FPCO Columns October 2008

8/14/2019 FPCO Columns October 2008

1/16Vol 48, #10 October, 2008

GOD WILL DO THE

HEAVY LIFTINGKris and Simon Morgan

Page 6


2/16| www.fpco.org

When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a

child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me. 1 Corinthians 13:11

To be honest, I have never much cared for Pauls rather arrogant pronouncemen

in his letter to the Corinthians. He seems to be saying that he has mastered the whole

notion of what it means to be a Godly man, and I guess I dont think its that easy. His

words are a little hard to swallow, but hes also right. Our male pride is what often

keeps us from accepting that. Godly men act like men, not like children. We just don

want to hear it.

If you spoke to my wife, she would tell you that, indeed, there are times when I am

childish when I speak like a child and act like a child and reason like a child. I haveeven been known to yell like a child, drive like a child and eat like a child. The reason

for that is fairly simple. Men (and women), like children, tend to be rather self-driven

because we are convinced the world still revolves around us. It doesnt. I know that, a

least cognitively, but I still fight against it.

Since my conversion to Christ, I have tried to put away those childish things and

live like King David, a man described in the Psalms as being after Gods own heart.

Even so, David made a lot of mistakes. The reality is this: being a Christian man in

todays world is tough. That does not excuse anything, but sometimes it helps to ac

knowledge the difficulty. Men are famous for not asking for help, but in this situation

wed better slow down and get some because we CANNOT do it by ourselves.

This month, the men of First Presbyterian Church have a great opportunity to con-

tinue down that path away from childhood and towards Christ-like manhood. We wilgather in Lee Fellowship Hall on Saturday, October 18 at 8:30 a.m. for a morning with

Patrick Morley, author of The Man in the Mirror. Mr. Morley is one of the foremos

lay leaders in mens ministry today, and he has recently updated his successful book so

that it addresses the current issues men face. Well be done before lunch and home in

time for college football!

This may seem like a small thing one Satur-

day morning a few hours but I believe it is sorely

needed by many men, including me. I pray that the

men of our church will take the time to think about

their lives perhaps their childish ways and come

with an attitude of humility, ready to be taught. If

you have not already registered, you can do so on-

line at www.fpco.org/register. May God continue to

mold and shape each one of us more closely into the

image the one true Man, His Son and our Savior,

Jesus Christ. With thanks and praise for this, His

Church, I pray for His

Grace and peace,

David

ON THE WAYwith Dr. David D. Swanson

Dear FPCO Family and Friends,

Have You

Ever Read

a Book that

has ChangedYour Life?

Would you be willing to share it?

I have discovered that the men

and women in our local jails do

not have adequate reading mate-

rial. They are desperately in need

of Biblically-solid, culturally-rele-

vant books. What I DO NOT wantis for you to empty your library

of the books you dont want and

bring them to church. What I DO

want is for you to pick one book

that was personally significant and

bring it to my office at church. I

will ensure that these books get

into the hands of our local inmates.

Thanks for taking time to do this. I

know it will make a difference for

many people hungering for truth

and hope.


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In January, First Presbyterian Church will join to-

gether in a church-wide Bible study, The Economy of God.

Through it, we will explore the abundance of wisdom and

guidance provided by God in relationship to money and fi-

nances, not so much in what He wants from us, but what

He wants for us.

Dr. Swansons Sunday sermon message will provide

the backdrop for the weekly group Bible study. Now is the

time to make plans to gain Gods perspective on the eco-

nomic fortunes, or misfortunes, of our time.

Study participants need to register now and attend an

orientation session on November 9 or 16 at 6:30pm in Lee

Fellowship Hall. Come to receive your study materials, the

short paperback book, Your Money Counts, and enjoy

fellowship and desserts. The orientation session and read-

ing are required prepartion for the Crown study which will

begin January 18.Existing Bible Study/Life Group leaders will register

their entire group. Individuals not currently particiating

in a study group will enroll for sessions held at the church

on Sundays, from 4:30 6:30pm. Free child care and chil-

drens programs are available. The cost for the study is $45

per person or couple (sharing one set of materials).

Registration is one easy step; sign up for the orienta-

tion session and the Bible study all at one time.

Register at www.fpco.org/register or contact Lor

Needham at [email protected] or 407-423-3441.

1

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5/16www.fpco.owww.fpco.o

Have you ever felt left out? Like everyone had been invited

to the party except you? That everyone knew something and

everyone was talking about it and you had no clue what they

were talking about?

Those feelings are not unlike what I experienced when

it seemed as though EVERYONE at FPCO had been through

this thing called CROWN except meand I DO NOT like to

be left out!!

Oh, and I was assured that Crown was not just about mon-

ey but more about lordship (a topic I do like to talk about!) and

not one person said anything negative about their experience.

In fact here are some of the comments I did hear:

Our Crown Ministries experience did far more than just teach

us Gods view on possessions and money (although it certainly did

that). It gave us teaching that strengthened our marriage, made us

better parents and introduced us to people that became lifelong

friends. What a blessing! Bill and Nancy RobbinsonCrown was really our first small group experience at FPCO.

We got to know others in the church and it brought us together

in study over the area of money. The study brought us closer

as a family and more accountable to each other Mike and

Rebecca Bedell and Wil Brown

Michelle and I joined in a Crown Ministry study in the

spring of 1991 and it radically altered the way we lived and

liveaway from the worlds values of debt, accumulation for

self and placing our self-worth on the stuff we have. Some of

our most valued friendships today are the people that we jour-

neyed with in that Crown study, 17 years ago. Also, resulting

from our heart transformation, our family began to live underthe banner of as for me and my house, we are going to serve the

Lord!! We went on to lead several other Crown groups over the

years and so look forward to our church family experiencing all

the freedom that Crown brings. Kent and Michelle Sterchi

Those comments and the following Scriptural truths

are why I am VERY excited to join those of you who

have not yet experienced LIFE together in a Crown

small group.

Jesus spoke without apol-

ogy about money. In 27 of the

43 parables, Jesus spoke di-

rectly about money and own-

ership. One researcher (I have

not counted them) made these

observations about Scripture:

30 verses on baptism

225 verses on prayer

300 verses on faith

700 verses on love

2350 verses on money,finances and materialpossessions

Apparently God knew there would be a lot of lessons His

people would need to learn concerning money.

It is not that money is bad or that God has somethingagainst wealthy people. Jesus was a friend to both the poor and

the wealthy. And the verse often misquoted, 1 Timothy 6:10

does not speak of the evil of money but of the love of money as

the root of all kinds of evil.

In Matthew 6 we are warned about the danger of storing up

treasures that fade away, rust or wear outand we are encour-

aged to store up treasures in heaven For where your treasure

is there will your heart be also.

The truth is earthly treasures will never satisfy our souls

they will always leave us wanting moreon the other handwe

can invest in eternal things and it will change/soften/enlarge

our hearts. And we will learn the joy of living for something(Someone) more than self.

That is why I am excited about Crown! Not because I nec

essarily love talking about money. But because I am looking

forward to learning with others about what God says about

Lordshipover all of lifemoney included.

.. nn M


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MR. UNIVERSERELIES ON GOD

FOR STRENGTH

Just outside the Edington Ministry Center, I w

for members Simon Morgan, two-time Mr. Univerand his wife, Kris. I look around for a guy with melo

sized biceps, prominently displayed under some to

tight T-shirt. Instead, I find Simon, dressed casua

in a loose-fit, white-collared shirt and dress pan

Moments later, Kris arrives, looking just as fit as h

husband, with son Charlie, 6, and daughter Ellie,

in tow. Ellie is wearing a princess crown and a plas

jeweled necklace while Charlie sports a Boston R

Sox baseball cap, a necessity when your mom is

Boston native.

Kris apologizes for the two unexpected gues

but explains that the family does just about evething together nowadays. That includes leading a n

ministry that started in September called Become F

(Faith, Integrity and Technique). Become FIT is an eig

week program which teaches participants the importan

of exercise, nutrition and establishing a personal relatio

ship with Christ. At the end of the eight weeks, youll hav

blueprint of [how to get to] where you want to be, Kris sa

Its not about judgment; our goal is to get you healthy.

Each week, the couple leads a one-hour class to pr

vide participants with the knowledge and tools they ne

for a healthier lifestyle. During this time, Simon and K

share tips on subjects such as how to eat right and how

exercise effectively. They also share insight as to what t

Bible says about taking care of ones body. The body is

temple of the Lord, Simon says, referencing 1 Corinthia

6:19. Your body is not your own; and its the greatest g

youll ever get.

Although Simon is new to Christianityhe was baptiz

in July 2007his passion for fitness has been a lifelong a

fair. Growing up in London, he played popular sports su

as rugby and soccer. After breaking his ankle during a so

cer game in his early 20s, he went to physical rehabilitati

and got turned on to lifting weights. I started [buildin

Kris and Simon Morgan share

their fitness and faith connection

By Kristin Davis

| www.fpco.org


7/16www.fpco.o

my legs, then it became a whole body thing and it all

started from there, he says. To take his training to the

next level, Simon began entering body building compe-

titions and fulfilled a lifelong dream by opening his own

gym in 1997. It was called Castle Gym, as it was located

near the Windsor Castle. The queen was my neighbor,

he says. You could hit [the castle] with a baseball from

the gym.

It was there he met the other love of his life, Kris.In March 1999, Kris was on business in London from

Boston, where she worked for a software company. She

traveled for work often and, a gym rat herself, always

looked for a place nearby to work out. Simon still re-

members the first time she walked into his gym: She

had a baseball cap on; all I could see was her smile. Af-

ter going out, the two realized they shared many of the

same interests. Kris also enjoyed body building, even

competing in the Eastern States Championships in the

early 90s. Several dates and three weeks later, Kris de-

cided to extend her stay in Europe indefinitely. She

asked her company to relocate her there. When she flew back to Boston to get her things

from home, Kris got another unexpected surprise: Simon pro-

posed. I always joke that I couldnt understand what he was

saying [with his accent], she says. I just thought, Youre cute,

I dont know what youre saying, but sure. The couple married

in July 2001 and had their first child, Charlie, in 2002. Ellie fol-

lowed just one year later.

As Simons family grew bigger, so did his bodybuilding ca-

reer. He was training two hours a day, six days a week, to prepare

for one of his biggest body building competitions yet: Mr. Uni-

verse. His hard work paid off; he won the title in 2002. Simons

life was beginning to feel complete with his career success and

the new additions to his family. But after he won the Mr. Uni-

verse title a second time in 2004, he says things took a turn for

the worst. A bad crowd began to circulate around him and his

gym. As Mr. Universe, I lead a selfish life and it was all about

me, he says. I was idolized and I idolized my body. Along with

this came the social trappings of alcohol, drugs and adultery.

Deciding it was time for a change, Kris and Simon moved to

Orlando to be closer to Kris parents, who retired there. Simon

sold Castle Gym and packed his bags, ready to start fresh and

leave his troubles behind. But it wasnt that easy. He began to

stray down the same bad path he was on in London, over-party-

ing and hanging out with all the wrong people, he says. He and

Kris separated as a result, and Simon turned to alcohol to avoid

his problems. He started to realize it was going to take someone

much stronger than himself to get through this.

I worked on my relationship with the Lord, he says. Recog-

nizing his need for support, Simon searched for a church that he

could call home. Friend John Cash invited him to a community

Bible study, and his son, John Cash III, extended the Morgans

an invitation to attend a church service at FPCO. After listening

to Dr. Swansons sermon, they say they both knew they had come

to the right place. We just thought, Wow, this is where we want

to be, Kris says. After joining the church, Simon and Kris slowly

began to repair the damage that had been done to their relation-

ship. Many times prior to that, Kris says she thought about filing

the divorce papers. But something kept telling her to wait.

Faith was the only thing that saved our marriage, she says

The Lord wasnt present in our marriage. He had to break it

down to build it back up. They started to get more involved in

the church, attending the 8:30am worship service and participat-

ing in Bible studies such as the Awaken series, where they say

they learned how to become more conscious Christians. Kris and

Simon soon found that God had an even bigger plan for their livesthan even they were aware of.

Simon and Kris had always discussed starting a training

business together to help others get fit, but, after joining the

church, they decided their expertise could also be used for a

greater purpose: starting a ministry at FPCO to get members in

shape physically and spiritually. It was always my goal to help

others in a physical aspect, and now, its in a spiritual aspect as

well, Simon says. Through Become FIT, Kris and Simon hope

to be a resource for those that want help, but are too afraid to

ask. We welcome anybody and everybody, Kris says. There

are no levels; its just about being healthy. Kris and Simon

help participants set attainable goals, but they stress that eachindividual must do the work to reach them. We want to teach

them to do this, Kris says. We want to get them started, but

the journey is all their own.

As the conversation draws to a close, Ellie climbs onto her

dads lap, takes off her plastic jeweled necklace and places it

around Simons neck. Not exactly an accessory one would nor-

mally find on a Mr. Universe, but Simon isnt fazed. These days

he takes himself a little less seriously, and his relationship with

God a little more so. [This program] is not about you, he says

Its about honoring what Gods given you.


8/16| www.fpco.org

Diane Bish is the most visible and influential classical organist

performing today. Concert and recording artist, composer, conduc-

tor, and international television personality, Diane Bish has dis-

played her dazzling virtuosity and unique showmanship the world

over to international acclaim. Her performances have been hailed

by critics as stunning, virtuoso, fiery, and astonishing.

Miss Bishs television program The Joy of Music is broad-

cast to over 300 million people around the world each week. The

show combines exhilarating organ and ensemble performances

with an informative, inspirational narrative and exciting world

travel. After twenty-five years of continuous broadcast, The Joy

of Music is one of the longest running television programs still in

production with new programs taped, edited and broadcast each

year. The Joy of Music library boasts over 500 episodes featuring

famous cathedrals, concert halls, churches and organs.

Ms. Bish will present a concert of music for the organ in

the FPCO Sanctuary on Sunday, October 12, 2008; sponsored

by the American Guild of Organists and FPCO. Tickets are $10

and are open seating. Purchase tickets at the door or by mail-

ing a check for $10 to Central Florida AGO at 2515 Woods Edge

Circle/Orlando, Fl 32817/Attn: Diane Bish Concert Tickets.

About the Taylor Organ

The Taylor Organ was made possible by a gift in 2000 from

Jane and Tom Taylor to the members of FPCO and the com-

munity at large. The pipe organ is one of the oldest musical

instruments, representing the longest and largest continuous

literature of any instrument. Indeed Mozart named it the King

of Instruments! This new organ at FPCO is a unique combina-

tion of ancient organ building techniques and modern, digital

technology. Patterned after the French Symphonic and Amer-

ican Classic styles, this instrument will be capable of playing

the most demanding literature from the softest service music

to the glorious concert repertoire. Equally at home in worship,

solo, choral accompaniment, or to a complement full orchestra,

the organ at FPCO dates from 1955, originally built by the

Moller Company of Hagerstown, Maryland. We have used

many of its best pipes and wind chests and have added

new pipes from Northern Ireland, Czechoslovakia, as well

as new pipes and chests from the Jim Lauck workshop in

Michigan, who restored and installed the organ to its pres-

ent state. There are 36 ranks of pipes num-

bering 2,196 individual pipes. This is sup-

plemented by a vast array of digital voices

which are sampled pipe stops from many

of the finest organs in the world, including

3 ranks of Arp Schnitzger diapasons dat-

ing from the time of J.S. Bach. This entire

apparatus is controlled by a new 4 Manu-

al Custom Allen Renaissance console.

Added together, the organ speaks with the

equivalent of 163 ranks of pipes, making it

one of the largest instruments in Florida!

An unusual feature of this organ is the

floating string division, which is playable

from any manual and pedals. Patterned

after the famed Skinner string sections in

many of their larger installations, it speaks

from either the front or rear of the church.Dedicated in January, 2000, by renowned organist, Alan

Morrison, the instrument stands as a testament to the majesty

and beauty of Gods creation. The Taylor organ has and will con

tinue to offer praise in worship, weddings, memorial services

concerts, and other special events that touch the lives of all who

enter our sanctuary. J.S. Bach inscribed many of his composi

tions with the dedication Soli Deo Gloriato God alone be the

Glory. It is within this spirit that we strive to provide a suitable

offering of excellence and adoration in the use of this magnificen

instrument under the brilliant hands and feet of Diane Bish, one

of the most visible and influential organists in America today.

DIANE BISHIN CONCERTON FPCOS TAYLOR ORGAN

By Dr. Rebecca Bedell, Worship & Culture


9/16www.fpco.o

JOIN THECHRISTMAS CHOIR

2008 Christmas Concert:Rejoice! ... God With Us

Have you wanted to sing with the choir, but dont feel that

you can make the commitment to sing all year? Heres your

chance!

Beginning on Thursday night September 25, the choir

will begin preparing the music for this years Christmas

concert. The concert will be presented on December 12

and 13, so for Christmas Choir singers, it is only a 12-week

commitment. We would love to have you join us!!

Rehearsals for Christmas music will be on Thursday evenings

from 7pm 8pm in the Sanctuary. Child care is available with

a reservation. Please RSVP your interest in singing in the

Christmas Choir to Lucy Edgerton at 407-423-3441 x1273.

WANTED:Enough Men to Fill the Choir Loft!

Mens Choir Sunday on October 19

Thats right men we need you! NO experience required! On

October 19 VoiceMale will sing, and we want to fill the choir

loft! We will be singing an energetic, fun Gospel anthem as well

as other music for the service. Rehearsal tapes will be available

so you can practice in the car, the shower or wherever!

Several rehearsals will be offeredcome to all or as many as

you can.

Sunday October 5 10:00 10:30am Sanctuary

Thursday October 9 6:30 7:30pm Sanctuary

Sunday October 12 10:00 10:30am Sanctuary

Thursday October 16 6:30 8:30pm Sanctuary

Sunday October 19 7:30am call Sanctuary

RSVP to Lucy Edgerton at x1273 or

Jim Stowers at [email protected]

www.fpco.o


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WeekdWEEKDAY SCHOOLMORE THAN A PRESCHOOL!

By Donna Speer, Director of Weekday School

Hallelujah! Let the children comeoh, what a joy it is to see

precious young children in the halls and classrooms here at First Pres-

byterian Church. The spirit of Gods love and excitement fills Allen

and Yowell Halls again this year. I keep hearing that Weekday School

is more than a preschool; it is a ministry for the whole family. I now

believe this to be true and here is why:

Weekday School is blessed by God; there is no doubt that God

is at work in this place! We see His handiwork everywhere we look.

First and foremost, we pray. We pray for Gods protection, His wis-

dom, and His guidance in everything we do and for each individual.

Secondly, we see transformation in the lives of all who participate in

this ministry, and we know that our Lord is in the business of trans-

forming lives.

Gods work begins with the growth and change we witness in

the lives of children. Each child comes with a unique personality,

temperament, learning style, and set of behaviors. We love them

all and desire to help each one to grow up to reach his or her God-

given potential. As the year progresses, we will see the quiet child

become more outgoing, the disruptive child gain self-control, the

unsure child grow more confident, and all children grow academi

cally by leaps and bounds!

We see transformation in the lives of moms and dads. Every year

parents tell us how they themselves have grown spiritually both from

the materials and events Weekday School provides, as well as trying

to answer childrens deep theological questions such as, Does God

have friends, or is He alone or What does God look like? Familie

come to know Weekday School as a partner in guiding and main-

taining their Christian homes. We provide Womens Devotional Stud-

ies, Thanksgiving Worship, Cup of Christmas Tea, Mothers Brunch

Daddy and Me Day, Chapel, Faith and Family Newsletter, Advent and

Lent Devotionals for this purpose.

Lives are changed by the involvement of our volunteers; we have

an incredible amount of talent on our Advisory Board, Fun Fair and

Silent Auction Committees, Room-mothers and classroom volunteers

We welcome new ideas, and see God at work through the many gifts

and talents of those that give tirelessly to benefit this ministry. Many

parents have shared that they have made friends for life from their

involvement here.Last, but not least, God is at work in the midst of our staff. We

are a group of 48 women who love each other

have a big heart for children, and are growing

in our faith as well. The dedication of these

women never fails to amaze me with their

desire to provide the very best for the sake of

young children.

Yes, there is no doubt that God continues

to bless Weekday School; it truly is more than

a preschool, and it is an honor to be associ-

ated with this great ministry.


11/16www.fpco.org

y SchoolFINDING A NEW PATHBy Kim Hawkins, Weekday School Mom

So, where will Connor be going to Preschool? asked several

friends. Preschool? I thought to myself, Whats preschool? Isnt

kindergarten preschool? My husband and I didnt attend preschool,

and we think we turned out okay. But as my conversations contin-

ued, I realized that in todays educational environment, where kids

are pushed at an earlier age, preschool was not only an option but a

necessity. Now, where should he go?

Enter the Weekday School. Through the recommendation of our

friends, Dawn & Chip Herron, we investigated the Weekday School

and found the tender, loving environment that would be perfect for

our oldest son, Connor. At that point in our lives I can honestly say

that a Christ-centered education was not a priority for us. But I truly

believe that we were being gently pushed toward the Weekday School

from above; He knew that we, as a family, needed more in our lives.

Connor entered a 4-day class in August 2004; a year that had

already seen a few challenges for our family and that had left me,

personally, a little lost. Earlier in the year my husband, Andy, had a

brain tumor removed, which thankfully was benign. Then I was laid

off from my job, and one month later we had our second child, Jack.

I was not prepared to be a stay-at-home mom; I was ready to resume

work after a short maternity leave. After much discussion we decided

it would be best for our family if I stayed home. Now I was no longer

a working mother, I was a homemaker (a word that

made me cringe). And I was lost.

I can clearly remember our New Parent Orienta-

tion. Not only did I learn all about lunch bunch, the

Fun Fair and those important carpool rules; I was in-

troduced to the concept of Womens Devotional Stud-

ies. I recall Beth Emsley stating that if you wanted

to meet other mothers, Womens Devotional Studies

was the place to be. I had never been involved in a

Bible study; I was raised

Catholic, we didnt really read the Bi-

ble. But as I entered the room that first day, I was overwhelmed by

the welcoming nature of all the women involved. Again, a gentle push

from above; He knew what I would need.

During the spring of 2005, I suffered a miscarriage. It was a

devastating blow to our family. If not for the love and support of my

Womens Devotional Studies group, lead by Lou Ann King, and other

families from Connors class, I truly do not know if I could have han-

dled it. Connor felt the loss as well, and was comforted by his teachers

during that time. My family has weathered a few more difficulties and

one very joyous event, all with the help of the precious women in the

group. I have learned more about myself and my Creator through

these studies than I thought possible.

The question of Preschool? Whats preschool? never entered our

minds with our second child, Jack; he was signed up before he was one

year old. He loves the Weekday School. And Maggie, our 10 month old

her enrollment forms were pretty much sent from the hospital!

The Weekday School gave our son a solid foundation for his fu

ture; both academic and spiritual. But it also provided me with an

avenue to find a new path for my life; one that continues to delight and

amaze me everyday.



Includes: Admission to Silent Auction, lunch and lots of fun activities like pony & train

rides, bounce house, giant slides; story time, music, games, clowns and face painting!

Silent Auction Program will be available online November 8 www.fpco.org/funfai

Youre Invited!

Saturday, November 15 10am-2pm

Silent Auction in the King Parlor

Fun Fair on the Great Lawn, in

Lee Fellowship Hall, and under the Angel Wing

TICKETS$15

perperson(childrenunder24monthsFREE)

Tickets on Sale Now in the WeekdaySchool Office

&SILENT AUCTIONSILENT AUCTIONFUN FAIRFUN FAIR

Weekday Schools


13/16

Christian Care is Never OutdatedStephen Ministry January Training Class

Accepting Applications

By Tammas Smith, Director of Pastoral Care

Gods command that we love one another is the same now as it was thou-

sands of years ago. How are you showing Gods love to others? Stephen Min-

istry is one way you can do that.

Every day you see people who are hurting: those who have lost a job, lost

a loved one, gone through a divorce, or are battling a terminal illness. Stephen

Ministers are Gods representatives who bring His love to those who are hurt-

ing. God is waiting to make a difference in their lives through you!

Spiritual gifts are gifts to give away. God gives them to us, and we use

them to serve others. How are you using your gifts right now? Are you look-

ing for a new way to use them? If your spiritual gifts include one or more of

the following--faith, mercy, teaching the faith, encouragement, or knowing--

consider Stephen Ministry, our congregations one-to-one care giving ministry.

This may be just what youve been looking for!

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we willreap a harvest if we do not give up (Galatians 6:9).

Find out about this important ministry of our congregation and how

you can get involved by contacting Tammas Smith at [email protected] or

407.423.3441 x1455.

The Power of a Shoebox:Operation Christmas Child

By Carol Welker

Millions of children around the world live in circumstances we could not

even imagine. Often all they long for is to know they are loved. You can bring

Gods love to them in the simplest of giftsa shoe box. By filling it with

personal items, school supplies and toys you can tangibly give love to a child

desperately in need of hope. The boxes are accompanied by evangelistic ma-

terials and follow-up discipleship programs so the shoe box is only the begin-

ning. In fact, the Bible story book that goes in each box is now written in over

70 languages. Because of Operation Christmas Child many children and their

families have come to know Jesus Christ as Lord.

Listen to what some children who have received a box say:

I believe Jesus loves me and poverty is not a hindrance to my dreams.

(Philippines)

Learning more about Him encouraged me to keep going and not to worry

about the things that I dont have. (Paraguay)

Thanks for the opportunity to give my life to Jesus. (Pakistan)

Please join us in bringing eternal hope to the children of this world.

And, as you pack your box pray for the child who will receive it. Get in-

volved and be amazed to see how God can use a small gift your gift to

touch a childs heart.

Each box must be accompanied by a brochure. These will be available in

the Angel Wing, in Allen Hall, and in the Welcome Center starting Sunday, Oc-

tober 19. Drop off your shoe boxes Sundays, November 9-23 under the Angel

Wing or in the Welcome Center during the week.

For information or questions contact Carol Welker at [email protected]

or 407-423-3441 x1490.

ACCESS CONTROLTO FPCO BUILDINGSGOES INTO EFFECT

By Dr. Keith Wright, Executive Pastor

In our desire to better protect our children, as we

as our employees, FPCO will be implementing acce

control to its buildings this month.

As a church, we have a unique dynamic that w

hold in tension. On the one hand, we are called to b

Christs witnesses in the place where God has plante

usdowntown Orlando. That means that we need

be open and accessible to all who have needs, and a

who seek spiritual growth and care. On the other han

we have over 700 children on campus each day in on

of our 4 schools (The Christ School, Weekday Schoo

Little School, and the Infant Childcare Centerf

those of you trying to figure that out).

As we have studied the best ways to address th

tension, one recommendation has been to secure th

exterior doors to areas where children are presen

That means, during the day, several doors across cam

pus will be locked. Employees and screened volun

teers will be issued a photo identification badge th

will also provide them access to the areas they nee

to go. Guests to the church will need to check in wi

the receptionist in each of our buildings to obtain

visitor badge.There may be times that you come on campus an

try to open a door, go to an office, or try to walk to

ministry area where you have gone for yearsand yo

will discover a locked door.

Please keep the following thoughts in mind befo

you get too frustrated:

Try to remember why we are doing thisto

keep kids safe.

Know that we are also trying to be good

stewards of the property (real and personal)

that God has entrusted to us. Understand that there will be kinks in the

system. We ask for you patience as we

implement these new controls, and work

through whatever issues will arise.

Be friendly with our receptionists who are

here to welcome, assist, and serve.

See the new photo identification badges as a

way to put faces and names together. When

you see someone without a badge, use that a

an opportunity to greet and welcome them.

www.fpco.org



NEWS & NOTICESMission Partner Amani ya Juu Sankofa FashionNarrative Show on October 4Amani is a self-sustaining, sewing-marketing-training project

for the marginalized women in Africa. The women modeling

at this fashion show will be wearing clothes that they have

made and learned to make while working together through

faith in God to provide a higher peace. Purchase tickets at

www.fpco.org/sankofa or call the church Mission office for

more information.

Register Now for Upward Basketball League

Which Begins October 13Children, Kindergarten-6th grade, will have fun learningwhile experiencing good sportsmanship and spiritual growth.

Pick up a registration form at the Recreation Ministry Office

or call 407.206.2406. www.fpco.org/upward

Attend Health and Fitness Fair on November 6Our Recreation Ministry invites you to stop and explore the

many ways you can be fit and healthyand have fun while do-

ing it! Chair massages, flu shots, and a variety of vendors will

be present. Open to the public, so invite a friend to join you

Thursday, November 6, from 10:30am-2:30pm in the CLC

Fitness Center & Gym.

Eagle Rock High School Fall RetreatOur Student Ministry will take a group of high school students

to the Smoky Mountains for a spiritual retreat on November

21. The cost is $399, and a $100 non refundable deposit re-

serves your space. Sign up now at www.fpco.org/register or

call the Student Ministry office for more information.

Middle School Great Pumpkin ChaseAll middle school students and friends are invited to the be-

loved annual scavenger hunt and great pumpkin chase on

Sunday, October 26; 5:30-7:30pm. The cost is $5 per person

and the church bus will leave at 5pm to head off to the Rose

Isle Neighborhood. Register: www.fpco.org/register or call

407.423.3441 x2350.

First Connections Seminar Offers Opportunity toGet Plugged In at FPCOConsidering church membership or simply want to know more

about FPCO? First Connections is a five week class designed to

help you experience and connect with life at FPCO. Its a greatway to make some friends, learn some basics about faith and be

exposed to the life changing ministries of FPCO. The fall ses-

sion will be held October 12 - November 9 on Sundays , 9:30

10:45am, in Room 320 of the Edington Ministry Center. Please

register at www.fpco.org/register or call 407-423-3441.

Infertility Support Group FormingChurch members Amy and Wes Bishop are helping to form

a new support group for those dealing with infertility. If you

would like to take part, please call Sharon in the church

Congregational Life office at 407-423-3441.

Jobs Partnership, A Mercy Corridor InitiativeNeeds VolunteersThis is a great local mission opportunity to help lift up our

brothers and sisters who are seeking to equip themselves to

better provide for their families through this job readines

program. Sessions run through December 4 and there are a

variety of needs for light snacks, transportation and other one

time service opportunities. To volunteer, please contact Al-

lison Beck at [email protected] or 407-489-3422.

Whois? Sermon Series ContinuesPower, presence, knowledge, holy, just, unchanging, truth

mercy, sovereign and faithful. These are the vital and Biblical-

truths we are exploring through Dr. Swansons sermon series

entitled Who is?. We will journey through current pop cul

ture thought and the truth of Scripture to discover who God

truly is. Sermon copies are available immediately following

the worship services. A series collection will also become

available.

Cancer Support Group Meets 3rd Wednesday of

each MonthBeginning Wednesday, October 15 join the Womens Can-

cer Support Group in the Rotunda on the 2nd floor of the

Clayton Life Center at 12pm. A light lunch will be served

In a comfortable and supportive environment we will share

experiences, pray and create friendships. RSVP to Sharon a

407.423.3441 x1159 or [email protected]. www.fpco

org/care/cancersupportgroup.


15/16

August 08 Giving Snapshot

General Operating Contributions Budgeted Surplus(Deficit)

August Gifts $420,618 $534,539 $(113,921)

Year-to-date Gifts $937,731 $1,067,627 $(129,896)

Cash in Bank $244,461 Line of Credit $200,000

Immeasurably More Outstanding Balance $6,114,649

IM August Gifts $52,896

IM Year-to-date Gifts $94,880

(net of 10% tithe to Missions)

Contact Dr. Keith Wright for a full revenue &

expense summary

Congratulations to:Alene and Julian Foley on the birth of their daughter, Chris-

tina Marie Foley, on August 16, 2008. Proud grandparents

are Julianne and Ken Foley.

Jen and Nat Hutchins on the birth of their daughter, Emma

Katherine Hutchins, on August 27, 2008

Nikki and David Brown on the birth of their daughter, Emery

Elizabeth Brown, on August 28, 2008. Proud grandparentsare Becky and Don Brown.

Blakely and Zack Callaham on the birth of their daughter,

Wylie Elizabeth Callaham, on August 27, 2008. Proud grand-

parents are Sally and Gratten White.

Sympathy to:Kathy and Curtis Grace on the death of his mother, June

Grace, on August 7, 2008. Mrs. Grace was the grandmother

of Sarah Grace and Katie Grace Miller.

Sharon Twitchell on the death of her mother, Alma Twitchell,on August 7, 2008.

Sarah McCutcheon on the death of her husband, Dave Mc-

Cutcheon, on August 13, 2008. Mr. McCutcheon was the son

of Carole McCutcheon and father of Rachel McCutcheon.

Anne Banta on the death of her brother, Richard Greer, on

August 15, 2008.

Doyle Crose on the death of his son, Randy Crose, on August

17, 2008.

Tiffany and John Bultema, on the death of his father, JohnBultema II, on August 19, 2008.

Martha Tucker on the death of her mother, Betty Ann Tucker,

on August 22, 2008. Mrs. Tucker was the grandmother of Me-

gan Balingit.

Ed and Polly Brandon on the death of his sister, Mary Ann

Correll, on September 2, 2008.

www.fpco.org


16/16

First Presbyterian Church of Orlando106 E. Church St., Orlando, FL 32801

The First Presbyterian Columns (USPS 604-040) is published onceper month, except for twice in March, by the First PresbyterianChurch. Circulation: 4750. (3750 by US Mail, 1000 by oncampus distribution). Periodicals postage paid at Orlando,Florida. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to COLUMNS,106 E. Church St. Orlando, FL 32801-3390.2008 First Presbyterian Church of Orlando COLUMNS.

POSTMASTER: Time Sensitive MaterialPlease Deliver by September 29, 2008

PERIODICALS US POSTAGE

ORLANDO,

106 East Church StreetOrlando, FL 32801

FPCO Main Office:( 407-423-3441www.fpco.org

Traditional Services: 8:30am & 11amGenesis Services: 8:30am & 11am

Sunday School: 9:45am

Dont miss this rare opportunity to kick back, examine your

life more deeply, get your spiritual life in sync, and spend time

with Pat Morley and other likeminded men. The experiences

Pat will cover include

Becoming a Cycle Breaker

Reconciliation With Dad

The Born Again Experience

The Experience of Full Surrender

Building a Shakable Kingdom

An Angry Spirit Realizing How Much I Love and Need My Spouse

Patrick Morley. Ph.D.

The ministry of Man in the

Mirror exists, says Pat Mor-

ley, in answer to the prayers

of all those wives, mothers, and

grandmothers who have for de-

cades been praying for the men

in their lives.

After spending the first part

of his career in the highly compet-

itive world of real estate develop-

ment, Pat has been used through-

out the world to help men think

more deeply about their lives.

In 1989 he wrote The Man in the Mirror, a landmark book

that poured from his own search for meaning, purpose, and a

deeper relationship with God. With over 3,000,000 copies, this

best-selling book has captured the imaginations of hundreds of

thousands of men worldwide, and was selected as one of the

100 most influential Christian books of the twentieth century

Five of his 15 books have received critical acclaim.

Through Pats speaking and writing he is a tireless advocate

for men, encouraging and inspiring them to change their lives

in Christ. Every Friday morning since 1986, Patrick teaches aBible study to 150 businessmen in Orlando which is webcast

throughout the United States.

Patr Morley graduated with honors from the University

of Central Florida, which selected him to receive its Dis-

tinguished Alumnus Award in 1984. He has earned a Ph.D

in Management and completed post-graduate studies at

the Harvard Business School and Oxford University, and

graduated from Reformed Theological Seminary. For sport

he races a 1974 Porsche 911. He lives in Winter Park, FL

with his wife, Patsy. They have two grown children and two

granddaughters.

www.maninthemirror.org

Saturday, October 18 8- 11:45 am Lee Fellowship Hall

$35 per person/ $250 per table of 8 www.fpco.org/register

THE MAN IN THE MIRROR EXPERIENCE

Documents

FPCO Columns October 2008