 February 2012 Grace Spoken Here Volume 13, Issue 2 |
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Viewpoints at SSCC | |
ONE SUPPORTIVE CHURCH FAMILY
Sometimes we think we have it all together in our lives, all the bases covered, in control, on top of things, all of those cliché expressions--and perhaps even that we don't much need nonrelatives to lean on or count on. Then life happens and you realize how much you appreciate SSCC and your faith family here.
Dad was 88 before he even thought about retiring, and then only because Mom's lower back problems signaled they needed to repatriate from nearly 50 years in Rio and get some good medical attention. He was still on the tennis courts at 90, but eyesight compromised by macular degeneration finally sat him down, for good. I'll admit to musing over the decades that maybe the "Two things certain in life: Death and Taxes" axiom was perhaps only half right when it came to the Boones.
The decline and ultimate loss of my Dad at 95 was tough. The only bright spot in the entire experience was my SSCC faith community. This church really came through. Linda was extraordinary, stepping up during Phil's departure, visiting and caring, a superb pastor and person. The choir's offer of music and the nurturing embrace of our family by my church family were more than I expected or could ever have hoped for. This is one supportive church family. When you need this church family, and even when you don't, they are there. Avail yourselves, take advantage of this asset. Tell some people about it. SSCC will pick you up. You can take that to the bank.
Taylor Boone
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A Note from Danny
Rev. Danny Gulden, Senior Minister |
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Rev. Danny Gulden
Senior Minister |
Thank you does not begin to describe the feelings that Mary Michael, Isabella, Ava and I have for the overwhelming welcome we have received from you. Your presence, prayers, and kind words have meant the world to us. There is a level of excitement right now that is palpable for the mission and ministry in this place, and we are grateful to be joining the journey. We have much to share with our neighbors, friends, and community.
The Elders gathered last weekend at Simpsonwood Retreat Center in Norcross for a spirit filled time together. We worked together on our vision for the church in the coming year. Using some prior visioning work and the sense of where God is calling us right now, three areas emerged as the focus of our vision in 2012.
- Discipleship: encouraging people to learn and reflect upon their faith as inspired by the life and teachings of Jesus Christ
- Connections: engaging and equipping new generations for life and leadership in Christian community
- Service: helping people to discover and become involved in their personal mission
You will be hearing more about some of the ways that we can all be engaged in living out God's vision for our church at the February 12 Annual Congregational Meeting.
I look forward to sharing in and living out the vision with you. Make plans to be a part of our congregational gathering on February 12 following the 11:15 worship service.
With lots of hope,
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Notice of Annual Congregational Meeting and Lunch -
Sunday, February 12 | |
Please make plans to attend the Annual Congregational Meeting in Dunlap Hall on Sunday, February 12, after the 11:15 am service. We will begin with lunch. Rumor has it that the meal will be Danny's favorite, specially prepared by the Torberts. So please be sure to sign up. Look for the sign up sheet under the new Connect Board in the Centrum. Financial donations for the lunch will be gratefully accepted at the meeting.
The agenda will include comments by Danny Gulden, Bryant McDaniel, and Jim Armstrong concerning the ministries and operations of SSCC. There will be discussion and motions on the following (where your vote will be needed): the 2012 Budget/Plan, the Legacy Fund and Policy, and the extension of the Interim Guidelines.
See you there!
Danny Gulden, Senior Minister
Bryant McDaniel, President of the Congregation
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2012 Budget Information Meeting -
Sunday, February 5 | |
BUDGET INFORMATION MEETING
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 9:00 and 11:15 AM - DUNLAP HALL
If you are interested in learning more about the 2012 budget before the February 12 Congregational meeting, Jim Armstrong (Treasurer) will hold a budget information meeting on Sunday, February 5 at 9:00 and 11:15 am in Dunlap Hall. He will be able to go into more detail about the 2011 results and the 2012 budget in this meeting than in the Congregational meeting on the 12th. If you would like a copy of the handout materials beforehand, contact Jim at jamesarms@comcast.net or 770-
955-5454.
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Chili Cook Off Took Off! | |
We had a packed house Saturday, January 21 as we gathered to give the Guldens a warm welcome during our traditional Chili Cook Off. Some people took the chili judging very seriously while others simply enjoyed the opportunity to socialize. With 20 chili making contestants, it was a tough competition! Congratulations to top chef Rachel Robeck with her Funky Chunky Chicken Chili; second place winner Stephen Brown with his Roadkill Chili; and Allen McCahren with his White Bean Chili. Requests have been made to consider selling quarts of the prize winning recipes as a fundraiser for the Mexico Mission Trip. Stay tuned for details!
Thanks to all contestants and to those that rounded out the meal with contributions of salad, corn bread and desserts. No one went home hungry!
 
 
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Discussions with Danny | |
Would you like to get to know Rev. Danny Gulden? Are there questions that you would like to ask him?
Members of the church are hosting "Discussions with Danny" for members and visitors to meet and talk with Danny. If you would like to attend or host one of these casual gatherings in your home or at the church, please fill out the form on the church website or complete a form at the church. The meetings will last approximately 1 ½ hours and are being held during the day and in the evening.
Eight to ten people will meet together for refreshments and to get acquainted with Danny. These informal meetings are also an opportunity for Danny to get to know you and your dreams for Sandy Springs Christian Church. Don't miss this fellowship opportunity; sign up today!
Please call Nancy Trusty if you have any questions.
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2012 Lenten Season
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MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR THE SEASON OF LENT
6 Wednesday Nights: February 22 (Ash Wednesday)
through March 28
Child Care Available
Dinner: 6:15-7:00 PM (Dunlap Hall)
Sign up for each Wednesday night dinner; donations gratefully
accepted
Worship: 7:00-7:30 PM (Sanctuary)
Class: 7:30-8:30 PM
"JOURNEY TO HOPE - THE LAST WEEK"
Rev. Danny Gulden, Senior Minister
Dunlap Hall
This Lenten season join us in the remarkable journey of Jesus during his last week in Jerusalem according to Mark's Gospel. Mark's Gospel is unique in that it follows Jesus' ministry day by day during his last week.
Each Wednesday night during Lent, we will explore a different day leading up to Jesus' death and resurrection. You are invited to deepen your understanding and grow in faith.Each session will include time for both large group and small group discussion.
"FEEDING THE FIVE THOUSAND"
Children's Class - Kindergarten thru 5th grade
Leslie Ramer, Interim Director of Children's Programming
Room 121
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Join Us on the Interfaith Hunger Walk
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SAVE THE DATE! Please make plans to join us on Sunday, March 11 at Turner Field for the 5K Hunger Walk!! http://www.hungerwalkrun.org/
We have been invited by Congregation Or Hadash and The Islamic Center of North Fulton to join them at Turner Field and walk a loop past the Capitol and back (3.1 miles). In addition to having a lot of fun, getting exercise and making new friends of other faiths, we will raise funds for the Atlanta Community Food Bank. Tentative plans include having the three congregations' youth meet to design an interfaith
t-shirt and posters to be used on the walk. More details will follow but there will be an estimated cost of $10 to join the team (this will include a youth-designed interfaith t-shirt) and you are encouraged to solicit tax-deductible donations from neighbors and friends. Anyone raising $35 (our $10 fee + the walk's $25 requirement) will receive a second t-shirt from the HRW2012 organization. Strollers will be welcome although pets are not allowed.
USE YOUR FEET SO THE HUNGRY CAN EAT!! top |
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Thank You, Rev. Linda Whitmire | |
Members and Friends and the staff of Sandy Springs Christian Church have experienced a true blessing! Linda's tenure as Transitional Pastor during the months we waited for the arrival of our new senior minister was one of efficient busyness and tranquility at the same time. Her leadership in the pulpit seemed effortless; her keen interest and abilities to see what we needed "in the between" was amazing; and her love for our church and its people was readily apparent in her smiling presence. So, THANK YOU, Linda.
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Framed picture of the Abernathy entrance to Sandy Springs Christian Church
given by the congregation and presented by Bryant McDaniel, President of the Congregation |
 | | Crystal chalice given by the congregation and presented by Chair of Elders, Janet Lochery |
 | | Linda passes stole to Danny |
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January 29th PAC Meeting a Roaring Success!
Leslie Raymer, Interim Director of Children's Programming |
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Leslie Raymer, Interim Director of Children's Programming |
Our first PAC meeting of the year was a great success! The SSCC membership and The Day School parents donated 50 cell phones, approximately 50 pounds of batteries, a large quantity of linens and old clothes, and over two truckloads (you should have seen my office on January 28th!!) of recyclable electronics (computers, printers, old games, cameras, dvd players, tape decks, and even a hair dryer)! Almost all our children (and lots of parents!) joined us and helped to quickly tape off the ends of the batteries for recycling and organize the other materials for delivery. The cell phones were delivered to the Women's Resource Center to End Domestic Violence and the electronics were delivered to the Tommy Nobis Center. Adults and young people with disabilities work at the center to prepare the electronics for reuse and safe disposal. The old linens and clothes will be rewoven into purses, placemats, and area rugs. We finished our evening by playing 'wall ball' and sharing supper with the youth group. Thanks to everyone for making our earth a little bit greener!
Stay Tuned for Our February 26th PAC Service Project for Our Soldiers...Project Mail Call
Throughout the month of February, we are asking SSCC members and The Day School parents to gather selected snack foods, sundries, games, cds, books, and magazines that will be sent to American soldiers in remote locations through Project Mail Call (www.projectmailcall.com). During our February PAC meeting, we will be writing notes and letters to the soldiers, and organizing the donated items for delivery to the folks who make sure these goods are delivered to our troops abroad. The list of items we are soliciting for donation will be published in the Chalice Chat and posted on the bulletin board in the Centrum. Donation boxes will be placed in front of Leslie Raymer's office beginning Sunday, February 5th.
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Memorial Gifts |
The Memorial Committee acknowledges with appreciation your gift.
IN MEMORY OF: Lyn Crowe Bill Boone Patrick Crowe - Oct 2011 Jim & Marilyn Torbert - Dec 2011 May & Jeff Hughes Richard & Bonnie Harris - Nov 2011 Belinda Riley - Dec 2011 Bob & Elinor Tollman
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In the Life of SSCC | |
Go to www.SandySpringsCC.org to view our monthly calendar
"Invitable events" are highlighted in red
FEBRUARY EVENTS & SPECIAL WORSHIP
Feb. 2 - SSCC to host ICJS Dinner, 5:30 pm (DH)
Feb. 4 - Candlelight Cafe, social time 6 pm; dinner 7 pm (DH)
Feb. 5 - 2012 Budget Information Meeting, 9 and 11:15 am (DH)
Feb. 5 - Youth Flag Football (Terrell Mill Park, 12:309-3:00 pm)
Feb. 12 - Annual Congregational Meeting, after 11:15 am service (DH)
Feb. 12 - Youth to Snow Mountain, 12:30-4 pm
Feb. 19 & 26 - Week of Compassion Special Offering
Feb. 19 - Laity Sunday
Feb. 22 - Lent begins - Lenten dinner 6:15 pm; Ash Wednesday service 7:00 pm; Lenten Classes
7:30 pm (1 of 6 Wednesdays)
Feb. 29 - Lenten series (2 of 6 Wednesdays)
SAVE THE DATE
March 4, 11, 18 & 25 - Community Sunday School
March 7 - Lenten series (3 of 6 Wednesdays)
March 11 - Interfaith Hunger Walk
March 11 - Daylight Savings Time begins
March 11 - Mexico Mission Parent's Meeting, 5 pm
March 14 - Lenten series (4 of 6 Wednesdays)
March 18 - Danny's Installation at both services
March 21 - Lenten series (5 of 6 Wednesdays)
March 28 - Lenten series (6 of 6 Wednesdays)
March 31-April 7 - Youth Mexico Mission Trip
July 8-14 Adult/Family Trip with Disciples Volunteering, Tuscaloosa, AL - Space limited to 25
THE DAY SCHOOL
Feb. 24 - The Day School Circus Performances
March 29 & 30 - Spring Hat Performances
ONGOING GROUPS
1st & 3rd Monday: Learner's Bridge, 12:45 - 4:00 pm (P)
4th Monday: Experienced Bridge, 12:30-4:15 pm (205)
1st Tuesday: Gamma Circle, 11 am (205)
1st Wednesday bi-monthly: Caring Made Visible, 12 noon (CR)
2nd Wednesday: Sigma Delta Circle, 10:30 am (P)
Sigma Delta lunch, 12 pm (CR)
Prayer Group, 12:30 pm (P)
4th Wednesday: Women's Bible Study, 10 am (CR)
1st Saturday: Outreach Ministry staffs CAC, 9:45am - 1:15 pm
4th Sunday: PAC Meeting (3:30-5:30 pm) (120) 1st through 5th grade
Wednesdays: Handbell Choir, 6:15 pm (Room 202)
Sanctuary Choir, 7:30 pm (Room 202)
Fridays: Men's Fellowship, 7 am (CR)
Saturdays: SSCC Garden Group, 8:30-10 am
Sundays: Youth Groups, 5-7 pm (DH) Middle School and High School
Early Risers, 8:15 am (Room 202)
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| The Wellspring Contribution Guidelines |
Wellspring contributions are due on the 27th of each month, except February. February articles are due the 25th. Thank you for your 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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