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COLUMNS | May - June 1

COLUMNS

MAY/JUNE 2013 • First PrEsbYtEriAN ChUrCh oF orlANdo • FPCo.org

magazine

loving generosity

donna speercelebrating a beloved disciple

IDignity day making a place for identity

Seek God. Share His Love. Humbly Serve.

plus our summer booklist beef up your beach reading

the block Is only the begInnIng

2 May - June | COLUMNS

Dr. David Swanson reminds us who we are

The Stack

How We Give

FPCO’s budget & more

Teaching Generosity Bret Allen’s ideas for families

Inspiring Generosity

Giving 50 Years of Serviceat the Heart of the City Foundation

FEAtUrEs

Donna speercelebrating a dear friend

IDignity

identity with respect

Women’s Bible Study

Bible Study Insightswith Dr. Case Thorp

Time With God

Family News

SuMMer BOOklIST, 20

GeNerOSITY, 6

First Pres staff share their recent favorites, including Dr. Swanson’s newest book about heaven.

Transforming the way we think about giving of ourselves, our time, and our blessings.

ColUMNs CONTeNTS

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Photos oN thE CovEr ANd ElsEwhErE: shEA ChristiNE

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For more upcoming eventsvisit www.fpco.org/calendar

Mother’s Day secondsunday Prayer & Worship, 6pm

Registration opens for Vbs (July 22-26)

traditional and genesis (11:00am only)

may

Young at heart luncheon, 10:30am

communion sunday

IDignity event

senior sunday

communion sunday

Registration opens for Upward basketball & cheer summer camp

Family Mission trip to Dominican Republic

Women’s Ministry summer bible study begins

the great escape (Middle School Summer Camp)

june


ON THe WAYwith Dr. David Swanson

“Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.”

- ephesians 5:1-2

I shared in worship not long ago about the rich and wonderful time I had in Dallas last January celebrating with my father as he turned 80 years old. He has been a tremendous influence in my life, and while I did not necessarily like it when I was little, I now find a sense of blessing when people say to me, “You look so much like your father” or “You remind me so much of your Dad.” Funny how that works, isn’t it? Consciously or subconsciously, we often imitate those we love, respect and admire. We’ll pick up mannerisms or voice inflections or other habits from those dear to us. To this day, I still make a sandwich and put on a shirt and use certain phrases exactly as my father does. Because I love him, when people say there’s a resemblance between us, it makes me feel good.

Imagine then how much greater a blessing it is when someone might say to us, “You remind me so much of your Father” or “You have reflected Christ to me in such a beautiful way.” It is actually what we are commanded and taught to do in Scripture as Paul reminds us in Ephesians 5. We are to be “imitators of God as dearly loved children.” in other words, in the same way that children naturally reflect and imitate their parents, we are to imitate and reflect our heavenly Father to the world.

Further, our imitation of God is to come in a very specific way: we are to be an “offering” and to “give ourselves up.” You see, God’s love was never more evident to us than through His self-offering in Jesus Christ. God’s life was poured out for us, and so when we offer ourselves and make sacrifices for God’s Kingdom, that is when we most clearly reflect who God is. Is it any wonder then that our generosity

reflects so beautifully on our faith in Christ?

When we understand what God has given to us, then we become naturally generous in the life of His Church, even to the point of sacrifice. It is the only way in which the Body of Christ can ever truly be “imitators” of God, and I pray that we will become more faithful and more obedient in our generosity. our church is poised for an exciting future, but it depends on our willingness to invest in his Kingdom work at FPCo. As you pray and consider your giving and your gifts during this spring series on generosity, I ask that you would make a commitment to faithfully give to this church, even through the summer months. I ask that you would increase your giving in these last two months of the budget year so that we can be ready to take on the challenges of 2013-14. And for those of you who perhaps have never given, I would ask that you consider Paul’s words: become an imitator of the Father as you become a partner with us in the Kingdom work of God!

I pray that one day, it will be said of our church, “My, how they remind me of their Father.”

With joy and thanks for you, I remain

Under His Mercy,


First Pres’ own Rev. Dr. Jonathas Moreira will be leading a medical mission trip to the Amazon, August 10-17. This adven-ture-of-a-lifetime brings much-needed medical care to the vil-lages along the Amazon River. Medical personnel are certainly needed, but non-medical roles are available in abundance.

For more information visit: amazon-mission.org

did you know? The Good News Breakfast is held every Sunday morning at 6am in Lee Fellowship Hall,

where an average of 250 homeless men and women are fed. Volunteers serve breakfast following a time of wor-ship and a sermon. All are welcome to come eat, as well as come serve.

useful information, timely trivia and handy tips for navigating life at FirstPres (and life in general)

the Columns stack

PArKiNgsErvE iN thE AMAzoNHere are parking tips to help make our campus as accessible as possible.

doN’t bE A hog

Street and on-campus parking is for visitors, seniors, and those who need the extra accessibility.

Take advantage of our park-ing garage across the street (entrance on Liberty Ave.). The church shares ownership and helps to maintain it so our mem-bers can easily find free parking every Sunday and during the week.

gEt stAMPEd!

Visiting during the week? Stop by the front desk to get your parking pass stamped. This is part of our ownership in the garage, and doesn’t incur extra charges to the church.

CoME hErE oFtEN?

For $10, FPCO members can purchase a lifetime parking pass. Call 407.423.3441 for details.

PrAYEr rEMiNdErMake a note that May 12 is the last Second-Sunday prayer and worship service before

the summer break begins. Second-Sunday services will resume on Sunday, Sept. 8.

good NEws, iNdEEd

roCKiN’ rAiNForEstFPCO’s rockin’ rain-forest vbs is far from ordinary! It is vibrant, dynamic and fun; filled

with learning about God’s love for us! Cost is $30 and registration be-gins May 1 at fpco.org/register.

Parents want to join the fun? Sign up to volunteer…No teaching required!

liKE Usfacebook.com/firstpresorlando

sPorts CAMPsRegistration opens June 3 for Upward summer Camp 2013. The basketball and cheerleading camps run July 22-26. Space is limited. fpco.org/register


And it isn’t all about money. Being thoughtful manag-ers of our money is important, but God makes it clear we’re also to be generous with time, creativity and spiritual gifts. Giving isn’t about being obligated to the offering plate. God offers us an incredible vision of His kingdom and love for us by giving us a chance to give on His behalf. Everything ultimately belongs to God; He wants us to experience the excitement and joy of responding to Him and blessing others with what we have.

GOD CARES ABOUT GIVING

Each of us have been entrusted with certain things for which we care or are responsible - our possessions, our money, our time, even our children. Though we may not acknowlege it, all of those things were given to us by God, who, as you might recall, has a reputation of being quite generous.

So God rejoices when we give - and uses it to teach us about Himself, His church and how He intends to meet the desperate need in this world.

FINDING FREEDOM

God doesn’t need your money. Think about it: He made your molecules. Why would a God that big want your pennies?

So if He doesn’t need your money, why does Jesus talk about money so much? (1 of every 7 verses in Luke alone.) Because God knew it would be a sticking point, a place where we’d struggle to live out real obedience as His followers. So that’s often where we start as givers: money. You might have heard the word “tithe” used in rela-tionship to giving at church; tithe is a Biblical concept that means “tenth.” It’s actually a mandate for giving 10% of your income to God’s work, and obedience to this command of God can be difficult.

We treasure our earthly things because it’s easy to believe they are the source of our security. But, as we grow as disciples, our generosity eventually becomes an expression of our ultimate security in Jesus, the generous One.

YoU’rE goiNg to sEE this CoNCEPt A lot iN this issUE oF thE columns: gENErositY. ANd MAYbE iN god’s storY, too, iF YoU’rE PAYiNg AttENtioN.

GENEROSITY a vision of radical


GENEROSITY

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a vision of radical

As you prayerfully grow as a disciple, you may not be able to leap to 10% in one year. Tithing, like many spiritual disciplines, is often something you grow into. If you gave 2% this year, aim for 4% next year. Make adjustments in your spending until you can reach a full measure of obedience to God. Be careful not to lose your joy in generosity because of legalistic pursuit. Make Him a sacrificial gift, and He will surely rejoice in it along with you! It is your heart that He wants the most.

A VISION FOR THE CITY

Thankfully, obedience in giving our tithe or special offering isn’t the end of the story. God has big plans for us, a deep longing to meet the needs of this city, and He wants to do it through our generosity.

To start with, First Pres is the home of some extraordinarily generous people, who have been jaw-droppingly faithful to the ministry of this church. And that’s worth celebrating, because God surely does.

Not all of us are participating in giving financially yet, (42% of our regular worshippers are active givers), but our givers offer an astonishing $6.5 million a year to God to support First Pres and her ministry around the world. Imagine what we could do if 100% of our church family were participating!

It’s all within God’s reach to transform: the choices we make about our time; how we use our energy and creative gifts; what we do with our possessions; how deeply we love and risk community; and how we share our spiritual gifts and invest in discipling others. The choices we make about these things matter because God wants to use them to transform lives... starting with our own.

Being a part of God’s story at First Presbyterian Church of Orlando means investing fully in His work here: connecting with the church family in covenant community, becoming a disciple who lights the world, and joyfully giving in response to God’s generosity towards us.

Are you ready?


Our Annual Budget for 2012-2013 is $6.5 millionTo date for this fiscal year, $5.1 million has been given to God through First

Presbyterian Church of Orlando to support the work of the church. Hooray!

We need $1.4 million to wrap up this fiscal year on June 30.

Our debt is approximately $4.5 million. Good news:

we have paid off $12.1 million in debt since the year 2002.

42% of our membership actively give financially. Our participation

in giving financially has been slowly growing since January.

We currently have 3,481 members. Approximately 1,500 people

attend worship on our campus each Sunday morning.

Since our first Serve Day in 2011, we have had 2,236 individuals

volunteer across five (3 hour) events. At the industry approved rate of

$22.14 per volunteer hour, that is $148,515.12 worth of service our

church has given to Orlando! Go, FPCO!

The Good Samaritan Fund has already given $12,686

in personal emergency assitance to individuals and families

in our community in 2013.

HOw wE GIVE


Automatic Deduction (Ach) we’re excited to begin offering the option to give through Automatic deduction starting in May! By far the easiest and most consistent way to manage your giving, you can set up an electronic withdrawl directly from your finan-cial institution to the church on a recurring basis. Many people find this method helpful for their own budgeting and tithing purposes, and it helps make giving a priority. (And for the Dave Ramsey grads, it eliminates the use of a credit card.)

offering envelopes A great way to participate in worship on Sunday morning, preparing your offering envelope in ad-vance and adding it to the offering plate. Each family or individual in the church can elect to receive a set of pre-printed envelopes; handy if you’re using the envelope/cash system for budgeting. It’s also helpful for teaching children about generosity and including them in your family’s giving habits. Unique envelopes with your child’s name on them are available. To get started, contact Trish Wilson at x1471 or email [email protected]

cash in the Plate You can easily make a contribution on Sunday mornings during worship, for either your regular tithe or additional gifts. Our Finance Department is not able to note cash gifts on your year-end statement without an envelope, but every gift matters.

In the Mail You can always write a check and mail it directly to the church, care of the Finance Office. In addition, if you use offering envelopes, you can add your enve-lope number to the check to ensure the contribution is credited to your end-of-year statement. You can mail gifts to:First Presbyterian Church of OrlandoAttn: Finance Office106 E Church Street, Orlando, FL 32801

online Giving through our website at fpco.org/give is one of the fastest ways to contribute and is avail-able 24/7. Simply fill out the online form and you can schedule a single or recurring gifts to the church through a debit or credit card. This method of giving only takes a few moments and requires no sign-in or registration to complete.

HOw TO GIVE Financially

HOw TO GIVE Time & Talentfpco.org/servenow In an effort to make it as simple as possible to find ongoing and unique opportunities to serve, we’ve added a list of current job descriptions to our website at www.fpco.org/servenow

The list includes ways to serve at the church, in our community, and around the world. We are always adding new opportunities to connect for a variety of people, gifts and experiences. If you don’t yet have a place to regularly serve God, we have a place for you!

Why we like it: - It’s simple. Set it up once, and you’re done.

- It saves the church money. Not only is it paperless, it doesn’t cost us processing time, credit card fees or staff time.

- It allows the church to plan better. Predictble giving helps us put hands and feet to God’s work.

setup your new schedule today at fpco.org/give


I’ll never forget the week I spent at a Young Life camp in Colorado for kids with special needs. One night, we had had a huge carnival where the campers won ‘mo-nopoly’ money for winning games, which could then be redeemed to put their leaders in the dunking booth. Later in the week, the time came to take up a one-time offering to help youth in other countries go to camps similar to this one. As the plate was being passed around, a young lady suddenly stood up and raced out of the meeting room. (At a camp full of students with special needs leaders are always watching and concerned about students just getting up and leaving.) But before we could go find her, she was back, running as fast as she could from her cabin, hands full of ALL the ‘monopoly’ money from the night before. She put it all into the offering plate with a huge smile on her face, the picture of joyful generosity. She was so caught up in giving, she didn’t worry about how much it was worth. She just wanted to respond.

There are many creative and effective ways to help your family understand generosity and learn how to practice it. I love to see children and youth reach down into their pockets and put their money into the offering plate. But I think there is more to generosity -- there’s something behind the act itself. So here are some ideas about generosity that you might implement in your family to give it a fuller meaning.

First, teach your family that generosity is led by the Spirit. “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion.” 2 Corinthians 9:7. The Holy Spirit in your heart will lead you on what to give. We know that the Bible is clear on its teaching that all should give. But what (how much) will you give? I love this principle in 2 Corinthians 9, because it teaches us to be in touch with the Holy Spirit in each of us, and seek His guid-ance. This is much harder than “you need to give $10 every month,” which is what we might say to our chil-

ENgAgiNg YoUr wholE FAMilY iN god’s giviNg storY

by bret Allen

GenerosityteachinG


GenerosityteachinG

dren. What if we said to them, “I want you to decide in your heart with God what you are going to give?” This teaches them to give -- not under law, or reluc-tantly --but as cheerful givers. This is one way to help them experience what it means to walk with the Spirit (Galatians 5:25). My friend in the previous story gave from her heart.

Second, recognize when you are the recipient of others’ generosity. It’s a great teachable moment! Maybe someone brings over dinner because you just had a baby; a friend calls and says “I have two Magic tickets for you”; you spend the weekend at a friend’s beach condo; you get some clothes from a neighbor that don’t fit him anymore . . . these are examples of generosity. Sadly, we fail to see how we are often the beneficiaries of others’ generosity, living in our culture of abundance. Acknowledge to your family, “Wow that sure was generous of them!”

We are much more likely to be generous when we know what it’s like to be on the receiving end.

I wonder if my friend in the previous story was at camp because of someone else’s generosity?

Finally, celebrate acts of generosity. When someone in your family makes a choice to give, share in their excitement. God rejoices when we give, and so should we. Our enthusiasm for giving to God and others can be contagious if we humbly illustrate the real joy we experience when it happens. As your family grows in this spiritual discipline, you’ll have more and more reasons to celebrate and praise God together.

Bret Allen is FPCO’s Family Life Director. He and his wife, Kim, have four children and celebrate the story God tells in their life through His generosity, their generosity, and the generosity of others. Bret would love to share more ways your family can learn about the freedom and fun in giving. [email protected]

Make it tangible. Offering envelopes are a great way to teach kids about tithing and sacirifical giving, and can be ordered with a child’s name preprinted on them through the church. Call Trish Wilson at x1471 to get started.

Adopt a person or a ministry. Pray together about what you want to give to sacrifically, and save your pennies somewhere everyone can reach. Share updates at mealtimes and celebrate the ways God uses your gifts!

invest in their generosity. Give each member of your family some seed money and talk together about creative ways to multiply it for a greater gift by a certain date.

Count your blessings. Have everyone in the family list a few things they are thankful for, and spend time thanking God together. Identify one or two bless-ings each person can share with some-one else to practice giving (examples: a toy, a favorite food, an activity).

give something up. Consider changing the focus of an event, like a birthday, where kids can ask to have gifts be donations instead of toys or presents. Kids will love the experience of turning over what they collected to the recipi-ent.

5 Ideas for givingwith Your Family


KICKSTARTING FINANCIAL FREEDOM WITH DAVE RAMSAYliviNg diFFErENtlY

We’re excited that First Pres’ first Financial Peace University (FPU) class series has just wrapped up, graduating over 130 participants from our church family and city. During the course of this 9-week class, participants created and started a monthly, zero-based budget, worked with cash envelopes for specific needs/purchases, learned how to systematically reduce debt, and created emergency savings with the ultimate goal of having three to six months of expenses in the bank.

Each week participants gathered for a video lesson taught by Dave Ramsey, who shared the wisdom he gained by rebuilding his financial life after experienc-ing bankruptcy at an early age. Weekly small group discussion, hosted by facilitators with a passion and desire to see people succeed at managing their finan-cial household, was reinforced with homework and online support from the Dave Ramsey website. This helped each participant develop a plan that will ulti-mately permit them to live debt free.

Many indicated their classes were enhanced when their group met and discussed homework and life experiences, and kept them accountable to doing the homework.

While the adults gathered, Children’s Ministry offered a Junior Financial Peace class to our youngest stewards,

and 14 youth experienced Generation Change, proving it’s never too early to impart financial wisdom to our future leaders.

First Pres’ Generosity and Stewardship Team is plan-ning to offer Financial Peace University each year in January. Their goal is to provide our church family and community with tools, knowledge and a spiritual foundation of being Biblical stewards of God’s provi-sions. Look for more on upcoming classes - and if you can’t wait, see where FPU is starting at other churches in Orlando, by visiting daveramsey.com

Here’s what some of our graduates said about the class: “Loved it! It was so practical and even fun!”

“Taking FPU has helped my wife and I engage in money conversations that we usually avoid until it’s a crisis. The instruction has been helpful and the plan is workable.”

“Liked the tactical approach. We came out with a con-crete ‘to do’ list which is manageable.”

“It helped (forced) us to talk about money in very specific terms. Zero-based budget alone is worth this class!”

resources for GrowthwAYs ANd PlACEs to lEArN MorE AboUt gENErositY

CoMPAss, from the creators of Crown Minis-try. A helpful online library on Biblical finance, from ideas on how a married couple might ap-proach spending to what the Bible says about taxes. And if you’re a fan of spreadsheets, there’s also a free donwloadable spending plan. Handy. Visit www.compass1.org

gENEroUs giviNg, teaches the joy and freedom of giving through events and 1-day group sessions. Learn more about why “you never meet an unhappy generous person” and explore inspiring video stories on their web-site, www.generousgiving.org

sPiritUAl giFts worKshoPs at First Pres help individuals understand and begin to live into their God-given talents. For details, email Lori Needham at [email protected] or call 407.423.3441 x1463.

dAvE rAMsEY is living proof that generosity can transform your life, and teaches the practi-cal strategy to Biblical giving through Financial Peace University. See below, and visit www.daveramsey.com


Heart of the City Foundation was established in 1979 with the purpose of supporting the ongoing ministry of First Presbyterian Church of Orlando. By encourag-ing generosity among God’s people, our foundation is able to match resources with needs, all to the glory of God.

This past winter, Heart of the City Foundation (HOCF) celebrated the season of Advent with its annual Christ-mas party, generously hosted by Hardy and Betty Vaughn. We took the opportunity to honor two of our longstanding Board members who have recently rolled off the Board: Don Brown and Craig Clayton.

Don has served on the HOCF Board of Trustees since 1982 and has been a key advocate for the scholarships and missions focus of the foundation. Craig has served on the HOCF Board of Trustees since 1993 and has fo-cused his energies on Christian education and facility/capital improvements at the church.

GIVING 50 YEARS OF TIME AND TALENTA lEgACY oF lEAdErshiPby brad staton, hoCF Executive director

FroM lEFt: doN browN, CrAig ClAYtoN ANd NAtAliE hAMEr, dECEMbEr 5, 2012.

Combined, these two men have given almost 50 years of creativity, energy and time to the Heart of the City Foundation.

During their time of leadership HOCF has grown from a small endowment whose sole focus was awarding scholarships for college and seminary students to be-come what it is today: a foundation with greater than $5,000,000 under management, which, in addition to scholarships, focuses its funding in three other vital ar-eas: Christian education at First Presbyterian Church, facilities and capital improvements at First Presbyte-rian Church, and missions. Because of the faithfulness of Don, Craig, and others who have served and led at HOCF, our brightest days lie ahead.

If you would like to explore ways you could impact God’s Kingdom through generosity, please contact our Executive Director, Brad Staton, at [email protected] or x1457.


it is an awesome sight when you see a person’s god-given talent, passion and personality perfectly match with their profession. that is what i have wit-nessed over the past 30 years of watching my wife in action.

She has helped create not only an exceptional pre-school, but through that school, has been a witness for Christ to staff and parents, alike. This flows naturally from her love for young children, and a desire for them to have parents who are well-equipped for both the stresses and joys of parenthood.

Weekday School and its staff, parents, and children are really a part of Donna’s extended family. She plays many roles: administrator, counselor, advisor, someone to cry with, and someone to pray with. All these roles she accomplishes as a true servant leader.

When Donna announced her retirement to the staff, David Swanson was there to explain the process for the future and took time for questions. One of the teachers asked, “When Donna leaves, who will pray for us?”

I could go through examples of parents that she

Donna SpeerDonna Speer has served First Presbyterian Church of Orlando through her ministry at the Weekday School for 30 years. Retiring this summer, we celebrate her generous service as a beloved member of our staff, leadership and church family. Thank you, Donna!

has helped through difficult situations and decisions; equally important is the impact she has had on the Christian walk of many of the young women she has come in contact with throughout the years.

As Donna’s retirement nears, I look forward to the continuation of life’s journey with the love of my life and will enjoy watching her redirect her talents, hopefully at a slightly slower pace. ~ John speer

give Donna love & hugsstop by after worship on June 9 in the King Parlor to give donna a hug, and wish her well as she enters a new stage in life.

First Pres will present Donna with a love gift for her years of service. If you would like to partici-pate, please send your contribution* to:

FirstPres Orlando, ATTN: Finance 106 East Church Street, Orlando, FL 32801 Note: Donna Speer

*Love gifts are not tax deductible.

CElEbrAtiNg A wEEKdAY sChool lEgACY


Donna Dosh Speer has remained constant and stead-fast in bringing joy, life and love in the name of Jesus. Those in her path are not only inspired, but equipped to do the same in their lives. - Ritsy Carpenter

Many come to WDS because of the wonderful, loving preschool that it is. They continue to come (and send their friends and family) because of a wonderful leader that leads like Christ, Donna Speer. - Pam Oldham

Donna exemplifies ALL the fruits of the Spirit....love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gen-tleness, and self-control. I will be forever thankful for all that she has taught me. - Kris Leveille

Her ability to always see the great in people and her unwavering faithfulness has constantly served as a re-minder to me of what it really looks like to walk like Je-sus! - Anna Fetter

Donna’s gift of truly caring for families and employees caused immediate results at WDS. Everything pros-pered: waiting lists, volunteers, finances, prayer, and most important, spiritual nurturing. - Julie Burkett

Donna Speer is one in a million! She is loving, joyful, full of wisdom, and a faithful servant with a gentle, quiet spirit. Her impact for Christ not only reached the chil-dren, but their entire family. What a beautiful legacy she has left. - Michelle Sterchi

You feel Christ’s love as you walk into the Weekday School through Donna’s kind words and gentle smile. Thanks to God for a loving faithful servant – Donna Speer! - Cari Earle

Donna Speer has taught me what it means to be a good wife, mother, and friend. I thank the Lord for this wonderful woman. - Lou Anne King

The impact Donna has had for the Kingdom of God is immeasurable. I celebrate Donna and think Jesus is surely smiling and thinking, well done, good and faithful servant! - Michele Fluke

Donna was God’s perfect choice for the Director of Weekday School. He knew her sweet spirit would cre-ate and maintain a loving place for His youngest dis-ciples to learn, grow, and develop in a Christ-like envi-ronment. - Lisa Dukes

Working with Donna was such a privilege. I will always be thankful for the positive role model she was to me and my family. She has an amazing way of showing love, patience and kindness to all those around her! - Cara Batterson

I once heard Donna described as a “velvet covered brick.” She is gentle of spirit, yet strong; kind of heart, yet tenacious. Her calm demeanor belies her forceful nature. Her leadership and humility helped make WDS what it is today. - Julie Rutledge

Donna Speer is the most gracious and loving person you will ever meet. She will be greatly missed, but her legacy will continue through the hearts of the many chil-dren and parents whom she has touched over the years. - Carolyn Caplan

I have known Donna more years than she has been Di-rector at WDS. She has truly touched so many people through this ministry. Lots of love and best wishes to Donna in her next adventure. - Nancy McAllister

Love? ...check. Joy? ...check. Peace? Patience? ...check (in abundance!). The fruits of the Spirit define Donna Speer. She is a cherished friend to have for all time. I am blessed. - Beth Rossi

Donna Speer is one of the most effective lead-ers I have seen, ever. Her leadership inspires all to be their best and to give the glory to God! - Beth Emsley

I have known Donna Speer since I was a young girl. We will greatly miss her, but the mark she has made on this wonderful school, and our family, will last forever! - Jessica Pullum

Donna’s legacy will be the loving gift of her personal attention; unfailing support and wise counsel that has and will continue to shape the early lives of our precious children. All of us are better because of you, Donna. - Don Ammerman

DONNA’S GENEROSITY OF SPIRIT SHINES IN THE WORDS OF PAST WDS ADVISORY BOARD CHAIRS

lovE lEttErs


by dr. Case thorp, Pastor of Mission & Evangelism How do you prove you are a US citizen when, in spite of being born on a farm in Tennessee, your father failed to register your birth with the county courthouse? How do you access your Veterans Affairs’ assistance checks from the bank when you have no state ID, which is required to make a withdrawal? And finally, consider this one: you are born on a US military base in Germany, adopted by parents in the states, and your adoptive parents are killed before you are 18, leaving you no proof of birth, only proof of adoption. What do you do? These, and so many other complicated scenarios are why our community needs IDignity.

IDignity is a ministry that restores hope and dignity by providing identification. The documents that IDignity provides are required to apply for employment or school, obtain access to most shelters, vote, seek help from many social service programs, open a bank account or cash a check, secure housing and overcome many other obstacles to becoming self-sufficient.

Acquiring identification continues to become more difficult as stricter

regulations are regularly imple-mented by Homeland Security. Without IDignity assistance, many people are left without any ability to prove their name, their home, their existence. Gone to renew your driv-er’s license lately? It’s cumbersome, and expensive, especially when you have children to feed or no job. Caught in the system, people begin to doubt their dignity, or their claim as a child of God.

The need for IDignity arose when FPCO’s ministry to the homeless, Compassion Corner, was over-whelmed with individuals unable to get a Florida State ID.

Members from four other down-town churches got together and set their minds to solv-ing this problem. After meeting for a five-month period of ex-haustive research and interviews, the group devel-oped a viable solution.

IDignity lead-ers realized they could bring all the pieces to-gether to help

an individual prove their existence once again. IDignity monthly events bring together the Florida Division of Drivers Licenses, Orange County Health Department (birth certifi-cates), Veterans Affairs, Social Se-curity Administration, legal counsel and others. IDignity also facilitates the particularly difficult task of ob-taining out-of-state birth certifi-cates.

Since May of 2008 IDignity has served over 10,000 unique clients at monthly events hosted by the Orlando Union Rescue Mission in downtown Orlando. Each event provides service to about 225 clients and often has to turn others away due to capacity and funding limita-

tions. Clients are individually welcomed to the event and

treated with respect and compassion through-

out the process.

Imp l e m e nt i ng this program re-quires the assis-tance of nearly 100 dedicated v o l u n t e e r s and the pro-fessional staff of the vari-ous agencies. Vo lu nt e e r s


serve in a wide variety of roles in-cluding explaining the process to clients, filling out forms for clients, and assisting agencies or shepherd-ing clients through the process. In-terestingly, most of the volunteers leave these events feeling that they have been served themselves, and regularly return with a desire to do more. On average, it costs $25,000 per event, most of which are the di-rect costs for documents.

IDignity has expanded to host-ing events in Sanford, Brevard and Volusia Counties. In addition to the monthly event, clients can now come to the Compassion Corner (Magnolia and Livingston) on Fri-days to receive any documents that may have arrived.

What’s next for IDignity? State-wide expansion to license their unique process and share it in a sustainable way for the good of the poor. Who knew this little organi-zation would reach so far, affirming the image of God for all God’s chil-dren?

For more information, visit www.idignity.org.

FPCO Sponsors May IDignity eventCome one, come all! Join Dr. Case Thorp, FPCO Director of Mis-sion Carol Hafer, and many FPCO compatriots as we fill all the volun-teer spots for the IDig-nity event on thursday, May 16.

We’ll have great fellow-ship while performing an amazing act of love to IDignity clients.

• do you like hosting people? You’d make a great IDignity Shepherd.

• Are you keen with details, an attorney perhaps, and would like to help arrange documents? The Legal Station is for you!

• Are you curious and love to ask about people’s experiences? The Intake Station may be your place!

A variety of roles are available. Time blocks are as short as three hours, or as long as eight. Free and secure parking is available. IDignity will be held at the Orlando Union Rescue Mission on Central Boulevard and Division Avenue.

Sign up to volunteer at www.idignity.org. Questions? contact Case Thorp at [email protected].

Come out and show FPCo’s heart on May 16!


THE LAW OF LOVE WITH BETH MOORE

Women’s Ministry is excited to offer a new study this summer, designed to continue our exploration of the Old Testament. Dr. Swanson has been preach-ing and leading us through Old Testament scrip-tures each Sunday with the prophets, and this Beth Moore lecture series will offer a six-week glimpse into the final book written by Moses: Deuteronomy.

Deuteronomy begins with the wandering Israelites poised to enter the Promised Land. This has been a long journey; most that left Egypt forty years earlier have passed on, but Moses has remained the shep-herd of the next generation.

Moses, realizing he will not enter this Promised Land with them, writes all that he has told them so they will not forget. Deuteronomy is an instruc-tional book; stressing the importance of obedience and the blessing it brings, but also reminding them of disobedience and the curses of God’s punish-ment.

Above all, it is a book written with love; a book that communicates God’s patience, faithfulness, and great affection for His people. Moses wrote this book for future generations, and we enjoy it as the benefactors of his wise and loving instruction.

This study is primarily a lecture series with teaching videos from Beth Moore, and very minimal home-work in between meeting times. There will also be a shortened small group discussion opportunity each week, to reflect and review.

Questions? Contact Lori Needham at x1463 or email [email protected].

by lori Needham, women’s Ministry

woMEN’s sUMMEr biblE stUdY

CLASS DETAILSThere are two options for class times:

Mondays, June 10 - July 15 6-8pm Thursdays, June 13 - July 25 9:30am -11:30am(Childcare available for infants through age 4, by reservation. $7 for one child, $10 for two.) Cost is $15 and includes the participant guide.

Register by Friday, May 31 at fpco.org/registeror by picking up a form in the Welcome Center (the lobby of the Edington Ministry Center).


The Collection for the Lord’s People

8 And now, brothers and sisters, we want you to know about the grace that God has given the Macedonian churches. 2

In the midst of a very severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. 3 For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their abil-ity. Entirely on their own, 4 they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the Lord’s people. 5 And they exceeded our expectations: They gave themselves first of all to the Lord, and then by the will of God also to us. 6 So we urged Titus, just as he had earlier made a beginning, to bring also to completion this act of grace on your part. 7 But since you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in the love we have kindled in you[a]—see that you also excel in this grace of giving.

8 I am not commanding you, but I want to test the sincerity of your love by comparing it with the earnestness of others. 9 For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich.

10 And here is my judgment about what is best for you in this matter. Last year you were the first not only to give but also to have the desire to do so. 11 Now finish the work, so that your eager willingness to do it may be matched by your completion of it, according to your means. 12 For if the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what one does not have.

13 Our desire is not that others might be relieved while you are hard pressed, but that there might be equality. 14 At the present time your plenty will supply what they need, so that in turn their plenty will supply what you need. The goal is equality, 15 as it is written: “The one who gathered much did not have too much, and the one who gathered little did not have too little.”

2 Corinthians 8:1-15

What do you look for when you study your Bible? What is important? Dr. Case Thorp shares insight into the Apostle Paul’s thoughts on giving.

brEAK it dowN the Apostle Paul writes

to the church in Corinth,

Greece from Ephesus (now

Turkey).

some scholars argue 1&2 Cor.

is really 5 shorter letters

bound together; this passage

is from letter #4

Northern Greece

v. 2-5 describe the actions of the gen-

erous churches in Macedonia, but notice

how Paul rightly describes the source of

motivation behind their generosity: God’s

grace.

*

they gave until it hurt! Hmmm...

when was the last time I did that?

giving to the Lord’s work is a privilege

Paul’s protégé who also planted & led house churches

Paul is being a bit ironic here. He is complementing the very qualities they proudly claim for themselves. He slyly suggests that their generous giving could “catch up” to their other amazing qualities! Ha!

not a law or requirement, but a test of sincerity (ouch!)

theological underpinnings to our

financial giving. we can’t out-give

Jesus because He gave it all...

but, Paul sure wants us to try!

not equal giving,

but equal sacrific

e


SuMMer reADING fresh picks from the First Pres staff

“24/6 by Matthew Sleeth, M.D. A book about the Sabbath command, the only command-ment that begins with the word, ‘remember’ -- almost as if God knew we would forget. Challenging and practical.” - KENT STERCHI, LIFE COMMUNITY

“God’s Big Picture by Vaughan Roberts. Wish I’d had it when I started follow-ing Jesus. It gives an incred-ible summary of the story arc of the Bible and is easy to understand. Read it even if you’re not brand new.”- PAIGE RAGAN, COMMUNICATIONS

“Fifty-Seven Words That Change the World: A Journey Through The Lord’s Prayer by Darrell W. Johnson has a long title, but it’s a brief, powerful exploration of Jesus’ most brilliant prayer.” - DONNA MACLELLAN, CONGREGATIONAL CARE

“Everlasting Life is a book two years in the making, and one I’ve wanted to write for awhile. It examines our questions about death/grief and explores the immense hope of heaven. ” - DAVID SWANSON, WORSHIP

“Ancient-Future Time by Robert Webber is a won-derful book to begin to see spiritual formation in our lives through observation of the Christian year...you experienced some of this in the Maundy Thursday service.” - DAN SHARP, WORSHIP

“Jesus Through Middle Eastern Eyes by Kenneth Bai-ley helped me gain a clearer understanding of the Jewish and Middle Eastern mindset in light of Jesus being a Middle Eastern Jewish Rabbi.” - DAN SHARP, WORSHIP

“Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand is one of the best nonfiction books I’ve read. I highly, highly rec-ommend it. You can’t put it down.” - BRET ALLEN, FAMILY LIFE

“Parenting with Love and Logic by Foster Cline and Jim Fay is full of practical ‘use-it-now’ ideas on how to parent common situations that come up every day with children.” - SARAH SAVAGE, CHILDREN’S MINISTRY

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“Sacred Parenting by Gary Thomas reveals how we learn about God through parenting our children. There’s a reason we have the exact children we have.” - SARAH SAVAGE, CHILDREN’S MINISTRY

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by dr. Case thorp

How can a Southern Baptist and a Roman Catholic read the same Bible and come out with very dif-ferent views on things like baptism? How is it that so many denomi-nations can interpret the Bible so differently? From those inter-pretations, religious practice can sometimes even grow outside the bounds of Biblical orthodoxy. Yet, what is Biblical orthodoxy, and who is to say?

These are the very real and daily questions I receive as a pastor. We know perspective matters, but often within Christian denominations there are unspoken theologies at work, assumptions, and philosophical convictions known by only a few trained leaders, or not recognized at all. David Jasper’s helpful little book, A Short Introduction to Hermeneutics, lays a great foundation for understanding and articulating clearly the “why” and “how” behind a particular Scripturally-based belief.

Jasper’s short book (it is actually a quick read) traces the history of Biblical interpretation. This area of theo-logical study is called hermeneutics. This odd word is based on the Greek god Hermes, who was the messen-ger for the gods. Jasper writes, “Hermeneutics, then, is

about ‘interpretation’ or even ‘translation,’ and especially the interpretation of sacred texts, which believers may understand as in some sense divinely inspired or ‘the word of God.’ ”

Jasper efficiently summarizes major eras of interpretation development from the early church, to the scholasticism of the middle ages, to the age of enlightenment, to today. Along the way he pulls in the theologians and Christian leaders from our Reformed tradition, like Calvin and Barth. Jasper presents the challenges to the Bible that came with the quest for the historical Jesus in the Enlightenment and the 20th century.

Having read Jasper’s book, the next time I’m speak-ing with a Baptist neighbor or a Greek Orthodox friend, I will better understand their views. Anyone, Christian or non-Christian, who seeks a greater un-derstanding of the Bible and its role in our lives will be blessed by some quality time with Dr. Jasper. Dr. Case Thorp is FPCO’s pastor of Mission & Evangelism and gets really excited about theology and the study of orthodoxy. We love him anyway. If you have questions about the Bible and how to understand it, he can help. [email protected]

(WJK Press; $23 paperback; used copies available online)

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No, Really, Hermeneutics

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Remember, spiritual disciplines are not always major lifestyle changes. They are often subtle changes in implementing habits and practices that lead to an intimacy with God and an awareness of the activity of the Holy Spirit in our life.

Some of these spiritual disciplines are wor-ship, devotional reading, prayer, Sabbath keep-ing, works of compassion or service, fellowship, confession, submission, celebration, stewardship and journaling.

Did you know Christ spoke more about money than any other topic in the New Testament? He obviously knew that money, the abundance of it or the lack of it, would create earthly problems for us! Thankfully, His teachings are guideposts, offering wise instruction to those who follow.Stewardship can mean many things to many people. Webster’s Dictionary defines stewardship as “the individual’s responsibility to manage his life and property with proper regard to the rights of others.” Based on this definition, stewardship can – and is – the proper and orderly way we possess and distribute our financial wealth, as well as the care and management of our time, gifts and talents provided by God to serve Him, and others.How we handle our money and possessions is a heart issue – reflection and evidence of the activity of the Holy Spirit. Our attitude toward money and possessions is what guides us in our daily decisions. Many teachers on this topic have come to contentment as the core issue - contentment is mentioned seven times in the Bible; six of those refer to money. The Apostle Paul’s letters to the early churches often referred to his contentment with his circumstances, but illustrate that contentment does not come naturally to us. Contentment is learned. That is difficult when the daily contrast of what we experience in the world and society would instruct us that God plays no role in handling our money and our happiness is based on being able to sustain,

or improve, our standard of living. Scripture will tell you the opposite! As we learn to handle money and possessions, we draw closer to Christ and will learn to be content in our circumstances.If this is a spiritual discipline you haven’t addressed lately, be challenged with ways to incorporate faithful habits that will be pleasing to God. If you’re a former student of a generosity class, pull out your study books and reflect on the biblical instruction these classes offered.

Questions for reflection & action:1. How are you doing with your stewardship of

finances and possessions?

2. What are some of the ways God has blessed you, personally?

3. Have you spent time in His Word, discerning His instruction and how you can use your blessings to bless others and build His kingdom?

4. Do you struggle to be content with what you have? If so, why?

making spiritual disciplines a daily habitTIMe WITH goD

Taking the Next Step

Gordon MacDonald’s 4-week de-votional, Generosity: Moving To-ward Life that is Truly Life is a great starting point and tool for personal study.

Randy Alcorn’s Managing God’s Money and Howard Dayton’s Your Money Counts, each give Biblical guidance that will help start you on a path towards contentment. Each of these can be ordered at christianbook.com


FAMilY NEwsSympathy to...The family and friends of Martha Brownell, who died December 22, 2013.

The family and friends of Rosa Watkins, who died January 16, 2013.

Joyce Layton, on the death of her sister, Judith Moore, on January 16, 2013.

Katy Becker and Josh Benoit on the death of her grandmother, Maryan Alleman, on January 16, 2013.

Ernest and Phyllis Wells, on the death of his brother, Eddie James Wells, on January 22, 2013.

Vicki and Mike Gillett, on the death of her brother, Jimmy Carroll, on January 29, 2013.

Jessica and Kasey Keltner, on the death of her grandmother, Marie Knipmeyer, on January 30, 2013.

Russ and Janice Divine, on the death of his mother, Ann Divine, on February 2, 2013. Mrs. Divine was the grandmother of Rebecca and Rachel (Gabe).

Rich and Lindsay Bryan, on the death of his father, Richard Bryan, Sr., on February 2, 2013. Mr. Bryan was the grandfather of Alice, Ann Elizabeth, and Ben Bryan.

Michelle and Ron Haugh, on the death of her father, Robert Lee Busse, on February 4, 2013. Mr. Busse was the grandfather of Courtney and Chris Haugh.

Libby and Steve Bludsworth, on the death of her mother, Mary Eiserman, on February 8, 2013. Mrs. Eiserman was the grandmother of Katie Bludsworth.

Joe Jezequel, on the death of his wife, Phyllis Jezequel, on February 8, 2013.

Martha Jones, on the death of her grandson, Jon Justin Jones, on February 9, 2013.

Lettie Motl, on the death of her granddaughter, Nicole Franco, on February 12, 2013.

Lindsay and Jeremiah Jenkins, on the death of her grandmother, Elaine Warden, on February 14, 2013.

Mike and Beth Nolen, on the death of his mother, Josephine Nolen, on February 16, 2013. Mrs. Nolen was the grandmother of Kelly (Chris) Woods, Tracy (Greg) Bruce, Amy (Brian) Carr, and great-grandmother of Caleb and Jacob Woods.

Susan and Steve Clauss, on the death of her father, Robert Salser, on February 22, 2013. Mr. Salser was the grandfather of Taylor and Jake Clauss.

George Neder, on the death of his wife, Benita Neder, on March 2, 2013.

Kay Hildum, on the death of her sister, Mary Tate, on March 4, 2013.

Michelle Hooper, on the death of her sister, Diane Lynne Sowder, on March 8, 2013.

Mike and Trice Abufaris, on the death of his mother, Adibe Abufaris, on March 8, 2013.

The family and friends of Mary Hicks, who died March 9, 2013.

Erica Saunders, on the death of her mother, Jane Frazier, on March 10, 2013. Mrs. Frazier was the grandmother of Amanda Saunders.

Mark and Joan McDonough, on the death of his brother, Tim McDonough, on March 12, 2013.

Chuck and Connie Clark, on the death of his mother, Barbara Clark, on March 13, 2013.

David and Winnie Runnels, on the death of his mother, Jennie Runnels, on March 14, 2013.

Jean Severance, on the death of her son, Graydon LeWayne Severance III, on March 16, 2013.

Lindsey, Mace, Lisl, Annys, and Hunter Dye, on the death of their grandmother, Shirley Dye, on March 17, 2013.

Dave and MaryBeth Riccaboni, on the death of his father, Francis J. Riccaboni, on March 30, 2013.

Call FPCO at 407.423.3441 to

For PAstorAl EMErgENCiEs after the hours of 8:30am-5:00pm, please leave a voicemail message on the main church number to page the minister on call.

Congratulations to...Bo & Lauren Morgan have a daughter, Carter Grace Morgan, born February 3, 2013. The proud grandparents are Chris & Dianna Morgan, and the proud great-grandmother is Phyllis Fuller.

Jason & Lauren Ashe Haydu have a son, Ryder Patrick Haydu, born March 6, 2013. The proud grandparents are Day & Laura Dantzler.

Eric Michael Faber and Jenna Louise Knox were married March 22, 2013, in the Sanctuary.

Elliott & Lindsay Drake have a son, Linton Daniel Drake, born March 14, 2013, in Denver, Colorado. The proud grandparents are Kent & Michelle Sterchi, and the great-grandmother is Happy Sterchi.

Christopher James Creegan and Kristin Elizabeth Stewart were married April 6, 2013, at Lake Lucerne Inn, in Orlando.

- schedule a baptism x1451- request a hospital visit x1455- plan a wedding x1453- arrange a memorial service x1455- donate flowers for worship x1272- ask giving questions x1479- change your address x1471- purchase a sermon DVD x1438- reserve childcare x2227- reach security 407.415.9793- reserve a meeting space x1459- ask about this magazine x1467

gEEKY thEologiCAl hUMor AsidE,wE’vE MovEd oN FACEbooK.givE Us A thUMbs UP!

First Presbyterian Church of Orlando106 E. Church St., Orlando, FL 32801

The First Presbyterian Columns (USPS 604-040) is published bimonthly by the First Presbyterian Church. Circulation: 2,500. (2,000 by US Mail, 500 by on-campus distribution). Periodicals postage paid at Orlando, Florida. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to COLUMNS, 106 E. Church St. Orlando, FL 32801-3390.©2013 First Presbyterian Church of Orlando COLUMNS.

POSTMASTER: Time Sensitive MaterialPlease Deliver by MAY 1, 2013

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tRADItIonAl WoRshIP: sundays, 8:30 & 11:00am

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in lee Fellowship hall

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ADUlt sUnDAY school: sundays, 9:45 - 10:45am

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