JANUARY, 2008

THE MESSENGER

GREENFIELD AVENUE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

1455 s. 97^th St., West Allis, WI 53214

Church Office 414-453-3710

www.gapc-usa.com gapc@execpc.com

Sunday Worship Schedule - January 6 - February 3, 2008

Worship Schedule

January 6, 2008 - February 3, 2008

Sun Jan 6 - 9:30 AM Epiphany, & Communion

First Reading: Isaiah 60:1-6

Second Reading: Matthew 2:1-12

Sermon: “Let’s Have an Epiphany!”

Liturgist: Pat Sczypiorski

Children’s Message: Pastor Kevin

Ushers: Gail Kloes, Jenny Lefevre, L & P Anderson

Servers: Barb B., Judy D, Sally T & Kay Ulma

Sun Jan 13 - 9:30 AM - Baptism of the Lord, &

it’s “Penny Sunday”; Ordination/Installation

of our new church officers in the “Class of 2010”

First Reading: Matthew 3:13-17

Second Reading: Acts 10:34-43

Sermon: “Chosen as Witnesses - In a Nutshell”

Liturgist/Children’s Message: Sue Smith

Ushers: L & G Smith, Eric & Matthew Arenz

Sun Jan 20 - 9:30 AM

First Reading: John 1:29 - 42

Second Reading: Isaiah 49:1-7

Sermon: “To the End of the Earth ”

Liturgist /Children’s Message: Sandy Reichert

Ushers: Libbie Jansen; JJ, Derek & Kaitlyn Saugstad

Sun Jan 27 9:30 AM It’s’ “Penny Sunday”

First Reading: Matthew 4:12-23

Second Reading: 1^st Corinthians 1:10-18

Sermon: “Foolish Power!”

Liturgist/Children’s Message: Barb Brunett

Ushers: T Liempeck, J& J Dickson & Kevin Kadunc

Sun Feb 3 - 9:30 AM Transfiguration of the

Lord, & Communion worship

First Reading: Matthew 17:1-9

Second Reading: 2^nd Peter 1:16-21

Sermon: “You Will Do Well to Be Attentive”

Liturgist: Ed Griffith

Children’s Message: Pastor Kevin

Ushers: The Stocks, Tom Liempeck, Marv Saugstad

ANNUAL CONGREGATIONAL MEETING & POT LUCK

is scheduled to take place on Sunday, January 27. The Pot Luck begins at 11:45 AM, & you’re asked to bring an entrée casserole, salad or dessert to pass, plus your own tableware (it saves SOOO much time, during clean-up). The food is always out of this world (you might even say it’s “heavenly” ), & there’s always great fellowship. The annual meeting is VERY important. We review events of 2007, elect four “at large” members of the congregation to serve on the Nominating Committee, & vote on several other items. We need LOTS of folks to be present! See you there!

DEADLINE for the ANNUAL REPORT articles is SUNDAY, JANUARY 13! (If you’re able to get your articles in even sooner, it will be hugely appreciated!) We MUST have the report printed by Sunday, Jan. 20, so folks can pick it up that day to read during the week prior to the meeting. Thank you, in advance, for your help! (TWO of the committee chairpersons have already submitted their reports! They get shiny gold stars & have already received their “hearty handclasp”of appreciation!)

YOU’RE INVITED!!!

Peter Jansen had enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, & departs for basic training on Monday, January 7. We’ll have a VERY special send-off for Peter during worship on Sunday, January 6. Then, following worship, you’re invited to enjoy some cake a beverages in Jack Reichert Hall (before we get on to the serious business of “Un-Hanging the Greens” ) Join us as we wish him well! Peter has been a treasured member of the church family since his birth just a bit over 20 years ago, & we want him to know just how VERY important he is to us!

FROM PASTOR KEVIN –

Happy New Year, Beloved!

I’m thinking of that marvelous passage from Lamentations that inspired the hymn: “Great is Thy Faithfulness.”

Chapter 3, Verse 22: “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, God’s mercies never come to an end - they are new every morning”

It is a new year, and a season of new beginnings. One of the great things about the Christian life is we don’t have to be trapped by the negative things of the past, we are free to embrace new life, any and every time we need to.

I actually am feeling more positive about New Years Resolutions these days.

After all these years, I finally have shed most of those unwanted pounds. Miracles do still happen!?!?!?!!!

So this year’s resolution is a two-parter - and it may seem a little paradoxical. I intend to devote more time and energy to the pursuit of spiritual matters - take more care of the soul - and as a result - plan on worrying much less!!!

It seems to me that Jesus had something to say about that - Matthew 7: 33 & 34.

If you’d like to join me in said NYR, you are most welcome!!! It just seems to me that more faith and less worry is a win-win proposition!

I’m hoping to find new ways to share this spiritual journey with you, and I’m surely open to your ideas. Let’s visit. We’ll dream together.

In the meantime, enjoy this fantastic faith family of ours, and have a most spectacular 2008.

In Christ’s Love

Pastor Kev

PER CAPITA The Per Capita Assessment for 2008 is $25.83 per member of the church. Of that amount, $5.79 goes to the General Assembly; $4.69 goes to Synod; & $15.35 goes to our Presbytery of Milwaukee.

Lots of folks don’t realize just what “per capita” is, or why it is necessary for them to pay it. Simply put, per capita is an administrative fee which we MUST remit to presbytery every year. Much of it goes to pay for “behind the scenes” work of the presbytery, synod, & General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)

We know. You’re wondering: “Okay, so what does THAT mean?” The answer: per capita monies go toward Christian Education curriculum development; church revitalization; Synod School; church educator & clergy training, & many, many other programs of similar nature which are essential for the local church to fulfill its mission.

Of course, your payment of per capita also helps the overall financial position of our church. When an active member does NOT pay her or his per capita it must be taken from the general budget, & paid to presbytery, for it is not an “optional” payment; it is a REQUIRED payment. A “Per Capita” envelope is included in your 2007 offering envelopes; it’s the very first one, blue in color. Please consider paying your per capita amount as soon as possible -- & our thanks, to those who have already paid it!

OFFERING ENVELOPES for 2008 are now available on the table in the narthex. Many of our folks picked theirs up on Dec. 23 or Dec. 24 -- it you haven’t yet done so, be sure to get them as soon as you can. It REALLY helps keep our postage costs down, if we don’t have to mail them out! (And if a friend or relative you’ll be seeing, soon, hasn’t taken their envelopes yet consider bringing them

to that person. That’s helpful, also!) Thanks!

NEWS ABOUT SPECIAL PEOPLE

Lin Bradley, trying to regain strength as she continues 3 times/week kidney dialysis.

She’s been able to be back in worship with us several times;

may she receive a “new” kidney, soon.

Toni Jansen, who was hospitalized with a fever & possible infection. She’s now back in worship with us, but can always use additional prayers.

The Doty family, on the Dec. 8 death of John’s grand-mother.

Deanna DeTroye-Brown, who was hospitalized with puzzling symptoms. She’s now at home.

Joanne Jakubowski, looking forward to replacement of her left knee early this month.

Lorraine Beining, who was with us in worship on Christmas Eve, but faces health challenges.

Marj Tarvid, out of the hospital following hip surgery, undergoing rehab work in a nursing home.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

January 5 - J T Gall

6 - Leah Karrels

9 - Rob Martin

12 - Kelley Kadunc

20 - Terri Sczypiorski

22- Lori Johnson & Rachel

Hendry

24 - Terry Arenz

25 - Jean Ann Toepfer & Dan

Shudy

27 - Deanna DeTroye-Brown

30 - Tyler Smith, Bill Weber &

Peter Zoeller

31 - Jean Kern, Emma Weinel

& Frances Trzcinski

Feb 1 - Tina Schultheiss

2 - Stu Lefevre & Lisa Pope

3 - Ann Liempeck

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY

January 2 - Terri & Pat

Sczypiorski

8 - Joyce & Maynard Saugstad 28 - Anne & Jeff Weber

30 - Bud & Barb Brunett

(54 years!)

Have you spoken to JR Saugstad about Miller Park dates? We have a listing, & are doing our best to plan well in advance as we choose the one which will work best for us. JR will be glad to give you a sheet to look over & you can fill it out & put it in his mailbox

IN APPRECIATION - THANKS TO Donna & Marv Saugstad for two, much needed, gifts: The new white plastic-top tables which are much lighter for moving & setting up, & a new 8 HP snow blower. With all the heavy snow storms we have been having, the blower has been a life saver.

DIRECTORY CORRECTIONS

Helen Groninger

3796 County Line Rd.

Colgate, WI 53017

Erick Leintz

1260 Greenway Terrace # 4

Brookfield, WI 53005

A VERY SPECIAL “THANK YOU” to ALL who helped with Ye Olde Tyme Christmasse Faire on December 8! What wonderful support we received! The meal was delicious; the bakery & wassail sales were exceptional; the musicians, servers, costume designers well, EVERYONE who helped did a FANTASTIC job! We can hardly wait to do it again next year! And to the good folks who donated items for our super-colossal SILENT AUCTION -- you’re SO GENEROUS! It was a splendid “happening”, indeed; (there are LOTS of PICTURES for you to enjoy, in the narthex).

The profit realized was over $1,600, (& it’s possible a bit more is left to come in!)

CONFIDENTIAL TO “LUNA LIZARD” There are some friends here who would really love to hear from you

THANKS A BUNCH TO:

Melissa Gall, who told the Youth & Adult Sunday School Classes about her experiences at last July’s Triennium, on December 9. It was super!

and ...

Laurie Kadunc, who does such a beautiful job decorating the bulletin board opposite the front doors. It’s always so eye-catching & informative!

and ...

Donna & Marv Saugstad, for hosting the delightful open house following Christmas Eve worship.

and ...

Kathy Doty, the Chancel Choir, the Handbell Choir, the Bethlehem Stars & all who contributed special music during the Advent/Christmas/

Epiphany season. You’re too numerous to name (& we might forget someone, which would never do ) but YOU know who you are, as does your grateful congregation!

and ...

Our outgoing church officers, for their dedication & hard work as church officers.

and ...

Sheri Masiakowski, for sharing her musical talents so generously with us. You’ll always be “one of the family”, Sheri!

and ...

Everyone who made our Dec. 24 services so magical.

and ...

Pastor Kevin & Sally, whose loving care of the folks in the congregation is appreciated more than they can know.

and ...

All who purchased ornaments for the Habitat for Humanity tree, through their generous donations to that organization. Please note that Habit Cards are now available. If you made a Habitat donation in honor of a loved one, but did not receive a CARD to send the person, please speak with Sue Smith in the church office; she’ll see to it that you receive a donation card.

and ...

Mike Schmeling, who volunteers as our parking lot “plower”, for the excellent job he’s done, removing LOTS of snow in December! He worked MANY hours, (& winter has barely begun!) Mike, you are SOOOOO appreciated!

and ...

Those who contributed to the Christ Church Christmas Toy Store.

and ...

The Tarvids, who opened their home for the Music Department holiday party on Dec. 28.

and ...

Ruth Lefevre, our “attendance keeper”, who keeps things up-to-date.

and ...

Flower Lady Laurie Karrels,

who does such splendid work with ALL our flower tributes!

and ...

Everyone who took part in the Youth Group Retreat.

and ...

Our dedicated office helpers, Gail & Dick Kloes.

GREETERS:

Jan 6 - Ruth & Stu Lefevre; Jan 13 - Bill & Joanne Haschker; Jan 20 - Peg & Lee Larson; Jan 27 - Sandy Reichert; Feb 3 - Jean Kern

CALENDARS for 2008 are here, being sold by the Youth Group for the bargain price of only $6! They’re lovely, & contain inspirational words of scripture.

There’s a limited number available, so don’t delay! Get yours TODAY!

ORDINATION & INSTALLATION

OF OUR NEW DEACONS & ELDERS (in the “Class of 2010”) will take place during worship on SUNDAY, JANUARY 13. We’ll also recognize our “outgoing” deacons & elders (you may be aware that some of the deacons are coming right back ON the Deacon’s Board )

Do plan to be present so you can let these wonderful folks know how much the church family appreciates their dedication & willingness to serve!

Special thanks to our custodial volunteers for December. Dusting, vacuuming, mopping & cleaning were: Brunetts, Dicksons, the Bill Burkes, Lori Johnson, Kay Ulma, Hagens, Becky Schmeling, & Griffiths.

NEW SANCTUARY SEATING has been ordered! We’re expecting it at the beginning of March! That’s right, the new seats will be here in time for Easter! A design board will be up in the narthex after Christmas, to give you an idea of what’s coming.

In the meantime, we need to find homes for our old pews. We will sell them to anyone who’s interested for $100 each. Church members will have first priority. The proceeds will go towards the new seating. The pews are 11 feet long, & we can arrange delivery for you if necessary. Contact Kerstin Lefevre (414) 423-8698, or Pastor Kevin.

Opportunities Abound for folks willing to help clean the church! There are MANY openings & your assistance with this task is an excellent form of stewardship! There’s a sign-up sheet at the rear of the sanctuary. Try it & see! It’s not too difficult; we provide all necessary supplies, & if you sign up as teams, the work goes VERY quickly (with fellowship opportunities, as well!) The church looks WONDERFUL, since this program was initiated (can you believe it’s been a whole year?) Don’t miss out! Choose your dates TODAY!

Adult Discussion Group

January 6 - Adult classes “Un-Hang the Greens” (but go wish Peter Jansen well,

in Jack Reichert Hall, first.)

January 13 - Cruise the Caribbean, Panama Canal, Costa Rica & Mexico as we view a DVD of Sue & Larry Smith’s trip last May.

January 20 - John Gamache tells us everything you always wanted to know about funerals (but were afraid to ask).

January 27 - You’ll want to be sure to come to this class, held just prior to the Annual Meeting’s Pot Luck Luncheon.

CHURCH MEMORIES Jenny Lefevre is putting together photo albums of the church & church activities. She has collected all the photos from the church office, but some of the pictures are much older than she is! Is there anyone who would like to look at them & help her date them & perhaps identify some of the people? Also, if anyone has any pictures of the church folks or events & would like to have them included in the photo album, please tell Jenny so she can make room for them in the album. Thanks!

Dollars & Sense of Giving -- December, 2007

Well, I did it this year and I’m doing it again at the beginning of the New Year. I’m giving my pledge for the year at the beginning of the year with stock. I don’t know the cost basis of the stock, so I receive the tax deduction of what it is worth now. The church sells the stock and will be able to use the money right away. This is a direct transfer from my brokerage account to the church’s. Now I don’t have to worry about my pledge for the year.

Happy New Year! Sue Pope CLU, ChFC

Securities and investment advisory service offered through Packerland Brokerage Services, Inc.

SAVE THE DATE: Saturday, Feb. 16. It’s Church Leader Training Day at Carroll College. As far as we know, it’s a morning-only event this year. We’ll have additional details in upcoming bulletin announcement pages, & in the February newsletter. It’s especially important for first-time elders & deacons.

JANUARY, 2008

CALENDAR

Mon Jan 1, 2008 - Church Offices CLOSED

Wed Jan 2 6:30 & 7:30 PM- Handbells & Choir

Thurs Jan 4 1:30 PM - PACE meets

Sun Jan 6 10:45 AM - “Un-Hang the Greens”

Mon Jan 7 6:00 PM - “Fit & Faithful” Exercise

7:00 PM - CE/Nurture Committee

Tues Jan 8 6:30 PM - Peace & Justice

Wed Jan 9 6:30 & 7:30 PM- Handbells & Choir

Thurs Jan 10 1:30 PM - PACE meets

7:00 PM - Friends of MS meets

Sun Jan 13 ** 9:30 AM - DEADLINE for annual report articles to be handed in!!!! *

** 9:30 AM - Ordination & Installation

of new deacons & elders *

Mon Jan 14 6:00 PM - “Fit & Faithful” Exercise

7:15 PM - Resources Committee

Tues Jan 15 9:00 AM - Deadline-newsletter *

7:00 PM - Session meets

Wed Jan 16 6:30 & 7:30 PM-Handbells & Choir

Thur Jan 17 1:30 PM - PACE meets

Mon Jan 21 6:00 PM - “Fit & Faithful” Exercise

Tues Jan 22 6:30 PM - Deacons meets

Wed Jan 23 6:30 & 7:30 PM-Handbells & Choir

Thurs Jan 24 1:30 PM - PACE meets

Sun Jan 27 ** 11:45 AM - ANNUAL MEETING begins with a POT LUCK LUNCHEON, meeting begins approximately 12:30 PM *

Mon Jan 28 6:00 PM - “Fit & Faithful” exercise

Wed Jan 29 6:30 & 7:30 PM- Handbells & Choir

Thurs Jan 31 1:30 PM - PACE meets

Sun Feb 3 9:30 AM - Communion worship

UN-HANG THE GREENS! Sunday January 6 is the day our holiday decorations are packed away for another 11 months. Many hands make light work, so ALL the adults are encouraged to help with this task. THERE WILL BE NO ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASSES on this date.

Administrative Assistant Sue Smith will be on vacation from Jan. 29 - Feb. 19. (After 25 years in the church office, she’s ready for a longish one!) Office volunteers will assemble the newsletter on Jan 31. Worship bulletins for Sundays Jan 27, Feb. 3, Feb. 10 & Feb. 17 will be printed before Sue leaves. If you have announcements that do NOT appear in the bulletin, please feel free to make them orally during the appropriate time in the service. Thanks for your help!

YOU’RE INVITED TO A WEDDING!!! “Anne Elizabeth Dettman and Robert Michael Kaczmarski, together with our parents, request the honour of your presence in celebration of our marriage, Saturday, the Ninth of February, 2008 at Two O’Clock in the afternoon at Greenfield Avenue Presbyterian Church, 1455 S. 97^th St., West Allis, WI.”