ptreepost2013christmas

www.peachtreepres.org Peachtree POSt | VOLUMe 2 • NUMBer 3 • 2013 1

Christmas That Never Ends: C.S. Lewis’ Narnia Tales Nicholas Bowden and Friends Concert: 20th Anniversary

CHRISTMAS EDITION

2013

Christmas

Page 4 1

CONCERTSRossDOUTHAT

2013

Volume 2 • Issue 3 • December 2013

2 Peachtree POSt | VOLUMe 2 • NUMBer 3 • 2013 www.peachtreepres.org

Where is Your Heart?

Generosity 2014Make your estimate of giving now for

Peachtree Mission & Ministry in 2014 atpeachtreepres.org/2014giving

2013 END OF YEAR GIVING

As the year draws to a close, there are three ways to make your 2013 gifts comply with I.R.S. regulations:

• Check - Your check must be dated and postmarked by December 31, 2013 to be included in your 2013 giving.

• Stock - The stock must be in the church’s account by December 31, 2013, to be included in your 2013 giving. It is important that you initiate this transfer by December 19th to allow for the year-end delay in transfers being completed. To obtain transfer information and to notify the church of your gift, please contact Lynn Dawson at 404-842-5841 or email at [email protected]. (Your stock gift does not come with your name attached so we do not know the donor unless you let us know.)

• Credit Card - Submit your gift online with a credit card. As with any gift, the transaction must be completed by December 31, 2013, to be included in your 2013 giving. You can do this by going to the church’s web site, www. peachtreepres.org, and clicking on the “Giving” link. Just follow the steps. You will receive an email confirmation when your charge goes through.

For convenience, the Finance Office will be open from 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. December 27 & 28 and from 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. on December 31st.


December 2013

CONTENTSWhere is Your Heart?2013 End of Year Giving

Christmas Eve ServicesJoin us as we experience the miracle again.

NarniaChristmas That Never Ends: C.S. Lewis’ Narnia Tales

The Making of a LegendHow C.S. Lewis gave us The Chronicles of Narnia.

Ross DouthatThe youngest ever op-ed columnist for The New York Times is coming to talk about his best selling book Bad Religion

Four Ways To Make Room for ChristmasIt’s the most wonderful time of the year, right?

Calendar of EventSee what’s coming up

Executive Editor • Len Wilson | Contributing Writers • Heather Ellison

Marnie Crumpler | Graphic Designers • Joe Chaffee • Lizz Norman

Photographer • Steve Lyons, Andy Barry | Peachtree Print Shop • Mitch Reed

Malcolm Gailey • Curtis Walker • Barry Ferguson • Steve Bomar • Larry Brock

Christmas

Page 4Concerts

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Nick and Friends ConcertCelebrate the 20th anniversary of this wonderful concert

Christmas

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EVE AT Peachtree


Sunday, december 8, 2013 | children’S chriStmaS concert: “and a little child Shall lead them” | 4:00-5:00 pm IN ThE SANCTuARY

Let the children of peachtree show you the way to the Christ Child, in the first of our three annual Christmas Concerts. All of our children’s ensembles will be featured: the Cherub Choir, praise Singers, Kingdom Singers, praise Ringers and Kingdom Ringers. This fun, festive family concert features music of Advent and Christmas. The concert is free and open to the public; nursery is available for children 3 and under. Join us from 5:00-7:00pm in the Fellowship hall for Journey to Bethleham, a family Advent experience. For more information visit peachtreepres.org/journey.


Sunday, december 15, 2013legendS and carolS: a chriStmaS FeStival concert6:00-7:30pm IN ThE SANCTuARY

That wonderful, intimate feeling of caroling with your family and friends. To compliment Dr. pentz’s sermon series, Christmas That Never Ends, based on C.S. Lewis’ The Lion, the Witch and Wardrobe, the music ministry presents Christmas carols based on poetry and legend — the human expression of wonder and amazement as we encounter the Christ child. After the concert, be our guests for a “homemade Sweets and Treats” reception hosted by our own presbyterian Women in the Williams Center. The concert is free and open to the public; nursery is available for children 4 and under.

Sunday, december 22, 2013nicholaS bowden and FriendS chriStmaS concert — 20th anniverSary edition 6:00-8:00pm IN ThE SANCTuARY The long-awaited night is here! It is the 20th anniversary; 20 years of Nicholas Bowden and all his friends gathered for one of the most spectacular concerts in Atlanta’s Christmas season!

Our featured guest is internationally acclaimed soprano Sylvia mcNair, along with many other artists “coming back” to celebrate with us, including: Dr. Deanna Joseph and the Georgia State university Chorus, Daniel Solberg, piano, Scott Atchison, organ, Amy Little, soprano, Clay hilley, tenor, Nathan munson, tenor, John Irvin, tenor...and many others. Also, to celebrate this oc-casion, the peachtree music ministry has commissioned British organist, Simon Johnson (St. paul’s Cathedral, London) to write a “Gloria” for choir, organ and orchestra, which will be premiered at this concert.

And what would Nick and Friends be without an act of giving? That surprise will be revealed at the concert. Don’t miss it. The concert is free and open to the public, and a free-will offering will be taken. Childcare provided for infants through preschoolers.


Christmas EveServices

Worship Times:

10 Am, 12 noon,

2, 4, 6, 8 And 10 pm

Each year we experience the miracle again. Through music and message, the wonder of God’s incredible love in the baby Jesus shines on that holy Night. Worship at peachtree this Christmas Eve.


10 Am – YOuNG FAmILIES SERVICE, SANCTuARY Justin Anderson, one of Atlanta’s premier young actors / directors, brings us a delightfully crazy version of the Christmas story, in a special service designed especially for young children. Sing familiar carols and participate in the story of Jesus’ birth as it comes to life before your family’s eyes. Visit nativity animals on the front lawn before or after worship.

12 NOON – COmmuNION SERVICE, KELLETT ChApELCome and adore him through instrumental music, the singing of familiar carols, and Christmas communion. mark Crumpler preaches. 12 NOON - A SummIT ChRISTmAS, ThE LODGE Celebrate Christmas with familiar carols led by the Summit band and a message from Bryan Dunagan, followed by a special candle lighting experience. Visit the nativity animals on the front lawn before or after the service.

2 pm – FAmILY SERVICE, SANCTuARYSee the little town of Bethlehem come alive through drama, the singing of carols, and the telling of the great story of Jesus’ birth. Join the angels, shepherds, and wise men as we worship the baby Jesus. Visit the nativity animals on the front lawn before or after the service.

4 pm – FAmILY CANDLELIGhT SERVICE, SANCTuARYExperience the drama, carols and story as presented in the 2 p.m. service followed by candle lighting with our pastor, Vic pentz. Visit the nativity animals on the front lawn before or after the service.

6, 8 AND 10 pm – TRADITIONAL CANDLELIGhT SERVICES, SANCTuARY The majesty of music and the message of Jesus’ birth fill these candlelight services. The Chancel Choir, accompanied by a brass ensemble, leads us in our celebration on this holy Night. Vic pentz’s inspiring meditation is followed by candle lighting as we worship the baby Jesus, the Light of the World.

ADDITIONAL INFORmATIONChILDCARE: is available for all services– birth through 5 years old. pARKING: is available on campus and at our peachtree Express Satellite locations.

CATES CENTER LOTLocated on East Andrews between Roswell Road and West paces Ferry, 3:00 -7:30 p.m.

pEAChTREE EXpRESS ShuTTLE SERVICE

pOWERS FERRY SquARE LOTLocated at powers Ferry and Roswell Road , 1/4 mile north of church, 3:00 - 7:30 p.m


December 1 Wrong will be right, when Aslan comes in sight. (Isaiah 9:2-7)

December 8 Have you ever gotten a bad gift? (Genesis 1:3-7)

December 15 Smallness is no barrier to greatness. (Micah 5:2-4)

December 22 Ever need a little more air in your lungs? (Galatians 4:4-7)

December 29 What happens when Aslan is on the move again?

The Chronicles of Narnia are the classic novels by C. S. Lewis about four London children who are sent to a professor’s country home for protection during World War II. There, they find a magic wardrobe leading to a mystical land called Narnia. To defeat the White Witch, who holds the land under her evil spells, they must join forces with Aslan the lion. While not allegories, these delightful stories are filled with Christian symbolism and profound insight, especially through the noble character of Aslan, King of Narnia.

C.S. L

ewis

The Making of a

Legend

The south transept of Westminster Abbey is traditionally referred to as ‘poet’s Corner.’ This section of the Abbey is fittingly named, as some of the most notable figures in British literary history are buried or memorialized there. The first person buried in ‘poet’s Corner’ was Geoffrey Chaucer in 1556. Charles Dickens, whom we remember at this time of year for his A Christmas Carol, was buried there in 1870.

Recently, c. S. lewis was memorialized in ‘poet’s Corner.’ November 22, 2013, marked the 50th anniversary of Lewis’ death. Lewis died on the same day that John Kennedy was killed in Dallas, Texas. Though being honored in ‘poet’s Corner,’ Lewis never found success as a poet. he published two volumes of poetry in the 1920s but neither of them received much attention from the literary community.

Almost by accident, Lewis gained a reputation as a formidable defender of the Christian faith. During World War II he literally gave voice to the faith of the British people in a series of radio talks on the BBC which later became Mere Christianity.

But toward the end of his career, Lewis turned away from the task of arguing for the faith and gave his energies to portraying pictures of it. he did this best in a series of seven books for children called The Chronicles of Narnia. In Narnia, Lewis helps us grasp the words of the prophet Isaiah: “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light.” he helps us feel the anticipation of a coming King. This world that Lewis created will provide the backdrop for Advent 2013 at peachtree presbyterian Church.

Lewis’ biographer Alan Jacob states that, “Lewis’s mind was above all characterized by a willingness to be enchanted.” In this regard, Lewis’ life mirrors the Christmas story. Lewis poured his great and capacious intellect into words that we could understand and enjoy. In doing so he revealed God to us.

In this same way our great God came to us as a baby. Come and be enchanted this Advent as we journey to Narnia and remember this story yet again.



Ross DouthatComing to PeaChtree Jan 22, 2014

The youngest ever op-ed columnist for The New York Times is coming to talk about his best selling book Bad Religion.

Not only is Ross Douthat’s account of orthodox Christianity’s decline provocative, but his critique of today’s ascendant

heresies is compelling. This volume is a sustained proof of Chesterton’s thesis that when people turn from God, ‘they

don’t believe in nothing—they believe in anything.’ Everyone who is interested in why the church is faring as it is in U.S.

culture today needs to get this book.

—Timothy Keller, Redeemer Presbyterian Church, New York City

Doors oPen at 6:30the ProvoCation begins at 7:00

“

”C.S. L

ewis


Four Ways To make

room For ChrisTmas

Some say it’s the most wonderful time of the year. Of course, they’re right… right? Who doesn’t love the extra traffic, credit card bills, and late Christmas cards?

By: marnie Crumpler


I promise, I’m really not a Scrooge! As a pastor, it’s natural for me to sing carols and think about camels, shepherds, candles and coat and toy drives in June. At peachtree, we’ve been dreaming and planning Christmas for months. I can get downright giddy this time of year. I absolutely love Christmas. But I bet if we’re honest, many of us are already stressed about what’s coming. It’s so easy to get off-track and miss out on this special season. Christmas is God’s chosen moment and method for showing us exactly who he is and the depths of his love for us.

Whether we’re ready or not, Christmas is coming. We don’t have a choice about the calendar. But, we do have a choice about how we experience the season. As you get ready to experience what we in church life call “Thanksmas,” consider four practical tips to help you and your family get ready to fully and joyfully experience the beauty of Christmas.

make your list and check it twice.

make a Plan - A wise person once said, “if you don’t make a plan, someone will make one for you.” Sit down and think about what you love about Christmas.

There will be parties to go to, shopping to do, Christmas cards to send. So, this year, be intentional: decide now what you want your life to be like this year. What do you remember about Christmas last year that you loved? That you didn’t love? This year, make choices that will help you experience Christmas at its best. Save some days to relax and carve some time out to actually enjoy the sounds and sights of the season. Remember this is the season of peace, hope and love.

make time For your Family - Speaking of time, remember to make time in the midst of your commitments to be with those you love most. Take your parents out to

dinner or have your grandchildren over to build a gingerbread house. Children crave tradition. make or continue yours this year: ride the pink pig, deliver cookies to your neighbors, or make a Birthday Cake for Jesus. Watch “A Charlie Brown Christmas” or sing around the piano. Slow down enough to watch your children –they are growing fast.

reach beyond yourself - Find a way to look beyond yourself this Christmas. Consider the simplicity of the story. John 3:16 says it succinctly: “For god so loved the world

that he gave his only Son.” The entire story of Christmas is that out of God’s love for us, he gave. This is the season of giving. Don’t let the malls dictate the true spirit of giving. Find a way to give in our great city of Atlanta. Find a way to give an act of service that models God’s love. Look around to see people who might be lonely, or overworked, or especially stressed. Children love to give so include them as you serve others. If you are looking for ideas, jump on our website for plenty!

making room for Jesus – This last tip is the most important: Keep Jesus in Christmas. The angels sang at his birth. The shepherds ran to see. The three kings bowed their knee. Find moments in the

next weeks to marvel and worship the God who loved you enough to give his Son. Bathe in the sounds and sights of our worship services and concerts. Sing the Christmas

Carols. Read Luke 2 with your children or your grandchildren or with your friends. The carol says it best, “Let every heart prepare him room.”

Experience the beauty and the holiness. Experience the peace and love. ponder anew what God did when he sent his Son into the world as a baby born in Bethlehem. The pastors and staff of peachtree look forward to being with you this Christmas!

making room For chriStmaSOne great way to make more room this year is through

our new Advent season experience:

making Room for Christmas is an interactive family experience that walks you through the entire Christmas

story using 24 activities. Look for your free copy and start a new tradition with your family this year!

peachtreepres.org

ThIS WINTER AT pEAChTREE


RECURRING EVENTS

Sanctuary WorshipSundayS, 8:45, 10:00 and 11:15, weekly

Summit WorshipSundayS, 8:45 and 11:15, weekly

Dec 8, Jan 12, Feb 9, mar 9 tourS oF Peachtree rTour one of the prominent church campuses of Atlanta and learn the history and present day scope of ministry at peachtree. Tours are available on the second Sunday of every month following each worship service. Gather in the Williams Center after 8:45, 10:00 and 11:15 Sanctuary worship. peachtreepres.org/tours

Dec 8, Jan 12, Feb 2, mar 2 exPloring Peachtree rWant to get involved? Come to this exciting, interactive class designed for those interested in learning more about peachtree, their relationship with Jesus Christ, specific ways to get involved, and membership. Room 2315, 10:00am - 12:15pm peachtreepres.org/news/exploring.

EVENTS

Saturday, Dec 1narnia Sermon SerieS beginSThe Chronicles of Narnia are the classic novels by C. S. Lewis about four London children who are sent to a professor’s country home for protection during World War II. There, they find a magic wardrobe leading to a mystical land called Narnia. While not allegories, these delightful stories are filled with Christian symbolism and profound insight, especially through the noble character of Aslan, King of Narnia.

Saturday, Dec 7women’S chriStmaS tea rRing in the Christmas season by attending peachtree’s annual Women’s Christmas Tea from 11am-1pm in the Fellowship hall.Cost: $15/person. Childcare is available, $10/child. Registration deadline is December 2 or when sold out. Tickets will not be sold at the door. peachtreepres.org/news

Sunday, Dec 8laSt day For toy and coat driveThrough Buckhead Christian ministry’s Joyous Toys program, families in need will visit the “store” at peachtree on December 9-13 and “shop” for new toys for their children. New, unwrapped toys are needed. Drop off items in bins located in Welcome Center, The Lodge, Gym and 2nd floor elevator entrance. peachtreepres.org/causes

Sunday, Dec 8, 4:00 pmchildren’S chriStmaS concertLet the children of peachtree show you the way to the Christ Child. All children’s ensembles will be featured, including Cherub Choir, praise Singers, Kingdom Singers, praise Ringers and Kingdom Ringers. This fun, festive family concert is located in the Sanctuary and is free to the public; nursery is available for children 3 and under. peachtreepres.org/music

Sunday, Dec 8, 5:00 - 7:00 pmJourney to bethlehem advent workShoP r Join other peachtree families as we prepare for the Advent season, following the Children’s Advent Concert. Enjoy dinner, make an Advent wreath for your family, create your own creche, decorate ornaments, and more. Cost is $40 per family (includes dinner and materials).

Sunday, Dec 15, 10:00 - 11:00 amFaith StePS Fourth grade celebrationOur Faith Steps program recognizes the important steps in faith our children make as they grow and develop. The 4th Grade Faith Step is Created on purpose. During our time together, we’ll have conversation and

activities that help our 4th graders explore who they are, how they have been uniquely created, and their purpose.

Sunday, Dec 15, 6:00 pmlegendS and carolS: a chriStmaS FeStival concertJoin all peachtree adult choirs, handbells, youth choir, and soloists to celebrate the Christmas season accompanied by organ, piano and harp. To complement C.S. Lewis’ The Lion, the Witch and Wardrobe, we present Christmas carols based on poetry and legend — the human expression of wonder and amazement as we encounter the Christ child. After the concert, be our guests for a reception hosted by our own presbyterian Women in the Williams Center. The concert is free to the public; nursery is available for children 4 and under. peachtreepres.org/music

Friday, Dec 20, 6:30-9:00 pmFiFty6 rudolPh’S rockin’ Party r Santa’s laugh sure is hearty. If he weren’t busy, he’d totally come to this party! With outrageous games and delicious food, you definitely do not want to miss this night. 6:30-9pm in the Lodge. Bring your antlers and get pumped for our annual sleigh race! peachtreestudents.org

Sunday, Dec 22, 6:00 pmthe 20th anniverSary oF nicholaS bowden and FriendS The long-awaited night is here! Nick Bowden and all his friends are gathered for one of the most spectacular concerts in Atlanta’s Christmas season! Our featured guest this night is internationally acclaimed soprano Sylvia mcNair, and we have commissioned British organist, Simon Johnson (St. paul’s Cathedral, London) to write a “Gloria” for choir, organ and orchestra, which will premier at this concert. The concert is free and open to the public, and a free-will offering will be taken. Childcare provided for infants through preschoolers. peachtreepres.org/music Saturday, Dec 24chriStmaS eve worShiP Join us at one of our many Christmas Eve worship services, including the 10:00 am Young Family service, 12:00 pm.

ThIS WINTER AT pEAChTREE = Registration Requiredr


A Summit Christmas, 12:00pm Kellett Chapel Communion service, 2:00 and 4:00 pm Family Candlelight service, and 6:00, 8:00 and 10:00 pm Candlelight worship services. For more information visit peachtreepres.org/worship

January 17th-20thhigh School miniStry Ski retreat r Your mLK weekend should be spent skiing down a snow covered mountain in Colorado! Snowboard or ski, it doesn’t matter. All you need to do is be prepared to have fun with friends and spend some time with the Lord at Copper mountain. Only one rule - no thinking about school! peachtreestudents.org January 22ndroSS douthat comeS to PeachtreeThe youngest ever op-ed columnist for The New York Times is coming to talk about his best selling book Bad Religion.“Not only is Ross Douthat’s account of orthodox Christianity’s decline provocative, but his critique of today’s ascendant heresies is compelling. This volume is a sustained proof of Chesterton’s thesis that when people turn from God, ‘they don’t believe in nothing—they believe in anything.’ Everyone who is interested in why the church is faring as it is in u.S. culture today needs to get this book.”—Timothy Keller, Redeemer presbyterian Church, New York City. Doors open at 6:30. The provocation begins at 7:00

Sunday, Jan 26, 2014,12:15 pm - 1:45 pmFaith StePS - communion workShoP r Is your child ready to participate in communion? Learn about the sacrament of communion that focuses on the meaning and ways we celebrate it in our church community.

Sunday, Feb 2, 2014 11:15 amFaith StePS - baPtiSm birthday celebrationFamilies of all children baptized in 2013 are encouraged to join us for this annual celebration of their baptisms. We will gather in the Fellowship hall Room 2207, for cupcakes, ice cream, and fellowship.

Sunday, Feb 2ndhigh School miniStry SuPer bowl Party prizes, food, friends, and good times had by all. We will get together to watch the big game and eat until we drop. peachtreestudents.org

Sunday, Feb 9, 2014Faith StePS - 3rd grade celebrationJoin us as we focus on Service. We will gather from 10:00 - 11:00 am in the Fellowship hall, Room 2207. 3rd graders do not have KidJam this Sunday.

Friday - Sunday, Feb 14-16middle School miniStry metamorPhoSiS 2014 r presidents Day, Valentines Day and metamorphosis...WhAT A WEEKEND! peachtreestudents.org

Sunday, Feb 23, 2014; 10:00 - 11:00 amFaith StePS - 1St grade celebrationJoin us as we focus on prayer. We will gather from 10:00 - 11:00 am in the Fellowship hall, Room 2207. 1st graders do not have KidJam this Sunday.

Saturday, mar 1 middle School miniStry Skyzone r Jump Jump! (With other middle schoolers) peachtreestudents.org

Sunday, mar 2, 2014 10:00 - 11:00 amPeachtree Parenting SerieS - talking to your kidS about Sex and Sexuality Join us on the first Sunday of each month during the school year for information and conversation with LifeGate and Children & Family ministry staff regarding this important parenting topic. We will address the fears and hesitations parents have about talking to their children about sexuality, put the topic in its proper, broader context of parenting, and help parents become their kids’ “go-to” person about sex. Becky Nguyen and Katie Goohde will help you learn how to develop a comfortable, ongoing, constructive rapport about sex with your kids. 10:00 am - 11:00 am in the St. Andrew’s Room, 2009.

Friday, mar 07 - Sunday, mar 16india women’S miSSion triP r This spring, join us in Kolkata, India as we serve with our partners, International Justice mission and the mahima home, who bring rescue and restoration to victims of slavery, sexual exploitation, and other forms of violent oppression. peachtreepres.org/causes

CLASSES / STUDIES / SMALL GROUPS

mondays, 10:30-11:30 amwomen’S bible StudyBring your favorite Bible for prayer, fellowship and study of the book of Genesis. Room 2202.

mondays, 7:30 - 8:30 pmken boa bible StudyA Bible Study meeting weekly, examining the Bible and making application to the lives of men today. This study examines life principles from the book of James. Kellett Chapel.

Tuesdays, 7:00 - 8:00 amironmen Ironmen exists to encourage and equip men to become a positive impact for Jesus Christ. Come for a short presentation and roundtable discussion. The Lodge, Room 4211. peachtreeironmen.org

Sundays, 9:00 - 9:45 am Sola ScriPtura bible StudyEvery one of us has problems – some small, some not so small. Sadly for many Christians, the problems tend to dwarf the God they believe in. Our God seems small . . . and every problem towers like a mt. Everest on the horizon of life. perhaps what we need is a bigger sense of who God is. We’ll be keeping company with Elijah, haggai, and habakkuk, hebrew prophets who faced difficult times with a large vision of God. Led by Dr. mark Crumpler. Room 4303.

periodicals postage paid in Atlanta, GApublished semimonthly bypeachtree presbyterian Church3434 Roswell Road, nW, Atlanta, GA 30305(U.S.p.S. 601600) April 1, 2002

postmaster: Send address change topeachtree presbyterian Church3434 Roswell Road, nW, Atlanta, GA 30305

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PEACHTREE NEWS

For list of toys and drop off info visit

www.peachtreepres.org/mission

N e w, U N w r a ppe d Toys a N d N e w o r G e N T ly Us e d CoaT s

a N d w I N T e r G e a r a r e N e e d e d!

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