COLUMNS

magazine

faithfulness
in every season

arise and build

with great thanksgiving

and christmas eve

welcoming the king to earth

Seek God. Share His Love. Humbly Serve.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF ORLANDO FPCO.ORG

COLUMNS | November - December

COLUMNS CONTENTS

DECEMBER 2014

CHRISTMAS EVE, 15
Get in the spirit as we welcome the King to Earth!

Davids Letter
and thanksgiving

the Stack
The Giving Tree
Live Nativity
8 Ways of Christmas
The Marriage Dinner
School of Discipleship
The Missing Gift
Perspectives
FEATURES
Growing Through Pain
one members story of restoration
Gods Faithfulness
testimonies of Women Engaged

Time with God

Family News

ARISE AND BUILD, 6

Celebrating Gods goodness, faithfulness and
generosity through our church family.

PHOTOS: JASON FRAZIER, TANNER FOX

November - December | COLUMNS

4
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
16

18
20
22
23

SAVE THE DATE

november 30

First Sunday in Advent

Giving Tree Open

Advent Devotion Books Available

december 5, Young At Heart Luncheon, 10am

december 7, Live Nativity at Church
december 14, The Missing Gift Performances, 4pm & 7pm
december 24, Christmas Eve Worship (see p.15)
december 24, Fitness@First & ICCC Closed through Jan. 2
december 28, Lessons & Carols Worship, 11am only
january 9, Young At Heart Luncheon, 10am
january 10, The Marriage Dinner
january 11

New Sermon Series Begins on Covenants

Officer Ordination

School of Discipleship Begins

january 16, Field Trip to Wycliffe with Case Thorp

january 21, Evening Prayer, 6pm
january 26 & 29, Women Engaged Bible Study Begins
january 26, Musikgarten Begins

For more upcoming events

visit fpco.org/events

COLUMNS | November - December

ON THE WAY
with Dr. David Swanson
Dear FPCO Family and Friends,

Give thanks to the

Lord for He is good;
His love endures
forever.
-Psalm 118:1

Lloyd Ogilvie, the longtime pastor of

Hollywood Presbyterian Church and
former Chaplain of the United States
Senate, was the speaker one year for a
conference I was directing in Montreat,
North Carolina. I had not followed his
life very closely other than the aforementioned credentials, but when I
picked him up from the airport, I learned
that his wife died only months earlier.
It was obvious that he was grieving
deeply. He carried an edge of sadness
that seemed to leak from his countenance. Even so, he had flown across
the country to preach four messages in
three days on the promises of God.
Trying to reconcile how he was going
to do that, I asked, With all that you are
going through right now, how do you
muster the courage and the energy to
preach as you will this week? His answer has stuck with me ever since. He
said, David, I have found the antidote
to grief is gratitude. Being grateful for
all God gave to me through my wife,
celebrating those memories and reflecting on His blessings, these are what get
me through the day and enable me to
serve. They dont take away the pain,
but they allow me to live in it such that
I can bear witness to the Lord and His
faithfulness.
While I have never known the depth of
pain he was experiencing at that time, I
have learned the truth of what he said.
Gratitude is a marvelous, God-given
command that serves as an antidote to
many of the pains and burdens of this
life. Paul wrote in 1 Thessalonians 5:18,
Give thanks in all circumstances, for

November - December | COLUMNS

this is Gods will for you in Christ Jesus.

David wrote in Psalm 118:1, Give thanks
to the Lord for He is good; His love
endures forever. God commands us to
give thanks in all things for in doing so,
we remember His goodness and love.
We reorient our lives to what is true. We
gain a different perspective. We see
through a new lens.
As we enter into a season of Thanksgiving leading to the later celebration of
Christs birth, I would encourage you
to be intentional about this. Ive even
seen a thankfulness challenge on
Facebook. Im not saying you have to
do that, but try something simple. Start
each day by prayerfully thanking God
for two things. End the day the same
way. And if they involve people, tell
them. I think youll be blessed and encouraged by how your heart responds,
and the blessing you will be to others.
As always, my list of thanksgivings follows in this issue, not the least of which
is my sincere gratitude for the 10 years
of ministry you have granted me in serving with you. You are a true joy to my
heart, and I love you.
Arising and Building,

In Thanksgiving
DAVIDS REFLECTIONS ON 2014

This time of year, I always try to be intentional about giving

thanks for the many gifts and blessings in my life. By no means
is this exhaustive, but here are a few for 2014:
I am thankful for the many, many people who put so much
time and effort into the ARISE AND BUILD campaign, for the
genuine energy and enthusiasm that has grown up around
this vision, and for the many doors that God is opening for us
to become a true city-center church, serving our city and our
world without expectation or condition, all in the hope of the
gospel of Jesus Christ.
I am thankful for the way I see this body taking care of one
another, showing up in living rooms and board rooms and
court rooms and hospital rooms, all to be present for those
hurting and for those in need of the touch of Jesus
I am thankful for Lori Tipping and Rick Moore who almost
singlehandedly keep The Well, our television and media
ministry, moving along so smoothly
I am thankful for the children in our church with Down
Syndrome who daily teach me about how to love
unconditionally as that is how they love me
I am thankful, so very, very thankful, for the first cold front
each Fall
I am thankful for the rare quiet Saturday, a newspaper, a cup
of coffee and a day of college football ahead
I am thankful for my mentor and spiritual father, Bill Dudley,
who retired after 44 years of ministry this year. He loved well.
He served well. And he finished well. A life of faithfulness
more and more rare one that inspires me to follow Christ
more closely that I, too, might run the race and finish well.
I am thankful for the more than 60 men who have
committed the next two years to studying the Bible together
on Wednesday mornings, enriching their hearts and each
others lives as well

I am thankful for Eric and Stephanie Jackson, for their

pastor Paul Valo, and for the beauty that is the unity of the
Body of Christ
I am thankful for Ashley, the young woman who works the
counter on Sunday mornings at Einstein Bagels. Its zero
dark thirty, yet she is bright and chipper, greets me warmly
and remembers my order. God bless you.
I am thankful for nurses like Beth Emsley who serve and
care for their patients so beautifully in the manner of
Jesus
I am thankful for all the babies I get to baptize in this
church best part of my job.
I am thankful for Jay Davis, a local PGA golf professional,
a job that is four times harder than mine but who carries
himself with such humility and grace
I am thankful for the guy who runs valet parking at Florida
Hospital who knows Im a pastor that is there frequently,
and who does not charge me anymore
Im thankful for the ladies who pray in the sanctuary on
Mondays, touching each seat for those who will come to
church that week what a gift to this body!
Im thankful for John David, Alex and Kaylee, my beloved
children; and for their mother and my wife, Leigh, who is
the joy in my journey
And Im thankful for all of you in this church, for the past
ten years of ministry, for all of its joys and sorrows, and for
Gods faithful hand in it all

Happy Thanksgiving!

I am thankful for Quino Martinez, Ben Carter and Gregg

Ickes

COLUMNS | November - December

November - December | COLUMNS

Thank you!

For your commitment to your church

We are praising God that $6.2 MILLION has already
been pledged to ARISE AND BUILD, a tremendous
commitment!
We are well on our way to meeting our goal over this
four year journey, seeing our debt paid off and exciting
new projects take shape. Your prayers, participation and
faithful financial commitment in the coming months
will help build a strong foundation for future ministry
at our church!
You can still join in: Commitment Cards are available at
the church on Sundays and at ariseandbuild.org

COLUMNS | November - December

NEW TO FIRST PRES?

the Columns stack

useful information, timely trivia and handy tips
for navigating life at FirstPres (and life in general)

VOLUNTEER FOR GENERAL ASSEMBLY

Our church family will have the privilege of hosting our denominational family, the Evangelical
Presbyterian Church (EPC) for the annual General
Assembly in June 2015. Get ready to share all
that First Pres and the City Beautiful has to offer,
with incredible hospitality. Mark your calendar to
volunteer the week of June 23, and email Lori
Needham at lneedham@fpco.org to join the team.

If you know someone whod

like to get more connected at
First Pres, tell them about our
handy form at fpco.org/guest.
They can share their info and
sign up to be on the mailing
list.

WEEKLY NEWSLETTER
We send out a Weekly Verb
email newsletter with important announcements for the
coming week. Well never
share your information, and
you can unsubscribe anytime.
Join now at fpco.org/email.

FOLLOW US
ON TWITTER
twitter.com/fpcorlando

WYCLIFFE FIELD TRIP!

Join Dr. Case Thorp on a field trip to Wycliffes Discovery Center on Friday,
January 16, 2015. Gather at 7pm at the Wycliffe Discovery Center (11221 John
Wycliffe Blvd.) to learn about the origin of the Bible, its translation and propagation over the years, and future challenges to translating it for the rest of
humanity. You dont want to miss this great education and spiritually enriching evening! Reserve your spot at fpco.org/register beginning December 1.

+38.4%

INCREASE IN VIEWERSHIP
OF FPCO.ORG/LIVE
WORSHIP SERVICES IN
2014 COMPARED TO 2013

AMAZING GLAZE OPEN HOUSE

Did you know First Pres has a ceramics studio? Its true. Stop by the
Amazing Glaze Open House on December 6 from 10am-2pm in the
basement of Allen-Yowell Hall. Learn about this
creative ministry. Make last-minute Christmas gifts
for friends and family, and browse the sale of premade ceramic items. There will be bargains!
OPEN HOUSE

REGULAR HOURS

December 6
10:00am-2:00pm

Wednesdays 6pm-8pm
Thursdays 9am-12pm

Parties of all kinds can be scheduled on weekday afternoons. Contact Sonja

Schoonmaker at 407.841.1291 or sandsplus3@att.net for more information.

November - December | COLUMNS

FIRST CONNECTIONS
Know someone who is ready
to join the church or learn
more about what it means
to be a part of this covenant
community? First Connections
is a 7-week class that gives
new members and visitors an
opportunity to connect with
others and find out about the
life and ministry of this church
family. Classes begin January
25 sign up at fpco.org/first.

COLUMNS | November - December

Live Nativity
SUNDAY MORNING, DECEMBER 7

EACH HOUR IN SHINE CHILDRENS MINISTRY

AND AFTER WORSHIP SERVICES FOR THE GROWNUPS

SEE & HEAR THE STORY OF JESUS BIRTH

WITH REAL PEOPLE AND ANIMALS! NEAT!

10

November - December | COLUMNS

8 SIMPLE WAYS TO GET IN

THE CHRISTMAS SPIRIT

1

Get in on the Giving Tree. Choosing an ornament tag on the churchs Giving Tree not only
means you dont have to decode another wishlist,
it also means youll be giving to someone in our
immediate community in need. God loves cheerful giving. fpco.org/givingtree

Watch Elf. Or find another holiday classic and set

your DVR to watch with friends in community.
Seriously - have some actual fun. But we recommend Elf, because even if you dont believe in
Santa, nothing gives you that lighthearted Christmas feeling like seeing Will Ferrell in tights.

Live animals. SHINE Childrens Ministry will

host a Live Nativity on Sunday, December 7.
Well tell the Christmas story to kids in SHINE
and 3 other times - twice between worship and
once after the 11am service. Come and enjoy!

Practice presence. Pick up an Advent Devotion

book and take a few minutes each day to focus
on why Christmas matters. We dare you to make
time with God during His holy season. Dr. Dan
Sharp has written a beautiful, interactive daily
devotion to guide you in your time.
fpco.org/advent

Practice generosity. Sometimes our wish list for

family, friends and coworkers is so long that we
forget why were giving in the first place. Take any
sense of obligation out of the mix and give to an
organization or person youll never meet. Enjoy
the peace and excitement of giving and expecting
nothing in return.

Serve somebody. Care for those in need during

the holidays, with joy and grace. As our Mission
Team would remind you: provide for peoples requests, not your own wishes for them and honor
their dignity in the process. Weve gathered some
helpful, humble opportunites to serve by yourself
or with your family at fpco.org/servenow.

Be observant. The simple act of lighting the

candles on an advent wreath and reading the
Scripture for each Sunday can help you (and your
family) connect what youre learning on Sunday
with the rest of your week. DIY your own wreath
(a Pinterest-worthy endeavor) or just light a
candle each week and pray.

Invite a neighbor or friend. A simple phone call

or knock on the door can make all the difference
in a season that can sometimes be surprisingly
lonely. Take the extra step to invite someone to
Christmas Eve worship or The Missing Gift perfomances on December 14. Lighting the world isnt
always about how people respond - sometimes its
just about continuing to share the light.

COLUMNS | November - December

11

WITH DAVID & LEIGH SWANSON

DINNER

SATURDAY, JANUARY 10
REGISTRATION OPENS DECEMBER 12 AT 12PM
Lee Fellowship Hall, 5:30pm - 8:30pm
$40 per Couple | Free Childcare by Reservation
Save the date and your spots for a relaxed evening designed to encourage and lift up marriage with David & Leigh Swanson. Enjoy time with
your spouse, a delicious dinner and moments of worship, entertainment
and fellowship throughout the night, including an ice-cream social. You
can also buy a table and sit with your friends - but seats are limited!
In addition, there will be a chance to connect to an upcoming 8-week
Marriage Small Group during the event, which starts in February.

12

November - December | COLUMNS

of

Get Smarter.

Designed to help you grow and mature

as a follower of Jesus, School of
Discipleship courses take place over a
set number of weeks of Biblical study.

CASKET EMPTY: AN OLD TESTAMENT SURVEY

DR. CASE THORP, FPCO ASSOCIATE PASTOR
JANUARY 11 - MAY 18 | 9:45AM | EMC 310

Its not too late to join this course! Come learn and
remember the story of Gods redemption as it appears
throughout the Old Testament. Using curriculum created by professors at Gordon-Conwell Theological
Seminary, participants will study the full scope of the
Old Testaments chronological, geographical, historical,
cultural and literary context. (The New Testament will be
taught in 2015).
Optional Course Materials: $33.50 (order materials online at
fpco.org/casketempty)

FIRST CONNECTIONS
ELDERS LEIGH SWANSON & LANCE FAIR
FEBRUARY 1 - MARCH 15 | 9:45AM | KING PARLOR

Register Online at fpco.org/register

ESTATE PLANNING SEMINAR

MIKE DAVIS, RESOURCE CONSULTING GROUP
BRAD STATON, HEART OF THE CITY FOUNDATION
JANUARY 11 - ONE DAY ONLY | 9:45AM
A one-hour seminar to learn very practical steps you
can make to ensure that YOU decide what your financial legacy will be. Questions related to estate tax law,
wills, trusts, and charitable giving plans will be addressed. Get your financial house in order!
PERSPECTIVES ON THE WORLD CHRISTIAN MOVEMENT
JANUARY 19 - MAY 18 | 7PM - 9:45PM
CATHEDRAL CHURCH OF SAINT LUKE
Perspectives is a fifteen-week seminary level course

designed around four vantage points or perspectives

Biblical, Historical, Cultural and Strategic. Each one

highlights different aspects of Gods global purpose,
and will help you discover your own. Pre-registration is
required, and scholarships are available.
fpco.org/perspectives

Questions?

Did you recently join the church? Are you considering

membership in our First Pres community? First Connections is the place to discover all First Pres offers and get
Scarlett Stewart, Director of Discipleship
connected to others.

at sstewart@fpco.org or 407.423.3441 x1497

COLUMNS | November - December

13

by Dr. Dan Sharp, Minister of Worship Arts

The Advent season is upon us, which means Christmas
is sure to follow again this year! We have a significant
opportunity to reach out to friends, neighbors, and
co-workers and invite them to an original Christmas
musical production, The Missing Gift. Involving
a full stage set with actors, choir, and orchestra, this
years Christmas production follows the story of a
widower who comes to live with his son and family.
An unusual occurrence takes him to the doorway of
heaven, where he is joined by several other interesting
characters who are also waiting for their meeting with
God. It is at this point something very unique happens.
There are beautiful orchestrations and familiar Christmas music including the much loved Mary, Did You
Know? Though much more involved, it is similar to
last years Hear the Light, a musical leading the audience to think about their own lives in relation to the
Lord. This production for the whole family is filled
with humor as well as serious thought. We have rewritten it for First Pres, but we did this same piece
years ago when I was in Boston for 14,000 people over
two week-ends. The Missing Gift is a great way to
open the door for those people you know who may
never come on a Sunday morning, sharing the gospel in a winsome, real-life way. Bring your friends! I
14

November - December | COLUMNS

encourage you to think of ways you might use an event

like this to reach out to those around you who need to
know the love of Christ. One memorable example Ive
seen is of a man purchasing 60 tickets for all of those in
his office, and hosting an open-house dessert in their
home afterwards.
In a very practical way, The Missing Gift is another
effort to contribute to the building of Christs Kingdom
in downtown Orlando. We invite and encourage you
to be a part of what God is doing. If you would like to
be a part of the production team, email me at dsharp@
fpco.org call 407.423.3441 x1274.

DECEMBER 14 AT 4PM & 7PM

Adults, $10 - Seniors, $8
Kids 12 and under, $6
A portion of each ticket sold contributes to the ARISE AND
BUILD campaign. Show is 90 minutes running time; suitable
for children 8 and older.

Buy your tickets early and choose your seats

on Sunday morning or at fpco.org/missinggift

wednesday, december 24
3pm & 4:30pm family worship in the sanctuary
7:30pm genesis worship in lee fellowship hall
8pm & 10pm traditional candlelight worship in the sanctuary
sunday, december 28
11am lessons & carols in the sanctuary
(no shine for children)

COLUMNS | November - December

15

What is your PERSPECTIVE?

God has a world-sized role for every Christian in His global purpose. What is your place in the grand story of Gods global purpose?
Most people are hungry to discover a vision to live a life of purpose.
Perspectives is a fifteen-week seminary level course designed
around four vantage points or perspectives Biblical, Historical,
Cultural and Strategic. Each one highlights different aspects of Gods
global purpose, and will help you discover your own.
Pre-registration is required and scholarships are available.

JANUARY - MAY 2015

CATHEDRAL CHURCH AT SAINT LUKES, DOWNTOWN
REGISTER, SEE SAMPLE CLASSES AND LEARN MORE VIA
FPCO.ORG/PERSPECTIVES

16

November - December | COLUMNS

FAITHFUL SERVANT
COACH GINA WILBORG

With a career at The Christ School

(TCS) spanning over 19 years and a
strong faith in God, Gina Wiborg,
TCS Athletic Director, confidently
follows the path God has set for her.
Growing up, I never would have
guessed that this would be my journey, says Gina. Before I had my
children, I worked in Young Life
Childrens Ministry and believed
that would be where Id stay.
When God led my husband and
me to Orlando, we were searching
for a church. I didnt know it, but
my college roommates husband,
Ed Bonner, was the youth minister
at First Pres, says Gina. We got
involved in the church. We wanted
to start an exercise class for young
moms through First Pres. So, with
a degree in Physical Education, I
was asked to lead the class. When
my children were born, I became
involved with the Youth Ministry.
Then, when the Clayton Life Center
(CLC) was built, I began working
for the recreation ministry as the
aerobic coordinator. It was perfect
for me; I worked there, and my
children attended the Weekday
School.
When TCS opened in 1996, Tom
Porter, Founding Principal, asked

Gina to join TCS to teach PE.

With every grade level that was
added at TCS, Gina taught more
classes. When middle school was
added, she was asked to work fulltime as the Athletic Coordinator.
We felt that the greatest PE need
for our school was to have a variety
of athletic opportunities for our
middle school students, she explains. God had provided us with a
court with the building of the CLC,
so we started with basketball, volleyball and soccer. When Dr. Jason
Powell came on board as Head of
School, we added lower school to
our organized sports program.
Gina continues, Even though
almost all of our coaches at TCS
have been volunteers, I have never
had to worry about getting coaches.
They were always there. God has
provided the expertise, and someone who was ready to lead children.
I always hear other schools comment on how awesome our coaches
are. They are so great because God
called them.
TCS is my call, she says, proudly.
I love it here. Im here because
God continues to hold me here.
Whether we win or lose a sporting
event makes no differenceits look

ing at class after class that leaves

TCS, and seeing what they do in
high school and beyond. God has
grown these wonderful people into
His servants.
The Christ School serves transitional
kindergarten through 8th grade.
Find out more at thechristschool.org.

NEXT STEPS
TCS KINDERGARTEN CHAT
January 15 | 9-10:00am
For parents of 2-year olds who
have not been to kindergarten.
Learn about kindergarten readiness, and explor their Kindergarten programs

TCS OPEN HOUSE

January 22 | 9-11:00am
Learn more about TCS and hear
from Head of School, Dr. Jason
Powell, and from current parents
of students. A guided tour of the
school and classrooms will be
held after the presentation.

If you would like to attend,

please RSVP to
info@thechristschool.org.

COLUMNS | November - December

17

by Catherine Ford
My spiritual journey started in the fall of 2005 when
my friend, Ninette, insisted that I needed to visit her
Bible group and I had run out of excuses. So, I decided to accept her invitation. My plan was to show up
briefly and leave as fast as possible. That afternoon, I
enjoyed listening to the word of God and the message
of peace and comfort. I started attending her weekly
Bible group and also joined other womens groups at
our church which led to me accepting Jesus into my
heart on April of 2006.
I constantly reached out to the Lord asking him to give
me wisdom as I had challenging moments with my
then 4- and 2-year-old boys. But it wasnt until 2008
that He showed me what a real challenge was. Our
third boy was due November of 2008. It was Christmas time and I had the holidays figured out; presents
bought, house decorated and a list of events to attend.
However, the Lord had other plans. Baby Camilo was
born just fine but as I sat up from the bed, my head
exploded in pain with a severe headache.
Doctors informed me that the epidural had created a
leak of spinal fluid causing the headache. They advised
bed rest but my condition got complicated and I was
18 November - December | COLUMNS

admitted to ICU with a subdural hematoma. During

my first night in ICU and being away from my newborn, I was very angry at God. I asked him why me?
Why at this moment, when it was supposed to be the
happiest time in my life? I decided I didnt want to be
in communication with Him anymore and I shut the
door to my friendship with Him. This was not the right
time to teach me about pain.
Months after this injury, I was still having episodes
of headaches and dizziness. I knew something was
wrong. After visiting several neurologists and spending three days at the Mayo Clinic, the doctors found
nothing. They wanted to experiment with medications
and also asked me to be patient and give it some time.
Seeing no improvement and running out of treatment
options, I felt very sad and frustrated.
A friend mentioned the word acupuncture and
gave me the number for her acupuncturist. I was very
skeptical to try this therapy, but willing to explore my
options. I made an appointment, started treatment and
after several sessions my symptoms improved and the
headaches were gone.

The Lord placed in my heart a huge desire to learn

more about Oriental Medicine ending with my enrolling in a four year Masters Degree to become an Acupuncture Physician and Doctor of Oriental Medicine.
My husband gave me all of his support and the Lord
gave me strength and perseverance to go through the
program and not give up.
Before graduation, I had a conversation with the Lord
and told him I acknowledged that he was in charge
and asked him to take me to places where I could serve
Him best through the work that I did and also though
my faith.
After graduation and as soon as I got my license, I
contacted Grace Medical Home and asked Dr. Hardy
if I could serve in any way. They welcomed me and
on April 1st, I started as their Acupuncture Physician.
I enjoy being at Grace as Ive had a chance to meet
some wonderful people that really appreciate what
Grace does for them. Being there has also given me the
chance to work with the Hispanic community which
is one of my passions. I can speak their language and
understand the culture very well. I am originally from
Colombia, South America and it was not in my plans

to leave my country in 1998. I fought very hard to stay

there but again, the Lord had a different plan and he
had an amazing American husband waiting for me.
On June 3rd, I opened an acupuncture studio in College Park which is another one of Gods projects in my
life. He has taken care of every detail and Im just following his instructions.
Today, I look back at this journey and now I understand why the Lord put me in that situation after childbirth. He wanted me to experience pain because only
that way, I could understand what it feels to be hurt;
pain is both physical and emotional.
I feel honored that He chose me to write this story and
I pray that the Lord continues to guide me so I can
share this medicine with those in need.
Every person in our church family has a unique story
of Gods unfolding grace in their lives. Will you share
yours? Wed love to share it with others to encourage
and celebrate Gods faithfulness. Email Communications
Director, Paige Ragan at pragan@fpco.org.

COLUMNS | November - December

19

Stories of Gods

Faithfulness
by Nikki Ickes
the struggles. He has given me hope when I had nothing.
His Word, His everlasting love, and unfailing promises
have been evident throughout my life. When I continue
reading that passage though, there is an even deeper description of Gods faithfulness. Verses 12-13 state, Then
you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will
listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you
seek me with all your heart. He will be present whenever
I pray to Him. He will always be there. He says, Come
Faithfulnessthe Merriam-Webster dictionary defines
and pray to me. He promises that He will listen to me.
it as having or showing true and constant support or
We see throughout the Bible that He is faithful to His
loyalty; deserving trust; keeping your promises or doing
promises. All we have to do is seek Him with our whole
what you are supposed to do. But to look further at Bibheart.
lical faithfulness, we understand that it is truly one of
-Erin Lindblad
the characteristics of God. It denotes the constancy of
God in His relations with His people. It is one aspect of
My friends had been to a Cross and the Switchblade
Gods truth and of His unchangeable nature. God keeps
conference. Evidently, all of them responded to the altar
His promises, and therefore is worthy of trust.
call. Youve GOT to do this! they proclaimed. What I
HAD to do was kneel, allow them to pray over me and
When the world seems to crumble around us as womrecite the sinners prayer. So, at 15 and a bit skeptical,
en, mothers, sisters, friends, or wiveswe listen to what
I knelt and repeated the words they offered. I didnt feel
the Bible says and rely on our church family to support,
any different, so I thought maybe it hadnt taken. I
build up and strengthen our knowledge of Gods faithhadnt felt sinful! I had heard the concept of Original Sin,
fulness. Here are just a few short testimonies of Gods
but didnt think it made much sense. How could a baby
faithfulness from members of our Women Engaged
be sinful? I loved the church already, felt comfortable
Leadership Team
there and loved sitting between my parents as they sang
harmony with every hymn. We lived outside the city and
I have experienced Gods faithfulness during times of
it wasnt strange for me to go for long walks during which
struggle and feelings of hopelessness. I have clung to
I would find myself talking with God.
Gods words in Jeremiah 29:11For I know the plans I
have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you
Unfortunately, my skepticism grewalong with pride
and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a fuand arrogance. My attachment to God weakened and I
ture. And, I can see how God has been faithful during all
became sure the Bible was nothing more than a valuable

He sends from heaven and

saves me, rebuking those who
hotly pursue meGod sends
forth his love and his faithfulness. Psalms 57:3

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November - December | COLUMNS

ancient book that was occasionally helpful, but would

spoil anything that promised to be fun.
Just like the prodigal son, I told God that I wanted to
leave His house, and journey to a foreign country, and
He let me go.
Over the next 20 years I had become well-acquainted
with sinfulness and began to think living in my Fathers
house would be better. I had doubts that He would want
me back. At this same time, I met a man I found intriguing. He had lost his 7 yr-old son 10 years before and yet,
he was still attending church and spoke confidently of
Christ. In response to my questions, he said to me, Dont
you know? Jesus is just waiting for you to come to Him,
and crawl up in His lap, so He can embrace you and tell
you He loves you. With these words, I was introduced to
My Savior. The man explained that Jesus desires to have
a deep, personal relationship with me. That He was not
distant and judgmental as I had imagined.
Over the past 20 years I have been getting to know God
in an entirely new wayrather than reading the Bible
from a perspective of, what is in this for me? I ask God
to reveal Himself by the Holy Spirit, through the word. I
now read from the perspective that the Bible is TRUTH
and ask for understanding as needed.
The man I spoke with is my husband of 18 years and I
have had the benefit of his wisdom and faithfulness, his
example of how Christ Jesus loves the church.
God was paying attention to my 15-year old self. He has
been gracious, loving, and patient. He rejoices over me
and continually calls me to a higher place, nudging me
to the next challenge and whispers His encouragement.
His faithfulness is evident as I look back over the years.
We walk together again and I dont wonder if I am hearing His voice. He maintains His covenant, because His
word is truebecause HE is faithful. We have a relationship that is dynamic and alive.
-Beth Riviere

God has been through every season of my lifeeven before I knew Him. He has been faithful through financial
struggles, illness, death, loss, diagnosis, disappointments,
infertility, adoption, change, abandonment, depression,
insecurity and countless other circumstances. He gave
me a verse nearly 18 years ago that I have clung tightly
to: Ephesians 3:20-21 Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according
to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory
in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.
Kathy Taylor
WE Praise God for His faithfulness to our women, to
our church, to each one of us. He is faithful. Forever.
Amen.
Lamentations 3:22-23 - It is because of the Lords
mercy and loving-kindness that we are not consumed,
because His [tender] compassions fail not. They are
new every morning; great and abundant is Your stability and faithfulness.
Matthew 25:21 - His Lord said to him, Well done,
good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few
things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter
into the joy of your Lord.
Hebrews 13:8 - Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and
today, and forever.
Nikki Ickes is the chair of the Women Engaged Ministry Council and passionate about creating a place for
women to grow together in this church family. If you
would like to learn more about connecting through a
Womens Bible Study or upcoming event, contact Nikki
at nikki_ickes@yahoo.com. You can also join the WE
Group on Facebook, via fpco.org/we.

COLUMNS | November - December

21

TIME WITH GOD

making spiritual disciplines a daily habit

Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your
neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will win favor
and a good name in the sight of God and man. Proverbs 3:3-4
Faithfulness a powerful word in a Christians life
yet the mere act of obedience and steadfastness to be
faithful, daunting!
The Arise and Build Campaign has given us permission to take a look back, to reflect upon the ministry
vision of the faithful leaders and members of this great
church and hopefully, inspired us to look forward to
those who are yet to come.
Faithfulness a promise of support. Our founding
church fathers, a small community of believers, knew
that being faithful to God and their call to establish a
church would require support. Support that started
with the inception of this church and a requirement
that has remained throughout our 138 year history
a legacy we get to continue!
Faithfulness - honoring our commitments. An obligation to fulfill a promise and sometimes not always
convenient! Without a doubt, those that came before
us in leadership roles or as members fulfilling a financial promise, or offering precious resources such as

22

November - December | COLUMNS

time and gifts, have built a foundation of faithfulness.

We now benefit and God is pleased! Being faithful is a
lifelong task that requires continual effort and yet a life
full of faithfulness is a rich life indeed.
Faithfulness kingdom rewards! As you consider
your investments in Gods kingdom, pray how you and
your family will continue to build on the solid foundation we know today. Faithfulness, paired with love,
strengthens ministry in a tangible way that we may not
witness in our lifetime, but the generations to come
will be able to look back, find us faithful and offer
thanks for our steadfastness of support and honoring
our commitments!
In closing, make time to be in prayer to seek Gods
guidance on ways you can be faithful to Him and His
people. What are ways you can offer support in ministry vision that will glorify God? How can faithfulness
help us to live a godly life? How do the practical benefits of faithfulness motivate you to be a more faithful
person to God and to your friends?

FAMILY NEWS

SYMPATHY TO

CONGRATULATIONS TO

Martha Ross & family on the death of

her husband, Harold Ross, April 2, 2013.

Steve & Marianna Paone have a

daughter, Sienna Noelle Paone,
born August 17, 2014. The proud
grandparents are Jonathas & Lillian
Moreira.

Anne Banta on the death of her brother,

Sam Greer, August 16, 2014.
Lucile Jung on the death of her brother,
Kenneth Jung, August 29, 2014.
Bob (Cheryl ) & Laurin MacLeish on the
death of their father, Robert MacLeish,
August 23, 2014. Mr. MacLeish was the
grandfather of Frank & Lucy MacLeish.
Karen & Tom Mills on the death of her
uncle, Jimmy Stockard, August 27, 2014.
Family & friends of Katherine Mitchum,
who died August 27, 2014.
Family & friends of Marguerite Peggy
Tarr, who died September 5, 2014.
Norm & Kay Pricher on the death of
his sister, Sandy Pricher, September 11,
2014.
Ken Nuckols on the death of his father,
William Nuckols, September 23, 2014.
Jeffrey Smith on the death of his uncle,
Henry Spector, September 30, 2014. Mr.
Spector was the great uncle of Caroline
Smith.

Lance & Brooke Walker have a son,

Campbell Lance Walker, born August
26, 2014. The proud grandparents are
Bob & Barbara Francis.
Roger Hamilton Garcia Lopez & Laura
Catherine Uncapher were married
September 13, 2014, in the Sanctuary.
Laura is the daughter of Kenneth &
Susanne Uncapher.
Victor Lawson Saul & Cula Anne
Hodges were married September 20,
2014, in the Reformation Chapel.
Jim & Jill Adkinson have a son, Parker
James Adkinson, born September 30,
2014.
Eric & Tip Bartels have a daughter,
Sarah Layton Bartels, born October 6,
2014.
Wilson Bates Handler & Kendall Yvonne
Fox were married October 18, 2014, in
the Sanctuary. Kendall is the daughter
of Peter & Jane Fox.

Anne & Curt Brownlee on the death of

her mother, Elizabeth Betsy Leedy,
October 4, 2014. Mr. Brownlee was the
grandfather of Chapman, Connor &
Betsy Brownlee.
Jesse & Katie Grace Miller on the
death of his father, John William Miller,
October 11, 2014. Mr. Miller was the
grandfather of Jackson & Emily June
Miller.

Call FPCO at
407.423.3441 to
- schedule a baptism x1451
- request a hospital visit x1455
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- arrange a memorial service x1455
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- ask about this magazine x1467
FOR PASTORAL EMERGENCIES

after the hours of 8:30AM

5:00PM, please leave a voicemail message on the main
church number to page the
minister on call.

COLUMNS | November - December

23

First Presbyterian Church of Orlando

106 E. Church St., Orlando, FL 32801

106 East Church Street

407.423.3441

| Orlando, FL 32801

| www.fpco.org

TRADITIONAL WORSHIP:
Sundays, 8:30 & 11:00am
in the Sanctuary
GENESIS WORSHIP:
Sundays, 9:45 & 11:00am
in Lee Fellowship Hall
LIVE ONLINE WORSHIP:
Sundays, 8:30, 9:45 & 11:00am
ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL:
Sundays, 9:45 - 10:45am

ADVENT
MEDITATION
BOOK
BY DR. DAN SHARP

Pick up your copy under

the Angel Wing (between
the Sanctuary & Allen
Hall) or Grand Hall on
Sundays.
$5 per printed copy,
and ebook available
online for $4.
FPCO.ORG/ADVENT

The First Presbyterian Columns (USPS 604-040) is published

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2013 First Presbyterian Church of Orlando COLUMNS.

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