2017 November Tidings 1st Presbyterian Church

5 Court Street

Towanda Pa 18848

570-265-5575

Email—fpchurch@comcast.net

Website—www.fpctowanda.com

Facebook—Fans of Towanda Presbyterian

From Pastor Rachel

This past weekend, we celebrated the 500th anniversary of the Protestant Reformation. People may ask,

“Why is this important to us?” The five main doctrines around which the Reformers united stem from the very

Gospel of Christ that impacts our daily living. In the midst of turmoil within the Roman Catholic Church, many

Christians chose to die for the sake of the Gospel rather than to accept false teachings. Five hundred years later,

these same doctrines continue to impact us as well.

Sola Gratia (By Grace Alone)

Grace alone is at the heart of the Christian life. It occupies a fundamental position in the truth we confess and the

lives we live in Christ. As Paul so soberly wrote, our world is corrupt and broken. It’s under the influence of the

devil, who walks around seeking whom he may devour. Mankind is broken, living according to the lusts of the

flesh (Eph. 2:1-3). In spite of this, God demonstrated grace toward us, “…that in the ages to come He might show

the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us in Christ Jesus” (Eph. 2:7). God saves, sustains, and

grows us by grace. As we live by grace, we must be committed to sharing it with others who need it. We cannot

face the pressures, difficulties, and burdens of a broken world outside the grace of Jesus Christ. Therefore, we

celebrate grace and seek to live by it daily in service to Jesus and others, despite our weaknesses and limitations.

Sola Fide (By Faith Alone)

The Catholic Church taught that faith, although essential, was not sufficient for salvation; salvation requires faith

plus works. However, the Reformers boldly pronounced it was faith alone that saved. As the Apostle Paul wrote,

“For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God, not of works,

lest anyone should boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God pre-

pared beforehand that we should walk in them” (Eph. 2:8-10). Salvation and daily living are contingent upon

faith in Christ. As we face life’s daily challenges, we must constantly remind ourselves that the answer to life’s

difficulties always begins with faith in Christ. The writer of Hebrews proclaimed, “Without faith, it is impossible

to please God” (Heb. 11:6). Therefore, the answers to life’s problems must focus on faith in Christ alone.

(cont’d. on next page)

Sola Scriptura (By Scripture Alone)

The conflict between the Reformers and the Catholic Church dealt with the authority for Christian life. Rome

taught that the authority for Christian life was in the Church’s traditions and teachings (known as the Magiste-

rium), plus the Bible. The Reformers taught that the authority for daily Christian living was in Scripture alone. The

Bible exclusively maintains the authority for the Christian in all matters of faith and life. Where there are many

sources of helpful information, only the Bible maintains ultimate authority. Regarding the Scriptures, Paul wrote,

“All Scripture was given by the inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, and-

for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good

work” (2 Tim. 3:16-17). Therefore, in all matters of living, the Scriptures maintain formal and functional author-

ity.

Solus Christus (By Christ Alone)

Jesus Christ is the Person behind all the other Solas. Salvation comes only by and through Jesus; as He said, “I am

the way, the truth, and the life, no man comes to the Father except through Me” (John 14:6). Paul wrote, “But the

free gift is not like the offense. For if by the one man’s offense many died, much more the grace of God and the

gift by the grace of the one Man, Jesus Christ, abounded to many” (Rom. 5:15). Peter preached, “Nor is there sal-

vation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved” (Acts

4:12). Christ alone is the Mediator between God and man. He is the message we preach. He is the Person we trust.

Jesus is the center of the Christian life. Therefore, Jesus alone is the heart of daily living.

Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)

Christians are to proclaim and live for God’s glory alone. God is glorious (Ps. 138:4-6). Jesus manifested the glory

of God among humanity (John 1:14). As Christians, we are to live our lives in bringing glory to God (1 Cor.

10:31). God receives the glory for anything good, honorable, and notable that is done. All fruit of righteousness is

produced through Jesus Christ for the glory of God (Phil. 1:11). Our salvation and sanctification resound to the

praise and glory of God alone (Eph. 1:3-14). Therefore, we live daily in the power of Christ for God’s glory.

So the commemoration of 500 years since Martin Luther nailed his “95 Theses” to the door of All Saints’

Church in Wittenberg, Germany, is more than a mere historical curiosity. Though Luther never could have known

how far-reaching his actions would be, his stand for biblical truth came to be a marked turning point in Church

history. Truth no longer was to lay in the hands of church hierarchy—it was found once again by every Christian

in the pages of Scripture, which all point directly to the Word Made Flesh, our Savior, Jesus Christ.

Adapted from “Why Is the Reformation Important for Daily Living?” by Kevin Carson, Oct. 14, 2017, at

servantsofgrace.org.

Thanksgiving Dinner Coming Up Again!

Once again, we will host our annual Thanksgiving dinner on Thanksgiv-

ing day from noon to 1. Please visit Charlie Brown in the pumpkin patch

(outside the secretary’s office) if you would like to donate any of the goods

we’ll be serving. You can also sign up on the bulletin board in the hallway if

you’d like to help set up, decorate, cook, serve, and/or clean up. Even one

hour of your time will be a great blessing! Please spread the word and invite

your neighbors and co-workers. Gobble gobble!

Day of Prayer on November 1

For the victims of recent natural disasters to be comforted and strengthened as

they rebuild their lives.

For those who are struggling to pay their bills, especially as winter ap-

proaches.

For the ill, the homebound, the lonely, the addicted, the mentally ill, and oth-

ers who are missing loved ones in the holiday season—may our Lord also

comfort them, and provide the help they need to be joyful and peaceful.

For the Lord to continue to provide for our ministry needs, whether in funding

or people power. Please pray about how YOU can help us serve Him as we

serve others.

For our government leaders to seek the Lord’s wisdom in the decisions they

make.

1932 - Freda Shipley

1947 - Phyllis Blanchard

1949 - Charlotte Sullivan

1949 - John Gormley

1949 - Joan Gormley

1950 - Rhea Johnston

1952 - Paul DeWitt

1953 - Dixie Cabucci

1956 - Virginia McPherson

1957 - Elizabeth Lightbourn

1958 - Robert Cooper

1959 - Sterling “Jerry” Young

1959 - Arthur C. Spengler

1959 - Vida P. Spengler

On October 29 during morning worship we celebrated the founding of our church 192 years

ago. The Deacons gave a red rose to each 50-year member with

a delicious meal following in Patterson Hall.

1960 - Karl Tewksbury

1961 - Richard Kopetan

1961 - Pearl Fox

1961 - Allen Blanchard

1962 - Lynn Homet

1962 - Joan Fiester

1963 - Brenda Abbott

1963 - Henry C. Dunn

1964 - Jean Hall-Kafes

1964 - Charles Chenot

1964 - LaVaughn Chenot

1966 - Cynthia Young

1967 - Joyce Hinkson

Members we have lost since our last Founder’s Day are —

Catherine Young (1951), Beverly DeWitt (1959), William Hay (1962),

T. Vance Hinkson (1967), Arthur Richards (2000)

Are You Interested in “Creation”?

It’s not too soon to consider attending the 2018 Creation Fest to be held June 28-July 2. This

yearly gathering includes abundant opportunities to learn about the Lord, worship, and get to

know other believers from the entire Eastern US. The event is held in Mt. Union, which is 45

miles southeast of Altoona. Learn more at creationfest.com/ne. If you are interested in form-

ing a group to attend to together, please see Pastor Rachel. Group pricing is available.

$$$ Your Road Map for Success – the Seven Baby Steps $$$

From DAVE RAMSEY’S COMPLETE GUIDE to MONEY

Baby Step 1: Put $1,000 in a beginner emergency fund ($500 if your income is under $20,000 per

year).

Baby Step 2: Pay off all debt using the debt snowball.

Baby Step 3: Put three to six months of expenses into savings as a full emergency fund.

Baby Step 4: Invest 15% of your household income into Roth IRAs and pretax retirement plans.

Baby Step 5: Begin college funding for your kids.

Baby Step 6: Pay off your home early.

Baby Step 7: Build wealth and give.

The Baby Steps work because of focus and priority. It’s like eating an elephant; you can’t do it all in one

bite! But if you break it down into smaller steps and pour all of your attention, energy, and passion into one

thing at a time, you can do anything.

Join The Conversation

After I got my $1,000 in the bank, I finally had some peace of mind, and I didn’t feel like I had to freak out

because something unexpected came up. IT WAS AWESOME! —Alicia

For more information, go to www.facebook.com/financial peace or see Dave Guffey.

www.facebook.com/financialpeace

Hanging of the Greens

December 2 at 4 PM

A light supper will be

served after the

decorating is completed.

PLEASE TAKE NOTE!

This Tidings includes the order form for

this year’s poinsettias to decorate our

sanctuary during the Christmas holiday.

Please fill out and return

it to the office by

November 26.

OUR CHURCH will be showing the movie “The Shack’ in

the church sanctuary on November 3 at 7 PM. Based on

The New York Times best-selling novel, “The Shack”

this film takes us on a father's transformative and

spiritual journey that will

show him the ultimate truth

about love, loss, and forgive-

ness. Invite a friend to come

along and enjoy an evening

out.

OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD SHOEBOX DONATIONS NEEDED for Kids Club: 40 wrapped

bars of soap, 36 washcloths. In addition, small dolls, Matchbox or Hot Wheels cars or trucks,

watches, markers, stickers, jewelry are appreciated as are monetary donations.

Please new items only!

NO TOOTHPASTE OR CANDY, PLEASE!

Monetary donations to cover shipping at $9 a box.

Deadlines are:

Monday, October 30 if you are bringing items for the KIDS CLUB to pack.

Sunday, November 12 if you are packing your own shoebox.

Boxes to use for packing are available in Deb Fuller’s office.

THE FOLLOWING BOOKS have been donated

to the library: Easy Reader Books: Jonah and

the Big Fish, Joseph & His Coat of Many

Colors, Great Bible Stories – Joseph, Great

Bible Stories – Samson and Delilah, Great

Bible Stories – Moses, Great Bible Stories –

Rebecca at the Well, Bob and Larry’s ABC’s,

The Case of the Lost Temper.

Dear members and friends of First Presbyterian Church, Towanda,

Growing in Christ is the theme for our 2018 financial campaign. We grow closer to the Lord

when we study the Bible, worship, pray and let Him direct our lives. Letting God lead us in our

giving also helps us grow closer to Him.

Please prayerfully consider your giving for the coming year. God asks us to give 10 percent of

what He has given us. Not giving 10 percent? Consider increasing your giving so that your

new pledge more fully represents your thankfulness to God for the blessings you have received.

Enclosed in this month’s Tidings is a pledge card for 2018. Please return it to the collection

plate or church office by November 26.

Thank you for giving and supporting First Presbyterian in Towanda! Your financial support

helps us to continue to minister within our church and community and to spread the Good

News of Jesus Christ.

The Stewardship Team

November Birthdays

1—Monte Hughey

4—Jack Fox

6—Al Blanchard

14—Steve Homet

17—Hunter Scott

20—Laurie Neilson Troyer

26—Sharon Pavey

27—Kevin Davenport

28—Jennifer Homet

30—Ted Rieth Sr.

Update From the Farrs

Jim and Joan Farr recently contacted Pastor Rachel

to express their thanks to this congregation for our

many years of faithful support and prayer for their

ministry in Papua New Guinea. Jim was delighted to

report that the final version of their Bible translation

was fully-funded and submitted to the publisher,

which is in South Korea. The Bible translation will be

officially dedicated to the Lord in June. Jim mentioned

that anyone from our congregation is welcome to

travel to Papua New Guinea to take part in this dedi-

cation.

Their Bible translation has also been recorded so

tribes people can listen to it on a small, iPod-like de-

vice. This audio version has been very well received.

The Farrs plan to retire fully in March, 2019, and in-

tend to visit with us soon afterward. They will eventu-

ally settle near their family in Orlando.

"Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in

Christ Jesus."

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

It is not always easy to give thanks, but this is the very thing we must do in order to see God's will accom-

plished in our lives. This is how we move into higher realms of faith for ourselves, for our city, and for

our nation.

Thanksgiving has great power to bring joy and break the power of the enemy. Whenever you give thanks

to God, despite the most difficult circumstances, the enemy loses a big battle in your life. When you give

thanks in the midst of difficulty, you bring pleasure to God's heart. He is looking for Christians who live

in a realm of praise and thanksgiving where the enemy no longer has an ability to hold or manipulate that

person. Satan is defeated when we have a thankful heart because thankfulness during difficulty is a sacri-

fice pleasing to God.

Are you thankful? Are you thankful for your present circumstances? Are you thankful for your salvation,

your friendships, and your job? Thankfulness is a key to your life. It is the key that turns your situation

around because it changes you, your outlook, and your attitude. There is power in a thankful heart.

Thanksgiving Brings Contentment

Thanksgiving: The

Power of a Thankful

Heart

by Debbie Przybylski from

Crosswalk.com

BEFORE you begin shopping for the holidays, go to smile.amazon.com.

Type in First Presbyterian Towanda as your charity choice, and click on it to confirm.

Shop away! That’s all you need to do. If you are registered Amazon user, our church will remain as your chosen charity.

Don’t forget to turn your

clock back one hour before

heading to bed on Nov. 4

POINSETTIA ORDERS

If you wish to purchase a poinsettia(s) which will decorate our sanctuary during the Christmas season, please fill

out this form (please print) and return it with the money to the church office. You may also call the church office

at 265-5575 and place your order. All poinsettias will be red and the price is $7.50 each.

Order deadline is November 26

Given by ________________________________________________________ Quantity ________

In loving memory of ____________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________

In honor of ___________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________

Other ________________________________________________________________________________

Please note: Church members are asked to pick up their flowers after the Christmas Eve service.

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

“Generous Giving” - 2018 Stewardship Campaign

Please share God’s blessings by completing the pledge form below.

I/We will provide an offering of $_________ per (please circle the period - week, month, quarter, year) in 2018.

Signature________________________________________Date__________________ In addition to the offering above, I/We will make a special effort to grow in the following area(s):

___Daily Prayer ___Bible Study

___Church Attendance ___Other______________________________________________

Thank you for returning this form. Your giving estimate can be changed at any time.

--------------------------------------your pledge may be placed in the offering plate or mailed to the church------------------------------------

Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each man should

give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. II Corinthians 9:6-7