View
0
Download
0
Category
Preview:
Citation preview
2017 November Tidings 1st Presbyterian Church
5 Court Street
Towanda Pa 18848
570-265-5575
Email—fpchurch@comcast.net
Website—www.fpctowanda.com
Facebook—Fans of Towanda Presbyterian
From Pastor Rachel
This past weekend, we celebrated the 500th anniversary of the Protestant Reformation. People may ask,
“Why is this important to us?” The five main doctrines around which the Reformers united stem from the very
Gospel of Christ that impacts our daily living. In the midst of turmoil within the Roman Catholic Church, many
Christians chose to die for the sake of the Gospel rather than to accept false teachings. Five hundred years later,
these same doctrines continue to impact us as well.
Sola Gratia (By Grace Alone)
Grace alone is at the heart of the Christian life. It occupies a fundamental position in the truth we confess and the
lives we live in Christ. As Paul so soberly wrote, our world is corrupt and broken. It’s under the influence of the
devil, who walks around seeking whom he may devour. Mankind is broken, living according to the lusts of the
flesh (Eph. 2:1-3). In spite of this, God demonstrated grace toward us, “…that in the ages to come He might show
the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us in Christ Jesus” (Eph. 2:7). God saves, sustains, and
grows us by grace. As we live by grace, we must be committed to sharing it with others who need it. We cannot
face the pressures, difficulties, and burdens of a broken world outside the grace of Jesus Christ. Therefore, we
celebrate grace and seek to live by it daily in service to Jesus and others, despite our weaknesses and limitations.
Sola Fide (By Faith Alone)
The Catholic Church taught that faith, although essential, was not sufficient for salvation; salvation requires faith
plus works. However, the Reformers boldly pronounced it was faith alone that saved. As the Apostle Paul wrote,
“For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God, not of works,
lest anyone should boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God pre-
pared beforehand that we should walk in them” (Eph. 2:8-10). Salvation and daily living are contingent upon
faith in Christ. As we face life’s daily challenges, we must constantly remind ourselves that the answer to life’s
difficulties always begins with faith in Christ. The writer of Hebrews proclaimed, “Without faith, it is impossible
to please God” (Heb. 11:6). Therefore, the answers to life’s problems must focus on faith in Christ alone.
(cont’d. on next page)
Sola Scriptura (By Scripture Alone)
The conflict between the Reformers and the Catholic Church dealt with the authority for Christian life. Rome
taught that the authority for Christian life was in the Church’s traditions and teachings (known as the Magiste-
rium), plus the Bible. The Reformers taught that the authority for daily Christian living was in Scripture alone. The
Bible exclusively maintains the authority for the Christian in all matters of faith and life. Where there are many
sources of helpful information, only the Bible maintains ultimate authority. Regarding the Scriptures, Paul wrote,
“All Scripture was given by the inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, and-
for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good
work” (2 Tim. 3:16-17). Therefore, in all matters of living, the Scriptures maintain formal and functional author-
ity.
Solus Christus (By Christ Alone)
Jesus Christ is the Person behind all the other Solas. Salvation comes only by and through Jesus; as He said, “I am
the way, the truth, and the life, no man comes to the Father except through Me” (John 14:6). Paul wrote, “But the
free gift is not like the offense. For if by the one man’s offense many died, much more the grace of God and the
gift by the grace of the one Man, Jesus Christ, abounded to many” (Rom. 5:15). Peter preached, “Nor is there sal-
vation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved” (Acts
4:12). Christ alone is the Mediator between God and man. He is the message we preach. He is the Person we trust.
Jesus is the center of the Christian life. Therefore, Jesus alone is the heart of daily living.
Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)
Christians are to proclaim and live for God’s glory alone. God is glorious (Ps. 138:4-6). Jesus manifested the glory
of God among humanity (John 1:14). As Christians, we are to live our lives in bringing glory to God (1 Cor.
10:31). God receives the glory for anything good, honorable, and notable that is done. All fruit of righteousness is
produced through Jesus Christ for the glory of God (Phil. 1:11). Our salvation and sanctification resound to the
praise and glory of God alone (Eph. 1:3-14). Therefore, we live daily in the power of Christ for God’s glory.
So the commemoration of 500 years since Martin Luther nailed his “95 Theses” to the door of All Saints’
Church in Wittenberg, Germany, is more than a mere historical curiosity. Though Luther never could have known
how far-reaching his actions would be, his stand for biblical truth came to be a marked turning point in Church
history. Truth no longer was to lay in the hands of church hierarchy—it was found once again by every Christian
in the pages of Scripture, which all point directly to the Word Made Flesh, our Savior, Jesus Christ.
Adapted from “Why Is the Reformation Important for Daily Living?” by Kevin Carson, Oct. 14, 2017, at
servantsofgrace.org.
Thanksgiving Dinner Coming Up Again!
Once again, we will host our annual Thanksgiving dinner on Thanksgiv-
ing day from noon to 1. Please visit Charlie Brown in the pumpkin patch
(outside the secretary’s office) if you would like to donate any of the goods
we’ll be serving. You can also sign up on the bulletin board in the hallway if
you’d like to help set up, decorate, cook, serve, and/or clean up. Even one
hour of your time will be a great blessing! Please spread the word and invite
your neighbors and co-workers. Gobble gobble!
Day of Prayer on November 1
For the victims of recent natural disasters to be comforted and strengthened as
they rebuild their lives.
For those who are struggling to pay their bills, especially as winter ap-
proaches.
For the ill, the homebound, the lonely, the addicted, the mentally ill, and oth-
ers who are missing loved ones in the holiday season—may our Lord also
comfort them, and provide the help they need to be joyful and peaceful.
For the Lord to continue to provide for our ministry needs, whether in funding
or people power. Please pray about how YOU can help us serve Him as we
serve others.
For our government leaders to seek the Lord’s wisdom in the decisions they
make.
1932 - Freda Shipley
1947 - Phyllis Blanchard
1949 - Charlotte Sullivan
1949 - John Gormley
1949 - Joan Gormley
1950 - Rhea Johnston
1952 - Paul DeWitt
1953 - Dixie Cabucci
1956 - Virginia McPherson
1957 - Elizabeth Lightbourn
1958 - Robert Cooper
1959 - Sterling “Jerry” Young
1959 - Arthur C. Spengler
1959 - Vida P. Spengler
On October 29 during morning worship we celebrated the founding of our church 192 years
ago. The Deacons gave a red rose to each 50-year member with
a delicious meal following in Patterson Hall.
1960 - Karl Tewksbury
1961 - Richard Kopetan
1961 - Pearl Fox
1961 - Allen Blanchard
1962 - Lynn Homet
1962 - Joan Fiester
1963 - Brenda Abbott
1963 - Henry C. Dunn
1964 - Jean Hall-Kafes
1964 - Charles Chenot
1964 - LaVaughn Chenot
1966 - Cynthia Young
1967 - Joyce Hinkson
Members we have lost since our last Founder’s Day are —
Catherine Young (1951), Beverly DeWitt (1959), William Hay (1962),
T. Vance Hinkson (1967), Arthur Richards (2000)
Are You Interested in “Creation”?
It’s not too soon to consider attending the 2018 Creation Fest to be held June 28-July 2. This
yearly gathering includes abundant opportunities to learn about the Lord, worship, and get to
know other believers from the entire Eastern US. The event is held in Mt. Union, which is 45
miles southeast of Altoona. Learn more at creationfest.com/ne. If you are interested in form-
ing a group to attend to together, please see Pastor Rachel. Group pricing is available.
$$$ Your Road Map for Success – the Seven Baby Steps $$$
From DAVE RAMSEY’S COMPLETE GUIDE to MONEY
Baby Step 1: Put $1,000 in a beginner emergency fund ($500 if your income is under $20,000 per
year).
Baby Step 2: Pay off all debt using the debt snowball.
Baby Step 3: Put three to six months of expenses into savings as a full emergency fund.
Baby Step 4: Invest 15% of your household income into Roth IRAs and pretax retirement plans.
Baby Step 5: Begin college funding for your kids.
Baby Step 6: Pay off your home early.
Baby Step 7: Build wealth and give.
The Baby Steps work because of focus and priority. It’s like eating an elephant; you can’t do it all in one
bite! But if you break it down into smaller steps and pour all of your attention, energy, and passion into one
thing at a time, you can do anything.
Join The Conversation
After I got my $1,000 in the bank, I finally had some peace of mind, and I didn’t feel like I had to freak out
because something unexpected came up. IT WAS AWESOME! —Alicia
For more information, go to www.facebook.com/financial peace or see Dave Guffey.
www.facebook.com/financialpeace
Hanging of the Greens
December 2 at 4 PM
A light supper will be
served after the
decorating is completed.
PLEASE TAKE NOTE!
This Tidings includes the order form for
this year’s poinsettias to decorate our
sanctuary during the Christmas holiday.
Please fill out and return
it to the office by
November 26.
OUR CHURCH will be showing the movie “The Shack’ in
the church sanctuary on November 3 at 7 PM. Based on
The New York Times best-selling novel, “The Shack”
this film takes us on a father's transformative and
spiritual journey that will
show him the ultimate truth
about love, loss, and forgive-
ness. Invite a friend to come
along and enjoy an evening
out.
OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD SHOEBOX DONATIONS NEEDED for Kids Club: 40 wrapped
bars of soap, 36 washcloths. In addition, small dolls, Matchbox or Hot Wheels cars or trucks,
watches, markers, stickers, jewelry are appreciated as are monetary donations.
Please new items only!
NO TOOTHPASTE OR CANDY, PLEASE!
Monetary donations to cover shipping at $9 a box.
Deadlines are:
Monday, October 30 if you are bringing items for the KIDS CLUB to pack.
Sunday, November 12 if you are packing your own shoebox.
Boxes to use for packing are available in Deb Fuller’s office.
THE FOLLOWING BOOKS have been donated
to the library: Easy Reader Books: Jonah and
the Big Fish, Joseph & His Coat of Many
Colors, Great Bible Stories – Joseph, Great
Bible Stories – Samson and Delilah, Great
Bible Stories – Moses, Great Bible Stories –
Rebecca at the Well, Bob and Larry’s ABC’s,
The Case of the Lost Temper.
Dear members and friends of First Presbyterian Church, Towanda,
Growing in Christ is the theme for our 2018 financial campaign. We grow closer to the Lord
when we study the Bible, worship, pray and let Him direct our lives. Letting God lead us in our
giving also helps us grow closer to Him.
Please prayerfully consider your giving for the coming year. God asks us to give 10 percent of
what He has given us. Not giving 10 percent? Consider increasing your giving so that your
new pledge more fully represents your thankfulness to God for the blessings you have received.
Enclosed in this month’s Tidings is a pledge card for 2018. Please return it to the collection
plate or church office by November 26.
Thank you for giving and supporting First Presbyterian in Towanda! Your financial support
helps us to continue to minister within our church and community and to spread the Good
News of Jesus Christ.
The Stewardship Team
November Birthdays
1—Monte Hughey
4—Jack Fox
6—Al Blanchard
14—Steve Homet
17—Hunter Scott
20—Laurie Neilson Troyer
26—Sharon Pavey
27—Kevin Davenport
28—Jennifer Homet
30—Ted Rieth Sr.
Update From the Farrs
Jim and Joan Farr recently contacted Pastor Rachel
to express their thanks to this congregation for our
many years of faithful support and prayer for their
ministry in Papua New Guinea. Jim was delighted to
report that the final version of their Bible translation
was fully-funded and submitted to the publisher,
which is in South Korea. The Bible translation will be
officially dedicated to the Lord in June. Jim mentioned
that anyone from our congregation is welcome to
travel to Papua New Guinea to take part in this dedi-
cation.
Their Bible translation has also been recorded so
tribes people can listen to it on a small, iPod-like de-
vice. This audio version has been very well received.
The Farrs plan to retire fully in March, 2019, and in-
tend to visit with us soon afterward. They will eventu-
ally settle near their family in Orlando.
"Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in
Christ Jesus."
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
It is not always easy to give thanks, but this is the very thing we must do in order to see God's will accom-
plished in our lives. This is how we move into higher realms of faith for ourselves, for our city, and for
our nation.
Thanksgiving has great power to bring joy and break the power of the enemy. Whenever you give thanks
to God, despite the most difficult circumstances, the enemy loses a big battle in your life. When you give
thanks in the midst of difficulty, you bring pleasure to God's heart. He is looking for Christians who live
in a realm of praise and thanksgiving where the enemy no longer has an ability to hold or manipulate that
person. Satan is defeated when we have a thankful heart because thankfulness during difficulty is a sacri-
fice pleasing to God.
Are you thankful? Are you thankful for your present circumstances? Are you thankful for your salvation,
your friendships, and your job? Thankfulness is a key to your life. It is the key that turns your situation
around because it changes you, your outlook, and your attitude. There is power in a thankful heart.
Thanksgiving Brings Contentment
Thanksgiving: The
Power of a Thankful
Heart
by Debbie Przybylski from
Crosswalk.com
BEFORE you begin shopping for the holidays, go to smile.amazon.com.
Type in First Presbyterian Towanda as your charity choice, and click on it to confirm.
Shop away! That’s all you need to do. If you are registered Amazon user, our church will remain as your chosen charity.
Don’t forget to turn your
clock back one hour before
heading to bed on Nov. 4
POINSETTIA ORDERS
If you wish to purchase a poinsettia(s) which will decorate our sanctuary during the Christmas season, please fill
out this form (please print) and return it with the money to the church office. You may also call the church office
at 265-5575 and place your order. All poinsettias will be red and the price is $7.50 each.
Order deadline is November 26
Given by ________________________________________________________ Quantity ________
In loving memory of ____________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
In honor of ___________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Other ________________________________________________________________________________
Please note: Church members are asked to pick up their flowers after the Christmas Eve service.
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
“Generous Giving” - 2018 Stewardship Campaign
Please share God’s blessings by completing the pledge form below.
I/We will provide an offering of $_________ per (please circle the period - week, month, quarter, year) in 2018.
Signature________________________________________Date__________________ In addition to the offering above, I/We will make a special effort to grow in the following area(s):
___Daily Prayer ___Bible Study
___Church Attendance ___Other______________________________________________
Thank you for returning this form. Your giving estimate can be changed at any time.
--------------------------------------your pledge may be placed in the offering plate or mailed to the church------------------------------------
Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each man should
give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. II Corinthians 9:6-7
Recommended