firstnews614 488.0681 FCchurch.com August 1 - 31, 2014 Vol. 60 No. 8

Monthly

Women's Guild

Page 10

FinancialStatement

Page 2 Page 5

NoisyOffering

–– The Reverend Dr. Richard A. Wing, Senior Minister

Soundings

Farmer’s Market Sunday, August 24 By Bruce Crouthamel

We have been very fortunate so far this summer to have had a great growing season. We hope all of you gardeners are having a lot of success with your gardens and are planning to donate to our Mission Council Farmer’s Market.

The market will be open Sunday, August 24, immediately after the worship service at North Campus. We will be accepting donations of fresh vegetables and fruits, fresh herbs, plants and flowers, home canned goods and home baked goods.

Please bring your donations to church with you on August 24. After church, take some time to stroll through the market and purchase the finest, freshest produce and the tastiest bakery items a person can buy in Columbus, all grown and made with much love. All proceeds will benefit First Community’s own Heart-to-Heart.

We are extremely pleased to announce that Healing Art Missions will once again join our market with truly unique pieces of Haitian art that will be for sale. The money raised from the sale goes directly to provide Haitians with the resources they need to help themselves.

Call Bruce Crouthamel at 614 777.0714 or email at BCrout@aol.com.

Moving Forward, Honoring the Past

The first week of my sabbatical, I took Shirley to Washington D.C. One afternoon, I stood at the Thomas Jefferson memorial. Jefferson wrote his own version of the New Testament. He was deeply inspired by the words of Jesus, but didn’t buy all the miracle stuff. So, “the Jefferson Bible” is one with the essential teachings of Jesus and no mystical, miracle, resurrection stuff.

As I stood in the Memorial, I was mesmerized by the quote on panel #4 which reads:

“I am not an advocate for frequent changes in laws and constitutions, but laws and institutions must go hand in hand with the progress of the human mind. As that becomes more developed, more enlightened, as new discoveries are made, new truths discovered and manners and opinions change, with the change of circumstances, institutions must advance also to keep pace with the times. We might as well require a man to wear still the coat which fitted him when a boy as civilized society to remain ever under the regimen of their barbarous ancestors.”

— Thomas Jefferson

As I stood there gazing at that quote, I thought of our country as we need to hear that: “the change of circumstances.” There are changes that need to be made. Our problems are way beyond political party. Scott Peck said they are “spiritual in nature.” I agree.

Then, I thought about the church in the shadow of those words. Our church. What might this mean for First Community: “with the change of circumstances, institutions must advance also to keep pace with the times.”

May we remember this with all of the decisions that stand before us that will affect thousands of lives now and in the future.

Peace to you,

2 August 1 - 31, 2014

firstnews ArticlesInclude the date, contact person’s name, phone number and/or e-mail address with all submissions. Submit to: email - news@FCchurch.com fax - 614 488.2763 phone - 614 488.0681

We reserve the right to edit all submissions.

The deadline for all submissions is 12 pm on the 15th of each month.

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

Editor: Michael Barber Graphic Design: Tabitha McCleery Admin. Assistant: Emily Rogers

First Community Church firstnews (USPS 196-300) is published monthly by First Community Church, 1320 Cambridge Boulevard, Columbus, OH 43212-3200. Periodicals postage paid at Columbus, Ohio. Subscription rates — U.S. First Community members - $1/year; non-members - $25/year. Canadian or foreign subscriptions must be paid in U.S. dollars. For non-U.S. rates, call the firstnews office. Postmaster: Send address changes to First Community Church, 1320 Cambridge Boulevard, Columbus, OH 43212-3200.

Thank you to all who have given in support of our church ministries in 2014.

We have successfully reached 93% of our pledge goal for 2014. Additional support is still needed to close the gap.

We would appreciate those who have not had an opportunity to give to prayerfully consider “Making up the Difference” in August.

We will provide special envelopes in your bulletin during worship and have provided a direct link at FCchurch.com/give. Blessings are a part of everyone’s life. We hope that our programs and the people of First Community Church are a blessing to you and that you will consider supporting the continuation of our ministries.

First Community Church Financial Statement

–– Cindy Harsany, Director of Finance and Operations

First Community Church Financial StatementJan - May, 2014

Budgeted Actual DifferenceIncomePledge, Offerings, Contributions 935,145 915,099 (20,046) Fee Supported Ministries 800,870 833,208 32,338 Other Ministries 65,955 54,514 (11,441)

1,801,970 1,802,821 851

ExpenseProgram Salaries and Benefits 641,437 644,695 3,258 Facilities and Administration 391,461 417,005 25,544 Fee Supported Ministries 565,126 573,698 8,572 Other Ministries 281,347 244,504 (36,843)

1,237,934 1,235,207 (2,727)

YTD

Making the Difference^ Up

First Community Church Financial StatementJan - May, 2014

Budgeted Actual DifferenceIncomePledge, Offerings, Contributions 935,145 915,099 (20,046) Fee Supported Ministries 800,870 833,208 32,338 Other Ministries 65,955 54,514 (11,441)

1,801,970 1,802,821 851

ExpenseProgram Salaries and Benefits 641,437 644,695 3,258 Facilities and Administration 391,461 417,005 25,544 Fee Supported Ministries 565,126 573,698 8,572 Other Ministries 281,347 244,504 (36,843)

1,237,934 1,235,207 (2,727)

YTDFirst Community Church Financial StatementJan - May, 2014

Budgeted Actual DifferenceIncomePledge, Offerings, Contributions 935,145 915,099 (20,046) Fee Supported Ministries 800,870 833,208 32,338 Other Ministries 65,955 54,514 (11,441)

1,801,970 1,802,821 851

ExpenseProgram Salaries and Benefits 641,437 644,695 3,258 Facilities and Administration 391,461 417,005 25,544 Fee Supported Ministries 565,126 573,698 8,572 Other Ministries 281,347 244,504 (36,843)

1,237,934 1,235,207 (2,727)

YTD

55%

39%

6%

2014 Budget Income

Pledges, Offerings and Contributions

Fee Supported Ministries

Other Ministries

2014 Budget Income

33%

35%

18%

14%

2014 Budget Expenses

Program Salaries and Benefits

Fee-Supported Ministries

Facilities and Administration

2014 Budget Expenses

Other Ministries

First Community Church Financial StatementJan - May, 2014

Budgeted Actual DifferenceIncomePledge, Offerings, Contributions 935,145 915,099 (20,046) Fee Supported Ministries 800,870 833,208 32,338 Other Ministries 65,955 54,514 (11,441)

1,801,970 1,802,821 851

ExpenseProgram Salaries and Benefits 641,437 644,695 3,258 Facilities and Administration 391,461 417,005 25,544 Fee Supported Ministries 565,126 573,698 8,572 Other Ministries 281,347 244,504 (36,843)

1,237,934 1,235,207 (2,727)

YTD

YTD

(Akita, Early Childhood, Trading Post)

August 1 - 31, 2014 3

South Campus Summer Closings As a part of our commitment to reduce expenses in 2014, we are closing South Campus located at 1320 Cambridge Blvd. 43212, each Friday through August 29. North Campus will be open on Fridays. The church telephone line will remain open 9 am - 5 pm at 614 488.0681 By closing a location we will lower expenses through reduced power and energy consumption and reduced wage expenditures. South Campus will open on Fridays for limited hours to cover rehearsals, weddings, ceremonies and special scheduled events.

Take Heart

–– The Reverend Dr. Deborah Lindsay, Minister of Spiritual Care

When A Pet Dies

Last month, we said goodbye to our beagle, Snoopy. He was 15 and had been part of our family for most of his life. I will never forget the day we went to the Capital Area Humane Society and adopted him, or more correctly, the day he adopted us. Snoopy arrived for William’s ninth birthday and for the boy and his dog it was love at first sight.

I will also never forget the day I took Snoopy to the vet, to let him go. William was away at college and the dog had become my constant companion. I was determined to do the best thing for the comfort and

well being of the dog; still it was a heartbreaking moment. Two of my dearest friends sat and cried with me as Snoopy peacefully left this world.

Those of you who have been through this experience know the deep grief that comes when a pet dies. To be sure, it is not the same as the death of a person. It doesn’t have to be the same to cause real suffering. Pets are part of our families.

I am so grateful for the friends and loved ones who acknowledged my loss. There are now sympathy cards for pets and I appreciated receiving them. My friend, Lois, gave me a book called Dog Heaven by Cynthia Rylant. It’s a tender book, with beautiful illustrations. Facebook was also a comfort to me, especially messages from William’s friends, now young adults, sharing memories of playing with Snoopy when they were little kids.

What we know about grief in general is true for the grief we feel when a pet dies.

• There is no timetable for grief and it cannot be rushed.

• Grief for your pet is appropriate, but not everyone understands that. Your best support may come from animal lovers outside your normal circle.

• Feeling sad and lonely is normal and it’s healthy to express your feelings. Keeping any emotions inside only extends the grieving process.

• Rituals promote healing.

• If you have young children, the death of a pet provides an opportunity to model what open, healthy grieving and the sharing of emotion looks like.

• Grief tends to come and go. You will reach a point when you don’t think as much about your loss, and then suddenly the smallest thing brings you to tears. That’s OK; it’s just how grief works.

Finally, do our pets go to Heaven? Do they experience communion with God when their life on earth is over? Take heart, I believe they do. The theological answer is that the Bible is full of messages about God’s love for all of creation. The answer from my heart is this: how could it be Heaven without the pets?

Blessings,

4 August 1 - 31, 2014

Foundation GiftsIn Memory of: Carol Doyle Tom and Emily ChidesterDanny Troutman Pat and Carol DoyleFrank Kennard George and Terri Lewandowski HQ AFMC/ A5Q Judi Parsons Bill & Patty MielkeKaren Elaine Cowles Glaze Pamela Cowles Mary Helen HopkinsLeslie Gardner Bill Judy and Sue Wilson Marjorie Bohl David and Susan Gardner John Marakas Nelson and Emmy French Jim and Shirley Bull Tom Hawk Ruth Richey John Gardner Mark Flugge Bob ByrdMary James Larry Forsbach Jon & Patti Heinzelman Jennifer Marinello Rand Kampmeier Susan Brooks Robert and Joyce Dewees Bill Morris Robert Meehan Bob ByrdIn Honor of:Catrina Calland Hiller Jon Goff & Jennifer Fountain Donice Wooster George and Linda Norris Hilda Neff Hensley Sean and Beth Barter Jeff and Patti Link Kelly Dusseau Tina Jelen Carolyn Snyder Molly Crist Katy Malhame Joshua and Suzanne Burkholder Jim and Clare Long Claire Esmond Tom and Emily Chidester Marilyn Jennings Lauri Sullivan Bob and Sally Wandel Kathleen Jones Betty O’Neill Group Guild X Heart to Heart Doug and Darian TorranceJim Long The Mary L. James Family Hilda Neff Hensley Ron Jenkins Hilda Neff Hensley Lois Zook Hilda Neff Hensley Sally Beske Hilda Neff Hensley Judith Lyons Hilda Neff Hensley Pam Jameson Dick Helland Lorena Hawley Chet Hawley

Foundation Corner

— Lauri Speight Sullivan, Director of First Community Foundation

Passion

If you talk to Doug Torrance, you learn very quickly he is passionate about certain things. Northwestern football, Toyota Avalon cars, Rotary International, his wife Darian, First Community Church and the Heart to Heart Food Pantry Ministry. Yep, that’s the list. And Doug is not afraid to get involved.

Doug and Darian are model church members. They attend, they pledge, they volunteer, they learn and they lead. Years ago, Doug was attracted to the Heart to Heart ministry and took the time to volunteer. He saw first-hand the ups and downs of

the ministry. In 2011, Doug became a Trustee of the Foundation and by 2013 he chaired the Foundation Board. In his participation, he began to see a way to support Heart to Heart in a new and enduring way - he decided to start a new fund to solely support Heart to Heart and he talked Darian into sharing his vision.

Heart to Heart is a hallmark of our mission efforts and its monetary needs are great. Food, a clean and welcoming space, appropriate storage and dedicated staff all cost money. Doug thought it would be good to have a fund to aid the ministry for expensive replacement needs like a refrigerator. His goal was to make it a dedicated fund which required $5,000. About six months after he started this drive, the Foundation received a check for his new fund of $10,000. This immediately fired him up to move this spendable fund to a permanent endowment. As of July 1, the Heart to Heart Endowment is part of the Foundation portfolio and it is the first fund dedicated to Heart to Heart.

An endowment requires $25,000. (The Foundation permits any endowment to accumulate over a three-year period, recognizing this is a substantial gift and timing for the donor is important.) The $25,000 became the permanent invested portion and all earnings will be released for pantry support. If the Foundation earns 5% annually, $1,250 is an income stream for Heart to Heart. If it earns 10%, $2,500 would be generated.

The Torrances wanted at least $1,000 to go to the pantry annually so Lamar Graham, Director of Heart to Heart, can include this gift in his budget. Knowing the investment market is unpredictable; they agreed to use part of the permanent base, if needed. They also found out the pantry’s monetary needs were greatest in the summer when school is out. A check from the earnings will be released every July 15. $1,275 was given this year.

This is a great example of how the Foundation can direct a gift to accomplish the donor’s goals and help the Church’s ministries. The Torrances know the earnings are only a small portion of Heart to Heart’s needs, but it is a welcome, predictable and stable gift.

So, if you are passionate about a ministry that is unsupported by the Foundation, give me a call at 614 488.0681.

August 1 - 31, 2014 5

–– The Reverend Mr. Paul E. Baumer, Minister to the Staff

Church Gifts In Memory of:Mary L. James Stuart & Sue Eagleson Nancy Hull

Heart to HeartChristine BakerJohn Barger IIIPatricia BoydBarbara BradleyRichard & Peggy FordNancy W HeathJanet McCutcheonMary NicollsMary OlsonBetty O’NeillRichard RohrerMargaret SchorrTracy Stuck

In Honor of:Pete and Pidge Diehl, and Walter Watkins for their engaging leadership in the Tuesday at 10 group this past year Mary Weisman on behalf of the Tuesday at 10 Study Group

RafikiPatricia ChapmanPatricia DonovanRolland KingDean ReinhardBaiba ReynoldsLinda RitterMichael TaylorJoyce VanCleefJacob WannemacherJohn Zeiger

Back Bay MissionBiddie ClarkMargaret JohnsonMary Sawyer

Friends of AkitaIn Celebration of:Camp AkitaJinny FrickStacy McVeyTom NormanWomen’s Guild Y

In Memory of:Edward J. Rydman Tom Lafferty

Prayers & SquaresIn Memory of: Frank Kennard Elizabeth SliwinskiIn Honor of:Katherine Tucker Elizabeth Sliwinski Pastoral CareIn Memory of:Amy Jo Sutton Paul D. Sutton

On We Go

Sabbath Month

We capitalistic, hard-working, Protestant-work-ethic Americans need to take a good look at how we care for ourselves. I know, our exercise and self-care gurus are singing that song all the time, and that’s just so they can make money. Right? Well, maybe, but our God sings the same song.

It’s right there in the story of the creation (Genesis 1-3), which does two important things; It tells us that we believe in a Creator God and that God has concerns about how we care for this creation, which includes us. It’s really theology, not science. And the

theology says, take a Sabbath, take some time off.

In many countries, August is the Sabbath month of the year. Vacation time. Everything pretty much closes. Everybody goes on holiday. And God applauds. After all, when God got done with the hard work of creation, God took a day off.

Sabbath is not unique to Judaism and Christianity. Sabbath means to cease or desist. Take a time out. The concept began in ancient cultures where the end day of anything was deemed to be evil. So on the end day of the week, month or year, you did as little as possible so the evil spirits had minimal opportunity to mess around with you.

Over the centuries it transformed into a day of rest, then a day of family or community gatherings and then a day of worship. But even that day of worship had fairly strict guidelines so one worked as little as possible.

We have succeeded in turning the Sabbath into anything but a day of rest. But that may be fodder for another column. For now, just let me note that if you haven’t taken time out, the month of August reminds us to do that. Every doctor in the world wants you to take time out. God wants you to take time out. The challenge is to do so.

Have a lazy August.

Noisy Offering By Dawn Costin

Once a year the K-5 children lead the congregation in a Noisy Offering, a time when we bring our loose change and toss them into metal buckets during our Sunday morning offering in worship. This has become a fun ritual for the children, which helps them learn to become joyful givers. You are invited to save your loose change for this year’s Noisy Offering, which is Sunday, October 26. Small treasure boxes are available at the Welcome Centers at both the North and South Campuses for each family to take home, decorate and collect your loose change. Every penny counts.

6 August 1 - 31, 2014

Care and Spirit

– – The Reverend Mr. James M. Long, Minister of Pastoral Care

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

(As of July 15, 2014)

RECENT HOSPITALIZATIONSJack BargerMiriam ClarkCaroline Quelette Daughter of Natalie & David QueletteCherry Park

BIRTHSConnor Brandon Thompson 5/4/2014 Son of Jennifer Hughes Thompson & Brandon Thompson Grandson of Candice SpencerFiona Lynn Gilliland 6/27/2014 Great granddaughter of Rev. Susan Day

BAPTISMSAva Grace Spitzer 6/29/2014 Daughter of Lauren & Andrew SpitzerCooper Gareff DeWeese 7/6/2014 Son of Marin & Kevin DeWeese Grandson of Matt McCandlishChristian Drew DiBlasi 7/6/2014 Son of Jennifer & Andrew DiBlasiKyleigh Anne DiBlasi 7/6/2014 Daughter of Jennifer & Andrew DiBlasiMadeline Kathryn Kreiner 7/6/2014 Daughter of Melanie & Matt KreinerAngie McLarty Seamon 7/6/2014Rylie Jo Simmons 7/6/2014 Daughter of Courtney & Justin Simmons Granddaughter of Matt McCandlish

WEDDINGSMeghan Rose Anthony & Tyler Garrison Estep 6/6/2014 Granddaughter of Rev. Susan DayHilda Neff & Bill Hensley 6/21/2014

HAPPY 101ST BIRTHDAYHelen Wood 7/18/1913

DEATHSSheila Kimble McConnell 5/11/2014 Mother of Deb KegelmeyerJohn Collis 6/9/2014 Brother of Jeanne JohnstonKaren Glaze 6/10/2014 Daughter of Dottie Cowles Sister of Pam Cowles & David Cowles David Palagyi 6/10/2014 Brother of Maggie TresslerElizabeth Tarrier 6/18/2014 Wife of Tim Tarrier Mother of Chloe, Jordan & Avery TarrierTrudy Knox 6/24/2014 Aunt of Carolyn CasperEric Ray 6/24/2014 Son of Joseph & Lucille RayJudith Parsons 6/27/2014 Wife of John Parsons Sister-in-law to Dody & Dave ParsonsDr. John Mitchell 6/30/2014 Elisabeth Menendian 7/2/2014 Mother of Lisa Reynolds Grandmother of Sarah BeakerTom Parker 7/7/2014 Father of Pam GartinJim Guge 7/14/2014 Father of Kevin Flora

61 in ‘61

I thank my God every time I remember you.Philippians 1:3

I recently had my 45th high school reunion, where I spoke at a memorial service for deceased classmates. The line from Paul’s letter to the Philippians came to me as an appropriate reminder of how our lives are influenced by others, including classmates, teachers, coaches, and mentors for whom we are thankful to God. It also is a line used in a beautiful piece called Song of Devotion by John Ness Beck which we have used in memorial

services at the church. God blesses us through the lives of unique individuals who come into our lives and continue to influence us even after they have gone on to that nearer presence of God. Sometimes these people are not even known personally by us in our formative years, but have an impact on us years later.

I reflected on this as I traveled to the Rocky Mountains with my family. On the way, we stopped in Fargo, North Dakota to spend the night. I was aware that Roger Maris, the former New York Yankee and St. Louis Cardinal, was buried there, and we stopped at his gravesite on the way into town. He hit 61 homeruns in 1961 to beat the single season record of 60 held by Babe Ruth. However, it had not been easy. He was in competition with his more celebrated teammate, Mickey Mantle, a fan and press favorite in the big city media center of New York. Mantle was viewed as the All-American boy, while Maris was portrayed as aloof and conceited by the press. Neither was accurate.

In addition, the baseball commissioner, Ford Frick, had said that the record had to be broken in 154 games (the season when Ruth played) rather than in the 162 games that were the modern schedule. Maris broke the record on the last day of the season before a less than capacity crowd, and his record was subject to a symbolic asterisk as if he had not achieved it. No other record before or since has been measured in this way. In the process, Maris became so stressed that even his hair began to fall out during the season. Yet he handled everything with dignity and without rancor.

Maris died of cancer at age 52. On his grave are two statuettes, one in a Yankee uniform and the other as a Cardinal, where he completed his career as more of a contact hitter and base stealer than a slugger. His record stood until Mark McGuire broke it for his old team. Maris’ family was in attendance to support McGuire even though he and Barry Bonds, who later exceeded the record, were believed to have used performance enhancing drugs. Maris had done it the right way and under extraordinary pressure.

I was nine years old at the time of Maris’ record, but remember it well. Since that time, he and his record have meant more to me as I have come to understand more about baseball and life. Around the grave there have been left a number of baseballs and golf balls with written sayings and messages on them. One of them that caught my eye says: “We miss you, Grandpa.” We do too.

Peace and blessings,

August 1 - 31, 2014 7

August Daily ReadingsThese Bible readings are from the Revised Common Lectionary Daily Readings. In general, readings on Thursday, Friday and Saturday are selected to prepare for the Sunday reading; readings on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday are selected to reflect the Sunday lectionary.

1 Isaiah 41:8-10 Romans 9:6-13 2 Genesis 31:1-21 Matthew 7:7-11 3 (Sunday) Genesis 32:22-31 Psalm 17:1-7, 15 Romans 9:1-5 Matthew 14:13-21 4 Genesis 31:22-42 Romans 1:8-15 5 Genesis 32:3-21 Acts 2:37-47 6 Isaiah 43:1-7 Matthew 15:32-39 7 Genesis 35:22b-29 Acts 17:10-15 8 Genesis 36:1-8 Acts 18:24-28 9 Genesis 37:5-11 Matthew 16:1-4 10 (Sunday) Genesis 37:1-4, 12-28 Psalm 105:1-6, 16-22, 45b Romans 10:5-15 Matthew 14:22-33 11 Genesis 37:29-36 2 Peter 2:4-10 12 Genesis 39:1-23 Romans 9:14-29 13 Genesis 40:1-23 Matthew 8:23-27 14 Genesis 41:14-36 Revelation 15:1-4 15 Genesis 41:37-57 Acts 14:19-28 16 Genesis 42:1-28 Matthew 14:34-36 17 (Sunday) Genesis 45:1-15 Psalm 133 Romans 11:1-2a, 29-32 Matthew 15: [10-20] 21-28 18 Genesis 43:1-34 Acts 15:1-21 19 Genesis 44:1-34 Romans 11:13-29 20 Genesis 45:16-28 Matthew 8:1-13 21 Genesis 49:1-33 1 Corinthians 6:1-11 22 Genesis 49:29—50:14 2 Corinthians 10:12-18 23 Genesis 50:15-26 Matthew 16: 5-12 24 (Sunday) Exodus 1:8—2:10 Psalm 124 Romans 12:1-8 Matthew 16:13-20 25 Exodus 1:1-7 Romans 2:1-11 26 Exodus 2:11-15a Romans 11:33-36 27 Exodus 2:15b-22 Matthew 26:6-13 28 Exodus 2:23-24 Ephesians 5:1-6 29 Exodus 3:16-25 2 Thessalonians 2:7-12 30 Exodus 4:1-9 Matthew 8:14-17 31 (Sunday) Exodus 3:1-15 Psalm 105:1-6, 23-26, 45b Romans 12:9-21 Matthew 16:21-28

Heart to Heart Food Pantry TotalsFor June 2014:

Households served .........................276Individuals served ...........................864 Children served ...........................616 Adults served ...............................248 Seniors served ...............................80Meals provided ............................7,776

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

Year-to-Date:

Households served ......................1,527Individuals served ........................4,421 Children served ........................1,864 Adults served ............................2,122 Seniors served .............................514Meals provided ..........................39,789

Church Members Can Audit Free Seminary ClassesHave you ever wanted to experience a seminary classroom? Take an in-depth Bible study with a seminary professor? Think more about your understanding of God in a theology class?

As a member of First Community Church, you have the opportunity to audit seminary classes through the Parish Partners program with The Methodist Theological School in Ohio (METHESCO). This program allows members to audit one class per semester with no tuition costs. Your only expense would be your books.

So if your interest is church history, there’s a course you might take. If it’s New Testament, there’s a class to explore it. If your interest is theology or ethics, you can audit any particular class, as long as there is room in the course and subject to professorial approval. As an auditor, you will not be taking exams or doing any of the written work, but you have the opportunity to experience lecture and discussions with high quality scholars right here in the metro area.

Please consider this your invitation to expand your horizons through the Parish Partners program. Please check the registrars’ pages at the Methodist Theological School in Ohio at mtso.edu/academics/registrar/registration-materials. You can find the link on our Adult Learning web page on FCchurch.com

Dr. Terry & Barbara DavisMarafiki Golf TournamentSaturday, September 6, 7:30 amFox Fire Golf Club0799 State Route 104, Lockbourne

Register at RafikiChildrenCenter.org or contact Connie Hieatt at chieatt@aol.com for details. Sponsorships are available.

8 August 1 - 31, 2014

The Infinite Quest

– – The Reverend Mr. David S. Hett, Minister of Religious Life and Learning

Learning Beyond Worship

When Marcus Borg spoke here 10 years ago, he labeled “adult Christian re-education” the first ingredient for reviving the church in the 21st century. Many of his books have been engaged in that effort.

John Shelby Spong took up the same theme in a July column responding to a clergy seeking preaching resources. Saying that “preaching alone will never address the problem you state,” Bishop Spong wrote:

Churches need to offer their people a format for learning. In my opinion this will be a classroom setting, in which questions and challenges are welcomed and in which things can be explained over and over again, ideas repeated and consensus built. A worship service with a preacher behind an elevated pulpit speaking to worshippers sitting below is not that kind of place.

If we do not recognize how deeply the world has changed since the Bible was written, we will never achieve the goal of communicating Christianity in our world. Copernicus, Kepler and Galileo removed from us the idea that we live in the center of a three-tiered universe and that God was a being who dwelt above the sky. The traditional theistic view of God died in that advance of knowledge, but most people in church do not yet recognize it and we still pray, “Our Father, who art in heaven.”

The work of Charles Darwin ended forever the idea that there was an original perfection from which we have fallen and that, in turn, ended forever our pious talk about original sin and how God overcame it in the death of Jesus. …

…There is finally the problem that so many parts of the church are so firmly attached to traditional ideas of God that for you to challenge those ideas from the pulpit would result only in the destruction of that congregation. People grow only when issues are explained, when they can process new ideas over a period of time, when they can ask questions and even when they can disagree.

We are blessed here with seminars, groups and classes where modern research is presented, questions are encouraged and disagreement is held in a safe container. If I hadn’t attended seminary, I can’t imagine I would have remained a Christian without finding an open community like this one. A historical, critical, contextual understanding of the Bible enlivened otherwise dead scriptures. Thinking theologically opened my mind and heart to experience more of “the infinite richness of the Mystery of Being.”

I hope you’ll take full advantage of the opportunities here for adult Christian re-education, and while you’re waiting for fall groups to begin, I always recommend that new members read Borg’s The Heart of Christianity as a great primer for the Christian journey at First Community. Or, like me, you might start reading Marcus’ newest book, Convictions: How I Learned What Matters Most.

Shalom,

Quest Singles By Nancy Dunn

Thursday, August 7, 6:30 pmDinner at Bel Lago Waterfront Dining170 North Sunbury Road

Thursday, August 14, 6:30 pmDinner at the Wine Bistro 1750 West Lane Avenue

Sunday, August 17, 5:30 pmBook discussion on Life after Life by Kate Atkinson MCL Cafeteria at Kingsdale Center

Thursday, August 21, 6:30 pmDinner at 101 Beer Kitchen7509 Sawmill Road

Thursday, August 28 6:30 pmHarrison’s on Kenny4510 Kenny Road

We singles enjoy meeting new people, so join us for one of the activities above. Most of us are in our fifties and sixties, but we are an equal opportunity group and welcome all ages.

We are currently planning some summer activities, so contact Nancy Dunn at ndunn1975@gmail.com or 614 771.4869 to verify the current plans. If you have an idea for a fun activity, let us know.

Medicare Questions Answered Ohio Senior Health Insurance Information Program (OSHIIP) certified volunteer and First Community Church member Estelle Scott will be available by appointment and drop-in sessions beginning September 22.

Look for details in the September edition of firstnews Monthly.

August 1 - 31, 2014 9

Weekly Adult Learning GroupsClasses are free except where noted and open to the public. Books used for classes are available at Furber Books. For more information on books, registration or financial aid, contact Natalia at NJones@FCchurch.com or call 614 488.0681 ext. 151

For more details on specific classes, go to FCchurch.com, search: Adult Learning.

Men’s Study GroupJoin us at any time. Our current study is Richard Rohr’s Silent Compassion - Finding God in Contemplation. Contact Price Finley at 614 488.7978 or pfinley@bricker.com, or Craig Sturtz at 614 481.9060 or craig.sturtz@squiresanders.com

Wednesdays, 7 – 8 amWicker Room, South Campus

Wednesday Morning FellowshipPresentations and discussion of leading-edge topics. Ends promptly at 8 am.

Wednesdays, 7 – 8 amBrownlee Hall, South Campus

Women Living the QuestionsContinues discussing A New Earth book and video talks by Eckhart Tolle. Composed of progressive, theologically-open women who are engaged in the full range of spiritual exploration, Women Living the Questions might be the answer to those looking for a smaller faith community within the church. Contact Linda Baldeck at lkrbaldeck@yahoo.com or 614 459.0722.

Wednesdays, 9:30 – 11 amWicker Room, South Campus

Contemplative Way Group 1A time of sacred reading--Teresa of Avila’s Interior Castle; 30-minute meditation time; and reflection & discussion. Facilitated by Rev. David Hett and other spiritual directors. Free-will offering. New participants welcome.

Thursdays, 11:45 am – 1 pmWicker Room, South Campus

Saturday Morning Contemplative Way GroupSacred reading of Mirabai Starr’s newest book, a translation of The Showing of Julian of Norwich; 30-minute meditation and time for reflection & discussion. Facilitated by Rose Konrath, Spiritual Searcher committee, and Vickie Murphy, Spiritual Director. Free-will offering. New participants welcome.

Saturdays, 10 – 11:15 amSpiritual Guidance Room, South Campus Annex2nd Saturday: Heart to Heart Community Room, Annex

Women’s Retreat at Camp AkitaSeptember 26-28Change and Transformation: The Heresies of Difference

The Women’s Retreat presenter this

year will be Dr. Deborah Lindsay. Dr. Lindsay says what makes individuals different can be the catalyst for drawing us together, whether it be as people of a different faith tradition, gender, ethnicity or cultural background. As part of the program, Deborah will present findings of her doctoral research on multi-faith bridge building.

More information and registration coming soon at FCchurch.com/2014/07/womens-retreat

New Movie Group Begins September 5Want to see movies like I Am and Philomena with other members and friends of our congregation? Join the Adult Learning Council Film Group at 6 pm the first Friday of every month this fall in the Wicker Room at South Campus.

Council members have been piloting a program in which participants gather to view a DVD of a movie, documentary or TV special, followed by a discussion of the DVD with emphasis on the spiritual or ethical implications – the “messages” – of the film. Starting September 5, the ALC Film Group will meet on the first Friday of each month this fall, beginning at 6:30 pm, in the Wicker Room, with pizza available beginning at 6 pm.

Each month a DVD is selected based on its potential for sparking spirited discussion on issues of ethics, spirituality and/or social justice. For example, in the pilot program we have included such titles as The Mission and Judgment at Nuremberg. Future films are expected to include such titles as I Am and Philomena.

Based on the popularity of the pilot program, we would like to make it available to everyone in our congregational community. If you are interested in participating please send an email to Joe Ray at joeray678@yahoo.com, and we will add you to our email notification list.

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10 am • Grace Hall, NC - Rev. Hett preaching

10 am • Grace Hall, NC - Rev. Long preaching

10 am • Grace Hall, NC - Dr. Lindsay preaching

10 am • Grace Hall, NC - Rev. Baumer preaching

10 am • Grace Hall, NC - Dr. Lindsay preaching

For additional information:

Click: FCchurch.com Email: info@FCchurch.com Call: 614 488.0681 Visit: The Welcome Center at North or South Campus

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Women’s Guild By Jill Eliot

“We’ll be close as pages in a book, my friends and I” (lyrics by Dorothy Field). And so, we open a new edition for The First Community Church Women’s Guild.

Our Kick-Off will celebrate the 103rd season of service and friendship. The event will be held on Wednesday, August 27 from 6 - 8 pm in Grace Hall, North Campus. Ladies are asked to bring a potluck dish to feed 8 people and a layette item. Donations will go to Church Women United to be distributed to mothers in need.

Please RSVP to your group Chair or email Estelle Scott at emscott1037@wowway.com by August 24. Hosting the celebration will be Guild Group D. The Ceremony of Honor will feature the installation of officers creating a new chapter of the Executive Board. Flyers regarding the potluck will be available at the Guild table following North Campus worship services on Sundays, August 17 and 24.

The Executive Committee 2014-2015:Kie Seiple - President; TBA - Vice-President; Amy Wentz - Treasurer; Kathleen Lennon - Corresponding Secretary; Priscilla Ratliff - Recording Secretary; Rose Kandel - Immediate Past President; Estelle Scott - Membership Chair; Jill Eliot - firstnews Column, Publicity and Spiritual Life; Karyl Hanhilammi - Missions; Harriet Brown - Past President Emeritus Save the DateTo add a new chapter to our “Guild Book” we invite any women—a church member, visitor, friend of someone with ties to FCC, or a current or former Guild member to come to an organizational meeting on September 18 at 12:30 pm in the Guild Room, South Campus. Details to come in the September edition of firstnews Monthly.

“Life is a book, each day a new page of adventures to experience, lessons to learn and good deeds to replicate” - Kie Seiple Come, join us as we write a new story.

Youth Choirs ScheduleYouth Choirs resume on Wednesdays at North Campus beginning September 10 in Room 118:

Kindergarten Choir (age 5, or soon to be 5) 5:30-6 pm

Cherub Choir (grades 1, 2) 6-6:30 pm

Junior Choir (grades 3-5) 6:30-7:15 pm

Middle School Vocal Ensemble and High School

Vocal Ensemble resume on Sundays following Crossroads beginning September 14.

Youth Bell Choirs 1 and 2 are both full for the 2014-15 choir season. Contact Youth Choir Director Sally Beske at sbeske@FCchurch.com to be placed on a bell choir wait list or for further information about any of our youth choirs. Check out FCchurch.com (click Ministries, then Music, then Youth Choirs) to register your child for a choir or for more detailed information.

Back-to-School Shopping at Tri-Village Trading Post With area schools beginning in mid-August it is not too early to get a jump on school shopping! We have saved some great denim jeans just for you! Although most anything goes in today’s fashion world – skinny jeans and rolled up “boyfriend” jeans are the main looks this fall and bootleg still work for most. A&F, Hollister, American Eagle, Gap are just a few of the brands we have at prices under $8! You’ll still need short-sleeve shirts and tops for those warm days, and we have plenty of those in colors you are sure to love.

FARMER'S MARKET

August 1 - 31, 2014 11

Celebrate a life event in

firstnews Monthly!

Sponsorships begin at $19

Call 614 488.0681 ext. 227

Place your sponsored message here. Call 614 488.0681 ext. 227

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1-888-461-7579 www.fcvlife.org

Preserve your independence in a safe and caring environment.

Let’s talk about right-sizing in the right community.

We have an apartment here but feel that

the whole facility is home.”- Karen Jesko, Resident since 2011

“

For registration information visit FCchurch.com or call 614 777.4099

CARLISLE LAWN & LANDSCAPE

614.595.0423

COMPLETE HEALTH DENTISTRY • WELCOMING NEW PATIENTS

hoffmandentaloffice.com 614-451-4400

Hoffman Dental 1600 Fishinger RoadColumbus, OH 43221

First Community Church Job Opening

North Campus Administrative Coordinator

We have a full-time opening (35 hours/week) at the North Campus providing administrative support for the K-12 youth programs and Camp Akita. Minimum qualifications: Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent. Must have strong interpersonal skills, including demonstrated written and verbal communications. Working knowledge of Microsoft Office products, with a strong emphasis on Microsoft Excel and Access. Strong organizational and time-management skills with attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities.

If interested, please email a resume and cover letter to Cindy Harsany at CHarsany@FCchurch.com.

Tri-Village Trading Post

Semi-Annual Bargain Room

BAG SALE

Aug. 18 - Sept. 6

All you can get in a bag for just $3!

3.5” x 2”

Joseph A LotozoFinancial Advisor.

1840 Zollinger RoadUpper Arlington, OH 43221614-451-6004www.edwardjones.com

3.5” x 2”

Joseph A LotozoFinancial Advisor.

1840 Zollinger RoadUpper Arlington, OH 43221614-451-6004www.edwardjones.com

firstnewsFirst Community Church1320 Cambridge BoulevardColumbus, OH 43212

Dated Material : Do Not Delay

Periodical PostagePAIDat Columbus, Ohio

First Community Church

South Campus North Campus1320 Cambridge Boulevard 3777 Dublin RoadColumbus, OH 43212 Columbus, OH 43221614 488.0681 614 488.0681FAX 488.2763 FAX 777.4098

FCchurch.com info@FCchurch.com

No matter who you are or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here.

,THE PROGRAM STAFF OF FIRST COMMUNITY CHURCH Richard A. Wing, Senior Minister; Paul E. Baumer, Minister to the Staff; David S. Hett, Minister of Religious Life and Learning; Ronald J. Jenkins, Minister of Music and Liturgy; Deborah Countiss Lindsay, Minister of Spiritual Care; James M. Long, Minister of Pastoral Care; Katherine H. Shaner, Minister of Mission; Mary Beth Aeh, Director of Early Childhood Ministry; Michael Barber, Director of Marketing and Communications, Sally R. Beske, Assistant Organist/Director of Youth Choirs; Tim Carlson, Director of Camp Akita Ministries and Youth Programming; Dawn J. Costin, Director of K-12 Ministry; Cynthia Harsany, Director of Finance and Operations; Pam Jameson, Director of Facilities Ministry; Scot Nicoll, Executive Director of Camp Akita; Missy Obergefell, Director of Older Adult Ministry; Paula L. Russell, Director of Member and Visitor Services; Lauri Speight Sullivan, Director of First Community Foundation.

Affiliated with The United Church of Christ and Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)

News articles and photos for firstnews Monthly must be submitted to news@FCchurch.com by the 15th of each month. Direct questions to Editor Michael Barber at mbarber@FCchurch.com

firstnews Monthly

Akita Counselor Reunion and Akita Folk Festival By Scot Nicoll

Camp Akita is continuing to compile a complete list of our counselors for the past 64 years, but we still need your help. See our website to find what we have put together so far and please help us fill in the gaps. You can find the counselor database at campakita.org/alumni

We are inviting all former staff members and their families to come back to sweet home Camp Akita. The homecoming will be August 16–17, the first weekend after our summer camping sessions end.

Come down for an hour or for a day. This will be a time to reconnect with old friends, meet other staff members for the first time and, most importantly, spend some time at a place you love.

The Akita Folk Festival will be held on Saturday, August 16. This great event is centered on the music that instantly takes us back to our time spent at Camp Akita. We will also have the entire camp open, so you can take a ride on the giant swing, swim in the lake, try out the Wet Willie water slides or just spend some quiet time exploring the woods.

For more information, visit us at campakita.org/reunion