The Good Tidings March - May 2014

Senior Pastor and EditorRev. Dr. Laurinda Hafner

Associate PastorRev. Dr. Guillermo Márquez-Sterling

Associate PastorRev. Megan Smith

Minister EmeritusRev. Dr. Richard J. Bailar

Copy EditorDr. Ron Morgan

Graphic DesignerHarold Sloan-Marrero

Production ManagerAlex Sloan-Marrero

Church Web Site:www.GablesUCC.org

Like Us on Facebookfacebook.com/gablesucc

We are Out-of-the-Box People

3010 De Soto BlvdCoral Gables, Florida 33134

TEL: 305.448.7421FAX: 305.441.1836

The Art of Faith: Experiencing Faith Through Art

Alfred North Whitehead referred to God as “the poet of the world” because he believed that God’s goodness, inspiration, and care were better expressed as an aesthetic drive for beauty rather than as the ruthless moralist that many have described. God’s measure of achievement for the creative advance of the world of creation is an intensification of beauty and unbounded love. Certainly artistic expression is often manifested in the beauty of painting, dance, theatre, film, photography, and music. We are also moved by art when it penetrates the core of human experience in the suffering, longing, loss, and darkness of our lives.

The spiritual side of art and the experience of faith come both from the joy of beauty and the pain of human experience as expressed through the medium of the artist who is brave, bold, and honest. We are focused in and confronted with our humanity and the ultimate meaning of existence when art impacts our soul, our gut, and our anxieties. It is also possible to cathartically be set free when the artist leads us through and out of this confrontation with sheer truth and the release of overcoming and freedom that is also often present in the artistic form.

It has been said that there is no good art or bad art, only art that moves you or does not. When it does, it can sometimes be a spiritual experience, an experience of faith. One such piece of art that touches me is from photographer and church member Robert Klemm who recently took the photo below in our sanctuary. He calls it “Annunciation,” and for me it brings alive the scripture text that tells of Mary being visited by an angel.

During the season of Lent and beyond, we will use a variety of artistic media to convey and open up the beauty, meaning, existence, and sensation of faith. From poetry to photography, from movement to music, may the art of faith inspire and touch you in meaningful and challenging ways.

Blessings,

Pastor Laurie

Photo by Robert Klemm

MARDI GRAS SUNDAY4

HOLY WEEK7

CONTENTSWorship ......................................................................04-15Mardi Gras, Ash Wednesday, Sunday Services, Holy Week, Easter, German Services, Spanish Services, Theologian in Residence, One Great Hour of Sharing, Elephant in the Pew

Spiritual Formation ................................................16-19Sunday Morning Adult Education, Mystic Mondays

Congregational Life ...............................................20-24Church Night In, Women’s Night Out, Interfaith Cooking Class, Sisters on Sojourn, XYZ Senior Group, Casserole Ministry, Called to Care, All LGBTQ Friends, Gay Pride, No Reservations

Children and Youth ................................................25-30Youth Group, Sunday School, Egg Hunt and Craft Party, Children’s Easter Service, Early Childhood Center, Vacation Bible Camp

Justice and Witness ................................................31-37March Forth, Palestinian Film Series, Back on Track Network, Put Your Faith Into Action, Project Peru, Food for the Soul, Fair Trade

Wellness Offerings .................................................38Yoga, Endlessly Organic

Family Album ...........................................................39-4690th Anniversary, Birthdays, Books and Books, New Members

Music and the Arts .................................................47-49Community Arts Program

THEOLOGIAN IN RESIDENCE 201413

VIGIL FOR HUNGER31

WORSHIPWe are Out-of-the-Box People

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Yep, there will be some jumping going on... and dancing, and singing and praying, and PREACHING and moving as we CELEBRATE LIFE AND LOVE BEFORE THE MORE REFLECTIVE QUIETER DAYS OF LENT.

Ash WednesdayWednesday Evening, March 5, 2014Trilingual Worship in English, German, and Spanish7:00 p.m. Service in the Church Sanctuary

We will join with Christians all over the world in marking the beginning of Lent with an Ash Wednesday service. Begin your Lenten journey with worship, prayer, music, and the dispensing of ashes. On this night we are reminded of the fragility of life and our call to live life abundantly.

Dinner will be served from 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall. $5 for adults, $3 for children.

SUNDAY, MARCH 2GABLES UCC GETS A JUMP ON MARDI GRASDURING THE 11:00 A.M. SERVICE

It’s time once again for our

Annual Mardi Gras Celebration

Featuring the Music of

Joe Donato and Friends with

Dixieland Music of New Orleans

Yep, there will be some jumping going on... dancing, singing, prayer, preaching, and moving as we celebrate life and love before the more reflective, quieter days of Lent.

Following worship, everyone is invited to the Fellowship Hall for a Cajun-style luncheon (free-will donation) with jambalaya, biscuits, slaw, and alleluia cake.

Whoever finds the prize in the cake will be crowned “Keeper of the Alleluia”

ALL ARE WELCOME! IT’S A MORNING NOT TO BE MISSED!


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Each Sunday morning, two worship experiences are offered:9:00 a.m.

A more intimate and meditative worship experience in Moye Chapel. Holy Communion is celebrated weekly and music is presented by one of our talented soloists. Following our service enjoy some conversation with others around the Coffee Bar.

Sundays in Lent

Sunday, March 9 - The First Sunday of Lent

Our Sunday morning Lenten journey begins as we welcome our Theologian in Residence, Dr. Diana Butler Bass. She will deliver the morning message entitled Temptation. The Sacrament of Holy Communion will be celebrated. Gluten-free bread is always available. Don’t forget to “spring forward” and set your clocks one hour ahead before you go to bed on Saturday so you will be present for this unforgettable morning.

11:00 a.m. We gather in the beauty of our historic sanctuary to be engaged in meaningful worship, which feeds our spiritual hunger. It is said that each week is a bit different; there is always something that challenges and calls us to our authentic selves. Join us for beautiful music, challenging and inspiring messages, and liturgy that offers a renewal of mind and spirit.

Sunday, March 16 - The Second Sunday of Lent The art of poetry will help us to examine our morning text of John 3:1-17. Join us after the 11:00 service in Havighorst Lounge as members of our Cantate Youth Choir present a photography show entitled As We See It. Each choir member will share his or her original photographs of what they see in their daily lives that captures their impressions of the Divine. Be sure to drop by Havighorst Lounge during our Fellowship Hour to celebrate and show gratitude for the creativity of our youth choir members. Then be with us at 2:00 p.m. for our annual Blessing of the Animals service.

Blessing of the AnimalsSunday, March 162:00 p.m. in the Green Area on the Columbus side of the Church

We will be holding this year’s Blessing of the Animals on Sunday, March 16, at 2:00 p.m. All are invited to bring your pets or a picture of them for a brief service of blessing and gratitude for the joy they bring to us. There will also be a special part of the service to acknowledge the pets that died this past year. Joining us for a blessing will be the Miami-Dade Mounted Police Horses. From pelicans to penguins, all pets are welcome (just be sure to have them on a leash or properly restrained). We will gather in the green area on the Columbus side of the church. Water and treats will be available for the animals.


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Sunday, April 6 – The Fifth Sunday in Lent

The art of photography will help us examine our morning text, John 11:1-45. We invite all those participating in the Coral Gables Museum Architectural Bike Tour that will leave from the church at 10:00 a.m. to join us for worship at 9:00 a.m. and for a light breakfast to follow.

Sunday, March 23 – The Third Sunday in Lent

Our immersion into The Art of Lent continues as we incorporate film into our morning worship and explore the Gospel of John 4:5-42. Once again, beautiful music and meaningful liturgy will complement our Lenten journey.

Sunday, March 30 – The Fourth Sunday in Lent

The text for the morning is John 9:1-41. When Jesus knelt to make mud and then place it on the young blind man he was invoking the healing powers of God that are manifest in nature. With the mud in his hand, Jesus became the Divine Potter. Take me, mold me, use me, fill me. I give my life to the potter’s hand.

On this Sunday, we will also receive the One Great Hour of Sharing (OGHS) Offering, a special offering of the United Church of Christ, that carries God’s message of love and hope to people in more than eighty countries.

to Worship this SummerThe Elephant Returns...Has there ever been something you wanted to know about your faith, but were afraid to ask? Well, this is your chance to ask tough questions about the Bible, church, ethics, or life and get an honest answer back from Pastor Laurie. Maybe it’s a topic or issue that we tend to sweep under the rug or ignore in order to keep the peace, avoid disagreement, or maybe even change… kind of like that proverbial elephant in the room or, in this case, in the Pew. E-mail, write, or call Pastor Laurie, or go to the Gables UCC Facebook page and leave your question. She just might preach on it! Then join us after worship for the Sermon Feedback Café. Have a little lunch and a conversation with Pastor Laurie about her sermon for the day.


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Holy Week Worship Palm Sunday Sunday Morning, April 13

Palm Sunday Processional10:30 a.m. from Salvadore ParkOur celebration of Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem begins with a modern-day parade as we follow a donkey through the streets of Coral Gables, arriving at Gables UCC for our 11:00 a.m. Palm Sunday worship featuring choirs and antiphonal trumpets. Meet at Salvadore Park, 1120 Andalusia Avenue by 10:30 a.m. to walk in the Palm Sunday processional. The shuttle bus will transport walkers from the church parking lot to Salvadore Park between 10:00 a.m.–10:25 a.m. All are welcome!

Palm/Passion Sunday Worship 9:00 a.m. in the Chapel and 11:00 a.m. in the Sanctuary This is a day to celebrate the courage and strength of Jesus, who stood up against the tyrants and oppressors on the edge of a week that would take a sudden turn from praise to his Passion. The liturgy is a collision of these two themes: glorious hosannas and somber omens. It is also a day to remember that all of us live between joy and suffering. There are times when we are both faithful and fickle, committed, yet turn our back on our ideals and God’s dream for humankind and the Earth, when we feel courage, yet are overcome by fear. As this service will remind us, however, there is always hope.

Following worship, join us for our annual Palm Sunday Potluck Brunch in the Fellowship Hall. Please bring an entrée or side dish to share that feeds 8-10 people. Dessert and drinks will be provided. Suggestions: lasagna, rice and beans, ham, fried chicken, salad, veggie platter, vegan specialties, non-gluten pasta, etc. Drop your dish off in the Fellowship Hall on your way into church that morning.

Maundy ThursdayThursday Evening, April 176:00 p.m. Soup Supper7:00 p.m. Worship

A Living Portrait of The Last SupperWe gather to recall the betrayal, desertion, and eventual death of Jesus as he sought justice for the world through a recreation of Leonardo Da Vinci’s famous painting The Last Supper. Performed by members of the church, The Living Last Supper allows us to overhear the inner thoughts of each one gathered with Jesus at the Passover table. The service will also include music, the Sacrament of Holy Communion, and prayer. A light soup supper will be served before the service at 6:00 p.m. in Fellowship Hall. A free-will offering for the supper will be gratefully received. Childcare is available.


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ay 2014 Good Friday Service12:15 p.m. -12:45 p.m. in the Sanctuary

Be with us for this brief but powerful service as we mark the suffering and passion of Jesus Christ through scripture, reflection, and music. The service will end outside as we drape a large cross which will reappear on Easter Sunday alive with flowers. It has been said that you can’t have Easter without Good Friday. Only when our hearts break open with compassion for the One who suffered can we truly appreciate the new life represented by Easter. All are welcome for this very moving service.

Good Friday Interfaith BreakfastFriday, April 18, 20149:00 a.m. in the Chapel

Good Friday has often fueled the flames of anti-Semitism. Down through the centuries, Christians have blamed Jews for the crucifixion of Jesus. Never mind that Jesus was a Jew (and a rabbi) crucified on a Roman cross. The story of Good Friday is of Jesus going to the cross because he wanted justice and freedom for those who were oppressed, and liberation for those who were ostracized, on the fringe, and without hope. It is our goal on this day to break down the old walls of separation that Good Friday has often built and lift up Jesus’ call for justice and respect for others, as we gather for an interfaith kosher breakfast in our beautiful Courtyard with a program to follow in the Chapel.

Our presenter for the morning is Dr. Nathan Katz who will speak on “Contemporary Global Spirituality.”

Dr. Katz is the Distinguished Professor in the School of International and Public Affairs at Florida International University (FIU), where he leads a number of projects, including the Jain Studies Program, Jewish Studies Initiatives and the Program in the Study of Spirituality, which he founded shortly after the Dalai Lama’s first visit to FIU and South Florida in 1999. Dr. Katz also serves as the Bhagwan Mahavir Professor of Jain Studies and the Academic Director of the Jewish Museum of Florida-FIU.

Dr. Katz is arguably the world’s foremost authority on Indian Jewish communities. He has won four Fulbright awards for research and teaching in South Asia, where he lived for more than seven years. He is editor of the Journal for Indo-Judaic Studies, an academic publication devoted to exploring the interactions and affinities between Indian and Jewish civilizations. He has also been a pioneer in dialogues between Jews and Hindus, as well as Jains and Buddhists. Among his 15 books are the award-winning Who Are the Jews of India? and a memoir, Spiritual Journey Home. His most recent book is Indian Jews: An Annotated Bibliography, 1665-2005.

This event is co-sponsored by the Florida International University Department for Religious Studies and Gables UCC. This free event is open and welcoming to all.


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Be with us for a unique and special celebration of resurrection joy using the music of Chicago. This self-described “rock and roll band with horns” began as a politically charged, sometimes experimental, rock band and later moved to a predominantly softer sound, generating several hit ballads. They have claimed the respect, admiration, and loyalty of five decades of fans by offering

meaningful lyrics in the midst of soul-stirring, dance-provoking, happiness-inducing music. Music will be performed by local musicians under the direction of our own producer, composer, and performer of multiple platinum and Grammy award-winning records, Clay Ostwald. Approach this service with the prayer that whether you are a longtime Chicago fan, or have never really listened to them, God will open something new inside you.

Other Special Services

“In the busyness of this day, grant me a stillness of seeing, O God.In the conflicting voices of my heart grant me a calmness of hearing.”

—J. Philip Newell

The Gospel According to...

Celtic ServiceMonday, March 17

7:00 p.m. in the Church Courtyard

Sunday, April 27 during the 11:00 a.m. Worship Service

A contemplative Celtic worship service will be held as part of our

Mystic Monday offering on Monday, March 17, at 7:00 p.m.

in the church courtyard. In honor of St. Patrick’s Day, the music

will be provided by a bagpiper and the liturgy will be based on

the Celtic belief that the presence of God is as close as our very

heartbeat.


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Sunday, May 11 – Festival of the Christian Home

On this day, we honor ALL the women in our lives who “mother” us in countless ways as teachers, aunts, neighbors, babysitters, etc. Celebrate those women in your life by bringing them to a pancake breakfast at the church from 9:30 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. (A free-will donation will be gratefully received to benefit the youth program.)

Sunday, May 4 – All That Jazz

Aldous Huxley once said, “After silence, that which comes nearest to expressing the inexpressible is music.” Join us at the 11:00 a.m. service when our church’s Community Arts Program ALL-STAR Jazz Ensemble will offer instrumental music that makes a joyful noise!

Sunday, May 18 – Children and Youth Musical

Join us at the 11:00 a.m. service when our children’s and youth choirs, directed by Anthony Cabrera, Alexandra Levin and Ashley Levin, will present an original musical production entitled Hero. Through song, readings, and movement, our young people will highlight modern-day heroes whose accomplishments and bravery serve as inspiring role models for all of us, showing us what they do that is Christ-like. Featured songs will include Roar by Katy Perry, Hero by Mariah Carey, Brave by Sara Barielles, and other popular songs that highlight the characteristics of those whose heroism and compassion inspire us.


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Spanish Language Services

German Language ServicesDeutschsprachiger FaschingsgottesdienstSunday, March 2, at 4:30 p.m. in the ChapelChildren are welcome to come in costume for this special Carnival service.Kinder können gerne in ihrer Lieblingsverkleidung kommen.

Deutschsprachiger Oster GottesdienstSunday, April 20, at 4:30 p.m. in the Chapel German-language Easter Service

Deutschsprachiger GottesdienstSunday, June 1, 4:30 p.m.This Pentecost service will be followed by a picnic at the beach.Dieser Gottesdienst findet am Strand statt, mit anschliessendem Picnic.For information or to sign up for the mailing list, contact [email protected] Fuer den Erhalt von weiteren aktuellen Informationen, melden Sie sich bei [email protected].

Sundays at 1:00 p.m. in the Moye Chapel

Beginning on Sunday, March 9, a bi-lingual worship service of English and Spanish will be offered in Moye Chapel every week. If you are part of a bi-lingual family come and join us for a worship experience worthy of the multi-cultural metropolitan Miami.

Gables UCC - Ahora En EspañolDomingos a la 1:00 p.m. en la Capilla Moye

Comenzando con el primer domingo de Cuaresma, 9 de Marzo, tendremos un culto de alabanza en Español (con un poquito de Ingles) en la Capilla Moye. Este culto bilingüe es perfecto para familias cuyas distintas generaciones hablan los dos idiomas. Venga y traiga a un familiar o amigo que esté buscando una iglesia progresista.


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One Great Hour of Sharing Sunday, March 30

For almost seven decades now, nine denominations in the U.S., united as one, have been connecting people through the One Great Hour of Sharing offering. Sisters and brothers living in poverty who would have been otherwise overlooked, or outright forgotten, have been empowered by our gifts to the offering. A woman who has been a victim of war, attempting on her own to raise her family without any access to long-term food security, education, or health care, is now self-sufficient because of assistance from One Great Hour of Sharing. Families across North America, still struggling to survive after a devastating storm took everything in its path, are accompanied for the long haul, thanks to funds from One Great Hour of Sharing. When one of us—anywhere on earth—hurts, we all hurt. As long as there is need, we are all in need. One Great Hour of Sharing enables us to fulfill those needs, for they are our needs. The work lives on. On Sunday, March 30, we will receive the one Great Hour of Sharing Offering here at Gables UCC. You may bring your gift that Sunday or any Sunday and place it in the offering plates, or mail it to the church. Checks should be made to Coral Gables Congregational UCC with OGHS on the memo line. Envelopes are available in this in the pews or in the church office for your gifts. You may also donate online at gablesucc.org/online-giving.

Give generously to this great connector of our churches and our shared faith, work, and witness in the world. Give generously, for as long as a sister or a brother is in need, we are all in need. Thank you for your leadership.

Missionary to SpeakSunday, March 30, at 12:15 p.m. in Havighorst Lounge Phyllis Byrd has served with Global Ministries of the United Church of Christ in East Africa for 23 years, working with the African Instituted Churches in Nairobi, Kenya. She will be with us on Sunday, March 30 following our 11:00 a.m. worship service to share her experiences as a missionary in Africa. Light refreshments will be served.

SPIRITUAL FORMATIONWe are Out-of-the-Box People

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SpiritualFormation Sunday Morning Adult Education9:45 – 10:45 a.m. in Havighorst LoungeChildcare is available.

Embracing Spiritual Awakening:Dr. Diana Butler Bass on the Dynamics of Experiential FaithSunday Morning, March 2 Led by Pastor Megan Smith

Get to know our next Theologian in Residence through her DVD series and discussion. In this engaging and provocative DVD resource, Diana Butler Bass leads a small group of diverse adults and youth in a fascinating discussion of how, both culturally and spiritually, we are in the midst of another of history’s “great awakenings.”

Liberation Theology for South FloridiansSunday Mornings, March 16, 23, 30 and April 6Led by Pastor Guillermo Márquez-Sterling

When you are at the top of the food chain do you really need to listen to a lecture about Liberation Theology? Isn’t Liberation Theology for the poor people of El Salvador? How do we, the seemingly wealthy folks with pools in our backyard, figure into it? These are good questions to ponder, especially as we move through our abundant lives. These are also good questions for the Christian church as it struggles with issues of economic justice.

Liberation Theology was initially developed as a message of hope for the oppressed in Central America living in abject poverty under the threat of a military regime. Over the last 40 years, Liberation Theology has evolved to include a broader message for different groups beyond Central America: the unemployed African American living in Detroit, the Palestinian living in the Occupied Territories, the single mother living on welfare and food stamps.

Join Pastor Guillermo for four Sundays in Lent to learn about the roots of Liberation Theology, how it has evolved, its impact in Palestine, and more importantly, how it is relevant to South Floridians living an abundant life.


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Preaching and Teaching the Gospels without Blaming JewsSunday Mornings, May 4, 11, 18, and 25Led by Rick Walters

“Teaching Christian congregations to respect Judaism is no mere matter of political correctness. It is a theological necessity. The God of Israel is also the God of the church and loves both church and synagogue with unconditional love and wills for all people to live together in love.” -Clark Williamson

This class will deal with an issue raised long ago by Jules Isaac in his book The Teaching of Contempt. Isaac shows that through much of its history, Christianity has taught Christians to hold Judaism and its adherents in contempt. It did this in many ways, the most important of which was in how it interpreted the Scriptures from week to week in preaching and teaching the Christian faith.

Come and learn about the ways in which the New Testament is continuous with the theology, values, practices of Judaism, and reflect critically on points at which the New Testament caricatures Jewish people, practices, and institutions. Move beyond these contentious themes to a greater sense of kinship and shared mission with Judaism.

A Dinner of Abrahamic TraditionsWednesday, March 126:30 p.m. at the Newman Alumni Center, University of Miami

The Atlantic Institute cordially invites you to the Table of Abraham, a dinner of Abrahamic Traditions, at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 12 at the Newman Alumni Center, University of Miami, Coral Gables Campus, 6200 San Amaro Drive, Coral Gables, FL 33146. The Atlantic Institute believes that the role of interfaith dialogue is more important than ever in today’s society. Table of Abraham is a unique opportunity for members of the Christian, Islamic, and Jewish faiths to celebrate their shared roots and traditions derived from their common ancestor, the Prophet Abraham. The dinner strives to strenghten the bond of friendship and understanding among people of different faiths. A diverse group of religious leaders, government officials, university professors, laity, and other members of the general public gather for an evening of listening, reflection, and conversation. The registration fee is $15 and you may RSVP by going to http://theatlanticinstitute.org/.

The evening program is Women of faith in the modern world: What is the role of women in my religion? Pastor Laurie will be the moderator of the panel which includes The Reverend Diane Shoaf, Associate Dean at the Florida Center for Theological Studies, Rabbi Efrat Zarren-Zohar, Regional Director of the Florence Melton School of Adult Jewish Learning, and Rabia Khan, Resident Scholar at the Islamic Foundation of South Florida.


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ay 2014 MysticMondaysAre you interested in deepening your faith? Would you like to be a part of some smaller groups devoted to spiritual growth? Then Mystic Mondays are for you. Join us each Monday evening at 7:00 p.m. as we explore faith in different ways.

Second Mondays - March 10, April 14, and May 12Prayer Shawl Ministry We gather in the Church Library to create beautiful prayer shawls to share with members of our church family who are ill. You do not have to know how to knit or crochet – someone will teach you. If you are looking for a ministry of prayer and care for others, this may be it. Come and help wrap someone in God’s love by creating a beautiful prayer shawl. For more information, contact Lindsay Bordenkircher at [email protected].

Third Mondays - Experiential Worship

March 17 - Outdoor Celtic Service On this St. Patrick’s Day join us in our beautiful Courtyard for a Celtic Service in honor of St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. This Service will draw on the treasures of the Celtic Christian tradition and will have a contemplative focus. The texts used for worship will be experiential and focus on the beauty of creation and God’s immediate presence. Music will be from the Celtic tradition and include bagpipes. Irish treats served following the service.

April 21 – No gathering.

May 19 – Hymn Sing We will gather in the Chapel for a sing-a-long of all our favorite hymns and learn some new ones too. Led by Dr. Ron Morgan, Director of Music Ministry.

First Mondays - March 3, April 7, and May 5Theology on Tap

Meet us at Duffy’s Tavern, 2108 S.W. 57 Avenue, Miami. Join Pastor Laurie over a frosty one for casual conversation about life, faith, culture, and theology through a biblical lens. Please note: Duffy’s doesn’t take credit cards.


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Fourth Mondays - Member to Member

Monday, March 24 - Technology and Spiritual GrowthBring your smart phone as our Director of Media Ministry, Alex Sloan-Marerro, leads us through a full array of how our smart phone can be a tool for spiritual growth. Discover how to download the Sunday bulletin, find a prayer app, or stream the Sunday service, all by using your smart phone. We will meet in the Chapel.

Monday, April 28 - Walking the LabyrinthA labyrinth is an ancient symbol that relates to balance and whole-ness. Found in various forms and traditions around the world, it com-bines the imagery of the circle and the spiral into a meandering but purposeful path. The labyrinth represents a journey to our own center and back again, out into the world. Labyrinths have long been used as meditation tools for reflection and mindfulness. You are invited to come for a brief introduction and time to walk a canvas labyrinth in the church courtyard. In addition to being a certified Labyrinth Facilitator, Meribeth Shank is an aspiring picture book writer, who currently supports her writing habit by working as a Media Specialist at Miami Country Day School, near her home in Miami Shores. Her reviews of books for children and young adults appear in Miami FAMILY magazine and on her blog at meribeths.blogspot.com.

CONGREGATIONAL LIFEWe are Out-of-the-Box People

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ay 2014 CongregationalLifeMeet new friends, enjoy the company of others, and get to know your church

family and community. Join us for any of our various group activities. All are welcome!

Church Night InEach Wednesday EveningDinner is served from 5:30 - 7:00 p.m.$5 for adults; $3 for kids 12 and underTake-out is available

One of our most popular programs is Church Night In and there are lots of reasons why: good food, warm fellowship, great programs, and no cooking! Come see old friends and meet new ones while gathering for a delicious dinner and a variety of activities.

The Fifth Monday: Women’s Night OutMarch 31, 7:00 p.m. – 8:15 p.m.John Martin’s Upper Room Following our successful last two gatherings, all women of the church are invited to join us for a dinner, drinks, and a timely and interesting conversation around a recent article in the NY Times about images of women as found in advertisements, magazines, or brochures. Writes the author, “Imagery has become the communication medium of this generation, and that really means how people are portrayed visually is going to have more influence on how people are seen and perceived than anything else. Does marketing reflect who women are or does it reinforce stereotypes?” Copies of the article are available on the desk outside of Pastor Laurie’s office or by contacting her at [email protected] and she will e-mail it to you.

For dinner, you may choose from four salads, a glass of wine, beer or soft drink for $20 (tax and gratuity included). We will have a private room at John Martin’s Restaurant on Miracle Mile. To RSVP, please visit the Congregational Life Table in the Fellowship Hall where you may reserve your seat by selecting and paying for your dinner or by going online at gablesucc.org/womens-night. This is an evening for ALL women, no matter your background, choices in life, or experiences. We all have something to share.

Called To Care…The Called to Care Team is here to help care for you or someone in need. We are a group of trained members of the church who have learned how to listen, be present, and offer a helping hand to those who are ill, grieving, lonely, or just in need of a check-in. If you have need for support or help from the Called to Care Team or would like to be a part of the team, please contact Pastor Laurie at [email protected].


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Sisters On SojournSaturdays, March 15, April 26, and May 179:30 - 11:00 a.m. in the Church Library

All women, regardless of age, are invited to join in this relaxed and easy-going group with no rules, no dues, no officers. We are just women gathering together to hear each other’s stories, provide support and encouragement, and to occasionally learn something.

On Saturday, April 26, we welcome back our Muslim sisters from the Turkish Cultural Center for an interfaith conversation about what it means to be a woman of faith in our culture and time. On Saturday, May 17 is our annual summer reading discussion. Share a title of a favorite book which you have recently read as we create a summer reading list. A continental breakfast is always provided, so roll out of bed, throw on your jeans, and be with some sisters on the journey.

Childcare is available by contacting Pastor Megan at 305.448.7421 ext. 119 or [email protected].

Interfaith Cooking ClassSaturdays, March 15, April 12, and May 102:00 - 5:00 p.m. Join us for a series of cooking classes in collaboration with the Istanbul Cultural Center. Come for one or all of these interfaith classes and learn some new recipes and make new friends. This is a great opportunity for a different kind of dialogue between faiths...centered around food! Join us as we build peace, one bite at a time.

The classes will be led by Ozlem Pala, a cardiologist and member of the Istanbul Cultural Center, and Janna Wardle, a member of Gables UCC, who is a pastry chef. Janna has worked for the Four Seasons, BLT Steak, and Blackberry Farm, and is a former culinary instructor.

Saturday, March 15 from 2:00 - 5:00 p.m. - Janna will teach artisanal cupcakes in the church kitchen: double chocolate, red velvet, lemon meringue, and strawberry balsamic.

Saturday, April 12 from 2:00 - 5:00 p.m. - Ozlem will teach three traditional Turkish recipes for lunch, at her home: ezogelin corbasi (lentil-bulgur soup), biber dolmasi (stuffed peppers) and baklava.

Saturday, May 10 from 2:00 - 5:00 p.m. - Janna will teach classic chocolate recipes in the church kitchen: chocolate mousse and accompaniments, hand-rolled truffles, and lava cake.

Class size is limited$15 a person (to cover ingredients)Contact Janna at 919.597.9372 or [email protected] to sign up.


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XYZ Senior GroupAll seniors with “x-tra years of zest,” or at least an AARP card, are invited to gather for some adventure and fun as we take on some local sites.

A Visit to the Fairchild GardensThursday, March 20Leave on the Church Shuttle at 10:15 a.m.

Join us for a very special visit to Fairchild Gardens as we board the Fairchild tram at 11:00 a.m. to tour the beautiful gardens. We are also privileged to have a “behind the scenes tour of the new Science Village,” led by Carl Lewis, the Director of Fairchild Gardens. The cost is $5.00 which includes a box lunch. Please sign up after worship each Sunday at the Congregational Life table or by contacting Pastor Laurie.

Casserole MinistryA Ministry of the Kitchen Do you enjoy cooking or baking? We need your help! This special outreach provides meals for those recovering from an illness or surgery, birth of a child, bereavement or on occasion to bless the hungry who come to the church in need of food. If you would like to help by preparing casseroles for this ministry contact Janna Wardle at 919.597.9372 / [email protected] or speak to Pastor Laurie.

A New Group for Families with PreschoolersGables UCC is booming with babies, infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. If you have children, infants through kindergarten, and want to find a place to meet other families while the kids have fun, then Parents of Preschoolers of Gables UCC is the group for you. Once a month, we’ll gather at a kid-friendly place for a potluck picnic. Find us on Facebook at Parents of Preschoolers (POP) at CGCC or contact Nikki Knoll at [email protected] or at 305.609.0472 with further questions.


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All LGBTQ Friends... or wherever you are in the alphabetJoin us for a couple of “outings” (so to speak)...

SPAMALOTAn Actor’s Playhouse ProductionSunday, March 23, 2014 at 3:00 p.m. Shuttle Leaves the Church at 2:30 p.m.

SPAMALOT is the musical comedy sensation lovingly ripped off from the film classic Monty Python and The Holy Grail. Hysterically re-telling the tale of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table, this Tony-Award-winning Best Musical will spread laughter and cheer throughout the Kingdom of South Florida. Featuring a bevy of beautiful showgirls, not to mention cows and killer rabbits, SPAMALOT has been hailed by all as “a no-holds-barred smash hit.”

Tickets are $25 and available from Pastor Laurie or at the LGBTQrst…table in the Fellowship Hall each Sunday. RSVP to take the church shuttle when you get your tickets.

Gay PrideUnited in Love. United in Christ. All Love is Equal. Equal Rights.Sunday, April 13 on Ocean Drive

Gables UCC was the first congregation to have a float in the Miami Gay Pride parade. Over the past five years, we have proudly shared our message of welcome and acceptance to the 35,000 people who annually line Ocean Drive on South Beach. This year, the parade falls on Palm Sunday, April 13, an important time in the church year, so we are unable to attend full-force as we have in the past. Yet, we want folks to know that there is a church where all are welcome, no matter who they are on life’s journey or with whom they walk that journey. So a small contingency will be marching on behalf of Gables UCC. If you would like to be part of our marching group, please contact Alfredo Iglesias at 305.989.2234 or at [email protected].


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No ReservationsIf you are 21–35, and want to find a place for nurturing your spirit while having fun, then No Reservations is the place for you. We come from many paths of life to create a sense of community while engaging in positive social activism and change. We gather for lunch at a local restaurant each Sunday after the 11:00 worship service. Text Alex Sloan-Marrero at 786.400.0130 for the location or for more information.

Be sure to join us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/noreservationsgroup to follow all the happenings in this dynamic group.

90th Anniversary Celebration ContinuesGables UCC on Display at the Coral Gables Museum

April will be an exciting and proud time in the life of our church, with its 90-year history on display at Coral Gables Museum. The exhibit, EXTRAVAGANT PURPOSE: The Church That George Merrick Built, will run during April at the museum, 285 Aragon Avenue, Coral Gables, kicking off with a private opening and reception for church members and friends on Thursday, April 3, beginning at 7:00 p.m.

The exhibit will open to the public on Friday, April 4, during the city’s monthly Gallery Night, with a performance by the Gables UCC Vocal Ensemble and Handbell Choir beginning at 7:00 p.m.

On Sunday, April 6, the museum and Gables UCC will partner to sponsor a free Architectural Bike Tour that will begin at the church at 10:00 a.m., with breakfast and a talk about our church as an architectural jewel. The bike tour will include sites in the Gables such as the church’s first parsonage on Columbus Boulevard, designed by George Merrick’s cousin, George Fink, one of Coral Gables primary original architects; and other early structures in the city, including Coral Gables Preparatory Academy, which was designed by Kiehnel & Elliott, the same prominent architects who created Gables UCC.

And on Friday, May 2, at 7:00 p.m., our very own Community Arts Program (CAP) ALL-STAR Jazz Ensemble will perform.

The final Sunday of the exhibit, May 4, our exhibit curator, Marvin Aguilar, will present a walk-through with the curator tour at 1:00 p.m. Bring your family, friends, and acquaintances and celebrate the rich, interesting, and dynamic history of the church.

CHILDREN & YOUTHWe are Out-of-the-Box People

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More Than Having Fun...Making a DifferenceSome people have all the fun, especially our youth. But they also are learning how to love their neighbor by preparing and serving meals for the homeless population in Miami. During the season of Lent, the youth will be putting their faith into action by reaching out to those who are less fortunate. Visit their booth in Fellowship Hall, make a $3 donation, and talk to them about homelessness in Miami.

No Sunday School on Easter Sunday, April 20 There will be no Sunday School on Easter Sunday. However, childcare is available at the 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. services for infants through Pre-K 4 in Rooms 1, 3 and 4 of our Arts and Education Wing.

Sunday School Room Assignments for Infants through 12th Graders9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. Childcare is available for infants to five-year-old children during our 9:00 a.m. chapel service. Children six and older are invited to attend this 45-minute service with their families. Childcare is available in our Nursery (Room 1) for infants and toddlers at our 11:00 a.m. worship service. Sunday School is availablefor children and youth from 3 to 18-years-old during our 11:00 a.m. worship.

Pre-K 3 and Pre-K 4 meet in Room 4

Kindergarten and Grade 1 meet in Room 2

Grades 2 -3 meet in Room 5A

Grades 4 - 5 meet in Room 5

Middle School meets in Youth Room 6A across the street

High School meets in Youth Room 6B across the street


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Children’s Easter Service Easter Sunday, April 201:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary All children and “children at heart” are invited to celebrate the joy of Easter at a special afternoon Children’s Easter Service. The service is especially designed for young families. Following the service, join us in the Fellowship Hall for refreshments. Bring the whole family.

Saturday, April 19Toddlers through 5th grade 10:00 a.m. to Noon Entrance Fee: a minimum of one canned good per person.In the Fellowship Hall and Church Grounds

There will be crafts, food, face painting, and lots of family fun. Do not forget to bring your own basket.

Questions? Contact Pastor Megan at [email protected].

Take Flat Jesus with You This Summer Many of you will be familiar with the story of “Flat Stanley,” star of a book by Jeff Brown in which a boy has remarkable adventures after waking up one day to discover he is flattened to half-an-inch thick. Today, children routinely take Flat Stanley on trips, snapping photos of the paper fellow posing at various sites. Like Flat Stanley and his adventures, we read in the Bible that Jesus liked to travel and visited a lot of places and a lot of people.

So on Sunday, May 18, we invite all of our children (and adults too) to decorate a Flat Jesus in the Fellowship Hall and then take him on your summer adventures. Whether it’s at a playground or an amusement park, traveling across the country or around the world, take a picture of you and Flat Jesus then text or e-mail it to Pastor Megan, who will create an Adventure Board so we can see all the adventures of Flat Jesus during the summer.


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The Preschool of Coral Gables United Church of Christ

At this time of year, we are constantly giving tours at the Early Childhood Center (ECC). It is one of our greatest pleasures. Weaving in between the observations of classrooms and the answers to a parent’s questions are the ever-present intrusions of young children -their laughter, their curiosity, and their desire to show strangers what they have just done.

Perhaps my favorite tours are those resulting in a palpable transition in parents, going from apprehension and sadness over loosening the ties to their child, to a clearly enthusiastic embrace of

the opportunities for fun and growth that preschool represents. At ECC, we never forget that special bond that is created by the trust parents put in us.

We recognize that a unique family is at the center of each child’s life and that those parents and caregivers are the child’s first and foremost teachers. We strive to work with parents to find the best way to advance their child’s emerging potential.

Our commitment is to help children value their own and their family’s uniqueness and to appreciate and celebrate the differences among other people. We aspire to have children leave our school with the skills and disposition to be enthusiastic life-long learners and positive, resourceful members of a community.

ECC is open from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. for children who are two to four years old before September 1, 2014. The morning program is from 8:45 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. for the two and three year old children and from 8:45 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. for the Pre-K4 class.

We invite you to come in for a tour yourself, whether you are a prospective parent or a curious church member. Anytime between 9:00 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. is the best to see the morning program in action. There is no need for an appointment, just come and see us as we are.

The Early Childhood Center will also be at the Coral Gables Farmer’s Market on Saturday, March 8. We hope you will stop by our table to pick up some fresh baked goods and take advantage of the opportunity to meet some of our staff and parents.

We look forward to seeing you soon!Janet Hiles,

Director

EarlyChildhoodCenter


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JUSTICE & WITNESSWe are Out-of-the-Box People

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Justice&Witness March ForthOn Tuesday, March 4, the United Church of Christ is inviting all local congregations to “march forth for justice” by helping to improve the lives of people in their communities, the nation or the world. Here at Gables UCC we will “march forth for justice” by helping to provide sustainable economic opportunities for artisans in developing countries through our Fair Trade MarketPlace, located in the church. On March 4, the shop will be open from 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. for your purchases. ALL items will be 20% off. Fair trade coffee and chocolates will be served. Each purchase helps to guarantee that producers in less developed countries receive a fair price that not only reflects the true costs of their production and work, but also makes socially just and environmentally sound production possible. Let us buy ethically on March 4 and “march forth for justice.”

Five Tons of Food!A Thank You from Pastor Laurie

That is right, five tons, or actually 11,250 pounds of food were raised during the Hunger Vigil on Saturday, January 18. Thanks to ALL who so generously gave food and money to get me out of the tower in time for dinner and even more so to help many people here in our community have something to eat at all. In the midst of all the beautiful homes and luxury shopping available in South Florida, there are almost one million people who are struggling to feed themselves. Alarmingly, an estimated 296,600 of those are children. Your gifts of food and money will now help those who are faced with food insecurity every day including the children, the elderly, the working poor, the ill, and so many others.

From my perch high above our beautiful city, I watched as so many of you drove in, biked in, or pulled wagons with bags and boxes of food. How touched I was by your thoughtfulness and your commitment. I also always appreciate your waves and hello’s from below. It is inspiring! Many thanks as well to the No Reservations group for receiving, weighing, and boxing the food under the superb leadership of Javier Castillo.

Thank you again on behalf of all who are affected by food insecurity.


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We Have Palestine On Our Mind The Near East Peace Project and the Board of Justice and Witness invite you to a Palestinian Film Series during the season of Lent. These documentary movies will help us to develop a deeper understanding of the Palestinian struggle for peace.

All films will be shown in the Moye Chapel from 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Refreshments will be provided. $10 donation suggested.

Friday, March 21 5 Broken Cameras

This film, shot by Palestinian farmer Emad Burnat, and Israeli filmmaker, Guy Davidi, is the first ever Palestinian film to be nominated for Best Documentary Feature by A.M.P.A.S®. The critically-acclaimed film is a first-hand account of life and non-violent resistance in the West Bank village of Bil’in while it is surrounded by Israeli settlements. Structured in chapters around the destruction of each one of Burnat’s cameras, as olive trees are bulldozed, protests intensify and lives are lost in this cinematic diary and unparalleled record of life in the West Bank.

Saturday, March 29 Where Should the Birds Fly

Where Should the Birds Fly is the story of Mona Samouni and the filmmaker, Fida Qishta, both survivors of Israel’s Operation Cast Lead. The film is a visual documentation on the impact of modern warfare and sanctions on the civilian population of Gaza. The film itself breaks the blockade. Filmmakers in Gaza have never had the opportunity to make a full length, professional documentary of their reality.

Saturday, April 5 The Stones Cry Out

Palestine is the cradle of Christianity, but “the living aspect of Christianity in Palestine is disappearing,” warns Palestinian politician Hanan Ashrawi in the film The Stones Cry Out (2013). The film provides personal narratives about the unwavering and desperate struggle of Palestinians through the War of 1948 up to today.


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Saturday, April 12 Occupation 101: Voice of the Silenced Majority

Occupation 101: Voice of the Silenced Majority is a 2006 documentary film on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict directed by the founders of If Americans Knew. The film focuses on the effects of the Israeli Occupation of the West Bank and Gaza Strip, and discusses events from the rise of Zionism to the Second Intifida and Israel’s unilateral disengagement plan, presenting its perspective through dozens of interviews, questioning the nature of Israeli-American relations—in particular, the Israeli military occupation of the West Bank and Gaza, and the ethics of US monetary involvement. Occupation 101 includes interviews with mostly American and Israeli scholars, religious leaders and humanitarian workers.

Let’s Talk Peace for PalestineA Sabeel Interfaith Study GroupSunday, March 2 at 2:00 p.m. in the Youth House

When the winds of change are blowing, the Spirit of God calls us to make a sail, and here at Gables UCC, we are sailing. The winds of change brought an opportunity for us to co-sponsor an interfaith study and dialogue group about the Israel/Palestine conflict with our friend in ministry, Riviera Presbyterian Church.

Our very first session will be at the Youth House (1207 Malaga Ave.) at 2:00 p.m. with people from various walks of life and faith traditions. Bring an open mind and a willingness to listen.

Back on Track NetworkFirst and Third Tuesday of Each Month7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. in Havighorst Lounge

Back on Track is a faith-based, career support, non-profit organization offering spiritual, motivational, and practical techniques to individuals in various stages of career transition or unemployment.

We are professionals assisting professionals. For more information, contact Michael Keane at [email protected].


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Put Your Faith in Action The season of Lent is a good time to practice the spiritual discipline of serving others. Sign up to attend these events in Fellowship Hall or by contacting the lay leader for each event.

COMMUNITY PAINT AND BEAUTIFICATION DAYNeighborhood Housing Services (NHS)Saturday, March 8 (8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.)

Maximum number of volunteers: 22Lay leader: Meribeth Shank ([email protected])Community Paint and Beautification Day is an annual event coordinated by NHS of South Florida during which we help existing homeowners with limited incomes improve their homes by providing free painting for the exterior of the house and landscaping for their yards. Bring a willingness to paint and a smile. NHS provides everything else.

KAYAK & CLEAN-UP THE INTERCOASTALSaturday, March 15 (9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.) At Shake A Leg, 2620 South Bayshore Drive in Coconut Grove Maximum number of volunteers: 22 Lay leader: Patty Shillington ([email protected])A family friendly activity. Youth, ages 14 and up, are welcome with their parents or adult supervision. Meet at Shake A Leg, 2620 South Bayshore Drive in Coconut Grove at 8:30 a.m.

BUILD A BUTTERFLY GARDENThe Learning Experience School5651 SW 82nd Avenue Road, Miami 33143 Saturday, March 22 (10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.)

Maximum number of volunteers: 16Lay leader: Janet Copeland ([email protected])Established in 1977, The Leaning Experience is a 501(c)(3) non-profit school. It is the only school in South Florida that offers children and adults with mild to moderate developmental disabilities an uninterrupted education from infancy through adulthood.

Help us build a butterfly garden for the developmentally disabled individuals in that community so that they may expand their growth and abilities.

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY20400 SW 119 Avenue, South Miami Heights 33177Saturday, March 29 (7:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.)

Maximum number of volunteers: 15Lay leader: Robyn Firth ([email protected])Would you like to be part of a community that works to build affordable homes? Are you good at construction projects? If so, then Habitat for Humanity is for you. Meet us at the site, or travel with us, and let us bond over a rooftop as a community that works together.


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PACT – COMMUNITY–WIDE CALL FOR JUSTICENew Birth Baptist Church2300 NW 135th Street, Miami 33167Monday, March 31 from 7:30 – 9:00 p.m.

Lay leader: Raul Hernandez ([email protected])

PACT is a diverse coalition of 35 congregations and two universities throughout Miami-Dade County. It is the largest grassroots organization in South Florida, representing more than 50,000 people. Since 1988, PACT has used the power of its large, organized numbers to solve pressing community problems.

ADVOCACY FAIR Fellowship HallSunday, April 6 (Following the 11:00 a.m. worship service)

Lay Leader: Andrea Martini–Qureshi ([email protected])

This is a great opportunity to fight the systemic ills that perpetuate unjust conditions. We can provide meals for the homeless, but let us also fight to raise the minimum wage. We can clean the polluted waterways, but let us also fight to stop oil drilling in the Everglades. Be an activist for change and join your church community by sending letters to our elected officials.

Project Peru Celebration FundraiserFriday, April 47:00 p.m. in Fellowship Hall

It was in 2007 at a church dinner party when church members Skip Pita and Shannon del Prado shared their dream to send medical teams to Peru’s Inca Valley. Soon after, Project Peru was born and their first event was held in the Fellowship Hall. Now, seven years later, Project Peru is sending its seventh medical team to the Andes of Peru. Led by Dr. “Pat” Pazmiño, the all-volunteer team will perform cleft lip and palate surgeries on indigent children. They will also perform surgeries on severe burn victims and people born without ears, both children and adult.

Join us for an uplifting and fun-filled evening on Friday, April 4 at 7:00 p.m. in Fellowship Hall. Silent auction, music, and more. No admission fee. Learn about the amazing Kausay Wasi Clinic run by retired U.S. diplomats. Proceeds go to medical supplies, air fare subsidies for the nurses, and needed equipment for the clinic. We promise you an inspirational evening!

For more information, contact Skip Pita at [email protected] or Shannon del Prado at [email protected].


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Food for the SoulSundays, March 23, April 27, and June 812:30 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. in Havighorst Lounge

The Board of Justice and Witness invites you to attend the inspirational and moving sessions of Food for the Soul. Enjoy a light lunch and a very inspiring dialogue that will feed our longing for justice and deepen our understanding. $5 donation suggested, covering food costs.

Changing Hearts, Transforming LivesKairos Prison MinistrySunday, March 23

Kairos, which is Greek for “Godʼs Special Time” is a specialized ministry designed to bring a word of hope to people who are incarcerated. In essence, Kairos seeks to change hearts, transform lives and impact the world by training the Kairos volunteers to serve as God’s instrument for men and women in jail who have been forgotten by the broader society.

In 2012, two church members, Michael Keane and Tony Prinzi, became Kairos volunteers. Over the course of the year they provided mentoring and guidance to prisoners. The ministry seeks to transform the incarcerated individual but, in the process, the volunteer is also brought closer to God’s transformative love. Come and listen to the testimony of Tony Prinzi, Michael Keane, and others as to how Kairos changed their lives.

Responsible Gun Vendor InitiativeA Fresh Approach to Gun ControlSunday, April 27

Year after year, state and federal governments fail to enact reasonable measures to stop gun crimes. Local communities bear the brunt of gun related violence, leaving the average citizen angry and confused at the lack of action. Arms with Ethics is a grassroots initiative that is seeking to create change at the local level with local law enforcement agencies and civic organizations.

Jorge Mursuli and Casey Woods, long-term South Floridians and activists, became motivated to create change after the Sandy Hook shootings. They spent over a year creating the infrastructure for Arms with Ethics, so that effective legislative action may be passed at the local and state level. Join us on April 27 to meet Jorge and Casey and to learn about the legislative changes needed so that gun sales may be handled responsibly in our communities and gun related violence might one day become obsolete.


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Schools and SocietyThe State of our Public School SystemSunday, June 8Charmyn Kirton is more than just our beloved soloist on Sunday mornings. Did you know that she is an Administrative Director for the Miami-Dade County Public Schools’ Educational Transformation Office (ETO) leading the work of improving student achievement in its 36 elementary and K-8 schools? She is pursuing her doctorate from the University of Florida Ed.D. program.

Charmyn will be presenting on the state of our public school system. She speaks not only as an academic, but also as a person with a rich history of serving in the classroom, and as the lead Principal of several public schools. As a church with a deep commitment to education and the future of our children, this presentation will help us understand the challenges faced by the teachers and the administrators of our schools.

Your Fair Trade Shop wants you!

We, of course, want you to make us your first stop for gift shopping and spicing up your spring wardrobe. We would love your talent as well. The shop needs some volunteers for traditional media (press releases and developing contacts for stories in business sections), educational events and local traffic development. Contact Mary Eaton at [email protected] to learn more.

Be sure to check out our organic cotton solid color embroidered tunics from India on sale for $34.99. We are working directly with artisan groups from India to help them develop better products for our U.S markets. And join us on March 4 for our special “march forth for justice” and receive 20% off ALL items. Your purchases empower artisans to work and build strong families and villages globally.

Spring Hours

Tuesday 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.Wednesday 11:00 a.m. - 7:30 p.m.Thursday - Saturday 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Sunday 12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Church member Shanna Morris models her Fair Trade tunic.

WELLNESS OFFERINGSWe are Out-of-the-Box People

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ay 2014 WellnessOfferings Yoga All Classes in the ChapelYoga poses help develop a strong, healthy body by enhancing flexibility and improving circulation. Be good to yourself, choose a class, make it a precious part of your weekly schedule, and reap yoga’s rich benefits!

Free Yogic Breathing Class (Pranayama) No Cost Monday Mornings, 8:30 - 9:00 a.m. Are you stressed? Yogic breathing can help you relax. In yoga, we breathe deeply and slowly - in a more relaxed manner. Because you get more air into your lung with each breath, you do not have to breathe as quickly. Your breathing slows down. The relaxation response kicks in. It is almost magical; a simple thing like breathing correctly alters your consciousness and transforms stress into peace and quiet. Deep, conscious breathing reduces stress and many diseases.With a little practice, you can take the breathing from the classroom to your world and feel its powerful effects.

Yoga-asana Class$12.00 per Session Monday Mornings, 9:00 - 10:30 a.m.A strong and flexible body, glowing beautiful skin, a peaceful mind, and good health are all important reasons why we should maintain a regular “yoga” practice. Need more reasons? Stress relief, inner peace, living with greater awareness, increased energy, and better posture are just a few. Come and practice with us! Stretch, breathe, and relax.

Endlessly OrganicWe are partnering with Endlessly Organic, an organic produce buying club to offer pre-selected organic produce boxes.

You may choose to order any of the boxes below.

Medium Mixed Share: A mix of 4-5 fruits & 7-10 vegetables. It contains enough to feed a household of 1-2; $35 + $5 pre-pack = $40.

Large Mixed Share: A mix of 4-5 fruits & 7-10 vegetables. It contains enough organic produce to feed a household of 3-4; $50 + $5 pre-pack = $55.

Juicer’s Box: A variety of 8-10 different fruits/green, specifically for juicing; $35 + $5 pre-pack = $40.

Fruit Lover’s Box: A variety of 6-8 seasonal fruits; $35 + $5 pre-pack = $40.

SAVE $5 Off your 1st Box of a New Subscription!

(Coupon Code: 5OFF) Sign up now at

https://www.endlesslyorganic.com

FAMILY ALBUMWe are Out-of-the-Box People

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90th Anniversary Gala

What a Celebration!


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Stephen Campagna 3/1Samantha Ostwald 3/1Jessica Fleisher 3/2Skip Hitt 3/3Faith Xenos 3/3Suzanne Page 3/4Toufic Zakharia 3/5Jim Parker 3/7Keidy Caldwell 3/9Rich Beaulaurier 3/10John Bryan 3/10David Gorman 3/11Thomas Rodrigues 3/11Antonio Faillace 3/13Kimberly Moore 3/13Noah Wexler 3/13Irene McLaren 3/14Donna Falana 3/18Bruce King 3/18Wendy Long 3/18Maria Elena Pinillos 3/18Alexander Ruiz 3/18Elena Rodriguez 3/20Harold Sloan-Marrero 3/20Eloise Zakevich 3/21Teresa Lesiuk 3/22Aileen Bartholomew 3/24Rosa Rodriguez 3/25Claudia Castro 3/27Guillermo Carreras 3/29Mayra Alvarez 3/30Andrew Hutchinson 3/30Rolando Marrero Jr. 3/30Tony Prinzi 3/30Jordana Seligmann 3/30Emily Morgan 3/31Diana Rihl-Penniman 3/31Laura Smith 3/31Suzanne Wilson 3/31David Dangler 4/1

J. Janewa Oseitutu 4/1Judith Babcock 4/2Chuck Bryant 4/2Becky Namon 4/3Margaret Spielman 4/3Sophia Torres 4/3Michael Flegel 4/4Rose Weber 4/6Pat Button 4/7Carla Lupi 4/8Kurt Schubert 4/8Evan Paulus 4/9Kevin Brownstein 4/10Dennis Rodrigues 4/10Margaret Seroppian 4/10Megan Smith 4/10Robert Klemm 4/16Alex Weiss 4/16Angel Suarez 4/17Lisa Anderson 4/20Carlos Fernandez 4/20Nancy Morgan 4/20Maritza Castellon 4/21Kaley Kettle 4/24Lynne Sparling 4/27Colleen Altosino-Sastre 4/29David Marshall 4/29Michael Samblas 4/30Cynthia Drew 5/1T.J. Burkett 5/3Karen D. Connolly 5/4Nancy Faga 5/4Zafeiria Nomicos 5/4Hyejong Marshall 5/5Pete McDougal 5/5Sandy Poltarack 5/7Laurie Hafner 5/9Emily Roles Fotso 5/9Mark Smith 5/9Margaret Yoder 5/10

Eric Gresham 5/12Jane Hyde 5/12Haydee Navarro 5/12Chantale Suttle 5/12Jackie Gallegos 5/13Claire Shillington 5/13Dotsy Wright 5/14Marina Galvis 5/16Ingrid L. Hunter 5/17Max Kellogg 5/17Milan Kralik 5/18Christian Schonfeld 5/18Brooke Bagnall-Koger 5/19Lourdes Naranjo 5/19Lucy Ridgeway 5/19Coleen Atkins 5/20Virginia De las Pozas 5/21Laurence Marlin 5/21Sara Platz 5/23William Simonitsch 5/23Heather Baker 5/24Ron Morgan 5/24Alba Abrams 5/25Brian Savage 5/26Esteban Gengenbach 5/28Laura Payne 5/29Obed Perez 5/29Cynthia Stehman 5/29Al Weber 5/29


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Thank You From Rev. Maria AndersonThank you, Gables UCC, for the generous expressions of love and support as I moved in your midst, first as a new member in 2009, then as a seminarian and now as one of your own in ordained ministry. My ordination day is one I will never forget. As I watched the video, I was deeply moved by all the hands and hearts that labored to put this beautiful service together: the liturgy, the music, the voices, the servers and ushers, those who set up and cleaned up. The only way I know to repay you is by living into my ordination promises of faithful service in the ministry of Jesus Christ.

Summer Reading Book ExchangeBring in the books you have already read and exchange them so you are sure to have plenty to read on the beach this Summer. Bring in toddler, children, teen, young adult, or adult aged books-fiction/nonfiction/Required Reading School Books are all welcome. Drop your books off on the tables in fellowship hall on your way into church on May 25, and then bring the whole family after church to browse the book tables in fellowship hall.

and Gables UCCPresent

Pulitzer Prize Winning Author Dave BarryMarch 8, 2014 at 8:00 p.m. in the SanctuaryJoin Dave as he tackles everything from family trips, to funeral instructions (“I would like my eulogy to be given by William Shatner”), and a father’s ultimate sacrifice: accompanying his daughter to a Justin Bieber concert (“It turns out that the noise teenaged girls make to express happiness is the same noise they would make if their feet were being gnawed off by badgers”).

Dave Barry’s recent bestselling books include Insane City, I’ll Mature When I’m Dead, and Dave Barry’s History of the Millennium (So Far). For more information, visit the Books and Books website at www.booksandbooks.com.


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NewMembersMarilyn Caputo – Born in Bloomfiled, New Jersey, Marilyn works at Fairchild Tropical Gardens, She has one grown son and enjoys the arts, reading, gardening, travel, and good food with friends.

Antonio Iglesias – Born in Cuba, Antonio is a pharmacist and medical director. He enjoys model railroading and salt water aquarium.

Claudia and Gabriel Montana - Claudia was born in New York City and grew up in Coral Springs, Florida. She is a freelance editor and enjoys theatre, arts, travels with family, cycling, advocacy on human rights and for children’s health and special needs. She and her husband Gabriel have one son, Danny, who is 10. Gabriel was born in Bogota, Colombia, and is in finance. He enjoys reading, tennis, golf, and sailing.

Krister Martinez – Born in Lima, Peru, Krister is married to our own Katie Martinez. A father of three sons, he is in computer tech support and enjoys gardening and computers.


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Brian Savage – Born in Detroit, Brian is semi-retired. He enjoys food, restaurants, and finance.

Jennifer Hilton Montero – Jennifer was born in Dallas, Texas and is in International Education. She enjoys Latin dancing, singing, and movies.

Lourdes Naranjo – Born in Cuba, Lourdes calls New Orleans her hometown. She and her partner Patrice have two grown children. She is an attorney for the State of Florida Agency for Health Care Administration. She enjoys gardening, book clubs, and reading.

Joel and Ann Nelson – Joel was born in Des Moine, Iowa and is a resident physician. He enjoys tennis, fishing, camping, and hiking. Ann was born in Rochester, Minnesota, and is presently a stay at home mom with their 15 month old daughter Nora. Ann enjoys reading, card making, walking and exercising.

Silvia Rauton and Stephen Fyffe – Silvia was born in Brazil and is the mother of two: Julia and Luisa. She is a software consultant and enjoys singing, swimming, and spending time with family and friends. Stephen was born in Atlanta, Georgia and is in software support engineering. He enjoys photography, gardening, computers, and mechanics.


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Hendrik and Aina Woods – Hendrik was born in Brussels, Belgium and is retired from education, government, and international business. A father of two, he enjoys being involved in social justice, international issues, art, and watercolor. Aina was born in Kazakhstan. She enjoys reading, traveling, and cooking. Their son, Nathaniel, is four years old.

David and Nancy Lewis – David was born in Poughkeepsie, New York but grew up in Dartmouth. He is a retired professor and scientist from Colgate University and Connecticut College. He enjoys advocacy for disabled people, and educationally disadvantaged youth. Nancy was born in Cincinnati, Ohio and is a retired fundraiser for colleges and non-profit organizations.

Mar Enriquez-Macias and Marina Diaz – Mar was born in Mexico City and is an executive vice president. He enjoys reading, movies, comic books and finance. Marina was also born in Mexico City and is an architect. She enjoys music, movies, running, Legos, and pastry baking. They have two children, Victoria, who is four, and Emilia, who is 11 months.

Erin Looney – Born in New Jersey, Erin is a homemaker and a new mother for 5 month old Lorena. She enjoys singing, theatre and being silly!

Dora Sierra and Richard Henrys – Dora was born in Honduras and is a lawyer. She likes to exercise, sing karaoke, and listen to music. Richard was born in Detroit, Michigan and is a physician and orthopedic surgeon. He enjoys exercise, listening to music, and dancing. He has two children, Francisca and Dominic.


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Elizabeth and Evan Paulus – Elizabeth was born in Salt Lake City, Utah but calls Sioux Falls, South Dakota home. She is a general surgeon and a surgical oncology fellow. In her prior life she enjoyed piano, dance, and reading. Now, she enjoys spending precious time with family and friends. Evan was born in Phoenix, Arizona and is an industrial engineer and director of quality at Miami Children’s Hospital. His interests include Star Wars and soccer. Elizabeth and Evan have two daughters: Elise, 8 months and Eva, 6 years.

Elena Rodriguez – Elena was born in Miami and is a Regional Sales Director for Princess Cruises. She enjoys photography, travel, and volunteering with her sweet little help therapy dog Abbie.

Thinking About Becoming a Member of the Church?Inquirers’ Gatherings Sundays, March 23 and May 412:15 p.m. in the Library

If you do not want to check your mind at the church door…If you know that God’s love embraces all people, no matter who they are…

If you want religion with relevancy…If you believe that faith requires tenderness and courage, a kind of big love that is

committed to changing people’s lives…ours and others…If you have wished for an open and embracing community of faith to nurture your spirit,

grow your faith, and raise your children…Then we warmly invite you to help us build the family of Gables UCC.

Come if you would like to inquire about becoming a member. Come if you just want to inquire more about who we are, what we stand for, and what we believe. This gathering will also give you a chance to meet some of our members and staff and give us an opportunity to meet you. Childcare and a light lunch will be provided. Contact Pastor Laurie at [email protected] or 305.448.7421 ext. 116 to RSVP or for more information.


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Keep in TouchOnce a week or so, Pastor Laurie e-mails a pastoral letter, Laurie’s Lines, to all members and friends, filling them in on the week’s events, any special concerns that have arisen, and general church business. If you would like to be included, please contact Ron Morgan at [email protected] or sign up online at www.gablesucc.org. If you have signed up and are not receiving it, please let Ron know.

Memorial FlowersIf you would like to donate flowers to grace our chancel during Sunday worship in memory or in honor of a loved one, there is a sign-up sheet in the Fellowship Hall, or you may contact the church office at 305.448.7421 ext. 100.

Thank You to Harold Sloan-MarreroHarold Marrero, one half of our dynamic Media Team, has accepted a position with our sister church, Miami Beach Community UCC. While he is maintaining his membership here and has assured us that he will still be involved in the life of our congregation as time permits, he will now be a full-time member of the staff of Miami Beach UCC. We are so grateful for his spirit and energy, his commitment and love to our church, and the leadership he has given, along with his husband, Alex, in bringing our church technologically into the 21st Century. We know that he will bless Miami Beach UCC with his gifts and talents even as he has blessed us. We will miss him and send him off with all good wishes.

Talent Show WE’VE GOT TALENT! Friday, June 6 from 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. in the ChapelAttention singers, actors, jugglers, hog callers, baton twirlers, poets, story-tellers, and all the talented people of Gables UCC. The We’ve Got Talent Coffee House, Season Five, is back! Contact Ron Morgan at [email protected] to sign up to share your diverse and abundant talents with your church family. This event is being hosted by the Board for Congregational Life.

Music and the ArtsWe are Out-of-the-Box People

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Thank You for Supporting the Community Arts Program (CAP)Give Miami Day

Thank you to all who participated in Give Miami Day, a November 20, 2013 one-day online giving marathon that supported local non-profits. Donations to the Community Arts Program (CAP) had a percentage matched by The Miami Foundation with the support of the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation.

Tax-deductible donations empower CAP to provide more children (ages 5-18) with life-changing music learning in the award-winning CAP Conservatory for the Arts: Saturday Music Classes, Young Musicians’ Junior & Intermediate Orchestras, Advanced Chamber Ensemble, Jazz PREP Band, ALL-STAR Jazz Ensemble, and CAP Records®.

Even if you missed Give Miami Day, it is never too late to make a donation to CAP and become a CAP member. Anytime, you can make a tax-deductible CAP contribution easily and securely online at CommunityArtsProgram.org/membership or, call Mark Hart at 305.448.7421, ext. 120. Thank you!

CAP Conservatory for the Arts Saturday Music ClassesEnd-of-Year Recital

The CAP Conservatory for the Arts Saturday Music Classes have been going on since September, with over 60 children from throughout Miami-Dade County. Held within teaching spaces generously offered in-kind by Ransom Everglades Upper School, classes are each Saturday and encompass the following: music theory, testing and juries, one-on-one instrument lessons, and 360 Forums involving students and parents. With an exciting CAP mission—to serve a diverse community by providing educational and culturally-enriching experiences through the transforming power of the arts—the Conservatory program offers an exciting curriculum of music education classes made available to all children throughout Miami-Dade County, no matter one’s circumstances. Violin, viola, cello, piano, brass, percussion, guitar, and theory students will perform at an end-of-the-year recital held in Fellowship Hall on Sunday, April 27 at 4:00 p.m. For more information, visit CommunityArtsProgram.org or call Mark Hart at 305.448.7421, ext. 120.


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CAP Conservatory for the Arts Faculty Spotlight: Meet Mike Piolet

Mike Piolet is a member of the CAP Conservatory for the Arts percussion faculty. Mike is originally from Chicago, Illinois, where he attended Curie Metro High School and joined the Jazz Band under the direction of Tyrone Hines. In his last two years at Curie, Mike was chosen to be in the Thelonious Monk after school program in conjunction with Gallery 37 in downtown Chicago. There, Piolet worked with such jazz legends as Herbie Hancock, Bobby Watkins, and Antonio Hart. During his last year of the program, he was chosen to be the drummer for the first ever Thelonious Monk’s All-Star sextet. In this sextet he had the opportunity to play with Antonio Hart at the Kodak Theatre in Hollywood, California.

Mike received his Bachelor’s degree in Studio Music and Jazz Instrumental Performance from the University of Miami Frost School of Music. There, he was a Stamps Distinguished Ensemble Scholar and a member of the inaugural Stamps Jazz Quintet. The Stamps Jazz Quintet was chosen as the “Jazz Group” winner in DownBeat magazine’s 34th Annual Student Music Awards in the Undergraduate Outstanding College Performances category (2011). Along with other members of the Stamps Jazz Quintet, Michael received coaching from jazz greats Benny Golson, Dave Holland, Carl Allen, Brian Lynch, Terence Blanchard, and Dave Douglas. They performed with saxophonist Chris Potter, vibraphonist Gary Burton, and the Matt Wilson Quartet. The group also performed with blues guitarist Buddy Guy at a private event.

As Mike’s career continues to mature, he regularly performs with local pros throughout South Florida and Chicago. CAP is pleased to have Mike Piolet amongst the impressive roster of over 20 other CAP faculty members!

Mark Your Calendars Now!CAP Performing Ensemble Concerts

WDNA 88.9FM & Coral Gables United Church of Christ

April and May 2014 bring more performances by the Community Arts Program (CAP), its students, and faculty. On April 10, 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., tune into Serious Jazz Radio WDNA (88.9 FM) to hear the second of two one-hour live in-studio performances featuring the CAP ALL-STAR Jazz Ensemble. Sunday, May 4, the CAP ALL-STAR Jazz Ensemble will provide music for the 11:00 a.m. Jazz Service. Then, at 4:00 p.m., Saturday, May 17, the CAP Young Musicians’ Junior and Intermediate

Orchestras, Advanced Chamber Ensemble, Jazz PREP Band, and ALL-STAR Jazz Ensemble will perform its end-of-the-year Family Concert in the sanctuary. Join us on ground or online through a live, web streamed CAPcast. Stay connected to CommunityArtsProgram.org for more information.


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Community Arts Program (CAP)ALL-STAR Jazz Ensemble

2014 Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Essentially Ellington

Finalist for Second Consecutive Year!

Jazz at Lincoln Center has announced the finalist bands for its prestigious 19th Annual Essentially Ellington High School Jazz Band Competition & Festival. With nearly 100 recordings submitted from jazz bands across the United States and Canada, Florida’s Coral Gables United Church of Christ Community Arts Program (CAP) ALL-STAR Jazz Ensemble is among only 15 finalists chosen. This will be CAP’s second consecutive year selected by Jazz at Lincoln Center! Within Jazz at Lincoln Center, the Community Arts Program (CAP) ALL-STAR Jazz Ensemble will compete and participate in workshops, jam sessions, and more, during a three-day Competition & Festival in New York City May 8 through 10. The three top-placing bands perform with Artistic Director of Jazz at Lincoln Center, Wynton Marsalis, as guest soloist, followed by a performance by the 15-piece Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra whose members serve as mentors for the finalist bands throughout the weekend. The Festival’s finale is an awards ceremony honoring outstanding soloists, sections and the top three bands. The Competition & Festival is the culmination of the annual Essentially Ellington High School Jazz Band Program (EE) from Jazz at Lincoln Center (JALC), part of Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts.

Meanwhile, join the CAP ALL-STAR Jazz Ensemble in an 11:00 a.m. Gables UCC Jazz Service on Sunday, May 4.

Mark Your Calendars Now! Community Arts Program (CAP)

2014 Summer Concert Series 29th Season

Be on the lookout for the June-July-August issue of The Good Tidings for a complete listing of CAP 2014 Summer Concert Series artists. For now, mark your calendars with the 29th CAP Summer Concert Series dates and time: 8:00 p.m., every other Thursday, June 5 through August 14, 2014!

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Stewardship Campaign for 2014It starts with the soil...

Lydia AcevedoDebbie AlbionJudith BabcockAnthony Cabrera and Arnold ElguezabalRichard and Vilma DaileyPamela DanielsNancy EarnestNoemi EscandellIngrid FrassaAnne GreenLois LeggeLeSueur/Arevalo Family

Nancy and Dave LewisRaquel Matas & Carla LupiDavid & Joy MarshallEmilio & Lucila MascaroLaura ObregonWendy & Clayton OdorJoan RobertsonDawn ThompsonRachel ValbrunEdilia Vivanco & Amarilis Gonzalez Faith Xenos

We are grateful to these additional members and friends of Gables UCC who have added their name to the wonderful list of those who have pledged to the ministry and mission of the church for 2014. Please know that we have attempted to include everyone who has pledged since the last list appeared. If we have inadvertently left out your name we apologize and ask that you please contact the church office.

THE LEGACY COMMITTEE OF GABLES UCCINVITES YOU TO PLAN FOR THE FUTURE…

On Sunday, June 1, at 12:15 p.m. in Havighorst Lounge, all parents of young children are invited to an informative luncheon to help think about planning for the future. How much money should you have in your bank account? How do you plan for your children’s future educational needs? How do I protect my family now in case something happens to me? These are just a few of the many questions that will be asked and answered by a professional financial planner and attorney. Lunch and childcare will be provided. Mark your calendars now. Gay and Lesbian families have many challenges as it is, but making financial decisions for your family can be complicated. On Sunday, June 22, at 12:15 p.m. in Havighorst Lounge, the Legacy Committee invites you to a special financial seminar geared for the GLBTQ community. Investment advisors and attorneys Liz Schwartz and Damian Pardo will bring their legal and financial expertise to help complete the picture around investing and retirement planning for gay and lesbian families, who in Florida do not have the implicit protections afforded by marriage. Lunch and childcare will be provided.

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One of the great gifts of this congregation is its Legacy Fund, an endowment fund that was created many years ago to provide for the future of our church. Because of the generosity of members past and present, our Legacy Fund provides additional revenue to our yearly budget, giving us the opportunity to provide more outreach, more programming, and more ministries. It also serves as a safety net to ensure that the important witness of this church will continue for generations to come.

The Legacy Fund Committee would like to invite you to pass the blessings you have received on to others by making an enduring gift to this ongoing fund. Your gift will become a perpetual source of financial support for Gables UCC and its ministries and missions well into the future. All our funds are invested in ways that demonstrate sound social and environmental practices. Gifts are fully deductible for federal income, estate and gift tax purposes, and may help you avoid capital gains taxes. More than that, when you make a gift to the Legacy Fund, you leave a legacy, not just an empty pew.

On Sunday, April 6, anyone who has remembered Gables UCC in their estate planning is invited to a luncheon at the home of Pastor Laurie at 12:30 p.m. For those who have generously remembered the church in their wills or who have given a gift to the Legacy Fund, we want to honor and thank you. For those who are considering a gift to the church, we want to celebrate the possibilities of your legacy to the future. Please RSVP to Pastor Laurie at 305.448.7421 ext. 116 or [email protected].

Leave more than an empty pew... Leave a legacy

Documents

The Good Tidings March - May 2014