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NEW CHURCH OFFICE HOURS

Thursdays and Fridays
11:00 AM to 3:00 PM

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*Sunday Service of Worship
is at 10:30am

Preschool and Sunday School
are offered for all children.

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Tuesday Fellowship Meetings
on Zoom

Our Tuesday Fellowship Group has suspended
meetings indefinitely.
Many thanks to those who participated, and a
special thanks to Ron Lievendag for coming up with
this idea.

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REGULARLY SCHEDULED WEEKLY MEETINGS:

YOUTH GROUP  - To Be determined – contact The Fellowship Director – Debbie Eitel for more information and youth group events.

REGULARLY SCHEDULED MONTHLY MEETINGS:

Deacons - 12:00 PM—First Sunday
each Month

Committees
7:30 PM - Finance - Second Tuesday each Month.

The other committees meet at different times and different days depending on their needs-no set time or day. 

Session - 12:00 PM—Third Sunday
each Month

Prayer Shawl Ministry– 7:30 PM
Second & Fourth Wednesday

Women’s Circle Meetings

Grace Circle - Fourth Tuesday of each month - 2:00 PM
 
Joy Circle - Second Thursday of
each month
1:00 PM - Parlor

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Men’s Bible Study Group

A men's Bible study group is meeting every Thursday evening at 7 PM.   During this time we will discuss Bible passages as well as current issues that concern men.  Everyone is welcome and feel free to bring friends to share in our discussions.

Bible Study 

We are proud to offer bible study twice weekly, where all are welcomed
to learn more about the Bible:
• Pastor's Lectienary Bible Study-Wednesdays at 2:00 p.m. in the
Pastor's Study
• Friday Morning Bible Study- at 10:30 a.m. in the Parlor 

During this time we discuss passages in the Bible, magazine articles, devotionals, and DVDs and share our thoughts about what the article means to us.  We welcome everyone whether you are a member or a guest of the church.

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 Thinking of joining Boy Scouts? Tired of being bored with nothing to do? Would you like to be having fun with a group of your friends? We can make that happen!

Greenlawn/Centerport Pack 877 is inviting your son to join Cub Scouting. In Cub
Scouts, your son will have lots of fun, learn new things and make new friends. But
Cub Scouts is much more than that; it is Jun with a purpose.
Scouting is a family-oriented organization.
Scouting develops character, leadership, communications skills and good
citizenship.
Any boy in grades 1 through 5 can be a Cub Scout!

If you'd like to learn more about Cub Scouts, please contact:
Rob Butler
Pack 877 Cubmaster
(516) 359-8116
Rbutler1@optonline.net

Scott Cohen
Pack 877 Committee Chair
(516) 987-7878
sdsuser@yahoo.com

CELL PHONES FOR SOLDIERS

Since starting Cell Phones for Soldiers  
in 2004, teens Brittany and
Robbie Bergquist
have raised millions of dollars to help our heroes call home.
Proceeds from donated cell phones are used to purchase prepaid calling cards
for American soldiers. Please donate
your newer cell Phones, BlackBerries, iPhones & iPods and join the millions of Americans who have already answered the call to:
“ Help Our Heroes Call Home.”
(CellPhones For Soldiers.com)

A box for your donations can be found
in the Narthex.
With thanks the Missions Committee.

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From Our Fellowship Director:

As Fellowship Director I will be starting a new “Ride Share” program
  If you would like to be on this list to get a ride to a specific church event \Please let me know
Also ~ if you are willing to “GIVE” a ride to someone on the “Ride Share” list Please let me know as well
We will be trying to pair up people based on
your location/home address
For more info – Please contact me, 
Debbie Eitel, by leaving a message at the church office.

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 Recovery Zone

The First Presbyterian Church of Greenlawn is a recovery zone for those in and outside the church who are seeking healing.  If you, or anyone you know, would be benefited by a meeting of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Narcotics Anonymous (NA), Al-Anon, or Nar-Anon, please contact the church office, or 12-Step websites,
for meeting times.

  One way to start such a conversation
is to ask:

• Who goes to 12-Step meetings and in what condition?
• What happens when they get there?
• What is sponsorship and why is it so important?

(1) Twelve-Step members go to meetings because they’re a necessity; their very lives depend on them.  Most 12-Steppers attend meetings not because they want to, but because they realize they must.   They need the meetings, the steps, the program and the fellowship for their very survival.
Wouldn’t our church community be stronger if our members had a better sense of how our very lives depend on our continuing participation in Christian faith practices and traditions?   Wouldn’t our commitment levels deepen if we saw ourselves drawn to or compelled by a larger reality than our passing likes and preferences?  Wouldn’t our discipleship become more faithful if we engaged in Christian disciplines out of some inner sense of necessity?
Twelve Step members have a clear sense of what they need saving from (addictive processes), and what they are being saved for (abstinence, sobriety and service).
Wouldn’t our church community be stronger if its members had a better sense of what they are being saved from and for?  Wouldn’t our witness be more effective if every one of us could state in a few words what it is that is we still need saving from and what it is that is saving our lives right now?
Twelve Step members have been sufficiently humbled by the mess they have made of their lives that they don’t see much point in putting on a show anymore that everything’s fine
when it’s not.  
Wouldn’t our church community be stronger if its members achieved a similar honesty regarding the actual condition of their lives rather than how they come across to others?  Wouldn’t the church attract a wider audience if it were recognized as the site where costly truth was regularly spoken?
(2) At their meetings, Twelve-Step members talk not so much about their feelings about things, but about their experience, strength and hope.   They share stories about what they were like, how they are now, and what happened that changed everything around for them.
Wouldn’t our church community be stronger if our own words, before, during and after worship had that same shape and character?
(3) Twelve Step members are encouraged to get sponsors and, when they are ready, to sponsor others; they learn that their helping others who are sick and suffering helps their own sobriety and abstinence.  
Wouldn’t our church community be strengthened if members engaged in more intentional mentoring practices, remembering, of course, that Christ did not come to create spiritual hierarchies among us, but to form inclusive communities characterized by love, service and mutual forbearance?
Diana Butler Bass recently suggested (“The Future of Faith”) that those of us who care about our churches’ survival may need to hear what is being said on the street about conventional religiosity and church life, and to make some appropriate changes. She dared to suggest that “Right now, the church does not need to convert the world.  Rather, the world needs to convert the church.”
Perhaps our 12-Step guests who make use of our buildings for meetings, and who may or may not join us for worship (after all, anonymity is a central 12-Step tradition!), can help our church in its own conversion.  Maybe they can help us to celebrate our distinctive sacrament of defeat, and to discover again at the Cross a Power for life that becomes available only in utter surrender, “not my will,
but thine.”

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Stewardship

 A Message from the Stewardship Committee

We choose to join churches because we are inescapably drawn to our Creator. We want to learn, understand, and share the love of God. If you've chosen the First Presbyterian Church of Greenlawn, you're part of Christ's body in this place.
As Martin Luther said, "Anyone who is to find Christ must first find the church. How could anyone know where Christ is and what faith in him is unless he knew where his believers are?"
When you receive your Stewardship letter this year, please consider pledging your financial support, but also think about what action you'd like to take in gratitude for the love God has for you.

Thoughts on Stewardship
“As followers of Jesus today, we cannot keep our money and our faith in separate compartments. By putting our money where our faith is, we tell the world what we really believe.”
(Eva Stimson, editor of Presbyterians Today).…
People give money not because the church has needs but because the church meets needs.

Send Somebody

  There was once a little church that had only four members named Everybody, Somebody, Anybody and Nobody.  
One day there was a really important job to be done in that little church and Everybody was sure that Somebody would do it.  Anybody could have done it, but Nobody did it.  Somebody got angry about that, because it was Everybody’s job.  Everybody thought Anybody could do it, but Nobody realized that Everybody wouldn’t do it.  It ended up that Everybody blamed Somebody when Nobody did what Anybody could have done.

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 This is Your Church
As Christians, we are called to serve God by serving others. Here at Greenlawn, many members respond to that call by
volunteering their time and talents in one or more of the activities that support our church and community.  Volunteers care for our church and facilities, participate in our worship and music services, nurture each other in times of need, and reach out to lend a helping hand in communities
near and far. 

Ask yourself :
“How is God calling Me to His Service?”

VOLUNTEERING

Here is what some mighty fine people have said about VOLUNTEERING. 
They can’t all be wrong.

“Everyone can be great because everyone can serve. You don’t have to have a college degree to serve. You don’t even have to make your subject and verb agree to serve . . .you only need a heart full of grace.” 
~Martin Luther King, Jr.

Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth.  
1John 3:18

Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms.  1Peter 4:10

Volunteers are not paid -- not because they are worthless, but because they are priceless. ~Anon

If you want to lift yourself up, lift up someone else. ~ Booker T. Washington   

The best way to find yourself, is to lose yourself in the service of others. ~Ghandi  

“I don’t know what your destiny will be, but one thing I know: the only ones among you who will be really happy are those who have sought and found how to serve.” ~Albert Schweitzer

“The best way to cheer yourself up is to try to cheer somebody else up.” ~Mark Twain

“Act as if what you do makes a difference. It does.” ~William James

“I am only one, but I am one. I cannot do everything, but I can do something. And I will not let what I cannot do interfere with what I can do.” ~Edward Everett Hale

“Not only must we be good, but we must also be good for something.” ~Henry David Thoreau

Volunteering is not a choice, it's a responsibility.   ~Anon

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Steeple Chimes Deadline

Is the third Monday of each month.  
Our Administrative Assistant is always looking for poems, articles,
stories of faith, and up-coming events
to share with all of you through your newsletter.

Items for Steeple Chimes can be left in the
Steeple Chimes mailbox or
emailed to the church office at
fpcgoffice@gmail.com

Thank you for contributing to YOUR church newsletter.

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Click Here to read about our
Church's History  

The First Presbyterian Church of Greenlawn

On August 30, 1872 The First Presbyterian Church of Greenlawn was incorporated.  The original, “little white church,” was dedicated in November 1878 and served the community until 1960; when it was torn down to make way for the current sanctuary.  Ground was broken for the new church in November 1960, the cornerstone ceremony was held in May 1961, and the dedication service was held on December 2, 1962.
We would like to recognize and thank the following members of the church who have faithfully served our church and the Lord for 50 years and longer.  
(Call the church office if you would like to celebrate with and for them).

Have You Named the First Presbyterian
Church of Greenlawn in Your Will?
Click here to view article

Where There’s A Will There’s A Way

Although the idea of inheriting the kingdom of God comes up only a few times in the letters of Paul (1 Cor 6:9-10, 15:50; Gal 5:21), it was his way of describing the future that is in store for those who are in Christ.  In Paul’s theology, “inheriting the kingdom of God” refers to our final heavenly existence when believers inherit the heavenly likeness of Christ himself,
when the Son hands over the kingdom to the Father, and God is
“all in all” (1 Cor. 15:24-25).
One of the things we do when we gather for worship is read God’s will so that all God’s children may know what their inheritance is.  In our time, as in Paul’s, there are lots of folk who don’t expect to hear their names read out loud, and so they never show up for the reading.  As Christ’s evangelists, we share with all God’s children God’s invitation to come, hear and celebrate as all of our names
are called. 

We will make that invitation to our family, friends, and neighbors because we know firsthand how wonderful it is to hear our own names on the lips of our Lord. We will make that invitation because we know the energy and purpose that is ours when we hear the words, “Dear child of God, this is yours.  Now go do something with it to bring blessing to my broken world.”    We will make that invitation because we know that when there’s a will there’s a way.

Have You Named the First Presbyterian Church
of Greenlawn in Your Will?

A properly executed will permits you to accomplish goals even after your passing.  One of those goals may be to create a legacy for the First Presbyterian Church of Greenlawn. 
A bequest in your will might be a specified amount, a percentage of your estate, or a residual amount (after expenses and other bequests have been deducted).
Speak with your attorney about how best to include the First Presbyterian Church of Greenlawn in your will given your special circumstances.  Although your attorney can assist you with specific language, here is some typical language that might help you get the conversation started with your attorney.
General Bequest.   A general bequest is among the most popular ways to make a planned gift.  In a general bequest, you leave a specified dollar amount: “I give _________ (insert dollar amount) to the First Presbyterian Church of Greenlawn, 497 Pulaski Rd, Greenlawn, NY 11740 as an unrestricted gift.”
Percentage of Estate: You can also designate some portion or percentage of your estate: “I give______ % (insert specific percentage) of my estate to the First Presbyterian Church of Greenlawn, 497 Pulaski Rd., Greenlawn, NY 11740, after all debts, taxes, expenses, and all other bequests have been paid as an
unrestricted gift.” 
Residuary Bequest.  You can also designate what some describe as a residuary bequest: “I give the remainder of the property I own at death to the First Presbyterian Church of Greenlawn, 497 Pulaski Rd, Greenlawn, NY 11740, after all debts, taxes, expenses and all other bequests
have been paid as an unrestricted gift.”
The First Presbyterian Church of Greenlawn has a proud heritage, and your gifts and bequests can assure its continuance into the future.  Thank you for keeping the promise of that future in your prayers.

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Little Free Food Pantry

Our Board of Deacons has voted to install a
Little Free Food Pantry in the front of our church. 
     Very similar to the Little Free Libraries that are so popular, Little Free Food Pantries are a national trend.  The idea is that those who are in need may take
what they need any hour of the day or night, and those who are able to give may place food in the pantry
at any time. 
     By building and installing a Little Free Food Pantry, we will be able to increase our outreach to the community.  We will do this on a trial basis, with hopes that the idea will not be abused. 

Take what you need.
Leave what you can.

Our Little Food Pantry is open 24/7.
It is located in the front garden of the church. 

New Clothing Bin
     The FPCG Session has voted to contract with a new clothing recycling and outreach company.  Very soon, you will see two new and aesthetically pleasing clothing recycling bins set up in our back parking lot.
     The company is called H&M Leasing, and has been vetted and approved by The Presbytery of Long Island.  They will accept used clothing, shoes, toys, and bric-a-brac items (kitchenware, etc.).  The goods are sold to Third World nations where people cannot afford to purchase even inferior new clothing.  This will give people the opportunity to purchase good, clean, usable items at extremely low prices.
     Our church will receive 10 cents a pound for
any items donated, and checks will be sent to
us once a week.
     As you are changing your closets from summer to winter clothing, please put aside any items you don’t need any more.  We will let you know as soon as the new clothing bins are ready.
     Many thanks to Betty Chatfield for working
on this project. 

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An Additional Scripture Reading
     Betty Chatfield submitted this scripture reading which, unfortunately, did not fit on the Prayer Corner page.

Since this is the kind of life we have chosen,
the life of the Spirit, let us make sure that we do not just hold it as an idea in our heads
or a sentiment in our hearts, but work out its implications in every detail of our lives.  
That means we will not compare ourselves with each other as if one of us were better and another worse.  We have far more interesting things
to do with our lives.  Each of us is an original. 
~Galatians 5:22-26 Message Bible

Two Poems
     Leonora Colletti submitted the following two poems, which are related to one another.  The first one is very famous; the second one is a take-off on the first.

FOOTPRINTS IN THE SAND
Author: Carolyn Joyce Carty

One night a man had a dream.  He dreamed he was walking along the beach with the LORD.

Across the sky flashed scenes from his life.  For each scene he noticed two sets of footprints in the sand: one belonging to him, and the other to the LORD.

When the last scene of his life flashed before him, he looked back at the footprints in the sand.
He noticed that many times along the path of his life there was only one set of footprints.
He also noticed that it happened at the very lowest and saddest times in his life.

This really bothered him and he questioned the LORD about it:  "LORD, you said that once I decided to follow you, you'd walk with me all the way.  But I have noticed that during the most troublesome times in my life, there is only one set of footprints. I don't understand why when I needed you most you would leave me."

The LORD replied: "My son, my precious child, I love you and I would never leave you.  During your times of trial and suffering, when you see only one set of footprints, it was then that I carried you."

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BUTT PRINTS IN THE SAND
Author: Unknown

One night I had a wondrous dream,
One set of footprints there was seen,
The footprints of my precious Lord,
But mine were not along the shore.

But then some stranger prints appeared,
And I asked the Lord, "What have we here?"
Those prints are large and round and neat,
"But Lord they are too big for feet."

"My child," He said in somber tones,
"For miles I carried you alone.
I challenged you to walk in faith,
But you refused and made me wait."

"You disobeyed, you would not grow,
The walk of faith, you would not know.
So I got tired, I got fed up,
and there I dropped you on your butt."

"Because in life, there comes a time,
when one must fight, and one must climb.
When one must rise and take a stand,
or leave their butt prints in the sand."

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Missions Committee Spotlight:
Christian Appalachian Project
     The Missions Committee is focusing on five charities this year, in addition to our four Presbyterian offerings.  Two are local charities (Huntington Hands Rescue Mission and Harry Chapin’s Long Island Cares); one is a local youth project (Long Island Youth Mentoring); one is a national charity (Christian Appalachian Project); and one is international (Mercy Ships).
     This article focuses on our national charity: Christian Appalachian Project.
     For over 50 years, Christian Appalachian project (CAP) has served the people of Appalachia by building hope, transforming lives, and sharing Christ’s love.
     Their work started when Rev. Ralph Beiting, a Catholic Priest from northern Kentucky, was assigned to pastor a large portion of east-central Kentucky.  Through his outreach, he witnessed tremendous poverty in Appalachia.  He saw children weak from hunger, families beaten down by hardship, seniors living in fear and isolation, and communities desperate for hope.
     With the help of family and friends, he provided food, clothing, and other essentials to neighbors in need.  What started small quickly grew, and Christian Appalachian Project
was founded in 1964.
     Through donor support, dedicated volunteers, and a selfless staff, CAP now touches the lives of more than one million people each year.  By working with other local food banks and humanitarian service providers, their reach extends to parts of all 13 states in the Appalachian region, including Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, Maryland, Mississippi, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia.
     Each life that is lifted up reflects Christ’s love and the generous spirit of their supporters.  More information is available on www.christianapp.org . 

February 5:  We began to unpack The Sermon on the Mount with a sermon called “Salt and Light.”  The Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper was celebrated.
     February 12:  We continued to unpack The Sermon on the Mount.
     February 19:  Transfiguration Sunday.  A pivotal moment where human nature meets God, with Jesus himself acting as the bridge between Heaven and Earth.  After worship, we had a special coffee hour celebrating love.
     Wednesday, February 22:  Our Ash Wednesday Communion Service was incorporated into our first Lenten Soup Supper of the year at 6:00 p.m.
February 26:  In a sermon called “Self Interest, Trust, and Loyalty,” we explored the temptations of Jesus in the wilderness

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     March 5: The 2nd Sunday in Lent.  “God So Loved the World.  We explored one of the most famous of all New Testament passages – John 3:16.  The Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper was celebrated.
     March 12: The 3rd Sunday in Lent.  Minister Glenn Rubin’s sermon is titled: “Come and See a Man Who Told Me Everything I’ve Ever Done.”
     March 19: The 4th Sunday in Lent.  Can people who are logical thinkers manage to follow Jesus?  You’ll find out in the sermon, “A Logical Choice.”
     March 26: The 5th Sunday in Lent.  We are given a hint of the concept of the Resurrection when Jesus brings his friend, Lazarus back from the dead.  The sermon is called, “Raised from the Dead.”

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   Lenten Soup Suppers
     Two more Lenten Soup Suppers are scheduled this season: March 15 and 29.
     We have already had three very successful soup suppers with a variety of soups, bread, chili, and dessert offered.  An average of 25 people each week have been enjoying food, fellowship,
and a short Service.
     On March 8, we were treated to a performance by The SpiritLifters (pictured above), who sang some favorite hymns and other religious songs.  They will sing again at our March 29 Soup Supper. 
     Mark your calendar for these special Lenten events.

Maundy Thursday Service
     We have been invited to attend the Maundy Thursday Service at The Presbyterian Church of Sweet Hollow (95 Old Country Road, Melville, NY) on Thursday, April 7, at 7:00 p.m.  Rev. Wade Pond will lead the Service.

Good Friday Service
     In order to accommodate our many seniors who don’t care to drive at night, our Good Friday Service will take place in our Sanctuary on Friday, April 7, at 3:00 p.m.  The Service is tentatively titled “The Seven Last Words of Christ,” and will last 30 – 40 minutes.  Rev. Dr. Ann Van Cleef will lead the Service.

Easter Flowers
     Once again, we have the opportunity to dedicate Easter flowers in honor of or in memory of loved ones.  The flowers are $12 each, and the choices are: tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, and Easter lilies.  You may send your check to the church office (497 Pulaski Road, Greenlawn, NY  11740).  Please include a note telling us your name, what flowers you want, and to whom they are dedicated.  Checks may be made out to FPC Greenlawn. 
Thank you.

Palm Sunday
     On Palm Sunday, April 2, we will celebrate Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem.  Our Service is at 10:30 a.m.  Please join us.

Easter Sunday

Newsies” at Harborfields High School
     Harborfields High School has extended an invitation for all Seniors in the area to attend a free performance of their spring musical, Newsies, inspired by the Newsboy’s strike of 1899 in New York City.
     The performance takes place on Wednesday, March 22.  Dessert and coffee will be served at 5:00 p.m., and the musical itself begins at 6:00.  If you are interested in attending, we have two tickets left – please see Pastor Ann if you are interested.
     There will not be a Soup Supper that night.   

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Bell Choir
     Good news!  After an absence of many years, we’re going to start up our Bell Choir again, with Marian Adams leading us. 
    The ability to read music is very helpful; please speak to Marian during Coffee Hour if you are interested in joining.  Rehearsals will take place in the daytime during the week, and will be starting soon. 

Got Junk?
     Do you have things kicking around your garage/basement/attic/closets, but not enough for a full-blown yard sale?  We are already preparing for our September Church Fair.  You may bring your contributions to church at any time and place them on the desk in room #3 downstairs.

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Pastoral Visits   

     If you are admitted to a hospital, please have someone contact the Church Office, or, Pastor Ann directly, so she may visit you.  Because of privacy issues, hospitals will not notify us if you
have been admitted.
     Our Pastor makes regular visits to church members in nursing homes.  Again, if you are admitted to a nursing home, please contact us.
     Homebound church members are invited to make an appointment for a pastoral visit and/or Communion.  Please e-mail Pastor Ann at pastorannsutton@yahoo.com to set up a mutually agreeable time.

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NEW “Blest & Co. Thrift Shop” 
Located inside the Greenlawn church lower level of the CE Hall 
It has its own unique entrance!  The store is located in the double classroom downstairs.  You may park your car on the east side of the church and enter via the door there

The hours are;  Thurs  11 - 3, Fri. 11  - 3  Sat. 11  - 5 

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On Saturday, May 20, we will be holding a Health Fair in our CE Hall from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. We have several health-related participants already signed up to staff tables: Huntington Hospital, Northport VA Medical Center, Alzheimers Association, Senior Helpers, Paul Goldhirsch (Long-term Care Insurance), Suffolk County Visiting Nurse Service, and the list keeps growing!
     There will be coffee, snacks, and door prizes.  Our CE Hall has a chair lift, and, as you know, there is plenty of parking.
     Please help us to spread the word.

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     The Vision and Outreach Team is exploring the idea of running a one-week Vacation Bible Camp this summer.  The first thing we need to know is – do we have enough volunteers to make this dream a reality?  Please speak to Bill Becker during coffee hour if you are interested in this project.

Surveys
     As we envision the future of our church, the Vision and Outreach Team would like to have your input.  Surveys about what we do well and what we could be doing better have been distributed with our Sunday bulletins, and will soon be mailed to members of our church.  Please fill out your survey and return it to the church; your input is needed.

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Opinion Piece
By Bill Becker

     Just briefly looking at Facebook. I am so disgusted by the negativity toward Christianity.
    From the narratives, one can’t help but think that much of it comes from the perception of the church.
     What so many see is the Joel Osteens of the world, preaching from the pulpit of their megachurches, raking in millions, and living like millionaires.
     The greatest percentage of churches are barely hanging on by their fingernails. Their pastors are primarily underpaid. And still, these churches serve their communities with food pantries and other community services.
     This is why I am so passionate about things like the Health Fair, Vacation Bible Camp, etc. It is SO important to portray the true face of Christianity. We are commanded by Christ to be the servants of the people. The people are not to be the church.
     I don’t want to sound preachy, and I know I’m preaching to the choir. But our mission as a vision/outreach team is to imagine ways to present a positive image of the church.
     I feel so blessed to be a part of a team so dedicated to this goal.
Your Brother in Christ,
Bill

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Welcome Table
     Have you noticed our new Welcome Table near the south entrance
to the church? 
     It is our goal to be intentional in giving a warm welcome to visitors to our church.  They will be given a “goodie bag” and will be encouraged to leave their contact information so we may thank them for attending.
     All that is missing is a smiling face from our church to greet these people.  We are asking church folks to volunteer to staff this table on a monthly basis.  There will be a sign-up sheet on the welcome Table. 
Please help!

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     On Saturday, February 25, our church held an indoor yard sale. 
Ten families participated, and many people from the community attended.  We made around $700, and the participating families did well. 
Our next Indoor Yard Sale is April 22nd 

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Pickleball
     Have you jumped on the pickleball bandwagon yet?
     “What is pickleball?”  you may ask.  It’s a game resembling tennis, where players use paddles to hit a perforated plastic ball over a net.  It has been played in the Pacific Northwest for decades, and is now gaining popularity all over the country.
     Our friends at The Presbyterian Church of Sweet Hollow have turned their Social Hall into a pickleball court, and are renting it to players for $30 an hour as a means of raising funds for the church.  It’s a private indoor court with easy access and restrooms available.  If you know of anyone who is interested, they may call (631) 367-9249 to reserve a time. 

Reminders for the telephone scams!

• If someone calls and says “Hi, Grandma,” don’t address him by name.  It’s a scammer asking for money.
• Your Pastor will NEVER ask you for money or gift cards!
• If someone calls and asks, “Can you hear me?”  Never say “yes.”  Hang up.
• Social Security and Medicare will never call you.  They will send you a letter.
• If “Amazon” calls to ask if you have charged something to your account, just go on line and check your account yourself.   

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Peace Pole Planted at FPCG
 Honoring 150th Anniversary

   Peace Pole Dedicated
     Our new Peace Pole, a 150th Anniversary gift from Pastor Ann and Bob Van Cleef, was dedicated as part of our Anniversary celebration on Sunday, October 23.  Our Peace Pole declares “May Peace Prevail on earth” in eight different languages:

• English – the language of the United States as well as the language of England, the country that gave birth to us.
• Spanish – the language of Central and much of South America, and the language of many who are living in our area today.
• Hebrew – one of the languages of the Bible, and the language of Judaism, one of the three Abrahamic faiths.
• Greek – one of the languages of the Bible, and the language of many of our neighbors in Huntington Town.
• German – the language of science and learning, and the ancestral language of many of Greenlawn’s citizens.
• Korean – The language of 650 Korean Presbyterian churches in the United States today, the result of the mission outreach of the Presbyterian Church on the Korean Peninsula.
• Italian – the language music and culture, and the ancestral language of many of the citizens of our area.
• French – spoken on five continents, and the international language of diplomacy and dance. 

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Clothing Bin
     Did you know that our church gets paid 10 cents a pound for items that are put into the clothing bin next to our back parking lot?  We receive a check once a week, sometimes for as little as $1.50, and sometimes for as much as $8.00.  Every little bit adds up!
     Additionally, bric-a-brac and kitchen items may be left next to the bin for pickup. Donated items are sent to developing countries, so this is a win-win for everyone involved.

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THE DIFFERENCE
~Anon

I got up early one morning
and rushed right into the day;
I had so much to accomplish
that I didn’t have time to pray.
Problems just tumbled about me,
and heavier came each task.
“Why doesn’t God help me?” I wondered. 
He answered, “You didn’t ask.”

I wanted to see joy and beauty,
but the day toiled on gray and bleak;
I wondered why God didn’t show me;
 He said, “But you didn’t seek.”
I tried to come into God’s presence;
I used all my keys at the lock;
God gently and lovingly chided,
 “My child, you didn’t knock.”

I woke up early this morning,
and paused before entering the day;
I had so much to accomplish
that I had to take time to pray.
                                 

PRAYER
~From an old English Inn
Give us, Lord, a bit o’sun,
a bit o’ work, and a bit o’ fun;
Give us all in the struggle and splutter,
our daily bread and a bit o’ butter.

Give us, Lord, a chance to be our goodly best, brave, wise, and free,
Our goodly best for ourselves and others,
till all men learn to live as brothers.

MIRACLE
~Phillips Brooks

Do not pray for easy lives;
pray to be stronger men.
Do not pray for tasks equal to your powers,
pray for powers equal to your tasks.
Then the doing of your  work shall be no miracle, but you shall be a miracle.
Every day you shall wonder at yourself,
at the richness of life which has come to you
by the grace of God.

This is an impressive poem that was later set to music, written by Howard Walter while in his early twenties.   You’ll notice the subtle difference in the last line.  While secular society uses the phrase:  Laugh ~ Love ~ Live.   Mr. Walter captured the spirit that we as Christians try to use:  Laugh ~  and Love ~ and Lift…as we try to be encouragers and lift up one another. 

MY CREED
~Howard Arnold Walter
I would be true, for there are those who trust me;
I would be pure, for there are those who care.
I would be strong, for there is much to suffer,
I would be brave, for there is much to dare.
I would be friend to all—the foe, the friendless;
I would be giving, and forget the gift.
I would be humble, for I know my weakness;
I would look up—and laugh—and love—and lift.

FRIENDSHIP
~E. Fiock
Friendship is a precious word,
we treasure it with care;
Life without your special friends
would be forlorn and bare.
Friends, like garden flowers, grow
from seed and bud and bloom
Within the garden of the heart
in a chosen corner room
Within our daily thoughts they live
surrounded by our love.
Friends, like garden flowers,
are gifts from heaven above.

~ Submitted by Betty Chatfield

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PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE
Your prayers make a difference! 
Please lift up the following in prayer:
(Contact the church office or pastor for more information, or if you would like to be added to
the e-mail distribution of prayer partner)  

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WOMEN’S CHOIR

The Women’s Choir meets every Sunday at 9:45am.
The choir will sing on December 19.
Contact Pastor Ann if you are interested. 

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FOOD PANTRY NEWS

     You may call the church office at (631) 261-2150 to arrange for a grocery bag pick-up.  Please leave a message; we will get back to you.
     One of our Deacons learned of a local food pantry that was desperately in need of food.  We were happy to share some of the food in our pantry for the benefit of the greater community.

As you shop for food for your family!
Cereal, fruit juices, pasta, pasta sauces, and
salad dressings are
currently needed.

The Deacons thank you for your continuing
generosity and support!

The Board of Deacons is grateful to all of our church members who have helped to keep our pantry shelves stocked.  There is an on-going need for toilet paper, paper towels, cereal, canned fruit, pasta and sauces. 
Cash donations can also be used by the Deacons to
fill in items that need to be purchased.

FOOD PANTRY HOURS

The Board of Deacons has established
hours of operation
 for our Food Pantry since the number of
visits to the pantry
has increased over the past year.  
The new hours are Monday-Wednesday-Friday
from 9:30 am to 1:30 pm.   
There is an ongoing need for cereal
and pasta.   
Thanks to all of you who remember our pantry each week as you shop for your family.

The number of visitors to our Food Pantry has been on the rise over the past year! 

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Call For Coupons!
For the Deacon Food Pantry
~ We are accepting Manufacturer Coupons ~

Any unused coupons will be donated to The Elwood Library where coupons are being collected and
sorted for military families in need
~ Please NO Store coupons or fast food
restaurant coupons!
The coupon collection box is located on the table outside
the Church Office.

The Nursery Room

CE is proud to announce that this year we will once again have a nursery available for babies through 2 years old.  The Nursery Room will be appropriately equipped for this age group.  With your help this project will help us serve the needs of all our parishioners.
Please prayerfully consider donating one Sunday to help care for our little ones. 
Wouldn’t it be fun to play Grandma, Grandpa, Aunt or Uncle for an hour or so on Sunday?

There will be three other Sunday School classes each week:
• Children from preschool to second grade will meet in the room next to the Nursery on the lower level.
• Children from 3rd grade through 6th grade will meet in the Sunday School room next to the church Parlor.
• Seventh through 12th graders will meet in the Parlor.
We will be using the Gospel Light curriculum and young peoples literature written by Jack Crabtree and other noted authors.  Help the CE Committee have another successful year.  Volunteer to teach and/or share your faith with our young people.

Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old
he will not turn from it. Proverbs 22:6

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Altar Flowers

Each Sunday flowers beautify the Chancel of ourchurch. We would encourage any and all to donate flowers for birthdays, anniversaries, "in memory of', etc. A check for $35 should be made to Greenlawn Presbyterian Church.
To order flowers, please call
the church office (631-261-2150)

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Thursday Walkers

Are you interested in walking the talk? 
Some of our members
have formed  a walkers group. 
Weather permitting, we meet
at the church Thursdays at 1:30 pm,
and stroll through the
neighborhood together, getting exercise
and making connection
with one another and with our God who
loves human bodies
so much he became one Himself.  Speak
with Pastor Fred for further details.

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A LAUGH IS THE BEST MEDICINE
   

     I’m not saying I’m old.  I’m just saying that my dinner time and my bed time are getting dangerously close to each other.

     So I was in a shoe shop this morning trying on a shoe.  I said to the salesclerk, “It’s too tight.
     She said, “Try it with the tongue out.”
     I said, “It’th nho ghood.  It’th thtill thoo thight.”

     When I was a kid, there were two ways to die: natural causes, and talking back to your parents. 

     Yesterday, my husband thought he saw a cockroach in the kitchen.  He sprayed everything down and cleaned thoroughly.
     Today, I’m putting the cockroach in the bathroom.

     As you get older, your secrets are safe with your friends … because they can’t remember them either!

A Senior’s Version of Facebook
     For those of my generation who do not, and cannot, comprehend why Facebook exists: I am trying to make friends outside of Facebook while applying the same principles.  Therefore, every day I walk down the street and tell passers-by what I have eaten, how I feel at the moment, what I have done the night before, what I will do later with whom.  I give them pictures of my family, my dog and me gardening, taking things apart in the garage, watering the lawn, standing in front of landmarks, driving around town, having lunch, and doing what anybody and everybody does every day.  I also listen to their conversations, give them “thumbs up,” and tell them I “like” them.  And it works just like Facebook.
     I already have 4 people following me: 2 police officers, a private investigator, and a psychiatrist!

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