tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4695872887183317062024-03-13T19:43:27.497-07:00Tim's TidingsTim Rogers-Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15903488949398784374noreply@blogger.comBlogger130125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-469587288718331706.post-8151370516407706872020-02-06T07:46:00.002-08:002020-02-06T07:46:19.080-08:0002-09-20
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">I
hope all members and friends will be able to attend worship this weekend to
celebrate God’s goodness in guiding Eastminster through another excellent year
of ministry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Worship will be upbeat yet
realistic, ending on Sunday at 11am with Eastminster’s Annual Congregational
Meeting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>During worship, we will be
looking at scripture texts which focus on the presence of God, even in the
storms of life.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 7pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Indeed,
God has been faithful!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The reality most
followers of Jesus know is that God does not always remove us from life’s
storms, but God is present in their midst. We sail on.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 7pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">One
of the best-known texts of the Bible is Psalm 46.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It begins: <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 8pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="text"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">“God is our refuge and
strength,</span></span><span class="indent-1-breaks"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;"> a</span></span><span class="text"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;"> very present help in trouble.</span></span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><br />
<span class="text"><span style="background: white;">Therefore we will not fear,
though the earth should change,</span></span><br />
<span class="text"><span style="background: white;">though the mountains shake in
the heart of the sea;</span></span><br />
<span class="text"><b><sup><span style="background: white;"> </span></sup></b><span style="background: white;">though its waters roar and foam,</span></span><span class="indent-1-breaks"><span style="background: white;"> </span></span><span class="text"><span style="background: white;">though the mountains tremble with its
tumult. <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span class="text"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="text"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">The text asserts God’s
presence in the storms and in the end, we hear God say “Be still and know that
I am God” (Psalm 46:10.)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Today’s
scripture text is from Matthew 14:22-33 where Jesus calms a storm by saying,
“Peace be still.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The disciples sailing
with him marvel that even the wind and waves obey him!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">This
text is the text I focused on when I preached before being voted by the
congregation to be your pastor over six years ago.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Needless to say, there have been exciting
times as we have journeyed from that point forward together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There will be exciting times ahead as well.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Few
would have guessed we would be where we are today.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That’s why we sail.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And as we sail, it is good to know that “calm
seas do not make a skilled sailor.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As
we go through challenging times, know that God is with us and is cultivating in
us the faith to sail well and help others to do the same.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">As
we look over the past and see where God has taken us, it is my prayer that we
have faith, strength, courage, skill and each other to provide wisdom and
experience to move forward with confidence, knowing “even the wind and waves
obey him.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Annual
Reports will be available to tell the details of our church’s journey this
year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I hope and pray this is a good
time for us all not only to celebrate, but also reorient our lives to God’s
direction, knowing that to love God and serve on God’s “crew” is a privileged
and blessed place to be in all times, seasons and conditions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>God indeed is our refuge and strength!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Blessings,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Pastor TimTim Rogers-Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15903488949398784374noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-469587288718331706.post-48163592328135453942020-01-30T08:37:00.002-08:002020-01-30T08:37:27.474-08:0002-02-20
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<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">The
older we get the wiser we get. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Right?</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hopefully we learn from experience. Last
weekend I traveled to a church where I was a pastor 25 years ago.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Reflecting back over the years provided some
insight.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">One
insight is that the people who are stronger spiritually are usually persons who
participate beyond worship in community life</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Being active in a small group, participating in spiritual formation,
hands-on mission, and fellowship activities really makes a difference.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">In
the coming weeks and years, I pray we grow spiritually mature as we grow older
through “doing life together,” through being engaged together in worship and
also in word (study/relationships) and deed (service).</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Vision Statement of Eastminster is:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">Led by the Holy Spirit<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">Eastminster glorifies God by<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">Loving Christ and others<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">in worship, word and deed</span></u></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">As we grow together in 2020 may we
fulfill what Jesus calls the “Greatest Commandment” which is:</span><span class="text"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"> “‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your
heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind’… and ‘You shall love
your neighbor as yourself.’” (Matthew 22:37-39).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b>This is keeping the “main thing” the Main
Thing.</b></span></span><span class="text"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="text"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="text"><b><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">Perhaps the most
natural opportunities to grow wiser beyond worship at this time are engaging in
the FRED Talks immediately after worship during the four Sundays in February,
participating on a committee, helping with the Rummage Sale or joining a Life
Group.</span></b></span><span class="text"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Each of these involves study, relationship
and service to varying degrees.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="text"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="text"><b><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">FRED Talks are
held after worship on the four Sundays of February.</span></b></span><span class="text"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Participants
will fellowship over a light lunch and learn more about Family, Relationships,
Environment and Discipleship (FRED) in consecutive weeks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A list of topics is in the February
Newsletter available on the information station or in your weekly announcements.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="text"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="text"><b><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">Committee Night
is Tuesday February 4 at 7:00.</span></b></span><span class="text"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All teams meet in the
Fellowship Hall and then break up to plan and help implement the mission and
ministry of Eastminster.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Creatives and
detail drivers, thinkers and doers are all needed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Come to worship, and I’ll help direct you to
a place where your gifts and passions may be engaged.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="text"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="text"><b><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">The Rummage Sale
will be held on Saturday February 22</span></b></span><span class="text"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The proceeds will
help youth and young adults engage in mission in Puerto Rico. Volunteers are
needed, especially the week before the event to set up and also on the 22<sup>nd</sup>
to run the sale.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is a great time to
meet other people and engage in a cause with a purpose.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You may sign up to help after church.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="text"><b><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></span></div>
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<span class="text"><b><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">Life Groups are
small relational groups which enable people to connect.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></b></span><span class="text"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">They typically meet in member’s homes once to twice a
month.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Contact Barbara Havens at </span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><a href="mailto:barbarahavens7@gmail.com"><span style="background: white;"><span style="color: blue;">barbarahavens7@gmail.com</span></span></a><span class="text"><span style="background: white; color: black;"> for more
information.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are groups meeting
about every day of the week, so finding a good fit should be a snap.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span class="text"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="text"><b><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">I’m excited
about loving Christ and others in worship word and deed with you this year!<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-no-proof: yes;"><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shapetype id="_x0000_t75"
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</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]-->Pastor Tim</span>Tim Rogers-Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15903488949398784374noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-469587288718331706.post-63787009122886275602020-01-17T07:30:00.002-08:002020-01-17T07:30:57.164-08:0001-19-20
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; mso-bidi-font-size: 16.0pt; mso-no-proof: yes;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">It is great kicking
off a new year with so many new members and friends at Eastminster</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">If you are visiting,
welcome.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Eastminster is an open and accepting
congregation where many of the persons present have come in the last several
years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You will find a welcome here
which is truly of God!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">One of the key ways
people connect is through small groups.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Today
all persons will find opportunities to engage in small group activities, even
if you are here for the winter season, much less if you are a regular or even an
“old timer.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><u>Survey sheets</u> will
be available to help you connect with the time and nature of a group which will
meet your needs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I encourage everyone
not currently in a small group to consider giving one a try.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Another key way to
connect is through before and after church activities.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;"> “Family EPiC” is a
Third Saturday Potluck held at 5 p.m. before the 6 p.m. Engaging People In Christ
(EPiC) contemporary worship service held in fellowship hall in the Christian
Ministry Center.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Sundays, at present
there are two opportunities for spiritual growth at 11:15 a.m. following the
10:00 a.m. traditional service of worship.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;"> One is <u>Sermons, Soup and
Sandwiches</u> which is held in the library of the Christian Ministry
Center.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here the preaching pastor or
invited guest will engage with those present expanding on the topic of the
morning worship and answering any questions participants have. The second
offering is a book study entitled <u>“What’s the Least I Can Believe and Still
Be a Christian?”</u> led by Jill Baker in the Heritage Room located on the
second floor of the Christian Ministry Center.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Both opportunities have a light lunch for a suggested $2 donation.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">One signature of
Eastminster is serving homemade cookies following worship.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Please stay around for a cookie or two, a cup
of Fair Trade coffee, and fellowship.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>After being at Eastminster several months, colleagues asked me what I
enjoyed most about my call.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My answer
was invariably “the people.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are
wonderful, interesting folks here that expand and enrich my life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I hope you have the same pleasure as you meet
those around you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Finally, you are
encouraged to attend the Eastminster Family breakfast on Saturday January 25 at
8:30 a.m.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our own resident historian, Bruce Morgan,
will make a case for the true landing point of explorer Ponce de Leon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The results may surprise you, the food will
delight you, and the fellowship will be suburb!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">It’s exciting to start
a new year of growth together!</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Welcome newer and more established members.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My prayer is we grow in Christ, enhance the
lives of one another and ultimately the community, nation and world.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Blessings,</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Pastor Tim</span></div>
Tim Rogers-Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15903488949398784374noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-469587288718331706.post-23356600166881073872019-12-19T07:16:00.002-08:002019-12-19T07:16:12.496-08:0012-22-19
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Tim’s Tidings<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">One of the greatest gifts of Christmas is to experience the
peace and presence of God. We all need that! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">When the angels appear to announce Jesus’ birth, the first
response is fear, for God is awesome and God’s glory is great.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yet the message which comes is about “good
tidings of great joy.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The message is
about God entering a troubled world and troubled lives and calming the waters
of our souls.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The message is about
salvation.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">As you hear and read Scripture and reflect upon your lives
this Christmas, it is my hope that you experience the glory, the hope, the
wonder, the majesty, the mystery and the brilliance of Christmas.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I hope you glimpse inside of an all too real
squalid stable and know that if God’s hope, peace, love, joy and salvation can
enter such a place, it can definitely enter our hearts, lives and world today.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">As we worship in word and song, may that peace enter
in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That peace of knowing that God has
the world in God’s hands, that the loose ends will be tied up, that even in the
turbulence of our times, “joy comes in the morning” and in the end, love wins.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">One of the greatest gifts we have from God are each
other.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am truly grateful to God for
you, and grateful for the way Eastminster ministers to one another and to the wider
world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Eastminster’s pastors, elders,
and care teams are here for you in the season and beyond, even as there are
countless acts of love and grace passed on by members which knit bonds of love
on a daily basis.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">If your heart longs for a church home, I’d love to speak
with you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As importantly,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I pray you experience God’s presence, peace
and assurance as we worship, live and serve. Our praise teams and choirs have
prepared special music for the season.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Even as David’s harp music calmed the soul of King Saul, it is my hope
that our worship brings peace and an abiding presence to yours today, on
Christmas Eve, and in the days ahead.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Many persons have prepared for worship and lead us in worship.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thank you!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>May God’s love shine through what you do, shape who you are, and inspire
all to be the people God intends us to be at worship, work and play.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Merry Christmas,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Pastor TimTim Rogers-Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15903488949398784374noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-469587288718331706.post-56468150816343863682019-12-13T07:28:00.001-08:002019-12-13T07:28:12.895-08:0012-15-19
Tim's Tidings<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;"></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">My
heart is joyous as I walk down the hall of our Christian Ministry Center and
see all the toys donated for the Salvation Army Angel Tree, as I smell the
goodness of lunches served after an excellent Music and Meditation service, as
I interact with special needs youth in a newly formed program, “Unique People
of Purpose” learning to practice culinary arts under the direction of our
members, as I hear the laughter of preschool kids down the hall and laughter at
the other end as friends greet coming into the Ministry Center.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is vitality and health in Eastminster,
and I can’t help but believe the Lord has anointed us shine God’s love in dark
times every single day.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">The
other day I was kayaking in a dense fog.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The fog blanketed me and I could only go forward by looking at the
pattern of wind-blown waves on the water and listen carefully for sounds coming
from shores I could not see.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was in
the middle of the lagoon and there was no land in sight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It made me think of how many navigate life
today.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s hard to maintain
direction—not just on the kayak, but for all of us in life.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">It
made me remember a story told of a famous pastor who was traveling by boat from
France to England on a foggy night. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
pastor was up on the bridge with the captain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He remarked, “It is amazing how you get your ship home safely in the fog
through the rocks of the channel.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
captain pointed through the fog to a dim light.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He said, “Do you see that light?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>That’s actually four lights and when they line up as one, I know I am
heading safely.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The pastor thought,
“That’s how it is with navigating life in God’s will.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s a lining up of the lights. When we
listen and hear the voice of God, when we read God’s Word, when we get the
counsel of Christian friends and when circumstances of life line up together,
we can be reasonably sure we are in God’s will.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">I
hope you use the days ahead to “line up your lights.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Worship will be very rich in the coming
weeks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I particularly invite you to
bring friends to the Sunday December 22 “Glory of Christmas” concert where
orchestra, choir and singers of all ages will bring home the reality of God’s
love in sending God’s only Son Jesus.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This is a message which will be expanded upon Christmas Eve at 4, 6 and
8 p.m.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Again, bringing friends and
family will only make the experience richer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Read the Bible versions of Christmas found in Matthew chapters 1-2, Luke
1-2, and John 1.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Reach out to others
with the love of God as God leads, and chances are the lights will “line up.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Blessings
in the Holy Season!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I look forward to
experiencing the love of God together and continuing to live our purpose in the
church and world as we head into 2020.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Thanks be to God for your faithfulness, generosity, and love without
which the vitality at Eastminster and God’s light in the world would not be
present in mission and ministry to the extent it is today!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">With
Love at Christmas,</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Pastor Tim<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Tim Rogers-Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15903488949398784374noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-469587288718331706.post-69339128159708854042019-12-06T07:01:00.001-08:002019-12-06T07:01:16.932-08:0012-08-19
<br />
<div align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: left;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 16pt;">Tim’s
Tidings<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
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</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 4pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span><br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">One
of the hardest things to do in today’s world is to listen. There is so much
noise from a multitude of sources.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>TVs,
stereos, cellphones, traffic, construction, well-meaning people wanting to tell
us what to do … and ill meaning people wanting to take advantage …. And perhaps
in the midst of the noise, comes … the voice of God. As we read through the
Bible and encounter The Bible in 52 stories in worship, we experience that:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">God
is.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">God
speaks.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Humans
can understand.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">God
has a will and purpose for us in community.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 5pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">It
is true that sometimes the voice of God is hard to hear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is also true that God has ways to get our
attention.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most of us know that
first-hand.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 4pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Samuel
encountered the voice of God as a young child.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>In his story God called to him in the quiet of the night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fortunately for Samuel, Eli, a trusted mentor
and spiritual guide was there to help him not only listen for and hear the
voice of God, but also to respond.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Zachariah heard the voice of God in old age.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was struck mute for nine months which
probably increased his listening skills tremendously, only to respond to God in
obedience in the naming of his child John.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Joseph was probably middle age or younger when he heard the voice of God
in dreams.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Joseph quietly obeys God to
the extent no words of Joseph are recorded in scripture.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Only actions.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 5pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Learning to
listen, to hear, to share and to respond are all important parts of spiritual
formation.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We need God and one another to hear and
respond.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My prayer this Advent Season is
that you take time to listen, that God speaks in ways you understand, and your
response is living in the light of God’s will in community with the very love
and compassion of Christ.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 6pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Where
might you start?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When I have asked
groups of people to pray for direction in silence and then speak a “Word from
the Lord” if heard, many heard the Scripture from Psalm 46:1: <b>“Be still and
know that I am God.” <o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 6pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">“Be
still and know that I am God.”</span></b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This is an invitation to experience God.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Today in worship and through the Advent Season at home, in the world, as
well as at church, I invite you to a journey of “Holy Listening.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One good way to begin is to get in a quiet
place and reflect on this Scripture adding a word or two at a time as you
slowly read or speak them, pausing between the phrases, listening, and
hopefully hearing:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">BE…<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">BE
STILL…<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">BE
STILL AND KNOW…<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">BE
STILL AND KNOW I AM …<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">BE
STILL AND KNOW I AM GOD….<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">May
we all <b>listen, hear,</b> <b>share </b>what is heard, and with discernment … <b>respond
</b>to God faithfully, even as Samuel, Zachariah and Joseph did before us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 6pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Blessings
for a Holy Advent,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;"></span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Pastor Tim<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Tim Rogers-Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15903488949398784374noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-469587288718331706.post-2572250399123326872019-10-18T06:53:00.003-07:002019-10-18T06:53:33.381-07:0010-20-19
Tim's Tidings<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">This
weekend we thank the many, many persons who are using their time and talents to
share the ministry of God’s love with the congregation and community at and through
Eastminster Presbyterian Church. </span></b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is amazing to realize the thousands upon
thousands of hours devoted to worship, education, mission, fellowship,
community outreach, administration, care of others, our facilities and our
environment, much less the many special projects which go on at
Eastminster.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You really are a light to
the community and bring glory to God!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;"><b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">One
of the things I tell my colleagues is that Eastminster is a “leader rich”
church.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Eastminster’s elders provide quality and
consistency of leadership that enables the church to effect steady growth in
excellence and numbers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What I realize
as I reflect upon the hundreds of capable and energized persons engaged in
volunteer Christian ministry is that leaders lead well because we are a church
rich in followers of Jesus.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Together, we
are moving closer to God as we love God and others in worship, word and
deed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What greater thing can be said!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;"><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">May
the coming days be ripe with renewal as we are filled by the Holy Spirit and
love Christ and others in worship word and deed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I look forward to the week ahead as we share
our love with the community by supporting the Indialantic Chamber Singers
Sunday afternoon at 3 p.m., host a community “Trunk or Treat” this Friday
October 25 at 5:30 and invite friends to the “Kirkin o’ the Tartans” next
Sunday October 27 at 10 a.m.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">The
ministry and mission of Eastminster would not be possible without the dedicated
service of many.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Praise God for excellent leaders and the many
members and friends of this church who serve so faithfully and give so
generously of time and talent as well as treasure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif";">God
Richly Provides!</span></b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">Blessings,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Pastor Tim<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif";">Front Row Left to Right</span></b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif";">: Pastor Tim, Grant Dearborn,
Barbara Ray, Mary Larson, Pastor Kristy. <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Back
Row Left to Right</b>: Claire Gibbs, Scott Messel, Todd Uebele, Rick Schuette,
Sara Van Driel, Jim Earp, Brooke Wheeler, Jim Morris and Nancy Fowler. Sunny
Rudloff not pictured.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Tim Rogers-Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15903488949398784374noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-469587288718331706.post-87194929172217044632019-10-11T06:05:00.003-07:002019-10-11T06:05:51.157-07:0010-13-19
<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 14pt;">Tim’s
Tidings<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Today
we welcome to worship Dr. Dan Turk, missionary co-worker in Madagascar.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dan and his wife Elizabeth graciously opened
their home to Julie and me on our sabbatical last year and opened our eyes to
the tremendous richness of faith and physical needs of the people of
drought-stricken Madagascar.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Dan
will be sharing in both services and will be available after Saturday’s service
to speak with youth and young adults and Sunday’s service to speak with adults
further about ministry in Madagascar.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You have enriched this work through Eastminster’s “Mission Match”
program as we were able to contribute to the following projects:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">SUMMARY EASTMINSTER PC DONATION<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<td nowrap="" style="background-color: transparent; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0) windowtext windowtext; border-style: none solid solid; border-width: 0px 1pt 1pt; height: 19.45pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-right-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 276.2pt;" width="368">
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<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">ITEM<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">$<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">1. Mandritsara Seminary Water and
Fruit Tree Extension Project<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<td style="background-color: transparent; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0) windowtext windowtext rgb(0, 0, 0); border-style: none solid solid none; border-width: 0px 1pt 1pt 0px; height: 20.9pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-right-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 68.3pt;" width="91">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>8,100 <o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.1pt; mso-yfti-irow: 3;">
<td nowrap="" style="background-color: transparent; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0) windowtext windowtext; border-style: none solid solid; border-width: 0px 1pt 1pt; height: 15.1pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-right-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 276.2pt;" width="368">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">2. Mahatsinjo Fruit Tree Center<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
<td nowrap="" style="background-color: transparent; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0) windowtext windowtext rgb(0, 0, 0); border-style: none solid solid none; border-width: 0px 1pt 1pt 0px; height: 15.1pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-right-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 68.3pt;" valign="bottom" width="91">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>14,400 <o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.1pt; mso-yfti-irow: 4;">
<td nowrap="" style="background-color: transparent; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0) windowtext windowtext; border-style: none solid solid; border-width: 0px 1pt 1pt; height: 15.1pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-right-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 276.2pt;" width="368">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">3. Water for Ankany Gazela Girls'
Boarding Home<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
<td nowrap="" style="background-color: transparent; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0) windowtext windowtext rgb(0, 0, 0); border-style: none solid solid none; border-width: 0px 1pt 1pt 0px; height: 15.1pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-right-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 68.3pt;" width="91">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>2,500 <o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.1pt; mso-yfti-irow: 5; mso-yfti-lastrow: yes;">
<td nowrap="" style="background-color: transparent; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0) windowtext windowtext; border-style: none solid solid; border-width: 0px 1pt 1pt; height: 15.1pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-right-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 276.2pt;" valign="bottom" width="368">
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">TOTAL<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</td>
<td nowrap="" style="background-color: transparent; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0) windowtext windowtext rgb(0, 0, 0); border-style: none solid solid none; border-width: 0px 1pt 1pt 0px; height: 15.1pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-right-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 68.3pt;" valign="bottom" width="91">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>25,000 <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Praise
God!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 5pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Today
we begin looking ahead at what God would have us do as we give to God through
Eastminster in 2020.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This year’s
Stewardship theme is “<b>God Richly Provides</b>.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is based on I Timothy 6:17-19.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 4pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span class="text"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">As for those who in the present age are
rich, command them not to be haughty, or to set their hopes on the uncertainty
of riches, but rather on God who richly provides us with everything for our
enjoyment.<sup><span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"> </span></sup>They
are to do good, to be rich in good works, generous, and ready to share,<sup><span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"> </span></sup>thus storing up for
themselves the treasure of a good foundation for the future, so that they may
take hold of the life that really is life.<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></span></div>
<br />
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<span class="text"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span class="text"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Each week members have volunteered to speak of God’s provision for them
and how Eastminster has been a part of their growth as generous followers of
Jesus.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On November 9-10, following a
vigil of prayer, members and friends will consecrate good faith “Estimates of
Giving” for 2020 which enable our leaders to plan for future ministry and mission.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On November 10 following worship we have a <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">“Celebration Luncheon”</b> where persons
who attend both worship services gather to enjoy a great meal, welcome new
members who joined in 2019, honor longstanding members and give God thanks for
all the blessings we receive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Please
mark your calendars for the <b>Celebration Luncheon</b>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is one of the unifying events Eastminster
holds and it is important to give God thanks and praise together.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span class="text"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span class="text"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Look forward to next week’s Volunteer Ministry recognition and the inclusion
of children in worship, followed by the Kirkin o’ the Tartans and then All
Saints weekend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s wonderful to please
God together through the power of Christ’s Spirit!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 1pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Blessings,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]-->Pastor Tim</span></div>
Tim Rogers-Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15903488949398784374noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-469587288718331706.post-89446938292504077742019-09-13T06:37:00.002-07:002019-09-13T06:37:06.150-07:0009-15-19
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Tim’s Tidings<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b>My hope is that each of you invites friends to Back to
Church Weekend this Saturday and Sunday at Eastminster</b>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There will be wonderful services of worship
on Saturday night at 6 p.m. and Sunday morning at 10 a.m. followed by an old-fashioned
Sunday Dinner of Fried Chicken and all the fixings topped off with Apple Pie
Cupcakes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There will be a magician
present as well to entertain persons of all ages.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A wonderful banquet is being prepared.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Please plan to stay and enjoy the work of
many wonderful cooks and servers.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b>Every week more and more people are worshipping at
Eastminster.</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>God has placed a Spirit
of welcome upon our community that is healing, encouraging and warm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is growth from learning God’s word and
following God’s will, laughter that brings healing, a people and a purpose for
all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If this is your first time here,
welcome.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>May these words about
Eastminster be true in your experience as well!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I encourage all to think of those you know who need such an environment
and pray about inviting them to church in the weeks ahead.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b>This Sunday, we give a special welcome to
families from the Eastminster Presbyterian Preschool!<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b>This weekend packets for reading “The Bible in a Year”
will be passed out.</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Next week your
pastors will begin a sermon series <b>“The Bible in 52 Stories” </b>where we
will hit some high points of Scripture along the way to reading the Bible
through. The Scriptures are divided out where there is reading from the New and
Old Testaments every day, so it never gets boring. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Your pastors look forward to this adventure in
Christian learning, growth and living with you!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b>In your bulletin there is an announcement page which
lists some of the many activities for enrichment at Eastminster.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></b>All are welcome.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>May I point out that there is a wonderful
Bible Study Wednesdays at noon in the church Library which is just
starting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is great for those who
are retired or who work nearby and can take a break during the lunch hour.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For senior adults there is <b>The Shepherd’s Center</b>
where 400 persons meet in a variety of courses every Thursday beginning
September 26.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You may register for that
today.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Finally note the opportunities
for children and youth, support and recovery, music and worship.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is more going on that can be mentioned,
but <b>there are persons with welcome badges available all weekend to answer
any questions you have.<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b>We are truly blessed!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>With that blessing comes a promise and commitment</b>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In closing, I want to introduce a Scripture
which is speaking to me at present from I Timothy 6:17-19.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You will hear more about this Scripture in
the coming days:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span class="text"><b><sup><span style="background: white; color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></span></sup></b></span><span class="text"><i><span style="background: white; color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">As for those who in the present age
are rich, command them not to be haughty, or to set their hopes on the
uncertainty of riches, but rather on God who richly provides us with everything
for our enjoyment. They are to do good, to be rich in good works, generous,
and ready to share, thus storing up for themselves the treasure of a good
foundation for the future, so that they may <u>take hold of the life that
really is life</u>.</span></i></span><i><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Blessings,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Pastor TimTim Rogers-Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15903488949398784374noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-469587288718331706.post-38880573651203850202019-08-22T09:08:00.003-07:002019-08-22T09:08:25.536-07:0008-25-19
Tim's Tidings<br />
<br />
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</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">This weekend is a time of thanksgiving for those who God raises up as
elders in our church</span></b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">. A Presbyterian church is, by definition, a
church which is ruled by “elders.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Elders are those who the congregation nominates and elects to be the
spiritual leaders of our affairs from setting vision and direction, to
encouraging the members, worshippers and staff in their spiritual growth, to
maintaining the finances, programs, property and policies of the church.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is a huge responsibility which cannot be
undertaken without energy, intelligence, imagination and love all tempered by
spiritual discernment and teamwork.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
body on which the elders serve is called the “Session.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Elders serve three-year rotating terms on the
Session.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 6.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.5pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">I say with all sincerity that the renewal
Eastminster has and is experiencing is a direct result of the call to service
and the competencies of your elders.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Elders who rotate off Session at this time include Bryan Becker, Ed
Bowers, Melissa Ketterman, and Bill McCaslin.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We thank them for their service!</span></b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 5.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.5pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Bryan Becker</span></b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">
served as the chair of our Missions Committee.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>During his tenure our Missions giving has increased in both dollars
given and time invested on the part of our congregation in mission beyond the
local church. He also oversaw the recent “Mission Match” where our congregation
raised $25,000 for relief to Madagascar and $25,000 for local mission relief
over and above our budgeted giving. He has chaired a great committee on which
he will continue to serve. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 5.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.5pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Ed Bowers</span></b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"> served as
the chair of the Nominating Committee and co-chair of Personnel and
Administration.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ed coordinated the
congregation’s nomination of excellent leaders to guide our church, he ensured
staff stability and excellence through the recruitment and care of staff
members, and he helped shape and administer policies which give our church
direction yet ability to be flexible to address the opportunities and
challenges of ministry during this time.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 5.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.5pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Melissa Ketterman</span></b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"> served as Clerk of Session, a role which coordinates the affairs of
the church from setting the agenda for the board meetings, to keeping track of
membership, baptismal and other rolls, to writing minutes of all proceedings,
to making sure we do things “decently and in order.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is a huge role in which she served with
excellence, thus maximizing the effectiveness of all our elders.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Melissa also serves on the Pastoral Relations
Team, a team which provides me with invaluable wisdom and guidance.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 5.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.5pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Bill McCaslin</span></b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">
served as chair of the Outreach Committee.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Bill first suggested the church form an Outreach Committee five years
ago.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Outreach Committee has led efforts
to include the community in the life of the church, to welcome all persons
genuinely, to practice hospitality, and to grow the church.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Their efforts are bearing fruit as
Eastminster is recognized as a church of excellence in these areas, and
Eastminster realized the highest net membership growth of the 60+ churches of
our presbytery last year.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">This Sunday we ordain and install elders for
service in the class of 2022 and welcome a new Clerk of Session.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Elders being ordained and/or installed
include Nancy Fowler, Richard Schuette, Todd Uebele, and Brooke Wheeler. Claire
Gibbs will serve as our Clerk of Session.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the process, we have broadened our
committee roles, adding committees which relate specifically to Adult Education
and Spiritual Formation and Youth and Young Adult Ministry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These committees will lead us to grow deeper
in faith and ability to reach new generations for Jesus.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>See the back of your worship guide for the
roles of this year’s Session and the contact information for your elders. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b>Thank you, God, for those you call to serve
as elders!</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><b>Blessings,</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><b>Pastor Tim<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
Tim Rogers-Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15903488949398784374noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-469587288718331706.post-43579399778337819952019-08-15T08:40:00.001-07:002019-08-15T08:40:37.247-07:0008-18-19
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 16pt;">Tim’s
Tidings<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif";">Jesus has a special call to whom
some describe as the “least, lost,</span><span style="mso-no-proof: yes;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif";">lonely and last.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I believe Jesus’ parables we are considering
this summer bear that out.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif";">As you
remember from last week’s Scripture, Jesus says in effect: “Don’t mess with the
kids (least) and don’t mess with those who are newer believers.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He says: “<span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">Truly</span></span><span class="text"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"> I tell you, unless you change and become like children, you will never
enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever becomes humble like this child is the
greatest in the kingdom of heaven.<sup><span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"> </span></sup>Whoever
welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me</span></span><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif";">” (Matthew 18:3-5)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif";">The
“littlest” have room to grow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Humble
yourselves and receive the kingdom like one of these, be welcoming and
hospitable to all” is the message.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jesus
goes on to say:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="text"><i><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Take care that you
do not despise one of these little ones; for, I tell you, in heaven their
angels continually see the face of my Father in heaven. <sup><span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">12 </span></sup>What do you think? If a
shepherd has a hundred sheep, and one of them has gone astray, does he not
leave the ninety-nine on the mountains and go in search of the one that went
astray? <sup><span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">13 </span></sup>And
if he finds it, truly I tell you, he rejoices over it more than over the
ninety-nine that never went astray. <sup><span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">14 </span></sup>So it is not the will of your Father in heaven
that one of these little ones should be lost.</span></i></span><span class="text"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"> </span></span><span class="text"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">(Matthew 18:10-14).<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="text"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Are you feeling
least, lost, lonely, last or little today?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Know you matter to God.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You
matter to God!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="text"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p> </o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="text"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">God desires to be in
relationship with us all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>God desires
our worship and service.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>God desires to
forgive, love, heal and send us in ministry in every facet of life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>God desires that we who once were lost are
now found.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="text"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Our purpose is to be
found, filled and then fulfilled in community as we worship and serve God in
Spirit and truth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you have been
searching for God, keep it up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Know that
God is a God who wants to be found, and even searches and finds you and
me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That’s a great feeling, to know that
angels watch over us night and day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To
know that God loves each of us “sheep” as if there were only one of us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That we need never feel abandoned or afraid,
but humble ourselves and be open to the God of love who cares for the least,
last, lost, lonely and little.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>God cares
and all heaven rejoices when the lost are found!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even you and me!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="text"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Blessings,<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
Pastor Tim<br />
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Tim Rogers-Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15903488949398784374noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-469587288718331706.post-64775914047471882382019-07-11T08:44:00.002-07:002019-07-11T08:44:41.270-07:0007-14-2019<br />
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Summer is in full swing and Eastminster is ministering in
may ways. The July 4 "Salute to America" involved over 550
people for the concert, including 60 singers and the Melbourne Municipal
Band. Eastminster engaged in hospitality with many more members of the
community, providing restrooms, water and serving 900 ice cream cones!
Our alternative viewing space in the fellowship hall accommodated over 100
people with excellent sound and video quality. Way to go techies!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6Uz0cVYKgxQ/XSdZFUhzeLI/AAAAAAAAAII/u1ZYBEDn5ZYjFB3wtGpyJzf_iXaAp1XUwCLcBGAs/s1600/4th%2Bof%2BJuly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6Uz0cVYKgxQ/XSdZFUhzeLI/AAAAAAAAAII/u1ZYBEDn5ZYjFB3wtGpyJzf_iXaAp1XUwCLcBGAs/s320/4th%2Bof%2BJuly.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Thanks to Teresa Fleenor for overseeing the music and
helping to coordinate the big picture, which involved scores of persons in
providing security, hospitality, children's activities, food, and facilities
readiness. I continue to receive kind words and notes about the event.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Please pray for our children and youth as summer is a key
time for spiritual growth. Our senior highs are at Montreat as I write
and the middle schoolers just returned from Massanetta. Over 50 children
are in summer camp at Eastminster each week as directed by Eleni Yiapis.
Camps and conferences are a big part of the growth of children and youth.
Your generosity is enabling God to touch and be a part of their lives!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uimemhLpT-4/XSdZUqnnpzI/AAAAAAAAAIM/PhlLstsTH6AnSX_9HnKvxPUWAXgqkhWxgCLcBGAs/s1600/Montreat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uimemhLpT-4/XSdZUqnnpzI/AAAAAAAAAIM/PhlLstsTH6AnSX_9HnKvxPUWAXgqkhWxgCLcBGAs/s320/Montreat.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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It is exciting to be part of Eastminster as it impacts
people of all ages as we practice love of God and one another. May you
too experience renewal this summer!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br />Tim Rogers-Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15903488949398784374noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-469587288718331706.post-76230083984763571702019-07-03T09:34:00.000-07:002019-07-03T09:34:05.296-07:0007-07-19
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Tim’s Tidings<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">In the rhythm of
life at Eastminster July is “opportunity time</span></b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is a time in which we seek to use the
slowed down pace to develop ourselves spiritually and to get to projects that
have been “left on the shelf” during the year.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">What
is it that you have always wondered about, dreamed about, said you were going
to do?</span></b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Perhaps this is the month for you!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Who have you said, “I’d love to have coffee/a
meal with her/him/them?” Maybe now is the time to get together.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">July
is also a good time to reflect.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Who are those persons in your life you would like to thank for
influencing you, helping you in a time of need, inspiring you?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe send a note or email, give a call,
visit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Expressing gratitude is healthy
for the giver as well as the receiver and opens new doors to the soul.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 8pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">What
book (including the Bible) have you meant to pick up and read?</span></b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>July might be the month to do it … or at
least start.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 8pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">When
you have a moment of reflection, allow time to listen for God’s voice</span></b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jesus begins and ends the Parable of the
Sower (Mark 20:1-20) with the word “listen.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Being quiet and open can produce great direction and praying, as well as
meditating, lifts up the needs of others even as it opens one to receive
abundant blessings from God.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Some
people structure their prayer through the acronym, “ACTS</span></b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They take time in <b>Adoration</b> of God and
God’s work, <b>Confession</b> of personal shortcomings of self and society, <b>Thanksgiving
</b>for God’s goodness and gratitude for the blessings God brings, and <b>Supplication,</b>
which is asking for the needs of self and others.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 8pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Another
way to pray is through reading scripture such as the Parable of the Sheep and
Goats found in Matthew 25:31-46</span></b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Here we see Jesus’ concern for the hungry and thirsty, the stranger,
those that need life’s basics such as good clothes and homes, those who are
sick and those who are imprisoned. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As we
read Scripture and see who are close to the heart of God, it’s good to pray for
those people, circumstances and things, and act as able, so that “thy will be
done on earth as it is in heaven.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 8pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">In
this time of opportunity, I want to say thanks for the Eastminster family!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Your love, care, example, outreach, and
the way you use your gifts of time, talent and treasure are inspiring.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The 4<sup>th</sup> of July Concert was a
great gift to the community.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This
weekend you send youth to camp even as others come back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We also baptize a youth by profession of
faith, run a busy summer Christian preschool program, host interfaith dinners,
and read Scripture, worship and pray together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>None of this could happen if God did not put us together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So, enjoy July, take time to see and do
things a bit differently, but do not neglect the habit of worshipping the God
in Jesus who makes all things possible!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">See
you in Church,</span><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; mso-no-proof: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; mso-no-proof: yes;">Pastor Tim</span><b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
Tim Rogers-Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15903488949398784374noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-469587288718331706.post-59402720042420185842019-06-27T07:45:00.002-07:002019-06-27T07:45:32.990-07:0006-30-19
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">June
was a great month in a great first half of the year at Eastminster.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;"> The day of
Pentecost, where we celebrate the coming of the Holy Spirit, was accompanied by
beauty in art, music, and song.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
effects of Pentecost in the early church were growth of members, adherence to
teaching, regular worship and meeting in homes and prayer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All these things are happening at
Eastminster.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For instance…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 9pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Worship
attendance is increasing in both services at a rate of 10-15% year over year
and new members are making faith commitments to God through Eastminster.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>See inside for pictures and bios of some of
our new members.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Also note that Vacation
Bible School was wonderful as many kids came closer to the Lord.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thanks for teachers and aids who made such a
huge impact upon the kids in our community!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Fellowship events such as the Outreach Dessert at the McCall’s, the
Trivia Potluck Night at the Church and the Primetimes luncheon and numerous
Bible Studies and prayer groups are being held around our community.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Works of service are done in Jesus name, many
of them very quietly and humbly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We also
finished off the month by electing new elders to guide our church and hearing a
report on church finances at a Congregational Meeting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Welcome Nancy Fowler, Rick Schuette, Todd
Uebele, and Brooke Wheeler!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The bottom line:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Your efforts are making a difference through
transforming lives as the Holy Spirit works in our midst!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 9pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">More
great news as we head into July is that pastor Kristy has been cleared to
return to ministry part-time!</span></b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Pray for her as she makes this key transition and as she increases in
health and strength even as she attends to her growing family. Give thanks for
a great staff who flexed with different demands to maintain excellence. Staff
pictures and bios are included in this month’s newsletter.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 9pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">As
we go into July, I encourage you to take time for prayer and reflection,
worship and study of scripture.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>In the rhythm of life at Eastminster, July is a time to “double down” on
spiritual disciples.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We do this by
“creating margin” in other areas of life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>For instance, regularly scheduled ministry team meetings will be
cancelled in July and committees will meet only as needed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Short term Koinonia groups are beginning to
help others who can’t commit to yearlong study to have a special time of growth
in the summer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our youth will retreat to
Montreat, a Presbyterian camp in North Carolina, which has proven to be “holy
ground.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are guides to reading the
Bible in 90 days for those who want to use this time to get broad sweep of
God’s love and saving activity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>See the
website and bulletins for more details.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 9pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Thanks
for your generosity of time, talent and treasure without which the ministry of
Eastminster would not happen.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You are a light to the world!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
look forward to growing with you in worship this summer as we encounter Jesus’
teachings and celebrating our freedom to worship and serve in a free country at
the July 4<sup>th</sup> Musical Celebration.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><b>Well done Eastminster.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Pray
for God’s continued provision and guidance as we head into the second half of
2019.<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">See
You in Church,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Pastor TimTim Rogers-Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15903488949398784374noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-469587288718331706.post-74356595345714234102019-06-20T08:10:00.002-07:002019-06-20T08:10:23.776-07:0006-23-19
Tim's Tidings<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Do
you know how to spell Presbyterian much less say it?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Eastminster
is a church belonging to the Presbyterian Church (USA).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is a denomination which traces its
origins back to the time of the founding of this country.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In fact, the founding of the United States
was influenced by Presbyterians, and much of our form of government in America
derived from Presbyterian practice.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">The
word Presbyterian literally means “ruled by elders.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Elders are elected leaders who serve to
oversee the spiritual and temporal mission and ministry of the church.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At Eastminster, elders serve three-year
terms which are staggered into three classes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This Sunday at 11 a.m. Eastminster members will elect to the class of
2022.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">In
the Presbyterian denomination, elders are elected by the people through a
process of nomination and vote.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Eastminster has a Nominating Committee, headed by elder Ed Bowers, which
is placing four persons before Eastminster as elder nominees.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Elder nominees include Nancy Fowler, Rick
Scheutte, Todd Uebele, and Brooke Wheeler.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Their biographies are included in your worship guide.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">At
11:00 Sunday, I will call the meeting to order Clerk of Session Melissa
Ketterman will declare aquorum and elder Bowers will bring a motion to elect
these nominees.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After a second, nominees
may be suggested from the floor by any member, provided they have received the
consent of the nominee to serve if elected.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>After nominations are closed, a vote will be taken, electing new elders
to serve on the Eastminster board, which is called the “Session.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Confused?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Interested in learning more?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you are not a member, please stay and
watch the Congregational Meeting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It
will show you Eastminster Presbyterian Church in action and enable you to
appreciate the excellent management of “time, talent and treasure” exercised
here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">You
may also learn more about Presbyterianism and Eastminster in a “First
Impressions Gathering” where members and guests alike learn more about the
mission and ministry of Eastminster.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>They are held about 6 times per year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Finally, this October will be heritage month.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We will start with a Missions Expo the
weekend of October 5-6.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The following
three weeks will feature gatherings on the Protestant Reformation, the
formation of Presbyterianism, and the mission and ministry of Eastminster
today.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A highlight will be the
traditional “Kirkin’ of the Tartans” service on October 27.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Eastminster
has much to be proud of in its heritage and its current ministry and mission.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A strength of Eastminster, perhaps the key
source of its renewal, is the outstanding leadership of our members.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thanks to our current Session, which are
listed on the back of your worship guide, as well as those who faithfully have
served and will serve in the years to come.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>May we rightly discern the call of God into the future and be guided by
wise, spiritually discerning leaders as we journey forward in faith and
service.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 5pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Blessings,</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Pastor Tim<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Tim Rogers-Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15903488949398784374noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-469587288718331706.post-56862439261930914002019-06-13T07:29:00.003-07:002019-06-13T07:29:57.462-07:0006-16-19
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-pagination: none;">
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</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif";">Tim’s
Tidings<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif";">How
would you answer if someone asks, <b>“What would you be delighted in
experiencing at Eastminster this summer?”</b> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif";">I
believe my one-word answer would be <b>“growth.”</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif";">The
number one thing that impresses me right now is that many people are growing
spiritually and relationally.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Vacation
Bible School bonded our community and made a real impact for God in the lives
of the children, youth and adults who participated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Worship is God exalting and God is at work
forming a spiritual community of worshippers in and through the choir that spreads
to us all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Children’s camps are open all
summer and spreading the Good News of Jesus in word, worship and deed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Teens are going to camp for life changing
experiences.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Koinonia groups are
starting for adults, while others are reading the Bible through in 90
days.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Members are having others in their
homes for fellowship and food, prayer, study and spiritual growth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Eastminster is working on mission projects
such as the Day of Hope, Master’s Workshop, Daily Bread, Habitat for Humanity
and more.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>New members are joining.
Children, youth and adults are being baptized.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif";">I
believe the “spiritual soil” at Eastminster is fertile for growth at the
moment, Lord willing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Consequently, next
weekend we will begin a worship series on Saturday nights at 6 p.m. and Sunday
Mornings at 10 a.m. entitled, “Parables of Growth.”<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif";"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif";">This
series will talk about good growth and bad growth, about the growth of the
kingdom of God in our midst, about how we might bear “good fruit” as followers
of Jesus and as members of the human race. Please keep up with worship services
via internet when you travel and/or by picking up sermon transcripts at the
information stations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Summer is a real
“opportunity time” for spiritual and personal growth for many.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif";">What
would you be delighted in experiencing at Eastminster this summer… and beyond
for that matter?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m interested in
finding out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let’s share!<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif";"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif";">See you
in Church,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 12pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; mso-no-proof: yes;"><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="Picture_x0020_4" o:spid="_x0000_i1025"
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Tim Rogers-Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15903488949398784374noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-469587288718331706.post-54011483641408413392019-05-31T07:41:00.004-07:002019-05-31T07:41:47.856-07:0006-02-19
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif";">Tim’s Tidings<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
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</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">Unlike many churches, Eastminster
does not slow down for the summer,</span><span style="-ms-layout-grid-mode: line; background: black; border: 1pt black; color: black; font-size: 0pt; mso-ansi-language: X-NONE; mso-bidi-language: X-NONE; mso-border-alt: none black 0in; mso-fareast-language: X-NONE; mso-font-width: 0%; padding: 0in;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">though we try to take July as a
time for increased rest, reflection and spiritual growth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is my hope that we establish rhythms which
increase our health as individuals and as the body of Christ.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here are a few summer highlights: <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">“Life is Wild…
God is Good” is the theme of Eastminster’s Vacation Bible School which will be
held June 3-7</span></b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This Saturday and Sunday June 1-2 we will
dedicate volunteers in the service of their choice and pray over them for God’s
Spirit and love to be in all they do as we interact with a full roster of 120
children.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 2.5pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.5pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">On June 8-9 we
celebrate Pentecost, the “Birthday of the Church”</span></b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;"> as God’s Spirit
came upon disciples and God’s Word and power and love now fills billions around
the globe.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Wear red to church</b> this weekend as we worship with joy!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Also come enjoy the Bible School kids as they
share some of what they learned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There
will be opportunities to join Eastminster following the worship services this
weekend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What a great time to commit to
God in worship and service through Eastminster!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">On June 13 at 6
p.m. Jill and Craig McCall open their house for a dessert intended to connect
members of the church with one another.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This is a great opportunity for those who want to get to know one
another better to mingle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>RSVP by
emailing <a href="mailto:jmccall@epcfl.org"><span style="color: blue;">jmccall@epcfl.org</span></a> or by signing
up after church.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 2.5pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.5pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">Another great
night of connecting is the Summer Fun Potluck and Trivia Night Wednesday June
19 at 5:45 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Bring a favorite main dish.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Salads and delicious desserts will be provided.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At this potluck there will be an opportunity
to sign up for <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">“Koinonia Groups”</b>
which will meet over the summer and fall in Eastminster member’s homes to grow
spiritually in community together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This
is a great chance to use the summer as “opportunity time” to come closer to God
and one another!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 3.5pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.5pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">Your prayers are
desired on June 15 as leaders gather for a “Requirements Charlette” which will
anticipate Eastminster’s ministry and the physical and fiscal qualifications
for it in the years to come.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This gathering will be based upon member input in strategic planning
exercises held over the past couple of years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Pray for discernment and guidance as a solid foundation is developed for
ministry and mission in the future.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 2.5pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.5pt;">[<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">Prayers are also
desired for Pastor Kristy as she continues the process of recovery</span></b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kristy is making good progress and Kristy,
Anthony, James and baby Micah need our continued prayers and support.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She will be returning from maternity leave
and ministering on a limited basis beginning June 15.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 4.5pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.5pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">Finally, thanks
for your generosity which is allowing Eastminster to minister in ways that are
transforming lives.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">The talent of
this congregation and the devotion to areas of hands-on ministry is astounding,
energizing and encouraging.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I get great
letters, emails, calls and visits on a daily basis thanking God for what you
are doing in the name of Christ.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Your
giving of “time, talent, and treasure” is enabling mission to happen here and
around the world. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 2.5pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.5pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">As we come into
the summer season, thanks for staying current or even ahead on your giving so
that Eastminster honors the many mission and ministry opportunities we support.
</span></b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you want to give electronically, you may
reach Michelle Tom’s at <a href="mailto:mtoms@epcfl.org"><span style="color: blue;">mtoms@epcfl.org</span></a>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Without your generosity the life changing
worship, fellowship, mission and ministry endeavors at Eastminster would not be
possible!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">See
You in Church,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-no-proof: yes;"><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="Picture_x0020_1" o:spid="_x0000_i1025"
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</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]-->Pastor Tim</span></div>
Tim Rogers-Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15903488949398784374noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-469587288718331706.post-45129718685002505482019-05-23T06:52:00.002-07:002019-05-23T06:52:53.216-07:0005-26-19
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I missed being in worship last week, but had a great time
with my son, Brian, in Portland.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was
a refreshing time away, and I heard worship here was wonderful as children sang
and graduates were recognized and prayed over by loving leaders such as Pastors
Kristy and Ron, Cordelia Scheuermann and Julie Rogers-Martin.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We are blessed with children, youth and
adults who love God and others together so well!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Traditional Summer Season is upon us and I want you to be
informed about a few things.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">1.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Preschool
graduation is Wednesday May 29 at 9:15 am</b>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>If you haven’t been to a graduation of the Eastminster preschool,
consider attending.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Preschool is
perhaps our greatest outreach to the community and we are indeed “making disciples”
who grow in wisdom, stature, and favor with God and others.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Come thank the teachers and encourage the
families at fellowship after.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">2.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Vacation
Bible School is June 3-7.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></b>Pray for
our teachers and the kids that attend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The theme is “Life is Wild, God is Good.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I will be preaching on this very relevant theme
next week, and we will dedicate teachers and staff of Bible School with prayer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">3.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Summer
Bible Reading.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></b>Next week we will
pass out a card with a Plan to “Read the Bible in 90 Days.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For those who take the “90 Day Bible Challenge”
you will have completed the bible before Eastminster begins a worship emphasis
on “The Bible in 52 Stories.” This emphasis begins on “Bring a Friend to Church
Sunday” September 15.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On that Day we
will have a historic worship service, play our 1898 pipe organ, and have
“Dinner on the Grounds.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">4.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Summer
Education and Camp Opportunities- </b>Todd Uebele will lead a class Sunday
morning at 9 a.m. in the Meeting Room of the Christian Ministry Center on his
book “Coffee with Jesus.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Youth will
be going to Montreat Camp and conference Center July 7-13.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Children will be in preschool camp from June
10 through the summer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There will be
various small group Bible study and spiritual formation opportunities listed in
your bulletin and newsletter as well.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">5.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Summer
Fellowship Opportunities-</b> Think of your favorite fun dish for the Summer
Fun Potluck June 19.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Get ready for the Melbourne
Municipal Band and a joint choir premiere presentation on the 4<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup> of
July, a Saturday Evening worship and Potluck on July13, the sharing with those
in need at the Day of Hope August 3, a Back to school “Blessing of the
Backpacks “in worship august 8, followed by a Back to School Potluck August
14.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many more events are planned but
here are a few for the calendar now.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">6.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Summer
Worship-</b> Both our 6 p.m. Saturday and our Sunday 10 a.m. services are
broadcast live on the internet. For the Saturday EPiC service, go to xx give
link, make it a hyperlink to share in the online version) For the Sunday
version go to xx (give hyperlink.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Services are also archived at our website </span><a href="http://www.epcfl.org/"><span style="color: #0563c1; font-family: Calibri;">www.epcfl.org</span></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;">.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">7.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Summer
Giving-</b> Please stay current or even ahead on your giving this summer so
that Eastminster can honor the many mission and ministry opportunities we support.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you want to give electronically, you may
reach Michelle Tom’s at </span><a href="mailto:mtoms@epcfl.org"><span style="color: #0563c1; font-family: Calibri;">mtoms@epcfl.org</span></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;">.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Praise God for your generosity which allows
the many worship, fellowship, mission and ministry outreaches change lives as
we love God and others.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt 0.5in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Here’s
to a Summer of Spiritual Growth!</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt 0.5in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Pastor Tim<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
Tim Rogers-Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15903488949398784374noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-469587288718331706.post-235712774733879172019-05-09T07:42:00.002-07:002019-05-09T07:42:09.890-07:0005-12-19
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span class="apple-converted-space"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: rgb(250, 250, 250); mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">Today
is Mother’s Day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As we worship, you are
encouraged to remember those who nurtured you as you developed, giving thanks
to God.</span></b></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: rgb(250, 250, 250); mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One of the most groundbreaking aspects of
Jesus’ life and ministry is how he valued and treated women.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was much more honoring than the society of
his day and perhaps ours as well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>May women
always be respected and honored, and may that respect and honor encourage and
inspire all women as you give your best to the Lord and to others!<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span class="apple-converted-space"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: rgb(250, 250, 250); mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">It is
ironic that one of the most wonderful and one of the messiest places we grow is
in our families. </span></b></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: rgb(250, 250, 250); mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was once said that , “Families are places
where people are bound by blood or kinship who would otherwise have nothing to
do with each other.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While this is said
in jest, many people find themselves needing to process hurts and hang-ups in
their lives.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span class="apple-converted-space"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: rgb(250, 250, 250); mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">On
Saturday May 25 at 6 p.m., Juan Otero, will preach and give a program on the
topic of forgiveness for youth and adults.</span></b></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: rgb(250, 250, 250); mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is a time to
realize the vast and amazing power of God to relieve us of our resentments and
align us in a direction in which we too may be forgiving as well as experience
forgiveness and freedom in Christ.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This
will be a wonderful time of healing and wholeness for many.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Feel free to invite a friend and attend, even
if you regularly worship on Sunday.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span class="apple-converted-space"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: rgb(250, 250, 250); mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">In
terms of giving and receiving love, we can’t determine how others act, but we
can ask God to fill us with forgiveness and love.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></b></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: rgb(250, 250, 250); mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">One very basic exercise is to take what is commonly known
as the “love chapter” in the Bible, I Corinthians 13 and put your name in the
places where the text says “love.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You
may try it here:<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-line-height-alt: 10.0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><u><span style="color: #333333; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">( your name) </span></u><span style="color: #333333; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">is patient; <u><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></u><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>is kind; <u><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></u><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>is not envious or boastful or arrogant or
rude. <u><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></u><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>does not insist on his/her own way; <u><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></u><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>is not irritable or resentful; <u><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></u><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>does not rejoice in wrongdoing, but rejoices
in the truth. <u><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></u><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>bears all things, believes all things, hopes
all things, endures all things. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-line-height-alt: 10.0pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-line-height-alt: 10.0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #333333; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">As we consider God’s judgement in Revelations today,
don’t forsake the concepts of love and forgiveness as they are essential to God’s
plan. </span></b><span style="color: #333333; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They are tied together. Remember “We love
because God first loved us” (I John 4:19) and </span></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif";">“</span><span style="color: #333333; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">This is how we
know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. (I John 3:16).<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-line-height-alt: 10.0pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Happy Mother’s
Day!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-line-height-alt: 10.0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: #333333; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Love,</span> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
Pastor TimTim Rogers-Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15903488949398784374noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-469587288718331706.post-19014445890574017632019-05-02T08:48:00.001-07:002019-05-02T08:48:18.639-07:0005-05-2019
Tim's Tidings<br />
<br />
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</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Do
you have assumptions concerning how life turns out in the end?</span></b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;"> Will things all
work out?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Are we heading towards
catastrophe?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Is life meaningful or
meaningless?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 5pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Will God, good,
love triumph?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 3pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">These are some
of the questions the author of The Revelation to John attempts to answer.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The author’s style of writing is
apocryphal—writing that is highly symbolic, that deals with conflicting forces
in the cosmos, and expects a triumphant end.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 4pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Apocryphal
writing is just plain weird in this day and age, but was not in Bible
times.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>People are perplexed to read
Revelation, afraid of its implications, and some use the symbolism to
manipulate the emotions of others in dark ways.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 3pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">So why study
Revelation today?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 4pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">First, as Pastor
Ron preached last Sunday, Revelation warns against Christian complacency</span></b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To some churches John warns against losing
Christ as the focus.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In a complex world,
this is always a possibility that demands correction.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Correction comes in the form of repentance
and returning to Christ as our first love with great faithfulness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To other churches, John warns against losing
passion—of being dead in Spirit, of being lukewarm in belief.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Perhaps it is easier to lose sight of God in
good times than in tough times.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Diligence, faithfulness, endurance, a refusal to tolerate evil even in
the face of persecution, service to others, ministry from weakness as well as
power are counseled in all times.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Are
you, are we complacent in our faith today?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Is Jesus truly lord of our lives?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Do we seek to love God above all else, giving God worship, praise, and
glory?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 5pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">A second reason
to study Revelation is that it offers encouragement</span></b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Revelation tells us that our trials are worth
the cost.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That as we prevail, we
experience God’s paradisiacal goodness, we receive the crown of life, we live
forever in God’s presence, the questions unanswered now make beautiful sense in
the end, we share communion and even authority with God.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These are great things, mysterious things,
yet point to the possibility, and even claim the reality that all things do
work out in the end, that life now and forever has meaning,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>that even as we live by faith now, we will
live by sight in direct fellowship with a mighty, good, loving and gracious
God.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 4pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">The ultimate
vision of Revelation should not be lost in the symbolism.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That vision for our lives as a community of
faith is to be centered in Christ, to worship God, and remain faithful in good
times and bad—knowing that both will come— and believing with certainty that it
will all work out in the end.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 3pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">I
invite you into the world of Revelation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I invite you to entertain the conviction that despite “this present
darkness,” it all works out in the end.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I invite you to consider “working backwards” from the conviction that
“it all works out in the end,” to appraising your life as a committed follower
of Christ and our life together as a church gathered in Jesus’ name today<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The risen Christ offers richness, vindication, spiritual insight,
discipline, victorious living and salvation saying, “Listen! I am standing at
the door, knocking; if you hear my voice and open the door, I will come in to
you and eat with you and you with me.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>May we experience Victorious Living in fellowship with Jesus Christ,
even as we celebrate Communion today!<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<br />
Pastor Tim<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></div>
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</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--></span>Tim Rogers-Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15903488949398784374noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-469587288718331706.post-61068837263877329672018-10-04T08:49:00.003-07:002018-10-04T08:49:38.662-07:0010-07-18
<br />
<div align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 12pt 0in 0pt; mso-pagination: none; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">As we move into October, beloved
seasonal residents and new guests will join us in worship, education, mission
and ministry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Welcome!!! <b>This weekend
October 7, we celebrate World Communion,</b> where we realize that God is at
work in transforming ways not just at Eastminster but around the world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 12pt 0in 0pt; mso-pagination: none; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Even as we enter October,
Eastminster’s<span style="color: #2c921e; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-contextual-alternates: yes; mso-font-kerning: 14.0pt;"> </span><span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-contextual-alternates: yes; mso-font-kerning: 14.0pt;">Christmas Concert,
“Festival of Carols” by Joseph Martin is beginning to be rehearsed.<b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is a great time to join the choir for
rehearsal Thursdays at 7 p.m</b>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For
more information contact Teresa Fleenor at </span></span><a href="mailto:tfleenor@cfl.rr.com"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-contextual-alternates: yes; mso-font-kerning: 14.0pt; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="color: #0563c1;">tfleenor@cfl.rr.com</span></span></a><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-contextual-alternates: yes; mso-font-kerning: 14.0pt; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 125%; margin: 12pt 0in 10pt; mso-pagination: none; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 125%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Julie
and I will share some of what God is doing around the world as we give a
presentation on my sabbatical entitled,<b> “Shaped by Travel, Renewed by the
Spirit” on Saturday October 13 at an 8 a.m. Church Family Breakfast in
Fellowship Hall.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></b>We hope you can
make it!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thanks to the men of the church
for setting up pancake and omelet bars to make sure all are well fed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You may sign up by calling the church office
(723-8371) or at church this Sunday.<span style="color: #4d4d4d; mso-contextual-alternates: yes; mso-font-kerning: 14.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-pagination: none;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-pagination: none;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Also,
on October 13, there will be an All-Church Picnic and Worship in the shelter at
Pelican Beach Park in Satellite Beach.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Fun starts at 4 p.m., a catered dinner is served at 5 p.m. and worship
is at 6 p.m.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></b><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">All you need is to bring yourself and maybe a
favorite beach chair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This event will
kick off Eastminster’s 2018 Stewardship emphasis entitled, <b>“Transforming
Lives through Living Water.”<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-pagination: none;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-pagination: none;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Several worshippers at Eastminster have asked when
they can become a member of the church<b>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The next membership opportunities will be October 20-21 following
weekend services. </b></span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">As a member you claim Eastminster as
your spiritual “home,” receive the care of the church and give yourself to God
through Eastminster. For more information let one let one of the pastors know
or email me at </span><a href="mailto:timnapc@gmail.com"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="color: #0563c1;">timnapc@gmail.com</span></span></a><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-pagination: none;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-pagination: none;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">October
is also a month in which we remember our heritage as a reformed church.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b>On October 28 we will celebrate “Kirkin o’
the Tartans” during our 10 a.m. service</b>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>There will be colorful tartans, bagpipes, and the good news of God’s
transforming love will be shared and celebrated in word and music.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-pagination: none;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-pagination: none;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">As we
enter the new season, I have prayed with many of you in celebration of births
(such as the recent arrival of Spenser Matthew Luisi to parents Natalie and
Matthew), illness, and grief.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Prayer powerful!</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love to celebrate answers and Eastminster
is committed to being with you in hard times. In this weekend’s announcements,
you will see several ways to connect in prayer<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-pagination: none;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-pagination: none;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Plan
to worship, fellowship, learn and serve together … and <b>reach out and invite
others to join you.</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Inserted in your
worship guide is a card containing our new worship emphasis, <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">“Transforming Lives through Living Waters”</b>
note the Scriptures we will be studying and pass the card to a friend with an
invitation to join you at Eastminster. Thanks to all those who are giving and
are serving so well to make these opportunities available.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thanks, God, for your Spirit of Love!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-pagination: none;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-pagination: none;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Pastor Tim<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Tim Rogers-Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15903488949398784374noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-469587288718331706.post-63191060974965092172018-09-20T08:16:00.003-07:002018-09-20T08:16:37.953-07:0009-23-18
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</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif";">Do you know the Ten Commandments?
Last weekend your elders went on retreat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Our retreat leader started off by having us name the Ten Commandments
found in Exodus 20:1-17.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am happy to
say that the group achieved this task, even as the leader’s point is well
taken-- it is hard to remember the Ten Commandments much less live them
well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif";">The
truth is we need God’s help and each other to live our best.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That is how we are made!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif";">Jesus
came to us in our “neighborhood” here on earth as “God in flesh,” to “get under
our skin” in love, grace and mercy, and teach us clearly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the Gospels, Jesus illuminates what is
called “The <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Greatest Commandment</b>.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We will look at it this weekend and next, as
it is tied to the Parable of the Good Neighbor.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif";">The
“Greatest Commandment” is actually a conflation of two Old Testament scriptures
and is stated as such:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif";">“You shall love the Lord your God with all your
heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your
mind; and your neighbor as yourself.” (Luke 10:27).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif";">The
weekend we will look at what it means to love God with all your heart, soul,
strength and mind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is a tall order
and something we achieve in only our best moments.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yet Scripture says we can do no better.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Loving God is vital to loving neighbor and
self.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is to be our priority.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Like any loving relationship it takes work,
but the rewards are life changing and life giving!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif";">Join me
in prayer as we prepare to encounter the holiness and awesomeness of a loving
God through worship.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Remember that we
love because God first loved us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Pray
that God is present in our midst as a community of faith and in our lives as we
take that love into all places in the world.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif";">If we
get the “main thing” in life down well (total devotion to God), all the other
parts of life fit into place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Invite a
friend, relative or neighbor to church with you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is an important time in our history, and
loving God and each other together will make a difference!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif";">See you
in Church!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif";">Blessings,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: left;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 14pt;">Pastor
Tim<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
Tim Rogers-Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15903488949398784374noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-469587288718331706.post-16817518072399354652018-09-06T08:32:00.002-07:002018-09-06T08:32:25.397-07:0009-09-18<span style="font-family: Arial;"><span><span style="font-size: large;">Thank you, thank you, thank you so much for the opportunity for Julie and me to renew and refresh through taking a Sabbatical. It was truly the greatest experience of our lives! Through the generosity of the Lilly Foundation, Eastminster was able to “send us off” and have special programming at the church each month this summer under the theme “Living Water.” We were able to travel to Vietnam, Cambodia, Bali, Madagascar and the Western United States, and I spent some time at a monastery as well. We have lots of stories, insights and pictures that we will be relating in the coming days, even as we catch up and enjoy hearing with what’s going on in your lives.</span></span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span><br />
<div _mce_style="text-align: left; font-size: 12pt; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;" align="left" style="font-size: 12pt; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">
<span _mce_style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt;" lang="en-US" style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></div>
<span _mce_style="color: black; line-height: 125%; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt;" lang="en-US" style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 125%;"><span _mce_style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt;" lang="en-US" style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt;"><div _mce_style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;" align="left" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span>It’s great to be back at Eastminster! Sometimes one must go away to see the fullness of the beauty and meaning of the friendships and environment that is “home.” It is truly wonderful to be “home” with you! </span></div>
<div _mce_style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;" align="left" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span>Coming back Tuesday was like starting the first day of school. The staff pranked my office and we laughed and had fun catching up. Pastors’ Kristy and Ron, Michelle and Melissa in the office, Trevor Garvey, Teresa and David Fleenor in the music ministry, Eleni our Preschool Director, Jill McCall in outreach, Bruce Lucas and Lynn Miller in property and kitchen kept things running smoothly. They really care about Eastminster and gave 110% this summer.</span></div>
<div _mce_style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;" align="left" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span>Tuesday night the elders and committees of the church met and are all moving forward in a steady and consistent direction. At one point I walked into the “wrong” meeting like a kid just finding his way around. What a blessing to see the progress being made by that team as they ensure the beauty, security and good stewardship of this beautiful facility and grounds. Eastminster is blessed with faithful, competent members who follow Jesus together, and it was joyous to share what has happened and what is being planned by all our ministry teams for the coming year!</span></div>
<div _mce_style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;" align="left" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span>This weekend we begin a worship series on “Neighbors.” This series will look at what it means to be a neighbor from a Biblical perspective. The theme germinated as I was on retreat at the monastery and grew as I saw the recently released Mr. Rogers documentary. It developed further as I reflect on the communities Julie and I experienced around the world. Each week will bring new facets of being a good neighbor and culminate with the celebration of Communion on October 6-7. This is a great time to invite a neighbor or two to worship with you at Eastminster!</span></div>
<div _mce_style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;" align="left" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span>This weekend, plan to be in church so we can worship God together and continue to focus on Jesus’ grace, teachings and desires for our lives together<b>. At 11 a.m. Sunday there will be a brunch where we can spend some time catching up, celebrating the end of the summer, and the beginning of the next leg of our journey together in our “neighborhood.” Hope to see you!</b></span></div>
<div _mce_style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;" align="left" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span>Blessings,</span></div>
<div _mce_style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;" align="left" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span>Pastor Tim</span></div>
</span><br /></span><br />Tim Rogers-Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15903488949398784374noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-469587288718331706.post-35357516617952004862018-05-25T06:00:00.003-07:002018-05-25T06:00:35.943-07:0005-27-18
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</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Due to your kindness and the
generosity of the Lilly Foundation for Clergy and Church Renewal, we will be on
sabbatical this summer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A sabbatical is
a time to rest, renew, and focus for the future.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In my application for sabbatical I said that
Eastminster has been “rowing the boat” diligently for the last 4 1/2 years, and
now is a time “to let our souls catch up to our bodies.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is a time to let God shape us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">The
planning process for me to leave and reenter well has been going on for some
time now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Pastors Kristy and Ron will
assume some key pastoral duties.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Pastor
Kristy will moderate our Session and be responsible for overseeing the teams
that prepare us for worship each week.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Pastor Ron will serve as Head of Staff and oversee our pastoral and
congregational care ministries.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Director
of Church Operations, Michelle Toms, will continue to be the primary contact
for finance, facilities and administration.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Eleni Yiapis will be leading the preschool in expanded summer
programming.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The support staff has
reviewed their roles and are on point.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">The
overall purpose of the sabbatical is for congregational and clergy renewal
under the theme “Rivers of Living Water.” This theme comes from John 7:37-39
which I will preach on this weekend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For
the congregation, the Lilly grant provides funding for guest preachers and a
special emphasis each month. Dr. Anna Florence Carter will lead workshops and
preach on June 9- 10.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In July there will
be a weekend of “sanctified art,” including art that will be used and even made
during the act of worship.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In August, we
will concentrate on our environment, particularly our “river of living water,”
the Indian River Lagoon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My hope is that
Eastminster will be prayerful and creative as the church enjoys experiencing
new voices as well as established ones and deepens in faith and vitality.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">As
for me, the Lilly grant provides funds for travel to some wonderful places to
experience various cultures and to rest and reflect.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I will travel with family to Vietnam and
Cambodia in June to experience some of the places my father served as a Naval
Chaplain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then four of the five family
members will go to Bali and experience the culture and relax in later June and
early July.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In mid-late July Julie and I
will be in Madagascar, where we will travel and do some mission work with
Eastminster’s partners there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When we
contribute to the 2 cents a meal offering as we will today, eighteen cents of
every dollar goes to fight hunger in Madagascar, the fourth poorest country in
all Africa.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In August, we will return
home shortly, and I will go to a monastery in New Jersey to fast, study and
pray.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Finally, we will camp and
houseboat in the Western USA, returning home September 2.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ll be back for staff and worship planning
on September 4 and for Committee Night that evening and we resume life
together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Look for a story from a
different sabbatical context as it applies to Scripture each week in worship
beginning September 9.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Thanks
again for this opportunity!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>May this
summer truly be “opportunity time” as we grow closer to God.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Know that this is only a season away.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am firmly committed to Eastminster for the
long haul.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>God has great things in store
for Eastminster, and God willing, this will be a refreshing summer of spiritual
growth where we more fully discern God’s will and guidance for the years ahead!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;"></span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Pastor Tim<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Tim Rogers-Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15903488949398784374noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-469587288718331706.post-76865370630871577292018-05-03T09:14:00.002-07:002018-05-03T09:14:14.181-07:0005-06-18
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<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">Sunday
is an important day in the life of Eastminster Presbyterian Church.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At the end of worship, we will have a
Congregational Meeting to elect Elders of the class of 2021 and to elect the
Rev. Kristy Ray to be installed as Associate Pastor.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">Elders
are the spiritual and administrative leaders of Eastminster.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The model of electing Elders and pastors by
the congregation is a democratic process that predates and informs how we elect
leaders in the United States of America.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This class of elders is nominated by members and selected by a
Nominating Committee.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They have agreed
to serve a three-year term if elected.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">The Elder-nominee class of 2021 includes
Jim Earp, Scott Messel, Jim Morris, and Sara Van Driel</b>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Their bios are published in a bulletin
insert.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">The
Rev. Kristy Ray began her service as a Designated Associate Pastor in August
2016 for a two-year term.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Kristy comes before us to be installed as
Associate Pastor for an unlimited term.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></b>Kristy’s
focus is in the area of Children, Youth and Family Ministry, though she
provides pastoral care to the entire congregation and also plays key roles in
worship and communications.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">Following
worship, there will be a luncheon sponsored by the Planned Giving Team of
Eastminster </span></b><span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">where
persons may learn how to practice good stewardship in making planned gifts to
Eastminster through vehicles such as stock transfers and wills.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The focus of this luncheon is informational
and no requests for funds will be made.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The Planned Giving Team includes Linda Coleman, Walt Fredrickson, Claire
Gibbs, Scott Messel, Jim Morris, and Pat Pruitt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These persons recommended to Session the
establishment of a Legacy Funds Ministry which creates an endowment which will
ensure vital ministry at Eastminster for many years to come. I hope you will
join this team and me for lunch to learn more about this exciting ministry.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">In
the May newsletter I outlined plans for a sabbatical provided by a generous
grant from the Lilly Foundation for the renewal of Eastminster and pastor
during June-August.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There will be
special events happening on a monthly basis for the church, and Julie and I
will have the opportunity to travel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
theme of the sabbatical is <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">“Rivers of
Living Water.”</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Pastors Kristy and
Ron will provide pastoral leadership to the church through the period I’m
traveling, and I will provide regular updates.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This will be an exciting time of growth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Please pray for God to renew us all and to lead us to be a transforming
force in the community in the coming years.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">We
have come a long way in the last five years as was evidenced in the
appreciation of the many people who serve as volunteers in ministry at
Eastminster last weekend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is clear
that God has a plan and purpose for us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>As we elect leaders and appreciate those who faithfully serve, may we be
ever sensitive to discerning and doing God’s will in our lives as believers and
in our life as a community of faith.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Goudy Old Style","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">Blessings,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Pastor TimTim Rogers-Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15903488949398784374noreply@blogger.com0