March 2016 Steeplelights Magazine

, God is stillspeaking,

Naples United Church of Christ

SteeplelightsMarch 2016

I am going to notice the lights of the earth, the sun and the moon and the stars, the lights of our candles as we march, the lights with which spring teases us, the light that is already present. ~ Anne Lamott

2 Steeplelights www.naplesucc.org

Transitions Aren’t Instantaneous

In our culture today, I believe many of us want quick fixes in our lives. It seems as if there is an app or website that can do anything. Want something special to wear, but don’t have time to shop or can’t find what you’re looking for? Just order it online. Need to keep track of how much your grandchild has eaten in a day? There’s an app for that.

However, the reality of my experience is that the opportunities in life that are most meaningful do not happen instantaneously. The relationships that often mean the most are the ones that have developed with time. The traditions that remind us of our roots are developed year after year. Meaningful experiences in life often take time. This is an important reminder for us. I am still pinching myself at the dream come true

to be your Senior Minister. However, even though I have been here for two years, things are now different. I have new responsibilities and expectations. You are adjusting to my style of leadership. We all will adjust to these new realities in due time.

When Ron and the congregation leaders designed this process, it was intended to take time. Ron did not want to disappear overnight after his tenure here, and the leadership wanted the flexibility to do a national search be-fore Ron’s retirement. We have planned the celebrations for Ron and Charnley since last summer. I am waiting for the sanctuary remodeling to be complete and for our seasonal family to return next January until my formal installation. There is much to anticipate about the future, but we need to first ground ourselves in the fact that transitions aren’t instantaneous.

Life without Ron and Charnley in our midst will be different. The dynamics of the church will naturally be different with me as your Senior Minister. While none of us knows what the future holds, we know it will be different. But God has yet to reveal how it will be different, so we will first continue this time of transition until we feel settled again.

However, what I do know for sure, are these things: (1) The God who has brought us this far, is the same God that will lead us into a bright future. (2) The God who brought Ron and Charnley to you is the same God who will keep our hearts knitted to theirs despite miles and time zones. (3) The God who brought me into your midst is the same God who will guide me and forgive me when I inevitably fail at something. (4) The God who called us to be a mission-driven, intergenerational congregation that impacts the world is still calling us to do those things.

There are no quick answers in faith and community, but there is a loving God who created us and walks with us in the good and the difficult. I have faith in you and faith in that God. I hope you’ll join me in this faith as we trust the transition and trust in God’s preferred future for us.

Grace and Peace,

Rev. Dr. Dawson B. TaylorSenior Minister

From the Senior Minister

Dr. Dawson B. Taylor

3 March 2016

From the Interim Associate MinisterMoses (in Exodus 3:4), young Samuel (in 1 Samuel 3:4), and the prophet Isaiah (6:8) all answered, “Here I am!” when God called in need of someone to do a job. Moses’ call from God was to free the Hebrew people; Samuel’s was to become a trustworthy priest and prophet; Isaiah’s was to be a prophet who speaks divine oracles against sin. All this is to say, Here I am! answering the call to be your Interim Associate Minister until our search committee

finds and recommends a candidate for that position. I’m thankful that I don’t have to prophesy, or liberate a whole nation, or hammer away at your sinfulness. But nevertheless, these are exciting times of transition for our congregation, and I am honored and pleased to have been summoned to provide a bridge to the person who will become your settled Associate Minister.

It will be a joy to step back into the Interim Associate’s shoes that I filled before Dawson was called. One of many benefits, as it was last time, is that I get to know a greater number of you as I greet you on Sundays and in general get more involved in members’ lives on a day-to-day basis. Dawson has promised to be kind to my way-post-retired self when it comes to workload, but I so enjoy what I do (and he’s so good at what he does), that I anticipate only gratification. And we are fortunate here at NUCC to have a gaggle of clergy types who can also assist Dawson, as and if needed.

One major change from what I do now as Assistant Minister is that I will not be able to make as many friendly visits to NUCCers at Moorings Park, The Carlisle, and The Glenview. I will miss that. I shall, however, stay in touch by telephone and of course come by as I can. Members at The Chateau, Orchid and Lilac Terrace, and Premier Place will see me somewhat more often. After our settled Associate Minister arrives, I will look forward to resuming my regular person-to-person visits.

I’m not father Abraham, nor half as old, but God called and blessed Abraham so that he in turn would be a blessing to all the families of the earth. So I hope I will have your blessing---and God’s--- for this time period, and that I can be a blessing at least to you and my interim call if not to all the families of the earth.

In faith and with affection,

Rev. Bev Duncan

Rev. Beverly Duncan

Lenten Meditations Followed by Guided Labyrinth Walks

March 1, 12:00 pmMeditation by Rev. Beverly Duncan

Jessica Van Ord, soprano Dr. Becky Weese, organ and piano

March 8, 12:00 pmMeditation by Rev. Dr. Dawson B. Taylor

Andrew Snedeker, oboe Dr. Becky Weese, organ and piano

March 15, 12:00 pmMeditation by Rev. Dr. Ron Patterson

Rebecca Richardson, soprano Dr. Becky Weese, organ and piano

March 22, 12:00 pmMeditation by Nancy Van Fleet

Glenn Basham, violin Dr. Becky Weese, organ and piano

Palm Sunday ServiceMarch 20, 9:00 am and 11:00 am

Rev. Dr. John Dorhauer, General Minister and President of UCC

Brass, Percussion, and Timpani Sanctuary Choir

Maundy ThursdayMarch 24, 7:00 pm

Sanctuary ChoirMary Bowden, trumpet ~ Glenn Basham, violin

Adam Satinsky, cello ~ John Evans, timpaniSanctuary Choir

Good Friday Taizé ServiceMarch 25, 7:00 pm

Jessica Van Ord, soloist ~ Glenn Basham, violin

Easter Sunrise Service at Clam Pass BeachMarch 27, 7:00 am

(Tram shuttle service beginning at 6:15 am)Rev. Dr. Ron Patterson, preaching

Jessica Van Ord, soloist Brass Quintet

Sanctuary Easter ServicesMarch 27, 8:00 am

Rev. Dr. Dawson B. Taylor, preaching Sanctuary Choir

Glenn Basham, violin

9:15 am and 11:00 amRev. Dr. Dawson B. Taylor, preaching

Glenn Basham, violin Sanctuary Choir

Brass Quintet and Percussion

Easter Schedule 2016

4Steeplelights 0 www.naplesucc.org

In This Issue...

March 20162 .......... From the Senior Minister

3 .......... From the Interim Associate Minister

3 .......... 2016 Easter Schedule

4 .......... Table of Contents

4 .......... NUCC Staff

5 .......... 24th Annual Progressive Dinner

5 .......... Board of Missions and Outreach

5 .......... Stewardship

6 .......... Moderator’s Report

6 .......... Live Streaming

7 .......... Celebrating Our Weaver

8 .......... The Green Space

8 .......... Lent on the Labyrinth

9 .......... Music Gift Fund Donors

10 ........ Dr. Becky Weese’s Wedding Invitation

10 ........ Lenten Meditations

10-11 .. Upcoming Music Concerts

12 ........ Tabs for Shriner’s Children’s Hospital

12 ........ NUCC Cares

13 ........ Precious Cargo Academy

13 ........ Habitat for Humanity

14-15 .. March 2016 Church Calendar

16-17 .. Youth Christian Education

18-19 .. Adult Enrichment and Social Activities

20 ........ Ninth Annual PFLAG Interfaith Convocation

20 ........ Coloring for Relaxation

20 ........ New Members

21 ......... Volunteer Corner

22 ........ Palette Pals

22 ........ Ebenezer School

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

24 ........ Give us this day our daily bread

25 ........ Mission Moment: One Great Hour of Sharing

25 ........ March Lectionary

26 ........ Book Recommendations

26 ........ Condolences

26 ........ In Service to our Country

27 ........ March Birthdays

27 ........ March Anniversaries

NUCC StaffMinistersRev. Dr. Ron Patterson, Minister Emeritus [email protected]

Rev. Dr. Dawson B. Taylor, Senior Minister [email protected]

Rev. Beverly Duncan, Interim Associate Minister [email protected]

Wendy Gayarre, Executive Assistant to Clergy [email protected]

Music MinistryDr. Becky Weese, Director of Music [email protected]

Jamie Hardesty, Assistant to the Director of Music

Christian EducationDr. Heather English, Adult CE [email protected]

Nancy Van Fleet, Director of CE – Children & Youth

[email protected]

Jane Coiné, Assistant Director of CE – Children & Youth

AdministrationKary Sirken, Church Administrator

[email protected] Magiera, Finance Administrator

[email protected] Caldwell, Administrative Assistant [email protected] Simeone, Communications Manager [email protected] Falco, Technology Director, [email protected] Melick, Events CoordinatorPat McGee, Volunteer CoordinatorGeorgia Lundy, Sunday Fellowship/Kitchen CoordinatorDaniel Brower, Facilities CoordinatorRick McGinn, Facilities

Monica Brocker, Facilities

Precious Cargo AcademyLeanne Badham, Director [email protected]

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

Cover, table of contents, and calendar photos by Julia Simeone.

5 March 2016

Saturday, March 12 This special occasion is planned for church members and friends to become better acquainted with one another in small groups.

Everyone attending will be asked to contribute, either by serving as a host or bringing an appetizer, salad, or dessert.

If you have not previously hosted, please consider opening your home this year. Host homes west of US 41 are most desired, but not required.

Sign up in the Gathering Place after Sunday Services or call Jean Partridge 353-7020.

24th Annual Progressive Dinner

l Social hour hosts will welcome 25-30 guests; begins at 5:30 pm.

l Dinner hosts will welcome 6-12 guests according to accommodations; begins at 7:00 pm.

l One home will be needed for a Dessert Buffet at 9:00 pm.

What better way to meet new friends and renew old acquaintances?

Board of Mission and OutreachECHOECHO is deeply grateful for the support of Naples United Church of Christ as you have equipped our East Africa Regional Impact Center with vital resources for meeting the needs of impoverished farmers. As the demand for ECHO’s training, agricultural information, and seeds continue to grow, so too does our need for partners like you who are committed to pursuing Christ’s call to care for the hungry and marginalized.

THANK YOU

StewardshipPsst!! Probably not you, but . . . we’re missing a number of stewardship pledges. The 2016 drive is going well and we sincerely appreciate the response from those of you who have told us what they plan to give to support our church’s mission. We just aren’t quite where we’d like to be. If you haven’t as yet returned a pledge card, consider this to be a nudge to get it off your to do list. If you can’t find that pledge card, call Sharon in the office. We have plenty of cards just waiting to be filled out.

Your Stewardship Committee - Pete, Bill, Judy, John, Elizabeth, Dick, Michael, Tom, Jack and Gordon


Moderator’s ReportI would like to thank the congregation for electing me Moderator for 2016, and thank Michael Hunt, the outgoing Moderator, for his hard work and numerous accomplishments.

Let me introduce myself and Ann Olson, the new Vice Moderator.

John Richardson

I was born, educated, and lived most of my life in Maryland. My wife, Bobbi, and I met when we were in high school and married after graduating from college. We started our graduate studies together. Before retiring to Naples in De-cember of 1999, Bobbi and I were educators. I was a high school history teacher and an assistant principal in the An-napolis area. Bobbi was a reading specialist. Our oldest daughter lives here in Naples, and our youngest daughter has two children and lives in California, so we travel to CA several times a year.

I represented our up-north church as a member of a multi-denominational committee which formed the Assistance Center of Towson Churches, charged to provide services to distribute food and other needed assistance including housing. After joining NUCC in early 2000, we immediately became active members. I chaired the Board of Deacons and Pastoral Relations Committee as well as serving on numerous other committees including Nominating and Precious Cargo. Most recently I chaired the search committee for an associate pastor which brought Dawson Taylor to our church.

Ann Olson

I was raised in Massachusetts, attended Middlebury College in Vermont, and graduated from the University of Texas El Paso with a degree in economics. Later, I earned my MBA at Long Island University. My husband Alan and I met when we were children and married after he graduated from West Point. I spent the next twenty-one years traveling the world as an Army wife -- three continents and 18 moves! After Alan retired from the Army, we settled in Northern Virginia where I worked as a Budget/Finance Analyst for the Department of the Army and then the Budget/Finance Officer for a federal court. We have visited Naples frequently since the mid-seventies, bought a condo here in 1991, and decided to move here permanently after we both retired in 2009. I have always been active in church affairs. At our UCC church in Virginia, I served on the Board of Deacons, Board of Trustees, Board of Missions, and Christian Social Action Committee, chairing several. We joined NUCC in 2008 where we both have been active. For the past six years I have served on the Precious Cargo Academy Committee.

Moderator -

John E. Richardson

Services are now streaming live on our website, www.naplesucc.org. The “Watch Service Live Here” tab is at the

top of your browser upon pulling up our website. Click on this tab to watch services at 9:00am and 11:00am as

well as some of our concerts and other events. As this is a NEW area for us, PLEASE feel free to send your

feedback to Tony Falco, our Technology Director, at [email protected]!

Our Services/Events are streaming LIVE now!

7 March 2016

“Celebrating Our Weaver”Saturday, March 19, from 1:00pm until 4:00pm, we will honor Charnley Marsden and Ron Patterson, the man who has woven our congregation into a beautiful tapestry for the past thirteen years! This event will take place in McSpadden Hall. There is no charge for this event. If you have not signed up, please know that you are still welcome to attend the SATURDAY reception.

On Sunday, March 20, at 5:00pm, there will be a dinner to honor Ron and Charnley at the Club at Pelican Bay. The cost is $75.00 per person, and there will be three-hundred tickets available. Ticket sales will continue after each service on Sundays until they are all sold out. No more than two (2) tick-ets per person will be sold. Checks or cash only. NO TICKETS WILL BE SOLD IN THE CHURCH OFFICE.

For questions on either event, please call Susan Melick at 239-293-8446.


Two years ago the Coffee and Conversation topic was the environment and our responsibility as the NUCC to honor and preserve God’s creation. Many ideas were suggested to raise the consciousness of the congregation about how we might have a “greener” lifestyle as individuals and as a church family.

Since that first discussion two years ago NUCC has made some changes to become a more green congregation.

•TheGreenSpacecolumnhasbecomearegularadditiontotheSteeplelights.

•AsmallgroupofenvironmentallyconcernedNUCCmembersformedtheGreenJusticeTeamandbegan meeting last spring to develop new ideas to help NUCC and its members become more environmentally responsible.

•WhereverpossiblelightbulbshavebeenchangedtoLEDbulbs.Thatchangeissavingenergyandreducingthe amount of heat previously generated by incandescent bulbs. (We will replace the light bulbs in the sanctuary chandeliers as soon as technology development permits).

•Papercups(whicharebiodegradable)arenowbeingusedinsteadofStyrofoamatCoffeeHour.Nomore Styrofoam is being used anywhere in the church. Styrofoam is not recyclable and lasts 500 years when dumped in a landfill. By changing to paper cups we are keeping Styrofoam out of the landfills.

•Staffandanyoneusingthechurchfacilitiesaremakingaconsciousefforttoturnofflightsandapplianceswhen they are not in use. Energy can be saved and utility costs reduced if we simply turn off the power when we’re leaving the room or are finished using an appliance or computer.

We’re off to a good start, but there are many other things that we can do. The Green Justice Team welcomes new members and new ideas. We need to work on transforming our hearts and minds to see God’s creation in new ways that lead to acting on new values in our lives. If you would you like to join the Green Justice Team or have new ideas to help NUCC become a greener congregation please contact Nancy Hanson, email: [email protected] or 239-262-0573.

In the words of Margaret Mead, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful,committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”

Submitted by Nancy Hanson Green Justice Team Member

The Green Space

Lent on the LabyrinthLent began with Ash Wednesday, February 10, and marks the beginning of the 40 days until Easter. The focus during Lent is on the inward journey. At the noon Ash Wednesday service, Dr. Taylor invited worshipers to walk on the labyrinth. Many began their journey into the Lenten season that day. Walking the labyrinth offers the opportunity to release distractions and worries, quiet the mind, and to center ourselves.

A number of opportunities are available for walking the labyrinth during Lent. Guided walks will be offered following the noon Lenten meditations

on March 1,8,15, and 22. Members of the Labyrinth Ministry Committee will be available to help with simple guidelines if you have not previously walked a labyrinth.

The labyrinth is available 24/7 for walking. Soft up-lights illuminate the path which provides a meditative quiet evening space. Opportunities for a guided evening walk will occur following both the Maundy Thursday service on March 24 at 7pm and the Good Friday Taizé Service, also at 7pm.

Many of us commit to giving up something for Lent, but it is also a time to consider taking on something that will deepen our relationship with God. The Labyrinth offers that opportunity.

The Labyrinth Ministry Committee

9 March 2016

Thank You to Our Music Gift Fund Donors*Major SupportersDavid and Maura PiperVirginia AckermanHelen RothMichael and Dana DownsAlan and Ann OlsonMargaret Robichaud MemorialDr. and Mrs. Louis FischerTom BarrettBetsy and Jim BartonJennifer Rainey and Ronnie BelloneMr. and Mrs. Lynn DeFreestDr. Douglas and Anne GebbieSue and Ken GroffThomas and Joan HolmesCarol and Michael HuntBill and Lori HydeDudley and Volina LyonsJan and Bob MadiganMr. and Mrs. Roger NolanMary SmallWally and Susie StimpsonMilt and Delores TiedeJoyce WoodHank and Louise Leander

BenefactorsBill RumpfBarbara and Tom LauberJoseph AndererRoberta ThorntonWilliam S. AndersonJohn and Kristy BuckGary and Janet EllisFrances GeorgesonTerry and Jeannie HainesSuzanne HarwickLee and Anne HauserMr. and Mrs. Thomas HesterKaren HowickRalph and Peggy JacksonMr. and Mrs. G. Sharp LannomSherry and Lane Latimer

(benefactors cont’d)Gay LindquistRoberta LynchMr. and Mrs. Samuel McCulloughJohn and Kate OgdenGinny and Tom PackardLarry and Jean PughLarry and Kathi RamboStephen and Kathleen RhinesmithDorothy ScholtensHenry and Sally SchwartzGordon and Sharon SvobodaRobert and Elizabeth ThomasonBonnie ThynneBernon and Bette YoungRonald Saul

SponsorsBob and Martha DavisConnie Carter MemorialLee GatesBonnie McDonaldDiane and Bob MyersJudith Werner - In Honor of Helen WeeseCarolyn HickmanLarry and Sharon BennettPete and Sally BurgessDon and Dorothy ChaulkMarilyn and Buck CodyDr. Margaret Ward and Dr. Thomas De WittPatricia DorfBob and Sybil DrummondAl and Marcia EldersTed and Joan FletcherJeanette HakesSilvio (Sam) IorioDavid and Connie JordanJohn and Margaret KleberSue LikeBarbara Love MemorialBarbara MealsPeggy StockwoodWilliam and Mary Lou Swartz

(sponsors cont’d)Cynthia TaftWalter Wisnieski

DonorsHarry Morton MemorialJoan ByerhofMichael CampbellMerrilee DoyleTor and Sunny HansenMichael and Patsy HansonRobert and Shirley ShowalterGail and Bill SteinmetzMargaret StevensElizabeth ZochDiane BreedPearl SunderLinda ChattertonGeorge and Kathleen BellPatricia L. BenjaminCarol BerglundEvlyn BickfordRobert BodineKen and Lois BorgmanCharles Page and Malcolm BosmaChris and Charlotte BramleyDoug and Teresa BrownJoseph BrubakerJoyce CameronMarcia CarthausLaurie ChozenJack DennisAudrey DeRangoGeorge DiederichJean DotyWilliam Bolinder and Heather EnglishJacqueline FreesePat and Bill FreyLinda GossDr. Bancroft and Susan GreeneJoan HazlettKate and John HenryScott HerstinHilde and Don Higuchi

(donors cont’d)Joanie JohnsonGary and Judy JorgensenSharon and Jack KempGeorge KesselMargrit LeutertBeverly LundquistThelma LylePeg McCauslandMarjorie McDonaldNorma MerzbacherMary Aimee MillerRobert MorseCathy MosesRonald Patterson and Charnley MarsdenJudith PetersonBruce and Janet PetscheDave and Patti RahtJohn and Carol ReccoFrances ReynoldsEllen RindfleischMr. and Mrs. William RobinsonPaul and Beverly RoeseStanley and Carole RussellKay and Dr. Richard RyderAaron and Patricia SansonBetty and Ron SchlemmerBeth SmithDavid and Mary Ellen StevensonFrank and Beverly SullivanNancy ThurstonJohn and Joan TorenBetty ViningBill and Betty WempleJoy and Dick WheelerDave and Marion Williams

PatronEllen BrownRichard Anderson and Rev. Catherine O’ConnellAnonymousAnne AtchisonBetty BellovichRussell BroadSusan Butler

(patrons cont’d) Chip and Ann CulshawGloria DeLisiRyan Hunt MemorialCharlotta GrumblesEdith HorneyRichard and Martha JohnsonBob and Bobbie JusterElaine KelleyJane KitchenAnne KruseRichard and Diane MillerRobert MillerJosephine MorseAnn and Edmund SandersonTim and Sally SchraderJane Silk

ContributorsIrma JohnsonElizabeth QuamKen and Nancy BruceEarle and Velma CookRuth MoranRoger and Elaine OsbondJames and Nancy SweeneyJulie GoffCheryl Peters

** List of donors from February Steeplelights were recorded from March 1, 2015 - December 31, 2015.* Current list of donors from January 1, 2015 - January 31, 2016.


Lenten Meditations

March 1stJessica Van Ord, soprano

Meditation by Rev. Beverly Duncan

March 8thAndrew Snedeker, oboeMeditation by Rev. Dr. Dawson B. Taylor

March 15thRebecca Richardson, soprano

Meditation by Rev. Dr. Ron Patterson

March 22ndGlenn Basham, violinMeditation by Ms. Nancy Van Fleet

March 22, 2016Chrysalis Rebecca Richardson, soprano Mary Bowden, trumpet Troy Chang, cello Milana Strezeva, piano

Tuesdays a t

TwilightPrograms begin at 7:00 p.m.

in Beverly Hall $30.00 per ticket

*You are invited to walk the Labyrinth after each meditation.

Meditations will take place in the sanctuary at 12:00pm.

11March 2016

February 7 was one of our most memorable Sundays. Our worship services were focused toward the turtle and ecology. We had a great turnout and an opportunity after services for churchgoers to meet with the artist of Caretta Caretta. With the help of our Director of Music, Dr. Becky Weese, the Whizpops, members of the Naples Philharmonic Orchestra, Carol Fox (our narrator), the Sanctuary Choir, the Children’s Choir, Susan Pratt (Caretta Caretta’s creator), and Dr. Ron Patterson, our church was filled to overflowing. As the concert progressed, we were brought through the life and wisdom of the turtle, to a spectacular ending production. On February 8, we were host to hundreds of children from Precious Cargo Academy and SeaGate Elementary who got to hear about turtles and the ocean from the Whizpops and Susan Pratt. We are blessed and thankful to everyone who helped to make this event a success!

Highlights of our Successful Turtle Concert


NUCC does care! Monthly, we deliver soup to members and friends of the church who might enjoy it! Along

with the soup we send a couple of cookies! Anyone can help with that! If you can, whenever you can, bake a

few dozen extra cookies and bring them to the church kitchen (in a plastic bag) with a label for NUCC Cares!

They are very much appreciated! Watch the bulletin for the next soup-making date!

- NUCC Cares Committee

NUCC Cares

Fezzy The members of the Naples United Church of Christ

who did save the TABS!!!! And will.

Thank youOn behalf of Ill. Sir. Kenneth Herald, Potentate of Araba Shrine Center and Imperial Potentate

Ill. Sir. Jerry Gantt, the head of the Shrine of North America,

Thanks to all those here in the Naples United Church of Christ, who saved and collected a lot of TABS for our children in the Shriners Hospitals. Please continue saving your TABS and drop them off in the basket in the Narthex marked “Shriners TABS”. As everyone knows, Shriners help children with orthopedic and burn problems at no cost to the family. These tabs are a very small but a very large help,

Thank you again.

13 March 2016

Welcome to March! They say time flies when your having fun, but oh my goodness! Where is the time going? As we enter into March, we are excited for the many events and celebrations this month brings. Our students will be participating in the downtown Naples St. Patricks Parade on March 12th. They will be celebrating Dr. Seuss’s birthday and Read Across America Day, as well as learning about the traditions and celebration of Easter. What a busy, but joyous month ahead. We appreciate all those who came to our volunteer orientation event in February. If you were unable to attend but are interested in volunteering with PCA, email me or call me directly and I will be more than happy to assist you.

Recently PCA received some very exciting news. Each year the children who graduate the Pre-Kindergarten Pro-gram are administered a test within the first forty five-days of entering Kindergarten. Schools then receive a grade for their students preparedness and readiness for Kindergarten. PCA is beyond thrilled to say that for the 2014-2015 school year we received a 100%! This means that each and every one of the students who graduated from PCA were prepared for the standards, and the journey that lies ahead in the Kindergarten classroom. This is such a wonderful achievement, and we could not be more proud of all of our students, and teachers who work so dilligently together – while still having fun!

PCA will be hosting a bake sale in between church services on Sunday, March 6! We can’t wait to see everyone there – be sure to bring your sweet tooth!

Sincerely,

Leanne Badham, Director

Precious Cargo Academy

NUCC Volunteers with a future homeowner after completely siding a new Habitat For Humanity house – February 2016.

NUCC VOLUNTEERS ATHABITAT FOR HUMANITY

Saturday March 5th

Habitat For Humanity in Collier County builds 100 homes each year with the help of volunteers. No experience or skill is required. Help to do framing, siding, finishing work, painting and more. We work with other volunteers and the future homeowners.We aim to be at the worksite about 7:45am. There is a break at 10:00am and wrap up is about noon.For more information, call or email Bob Thomason at 434-5948 ([email protected]).

March 2016 1 2 3 4 5

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sun mon tue wed thurs fri sat

(ACR) - Administrative Conference Room (BH) - Beverly Hall (GC) - Gates Chapel

9:30am Learning in Retirement (N-207)12:00pm Lenten Meditation/ Guided Labyrinth Walk (S/L)1:00pm Social Committee Meeting (N-101)3:00pm Prayer Shawl Ministry (P)6:30pm Board of Christian Education Meeting (N-101)6:30pm Diaconate Meeting (ACR)

FOURTH SUNDAY IN LENT9:00am Worship Service (S) 10:00am Visitor Information Brunch (N-104)10:00am Youth Group Technology Fundraiser (MH) 10:00am Stephen Ministry Pastoral Care (P) 11:00am Worship Service (S)12:00pm Visitor Information Brunch (N-104)12:00pm Youth Group Technology Fundraiser (MH) 12:00pm Stephen Ministry Pastoral Care (P)

9:30am Monday Morning Ladies (N-104)9:30am Yoga with Shannon (BH) 9:30am Incarnate with Rev.Dr. Kircher (N-207)10:00am Palette Pals Meeting (Art Room) 1:00pm Bell Choir Practice (Bell Room)2:00pm Baby Basics/Angel Tree Meeting (N-104)2:00pm History and Theology of the UCC (N-101)3:30pm Labyrinth Committee Meeting (N-101) 4:30pm Baby Basics Diaper Pick-up (MH)6:45pm Voices of Naples Practice (S)7:00pm Jessica Van Ord Class (N-104)7:00pm History and Theology of the UCC (N-101)

8:30am Marina Jack’s Boat Tour9:00am NUCC Cares Meeting (N-104)9:30am Learning in Retirement (N-207)12:00pm Lenten Meditation/Guided Labyrinth Walk (S)1:00pm Music Committee Meeting (ACR)3:00pm Precious Cargo Meeting (ACR)5:30pm Membership and Growth (N-104)

FIFTH SUNDAY IN LENT NEW MEMBER SUNDAY

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

9:30am Monday Morning Ladies (N-104)9:30am Yoga with Shannon (BH)9:30am Mahjongg Class (N-205) 1:00pm Bell Choir Practice (Bell Room)5:00pm GLSEN Meeting (N-104) 6:45pm VON Practice (S)

9:30am Learning in Retirement (N-207)12:00pm Lenten Meditation/Guided Labyrinth Walk (S)5:00pm Bargain Box Volunteer Appreciation Party (GP/MH)

SIXTH SUNDAY IN LENTPALM/PASSION SUNDAY

9:00am Worship Service (S) 10:00am Stephen Ministry Pastoral Care (P) 11:00am Worship Service (S) 12:00pm Stephen Ministry Pastoral Care (P)12:00pm Ryan Larradee Baptism (GC)5:00pm Ron’s Retirement Dinner @ Pelican Bay Club

9:30am Monday Morning Ladies (N-104)9:30am Yoga with Shannon (BH)9:30am MahJongg Class (N-205) 1:00pm Bell Choir Practice (Bell Room)6:00pm Trustees (N-104)6:30pm Jessica Van Ord Class (N-101) 6:45pm VON Practice (S)

9:30am Learning in Retirement (N-207)12:00pm Lenten Meditation/Guided Labyrinth Walk (S)

EASTER SUNDAY7:00am Easter Sunrise Service (Clam Pass Beach)8:00am Easter Worship Service (S) 9:15am Easter Worship Service (S) 10:00am Stephen Ministry Pastoral Care (P) 11:00am Easter Worship Service (S) 12:00pm Stephen Ministry Pastoral Care (P)

9:30am Monday Morning Ladies (N-104)9:30am Yoga with Shannon (BH) 1:00pm Bell Choir Practice (Bell Room) 2:00pm The Book Club (N-104)

9:30am Learning in Retirement (N-207)

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

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sun mon tue wed thurs fri sat4:30pm Caroline Zawilla/Peter James Wynne Wedding (S)

(MG) - Memorial Garden (MH) - McSpadden Hall (N) - Nelson Hall (P) - Parlor (S) - Sanctuary (WH) - White House (ACR) - Administrative Conference Room (BH) - Beverly Hall (GC) - Gates Chapel

10:00am Rona Steingart Painting Class (N-202) 10:00am WNL Meeting (MH)1:00pm Stephen Ministry (N-207)3:30pm Artis-Naples Youth Band Practice (S)3:30pm Junior Disciples (N-207) 4:00pm Children’s Choir: Pre-K-1st (BH) 4:30pm Children’s Choir: Grades 2-5 (BH) 4:30pm Centering Prayer Group (P)7:00pm Sanctuary Choir Rehearsal (BH/S)

9:30am Yoga with Shannon (BH)10:30am Green Justice Team Meeting (N-101) 1:00pm MahJongg (N-205)

9:00am Search Committee Meeting (MCR)10:00am Coloring for Relaxation (N-104)10:00am “First Friday Coffee” (Barnes and Noble)11:00am Caroline Zawilla/ Peter James Wynne Wedding Rehearsal (S)12:00pm Al Anon Meeting (N-104 or 207)1:00pm MahJongg Class (N-205)

8:30am Marina Jack’s Boat Tour9:00am NUCC Cares Meeting (N-104)9:30am Learning in Retirement (N-207)12:00pm Lenten Meditation/Guided Labyrinth Walk (S)1:00pm Music Committee Meeting (ACR)3:00pm Precious Cargo Meeting (ACR)5:30pm Membership and Growth (N-104)

10:00am CPR Training (MH)10:00am Rona Steingart Class (N-202)3:30pm Junior Disciples (N-207) 4:00pm Children’s Choir: Pre-K-1st Grade (BH) 4:30pm Children’s Choir: Grades 2-5 (BH)4:30pm Centering Prayer Group (P)6:00pm PCA Staff Meeting (N-207)6:30pm CPR Training (MH)7:00pm Sanctuary Choir Rehearsal (BH/S)

9:30am Yoga with Shannon (BH)12:00pm Gulf Coast Orchid Society Set-up (BH)1:00pm MahJongg (N-205) 1:00pm Board of Missions and Outreach (N-104)

8:00am Gulf Coast Orchid Society Event (MH)12:00pm Al Anon Meeting (N-104 or 207)1:00pm Mahjongg Class (N-205)

8:00am Gulf Coast Orchid Society Event (MH)5:30pm Annual Progressive Dinner

10:00am Rona Steingart Painting Class (N-202)3:30pm Junior Disciples (N-207)4:00pm Karen Howick/Marge Downing Wedding (GC)4:30pm Centering Prayer Group (P)5:30pm WNL Dinner - God Bless America (MH)7:00pm Sanctuary Choir Rehearsal (BH/S)

9:30am Yoga with Shannon (BH)10:00am Executive Club Condominium Meeting (N-207)10:00am Men’s Coffee and Conversation (N-104)10:00am Women’s Coffee and Conversation (N-101)1:00pm MahJongg (N-205) 2:15pm Bargain Box Committee Meeting (ACR)7:00pm PFLAG Meeting (N-104)

10:00am Coloring for Relaxation Group (N-104)12:00pm Al-Anon Meeting (N-207)7:00pm Improv for Life @ The Current (Youth Event)

10:00am Rona Steingart Painting Class (N-202)3:30pm Junior Disciples (N-207)4:00pm Renewal of Vows for Elaine and Roger Osbond (GC) 4:00pm Children’s Choir: Pre-K-1st (BH) 4:30pm Children’s Choir: Grades 2-5 (BH)4:30pm Centering Prayer Group (P)7:00pm Sanctuary Choir Rehearsal (BH/S)

MAUNDY THURSDAY9:00am NUCC Cares Soup Preparation (NH-K)9:30am Yoga with Shannon (BH)1:00pm MahJongg (N-205)6:00pm PCA Breastfeeding Centers Meeting (N-207)7:00pm Maundy Thursday Service and Labyrinth Walk (S/L)

GOOD FRIDAY(Office Closed)

7:00pm Good Friday Taizé Service and Labyrinth Walk (GC/L)

3:00pm Sanctuary Choir Rehearsal (S)

10:00am Annual Easter Egg Hunt10:00am Sanctuary Choir Rehearsal (S)1:00pm Ron’s Retirement Reception (MH)

9:30am Learning in Retirement (N-207) 10:00am Rona Steingart Painting Class (N-202)10:00am WNL Meeting (Book Nook)3:30pm Junior Disciples (N-207) 4:00pm Children’s Choir: Pre-K-1st Grade (BH) 4:30pm Children’s Choir: Grades 2-5 (BH)4:30pm Centering Prayer Group (P)7:00pm Sanctuary Choir Rehearsal (BH/S)

9:30am Yoga with Shannon (BH)1:00pm Mah Jongg (N-205)6:00pm PCA Training (N-207)


Youth Christian EducationGreetings!

What an incredible month we’ve had! The children’s and youth program at NUCC had some wonderful opportuni-ties to be together in community, to serve and learn from our wonderful congregation, and to celebrate the diversi-ties in spirit that are among us.

February was about the turtle. There were 26 of our Junior Disciples who participated in the Turtle Concert. Many of our Junior Disciples returned to the church the next day as 750 of their classmates came to our campus to listen to the Wizpops and hear from artist Susan Pratt about her amazing Turtle on the Town, Caretta Caretta. They were also given the opportunity to eat what a turtle might eat! It was an opportunity to see some of our old friends – some who even returned to church after a long time away! They also drew turtles and created their own self-portraits in their enrichment time with the Palette Pals.

Our youth group had fun at a bonfire at Susan Pratt’s and enjoyed communion around the campfire. They had their fourth fundraiser, a Potato Bake, an event that raised just over $1,000.00. To date we have made $4,100 in four fundraisers toward our goal of $14,000.00. Soni Dimond, Vice President of Beasley Communications Group worked with our youth teaching them important communication skills, which will benefit them as they promote any cause, passion, or mission in the future. They will take these transferrable skills and use them in our continued work with Baby Basics.

Our first Ash Wednesday Intergenerational Service was held on February 10. How powerful it was to gather as a congregation and place ashes on one another’s foreheads. We sang responsively as Dr. Becky led us. We created an altar cloth for our Good Friday Taizé Service (and Labyrinth Walk) as we all painted crosses on a tablecloth. It was truly a time to be reminded of the commitment we have to one another – and to be reminded that we are all interconnected.

Thank you for being the church that loves, welcomes, and supports our children and youth!

With great love and gratitude to all of you!

Nancy Van Fleet – CE Director, Children and Youth

Next Fundraiser: March 6 after both services.Do you need help with your iPhone or iPad? How about your Android? Did you always want to be a part of the Facebook community, but struggle to navigate through the website? Do you want to learn about Instagram or Twitter? Do you need some basic help on your computer? Well, the youth group is here to help you. Join us in McSpadden Hall after each service on March 6 and meet with our youth who will be there to answer questions and help you on your technology. Make sure to bring your phones, computers, etc. All we ask is that you make a donation toward our summer trip to the UCC National Youth Event!

Join Us for our Annual Easter Egg Hunt – March 19 @ 10 a.m. Children will make their own Easter Baskets before our egg hunt!

17 January 2016


November at the Bazaar and after! Make sure YOU are a part of it! DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS IS MARCH 30. So, do it today!

Middlers Plus Off-Campus Social Activities Sunday Breakfast Buffet Naples Sailing & Yacht Club

April 3rd 12:30pm $25 pp Deadline: 3/22 896 River Point Dr 34102. Hosted by Nancy Wyckoff

Last Call for Theatre Tickets “Dames at Sea”

Sunday, May 1st 8pm Theatre Zone in Naples $48 pp Deadline: 3/22

Registration forms and information, including driving directions will be available in the Middlers‘ Plus mailbox or on Sunday mornings in the Gathering Place. For questions, contact Bobbi Richardson: 239-207-6615.

Red Sox Baseball Only a few tickets are left for the Red Sox Spring Training game at Jet Blue Park on Monday, March 28th. This is an afternoon game and the Red Sox will be playing the Baltimore Orioles.Tickets can be purchased in the Gathering Place or via email to Selena Evans ([email protected]). The tickets are $28 each.

History and Theology of the United Church of Christ Rev. Dr. Patterson, Rev. Dr. Taylor and/or Rev. Duncan

Description: This single-session class offers an overview of the United Church of Christ’s history, theology, and core beliefs. Facilitated by one of our ministers, it provides an opportunity for open discussion and questions. Ideal for those considering membership or seeking to learn more about our denomination.

Dates: Mondays (Mar. 7 or April 11) 2:00 or 7:00p.m.

Cost: None

Registration: Not required, all are welcome.

Men’s Coffee and ConversationRev. Dr. Ronald Patterson or Rev. Dr. Dawson Taylor

Description: Men of the church are invited to partake of coffee and good conversation. There is an announced topic for which articles of interest and preparation are made available ahead of time in the church office. We will give some thought to how our Christianity informs our perspective on the topic at hand. (Participants are also invited to share lunch together after the meeting.) Date: Thursday, March 17. Time and Place: 10:00am in Nelson Hall Room 104. Topic: “The Prosperity

Adult Enrichment OpportunitiesMonday Morning LadiesThis group meets weekly on Monday mornings year-round - 9:30 a.m. -12:00 p.m. (Approximately) to produce a wide variety of different kinds of projects for the annual Bazaar. Knitting, crocheting, cross stitch, needlepoint, machine and hand sewing, beading (and other craft forms) and produce everything from scarves and caps and mittens to pillows and bibs and children’s dresses and toys, to pot holders and dishcloths and exquisite quilts! Christmas trees - wreaths - Christmas ornaments - stockings - tree skirts - jewelry - all find their way onto the Bazaar tables! The group regularly enjoys lunch out! Everyone is welcome - come and we’ll find a project for you! You will enjoy the friendly conversation!

NewComers’ DinnersSecond Thursday of each month at 6:00 p.m. For the first eighteen months of membership, new members are invited to a monthly dinner as a way of getting acquainted and forming friendships. During the winter and spring, these dinners are usually potlucks held at a private home or a community room. During the summer, the dinners are usually held at a restaurant. Invitations are mailed to eligible members. Make reservations by calling the church. Dinners are sponsored by the Membership and Growth Committee.

Prayer Shawl MinistryFirst Tuesday of the month at 3:00 p.m. Prayer Shawl Ministry is a wonderful outreach to people who need solace in the form of comfort through a hand-knit or crocheted shawl. We knit/crochet, visit, and bless the finished shawls. Please join us and we’ll give you instructions for making shawls that are so appreciated by those who receive them.

Women’s FellowshipThis group is open to all women of the church -- a great way to meet new people and enjoy old friendships! Potluck luncheons (salad, sandwich, dessert) with a program are held three times a year. Sign-up is available in the Gathering Place on Sundays or by calling the church office -- necessary only for adequate table space! Luncheons are at 11:30 a.m. Try it -- you’ll like it! Church Cookbook We still need YOU to submit recipes for this “sure to be amazing” cookbook - filled with recipes enjoyed by your friends from across the country! Please copy 2-4 of your favorite recipes and send to the church office or email to [email protected]. Be sure to include your name. The cookbook will be available in

19 March 2016

Gospel and Me”

Women’s Coffee and ConversationRev. Beverly Duncan, Interim Associate Minister

Description: Women of the church are invited to partake of coffee and good conversation. There is an announced topic for which articles of interest and preparation are made available ahead of time in the church office. We will give some thought to how our Christianity informs our perspective on the topic at hand. Date: Thursday, March 17. Time and Place: 10:00am in Nelson Hall Room 101. Topic: “The Prosperity Gospel and Me”

NUCC Book ClubMs. Candy Nordland, Book Club Coordinator

Description: Explore a new book each month alongside other book lovers. Each session is led by a different member of the group in Nelson Hall Room 104.

Mar 28: All The Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr; led by Vivian Crouse.

Dates: Mondays (monthly) 2:00 pm

Cost: book prices vary

Registration: Not required, all are welcome. Introduction to the Life and Mission of Naples UCC Membership Committee

Description: This single-session class covers a wide range of topics important to the workings and activities of Naples United Church of Christ. Each is facilitated by our congregation’s moderator and features information from chairpersons of several of our boards and committees. Come learn about the many opportunities to participate in our church, including our out-reach in a casual and conversational setting.

Dates: Sundays (March 20 and April 24) 10:00 a.m.

Cost: None

Registration: Not required, all are welcome. Wednesday Night Live Our great opportunity to enjoy fellowship and meet new friends while enjoying a catered dinner and wonderful entertainment. Mark your calendars for March for the following event: Wednesday, March 16, 2016 - 5:30pm: “God Bless America”

The program will feature the best of Americana! Three of our own “greatest generation” members will give brief reminiscences of their military experiences during World War II! Special music will be presented! And, maybe some other surprises!

Enjoy a good old American meal catered by Haney’s: meatloaf and all the trimmings, followed by your choice of apple or cherry pie! Come for a fun, patriotic evening!

YogaShannon Danford, Yoga Instructor

Description: Yoga is the practice of stilling the body and quiet-ing the mind in preparation for meditation. While it may sound foreign, meditation is the other half of prayer. It is the “be still and know that I am” practice of listening. Sessions held in Beverly Hall.

Bio: Shannon Danford has been teaching yoga for five years and practicing for seven years. She is determined to do a headstand on her 125th birthday.

Date: Mondays and Thursdays

(October 19, 2015 – May 26, 2016) 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. Bring a yoga mat with you and a block (if you have one)

Cost: $10.00 per session.

Registration: Not required. All are welcome.

Incarnate: The Body of Christ in an Age of Disengagement by Michael FrostRev. Dr. Kathleen Kircher, retired Episcopal Priest

Description: Michael Frost believes that the story of Christianity is a story of incarnation—God taking on flesh and dwelling among the people God created. And yet so much of contemporary Christian culture is rooted not in incarnation but in escape—escape from the earth to heaven, escape from the suffer-ing of this world, escape even from one another. If Jesus was God incarnate, the church is in danger of being excarnate. Michael Frost expertly and prophetically exposes the gap between the faith we profess and the faith we practice.

Date: Mondays (Mar. 7) 9:30 – 11:00 a.m.

Cost: $12.00 per book (limited copies are available in the church office or you can order the book or the e-book).

Registration: Not required, all are welcome.

Social Committee“First Friday Coffee” will continue on March 4! Meet at 10 a.m. at Barnes and Noble on the patio! Get your favorite drinks and/or snacks and enjoy up to an hour of conversation with other NUCC members and friends! It would help immensely if you signed up in the Gathering Place for this event!

MahJongg continues weekly at 1 p.m. on Thursdays! Join this fun group for low-key play! Nelson 205!


New Members - January and FebruaryVisitor Information Brunches, UCC Classes,

New Member Sundays

Please call the church office for information, (239) 261-5469.

2016March 6 Visitor Information Brunch after both services NH104 7 History and Theology of the UCC 2:00 pm & 7:00 pm NH101 13 New Member SundayApril 10 Visitor Information Brunches after both services NH104 11 History and Theolgy of the UCC 2:00 pm & 7:00 pm NH101 17 New Member Sunday 24 Introduction to the Life & Mission of the UCC NH104

*NH - Nelson Hall

JanuaryJohn and Emie Barnes

FebruaryChuck and Kimberly Anderson

Bob and Nancy Ayers

COMING SOON Coloring for Relaxation

First and third Friday mornings of each month at 10 a.m. Friday, March 4 and Friday, March 18, 2016. Nelson 104

BYOB and P (Bring your own book and pencils)This is the best way to relax - and be with friends! And it’s the new fad! You can find everything from coloring books

to coloring postcards everywhere from bookstores to Costco! Join us when you can - no obligation - no cost!

Ninth Annual PFLAG Interfaith ConvocationStriving to cultivate unity in our community, and understanding and cooperation among groups and individuals of all religious and spiritual faiths 23 Welcoming Houses of Worship are participating in creating the 8th Annual PFLAG Interfaith Convocation. Through music and prayer engaging our hearts and minds and spirits our community will experience how good and appropriate it is to join together not just by including, but also by celebrating with the gay and lesbian members of our families. Harmony and unity in song will be heard as a myriad of voices blend in melodies inspired by the psalmists words, “Behold how good and how pleasant it is when people dwell in Unity.”

Welcoming people of all faiths to join in this extraordinary endeavor PFLAG is sponsoring the Interfaith Convocation. PFLAG is a parent-based organization that was started by heterosexual parents wanting to understand and help their gay children. PFLAG’s role is to serve as a support group providing a non-judgmental outlet for feelings, questions and understanding as well as making available resources and educational opportunities. Naples PFLAG meets on the 3rd Thursday of each month.

The Convocation will be a unique opportunity to foster a sense of acceptance and belonging for all people of faith to pray together without discrimination, disenfranchisement, or stigma. The Convocation will be the chance for all of us, together, to share our traditions and rituals to provide the critical elements of public acknowledgement and social sanctions that are strengthened by communal worship. The Interfaith Convocation will be held at The Current Ecumenical Center, 975 Imperial Golf Course Blvd. (in Imperial Square Mall between Passage to India and Jack’s Seafood Bar and Grill), on Sunday afternoon April 10 at 3:00 PM with a reception to follow. The public is welcome.

Further information is available at PFLAGInterfaith.Com or by calling 239-206-3267.

21 March 2016

We were so pleased to welcome a number of mission partners to our third annual Volunteer Sunday on February 7. Each of them was represented at tables in the Gathering Place during the morning and available to present possible volunteer opportuni-ties - as well as additional information about their specific mission. They were all excited to be here - to meet present and possible future volunteers - and share their stories. Thank you to:

Baby Basics Neighborhood Health Clinic

Bargain Box New Horizons of SW Florida

Collier Senior Resources NUCC Children and Youth programs

Take Stock in Children Naples United Church of Christ Volunteers

Grace Place Precious Cargo Academy

Habitat for Humanity St Matthew’s House

Harry Chapin Food Bank Women’s Foundation of SW Florida

Immokalee Foundation

Missed this? Want information about volunteering? Contact me! Pat McGeeVolunteer [email protected]

239-659-5312

Volunteer Corner!Activity ContactsDo you have questions about an NUCC activity or program? And you don’t know who to call? Cut out the following list and post it in your address book!

Altar Guild - Susan Hansen 594-2070 [email protected] - Pat McGee 659-5312 [email protected] Dana Downs 877-2960 [email protected] Club - Candy Nordland 434-6438 [email protected] Trips - Stephanie McClung 734-1249 [email protected] for Humanity Work - Bob Thomason 434-5948 [email protected] - Kathe Rhinesmith - 431-6717 [email protected] Plus - Bobbi Richardson 596-7349 [email protected] Morning Ladies - Velma Cook 594-1775 [email protected] Cares - Ronnie Bellone 566-7992 [email protected] Pat McGee 659-5312 [email protected] Pals - Nancy Seibert 592-0040 [email protected] Pat Slater 262-4867 Prayer Shawl Ministry - Evlyn Bickford 262-7201 [email protected] Dinner - Jean Partridge 353-7020 Social Activities - Pat McGee 659-5312 [email protected] Ministry - Louise Brown 776-7567 [email protected] Joyce Cameron 262-1079 [email protected] Felix 649-5636 [email protected] Dinner and a Movie - David Hocking 596-1025 [email protected] Golf - David Hocking 596-1025 [email protected] Night Live - Sharon Rios 713-569-0383 [email protected]’s Fellowship - Susie Burtch 262-4645 [email protected]


A most unique art workshop, planned by two artists, Rona Steingart, art teacher UC and Steven Pennisi, creator of an exciting new technique called painting with both sides of the paint, was presented by Palette Pals on Feb. 12- 13.

Steve recently moved to Ft. Myers from Portland, Maine where he owned a successful advertising business. His work has recently been featured in the “ Florida Contempory” at the Baker Museum in Naples and the all Florida Show at the Boca Museum of art.

New abstract painting styles were demonstrated by the workshop creators - resulting in some very exciting large paintings completed by every student in the group. The workshop was so successful that particapants are asking for another.

Palette Pals

Ebenezer SchoolSchool Days!A day of excitement! The school bell rings, the children start arriving at the Ebenezer School. Bright young faces, a blur of dark blue and light blue uniforms. Laughter and voices—It is February 1st... It is the first day of school!

Last year 91 students and 9 PreK’s completed their studies and moved on to the next grade. Lavinia Ochoa, the director of the school, gives every effort to provide some sort of training for the graduated students in an employable skill such as mechanics, beauty salon, restaurant servers, construction, etc. It is sad to note, however, that most of the children do not continue their education after they leave the Ebenezer School. This is the only schooling they will have.

It is only by the generosity and kindness of our NUCC sponsors and donors that the school has been able to continue for fifteen years. Think what a gift this has been to these children.

God bless you, every one!

23 March 2016

For a change of pace we thought it would be interesting to tell you about the Bargain Box through the eyes of a volunteer. Barbara Wilson was kind enough to VOLUNTEER to share her experience with you:

VOLUNTEERING IS REWARDING!

VOLUNTEERING IS FUN, TOO!

From the moment you enter our Bargain Box, you are pleased and proud of the atmosphere in our store. (Customers are constantly complimenting us.)

Sandy Goldstein is our marvelous manager. She has unbelievable creativity, talent, and energy. Our assistant manager, Ryan, is a big help too.

As VOLUNTEERS we work 4-hour shifts.( The time passes quickly.) As a VOLUNTEER you’ll also be rewarded with a 25% discount on everything except furniture, which is a 10% discount.

Half of our VOLUNTEERS are from the congregation. It would be wonderful to increase the percentage of VOLUNTEERS from the congregation. The Bargain Box is a very important mission of Naples United Church of

Christ. Would you be a willing VOLUNTEER and support our mission?

**********************************************************

If you are not already VOLUNTEERING, please call Sandy at 262-3802.

You will be glad you did

Save the Date: Bargain Box Volunteer Appreciation Party

March 15, 5:00-7:00p.m., the Gathering Place

Bargain Box News


Give us this day our daily breadOn January 23, 2016, we were blessed by the presence of Rev. Dr. Mary Luti who facilitated an engaging one-day workshop on the everyday life of Holy Communion. Holy Communion has deep meaning for nearly all Christians – it’s the meal at which Christ becomes especially present as we remember him “in the breaking of the bread” – but for most of us, Communion ends when the service ends.

Through enthusiastic and thoughtful exchange, Dr. Luti explored some familiar and unfamiliar dimensions of Holy Communion to share ways in which the sacrament could be present, active, and ethically challenging in our lives every day. She began with a participative discussion about the meaning of Holy Communion, asking us to think about the sacrament in the context of our ordinary daily lives and in the way that we live our faith in the world. The responses were personal and individual yet broadly applicable and relevant for the 21st century. The group reflected upon Holy Communion in many ways such as: a meal, community, praise, thanksgiving, sharing, a presence, a relationship, comfort, renewal, celebration, resurrection, forgiveness, and healing just to share a few.

There was also a great deal of consideration of the ‘table’ and the act of inviting others – all others - to share a ‘meal’ at the table including possible variations of the meal. Communion was described as nourishment and a feast to satisfy a hunger not only for food but belonging, knowledge, and to be seen and heard. It is ritualizing the act of sharing as well as a responsibility to feed and heal others after we have been fed and healed.

Dr. Luti shared a number of what she referred to as ‘ethical edges’ of Communion, one of which included the relationship between Communion, food and the gifts of the earth and how there is an opportunity as Christians who are rooted in the earth to pledge to ourselves to care for the earth every time we take Communion. Dr. Luti suggested that, “a Eucharistic people loves the earth that generously gives us bread and wine for feasting with Christ in God’s presence.”

Workshop participants said that they were inspired and had gained an expanded understanding and perspective on Holy Communion and that it was a valuable and fun learning experience. Dr. Luti was knowledgeable, entertaining and dynamic with a good sense of humor. A heartfelt thanks to all who contributed to the success of the day. For those who would like more information, the handouts from the workshop can be found online at www.naplesucc.org/adult-enrichment.

25 March 2016

March 6(Fourth Sunday in Lent)

Joshua 5:9-12 Ps 32 • 2 Cor 5:16-21 Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32

March 25 (Good Friday)

Isa 52:13-53:12 Ps 22• Heb 10:16-25 or

Heb 4:14-16; 5:7-9 John 18:1-19:42

March 13(Fifth Sunday in Lent)

Isa 43:16-21 Ps 126

Phil 3:4b-14 John 12:1-8

March 26(Holy Saturday)Job 14:1-14 or

Lam 3:1-9, 19-24 Ps 31:1-4, 15-16•1 Peter 4:1-8

Mt 27:57-66 or Jn 19:38-42

March 20(Sixth Sunday in Lent/Palm

/Passion Sunday)Ps 118:1-2, 19-29•

Luke 19:28-40 (Liturgy of the Palms)

Isa 50:4-9a• Ps 31:9-16 Phil 2:5-11• Luke 22:14-23:56

or Luke 23:1-49 (Liturgy of the Passion)

March 24(Maundy Thursday)

Ex 12:1-4, (5-10), 11-14 Ps 116:1-2, 12-19

1 Cor 11:23-26 John 13:1-17, 31b-35

March 27(Easter)

Acts 10:34-43 or Isa 65:17-25 Ps 118:1-2, 14-24 1 Cor 15:19-26 or

Acts 10:34-43 John 20:1-18 or Luke 24:1-12

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

Mission Moment: Be a Part of One Great Hour of Sharing - “Go the Extra Mile”

One Great Hour of Sharing is one of the special mission offerings of our denomination, the United Church of Christ, along with eight other denominations. Nearly 70% of our UCC congregations participate.

The purpose is to collect a special offering to assist those in need. Funds raised make possible developmental aid, disaster relief, and refugee assistance in many parts of the world including the USA and Canada.

In a past year, 92% of our OGHS offering went directly for mission work: 58% for health, education, and agriculture, 20% for disaster relief, and 14% for refugee ministries.

Usually, even before the news reports about a disaster of natural or human nature in the USA or elsewhere, your OGHS offering is already there providing aid and relief for immediate and subsequent long-term response as it did with the flooding at the end of 2015 and tornadoes at the beginning of 2016.

A continuing amount is used for refugee relief and resettlement throughout the world.

Our Faith calls us to respond to people in crisis. Together, through this offering, we are an image of Christ to many in need.

Our special mission offering for OGHS will be received on March 6. Please give generously to One Great Hour of Sharing.

Thank you,

Bud Schroeder


In Service to Our Country:Master Sgt. Trevor Wellborn, Captain Keagan Callanan, and Petty Officer Clayton Pisani

We include in our prayers all who are serving our nation, including all loved ones of

congregation members and friends.

To Leelo Basham and family, on the loss of her mother, Ellen Valdsaar.

To Robert Hill and family, on the loss of his wife Barbara.

To the Baird family, on the loss of Pat.

To the Morgan family, on the loss of Fran.

To Sandy Goldstein and family, on the loss of her mother Waunita Monroney.

To Lois Farnham and family, on the loss of her brother Michael.

Our Condolences

Book Recommendations~ Recommended by Don Snyder

Biblical Literalism: A Gentile Heresy by John Shelby Spong

In his latest book, the author uses the Gospel of Matthew as a guide as he explores the literary and liturgical background that reflects the Jewish understanding of that gospel. He explains that it was only after the church became fully Gentile that readers of the gospels took them to be events of history, thus distorting their original meaning.

The Transcended Christian: What to Do When You Outgrow Your Religion by Daniel Helminiak What do you do when the learning that life forces on you challenges your religious beliefs; when you can no longer deny that something new is afoot and your church doesn’t supply the answer. These are the kinds of questions the author raises, and then interprets for anyone who feels like an outcast within their own church. Through a series of 19 essays, he demonstrates how one can transcend doubt and regain his or her own spirituality and faith.

Laudato Si: On Care for Our Common Home by Pope Francis

The Pope bitterly condemns the human failures that have eroded much of the environment. He rattles off fact after fact about the pitiful state of the earth. Laudato Si is an expansive analysis of the effects of the powerful on the powerless. And it is also a scathing critique of modern profit motives. The Pope states, “Our difficulty in taking up this challenge seriously has much to do with an ethical and cultural decline which has accompanied the deterioration of the environment.”

27 March 2016

James Nelson . . . . . . 3/01Marlene Braham . . . . 3/02Susie Harris . . . . . . . 3/02Mary Lou Kelley . . . . 3/02Anita McCabe . . . . . 3/02Kristin Verderamo . . 3/02Karen Bonnell . . . . . 3/03Ruth Himburg . . . . . 3/03Adelaide Spanton . . . 3/03Jack Woolverton . . . . 3/03Kimberly Anderson . 3/04Darrel Seibert . . . . . . 3/04Roxanne Sherry . . . . 3/04Scott Herstin . . . . . . 3/05Cheryl Turner . . . . . . 3/05Maggie Lauer . . . . . . 3/06Kevin Myers . . . . . . . 3/06Katie Ogden . . . . . . . 3/07Milt Haeger . . . . . . . 3/08Scott Perron . . . . . . . 3/08Kristy Thompson . . . 3/08Peg Badgley . . . . . . . 3/09Dorothy Chaulk . . . . 3/09Jean Doty . . . . . . . . . 3/09

Bill Evans . . . . . . . . . 3/09Shirley Heimerl . . . . 3/09Blake Helgren . . . . . 3/10Dick Wilson . . . . . . . 3/10Don Hattery . . . . . . . 3/11Carol Hunt . . . . . . . . 3/11Robert W. Hill . . . . . 3/12Hank Leander . . . . . . 3/12Dale Simonson . . . . . 3/12Jane Nelson . . . . . . . 3/13Richard Pitbladdo . . . 3/13Robert Rowland . . . . 3/13Sharon Ubben . . . . . 3/13Edward Waldron, IV 3/13Stillman Copp . . . . . 3/14Carolyn Keller . . . . . 3/14Lou Ann Ransom . . . 3/14Katy Serr . . . . . . . . . 3/14Nancy Ayres . . . . . . . 3/15Mary Lou Hattery. . . 3/15Ana Prado . . . . . . . . 3/15Flossie Watt . . . . . . . 3/15Joe Bellone . . . . . . . . 3/16Mary Fischer . . . . . . . 3/16

Jack Fogelman . . . . . 3/16Tom Griffith . . . . . . . 3/16Alison Martin . . . . . . 3/16Dick Ahrens, Sr. . . . . 3/17Sandi Button . . . . . . 3/17Edwin Lyon . . . . . . . 3/17Charles Robichaud . . 3/17Marcie Sener . . . . . . . 3/17Patricia Wiedner . . . . 3/17Dr. Keith Huston . . . 3/18Sam Iorio . . . . . . . . . 3/18John Ordway . . . . . . 3/19Ethel Gillis . . . . . . . . 3/20Craig Melton . . . . . . 3/20Glennon Melton . . . . 3/20Kyra Spurgeon . . . . . 3/20Ellen Brown . . . . . . . 3/21Karin Cusic . . . . . . . 3/21Cara Melito . . . . . . . 3/21Russell Broad, Jr . . . . 3/22Chelsea McKimm . . . 3/22Dan Morris . . . . . . . . 3/23Janet Lynch . . . . . . . 3/23Daniel Wistran . . . . . 3/23

Lynda Christensen . . 3/24Judy Jacobs . . . . . . . 3/24Don Juhl . . . . . . . . . 3/24Matthew Lucht . . . . . 3/24Robin Renfroe. . . . . . 3/24Bill Stevens . . . . . . . . 3/24Fitch Walmer . . . . . . 3/24Ed Graf . . . . . . . . . . 3/25Nancy Herlihy . . . . . 3/25Dick Lynch . . . . . . . . 3/26Gail Lyon . . . . . . . . . 3/26Ron Cornetet . . . . . . 3/27Judy Hale . . . . . . . . . 3/28Nicki Huber . . . . . . . 3/28Jack Kemp . . . . . . . . 3/28Frederick Klippert . . 3/28Karen Howick . . . . . 3/29Lori Hyde . . . . . . . . . 3/29Martin Biles . . . . . . . 3/30Gail Steinmetz . . . . . 3/30Judye Baer . . . . . . . . 3/31Michele Martin . . . . . 3/31Roger Williamson . . . 3/31

Birthdays and AnniversariesMarch Birthdays

Dan and Roxanne Sherry ....................................... 3/02

Bob and Liz Thomason .......................................... 3/02

Harold and Helen Hasselbacher.............................. 3/04

Brian and Mary Guhl ............................................. 3/05

Darrel and Nancy Seibert ....................................... 3/05

Dick Sr. and Judy Ahrens ....................................... 3/07

E. Michael and Kris Brown ..................................... 3/13

Ron and Sandra Baden ............................................ 3/17

Don and Dorothy Chaulk ....................................... 3/21

Bates and Marcia Lea .............................................. 3/21

Carroll and Sally Arnold ......................................... 3/23

Roger and Elaine Osbond ....................................... 3/23

Tom and Peg Walbridge ......................................... 3/24

Jim and Ruth Jackson ............................................. 3/27

Bill and Janet Scott ................................................. 3/30

David and Bobbi Hoefer ......................................... 3/31

March Anniversaries

Naples United Church of Christ5200 Crayton RoadNaples, FL 34103

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

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Documents

March 2016 Steeplelights Magazine