FREE - PLEASE TAKE ONE APRIL 1 - firstnews-extrafirstnews-extra.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/APRIL-FIRSTNEWS-w… · SEE LETTING GO, PAGE 2 ... FREE - PLEASE TAKE ONE APRIL 1 -

SEE LETTING GO, PAGE 2

FIRSTNEWS-EXTRA.COM FCCHURCH.COM FCCHURCH.TV FACEBOOK.COM/FIRSTCOMMUNITYCHURCH

FREE - PLEASE TAKE ONE APRIL 1 - 30, 2017 VOL. 63 NO. 4

POST OFFICE USE ONLY

“Informing and Inspiring the Central Ohio

Faith Community”

BE MINDFULThe day the Lord created hope was probably the

same day he created spring.

© 2017 First Community Church

Students Find Big Win in No Waste

Letting GoHenri Nouwen got to know the Rodleigh family, a high wire trapeze act from South Africa.

One of the Rodleighs explained the role of the flyer and the catcher in the high wire act.

“As a flyer, I must have complete confidence in my catcher. The public might think that I am the great star of the trapeze, but the real star is Joe, my catcher. He has to be there for me with split second precision and grab me out of the air as I come to him in the long jump.”

“How does it work,” asked Nouwen?

“The secret,” Rodleigh said, “is that the flyer does nothing and the catcher does everything. When I fly to Joe, I have simply to stretch out my arms and hands and wait for him to catch me and pull me safely over the apron behind the catch bar. The worst thing the flyer can do is to try to catch the catcher. I am not supposed to catch Joe. It’s Joe’s task to catch me. If I grabbed Joe’s wrists, I might break them, or he might break mine, and that would be the end of both of us. A flyer must fly, and a catcher must catch, and the flyer must trust, with outstretched arms, that his catcher will be there for him.”

The most important work in the spiritual life is not grabbing, planning, or making things happen. The most important work is letting go and leaving room for the hand of God.

Everyone has heard the phrase: “We plan; God laughs.” Every time I let go of fear or excessive plans (which never worked out), I was caught, if you please,

Dr. Richard WingSenior Minister

n By Michael Barber

While many fifth graders see lunch period as an opportunity to socialize or trade an apple for a pudding cup, the students at Edison Elementary in Grandview use their time to create hunger awareness.

Each Wednesday, through the end of the school year, Sara Hager’s small class is working to make a big difference.

“I saw so many articles about food waste,” Sara said. “Yet, no matter the waste, we still have problems with hunger disparity. It seems that those two things should be able to fix each other.”

After brainstorming with her students, the team came up with No Waste Wednesday. Students from fourth through eighth grade donate pre-wrapped food items to be delivered each week to Heart to Heart food pantry.

“We had a ton of donations on the first day,” Sara said. “So many of our kids are so thoughtful that they packed extra food.”

Some of the items collected were small bags of popcorn, crackers, apples, yogurt and applesauce. The students delivered their first food collection on Wednesday, March 1, then stayed to help stock shelves.

In addition to collecting food, the class also took on a tower garden project.

The garden yielded a small harvest of lettuce, which was also donated.

Student Viessa Cantelmo, 10, connects personally with the project.

“It feels really good to help,” she said. “I see people who are less fortunate. This is a great way to help out and to show that you care about what is going on.”

The fifth graders researched food waste and hunger disparity online. They found the following facts through a variety of resources, including Mid-

Ohio Foodbank, Feeding America and USA Today:

● 33 million tons of food are wasted every year just by Americans. That’s enough to fill the Rose Bowl every day.

● 1 billion people are hungry worldwide.

● 40% to 50% of food is thrown away.

● Just in Ohio, 1 in 6 people struggle getting food.

● Each year, one house will throw away about 474 pounds of food.

Fifth-grade students from Edison Intermediate School in Grandview help to stock shelves in the Heart to Heart food pantry Wednesday, March 1. The small group of students gathered extra, pre-packaged food from classmates during lunch period to donate to the pantry as part of their study on hunger and food waste.

Planting SeedsLoren Van Deusen shows a healthy crop to kindergarten children of the Mary Evans Child Development Center last summer. He and his wife, Cheryl, continue a tradition of gardening at First Community Church with the Share and Learn Garden. Children assist in planting and cultivatiing produce that is shared with the Heart to Heart food pantry. See story, Page 5.

2 APRIL 1 - 30, 2017 | firstnews

firstnews ArticlesInclude the date, contact person’s name, phone number and/or email address with all submissions to:

email - [email protected] fax - (614) 488-2763phone - (614) 488-0681

The deadline for all submissions is 12 pm on the 15th of each month. We reserve the right to edit all submissions. All content is copyright First Community Church.

firstnews is a communications mission of First Community Church, published for church members and the community to share insights, educate and inform.

Editor & Publisher Michael [email protected]

Graphic DesignTabitha McCleery

Creative SupportEmily Rogers

Distribution & AdvertisingJane [email protected]

First Community Church firstnews (USPS 196-300) is published monthly by First Community C h u rc h , 1 3 2 0 C a m b r i d g e Boulevard, Columbus, OH 43212-3200. Periodicals postage paid at Columbus, Ohio. Subscription rates — U.S. First Community membe r s - $1 / yea r ; non -members - $25/year. Canadian or foreign subscriptions must be paid in U.S. dollars. For non-U.S. rates, call the firstnews office. Postmaster: Send address changes to First Community Church, 1320 Cambridge Boulevard, Columbus, OH 43212-3200.

CONNECT WITH USFCchurch.com Worship times and locations, program information, church calendar, history, annual report

Facebook Streaming live 11 am Sundays

FCchurch.TV Media Ministry, live worship, sermon videos and audio, ‘First Edition’ archive

Firstnews-Extra.com Stories, back issues, news

CampAkita.org Camp schedules, programs, facility rental

South Campus 1320 Cambridge Blvd. Columbus, Ohio 43212 (614) 488-0681 Fax: (614) 488-2763

North Campus 3777 Dublin Rd. Columbus, Ohio 43221 (614) 488-0681 Fax: (614) 777-4098

Camp Akita 29746 Logan-Hornsmill Rd. Logan, Ohio 43138 (740) 385-3827, ext. 222 Fax: (740) 385-1712

MAUNDY THURSDAY, APRIL 13, 8 pmCandlelight Choral Service of Holy Communion and TenebraeSouth Campus, 1320 Cambridge BoulevardLed by the Members of the ClergyReadings by members of the DiaconateDr. Glen Miles, Senior MinisterChoral Music by the Chancel ChoirRonald Jenkins, Minister of Music & LiturgyRobert Griffith, OrganistThis Service of Worship begins with the choir in a candlelight procession singing the oldest known piece of Christian music, Pange Lingua (Now my tongue the mystery telling). With the opening hymn, the sanctuary is filled with light. Throughout the service of worship, we hear the story from the time of the Last Supper, to the Garden, the trial, the crucifixion, and the burial. With each step, the shadows of our human faithlessness deepen and symbolically, gradually blot out the light of all the candles. At the end, a solitary light, the Christ candle, returns as a sign of hope.

GOOD FRIDAY, April 14, 12 noonService of Worship and MusicNorth Campus, 3777 Dublin RoadThe First Community Church Chamber SingersMembers of the Columbus Symphony OrchestraRonald Jenkins, Minister of Music & LiturgyRobert Griffith, OrganistDr.Glen Miles, preaching on Death By Broken HeartAfter the orchestral prelude, the service opens with the placement of the cross and the choir surrounding it to sing “Were You There”. The service proceeds with hymns and anthems, and readings that include the last words of Jesus from the cross. The music includes portions of Handel’s Messiah, Part II as well as music of Bach from Orchestral Suite No. III and St. John Passion, John Rutter’s Out of the Deep, Ferguson’s Ah, Holy Jesus, Mozart’s Lacrimosa, Giazotto’s (Albinoni) Adagio in G minor and Barber’s Adagio for Strings played by members of the Columbus Symphony Orchestra. Worshippers are invited to walk the outdoor Labyrinth before or after this service.

EASTER SUNDAY, APRIL 16

8:30 amBurkhart Chapel, South Campus, 1320 Cambridge Blvd.Holy CommunionRev. Christopher Rinker preachingCarol Hofer, organistAll children in worship 10 am and 11:30 amSanctuary, South Campus, 1320 Cambridge Blvd.Dr. Glen Miles preaching on Heart QuakeChancel Choir with Brass Quartet and TympaniRonald Jenkins, Minister of Music & LiturgyRobert Griffith, OrganistRev. James Long and Dr. Deborah Lindsay, liturgistsChild care: Infant to pre-K at 10 and 11:30 am services

8:30 amGrace Hall, North Campus, 3777 Dublin Rd.Dr. Glen Miles preaching on Heart QuakeChancel Choir with Brass QuartetRonald Jenkins, Minister of Music & LiturgySally R. Beske, OrganistRev. David Hett and Rev. Kate Shaner, liturgistsAll children in worship 10:30 amGrace Hall, North Campus, 3777 Dublin Rd.Rev. David Hett preachingRev. Christopher Rinker and Rev. Kate Shaner, liturgistsSally R. Beske, Organist With musicians Tom Root, Bill McGovern and Sally HughesChild care: Infant to pre-K

CORRECTIONS

In the March edition, we reported that refugee Chafi Kehedy was attending Denison University. He in fact graduated from Denison in 2013. He is now attending Saint James Medical School of Medicine in Chicago. Church member Charlie Nichols continues to raise funds for Chafi’s education.

We also credited George and Amy Husted “Newman” for designating grant money for the Tri-Village Trading Post. Their last name is Newell.

Firstnews regrets the errors.

by an updraft of the spirit that landed me where I needed to be, rather than where I thought I wanted to be.

As of March 31, I am letting go of my role at First Community Church over the past 23 years, with the full confidence that Dr. Glen Miles and this congregation will let God catch your imagination and carry you to places of great joy far better than your best laid plans. I remain eternally and gratefully yours.

LETTING GOFROM PAGE 1

Join Us

K-5 Egg Hunt n By Emma Shaner

The K-5 Department is preparing to have an egg-celent time at our annual Easter Egg Hunt at North Campus Sunday, April 9 at 1 pm.

Preschool and elementary-aged

children and their families are invited to hunt for eggs, walk for cookies and even dance for some candy.

Tickets are $5 per child. Register at FCchurch.com/K-5 so we can prepare the best age-appropriate treats.

Senior MomentsSince a few have asked, here’s the answer: I misread an email and missed the deadline for our clergy comments about Dick Wing’s excellent ministry with us. Nothing more sinister than that.

Be that as it may, here are my comments very simplified. Dick brought remarkable energy to our congregation.

Dick has a great sense of humor, which gets him and all of us through bad and good times. Life is always, finally, good!

He is one of the best large church senior ministers I’ve ever encountered, and that includes 14 years on denominational staff where I worked with several hundred churches and clergy. So we bid him a fond bon voyage. And I once again thank Dick for inviting me out of my rocking chair and back into ministry.

Thanks to Dick, I find myself totally enjoying “retirement” and I’m reminded that those of us who are up there in years do best if we find things to do beyond our rocking chairs.

Yes, we may have “senior moments” when we don’t have the energy or memory or whatever that we’d like to have, and now and then we may have to lean on a cane to keep the old ark moving. But don’t let that keep you from being active and involved in stuff beyond your rocking chair.

All things considered, you won’t regret it.

Rev. Paul BaumerMinister to the Staff

firstnews | APRIL 1 - 30, 2017 3

A MONTH OF SUNDAYSAPRIL 2 B

8:30 am Burkhart Chapel, SC Rev. Rinker preaching

9:15 am Grace Hall, NC Dr. Miles preaching


11 am Sanctuary, SC Dr. Miles preaching

APRIL 9 C

PALM SUNDAY

8:30 am Burkhart Chapel, SC Rev. Shaner preaching




APRIL 16 A

EASTER SUNDAY

8:30 am Burkhart Chapel, SC Rev. Rinker preaching



10:30 am Grace Hall, NC Dr. Lindsay preaching

11:30 am Sanctuary, SC Dr. Miles preaching

APRIL 23 B

8:30 am Burkhart Chapel, SC Rev. Long preaching




APRIL 30 C

8:30 am Burkhart Chapel, SC Dr. Lindsay preaching




A Indicates Usher Assignments

Life Goes OnA Very Special Day

Suzy was a delightful little girl, approaching the age of five. She was excited because she and her family were going on a 150 mile trip to visit grandma and grandpa. Grandma was filled with good cheer. Her only concern was whether her cooking

would be acceptable. We reminded her that her serving new dishes would go back to the kitchen.

Grandpa was quiet and thoughtful but had a good sense of humor and used to say he thought he was probably the only registered Democrat in Williams County. He was not one pound over weight, probably from being a Wabash freight conductor/brakeman for 40 years. We were going to spend Easter with the family. Montpelier was a northern Ohio county seat. It was a nice small town with a large Wabash freight yard and several small manufacturing plants. It also had a county fairground, which was the setting for a major annual event - the Easter Egg Hunt on Easter Sunday. Obviously, that

was when it should be held. Folks came from some distance to attend wearing their Easter Sunday church clothes. We gathered in the fairgrounds, noting that there were many colored eggs and wrapped candies. Suzy was obviously becoming very enthused. She was garbed in black patent leather shoes, frilly white sox, party dress, royal blue knee length coat and flowered bonnet.

This was Suzy’s first Easter egg hunt and she was ready for action. At the appropriate time, the mayor stepped forward onto the mowed grass and fired his starter pistol. Gentle chaos resulted with children laughing, jumping about and filling their baskets. Suzy was having a glorious time running through the crowd waving her basket. After about 15 minutes it was over and excited children ran back to their families lugging their treasures. Then we noticed Suzy standing by herself, looking very confused. We could see tears welling up in her eyes as she gazed at her empty basket. We realized that since this was her first such experience, we adults had forgotten

to tell her to fill her basket, not just wave it about.

She came over to the family, trying not to cry but not really succeeding. I noticed a lady standing in a group nearby. She was talking with the adults. Then she quietly walked over to Suzy and asked if she could have her basket. Suzy handed to her and she walked back to her family. A couple of minutes later, she walked back to Suzy and handed the basket to her, now overflowing with Easter delights.

She said “This is for you. Happy Easter!” and left. The expression on Suzy’s face slowly changed into one of pure, unadulterated joy.

And then it came to me.

Easter is celebrated, simply and many times with great effort and meaning. But, it is mainly a time when we celebrate an event that took place long ago at any empty tomb and brings great joy to our hearts - even though it often happens at a small related event in an open field.

Regardless of how we celebrate, it seems the message is “Be joyful, world. Christ is risen!”

Don Jameson

Gigantic Mission Council Garage Sale

n By Beth Hanson This week, the hardy furniture pick-up crew ventured out in what ended up to be a wretched cold, wet day to pick up a donation that completely filled the Heart to Heart truck. The donation was the usual, unusual fare: 30 mystery boxes, book cases, tools, mirror, rugs, bed frame, dishes, card table, microwave, art work, two jewel boxes (both with jewelry in them), antique loveseat, record-player cabinet (that had been turned into a mini-bar), two mid-century baby butlers (do you know what those are?) and a Knights of Pythias sword.

Unfortunately, since the truck was full, we had to forfeit a rusty mangle and a well-loved ping pong table in their basement. (The owner of the house didn’t show up until we had emptied her unlocked house of its contents, and I joked as we loaded the truck that I hoped we had the right house.) We drove our treasures to yet another generous church member’s garage for temporary storage. We now have things stashed all around town. The project was quite athletic and we were soaked through and through, especially our driver, who had accidentally left his window open as we loaded the truck and had to sit in water for the duration.

As I looked at my fellow soaked rats, I exclaimed: “People just don’t know what we go through!” We all agreed that to enjoy the rigors of the Garage Sale, it helps if one is a hair off plumb. On the way back to South Campus to drop off the truck, we made one more stop to

retrieve a huge basketball hoop. We first had to tip it to drain the water in its base and then three of us, two women and one man, struggled to drag the top-heavy beast to the truck and hoist it in. Let’s just say, we weren’t very balletic. Those hoops are so heavy and cumbersome and I’m sure the donor must have thought it quite a comical scene to see us wrestling with it in the rain from his dry living room. The basketball hoop is now in my driveway on its side waiting for May to get here. My neighbors are probably perplexed and amused to see that the Hanson women have decided to take up basketball at their age. The Gigantic Mission Council Garage Sale is a labor-intensive project all through the year, but our bonds of friendship and our greater purpose have been the winning combination that has kept the sale alive these many years. It is equal parts fun and aggravation, but overall the scale tips toward the fun side.

So many wonderful organizations are counting on us, and so again in May we will all magically return to North Campus the week after Mother’s Day, like the swallows to Capistrano, and

transform North Campus into a big hot mess for the good of our brothers and sisters at home and around the world who really need our help. This includes those who shop at our sale for the fantastic bargains they have come to count on. Last year, in spite of rotten cold weather, was our most profitable sale ever raising $55,483. Since our first sale in 1996, we have netted $669,400. Our sale has grown so huge that it takes close to 350 volunteers to pull it off, so I hope you will consider joining in the fun and camaraderie of this exhausting-but-rewarding project.

No experience is necessary. We need people to do all kinds of tasks including sorting, organizing, pricing, repairing, lifting boxes and furniture, cleaning, assembling, measuring, polishing, sizing, cashiering, arranging, directing traffic, assisting customers, and cleaning up at the end. It is a great opportunity for high school students to earn service points.

If you don’t have time to volunteer, perhaps you would consider donating supplies such as paper shopping bags, zip lock bags, masking tape or

food for our refreshment stand (such as pop or homemade baked goods).

We are also grateful for cash donations to help defray our expenses for postage, tents, tables, advertising, printing and security. The schedule for Garage Sale Week is below for you to put on your refrigerator.

One of the profitable aspects of our sale is home furniture deliveries to customers. To continue to offer this service, we are going to need someone to coordinate these trips and go on these runs in our rental truck (along with high school youth or others with energy and good backs who will do the heavy lifting). Anyone interested?

For more information and volunteer sign-up sheets, look for the Garage Sale table after worship services in April and May. If you have questions or would like to volunteer, contact Beth Hanson at (614) 488-6526 or [email protected]

Information is also posted on the church website under “Missions: Garage Sale” including a list of the donations we will and will not accept.

Last day to schedule home furniture pick up, however, storage space may be full.Sat. April 151:30 pm: Start setting up tables at North Campus. Strong volunteers are also needed to move furniture out of classrooms.2 pm: Donation drop offs begin in North Campus lobby

Sun. May 14

8 am – 5 pm: 20+ volunteers needed to help Two Men and a Truck move furniture to North Campus. Pick-up trucks, trailers and vans are welcomed.

Mon. May 15

12 pm: No donations accepted after this timeWed. May 176:30 pm – 9 pm: Preview Sale. Admission is $3. Prices doubled at checkout.Fri. May 198 am – 3 pm: Garage Sale. Free admission, prices as marked.3 pm – 8 pm: Clean Up. We really need more help with this. It is wonderful when fresh volunteers show up at the end to help those of us who are worn out.

Sat. May 20

LOOKING AHEADDr. Miles is preparing the

following sermons:Conspiracy of Hope: Living Beyond Fear

April 23Part 1: The Wide Open Spaces of God’s Grace

Romans 5:1-5April 30

Part 2: The Vision of Far Off Things

Hebrews 11:1-2


PARISH REGISTER

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

As of March 15, 2017

WEDDINGS

3/4/17 Sarah Beske & Timothy Zepelak Daughter of Sally & Bryan Beske

BAPTISMS

2/25/17Geoffrey Michael Logan Schoeny Son of Holly Dabelko- Schoeny & Steven Schoeny Nathaniel David Schoeny Son of Holly Dabelko- Schoeny & Steven Schoeny 3/5/2017Flynn Marion O’Riordan Daughter of Cristin & Sean O’RiordanRyken John Reckless Son of Kelsey & Kirk RecklessJulia Stillwell Russell Daughter of Jennifer & Greg RussellGrant David Simpson Son of Tricia Simpson & David SimpsonTurner Patrick Simpson Son of Tricia Simpson & David Simpson

DEATHS

2/17/17Frances A. Myers Mother of Anne (Bob) Eberhart 2/24/17 Eddie Dwight Lomax Father of Lisa (Jeff) Norris Grandfather of Manning & Audrey Norris2/25/17David B. Smith Husband of Elaine F. Smith3/3/17 Marguerite Dome Mother of Donna (Bob) Tait3/10/17 Richard Helland Husband of Julie Helland Father of Frances Chester Father of Bill (Laura) Helland Father of Stacy McVey Grandfather of Ben & Sarah Helland Grandfather of Mikayla & Jaque McVey

Please send notifications of weddings, births, hospitalizations or deaths to [email protected] or (614) 488-0681 ext. 228

Our Pastoral Care staff is available if you desire a visit or call during an illness, hospitalization or time of need.

Witnessing the Miracle of Rafiki n By Terry Davis

It took 18 hours by air to get there.

A group of six of us went to witness the miracle called Rafiki Children’s Center, part of the Rafiki AIDS Ministry supported by First Community Church and local Rotary Clubs in central and southeast Ohio every year since 2004. In that year, it was an empty field. This year it is a vibrant campus – providing a loving and caring family environment for children who have been orphaned by AIDS, as well as outstanding education for our orphans plus twice as many children from the town who are lucky enough to be accepted to our Rafiki Academy (grades preschool through grade eight). A working farm and clinic also support the effort.

The group I led included Ted and Bobbie Celeste from FCC, Arnett Howard, a friend of mine who is a popular professional jazz musician from Columbus and Steve and Karen Heiser. Karen is a colleague of mine at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and her husband Steve is in commercial real estate.

After a stop in Amsterdam we finally arrived at a local hotel at midnight Thursday night – very ready for bed. However, the hotel staff had prepared a hot meal for us, which, of course, we gratefully accepted.

Friday and Saturday were very busy days touring the campus and seeing the children in their classes at Rafiki Academy. While they are extremely well behaved in class and formal settings, they are normal, bright and exuberant kids when interacting with us. They were fascinated with Arnett’s trumpet and his ability to play. Arnett gave some introductory lessons

to kids, some of who could actually make some sound. Saturday morning began with a “walkathon fundraiser” for Rafiki sponsored by the local Kikuyu Rotary Club. Arnett joined the local band which began at our hotel and went for three miles to the Rafiki Campus. There was van transportation for those, like Ted Celeste with his bad about-to-be-replaced knee, who weren’t able to walk the distance.

Steve, Bobbie and Karen were able to make it the whole way, while Arnett and I chose to keep Ted company for some of the walk in the van. The walkathon was very successful in raising $3,500 for Rafiki from those in the local community, many of whom have little to spare. Following the Walkathon, we had the Quilting Ceremony, which has been a tradition since 2005. Every year, the Prayers and Squares Quilting ministry at FCC creates individual quilts for orphans who have arrived since our previous visit. These quilts are highly prized by the orphans as an individual creation made just for them that is both beautiful and comfortable. We make a big point of calling out each recipient by name and wrapping them in the quilt as an important part of the main ceremony.

Although Barb Davis, who usually does this, was not quite ready to make the trip this year, Bobbie Celeste did a wonderful job in presenting them to seven newcomers and they were gratefully received. This year, we also had some wonderful dresses for the girls made by Powell area seamstress Donna Barnett (see October 2016 firstnews) that Bobbie presented to the Orphanage for distribution.

One very impactful part for all of us was a visit to the home of an elderly grandfather of one of our Rafiki kids. His tin-walled enclosure was wedged among many just like his in the slum where we found him. It was barely big enough to hold his bed and one chair plus a stove with an adjacent hole in the wall to mainly vent the smoke. Stepping across the open sewer to enter, we had to all turn on our cell phones to have enough light to see. But this kind old man welcomed us in and it became obvious how grateful he was for Rafiki to be able to provide excellent education, food and other support for his grandson. Our visit was Friday afternoon and granddad was there Saturday morning to support the walkathon. We were surprised and delighted that the founder and CEO, Rev. Dr. John Nganga, was able to join us again this year. We all ventured north on Sunday morning to the tiny town of Thika, John’s first real parish after ordination, to hear the choirs sing, John preach, and Arnett do an amazing rendition of Amazing Grace that brought the house down.

Before returning to Columbus, we spent a couple of days on Safari to witness the grandeur of God’s creation

up close and personal. We were blessed with sights and sounds that were impossible to describe in this short piece, but which impressed us all with the beauty, harmony and integration of all the types of life on this planet.

But our main take-away was the energy, vitality, intelligence and resilience of the children of Rafiki. They are the real product, and First Community Church has been a huge, steady and reliable source of support and the reason Rafiki is what it is today.

We are eternally grateful for support from FCC in all of its forms – special offerings, Mission Council, The First Community Foundation, Guilds and, importantly, individual generous donors who continue to contribute to the cause.

It is an effort about which the church should be rightfully proud.

As Bobbie Celeste summed it up: “In the face of overwhelming poverty, it is hard to know where to start. At Rafiki, it starts with the children whose parents died of AIDS. Instead of becoming a child who lives on the street constantly hungry and afraid, children become part of the family that is Rafiki. They experience love, security, warm meals, skills training and a quality education. I was so moved by the faces of Rafiki’s healthy children singing songs of faith and hope. This is a place where children find a home. Ted and I plan to keep helping this special place grow and prosper.”

My only regret is that Barb couldn’t join us this year. She continues her amazing recovery, but wisely concluded she wasn’t quite ready to make the trip this year. She was greatly missed by our traveling group, as well as by the Rafiki family in Kenya. Hopefully, she will be able to join us next year.

Our special offering on April 16, shared with the Refugee Task Force, will go to the Rafiki Children’s Center. Your generous support will help continue this exceptional ministry.

ABOVE: (Left to right) Ted Celeste, Terry Davis, Arnett Howard, Karen Heiser, Steve Heiser and Bobbie Celeste.TOP: Bobbie Celeste delivers dresses made by local seamstress Donna Barnett to representatives of the Center.


APRILREADINGSThese 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 Ezekiel 36:8-15 Luke 24:44-532 Ezekiel 37:1-14 Romans 8:6-11 Psalm 130 John 11:1-453 1 Kings 17: 17-24 Acts 20:7-124 2 Kings 4:18-37 Ephesians 2:1-105 Jeremiah 32:1-9, 36-41 Matthew 22: 23-336 1 Samuel 16:11-13 Philippians 1:1-117 Job 13:13-19 Philippians 1:21-308 Lamentations 3:55-66 Mark 10:32-349 Psalm 118:1-2, 19-29 Matthew 21:1-11 Isaiah 50:4-9a Philippians 2:5-11 Psalm 31:9-16 Matthew 26:14-27:66 10 Isaiah 42:1-9 Hebrews 9:11-15 Psalm 36:5-11 John 12:1-1111 Isaiah 49:1-7 1 Corinthians 1:18-31 Psalm 71:1-14 John 12:20-3612 Isaiah 50:4-9a Hebrews 12:1-3 Psalm 70 John 13:21-3213 Exodus 12:1-14 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19 John 13:1-17, 31b-3514 Isaiah 52:13-53:12 Hebrews 10:16-25 Psalm 22 John 18:1-19:4215 Job 14:1-14 1 Peter 4:1-8 Psalm 31:1-4, 15-16 Matthew 27:57-6616 Acts 10:34-43 Colossians 3:1-4 Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 John 20:1-1817 Exodus 14:10-31; 15:20-21 Colossians 3:5-1118 Exodus 15:1-18 Colossians 3:12-1719 Joshua 3:1-17 Matthew 28:1-1020 Song of Solomon 2:8-15 Colossians 4:2-5 21 Song of Solomon 5:9-6:3 1 Corinthians 15:1-1122 Song of Solomon 8:6-7 John 20:11-2023 Acts 2:14a, 22-32 1 Peter 1:3-9 Psalm 16 John 20: 19-3124 Judges 6:36-40 1 Corinthians 15:12-2025 Jonah 1:1-17 1 Corinthians 15:19-2826 Jonah 2:1-10 Matthew 12:38-42 27 Isaiah 25:1-5 1 Peter 1: 8b-12 28 Isaiah 26:1-4 1 Peter 1:13-16 29 Isaiah 25:6-9 Luke 14:12-1430 Psalm 116:1-4, 12-19 Acts 2:14a, 36-41 Peter 1:17-23 Luke 24:13-35

Refugee Task Force Continues Mission

n By Carol Meyer

The Refugee Task Force will receive a portion of the Special Offering at Easter Services, the primary source of its revenue. These funds will allow the Task Force to assist with the resettlement of Iraqi, Syrian, Congolese and Eritrean refugees in our community. The Task Force partners with the Community Refugee and Immigration Service (CRIS) to provide emergency monetary assistance along with many hours of volunteer service to meet the resettlement needs of new arrivals. Most recently, First Community Church volunteers

have been actively involved with a Syrian family of seven, the Khalifehs, who arrived in January. The Khalifehs came to Columbus from Egypt where they had been living in a refugee camp for 4 years after they fled their bombed-out home in Syria.

Like most refugees, the Khalifehs arrived with limited English skills and a few suitcases, but carrying a sincere desire to start a new life in a safe environment to raise and educate their children. The Task Force joined forces with CRIS volunteers, driving to the Linden area to help furnish the house, tutor English and chauffeur the parents and 5

children, ages 7-18, to school and medical appointments. Saturday mornings have been especially rewarding when as many as 6 volunteers have engaged in ESL and driving lessons for the family.

The good hearts found in our congregation have greatly benefited the Khalifehs. The family of esteemed FCC members, Al and Miriam Clark, has generously donated loads of furniture and household goods from the family estate to help the Khalifehs restart their home life here.

Doug and Eileen Covell answered the request for a vehicle by donating a minivan

that will accommodate the entire family of seven. The Khalifehs are only one of several families that the Refugee Task Force has assisted the past year. Other volunteers continue tutoring ESL to several Iraqi women who are homebound and are furnishing an apartment for a reunited Somali family. Task Force members relish the opportunities for direct interaction with refugees, but the reality of political decisions has impacted local refugee resettlement agencies. One of two welcoming agencies in Columbus, CRIS is under extreme financial pressure at this time and must rely on community groups such as FCC’s Refugee Task Force to provide monetary assistance.

Although the reduction in refugee arrivals requires less money and staff for initial resettlement, there are needs that extend beyond the government established resettlement period of 90 days.

It is at this critical time when the Refugee Task Force is most often called upon to provide assistance - money for health emergencies and housing costs while refugees stabilize their lives.

It is your offerings that provide the Task Force’s annual budget to do this work. Please continue your generosity Easter morning and contribute to the Special Offering for the Refugee Task Force.

Garden Grows Seeds of Learning, Hope n By Loren Van Deusen

Our First Community Church garden on the North Campus was born when a committee led by Dick Helland and Sherry Barger met in 2009. At that time, the idea to build a garden at FCC was felt to be too risky and expensive, so an alternative plan - funded by a $200 grant - became two raised beds at Covenant Presbyterian Church in Upper Arlington.

Named the Seeds of Hope Community Garden, it provided produce to the Heart to Heart Pantry and others. The success of this venture in the first year encouraged the garden volunteers to go ahead with a community garden at FCC North.

The plan came to fruition in 2011 with the help of a grant from the First Community Foundation and funds donated by a committee member. Known then as the Seeds of Hope Garden North, another Foundation grant in 2012 ensured the

further development of this community garden.

After several successful years of growing and donating crops to local pantries, the work at the garden became too difficult for some of the volunteers. When approached by Rev. Kate Shaner in the spring of 2015 to continue this work, my wife Cheryl and I agreed to take over management of the gardens and build on the efforts of the previous volunteers.

By word of mouth and firstnews Sunday announcements, a new group of volunteers began to take shape. The garden produced and donated 725 pounds of produce to Heart to Heart during the 2015 growing season.

The garden was renamed The FCC Share and Learn Garden. It was expanded in 2016 by the addition of a four-by-forty feet raised bed. This was made possible in large part by a generous grant of funds and mulch and soil products

from the Scotts Miracle Grow Company through the Columbus Foundation and the Growing to Green initiative at The Franklin Park Conservatory.

In 2017, we received another grant of funds and soil products from the Scotts Miracle Grow Company and a new grant from the Foundation. These funds will be used to install a permanent drip irrigation system in all four raised beds, build five small (two-by-eight feet) raised beds to be used by the classes of the Mary Evans Child Development Center and build a seed grow center in the kindergarten room.

We are excited to begin what we think will be our most successful year yet, with even more produce donated to Heart to Heart. We’ll have lots of fun working with the children at the MECDC and good times volunteering in the garden.

The Share and Learn Community Garden is a win-win-win mission – fresh

food for hungry people, children learning about where healthy food comes from and how it’s grown and a group of volunteers getting to do what we love.

Please contact Cheryl and Loren at (614) 824-7870 or [email protected] to join the volunteers at the garden. No gardening experience is necessary.

Donations for this mission can be made to the Community Garden Fund through Amy Caskie at [email protected]

Editor’s Note: Cheryl and Loren Van Deusen received the second of two Service Awards given by First Community Church in 2017 for their work in the community garden. They share this year’s honor with Mary Ann Krauss, featured in the March edition of ‘firstnews.’

The Khalifeh family enjoys their new van.


It is with gratitude that First Community Church accepts the following gifts.

FOUNDATION GIFTSIn Memory of: Connie and Miriam Clark FCC Women’s Guild Group Ann & Rod Swearingen Dorothy “Dottie” Cowles Robert Byrd Janet McCutcheon William Morris Barbara Sipp Mary Evans Robert Byrd Susan Brooks William Morris Betty O’Neill Chet Hawley Peggy Bellows Frances Myers Judy Reinhard David Smith Bill & Diana Arthur Keith & Carolyn DeVoe First Community Church Guild X Bill Judy & Sue Wilson Allan & Betsy LinesIn Honor of: Ron Arledge Betty O’Neill Jeanne Blair Betty O’Neill Marjorie Bohl Betty O’Neill Lee Burges Betty O’Neill Carolyn Copeland Betty O’Neill Katy Greenhill Women’s Guild Group 7 Kay Graf Betty O’Neill Tanny Gustafson Betty O’Neill Nancy Heath Lee Burges Betty O’Neill Ann Holderman Betty O’Neill Tommie Lanaman Betty O’Neill Mary Ann Mulroy & Sharon Mulroy Casey Susan Brooks Julie Osborn Betty O’Neill Gini Stoltz Betty O’Neill Marilynn Wenrick Betty O’Neill Dick Wing John & Cathy Klamar

CHURCH GIFTSIn Memory of: Don Gepfert Jerry Snyder Dorothy Catherine Cowles Pam Cowles Pamela Mulberry Sunshine Fund for WCPAAA Lisa Egan M. Richard Wetherbee Mary C. Lewis Anne Powell Riley

FRIENDS OF AKITAIn Memory of: Haden DeRoberts David & Amy Spegal Mary Ann Ewart

Wallace UmbergerMarsh & McLennan Companies

In Celebration of: Camp Akita

Steve Walker

THE BURKHART CENTER Roberta Gerlach Cynthia Gray Rosemarie Konrath Cynthia Kuhn Shah Hasan

FRIENDS OF MUSICIn Memory of: Don Cherry Susan V. Brooks Alan Travis Susan V. Brooks

WHITECHAPEL RINGERSIn Memory of: Mary Evans Marilyn Lash Dottie Cowles Marilyn Lash

GENERAL MISSIONS Brian & Sally Kriska

CONTINUED ON PAGE 7

Foundation CornerA Society grows great when old men plant trees whose shade they know they shall never sit in.

-Greek Proverb

First Community Church is an embarrassment of riches.

We often hear or bear witness to this fact when we experience First Community. It may result from attending a service or event at the North, South, Akita, and/or media campus or an interaction with one of the wonderful clergy or staff.

We may benefit from those riches with our personal involvement in a small group or something we experience as a family. Whatever form it may take, we experience these riches because of you - members of this church. Those who are baptized at First Community. Those who join us a little later in life. And, we even see those riches in remembrances of those who have gone before us.

Recently, I attended a funeral for a dear family friend. Maybe you have these people in your life, too - you know, the ones who are so close you refer to them as aunt and uncle when, by legal definition, they aren’t – but by love, they really are.

While reading his obituary, and reflecting on his positive influence in my and so many others’ lives, I noticed at the end that this uncle was ‘planting trees’. Coincidentally, during the Words of Remembrance portion of his funeral, I learned he loved the shade.

This was both literally (who doesn’t on a hot day) and figuratively generously directing the spotlight to others.

Always one to think of others first, in his obituary, it was requested that in lieu of flowers donations in his memory be directed to his grandson’s Pelotonia rider profile and/or the Dr. Arthur Sanders Honor fund, held by the First Community Foundation. In summary, the intent of the fund is to support church maintenance, freeing yearly pledge income for ministries and programs. Maybe it was the remembrance of Dr. Sanders that had

meaning, or maybe it was the fund’s intent that spoke to him. Either way, trees are being planted that will provide shade in the future.

This is one example of how you, the generous members of First Community Church, and those who donate in their honor, are planting trees so our society can continue to grow great. Thank you.

At the February Board meeting the Foundation Board approved two grant requests. One grant is being funded from a Donor Advised Fund and will be used to buy a new, safer stove for the Dominica School and Orphanage. This new stove means the school will be able to feed the children in one sitting rather than in shifts.

The other grant requested funds as reimbursement for the emergency replacement of the inoperable furnaces in Lincoln Road Chapel. These units failed at the worst of times, the winter months. The grant will come from an endowed fund dedicated to maintenance of South campus.

Eric ShislerFoundation Chair

Dust Clouds from the Archives Vaud-Villities

Jackie CherryChurch Historian

An entertainment tradition, born at First Community Church, will mark a very significant anniversary on April 20-23, when Vaud-Villities stages its 75th annual show.

No one would be more surprised than its founder, Lowell

Riley, who served the church as choir director and organist for nearly fifty years. He was hired on May 1, 1941 to organize a men’s chorus and a youth choir. Both were successful ventures until it became difficult to recruit young men for the youth choir because so many were enlisting to serve their country after the attack on Pearl Harbor, so Lowell organized the high school girls as the Cloister Choir. Meanwhile, the men’s chorus proved to be very popular and by early 1943, they had learned so much music that they decided it was time to demonstrate what they could do. During that era, minstrel shows were a popular form of entertainment, so they decided on that format for their show. It was staged on March 12 and 13 at Upper Arlington High School, now Jones Middle School.

The men’s glee club was joined by several variety acts and two chorus lines of dancing girls with piano accompaniment by Bob Murphy, a medical student who had played with Lowell for several church events. There were so many encores that it was past midnight before the curtain finally fell on the initial performance, which prompted the edict that there be no encores for future performances. With the success of that initial venture, more men joined the chorus, other performers were recruited and the Cloister Choir joined the cast. A number of musicians volunteered to form an orchestra

to accompany the show in 1944 and the twin pianos of Riley and Murphy moved onstage to become one of the featured acts in the show.

It was obvious that the Men’s Glee Club of First Community Church had hit upon something very special that became extremely popular throughout the Tri-Village area and beyond. The minstrel theme was dropped in 1947 and the show expanded into a variety format featuring musical and comedy acts along with the choral singing of the men’s and women’s glee clubs.

The show grew in popularity, becoming a springtime tradition that attracted large audiences. More performances were added, but still they were not able to meet the demand for tickets. It was fun to watch your son’s teacher or your doctor or lawyer, hairdresser or neighbor down the street on the stage having such a good time as they sang or danced their hearts out when you never knew they had such talent. In 1961 after three performances at the school, one more was given at Veterans Memorial Auditorium, which continued to be the venue for Vaud-Villities for the next 49 years. The move downtown attracted not only a larger audience, but also more performers.

Over 400 singers and dancers from throughout central Ohio assembled annually to rehearse and stage a production that attracted patrons from the entire state and beyond. The show became known for its dazzling sets, costuming and lighting.

For the cast and crew it was an enormous, yet rewarding task to build sets and risers for that huge 70 foot stage at Vets, sew thousands of costumes, market the show and sell tickets and finally to gaze across the footlights into the faces of our enthusiastic audience.

Vaud-Villities was an activity of the Music Department of the church and during the early years tickets were sold by The Women’s Guild. Proceeds from the show went to purchase choir robes for the Cloister Choir, the carillon that for many years was played following worship services every Sunday morning, microphones and sound equipment and finally the initial set of Whitechapel Ringersʼ handbells.

In 1971, Vaud-Villities became First Community Productions and finally separated from the church as its own entity in 1983. In 1977, Vaud-Villities was awarded the George Washington Honor Medal by Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge for the Bicentennial Show. Fifty years under the direction of Lowell Riley were celebrated at his retirement in 1992.

When the curtain fell on his last show, approximately half a million people had enjoyed more than 4,000 singers and dancers performing over 1,300 musical arrangements that he had written. What a legacy! Now, twenty-five years later, it is possible to enjoy this special 75th edition of Vaud-Villities at the Northland Performing Arts Center by calling (614) 262-SHOW

Editor’s Note: Jackie’s history with Vaud-Villities spans 53 years. In her first show in 1946, she sang as a member of the Cloister Choir. She served 23 years as Secretary and served two terms on the Board as Development Chairman. She worked on publicity and costume committees and has contributed to the printed program for 41 years. She will write a new version of the history of Vaud-Villities, which will be published in conjunction with this year’s Diamond Jubilee Production.


To Protect and PreservePriscilla Ratliff’s quest to safeguard writings of Dr. Roy Burkhart

CHURCH GIFTS

In Honor of: Don and Karen Gardiner Scott Gardiner

HEART TO HEART Roger and Dianne Albrecht

Naeem & Kellie AliAlpha Phi Omega, Alpha IotaPhil ArmbrusterWayne & Mary BallantyneDave & Mona BarberJane BeltJeanne BlairJohn BowdenSusan BrooksBuck & Nancy ByrneTed & Bobbie CelesteTom ChidesterJennifer CliffordDoug & Eileen CovellJanet CoxJames DeeterJ D & Ann DickersonCarol DonesNeil & Betty DrobnyJoe & Mary DuchiSusan ForbesBob GardnerBrian Gillespie & Scott McLaughlinKip & Katy GreenhillLynn Gutches-SnowdenJim & Merry HamiltonMary HarperBill & Hilda HensleyBruce & Cathie HickinBill & Becky HingaDana HolmanMarilyn HoodAnthony HowardJim HoweSusan HuhtaDarrel & Barb IrwinAnn & Charles JacobJon & Sally JaynesLarry & Sarah Jonaus JrBill & Sue JudyTony & Julie KeeferDiane KeelerAnne KlieJoan KniesLouise KutzTommie LanamanLinda LarrimerJim & Jane LedmanKathleen LennonJim & Clare LongBob & Laura LongTom & Donna MasonBob & Margaret MathisErnie & Laura Mazzaferri JrJim & Michelle McClureJanet McCutcheonBill & Vicki McGovernJoan MooreKay MooreVernon & Jenny MorrisonJeanne MorrowCharles MuellerBryon & Susan MurrayDiana O’BrienDoug & Missy ObergefellJohn OberlinSusan ParkinsMaureen PenmanSandy PfeningTerry & Cydney PhilbinBobbie ReynoldsLinda RitterCalloway & Lindsay RobertsonDavid & Lorraine RobinsonDick & Kitty RohrerNancy RothScott & Beth RyanGlen SchmidtMargaret SchorrJerry & Sharon ScottRich & Megan SecorDave ShelbyMelody SmileyJane & George SmithJerry SnyderSandie & Todd SouthernSteve & Debbie SteidlePeggy StokesLee & Lindsey Swad IIIRod & Ann SwearingenRalph & Joan TalmageCathy TillingDoug & Darian TorranceGreg & Eleanor TrappMaggie TresslerCharlie & Judy VachrisSheri Van CleefLoren & Cheryl Van DeusenDavid VardaBob & Sally WandelPatty WetherbeeDorothy WilliamsGeorge & Cory WilsonBrian & Monika WinerAlison WisniewskiGary & Rebecca WolfeJack Shuter

In Memory of: Dorothy Cowles Mary Helen Hopkins Mary Evans Women’s Guild Group C

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6

n By Michael Barber

In 1962, First Community Church legend Dr. Roy A. Burkhart was “reborn” to the nearer presence of God. However, for church member and professional librarian Priscilla Ratliff, it’s as if he never left.

“His influence is so current and present,” Priscilla said. “He was a pastor who set the tone for this church that is still alive today. He’s been gone for 50 years and yet it’s like he just left.”

“Or maybe he’s still here,” she said.

Priscilla served as Secretary of the Older Adult Council, a small group that helps elders stay connected with each other and their church by personal letter writing, hosting Coffee with Clergy, and the Heritage Sunday receptions.

She was asked to chair the Council in 2016 and to develop a theme. Priscilla quickly identified her mission; to preserve the legacy of the great man many know as “Burkie.”

“It started out as a personal quest,” Priscilla said. “I’m sure there are people like me who are new to the church and hear this man’s name all the time. We should have a place for him.”

Priscilla embarked on a year-long journey to gather and preserve information and data on Dr. Burkhart, collecting a mass of writings including books, magazine and news articles, sermons and internal

guides. Her 30 years of experience as a librarian for well-known entities such as Ashland Chemical, Chemical Abstracts and Battelle served her well as she compiled and organized information that was not always easy to obtain.

“That’s what librarians do,” she said.

The project became so large that Priscilla took to the internet to store her many findings, creating a website dedicated to “Burkie” and his penned perceptions.

“I’m still pursuing some things,” she said. “I’m afraid this is something that probably won’t end.”

Throughout her research, Priscilla often found herself inspired and, occasionally, surprised.

“Burkhart meditated daily,” Priscilla said. “As beloved as he is now, people didn’t always agree with him.”

She also learned that Burkhart is credited for being a pioneer in connecting his PhD in psychology with pastoral care, requiring that couples be counseled by him before wedding day.

In a book written by Rebecca L Davis, More Perfect Unions: The American Search for Marital Bliss, the author found Dr. Burkhart’s work at First Community Church to be revolutionary and very successful. She states that in 1949, Dr. Burkhart could identify only 9 divorces out of 1,100 marriages he performed.“He had a very good track record,” Priscilla said.

Dr. Burkhart is also believed to have unexplained healing powers.

“He must have had very piercing blue eyes,” she said. “He was so attuned to people that when he was with you, you had his undivided attention. That sensitivity gave him an intuitive way of knowing you.”

Priscilla found one woman, Patty Zartman Nichols, willing to share her personal story of healing:

“I was probably around 7 years old and was sick with the flu. I wasn’t just sick for a few days. It had been going on for many days. I had a fever and could not hold down any food. My mom always let us lay in her bed during the day if we were sick. (Gosh,

she must have washed sheets a lot!) Anyway, my parents had “Burkie” over for dinner and he came up to the room with a tray of food, sat on the bed, and spoon fed me every bit of the food. I held it down and was all better the next morning. I’ve always believed that “Burkie” healed me.”

Missy Obergefell, the Director of Older Adult Ministries who strongly encouraged Priscilla in her work, is grateful for Priscilla’s gift of time and talent.

“What a pleasure it was to watch Priscilla’s idea for preserving the Burkhart legacy unfold into an incredible, expandable, lasting blessing for our church community,” Missy said. “Her applied energy and expertise have resulted in a real treasure.”

With so much work behind her, Priscilla can only now take a breath and more fully appreciate the person she only barely knew a year ago.

“He was a great man,” she said. “People often ask,’What would Jesus do?’ Well, ‘What would Roy Burkhart do?’ is not so far away.”

“Hopefully, you come out with the same answer,” she said.

Editor’s Note: The website built by Priscilla Ratliff can be found at burkhartsite.wordpress.com. A sample of Burkhart’s poetic writing can be found in the ‘Burkhart Benediction’, often printed in bulletins at First Community Church and, as Priscilla found, other churches around the country.

PHOTOGRAPH BY MICHAEL BARBER

— Missy Obergefell, Director of Older Adult Ministry

What a pleasure it was to watch Priscilla’s idea for preserving the Burkhart legacy unfold into an

incredible, expandable, lasting blessing for our church community,”


Akita Alumni Conversation

n By Scot Nicol

Andrew Wildman currently serves as the chair of the Akita Council. His wife Caren and Andrew were campers in the ‘80s and early ‘90s and both were staff members for multiple years. Andrew was a member of Alpha Group from 1987 and 1988. This program would later be renamed L.I.F.E. Guard and Andrew was a participant in the inaugural years from 1991 and 1992. Caren and Andrew started coming to Family Camp in 2011 and have been bringing their two children, Elizabeth, 6, and Tommy, 3, ever since. What was the best program character you remember?Caren: Hugh R. Awesome and Hugh 2 from my first year on staff. Mike Walsh and Morgan Lewis- need I say more?

They were awesome.Andrew: Eric Ballenger’s “Don’t break the ice” game character. What was your favorite Entertainment night skit?Caren: Mr. No Depth Perception. Chris Essig was hilarious in this role.Andrew: The favorite skit I was in was Howdy Buckaroo. (We still perform this skit at Camp Akita for our campers) What song did you love the most at Prime Time?Caren: Sweet Home Camp Akita and Superman. I have really fun memories dancing to these. For slow songs, I really liked Only You, it was such a pretty song to sing and from my time as a camper I loved to sing One Tin Soldier.Andrew: Seven Bridges Road and It’s the End of the World

as We Know It, were the best songs to dance to. For slow songs I love Amazing Grace, it has a great harmony. What was the best meal in the dining hall?Caren and Andrew: Mac and Scabs. We always knew it was coming the next day when we had spaghetti and garlic bread. The “scabs” were made from the leftover garlic bread. What was a memorable spiritual moment for you on staff?Caren: My C.I.T. group carried the wood for a new cross to Bald Eagle at night in silence. Later, as the summer came to a close, Andrew had collected wood chips from the old cross and gave them to the staff.Andrew: Hearing counselor led devotions during staff meetings. Tommy, what is your favorite place at Camp Akita?I like the giant swing the best and the lake. Elizabeth, what is your favorite thing to do at Camp Akita?I like sleeping in the cabin on a top bunk because there is a window right by my head and I can see people walking by and if my window is open I can hear crickets and I love falling asleep to the sounds from outside.The Wildman Family

Akita Fun DayJoin us at Camp Akita on Sunday, April 23, 1 - 5 pm for some spring fun. There will be a short worship service at 2 pm by Dr. Deborah Lindsay at Vesper Hill with music by Tom Root.

The Adventure Complex will be open so you can climb the Alpine Tower or try out the Giant Swing. You can canoe at the lake, take a hike or just

relax at the greatest place on earth.

The Akita Council will provide snacks and drinks.

We hope you will attend, whether it’s your first time or you’ve been coming to Camp Akita for 50 years. For more information, email [email protected]

ElderWisdom

n By Missy Obergefell In order to develop fully, elders need access to a slow, deep connected way of living. The ‘fast’ life that suits adults so well interferes with the normal development of elders because it leads them to keep running a race that they can never win.

— Bill Thomas, author, Second Wind: Navigating the Passage to a Slower, Deeper,

and More Connected Life In our next ElderWisdom gathering, we will share thoughts and read excerpts from this thought-provoking book by aging expert, Dr. Bill Thomas. In this one of his many wise books, Dr. Thomas examines the particular challenges faced by the Baby Boomer generation as they enter their later years.

Our discussion will include an exploration of his concept of “eldertopia”, and his powerful vision for an elder-focused culture. ElderWisdom is a discussion group that meets to explore books and topics that focus on the spiritual aspects of aging. All ages are welcome. This gathering will be Thursday, April 27 at 1 pm in the Older Adult meeting space on the second floor at South Campus. Contact Lorelei Lanier Lotozo at (614) 209-7125 or Missy Obergefell, Director of Older Adult Ministry at [email protected] with questions or to add your name to our email list.


Down on the FarmThe Early Childhood Council welcomes all families with preschool-aged children to Down on the Farm on Friday, April 28 from 6-8 pm at First Community’s North Campus.

Join us for a pizza dinner, games, activities and crafts. Meet real farm animals. Enjoy

a wagon ride in a horse-drawn wagon. Admission is $6, $5 in advance.

Children under age 1 are free. Wagon rides are $3 per family.

Tickets available at FCchurch.com under ‘Early Childhood Ministries’ and at the door.

Baptism SundayOur next Baptism Sunday will be Mother’s Day, May 14.

Baptisms can be scheduled for any one of our worship services. Private baptisms can also be arranged.

For those scheduling a baptism for the first time at First Community Church, a baptism class will be held on Tuesday, May 9 from 7-8 pm in the Wicker Room, South Campus.

Rev. Jim Long will discuss the meaning and practice of baptism and what occurs during the baptism in the worship service.

Leigh Anne Easterling, Director of Early Childhood Ministries, will share what our church offers families with children.

To schedule a public or private baptism or for more information, contact Paula Russell, Director of Congregational Care, at [email protected] or (614) 488-0681 ext. 228

Held by her mother, Jennifer Russell, 4-month-old Julia Stillwell Russell enjoys her baptism and gift of a rose Sunday, March 5. Her father, Greg, and grandmother, Director of Congregational Care Paula Russell, also attended. Julia and her family live in Dublin, Ohio.

Much MattersThursday, April 206 pm - 7:30 pmLibrary, South Campus Much Matters, a monthly book reading and discussion group for members who want to learn more and understand better our personal, civic, community and spiritual lives, is scheduled to meet for its fourth meeting this year on Thursday, April 20.

We will discuss the April selection Small Great Things by Jodi Picoult. The group has been meeting in the Library of the South Campus on the third Thursday of the month from 6 to 6:30 pm. Since its inception in January, the group has read and discussed Nancy Isenberg’s White Trash: The 400-Year Untold History of Class in America, and Thomas Friedman’s Thank You for Being Late: An Optimist’s

Guide to Thriving in the Age of Acceleration.

If you are interested in joining this group, please register at FCchurch.com//much-matters

Copies of the book available at the Furber Bookstore at South Campus on Sundays before and after Worship Services.


Historic Trading PostReadies for Future

n By Rebecca Wolfe

In the ‘60s, the Tri-Village Trading Post provided a large sum of money to build the present Annex Building in the First Community Church parking lot. At that time, the building was used for the Sunday School classes on the main floor with two of the rooms set aside for the Trading Post work rooms. The store was set up on the lower level.

That was 40 years ago and a lot has changed since then. With the need for more than a closet for a food pantry, a desirable space for spiritual counseling and a practical workroom for the Prayers and Squares Ministry, the Sunday School moved to Lincoln Road Chapel and the Trading Post gave up space on the first floor to accommodate others. In 2017, our Trading Post Thrift Store and our Heart to Heart Food Pantry find themselves thriving and serving an ever-growing population. More space is again needed for these vital ministries to our community. A handicap accessible building for outreach ministries is still our hope and dream, but until that can become a reality, Jennifer Allhusen-Worsley of FernHome is giving of her time and expertise to help in a “refresh” of the Trading Post to help us make better use of our space. Volunteers have been busily working to start the process and we look forward to its completion.

Please join us for a community and church Open House Sunday, April 23 from 12 – 3 pm. Share in the excitement of our new look. Put this date on your calendar now and celebrate the afternoon with us. There will be goodies as well as sale opportunities for this special day.

The new point-of-sale area furnishings were provided through the generosity of Esther Newell’s estate. Esther was a long time volunteer at the Trading Post.

The Trading Post has long been known as the “hidden treasure of Grandview.” It’s time for its treasure to be revealed but we promise plenty for all.


n By Lamar Graham

The Heart to Heart food pantry really appreciates your contributions by way of time, energy and funds.

We are doing some remarkable work in your pantry including signing people up for free cell phones, providing information on health insurance, connecting our clients to a plethora of resources throughout the community and rent and utility assistance. Thank you for your continued support as we launch into 2017, looking to do more to assist our clients to have a more quality of life.

Additionally, we wish to thank these generous organizations for their contributions to our success in 2016:

• Alpha Phi Omega service fraternity, Alpha Iota Chapter

• Assurance Wireless• Barrington Elementary School• Colin’s Coffee• Columbus Souper Heroes• Community Employment

Assistance Network• Community Plates (Food Rescue US)• CROP Hunger Walk• First Community Church Foundation• First Community Church Preschool• First Community Church Women’s Guild• Giant Eagle at Hilliard-Rome

• Giant Eagle at Kingsdale Center• Gordon Food Services at Hilliard-Rome• Grandview Touchdown Club• Hangry Race Series• Jones Middle School• Kroger• Mary Evans Child Development Center• Mid-Ohio Foodbank• Seeds of Hope Garden• Share and Learn Gardens• St. Luke United Methodist Church• Stevenson Elementary School• Tri-Village Rotary Club• Tri-Village Trading Post• Upper Arlington High School & PTO• Upper Arlington Public Libraries• Wickliffe Elementary School

Heart to Heart Gratitude

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

Donation Needs for April: Canned Fruits & Vegetables

2017 JANUARY FEBRUARYHouseholds 555 458Individuals 1,780 1,342 Children 629 429 Adults 902 680 Seniors 243 233Total Meals 16,020 12,078

Pounds of Food Collected at North 51 40Pounds of Food from MOFB 10,236 10,628Pounds of Food from GFS 3,589 1,453Pounds of Food from Giant Eagle 4,740 4, 779Unique Volunteers 37 44

Heart to Heart Food Pantry Totals

QUEST SINGLES

We singles enjoy meeting new people, so join us for one of the dinners and/or the book discussion below.

Most of us are in our fifties, sixties and up, but we are an equal opportunity group and welcome all ages.

We communicate primarily via email. If you are not on our list, contact Nancy Dunn at [email protected] or call (614) 771-4869 to verify the current plans.

If you have an idea for a fun activity, let Nancy know.

DINNER AT RED LOBSTER

Thursday, April 66:30 pm6091 Sawmill Rd.

DINNER AT NAPA KITCHEN & BAR

Thursday, April 206:30 pm7148 Muirfield Dr, Dublin

BOOK DISCUSSION

Sunday, April 235:30 pmMCL Cafeteria, KingsdaleMonuments Men by Robert Edsel and The Lady in Gold by Anne-Marie O'Connor

DINNER AT FIGLIO'S

Thursday, May 46:30 pm3712 Riverside Drive

DINNER AT LOUIE'S GRILL

Thursday, May 186:30 pm4453 Cemetary Rd, Hilliard

BOOK DISCUSSION

Sunday, May 215:30 pmMCL CafeteriaLilac Girls by Martha Hall Kelley

The Contemplative Way

Rev. James LongMinister of Pastoral Care

The Reverend Dr. Gabe Campbell was my youth minister when I was in Junior High School growing up at First Community Church.

He had been in law school when Dr. Roy Burkhart recruited him into the ministry. He received his doctorate

after writing his dissertation on the role of prayer in the life and ministry of Dr. Burkhart. It was Dr. Burkhart who started prayer research groups and developed the Seven Keys, which is still a significant symbol in our church of what it means to live the spiritual life.

For Dr. Burkhart, The Master Key of the spiritual life is Prayer.

Gabe went on to serve churches in the United Church of Christ. After he died, I was given the books, papers and tapes of Dr. Burkhart that Gabe used to write his dissertation. In reflecting on this material, I was struck by how much Dr. Burkhart was influenced by the movement toward a deeper consciousness through prayer and meditation.

Some of the writers who influenced him were Paul Brunton who brought an awareness of Eastern mysticism and practice through such books as The Secret Path, and Gerald Heard who wrote about the evolution of consciousness in such works as Training for the Life of the Spirit. I have tapes of these people in dialogue with Dr. Burkhart.

The church has continued to have programs with an emphasis on prayer and meditation through the years. A number of our classes and studies have emphasized contemplative practices, and many of the theologians and spiritual leaders brought to us in the Spiritual Searcher Program have been from the mystical tradition.

Writers such as Thomas Merton, Thomas Keating and Richard Rohr have reminded us that the contemplative way has been part of our Christian heritage, and that mystics exist in all the world’s religious traditions.

During the time Dr. Richard Wing’s ministry, a number of lay and staff have been trained as spiritual directors in such programs as One to One and Group Spiritual Guidance in the Shalem Institute for Spiritual Formation and Wellstreams in the Spirituality Network. There is an active ongoing spiritual guidance ministry in our church.

One question often raised about contemplative practice is whether such an inward journey leads one away from being active in the world. However, contemplation and action are interrelated. Our action will be more grounded in reality and less likely to be harmful when it comes from a contemplative stance. As Richard Rohr has said, he did not care in naming his Center for Action and Contemplation which came first. It is not “either/or” but “both/and.” As his well-known book, Everything Belongs, reminds us everything does indeed belong.

Peace and blessings.

Safe Place for Addicts

n By Becky Hinga

A Safe Place is a new support group opened to those who care about a person who struggles with the disease of addiction.

This is not about “fixing” that addiction but rather about learning how we can go on with our lives and move away from the chaos that this family disease creates. It will be a first-names-only, supportive, non-judgmental environment that will mainly consist of open discussion.

Addiction, particularly opiate/heroin addiction, has become what many think to be an epidemic in our country. It has no respect for one’s religious beliefs, race, gender, income or level of education. It has the capacity to affect us all.

Please join us in Burkhart Chapel, South Campus, beginning Tuesday, April 18 from 7:30-8:30 pm to find support and understanding. This group will be moderated by Becky Hinga. Contact Becky at (614) 296-6639 or [email protected]

Editor’s Note: Associate clergy Rev. Chris Rinker has been essential in establishing this support group.


CONTINUED ON PAGE 13

WEEKLY ADULT LEARNING GROUPS Classes are free and open to the public. For information on books, registration or financial aid, contact Natalia at [email protected] or (614) 488-0681 ext. 105.

For more details, visit FCchurch.com/the-Burkhart-Center

MORNING SEMINAR

Sundays, 9:30 – 10:45 amWicker Room, South CampusOn April 9, the group will finish the video series on Buddhism. No class April 16. Beginning April 23, professor Diane Lobody from the Methodist Theological School will present the series on Julian of Norwich through May 14.

CHRISTIANITY 101

Sundays, 7 – 8:30 pmRoom 215, North CampusThe crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ are central to our Christian faith and liturgy, but how much do you really know and understand about what happened to Jesus during the week leading up to Easter? Join us Sundays to discuss The Last Week by Marcus and John Dominic Crossan. 4/2: The Last Week: Chapter 6, “Friday” and Chapter 7, “Saturday”4/9: The Last Week: Chapter 8, “Easter Sunday”; 4/16 and 4/23: No class; 4/30: The Heart of Christianity: Chapter 10, “The Heart of the Matter” (Borg). Full schedule and updates at FCchurch.com/christianity-101

TUESDAY AT TEN

Tuesdays, 10 – 11:30 amWicker Room, South CampusIn April, Tuesdays at Ten will continue the video-based series on Roots of Religion that looks at the anthropological basis for the earliest elements of religious experience and the big questions common to humans throughout the world. Beginning with the Neanderthals and continuing to cave paintings and shamanism, we’ll see what our earliest ancestors were worrying about and compare their solutions to ours. No reading required.

MORNING FELLOWSHIP

Wednesdays, 7 – 8 amBrownlee Hall, South CampusPresentations and discussion of leading-edge topics. Ends promptly at 8 am.

Spiritual Searcher Explore ‘Alternative Christianities’

The Myth of the Human Jesus

Rev. David HettMinister of Religious Life and Learning

April ALC Film/Pizza GroupFriday, April 7Wicker Room, South Campus6 pm gathering and pizza ($5 suggested donation)6:30 pm film begins The film chosen for April is The King’s Speech starring Colin Firth. It is based on the true story of the father of Queen Elizabeth II, the

man who became King George VI, when his brother abdicated the throne. He was thought to be unfit to be king because of his daunting and persistent stammer. Then an unorthodox speech therapist was hired. This film received 12 Oscar nominations in 2010. It received Oscars for best picture, best actor, best

director, and best screenplay. Deb Linville will be facilitating on April 7. Movie night was moved to the first Friday due to Good Friday. Please RSVP by Thursday, April 6 to Jennie Nickel at (614) 529-9930 or [email protected]

I am only still a Christian because of the influences of historical-critical-literary biblical study, research into the historical Jesus, modern depth psychology (particularly the work of Carl Jung and other “Jungians,” primarily

because of their lack of fear of “religion” and “God”), mythologists like Joseph Campbell, and, perhaps most importantly, personal experience that has helped me make sense of the Christian myth. I don’t think the word, myth, will put off anyone reading this column, although I’m sure there are many in the Christian fold who would balk at that term, thinking it diminutive of the faith.

I, however, hold “myth” as the deeper, more profound level of truth and understanding, an interpretive frame that includes the sacred as well as the [fact-based, or is it the “alternative-fact”-based?] secular.

If being Christian meant holding to certain beliefs that are belied by scientific understanding, like a Virgin Birth, a literal heaven or hell, or that the Resurrection of the Christ has to do with a physically-resuscitated corpse; or if it means believing in certain myths like “Jesus died for our sins” (yes, that is a mythologically-held belief), well, then, I’m out of here, and I can join the ranks of the Nones (or in my case, it would be the “Manys”). As we enter the Holy Season for Christianity, there is such an awesome power in the myth forged in the life-passion-death-resurrection of Jesus that to

reduce it to some literal historical series of events is the true diminution of the Christian story, even while knowing the historical evidence that the man Jesus was indeed crucified by the Roman Empire in first century Palestine. The word that comes up for me this year in reflecting on this archetypal myth of the human Jesus is “completion.” To pass through the necessary passion of becoming vulnerable to divine love, dying to the self (while being crucified by the “worldly” authorities that would have us remain bound in a subservient conformity to an ego-structured consensual reality), willingly moving into this unknown darkness in complete innocence of expectation of release from this wilderness (Holy Saturday), only to be surprisingly “born again” as a new being (like the metaphor of the ignorance of the caterpillar in the cocoon as to what amazing transformation awaits), this is a path of transformation into a complete human being (and that’s “complete” without the sense of “finished”). The very human Jesus uncovering his true divine nature by becoming as fully human as possible is the only way I can make sense of the Christian myth. The underrated, but prescient theologian, Walter Wink, also greatly influenced by Jungian psychology, describes it this way: “The Christological revelation, centered in Jesus, was that God desired to incarnate in humanity.” I had recently renewed my engagement with Walter Wink’s works on “The Powers,” and so, picked up The Human Being because of its subtitle: Jesus and the Enigma of the Son of the Man.I’ve always been fascinated by Jesus’ self-description as “the son of the man.” (And yes, you read that correctly: the son

of the man; the Greek contains this second definite article that makes the phrase sound even more mysterious than it is.) Walter Wink, may his memory be a blessing, says this: What a lean and pared-back Christianity has to give to the world is not its creeds, dogmas, doctrines, liturgies and devotions… It offers, simply—Jesus. If the [archetype of becoming fully human] is to carry out its transformative task, we will need to develop new theologies, liturgies, prayer forms and devotional practices that can help people tap that numinosity. But I want to worship the God Jesus worshiped, not worship Jesus as God. All Christianity has to give, and all it needs to give, is the myth of the human Jesus. It is the story of Jesus the Jew, a human being, the incarnate son of the man: imperfect but still exemplary,

● a victim of the Powers-that-Be yet still victorious

● crushed only to rise again, in solidarity with all who are ground to dust under the jackboots of the mighty

● healer of those under the power of death,

● lover of all who are rejected and marginalized

● forgiver, liberator, exposer of the regnant cancer called civilization [my word is empire]

That Jesus, the one the Powers killed and whom death could not vanquish. To follow this Way is what it means to be Christian. An impossible task, except for the power of the Divine within us, within our fellow travelers and within and throughout the entire Creation. Shalom.

Friday, April 28, 7 – 8:30 pmand Saturday, April 29, 9:30 am - 4 pmSouth Campus, Sanctuary The Burkhart Center presents our spring Spiritual Searcher weekend, a Jesus Seminar on the Road, with scholars from Colorado and Pennsylvania. Celene Lillie, author of The Rape of Eve: The Transformation of Roman Ideology in Three Early Christian Retellings of Genesis (2017), and Robert J. Miller, author of Helping Jesus Fulfill Prophecy (2016) and Born Divine (2003), will explore

over the course of five weekend lectures and discussion the many varieties of early Christianity that have been unearthed in the past two centuries, and the way these “alternative Christianities” are challenging and changing our understanding of the Christian faith in the past and for the future. While the traditional Christian story suggests a steady development from Jesus to Paul and on to the Church “Fathers,” over the last 150 years this story has proven false. Early Christians did not even call themselves Christian! What were these unknown

Christianities like? Why were they lost? And what can we learn from texts like the Gospel of Thomas that were valued by early communities much as Christians today value the books of the New Testament? See the full weekend schedule at FCchurch.com/jesus-seminar. You can also link to registration through the Westar Institute for this event. Westar is the “home” of Jesus Seminars on the Road. If you desire a boxed lunch for Saturday through Freedom a la Cart, our Columbus organization that supports local

survivors of human trafficking you can do so on our website. You may also contact Natalia Jones directly for more information about the weekend at [email protected] or (614) 488-0681 ext. 105

About the ScholarsCelene Lillie (Ph.D., Union Theological Seminary), Director of the Tanho Center for a new New TestamentRobert J. Miller (Ph.D., Claremont Graduate School), Rosenberger Professor of Religious Studies and Christian Thought at Juniata College.


MEN’S STUDY GROUP

Wednesdays, 7 – 8 amWicker Room, South CampusThe group is reading and discussing Christianity After Religion by Diana Butler Bass. Contact Price Finley at (614) 361-6567 or [email protected], or Craig Sturtz at (614) 481-9060 or [email protected]

WOMEN LIVING THE QUESTIONS

Wednesdays, 9:30-11:30 amWicker Room, South CampusAn ongoing group to examine personal, social and spiritual issues in our world today in light of contemporary and traditional teachings. Resources have included works of Cynthia Bourgeault, Eckhart Tolle, James Finley, Pema Chodron, Michael Singer, Joan Chittister and Richard Rohr, as well as guest speakers. Contact Linda Baldeck at [email protected]

BIBLE STUDY

Wednesdays, 7 – 8:15 pmConference Rm, North CampusLed by Rev. Jim Long.

CONTEMPLATIVE WAY

Thursdays, 11:45 am - 1 pmWicker Room, South CampusIn April, the group will continue Cynthia Bourgeault’s new book The Heart of Centering Prayer: Nondual Christianity in Theory and Practice, during its time of sacred reading, followed by a 30-minute silent meditation starting around 12:15 pm each week. Limited number of copies of the book are available for sale at the South Campus Bookstore on Sundays. Facilitated by Rev. David Hett and other spiritual directors.

WEEKLY ADULT LEARNING GROUPSCONTINUED FROM PAGE 12

Cookies for Kairos

n By Tom White

It’s that time of year again. I need cookies and lots of them. I am on the Kairos team for the upcoming weekend at Marion Correctional Institute. Kairos is an ecumenical prison ministry, based on the Cursillo, Cum Christo, Emmaus weekends and grouping.

We are asking for 10,000 home-baked cookies. If you can help, please leave your cookies at the First Community Church South Campus kitchen in the large refrigerator (not freezer), on the top left shelf.

I will be picking them up daily from Sunday, April 16 thru Thursday, April 20. Please note that the church is closed Monday, April 17 and may or may not be open during evenings that week.

Call ahead to check if you plan on arriving after 5 pm. Call the church at (614) 488-0681 to confirm church hours if you need to drop off after 5pm. Prison regulations are strict. In order to get your cookies

through the gate, please follow these guidelines: • Put exactly one dozen

cookies in each bag. (a change from the 2 dozen in previous years)

• Use clear zip lock bags.• Mark on the outside of the

bag “Kairos Cookies” and the type (i.e. Chocolate Chip or Peanut Butter)

• Many kinds of cookies are acceptable, but chocolate chip are the favorite.

• No icing allowed. You do not have to make cookies from scratch. They only have to be home-BAKED. In past years I have used pre-made cookie dough from grocery stores and Gordon Food Service (GFS).

If you save your receipt you can use it as a charitable deduction on next year’s tax return - kairosohio.org If you are unable to drop them off at the South Campus, please contact me at [email protected], and I’ll find a way to pick them up from you.

Sacred Experiences in Justice, Race and PrayerFollowing our March 28, 7 pm Service of Prayer for Interfaith & National Healing, our 2017 Lenten Tuesday evening series concludes with a book group discussion April 4 on issues of race and class in contemporary America, and with a Holy Week contemplative service on April 11: Tuesday, April 47-8:30 pmBrownlee Hall, South CampusBook Group DiscussionNobody: Casualties from America’s War on the Vulnerable, from Ferguson to Flint and Beyond by Marc Lamont HillIn Nobody, scholar and journalist Marc Lamont Hill presents a powerful and thought-provoking analysis of race and class by examining a growing crisis in America: the existence of a group of citizens who are made vulnerable, exploitable and disposable through the machinery of unregulated capitalism, public policy, and social practice. Marc Lamont Hill is an

award-winning journalist and host of BET News, as well as a political contributor to CNN. He is a Distinguished Professor of African American Studies at Morehouse College. Tuesday, April 117-8 pmBurkhart Chapel, South CampusA Holy Week Service of Prayer for ReconciliationInformal contemplative experience led by spiritual directors. This Lenten series is hosted by an interdisciplinary team from Adult Learning Council, The Burkhart Center, Missions Council and our church’s Spiritual Directors. Watch firstnews Monthly and firstnews Sunday for continuing “Sacred Experiences in Justice, Race & Prayer.” Register for these events at FCchurch.com/lenten or at the door. Contact Natalia at [email protected], (614)488-0681 ext 105

Christianity 101 The Last Week

n By Kirsten Dove The crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ are central to our Christian faith and liturgy, but how much do you really know and understand about what happened to Jesus during the week leading up to Easter? Join Christianity 101 Sundays, as we finish The Last Week on Sundays, April 2 and 9, from 7-8:30 pm. “Top Jesus scholars Marcus J. Borg and John Dominic Crossan join together to reveal a radical and little-known Jesus. Using the gospel of Mark as their guide, Borg and Crossan present a day-by-day account of Jesus’s final week of life. [This is]… a more dangerous Jesus than the one enshrined in the church’s

traditional teachings, [one who sacrifices] his life to protest power without justice and to condemn the rich who lack concern for the poor. “(From Amazon.com) Christianity 101 uses large and small group discussions, written response, videos, facilitator presentation, and personal history and insight to explore what it means to be an “emergence” or ”emerging paradigm” Christian. We meet on Sunday evenings during the same time as Crossroads to make it convenient for parents, but all are welcome. April 30 and May 7, we will finish reflecting on The Heart of Christianity Marcus Borg. Join the discussion any Sunday. FCchurch.com/ 2016/10/christianity-101

Women’s Guild n By Jill Eliot

Yesterday is history. Tomorrow is a mystery. Today is a gift. That’s why we call it ‘The Present.’

— Eleanor Roosevelt

Today, our gift is the present day Group “G”, The Golden Girls. The group was formed in 2015 with 5 women interested in daytime meetings. Success followed and the group grew to 10 members.

During the first year, the ladies volunteered for every Guild project in hopes of finding the perfect project for their group.

The Golden Girls first project was a kitchen spring cleaning in 2016. This involved removing all the dishes and silverware,vacuuming, scrubbing and adding paper to all the shelves prior to returning the dishes and silverware.

An obstacle faced with planning fundraisers was having no start up money in the Group G treasury. After discussing some money-making ideas, the ladies decided to sell jars of beans for soup during the winter of 2016.

The Blanket Me fundraiser was able to purchase fleece for blankets with the start-up money. The Beans in a Jar fundraiser was successful and will be repeated next winter. The Blanket Me project is underway. The group heading it up is called I”ve Been in

Your Chair and is chaired by Joyce Zawaly.

The fleece blankets are distributed to chemo patients at Riverside Hospital. The Golden Girls have committed to provide 25 blankets for their first effort. What a gaggle of Golden Girls! We Are Looking for a Few Good WomenPosition of Vice-PresidentMembership co-chairsA coordinator for the Rose Book (this is the directory for the Women’s Guild and is a short term commitment).Contact Kie Seiple at (614) 325-8633, [email protected] Fundraising Results 2016-2017 Betty O’Neill Election Day Bake Sale, $2042.79Wreath Sale, $583Soup and Casserole Sale, $532

Women Helping WomenOur new project will take place at the old Rebecca’s House. The complex has been renamed The Van Buren Center and is a safe house for women.

For many years, we have had a “baby shower” at our kick-off potluck and installation of officers. The needs have changed. We are excited to begin serving women in need by women who desire to give. We’re making a life by giving.

Easter FlowersHelp decorate for Easter Sunday with lilies and spring flowers. Stop by the Worship & Arts table after worship services on Sundays, April 2 or 9, or send a check for $10 for each plant to:

The Worship & Arts CouncilFirst Community Church1320 Cambridge Blvd.Columbus, OH 43212

Donations may also be made on line atFCchurch.com on the home page under giving/music tab.

Place your order by Palm Sunday, April 9. Flowers paid for may be picked up following the 10 a.m. service at the North Campus or the 11:30 service at the South Campus on Easter Sunday.

Women's FitnessWomen of all ages are invited to join ACE Certified Personal Trainer Holly Brown as she teaches proper strength training technique, effectively toning and strengthening muscle. Mat and water bottle required. Cost is $60 for 8-weeks beginning March 27. Mondays, 7 pm at Lincoln Road Chapel. Contact Holly Brown at (614) 531-3040


to ourDISTRIBUTION PARTNERS

Firstnews thanks the following businesses and locations for participating in our distribution program. If you wish to become a distribution partner, contact Jane Torbica at (614) 488-0681 ext. 247 or [email protected]

COLUMBUS METROPOLITAN MAIN LIBRARY AND 21 BRANCHES

Thank You

ACCENT ON NATURE1435 Grandview Ave.Columbus, OH 43212(614) 486-7333accentonnaturerocks.com

AVOLA LANZA HAIR & NAIL STUDIO1417 B Grandview Ave.Columbus, OH 43212(614) 486-8402avolalanza.net

BIG LEAGUE HAIRCUTS2800 Fishinger Rd.Columbus, OH 43221(614) 442-1111bigleaguecolumbus.com

CHEF-O-NETTE2090 Tremont CenterColumbus, OH 43221(614) 488-8444chefonette.com

COLIN’S COFFEE3714 Riverside Dr.Columbus, OH 43221(614) 459-0598facebook.com/Colins-Coffee-199129576778911/

COLUMBUS STATE DISCOVERY EXCHANGE BOOKSTORE283 Cleveland Ave.Columbus, OH 43215(614) 287-2427cscc.edu/services/bookstore/

CS HAIR SYSTEMS2148 W. Henderson Rd.Columbus, OH 43220(614) 451-5244

CUCO’S TAQUERIA2162 W. Henderson Rd.Columbus, OH 43220(614) 538-8701cucostaqueria.com

DUBLIN ROAD AUTO CARE1107 Dublin Rd.Columbus, OH 43215(614) 486-4400

EL VAQUERO MEXICAN RESTAURANT2195 Riverside Dr.Columbus, OH 43221(614) 486-4547elvaquerorestaurants.com

FIRST COMMUNITY VILLAGE1800 Riverside Dr.Columbus, OH 43212(614) 324-4455nationalchurchresidences.org

FRESCO FURNISHINGS1744 W. Fifth Ave.Columbus, OH 43212(614) 586-1963frescofurnishings.com

FRESH KITCHEN3680 Fishinger Blvd.Hilliard, OH 43026(614) 400-5814freshkitchenohio.com

GRANDVIEW CLEANERS1445 Grandview Ave.Columbus, OH 43212(614) 486-2704

GRANDVIEW HEIGHTS PUBLIC LIBRARY 1685 W. First Ave.Columbus, OH 43212(614) 486-2951ghpl.org

GREAT CLIPS AT ARLINGTON SQUARE AND 7 OTHER AREA LOCATIONS4715 Reed Rd.Columbus, OH 43220(614) 459-4880greatclips.com

HOWARD’S BARBER SHOP1462 W. Fifth Ave.Columbus, OH 43212(614) 488-8645https://www.facebook.com/howardsbarbershop63/

HUFFMAN’S MARKET2140 Tremont CenterColumbus, OH 43221(614) 486-5336huffmansmarket.com

J. WILLIAMSON SALON2280 W. Henderson Rd.Columbus, OH 43220(614) 442-8004

JIN’S TAILORING & ALTERATIONS1630 W. First Ave.Columbus, OH 43212(614) 488-1955

LASH SPA STUDIO3714 Fishinger Blvd.Hilliard, OH 43026(614) 319-3255lashspastudio.com/locations/Columbus

LUXE NAIL SPA1818 W. Henderson Rd.Columbus, OH 43220(614) 326-2222luxenailsalon.com

MAILBOX AND SERVICES1601 W. Fifth Ave.Columbus, OH 43212(614) 488-1863mailboxandservices.com

MARCO’S PIZZA 4719 Reed Rd.Columbus, OH 43220(614) 326-1111marcos.com

MOS MY OWN SALON2818 Fishinger Rd.Columbus, OH 43221(614) 457-6086myownsalon.com

NEIGHBOR’S DELI2142 W. Henderson Rd.Columbus, OH 43220(614) 459-0188therealneighborsdeli.com

ONE MORE TIME1521 W. Fifth Ave.Columbus, OH 43212(614) 486-0031onemoretime.com

PANZERA’S PIZZA1354 Grandview Ave.Columbus, OH 43212(614) 486-5951panzeras.com

PAUL’S FIFTH AVENUE1565 W. Fifth Ave.Columbus, OH 43212(614) 481-8848paulsonline.com

PULP JUICE AND SMOOTHIE BAR3664 Fishinger Blvd.Hilliard, OH 43026(614) 655-7857pulpjuiceandsmoothie.com

ROTOLO’S PIZZA1749 W. Fifth Ave.Columbus, OH 43212(614) 488-7934 rotolospizza.com

SAX FIFTH AVENUE CAR WASH 1319 W. Fifth Ave.Columbus, OH 43212(614) 486-9093

SECOND CHANCE CONSIGNMENT BOUTIQUE1803 W. Fifth Ave.Columbus, OH 43212(614) 488-3006secondchancegrandview.com

STUDENT BOOK EXCHANGE AT OHIO STATE1806 N. High St.Columbus, OH 43201(614) 291-9528sbx-osu.com

STUDIO H HAIR SALON1279 Grandview Ave.Columbus, OH 43212(614) 485-0523salonstudioh.com

STUDIO POSH1670 W. First Ave.Columbus, OH 43212(614) 586-4180studioposh.com

SUNNY STREET CAFÉ4733 Reed Rd.Columbus, OH 43220(614) 732-4479sunnystreetcafe.com

THE BLOWDRY CAFE4740 Reed Rd.Columbus, OH 43220(614) 273-0123blowdrycafe.com

TRATTORIA ROMA1447 Grandview Ave.Columbus, OH 43212(614) 488-2104trattoria-roma.com

TREMONT PHARMACY2144 Tremont CenterColumbus, OH 43221(614) 488-2625

UA FITNESS2100 Tremont CenterColumbus, OH 43221(614) 486-0575getfitua.com

UPPER ARLINGTON PUBLIC LIBRARY2800 Tremont Rd.Columbus, OH 43221(614) 486-9621ualibrary.org

UPPER ARLINGTON PUBLIC LIBRARY LANE RD. BRANCH1945 Lane Rd.Columbus, OH 43220(614) 459-0273ualibrary.org/laneroad

VILLAGE SQUIRE BARBER SHOP 1245 Grandview Ave.Columbus, OH 43212(614) 488-3485

VISION1 OPTICAL2118 Arlington Ave.Columbus, OH 43221(614) 487-1022vision1optical.com

WESLEY GLEN RETIREMENT COMMUNITY5155 N. High St.Columbus, OH 43214(614) 705-2386wesleyglen.com

WESLEY RIDGE RETIREMENT COMMUNITY2225 Taylor Park Dr.Reynoldsburg, OH 43068(614) 467-8560wesleyridge.com

WESTMINSTER-THURBER717 Neil Ave.Columbus, OH 43215(614) 228-8888westminsterthurber.org

W.G. GRINDERS UPPER ARLINGTON LOCATION2820 Fishinger Rd.Columbus, OH 43221(614) 459-3663wggrinders.com

WORLD OF PHOTOGRAPHY1043 W. Third Ave.Columbus, OH 43212(614) 824-5047worldofusedphotography.com

CLASSIFIEDS

BEAUTIFY THE NORTH CAMPUS DAYWe are looking for volunteers to help improve upon the appearance around the modular units and the grounds surrounding the back parking area. The project is scheduled for Saturday, April 22 beginning at 9 am. All are welcome and open to any amount of commitment. Refreshments will be served. Contact JT Jones at [email protected] or Pam Jameson pjameson at FCchurch.com or (614) 488-0681 ext. 232

SUMMER CAMP NURSES NEEDEDCamp Akita is looking for wonderful medical professionals to serve as the camp nurse this summer. If you are a Registered Nurse, Nurse Practitioner or Doctor, we could use you. The camp nurse supervises daily medication delivery and cares for the general well being of our campers. Our camp sessions run from 3 days to 7 days long June through August, so you can choose one or more to fit your busy schedule. A stipend and room and board is provided. Contact Scot Nicoll at [email protected]

'FIRSTNEWS' NEEDS DELIVERY VOLUNTEERSFirstnews is seeking volunteers to help deliver newspapers in bulk to local businesses. 3-5 hours per month. Must be able to lift 20 pounds and have reliable transportation. Contact Jane Torbica at [email protected] or (614) 488-0681 ext. 247

EASTER SUNDAY SCHOOL TEACHERS NEEDEDThe Sunday childcare program is expecting high attendance during Easter services (10:30 am North and 10 am and 11:30am South). Consider volunteering to keep child-to-adult ratios low, avoiding limitations. Contact Kate Hiser [email protected]


Many business owners who are members of First Community Church haven’t shared with others what it is they do.

Share your business with fellow congregants and the wider community by advertising in firstnews.

You will connect with nearly 1,700 church members and readers who visit 61 newspaper locations around central Ohio.

Our total circulation is 4,200 and growing. Come grow with us.

Contact Jane Torbica at [email protected] or (614) 488-0681 ext. 247 to place your ad today.

No matter who you are or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here.Affiliated with The United Church of Christ and Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)

THE PROGRAM STAFF OF FIRST COMMUNITY CHURCH Dr. R. Glen Miles, 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 C. Lindsay, Executive Minister; James M. Long, Minister of Pastoral Care; Christopher B. Rinker, Clergy Associate; Katherine H. Shaner, Minister of Mission; Michael Barber, Director of Marketing and Communications, Sally R. Beske, Associate Organist/Director of Youth Choirs; Leigh Anne Easterling, Director of Early Childhood Ministries and Mary Evans Child Development Center; Cindy Sue Gepfert, Foundation Administrator; Pam Jameson, Director of Facilities Ministry; Bobbi Mueller, Director of North Campus Administration & Akita Operations; Scot Nicoll, Executive Director of Camp Akita; Missy Obergefell, Director of Older Adult Ministry; Julie Richards, Director of K-12 Ministry; Paula L. Russell, Director of Congregational Care

articles and photos must be submitted to [email protected] by the 15th of each month. firstnews

Direct questions to Editor Michael Barber at [email protected]

Documents

FREE - PLEASE TAKE ONE APRIL 1 - firstnews-extrafirstnews-extra.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/APRIL-FIRSTNEWS-w… · SEE LETTING GO, PAGE 2 ... FREE - PLEASE TAKE ONE APRIL 1 -