Professional Documents
Culture Documents
SUMMER 2017
FI RST PR ES BY TER I A N C H U RC H O F O R L A N DO
SUMMER IS HERE.
(GET AFTER IT.)
SERVE now
june 26-30 Grownups needed for
a full and fun week of
Vacation Bible school.
Lead, teach, or sing
along. fpco.org/vbs
DAILY BREAD
July 3-7
save the date SUMMER 2017
June July
WE Summer Nights & Sundaes 6/14 Strike Hunger Month Begins 7/1
Women's Choir for Father's Day 6/18 9:45am & 11am Worship Only 7/2
Vacation Bible School 6/26 - 30 Church Closed for Independence Day 7/4
Upward Basketball & Cheer Camp 6/26 - 30 Ezekiel Class begins 7/9
August
Musikgarten Registration Opens 8/7
SUNDAES
save the dates
6/14, 7/12,
& 8/9
STRIKE
HUNGER
in July
uture
DEMOLITION BEGINS ON THE THIRD FLOOR OF ALLEN YOWELL HALL AS see the f pe
OUR NEW STUDENT MINISTRY SPACE TAKES SHAPE. take sha T
ES A
PICTUR BUILD
RG/
FPCO.O
Mbolatiana (Mbola) Ralidera But to understand the significance greater than chicken eggs. Second,
visited Orlando last fall to of this new project, you have to go the children would be learning valu-
represent Madagascar for the back to the beginning of our churchs able new skills through farming the
International Biblical Entrepre- efforts in Madagascar. eggs themselves.
neurship competition. Rhissa
Parker from First Pres SHINE Before First Pres ever set foot in Mad- But, Mbola did not have any connec-
Childrens Ministry hosted her agascar, our FaithServes mission team tions to an orphanage in Madagascar.
for dinner. Having recently was moving towards new models of And then, from 9,000 miles away,
begun raising ducks with her ministry in mission. How could we over dinner, Rhissa became the con-
children, Rhissa asked Mbola create sustainable partnerships, not nection Mbola needed. She introduced
about the nuances of raising based solely on charity, but on em- Mbola to Tantely, and the Quail NEST
birds, and God used that con- powering local people in the places partnership was born.
versation to bring about some- where God led us?
thing amazing. This is a remarkable story not only
Years ago, our church began focus- because of the ways God made this
For several years, our childrens min- ing on Biblical Entrepreneurship, a connection, but also because this kind
istry has supported the Topaza Or- curriculum we were using with local of mission community development
phanage, part of our churchs initia- business leaders in Orlando, and born out of deep, long-term relation-
tive in Madagascar. Topaza is home started teaching it to business leaders ships and investment has come full
to approximately 50 children, ages 2 in Madagascar. From there, our Mal- circle in both Madagascar, and in the
months to 19 years, and is part of the agasy partners started teaching the children of our church family.
vast ministry of The Church of Jesus curriculum themselves, and building
Christ in Madagascar (FJKM), our sustainable business models for their NEST stands for Nutritional Eggs
partner denomination. own community. Mbola Ralidera was Support Topaza. To date, the Topaza
one of those business leaders, and Orphanage is farming 48 quail. Ten
Over the years, Rhissa and Topa- her business plan centered around children from the orphanage have
zas Director, Tantely, have worked farming quail. been selected as the quail farmers,
closely to care for the children in the and all the children from the orphan-
orphanage. The children of SHINE Mbolas dream is to use her quail age are learning to enjoy the nutri-
have prayed for the Topaza children farming business to fight against mal- tious eggs that this fruitful project is
by name and photo, raised money, nutrition and poverty. She thought it yielding. Mbolas company provides
and taken collections for vitamins might be possible to partner with an training for the farmers and facili-
and other items. The SHINE staff also orphanage to teach children how to tates all the necessary technical re-
prays for the Topaza children and farm quail, a natural fit that would quirements.
staff. The Quail Nest project the next provide many benefits for the chil-
evolution of this very special relation- dren. First, the nutritional value of Stateside, the children of First Pres
ship. quail eggs can be three to four times are learning about the quail as well,
Have you ever wanted to know what Jesus of how each weeks passage points to what is yet to
said to the travelers on the road to Emmaus? In Luke come at the consummation of Christs Kingdom. This
Chapter 24, Jesus appears to two travelers on the road study will begin in August and conclude in November
to outside Jerusalem. They were discussing Jesus before Thanksgiving. The remaining 4 studies will be
death and resurrection, but not understanding it. offered in successive Spring/Fall seasons, so plan on
So in verse 27, it says that beginning with Moses starting at the beginning and delve into the truths of
and all the Prophets, He (Jesus) began explaining to the entire Old Testament as we take part in each of
them what was said in all the scriptures concerning these studies. Join us for this study journey through
himself. Since the Bible does not include this dia- the Old Testament and be renewed and transformed
logue (probably intentionally so that we will search by her message at the retreat!
for ourselves and grow in faith), we look to the Old
Testament to see how Jesus is foreshadowed as part of Jean Bronson who is the Director of Womens Min-
Gods redemptive story. istries at Kirk of the Hills Presbyterian Church in St
Louis, shared her church's experience with the study,
Beginning this Fall, WOMEN ENGAGED will be em- saying Every leader of small group ministries knows
barking on a Bible Study series called Seeing Jesus in the the difficult task of finding good curriculum-mate-
Old Testament, written by Gospel Coalition writer and rial that causes participants to think carefully while
reformed Bible scholar Nancy Guthrie. (Nancy Guthrie striking a chord in the heart; material that challeng-
is also the featured teacher and speaker at our Fall es the mature Christian, while gently leading those
Women's Retreat in Melbourne Beach.) This series in- younger in the faith into deeper truths; material that
cludes 5 different studies that are each 10 weeks long, digs into the Bible and applies its treasures to our ev-
covering the entire Old Testament, and illustrating eryday lives. The Promised One manages to do it all! A
Christ as the central theme woven throughout all of meaningful 10-week Bible study with thought pro-
scripture, binding the old and the new testaments to- voking questions and solid teaching, and a peek at
gether. Discover how the Old Testament points us to what is still to come. I am delighted to offer this to
and prepares us for Christ while providing sound bib- the women in my church and look forward to the re-
lical theology and application. This is an opportunity maining books in this series.
to see what Jesus would have pointed to that day on
the Emmaus Road, saying, This is about me! August 21 - October 30
We will offer two morning sessions with reserved
child care as well as an evening option.
The first study in the Seeing Jesus in the Old Testament
series is a study of Genesis called The Promised One. Cost: $25 and includes the 10-week study guide.
Come explore and see how the stories, symbols, people
and promises in this first book of the Bible reveal Have questions or need more details?
Jesus. As we study Genesis in light of Jesus, it will help Call Lori Needham at 407-423-3441, ext.
us to see Jesus more clearly and to understand how the
1463 or email lneedham@fpco.org.
stories fit into the bigger story of redemptive history.
Register now at fpco.org/we
In addition, Nancy Guthrie includes a discussion
time to retreat
When was the last time you sat before God without a to-do list, a hectic home, or a work schedule driving
your day? Women's Ministry leader Lori Needham explains why we take time to retreat.
Are you ready for a retreat? Be encouraged. her accessible to others even when
I can only envision you raising your We need each other. Faith is con- asking hard questions. In her own
hand or nodding your head, but tagious, and when we share faith words: "I've had to dig into God's
trust me, I'm right there with you. stories, hear inspiring Biblical Word in search of answers to hard
Women need retreats. (Humans messages and pray together, God questions about God and how he
need retreats.) We need to leave our strengthens our faith. works, and I find that those I'm
busy spaces and go somewhere qui- writing or speaking to usually have
et, safe and removed from every- Grow together. the same struggles or questions."
day activity. We need to enjoy the Spending more time together, even
beauty of God's creation. It is part just a weekend, helps us love and Create space for change.
of how God designed us. serve God when we return to the We all look at ourselves and see
regular rhythm of life. It allows things we'd like to change. Stub-
Which is why our Women's Minis- community to flourish that can't born sins may keep us from being
try, WOMEN ENGAGED, is setting always be cultivated in our busy obedient and moving forward.
aside a special weekend for us to do days. Deeply ingrained thoughts and
that together on Florida's Eastern feelings may hold us captive. The
shore this September. Hear from the heart. good news is, we can change, and
The keynote speaker for our that's why the theme of our retreat
Take a breath. Retreat, Nancy Guthrie, is a Bible is "I Need a Change." In the book
Stepping away from everyday life teacher, author and ministry lead- of Romans, Paul guides us from the
allows us to tune out the noise er. She and her husband, David, and wonder of God's plan for salva-
and listen more carefully for God's a son, Matt, make their home in tion to its implications for how we
voice. Part of the way we measure Nashville, and attend Cornerstone should live. We discover what most
growth as a disciple is intimacy Presbyterian in Franklin, Tennes- needs to change in our lives and
with Jesus - but it's hard to nurture see. Nancy's story has framed her how that change can truly take
an intimate relationship when we teaching style, including the death place.
can't stop to listen or think. of two of her children, which has
fostered an openness and authen-
ticity to her approach, and made
September 22-24
Melbourne Beach, FL
Hilton Melbourne Beach Oceanfront, with
featured author and speaker Nancy Guthrie.
Registration is now open, but space is limited.
Payments in installments are available.
Registration deadline: August 21
fpco.org/retreat
As Im writing this, our church watch their journey together unfold. than anything, that is why we are so
family is preparing for a very special Theirs is an incredible story and, if excited about this adventure they
wedding. Our own Scarlett Stewart, you havent heard it, make sure you will begin in just a few short days. We
a daughter of this congregation and ask them about it. It is wrought with love that God is being glorified by the
member of our staff, will be marry- heartache, crying, mourning, loss, witness they are sharing with the rest
ing Scott Broughton. I cannot over- but also laughter, hope, grace, and es- of us.
state how happy we are for the soon- pecially love. No doubt, Gods hands
to-be newlyweds. It has been fun to are all over this thing! I think, more In Pauls letter to the Ephesians, he
all married to the One who loves us powerful." 7/9- Ezekiel Overview:
Author and Purpose
to the point of self-sacrifice, forgives
us our transgressions, walks with us
7/16- Ezekiel 1-3:
along every phase of life, comforts us Oh, and I would be remiss if I did not
Ezekiel's Call as Prophet
when we are hurting, encourages us say, Thank you, for all of the prayers
when we are fatigued, and equips us and well-wishes for my recent back 7/23- Ezekiel 4-7:
to live into Gods greater purpose for surgery. One of the benefits of being Ezekiel's Sign Acts
our life. Friends, this is what disciple- married to Jesus is that you get the
ship is all about. More than anything, blessing of Gods family, the cove- 7/30- Ezekiel 8-11:
we want you to experience the rich- nantal community. I have certainly The Temple Vision
ness of what life with God affords. As been blessed by you! On the journey
He leads you, He loves you. Within the with you, Pastor Jack Peebles. 8/8- Ezekiel 12-32:
discipling ministries of the Church
The Oracles of Judgment
are opportunities for you to grow in Rev. Jack Peebles is our Associate Pastor of
Discipleship and here to help you find your
8/13- Ezekiel 34-37:
the marriage Jesus has with you.
way on the journey of getting to know Jesus.
Message of Hope for Israel
This Summer, I encourage you to take If you're looking for him, he'll be with Mar-
garet, Annabelle and David on the Jungle
8/20- Ezekiel 38-48:
two steps. First, take the Journey As- Message of Hope for Creation
Cruise, hunting for the hidden Mickeys.
sessment found at fpco.org/journey so
jpeebles@fpco.org
that you can take an honest look at
where you might need to experience
growth in your relationship with God.
Second, consider joining a Sunday
What is one of the most enhanced through play. Play is the In early childhood classrooms, a
important things parents of fundamental building block of human balance between play and structured
preschool aged children can cognition, emotional health and activities aids in building confident
social behavior. (Christakis, Erika. and cooperative students. Chil-
do to get their child ready for
The Importance of Being Little, Viking, dren adjust well when involved in a
kindergarten? Let them play!
2016, p. 146.) program that offers routines and clear
boundaries. They feel safe and secure.
As a Transitional Kindergarten
While structured activities are im- This type of learning environment
teacher at The Christ School, Susan
portant to develop a variety of skills, helps them to understand the expec-
Dodgion is passionate about the im-
time for free play and teacher guided tations, to interact positively with
portance of time for free play to help
play is also essential. The oppor- others and to transition smoothly
preschool and early elementary-aged
tunity to learn through play is a gift from one activity to the next, Mrs.
children develop essential skills. As
that we give our children, says Mrs. Dodgion says. A program that in-
our 5- and 6-year-olds move forward
Dodgion. The more you structure corporates play allows skills and
into kindergarten, the need for move-
a childs learning with workbooks concepts to be adapted to multiple
ment, the use of manipulative mate-
and curriculum sets the less creative skill levels. Students learn from each
rials, and unstructured centers and
thinking they will do. Free play, both other as they share their individual
stations time are all an important
indoors and outdoors, does so many abilities. The children and I all love
part of their learning, she says.
wonderful things for our childrens Centers time. This is when you will
development. Free play and guided find the children actively engaged in
With a trend toward placing children
play helps to develop language skills, the Home Center, the Block and Con-
in a variety of structured activities,
and encourages creativity, curios- struction regions, a School Center,
time for free play has become less
ity, and empathy for others. It helps where the student becomes the
frequent. Play is often perceived as
children navigate their way through teacher, dress-up areas, skill building
a trade-off if we lighten up on the
issues of conflict and builds a coop- centers, writers and painters areas.
readiness skills, you will have more
erative spirit. Here the children choose where they
time for play. But readiness skills are
want to work, explore and interact
It all started in the summer of had to give this prayer shawl ministry indicated that for several years they
2006. A friend gave me a booklet thing some serious consideration! In had been knitting or crocheting items
about starting a prayer shawl minis- addition, late that same summer Rev- for their families and friends but had
try, thinking I might like to start one erend Sam Knight joined our church run out of people for which to create
at First Pres. It was after I experienced and was very interested in a prayer these items. They were very pleased to
a minor heart attack in July, and was shawl ministry as he was familiar be able to continue doing something
recuperating. While spending the with healing services as well as the they loved, and at the same time, be
summer in Franklin, North Carolina, prayer shawl concept. able to share their gift with others.
a friend of mine visited First Presby-
terian Church there, and found out After God put this on my heart and to- It all came together in September of
they had a successful prayer shawl gether with much prayer, I thought I 2006 with several friends who already
ministry. would to try and start this new minis- knew how to knit or crochet and
try, deciding to call it Holy Stitches. wanted to join with me in starting
The next thing I knew, I was receiving Even though the process of starting a this ministry.
both a prayer shawl from the Frank- ministry was an unsure one, I asked
lin First Presbyterian Church with God for guidance and asked Him to Holy Stitches is not just about giving
prayers of well wishes as well as a lead the way.and He did just that! away prayer shawls: the main focus
book on how to start a prayer shawl is that these shawls are a reminder of
ministry myself! I knew then that I Many of the ladies who joined us had Gods love for each recipient as well as
precious Lord has always been with us encour- of our Flower Team as well as Holy Stitches. Love to knit and share God's love
with others? There's a spot for you to join in this special ministry. Email Cindy
aging us and showing us the way.
at cqchambers@gmail.com.
teaching in China
by SCARLETT BROUGHTON
Jonathan Sweeting joined the 20s Ministry last Surprisingly, it wasnt until I was over in China teaching
summer. Jonathan also attends the Questerian that the Lord made it clear this was where He had led me
Sunday School class and participates in Tradi- and exactly where He wanted me. It wasnt until my very
tional Worship. In my first conversation with first day of teaching, where He very clearly filled me with
Jonathan, I knew he was incredibly intelligent a love for my students and teaching in China, that I knew
with a deep love for Jesus. Then, I learned of his this was more than just a job. It was a mission, and it was
calling to make disciples in China. He has spent totally not about me, but all about Him! Even from the very
a year furlough with us and will head back to beginning, I had many opportunities to share my faith
China late summer. Here is a little more of with my students, and I started to see why He had led me
Jonathan's story, in his own words. to China. And finally, after dozens of conversations where
I got to share the Gospel, I had the immense privilege of
scarlett: Where did you grow up? walking with two of my students as they came to know the
jonathan: I grew up in northern Illinois until I was about 9, Lord. I saw firsthand how the Lord was moving in many of
and then my family moved to Colorado, where I lived until lives and knew that I wanted to continue to be a part of His
and have been consistently attending since. certain country put on their heart from a young age. But
that isnt my story! I remember one Sunday at my college
scarlett: Where did you go to college? church where the pastor encouraged us to pray for a team
they were sending to China, and he finished with the
jonathan: Wheaton College. I started studying Biblical Ar-
remark of who knows, the Lord might send you there!
chaeology, but soon I felt the Lord leading me to teaching.
I laughed at this and was certain God would never send
I switched to Secondary Education and History/Social Sci-
me there. Obviously I was wrong! During my senior year
ences and graduated with degrees in both.
at Wheaton I randomly heard about the opportunity to
ested in international mission work? Him if He wanted me to go, then He would need to provide
a way. He did, so I went, only planning on being there for
jonathan: Ever since I was little, I loved hearing from mis-
one year. Once again, my plans werent His plans, and once
sionaries who went abroad, and I have always had a desire
He filled my heart with His love for Chinese people and
to travel and perhaps even live abroad. I heard about the
my students there, I knew that was where I was meant to
opportunity to go to China for a year after I graduated from
be. After getting to share my faith so many times and see
college, and thought it would be a fun opportunity to live in
people come to know the Lord, I knew that China is in one
a different country and culture, to get to teach at the uni-
of those for such a time as this moments. There is such
versity level, and that it would look good on my resume.
scarlett: Favorite things about China? First Pres this past December!). Ive known him for a few
years now and will be studying Chinese in his hometown.
jonathan: Although it is wonderful to be in a place with
Through a number of life events, he is beginning to open
a long history, fascinating culture, and excellent food,
up to the idea that God is real and might be making Himself
my favorite part about China is the people! Many of the
known to Michael! The second is Sarena. I have had the
Chinese people I have met have been so kind and generous
chance to share the Gospel with her numerous times, and
to me. Its such a joy walking into a room every morning
after encouraging her to start praying and ask God if He
of about 30 smiling faces who are so excited to learn and
is real, she told me that she knew someone was listening
practice their English with you! But more than the class-
to her in her prayers. Please be praying for Michael and
room, I love how privileged I am to get to live life with
Sarena (and her fianc as well), that the Lord would be
these students. For many of them, this is their first ex-
opening up their hearts to a personal relationship with
Him. SCHOOL: And lastly, for my lan-
guage study. Please ask for grace and pa-
tience as I begin this great undertaking,
that I would be able to learn and grow in
order to eventually share about Him in
Chinese! FINANCE: Going back, I will be
doing two years of full-time language study. Because I
tended period of time away from home. They are learn-
wont be working, I need to raise a larger amount of finan-
ing about who they are, making their own decisions, and
cial support for the next two years! I would ask for prayer
really starting to explore on their own. It is in this time
that He would provide what I need to return.
that we (the English teachers) are encouraged to invite
students into our lives and show them our culture. This
scarlett: What would you want others to
means I get to have countless meals with students, dance
parties, karaoke nights, coffee shop talks, shopping and
know about mission work?
jonathan: I think the main thing would be to not assume
historical outings, and most importantly, tons of conver-
that God hasnt called you to mission work! You may think
sations about life. It is in all of these moments that I get to
that missions isnt what you are called to, or that if you
be a light to my students, I get to hear about their lives and
have a family, or are just getting started in your career,
the emptiness that many of them have, and get to speak
or maybe you think youre too old, that He wont call you.
life and Truth into that.
Im still young and have a lot to learn, but one of the best
scarlett: What will you do? For how long? things Ive learned is the joy that comes in taking a step
out into where He opens doors. For we are his workman-
jonathan: The past four years that Ive been living in China,
ship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God
I have been teaching English at a few different universi-
prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. -
ties. When I go back this fall, I will be doing two years of
Ephesians 2:10.
full time language study and then return to teaching full
time. I plan on staying until the Lord leads elsewhere.
scarlett: Anything else?
jonathan: Whether its with me or someone else, mission-
scarlett: What is the hardest part?
aries need loving on, too! You dont realize how far a letter,
jonathan: Actually one of the hardest parts about living
email, Christmas card, or care package goes. Though its
in China is the pollution. While things have slowly been
difficult with time zones, those of us who are abroad love
getting better, even in the past four years that Ive lived
hearing from home and being connected with you all!
there, many days in the Fall and Winter the city is coated
with a hazardous smog. Dont take the Florida sunshine
To connect with Jonathan contact him at
and blue skies for granted! Another hard part is being away
jonathan.sweeting@elic.org. To learn more about our 20s Ministry,
for the holidays. Most of the time I really enjoy living and
contact Scarlett at sstewart@fpco.org.
working in a place that has a different culture, language,
and way of life, but Thanksgiving and Christmas it is very
difficult to be away from the festivities and from family.
The Orlando Heart of the City Fellows, The Collabora- Fellows work in a paid internship in their field of
tives newest program, seeks to provide just that for interest, three days per week, gaining valuable
a distinguished group of 12 recent college graduates. real-life training in a competitive job market.
For many college grads, the myriad decisions and choices, Fellows have adult mentors within the community,
coupled with the necessary transition from college life to who offer their own life experience and a listening
full-blown adulthood, can be overwhelming. The Fellows, ear to encourage these younger adults.
begun in Falls Church, VA in 1995 and now a multi-city
movement, is a network of churches who are committed to Fellows receive professional counseling several
helping the next generation of Christian leaders make this times each semester through the Rest Ini-
transition. In fact, the Fellows mission is to prepare these tiative, a Christian organization that offers
graduates to live seamless lives of faith and start well. preemptive counseling and guidance
How does this happen?
First Pres will welcome the inaugural 2017-2018 class of
Fellows live in host homes within the church con- Fellows in September under the direction of Minister of
gregation, integrating their lives within the larger Family Life, Bret Allen. We look forward to welcoming
body of Christ. these young adults to our community so that they may
start well.
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