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The University Press
| June 2011 |
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"For the Lamb at the center of the throne
will be their shepherd;
'he will lead them to springs of living water.' "
-- Revelation 7:17
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The third stage of spiritual growth: "Service and Leadership" by Dr. Chris Neufeld-Erdman, pastor
I call the third stage of spiritual growth "Service and Leadership." The first stage is "First Awakening," and the second, "Believing and Belonging." I've written about the first two in previous newsletters.
When you first awaken to God it's as if you've risen from a long night's sleep. Something has stirred you and you begin to seek God. If you move beyond this stage, you enter a community where you learn what it means to believe and belong.
 You can get stuck in both stages -- stuck and unable to move beyond awakening because your awareness of God can make you feel so terribly guilty and unworthy that you can't imagine God can love you. You can get stuck in the second stage if you become infatuated with doctrinal debates or worry that you can never know enough.
But if you grow in a healthy way and move from awakening and into believing and belonging, you will eventually grow into a new season of service and leadership. During this season, you become highly involved in ministries of compassion or administration, evangelism or justice. You might serve on a committee, volunteer for the choir or as a Sunday school teacher, engage in a service or mission project, train as a minister, respond to a call for missionary service, or become an elder or deacon. You are, of course, still learning about the Christian faith, and may sense a real vibrancy to your growth.
In many churches this stage is the pinnacle of the Christian life. In fact, popular books such as "The Purpose Driven Life" make it sound like this stage is the goal of the Christian life. Unfamiliar with the history of Christian spirituality and growth, popular movements mistakenly bring Christians to stage three and leave them there. But there are four more stages, and unless disciples are aware of them, what can be a new awakening to faith becomes a debilitating crisis.
The next stage, stage four in Christian growth, is what I call "The Second Awakening." It is a stage of profound growth, but is often misunderstood. Those who've served long and faithfully come to the point where they ask, "Isn't there something more?" And if they don't know that this new search is a sign of the Holy Spirit's nudging them to a deepening of their faith experience, they may grow frustrated with their faith and drop out of church; sometimes they abandon their faith entirely. But this is just the beginning of a holy new movement of grace in their lives.
Next month, I'll explore what this second awakening is about.
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Finding our way in times of change
by Dr. Chris Neufeld-Erdman, senior pastor
You have likely heard about the recent vote in our denomination regarding ordination standards. You've also likely heard that the Presbyterian Church now ordains active gays and lesbians into ministry. It's true that our larger church has made changes to our constitution, but it's not true that the PC(USA) ordains gays and lesbians. There may be individual churches and presbyteries that ordain gays and lesbians, but like it or not, not all Presbyterians will do so. Here's a short summary of what we know about the recent votes by the majority of presbyteries across the country that remove language that was added in recent years to our constitution that prohibits practicing ga y and lesbian people from ordination. This amendment has already stirred a new season of controversy within our denomination, and there are many (often conflicting) opinions about the ramifications.
We can safely say at least these five things: - Specific references to standards of sexual behavior for those seeking ordination as minister, elder or deacon will no longer be part of the Book of Order;
- Biblical and confessional standards themselves will not change;
- The new language applies standards in a way that examines all areas of a person's life;
- Each presbytery, session, and congregation is in complete control over how biblical and confessional standards are interpreted during examination of candidates for office in its jurisdiction;
- No presbytery or congregation will be forced to accept candidates that other presbyteries or congregations have approved.
While it's tempting, we must be careful not to read more into the amendment beyond this. And we must certainly not act as if the sky is falling (or opening, depending on our perspective) for our denomination. The truth is, we are always living in a time of flux. What's important is that we remain committed to biblical truth and to responsible ways of interpreting that truth in every new season of the church's mission.
Karl Barth, the great 20th century Reformed theologian, gives us guidance here. First, in his "Dogmatics in Outline" he teaches: "Dogmatics is the science in which the Church, in accordance with the state of its knowledge at different times, takes account of the content of its proclamation critically, that is, by the standard of Holy Scripture and under the guidance of its Confessions." This means that in every new season, the church's elders are to work devotedly to discern the Word of God in each new situation. We are not to merely say the same old thing, but to bear witness to the old truth in new ways.
Second, he says in "Church Dogmatics," "The Church permanently finds itself in an emergency!" Crisis is nothing new and we are to engage it courageously and humbly. "There is no more urgent task for a Church under assault from without than that of consolidating itself within, which means doing theological work!" (CD 1.1 p. 77). I'd add, which means doing spiritual work. That is, keeping ourselves rooted in Scripture and prayer so we don't make serious errors because we are impatient or headstrong, assuming we know in advance what the Holy Spirit is trying to say and do today.
I remind you of these things to awaken you to the fact that this is an energizing season to be alive; the sky is not falling (no matter what those on the Right or Left may say). We are evangelical -- that means we trust fully in Jesus Christ who is Lord of the Church and we bear joyful witness to him. Because we are evangelical, there will be no handwringing, no suspicion, no anger. Such things are not virtues, nor are they the fruit of the Spirit. Many around us will fall victim to the spirit of the age, which is anxious, angry, and bears the form of religious devotion, but is actually far from it.
We must keep our heads and our hearts rooted in Christ Jesus, and keep our church focused on the essentials: being a people where the love of God and love of neighbor live at the heart of our life together.
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Music and Worship
Summer is creeping around the corner, and as you're planning your summer  vacations or marking down school graduations on your calendar, don't forget to pencil in the new summer worship schedule! We will officially change to our summer worship schedule Sunday, June 19. Instead of having one service in a blended style, our Sundays will look like this:
- Traditional Service... 9:30 a.m.
- Adult Sunday School ... 10:45 a.m.
- Contemporary Service ... 5 p.m.
Children's Church will be provided during both the morning and evening services, and the program is titled "Names of God." Your children will have a great time at either service. Also, nursery service will be provided.
Keep your eyes and ears open for upcoming church events planned throughout the summer that will bring all UPC congregants together in worship, fellowship, games and activities for all ages.
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Evangelism: BAG a guest for Sunday, June 12
UPC has proclaimed Pentecost Sunday to be our "Bring a Guest" -- or BAG -- Sunday. This is the day to mention to your neighbor, co-worker or family member, who just might be interested in attending UPC, that you would be delighted to accompany them or meet them at UPC for worship. Invite them to any of the services: the  traditional, contemporary or the Southeast Asian service. The key part is that you need to look ahead. To encourage one another, on the Sunday before, June 5, please ask fellow UPC members and friends, "Who are you bringing next Sunday?" The services will be geared to visitors. There will be baptisms. This is the day to wear red as we celebrate the beginning of Pentecost, so pass that on to the person you invite. There might even be a few extra goodies out front after worship to wash down with our standard UPC coffee. So don't be bashful -- be bold! It may be the most important question we pose in their lives and possibly our own. Let's make this fun.
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Missions: Loving our (little) neighbors
This year UPC has reached out to students in the tutoring program in a new way. We will send them to Sherwood Forest from July 31- Aug. 6. We have 10 students who are registered, committed and excited about the experience. They have never been to camp! UPC plans to provide a substantial scholarship toward the $355 fee per student. Would you pray for this endeavor? Consider financial involvement as an individual or small group in this outreach opportunity. Place gifts in the offering or mail them to the church office, marked "Tutoring Campership Fund." Watch for other planned fundraisers.
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Adult Ministries: Adult Education doesn't take the summer off!
In June, we wrap up the education year and begin the summer program. As usual, Adult Edu cation has interesting and faith-enriching learning opportunities, including some guest speakers.
-- June 5: The Revs. Philip and Elizabeth Prasad will be with us to talk about the dynamic ministry they lead among the lower castes of India, creating the Rural Presbyterian Church of India.
-- June 12 (Pentecost): The program for the summer, "That the World May Know," begins, led by James Swanson.
-- June 19: Guest speaker will be Joan Cook, the volunteer coordinator for Habitat for Humanity.
-- June 26: "That the World May Know," led by James Swanson.
On June 5 and 12, the education hour is 9:45-10:45 a.m. On June 19 and 26, we shift to summertime:10:45-11:45 a.m.
Please join us each week in Great Room 9 for enlightening and stimulating discussions.
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 Youth Ministry: Meet UPC's new youth coordinator Hello, everyone! In case you have not met me yet, I am the new youth coordinator. I am very excited about this coming summer and all of the great things the youth will be doing. From Sunday night Youth Group, to water park fun, camp, scavenger hunts, pool parties and community service projects, the youth have a booked summer calendar that continues into the next school year. If you have any questions about the youth or feel that you would like to get involved, feel free to email me, Stephanie@upcfresno.org. Blessings! Stephanie Wright ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Youth Group kicks off Join us for fun, games, worship, and Bible study every Sunday night, 6:30-8 p.m.! |
Southeast Asian Ministry: Training our leaders
 One of the most important goals of UPC's Southeast Asian Ministry is to train present and future leaders. Each year, several Lao-speaking UPC members travel to seminars and conferences sponsored by PC(USA) and other organizations to learn how to better serve God in home communities and around the world. UPC members also provide leadership to national organizations as we work together in ministry to Southeast Asians throughout our country. Over the next few months members of UPC will travel to:
- May 29-June 4: Southeast Asian Lay Training Program at Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary. Chanthay Phothivongsay, Tony and Tout Tou Bounthapanya and Lorna Bosavanh will attend. Courses include spiritual formation, church history and leadership skills, all taught by PC(USA) leaders. There will also be a meeting of the National Laotian Presbyterian Council, where Lorna serves as chairwoman and Tout Tou serves as treasurer.
- June 29: National Asian Presbyterian Council meeting in Indianapolis. Tout Tou serves as secretary of the organization.
- June 30 - July 2: Big Tent meeting sponsored by Presbyterian World Mission. Tout Tou will attend.
- July 5-9: Lao Council of Churches (LCC) meeting in Kansas City. Tony and Tout Tou Bounthapanya (and children) and John and Lorna Bosavanh will attend and continue their studies with the LCC Theological School.
- Please pray for all the travelers, for God's will and for smooth travels.
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 Children's Ministries
Update on Vacation Bible School We are still looking for willing and able volunteers for VBS: July 10-14, 5-8 p.m. (Sunday through Thursday) Registration begins May 29. Look for the signup table after worship. We are asking for a nominal donation of $7 per child to cover the VBS T-shirt and some of the craft items. During the Sunday school hour on June 5, we'll have a VBS meeting for all who desire to be a part of this "Shake-em UP Cafe!" Here's what we still need: mixing bowls, wooden spoons, measuring cups, rolling pin, baking sheet, baskets, salad bowls, plastic fruit and vegetables, chef's hats, oven mittens, dish towels, baking peanuts, milk crates, kitchen timers, empty coffee cans, aprons, kitchen utensils
Make a splash! This summer, splash into fun for the whole family! We'll be going to Island Water  Park. If lots of folks sign up, the price is lower, so PLEASE sign up in advance. Saturday, June 25, we will carpool from the church at 10:30 a.m. Please arrive on time so you won't miss out on this fun event. The price is $15.99 per person for those shorter than 48" ... for those taller than 48" the cost is $23.99. The price sounds high, but it's for all day!!! We'll be back at UPC at 5:30 p.m. You will need to bring a sack lunch or money for lunch, towel, water, shoes, a possible change of clothes and lots of sunscreen. Please sign up at our children's table or email Aimee, the Children's Ministry coordinator, at aimee@upcfresno.org --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Sunday School teacher appreciation: June 12 On Sunday, June 12, we'll show some love for those great, committed people who serve in the Sunday School Ministry. Be sure to be there! ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Summer Sunday School Pray about volunteering to teach one Sunday this summer with a friend or spouse. Our summer session starts Sunday, June 19 . We'll be teaching lessons on "The Names of God." Summer Sunday School will be during our 9:30 a.m. worship, after the Children's Moment. Pray and listen to God's call for you to serve our blessed children at UPC!
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Ordination of Justin Spurlock
Saturday, June 4
Members and friends are invited to come to UPC on Saturday, June 4, at 10 a.m. to witness the Ordination of Justin Spurlock as Minister of Word and Sacrament.  Justin worked on the staff of UPC as minister to youth until he left to attend McCormick Seminary in Illinois. Justin has completed his studies and has accepted a call to Columbine United Church in Denver. He will serve as associate pastor with a focus on pastoral ministry to families. We are delighted to host this worship service, when Justin will be ordained by the San Joaquin Presbytery. A luncheon reception afterward will offer an opportunity to greet Justin and his wife, Sarah, offer congratulations and share a memory or two.
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 Upcoming engagement
John Gabel is very happy to announce his engagement to Miss Bounta Mitpasa in a ceremony on June 10 in Vientiane, Laos. John and Ta, as she likes to be called, met while working together on the Living Waters installation in November. Their wedding will take place at UPC shortly after Ta arrives in the United States.
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Soli Deo Gloria in concert: "Hymns for Habitat"
Habitat for Humanity and the UPC Music Ministry have teamed up to create a spectacular event that you WON'T want to miss!
On Sunday, June 5, at 4 p.m., come and enjoy an afternoon of "Hymns for Habitat."
We'll be singing some of the greatest hymns of our faith in various musical styles, featuring our amazing new organist, Cactus Harris, and Fresno's finest women's choral gro up, Soli Deo Gloria. An offering will be taken, and all donations will be given to Habitat for Humanity. There will be a light reception afterward, and we encourage ALL congregation members to attend. It will truly be a glory-filled afternoon, full of joyful praise and worship. It's a perfect arrangement of giving a blessing and receiving a blessing. Mark your calendars now and plan to kick off June in a fabulous way!
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 STARS see the world STARS (Seniors That Are Really Special) will travel across the oceans without leaving the Great Room! Our guide will be UPC member Marcella Oneida, who had the privilege over the span of 12 years to live in Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Indonesia. She has stories to tell of life in these fascinating cultures. Come join us Wednesday, June 15, at 1:30 p.m. for the conversation and enjoy homemade dessert, too!
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Presbyterian Women
Business AND pleasure
University Presbyterian Women will meet Tuesday, June 14, at 11 a.m. (note this special time) in the Great Room. We will have our business meeting, install officers and celebrate our annual Birthday Offering before we share in our salad potluck luncheon. This is an ideal time to bring a friend along with your salad! For more details, contact Ruth Kallenberg or Florence Ulrich.
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Clippers: Sundae go-to-meetin'
Clippers will enjoy gospel music and ice cream sundaes on Friday, June 17.
Meet up at New Covenant Church, 1744 E. Nees (just west of Maple). Plan to be there by 6:15 p.m. for the 7 p.m. concert. Seats fill up early and quickly!!
We'll try to meet on the left side of the sanctuary as you enter. We won't be  able to save seats, but will try to sit close together. An offering will be taken at the concert.
After the show, we'll meet for Make-Your-Own Ice Cream Sundaes back in the UPC , Fireside Room.
RSVP to Barb/Les Lautt, or Bob/Sue Smith.
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 GALS get creative
GALS' Night is going out! Please join us at Color Me Mine in Riverpark to paint some pottery on a special night -- Tuesday, June 21 (instead of a Thursday). Lots of fun and no studio fees!! Arrive about 6:45 p.m. and only pay for what you create! This will be a GALS' Night you should not miss. If you need a ride, call Andrea Smith.
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'All Men' get time off
"All Men", the dinner gathering that meets on the 3rd Thursday of the month, will take a break for the summer. See you all in September.
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"Come, all who are thirsty ..." -- Isaiah 55:1
The Rev. Nikki Collins MacMillan went to seminary, not business school. But for the part-time youth and young-adult pastor at First Presbyterian in Warner Robins, Ga., the past year has felt like a crash course MBA. After she found that she was spending more and more time in coffee shops as a way to meet the community, her aging, dwindling congregation took an EXTRA BOLD step.
pc(usa)coffeeshop
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The "Thank you" Corner
Honoring UPC friends who make a difference
Dear UPC Family,
As this message is being written, our beloved Pastor Chris and his bride, Patty, are enjoying their honeymoon in Napa Valley and the nearby lovely coastal areas of California. Because the June newsletter deadline is here, we cannot delay. We want to immediately take this opportunity to extend to you our heartfelt thanks for your help and participation in the May 14th wedding ceremony and reception at UPC. Literally dozens and dozens of you took part in making this event a celebration of love. We three have been blessed by your eagerness to work with us and be  a part of this very special day. Yes, at UPC "we are family", and this was a family wedding in every sense of the word.
I am sure that you, as we did, felt God's love as we all celebrated together in the sanctuary and on the church lawn. It was a beautiful and unforgettable wedding day. Thank you UPC family.
Rosemary Erickson, Cyndee Gravette, and Susan Quinn .
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Thank you for caring!
From Debby Quintero, UPC's financial secretary:
Our family would like to thank all of you for delivering meals during my time of recovery after my surgery. Thank you, Tedd and Dione Lyons for the Italian casseroles; Ruth and John Kallenberg for the burritos; Sarah Nettels for the rotisserie chicken; Becky Bartsch for the pizza; and Becky and Ronald Souza for the sloppy joes.
I really appreciate all of you at UPC for not just making me feel a welcome part of your staff, but as a member of YOUR family. Each day brings its own set of challenges, but it is because of your heartfelt prayers and support that I continue to make progress.
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Deadline for July newsletter is June 15. Please email articles to Sarah Nettels and Melissa Stephenson or leave written articles in the newsletter mailbox in the UPC office.
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SUMMER WORSHIP
SCHEDULE starts
June 19. Traditional worship is at 9:30 a.m., adult ed. is at 10:45 a.m., and contemporary worship is at 5 p.m.
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