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A LO N G T H E WAYThe Newsletter of Sunnyvale Presbyterian Church • January 2017
A Christian Response
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We will go deeper in faith.We will lift up the truth.We will reject
White Nationalism.We will love our neighbors
by protecting them from hate speech and attacks.
We will welcome the stranger, as our scriptures instruct.
We will oppose and expose racial profiling in policing.
We will defend religious liberty.
We will work to end the misogyny that enables rape culture.
We will protest with our best values.
We will listen.
We invite you to join Jim Wallis in making these ten commitments laid out in his article in the online
Sojourners magazine. These are a starting point in response to the deep divide in our country that was revealed at new levels after the November election.
In the last chapter of his most recent book, America’s Original Sin—Racism, White Privilege, and the Bridge to a New America, Wallis cites
Bridge to a New America with Jim WallisMonday, January 30, at 7:30 PM
This event is free and open to the public. For space planning purposes, please pre-register on the church website www.svpc.us/JimWallis. Reception and book signing immediately following; books will be available for purchase or may be purchased prior to the event.
www.svpc.us/JimWallis
Jim Wallis is president and founder of Sojourners, and editor-in-chief of Sojourners magazine—with a combined readership of more than a quarter million people. He is a New York Times best-selling author and frequent speaker in the U.S. and abroad. Wallis has had columns appear in the
New York Times, Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, and Boston Globe. He frequently appears on radio and television as a commentator on CNN, MSNBC, FOX—on shows such as Meet the Press, Hardball, the Daily Show, the O’Reilly Factor—and on National Public Radio. In 1979, Time magazine named Wallis one of the “50 Faces for America’s Future.” Wallis has also served as spiritual advisor to President Barack Obama.
Founded by Jim Wallis, Sojourners’ mission is “to
articulate the biblical call to social justice, to inspire
hope and build a movement to transform
individuals, communities, the church, and the world.”
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the title of Martin Luther King, Jr.’s final book, Where Do We Go from Here: Chaos or Community?
We believe the answer is community and we’re bringing Jim Wallis to speak on our campus because we believe he is the best person to help us explore the implications of division and challenge us to live into it. Please make it a priority to come hear him on January 30, 2017, in our sanctuary.
Together let’s be a community that says, “We will!”
When I look ahead for Sunnyvale Presbyterian Church, I can’t but wonder about the foundations that are being laid for God’s mission to the Santa Clara Valley. I see evidence of our growing unity as a congrega-tion as we all worship in the Sanctuary. I see our staff and church leaders collaborating on vision and programs. I see new energy for mission emerging. Our youth and children’s programs are thriving ministries. God has
blessed us and will continue to lead us into a future we cannot even begin to imagine.
But one thing I can imagine—a church that boldly follows Jesus into a world that needs transforma-tion. We are Christ’s hands and feet, Christ’s voice and presence, and Christ’s ambassadors of mercy and grace.
Happy New Year!
Many of us find ourselves longing for the new oppor-tunities that the new year boasts. Will the Warriors take the title this year? Other questions include the timing of things. When will our new Senior Pastor come? And perhaps the deepest longing is for the world to be set right. Are we moving toward a more just society and what will God require of us to facilitate this change?
Immediately on the horizon is our upcoming discussion on justice and racism facilitated by world-renowned church leader, Jim Wallis, of Sojourners. This will be a challenging conversation for all of us as we come to terms with how all us judge people based on culture, skin color, and economic status. Will our response be marked by cou-rageous honesty and resolve as we trust the Spirit to show us new ways of being God’s light in the world?
The View From Hereby Rev. Debbie Whaley
“Are we moving toward a more just society and what will God require of us to facilitate this change?”
Go green!Go Green! Consider joining the nearly 420 individuals and families that now receive their newsletter electroni-cally. The online edition arrives sooner, contains the same articles plus vivid full-color photos and live links, and can be easily shared with family and friends, all while helping reduce our carbon footprint! Opt-in by sending an e-mail to [email protected] with your request.
January1 Family Worship No Church School. Child care available for
children 6 months through kindergarten. Food Drive for those in our community served by
Sunnyvale Community Services2 Church office closed PELC Open House, 6–8 PM3 Special Needs Support Group, 9:30–10:30 AM,
Coleman Room Balance for Living exercise classes resume4 Just Among Moms (JAM), 9:30 AM, Coleman Room FLASH, 6–7:45 PM, Gym CLUE, 7–8:45 PM, Youth Room6 PELC Registration for the 2017–2018 school year
open to the public Gretchen Hull Piano Recital, 7 PM, Sanctuary7 GriefShare, 9 AM–12:30 PM, Fireside Room The Music School 40th Anniversary Celebration,
10 AM8 What Does the Bible Say about Justice?, Class #1,
11:30 AM, Fellowship Hall Epiphany Tea and Taizé Service, 2–4 PM, Stone
Church of Willow Glen in San Jose Youth & Their Families Winter Party, Gym,
6:15–8 PM, RSVP to [email protected] Deadline for January newsletter articles11 FLASH, 6–7:45 PM, Gym CLUE, 7–8:45 PM, Youth Room12 Spice Potluck Dinner, 6:30 PM, Libby Boatwright’s
home in Mountain View14 GriefShare, 9 AM–12:30 PM, Fireside Room
January CalendarA quick look at what’s happening at SVPC this month...
Newsletter DeadlinesThe newsletter deadline is Monday, January 9 for the February edition. Articles may be up to 120 words in length. Send your article to [email protected], and, if possible, include a photo with your article.
15 What Does the Bible Say about Justice?, Class #2, 11:30 AM, Fellowship Hall
18 Just Among Moms (JAM), 9:30 AM, Coleman Room FLASH, 6–7:45 PM, Gym CLUE, 7–8:45 PM, Youth Room19 Special Needs Support Group, 7–8:30 PM,
Fireside Room20 All-Presbytery Senior High Superhero Super Bowl,
7 PM–midnight, Gym, [email protected] GriefShare, 9 AM–12:30 PM, Fireside Room Teddy Bear Concert, 11:15 AM, Sanctuary22 What Does the Bible Say about Justice?, Class #3,
11:30 AM, Fellowship Hall Safe Church Training, 11:30 AM, Fireside Room25 FLASH, 6–7:45 PM, Gym CLUE, 7–8:45 PM, Youth Room27 Inter-Generational Movie Night, 6:30 PM,
Fellowship Hall 27–29 Men’s Retreat28 GriefShare, 9 AM–12:30 PM, Fireside Room29 Communion Class for 1st–6th grade FLASH AM, 10–11 AM, Gym What Does the Bible Say about Justice?, Class #4,
11:30 AM, Fellowship Hall30 Bridge to a New America with Jim Wallis, 7:30 PM,
Sanctuary. Book signing to follow in the gym.
Looking AheadMarch 1 Ash WednesdayMarch 3–5 Women’s Retreat
Where is that?
Coleman Room (Bldg 700)
Fellowship Hall (Bldg 300)
Fireside Room (Bldg 200)
Gym, Phoenix Center (Bldg 700)
Sanctuary (Bldg 100) Soulé Hall (Room 501,
Bldg 500)Youth Room, Phoenix
Center (Bldg 700)
Epiphany Tea and Taizé ServiceSunday, January 8, 2–4 PM, Stone Church of Willow Glen in San Jose
The women of Sunnyvale Presbyterian Church are invited to an Epiphany Tea and candlelight Taizé service. The Presbyterian Women of the Presbytery of San Jose (PWP) are hosting this Winter Gathering with the theme “Seeking the Light.” For questions contact Helen Conklin at 408-867-5337 or Stone Church at 408-269-1593. RSVP for this gathering to PWP Moderator Rosaleen Zisch at [email protected]. If you wish to carpool to Stone Church, contact Miriam Kishi at [email protected] or 408-246-4664.
What Does the Bible Say about Justice? Sundays, January 8, 15, 22 and 29, 11:30 AM–12:30 PM, Fellowship Hall
We will offer an overview of the concept of justice in the Bible, drawing from both the Old and New Testaments. Classes will include:
The Creation and the •FallThe Establishment of the •LawThe Great interpretation •of the law by JesusPaul’s view of the •relation between Law and Grace
This class will be taught by Dr. Bill Prior, retired professor at Santa Clara University, and the Rev. Debbie Whaley.
Rooted in Christ...Sunnyvale Presbyterian offers everyone an opportunity to connect with the church community.
PWP Winter Gathering January 8 “Seeking the Light”
!!Presbyterian Women of San Jose Presbytery Invite You
to celebrate with us at our Annual Tea and Candlelight Taize Worship Service
in chanted songin prayer and meditation
in scripture and seasonal readings!Sunday, January 8, 2017 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM Stone Church of Willow Glen Lincoln at Clark Ave. in San Jose RSVP [email protected] !!!Epiphany is the third season of the church year. The word “epiphany” means “making God manifest”. It marks the manifestation of Jesus to the Gentiles. It reminds us that while Jesus was a Jew and spoke largely to Jewish crowds during his life on Earth, he also spoke to non-Jews. It was made very clear to the Apostles after the crucifixion that they were to spread the Word to all, Jewish or otherwise. This season begins on the Day of the Epiphany and lasts until Ash Wednesday at the beginning of Lent. The liturgical color of green is used on vestments, representing the green things of God’s earth and referring to growth of the spirit of God within us in response to His coming at Christmas.
Inter-Generational Movie NightFriday, January 27, 6:30 PM, Fellowship Hall
Everyone age 12 and up is invited for pizza and the movie, 40 Nights, Faith vs. Fear. This movie focuses on Jesus’ temp-tations, reflecting back on His life. For child care, make your reservation by sending a message to [email protected] by January 20.
This event is sponsored by Presbyterian Women (PW) whose 2017 study is “Who Is Jesus?” 40 Nights leads to thoughts on faith versus fear, which is pertinent to the present time. Those who wish can stay for a brief discussion with the Rev. Steve Whitney.
Donations of $1 for the movie and $5 for pizza will go to PW’s Mission Pledge. Come learn what a nation full of Presbyterian women can do! Spice Potluck
DinnerThursday, January 12, 6:30 PM
Our 50s+ Singles Group, Spice, will share a potluck dinner at Libby Boatwright’s home in Mountain View. Join us and enjoy a pleasant meal with the group. This is a wonderful way to make new friends and enjoy an evening out. For more in-formation contact Melanie Prolo at 408-394-9311 or [email protected].
Reflections from Fall Frenzy (Senior High Retreat Weekend)Jennifer Britton, Youth Advisor and Welcome and Hospitality Elder
Fall Frenzy this year expanded my body, mind and spirit in a very short time. My body was reminded of how useful it is to care for it in case, well, you take a “leap of faith” from a platform 30 feet in the air over to a trapeze bar. Talk about a way to get a spiritual concept embodied, but it was true, I was “caught” and I was safe the whole time.
My mind expanded as I learned that the weekend’s theme “#NoFilter” was not only already a “thing” out there in cyber world, but the full extent of its meaning was brought home to me by the four-part skit by the Mt. Hermon staff and of course the students themselves.
After I learned its literal meaning and applications, then it was time for the spiritual application. Now that I learned that filters
are ways to modify, change, enhance or tweak things, I was able to see that in fact I do have some of my very own filters (I kept confusing them with masks) and that as much as I strive for a transparent life, I still have plenty of room for growth to live into—the character-istics that Paul writes in the Ephesians 4 verses that we were digesting all weekend: to put off your old self and to put on the new self and to be kind and compassionate to one another.
It was a sacred honor to witness the youth in our church at Fall Frenzy as they wrestled with the notion of dropping filters and picking up the more challenging path of living a life with Jesus amidst the culture that is embedded in filters. What I know from this witnessing is there is definitive hope that these students and many who attend there each fall will be the ambassadors of this kind of no-filter life. A more full, no-filtered life is my latest and greatest leap of faith.
Men’s RetreatJanuary 27–29, Presentation Center, Los Gatos
Men of the church community—join us for the Men’s Retreat. We will be led by the Rev. Mark Stryker, currently an associate pastor at First Presbyterian Church of Berkeley. The retreat is a chance to bond with one another as we renew our faith and seek our Lord together. For more informa-tion or to volunteer to help, contact Scotty VanSickle or Bob Stoddard at [email protected].
Register now at www.svpc.us/mens_retreat
Women’s Retreat—Transformation: the Work of God in our MidstMarch 3–5, Presentation Center, Los Gatos
Join us for a weekend of fun, fellowship and spiritual growth in the midst of God’s beauty in the Los Gatos hills. Our speaker, the Rev. Mary Ellen Azada, will guide us as we allow God to transform our lives, both personally and within our community. Afternoon free time activities give us the chance to pull away from the stresses of everyday life and connect/reconnect with other women of the church. The Rev. Azada is the Executive Director of Call Discernment at Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, CA, and has more than two decades of experience serving in ministry and pastoral roles. For questions, contact Julie Clinton at [email protected].
Register now through February 19 at www.svpc.us/womens_retreat
From Generation toGeneration
Sunday, October 30Celebrating 60 years in community!
“Then we your people, the sheep of your pasture,will thank you forever and ever, praising your greatness
from Generation toGeneration. —Psalm 79:13
“Then we your people, the sheep of your pasture, will thank you forever and ever, praising your greatness from generation to generation.” —Psalm 79:13
Financial Update through NovemberTavie Armfield, Church Comptroller
We are two-thirds through our fiscal year, which began in April. These positive results come from a faithful congrega-tion that gives more than they have committed. Thank you! We have had lower expenses than planned due to lower staff costs and also careful spending. We are ever grateful for your faithfulness to this church.
2017 Stewardship Campaign UpdateTavie Armfield, Church Comptroller
How are we doing compared to last year?
2016 total 2017 to dateCommitment cards returned: 330 Commitment cards returned: 281Amount committed: $1,396,357 Amount committed: $1,355,952
Reaching Out In Love.Christ commands us to love one another as He loves us. Here’s how.
$1,251k Income-$1,130k Expenses
$ 121k Surplus
Gretchen Hull Piano RecitalJanuary 6, 7 PM, Sanctuary
Gretchen Hull, an exciting young pianist based in Philadelphia, will present a piano recital. Her program will include music by Chopin, Ravel, Messiaen, Mozart, and several 20th-century Norwegian composers. A native of western upstate New York, Gretchen is currently a doctoral fellow in piano performance at Temple University perform-ing here on a West-Coast concert tour.
Invite your friends and family to this free recital and reception following in Fellowship Hall. For more infor-mation visit her website gretchenhullpiano.net, or contact Valerie Sterk ([email protected]). Gretchen is the daughter of Barbara Hull, the amazing trumpeter who often plays for our worship services and choir concerts.
Special Needs Ministry Support GroupTuesday, January 3, 9:30 AM, Coleman Room Thursday, January 19, 7 PM, Fireside Room
The Special Needs Ministry hosts a monthly Morning Coffee and Evening Support Group to offer a safe, enriching place for parents of children with special needs. Come learn about resources, share joys and frustrations, ask questions, or just listen about others’ journeys. Join Sara Grignon and Julie Clinton the first Tuesday of the month from 9:30–10:30 AM, or the third Thursday of the month from 7–8:30 PM. For questions contact Special Needs Coordinator Sara Grignon at [email protected].
Presbyterian Early Learning Center (PELC) NewsGrace Randle, Executive Director
Last fall PELC students had numerous experiences of giving. When the Rotating Shelter guests were on campus different classes provided decorated lunch bags, baggies filled with trail mix, brownies and muffins. PELC teachers provided gift cards to Starbucks and homemade muffins. Our children not only participated, but watched their teachers participate as well.
Then our children collected 285 boxes of cereal for Sunnyvale Community Services. Ms. Debbie filled her car twice because there were so many boxes! The children were quite excited to provide cereal for so many families. In addition to collecting cereal our children prepared baggies of utensils to accompany meals that are handed out to those in need.
We have had outstanding examples of sharing and it was a joy to see our children participating so happily!
Sunnyvale Winter Shelter is OpenThe Cold Weather Shelter Program is open through March 2017. The program is funded by the County of Santa Clara and is operated by HomeFirst. The shelter is located at 999 Hamlin Court, Sunnyvale. Volunteering is one way you can help end homelessness in our community. HomeFirst works with individuals and groups. You can donate your time at one of their local shelters, family sites, or kitchens. Volunteers must be thirteen years or older. Visit www.homefirstscc.org to contact a volunteer coordina-tor and learn about service opportunities.
Parents—Ready for a Date Night?Parent’s Night Out (PNO) is a Christian cooperative child care program at Sunnyvale Presbyterian Church. PNO is administered and staffed by participating couples, and overseen by the Director of Family Ministries. The program runs on a 16-week trimester basis. Families are expected to commit to the entire trimester. PNO meets Saturdays from 5:30–8:30 PM.
During the three-hour program, children enjoy age-appro-priate activities, a snack, and a movie. Two couples provide supervision each week. Couples work on a rotating, regularly scheduled basis. When it is not your turn to supervise children, you are free to go out and spend time together as a couple! Families of all types and sizes are welcome. Children at least 6 months old are welcome to participate.
Currently we have room on our waiting list. If you would like more information about PNO or would like to be added to our waiting list, please contact Michelle Schmidt at [email protected] or Kristin Matthews at [email protected].
GriefShareSaturdays, January 7, 14, 21, and 28, 9 AM–12:30 PM, Fireside Room
Please join us for this four-week class led by the Rev. Dr. Libby Boatwright. GriefShare is a video seminar featuring speakers combined with small group discussion led by trained facilitators. Each session allows participants to talk about how they are dealing with the death of a loved one. The cost is $15 for the workbook; snacks and lunch are provided. To register, contact Jean Ranck at [email protected] or 408-739-1892.
Find “Balance for Living” for Your New YearInstructor Jackie Hirsch is back and ready for a new session beginning January 3. Choose from three kinds of classes (each 1¼ hour) including Body by Jackie on Tuesdays and Fridays at 8:30 AM (muscle condition-ing, stretching, abdominal and back strengthening with emphasis on weights), and Pilates on Thursdays at 10:30 AM (classic Pilates). Come once, twice or three times a week, paying $5/session. Registration forms are available at church kiosks and on the website. Jackie can help you get the exercise you need while listening to your body—put-ting balance in your life!
The Music School 40th Anniversary CelebrationSaturday, January 7, 10 AM
The Music School is hosting an exciting event celebrating its 40th anniversary. There will be food, fun, and a free workshop making music together. We hope to see you there!
Teddy Bear ConcertSaturday, January 21, 11:15 AM, Sanctuary
Join us for our annual Teddy Bear Concert and Sing-a-long! We’ll be singing classics and some of our faculty will perform as well. Don’t forget to bring your stuffed animals!
Open EnrollmentClasses and lessons for this academic year are still open to new enrollments. Check out our website www.themusicschool.org or call us at 408-739-9248 and we’d be happy to help you start.
Just Among Moms (JAM)—Join us for Relaxation and Respite1st and 3rd Wednesdays of the month, 9:30–11:30 AM, Coleman Room
Join other moms (of all ages) as we meet together twice a month. Each meeting kicks off with coffee and tea, a hot potluck brunch and general fellowship. Then we dive into the weekly topic, which ranges from journal-ing a devotional to speakers sharing about setting personal boundaries in your life, or something similar that will encourage you to think outside your role as a mother and dig deeper into discovering you! Child care is available for a small fee. Contact Michelle Schmidt for more information ([email protected]).
Sunnyvale Presbyterian Church728 West Fremont Avenue, Sunnyvale, CA 94087
(408) 739-9248
In Our Thoughts and Prayers... For the loss of loved ones: Helen Conklin’s sister-in-law
(Rosemary Wickstrom); Nancy Ewing’s father (Paul Ewing); Homer Fletcher’s brother (Floyd Fletcher); Maritza Lam’s uncle (Mr. Ngai); Todd Myers mother (Rosalie Myers); the families of Erna Jackman and Laura Puterbaugh
For cancer treatment: Barbara Gamberg; Bob Meyers; Sally Morefield; Nancy Norris
For surgery recovery: Teri Archer; Randy Fletcher; Bev Lenihan
In Celebration... We celebrate the baptism of Ryder Barrett Saik, son of Debbie and Barry Saik, on Christmas day; the birth of Adelyn “Addy” Grace Sudenrecht, first great-grandchild of Nancy Norris, and we celebrate the birth of baby Jesus!
Email NewslettersDo you receive the Children’s or Youth email newsletters each week? This is the best way to stay current with what is happening in Children’s and Youth Ministries. To be added to the Children’s mailing list contact Kristin at [email protected]. To be added to the Youth Ministry mailing list contact [email protected].
Other SVPC email newsletters include the weekly Worship Focus and SVPC Music Events. You may opt-in to any of these newsletters from the website, www.svpc.us; sign up by selecting JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST at the top of any page.
E-mail — [email protected]
Like us on Facebook: SVPC — facebook.com/SunnyvalePres Youth — facebook.com/SVPCYFM Children’s — facebook.com/SVPCMWCJAM— facebook.com/groups/JAMSunnyvale
Communion Class for 1st–6th GradersSunday, January 29, 10–11 AM & 5:15–6 PM
In lieu of Church School on January 29, we will be having a Communion class for all 1st through 6th graders. During this class, students will learn through stories and hands-on experience what the Bible says about communion, and why it is an important part of our faith. Each student will have a chance to bake their own mini loaf of communion bread to take home. If you have any questions do not hesitate to contact Carol Heath, Director of Family Ministries.
Thanks for saving paper and postage by reading this online!
728 West Fremont Ave., Sunnyvale, CA 94087
