| | | Happenings & News > Happenings Archive > Happenings Archive 2009 Happenings Archive - 2009 Browse through the church's announcements to learn more about what we do throughout the year.
SPC Day of Service: One Church, One Effort Monday, January 19, 2009 - Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Put your own to-do list aside and reach out to help our neighbors at the Chester YWCA. SPC will be rehabbing a large banquet room on the third floor of the Chester YWCA. There are jobs for volunteers of all ages, from demolition, painting and sewing to making lunches. If we can complete our tasks, the YWCA will be able to rent this room for small gatherings, generating some income that will support much-needed improvements in the rest of the building. You can help! For more information, or to sign up, please contact Sherry Carson or David Hurst (congregation directory - login required). Dave and Sherry serve as our outreach committee liaisons to the Chester YWCA. Thank you!
Interfaith Hospitality Network Host Week Sunday, January 18 to Sunday, January 25, 2009 Swarthmore Presbyterian Church's next week for hosting families from the IHN starts January 18. Please visit our Interfaith Hospitality Network page for details and contact information if you would like to volunteer.
Auditions for Childrens Choirs Annual Cantata Sundays, January 25 and February 1, 2009 12:00 noon in McCahan Hall Auditions for speaking roles only (no need to audition for singing with the choir) will be held at 12:00 noon, following the junior choir rehearsal in McCahan Hall on Sundays, January 25 and February 1. No preparation is needed; readings from the script will be provided.
Presbyterian Potluck Wednesday, January 28, 2009 6:30 pm in Fellowship Hall No luck involved, really — Parish Life is grateful once again for the culinary skills which so many of our members “bring to the table” each year as we prepare to share supper before our annual meeting. Please bring your contribution (labeled with the ingredients if possible) and appropriate serving implements according to the first letter of your last name: A - D: Dessert E - O: Main course P - R: Vegetarian side or main S - Z: Salad
Congregational Meeting
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
7:30 pm in Fellowship Hall
Notice is hereby given that the stated Annual Meeting of the Congregation of the Swarthmore Presbyterian Church will be held on Wednesday, January 28, 2009, at 7:30 pm in Fellowship Hall, the Reverend Richard R. Wohlschlaeger, moderator, presiding.
Notice is hereby given that the stated Annual Meeting of the Corporation of the Swarthmore Presbyterian Church will be held on Wednesday, January 28, 2009, at 7:30 pm in Fellowship Hall, Chris Reynolds, president, presiding.
Movie Showing: "The Fall"
Friday, January 30, 2009
7:00 pm in Fellowship Hall, presented by Presbyterian Women
On January 30 we will view “The Fall,” directed by Tarsem Singh, which is a visually stunning film shot in 18 different countries using absolutely no special effects (although you will ask for proof of this). A stuntman seriously injured in a fall befriends another hospital patient, a Romanian immigrant girl. Their relationship, and the movie, develops around a fantastical tale told by the stuntman and interpreted from the little girl's point of view. We will use the large screen in Fellowship Hall; you may choose between chairs and cushions. Your admission ticket is a donation of your favorite movie-watching snack.
Souper Bowl of Caring
Sunday, February 1, 2009
Our youth invite all SPC members to help fight hunger right here in Delaware County. On Souper Bowl Sunday, February 1, they will be standing by the sanctuary doors after worship with soup pots to collect donations. Also, there will be boxes in which you may donate non-perishable food. This collection will go to our friends at Chester Eastside Ministries. Many will celebrate Super Bowl Sunday later this afternoon with parties and food; let us celebrate this morning by helping our friends who can’t so easily put food on their own tables.
Movie Showing: "Pan's Labyrinth"
Friday, February 6, 2009
7:00 pm in Fellowship Hall, presented by Presbyterian Women
Today's film, “Pan’s Labyrinth,” is described by our film guru as a true fairy tale a la The Brothers Grimm — a visually stunning film in a dark vein. Winner of three Oscars, it is rated R for graphic violence and is subtitled. We will use the large screen in Fellowship Hall; in place of the usual chairs, you are welcome to use the window cushions if you wish. Admission is free; you are invited to bring a friend or neighbor and your favorite movie snack.
Give a Child a Hug:Bear Hugs Wrap Their Arms Around Children in Need Sundays, February 8 and 15 in Fellowship Hall “Bear Hugs Ministry” is a program which collects teddy bears for children who are at risk or victims of domestic abuse, accidents, or disaster. Beginning next Sunday, February 8, there will be a display explaining the program and a place to leave your donations in Fellowship Hall. Teddy bears both new and gently loved (clean, please) will be welcomed. Our collection date is February 15, because it seems like such a good way to celebrate Valentine’s weekend!
Movie Showing: "The Secret Life of Bees"
Friday, February 20, 2009
7:00pm in Fellowship Hall, presented by Presbyterian Women
“The Secret Life of Bees,” is rated PG-13. Starring Dakota Fanning and Queen Latifah, it is set in South Carolina in the early 60s and recounts the story of Lily Owens, a 14-year-old girl haunted by memories of her late mother. We will use the large screen in Fellowship Hall; bring a friend or neighbor and your favorite movie snack and enjoy a low-budget Friday evening!
Youth Lead Worship
Sunday, February 22
On Sunday, February 22, most of our usual worship leaders will enjoy places in the pews as members of the high school youth group and our youth choir lead us in worship at 10:15. Shepherded by the inimitable Rev. John Weicher, they share their gifts and talents as readers, preachers, prayer leaders, Time with Children facilitators, musicians, ushers, and most of the behind the scenes players that support Sunday morning worship. Mark your calendar and plan to be here!
Finishing Touches: Accessory Drive for Career Wardrobe
ends Sunday, February 22
Our outreach committee has supported this project for many years. There is always a need for clothing; currently there is also a need for accessories. So search your drawers and closets for unopened perfumes and, cosmetics, scarves and jewelry. They also need panty hose, especially in large sizes. You will find a poster and some baskets for our collection in Fellowship Hall. Please bring these “finishing touches” in by Sunday, February 22. Clothing (on hangers, please!) is collected in the closet across the hall from the church office. Visit our Local Outreach page for more details on The Career Wardrobe.
Focus On Our Sunday Morning Schedule
Sunday, February 22 at 2:00pm & Tuesday, February 24 at 7:30pm
in Loeffler Chapel
Is our Sunday schedule working for your and your family? Has it enhanced your participation in worship, music, Christian education and adult classes? What would you like to see change as we continue to live into this new structure? We want to know what you think, and we’re hoping you’ll share your thoughts at one of two focus group sessions conducted by members of the congregation. RSVP to John Weicher – adults only, please. Childcare is available for both sessions – RSVP about this to John as well.
Ash Wednesday Worship
Wednesday, February 25
12:15pm & 7:30pm in Loeffler Chapel
Sacrament of the Lord's Supper and the Imposition of Ashes.
Interfaith Hospitality Network Host WeekSunday, March 1 through Sunday, March 8
Once again we extend an invitation to all willing to be part of this ministry. Our next guests arrive Sunday, March 1, and we are already looking for volunteers to cook, clean, join our friends for dinner and a little down time, sleep overnight, and accomplish a myriad of behind-the-scenes chores. Please visit our Interfaith Hospitality Network page for details and contact information if you would like to volunteer.
Shawl Ministry
Sundays, March 8 & May 17, 2009
11:30am in the Study
Shawl-making afficiandos and novices alike are invited once again to gather in the Study for company and conversation as they knit prayers of comfort and support into their handiwork. The soft and colorful results, we are told over and over again, are truly a healing touch to those who are hurting. Completed shawls will be dedicated in worship on Sunday, June 21. Visit Shawl Ministry for more information.
Women's Retreat
Saturday, March 14, 2009
9:00am to 2:30pm in Fellowship Hall
9:00 am - Coffee & light breakfast
9:45 am - Resurrection, Forgiveness, and Hope: Exploring Three Alarming Words of Faith, led by Rev. Lisa Day
11:45 am - Lunch
1:00 pm - Tai-Chi or free time
1:30 pm - Discussion
An invitation to take a deep breath amidst this lenthening of days and retreat from your over scheduled calendar to a space reserved for spiritual nourishment. There will be time for food and fellowship, words of wisdom and encouragement from our leader, Rev. Lisa Day, and a session of Tai-Chi for those interested, led by Mary Reindorp. There are no forms to fill out, no preparation needed, but we would like to know how many to plan for, so please stop by our table in Fellowship Hall during coffee after worship or call the church office (610-543-4712) or email the church at spcparish@swarthmorepres.org to tell us you are coming.
We are asking for a contribution of $10.00 per person to cover costs. And we love the buffets that result when each participant brings a dish to share! Childcare can be provided if you make your request by Monday, March 9. Questions? Contact Harriet Henderson or Marilyn Henkelman (congregation directory - login required).
Presentation of Mozart's Requiem
Sunday, March 22, 2009
10:15 am Worship Service
Our chancel choir will be augmented by a quartet of professional soloists and several Swarthmore College chorus members who have sung the Requiem with John Alston, director of the Swarthmore College Chorus and Chamber Orchestra. Directed by Jeff DeVault and supported by a chamber orchestra of professional instrumentalists, we will present most of the Requiem during the 10:15 am worship service.
Bread for the World Training - "Offering of Letters"
Sunday, March 22, 2009
2:00 - 5:00 pm in Fellowship Hall The Hunger Task Force here at SPC is sponsoring an afternoon forum to introduce you to a new dimension of fighting hunger at home and abroad. We are very excited to be able to introduce you to "Bread for the World" through our sponsorship of this regional event which will bring professionals with "Bread" together with area churches to explain how "Bread" works and how to conduct an "Offering of Letters." Regional director Larry Hollar will guide us in this process. For more information or to register for the training, visit www.bread.org/OL2009. Please visit our Hunger Task Force page to learn how SPC is involved with Bread for the World.
Theologian-in-Residence, Amy-Jill Levine
Friday, March 27 to Sunday, March 29, 2009
Our Theologian-in-Residence this year is Amy-Jill Levine, Professor of New Testament Studies at Vanderbilt University Divinity School. All presentations are free and open to the public. Copies of Dr. Levine's Book, The Misunderstood Jew: The Church and the Scandal of the Jewish Jesus, are available through the church office for $12.00.
Please plan to be part of this weekend with a prominent biblical scholar of our time to discover what is right about taking seriously the Jewishness of Jesus in order to understand better the bonds that link Christians and Jews in a common heritage. Please let us know you are planning to attend by signing up in Fellowship Hall during coffee hour on Sunday morning or by calling the church office during the week. Lunch on Saturday will be prepared and served by our youth; your contributions will support their mission trips this summer.
Friday, March 27 at 7:30pm The Misunderstood Jew: Understanding the Jewishness of Jesus
Saturday, March 28 9:00am, 11:00am, & 1:30pm - The Parables of Jesus From a Jewish Perspective 12:30pm in Fellowship Hall - Lunch, reservations requested (call 610-543-4712 or email spcparish@swathmorepres.org)
Sunday, March 29 at 9:00 am in Fellowship Hall Conversation with Amy-Jill Levine
Sunday, March 29 at 10:15 am worship in the Sanctuary
Reflection by Dr. Levine
Our Theologian in Residence program is funded by the Mary Alicia and Seymour S. Preston, Jr. Memorial Fund.
One Great Hour of Sharing
dedicated Palm Sunday, April 5, 2009
This offering provides emergency aid to refugees and victims of disasters, suports community self-help programs, and funds hunger programs. This year's theme is "Where Is Your Treasure?" For more information visit our Special Offerings page. Offering envelopes are available in the pews. Checks should be made payable to Swarthmore Presbyterian Church; please indicate OGHS in the memo area. "Fish Banks" in which children are encouraged to collect coins are available on the Lenten materials table near the sacristy. Envelopes and fish banks should be returned on Palm Sunday, April 5, when our offerings will be dedicated in worship.
Holy Week & Easter 2009
Sunday, April 5 to Sunday, April 12
Please view our Holy Week & Easter 2009 Brochure that details the many events taking place.
Walk Against Hunger
Saturday, April 11, 2009
9:30 am at the Eakins Oval, opposite the Philadelphia Museum of Art
Our hunger task force is forming a team to participate in the Philadelphia Coalition Against Hunger walk planned for Saturday, April 11, and needs both walkers and supporters. This is a walk to raise money to address hunger issues in our area; those raised by SPC walkers will go directly to Mercy Hospice, the shelter for women and children supported by our casserole program. It is a six mile walk—three miles out and three miles back, so walkers can choose how far they travel. Last year two families from SPC with young children walked; it is a great way to be out with family and friends doing something healthy for yourself that helps others. Members of the hunger task force will be in Fellowship Hall following worship Sundays, March 29 and April 5 to sign up walkers and take sponsorships. You may also register at www.hungerwalk.org. Please be sure to do so as a member of the Swarthmore Presbyterian Church team.
Mission Fair & Bring a Friend to Church Day
Sunday, April 19, 2009
11:30 am in Fellowship Hall
Come learn about our local mission partners and their goals and needs, and the ways we can join hands together. Discover ways to be involved with our local mission partners, with our mission co-workers overseas, and with other SPC projects that help us reach out to others. All attending the Mission Fair are encouraged to bring non-perishable foods to stock the shelves at Chester Eastside Ministries Food Pantry (visit our Hunger Task Force page for more information about the Food Pantry). Tuna, crackers, canned peas, and canned peaches are the suggested items on this month’s shopping list; any other nonperishables—and small toiletries—are welcome as well. It seems such a good opportunity to bring friends and neighbors, so Sunday, April 19 has also been claimed as "Bring a Friend to Church" day. Please view our Mission Fair 2009 Flyer for more details about this event. Hosted by our Outreach Committee.
Spring Fling
Friday, April 24, 2009
7:00 to 9:00 pm in Fellowship Hall
This year's theme is April in Paris. We will enjoy all the gaiety and delectable cuisine that such thought inspires. Fellowship Hall will be transformed into a continental oasis of fine dining that features hors d'oeuvres, aperitifis Francais, live musique, and, of course, some enticing opportunities to contribute to good causes in exchange for something from a carefully chosen "menu" of offerings. This year's fundraiser will feature a Tirage de Tombola (raffle extraordinaire) in lieu of the familar Silent Auction. The Tirage will feature some special items, including a basket of French wines, four tickets to a Phillies game on May 13, a $600 gift certificate to Le Bec Fin, a $250 gift certificate to the Four Seasons Hotel, and dinner for six at the home of the Wohlschlaegers. We will also have a caricature artist at this soiree who will send you home with a clever artistic rendering of you or your friends for the tres jolie price of $5.
Both raffle tickets ($10 each, 6 for $50, or 15 for $100) and reservations for the evening ($25 per person) can be purchased on Sunday mornings during coffee and fellowship. Raffle tickets may also be purchased at the event Friday evening. Entry Tickets will be $30 per person at the door Friday evening.
We look forward to seeing you there! Merci!
If you would like to help in the planning process, or can make a contribution, please be in touch with Heidi Foggo (congregation directory - login required).
In Concert: Kiriku - Extraordinary Japanese Handbell Ringers
Friday, May 1, 2009
7:30 pm in Fellowship Hall - Suggested free-will offering of $10.00
This remarkable handbell ensemble consists of six ringers who play five and a half octaves’ (over 60 individual) bells! Their repertoire includes classical, sacred, jazz, popular, and traditional Japanese selections. Their reputation is one of performances characterized by virtuoso technique and expressive artistry in interpretation. In a 2007 West Coast tour Kiriku received multiple standing ovations. This spring’s tour includes concerts in nine states, but this will be the only one in the Delaware Valley. Many thanks to Leland Kusmer and our chancel bell choir, who were quick to respond to this opportunity and will be extending their hospitality to our talented guests. The suggested free-will offering will be used to defray travel costs. Kiriku will also have CDs available for purchase. Mark your calendar! Tell your friends! Enjoy the sounds of May Day 2009!
Cookie Night for College Students
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
On Wednesday, May 6, we will host “cookie night” over at Swarthmore College — a chance for students working late hours on papers and projects and preparing for exams to take a break and enjoy some conversation over coffee and cookies. Please bring whatever you can contribute to the Fellowship Hall kitchen between Sunday, May 3 and Wednesday, May 6 in a disposable container (or simply on a plate sealed in plastic) labeled “college cookies.” Homemade cookies, of course, are especially appreciated, but others are welcome as well. If you would like to help serve and chat with some of the students, please talk to Thom Olshewsky (congregation directory - login required). Thank you.
Children's Choirs Cantata
Sunday, May 10, 2009 - Christian Family Sunday
10:15 am worship service
This year's children's choirs cantata, an SPC Christian Family Sunday tradition, is the story of Jesus' visit with Martha and Mary called Life of the Party by Tom Long and Allen Pote. Junior choir director Ray Thompson has cleverly staged this wonderful retelling of several familiar stories by all three children’s choirs to allow the gifts of each participant to flourish. Middle school youth posed as wolves threaten the tender younger sheep, Mary and Martha bicker like any two sisters, and brother Lazarus is successfully raised from the dead. Liturgists and instrumentalists will be younger than those we are accustomed to seeing on Sunday mornings as well. The primary, junior and youth choirs have been practicing since February to bring these bible stories to life with the sound of music.
Spring Drop-Off for the Fall Fair
Saturday, May 30, 2009
9 am to 12 noon in the church parking lot
Please visit our Donation of Goods to SPC's Fall Fair page for details on the donations we are looking to collect this Saturday to sell at SPC's annual Fall Fair on October 3. And visit our Volunteer Needs page to find out what help we need during the drop-off! Thank you!
Home Communion Training Sunday, June 7, 2009 11:30 - 12:30 pm in the Study Tuesday June 9, 2009 6:30 - 7:30 pm in the Hearth Room
The Lord’s Supper is the sacrament to which we turn again and again for renewal. In the sharing of bread and cup we celebrate and experience our communion with our Triune God and our community with one another. The deacons work to ensure that this sacrament is available for those members who are not able to worship with us on Sunday mornings. In order to do so, they seek the help of elders and deacons — either currently serving or retired. If you are interested in serving in this role but have not yet been trained for such ministry, you are invited to participate in one of these two training session being offered by Rev. Lisa Day. Questions? Please contact deacon Peter Miller (congregation directory - login required) or Lisa Day with questions.
Mission Trip to Nicaragua June 20 - 27, 2009 All SPC members high school aged and older are welcome to join us! Deadline to sign-up is March 1. To learn more please visit our Nicaragua page.
Interfaith Hospitality Network Host Week
Sunday, June 21 to Sunday, June 28, 2009 AND (recently added!) June 28 - July 4
Swarthmore Presbyterian Church's next week for hosting families from the IHN starts June 21. Please visit our Interfaith Hospitality Network page for details and fill out the IHN Volunteer Form if you are able to volunteer. Thank you!
Education for Ministry
Sunday evenings, September through May
6:30 to 9:00 p.m.
Education for Ministry (EFM) is a four year course of study covering the Old and New Testaments, and church history. The program was developed by the seminary of the University of the South specifically for lay people. The EFM group includes people with a variety of backgrounds, faith traditions and interests which form an exciting and supportive learning community. This involves weekly Sunday evening gatherings September through May (excepting holiday weekends) held from 6:30 to 900 p.m. A new group is forming for Fall ’09. First year students will study the Hebrew Scriptures (Old Testament). Please contact Gay or Grant Grissom for more information or visit our Education for Ministry page.
Bring a Friend to Church!
Church Picnic
New Christian Education Classes Begin
Sunday, September 13, 2009
all morning
The familiar words “to everything there is a season” ring loud and true as we approach the date on the SPC calendar that marks the beginning of a new year’s cycle of worship, education, fellowship, and outreach. And this year that date is Sunday, September 13. The recent “tweaking” of our Sunday morning schedule and many of September’s offerings are outlined on the September edition of the Sunday Scoop. It is a good time for newcomers to get to know us without feeling overwhelmed by things already “in progress” so we will welcome one another with hospitality that includes name tags and fabulous food in addition to the dependable Sunday nourishment of worship and education. Let us be purposeful with our time.
World Communion & Peacemaking Sunday Rev. Dr. Christian Iosso, guest preacher - Sunday, October 4, 2009
9:00 to 10:00 am Adult Education Class in Fellowship Hall
10:15 am worship service
It is our tradition on this festive Sunday to bring a worldwide flavor to morning worship through the word and prayer offered in several languages, the flavors and textures of ethnic breads, and the financial resources commited through our annual Peacemaking Offering. The Rev. Dr. Christian “Chris” Iosso, coordinator of the Advisory Committee on Social Witness Policy (ACSWP) of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), will be our guest preacher. Rev. Iosso will also lead an adult education class at 9 am that morning using a resource recently adopted by PCUSA, Steadfast Hope: the Palestinian Quest for Just Peace. Copies of this publication, including a DVD, will be available at the Peacemaking table in Fellowship Hall during coffee hour. Please visit our Peacemaking Committee page for more information about Rev. Dr. Iosso.
Guess Who's Coming to Dinner?
Saturday, October 17, 2009
6:00 to 9:30 p.m.
Parish Life invites you to be part of a tradition that thrives on good food and good company. Participants will be placed in groups of 6 to 8 members designed to give us a chance to get to know one another in a more relaxed and social setting than our Sunday mornings allow. One may sign up either as a host or as a guest: hosts open their homes to guests, plan the theme of the meal (if they desire a theme), provide the main course, and call guests to make menu arrangements. Guests provide contributions to the table as requested and the pleasure of their company. The result is a great deal of fun and shared experiences around a good meal. To sign up, please either visit the GWCTD table in Fellowship Hall on Sunday morning or contact Carol Savery (congregation directory - login required) or email parishlife@swarthmorepres.org or stop by the church office during normal business hours.
Blanket Sunday
Sunday, October 18, 2009Blankets+, a partner of Church World Services, provides disaster relief in the form of sturdy blankets that serve a multitude of purposes for those left homeless or without much in the way of personal belongings. They also provide tools, training, and a wide variety of disaster recovery services. On Sunday, October 18, we ask that anyone able bring a donation of $5.00 (the cost of a single blanket) or more to be sent to one of the several recent disaster sites as Church World Service sees fit. $25 will provide 5 warm blankets; $100 enables 3 women to receive microloans; $200 provides a struggling farm family with an animal to increase food production and get produce to market. All gifts are appreciated! Special offering envelopes for Blankets+ will be sent with the October 7 newsletter and available in the pews on Sunday mornings.
Lunch and Program on Broad Street MinistrySunday, October 25, 2009
12:00 noon in Fellowship HallSPC's Presbyterian Women invite you to a light lunch and the chance to learn about a thriving and dynamic ministry supported by the Presbytery of Philadelphia, Broad Street Ministry. BSM welcomes hundreds of friends, neighbors and guests each week to worship services and community meals. It offers services to the homeless and underserved, independent and alternative musical performances, and an increasing variety of programs designed to address the needs of the community it serves. We are delighted to welcome Erika Funk, Youth Initiative Minister, and Elizabeth Hein, Director of Development, this Sunday following coffee hour. Erika and Elizabeth will be with us for lunch and to share some of their enthusiasm in word and picture as well as to answer your questions about Broad Street Ministries. We are asking for a $5.00 contribution per person to cover the cost of lunch.
Offering of Letters
Sundays, October 25 through November 8, 200911:30 am in Fellowship Hall Recently some of us listened to Sarah Rohrer share information from Bread for the World about the need for advocacy to eliminate hunger. The Hunger Task Force now encourages you to use the “power of the pen” to share your concerns directly with our national and local lawmakers. At the “Offering of Letters” table in Fellowship Hall during coffee hour you will be offered information on current legislation, contact information for your legislators and materials for writing. The stated goals: to make poverty reduction a primary goal of US foreign assistance; to develop a national strategy for global development with coordination at the highest levels of government; to provide reliable assistance to meet long-term development goals in needy countries; and to provide opportunities for partner countries to participate is setting priorities and programs of assistance. If you would like further information but this time does not suit your calendar, please be in touch with coordinator Barb Lappen
(congregation directory - login required).
Progress Report from the Sanctuary Task Force Sunday, November 15, 2009 11:30 am in the Sanctuary
“The Swarthmore Presbyterian Church, a congregation in the Reformed Protestant tradition, holds the practice of worship central to our life together. Chief among our theological beliefs is that we are ‘a priesthood of all believers.’ Therefore, we gather for worship every Sunday morning not as an audience before an altar, but as a family of faith around the table of our Lord. “We need our sanctuary space to be conducive to seeing and hearing the pastoral and choral leadership, as well as seeing and hearing each other as we sing hymns and participate fully in the spoken liturgy. “To that end, we seek to improve our chancel and nave in ways that will enhance and enliven our worship experience (e.g., correct existing poor sightlines, raise the level of acoustics, and re-position pastoral and choral/organ leadership).” This mission statement, framed by the Sanctuary Task Force and approved by Session, has guided the work of the task force since its inception. It has also provided our architects, the firm of Daley + Jalboot, with a concept for modifications to our sanctuary. On November 15, the task force will share a “progress report” with the congregation in the sanctuary immediately following 10:15 worship. Lori Sonntag, chair of the Sanctuary Task Force, supported by other members of the task force, will lead the presentation.
Stewardship Season Pledges dedicated in worship Sunday, November 15, 2009 You may make your pledge either in hard copy or online; please visit our Annual Giving page for details.
Anniversary Sunday & Festive Worship
Sunday, November 22, 2009 10:15 am in the Sanctuary
Lay preacher, Gay Grissom
On November 16, 1895, when Chester Road and Yale Avenue were still dirt roads and the small train station that provided access to the college was known as Westdale Station, a committee appointed by the Presbytery of Chester in answer to the
petition of a small group of local Presbyterians met with the 24 individuals who were to become the charter members of Swarthmore Presbyterian Church and forged our foundation. 114 years later we celebrate our heritage in a worship service that opens with the sounds of a bell choir (sounds we have enjoyed for a mere 31 years), honors our appreciation of lay leadership in calling Gay Grissom to the pulpit, recognizes a more recent tradition in the dedication of prayer shawls, and includes the welcoming of our newest members in worship. There is much to celebrate as we look to the future. Copies of our church history, written by centennial archivist Ruth Crissey, are available outside the church office. Please help yourself. Summaries and highlights brought to life with period pictures fill the history gallery that begins in the lobby and lines the hallway of Loeffler Chapel.
Anniversary Fellowship and Pie Share Following 10:15 am worship in Fellowship Hall
Come hungry! One of our soon-to-be members has offered to bake and decorate a special cake this year in honor of Anniversary Sunday! So in addition to the traditional Sunday before Thanksgiving offer to enjoy a slice of pie along with coffee and fellowship comes the offer to admire and taste this special cake. Flavors and varieties of pie depend on the
providers — and you are invited to be among them! Bring one of your favorites — homemade or purchased — and sample someone else’s. Traditional varieties and creative endeavors are appreciated with equal gusto. And never worry that we will have too many; our real goal is to include as many as possible in the Turkey Day delivery to Chester Eastside Ministries. Thank you! Pies should be delivered to the Fellowship Hall kitchen between 8:30 and 10:00 a.m.
Turkey Day
Sunday, November 22, 2009
8:30 am - 12:00 noon in the driveway behind Fellowship Hall
The hunger task force asks us once again to help folks at Chester Eastside Ministries celebrate Thanksgiving with the same traditional fare we enjoy in our own homes. They also thank you in advance for your support of this drive; our church is the sole sustainer of this effort and each year there is amazement expressed at the remarkable generosity demonstrated. We are counting members (and friends!) to rise to the occasion once again. On the most wanted list: turkeys (frozen, please), canned hams, vegetables, potatoes, stuffing, juices, cranberry sauce, gravy, desserts, apple cider. For those who cannot get to the store easily, cash donations and/or non-perishable foods of any kind are appreciated as well. We will gladly help you unload behind the Fellowship Hall kitchen beginning at 8:30 a.m. on this day. If you would like to join in either the loading or
delivery process, please contact David Herring (congregation directory - login required) for more information.
Advent Craft Workshop 3:00 - 5:00 pm Sunday, November 29, 2009 in the nursery school classrooms Crafts are designed to be created by children ages 4 through 12. Parents are encouraged to shepherd children through as many stations as they wish. Wreath-making enjoyable for teens and adults too! New this year, a service project benefiting Broad Street Ministry; participants will make centerpieces for their Christmas dinner. Cost is $5 per child or $15 per family. Advent wreath frames are $5 per wreath (or bring your wreath forms from prior years to reuse).
Advent Supper and Carol Sing 5:00 pm Sunday, November 29, 2009 in Fellowship Hall We herald the beginning of Advent with familiar hymns and children’s carols. The sing-along is followed by supper with friends and family. Parish Life serves up chili, chicken noodle soup, hotdogs, pizza, and some sweet treats for suggested contributions of $5.00 per person. No RSVP. No cooking. The carol sing will feature some of our younger members leading many of our songs on instruments of their choosing. If you would like to play this evening, please be in touch with Dorrie McGrath at 610-543-4712 or spcparish@swarthmorepres.org. And it is not a late night! You will be home by 7:00 or 7:15. Bring your holiday cheer!
Advent Giving Tree Benefits Multiple Agencies Chester Eastside Ministries, Broad Street Ministry, & the Learning Tree at T.M. Thomas Gifts needed by Thursday, December 10, 2009 The GIVING TREE, an SPC Advent tradition of many years, offers a tangible way for members to reach out to our neighbors during the holidays. Like the Christmas trees that decorate many homes this time of year, this tree is a collection area for gifts. Our tree will be set up in the sanctuary by Sunday, November 29. You are invited to take one of the cards hung as ornaments and labeled with gift suggestions and shop accordingly. Most needed this year will be toys and clothing for children ages 1 to 18 and basic furnishings (socks, underwear, warm shirts, winter accessories) for men. Gifts should not be wrapped! We will ask that you return the unwrapped gift with the labeled card you took from the tree. Last year, thanks to programs such as ours, C.E.M. was able to help more than 75 families — including more than 250 children - with gifts that meet basic needs as well as the pleasure of opening them. And we would like to be able to do the same for them and for BSM and the Learning Tree this year as well. Please take a card from the tree beginning November 29.
Cookies for Swarthmore College Students Baked Goods needed by Thursday, December 10, 2009 One of the tastiest forms of Outreach that SPC has extended to the local community in recent years is the offering of cookies and coffee to Swarthmore College students at the end of the term as they work on papers and prepare for exams. We have already announced that we will do so once again on Thursday, December 10, so we appeal to all bakers and shoppers to help us keep our promise. Cookies of almost any variety are most appreciated, both homemade and store bought. Simply bring them to the Fellowship Hall kitchen (in a disposable container, please) by mid-afternoon Thursday, December 10.
Chester Children's Chorus Concert Saturday, December 12, 2009 8:00 pm One of the agencies supported by our contributions to this year's Alternative Christmas Shop has a priceless gift to offer us! The acclaimed 100-voice Chester Children’s Chorus will present a free concert Saturday, Dec. 12, at First Pentecostal Holy Church, 324 Pusey St. in Chester.
The program will include sacred Gregorian chants, African music, and the rousing original gospel that is the children’s signature repertoire. Also on the program will be a Renaissance motet by Giovanni Palestrina and an original “Christmas Cantata” whose witty lyrics and melodies address the universal question of which gifts are truly important. The Christmas Cantata and original gospel numbers were written for the children by Chorus director Dr. John Alston, who will lead the performance.
The concert promises to continue the Chorus’ tradition of delighting audiences with the sophistication and polish of its singing. “The children have been mesmerized by the Gregorian chants, and their singing of these pieces reaches a level of the sublime that our audiences have not heard before,” Dr. Alston said.
This performance concludes a year of festive events marking the 15th anniversary of the Chorus’ founding by Dr. Alston, an associate professor of music at Swarthmore College.
Chorus members are boys and girls 8 to 18 years old from every school and neighborhood in Chester. They are invited to join the Chorus on the basis of musical ability demonstrated in the Chorus’ annual auditions, and they develop their musical skills as participants in the Chorus’ year-round program of rehearsals and performances. Chorus members join at the end of second grade and are invited to remain through high school. Two-thirds of children who join complete five or more years of Chorus membership, mastering skills that include reading music, hearing and singing harmony, and performing sophisticated music with confidence before large audiences.
To make membership possible for every qualified child, families pay only a $50 registration fee each year. The program is supported by contributions from individuals, foundations, and faith communities, and by in-kind services provided by Swarthmore College.
More information is available from the Chorus office at 610-328-8180.
Advent Musical Offering - Francis Poulenc's GLORIA Sunday, December 13, 2009 10:15 am worship service It is a long-standing SPC tradition to enjoy the presentation of a major choral work accompanied by instrumentalists on one of the Sundays in Advent; this year we have chosen Francis Poulenc's Gloria. Accompanied by Dennis Elwell at the organ and an orchestra composed of trumpets, harp and tympani, our chancel choir will create sounds of a very different nature than those of Bach’s Magnificat or Handel’s Messiah. Francis Poulenc (1899-1951) was a self-taught virtuoso pianist who absorbed all that Ravel and Debussy and French impressionism had to offer and colored it with other modern European Romantic sounds borrowed from Prokofiev and Honegger. In the words of Peter Gutmann, "if you fear classical religious music as long, grim, and boring, don’t worry — Poulenc charges constantly ahead through a dense but joyous kaleidoscopic journey." Please join us on December 13 when the Gloria, which Gutmann describes as "a gorgeous soul-affirming work" will be a part of our Advent Sunday morning worship. To read Gutmann's entire commentary, click here.
Poinsettias: Christmas Memorials and Tributes Orders due by Monday, December 14, 2009 An SPC Advent tradition of many years is that of poinsettias decorating the chancel throughout Christmas week. The poinsettias are purchased through contributions of those wishing to offer a memorial or tribute to loved ones. If you are interested in doing this, please download the poinsettia memorials and tributes form (requires Adobe Reader) and mail it to the church office such that it is received by Monday, December 14. Memorials and tributes will be printed in our worship bulletins Sunday, December 20 and on Christmas Eve.
Alternative Christmas Shop Sundays, November 29 through December 20, 2009 11:30 am to 12:30 pm in Fellowship Hall and online at ACS Please browse the colorful and informative displays that explain the many agencies and efforts that your purchases at this year's Alternative Christmas Shop support. Friendly staffers at each table can explain each program and are happy to assist you in purchasing gift cards. You may also visit our virtual Alternative Christmas Shop to view information on each project and print the shopping lists. Please note that the deadline for Christmas delivery has been extended to Monday, December 21 due to the weather forecast this weekend. Orders received by noon Monday will be mailed by 5:00. You are also welcome to bring your order in person to the church office on Tuesday or Wednesday, where it can be filled as you wait.
Advent Wednesday Morning Communion Wednesdays, December 2 through 23, 2009 9:30 am in Loeffler Chapel
In response to a desire for some quiet worship space that might nestle into the valleys between our busy Sundays, we are holding Wednesday morning services of Word and Sacrament in Loeffler Chapel. Each Wednesday of Advent, from December 2 through 23, in the beauty of Loeffler Chapel’s gothic arches and Samuel window, you are invited to participate in a quiet service of homily and Communion led by our pastoral staff.
Children's Pageant Rehearsal & Birthday Party for Jesus Saturday, December 19, 2009 Rescheduled due to weather forecast - Thursday, December 24!
10:00 am starting in the sanctuary Rehearsal from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon for the lively children's pageant that is presented at 4:00 on Christmas Eve! Church school children ages 3 through 8th grade - as well as nieces, nephews, and grandchildren visiting for the holidays - each play important roles in the parts in the retelling of this familiar story. 3 and 4 year-olds are cherubs, Kindergarteners are sheep (none crawls on all fours better than 5-year-olds!), 1st & 2nd graders are shepherds, and 3rd and 4th graders are angels and townsfolk. The angel Gabriel, our innkeeper, the magi, and King Herod are played by middle school youth. We also need middle school youth to serve as liturgists (reading the scripture passages that cue our actors), ushers, and acolytes.
Please sign up so that we can plan costumes and assign roles!!!! Signup sheets will be out in Fellowship Hall on Sunday mornings during coffee hour December 6 and 13. Or you may simply enroll through an email to childrens ministry coordinator, Nikki DeVault (spcchildren@swarthmorepres.org)! Please include names and ages of children you wish to enroll in your message.
Rehearsal will run from 10:00 until noon in the sanctuary, with time for costuming up in McCahan Hall. Cherubs and sheep (3yr-olds through kindergarten) need not be there until 11:00.
And then there is the party!!!
The party has been canceled due to the weather forecast; please drive safely and enjoy the snow day.
Children participating in the pageant are invited to enjoy a birthday party-style lunch (pizza, cupcakes, and festive decor) and many games in Fellowship Hall from noon to 1:30 pm. Sign-up procedures are the same as for the pageant. Suggested contribution is $10.00 per child.
Christmas Joy Offering
Dedication Sunday, December 20, 2009
The Christmas Joy Offering, an Advent tradition of 70 years, provides funds which are divided evenly to support two vital ministries within our faith community. Half of this offering goes to the Board of Pensions, where it is used to provide income supplements to retired church workers and their surviving spouses so that they can live as independently as possible. The other half is given to the National Ministries Division of the General Assembly Council, where it is used to offset operating costs and fund scholarships for racial/ethnic education in many Presbyterian Church (USA) schools and colleges. Checks, made out to Swarthmore Presbyterian Church, should indicate “Joy Offering” in the memo area. Our offerings will be dedicated on Sunday, December 20.
Longest Night Service
Monday, December 21, 2009
7:00 p.m. in Loeffler Chapel
"Joy to the world," our carols will ring out in just a few weeks. Yet for many, this season of deep joy, family, tinsel, and glitter only highlights a sense of grief, loss, and darkness. A different song can be helpful for those of us in that place. “Comfort, O comfort my people, says your God.” These familiar words from the prophet Isaiah open Händel’s Messiah and echo in our ears and hearts as we struggle through the increasing physical darkness that leads to the winter solstice on December 21st, our longest night. That physical darkness is sometimes reflected in the dark, lost feelings we have as we contemplate Christmas without loved ones, a holiday made uncertain by economic concerns or physical or mental illness, or the brokenness in our lives that separates us from others.
On December 21 from 7:00 to 8:00, we will gather in Loeffler Chapel for a longest night service of worship. Based on the form of a psalm of lament, we will together acknowledge this darkness, share our hurts with God, and open our hearts to the light God has promised us in the coming of Jesus. Stephen Ministers, whose ministry is one of compassionate Christian presence, will participate in the service which will be led by Rev. Lisa Day. If you know those whose Christmas joy is mixed with pain, please invite them to join you at the longest night service. This service, quiet and contemplative in nature, is not only for adults but can be very appropriate for older children and youth going through a time of loss or pain. Come for prayers, scripture, music, reflection, candle lighting, and fellowship. Even psalms of lament end with the hope and promise of a time when our carols of praise will once again ring in our hearts, and when we can claim the promise that "The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness — on them light has shined."
Christmas Eve Services Thursday, December 24, 2009 in the sanctuary 4:00 pm - Christmas Eve Children's Pageant 8:00 pm - Service of Lessons and Carols Led by SPC youth. Participants meet in the sanctuary at 7:00 pm Sunday, December 20 to prepare. 11:00 pm - Candlelight Service Retiring elders and deacons serve as lay readers. High school seniors serve as acolytes.
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