The Good News - This Week

The New Testament Greek word for fellowship is "koinonia." Followers of Jesus are a part of the larger community of faith, the church. In our day there are many who participate in church via the television or internet rather than in the flesh. While that may have benefits, something vital is lacking. Those of you who are members and friends of APC know that there is no substitute for the real thing: gathering in person as part of the congregation.

A large congregation like APC offers many blessings to be sure, but there is always this challenge: how do I get to know others and build friendships? The best way to do that is through our many fellowship opportunities. Nobody can get to know the 1,200 people on our membeship rolls or the 450 people in a full sanctuary all at once. Friendships are built in smaller, more intimate settings.

APC offers many opportunities in order to build the koinonia which God desires to give us. This Sunday in worship we'll celebrate one of those small group fellowships: Presbyterian Women. Through its "circles", PW blesses the lives of many women and through them, the larger world. PW is but one of many fellowship opportunites at APC. We offer: men's bible study, softball, basketball and breakfast teams; youth fellowship, children's activities and scouting programs; Wednesday night congregational dinners; Supper for Six (or eight!); book club, Disciple bible studies; ACT1 theater performances; our upcoming church reatreat in the NC mountains; Sunday morning breakfasts and Sunday School classes; Liturgical Arts; choirs; prayer groups; receptions and picnics; mission and community service projects; support groups, and so on. Perhaps you have some ideas of your own to better build the fellowship of the church...they are welcome!

Together, as one body united in Christ, we worship, serve, grow and fellowship. This week I'm especially mindful of the way our Fellowship Committee coordinates, builds and nurtures "koinonia" in our midst. May each of you find God's blessing through participating!

Reception This Sunday

There will be a reception this Sunday following the 11:00am service to thank both Heather Wagner, Director of Children's Ministry, and Esther Rudge, Organist, for their years of service to Alpharetta Presbyterian Church. They are both leaving our staff, but fortunately for us, not our APC family. Please join us in Fellowship Hall as we wish both Heather and Esther the best in their new endeavors.

Our children, parents and all of the congregation wish to say a very heartfelt "Thank You" to Heather Wagner for her dedicated service these last three years as Director of Children's Ministry. Heather will be continuing her work with children in her new position at the Lionheart School. Thank you, Heather, for enriching our children's program.

Calling All Cranky People!

The 7th Annual Miss Mary's Ice Cream Crankin' will be held Sunday, August 28, from 2 - 4:00 PM on the Square in Roswell. For a $5 donation ($15 max per family,) guests are invited to sample a vast array of homemade ice cream brought by an army of volunteer "Crankers". All proceeds benefit "The Drake House," an emergency housing facility for homeless women and children in North Fulton County. We are looking for APC volunteers to bring their favorite ice cream creation(s) to the event. Veteran Crankers and First Time Crankers are all welcome. Please send your name, contact information and the type of ice cream you will bring, to: Gerard Ballard, gerardballard@comcast.net, 404-775-9928. It's great family fun, for a great cause!

Presbyterian Women

Our Presbyterian Women's Circles are starting up for the 2011-2012 year and we would love to have you join us! Please visit our table in the lobby this Sunday or contact a circle leader below for more information.

Esther Circle meets at APC the first Tuesday of each month from 7-9 pm

Esther leader: Pat Hudson, pathudson@bellsouth.net, 678-566-1938

Martha Circle meets in member homes the first Thursday of each month from 7-9 pm

Martha leader: Amy Ordahl, aordahl@bellsouth.net 770-205-6229

Ruth Circle meets at APC the second Tuesday of each month from 11-1

Ruth leader: JanBernhardt, with7gran@gmail.com 770-844-4412

Lydia Circle meets at APC the first Thursday of each month from 9:30-11:30 am

Lydia leader: Jennifer Owens, owens123home@aol.com, 770-475-8781

Presbyterian Women's Coordinating Team will be installed during the 11:00am worship service, August 28. The following women are outgoing and incoming officers for PW. As you see them around church in the coming days, please remember to thank them for the time and talents they have shared and will continue to share with our church and community.

The following women are outgoing members of the CT team: June Fortson - Moderator Advisor; Sydney Schneider - Missions; Marlene Kettering - Secretary; Lynn Adams, Jan Bernhardt, Nancy Crowell, Pam Heydinger, Jeanne Kreiser and Marlene Kettering - Retreat Committee; Janice Bramlett, Carolyn Dillon, and Marlene Kettering - Esther Circle Moderators; Heidi Alatar - Lydia Circle Moderator.

The following women will be installed as new members of the CT team: Gail Bullock - Vice Moderator; Allison Neal - Secretary; Pat Hudson - Esther Circle Leader; Mary Sue Stafford - Lydia Circle Leader; Sheryl Wentworth and Sue White - Retreat Committee Leaders.

The following women will be returning for another year of service: Jody Bancroft - Moderator Advisor; Robyn Guy - Moderator; Jeanne Goodwell - Treasurer; Pam Heydinger - Ladies Night Out; Amy Ordahl - Membership; Lynn Adams - Spiritual Growth; Marlene Kettering - Historian; Amy Ordahl - Martha Circle Moderator; Jan Bernhardt - Ruth Circle Moderator; Jennifer Owens - Lydia Circle Moderator.

Seeing and Savoring the Psalms

Ryan Bonfiglio will lead a four-week study of the Psalms beginning this Sunday through September 18 at 9:45am in the theater. Please bring your Bibles!

Few books in the Bible are more cherished than the Psalms. Its evocative metaphors and penetrating imagery are so thoroughly ingrained in our Christian faith that Luther once called the book of Psalms the "little Bible."

Though ancient in origins, the psalms also provide an ever-relevant window to our most authentic praise and our most honest doubts. As such, the Psalter provides believers, both past and present, with a rich vocabulary of faith. Yet, while the psalms are dearly loved, they are not always deeply understood.

What sort of book is the Psalter and how should it be read? What types of prayers does it contain and where do they show up in our worship and liturgy? How can both psalms of praise and psalms of lament function as a vital resource in our lives of faith? By beginning to answer these and other questions, this four-week series is designed to enrich your understanding of and love for the book of Psalms. All are welcome to join us.

College Students

Have a college student, new or returning to school? As a part of our ministry and outreach efforts to serve our college students with our encouragement, well wishes and care packages, we need to update our database. Please forward your student's updated contact information (address, email and phone) to Kelly Edwards, APC Youth Ministry Director, at kelly@alpharettapres.com.

Foster Care Support

The APC Foster Care Support Mission Team invites you to join them for their monthly volunteer day in Roswell this Tuesday, August 30. We carpool from APC at 9:30 in the morning, help sort clothing, and fill mail orders for children in foster care. We then enjoy lunch and fellowship at a nearby restaurant before returning to the church by 2:00 PM.

For information, please contact Marianna Raffensperger 770-442-3672 or theraffs@juno.com.

Acolyte Training

Calling all ten year olds for new Acolyte training! Come learn to serve in our worship service as an acolyte by attending either of two training sessions to be held on Sunday, September 11. Training will take place in the sanctuary immediately following the services at 9:30 (for those interested in serving at the 8:30 service) and at 12:00 (for those interested in serving at the 11:00 service). Acolytes are generally ten years old or older; however, nine year olds are welcome to attend the 9:30 training and serve at the early worship service. A parent is welcome to attend as well. Any questions, please contact Cindy Laubenstein at 678-366-0345 or cindylaub05@yahoo.com. Thank you for your willingness to serve in this important ministry in their lives and in the life of APC!

Family Retreat

Join us for Koinania at APC's family retreat in Montreat, NC, October 14-16. Koinania,is the Greek word for community, and we will expolore and deepen our connections to each other. This year, the retreat committee has added additional adult programming led by Rev. Jamie Butcher. We will continue to offer fun activities for children and youth. Registration and more information is now available in the lobby and online at www.alpharettapres.com/montreat. We hope to see you there! Registration deadline is September 11 and space is limited!

STARS News

August 10 was our first potluck luncheon and planning meeting attended by 13 STARS. Watch our bulletin board in the church lobby for information on future meetings and outings.

September 15, Wednesday at noon will be our next potluck luncheon and meeting. Bring a dish to share and come join us!

October 1, APC's Dinner Theater, "Insane With Power". If you plan to attend and sit in the STARS reserved seating, please purchase your own ticket and let them know you need to sit at the STARS table. Also please signup on the sheet on the STARS bulletin board in the lobby this week.

October 12, Wednesday at noon will be our regular potluck luncheon and meeting.

November 2, Bus trip to the Etowah Indian Mounds in Cartersville, GA. We will have lunch afterwards at the Appalachian Grill. A signup sheet will be posted on the STARS bulletin board in the next few weeks.

Kathleen Wien

ACT1 Teen Theater

CALLING ALL 6TH - 12TH GRADERS! ACT1 Teen Theater just had our first Read-Through for our 5th show, The Bible... in 30 Minutes or Less. Its a hilarious, extremely fast-paced race through every single book of the Bible. The turnout was great, but with over 100 roles to fill... we still need more people! We are a FREE program that is open to ALL 6th-12th graders. Everyone is welcome.

Here's what we are looking for:

Actors - We still need 8-12 more actors to bring our story to life. We particularly need male actors... but not exclusively! There are plenty of roles for everyone. No experience necessary, no auditions.

Lights/Sound - If you are technically minded, we have a spot for you! Learn to "run the board" and bring a whole new dimension to our show. No experience necessary.

Stage Manager - This show is FAST. I mean SUPER-FAST. It will take some serious coordination backstage to make sure all the actors and props get to the right places at the right time. If you are an organizer... I have a place backstage for you.

Stagehands - Want to get involved without having to be on stage? I have the job for you! The Stage Manager can't do all the coordinating by themselves... they need help! Dress all in black and be our backstage-prop-wielding-ninja.

Our rehearsals are from 6:00pm to 8:00pm every Monday night. We started last week, but just with a read through of the script. E-mail me your interest this week and I will send you back the script so you will be all caught up by next Monday's rehearsal! We meet in the theater

The Performances will be Friday, November 4 & Saturday, November 5 at 7:30pm and are free to the public, so bring all your family and friends!

If this sounds like a program you would be interested in being a part of, please shoot Robin Thornett (director) an e-mail at: teentheater@act1theater.com or robinthornett@gmail.com

Men's Bible Study

Dr. Wagner leads a Men's Bible Study every Monday morning from 7:00 - 8:00am in his study. Each Monday the group reads and discusses the lectionary passages for the upcoming Sunday. All men are welcome to join us for this time of fellowship, study and prayer. Bring your favorite Bible.

FW Plate FW Dinner Reservations

You can now make your Fun Wednesday Dinner reservations on-line. Go to www.alpharettapres.com/dinner and follow the directions to make your dinner reservations. Please make your reservations in advance as stated in the example on the website. If you are not making your reservations on-line, you may fill out the reservation cards on the table in the church lobby. Contact person: Sheryl Wentworth sherylwentworth@comcast.net.

Dinner for August 31: Lasagna, vegetable, garlic bread, salad & dessert

Adult Program for August 31: Presbyterian Disaster Assistance and the famine in Somalia

Supper Six Is Back!

Do you recognize people you have seen before at APC, but don't know who they are? Here is your chance to get to know more members!

Supper Six at APC is a dinner program where 3 couples meet in a casual environment, usually in the Host's home, for dinner on a monthly basis. A rotating schedule is designed so that you meet with new people each month. Great for new members and long time members as well. Dinners begin in October. Register now through September 11.

There are 4 ways to join:

Full Year: October thru April

Session (A) October, November, January

Session (B): February, March, April

Or put your name on as a Substitute

December 3rd is the all participant Christmas Dinner Party.

Whiz Kids Needs Tutors

Since 1998, APC has conducted an after-school tutoring program called Whiz Kids. Tutoring is held each Monday afternoon that Fulton County Schools are in session. We meet in Fellowship Hall from 3:15 - 4:15pm followed by 15 minutes of songs and Bible stories in the sanctuary. We work "one-on-one" with each tutor helping the same child throughout the year, creating a special bond of trust and caring. This is an opportunity to make a real difference in a child's life - you will be able to see the progress as you work with your child and your pride and enthusiasm about their achievements will encourage hard work and concentration. School supplies and learning materials are provided. There will be a sign-up table at both services on August 28 and September 4. Tutors will be available to answer questions and tell you about their own experience with the program. For more information contact Sue White at 770-772-4667 or at whitesbassets@bellsouth.net.

Dinner Theater

Want to enjoy dinner while watching a funny play? Come to APC on Saturday evening, October 1, 6:30-9:00pm. Or, maybe you would rather just have dessert and watch a funny play - come to APC on Sunday afternoon, October 2, 2:30-5:00pm. Stop by the table in the church lobby starting August 28 to learn more and to select the table and seat(s) that you would like to purchase. This event benefits the Youth Ministry Mission Trips. Contact person: Sheryl Wentworth 770-777-1229 or sherylwentworth@comcast.net.

Guitar Lessons

Interested in learning to play the guitar? Ollie Wagner offers beginner guitar lessons to children (age 7 and older) on Wednesdays from 4:30 - 5:15pm and follows the Fun Wednesday dinner schedule.

If you have a guitar, you may bring it. APC also has some that you may borrow. Instructions are in a group setting and held in the choir room (next to the sanctuary). Please direct any questions or interest to Ollie@alpharettapres.com. There are no fees or charges for this music ministry.

Ladies Night Out

Plan ahead for your hectic fall schedule by stocking your freezer with a few dinners. Please join us Saturday, August 27 for the 9:30am or 10:30am session at Dream Dinners - Mansell Oaks Shopping Ctr., 900 Roswell Rd., Suite 10, Roswell, GA. Assemble delicious dinners from easy-to-follow instructions using fresh, pre-cut ingredients. Sign-up and select your meals ahead of time at www.dreamdinners.com/manselloaksga. RSVP and questions to pamheydinger@comcast.net or (770) 664-8354. Free side dish for APC ladies!

Open Arms Sunday

Open Arms Ministry would like to invite everyone to attend Open Arms Sunday on September 11, at the 8:30 and 11:00 services. We will enjoy the participation of our Promise Class members, special speakers and a performance by the Angel Kisses dance troupe of St. James United Methodist Church. Come help celebrate the welcome we are called to give to all members of God's family.

Career Transition

APC Career Transition Program - With Metro Atlanta's unemployment rate still hovering around 10%, many members and friends of APC find themselves unemployed or underemployed. When those who have given up are no longer job hunting, as well as those who want full-time jobs, but still work part-time, the real total unemployment rate leaps to 16.7%.

If your organization is seeking candidates to recruit, please contact Elder Bill Harris at w.m.harris@att.net. It's possible that some of our own members could be a good fit for your opportunity. Thank you for keeping our Career Transitions Ministry and the lives it touches in your prayers. For more information, or how to be involved with this ministry, please contact Bill Harris.

Youth Ministry News

Sunday, August 28 - Youth Group, grades 6 - 12, meets tonight from 5:30 -7:30 pm. Please bring $4 for dinner.

Watch the bulletin, Good News, Facebook and email announcements for more details as specific events near.

Please invite a friend to APC!

If you have any questions, concerning Youth Ministry at APC,

please contact Kelly Edwards at Kelly@alpharettapres.com or 770-751-0033

Children's Ministry News

We ask all parents to register their children NOW for Disciples' Village Sunday School, preschool through 5th grade, and other programs like children's choirs and Fun Wednesday. Forms can be found on the lobby table and the table downstairs in the Children's Ministry area. Forms may be turned in to the church office.

NEW Sunday Schedule for Children at APC starting August 28, 2011

Parents make the commitment and see your child's faith and your joy increase.

9:30am - 10:00am (NEW TIME) Children's Choirs Practice for ages K - 5^th grade: 10:00 to 10:15 AM for Preschool ages (beginning of Preschool Sunday School)

10:00am - 10:45am Preschool Sunday School Lessons and Elementary Workshops

Sunday school for children at APC is not only an educational tool for faith development but it is a fun time to spend with friends. Children and adult volunteers really enjoy the workshop rotation model that we use in Disciples' Village (Sunday school for children). The elementary children every five weeks learn a new Bible story and how to apply it to their lives. Children go with their age group each week to one of five workshops where they learn the Bible story in creative ways. This year our theme is "Hello God, Are You Calling Me?" We will explore call stories from both the Old and New Testaments.

Adults that would like to help with Sunday school for children can contact Dianne Berry, Children's Ministry Elder at dianneberry6767@gmail.com You can volunteer to assistant teach in the preschool classroom, shepherd a group of elementary children, or teach elementary children in the art, game, mission/science, storytelling, or cooking workshop. We welcome new volunteers. You do not have to be a parent of preschool or elementary children to volunteer. It is fun and heart-warming. Ask Pat Hudson, Kathy Davis, Sheryl Wentworth, or Sue White.

Nursery care is provided on Sundays from 8:15am - 12:15pm for ages 0-3 in the nursery and red room. (all year long)

Children's Choirs will begin their new practice time on Sunday, August 28 from 9:30am - 10:00am. The elementary children (K-Gr 5) will practice in room 109 from 9:30am - 10:00am and will then be escorted to their age group's workshop. The preschoolers will have music in their Sunday school room at 10am. Sunday school ends at 10:45am. Parents will pick up their children from designated rooms and workshops. Maps are available in the children's ministry hallway.

Note that music will also be offered as part of the Fun Wednesday program for children.

Promise Class is provided on Sundays from 9:30 am - 12:30pm for our special needs students in the Rainbow and Noah's Ark Room. (all year long)

Kinderkirk (Children's Worship Education for children ages 3 - First Grade) meets in room 108 for the 8:30am service and room 105 (Preschool) and 108 Kindergarten & First) during the 11:00am service. Children are escorted back to Kinderkirk by their Kinderkirk teachers. Parents pick up children from the designated rooms after worship.

Fun Wednesdays plans are in the making for a new enrichment program for children that involves drama, music, art, Bible study, and games. Dinner will start at 5:30pm followed by new and exciting activities for children from 6:15pm - 7:15pm. Stay tuned for more details.

Sympathy & Celebrations

Sunday Volunteers

Serving as acolytes this Sunday: Chip Neal and Haley Jones at 8:30 & William Jones and Alyson Curl at 11:00

Serving as greeters this Sunday: Joyce Komala at 11:00

Serving as ushers this Sunday: Beau and David Armistead, Kelly Vandever, Donny Matchen, Marian Cunningham at 8:30 & Stu Laubenstein, Dale Carter, Drew Rhoades, Dot Van Dyke at 11:00

11:00 Kinderkirk volunteers this Sunday: Amy Ordahl & Nina Prol

11:00 Promise Class volunteers this Sunday: Kate McChesney

The Good News - This Week

Alpharetta Presbyterian Church.
You can visit the church on line at www.alpharettapres.com or contact the office during regular business hours at 770-751-0033.