NUCC April/May 2013 Steeplelights

April/May 2013

Naples United Church of Christ God is stillspeaking,

Moringa tree growing in Namibia, South Africa

2Steeplelights www.naplesucc.org

From the Senior Minister

Dr. Ron Patterson

Let’s talk about your

ideas. It is my honor

to serve this amaz-

ing collection of God’s

people.

““

Beginning Easter Monday, April 1, members of the United Church of Christ around the U.S. have been invited to take part in a shared faith initiative to care for the earth. Elsewhere in this issue of Steeplelights are suggested ways to participate by living our faith for the sake of humanity and the planet.

You can visit http://www.ucc.org/earth/ to learn more about what you can do. This effort will continue through the fifty days of Eastertide, ending on Pentecost Sunday.

The goal set by our national UCC leaders is to:

• Collectively offer more than one million hours of engaged earth care, including clean-up, advocacy, education, and behavioral changes that will impact the environment;

• Collectively plant more than 100,000 trees locally and globally in partnership with the National Arbor Day Foundation and UCC denominational partners around the world;

• Collectively write/send more than 100,000 advocacy letters on environmental concerns to elected officials and local and national newspapers.

Our response to their idea is breaking out in several places. Let me name just a few:

• Our Board of Trustees is actively engaged in an energy-saving enhancement of our sanctuary lighting.

• Our Youth and Children are directly participating in ‘earth care’ and learning about how each of them can be faithful stewards of God’s creation. They will be visiting Echo Gardens to learn more about sustainable agriculture. The leaders of Echo will be with us on Sunday, April 28 to share the work of Echo. Our children will lead us as we plant a miracle Moringa tree at the church.

• Our entire congregation has been offered a challenge grant of $15,000 to purchase stoves for villagers in Guatemala. These stoves will save trees, save lives and improve the quality of life for 300 families. Stoves cost $100, and on May 5 we will be learning how we can be participate.

Join me in praying each day for the earth and in walking more, saving more and thinking more about how to be a faithful partner with God for the good of the creation. I begin my day by reading the UCC daily devotional and invite you to join me. It comes by email. You can subscribe by going to: http://www.ucc.org/feed-your-spirit/daily-devotional/

One last thought: Each week about a hundred of you volunteer at the Bargain Box. Hundreds more donate used items. The gift of your time and items is a radical act of earth care—since the Bargain Box recycles and reuses and then turns that effort into dollars which help others—just think about it—the item of clothing I share is used by another person and the funds generated move through this community to support things like Echo—which plants trees and teaches sustainable agriculture around the world for the sake of humanity. Now that’s what I call a miracle!!!

With love, Ron

3 April/May 2013

3 ApApApApA ririr l/l/MaMaayy y 20020202013133

Perhaps many of you remember, as I do, Barbra Streisand and Robert Redford in the American romantic drama film “The Way We Were.” If so, do you recall that the year was 1973? That’s forty years ago! Not only did the film rise quickly to Oscar fame, but the title song to the movie catapulted Barbra Streisand to No. 1 slots on numerous musical charts.

Admittedly, I am a fan of Barbra Streisand and her singing. Countless times, I have listened to “The Way We Were” and pause over certain phrases, including: “mem’ries…like misty water-colored memories…like scattered pictures…for the way we were…can it be that time has re-written every line?”

It was not until some years ago, after delving into the writings of Marcus Borg and other prominent Scripture scholars, that I more fully understood that the writers of the Gospels we have today were men and women looking back over forty years or more and trying to understand “misty water-colored memories” of the way Jesus was and they were – before the Resurrection (pre-Easter Jesus) and after the Resurrection (post-Easter Jesus).

Within the gospels, there is an abundance of “scattered pictures” of Jesus – Jesus as a devoted Jewish male attending synagogue services, studying Torah, fulfilling Passover. There are also shared memories of Jesus as a wisdom teacher, imparting insights, values and standards for living a righteous life. And, importantly, there are images of Jesus likening him to healers and prophets sounding the shofar for compassion and social justice toward the poor, afflicted and abused. All of these pictures reveal the pre-Easter Jesus – that is, the Jesus who lived, loved, taught, prayed, healed, challenged and was executed by Roman command.

During the coming weeks, we will hear, again, amazing mem’ries from later followers of Jesus. They are pictures of the post-Easter Jesus; images and metaphors from emerging Christian communities that experienced Jesus’ continuing presence as a living reality. These communities speak of Jesus as “light of the world,” “bread of life,” Messiah,” “The way, the truth, the life,” and “the only way.”

We might ask about these gospel memories, “Can it be that time has re-written every line?” That’s an important question. The answer lies in knowing that they were re-written in the Easter experience. These images are profoundly true though not literally true. Jesus did not speak of himself in these ways. They are vivid testimony about how the community experienced and thought about Jesus. Importantly, the post-Easter Jesus can also be the word, light, bread and truth of God for us.

~ The Rev. Dr. Kathy Kircher,Interim Coordinator of Stephen Ministry & Adult Educator

Rev. Dr. Kathleen Kircher

“Mem’ries of the Way We Were”


In This Issue...

April/May 2013

2 .......... From the Senior Minister

3 .......... “Mem’ries of the Way We Were”

5 .......... What is Mission 4/1 Earth?

6 .......... Tree Planting “4-1 Earth”

6 .......... Baby Basics and Mother’s Day

7 .......... “115” Children

8 .......... Sanctuary Concert Series

8 .......... Under God’s Sea in 3D

9 .......... From Cathy O’Connell

9 .......... Bazaar

9 .......... Thursday at The Movies

10 ........ Wednesday Night Live Dinner

10 ........ Women’s Fellowship

11 ........ 21st Annual Progressive Dinner

11 ........ Stephen Ministry

12 ........ Palette Pals

13 ........ Volunteer Corner!

13 ........ Precious Cargo

14-15 .. April Calendar

16-17 .. May Calendar

18-19 .. Youth Christian Education

20-21 .. Adult Enrichment Opportunities

21 ........ Sixth Annual PFLAG Interfaith Convocation

22 ........ New Members

22 ........ A Thank you

22 ........ April Lectionary

23 ........ Bargain Box News

24 ........ Book Recommendations

24 ........ Financial Outlook

25 ........ Endowment Committee

26 ........ April Birthdays and Anniversaries

26 ........ In Service to Our Country

27 ........ May Birthdays and Anniversaries

27 ........ Condolences

NUCC StaffMinistersRev. Dr. Ronald M. Patterson, Senior Minister

Rev. Beverly Duncan, Interim Associate Minister

Rev. Dr. Kathleen Kircher, Stephen Ministry

Rev. Luvvy Kovacik, Assistant Minister

Music MinistryDr. Becky Weese, Director of Music

Christian EducationDr. Greg Smith, Adult CE

Nancy Van Fleet, Director of CE

Ronald Thompson, Ministry Intern

AdministrationKary Sirken, Church Administrator

Sharon Magiera, Finance Administrator

Susan Pratt, Pastoral Assistant and Membership

Kaleigh Caldwell, Administrative Assistant

Donna Blais, Publications

Gregg Lepore, Production Manager,

Susan Melick, Events Coordinator

Pat McGee, Volunteer Coordinator

Georgia Lundy, Sunday Fellowship/Kitchen Coordinator

Daniel Brower, Facilities

Hector Indart, Facilities

Precious Cargo AcademyMary Jo Welch, Director

Leanne Badham, Assistant Director

Bargain Box Thrift StoreSandy Goldstein, Manager (239) 262-3802

5 April/May 2013

One United Church on a shared resurrection witness for Planet Earth during 50 great days of greening up, powering down and shouting out for the environment! That’s “Mission 4/1 Earth: 50 Great Days!” Launching on Easter Monday, April 1, 2013, and continuing through the 50 days of Eastertide. United Church of Christ congregations, colleges, seminaries, camps and outdoor ministries, and health and human service agencies will join together in a shared mission campaign to collectively offer more than ONE MILLION HOURS of engaged earth care, including clean up, advocacy, education, and behavioral changes that will impact the environment.

Mission 4/1 Earth links together four significant events –– Easter (March 31), Earth Day (April 22), Arbor Day (April 26) and Pentecost (May 19) –– for a sustained, aggressive and collective mission opportunity for the entire United Church of Christ. Together, we will inspire and aspire to what we can accomplish as One Church. A continuously updated national tote board at ucc.org will keep the entire church appraised of our collective efforts at ucc.org/earth. Groups are encouraged to engage in creative local mission projects, service opportunities, educational programs, worship services, and media events. Your innovation will spark momentum for the initiative and stir the imaginations of other UCC people, agencies, schools, and congregations.

How will we reach one million hours?One million hours of active earth care is one BIG goal, and reaching/surpassing that impressive goal is going to take a concerted effort on the part of every UCC person. However, it’s doable! The important thing to remember is that there is no ONE way to contribute active earth-care hours, but it will involve intentionality as individuals and as a congregation. Remember, all of these actions can continue as ministries long after the 50 days of Mission 4/1 Earth are over.

What is Mission 4/1 Earth?

Here are some examples:

• NUCC has printed Steeplelights and our Sunday bulletins on recycled paper for the month of April! (Did you notice the difference?)

• If you ride a bike, carpool, or use public transportation, instead of riding alone in a car, count that time toward the goal.

• Read a book or article, or watch a documentary, about the environment, and count that as time well spent. Organize a group of 10 friends to do the same, and multiply the earth-care time you’re investing.

• Plant and tend an organic garden. Weeding and watering time will mount up quickly.

• Plan or attend an earth-care-focused worship service.

• Write advocacy letters, or staff a table to encourage others to do the same. (Remember, letters count twice: toward the 1 million hours goal AND the 100,000 letters goal!)

• Install energy efficient light bulbs or appliances.

• Recycle coffee grounds and old coffee by putting them orpouring them on acid-loving plants.

• Donate items to the Bargain Box and shop there, too.

• Create a compost bin at your home.

• Turn out the lights in rooms you are not in.

• Hold a workshop for youth (and adults, too!). Teach them to weigh the amount of food they leave on their plates and set a goal to reduce the amount of food they throw away. Then track it.

• Donate shopping bags with handles to the Bargain Box.

• If your city doesn’t offer recycling, start a letter-writing campaign to urge them to start one.

• Check all your faucets to make sure they don’t drip.

• Wash clothes in cold water. Count 1 hour per load for the 50 days.

• Recycle your old cell phone.

• Ask church members to donate one or more mugs to the church for coffee hour, rather than use paper. That way, you’ll have enough for the members, and for visitors, too.

• Return/recycle empty toner and ink cartridges.

• Vinegar can be used for cleaning all sorts of things instead of harsh chemicals.

• Plant a tree in your backyard.

• What else can you come up with? Or what do you do already?


Board of Mission and Outreach

On Sunday, April 28th at 10:00 am (between services) join the children of our church school as we plant a Moringa tree on the church grounds.

The gift of Moringa. Moringa is truly the ‘miracle tree”. Naples UCC is making it possible to share this amazing tree with those who desperately need its nutritional benefits. Malnutrition is a killer and often develops slowly. Present in many tropical areas, but often unrecognized for its nutritional benefits, the Moringa tree is used primarily to improve nutrition. It produces leaves, flowers, and pods, all of which are edible and nutritious. The leaves possess an abundance of vitamins (especially A and, when raw, C), minerals (notably iron and calcium), proteins and antioxidants. Moringa tree seeds can also be used to purify water.

Our 2013 gift to ECHO will help make sure the miracle tree reaches people in need around the globe by providing the resources necessary to grow, harvest, store, package and ship hundreds of Moringa trees.

~ Your Board of Missions and Outreach

Tree Planting “4-1 Earth”

Baby Basics is an all volunteer program, 100% of donated funds go directly toward the purchase of diapers, unless earmarked by the donor for administration. The recipient families are screened through local social service agencies, and at least one family member must be working and not receiving federal or state cash assistance.

Baby Basics now provides diapers to 315 babies and impacts the lives of over 1200 family members. The NUCC Mission Board, the Bargain Box, the Endowment Fund and Women’s Fellowship have all been an important part of our ability to reach out to additional families who need basic essentials: diapers.

Here at NUCC, the offering received on Mother’s Day, May 12, will once again be designated for the support of this mission partner.

BABY BASICS and MOTHER’S DAY go together here at

NUCC. “And why is that?” you might ask. Well...

7 April/May 2013

In San Pedro Sula, Honduras, on a very dusty road with houses of tin and crumbling cement, there is a small elementary school. There are high walls with barbed wire all around and a large iron gate at the entrance. Inside, there are 113 children in blue shirts and shorts or skirts, scrubbed and shining, listening and learning. This is the Jardin Escuela Privada Evangelica Ebenezer.

This school is a very special mission partner of the Naples United Church of Christ. It is unique because it started with us and we have been its principle supporter since the beginning in 2001. Support is in the form of sponsorships which pay the salaries of the teachers. There are no administrative costs. From time to time with donations and appeals we are able to provide extra needs such as chairs, water tanks, gutters, barbed wire, etc.

You will remember that these are children who have been born into poverty, living in an environment of crime, drugs, prostitution—and always hunger. Many have a handicap of some sort—a physical one, a learning disability, malnutrition, even abuse.

Over these 13 years, through the kindness and generosity of church members and friends, via sponsorships, over 800 children have studied, learned, and been given a chance for a better life. A grateful thanks to all of you for your generosity and concern for these small mission partners.

Seven NUCC members flew to Honduras and spent March 14 – 18 hugging excited children, painting, mending roofs, and taking photos! Here are some of them:

“115” Children


Sunday, April 7th ~ 3:00 pmTwo Friends, Two Pianos, Four HandsRichard Bosworth and Alden Gatt

$20.00 ~ Admission

Richard Bosworth: Critically acclaimed for his highly sensitive interpretations of solo, concerto, and chamber music, Richard brings to the concert stage a broad spectrum of musical tastes. He holds a Bachelor of Music in piano performance from Eastman School of Music, Rochester, New York, as well as a Masters and Doctor of Music in piano performance and literature from Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana.

Alden Gatt is currently based in NYC. Alden also graduated from the Eastman School of Music with a B.A. in piano. He performs as a soloist and collaborator and teaches students privately in Manhattan and at Poly Prep Country Day School. Alden is also the Music Director for NY Opera Exchange, the Youth Choir Director at the Unitarian Church of All Souls, and principal accompanist for the Empire City Men’s Chorus.

Presenting...

Under God’s Sea in 3DStarring...

The Children & Youth ofNaples United Church of Christ!

Sunday, April 21st at 9:00 and 11:00 a.m.

NUCC Children’s Musical

9 April/May 2013

It will be here before you know it – on November 9! And we need your help already! Start thinking about what you could do to make a basket for our annual raffle! For those of you who are traveling north – or those who are just vacationing somewhere – what better time to “pick up” some things to put into a theme basket! And just think – you have six months to get it together! Could we have a Canadian basket? An Ohio basket? A Cape Cod basket? Baskets should be worth approximately $100-150 – and need to be ready for display by mid-October. Please call Carole Russell at 431-7363 if you can help by providing a basket full of “goodies”!

Oh – and also – we can take items for the Bazaar at any time – those special one-of-a-kind items for the Silent Auction – linens – jewelry – almost new items!

The popular summer program, “Thursday at the Movies” will be back for the third year, beginning on May 2 with the movie “The Way”.

The movies begin at 4:00 pm in Beverly Hall and for those who wish, are followed by dinner at a local restaurant. A $5.00 donation for the movie is asked. The other dates for the summer are June 6, July 11, August 1, September 5, and October 3. Mark your calendars and plan to join us. There are some very good movies planned.

From Cathy O’ConnellThe Easter season always reminds me that all of life is about beginnings followed by endings followed by new beginnings. In April my interim-ministry training will end. What begins for me after that I leave in God’s supremely capable hands. One of the members of the interim-ministry project team I belong to is ending 20 years of ministry to a church in Ohio. What I hope for him is that his congregation will celebrate his ministry as elegantly as NUCC celebrated mine. January 20th was one of the best days of my life. I will remember it always - as I will remember you. I thank you for the best celebration party a minister could ever want. I thank you too for seven extraordinary years of walking with you on a journey of faith.

~Blessings, Cathy

BazaarHave you thought about the BAZAAR 2013?

Thursday at The Movies

Rev. Cathy O’Connell


Wednesday Night Live Dinner

Women’s Fellowship

Join us on April 10th, as actress, Joanna Olsen, in a one women performance, portrays “Wallace Simpson ~ Royal Obsession”.

The dynamic forces surrounding this controversial relationship is one of the most captivating stories of the past century—of King Edward VII of England and Wallis Simpson, an American divorcee, for whom he gave up the throne.

Joanna Olsen is a professional actress who studied at the William Esper Studio in NewYork City, and has performed major roles in regional theaters throughout the South and Midwest. Some favorite shows include “Three Tall Women”, “Seascape”, “Sylvia”, “Last Night of Ballyhoo” and “Road to Mecca”.

Her husband Chip’s support throughout her career, and his new role as “Stage Manager” has been invaluable.

Dinner will be served at 5:45 p.m. and will be catered by SMH Catering. The menu consists of English Pea salad with fresh field greens, Chicken Pot Pie with puff pastry crust, rolls and butter, and English Trifle with fresh berries for dessert.

Tickets are $15.00 per person, and can be purchased in the Gathering Place following Sunday services on April 7th, or in the church office. Please call the church office for more information.

On April 15th we will be showcasing some very talented women in the NUCC church!!

We have a doll collector, a jewelry maker, a scrapbook designer, and Pat McGee who is extremely crafty doing many things. These ladies will be sharing their passion for making jewelry, scrapbooks, dolls and how they became interested in their hobbies.

Plan to attend the luncheon. Bring a salad, sandwiches or dessert at 11:30 am on April 15th. Invite a friend to come and enjoy our lunch and program. Sign-up in the Gathering Place after church March 24, April 7 and 14th.

11 April/May 2013

Every two years, several Naples churches work together to provide fifty hours of training to a group of people who will serve as Stephen Ministers in their respective congre-gations. These Stephen Ministers will provide one-on-one Christian care to people in and around their congregations who are going through a difficult period in their lives. Stephen Ministry springs from the belief that if people can talk through their issues and fears, their grief, their anger —whatever it is that is hurting—with someone who can listen well, they will find God’s healing for their lives.

Stephen Ministry was started over 30 years ago by the Reverend Kenneth C. Haugk, Ph.D, a Lutheran Minister and clinical psychologist from St. Louis, Missouri. Dr. Haugk called this program “Stephen Ministry” because St. Stephen was the first layperson commissioned by the apostles in the first century to provide caring ministry to those in need. Today there are over 500,000 Stephen Ministers in more than 150 Christian denominations around the world.

The training program consists of modules on listening, feelings, Christian caregiving, prayer, confidentiality, grief, and much more. The churches involved in this year’s training were the Naples United Church of Christ, First Presbyterian Church of Naples, Vanderbilt Presbyterian Church, and Center Point Community Church.

Our new Naples United Church of Christ Stephen Ministers are pictured above from left to right: Tim McArthy, Carol McArthy, Ron Saul, Bill Rumpf, Carole Russell, Leigh Davis Hindman, Jan Hakes, Vee Lyons and Bob Bauerle

~ Stephen Ministry

“Many new friends”, “Great conversation”, “Delicious food”, “ A beautiful night, “A very special church family”, “Sign us up for next year!” were a few of the comments from the 21st progressive dinner. Members opening their homes for cocktails included: Pat Cullen, Selena Evans, Bev & Paul Roese, Gloria & Al Taylor, and Kay & Richard Ryder. Dinner hosts included Fran & Ed Boston, Marcia & Al Elders, Anne & Doug Gebbie, June & Ed Miller, Candy & Bob Nordland, Ann & Alan Olson, Billie Faye & George Picht, Marti Ports, Kathe & Steve Rhinesmith and Brenda & Dewey Tate. Liz and Bob Thomason graciously set our dessert buffet. One hundred and thirty-three attended.

Many, many thanks once again to all our fine hosts and hostesses. If you were unable to attend this year, mark your calendar for the second weekend in March 2014.

~ Jean Partridge

21st Annual Progressive Dinner

Stephen MinistryA New Class of Stephen Ministers Completes Training


Palette Pals

The last meeting for the season is on Monday, April 1 at 11:00am. The agenda will include plans for the November Bazaar and a discussion of potential plans for next season which begins Monday, Nov. 4, 2013.

Lunch will be provided and all interested artists are welcome to join us.

In February, Palette Pals visited the Shirley Kelly studio. This amazing contemporary artist offered a special workshop for Palette Pals members.

We also enjoyed an outstanding, creative 2-day workshop from Rona Steingart and Louise Friedlander in March. All participants went home with unique projects for displaying at home or in various art exhibits.

During the summer months (June-October) we will have an “open studio/drop in” on Thursdays at 10am and you may stay as long as you choose. We will do some plein aire painting, gallery browsing, day trips to art museums and specialized workshops with a wide array of materials. All interested artists or wanna-be artists are invited to join us. For more information, call the church office.

Nancy Seibert

Margery Mitchell

Rona Steingart and Mary Teshner

Shirley Kelly

13 April/May 2013

• Provides a place to worship God;

• Helps with the religious training of children;

• Provides opportunities for personal study and growth;

• Helps give a spiritual foundation to the home;

• Helps strengthen the moral fiber of the community;

• Holds out hope to a discouraged world;

• Ministers to the needs of humanity – at home and around the world;

• Adds meaning to life;

• Provides many opportunities for “volunteerism”—whether at the Bargain Box, or as a member of a committee or board, or as a contributor to a Sunday morning worship, or as a study leader, or as an organizer for a meeting, dinner, or other function…the list goes on and on!

YOUR CHURCH can’t exist without YOU—and your help and support—however you can!

THANK YOU FOR ALL YOU DO!

~ Pat McGee, Volunteer Coordinator

Volunteer Corner!YOUR CHURCH…

Our classes practice recycling everyday! On

the right is a photo of the recycle center in our

Elephants’ classroom. Good Work Children!

Precious Cargo

1 2

7 8 9

14 15 16

21 22 23

28 29 30

9:00am Worship Service (S) 10:00am Stephen Ministry Pastoral Care (P) 11:00am Worship Service (S) 12:00pm Stephen Ministry Pastoral Care (P) 3:00pm Sanctuary Concert ~

Richard Bosworth & Alden Gatt (S) 5:00pm Confirmation Class (N101) 6:00pm Youth Group Meeting (N201)

CHILDREN’S MUSICALCHILDREN’S MUSICAL 9:00am Worship Service (S) 10:00am Stephen Ministry Pastoral Care (P) 11:00am Worship Service (S) 12:00pm Stephen Ministry Pastoral Care (P) 5:00pm Confirmation Class (N101) 6:00pm Youth Group Meeting (N201)

EARTH DAYEARTH DAY 9:30am Monday Morning Workshop (N104) 9:30am Yoga with Shannon (BH) 2:00pm Book Club Meeting (N104)

9:30am Monday Morning Workshop (N104) 9:30am Yoga with Shannon (BH) 11:00am Palette Pals Meeting (N203) 1:00pm Bell Choir Practice (BR) 5:00pm Baby Basics Diaper Pick-up (WH)

9:30am Monday Morning Workshop (N104) 9:30am Yoga with Shannon (BH) 1:00pm Polishing Bells (BH) 6:30pm NUCC - What We Do and

How We Do It (N207)

9:30am Monday Morning Workshop (N104) 9:30am Yoga with Shannon (BH) 11:30am Women’s Fellowship Luncheon

(MH) 6:00pm Trustees Meeting (N104)

8:00am Precious Cargo Pictures (MH) 9:30am Learning In Retirement (N207) 10:00am Acts Bible Study, Part 2 with

Charnley Marsden (N101) 3:00pm Prayer Shawl Ministry (P) 6:00pm Yoga with Shannon (Narthex) 6:30pm Diaconate Meeting (ACR) 6:30pm Board of CE Meeting (N101)

10:00am Acts Bible Study, Part 2 with Charnley Marsden (N101)

1:00pm Music Committee Meeting (ACR) 3:00pm Precious Cargo Meeting (ACR)

8:00am Long Range Planning (ACR) 10:00am Acts Bible Study, Part 2 with

Charnley Marsden (N101) 4:00pm Bargain Box Committee Meeting (BB) 5:45pm Precious Cargo Staff Meeting (N104)


6:30pm Executive Council Meeting (ACR)

9:00am Worship Service (S) 10:00am Stephen Ministry Pastoral Care (P) 11:00am Worship Service (S) 12:00pm Stephen Ministry Pastoral Care (P) 12:00pm Single Senior’s Lunch (Skillets) 5:00pm Confirmation Class (N101) 6:00pm Youth Group Meeting (N201)

ECHO MISSION MOMENTECHO MISSION MOMENT 9:00am Worship Service (S) 10:00am Stephen Ministry Pastoral Care (P) 10:00am Board of CE Meeting (N101) 11:00am Worship Service (S) 12:00pm Stephen Ministry Pastoral Care (P) 5:00pm Confirmation Class (N101) 6:00pm Youth Group Meeting (N201)

9:30am Monday Morning Workshop (N104) 9:30am Yoga with Shannon (BH)


What’s Happening This Month at Naples United Church of Christ

3 4 5 6

10 11 12 13

17 18 19 20

24 25 26 27

9:30am Perky Patchers (N103)12:00pm Al Anon (N207)

9:30amPerky Patchers (N103)10:30am Children’s Musical Instrumental Rehearsal (S/BH)12:00pmAl Anon Meeting(N207)4:00pm Children’s Musical Practice (S/BH)


8:00am Precious Cargo Pictures (MH) 10:00am The Bible Alive w/Rev. Bev (N101) 10:00am WNL Meeting (N101) 1:00pm Stephen Ministry (N207) 3:30pm Junior Disciples (N207) 4:00pm Children’s Choir: K-2nd Grade (BH) 4:30pm Children’s Choir: Grades 3-5 (BH) 7:00pm Sanctuary Choir Rehearsal (BH/S)

10:00am The Bible Alive w/Rev. Bev (N101) 3:30pm Junior Disciples (N207) 4:00pm Children’s Choir: K-2nd Grade (BH) 4:30pm Children’s Choir: Grades 3-5 (BH) 5:45pm WNL Dinner (MH) 7:00pm Sanctuary Choir Rehearsal (BH/S)

10:00am The Bible Alive w/Rev. Bev (N101) 3:30pm Junior Disciples (N207) 4:00pm Children’s Musical Practice (S/BH) 7:00pm Sanctuary Choir Rehearsal (BH/S)

9:30am Precious Cargo Chapel (S) 9:30am Gentle Yoga with Shannon (BH) 6:00pm How to Increase Infants, Toddlers

and Twos Learning - 4C’s Training (N207)

6:00pm Yoga Lite and Meditation (N)

9:30am Precious Cargo Chapel (S) 9:30am Gentle Yoga with Shannon (BH) 4:00pm Planned Parenthood Movie and

Reception (BH) 6:00pm How to Increase Infants, Toddlers



9:30am Precious Cargo Chapel (S) 9:30am Gentle Yoga with Shannon (BH) 10:00am Men’s Coffee and Convo (N104) 10:00am Women’s Coffee and Convo (N101) 1:00pm Board of Missions Meeting (N101) 4:00pm Children’s Musical Practice (S/BH) 6:00pm Yoga Lite and Meditation (N) 6:00pm 4C’s Training (N207) 7:00pm PFLAG Meeting (N104)


9:00amYouth Car Wash Fundraiser(Portico)

9:00amChildren’s Musical Practice (S)

10:00am The Bible Alive w/Rev. Bev (N101) 3:30pm Junior Disciples End of Year Party

(N207) 5:30pm Middlers Plus Italian Dinner

(Pelican Bay Club) 7:00pm Sanctuary Choir Rehearsal (BH/S)

9:30am Precious Cargo Chapel (S) 9:30am Gentle Yoga with Shannon (BH) 6:00pm How to Increase Infants, Toddlers



5 6 7

12 13 14

19 20 21

26 27 28

9:00am Worship Service (S) 10:00am Stephen Ministry Pastoral Care (P) 11:00am Worship Service (S) 12:00pm Stephen Ministry Pastoral Care (P) 5:00pm Confirmation Class (N101) 6:00pm Youth Group Meeting (N201)

CONFIRMATION SUNDAYCONFIRMATION SUNDAY 10:00am Worship Service (S) 11:00am Stephen Ministry Pastoral Care (P) 11:00am Single Senior’s Lunch

(Kensington Country Club) 12:00pm Children and Youth Talent

Showcase & Reception (BH)

MEMORIAL DAY ~ OFFICE CLOSEDMEMORIAL DAY ~ OFFICE CLOSED 9:30am Monday Morning Workshop (N104)

9:30am Monday Morning Workshop (N104) 5:00pm Baby Basics Diaper Pick-up (WH)

9:30am Monday Morning Workshop (N104)

9:30am Monday Morning Workshop (N104) 2:00pm Book Club Meeting (N104) 6:00pm Trustees Meeting (ACR)


3:00pm Prayer Shawl Ministry (P) 6:30pm Diaconate Meeting (ACR)

1:00pm Music Committee Meeting (ACR) 3:00pm Precious Cargo Meeting (ACR)

4:00pm Bargain Box Committee Meeting (BB)

9:00am Precious Cargo Graduation Rehearsal (S)

6:00pm Barron Collier Baccalaurate (S) 6:30pm Full Council Meeting (N104)

MOTHER’S DAYMOTHER’S DAY 9:00am Worship Service (S) 10:00am Stephen Ministry Pastoral Care (P) 11:00am Worship Service (S) 12:00pm Stephen Ministry Pastoral Care (P)

10:00am Worship Service (S) 11:00am Stephen Ministry Pastoral Care (P)

What’s Happening This Month at Naples United Church of Christ

8 9 10 11

15 16 17 18

22 23 24 25

29 30 31



9:30amPerky Patchers (N103)12:00pmAl Anon Meeting(N207)5:00pmMary Naam/Steven Carr Wedding Rehearsal (S)

3:30pmMary Naam/Steven Carr Wedding

12:00pm Duplicate Bridge Group (MH) 1:00pm Stephen Ministry (N207) 7:00pm Sanctuary Choir Rehearsal (BH/S)

7:00pm Sanctuary Choir Rehearsal (BH/S)


9:30am Precious Cargo Chapel (S) 12:00pm Duplicate Bridge Group (MH) 6:00pm Yoga Lite and Meditation (BH)

8:30am NUCC Golf/Lunch (Quail West Country Club)

9:30am Precious Cargo Chapel (S) 6:00pm Yoga Lite and Meditation (BH)

9:30am Precious Cargo Chapel (S) 10:00am Men’s Coffee and Convo (N104) 10:00am Women’s Coffee and Convo (N101) 1:00pm Board of Missions Meeting (N101) 6:00pm Yoga Lite and Meditation (BH) 5:45pm Precious Cargo Staff Meeting (N207) 7:00pm PFLAG Meeting (N104)


7:00pm Sanctuary Choir Rehearsal (BH/S) 9:30am Precious Cargo Chapel (S) 6:00pm Yoga Lite and Meditation (BH)

9:30am Perky Patchers (N103) 12:00pm Al Anon Meeting (N207)




6:00pm Yoga Lite and Meditation (BH) 6:00pm Precious Cargo Graduation (S)

WORLD LABYRINTH DAY


Youth Christian Education

Take a look at our church facebook page, search for Naples United Church of Christ and like our page to find out about youth events.

Dear Friends,

I am writing this article on the eve of one of the largest undertakings our youth group has embarked upon for their fundraisers. As you read this, the Wednesday Night Live Dinner is just a memory, but God’s faithfulness in this ministry is ever present to me as each day passes. I am so thankful for all the people who worked so hard to make this event a success – from the WNL Committee in their helping us with the setup and the opportunity to actually “take charge” of this particular Wednesday, the parents who helped with the salad and some of the desserts, Bob Miller who brought an abundance of bread and assorted deserts, Carrabba’s Italian Grill who supplied the pasta, and all those who came to support us – thank you everyone!

Our youth group enjoyed an outing to the Greek Festival and a tour of St. Katherine’s Greek Orthodox Church.We also traveled up to Arcadia for the UCC Peace River Camping and Canoeing Trip. It was a wonderful opportunity to connect with 150 youth across the state and share laughs, break bread, and stay warm together.We plan on attending the next UCC youth retreat this October in Vero Beach, FL.

Our Junior Disciples enjoyed more enrichment classes from the Palette Pals and another communication class with Jessica Van Ord. We had thirty join us for our Family Movie Night from age three through high school!

Our main focus for the next 50 days will be on “Mission 4/1 Earth” as we engage one another to make a difference in our everyday lives to better the planet we live on. Teenagers and families have many opportunities to be faithful stewards of God’s creation and will be educated, challenged, and reminded of some of the ways we can achieve this goal.

Planning continues for our Mission/Synod Trip to California this summer. Words cannot express my sincere gratitude to all the individuals and committees who have supported us prayerfully, financially, and ever so willingly to make this become a reality.

Blessings to all,Nancy Van FleetCE Director

Mark your calendar!

April 13: Car wash, 9 – 11 a.m.

April 21: Children’s musical

April 27: Rake and Roll – community outreach service project

June 10 – June 14: Vacation Bible School

“What’s So Amazing about Polar Bears? Teaching Kids to Care for Creation”

by Randy Hammer

Our children will find out as they are taught to care for creation during Mission 4/1 Earth!

19 April/May 2013

19 April/May 2013


NUCC Book ClubCandy Nordland, Book Club CoordinatorExplore a new book each month alongside other book lovers. Each session is led by a different member of the group. We will review our 2012-13 book list, share our favorite summer reads, and gladly welcome any new members. All sessions start at 2:00 pm in Nelson Hall Rm 104. Book prices vary, no cost for meetings, all are welcome.

April 22: TBD

May 20: Bed and Breakfast by Lois Battle. Discussion led by Sharon Bennett.

Men’s Coffee and Conversation With Dr. Ron Patterson

Women’s Coffee and Conversation With the Rev. Bev Duncan

Thursday, April 18, 10-11:30 a.m. and Thursday, May 16, 10-11:30 a.m.Men meet: in Room 104, Nelson HallWomen meet: in Room 101, Nelson Hall

Men and women are invited to meet for coffee and conversation—the men with Dr. Patterson and the women with Rev. Duncan. Our conversations around topics of current interest are always lively and, of course, encouraged to be modulated around the intersection of fact, opinion, and the insights of the Christian faith. Join these popular groups and feed your mind! All are welcome! The April topic is “The Faith Response to Gun Violence” and the May topic is “Immigration Reform”.

Naples Philharmonic Orchestra TicketsThere are eight tickets for the Masters Series featuring Beethoven’s 5th Symphony for Saturday, May 4th, at 8:00pm. Tickets are $50.00 each. Call the church office for more information.

Adult Enrichment OpportunitiesYogaShannon Danford, Yoga InstructorYoga is the practice of stilling the body and quieting the mind in preparation for meditation. While it may sound foreign, meditation is the other half of prayer.

Cost: $8 per session or $5.00 per session for chair yoga

Dates: Yoga: Monday - 9:30 – 10:30 a.m.and Tuesday and Thursdays - 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.Chair Yoga: Tuesdays - 9:30 – 10:30 a.m.Gentle Yoga: Thursdays - 9:30 – 10:30 a.m.

Registration: not required, all are welcome

The Bible Alive!Rev. Bev Duncan, Interim Associate MinisterAre you one of those who has read the Bible from “cover to cover,” but aren’t quite sure what it was you were supposed to take away from that accomplishment aside from having done it? In this 8-week series you will learn some skills to use to unlock what God is trying to tell you when you read a passage but wrinkle up your nose and say “Huh?” God is always speaking to us, but we need to know how to hear what that is. The discussions are always lively and the “Aha!” moments frequent. We meet in Nelson Hall, Rm. 101. Come for all sessions or those you can. Registration not required; all are welcome! Bibles and other materials are provided.

Dates: Wednesdays - April 3, 10, 17, 24, 10-11:30.

Single SeniorsThe Single Seniors will meet after the second service on April 14thApril 14th and will have lunch at Skillets on Vanderbilt and 41. May 19thMay 19th we will meet at Kensington Country Club with Susie Burtch as our host. Please sign up during the coffee hour or call the church office to be put on the list.

21 April/May 2013

Middlers‘ Plus GroupWednesday, April 24th

Italian DinnerThe Club at Pelican Bay 707 Gulf Park Drive

$36 per person5:30 pm, Mingle Time6:00 pm, Italian Buffet

Dinner Includes:Italian special dishes w/chicken, pork, beef and fish, Italian or roasted veggies, pasta station with meats and sauces, pizza station, Italian specialty salad bar, bread, scrumptious dessert buffet, iced tea, coffee or hot tea. Drink tickets can be purchased during the social time for other types of beverages, cash bar.Deadline for reservations is noon on 4/15/13 as long as space is available. Call the church office for questions. Registration forms are available in the Middlers‘ Plus mailbox.

Golf Outings for NUCCThursday, May 9: at Quail West Host: Michael Hunt

Friday, June 14: at Audubon CCHosts: Ed Graf & Gary Fox

Thursday, July 11: at Country Club of NaplesHost: Bobbie Smith

Thursday, August 8: at Spanish WellsHost: Bob Morse

Tuesday, September 17: at Naples GrandeHosts: Ann & Alan Olson

Friday, October 25: at Bear’s PawHost: Chris Bramley

Please sign up at the coffee hour or call the church office, 261-5469. Payment is by credit card at the reciprocal prices. Rev. Luvvy and the hosts will make the foursomes.

Sixth Annual PFLAG Interfaith Convocation“ Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for people to dwell together in unity.”Psalm 133

Sunday, May 5, 2013, 3:00 pm, reception to follow.St. Monica’s Episcopal Church7070 Immokalee Road, NaplesStriving to cultivate unity in our community, and understand-ing and cooperation among groups and individuals of all religious and spiritual faiths, 17 houses of worship are participating in creating the 6th Annual PFLAG Interfaith Convocation. Through music and prayer, engaging our hearts and minds and spirits, our community will experience how good and appropriate it is to join together, not just by includ-ing, but also by celebrating, with the gay and lesbian members of our families. Harmony and unity in song will be heard as, a myriad of voices blend in melodies inspired by the psalmists words, “Behold how good and how pleasant it is when people dwell in unity.”

The Convocation will be a unique opportunity to foster a sense of acceptance and belonging for all people of faith and to pray together without discrimination, disenfranchisement, or stigma. The public is welcome. Further information available at PFLAGInterfaith.Com or www.PFLAGnaples.org or 239-206-3267

World Labyrinth DaySaturday, May 4, McSpadden HallWorld Labyrinth Day is celebrated the first Saturday in May every year. This is a day where we can all join in a global community of people all over the world walking labyrinths with the intention of helping our planet and all living creatures.

Focusing the healing energy even more is the suggestion to “Walk as One at 1”. People are encouraged to have the main labyrinth walk of the day at 1 pm in every time zone on the earth. This creates a wave of labyrinth walking around our planet as it turns in space. All are welcome, no registration required.


New Members ~ March 10, 2013In Absentia:

Cliff and Caroline Halliwell;

David and Connie Jordan

Alison Martin Michele MartinAnne Kemper Hass

April LectionaryOur music and worship resources each Sunday are based on the lectionary readings. The lectionary is a three-year cycle, which takes the reader through all the major themes in the Bible. Use these readings to prepare for Sunday and for your private devotions.

April 7(Second Sunday in Easter)

Acts 5:27-32Ps 118:14-29 or Ps 150

Rev 1:4-8John 20:19-31

April 14(Third Sunday in Easter)Acts 9:1-6, (7-20)

Ps 30Rev 5:11-14John 21:1-19

April 21(Fourth Sunday in Easter)

Acts 9:36-43 Ps 23

Rev 7:9-17John 10:22-30

April 28(Fifth Sunday in Easter)

Acts 11:1-18Ps 148

Rev 21:1-6John 13:31-35

May 5(Sixth Sunday in Easter)

Acts 16:9-15Ps 67

Rev 21:10, 22-22:5John 14:23-29 or

John 5:1-9

May 12(Seventh Sunday in Easter)

Acts 16:16-34Ps 97

Rev 22:12-14, 16-17, 20-21

John 17:20-26

May 19(Pentecost Sunday)Acts 2:1-21 or Gen 11:1-19

Ps 104:24-34, 35bRom 8:14-17 or Acts

2:1-21John 14:8-17, (25-27)

May 26(Trinity Sunday)

Prov 8:1-4, 22-31Ps 8

Rom 5:1-5John 16:12-15

Please see printed booklet

23 April/May 2013

Bargain Box News

The Shop for Charity Event

Pictured are (l-r) Children’s Advocacy Center

Development Director, Tina Streeter,

Naples UCC Rev. Beverly Duncan, and

Children’s Advocacy Center Medical Director,

Dr. Barbara Rumberger.

We were well rewarded with donations after the plea from the pulpit which allowed us to donate a very generous amountto the Children’s Advocacy Center. As long you keep the donations coming we can continue giving to those less fortunate than ourselves. The music provided by Peg Fasing was accompanied vocally by an appreciative shopper. Both musicians received nothing but applause!

This month Barbara Bergwell would like to share some of her insights with you...

What is it about the Bargain Box that makes it so rewarding

to work there, donate there, and shop there?

“It’s difficult to describe it to others if they have never witnessed any of the above. However, if one considers what this resale shop accomplishes within its walls and within this and other communities, it becomes easy to appreciate how our leader, Sandy Goldstein, and her 100+ volunteers cherish their fun, camaraderie, and sense of giving back.

“Many probably don’t realize the large percentage of the church’s mission budget is fulfilled because of the Bargain Box. Imagine the impact your donations have in so many different ways. And when those special items come in, they are researched to determine a fair and adequate price level. What a win-win situation the Bargain Box is when volunteers have such fun, laughs and a wonderful feeling that they are helping others to enjoy. The realization that helping others is indeed what the Naples United Church of Christ is all about. Why not get that uplifting experience of sharing things you have but no longer need? Certainly there is someone out there that needs or wants what you no longer care about. Meanwhile you have helped the person who buys it, and someone else who benefits from the funds that item provided.”

“Bargain Box is probably a misnomer. Sure there are bargains there, but there are also treasures for someone else. And it certainly isn’t a ‘Box’. Instead it is 7,300 square feet of store with a huge selection of items in many different categories. Leadership starts at the top, and NUCC is blessed to have a manager in Sandy who has so much drive and ambition for the success of the shop, and determination to make our days working there a pleasant experience. Come join us. Volunteer, donate, buy or just browse your way through our church’s contribution to the betterment of Naples and other parts of the world as well. You’ll be glad you did.” ~ Barbara Bergwell

~ Sandy, Bargain Box Manager239-262-3802153 10th St SNaples, FL 34102


Book Recommendations~ Don Snyder

“Credo”by William Sloane Coffin

This collection of inspiring credos by the author melds Christian spirit with social justice. His credentials are impressive—he served as chaplain of Yale University and Williams College, and he was the inspiration for the character Rev. Sloan in the Doonesbury comic strip. He was also a lifelong social crusader and peace activist.

This is a book that is full of quotables. For the Christian, this is the book you’ll want to take on your next spiritual retreat, political protest, or any situation where Christians gather to create social change.

“The Rise and Fall of the Bible:The Unexpected History of an Accidental Book”by Noel Yeatts

The Rise and Fall of the Bible is the author’s attempt to shatter the popular understanding of the Bible as a combination of divine instruction manual and self-help book. As soon as you open it and start reading, it

becomes apparent that the Bible is no such thing. It does not offer answers to problems, especially not to twenty-first-century problems. The author, however, does not want to convince Christians to stop reading it. Instead he wants them to read the Bible with more tolerance for ambiguity, recognizing that the text cries out for interpretation.

“The Art of Growing Old:Aging With Grace”by Marie deHennezel

All religions suggest that the more aware we become of the fragility of life and of our limited time on earth, the more we honor life. Becoming aware of this reality heightens our awareness of the precious nature of life and of

what’s essential. The author offers a fresh perspective on the art of growing old. She shows why we should look forward to embracing everything aging has to offer in terms of human and spiritual enrichment. The book is a thought-provoking, and uplifting meditation on the later years as they should be lived.

what’s essential T

DVD Recommendations“Connections Live 2012”A superb series of 4 presentations by The Rev. Robin Meyers, each about an hour in length, each separate.The presentations are:1. Galilean Sage or Supernatural Savior?

How I Became a Heretic with Help from Jesus2. The Underground Church;

Reclaiming the Subversive Way of Jesus3. Being Subversive for the Cause of Love;

What Would It Look Like?4. Presentations by lay panelists—Doris Akers,

Joan Byerhof, Jim and Ruth Klein This DVD is in our church library

Income for the first two months of the new year amounted to $434,567 while expenses totaled $223,838, a good start for 2013. It is important to build up a surplus during the first few months in order to get through the summer when income drops. It is encouraging to see the enthusiasm permeating throughout the church family at this busy time of year.

Precious Cargo Academy is showing a strong first two months with an operating gain of $27,058, in line with the same period last year.

The Bargain Box has donated $80,000 to Missions already this year as they continue to do well at their new location.

~ David Hocking, Treasurer

Financial Outlook

25 April/May 2013

Endowment Committee

Wonderful news on our Campaign!

We are 29 months into our 60-month five-year estate-focused “Preserving Our Future” endowment campaign, with a goal of having $10,000,000 committed by November 2015.

We have some wonderful news to share with the congregation. With gifts and commitments made through March 11, 2013 of $5,028, 500 – we have now crossed the halfway point.

Our endowment-fund donors now number 103. This is now enough to fill about 12 full pews or 6 or 7 times as many as when we began our campaign 29 months ago!

Endowment campaign donors who wish to do so become members of the Steeple Fellowship and are listed each year in the church’s Annual Report. You might see them in church wearing a small recognition lapel pin. If you do, please take a moment to thank them for helping our church reach this important halfway milestone.

A heartfelt thank you to our donors

It is thanks to them that we have reached this important milestone.

Here are a few high-level facts about the $5,028,500 of endowment campaign gifts,

• 88% ($4.4 million) will be coming in estate gifts,

• 12% ($600 K) has already been received and invested. This means the “income” on those gifts (about $30 K per year) can be put to work now.

• About 60% ($3.0 million) is coming “Unrestricted.”

• The remaining 40% has been directed to areas of importance to you our donors, such as; Outreach, Music, Precious Cargo, Memorial Garden Upkeep,and directed scholarships.

Reflections at the halfway point and our hope for the future

From our earlier life experiences, some of us may have supported professionally run campaigns, with skilled development and administrative staff support where

the campaign goals and results may have been achieved sooner or better. Given the fact that we have reached this milestone with an all-volunteer and unstaffed effort, we can indeed be pleased with where we are. However, we recognize that there is still quite a bit of work ahead before we reach our $10 M goal.

We are all blessed because ours is a wonderful church where members and friends pitch in and help. We are available to talk with any of you who are considering making your own gift.

A further thank-you to our Endowment Committee members

Reaching this milestone would not be possible without the help of our loyal and hard-working committee members. We are listing them below (both present and past members) so you can thank them for their precious gifts of time and wisdom.

Present Committee Members

Investment SubcommitteeFred Berlet, Chris Bramley (Treasurer), Chuck Clark, Ted Sanderson, Charlie Sellman, David Stevenson, JoAnn Van Degriff, Gordon Watson (Chair).

Grant CommitteeJane Gaillard, Ed Monroe, David Stevenson (Chair), Brenda Tate.

At Large – Advisory CommitteeJim Lozelle, Sam McCullough, David Stevenson (Chair).

Past Committee MembersAl Olson, Roberta Patton, Marilyn Sherwood, Rev. Gordon Svoboda, Gail Thomson, Dr. Norman Thomson, Milt Tiede, Dan Weiss

Ex OfficioRev. Dr. Ronald Patterson, Senior Minister

~ For the Endowment Committee,David Stevenson, Chair

Preserving Our FutureOur Thank-You Letter



Birthdays and AnniversariesApril Birthdays

Please see printed bookletApril Anniversaries

In Service to Our Country:Please see printed booklet

27 April/May 2013


Birthdays and AnniversariesMay Birthdays


May Anniversaries

Our CondolencesPlease see printed booklet

Naples United Church of Christ5200 Crayton RoadNaples, FL 34103

(239) 261-5469 O Fax: (239) 261-2475

www.naplesucc.org O email: [email protected]

Non-Profi tOrganizationU.S. Postage

PAIDNaples

FLA 34103Permit #15

Place Label Here

God is stillspeaking,

Please Note:Please send address updates to the church office.

The next issue will be a double issue for June and July.

June and July’s issue Submission Deadline: May 14th

Don’t Forget! Go Green! Go Paperless!

Take Steeplelights with you!You can now have Steeplelights sent to your email. Contact the church office(239) 261-5469 if you would like to receive Steeplelights electronicallyinstead of through the mail.

Documents

NUCC April/May 2013 Steeplelights