Together: An Interfaith Witness for Peace

Sept 11 Events

Rally Day brings together Church Family, Sunday School Classes : Sept 11

First Presbyterians in Minot, ND Help Flood Victims

Death of Kathryn Galloway, Wife of Beloved Pastor

Getting to Minot

Mission Matawan Update - 1 July 2011

Spring FPC Family Coffeehouse Raises Fun and Funds

Music Fest for Manna House - 14 May 7 pm

Coming Soon... Preview of Mission Matawan 2011

April 23 Lenten Devotion

April 23

Mark 15:42-47

New Views in Blogger

Easter Services and Weekend Observances: Matawan

Good Friday Service: Matawan

April 22 Lenten Devotion

Good Friday, April 22

Luke 23:44-49

Bryan Ackland

April 21 Lenten Devotion - Maundy Thursday

Maundy Thursday, April 21

Luke 22:7-23

The Last Supper

Lenten Devotion Soup and Supper

April 20 Lenten Devotion

Galatians 3:28

April 19 Lenten Devotion

April 19

Mark 11:20-25

The Power of Prayer

April 18 Lenten Devotion

April 18

1 Peter 1:7

Living Hope

April 17 Lenten Devotion

Palm Sunday, April 17

Mark 11:1-11

Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord

April 16 Lenten Devotion

April 16

Genesis 1:24-25

April 15 Lenten Devotion

April 15

Luke 9:16

Abundant Blessings

April 14 Lenten Devotion

April 14

Ephesians 4:1-16

April 13 Lenten Devotion

April 13

John 15:12

Love One Another

April 12 Lenten Devotion

April 12

Daniel 9:9

Lenten Devotion April 11

April 11

John 14:15-21

"If you love me, you will keep my commandments"

Lenten Devotion April 10

5th Sunday, April 10

John 6:12-14

Lenten Devotion April 9

April 9

Exodus 22:21

Justice for All

Lenten Devotion April 8

April 8

Ephesians 2:8-9

Lenten Devotion April 7

April 7

Jeremiah 45:3-4

Letter from Doug Baker, Northern Ireland Missionary 6 April 2011

5^th Sunday, April 10