New Year’s Resolution Revolution

To be what we were before is counter to our idea of sanctification. To become what we never were is more consistent with our idea of justification. To go in a different direction is what happens at conversion. This year, forget making a resolution, let’s start a revolution. The word revolution, similar to the word conversion, means to turn around, or more precisely: to change direction. Everyone take a deep breath. I’m not talking about changing worship styles, or hymnals, or carpet color here. I’m talking about something far more important than any of that: Living Faith. Pisgah Presbyterian Church is a great place to be! I am so blessed to have been called to this place. And, I wouldn’t even dare to give us the task of being the Christian community, truly Christian, if I didn’t think it was possible. So, here is my list. It is in no particular order, and presented rather crudely, but these words should guide our resolutions revolutions for 2012:

FOLLOW: Let’s follow this year! Worshipping Jesus is part of our calling and joy, but churches tend to miss the part about following Jesus. Following means all sorts of things: mission, study, growing beards (see Beards for Buds article). To follow Jesus is to go new places, challenging places, and proclaim, “Here is your God.”

TRUST: We have to trust the Spirit. As challenges come and opportunities present themselves, we have to trust that the Spirit leads us and that discernment is real. Perhaps most of all we have to trust that God will provide for the journey.

ENJOY: I have come to the conclusion, after a full calendar year here, that fun is one of the key ingredients that makes us tick. We have fun, and we’re good at it! So, let’s use that! In 2012, we need to smile and laugh a lot!

INCARNATE: We have to be the Body in 2012. No slackers. No pew warmers. No factions or groups, just the Body. We have to build each other up for the work of Jesus Christ, with no one person more important than the other.

In some ways, the word revolution doesn’t really work, because you are already so good at these things. But, we can always do better! It is a bold vision: To be Christian; simple on the surface, but bold nonetheless.

Be a part of it! Come and follow Jesus, trusting in the Spirit, enjoying the grace of God, and being the body of Christ for all the world to see. It is a revolution, not because it is so different from what we have done in 2011, but because of how different it is than the rest of culture, even most churches. The more we do it, the more revolutionary it becomes! Pete

Money Talk

Many of you have probably heard the NPR show Car Talk at some point in your lives. If you haven’t, it’s these obnoxiously hysterical brothers who host a 3-hour call in show each week, about car problems. Well, I have to admit I do enjoy the show, even though I am not a car guy! This is the segment of the Pisgah Post, I like to call Money Talk. Each month, the chair of Administration and Finance reports a financial update in the Pisgah Post. My guess is that most of you want to read about money, about as much as I want to talk about cars. But, it’s important. We are a strange, out of the ordinary, bizarre, goofy, odd organization in this economy. We are increasing our budget over last year! All of my minister friends tell me of their deep budget cuts this year, while we have asked you, the members of this congregation, in the midst of a difficult economy, to give even more….and even more faithfully. We did so prayerfully. And, you have responded! But, we’re not there yet. The Session has asked for this increase, because our ministry continues to increase. Our average weekly attendance in 2009- September 2010 was 79. In 2011, we averaged above 120. Our Mission and Evangelism crew has been hard at work with M&Ms, Somalia, Relay for Life, Food Pantry, etc. Our Property Committee has accomplished incredible things in just one year: the roof, new gas tanks, lots of painting and repairs, etc. All of our committees have worked so hard, and our ministry has grown. Of course, that means our expenses have grown as well. With all of these new people and new responsibilities, we had to increase the work that Lynn was doing, and adjusted her position accordingly. With all of the youth, we brought in a part-time youth director to continue that vital ministry. With all of the children, we are purchasing more and more curriculum and supplies. Friends, in order to continue to grow and to flourish, the Session took a leap of faith and has asked you to step out on faith with them. If you haven’t turned in

The Pisgah Post Worship God, study the Scriptures, practice the Teachings

of Jesus as Lord and Savior

Pisgah Presbyterian Church Woodford County, Kentucky January 2012

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your pledge card for 2012 yet, please do so by Sunday, January 8th. If you have already turned in your pledge card, and feel the call to increase that pledge, then by all means, turn in a new card or contact Ted Bendis directly. Finally, if you are seeking a place for your year-end gifts, consider Pisgah’s general fund this year. The stronger we close out the books for 2011, the stronger we move into 2012. Thank you all for your incredible generosity to the ministry of Pisgah Presbyterian Church. God has indeed blessed us, and will continue to lead us in the new year. Pete

Maxwell Street Presbyterian and Pisgah Presbyterian’s:

Beards for Buds (buddies, not beers) Competition

Purpose: To raise money for the American Cancer Society, and awareness of issues men with cancer encounter, perhaps ending in the formation of a men’s cancer group. Competition: One team from each church, consisting of as many men as possible, but with a minimum of 5 (the starting line-up) will begin growing beards on January 1, 2012. The competition will end on February 21st, 2012 (Fat Tuesday), with a joint Pisgah/Maxwell Street gathering at the annual Fat Tuesday meal at Maxwell Street. The winner will be the team that raises the most money through donations, sponsorships, or any other creative ways. There will also be a secondary prize for the best beard from each church. Weekly Updates: Each Friday, the teams will log their progress so that weekly updates may be given in church as to the status of the competition. Prizes: Church Raising the Most Money- A weekend getaway to a 2-bedroom suite in the Smokey Mountains (donated by Jim and Wanda Rodgers of Pisgah) to be used at the discretion of the winning church (ie. Men’s retreat, donation to a cancer patients family, etc). Plus, bragging rites!

Winner of the Best Beard Competition from each church- T.B.A. ***Teams must consist of the head pastor, and be formed no later than December 30th. All faces must begin the competition clean shaven! Let the bearding begin!!!

Pisgah Book Group

We will meet on the first Monday of January at 6:30p.m. in the Academy Building to discuss Laura Hillenbrand's Unbroken, a World War II story of survival, resilience, and redemption. Ann Hayes is the leader this month. There are extra copies of the book in Pete's office. Jim Rodgers will introduce the book for February.

Worship Committee Update

The next meeting of the Worship Committee will take place on Tuesday, January 3, 2012 at 7:30p.m. at the Academy Building. We are excited to begin planning a wonderful year of Worship at Pisgah in 2012! We strongly encourage anyone who may be interested in joining the committee to attend our next meeting – all are welcome! We hope to see you there.

Hal Kirtley & Bobbi Sweeney Co-Chairs of the Worship Committee

An Invitation

The Men of Pisgah will resume their study of the most human of all Biblical characters, King David, beginning Saturday morning, January 7 at 8:30 a.m. One of the most flawed, complex, and controversial figures in the Bible, David was, nevertheless, sought out as “a man after God’s own heart,” and appointed by Him to serve as King over His chosen people some 4000 years ago. More has been written about King David than any other figure in the Old Testament, and next to Jesus Christ, David is the most cited character in the entire Bible. Already our study has uncovered many modern parallels, and we anticipate that our continued sessions will increase our knowledge, stimulate our minds, and deepen our faith. For these reason we sincerely hope that other men here at Pisgah will be motivated to join with us. If nothing else, we can promise you supportive fellowship, and lively discussions. For further details, call or email one of the current members of our group: Phil Bisbee, Doug Jones; Morris Mitchell; Smith Mitchell; Don Schmidt; Scott Upton; Art Ortenburger, or myself, Jim Rodgers, discussion leader.

Be sure to be here for…

New Officer Ordination and Installation

January 8th, during worship

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Kerygma Continues!

The Thursday morning Kerygma class continues to meet weekly in the Academy Building at 10:00a.m. This group has grown to about 15 people each Thursday morning, and they are some of the most interesting people you’ll ever encounter! Over the next few weeks, we will be finishing up the Gospel of John, and then we will begin a new study. You are more than welcome to come and join us anytime! At Kerygma, you’re never behind. See you all there!

Confirmation Class Informational Meeting

What is Confirmation? Confirmation is the process by which youth become official members of the church. While young children are an integral part of the church community, they are not full members of the church until they are able to profess their own faith. In the Presbyterian Church, we consider this to be an extremely important time of exploration where youth will study Christianity, ask the big questions, and wrestle with their own faith. In the faith journey, this is a milestone and a rite of passage. The Christian Education committee will be offering a Confirmation class to the youth of Pisgah Presbyterian Church (7th Grade and above), meeting once a week for at least 8 weeks. Please come to an informational meeting for youth and parents after worship on Sunday, January 15th. Once the group is set, we will find a meeting time that works for everyone. The Confirmation process is a very important time in the life of the congregation, and we look forward to getting started!

Kid’s Kingdom is Back! Attn: 2nd – 5th graders

With all these kids around, it is time to re-

start an old tradition, and who better to do it then Cathy Johnson?

Parents, be sure to have your 2nd-5th Grader here from 4-6pm on Sunday, January 22nd, for

some play with a purpose. Dinner will be served!

This is a great time for kids to bring friends and introduce them to their Pisgah family!

Curious about Pisgah? Wondering what it means to be a Presbyterian? Considering church membership?

Come join Pete after worship on Sunday, January 22nd, for a question and answer period. No pressure to join, simply informational! All are welcome! If you’ve already attended a class, and are ready to join, come and see me!

Pisgah Pajama Lady

We have so many special people in our congregation! Someone you don't see lately, due to health issues, is at home on Troy Road, in her sewing room that is filled with flannels! She keeps busy making pajama bottoms to donate to various institutions. She provides pajamas to the Methodist Youth Home, Lexington Vets, and recently sent multitudes of pajama bottoms to Thomson-Hood Vet Center in Wilmore, KY on behalf of Pisgah church. That would be our own Carlee Miller! Give her a call and stop by to visit with her and Jim. You will be energized by their conversation and touched by their spirit and love of God.

Pisgah RINGS!

A thank you is extended to the following people who helped ring the Salvation Army Bells this Christmas Season:

Rhonda Ball Jackie Prewitt Patty Broadbent Jim & Wanda Rodgers The Fister Family Don & Dottie Schmidt Ann Hayes Linda Scott Alice Kiviniemi The Pisgah Youth Group Louise Lagrew The Pete Jones Family Brenda Lucas (and any we missed on the list!) Lindsey & Dan McHatton

Sandi Bromagen and Sue Fosson, Woodford County Service Unit Members

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Stewardship & Planning

It was a vigorously active year for your S & P Committee and 2012 promises to be more of the same. Stewardship...how we thank God for all that he has given us! Coming together in love for our church and our community of believers. If you are interested in helping with the church officers and staff retreat/seminar, the pig roast, the talent show, the stewardship fair, special offerings, the stewardship moments or have a new plan to share, consider joining the Stewardship & Planning Committee. This year S&P will be led by energetic elders Dottie Schmidt & Sue

Fosson. Call them to participate! first meeting will be January.

PISGAH YOUTH GROUP

2012 SPRING AND SUMMER

SCHEDULE

JANUARY

8: Spring Kick-Off

15: Fellowship and Discussion Night In honor of Martin Luther King, Jr., we’ll be discussing

issues on justice

22: Simulation Game at Second Presbyterian

Church

29: Taylor Manor and Lunch

FEBRUARY

5: Fellowship Night

12: Fellowship Night

18: Parents Night Out

19: No Youth Group

24-26: Burnamwood Senior High Spirit Walk

26: Mission Night

MARCH

4: Fellowship Night

9-10: 30-Hour Famine

11: No Youth Group

18: Fellowship Night

23-25: Burnamwood Senior High Spring Retreat

25: Youth Sunday Discussion and Games

APRIL

1: No Youth Group

4: Dinner and a Movie

7: Pancake Breakfast and Easter Egg Hunt

8: No Youth Group

15: Bowl-A-Thon

20-22: Burnamwood Middle School Spring

Retreat

22: Youth Sunday Rehearsal and Games

27-29: 3rd

, 4th, 5

th Grade Retreat

29: Youth Sunday Rehearsal and Games

MAY

6: Youth Sunday Dress Rehearsal

6: Lunch – Mission Trip Fundraiser

11: Relay for Life

13: Youth Sunday

19: Burnamwood Work Day

20: Burnamwood Sunday

27: Youth vs. Adults Kickball and Picnic

June 3-7: VBS

June 29-July 6: Senior High Mission Trip

July 9-13: Middle School Mission Trip

Simulation Game January 22 with Second Presbyterian

On January 22, we will be having a combined youth

group with Second Presbyterian Church in Lexington!

Together, we will have dinner and play a simulation

game that is intended to create awareness of

homelessness. This should be a great time with friends

and discussion on an important topic that exists in our

communities.

Mission Trips 2012

I am so excited about a new year and new activities! There are lots of things to get involved with, including our summer mission trips! High Schoolers will be traveling to Chicago, Illinois to work with a low-income, urban population. There are only 12 spots for the high school trip, so remember to turn in your deposit by February 1 to reserve your spot for this meaningful experience! Middle Schoolers will be traveling to Irvine, Kentucky to work with impoverished families who need home repairs and other forms of assistance. Both trips give us the opportunity be active participants in our faith and show love to our neighbors. These trips will pose challenges, but most importantly, the chance to grow!

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eReader News

Do you have -- or did you get -- an eReader for Christmas? Susan Dunlap has become a Nookworm and made a recent electronic purchase worth talking about. What $4.99 got her: The Presbyterian Holy Bible, featuring key Presbyterian texts. "The price is right. The weight of the device is right. And the text size can be beefed up to where I don't need my glasses. I recommend downloading The Bible to any and all with a Nook or Kindle or other electronic device," she says, adding that if it looks as if she's surfing the Internet during worship, she isn't!

Living Out the Mission of Christ

In 2011, through your effort and monetary support Pisgah supported many causes and here is just a partial listing.

Quite Creek Farm

www.quietcreekfarm.org

Chrysalis House

www.chrysalishouse.org

Relay for Life

KY Refugee Ministries

www.kyrm.org

Young Somalis' of Louisville

Haiti Disaster Relief

Japan Disaster Relief

Pisgah Academy Day

Project Linus

Military Christmas Cards

Victory Garden

Woodford Co Backpack Program

Gods Food Pantry

www.godspantry.org

Mentors& Meals

www.pisgahchurch.org/get-

involved/mentors-meals-mms

Woodford Ministerial Association

Hand in Hand Ministries

www.hhministries.com

Invite a Friend to Church Sunday

Council on Developmental Disabilities

www.councilonmr.org

Wheel Chair Purchase

Camp Burnamwood

www.burnamwood.net

1st Christian Church, outreach ministry

www.fccversailles.com

Woodford Food Pantry

Meals on Wheels

Baby Health Services

www.babyhealthlexington.org

Boy Scout Troop 1784

PC USA Mission Work

www.gamc.pcusa.org/ministries/gamc/ab

out-gamc

PCUSA Theological Educational Fund

www.gamc.pcusa.org/give/TE999999

Somalia Campaign

Bellewood Presbyterian Home

www.bellewood.org

Operation Christmas Child

www.samaritanspurse.org/index.php/OC

C

Adopt a Family Angel Christmas Tree

Trackside Coat Initiative

Festival of Faiths

www.festivaloffaiths.org

Mark Your Calendar and Save The Date

Pisgah Academy Day Sacred Air - Breath of Life

Saturday, February 18th

Relay for Life Friday, May 11th

Thank You!

Dear Pisgah Family,

My family and I would like to thank everyone at Pisgah for your prayers and support before and after Mom’s passing. Your encouragement and thoughtfulness has been greatly appreciated. Mom was not only ready, but excited about arriving at the glorious place where she has now gone. While we miss her terribly, we are also excited about the promises of God. We will be reunited again someday. Please continue to pray for us as we learn to live the rest of our earthly journey’s without her at our side. Thank you all again. Sincerely yours,

Ken Ball and Family

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Dear Congregation,

As if the honor of being your pastor is not thanks enough, you have over-whelmed me once more with your generosity in the staff gifts. Thank you for being who you are, and I am looking forward to another wonderful year as your pastor.

Thank you!

Pete Jones Dear Pisgah Family,

I just wanted to thank each of you for the very generous Christmas gift. I consider myself very blessed to be able to combine a great job and wonderful church family! Best wishes to you all for a wonderful New Year.

Sincerely,

Lynn Davis Dear Pisgah Church,

I would like to thank all the people of Pisgah Church for their very generous Christmas gift. It is such a joy to serve this congregation. Thanks for all the kind words you give to me and our choir all year long. It is such a blessing to me.

Thanks again,

Linda Jones Dear Pisgah Church Members,

Thank you for your most generous Christmas Gift. As in the past, your generosity is most amazing and greatly appreciated.

Sincerely,

Ted Bendis

Snippets

o There will be no Sunday School or Children’s Church on Sunday, January 1. Worship will be at 11:00a.m.

o Albert Chandler auditioned for and won “First Chair” in the saxophone section of the Woodford County High School Band. Way to “blow”, Albert!

o Are you looking for some Pisgah Commemorative plates to add to your collection? Betsy Kuster of Paris, KY has two plates dated 1945 that she would like to sell for $24.00 each. You can reach her at 859-229-4721 or tkuster@prodigy.net

We are always on the lookout for more “Snippets.” Help us keep this column going by sending in any interesting little tidbits you hear!

Happy Birthday to You in January

1 Louise Lagrew 4 Todd Graddy 8 Jac Britton 9 Jamie MacLeod 10 Cathy Johnson 11 David Shropshire 13 Linda Scott, Smith Mitchell 14 Lindsey McHatton, Katey Jones 18 Morris Mitchell 19 Ruben Kadamyan 25 Ann Ortenburger 28 Zack Wilder, Lillie Broadbent 29 Kendall Johnson, Martin Fister, Bryce Baker 30 Tom Biederman, Annie Laurie Muckelroy

And in early February… 2 Patrick Hayes 3 Coley Stilz 5 Tara Lewis 6 Jesse Wilder 7 Constantine Budovsky 9 Bob Keller Please help us keep this list up to date!

The Pisgah Post is published monthly by the Pisgah Presbyterian Church, 710 Pisgah Pike, Versailles, KY 40383. The deadline for the February 2012 issue of the newsletter is January 26. Please submit signed articles to the church office or email them to office@pisgahchurch.org.

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Sundays at Pisgah Church 9:45a.m. Sunday School 11:00a.m. Morning Worship

The Staff Email Pete: pastor@pisgahchurch.org Lynn: office@pisgahchurch.org

Presbyterian Web Sites: Presbyterian Church (USA): pcusa.org Transylvania Presbytery: transypby.org Synod: synodoflivingwaters.org Montreat: http://montreat.org Presbyterians Today: pcusa.org/pcusa/today

Pisgah Church Staff Pete Jones, Pastor Linda Jones, Organist Lynn Davis, Office Manager Amy Carpenter, Youth Director Ted Bendis, Bookkeeper Bob Keller, Groundskeeper Rhonda Ball, Nursery Worker

The Session Pete Jones, Moderator

Wanda Rodgers, Clerk of Session

Class of 2011 Class of 2012 Class of 2013 Martin Fister Anne Davis Todd Cassidy Mary Hinton Hank Graddy Sue Fosson Joe Johnson David Prater Tony Raider Wanda Rodgers Linda Scott Bobbi Sweeney

The Board of Deacons

Class of 2011 Class of 2012 Class of 2013 Shelia Baker Tessa Dole Susan Dunlap Katie Burrier Ann Hayes Janet Lake Emma Mitchell Melissa Scott Dan McHatton Jackie Prewitt Dani Upton Smith Mitchell

The Board of Trustees

Class of 2011 Class of 2012 Class of 2013 Michael Jones Warley Harper Happy Broadbent Alice Kiviniemi Laura Mancuso Linda Kuder

The Pisgah Post January 2012 Pisgah Presbyterian Church 710 Pisgah Pike Versailles, KY 40383 Address Service Requested

DATED MATERIAL ENCLOSED

Non-profit (bulk rate) U.S. Postage Paid Versailles, KY 40383 Permit No. 192

Web: www.pisgahchurch.org, Voice and fax: (859) 873-4161, email: office@pisgahchurch.org