MISSION STATEMENT: To connect ourselves and others to Christ through acts of faith and love. VISION STATEMENT: First Evangelical Lutheran Church of Lexington shall be a Christ-centered community participating in Spirit-led worship, challenging learning and loving outreach; willing to be transformed by the Gospel and eagerly using our gifts to transform the world around us.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

Prayer Requests 2 Inreach News 10-11

Announcements/Home Communion 3 Learning Team / Property Team / Yoga Opportunity 12-13

Lutheran Men/First Steps in Faith 4 Just for Laughs 14

Women’s Beach Retreat / Note of Thanks 5 Thoughts from the Heart 15

Outreach News 6-9 Youth News 16-17

Blood Drive 9 Calendar/Ministry Schedule/Joys and Cares 18-25

First News January 2020

Volume 26 Issue 1

First News

BUSINESS NAME

Pastor’s Message The Rev. Matthew L. Miller

Ephesians 1:3-6 (NRSV)

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, just as he chose us in Christ before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless before him in love. He destined us for

adoption as his children through Jesus Christ, according to the good pleasure of his will, to the praise of his glorious grace that he freely bestowed on us in the Beloved.

Most often, my pastor’s article this time of year has an anti-resolution theme for the new year. I’m not very big on the idea. However, this year, I was inspired by the Ephesians text. Paul is addressing a mostly Gentile people who are not sure how they are connected to the chosen family of the Jews. Paul points out that, through Christ, all are part of the family in a spirit of adoption.

All are welcome. There is no longer Jew or Gentile; male or female; gay or straight; member or visitor; rich or poor; Democrat or Republican—only children of God gathered by the Spirit around the Lord’s table.

So, this brings me to my resolution. I am going to try to be more thankful. This is how Paul begins his letter—thanking God and the community in Ephesus. Every congregation that I have served, for that matter every congregation I know about, would say “all are welcome.” But are they? I am so thankful to be the pastor of a congregation that tries diligently to reflect such reality. Don’t get me wrong, we are not perfect in our attempt to welcome. We could also do a better job at reaching out into Lexington—but that’s a subject for another article. I am thankful to God for a community of people, living under God’s Spirit of adoption, who embrace the understanding that all are God’s children, and make certain that all are welcome at First Lutheran Church.

God’s Peace,

Pastor Matt

F IRST NEWS PAGE 2

Prayer Requests

Connie Albertson (Friend of Bleasha Carroll)

Leandra Andersen (FLC Seminarian at Gettysburg)

Susan Avery and Family (Friends of Christi Nebrich)

Charles Baker (Bill Baker’s father)

Stanley Barr (Aaron Barr’s father)

Jesse Both (Laura Tanley’s nephew)

Mary Brink (Niece of Pauletta Conrad)

Gene Bullock (Tracy Miller’s uncle)

Anne Burkhart (friend of Pam Mabry)

Tessa Burns (Bob Redwine’s niece)

Johnsie Canny (Emma Apple’s sister)

Cody Carlson

Jim Carrier (Tracy Miller’s dad)

Betty Caudill (friend of Carole Gasque)

Rita Caudle (friend of Sabrina Conrad)

Adam Cheely (Michelle Eppinga’s son)

Edward Clancy (friend of Bing Sudarmono)

Martha Clodfelter (Ken Clodfelter’s cousin)

Jessica Crabb

Don and Jackie Craft (Rebecca Moretz’ parents)

Amy and Wes Cups

Maureen Darcy (friend of Connie Beck McMillan)

Robert Dasch (Father of Keith Dasch)

Jean Conrad Darstein

Robin Sink Deal

Paul DeLaney (Friend of Laura Tanley)

Marina Dunaway and family (friends of Karen Riggs)

Sean Farrell (Friend of the Mabrys)

Danny Fine (Lynn Smith’s brother)

Amanda Hathcock

Simon Hathcock

Marlon Gaskins (Friend of Scott and Deb Wertman)

Carole Gasque

Marshell Gasque (Carole Gasque’s daughter in law)

Rick Gransee

Angie Gray (Friend of Lynn Smith)

Ross Gray (Friend of Danny and Carol

Leonard)

Sammy Gray (Friend of Peggy Everhart Nance)

The Greer Family (Friends of Karen Riggs)

Sarah Hamby (Debbie Triplett’s aunt)

Mary Harken (Carol Leonard’s mother)

Wayne Harrison (Mabry Harrison’s father)

Chris Harwood (Beth Lemly’s brother)

Lydia Henderson (friend of Bleasha Carroll)

Ronald Hensley (friend of Mary Huneycutt)

Angelica Hernandez (coworker of Bill Nebrich)

Barbara Sue Herring (Friend of FLC)

James Hewett (friends of Bill and Christi Nebrich)

Gail Hill (Friend of Tawn Bizzell)

Jeff Hutcherson (Husband of Karen Rigg’s coworker, Jill)

Caleb Hutcherson (Son of Karen Rigg’s coworker, Jill)

Damon Jones (brother of clothing closet volunteer, Teresa Smith)

Betty Jordan (friend of the Carlsons)

Karen Kernstine (friend of Sabrina Conrad)

John Kleine (Nancy Carlson’s brother-in-law)

Jack Kunz (Nancy Carlson’s father)

Beth and Katie Lemly

David Lemly (Katie Lemly’s brother)

Aleigha Lockhart and Family (Neighbors of the Nebrichs)

Hazel Lovelace (Jim Lovelace’s mother)

Ken Lovelace (Carole Gasque’s son-in-law)

Lynn Mack (friend of Carole Gasque)

Bob Mallabar (brother of Celie Lough)

Maria (Abbi Thompson’ friend)

Mandy Marshall (Debbie Triplett’s daughter)

David Mathis (Friend of Dalane and Debra Kitzman)

Deb McGraw (friend of Patrick Harris)

Heidi McGuire (Friend of Ashley Barr)

Joetta McQueen

Samantha Medley (Lynn Smith’s cousin)

Larry Michaels

Dawn Moore (friend of Sabrina Conrad)

Ronnie Moretz

Nora Morris (Ken Clodfelter’s sister)

Claire Murphy (Rebecca Moretz’ cousin)

Robert Phelps (friend of FLC)

Willie Ruth Pless

Libby Puckett (friend of Connie Beck McMillan)

Everette Pye (friend of FLC)

Dwight Rhodes (Deborah Wertman’s brother)

Craig and Lisa Royal (friends of FLC)

Andrea Schwartz (Friends of Sabrina Conrad)

Lynn Scoggins (brother-in-law of Beth and Katie Lemly)

Pat Severt and Family (friend of Beth Lemly) Angie Shaw (friend of April Thompson)

Gracie Shepherd

Jody Shepherd

Dottie Sigmon

Sylvia Sink

David Smith (Nephew of Bob Sink)

Jimmy Steele (friend of Mary Huneycutt)

Marilee Strasser (friend of Bill and Patsie Baker)

Dan Swaim (Carole Gasque’s son-in-law)

Denny Swimley (brother-in-law of Scott and Deborah Wertman)

Jackie Taylor (Lorraine Carlson’s sister)

Mark Teachey (Jon and Celie Lough’s son-in-law) Marie Thomason (Sarah Whitaker’s grandmother)

April Thompson

Terry Triplett

Deborah Wertman

Sarah Vestal (friend of Beth Huber)

Glenn Visbeen (friend of John Leonard)

Mary Louise Wilkerson (Friend of FLC)

Earl and Jan Willette

Devone Wohl (Dalane Kitzman’s sister)

Kara Wood (Mary Nebrich’s teacher)

Carol Ann Yetman (Friend of FLC in Canada)

The families of those who have

passed to life eternal:

Expectant Parents:

Kyle and Robin (Lockwood )Young

Brent and Sarah Huskey (Bob Sink’s Grandchildren)

F IRST NEWS PAGE 3

FLC Announcements

Agape Circle The Agape Circle will meet at Pick and Paint Plus at 2:00 PM on Sunday, 1/12/2020. Mary Circle The Mary Circle will meet in the Family Life Center at 10:30 AM on Tuesday, 1/7/2020. Outreach Team The Outreach Team will meet at 6:30 PM on Thursday, 1/9/2020. FLC Seniors The FLC Seniors will not meet in January. Prayer Shawls The Prayer Shawl group will meet at 7:00 PM on Thursday, 1/9/2020, and Thursday 1/23/2020. Inreach Team The Inreach Team will not meet in January. Property Team The Property Team will meet on Monday, 1/13/2020, at 7:00 PM.

Lutheran Men in Mission The Lutheran Men will meet at 6:30 PM on Monday, 1/27/2020. Endowment Team Meeting The Endowment Team will meet on Monday, 1/6/2020. Phil Lohr, will communicate with members about the meeting time. Movie Night Movie Night will be on Friday, 1/24/2020. Harris Team The next meeting of the Harris Team will be announced when scheduled. Pericope Come join us each Tuesday at 8:00 AM for our Weekly Pericope at Southern Lunch. Newsletter Deadline If you have something to be included in the next Edition of First News, please have your articles or announcements to Kelly or Amanda by the 20th of each month.

Ministry Opportunity—Home Communion

Home Communion

We would like to offer training for individuals who might be interested in taking communion to our folks who may be hospitalized, institutionalized or homebound. Hope you will consider this awesome opportunity! If you are interested, please contact our church office. Please contact Pastor Matt or Celie (336-249-6038) if you have questions.

F IRST NEWS PAGE 4

Lutheran Men in Mission

Lutheran

Men

In

Mission

SCHEDULE FOR 2020 (115 YEARS!)

Don’t forget: Lutheran Men (all FLC men and friends of the congregation!) meet every month on the fourth Monday at 6:30 PM. All are welcome!

President: John Leonard

Vice President: Dalane Kitzman

Secretary: Denny Whalen

Treasurer: David Apple

Date Host

January 27 TBD

February 24 TBD

March 23 TBD

April 27 TBD

May 25 TBD

June 22 TBD

July 27 TBD

August 24 TBD

September 28 TBD

October 26 TBD

November 23 TBD

December 13 Annual Christmas Banquet

First Steps in Faith

First Steps in Faith will resume in February, 2020.

First Steps in Faith

First News Page 5

Note of Thanks

The staff of First Evangelical Lutheran

Church wish to express our sincere

appreciation to the people of FLC for the

generous love offering we received at

Christmas. We are privileged to serve

God at FLC and we’re grateful that we

have been brought together at this time

and place.

Pr. Matt, Amanda, Bing and Kelly

Women’s Beach Trip 2020

Wednesday, April 22 through 26.

Calling all women of the congregation for a fun, relaxing and spirit-filled weekend in

North Myrtle Beach!

Total Cost: $200-$255

(depending upon how many attend)

Down payment of $100 is due to Kim Odum by February 2.

Women’s Beach Retreat

F IRST NEWS PAGE 6

Outreach Teena Walker

OUTREACH NEWS

Next Meeting: Thursday, January 9, 6:30 PM

We would like to extend an invitation to join our group to anyone who is interested; we are always looking for new ideas for outreach projects. Please contact Teena Walker at 787-3211; or e-mail her at twalker7@triad.rr.com if you are interested in being part of this exciting group, or have any questions or ideas!

January 19

Lutheran Family Services

On the third Sunday of each month, members are invited to contribute their change (we also accept bills and checks!) as the children take up our “Noisy Offering” during worship service. Different agencies and programs receive

these contributions throughout our church year.

Clothes Closet Work Days

January 2 and January 16

2:00 PM

Join us if you are available!

The Disaster Recovery ministry continues to collect metals for recycling -to cash to support recovery missions. All metals have value. We can also recycle electrical cords, motors, and even Christmas Tree lights. There is a collection bin at the rear of the event shelter next to the plet of bricks for cans. For heavy such as appliances, for pick up contact:

Denny Whalen (336-242-3042) dwhalen@lexcominc.net

Thank you to all for your continued

contributions.

First News Page 7

Outreach Teena Walker

January 18

9:00 AM - Noon

The Closet will be open the third Saturday of each month.

It would be nice if donated items were sorted by male/female/children and winter/summer clothing if possible, with bags or boxes marked before donating. This would help us keep up with the sorting, but it is NOT required. Please bring clothing donations to the Closet when it is open (3rd Saturday), or during work days (1st & 3rd Thursdays, monthly).

We are in need of additional volunteers at the

Clothing Closet. Please consider lending a hand at the workdays on October 3, and October 17. We will also welcome your help on October 19

during the regular operating hours.

Please note: We need men’s clothing: work pants and jeans, underwear and socks, as well as casual shirts and tee shirts. We are really desperate! Please clean out your closets and consider making donations. Thank you!

Please note: We have an additional drop-off location, now at FLC. You can leave donations in the first class-room to the right on the lower floor of the original building (directly under Kelly’s office).

Cracker Ministry Churches throughout the county are assigned specific grocery items to keep the food pantry stocked at Crisis Ministry. First Lutheran is responsible for keeping a supply of crackers stocked. We continue to need your contributions of crackers for this ministry. Please bring them to church and place them in the Chapel hallway. Thanks to Phil Lohr for coordinating this ministry.

“Friday Night at the Movies” is a regular event! This is a community event, free of charge on the

fourth Friday of every month. Movies are shown in the Family Life Center; popcorn and refreshments

are also served!

January 24

7:00 PM

F IRST NEWS PAGE 8

Outreach Teena Walker

Our friends from Mt. Tabor UCC have been indispensable in helping with our clothes closet. They have asked for help in return. Carolina Senior Care provides a day cen-ter for the elderly with a goal of helping them remain in their homes. Many of them receive food stamps that are inadequate to provide for their needs. We have been asked to collect items that aren’t covered and will be collecting them on an ongoing basis. Thank you for helping us in our continuing effort to reach out to those in need. Most needed items are listed below. Please leave your donations at the collection point beside the chapel.

Toilet paper

Paper towels

Laundry detergent

Dish detergent

Hand Soap

Multi-purpose cleaning supplies

Toilet bowl cleaner

Shampoo

Conditioner

Shaving Cream

Body lotion

Body wash

Bar soap

Denture cleaner

Mouthwash

Toothpaste

Toothbrush

Deodorant

Genesis House Ministry

January 26

Chancel and Handbell Choirs

The fourth Sunday of each month FLC provides a meal to serve those

individuals staying at the Genesis House (our local shelter for homeless women and children).

Please note that the Pop Tabs and other tabs are used

to support the Ronald McDonald House.

Please be generous with your donations; the Pantry’s primary focus is Senior

Citizens.

January - Canned meats (chicken, tuna, etc.)

February – dry pasta and/or pasta sauce

March – canned pasta (i.e., spaghetti, ravioli, etc.)

April - dry beans

May - instant mashed potatoes

June - grits (individual serving-size packets)

July - Hamburger Helper or an off-brand version

August - canned tuna

September - cans of mixed vegetables

October – oatmeal (individual serving-size packets)

November – soups

December – macaroni & cheese

First News Page 9

Outreach Teena Walker

Blood Drive

January 15

2:00 PM — 6:30 PM

Please contact Carol Leonard for more

details, to volunteer, or to register as a donor.

Please let Bleasha Carroll, Inreach Team Leader, know of your ideas!

Next meeting date will be announced.

Anyone interested in joining this team is welcome to attend as we discuss plans for the coming year.

F IRST NEWS PAGE 10

Inreach News

Thursday, January 9, and January 23

7:00 PM

The prayer shawl ministry generally meets on the second and fourth Thursdays each month at 7:00 PM in the Family Life Center. Everyone is invited to attend, from beginners to experienced knitters or crocheters. There will be some experienced people there to help teach the beginners or show new stitches to those who already know how to knit/crochet. Please bring your own knitting needles/crochet hook to the meeting.

If you are unable to come to our sessions (or simply prefer to work on your own), the shawls can be made at home. If you have any questions, please contact Lynn Smith at (336) 249-9704 or e-mail danlynnruss@lexcominc.net.

If anyone has a need for a shawl, please contact someone in the prayer shawl ministry or Pastor Matt.

The FLC Seniors will not meet in January.

Inreach — FLC Seniors

First News Page 11

Inreach News

Please see the bulletin board across from the Chapel to sign up as a host for a monthly Supper Club (open to EVERYONE) activity.

“Building Community”

Please join us in the Narthex for coffee after Sunday School and prior to Worship!

Sermon bags are available for children. The bag contains crayons to use during worship to color their

bulletins. A basket is located at the rear of the sanctuary. Please remember to return the bags to

the basket in the Narthex each Sunday.

Beer and Bible Tuesday, January 7

7:00 PM Brewer’s Kettle

Nursery is provided to those

who need it – please let Amanda know if you need this

option. Pizza is provided.

PAGE 12

Learning Team

Sunday School

Amy & Melissa teach our elementary school class

Denny Whalen teaches our adult class Pastor Matt offers a class from

9:40 — 10:10 for middle school thru adults.

Property Team

Property Team

The Property Team

will meet at 7:00 PM

on Monday, January 13, 2020.

F IRST NEWS PAGE 13

Yoga Opportunity

From our resident Yoga Instructor, Pat Savage:

Please join us for (4) free classes to feel better by stretching the body.

Create better balance by stretching and toning the muscles.

Learn proper breathing .

Calm your mind.

If you suffer from arthritis, elevated blood pressure, etc, the class is for you! Join us on Mondays and Wednesdays at 9:00 AM in the Youth Room. Your first four classes are absolutely free!

Pat welcomes your questions. You may call her at 336-250-7768.

Try it, you will like it!

PAGE 14

Just for Laughs…..

F IRST NEWS PAGE 15

Thoughts From the Heart Dr. Dalane Kitzman

“Our Beacon”

Last night near dusk, on Christmas day during our vacation near Charleston, I walked to the end of Folly island. To my surprise there was a bunch of people gathered there, including a news crew. The light atop the famous Folly Island lighthouse was going to be turned on for a few hours. This is a rare event since the lighthouse has long been decommissioned. So I dwelled there to watch. I took the picture (see above) just after it turned on. Notice the turbulent waves in front and the dark descending all around. Just like it feels sometimes in our lives. But then, there comes The Light, guiding us through the storm, like our personal Beacon. What comfort!

Isaiah 41:10: God said, "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will

strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

Isaiah 43:1b-2:

“Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep

over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.”

PAGE 16

FLC Youth News

F IRST NEWS PAGE 17

FLC Youth News

PAGE 18

7:00 PM Property Team

Endowment Team

F IRST NEWS PAGE 19

Ministry Schedule

January 2020 Ministry Schedule

Lectionary Calendar

January

5

January

12

January

19

January

26

Christmas II Baptism of

Our Lord

Second Sunday After

Epiphany

Third Sunday After

Epiphany

Altar Flowers Open Open Open Open

Lector Marcia Hoffmann John Conrad Joanna Deyton Danny Leonard

Sound System Lee Conrad John Leonard John Conrad Jack Deyton

Tellers Emma Apple

Bob Sink

Kelly Newsome

Teena Walker

Rick Grubb

Jim Lovelace

Lee Conrad

Debra Kitzman

Nursery Attendants

Carol Leonard Katie Tulledge Rebecca Moretz

Sabrina Conrad

Ushers Kara Conrad, Lee and Lori Conrad, Joe Carroll

Acolyte Kinsley Odum

Crucifer Caroline Dasch

Communion Stewards

Lynn Smith, Pat Mills

Communion Preparation

Debra Kitzman

Paraments Emma Apple

PAGE 20

CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY IS EXTENDED TO: Family and friends upon the death of Billy “BJ” Joe Bowers. Joe,78, of Linwood, died December 17 after a period of declining health. A Celebration of Life service was held December 21 at Linwood United Methodist Church, where he was a member and served on several boards and committees. Kelly Newsome served as organist for the service. Joe had a 30-year career as a North Carolina Highway Patrol Trooper; he was a special friend of Dottie Sigmon. After retiring from the Highway Patrol, he worked a 12-year stint as a security guard at PPG, followed by ten years driving a charter bus for Holiday Tours. He was also active in community organizations, including the Linwood Lions Club; he was also a special friend of Tim and Debbie Williams. Joe was names Linwood Lions Club Lion of the Year. Ken Clodfelter and family upon the death of his sister, Nora Morris. Nora, 91, of Lexington went to be with her Lord and Savior on December 25; she had just recently been moved into Hinkle Hospice House following a sudden turn in her health status. A memorial service was held on January 1 at Pilgrim Reformed Church where she was a lifelong member, teaching Sunday school and singing in the choir; as a dedicated member, she served the church in almost every area of church involvement. She also sang in the Senior Chorus for over 33 years, as well as the Community Candlelight Service. Additionally, she served as a volunteer for many local organizations. Mrs. Morris worked for Belk-Martin for 44 years in the office and as office manager. OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS: Pearl Tucker, Barrett and Danielle Long’s niece, has been diagnosed with leukemia. Stanley Barr, father of Aaron Barr, has started chemotherapy for cancer; he has a good prognosis. The daughter of Connie Albertson, friend of Bleasha Carroll, has been diagnosed with brain cancer. Jody Shepherd, son of Roy Shepherd, suffered a head injury at work on December 4. He was hospitalized at Wake Forest Hospital in Winston-Salem and was struggling with memory issues. He has been moved to a rehabilitation facility in Raleigh, and is improving. He is able to get up and walk some now. Dalane Kitzman spent a night in the hospital on December 7 for a kidney stone attack. He was treated with a stent and lithotripsy; unfortunately, he now has even more kidney stones to deal with!

We rejoice in the birth of baby Simon Hathcock to Amanda and Kevin Hathcock! Amanda was admitted to the hospital in Salisbury for a few extra days when she was originally thought to have had cellulitis; however, she was found clear of any bacterial infection, but developed an allergic reaction that will probably continue for a while. Simon had a couple of apnea episodes and was hospitalized for ten days; his joyful homecoming was December 15. He has a heart condition (SVT – like an extra nerve in his heart) and treatment simply involves medication for his first year to keep his heart from going into apnea. We rejoice that Chris Wooten, Berry Odum’s nephew, has been released from the hospital; and is improving. A highway motorcycle patrolman from Cramerton, he was hit July 29 while attempting to pull a driver over in Gaston County. He suffered a severe spinal cord injury. Nancy Hamblin, daughter of Jon and Celie Lough, had surgery on December 20 to try to correct problems with her right foot; she was in a head-on collision (drunk driver) in June and her foot/ankle never healed correctly. She recuperated at Jon and Celie’s for a week. THANKS! Advent Candle Lighting – Thanks to those families who have participated in the lighting of our Advent Candle during worship services:

December 1 – Nick, Traci, Emalyn and Bennett Carlson

December 8 – Greg, Laura, Seth and Ava Turlington

December 15 – Erin, Jaden and Zeke Kilcullen

December 22 – Tawn Bizzell and mother, Susan Bizzell; their grandchildren, Katie and Amy Michael

Ministries Support – Thanks to all who supported various outreach ministries during this season:

Packages for our Angel Tree for Southwood School

Monetary donations to ELCA Good Gifts – this was a creative meaningful way to support the ministries of the ELCA that mean the most to you and your loved ones. These gifts are real examples from projects currently supported through ELCA churchwide ministries.

Poinsettias – Thanks to all who purchased beautiful white poinsettias to adorn our Nave in honor or in memory of loved ones.

Joys and Cares

F IRST NEWS PAGE 21

Joys and Cares

Supper Club – Thanks once again to Patsie and Bill Baker for hosting an awesome gathering at their home on December 7. A good time was had by all who attended, and participated in good food, games and fellowship! Hanging of the Greens – Thanks to Pastor Matt and Kelly Newsome for hanging our greens and putting up our Christmas Tree in the Nave (notice our new tree!). Thanks also to those who stayed after worship on December 8 to finish all the trimming throughout the church (hanging wreaths, putting up the Nativity in the Narthex, hanging Chrismons, etc.). It is beautiful!

Christmas Banquet and Play – The people of FLC wish to express sincere appreciation to everyone who made our annual Banquet and Christmas Play celebration on December 8 so successful! We are grateful to the Men of the Church for the banquet, to Rebecca Moretz and all other volunteers and participants in the Christmas Play, the Choir Members for singing, for Kelly Newsome on the piano, and for everyone who came. What a wonderful time of fellowship together!

Youth Sunday – Thanks to all children and youth who served as our worship service assistants during worship on December 15! Participants served as musicians, pray-ers, scripture readers, acolyte, crucifer, ushers, and communion assistants. Their powerful ministry touched so many lives!

Agape Circle Christmas Gathering – Thanks to Bleasha Carroll for hosting a beautiful gathering at her home for

the Agape Circle on December 16.

Love Offering – Prior to worship on December 22, Greg

Turlington presented each of our staff with a love

offering from the congregation. He thanked them for

their loving service to this family of faith: Matthew

Miller, Pastor; Kelly Newsome, Music Director,

Organist. and Parish Associate; Amanda Hathcock,

Director of Congregation Life; and Bing Grubb, Sexton.

Christmas Carolers – Thanks to the large number of

folks who turned up to bring joy to others through

Christmas caroling after worship on December 22. We

also appreciate the wonderful soup and sandwich lunch

served by our Inreach Team prior to going out. There

were two groups: one small group visited homes in

Lexington; the larger group went to the Thomasville area. The folks at Piedmont Crossing were especially

appreciative of the “concert” the singers brought to

residents! Kelly Newsome provided accompaniment on

the piano in their multi-purpose room.

PAGE 22

Prayer Shawl Ministry – Thanks to those who lead and

participate in the Prayer Shawl Ministry. An additional

“thanks” goes to our “friend of the congregation” who

makes special shawls for those suffering with cancer

and has a readily available supply. Additionally, prayer

shawls are given to the Hinkle Hospice House in

Davidson County; about two shawls per month are

blessed during their meeting, and given to the home.

(See “thoughts and prayers” section preceding or in

prior newsletters that list individual’s concerns).

December 1 – Pearl Tucker (by Debbie Triplett),

Stanley Barr (by Lynn Smith) and Connie

Albertson’s daughter (by Leila Hosley)

December 15 – Simon Hathcock (by Mary

Huneycutt) and Amanda Hathcock (by Kelly

Newsome)

Special Music

December 8 – Offertory Anthem – Chancel Choir; Kelly

Newsome, piano; Darrell Parks, clarinet – “Stir Up Your

Power” (Linda Cable Shute)

December 15 – Youth Sunday:

Kara Conrad, piano – Prelude –

“Stargazer” (Melody Bober); Offertory – “What

Child is This?” (Greensleeves)

Special Music – Joyful Ringers, directed by Katie

Foster – “O Come, All Ye Faithful”

December 22

Prelude - FLC Handbell Choir – “Carol of the

Bells” (traditional melody, arr. by Kevin

McChesney)

Our middle hymn sung by the congregation was

“The Magnificat” (from Holden Evening Prayer) –

the preceding Annunciation (“An angel went from

God…”) was sung by Kaleigh Odum (daughter of

Berry and Kim Odum, granddaughter of Ron and

Sylvia Sink)

December 25 – Christmas Eve

Prelude

Handbell Choir - “Silent Night,” “Christmas Joy,”

and “Carol of the Bells”

Mabry Harrison, soprano solo; Kelly Newsome,

piano – “O Holy Night”

Celie Lough, soprano solo; Kelly Newsome, piano – “Gesu Bambino”

Chancel Choir – “In the Bleak Midwinter”

Lighting of the Christ Candle – Megan Carlson,

soprano; Kelly Newsome, piano – “O Come, O

Come, Emmanuel”

Special Music – Chancel Choir – “To Hear the

Angels Sing” (Jay Althouse)Offertory Anthem –

Chancel Choir; Darrell Parks and Kelly Newsome,

piano duet; Celie Lough, conductor – “What Shall

We Sing for the Child” (Howard Helvey)

December 29:

Prelude – piano duet - Kelly Newsome with his

friend, Celia Stalvey – “What Child Is This?” (arr.

Joel Rainey)

Offertory – Kelly Newsome, piano – “Rise Up

Shepherd and Follow”

CONGRATULATIONS

School Honors – Kara Conrad (daughter of Lee and Lori

Conrad, granddaughter of Pauletta Conrad) has received

many school honors this semester:

Central Davidson High School held its Athletic

Banquet for Fall sports and Kara won Co-MVP

(“Most Valuable Player”)! She also made All-

Conference in this her freshman year!

Kara recently attended the model UN (United

Nations) Conference at Appalachian State with her

delegation from Central Davidson. Their team won

“Best Small Delegation” (twelve members).

Kara also made all A’s for the first quarter at

Central Davidson High School; she is a freshman.

Honor Society – Gavin Tanley (son of Laura Tanley)

was inducted into the National Honor Society at North

Davidson High School on November 24. Way to go,

Gavin!

New Babies!

Simon Lewis Hathcock was born to Kevin and Amanda

Hathcock on December 5! He arrived into this world at

6 pounds 10 ounces, and was 18 inches in length; big

brother Amos (three years old) is excited! Proud

grandparents are Dan and Beth Huber.

Joys and Cares

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Joys and Cares

Owen Sinclair Boggs was born to Zach and Sydney Rae Boggs on December 3! He arrived at 6 pounds 7 ounces. Proud grandparents are former FLC Pastor Derek and Meredith Boggs. Owen is their first child; this little family lives in Virginia where Zach is completing his medical residency.

Retirement – Craig Deal, husband of Robin Deal, son-in-law of Bob Sink, has retired! Craig retired the day before Thanksgiving from the City of Raleigh. He had been a civil engineer for over 30 years; he worked for 22 years with the State of North Carolina, and eight years with the City of Raleigh. He also worked over nine years in private consulting – over 41 years altogether. He just was elected to serve on the Board of Trustees at Wake Chapel Christian Church. After the first of the year he will be involved in Partners Read with Lincoln Heights Elementary School where both he and Robin will be reading to first-graders. Craig also plans to volunteer at Rex Hospital – and, of course, babysitting when needed (so many grandchildren to love on!).

Congratulations to Erin Gutierrez (daughter of Shelly and Robin Gutierrez) and Josh Barrett; they became engaged on November 24! Josh is in the Army, about to serve a three-year assignment to Hawaii. They will plan a summer wedding when he is out on leave.

Congratulations to Jasmine Minkley and Chris Abbott! They became engaged on December 25!

Congratulations to Hannah Jackson! Not only did she complete her Masters in Accounting mid-December, she also became engaged to Thomas Rhue!

Weddings

Frank and Pat Mills recently celebrated yet another family wedding! Their grandson Adam Mills (son of Ralph and Joni Mills) and Lindsay Everhart were married on December 14 at The Farmstead in Mount Pleasant. Adam is working during the day as a Land Surveyer and going to Guilford Technical Community College in the evening to get certified as such. Lindsay is a product designer for a firm in Greensboro. They are living in Lexington.

Trixie Minkley and Tracy Asbury were married by Pastor Matthew Miller in the First Lutheran Nave on December 12 in a private ceremony; a few family and friends gathered to celebrate their love.

PAGE 24

Swim Team – Luke Nebrich (son of Bill and Christy

Nebrich, grandson of Teena Walker) swam with his

YMCA Rowan Aquatic Club team at the Capital Classic

tournament on December 7. On the second day he made

his second championship cut time in the 100 free! He

also picked up his first 13/14 AG champ state qualifying

time in the 50 free! Awesome job, Luke! Additionally,

in its annual Military Mile swimming event around

Veterans Day, the Aquatic Club raised $1045 for the

Family Readiness Group; this group supports Army

National Guard spouses and children while their soldiers

are deployed for a year’s time overseas. When the

swimmers presented their check to the Guard mid-

December, they heard about the work of the Guard and

its companies; they also got to look through night-vision

glasses, sit in a helicopter and watch Blackhawks take

off.

Professional Accomplishments:

On December 11, Bleasha Carroll, representing the

Smart Start of Davidson County, was presented

with a $300 mini grant from the Davidson County

Education Foundation. Proceeds from this grant

will be used to purchase books for the “Happy

Birthday, Dr. Seuss” Group Connections event to be

held on March 5, 2020. Thank you to Ms. Bleasha

Carroll and all of her PAT/School Readiness staff for all of their work. Thank you, Davidson County Education Foundation for supporting early childhood education in Davidson County.

Greg Turlington has been

named managing partner of

Turlington and Company,

L.L.P., Certified Public

Accountants. He will be

replacing Terry Berrier who is

retiring at the end of 2019

after a 40-year career at

Turlington and Company. In a Dispatch news release

on December 12, we read that Turlington, a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, joined Turlington and Company in 1998. He has received his Certified Public Accountant certification and his Certified Valuation Analyst certification. In addition to his management role with the firm, Turlington serves the accounting, tax and valuation needs of both individual and business clients. Turlington splits his time working in the firm’s Lexington and Winston-Salem offices. Turlington is the sixth managing partner in the history of the firm. He is the third Turlington to be named

managing partner, succeeding the late Bill Turlington, his grandfather, and Mike Turlington, his father. In addition to his role in the firm, Turlington has been very active in the Lexington community. He has served in a leadership role for several nonprofit organizations and his church. Turlington lives in Lexington with his wife, Laura, and their two children, Seth and Ava.

We reported in the November

newsletter that Aaron Barr has

finished certification for his

PhD degree, Doctor of

Education. On December 15,

this milestone was recognized

at First Lutheran when family

and friends gathered around the

font for a prayer of blessing and

laying on of hands.

Hunter Swaim, son of Dan and Michelle Gasque

Swaim (grandson of Carole Gasque), graduated

from the Davidson County Community College

BLET (Basic Law Enforcement Program – “rookie

school”) on December 16. Both Michelle and Dan

have worked for law enforcement agencies in the

past. Hunter was sponsored by the Davidson

County Sheriff’s Department for this class, and is

now in the process of being hired there.

OTHER NEWS AND TIDBITS

Employment News – Primrose Salon, where Sabrina Conrad works, is closing its doors on January 31. The business will be joining Blush & Main at 819 South Main Street in Lexington. Sabrina will begin there on January 3.

Look who it is! In a front-page Dispatch article on December 21, “Church gives joy to local seniors,” we discovered our own Aida Amplo! On December 19, residents of Carolina Senor Living apartments in Lexington were treated to an early Christmas filled with gifts, songs, and most importantly kindness when the congregation of Memorial Evangelical and Reformed Church held the annual Christmas party at the facility. The fourth year of the party was dubbed a success as the 28 residents of the senor living community sang along with music and opened their Christmas presents from the church. The picture accompanying the article read, “Musician Ken Davis sings a duet of ‘Feliz Navidad’

Joys and Cares

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Joys and Cares

with 98-year-old Cuban-born Aida Amplo during the Memorial Evangelical and Reformed Church’s Christmas party at the Carolina Senior living apartments on Thursday.”

Guest Columns:

Denny Whalen contributed a guest column in the Dispatch “Opinion” page on December 5, “It’s alright not to fit in.” Denny shared some stories about his childhood and commented that I’m just telling my story in the hope that people will understand that children are not all the same, and will, except in rare instances, develop into well-rounded, happy, and social adults in their own normal time. He even came full circle and spoke of Amy, “a woman whose family accepted me. Her culinary skills and my enthusiastic consumption of her cooking made me the man I am today.” His postscript reads: Denny Whalen is proof that there are instances when blossoming socially and physically into a productive adult have been, and sometimes still are called into question. He may have grown older but recognizes he will never grow up, at least not in the ways mature, responsible adults are expected to do.

Dalane Kitzman contributed a guest column in the Dispatch “Opinion” page on December 19. “Grandpa’s gift and Grandma’s gift: a true story.” Dalane Kitzman, MD, a Lexington resident, grew up in North Dakota. He first learned of this true story from his mother, the oldest of the children in the story, the last time he visited her shortly before she died. She described the many hardships her family endured growing up during the Great Depression in the 1930s, hardships that were common all across America, including North Carolina. However, she also insisted that there were good times as well, and as an example she relayed this true Christmas story and the events that followed. Dalane told the story of a special gift that his grandfather gave to his grandmother during the depression (the “Dirty Thirties”) in Dakota.

Don't forget to share your "joys and cares" with us! Please call Celie Lough at 249-6038, so that we may "double your joys and halve your cares!" In order to meet printing deadlines, please have all items submitted by the 18th of each month. Thanks! Please note: articles may also be submitted via e-mail to loughjc@lexcominc.net.

Office Hours:

9 AM till 1 PM Monday ~ Friday

Sunday School ................. 9:15 AM

Morning Worship ......... 10:30 AM

Return Service Requested

320 S. State Street

PO BOX 308

Lexington, NC 27293

First Evangelical Lutheran Church

Phone: 336-248-6018

E-mail: office@flclex.org

God’s Work. Our Hands. First Evangelical Lutheran Church of Lexington is a Congregation of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. The congregation was formed in 1905, and built its original structure in 1906. The current facility was completed and occupied in 1959, and was the first public building in Lexington of a contemporary design. Yet, the people of First Church recognize that the church is the people, and not the building. So stated Martin Luther: “The church is not wood and stone, but it is the company of God’s people.”

We’re on the Web:

WWW.FLCLEX.ORG

Church Staff & Volunteers

The Rev. Matthew L. Miller ~ Pastor Berry Odum ~ Council President

Amanda Hathcock ~ Director of Congregational Life Kelly Newsome ~ Organist / Parish Associate

Jim Lovelace ~ Pianist Kelly Newsome ~ Music Ministries

Bing Grubb ~ Sexton

Holy Communion is celebrated every Sunday of the month.