firstnews614 488.0681 FCchurch.com December 1 - 31, 2014 Vol. 60 No. 12

Monthly

New Members

Page 15

Advent &Christmas

Page 7 Page 8

FinancialStatement

(Continued, Page 2)

AffirmationGoverning Board Continues Enthusiastic Support Of Capital Projects

Seated next to Governing Board Chair Kris Kipp (right), Dr. Richard Wing signs an acknowledgement of receipt of a Capital Campaign pledge of $100,000 during the November meeting at North Campus.

Story and Photos by Michael Barber

In a show of overwhelming support, the First Community Church Governing Board voted 14-1 on Monday, November 24 to approve the continued work of the Capital Projects Committee (CPC). “This vote affirms the hard work on the part of many,” said Governing

Board Chair Kris Kipp. “From the CPC, Program Staff, ministry staff and our relationship with the Foundation - it’s been many months of strategic priorities all coming together. It’s a vote of affirmation as to where we’re heading as a church.”

In March 2013, the Governing Board authorized the formation of the CPC to provide leadership, integration

“We’ve had Our 20/20 Vision as the framework. All of the work is framed

in the vision and mission of our church. We have a bright future.”

— Kris Kipp, Governing Board Chair

2 December 1 - 31, 2014

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Editor: Michael Barber Graphic Design: Tabitha McCleery Admin. Assistant: Emily Rogers

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and oversight, on behalf of the Governing Board, for all aspects of the Capital Projects. The CPC’s initial responsibility was to answer three questions: What facilities do we need to support Our20/20 Vision, how much will it cost to meet those needs and how will we pay for these improvements?

“We’ve had Our 20/20 Vision as the framework,” Kris said. “All of the work is framed in the vision and mission of our church. We have a bright future.”

The board approved a fundraising timeline that includes acquiring leadership gift pledges of $100,000 or more and major gifts between $20,000 and $99,999 through the winter of 2015. Following this phase, the Governing Board will vote on the launch of a public phase.

Capital Campaign Director Bruce Pontius presented a series of positive fundraising results to the board, along with a newly-signed campaign pledge of $100,000.

“It is very encouraging to all involved to have this strong affirmation by the Governing Board for the entire project,” Bruce said. “Our 20/20 Vision campaign continues to realize significant leadership gifts from loyal benefactors. With nearly $8.6M in commitments and gifts in discussion from only 25 members thus far, we remain highly confident we will reach our $15M goal.”

CPC Chair Paul Anderson is very appreciative of the board’s vote. “The Governing Board sees the work of the CPC as an integral part of Our 20/20 Vision,” he said. “I am pleased to have the continued support and leadership of the governing board as we move toward a successful completion of our fundraising.”

Erik Clark, Governing Board member and member of the CPC, said he is confident and enthusiastic about the Capital Projects. “Fundraising is off to a very good start,” he said. “The board received a very compelling plan for all 3 physical campuses, not just for this phase, but for the future.”

“I’m delighted that the board continues to support the Capital Campaign,” Erik said. “The board, the staff and so many volunteers are working very well together right now on many important aspects of our church. These Capital Projects are a critical part of Our 20/20 Vision. We are marching closer toward making that vision a reality."

Affirmation (Continued from Page 1)

Capital Campaign Director Bruce Pontious answers questions from the Governing Board.

December 1 - 31, 2014 3

Dr. Wing is preparing the following sermons:

December 7 (South Campus)

Second Sunday of AdventTOO CLOSE FOR COMFORT

Mark 1:1-8

December 14Third Sunday of Advent

BRIGHT LIGHT IN A DIM WORLDJohn 1:1-14

December 21Fourth Sunday of Advent

IMAGINE THATLuke 1:26-38, Romans 16:25-27

December 24Christmas Eve

FRIENDS IN LOW PLACESLuke 2:1-20

December 28First Sunday after Christmas

THE HARD WORK OF RECEIVINGLuke 2:22-40

Looking Ahead –– The Reverend Dr. Richard A. Wing, Senior Minister

Soundings

Join Dick and Shirley Wing For LunchIn Naples on Wednesday, February 25In Sarasota on Thursday, February 26

Details coming soon!To receive an invitation, please make sure we have your

Florida address by contacting Robin Taylor at 614 488.0681 ext 235 or rtaylor@FCchurch.com

Watch First EditionFirst Edition features the

previous week’s service on CW Columbus (WWHO-TV)

each Sunday at 11 am and Midnight.

Worship Live Stream

Sundays at 11 am

Lists

Lists are everywhere in my life, both personal and professional.

I am a “black belt” list maker. My wife, Shirley, can give me a list and I will have it done in half the time it takes her to make the list.

I know “to do” lists.

What happens about this magical time of year between Thanksgiving and New Year’s day are seven pages of lists that are in themselves enough to

permanently destroy any of the expected spirit of Christmas. My lists get things done, true. But they are never enough to get me to Bethlehem.

So, what is most important in life: to do or to be? Remember Aristotle said, “To be is to do.” Shakespeare said, “To do is to be.” Frank Sinatra said, “Do be do be do.” None of this helps me. Beginning this year, I am following the advice of Robert Fulghum and making a “To Be” list. It will be a new list. One page.

My “To Be” list:

• will have the feelings and spirit I would like to give.

• will have the kind of world I yearn for.

• will have the quality of life I want to manifest. One page. Nothing of what I want, but what I want to give.

I go to the Third World of struggling nations yearly to give; but even more, to be taught. To receive. I am with people who do not have enough food, shelter, water and waste management. I join hands with millions of people who want them to have those bare necessities. However, I do find among the poor that which eludes most Americans…TIME. Time for each other. The time for each other gives them what we yearn for most at Christmas: happiness in the presence of others you know and care about, who do the same for you. Peace to your Advent Path,

4 December 1 - 31, 2014

Foundation GiftsIn Memory of:Emily Chidester JDavid and Peggy Roggenkamp Daniel and Chia Chi Roggenkamp Andy and Ann Anderson William and Jeanne Ashton Jay and Joyce Schoedinger Robert and Darlene Rankin Ron and Nancy Long George and Jane Smith David and Jeanne Schoedinger Cynthia Baker Jean Brandt Guild Group X Pat Doyle The Fink-Kaufmann Family Steve, Nancy, Sarah and Jessica Barb Hudson Kathleen Jones Barb Leighner Katherine MacEwan Janet McCutcheon Bette Millhon Betty O’Neill Jenny Lou Renkert Lorey Roggenkamp Anne Sheline Conrad Shisler Joellen Siegrist Sue Wilson and Bill Judy Keith and Carolyn DeVoe Ron Arledge Louise FennerJanet Bieber Rod and Ann Swearingen Joan Mitchell Robert and Darlene Rankin Todd and Heather Leonard Leslie Baumann Bruce Burkholder Louise Fenner Maryann Hines Jenny Lou Renkert Behal Sampson Dietz, Inc.John Boggs Don and Jaqueline Cherry Sallie Davis Bethge Patricia Mielke David and Charlotte Search Frank and Mary Lou Kreber J. Thomas and Kathleen Jones Rod and Ann Swearingen Morris and Janice Meyer Lynne Ayres Sallie Davis Bethge Jan Goff Carol Moorehead Walter Reckless and Bonnie Webb Richard Sims George and Linda Norris Richard Witter Diana Arthur Ruth Gardner Bob Gardner In Honor Of: Anna Holderman Betty O’Neill First Community Foundation Nancy Hughey Cheryl Zeiger Gini Stoltz Betty O’Neill Heart to Heart Doug and Darian Torrance Lynne Ayres Nancy Heath Jeanne Blair Betty O’Neill Jon and Sally Jaynes Michael and Jean Griffin Julie Osborn Betty O’Neill Lee Burges Betty O’Neill Leslie Gardner Bob Gardner Marilyn Wenrick Betty O’Neill Nancy Heath Betty O’Neill Rafiki Leslie and Tawana Thorn David and Ginny Culver John and Catherine Klamar Ralph and Jane Setterlin

Foundation Corner

— Lauri Speight Sullivan, Director of First Community Foundation

Sock It to Me

My children have been blessed with Uncle Norm. Norm routinely bought the gifts that, as parents, we would not. A Furby (too faddy), an Abercrombie and Fitch sweater (too expensive), a Betty Spaghetti Doll (too many parts). His triumph was a 5 x 8 foot train table complete with villages, mountains and lakes he made for my son. But…his line on the eve of anticipation, “Danny, guess what, I got you socks!” Imagine the fear! The dreaded socks always led to the major gift with, “You needed socks, didn’t you?” or “Isn’t that what you wanted?”

Norm was an educated, witty, single, working person. He had resources, but not the daily responsibility of child rearing. What he gave my kids beyond the gifts was the ability to dream untethered, with a major dose of reality. As my kids have aged, they have learned that socks aren’t such a bad thing, and not all gifts can have an awe factor. For Norm to fill his uncle role, he had to know my kids wishes, and participate in our family life. (He also knew when a pet iguana was overstepping the boundaries of my mothering skills.)

While a stretch, the Foundation is similar to an Uncle Norm. As an arm to First Community Church, it doesn’t have to take on the daily routine of church management, but it has the opportunity to step in and provide gifts that excite, invigorate or simply fill a need. This has been a banner grant year for the Foundation with spending of over $600,000 in grants to support the mission of First Community Church.

For example, the Media Ministry got its wish of new, expensive high definition camera equipment via a loan from the Foundation. The Foundation aided nine separate missionary efforts, including Rafiki and Heart to Heart. Scholarships were given for Camp Akita, the Early Childhood programs, a seminary student and a student in Ecuador. North Campus building changes occurred like leveling the floor in Room 130 and enhancement of the handicap entrance.

It has also supplied its fair share of “socks”, ordinary grants to help the church function smoothly. The year started with South Campus needing a pricy new boiler. Then the horrible winter weather caused massive unbudgeted utility and maintenance expenses, which was covered with a grant. The Foundation came through to repaint the buildings at Akita, provide an LED light bulb conversion, and replace broken equipment like a drinking fountain, HVAC and a urinal. These gifts are hard to get excited about, but were needed and appreciated.

Not every family has a Norm; not every church has a Foundation. We are blessed at First Community to have the Foundation to help the Church bear the unexpected bumps and help the ministries dream big. Today, Norm is married, but he still likes to wow my family and socks play a role. The First Community Foundation will continue to astonish the Church in its ability to support fanciful and ordinary wishes.

Merry Christmas,

(Continued, Page 5)

December 1 - 31, 2014 5

In Honor Of:Rafiki David and Jeanne Schoedinger Greg and Elizabeth Gerhard Thomas and Joy Plassman Frank and Diane Thielman David and Karyl Hanhilammi Carl and Linda Nelson Women’s Guilds Biddie Clark Carolyn Copeland Couples Circle 35 Michael and Nancy Donaldson Don and Karen Gardiner Michael and Jean Griffith Guild Group C Lynn Gutches-Snowden Kathleen Jones Mary Ann Krauss Deborah Lindsay Linda McGuire Mary Ann Mulroy Julia Osborn Guild RSZ Dr. Clarke Sanders Kie Seiple Darian Torrance Janice Underwood Bob and Sherri Whetzel

Church GiftsIn Honor of:Jim Long's 20 Year Anniversary on Staff Deborah Lindsay

Friends of Adult Education Katherine (Kathy) Carnahan Doug & Darian Torrance Dan Davis & Vickie Murphy

Spiritual Searcher Bryan & Sally Beske Mike & Laura Elliott Price & Alice Finley Rosemarie Konrath Carolyn Leick Brandi Lust & Jamey Fauque Katy Malhame Joan Moore Vickie Murphy Eric & Pam Shisler Kassie Steegman Zeus Yiamouyiannis

Heart to Heart Christine Baker Pat Boyd Mary Jean Bradley

Barbara BradleyBob BurnsNancy DellJ D & Ann DickersonMike & Nancy DonaldsonDaniel EhrmanBarbara FalkenbergTR GrossNancy HeathHerb & Jeanne JohnstonSteve & Rachel MushrushLisa NorrisDick & Kitty RohrerTom & Mary Jo RubySteve & Kate ShanerAnne ShelineTracy StuckTom UngerAngela Van FossenRich Wharton & Rosemarie KonrathJohn & Cheryl Zeiger

General MissionsPat BoydSteve & Kate ShanerBetty O’Neill

Fourth Grade CommunionIn Celebration of:Lily Garish Laura Garish

Take Heart

–– The Reverend Dr. Deborah Lindsay, Minister of Spiritual Care

Foundation Gifts (continued)

(Continued, Page 9)

Grief and the Holidays

The holidays, especially the first ones after losing a loved one, are especially difficult.

Often friends and family members of those affected by a loss are unsure how to act or what to say to support their grieving loved one during the holidays.

The National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization offers these suggestions for how to help:

1. Be supportive of the way the person chooses to handle the holidays. Some may wish to follow traditions; others may choose to change their rituals. Remember, there is no right way or wrong way to handle the holidays.

2. Offer to help the person with baking and/or cleaning. Both tasks can be overwhelming for one trying to deal with raw emotions.

3. Offer to help him or her decorate for the holidays, do the holiday shopping, or help to prepare and mail holiday cards; these tasks can also be overwhelming. And not doing any or all of them is another option for a grieving person.

4. Invite the person to attend a religious service with you and your family.

5. Invite your loved one to your home for the holidays.

6. Ask the person if he or she is interested in volunteering with you during the holiday season. Doing something for someone else, such as helping at soup kitchens or working with children, may help your loved one feel better about the holidays.

7. Donate a gift or money in memory of the person’s loved one. Remind the person that his or her special person is not forgotten.

8. Never tell someone that he or she should be “over it.” Instead, give the person hope that, eventually, he or she will enjoy the holidays again.

9. If he or she wants to talk about the deceased loved one or feelings associated with the loss, LISTEN. Active listening from friends is an important step to helping him or her heal. Don’t worry about being conversational; just listen.

10. Remind the person you are thinking of him or her and the loved one who died. Cards, phone calls and visits are great ways to stay in touch.

In general, the best way to help those who are grieving during the holidays is to let them know you care. Hospice grief counselors emphasize that friends and family members should never be afraid of saying or doing the wrong thing, because making an effort and showing concern will be appreciated.

Remember, if you are grieving or struggling in any way during the holidays, Rev. Jim Long and I are available for pastoral care and counseling, as well as any member of the clergy group. That’s one of the most important ministries of our faith community; in the words of scripture, we rejoice with those who rejoice and weep with those who weep. (Romans 12:15)

Blessings,

6 December 1 - 31, 2014

The Christmas Offering By Gavin Howe

The Christmas season ushers in a time of gift giving and sharing with family and friends. One gift we hope you will thoughtfully consider is your Christmas Eve special offering, which will be shared by two missions that have been supported by First Community Church for many years: Friends of the Homeless and Deep Griha Society.

Friends of the Homeless was founded in January 1983 to provide a wide range of services to help homeless adults and families move from dependency to self-sufficiency. First Community Church has a long history of providing meals on Monday evenings. Our Fourth Monday group has been providing one meal each month since March 1984 and our First Monday group has been active since the winter of 2000. Women of the church have been preparing a meal for the women’s shelter, Rebecca’s Place, on the first and fourth Tuesdays since 2002. If you would like to volunteer with us, please visit our mission’s volunteer page at FCchurch.com/missions-volunteer to find further information.

Deep Griha Society is an independent charitable organization working to better the lives of people living in the slums of Puné, India. Deep Griha empowers the marginalized through capacity building and sustainable urban and rural development. In 1975, medical practitioner Dr. Neela Onawale and her husband Rev. Bhaskar Onawale started a one-room clinic to treat the residents of Puné, and since that time Deep Griha has grown to provide programs that include: Childcare, Child Development, Child Sponsorship Programs, Youth & Women’s Empowerment, Healthcare, Rural Development and others. To find more information about Deep Griha and ways to further support this mission, please visit our mission home page at FCchurch.com/missions-2

The Mission Council hopes you have a joyous Christmas season!

Advent by Candlelight By Kirsten Dove

Wednesday, December 10, 7 pmGrace Hall, North Campus

A service of contemplation, music and prayer for all generations. Advent is a season of outward anticipation and inner spiritual nourishment as we wait for the Christ Child to be born again. All generations are invited to experience the spirit of Advent in this lovely, annual service. You will enter to candlelight, quiet music and bells greeting your arrival, thereby allowing your soul to settle. There will also be:

• Singing of verses of O Come, O Come Emmanuel to bring us into the spirit of the season

• An Advent-themed story, spoken and illustrated• Readings and prayer• A period of silent contemplation• A candle lit by each individual as a way of adding their light to the world

This service gives adults of all ages an opportunity to slow down and center in the midst of a busy season and gives children an introduction to contemplative worship. We find it valuable for all to be in worship together during Advent. A free-will offering that supports this experience will be available at the doors as you enter or leave worship.

AdventCandlelight

by

Holiday HoursThe North Campus offices and South Campus building will be closed Monday, December 15 from 11 am - 3 pm for the staff Christmas celebration.

Both North and South Campuses will close Wednesday, December 24 at noon and reopen 1 hour prior to the Christmas Eve services. Both campuses remain closed on December 25 and 26.

On Sunday, December 28 there will be one worship service at 11 am in the Sanctuary at South Campus. South Campus offices will re-open on Monday, December 29 with normal business hours. North Campus remains closed through January 2.

South Campus will close Wednesday, December 31 at noon and will re-open again on Friday, January 2.

Please note that in order to receive tax deductions for 2014, all contributions must be postmarked or delivered in person on or before December 31.

December 1 - 31, 2014 7

Christmas Craft ShopSaturday, December 6, 10 - 11:30 amGrace Hall, North Campus$8 per child. Tickets available online at FCchurch.com/craft or at the door. K-12 Christmas MusicalBack to BethlehemSunday, December 7, 9:30 & 11 amGrace Hall, North CampusA K-12 Christmas musical, written and directed by Sally Beske.Nursery care available at both services.Pre-K - 8th worship with their families.

Advent by CandlelightWednesday, December 10, 7 pmGrace Hall, North CampusQuiet service for all generationswith prayer, story and music. Carols for Christmas 41st Annual Christmas ConcertSunday, December 14, 4:30 pmGrace Hall, North CampusThe Chancel Choir and Chamber Singers. Freewill offering. (See firstnews insert for details.)

Advent & Christmas Events

Christmas Eve Services Wednesday, December 24

North Campus4:30 pm - Candlelight ServiceDr. Richard Wing preaching.

6 pm - Candlelight ServiceDr. Richard Wing preaching.

South Campus4 pm - Children’s ServiceLed by Dr. Deborah Lindsay.

9 pm - Festival of Lessons & Carols(Orchestral prelude begins at 8:30 pm)Chancel Choir and Orchestra.Dr. Richard Wing preaching.

11 pm - Festival of Lessons & Carols(Orchestral prelude begins at 10:30 pm)Chancel Choir and Orchestra.Dr. Richard Wing preaching.

Sunday after ChristmasSunday, December 28, 11 amSanctuary, South CampusDr. Richard Wing preaching. All children/youth welcome in worship.

Downtown, The Ohio TheatreHoliday “Pops”Friday, December 5, 8 pmSaturday, December 6, 8 pmSunday, December 7, 3 pm

Columbus Symphony Orchestra & Chorus with the Columbus Children’s Chorus & BalletMet Children

This Columbus tradition, with over 250 performers, now in its 32nd year, blends all of the festive elements of the season: Orchestra, symphony chorus, children’s choruses, dancers, sacred music, popular music of the season, audience sing-along of carols, and, of course, Santa and Mrs. Claus, all under the direction of First Community Church's Minister of Music & Liturgy, Ronald Jenkins.

Call 614 228.8600 for tickets or online at columbussymphony.com

Youth Choirs Perform Christmas Musical Back to Bethlehem By Sally Beske

Newsflash: Our youth choirs have made a breakthrough in scientific technology. They have created a working time machine and want you to be part of their inaugural trip. Join us as we go back to the manger over 2000 years in the past so that we can get closer to God. Rehearsals have been going well and we are “pretty sure” our time machine works. Come join us at the North Campus on Sunday, December 7 at 9:30 or 11:00 am and see just where this new musical by youth choir director Sally Beske might take you. Pictured are members of Youth Bell Choir 2 who are deciding if the time machine could be improved by adding bells and whistles.

North Campus services on this Sunday are identical. The children’s musical will be the message of the morning. All children are welcome in worship.

8 December 1 - 31, 2014

–– Cindy Harsany, Director of Finance and Operations

Financial Statement

First Community Church Financial StatementJanuary - October, 2014

YTD YTD (under)/overBudget Actual Difference

IncomePledge, Offerings, Contributions 1,932,046$ 1,654,234$ (277,811)$ Fee Supported Ministries (Akita, Preschools, Trading Post) 1,549,814$ 1,647,740$ 97,926$ Other Ministries 257,480$ 255,700$ (1,780)$ Total Revenue 3,739,340$ 3,557,674$ (181,665)$

Expense (over)/underProgram Salaries and Benefits 1,298,160$ 1,312,498$ (14,338)$ Facilities and Administration 718,536$ 683,517$ 35,019$ Fee Supported Ministries 1,394,724$ 1,433,967$ (39,243)$ Other Ministries 504,345$ 412,244$ 92,101$ Total Expenses 3,915,765$ 3,842,226$ 73,539$

Net Revenue and Expenses (108,126)$

Heart to Heart Food Pantry TotalsFor October 2014:

Food Collected at South = 20 lbs.Food Collected at North = 20 lbs.Food Collected at Annex = 60 lbs.Food Purchased at MOFB* = 14,094 lbs.Unique Volunteers in August = 34

Households served .........................344Individuals served .........................1068 Children served ...........................375 Adults served ...............................583 Seniors served .............................128Meals provided ............................9,774

Year-to-Date:

Households served ......................2,833Individuals served ........................8,609 Children served ........................3,392 Adults served ............................4,286 Seniors served ...........................1010Meals provided ..........................77,481

Heart to Heart offers a helping hand and caring heart in times of need.

*Mid-Ohio Foodbank

2015 Campaign Update – Thank you to all who have responded.

• Those pledging in 2015 who pledged in 2014 have averaged a 6.5% increase in their pledge.

• 67% of our goal has been reached

• Our Stewardship Campaign Committee continues to work on ways to increase participation as we near the end of our Fall Campaign.

First Community Church programming is made possible by the gift commitments of our congregation. If you have not had the opportunity to pledge or contribute in other ways, we ask that you prayerfully consider including us in your charitable contributions.

If you have not had the opportunity to see more of who we are, who we continue to grow to be, we would encourage you to visit our website FCchurch.com, and our new FCchurch.TV, here you will most likely find something that makes a difference in your life.

2014 October Financial Report

Thank you to those who have supported the programs of First Community Church in 2014. We are truly grateful and hope that you have been blessed.

The financial information above reflects the following:

• 2014 has been a challenging year to cover the budgeted expense for all of our programs, and we need additional year-end contributions.

• In an effort to meet these expenses, program areas have reduced expenses by $113,000.

• Camp Akita, Mary Evans Child Development Center and our Preschool have provided additional revenue to make up a difference of $97,926 minus associated additional expense of $39,243.This has provided an additional $58,683 to help offset program expenses.

• Additional support for programs has been provided by the Foundation.

• Our year-end projection is that we will still need an additional $180,000 in financial support between now and December to cover the cost of programs in 2014.

The Finance Committee continues to evaluate our end-of-year program cost needs and look at special asks, continued operating budget revenue and expense control.

December 1 - 31, 2014 9

–– The Reverend Mr. Paul E. Baumer, Minister to the Staff

On We GoFourth Grade CommunionIn Celebration of: Brady Hagkull Craig and Molly HagkullEthan Kingsley Scott and Allison KingsleyNatalie Potts Chris and Megan PottsThomas Snyder Rev. Tom and Kitty SnyderDavey Schlembach Gerard and Paige Schlembach

Media Ministry J. Thomas and Kathleen Jones

In Honor of:Our Ministers and Staff Stephen & Cynthia Rasmussen

In Memory of:Bill Kientz Nan Sohl Bradley Doreth Gerlach Don and Donna Gepfert Dick and Julie Helland

Friends of the HomelessIn Honor of:Carol Baker Women's Guild Group Q

Friends of MusicIn Honor of:Carol Doyle Pat DoyleSteve Sulainis Barbara SulainisIn Celebration of:Lois Zook Eileen & Doug CovellThe Barney Family Iola (Tommie) LanamanStephanie Jaros Higgins Barbara JarosBob Everhart’s Birthday Lynda & Dave PaulVivian Blake Adams Corlene AdamsRobert J. Holiday Sr. Donnalynn & Christian LaverMusic Meg Wagner Priscilla Hoag Jane & George Smith Charles & Katie WinslowIn memory of:Joanna Dorff Dodge Linda Dorff Bill & Ann HarperHerman Nack Mary Lou NackDon Keneipp Barbara KeneippKent Brandt Jean BrandtHelen & Borden Hively Kathryn SchmauchNorman Gatsch Paul & Claire GatschCatharine Nichols Karolyn Burkhart-Schultz Dr. H. Wells & Joanne N. Near Tom & Sally NearRobert Esmond Claire EsmondNorb Knies Judith A. Ross

Friends of AkitaIn Memory of:Norman Gatsch Carol Dones Martha Johnson Scott & Susie Johnson Beth & Cathy HansonMegan Patrick Fedorko Ann & Ken Patrick Kirsten Knodt & Mairead Reddy Holly, Sam, Anna, Julia and Charlie LinzellIn Celebration of:Camp Akita Jinny Frick

Join the Band of Angels

I like G. K. Chesterton’s statement that “the reason angels can fly is because they take themselves lightly.” Good advice for this time of year. Take yourself lightly and enjoy the season.

We can get so immersed in our preparations for Christmas that we take it much too seriously. I’m convinced God isn’t too happy with our self-imposed pressures to get just the right presents, to put up all those decorations, to totally over-schedule ourselves. God wants us to enjoy the party.

Granted, it is serious business. Whether we take the gospel stories as solid history or as parables making a point about who Jesus of Nazareth is, it is serious stuff. Jesus comes into the world and causes great difficulty … for his parents who risked an uncertain future, for the wise men who took some risk consulting with dangerous and crazy old Herod, for the scruffy shepherds who risked getting fired because they left their sheep and wandered into Bethlehem one night.

Be that as it may, take yourself lightly and enjoy Christmas because you are an angel. Many religions see angels as supernatural and we do the same. But note that “angel” means “messenger.” An angel may be a heavenly messenger with wings and all, or an angel may be just a messenger, someone coming off the road, dusty and tired and thirsty and ragged, but with good news. We meet both of those kinds of angels in the Bible, by the way. And the good news is that Jesus is The Angel, The Messenger, The Son, who comes to remind us in no uncertain terms that God loves us, forgives us and gives us eternal life … and calls us to be angels, messengers of God’s love.

As you celebrate the good news of Christmas, welcome to being one of God’s holy band of angels. Enjoy the party. Have a most merry and blessed Christmas time.

Church Gifts (continued)

Christmas MemorialsAll those who wish to make a special Christmas gift in memory of a family member or friend will have the opportunity to do so. These memorial funds provide for the greenery, candles, flowers and other special arrangements in our Christmas services. The church exterior decorations and the instrumentalists for the services are all made possible through these gifts.

If you would like to make this gift part of your Christmas, send your check (made payable to First Community Church) to 1320 Cambridge Boulevard, Columbus, OH 43212, Attn: Music Dept. Include a card listing the name of the person(s) in whose memory the gift is made. You also may submit your memorial at the Worship & Arts table after the Sunday worship services or online at FCchurch.com on the home page.

Names received by December 15 will be listed in the Christmas Eve bulletins. A full list of names will appear in firstnews Monthly after Christmas.

10 December 1 - 31, 2014

Care and Spirit

– – The Reverend Mr. James M. Long, Minister of Pastoral Care

Parish RegisterWe share the joys and sorrows of our church family in our prayers.

(As of November 15, 2014)

Hospitalizations Jeanne Blair Rod Ebright Ann Knodt Dick Knowlton Homer Mincy Wayne Rickert Cindy Rasmussen Libby Switz Daughter of Erin Paider & Rob Switz

BirthsFerris Stanton Schoedinger 10/24/2014 Son of Jennifer & Kevin Schoedinger Grandson of Jeanne & David Schoedinger

BaptismsMary Joan Lewis 10/19/2014 Daughter of Courtney & Rob Lewis Granddaughter of Debbie Bower and Kris & Kip LewisBryant Robert Swiney 10/19/2014 Son of Kelley & Tim SwineyVivian Blake Adams 11/9/2014 Daughter of Heather & Chris Adams Granddaughter of Corlene AdamsLeo Hap Emery 11/9/2014 Son of Alison & Todd Emery Grandson of Cindy & Tom HudsonAllison Elizabeth Hanhilammi 11/9/2014 Daughter of Jennifer & Trevor Hanhilammi Granddaughter of Karyl & David Hanhilammi and Cathy & Ed Wheaton Great-granddaughter of Jenny Lou Renkert

DeathsThomas Snyder 10/18/2014 Father of Kelly (Gordie) RivingtonJohn Boggs 10/31/2014 Father of Lynn (Rod) Ebright Grandfather of Francie (James) Wooster Grandfather of Jonathan EbrightEmily Chidester 11/3/2014 Wife of Tom Chidester Mother of Paul (Carole) Chidester Mother of Bill Chidester Joan Mitchell 11/7/2014 Mother of Cameron (Molly) MitchellM. Cherry Park 11/7/2014Rita Fullen 11/11/2014Corrections from November:Richard Doyle 9/20/2014 Husband of Pamela Ertley DoyleDana Reynolds Jr. 10/2/2014

Please advise our Pastoral Care Office of hospitalizations, births, weddings and deaths. Our ministers are available if you desire a visit or call during an illness, hospitalization or time of need.

Be Awake

“Is there anything I can do to make myself enlightened?”

“As little as you can do to make the sun come up in the morning.”

“Then of what use are the spiritual exercises you prescribe?”

“To make sure you are not asleep when the sun begins to rise.”

One Minute WisdomAnthony de Mello

Advent is the beginning of the church year and a time of preparation for the Christmas season. We are called to be alert, aware and awake! We don’t want to miss the coming of the holy one into our midst, into the very center of our lives.

And yet, Christmas has become a winter festival as well as a religious event in our year. We are expected to be happy, but we often feel burdened by the seemingly endless secular preparations. Our busyness and the stress can keep us from an awareness of the sacredness of the moment.

While this always is true of the Christmas season, it remains so throughout the year. If the truth be known, busyness and stress are always with us and can obscure the presence of God in our lives. Thus, we must make a conscious choice to turn to God; however we choose to do that. It could be a time of quiet beginning or ending each day, a moment of prayer, or the reading of the daily scriptures printed in this news each month. These daily practices do not guarantee a particular experience of God, but they make us available and open to the movement of the spirit in our lives.

Of course, practice involves waiting. In Advent we are waiting for the birth of the Christ child. This is not just remembrance of a past event, but also waiting for the birth of the Christ within each of us. John O’Shea describes this as “waiting for the One we cannot make arrive but whom we trust will appear.” (Starlight: Beholding the Christmas Miracle All Year Long, p. 111)

Anthony de Mello tells us as much with the little story cited by O’Shea of the person seeking enlightenment. The master tells him that he has no control over this, but his spiritual practices keep him awake so he can see. The message clearly is that our alertness, our paying attention to God matters. Thus, de Mello preached in his many workshops: “Awareness, Awareness, Awareness.” He said in essence: Wake up! Be alert! Pay attention! We just might experience the in-breaking of God.

This is the message this Advent and throughout the year: Be awake. God is near.

Peace and blessings,

December 1 - 31, 2014 11

December Daily ReadingsThese Bible readings are from the Revised Common Lectionary Daily Readings. In general, readings on Thursday, Friday and Saturday are selected to prepare for the Sunday reading; readings on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday are selected to reflect the Sunday lectionary.

1 Micah 4:1-5 Revelation 15:1-8 2 Micah 4:6-13 Revelation 18:1-10 3 Micah 5:1-5a Luke 21:34-38 4 Hosea 6:1-6 1 Thessalonians 1:2-10 5 Jeremiah 1:4-10 Acts 11:19-26 6 Ezekiel 36:24-28 Mark 11:27-33 7 (Sunday) Isaiah 40:1-11 2 Peter 3:8-15a Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 Mark 1:1-8 8 Isaiah 26:7-15 Acts 2:37-42 9 Isaiah 4:2-6 Acts 11:1-18 10 Malachi 2:10—3:1 Luke 1:5-17 11 Habakkuk 2:1-5 Philippians 3:7-11 12 Habakkuk 3:2-6 Philippians 3:12-16 13 Habakkuk 3:13-19 Matthew 21:28-32 14 (Sunday) Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24 Psalm 126 John 1:6-8, 19-28 15 1 Kings 18:1-18 Ephesians 6:10-17 16 2 Kings 2:9-22 Acts 3:17—4:4 17 Malachi 3:16—4:6 Mark 9:9-13 18 2 Samuel 6:1-11 Hebrews 1:1-4 19 2 Samuel 6:12-19 Hebrews 1:5-14 20 Judges 13:2-24 John 7:40-52 21 (Sunday) 2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16 Romans 16:25-27 Luke 1:46b-55 Luke 1:26-38 22 1 Samuel 1:1-18 Hebrews 9:1-14 23 1 Samuel 1:19-28 Hebrews 8:1-13 24 (Morning) Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 James 1:17-18 (Evening) Isaiah 9:2-7 Titus 2:11-14 Psalm 96 Luke 2:1-20 25 (Christmas Isaiah 52:7-10 Hebrews 1:1-12 Sunday) Psalm 98 John 1:1-14 26 Jeremiah 26:1-9, 12-15 Acts 6:8-15; 7:51-60 27 Exodus 33:18-23 1 John 1:1-9 28 Jeremiah 31:15-17 Matthew 2:13-18 29 Isaiah 49:5-15 Matthew 12:46-50 30 Proverbs 9:1-12 2 Peter 3:8-13 31 1 Kings 3:5-14 John 8:12-19

Sharing Gifts with Deep Griha By Linda Ritter

Christmas brings gift-giving and sharing with others. The most meaningful gifts aren’t always wrapped in bright paper and ribbons. They may be gifts of education, medical care, and nutritious food – so needed and appreciated by our friends at Deep Griha in Puné, India.

Next July, First Community Church will celebrate forty years of partnership with Deep Griha. After spending time in Columbus as missionaries in reverse, Bhaskar and Neela Onawale returned to Puné, and started the mission from their small home. Deep Griha has grown to encompass three family centers with child care, so that mothers can be employed; a facility for homeless children; a school; and outreach programs in the slum communities. While other groups have joined in support, First Community has been a steadfast supporter throughout the forty years.

Deep Griha is moving forward with new projects. City of Child and Deep Griha Academy are located in rural areas outside of Puné. Environmental sustainability is being fostered with the collection of rain water in wells, which can be used to irrigate crops in the dry season. Solar power is being used for much of the school’s energy needs.

Plans are underway to build an additional school building, so that education can be extended to high school students. A career education program is also being planned.

You can help with this important work. For information about how you can sponsor one of the Deep Griha children, or to donate on line, go to DeepGrihaUSA.org

Our special mission offering for Christmas will be divided between Deep Griha and Friends of the Homeless. Contributing to this offering will help us share our Christmas giving with friends in India, and in Columbus.

Ministry of Presence By Tracy Hoag

On Wednesday, December 17 at 1:30 pm, the Ministry of Presence is hosting a holiday party at the Prison Medical Center. We are accepting donations of time and talent.

Ways to give include baking cookies or brownies, sending holiday candies and helping assemble cookie trays and goodie bags (at the South Campus at 11:45 am the day of the event). Come to the event to carol with the group, bring an instrument or play the piano or just come and be present.

12 December 1 - 31, 2014

The Infinite Quest

– – The Reverend Mr. David S. Hett, Minister of Religious Life and LearningThe Coming of the Embodied One

It was an apocalyptic time. A mighty Empire with military bases all over the known world was, through its collaborating local profiteers, pushing an already economically-disadvantaged people into deeper oppression and de-pression. They were “a people who walked in darkness.”

Incomprehensibly, the answer to this nightmare was in a new birth: the birth of a gentle, nonviolent, compassionate one. It was as though the Holy One was saying, “Here, this is my Being, but enfleshed, and one with you. Maybe then you’ll

get that you are all unique and embodied manifestations of the Divine One, and likewise express your inherent divine gentleness, peace and compassion to the world.”

It seems to me that the primary (and deeply spiritual) message of the Jesus event from the birth of “God-made-flesh” to the Crucified-Resurrected One is that each living soul has the capacity to become an authentic, whole [the meaning of salvation is “to be made whole”] individual expression of each one’s true Divine origin and nature.

“The glory of God is…the human being, the whole human race, every individual person…fully alive,” says Elizabeth Johnson, riffing on Irenaeus’s famous quote, The glory of God is the human being fully alive.

“God’s glory is at stake in the flourishing of people, every single one and all together,” she writes in Quest for the Living God.

“How could it be otherwise if the incomprehensible Mystery toward whom the human spirit dynamically tends self-communicates to the world in Jesus and the Spirit as absolute, challenging, sheltering love.” I think this sentence demands savoring and long moments of contemplation.

“In thus choosing to create, save, and dwell within the world, holy mystery has made the world and its inhabitants precious beyond all telling. Harming human beings, inflicting violence or neglecting their good, translates logically into an insult to the Holy One…the glory of the One is at stake in the well-being of all others.”

Or, in the words of St. Francis from Daniel Ladinsky’s Love Poems from God:

I think God might be a little prejudiced. for once He asked me to join Him on a walk through this world, and we gazed into every heart on this earth, and I noticed He lingered a bit longer before any face that was weeping, and before any eyes that were laughing.

And sometimes when we passed a soul in worship God too would kneel down. I have come to learn: God adores His creation.

Blessings this Advent. Shalom,

New Evening Series ‘The Challenge of Jesus’The new Thursday night Faith & Reason study group at North Campus, starts its second, and new study, “The Challenge of Jesus,” a DVD-based series with last spring’s Spiritual Searcher John Dominic Crossan. Walter Watkins leads the group discussion every Thursday evening (except Christmas Day and New Year’s Day) from 7 – 8:15 pm in Room 111, North Campus.

In The Challenge of Jesus, renowned historical Jesus scholar John Dominic Crossan presents his life’s work exploring the matrix of Jesus’ unique time and place. Dr. Crossan pinpoints the history and circumstances that helped Jesus’ message of nonviolent resistance to evil have such a powerful impact against Imperial Rome. Moving beyond Jesus as an abstract figure of scripture, Dr. Crossan paints us a vivid portrait of Jesus the man. “Dom Crossan is a brilliant and gifted teacher, and the production values of this series are superb. This is education about Jesus for the 21st century,” says Marcus J. Borg, Canon Theologian at Trinity Episcopal Church, Portland, OR, about the series.

Register online at FCchurch.com/faithor at the door. A weekly offering supports this and other Adult Learning programs.

This series has also started in the Sunday morning seminar at South Campus, 9:30-10:45 am in the Wicker Room. All are welcome to join either group.

The December 15 Governing Board meeting will be held off site

beginning at 7 pm.

If you are interested in attending contact Cindy Harsany at

488.0681 ext. 230.

December 1 - 31, 2014 13

Weekly Adult Learning GroupsClasses are free except where noted and open to the public. Books used for classes are available at Furber Books. For information on books, registration or financial aid, contact Natalia at njones@FCchurch.com or 614 488.0681 ext. 151 (voicemail only).

For more details on specific classes, go to FCchurch.com, search: Adult Learning.

Sunday Morning SeminarIn December the class continues discussion of the John Dominic Crossan’s, The Challenge of Jesus, a DVD-based series. Each session will include a short video (15-18 minutes) followed by discussion time. All are welcome. No advance preparation is necessary. Just come and join the discussions.

Sundays, 9:30 – 10:45 amWicker Room, South Campus

No class December 21 - January 4

Tuesday at TenAll are welcome to attend this long-standing discussion group.The class continues Barbara Brown Taylor’s book, Learning to Walk in the Dark, in which she provides a way to find spirituality in those times when we don’t have all the answers. Just bring a copy of the book, an open heart and mind. We look forward to the thoughts of all attending.

Tuesdays, 10 – 11:30 amWicker Room, South Campus

No class December 23 & 30

Men’s Study GroupWe will be exploring the Book of Amos, the first biblical prophetic book written in the Hebrew Bible. Men are always welcome to join us at any time. Contact Price Finley at 614 488.7978 or pfinley@bricker.com, or Craig Sturtz at 614 481.9060 or craig.sturtz@squirepb.com

Wednesdays, 7 – 8 amWicker Room, South Campus

No group December 24 & 31.

Wednesday Morning FellowshipPresentations and discussion of leading-edge topics. Ends promptly at 8 am.

Wednesdays, 7 – 8 amBrownlee Hall, South Campus

Women Living the QuestionsIn this ongoing group, we use the works of contemporary spiritual teachers, books, videos or both, as a stimulus for discussions. How can we apply the great philosophical ideas to our lives--our personal lives and the world at large? Our goal is to create a space of loving kindness that allows each woman to express herself without fear or judgments. We always welcome new participants. Contact Linda Baldeck at lbaldeck927@gmail.com or 614 459.0722.

Wednesdays, 9:30 – 11 amWicker Room, South Campus

No class December 24 & 31

Wednesday Evening Bible StudyA time to study scripture and pray. Led by Rev. Jim Long. Open to all.This December we will continue studying “Gospel Parables”.

Wednesdays, 7 – 8:15 pmConference Room, North CampusLast Class December 10

Contemplative Way Group 1A time of sacred reading--Teresa of Avila’s Interior Castle; 30-minute meditation time; reflection & discussion. Facilitated by Rev. David Hett and other spiritual directors. Free-will offering. New participants welcome.

Thursdays, 11:45 am – 1 pmWicker Room, South Campus

No group December 25 & January 1

Faith & ReasonIn December, the class continues discussion of the New Testament scholar John Dominic Crossan’s, The Challenge of Jesus, a DVD based series. Each session will include a short video (15-18 minutes) followed by discussion time. All are welcome. No advance preparation is necessary. Just come and join the discussions. Facilitated by Walter Watkins, Adult Education Coordinator.

Thursdays, 7 – 8:15 pmNorth Campus, Room 111

No class December 18 - January 8

Saturday Morning Contemplative Way GroupSacred reading of Mirabai Starr’s newest book, a translation of The Showing of Julian of Norwich; 30-minute meditation and time for reflection & discussion. Facilitated by Rose Konrath, Spiritual Searcher committee, and Vickie Murphy, Spiritual Director. Free-will offering. New participants welcome.

Saturdays, 10 – 11:15 amSpiritual Guidance Room, South Campus Annex

No class December 27

14 December 1 - 31, 2014

Film Discussion Group To View Koran By HeartFriday, December 5, 6 pm Wicker Room, South Campus Koran By Heart is a 90-minute HBO documentary following three young children as they travel from their homelands to Cairo as part of the global Islamic community gathering to participate in a Koran reciting competition. The Adult Learning Council’s Film Discussion group presents Koran By Heart as their December movie of the month.

In this moving documentary, these youngsters encounter new experiences, offer insight to their personal lives, cope with the pressures of competition and, above all, set an example of uncomplicated resilience. Pizza and social time starts at 6 pm, and the movie begins at 6:30 pm with discussion following the film. If you plan to attend, please register via email to joeray678@yahoo.com. Let us know how many are coming and if you want pizza.

Advent Morning PrayerWith the inspiration of John Philip Newell’s Spiritual Searcher retreat on Celtic Spirituality, Rev. David Hett will be leading a 30-minute Advent Morning Prayer service in Burkhart Chapel from 7 – 7:30 am Thursdays, December 4, 11 and 18.

The usual morning prayer service will have spoken prayers by the leader, scripture, time for silent prayer and a longer (approximately 10 minutes) time of contemplative/meditative silence. At various times, chant might replace or be in addition to the contemplative time.

We intend for this to be a time to enrich your Advent journey and to center yourself, holding intention for the good of others and the world as you enter your day. We expect that interest would be sufficient to continue a Morning Prayer service into the New Year.

The Busy Person’s Retreat: An Introduction to Spiritual Direction By Rev. Jim Long

When you think of a retreat, you probably think of getting away from it all, perhaps at a quiet retreat center or a cabin in the woods. Most of us don’t have the luxury of time to actually go away, even for a weekend. That is why we are offering the “Busy Person’s Directed Retreat”. This is a retreat that does not require you to pack your bags and travel anywhere. This is a retreat that takes place within the ordinary busy-ness of your daily life.

It is a simple idea: over the course of three weeks, you make a commitment to yourself and to God for special time each day for prayer, reflection and silence. Once each week during the retreat period you will meet – for about an hour – with an assigned spiritual director. The content of these sessions will reflect on your daily practice of prayer and the ways in which you are (or perhaps are not) noticing the presence of God in your daily life. This is an excellent opportunity to get a “taste” of how spiritual direction might enrich your spiritual journey.

The retreat begins with a prayer gathering of all participants and spiritual directors where the process is explained and introductions are made. At the close of the retreat there will be another community prayer gathering for discussion and faith sharing around the retreat experience.

What to expect during a spiritual direction session during this retreat:

Most spiritual directors will begin and end each session with a period of silence and/or spoken prayer. You will be invited to share some of what you have been noticing in response to your prayer time:

• What has been meaningful • Where you noticed the presence of the Divine and how that felt• What has been difficult, etc. • What has been happening in your daily life

Out of your sharing, the spiritual director will prayerfully reflect with you in ways that will help you find insights or deeper meaning in your experiences. Your spiritual director may suggest a particular scripture passage to meditate with or offer suggestions to help facilitate your retreat experience. Keep in mind that these sessions are completely confidential.

Who will be my spiritual director for this retreat?

The Spirituality Network will be providing the spiritual directors for this retreat. All of the spiritual directors meet the following criteria:

• They have completed (or near completion of) a recognized training program• They are in spiritual direction themselves• They are in peer supervision• They have agreed to abide by the Ethical Guidelines set forth by Spiritual

Directors International

The spiritual directors are matched with participants based on the information given on the participant’s registration form. All efforts are made to honor specific requests of participants. Participants may decide to continue in spiritual direction after the retreat ends. If a participant wishes to continue in spiritual direction, but with a different director at the end of the retreat, a referral interview can be arranged.

If you wish to learn more about The Spirituality Network, please call Amanda Stone Cushing, program coordinator, at 614 228.8867 or visit their website: spiritualitynetwork.org.

December 1 - 31, 2014 15

Brad Briggs Jane Briggs Valarie Kearney Lisa Norris Megan Secor Rich Secor

Brian Towns Alicia Meckstroth Ruth Ann Wheeler Zeus Yiamouyiannis

Welcome New Members Joined on Sunday, October 26, 2014

Brad Briggs brings extensive church experience having served in leadership roles at his previous church. They include Governing Board, Stewardship and Personnel Committees; as well as youth mission trip leader. Brad is retired and looks forward to getting involved at FCC. He and Jane love the music, sermons and the many educational opportunities.

Jane Briggs, originally from Dayton, is the daughter of a UCC minister. She is a teacher at the Eastland-Fairfield Career & Technical Schools. She and Brad travel from Lancaster to attend the South Campus 8:30 am service where they enjoy the small and welcoming atmosphere of that congregation.

Valarie Kearney has been a teacher in the Upper Arlington schools for 17 years. She is the mother of Jonah (12), Sara (11), Bailey (8) and Katie (6). Valarie is already sharing her passion for teaching by volunteering in the fourth-grade Sunday school class at the North Campus where she attends the 9:45 am service. Twinsburg is her hometown.

Lisa Norris and husband, Jeff, are the parents of Manning (10) and Audrey (7). Lisa joins our church family because of the “robust children’s ministry and service opportunities,” as well as the Camp Akita experience for children and youth. Lisa is an attorney with the Ohio Supreme Court – 4th District Court of Appeals and is originally from Warren.

Megan Secor says “FCC embraces each and every one of us – I love the sense of unity and community of relationships.” She and Rich enjoy Dr. Wing’s sermons and the overall message of the church. Originally from Alexandra, Megan works at TEKsystems as a Sales/Delivery Manager. Outside of her spirituality, family and friends are most important in her life.

Rich Secor and Megan chose to become members because “the welcoming and open nature of the church” resonated with them. They attend the 11 am service where they enjoy the choir, as well as the traditional feel. They are also within walking distance of the South Campus. Rich is originally from Toledo and is a Financial Analyst for AEP.

Brian Towns and Alicia most often attend the 11 am service at the South Campus, along with sons, Josh (13) and Mark (11). They have lived in the Worthington area for 7 years. Brian is a VP/Statistical Analysis Manager at JP Morgan Chase. He and Alicia enjoy staying active with sports and other outdoor activities.

Alicia Meckstroth and Brian Towns were drawn to First Community because of the church’s UCC roots, the open, progressive, engaging services, and our commitment to social justice issues. Alicia is a Research Associate at Mathematica Policy Research, a social policy research firm. Ruth Ann Wheeler has a very good reason for joining the church. Her daughter, son-in-law and four grandchildren are members - Terri and Tom Root, Nora, Katie and Anna. Ruth Ann, married to husband Mitch, is a part-time teacher and attends the 8:30 am North Campus service.

Zeus Yiamouyiannis attends the 8:30 am North Campus service and joins for the theology and sermons. He is currently attending Trinity Lutheran Seminary with plans to transfer to the Methodist Seminary in Delaware. A consultant with a PhD in Philosophy of Education, Zeus has a passion for teaching those with learning disabilities and non-conventional learners.

If you are interested in becoming a member of First Community or would like to learn more about our church, please contact Paula Russell, Director of Member and Visitor Services at 614 488.0681 ext 228 or prussell@FCchurch.com. Our next seminar is Tuesday, January 13.

16 December 1 - 31, 2014

Q Is For Quest: A Journey In Search Of Adventure By Guild Q member Jackie Cherry with updated material by Jill Eliot

The definition of Quest is “a seeking; a journey in search of adventure.” When this Guild group was formed in 1967, Q for “Quest“ was chosen as the aim and purpose. Members have been seeking new avenues of service and undertaking new adventures ever since.

Q was the first Group to provide birthday cakes for the First Community Village Convalarium and continued the project for three years until all the Guild Groups became involved. Q members adopted the Marshall Nursing Home residents in 1972 and treated them to visits, trips to the Ohio State Fair, tickets and transportation to Vaud-Villities until the home was sold four years later. Much of Q’s history revolved around fundraisers, i.e. Easter eggs, organizing white elephant sales and barn sales. Six years of annual gourmet salad luncheons and silent auctions were held.

A highly successful and educational quilt show was staged, followed by a craft demonstration and sale the next year. When the First Avenue House on the corner of Cambridge Blvd. and First Ave. was about to be razed to make way for a parking lot, Group Q stayed the wrecking ball long enough to organize a silent auction. Everything in and on the house, including bubble windows, oak woodwork, ornate radiators and even the vintage plumbing and light fixtures were salvaged and purchased by eager buyers. Another unique project was the Heritage Calendar featuring liturgical dates as well as important events in FCC’s history. Group members worked together on a quilt, coverlet and other items to be raffled. In time, Group Q members strongly supported Camp Akita with major donations as well as funds allocated to provide Akita camperships. Currently supported are: Prayers and Squares, Rafiki, and Heart To Heart. The group’s many projects have included landscaping around Lincoln Road Chapel, new serving carts, reupholstering furniture in the Wicker Room, repairing a window in Burkhart Chapel and funding new benches for Vesper Hill at Akita.

Several members have served as president of the Women’s Guild: Sally Pape, Nancy Corey, Ruth McNeal, Jinny Frick, Jackie Cherry and Meg Wagner. Group Q members are involved in every phase of church life.

Meetings are the 4th Wednesday of the month at member’s homes starting at 11:30 am. Lunch is served with a program following. Staff members have been invited for programs detailing their work at our beloved church. Our special Christmas meeting is held at the home of Meg and Dick Wagner, which includes significant others. The evening’s highlight is Dick’s marvelous train display. We are transported back to childhood memories for the evening. What a delightful time that is.

“Christmas waves a magic wand over this world, and behold, everything is softer and more beautiful. ” — Norman Vincent Peale

Happy holidays everyone!

Women’s Guild By Jill Eliot

The Betty O’Neill Election Day Bake Sale was a resounding success, surpassing the budgeted amount of 2014. As Tiny Tim says, “God Bless Us Everyone,” so, too, the Guild says, God bless the bakers and sellers; God bless the church staff who graciously purchased the variety of pastries and finally, God bless the voters for contributing to the success of the day." The total of sales were $769.75.

A reminder that the wreath sale pick up is Saturday, December 6, 10 am - 1 pm at North Campus.

Dawn Costin is looking for Women’s Guild volunteers to assist with the Christmas Craft Shop Saturday, December 6 from 10 - 11:30 am. Ladies will help with the craft stations.

The kitchen casserole project for December has been cancelled.

The new Guild Group G meets the 3rd Thursday of the month at 12:30 in the Guild Room at South Campus. Their motto is Giving - Sharing - Caring. They are accepting new members.

Red CrossBlood DriveBlood donations often decline during the holidays when donors get busy with travel and family gatherings, but the need for blood remains steady. Someone in our community needs blood every two seconds. Volunteer to give blood on Tuesday, December 30, 2-7 pm, Brownlee Hall, South Campus. Donors will receive a t-shirt and $5 Subway gift card. Contact Paula Russell at 614 488.0681 ext. 228 or prussell@FCchurch.com.

December 1 - 31, 2014 17

8:30 am • Burkhart Chapel, SC - Rev. Hett preaching9:30 am • Grace Hall, NC - Children's Christmas Musical11 am • Grace Hall, NC - Children's Christmas Musical11 am • Sanctuary, SC - Dr. Wing preaching Whitechapel Ringers

8:30 am • Burkhart Chapel, SC - Rev. Long preaching8:30 am • Grace Hall, NC - Dr. Wing preaching Whitechapel Ringers9:45 am • Grace Hall, NC - Dr. Wing preaching Whitechapel Ringers11 am • Sanctuary, SC - Dr. Wing preaching Chancel Choir

8:30 am • Burkhart Chapel, SC - Rev. Shaner preaching8:30 am • Grace Hall, NC - Dr. Wing preaching Soloist9:45 am • Grace Hall, NC - Dr. Wing preaching Chancel Chamber Choir11 am • Sanctuary, SC - Dr. Wing preaching Chancel Choir

11 am • Sanctuary, SC - Dr. Wing preaching

For additional information:

Click: FCchurch.com Email: info@FCchurch.com Call: 614 488.0681 Visit: The Welcome Center at North or South Campus

A Usher assignments.

A MONTH OF SUNDAYS

ADVENT IV

ADVENT III, MS/HS ADOPT-A-FAMILY

7

14

21

28

CHILDREN'S MUSICAL/ADVENT II

C

A

A

B

Try us. Yule Like Us! By Rebecca Wolfe

Tri-Village Trading Post is coming to you adorned in bells and baubles, ribbons and bows to help you celebrate Christmas. Our Christmas Mart will be set up at North Campus on Sunday, December 7 and at South Campus on Sunday December 14.

We will bring a nice selection of the many Christmas items we have for sale in the shop… decorations, clothing, gift items, greeting cards, books, jewelry, toys and much more.

You may not need to shop with Trading Post, but we hope you will consider checking us out. You will find treasures little and big and in the process you will be giving to our church and to her missions. Our specific mission outreach in 2014 is “Friends of the Homeless” in Columbus.

If you miss us on one of these dates please stop in the Annex Building at South Campus anytime Monday through Saturday 10 am - 4 pm.

Got Coats?Refugee Task Force will collect new or gently used winter coats of all sizes to benefit the central Ohio refugee community.

Coats may be placed in the Refugee Task Force baskets in the Donation Stations at both North and South Campuses.

Questions?Call Charlie Nichols at 614 486.1769

It’s like YouTubeTM

for church.

18 December 1 - 31, 2014

Third-Graders Receive Bibles By Dawn Costin

All third-graders will receive a Bible as a gift from First Community Church on January 25, 2015. Bibles will be presented during worship at the 9:45 am service at North Campus and the 11 am service at South Campus.

To reserve a Bible for your third-grader, please visit the K-5 Ministry page at FCchurch.com/k-5. If you would like your child’s name in the Bible written in calligraphy, please submit forms by January 5. However, reservation forms can be submitted through January 20.

Please contact Dawn Costin at 614 488.0681, ext. 109 or dcostin@FCchurch.com for more information.

On A Mission In 2014 By Linda Larrimer

Did you contribute part of your garden harvest or purchase some from other First Community Church members at the Farmer’s Market on August 24? Your participation raised $768 for our Heart to Heart Food Pantry.

Did you dine on shrimp, beans, rice and fruit cobbler at the Shrimp Boil on July 25 and help raise over $6,000 for Back Bay Mission? Did you join the potluck and art auction on June 28 to raise money for a new school bus for the Rafiki Academy? Special offerings throughout the year support Tandana Foundation, Healing Arts Mission, and Habitat for Humanity, but Mission Council supported even more in 2014. Mission Council’s largest donation was $18,900 to the Greater Hilltop Area Shalom Zone Freedom Schools. Our money supported the education and travel of the SLT (Servant Leader Interns) last spring. This summer the interns worked at two Freedom School sites where 153 students received literacy-based programming; as well as dental, health and wellness programming and care through Children’s Hospital Public Health Interns. The Freedom Schools are also linked with the Columbus Metropolitan Libraries and each child receives between 6 to 12 books which they keep. Field trips, sports activities and meetings with parents and caregivers are part of the program, too. Mission Council awarded a $5,000 grant to Freedom a La Cart, a local social enterprise catering business that provides workforce development, employment and supportive services to local adult survivors, primarily women, of human trafficking. Freedom a La Cart provides kitchen services for the Community Shelter Board’s new shelter that opened July 23 at 595 Van Buren Drive. Mission Council supported the building of Christian communities in Ohio correctional institutions with a $2,000 donation to Kairos Prison Ministry. Kairos’ volunteers meet weekly with small share and prayer groups. Funds help provide meals for retreat weekends. Mission Council gave $1,200 to support FCC's Ministry of Presence, a compassionate volunteer ministry to those at the Franklin Medical Center, either the hospital or long-term care facility at the Ohio Department of Corrections. Our donation will be used to cover the costs of special snacks, paint and materials for the palliative care rooms and sewing items for making quilts. Help Mission Council continue its support of organizations, locally, nationally and internationally by purchasing Giant Eagle Gift Cards after Sunday services or designate a portion of your Kroger Rewards Card to FCC.

Spiritual Searcher John Philip Newell, teacher of Celtic Christianity, during his presentation of The Rebirthing of God: Dreaming the Way Forward at the November 14 - 16 weekend "retreat" in Grace Hall, North Campus. Photo by Charles Baldeck.

December 1 - 31, 2014 19

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Because it was so well located, we wouldn’t have to move out of our neighborhood.”

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Guild Group 7 invites you to join us to...

RAISE THE ROOF

FOR RAFIKI$10,000 is needed to:

• Raise the roof and finish the build-out of the Dental Clinic that will serve the community

• Make additional rooms available for classrooms• Provide a room for sewing machines and classes

Guild Group 7 is going to match ALL DONATIONS from Guild Groups and individuals up to $5000!

Your gift through the Foundation is deductible. Please make checks payable to First Community Foundation (memo: Guild Group 7 Rafiki) and mail to: First Community Foundation 1320 Cambridge Blvd, Columbus OH 43212

We hope to have the money to Rafiki by year end so the building can soon be operational. Thank you!

firstnewsFirst Community Church1320 Cambridge BoulevardColumbus, OH 43212

Dated Material : Do Not Delay

Periodical PostagePAIDat Columbus, Ohio

First Community Church

South Campus North Campus1320 Cambridge Boulevard 3777 Dublin RoadColumbus, OH 43212 Columbus, OH 43221614 488.0681 614 488.0681FAX 488.2763 FAX 777.4098

FCchurch.com info@FCchurch.com

No matter who you are or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here.

,THE PROGRAM STAFF OF FIRST COMMUNITY CHURCH Richard A. Wing, Senior Minister; Paul E. Baumer, Minister to the Staff; David S. Hett, Minister of Religious Life and Learning; Ronald J. Jenkins, Minister of Music and Liturgy; Deborah Countiss Lindsay, Minister of Spiritual Care; James M. Long, Minister of Pastoral Care; Katherine H. Shaner, Minister of Mission; Mary Beth Aeh, Director of Early Childhood Ministry; Michael Barber, Director of Marketing and Communications, Sally R. Beske, Assistant Organist/Director of Youth Choirs; Tim Carlson, Director of Camp Akita Ministries and Youth Programming; Dawn J. Costin, Director of K-12 Ministry; Cynthia Harsany, Director of Finance and Operations; Pam Jameson, Director of Facilities Ministry; Bobbi Mueller, Director of Office Operations and Special Projects; Scot Nicoll, Executive Director of Camp Akita; Missy Obergefell, Director of Older Adult Ministry; Paula L. Russell, Director of Member and Visitor Services; Lauri Speight Sullivan, Director of First Community Foundation.

Affiliated with The United Church of Christ and Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)

News articles and photos for firstnews Monthly must be submitted to news@FCchurch.com by the 15th of each month. Direct questions to Editor Michael Barber at mbarber@FCchurch.com

firstnews Monthly

For up-to-date information on our

capital projects visit

FCchurch.com/vision

It’s like YouTubeTM

for church.

Carolsfor

Christmas

The 41st AnnualCandlelight

Christmas Concert

Sunday, December 14, 20144:30 pm

North Campus3777 Dublin RoadColumbus, Ohio

A CHRISTMAS CONCERT FOR YOU!

Carols for Christmaspresented by

THE FIRST COMMUNITY CHURCH Chancel Choir, Chamber Singers

and Chamber Instrumental Ensemble

Ronald Jenkins, conductor

Robert Griffith, organist

Conrad Susa’sCAROLS AND LULLABIES

Christmas in the SouthwestA setting of ten traditional Spanish carols for chorus, harp, guitar, and marimba

Jeanne Norton, harpKarl Wohlwend, guitar

Christian Slagle, marimba

~Also included on the program with audience carol singing~

13th century plainsong ............................ Of the Father’s Heart Begotten

Michael Praetorius ..................................... Lo, How a Rose e’er Blooming

Tomás Luis de Victoria .......................................... O magnum mysterium

Herbert Howells .......................................... Magnificat, Collegium Regale

Stephen Main ..................................................Blessed Be that Maid Mary

Morton Lauridsen ..................................................................O Nata Lux

John Rutter .......................................................................... Dancing Day

Howard Helvey.....................................What Shall We Sing for the Child?

John Jacob Niles ............................................. Jesus, Jesus Rest Your Head

Mark Riese ......................A Choral Fantasy: God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen

Stephen Paulus ........................................................................... Hallelu!

Mack Wilberg ........................................ The Virgin Mary Had a Baby Boy

Sally Beske and Suzanne Newcomb, piano

A freewill offering will be received