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Point Pleasant
Presbyterian Church
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Weekly News for
Sunday,
February 8, 2015
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 Dear Friends,
If you hear someone described as "being all things to all people," it's usually not a compliment. The label implies the person is spread too thin, is working a little too hard to keep others happy at all costs. If the person is a politician, the charge of "pandering" may be trucked out as well.
Lots of people are surprised to hear that this phrase comes from the Bible. Not only that, Paul uses the phrase to describe himself, with no thought that it could carry a negative judgment: " I have become all things to all people, that I might by all means save some" (1 Corinthians 9:22).Paul's describing a crucial technique of Christian witness, as well as sharing some simple, homespun wisdom about how to relate to others. He's demonstrating the power of coming alongside another person: of listening and celebrating common experience, then building on that foundation a relationship that benefits both. I call that "the power of us." It's more than simple addition (one plus one equals two). There's a multiplication that goes on as well, producing something that's more than the sum of the parts. If two or more people are connecting in a genuine way, transcending their natural shyness to share something meaningful that comes from deep within, then they are enlightened, empowered and equipped to do great things together. It's a formula that works in a marriage, a business partnership, a neighborhood, a church. It's a beautiful thing, the power of us. Our Christian faith calls us to tap into it whenever we can, for the sake of the gospel. Join us in worship this Sunday, and feel the power of us!
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This Sunday
Sunday, February 8 - Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time
1 Corinthians 9:16-23
The Rev. Dr. Carl Wilton preaching: "THE POWER OF US"
9:00 a.m. - Youth Connection
10:00 a.m. - Sunday School Begins in Worship
10:00 a.m - Worship/Chancel Choir/Healing Prayers
4:00 p.m. - Webelos
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Healing Prayers
 During the final hymn of the Sunday service we will offer healing prayers. Those who wish to come forward for prayer with one of the pastors are invited to do so.
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Scout Sunday
This Sunday we observe Scout Sunday, honoring the members and adult leaders of the church's Troop 6, Boy Scouts of America, and Pack 6, Cub Scouts of America. Members of the Troop and Pack will usher during Sunday worship. We're proud of these organizations sponsored by our church, that have been a positive blessing for young people and their families for generations.
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"Never stop praying, especially for others. Always pray by the power of the Spirit. Stay alert and keep praying for God's people." - Ephesians 6:18 (CEV)
The Prayer Family for the week of February 8 is the Findlay family. Let us be prayerfully aware of Bill, Susan, Bill and Lauren, as well as all our members and friends.
Prayer concerns: Karyn Smykowski; Cherisse Petruzzi; Kaitlyn Neimeyer (Grandaughter of Bill and Sara Hoey); Linda Bissey Small (Bob and Jessie's niece); Jean Campbell; Edward DeMartino; Cindy Dunphy; Mary McSweeney.
Long term concerns: Michelle Avary and Chris Loeffler (family of Andrea Purtell); Bill Blauvelt (Jacque Thornton's brother in law); Nicholas Hudnut; Fred Johnson; Karen Larsen; those struggling with addictions and mental illness.
Military: Michael Limpantsis (working for U.S. State Department Security) and those in the military.
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CHECK FOR SNOW CANCELLATIONS - In case of snow, please check the main page of the church website or the voice mail message about worship service times (732-899-0587) for the latest information about cancellations of church activities.
CONFIRMATION CLASS - Our organizational meeting for the Confirmation Class (scheduled for February 22) may seem a long way off, but it would really help us to know NOW who is interested in participating. The reason is that we need to act quickly to reserve places for class members at Camp Johnsonburg's Confirmation Retreat, which takes place from March 6-8. The Camp no longer allows us to simply reserve a certain number of places; we've got to present them with actual names of participants. While we can make a few late adjustments in the roster, if we don't send them a list of names in the near future, the whole group may miss out on this wonderful and memorable experience. Parents: please call or email the church office today if there's a young person in your family, grade 7 or above, who will be part of the Confirmation Class. The Class will meet on Sunday evenings from 5:00-6:00 pm, with Pastor Wilton and Dale Leasure as leaders.
ST. GREGORY'S PANTRY - Just a reminder that donations are always appreciated for the Pantry. They can be brought into the church at anytime. HANDBELL FESTIVAL - The Choral Bells, along with other handbell choirs from the area, will once again be ringing at the 16th Annual Handbell Festival. The festival will take place on Sunday, February 22 at the Presbyterian Church of Toms River at 6:30 p.m. (doors open at 5:45 p.m). NO TICKETS are needed this year - just come! Free admission, free-will offering. You can hear a preview of some of the selections the Choral Bells will be playing at the festival when they ring in Church next Sunday. Please come and support your Choral Bells.  INQUIRERS GROUP EXPLORING CHURCH MEMBERSHIP - An Inquirers Group, for those exploring membership in the church, will take place on Sunday, March 1, 2015. A light lunch will be served in the Fellowship Room beginning around 11:30 p.m. and will continue until 2:30 p.m. Child care can be made available upon prior request. New members will be received in worship on March 8. Please call the Church Office to sign up, or to find out more! |
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Ash Wednesday February 18
 Lent, the period of 40 days leading up to Palm Sunday and Easter, is to be a time of preparation, reflection and renewal. We invite you to begin your Lenten journey by joining with others from the church for the annual Ash Wednesday Soup Supper and Service.
We will gather on Wednesday, February 18 in the CE Annex with a soup supper at 6:00 p.m. Please plan to bring a pot of soup or a loaf of unsliced bread to share. If needed, runners will bring your soup upstairs to the annex before you park. Sign-up sheets for soup donations are located by the Soup Pot in the Narthex; or send an e-mail to Kim in the church office. Please join us as we enter the 40 days of Lent together. Come together as a family; bring your friends. |
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PPPC Women's Retreat - Celebrate the Gifts of Women
 Calling all women of the church to save this date --- March 21st ---- to CELEBRATE THE GIFTS OF WOMEN! Come and lift up the bond between young and old, strangers and friends of all colors and creeds in God's household.
Some of the most beautiful and memorable words in the Bible are spoken by women to women, and passed from generation to generation. When the words and actions of our best selves are passed on, devotion and love bloom! We're grateful to the Brick Presbyterian Church for allowing us to use their new fellowship hall for the retreat, which will take place on March 21st from 8:30 - 3:00. Come for a day of relaxation, exaltation and celebration of the gifts we share! |
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Sunday School Recap
Last week: We stayed on the theme of Jesus the Fisherman as we talked about the time Jesus appeared to some of his disciples at the Sea of Galilee. The disciples weren't catching anything, but Jesus encouraged them to keep going, and suddenly, there were more fish than they could haul in! We talked about things that discourage us from trying, and things that encourage us to keep trying. The older kids designed their own fish to represent us being "caught up in Jesus' net" and the pre-schoolers made angel fish from their hand prints.
This week: This week is our Valentine's Party! We will be doing Valentine's games and crafts, as well as enjoying some Valentine's treats. Hope to see you all this weekend!
See you on Sunday! Peace and Blessings.
Tricia Stoffers
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Dove Choir Last Sunday
Last Sunday we were blessed to have the Dove Choir sing. All children from 3 1/2 to 12 years of age are welcome to come out and learn to sing, read music and perform in a traditional sacred children's choir. The Dove Choir rehearses every Wednesday from 5:00-5:45PM. Please feel free to email rmuraglia@comcast.net with any choir inquiries.
 | | O Brother, Where Art Thou? |
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Friday, February 20, 2015
6 p.m. in the C.E. Annex
Please join us for a night of fellowship and family fun!
All ages are welcome. There will be crafts and activities for the kids before the movie, as well as dinner foods available for purchase. Kids are encouraged to wear their pjs or their favorite Frozen outfits! They can also bring sleeping bags or blankets to curl up on to watch the movie!
Please feel free to contact Tricia Stoffers with any questions: tricia@pointpresbyterian.org
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Point Beach Prep Dental Awareness Month!
Our school had a  visit this week from Dr. Mary Caron-Russo and her Dental Assistants from Dentistry At Sea Girt. They showed the children healthy food and drink choices, taught them how to brush and floss properly, and they even got to meet the Tooth Fairy!
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Act Now While There's Still Room: Point Beach Prep is Registering for the Fall
Point Beach Prep has VERY limited openings for this Fall. Our hours are 8:30am-12pm with Lunch Bunch from 12 noon - 1pm. We have 2, 3, 4 or 5 day programs. Anyone with questions may call 732-701-9900 or email us at pointbeachprep@hotmail.com. Church members receive a 15% tuition discount. Siblings receive a 10% discounted rate.
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Souper Bowl of Caring
Last Sunday, The Youth Connection participated in the 2015 Souperbowl for hunger. With your help, we raised $375.00 for Manna House. Manna House is a not only a shelter for women and children, but a source of community and independence for many single mothers. The Manna House Mission Statement says it's "Transitioning women and their families from homelessness and dependency to self-sufficiency, stability and hope." Thank you so much for your generous giving!
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Youth Connection Italian Dinner
 It's getting to be that time of year again. On Saturday, February 28, from 4:30 to 6:30 pm, the Youth Connection is again offering its traditional Italian Dinner. We will be serving our traditional spaghetti and meatballs as well as penne vodka.
Seating is restaurant-style with Youth Connection members taking orders and serving. No reservations required. Take outs will be offered again this year. Call ahead to 732-581-1554 to place your order.
The free-will offering, after costs of the meal are covered, will be used to fund Youth Connection events. Please plan to spend a great evening out and support the Youth Connection.
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Fundraiser for Youth Connection
Attention church business owners! Do you want to find an inexpensive way to advertise your business, while also helping support mission work? On Sunday February 15th, after the church service, the Youth Connection will be collecting business cards to put on placemats for our Italian dinner. For a donation of $25 per business card, the youth connection will put your business card on the placemats that will be used during the Italian dinner and other future fundraisers.
Each card is guaranteed to be on at least 150 placemats. There are only 28 spots available and the cards will be taken on a first come, first served basis. Any questions? Call Courtney Rzeplinski at 732-552-6737.
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Volunteer Village Continues
2015 Scheduled Groups
Friday, February 6 - Abington Presbyterian Church, Abington, PA
Sunday, March 15 - Lend A Hand, Carlisle, PA
Sunday, March 29 - Webster Presbyterian, Webster, NY
Sunday April 12 - Presbytery of Detroit, MI
Sunday, April 19 - Lend A Hand & Presbytery of Western NY
Sunday, May 17 - Lend A Hand, Carlisle, PA
Sunday, June 14 - Macalester Plymouth United Church, St. Paul, MN
Sunday, June 21 - Langhorne Presbyterian Church, Langhorne, PA
Sunday, July 12 - St. Giles Presbyterian Church, Orange Park, FL
Sunday, July 19 - First Presbyterian Church Yorktown, Yorktown, NY
Sunday, August 2 - Presbyterian Church of Morristown, NJ
Sunday, August 16 - Lend A Hand, Carlisle, PA
Sunday, Sept 20 - Lend A Hand, Carlisle, PA
Sunday, Oct 4 - Presbytery of Detroit, MI
Sunday, Oct 11 - Lend A Hand, Carlisle, PA
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Volunteer Village Needs Shoppers
 Although the Volunteer Village has been on hiatus from hosting groups during the cold winter months, the Sandy Team continues to plan and make arrangements for spring and summer. The Volunteer Village has continued to be successful in its efforts due to the many wonderful volunteers from our congregation. There are many ways to be involved with the Volunteer Village. Opportunities to help include shopping, cooking, welcoming, construction coordination as well as overall hosting responsibilities. We are especially in need of grocery shoppers for the village. Shopping can be done at a time that is convenient for you. There is a guideline/list that is available for the shoppers. The church also has a Costco card available for shoppers to use and reimbursements are promptly made. Shopping teams of 2 or 3 people are ideal. We could use two more teams. For more information please speak with Linda Chase.
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Please Support Jaime Williams in Her Mission to Uganda
 Church member Jaime Williams, a student at the University of Alabama and the daughter of Bill and Terri Williams, plans to travel to Uganda from March 13-22 on a mission trip. She will be working with
Sozo Children, a Christian mission organization that houses 81 orphans in four different homes. While there, she will be helping to care for the children and will share the love of Jesus Christ with them.
In order to make her trip possible, Jaime must raise at least $2,000 in pledges from friends, family and fellow church members. Please pray for Jaime and the rest of the team who will be traveling to Africa with her -- and, if the Lord is leading you to contribute towards her fundraising goal, you may do so by means of the special web page she has set up to receive donations. Thank you!
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The latest edition of the church calendar is available online, on the church's website. 
Sunday, February 8
9:00 a.m. - Youth Connection
10:00 a.m. - Sunday School Begins in Worship
10:00 a.m - Worship/Chancel Choir/Healing Prayers
4:00 p.m. - Webelos
Monday, February 9
10:00 a.m. - Covenant Bible Study, Chittick Lounge
11:30 a.m. - EliSabeth-Verdella Circle
6:15 p.m. - Choral Bells, Fellowship Room
7:00 p.m. - Rescheduled Deacons Meetings, Chittick Lounge
Tuesday, February 10
9:30 a.m. - Busy Hands, Fellowship Room
10:00 a.m. - Eye Openers
1:00 p.m. - Lydia Day Circle
4:30 p.m. - Daisy Girl Scouts
5:30 p.m. - Tiger Den
6:30 p.m. - Wolf and Bear Den
7:00 p.m. - Lydia Evening Circle
Wednesday, February 11
9:00 a.m. - Women's Breakfast at the Rainbow Diner
5:00 p.m. - Dove Choir, Choir Room
6:30 p.m. - Tabitha-Dorcas Circle
7:00 p.m. - Sandy Team
7:30 p.m. - Troop 6, CE Annex
Thursday, February 12
7:30 a.m. - Men's Breakfast at US Subs
4:30 p.m. - Brownie Girl Scouts
7:00 p.m. - Judith Rachel Circle
7:30 p.m. - Chancel Choir Rehearsal
Friday, February 13
6:30 p.m. - Webelos Den
Saturday, February 14
Sunday, February 15
9:00 a.m. - Youth Connection
10:00 a.m. - Sunday School Begins in Worship
10:00 a.m - Worship/Choral Bells
11:00 a.m. - Sandwich Sunday
4:00 p.m. - Webelos
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 Birthday Blessings
Feb 8
Feb 9 Peter Farwell
Feb 10 Kathleen Clayton, Nancy Cook, Betty Schroeder
Feb 11 Ryder Lucich, Samantha Sellmann, Karyn Smykowski, Marion Squilanti-Johnson
Feb 12 Elizabeth Havranek
Feb 13
Feb 14 Billy Fix
Feb 15 Jeannie Fiocchi-Marden, Samuel Muraglia
Feb 16 Julie Budrick, Ryan Lees, Emma Scarpone, Virginia Zimmerman
Feb 17 Sue Hankins, Henry Rice, Morgan Sarbello, Ryan Wittmann
Feb 18 Kylee Kells, Mary Wade
Feb 19 Harvey Mendelsohn, Timothy O'Neill
Feb 20 Jennifer Culos
Feb 21
Feb 22 Muriel Carlson-Simon
Feb 23 Joshua Duffield, Terri Satterlee, Bill Williams
Feb 24 Jamie McGuire, Heidi Steinert
Feb 25 Scott Nelson
Feb 26 Gerald Almazan, Tyler Barbieri, Allan Novick,
Feb 27 Thomas D'Amore, Acacia Evans
Feb 28 Emily Birdsong, Ellen Hank, Eva Pula
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Tuesday, February 17, 2014
5:00 pm - Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper, St. Mary's By the Sea
Adults - $5.00 Children 5 to 12 - $3.00. Children under 5 free.
Wednesday, February 18, 2015
6:00 pm - Ash Wednesday Soup Supper, followed by Communion Service Friday, February 20, 2015 6:00 pm - "Frozen" Family Fun Event, CE Annex Sunday, February 22, 2015
11:00 am - Parents' Confirmation Class Meeting. Saturday, February 28, 2015 4:30 pm - Youth Connection Italian Dinner
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Pastors
The Rev. Carl Wilton, Ph.D., Pastor
The Rev. Linda Chase, Associate Pastor
Office Staff
Kim Gaydos, Church Secretary
Donna Ferry, Financial Secretary
Dee D'Amore, Volunteer Village Bookkeeper
Music Staff
Sara Hoey, Organist
William Shoppell, Chancel Choir and Choral Bells Director
Rebecca Muraglia, Acting Dove Choir Director
Christian Education Staff
Courtney Rzeplinski, Youth Connection Coordinator
Tricia Stoffers, Sunday School Coordinator
Devlin House, Point Beach Prep Preschool Director
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