 November 2010 Grace Spoken Here Volume 11, Issue 11 |
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| Dear Members and Friends, | |
There is an abundance of good news this month--a refreshing change from of what you read and hear daily from so many other news sources.
October fun, fellowship and outreach ministry is clearly evident at SSCC. Nearly 200 people showed up for Halloween Trunk or Treat at SSCC. Our adults dressed up as their favorite character for the Lake Forest Book Character Reading Day. Tiring but rewarding work was performed for the More Hands for God Day. But somebody was having kid fun too (look at the picture of Janet Lochery)
More of the same is planned for November and December:
Christmas gift collections for ForeverFamily and adults at Campbell-Stone who are alone on Christmas Day, Sandwich Making, ThirdAgers Chat 'n Chew, annual Chili Cook Off, Advent Workshop, Chrismon Workshop for new members, the annual Hanging of the Greens worship service, Santa's Workshop for Lake Forest Elementary School, Children's Christmas Pageant, Christmas Eve Services, a box lunch fundraiser for the Youth Mission Trip, and more.
Be sure to mark your calendar for the January 15 performance of "Prophets" at SSCC, and sign up for the classes being taught by Rev. Susan Spurgeon that will enhance the performance experience.
A new Sunday School class is beginning November 14, The "Treasurer's Snapshot" updates us on the current budget status. Read more on the blessings and importance of giving generously to support SSCC in 2011.
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| Defined by Generosity |
On Sunday, October 31, we held the third in our four-part sermon series on faith in the midst of today's financial and economic challenges, a program in which we've examined scripture-based lessons and stories on working through these times and the key role of giving in our own individual faith development. The series concludes Sunday, November 7, with the sermon, "Defined by Generosity," which addresses the theological notion that we are created to be generous.
You know, God created us with the willingness to give - to God and to others. This design is a part of our makeup; we actually need to be generous. Yet, voices too often "war" against our God-given impulse toward generosity, tempting us to keep what we have.
By now, you have received your covenant commitment card for the 2011 calendar. I hope and pray that you are taking the time to prayerfully consider the role that you and your family play in "serving, inviting and giving" as a witness of worship to God and to the ministry of Sandy Springs Christian Church.
Over the past few weeks, we've been looking at how we relate to our earthly possessions, how we make money and spend it, how we deal with debt, and how we can live a life of gratitude no matter what we have. We've talked together about generosity, and we've seen that we can never have the life we want most - a life of joy - until we learn the gift of generosity.
Generosity changes us. We were created to be generous, and our generosity can be a great blessing in our lives. I pray that through your giving, you will find that blessings flow back into your life - blessings that you're not even expecting and that surprise you. I pray that you will find that your generosity changes the world as it changes one person at a time. This is my prayer for you - and for our entire congregation.
I want to thank you for your estimate of giving with our church this year. You are an important part of the ministry of Sandy Springs Christian Church and of God's work in our community and the world. Through your gifts, you will be a part of changing the lives of children and youth, ministering to those in need, and welcoming others into the embrace of Jesus Christ.
My hope is that you will find yourself blessed as you experience joy in your generosity. Again, thank you for all that you do to make possible the ministry of our church. You make a difference here!
In Christ,
Rev. Phil Price
Senior Minister
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| November Fellowship/Mission Opportunities | |
Throughout November and December
● accepting toys for ForeverFamily for delivery early December.
● accepting small Christmas gifts for men and women at Campbell-Stone who
have nowhere to go Christmas Day
Go to the Community Action Center website for details about Adopt-a-Family for Christmas.
Nov. 14- Sandwich Making for MUST Ministries. Following the 11 am worship service in the Centrum. All hands needed for this important ministry!
Nov. 14 - ThirdAgers Chat 'n Chew at Aldo's after sandwich making, 1:00 pm. Sign up in the Centrum. Age 50+
Nov. 19 - Serving Thanksgiving dinner at Lake Forest Elementary School.
Contact Carol Armstrong or Nancy McDaniel.
Nov. 20 - Annual Chili Cook Off, 6 pm, Dunlap Hall. Sign up in the Centrum if you are submitting chili for judging. Come early for the Advent Workshop at 5 pm (Rooms 120, 121). You need to sign up in the Centrum for this Workshop.
All Are Welcome!
Invite a neighbor, a friend or family to come with you!
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| Mark Your Calendar! Upcoming Christmas Events | |
Invite Your Neighbor, Friends and Family
November
6 - Children's Christmas Pageant Auditions
20 - Advent Workshop, 5 pm ( Rooms 120, 121) - Sign up in the Centrum. Stay for the Chili Cook Off at 6 pm in Dunlap Hall!
21 & 28 - Chrismon Workshop for New Members - after 9 and 11 am services in the Centrum
December
4 - Women's Ministries Christmas Communion Service and Brunch, gathering at 9:45 am (Sanctuary); brunch following in Dunlap Hall. Worship Message: Sandra Barnhill, National President, Forever Family. Invite your neighbor, friends and family! Tickets on sale Nov. 7, $9.00
5 - Annual Hanging of the Green Worship Service - 5:30-7:00 pm;, Reception, 7:00 pm
5-7, 12, 19 - Children's Holiday Book Sale (Centrum)
11 - KnightSong Christmas Concert, 7 pm (DH)
12 - Santa's Workshop (benefits Lake Forest Elementary School) - Wrap gifts before and after church services (See "Calling Santa Elves of All Ages") - Dunlap Hall
19 - Children's Christmas Pageant, 9 and 11 am worship services
24 - Christmas Eve Services, 7 and 11 pm
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Challenger Class Beginning a Study on Early Christianity
Bryant McDaniel, Chair, Adult Education Ministry |
 | | Dr. Paul Kapphahn |
On November 14, the Challenger class begins a new study led by SSCC member Dr. Paul Kapphahn, Director of the Center for Counseling Services in Dunwoody. It is titled "THE BIRTH OF CHRISTIANITY (from Jesus to Constantine)".
Early Christianity was an extremely diverse phenomenon from the outset, with a wide range of beliefs and practices adhered to by those who claimed to be followers of Jesus. How did this movement, begun in a remote part of the Roman Empire by a small group of followers of a Jewish apocalyptic preacher crucified as an enemy of the state, grow into the enormously influential institution it became in the Western World?
We will explore the figures and traditions that lie at the foundations of the emerging Christian religion. We will look at the struggles of early "followers of the Way" to decide how "Jewish" they should be.
How were books of the Bible chosen? What other writings were rejected and why? These are some of the questions we will ponder. Join us at 10 am in the Challenger classroom (rooms 201-203). All are welcome!!
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| The Annual Chili Cook Off Returns! | |
Please plan to join us Saturday, November 20 at 6 pm in Dunlap Hall for our Annual Chili Cook Off! Brent Bass is the defending champ and is challenging everyone to Bring It On!!! (Competitors and their chili should arrive at 5:30.)
Please sign up in the Centrum to bring a crock pot of Chili if you plan to compete. If that's not your thing, everyone else will be the tasters/judges and we need plenty of those also!! There will be prizes awarded and family games to play, so bring your family and friends for a night of fun & fellowship!!
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| Lake Forest Book Character Reading Day | |
Amelia Bedelia, Harvey Potter the Farmer, Ghandi and The Rainbow Fish were among the special book characters that visited Lake Forest Elementary School for Book Character Day...although they bore a strong resemblance to SSCC members. As an alternative to celebrating Halloween, staff and students were invited to dress as favorite book characters. Sandy Springs Christian Church enhanced the day by sending 17 volunteers to the school to read books to students of all ages. Carol Armstrong organized the event and everyone rose to the occasion selecting favorite stories and in some cases preparing complementary activities. "It made me miss my days in the classroom," commented Ann Walker, a retired fifth grade teacher. Even with some scheduling glitches, the volunteers' adaptability and positive attitudes made this first time a success and an enjoyable experience for the kids.
If you are interested in participating in another reading event at Lake Forest next spring, contact Carol Armstrong or Nancy McDaniel.
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| More Hands for God Day | |
What an awesome day as 15 members and friends of Sandy Springs Christian Church joined with many other DOC churches in the Atlanta area on October 30 to bring about "More Hands for God Day" at The City of Refuge downtown! The day started early with a wonderful praise service and communion for all the volunteers. From there, worshippers split up to work various tasks including: crafts and a carnival for neighborhood kids; making sandwiches; pack hygiene kits; working the health fair, vet clinic or the dental screening area; providing complimentary pedicures or riding the donated church vans into the surrounding neighborhood to pick up homeless and area kids for the event. Most members of SSCC joined with volunteers from Chestnut Ridge Christian Church to prepare 1000 hot dogs for neighborhood families and the volunteers.
Thanks to Greg Peterson for coordinating our efforts. It was a very rewarding volunteer experience this year.
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| Box Lunch Fundraiser - December 12 | |
The youth will host a box lunch fundraiser on Sunday, December 12 to raise funds for their annual Youth Mission Trip. This lunch will feature giant hot dogs or a hamburger, 2 sides, a dessert and a drink. Make your selection when you make your reservation. Sign up reservations by Tuesday, December 7, are required! You must have a reservation to get a box lunch. Plan to enjoy lunch and then join Santa's elves wrapping gifts for Lake Forest Elementary. Or, grab a bite and head to the mall to complete your shopping!
A suggested donation of $7.00 can be made at the time of pick up. Tips are always appreciated for this great cause. If you would like to eat your lunch at the church with your friends, we will have a place set up for that purpose. Please plan now to support our youth!
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Trunk or Treat Attendance Nearly 200
Rev. Erin Reed Cooper, Associate Minister | |
 On Sunday, October 24, nearly 200 children, adults, and adults acting like children haunted the parking lot of the church. Cars were transformed into spooky hearses, haunted fishing docks, The Emerald City, and Halloween havens full of candy for our trick-or-treaters.
This year, the children of Sandy Springs Mission, a local ministry led by Felix Lora, were invited to join in this safe, fun adventure with us. The families came a few hours early and were invited to 'shop' for a costume in our shop -- filled with 100 costumes entirely donated by The Day School families, our own members and through a generous gift from SSCC Women's Ministries. Artist Courtney Strickland provided the children with face painting. All participants enjoyed a hot dog dinner donated by Sandy Springs Publix, and prepared and served by our loving Chefs Torbert and Kahrs.
First prize in the Trunk contest went to the Strickland's hearse, where his beloved (and still living) father was Laid To Rest, attended by funeral director Brent Bass and mourners Becky and Courtney Strickland. Runners up included The Friendly Witches, Julie and Den Sanford and Merilyn and Wayne Dimmitt; The Land of Oz ruled by The Wicked Sharon Hanna of the West; and Stuck in the 70's, Terry and Amy Frost. Our costume winners included an adorable Pocahontas, Lady Bug, a handsome Buzz Lightyear and a spooky Ghoul.
The event was presided over by the Queen of Trunk Or Treat, her highness Larri Bass. We are grateful to our Queen for her dedication to this successful event and that she didn't find it necessary to relieve anyone of their head. Gratitude also goes to our office staff, especially Sharon Hanna, and to Barb Duren and Kathy Gregory who rallied for donations to the costume shop. Feel free to mark 6-8 pm, October 30, 2011 on your calendar now! You will not want to miss this event next year.
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| Calling Santa Elves of All Ages! | |
Sandy Springs Christian Church has agreed to wrap Christmas gifts that have been donated for students of Lake Forest Elementary school who would not have a Christmas without the efforts of Santa and his elves.
Please plan to join us in Dunlap Hall on Sunday, December 12 before and after church services to wrap gifts. The sleigh full of gifts will depart that evening, so we have a big task to complete! We are asking everyone to bring a roll of gift wrap, but we will supply scissors, tape and labels. If you can't participate in the wrapping, we would still appreciate a donated roll of Christmas wrap!
Gift wrap donations greatly appreciated!
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Legacy Freebies Designed Just for Us!
Rev. Linda S. Whitmire |
 | | Rev. Randy Johnson |
"But, Linda, I don't have any money to leave behind!" "I can't pay a lawyer right now to re-do our estate planning!" "This is just too confusing!" "We don't have enough to make writing a will important." "I have NO idea of what I could do or what would make sense for me." "The church?! I never thought about that!!"
I HEAR you!! That's why Rev. Randy Johnson, Vice President, Southeast Zone for the Christian Church Foundation, will be here for YOU Tuesday, November 30, 10 am to 7 pm, and Wednesday, December 1, 10 am to 6 pm. At no cost to you, meet confidentially with Randy about your personal situation and get advice, suggestions and assistance on estate planning for exactly YOUR situation. He will meet with you at the church or come to your home to talk privately. This service... this MINISTRY... is provided to Disciples through the Christian Church Foundation of our General Office at no cost to us. Disciples all over the United States have taken advantage of this ministry and become legacy builders of the future while protecting their present and future finances. Why not you and me, Sandy Springs?
To make your appointment, contact Sharon at the church or Randy at rjohnson@ccf.disciples.org. Dumb questions respectfully received. I know. I asked a few!!
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Meet Ms. Ella Lewis, SSCC Organist/Pianist
Micki Gonzalez, Director of Music Ministries | |
 I will always remember my reaction to Ella's audition for the organist/pianist position at SSCC. I felt warmly embraced by her music, as if she had taken me to a place where I could be comforted and loved. How did she do that?
I think she plays that way because that is her ministry. She ministers to people through her fingers. A quiet and faith-filled woman, she knows her playing can move people, and she takes that responsibility as her personal call to service. This is what drew the entire search committee to enthusiastically recommend that Ella Lewis become our new organist/pianist.
Ella comes to us from an eighteen-year tenure as Organist at the historic Ebenezer Baptist Church in downtown Atlanta. She is also in demand as an accompanist and plays for several choral groups in Atlanta. She has been playing for churches since she was in college.
 | | Ms. Ella Lewis |
Ella also teaches at North Atlanta High School where she is the Piano Instructor, Handbell Choir Director, and Accompanist for Center for the Arts. She loves teaching students and looks forward to a time when our music ministry at SSCC involves more youth and children.
Her first Sunday with us was October 31.
Please introduce yourself to Ella.
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Treasurer's Snapshot
Jim Armstrong | |
Many individuals and families are struggling financially as a result of the weak economy and the depressed housing and stock markets; many churches around the country are struggling financially as well. As we study what the Bible says about stewardship this month, I thought you would like to know how Sandy Springs Christian Church is doing financially.
Member giving was $310,859 through the end of September, which is $14,615, or 4.4% less than what was budgeted. The bottom line through September is a loss of $28,403; while a loss, this is still better than what was budgeted and is primarily attributable to effective expense management. As you contemplate the faithfulness messages this month and consider your financial commitments for next year, do not forget your pledge for 2010.
Should you have any questions or want further information, please contact Jim Armstrong (770-955-5454 or jamesarms@comcast.net).
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"Prophets" Coming to SSCC January 15 | |
 We know Dr. Martin Luther King as a modern day prophet. Sandy Springs Christian Church is excited to announce that on January 15 we will have an opportunity to celebrate Martin Luther King Day while learning about the mission of the Hebrew Prophets. We will host a live performance of "Prophets" at 7:00 pm in the Sanctuary. The one-man show, featuring Brad Sherrill, bring the words of Isaiah and Jeremiah to life in a powerful evening of theater.While reservations and donations are not required, any offerings will be gladly accepted before or at the event. All proceeds will support the Youth Mission Trip in April. Special sponsorships are also available at the following levels: Friends ($50), Angels ($100), Producers ($200), and Corporate ($250). Sponsors who provide payment by January 2 will be recognized in the program. A reception in Dunlap Hall with light snacks follows the performance.
 In order to be fully immersed in the Prophets performance, SSCC is offering a four-week class/study/discussion that will meet between 5:00 and 7:00 pm in Room 121 on the following Sundays: Nov. 21, Dec. 12, Dec. 19 and Jan. 9. The class, following a curriculum designed by Sherrill and his colleagues, introduces the student to the mission of the Hebrew Prophets. The class will be taught by a newcomer to SSCC, Rev. Susan Spurgeon. Spurgeon has been a pastor, an associate, and an interim pastor in various churches in the Capital Area Region. She has also served on the General Staff of the Christian Church (DoC) and as a consultant to the Capital Area Region. She and husband Ben moved to Dunwoody in August and joined SSCC September 12. We are delighted to have Rev. Spurgeon join us on this endeavor.
Please mark your calendars and plan to join us for this exciting event! All are welcome. Invite others to come with you.
Sign up in the Centrum to attend the class/study/discussion
on the mission of the Hebrew Prophets
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| Youth-a-Palooza 2011 | |
Please contact Schnavia Bronson, Student Youth Minister, for registration information.
404.256.2582
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| Connect Opportunities |
Go to the SSCC Calendar of Events webpage for
the most current information.
Ongoing
1st & 3rd Monday: Learners Bridge, 12:45-4:00 pm (P)
4th Monday: Experienced Bridge, 12:30-4:15 pm (P)
1st Tuesday: Gamma Circle, 7 pm (P)
2nd Wednesday: Sigma Delta Circle, 10:30 am (P)
Sigma Delta lunch, 12 pm (CR)
3rd Wednesday: Women's Bible Study, 10 am (CR)
Friday: Men's Fellowship, 7 am (CR)
Saturday: SSCC Garden Group, 8-10 am
1st & 3rd Sundays eff. 11/7 (temporary): High School, 4:30-6:30 pm (DH)
2nd & 4th Sundays eff. 11/14 (temporary): 5th Graders & Middle School, 4:30-6:30 pm (DH)
11/4 The Gathering, 7-9 pm (DH)
11/7 Barb Duren Retirement Reception after 11 am service
11/7 "Beginnings" with Phil, 10:15-10:50 am (213)
11/10 Prayer Group, 12:30 pm (P)
11/11 Donnelly Covenant Group, 7 pm (P)
11/11 EFT with Nancy Davis, 7 pm (121)
11/13 Children's Christmas Pageant Rehearsal, 11 am-12 pm (S)
11/14 Sandwich Making, 12 pm (C)
11/14 ThirdAgers Chat 'n Chew at Aldo's, 1 pm
11/16 B Trusty Covenant Group, 7 pm (P)
11/19 Thanksgiving Dinner, Lake Forest Elementary
11/19 The Day School Thanksgiving Feast, 9:30-11:30 am
11/20 Children's Christmas Pageant Rehearsal, 11 am-12 pm (S)
11/20 Advent Workshop, 5 pm (120, 121)
11/20 Chili Cook Off, 6 pm (DH)
11/21 & 11/28 Chrismon Workshop for New Members, after 9 and 11 am worship services
11/23 Chrysalis Covenant Meeting, 6:30 pm (P)
11/25 SSCC Office Closed for Thanksgiving
11/30 & 12/1 Rev. Randy Johnson meet with members and friends by appointment
Save the Date
12/4 Women's Ministries Christmas Communion Worship Service & Brunch, 9:45 am gathering
12/5 Hanging of the Green Worship Service, 5:30-7:00 pm; Reception, 7:00 pm
12/11 KnightSong Christmas Concert, 7 pm (DH)
12/19 Children's Christmas Pageant, 9 and 11 am
12/24 Christmas Eve Services, 7 and 11 pm
1/18 "Prophets" Performance at SSCC, 7 pm
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| The Wellspring Contribution Guidelines |
Wellspring contributions are due on Thursday before the last Monday in the month. For example, December contributions should be submitted by November 25. Thank you for timely submissions!
Please limit your article to not more than 350 words. Submit your articles on ministry news and upcoming events; report on past events; send pictures! Keep the congregation and others informed about our busy, vital church.
Email your contributions to Nan Woods: woodynan@bellsouth.net
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