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December 2009 Grace Spoken Here Volume 10, Issue 26
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Dear Members and Friends, 
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Really? If you are going
to see it, you have to look further than newscasts, stock market indicators and
war reports. You will have to look deep
into the heavens and ponder the stars; you will have to look deep into your
heart and ponder the mysteries of being.
Our joy is not derived from reality; it springs like a fountain
from the realization that God has come to us and seeks to live through us.
We will sing Joy to the World.
Let's make it a statement of our availability to allow love to flow
through us.
On behalf of Vicki and our family, I pray earnestly that you have
a Christmas that inflames your hope and enlists you to bring joy to the earth!
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Advent 2009 "Partners in Prayer"
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Hopefully, you have received and begun reading the Advent booklet "Partners in Prayer" by John Killinger.
The author writes about "redecorating our hearts for Christmas." As you reflect on past Christmases and reread the Scriptures, may you have a new "yearning for the coming of Christ and the transformation of our world it has always implied."
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| Now It's Official! |
 The Rev. Phil Price family officially
joined our faith family on November 15 at the 11 o'clock service. A warm welcome and congratulations Phil,
Vicki, Luke and Sarah. Pictured at right are
Luke, Sarah's friend Jackie (not joining), Vicki and Phil.
The baptism of daughter Sarah was
another joyous occasion for the Price family at the same service. Craig McDonald, Director of Youth Ministries,
performed the baptism. Congratulations,
Sarah.
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| First Annual Chili Cook-off Brings 14 Recipes
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Some like it hot. Some like it mild. Some prefer beans while some prefer no beans. Whatever your preference, it was there. At SSCC's First Annual Chili Cook-off, there were 14 styles of chili. One was made with venison, one buffalo, several chicken and most were made with beef. Winner Brent Bass revealed his secret ingredient is breakfast sausage! Sixty-five people, young and old, gathered in Dunlap Hall on November 21 to judge the entries and enjoy some fellowship. It was a close contest, revealing people's chili preferences are as varied as the recipes submitted. One thing everyone agreed upon is that it was a lot of fun and should be done again next year.
 
Thanks to all the competitors!
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Security for the Building and Grounds
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In light of several recent auto break-ins during our services, the Trustees recommended and the Leadership Team approved the installation of a surveillance camera system, to include proper signage, to be installed the week of November 23rd. It continues to be essential to keep valuables out of sight in parked autos. Please direct questions to Scott Dalton or Terry Frost.
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Christmas Special Day Offering (DoC)
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The Gospel of Luke tells of the night that the shepherds' tedious routine was interrupted by an angelic announcement. There they were doing their hard, often boring, difficult work not expecting anything new, different or exciting. Suddenly everything changed as they heard the wonderful news of God's gift to the world in a newborn child. In response, they hurried to Bethlehem to discover for themselves what God had done.
Across the Regions of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) there are exciting stories of new congregations being established, existing congregations being renewed and transformed, and leaders equipped for ministry. Great things are taking place as we join God in God's mission for the sake of the world. In this holy season let us reach out to those broken lives that feel no joy. Let us be a beacon of light that will lead them to God's gift of new life.
 With your Christmas Offering, you support the Georgia Regional ministry to enlist Disciples as members of a movement for wholeness in a fragmented world. Please give generously on December 20.
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| Christmas Giving Opportunities at SSCC |
● A Celebration for the Ages:
Adopt-a-Resident at Campbell-Stone Sandy Springs
Many residents of Campbell-Stone may be facing a lonely Christmas because of inadequate family support, limited income, health problems or other difficult issues. Your efforts will help to make the residents' holiday wishes come true.
A name (or names) and "wish list" will be provided for you. You can arrange a day and time for your own "gift-giving" visit with a resident--a time enjoyed by everyone (the visit means as much as the gift). Or if you prefer, the gifts may be delivered to Campbell-Stone and dispersed by the staff. If you choose this option, the gifts must be at Campbell-Stone by Monday, December 14.
If you would like to take part in this expression of love to a resident, please contact Barb at the church as soon as possible so arrangements can be made with Campbell-Stone to obtain the names and lists. GOD BLESS YOU, EVERYONE!
● Sandy Springs Christian Church Christmas Gift Tree
Leslie Lady
Are you making your lists? Are you checking them twice? It's that time of year when we think about gifts for those most important in our lives. Have you thought about including your church in this list? Your church family wants to help you with your list.
There will be a tree in the Centrum with ornaments designating costs for items that are necessary for your church to operate. Look at the ornaments and choose a gift or gifts that fit your Christmas budget ($10.00 to $1,000,000). When you make a donation and indicate that it is a Christmas present to the church, a box will be wrapped and placed under the tree in the Sanctuary with a gift tag from you to the church. (If you would like to remain anonymous, please indicate that with your donation and the tag will be left off.) Let's have our tree look as bountiful as yours come Christmas Eve--loaded with the joy of gifts!
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Music Ministries
"Lessons & Carols" by Marilyn Gonzalez, Director of Music Ministries |
I am admittedly compulsive about some
things. Perhaps the most peculiar is my
tradition of using the same coffee mug every day. It is one that a student gave me many years
ago, and for some reason, I have clung to its faded colors and rough edges for
over 30 years.
On other things, however, I relish adventure,
spontaneity, and new ways of approaching things. In fact, I believe that being open to change
in some things is how I keep my brain active, and my ideas fresh.
Advent and Christmas is a time when all
of us relish traditions, in both family and church. "We have always done it this way before" are
words we hear annually at this time of year!
As paradoxical as it may seem, sometimes
a little creativity can enhance traditions, and make them more alive in
us. It is in this spirit that the
worship staff looked at the traditional English service of Lessons & Carols
with an eye to making it reflective of not just "who Jesus was," but "why Jesus came."
The traditional service of Lessons &
Carols was begun in the Church of England in the midst of the two world
wars. Begun as a tradition at Kings'
College Chapel in Cambridge,
this service is still held annually, and with a listening audience in the
millions, thanks to live radio transmission.
Steeped in Old Testament prophecy and the traditional birth narrative,
the lessons aim to explain who Jesus was, from the description of The Fall of
Adam and Eve to the universal Christology of John. (In the beginning was the Word....)
Our worship staff began asking about
whether this traditional series of lessons might be altered somewhat to reflect
why Jesus came. We
percolated on this for months, and finally began to put together a series of
lessons (with carols, of course!) that takes a slightly different route to the
birth and legacy of Jesus than what the C of E bishop did around 80 years ago.
On December 20, both the 9 am and the 11
am services will feature this version of Lessons & Carols. We invite you to come, and bring a friend or
family member, to listen to the story of our savior, and sing the great carols
of the season.
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| Cantare Youth Choirs Performing at SSCC December 13, 3:00 pm |
SSCC is pleased to announce that the Cantare Youth Choirs of Atlanta will perform in the Sanctuary on Sunday, December 13 at 3:00 p.m. The Cantare Youth Choirs is a non-profit organization which was founded in the fall of 2005 to provide quality singing experiences for young singers. The auditioned chorus consists of males and females, grades 7 and up, ages 12-21. The Cantare Children's Chorus is for children, ages 8-11, grades 3-6.
The Cantare Youth Choirs has attracted an accomplished group of musicians. The singers are challenged with diverse literature ranging from the classics and spirituals to Broadway and show tunes. Paulette Sigler is the founder and conductor. Past performances include entertaining for State, Theater and Corporate entities and many more.
We welcome all to enjoy the concert; donations gratefully accepted.
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Ministry Musings
"Beginnings" by Rev. Philip Price, Senior Minister |
 I was speaking with another minister the other day and was told how some folks had found their church, joined their church, created relationships within the church, then after about eighteen months, discovered that the church was "different from what they expected." First, they tried to change the church to be more in line with where they thought it should be theologically. When they found out that the ministers and church leaders were intentional about their theology and didn't want to change, they made the difficult decision to leave that church. In speaking with other ministers, apparently this happens quite often.
Here's our challenge. How can we be welcoming to everyone and yet have an identity that has integrity? The Disciples have never been comfortable having a theological litmus test for membership. Everyone IS welcome to worship with us and to join us at the table. Yet, the way we understand God, the way we read the bible, our understanding of "the good news" is different from other churches. This becomes our identity, and we can't change it to accommodate everyone who comes through our doors. We have to accept that although everyone is welcome here, not everyone will be comfortable here. Some people will not agree with how we understand and speak of God, with how we read the bible, or with our understanding of mission.
To my mind, it shouldn't take eighteen months to figure this out.
Starting in January, we are offering a special class called Beginnings. In this class, we will explore how the bible is understood in mainline or progressive Christianity. We will explore how our understanding of God has changed over history as humans have advanced and come to understand our world in scientific terms. We will learn our Disciples history and heritage and then spend time reaching for and understanding our mission. How is our faith to connect with the modern world? The class will be offered during our regular Sunday School time between services.
This class is designed for those new to our church, for those who have visited a few times and are wondering, "if this is the right place for them."
Everyone is welcome, and we want to help people make the best decision as to where they want to put down spiritual roots.
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Children Ministry by
Rev. Erin Reed Cooper, Associate Minister
"From the Realms of Glory"
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 We light the stable light. The cattle are shuffling around on the straw. A manger is filled with fresh hay for the animals. The shepherds leave to take their sheep to graze. The inns of Bethlehem fill up for the night. A star is seen by astronomers in the far East. And a young pregnant mother and her husband journey down the long road.
We know the who, what, when and where of the Christmas story; it is etched in our hearts. But have you ever wondered about the WHY?
This year's Christmas Pageant (presented on Sunday, December 20 at 9:00 and 11:00) explores just that question. Why is this baby born, and why should shepherds and kings flock to see this baby? Who is he, and why is he so important?
"From The Realms of Glory" takes place in God's time. God wonders how to better connect with creation. Surrounded by the heavenly host, notable angels from scripture, and several divine beings from every major world religion, God explores the possibilities of connecting with God's favorite part of creation, the people. God will try scripture, prophets, laws, (and sweaters?? !) to show the people just how much they are loved. But how will God finally decide to connect intimately with The People? Come find out when our children present "From the Realms of Glory."
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Youth Ministries Craig McDonald, Director of Youth Ministries |
 There are exciting things happening with the youth and young adult ministry at SSCC! We have been studying the Gospel of Mark on Sunday mornings with the senior high youth and are about half way through! Last Sunday we went with Mary Robeck and packed Thanksgiving bags at the Cobb/Douglas Community Mental Health Center in Austell, GA. And we have our annual 'tacky sweater' Christmas party coming up on December 13.
On December 18, we are also having a college age retreat where we will be planning for the college age worship service on December 27th! This is always a refreshing service, and we're looking forward to reconnecting with our members who have been away to college.
 Then we're all heading down to St. Simon's Island for our annual youth assembly (Youth-a-Palooza), January 8-10. Keynoters are Rev. Laura Evans Mahn (we know her!) and Rev. Joshua Bell.
These events offer an important opportunity for our youth to connect with other youth from the state of Georgia and to take part in a team building trip leading up to Mexico 2010!
Speaking of Mexico 2010, don't forget to sign up for a box lunch on December 13. These are by reservation only (compliments of the wonderful Torberts)! Don't be left out and thanks for supporting next year's trip to Mexico!
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Stephen Ministry Taking a Sabbatical Barbara Duren, Stephen Leader |
 The current Stephen Ministers began their training on October 4, 2006 and were commissioned on June 3, 2007. Since then they have spent many hours in Stephen Ministry and continuing education. The Stephen Leaders have spent many hours preparing for the continuing education and the regular sessions. We began with five Stephen Ministers, but due to conflicts in scheduling we now have three. It is difficult to continue Stephen Ministry with this reduced number; so after much prayerful thought, we find it necessary to take a sabbatical. We will begin again after we identify two people to go for the week's training - and then we will recruit people to train as Stephen Ministers. At that time the current Stephen Ministers will be invited to rejoin the group.
The care receivers we have now will continue with their Stephen Ministers until such time as it is appropriate to bring closure. The Stephen Leaders will continue to support the Stephen Ministers during this time. All those who have served as Stephen Ministers or Stephen Leaders will be recognized at a worship service in January. Please be in prayer with us as we bring this ministry to closure.
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Real People, Real Faith Seminar January 22 & 23, 2010 "Taking It To The Streets" Larry Steinmetz
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 In significant ways the Reverend William Lee's ministry with his congregation in Roanoke, Virginia interfaces well with the goals we have envisioned in our Future Story for our ministries within the Sandy Springs community. This is to be the context of his Real People, Real Faith presentations in January: "I was challenged to see how real my faith was and began a journey to see what the role of the church could and would play in aiding these real people (in his church's community) to receive quality health care."
Session 1: The Church As A Healthcare Provider
Scripture Text: John 5:1-15
Session 2: Who Do They Say That We Are - Street Talk
Scripture Text: Matthew 16:13-20
Session 3: Pain Turned To Passion - I'm No Longer The Same
The Reverend William L. Lee
Pastor, Loudon Avenue Christian Church, Roanoke, Virginia
Moderator, Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), 2005-2007
Look for a registration sheet that will be posted in the Centrum.
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Member Care Ministry Barbara Duren, Pastoral Assistant |
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There is a ministry here at SSCC that receives no publicity, and if you have not been a recipient of the care you probably do not know about it. The ministry is done quietly and lovingly. It is the Caring Made Visible ministry. The members of this ministry are Ray Woods, Alice Saunders, Barbara Duren, Bert Blackburn, Billie McGinley, Carol Armstrong, Charlotte Hale, Cheryll Schramm, Dawna Abel, Fran Michels, Lolly Ross, Mary Anne Little, Ruth Brown and Shirley Patterson.
This group of compassionate people meet every other month. Updates are given on all those on the care list composed of shut-ins and people who are experiencing some type of illness or life stress. The mission of Caring Made Visible is to support the Pastoral Care Ministry of SSCC through calls, cards and visitation to members, friends and others. You may have received a call or card from one of these people if you have had a need for prayer and support. You may have even received a visit with a gift of food prepared with love. If you know someone who would benefit from a call, note or visit, please let one of the members know.
An extension of this group is the Bereavement Reception team. This team is headed up by Ruth Brown who enlists the help of women of the church to provide a reception for the family and friends of those having a celebration of life at the time of a death. This important ministry brings comfort for family and friends in their grief.
The Member Care team covets your prayers for their work.
A community group considered an extended part of Member Care is the Chronic Pain Group, meeting every Wednesday evening from 7:00 to 8:00 pm in The Pit and Room 121. CPG is a fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength and hope with each other, so that they can solve their common problems and help each other learn how to live with their chronic pain. Contact: Scott Williams, 404.414.7044
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Remembering, and in style... Julie Sanford, Chair, Memorial Committee |
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The Memorial committee would like to remind you that there is a wonderful, lasting and special way you can remember a loved one who has died, or honor someone who is still here to know of your gift. Simply make a donation to the Memorials Fund in the name of the person you wish to remember or honor. You may designate the type of gift you wish to make. For example, your gift can purchase an anthem. The first time it is used in worship the bulletin will include the name of the person so honored.
So don't forget the Memorials Fund. We have enhanced the life and worship of SSCC with these gifts for many years, and hope to do more in the future, with your help!
The Memorials Committee acknowledges with appreciation the following gifts:
IN HONOR OF: GIFTED BY:
Linda Whitmire Alice Saunders March 2009
Jerry Loyd March 2009
Walt Michels Marilyn Gonzalez September 2009
IN MEMORY OF:
Betty Jean Bentley Becky Kelly March 2009
Elizabeth Loyd Becky Kelly
Barbara Duren
Dorothy Dayton Sarah Tinsley April 2009
Pauline Price Marilyn Gonzalez September 2009
Phillip Steinmetz Julie & Denny Sanford
Court McQuire Marilyn Gonzalez
Anna Lou Bass Marilyn Gonzalez
Rena Ellis Marilyn Gonzalez October 2009
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Sandy Springs Christian Church Donates Art to Atria Johnson Ferry |
 On November 18, a six-panel painting of a Dogwood Tree was donated to Atria Johnson Ferry, a local assisted and independent living community at 9 Sherwood Lane in Marietta, Georgia. The panels were designed by The Foundation for Hospital Art and painted by many members of Sandy Springs Christian Church. The Foundation for Hospital Art involves volunteers and patients worldwide to create colorful, soothing artwork to donate to hospitals and assisted living communities to brighten patients' and residents' days. Many people work on each piece of art.
The painting of the Georgia state tree was dedicated in a short ceremony by Reverend Phil Price, Senior Minister at Sandy Springs Christian Church.
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Christmas Craft Fun |
 Thank you to Anne Butz and Theresa Bensch for coordinating the Family Advent Wreath Workshop on November 21.
Thank you to Becky Strickland for coordinating the Chrismon Workshops November 15 and 22 for new members and others.
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Ministry and Fellowship Opportunities
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Buy your ticket and mark your calendar for this special women's event:
12/5 Women's Ministries Christmas Communion Service and Brunch,
9:45 am Gathering; 10:00 am Worship; 11:00 am Brunch
12/6 Hanging of the Greens, 5:30 Pre-music, 6:00 pm Service, 7:00 pm Reception
12/6 & 13 Holiday Book Sale (C)
12/7 & 8 Holiday Book Sale, 9-10:30 am (C)
12/12 KnightSong Christmas Concert, 7:00 pm (S or DH)
12/13 Pick up a Box Lunch (by reservation only) (DH)
12/13 Youth Christmas Party
12/13 Cantare Youth Choirs Concert, 3 pm (S)
12/18 College Age Retreat
12/20 Lessons and Carols & Children's Christmas Pageant, 9 and 11 o'clock services
12/21 Longest Night Service, 7 pm (S)
12/24 Christmas Eve Worship Services, 7 & 11 pm
12/27 College Age Sunday (10 am service only)
Save the Date
1/8-10 Youth-a-Palooza at St. Simons Island
1/22 & 23 Real People, Real Faith Seminar
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A reminder: Wellspring contributions are due the 25th day of the previous month. Please keep your article to not more than 350 words. Submit articles about upcoming or past events; include pictures. We want readers to know we are a busy, vital church.
Email your contributions to Nan Woods. Call the church office or look in the church directory for the address. Thank you.
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