COLUMNS

magazine

a year of favor

FOUR12s journey to mercy drive

ending homelessness
Dr. Swanson shares the vision

and nurturing marriage

practical ways to make it work

A covenant community, making disciples who light the world.

FALL 2015 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF ORLANDO FPCO.ORG

COLUMNS |

Fall 2015

COLUMNS CONTENTS

FALL 2015

WORKING TO SOLVE
HOMELESSNESS, 20
Dr. Swanson lays out the community vision to see
hundreds more housed by the end of 2015.
the Stack
Young at Heart
Women Engaged
Fall Study & Updates

Break it Down
School of Discipleship
Financial Peace, Casket Empty & more
FEATURES
the Voice God Gave Us
Stephen Ministry
Noise, Hurry & Crowds
Prioritizing Your Marriage
Year of the Lords Favor
FOUR12s Moves to Mercy Drive
Choosing Apps for Learning
from The Christ School

23
ANNUAL REPORT
A great, big, generous year and a look ahead at the
one to come.

PHOTOS: TANNER FOX, CHRIS CASLER

Fall 2015 | COLUMNS

Family News

6
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
16
18
22

SAVE THE DATE

august

16

Registration opens for The Marriage Retreat, 12:30pm

Rev. Jack Peebles Installation & Reception

september

28

The Marriage Dessert, 7:30pm

1
6
7
13

Fall Musikgarten begins

HOLIDAY WEEKEND WORSHIP: 9:45 Genesis & 11:00am Traditional

Church Offices Closed for Labor Day

Faith + Work Sermon Series begins

First Connections Begins

School of Discipleship Begins

Congregational Meeting, 11am

14
17
october

2
4
11

WE Beth Moore Bible Study Begins

12th Annual Health & Fitness Fair

Young at Heart Luncheon, 10:30am

FaithServes Mission Banquet

Music Mission Kiev Concert, 4pm

get the details at fpco.org/calendar

COLUMNS |

Fall 2015

ON THE WAY
with Dr. David Swanson
Dear FPCO Family and Friends,
As I am sure most of you are aware, social media is becoming a greater and greater influence in our culture. Some of that influence is positive in allowing people to stay connected while sharing their stories.
Other parts of that influence are not healthy as people find themselves
settling for social media friends while at the same time feeling depressed that they are not being included in many of the events they
see. And I will not even get into the destruction caused by sites like
Tumblr and Tinder.

Peace I leave with

you; my peace I give
you. I do not give
to you as the world
gives. Do not let your
hearts be troubled and
do not be afraid.
John 14:27

With that in mind, I try to use my Facebook account to create a positive arena for ideas, thoughts and discussion. That has evolved into
what I call Monday Morning Musings, a Facebook post that I put up
most Mondays with general thoughts on social issues, theology, a little
humor, and a few other odds and ends. It supplants, for me, writing a
blog. I dont have time to write a weekly piece on one subject, but I
enjoy making observations and theological connections in a shorter
form. So, for the Columns this month, I will share a bit in my normal
Facebook style:
1. Regarding social media, set some boundaries for your life and for
your family. I am grieved every time I walk into a restaurant and see
an entire family all looking down at their phones. At meal times,
put it away. Period. Parents, teach your children that incessantly
taking selfies is an exercise is narcissism. Teach them the beauty
of investing in others.
2. The 2014-15 ministry year was one of the busiest we have ever had
at FPCO, and for that reason, I am so grateful to our entire staff for
their sacrificial efforts in making it all happen. Included in this issue
is our Annual Report which includes a summary of our mission and
ministry. The movement of God is palpable in so many ways, and
I am grateful for the momentum that has been building the past
few years. Our year started last fall with the ARISE AND BUILD
campaign, a time in which we focused on building the Kingdom
of God at our church for the next decade. As a result, we have
already paid $2.5 million on our debt, bringing the remainder to
just under $1,000,000 (from a high of $15 million) and updated our
internal IT system. We are also positioned to begin the Center for
Faith and Work, plant two churches, upgrade our student ministry

Fall 2015 | COLUMNS

facilities all while building a new recreation/community center in Cielo, Dominican Republic.
The fall led to Advent and a wonderful production of The Missing Gift. Advent quickly moved to
Lent and Easter, culminating in our Easter services at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing
Arts. More than 2,000 visitors joined us in celebrating the resurrection of Jesus, with more than
6,000 in attendance that day. We then took a deep breath and hosted the General Assembly
of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church in late June with 1,200 commissioners and observers
joining us from around the world. It was a marvelous opportunity to serve our new denominational family.
3. In light of these major events, I am asking our staff to take 2015-16 and use it as a time of evaluation and analysis, tightening and strengthening internal processes, upgrading organization, and
improving overall efficiencies. You wont see the same number of events, but I believe you will
see greater excellence in the core ministries to which we have been called. (And yes, we will
be hosting Easter at the Dr. Phillips Center one more year and its already been paid for by an
anonymous donor!)
4. I love the Fall because it means COLLEGE FOOTBALL!
5. I am excited to announce that the headquarters of our denomination, the Evangelical Presbyterian Church, will be moving to Orlando in 2017! There are a number of transitional items to be
worked out as to exact location, but we are delighted by what this means both for Orlando and
our church.
6. Sometimes, I find that a day just calls for a fully-loaded, greasy, cant-hardly-get-my-moutharound-it cheeseburger. Nothing compares. (Current favorites: Artisans Table, Graffiti Junction.)
7. Plug in this fall as I begin a new sermon series called Faith and Work. Ill be examining the idea
of work from a Biblical perspective, one that I hope will change how you see what you do as
less about work and more about Gods Kingdom.
Blessings and peace to you,

3
E2

DAVID ON FACEBOOK

N
O
RT
O
P

G
PA

FACEBOOK.COM/FIRSTPRES

LR
A
NU

N
DO

SS
MI

A
E
H

COLUMNS |

Fall 2015

NEW TO FIRST PRES?

the Columns stack

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

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.

DRESS2LEARN ON SEPTEMBER 27

WEEKLY NEWSLETTER

Dress2Learn is a free Heart of Florida United Way program that provides new clothing to homeless students in
Orange, Seminole and Osceola counties. As part of our
continued efforts to meet the needs of the homeless in our
community, First Pres will take a special offering on Sunday, September 27 for Dress2Learn. $50 includes the cost of helping
clothe one homeless student. Your generosity will make a difference.

We send out a weekly 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.

FITNESS@FIRST
HEALTH & FITNESS FAIR

FOLLOW US
ON TWITTER

Stop by the 12th Annual Health & Fitness Fair on Thursday, September
17 from 10:30am-2 pm, in our Clayton Life Center Gym. Get a flu shot,
free massage and meet exhibitors
from around the city offering information and discounts on ways to
get healthy. fitnessatfirst.org

MOVE THAT BUS!

Were looking for Sunday morning
heroes that arent afraid to take the
wheel. Many of our seniors rely on
our Bus MInistry to get to worship
each week, and drivers are needed
to keep things moving. To get
started, email Rev. Becky Davis at
bdavis@fpco.org.

MUSIC MISSION KIEV

CONCERT
October 11, 4pm
Music Mission Kiev (MMK) has
been on the front line of ministry in
Ukraine for over 24 years, including
these recent months of trauma and
foreign invasion. MMK has seen,
touched, smelled and experienced
the recent horrors, wounds and
tears. Wes and Kim Janzen will bring
42 fabulous Ukrainian musicians
from the Kyiv Symphony Orchestra
and Chorus (KSOC) to the Sanctuary of First Pres to share a sacred
concert and stories of Gods grace.
A love offering will be taken.

LET YOUR LIGHT SHINE AS A CLASSROOM GUIDE

Join in the fun with us on Sunday mornings! We need
12 adult volunteers to serve as Classroom Guides in our
SHINE Childrens Ministry. Classroom Guides serve every other Sunday during the school year (September 14
-May 29). We will train you to work alongside teachers
to share a lesson and craft with 1st - 4th grade kiddos.
Call SHINE Director Sarah Savage at 407.423.3441 or
email ssavage@fpco.org

Fall 2015 | COLUMNS

twitter.com/fpcorlando

52%

OF NEW MEMBERS
ARE INVITED BY
FRIENDS & FAMILY

FIRST CONNECTIONS
BEGINS SEPT. 13
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 one
another and find out about life
in this church family. Sign up
today fpco.org/first.

rescue

a new album from

H E L P L E S S E S TAT E
coming this fall

COLUMNS |

Fall 2015

YOUNG AT HEART
LUNCHEON SCHEDULE & SPEAKERS

We look forward to catching up with you

when we start our new season on Friday,
October 2.
Young at Heart gatherings for adults 55+ are held the
first Friday of each month (except January) and enjoy
fellowship, special program speakers, and a yummy
lunch. We start with fellowship at 10:30am, the program begins at 11:00am, and lunch is served at noon.
Come meet new friends, be encouraged by other
Christians, and share in some fun and laughter.
We always include a time to praise God and thank Him
as we celebrate friendships, birthdays, anniversaries
and other milestones.
The Young at Heart Council has a great program for
2014-2015 and are excited about this seasons speakers
from our church family and community.
Mark your calendars & make your reservation!
The cost for lunch is $8 and a reservation is required.
Call 407.423.3441 x1159. Bus transportation is provided for Westminster Towers residents with pick up
time at 10:15am.

Dont miss out - come join us!

8

Fall 2015 | COLUMNS

2014-2015 YAH SCHEDULE

OCTOBER 2

Dr. David Swanson, Senior Pastor

First Presbyterian Church

NOVEMBER 6

Carson Dodds,
retired Air Force Colonel

DECEMBER 4

The Christ School

Musical Program

JANUARY 8

Craig Ustler, developer

of The Creative Village

FEBRUARY 5

Kenny Youmans,
Amazing Grace Presentation

MARCH 4

Heritage Celebration, hosted by

Heart of the City Foundation

APRIL 1

Paige Ragan,
Communications Director,
First Presbyterian Church

MAY 6

Michael Perkins,
Orange County History Center

FALL BIBLE STUDY

BEGINS SEPTEMBER 14
by Lori Needham, Womens Ministry
As Women Engaged looks forward to another season
of study in September, we are grateful for the ministry
of the Apostle Paul, his letters to the new churches he
birthed and his encouragement sent to them as new
believers. We are equally grateful for Beth Moore, a
true disciple who desires nothing more than sharing
Gods Word
with Gods girls!
Her studies offer us the same
encouragement
which will
strengthen our
faith and spiritual journey.
This study,
focused on 1 &
2 Thessalonians,
will offer indepth study of
the scriptures
capturing the
crisis, afflictions,

relationships, doubts, concerns and the fears of those

intended in his letters, then and now. Above all, Paul
offers encouragement and comfort as he challenges
them to live a life pleasing to God and live as good
citizens in a sinful world. Sounds as if we could read a
letter of encouragement as well!
Plan to join us, and bring a friend, co-worker, family
member, or a neighbor. The practical advice Paul offered to early Christians still applies to us, today. Three
study sessions will be offered: Monday and Thursday
mornings (both offer child care for those making a
reservation for infants-Pre-Kspace is limited!) The
morning sessions meet from 9:30 11:30 am. Monday
evenings, join us from 6:30 8:30 pm. Monday groups
begin on September 14 and the Thursday group on
September 17. We will conclude this study the week
before the Thanksgiving holiday.
Register before September 8 at fpco.org/register.
The cost is $30, including your study guide. Hard copy
registrations available in lobby of Edington Ministry
Center. Questions? Contact Lori Needham at x1463 or
email lneedham@fpco.org.

WOMEN ENGAGED PASSES THE LEADERSHIP BATON

For the past two and a half years, Women Engaged has
enjoyed the spirit-filled leadership of Nikki Ickes. She
has led our Ministry Team in engaging ways, offering
entry points for women of the church and surrounding community to be involved and connected to the
church. Nikki will now pass her role on to another
member of our team, Nancy Schneider. Nikki will remain on the ministry team and continue serving First
Pres. Please thank Nikki for her vital contributions to
this ministry!
Nancy Schneider and her husband, Tom, are parents
of two adult children, David and Ellen. She is a native
Floridian, though she spent 13 years in the Midwest,
where she first encountered the richness of Gods

Word, most notably through Bible Study Fellowship.

Nancys ministry focus has changed over the years
from childrens ministry to evangelism to community
engagement. The common link, however, has been an
emphasis on relationships. Her hearts desire is to see
women of all ages and backgrounds find meaningful
connections in the church family. As Nancy said, We
want and need to be truly known to one another as we
journey down the road of discipleship. Relationships
are foundational. Nancy enjoys a cup of coffee and
great conversation, and updates from ESPNs Sports
Center.
Please make sure to welcome Nancy and pray for this
exciting year in Womens Ministry at First Pres!

BREAK IT DOWN

Love this?
Break down the
New Testament
every week with
Dr. Case Thorp
in the Casket
Empty class!

What do you look for when you study the Bible?

Whats important? Dr. Case Thorp shares insight
into this New Testament passage.

own as
a Jewish man, kn
Greek name of
He
m,
hi
lls
ca
If Jesus
a Christian-killer.
can call anyone!

Greek for messiah

which is Hebrew for
savior

Romans

the Jewish, or Old

Testament, Bible

reference
from Daniel
non-Jews
a number of
house-churches
rapidly growing
can you have
peace before
grace?

He finally makes it;

see Acts 28:17-31
Pauls affection
is as strong as
his theology

agricultural
reference,
like Jesus!

favorite
One of my
s!
g
Gospel son
ooklyn
r
Find the B
Choir
le
Tabernac
ouTube.
Y
version on

10

Fall 2015 | COLUMNS

the defining verse for the

Protestant Reformation, as
per Martin Luther. Kind of
a big deal.

e continued
sadly the churches in Rom
ir members in
the
of
to record the names
g if their origin
separate columns, indicatin
long into the 4th
were Greek or Jewish,
unity in Christ
century. Pauls words on
didnt take :(
regardless of nationality

SCHOOL OF DISCIPLESHIP

FALL SESSION I BEGINS SEPTEMBER 13

School of Discipleship courses are designed to help you grow and mature as a follower of Jesus.
All courses meet for a certain number of weeks to help you maximize your time, and cover specific topics focused on Biblical study and practical application.
CASKET EMPTY: A NEW TESTAMENT STORY
Join Dr. Case Thorp for this 2015-2016 course to learn
and remember the story of Gods redemption in the
New Testament. Using curriculum created by GordonConwell Theological Seminary, participants study
the full scope of the New Testaments chronological,
geographical, historical, cultural and literary context.
Sundays, 9:45am.
FIRST CONNECTIONS
Did you recently join the church? Are you considering membership in our First Pres family? First Connections is the place to learn about the church, get
to know others and discover your place in the larger
church family. Led by Elders Leigh Swanson and Lance
Fair, this 7-week course is the best place to get started
if youre new or reconnecting to church. Sundays,
9:45am.
PRAYER 101
Jesus example teaches us that prayer is essential to following God. Our ongoing conversation with God the
Father is the first place we share our joys, concerns and
sorrows. Join Rev. Becky Davis and the Prayer Team
for a variety of weekly teachings on prayer. Sundays,
9:45am.

DAVE RAMSEYS
FINANCIAL PEACE UNIVERSITY
We all need a plan for our money. Financial Peace
University (FPU) is that plan! It teaches Gods ways of
handling money. Through video teaching, class discussions and interactive small group activities, FPU presents biblical, practical steps to get from where you are
to where youve dreamed you could be. Get rid of debt,
manage your money, spend and save wisely, and plan
for the future. Facilitated by Jim and Jill Adkinson and
Steve Cahill, this 9 week course will take place Sunday
afternoons. Pricing and registration online at
fpco.org/smart
AN EXPLORATION
OF THE BOOK OF DEUTERONOMY
Come for this 10-week study with Reformed Theological Seminary Professor Dr. Mark Futato and learn
about this book at the heart of the Old Testament.
Quoted by Jesus more than any other book, Deuteronomy is where we study the central text of the Old
Testament, the Shema. Learn to use this book in your
life, as Jesus did. Course will be Mondays at 12:30pm.
$100 and scholarships are available. Online registration
required at fpco.org/smart

For room numbers and registration, visit fpco.org/smart

FALL SESSION II PREVIEW

EVANGELISM, with Sam Sinns
Just a few steps and a friendly hello may be all it takes
to change someones life- and eternity! Course participants will be equipped with simple, yet effective,
evangelism tools.

DEEPER CONNECTIONS,
with the Discipleship Team
For recent First Connections participants and new
church members who desire to go deeper in the their
discipling relationships with God and grow closer with
the First Pres family.

COLUMNS |

Fall 2015

11

THE VOICE
GOD GAVE US
by Dr. Dan Sharp
In the early part of the last century, the father of
American composer Charles Ives was asked: Mr. Ives,
how can you stand to hear John Bell bellow off-key the
way he does at camp meetings?
Ives response? Old John is a supreme musician. Look
into his face and hear the music of the ages. Dont pay
too much attention to the sounds. If you do, you may
miss the music.
Without a doubt the human voice is the most versatile
and beautiful instrument of worship. When was the
last time you heard heartfelt singing in worship? And
to be truthful, we have people who are uncomfortable
in hearing their own singing voice or who have been
told by some unthinking person not to sing. Lets hear
the voice God gave us.
The human voice is capable of great beauty. Next time
we pray the Lords Prayer or confess a creed, listen to
the human sound. God made the voice for the purpose
of hearing humans express their hearts. From what I
read in Scripture, God apparently enjoys hearing us
sing! Worship is a place for beautiful, human musical sound that draws us to reverence and mystery, to a
place of holy, breathless wonder. Be listening for one
beautiful sound each week, be it an awe-inspiring hush
or a robust declaration. Lend your voice to worship.
Lets hear the voice God gave us.
So what are some unique contributions our voices
bring to worship? First of all, there is simply beautiful sound. More than any other aspect of worship, the
human voice brings this quality. Beauty is Gods idea.
He has made humans with the capacity to rearrange
his invention of sound and music to make something
beautiful. Our sung music, whether by congregation,
12

Fall 2015 | COLUMNS

choir, or band, is an aural painting of devotion and adoration offered in the Holy Spirit through Jesus Christ
to God the Father. Lets hear the voice God gave us.
The human voice, like no other instrument in worship,
has a supremely emotive quality. There are qualities
of timbre, inflection, volume, tone, resonance, pitch,
transparency, humility, and many more aspects of the
voice that are personal and intimate. It expresses the
heart. Combining beautiful musical vocal sound, empowered by the Holy Spirit, can be useful in helping all
of us become aware of the presence of God. Lets hear
the voice God gave us.
Then there is the corporate value of the voice as Gods
people come together. We read of times of great antiphonal response by the Israelites where they confirmed covenants and oaths before each other in the
presence of Yahweh. (Joshua 8) We speak of the Body
of Christ or the community of faith. It is a magnificent
sound when all Gods people joyously declare with one
voice. Lets hear the voice God gave us.
One final time, lets hear the voice God gave us.
Dr. Dan Sharp is the Minister of Worship and a great
fan of participation whenever the church gathers to worship together. He leads our Chancel Choir each Sunday
morning and would love to help you find your voice.
dsharp@fpco.org

Sharing Gods Love

Becoming a Stephen Minister
by Rev. Becky Davis
Last January, I had the privilege of attending the Stephen Ministry Leadership Training Course. Close to
400 people gathered for extensive training on the workings of this ministry. While I have heard about Stephen
Ministry since high school, attending this conference
gave me an even greater appreciation and understanding of this incredible ministry. An added bonus was
that my mom attended with me as she has joined the
Stephen Ministry Leadership Team at her church.

Here is what some of our First Pres Stephen Ministers

are saying about their experience:
Stephen Ministry is a wonderful opportunity to give
back. It is a great feeling to know that I have helped
someone in their time of need.
Stephen Ministry has given me the opportunity to be
the hands of Christ when I reach out to touch someone
in need, His smile when I offer encouragement, and His
love when I sit still and listen.

Its hard to put into words all I learned that week and
how this training has impacted my ministry, except to
say I am a big fan of Stephen Ministry. I want to spread Being a Stephen Minister means being blessed with the
the word about this life changing ministry, and ask you opportunity to encounter God in a truly unique way.
to pray about becoming a Stephen Minister.
Walking beside another in the name of Christ, I believe
is as enriching to the Stephen Minister as it is to those
What is Stephen Ministry?
served by Stephen Ministry.
The mission statement is Christ caring for people,
through people.Essentially, its a ministry of caring for Stephen Ministry is a 2-year commitment, and our
others. Each Stephen Minister is carefully trained and
next training class begins January 2016. This 50-hour
prepared to do this in their own church family.
course teaches such topics as The Art of Listening,
Distinctly Christian Care, Assertiveness, Crisis Theory,
Stephen Ministers are people like you, who have been
Boundaries, and Confidentiality, as well as how to
equipped to offer care to individuals going through dif- minister to those experiencing grief or depression.
ficult seasons in life. These seasons range from grieving
the death of a loved one, to facing an illness, to even
If you want to find out more about how you can be
adjusting to having a newborn baby at home or transi- involved in this one-to-one caregiving ministry, contioning into retirement. To be a Stephen Minister, you tact Tammas Smith at 407.423.3441 x1455 or email
dont have to have all the answers, a counseling detsmith@fpco.org.
gree, or be an expert in problem solving. All you need
is a desire to sit with another person, to listen and be
Christs instrument of care.

NOISE, HURRY & CROWDS

MAKING TIME TO MAKE A MARRIAGE

by Bret Allen
Jim Elliot, a martyr for his faith in Christ, said,
I think the devil has made it his business to monopolize
on three elements: noise, hurry, and crowdsSatan is
quite aware of the power of silence.
I used this quote in a class I recently taught on the
spiritual discipline of solitude and silence. The quote
is a reference to three things that Satan uses to distract
us from our relationship with God. Then it occurred
to me that Satan also uses noise, hurry (busyness), and
crowds to distract us from our relationship with our
spouse.
Think about your average day. The alarm clock (noise)
goes off because we need to get out of bed for whatever
the first thing on our to-do list is (busyness). We get
in our car, turn on the radio (noise) and check our
Google maps to find out the traffic (crowds) for the
morning because we are in a (hurry) and need to get
somewhere on time. And it goes on and on and on like
this all day, 24/7. And then you add children, sports
14
Fall 2015 | COLUMNS

practices, dance lessons, church meetings, working out

(with our ear buds in), social gatherings...and this is
how we live.
As we hustle and bustle from one thing to the next, we
can so easily neglect our second most important relationship, our spouse. The truth is, it takes intentionality
to fight against the noise, busyness and crowds and to
create space for our marriage to grow and be strong,
healthy, and alive. Its very much like our most important relationship- with Jesus. As Christians, many of
us spend very little time just being with Him, talking,
listening, praying, resting in Him. Thus our relationship with the One who loves us more than anyone else
is stagnant. We are distracted.
In the same way, many of us are married, but spend
very little time talking, truly listening, praying together,
playing together, or just being with each other. We have
distracted marriages. So what is the solution to our
problem?

Create space. Pay attention.

These two concepts will go a long way toward maintaining a healthy marriage over the long haul. But, its
increasingly difficult in the midst of noise, hurry, and
crowds. So here are a few practical steps for creating
space together:
COUCH TIME
Take 15 minutes, or more, each day when you just
sit together without distraction. No TV, silence
your phone, etc. If you have children at home,
explain this to them. This is not selfish on your part
or neglecting your children; its actually modeling the top priority relationship in the home, the
husband-wife relationship! It may be helpful to use
an egg timer so your children know when they can
have your attention. Talk, listen and PAY ATTENTION to each other.
WALK TIME
Take a walk around the block with your spouse or
on a nearby trail. As you walk, hold hands and try
to walk slower than normal. There is no hurry. Talk
and listen and PAY ATTENTION to each other.
DATE NIGHT
This takes planning, so put it on the calendar. And
as an idea, what about picking up something to
go and find a park or somewhere away from the
crowd and have dinner together? Have a destination date: take a drive together and talk in the car.
Listen well and PAY ATTENTION to each other.
(Movies dont count--youre paying attention, but not to
one another!)

READING
Pick a book to read together and set aside time
to discuss. Tim Kellers The Meaning of Marriage
would be a great place to start. Or even read aloud;
then talk and listen and PAY ATTENTION to each
other.
SEXUAL INTIMACY
Plan a romantic evening. PAY ATTENTION.
Enough said.
Our marriages need time away from the noise, hurry
and crowds of our everyday life. This will take effort.
Be open and available to your spouse. Invest time and
energy in the relationship. You will begin to see the

blessing of creating space and paying attention in your

relationship.
Bret Allen is the Minister of Family Life and a big fan
of marriage, as is Kim, his wife of 25 years. An encourager of couples at all stages of marriage, hes here to help
strengthen yours. ballen@fpco.org

KEEP INVESTING
IN YOUR MARRIAGE
THE MARRIAGE RETREAT
Make your plans now to nurture your marriage this Spring - the Marriage Retreat will fill
up fast! Join David & Leigh Swanson at the
Mission Inn for a restful and romantic weekend with your spouse, February 12-14, 2016.
Registration opens August 16 at 12:30pm.
The first 30 couples to register get $50 off.

THE MARRIAGE DESSERT

Join the conversation on marriage as some of
our own First Pres couples share their insights
and experience. Q&A, sweets and a delicious
evening with your spouse. Bring a dessert
to share and bring friends. Friday, August 28
from 7:30pm-9:30pm in Lee Fellowship Hall.

THE MARRIAGE ARCHIVE

Explore a specially-curated playlist of our best
sermons on marriage in recent and not-sorecent history.

fpco.org/marriage

COLUMNS |

Fall 2015

15

YEAR OF THE
LORDS FAVOR

OUR MENTORING MINISTRYS REMARKABLE JOURNEY TO MERCY DRIVE

by Jenny Arrison
The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the
Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor.
He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim
freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the
prisoners, to proclaim the year of the Lords favor and the
day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn,
and provide for those who grieve in Zionto bestow on
them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy
instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a
spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness,
a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor. They
will rebuild the ancient ruins and restore the places long
devastated; they will renew the ruined cities that have
been devastated for generations. Isaiah 61:1-4 (emphasis added)
This summer, we celebrate FOUR12s 20th year. For 20
years, First Pres has been mentoring urban youth in our
city, sharing the love of God and helping students break
the cycle of poverty. And this year, we are truly celebrating the Lords favor. We have attended a record number
of high school graduations and have awarded a record
number of college scholarships. We also have a record
number of former students serving as leaders in our
ministry. They are restoring the places long devastated.
They are renewing the ruined cities. They truly are oaks
of righteousness for the display of His splendor!
16

Fall 2015 | COLUMNS

Over the last 20 years, the ministry has gone through

many changes. What was once called ASOM (short for
After School Outreach Ministry) is now called FOUR12
(from 1 Timothy 4:12). What was once a 6-8th grade
program is now a 6-12th grade program, and even
includes an emerging college ministry. And, what was
once located at First Presbyterian Church will now be
located at the Northwest Community Center in the
Mercy Drive Community. There have been many significant changes over the years, but there has been one
constant: meeting the needs of urban youth.
The story of this ministry has always been one of meeting needs. It began in 1995 to meet a need at Howard
Middle School. Then, when it became apparent that
impacting students in middle school wasnt enough, the
program expanded to meet the needs of high school students. When 100% of those students went off to college,
it expanded once again to meet the need of its students
(all first in their families to go to college)! Now, there is
another urgent need that God has called us to meet and
we couldnt be more excited.
To meet that need, we have moved our operations to
the Northwest Community Center in the Mercy Drive
Community, through an amazing partnership with the

city. We are now located in the neighborhood

that God has called us to serve, which solves
a myriad of transportation issues and accessibility issues.We will be able to serve more
students and families, have better and more
regular contact with parents, offer community-wide events, and give our students access to
a state-of-the-art facility in their own neighborhood. We are truly celebrating Gods favor!
The Northwest Community Center is the
hidden gem of Mercy Drive. It is outfitted
with are you ready for this?... an OlympicJENNY ARRISON & NATHAN SHAW (AT LEFT) WITH CITY
sized swimming pool, football field, outdoor
COMISSIONER REGINA HILL (CENTER) AND OUR AWEbasketball courts, indoor basketball gym,
SOME FOUR12 STUDENTS.
computer lab, game room, kitchen, classrooms, and a brand new recording studio.
We could not be more grateful to God, and our partners What happens to the students from Howard Middle
in our community: Commissioner Regina Hill, Anthony School? We began this transition at the start of the 2014Grant, Jaimee DeShay, and the City of Orlando. And, of
15 school year and informed all of our Howard Middle
course, we are incredibly grateful to this church family
School students that the move was coming. We also
our volunteers and supporters who have kept this
stopped recruiting and accepting new students from
ministry going and thriving for 20 years!
Howard. Our high school students have always been
given bus passes in order to attend our program so, now
As weve been preparing for this big move, weve enthat all of our Howard students have progressed to high
countered many questions. So here are the answers to
school, they have the option and ability to attend our
frequently asked questions about our move:
program at the Northwest Community Center.
Why are you moving? When the ministry began in 1995
to meet the needs of Howard Middle School and the
Parramore community, our city was in a very different
place. Over the last two decades, the City of Orlando has
poured a lot of resources into the Parramore Community. Students in Parramore now have more options and
safe places to go after school. Howard Middle School
has also changed. With the addition of its Fine Arts
Magnet Program and the citys After School All Stars on
its campus, there is not a great need for our program. In
contrast, however, the Mercy Drive Community has not
been given the same amount of attention or resources.
And, according to recent studies, it has higher poverty,
crime, and dropout rates than not only Parramore, but
most of the state and country. God has called us to meet
the greater need.

Are you still a part of First Pres? YES! The FPCO Session
and pastoral staff are full partners in the transition. Only
our location has changed. We will run the after school
program out of the Northwest Community Center
and be in our church offices once a week. Our funding structure has not changed either, so we need your
support now more than ever! FOUR12 is purposefully
structured to rely heavily on donors to help kids break
the cycle of poverty.

We have long-standing relationships starting with Heart

of Mercy Church, and new relationships in that community. This gives us the incredible opportunity to add our
piece to the continuum of care puzzle- kindergarten to
college, and beyond!

Jenny Arrison is the Director of FOUR12, serving this

ministry for seven years. She is excited about seeing
transformation take place in neighborhoods and especially
in hearts. jarrison@fpco.org. You can follow FOUR12 on
social media @myFOUR12

How can I get involved? Volunteer as a tutor. Be a spiritual mentor to a teen. Donate school supplies. Mentor
a first generation college student. Invest in our Heart of
the City scholarship fund. Help out in the office. Put on
a party! Just jump in with us and well find a great way
for you to change lives.

COLUMNS |

Fall 2015

17

Choosing Websites
& Apps for Learning
by Gretchen Miller Basso
Websites and apps can be great tools for learning.
Many claim to be educational, but how do you know
which ones are truly worthwhile for your childs particular learning needs?

media in a childs life TV, movies, websites, music,

apps all of the ways we experience our modern culture. CPYU takes a balanced look at any given form of
entertainment, and asks questions including What
about this is godly? What is worldly? What about this is
At The Christ School, teachers use a variety of apps and edifying? What is not healthy?
websites to enhance lessons in math, reading, writing,
science, social studies, and more. Rich Magee, Technol- The other is Common Sense Media (commonsenogy Specialist at The Christ School (TCS) and lifelong
semedia.org). Their in-house reviewers and certified
First Pres member, has used different types of media in reviewer-educators reflect thoughtfully and deliberately
his classroom for years, and helps to advise TCS faculty on each piece of media. What does it do? For what
on integrating technology resources into their lessons. ages is it most appropriate? What are some specifics
But what about technology at home? For parents, the
about the app? With Common Sense Media, you wont
array of choices can be daunting. Rich offers sound ad- have the Christian lens, but it is a worthy resource for
vice that can be helpful for choosing apps and websites exploring any type of media.
to enhance learning at home.
Both organizations spend the time that most of us
Q: What is the best way to choose a website or app to
dont have to review each piece of media. They are
enhance my childs learning?
looking at these apps through a trained educational
perspective. Another good resource when I am looking
Rich Magee: The best thing I can suggest is to do a
for something for a specific age or grade is
little bit of research. When I am looking into any type
graphite.org, run by Common Sense Media. Websites
of media to introduce to our students, there are two
and apps can be filtered by subject, age/grade level,
organizations I consult for guidance. The first is The
platform, and price. Read the reviews for a variety of
Center for Parent -Youth Understanding (cpyu.org),
apps to determine if a particular app is good for learna Christian organization that evaluates all aspects of
ing, how the teachers use it, etc. Graphite.org has done
18

Fall 2015 | COLUMNS

a lot of the research making it much faster to filter

down to the most successful aspects they recommend.
It is important to remember that I use these two organizations as first filters to help me make better decisions about apps that I choose for learning. I can tell
by the reviews if the piece of media is worth exploring
further. Then it is up to me to review the app or website further to see if it is appropriate, educational, and
will be a benefit to our students learning. I hope that
every parent will try an app first before letting their
child play it. Although many apps might sound good at
first, sometimes ads pop up that may not be appropriate.

FAVORITE TEACHING APPS AND SITES

OF THE CHRIST SCHOOL FACULTY:
Mrs. Lewis, Kindergarten: Teach Me Kindergarten
(iOS).
Mrs. Schwalk, 1st grade: Mathopolis (iOS).
Mrs. Wigle, 2nd grade: Mathopolis, Math Bingo,
Splash Math, and Sushi Monster (all iOS).
Miss Forbes, 5th grade: Quizlet (iOS) - Create your
own or use pre-made flashcards at home or at school to
prepare for quizzes and tests.

Q: What are your favorite types of learning websites and

apps?

Mr. Ross, middle school Algebra: Google slides,

and Desmos, a graphing calculator (both websites).

RM: For any type of media, I like tools that promote

critical thinking and reasoning skills. A couple of the
games that I use currently with our kindergarten and
first grade students are on the PBS Kids website
(pbskids.org). Fidget is a fun puzzle that requires solving a problem (falling fidgets) by using tools in 25
unique settings. String Thing lets you create your own
music with a variety of musical instruments.

Mrs. Davis, Spanish: Duolingo (web) .

As a teacher, I want websites and apps to reach a

range of abilities. Children should have a place to land
whether they are just starting or are close to mastering
a concept. Most parents are looking for resources for
their particular child that address particular strengths
and needs. A good app should have multiple entry
points and ability levels that will continue to challenge
a child as they begin to master the game or task.

Mrs. Gibbs, Compass:

TK K Timmys Kindergarten Adventure (iOS).
1st grade and up: Spelling City (web & Android).

The Christ School serves children from transitional kindergarten through 8th Grade, and is located on the First
Presbyterian Church of Orlando campus. Learn more at
thechristschool.org

Q: What is the best way for parents to find a good educational app for their child?
RM: When choosing an app for your child, have his/
her specific needs in mind. For example, if your child
is struggling with reading, research the app to see if
it is helpful in enhancing their reading skills or if it
is merely entertaining. The websites I suggested are
great places to start. Remember, always be sure to try it
yourself first.
Children need to have balance in their lives. Although
computers are an important tool for learning, I believe
that running around outside and climbing trees is even
more important.

RICH MAGEE AND THE CHRIST SCHOOL

STUDENTS GETTING HANDS ON WITH
COMPUTER HARDWARE.

COLUMNS |

Fall 2015

19

WORKING
TO SOLVE
HOMELESSNESS
by Dr. David Swanson
Over the past eighteen months, I have become increasingly involved in our regions effort to reduce homelessness while also providing the necessary physical
and mental care for those involved. I serve on the
board of the Central Florida Commission on Homelessness, chair the Chronic Homelessness sub-committee, and serve on Project DTO (Downtown Orlando)
which created a ten-year vision plan for downtown,
part of which was how to address the needs of the
most vulnerable among us.
First, some definitions:
1. Chronic Homelessness:
to be considered chronically homeless, you must
be either mentally or physically disabled, period.
Thus, any comment such as homeless people just
need to get out and work is one which displays
ignorance. A chronically homeless person does not
have the capacity to work. They are the most vulnerable among us because they lack the resources
or ability to help themselves.
2. Family or Episodic Homelessness:
this form of homelessness is when people find
themselves suddenly out of job or they have a
20

Fall 2015 | COLUMNS

job, but it does not pay enough to provide housing AND food. Many wind up living in extended
stay hotels, camps, or cars. Most of the time, these
people are able to work, but lack of affordable
housing, transportation, education, childcare and a
host of other things make these impossible. Family homelessness is more complex, as the needs are
more systemic.
3. Ending Homelessness:
when we say we are going to end homelessness,
we do not mean that no one will ever be homeless
again. What we mean is that such moments will be
rare, brief, or one time.
4. Permanent Supportive Housing:
this is the solution to homelessness that is impacting cities across the nation (Phoenix, Houston, Salt
Lake City, Miami, Dallas, San Antonio). A homeless person is provided a home (normally a onebedroom efficiency) and then surrounded with
support services that will help them stay in that
home successfully. Each will have a case manager
(one case manager per twelve clients) who will
connect them to the needed resources, including
mental health resources. While initially counter-

intuitive (giving a homeless person a home with no

conditions on behavioral change), the data proves
its effectiveness. It costs the taxpayer $30,000 per
person if they live on the street, but only $10,000
per year if they are housing and provided services.
And the recidivism rate is only 8%, far lower than
the transitional housing model.
We are making GREAT progress. With generous donations from Florida Hospital, the City of Orlando and
Orange County, the Chronic Homelessness Committee
has prepared, funded and begun implementation of a
plan to house 240 homeless people by the end of 2015.
We have engaged with the Veterans Administration
to identify every homeless veteran in our region and
house them by the end of the year. We are engaging
the faith community to provide needed clothing and
furniture to those entering homes. We are launching
a program called Open Table, which allows a church
to surround a family as they navigate their way out of
homelessness. And, we are beginning to delve more
deeply into how domestic violence and human trafficking are connected to homelessness.
In particular, the response to our Homeless Jesus sculpture has been tremendous. Most days, I see multiple
people stop and look and linger. Many times, small
trinkets and gifts are left which we collect and distribute to those organizations that can use them. Even
better, we have had people come to our front desk
and write checks in support of our Compassion Corner homeless ministry as a means of expressing their
gratitude.
It has been an encouraging time for our community
as we are finally making headway to serve so many in
need. It would not have been possible without the partnerships between city/county government, the private
sector, and the faith community. When those three
come together, there is nothing that we cannot achieve.
This is a prime example of what I mean when I say I
want First Pres to be a city-center church. We partner
with our community to identify needs and then we roll
up our sleeves and figure out how to get it done!
Dr. David Swanson is the Senior Pastor here at the
church, and has seen the impact our church family can
have on our community when we work together to serve
the least among us.

To learn more about the Chronic Homelessness plan,

and how you can get involved, visit rethinkhomelessness.
org.
If youd like to help get an apartment move-in ready for
someone (shopping, decorating and making it into a
home), or youd like to start building a relationship with
a local homeless veteran as they transition into permanent housing, call Carol Hafer at 407.423.3441 x1460.

HOMELESSNESS
IN OUR COMMUNITY
Estimated number of homeless individuals in
Orange County, FL in 2011: 6,583.
THE COST OF BEING HOMELESS
The average annual cost to be homeless in Central Florida is $31,065 per person.
If nothing changes in Central Floridas approach
to homelessness, the projected cost of homelessness to our community over 10 years will be
$4,898,950,500. (Yes, billions.) And, these same
individuals would still be homeless.
HOMELESSNESS & FAMILIES
It is estimated that Central Florida has 3,920
families doubled-up and living in hotels and
motels.* 55.5% of Floridas homeless people in
families are unsheltered.
In 2011, there were approximately 3,000 homeless children attending Orange County Public
Schools, up from 1,463 in 2008.
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban
Development reports homelessness amongst
families with children as the fastest growing
homeless population in Florida.

Sources:
Rethink Homelessness/Central Florida Regional Commission on
Homelessness Economic Impact Report: The Cost of Long Term
Homelessness in Central Florida report, 2014. rethinkhomelessness.
org.2012-2013 Florida Department of Education Report.
2014 Florida Department of Children & Families Council on Homelessness Report. 2012 National Health Care for the Homeless Council Report, Orlando. Orange County, Point-in-Time Count 2011.
Homeless But Finding Sanctuary at School, 2011, New York Times.

COLUMNS |

Fall 2015

21

FAMILY NEWS
Congratulations to...
Ryan and Sondra Parsons on the birth of
their son, Timothy Burkett Burke Parsons, born April 30, 2015.
Chris and Ginny Leavy, on the birth of
their daughter, Ann Rebecca Leavy, born
May 22, 2015. The proud grandparent is
Dale Leavy.
Steven Lewis Candeto, II and Lindsey
Brooke Caldwell, who were married May
30, 2015 in the Sanctuary. Lindsey is the
daughter of Jeff and Donna Caldwell.
Dock David Treece and Kiah Kathleen
Barrette, who were married May 30, 2015
in the Reformation Chapel. Kiah is the
daughter of Richard and Linda Barrette.
Brad and Cassie Bateman on the birth of
twin daughters, Gwena Claire Bateman
and Sydney Kay Bateman, born June 5,
2015.
Jonathan and Courtney Christian on the
birth of their son, Jackson William Christian, born June 14, 2015.
Andrew Jonathan Pekoe and Crystal
Brooke Yates, who were married June 6,
2015 in the Sanctuary.
Ryan Boone Simpson and Grace Marie
Mei-Pin Chong, who were married June
13, 2015 in the Reformation Chapel. Ryan
is the son of Mark and Robin Simpson.
Chris and Allison Miller on the birth of
their daughter, Antoinette Annie Joy
Miller, born July 19, 2015. The proud
grandparents are Jim and Debbie Ferber.
John and Caroline Goodner on the birth
of their son, John Thomas Goodner, III.,
born July 21, 2015.

Sympathy to...
The family and friends of Ken Kraft who
died April 16, 2015.
Chris and Kristin Creegan on the death
of his mother, Toni Creegan, on April 23,
2015.
John Loudermilk on the death of his wife,
Dorothy Loudermilk, on May 1, 2015.

22

2014-2015 | ANNUAL REPORT

Rob and Monica Madigan on the death of

his mother, Shirley Madigan Wismann,
who died May 3. 2015. Mrs Wismann was
the grandmother of Amanda Madigan
Vaughan and Molly & Emily Madigan.
Peter & Lisa Steinhoff on the death of his
brother, Wayne Paul Steinhoff, on May
8. Mr Steinhoff was the uncle of Jennifer
Steinhoff.
Lynne and Ralph Veerman on the death of
her mother, Frances Pope, on May 9. 2015.
Pam & Mark Oldham on the death of her
mother, Ima Jean Cook, who died May 11,
2015. Mrs Cook was the grandmother of
Morgan Leigh & Trey Oldham.
Nancy Hughes on the death of her sister,
Janice Stetson, on May 21, 2015.
Mike and Chandy Kelley on the death of
his father, James Michael Kelley on May
29, 2105.
Trice and Mike Abufaris on the death of
her father, Patrick Stover on May 30, 2015.
Mr. Kelley was the grandfather of Charlotte Kelley.
Meredith & Brett Hollowell on the death
of her grandmother, Lurlee Fellers, on June
4, 2015.
Donna and John Speer on the death of her
father, Bob Dosh, on June 7, 2015.
Kim & Susie Kemper on the death of his
mother, JoAnn Kemper, on June 8, 2015.
Lance & Karen Fair on the death of his
mother, Diane Fair on June 19, 2015.
Mrs. Fair was the grandmother of Lauren,
Courtney and Fletcher Fair.
The family and friends of Mike Spurgeon,
who died June 23, 2015.
The family and friends of Virginia (Ginny)
Comfort King who died June 30, 2015.
Mrs. Comfort King was the grandmother
of Taylor Ariko and Griff & Elizabeth
Ariko. She was the great grandmother of
Randy and Ava Ariko.
Karen & Bill Rumpf on the death of her
mother, Mary Belle Mark on July 1, 2105.

Carla and Marvin Hardy on the death of

her mother, Helene Schulz on July 8, 2105.
Mrs. Schulz was the grandmother of Will,
Helen and Sutton Hardy.
Mark and Robin Simpson on the death
of his father, Harold Simpson on July 11,
2105.
Gerard and Betsy Buckreis on the death
of his mother, Edna Buckreis on July 12,
2015. Mrs Buckreis was the grandmother
of Lindsey Buckreis.
Cynthia and Richard Harris and Greg
and Sue Voorhees on the death of their
father, Don Voorhees on July 14, 2015. Mr.
Voorhees was the grandfather of Geoff
Voorhees, Brian Harris (Maggie), Gary
Voorhees (Elle), Lisa Moudgill (Neil),
Kathryn Rivera (Miguel) and Laura Demateis (Josh).
Russ and Janice Divine on the death of
his father, Larry Divine, on July 20, 2015.
Mr. Divine was the grandfather of Rachel
(Gabe) De Jesus and Becca Davis (Bud).

Call FPCO at
407.423.3441 to
- schedule a baptism x1451
- request a hospital visit x1455
- plan a wedding x1453
- arrange a memorial service x1455
- gift flowers for worship x1272
- ask giving questions x1479
- change your address x1471
- purchase a sermon DVD x1438
- reserve childcare x2227
- reach security 407.466.3497
- reserve a meeting space x1459
- ask about this magazine x1467
FOR PASTORAL EMERGENCIES

after the hours of 8:30am5:00pm, please leave a voicemail

message on the main church
number to page the minister on
call.

2 0 1 5

A N N UA L

R E P O RT

A LOOK AHEAD

ANNUAL REPORT |

2014-2015

23

E A S T E R AT D R . P H I L L I P S
In 2015, First Pres Orlando hosted Easter at the new Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts for 6,136 people.

24

2014-2015 | ANNUAL REPORT

HOMELESS JESUS

This unique sculpture, dedicated May 20, is a profound

reminder to our city and our church family to serve the least
and the lost among us.

G E N E R A L A S S E M B LY

In June, First Pres hosted 1,200+ pastors, missionaries, exhibitors and family for the 2015 General Assembly for the Evangelical Presbyterian Church. Hosted by 375 amazing First Pres
volunteers, attendees came from 45 states and 12 nations,
commissioning 7 missionaries, and celebrating Gods goodness in over 8 hours of corporate worship.
Fun Fact: In 2009, the EPC had 7 church plants nationwide.
Today there are 27.

ANNUAL REPORT |

2014-2015

25

VA C AT I O N B I B L E S C H O O L
In 2015, Our SHINE Childrens Ministry Team hosted VBS for
340 children from our church and community, with the help of
70 adult and 95 youth volunteers.

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Relationships continue to flourish in the D.R., including a Family

Mission Trip with Student Ministry this year, and a new gym for
Mission Emanuel through ARISE AND BUILD.

26

2014-2015 | ANNUAL REPORT

MADAGASCAR

After 9 years, we have deeply-rooted relationships in Mada. Biblical

Entrepreneurship leaders opened a credit union this summer, the Topaza Orphanage was rebuilt with help from Helpless Estates album,
and over the last 2 years, over 100 girls have commited their lives to
Christ through our Mission Teams retreats at Behorika Girls School.

MADAGASCAR MISSION TEAM: Thomas Sefcik,

Andrew Sefcik, Quinn Roberts, Michelle Sterchi,
Kent Sterchi, Ansley Scrimscher, and Katie Hancock.

ANNUAL REPORT |

2014-2015

27

COVENANT COMMUNITY
MEMBERSHIP

WEBSITE (7%)

3,622

SCHOOLS &
MINISTRIES
(6%)

TOTAL MEMBERSHIP
AS OF JUNE 30, 2015

JULY 14 - JUNE 15

151

NEW MEMBERS

HOW NEW MEMBERS

HEARD ABOUT US

80

28

25

FIRST
CONNECTIONS

REAFFIRMATION

OTHER (35%)

FRIENDS
& FAMILY
(52%)

RANDOM HOLY
SPIRIT ACTION

STUDENTS VIA
CONFIRMATION

PROFESSION OF
FAITH OR BAPTISM

PASTORAL CARE

679

PRAYER REQUESTS

JULY 14 - JUNE 15

895

HOSPITAL VISITS

29

FUNERALS

1,248 1,080 701

HOURS OF STEPHEN
MINISTRY CARE

VISITS TO HOMEBOUND MEMBERS

$59,187.37

CALLS TO
MEMBERS
AT HOME

CURRENT BALANCE OF GOOD SAMARITAN FUND

28
2014-2015 | ANNUAL REPORT

HOLIDAY
ATTENDANCE

4,115

CHRISTMAS EVE 2014

6,136

EASTER 2015

WOMEN ENGAGED
Regular WE events included
seasonal Bible Study, Prayer
Retreat, Summer Nights &
Salads, and Brown Bag Series.

SCHOOL OF DISCIPLESHIP
& SUNDAY SCHOOL
250
AVERAGE WEEKLY
ATTENDANCE

JULY 14 - JUNE 15

504

COMBINED ADULT
SUNDAY SCHOOL & S.O.D.

120

13-14

14-15

WE BIBLE STUDY
PARTICIPANTS

1,000+

WE EVENT PARTICIPANTS

$1,000

RAISED FOR BEHORIKA GIRLS

SCHOOL IN MADAGASCAR

STUDENT MINISTRY
JULY 14 - JUNE 15

270

PARTICIPATING STUDENTS

56

CAMPERS AT CAMP TWAIN

TEENS
BAPTIZED

SHINE
CHILDRENS
MINISTRY

231

20s MINISTRY
JULY 14 - JUNE 15

70

196

12

80

PARTICIPANTS

13-14

WILDLIFE SHIRTS WORN

(CATS/GOATS/MONKEYS)

Our 20s initiative began just last year, but has

had a huge impact already.

97

12-13

178

14-15

AVERAGE WEEKLY
ATTENDANCE
(PRE-K - 5TH GRADE)

MONTHLY
GATHERINGS

BIBLE STUDY GROUPS

BACKPACKS FOR
MADAGASCAR

M A K I N G D I S C I P L E S29

ANNUAL REPORT |

2014-2015

LIGHT THE WORLD

MISSION

JULY 14 - JUNE 15

$273,687
59%

12%

TOTAL MISSION GRANTS GIVEN

FROM OPERATING BUDGET
TO FIRST PRES MISSION MINISTRIES
-

29%

COMPASSION CORNER
FOUR12
JAIL & PRISON INITIATIVE
MADAGASCAR INITIATIVE
THE MAGNOLIA PRESCHOOL
MERCY DRIVE INITIATIVE

TO INDIVIDUAL MISSIONARIES
TO OUTSIDE ORGANIZATIONS

DID YOU KNOW?

Celebrating 20 years of ministry, Compassion Corner welcomes 75-80 men and
women daily for bible study, coffee, fellowship, and prayer. Coaches provide 10,000
hours of case management per year, and the center provides $20,000 of bus passes
for interviews, appointments and needed services. Read Dr. Swansons article on
how were working to solve homelessness (p.18).
Over the last 10 years, over 300 urban youth from Orlando have attended Kids
Across America Camp (or KAA) in Branson, MO each summer, which has led to 120
first time decisions for Christ and over 150 who have rededicated their lives to Christ.

FIRST PRES ONLINE

238

2,032

174
114

12-13

1,512

13-14

14-15

AVERAGE WEEKLY
ONLINE WORSHIPPERS
30FPCO.ORG/LIVE
2014-2015 | ANNUAL REPORT

JULY 14

JULY 15

PEOPLE CONNECTED
ON FACEBOOK
FACEBOOK.COM/FPCORLANDO

Campaign Update
Started in November 2014, ARISE AND BUILD is a 5-year capital
funds campaign to free our church from debt, and fund new
ministry critical to our God-given vision.
AS OF JUNE 30, 2015

CAMPAIGN GOAL

$7,700,000

CASH COLLECTED

$2,668,105

NEEDED TO COMPLETE CAMPAIGN

$750,979

unpledged amount needed to

complete the campaign goal

TOTAL COMMITMENTS & CONTRIBUTIONS

90%

includes pledges plus

unpledged contributions

Already making a difference

10% MISSION TITHE

$266,811

CURRENT PAYMENTS & ALLOCATIONS

- FOUR12 ($55,000)
- MADAGASCAR INITIATIVE ($59,562)
- MISSION EMMANUEL ($145,000)

DEBT PAYDOWN

$2,055,586

PAYMENTS MADE TO REDUCE OUR DEBT

- SEPARATION AGREEMENT ($655,529)
- VIDEO LINE OF CREDITW ($87,925)
- MORTGAGE PAYDOWN ($1,312,075)

MISSION EMMANUEL: The roof being

installed on the new Community Center and
Gym in the Dominican Republic.

ANNUAL REPORT |

2014-2015

31

HEART OF THE CITY

F O U N DAT I O N

For more than 35 years,

Heart of the City Foundation
has been supporting the
ministries of First Pres, as
well as other like-minded
partners throughout the
city and around the globe.
By encouraging generosity
among Gods people, HOCF
is committed to seamlessly
balancing vital resources
with ministry needs all for
the glory of God.

$60,225

DISCIPLESHIP
Projects funded include First Pres
School of Discipleship/RTS Partnership,
Bibles for Confirmation, 3DM Learning.

$53,575

MISSIONS
Funds divided between these missions
and ministries: Overseas Council, Grace
Medical Home, The Gathering, Central
Care Missions, The Christ School, Central
Florida Commission on Homelessness,
Mercy Drive Ministries, Madagascar Initiative, Samaritan Village.

$49,250

CAPITAL PROJECTS/FACILITIES
Projects include TV/Visual upgrades
for the Edington Ministry Center,
ARISE AND BUILD Kickoff Celebration,
Magruder Chapel Powder Room renovation, and King Parlor renovation.

$35,350
OTHER GRANTS
Additional grants awarded.

$70,000

SCHOLARSHIPS
Scholarships awarded, recognizing 55
college, seminary, graduate school and
Christian school students.
orlandoheartofthecity.org
32

2014-2015 | ANNUAL REPORT

YOUR GENEROSITY
MONTHLY CUMULATIVE GIVING
TITHE/OFFERING PLUS ARISE AND BUILD
JULY 14 - JUNE 15

9,000,000
8,000,000

ARISE AND BUILD

7,000,000

TITHE/OFFERING

6,000,000
5,000,000
4,000,000
3,000,000
2,000,000
1,000,000
0
JUL

AUG

SEP

OCT

NOV

DEC

JAN

MAR

APR

MAY

JUN

55.9%

GIVING PARTICIPATION
JULY 14 - JUNE 15

50.7%

44.7%

42.3%
40.7%
37.7%

43.2%

40.6%

39.9%

36.8%

FEB

40.4%

39.2%

DEBT SUMMARY
MORTGAGE NOTE

LOC SEPARATION AGMT

WORKING CAPITAL

HOCF LOAN

LOC VIDEO UPGRADE

OUC LIGHTING UPGRADE

5,000,000

UPDA
TE!
$

4,000,000

345
mortg ,360
a
paid o ge note
ff July
15!
Hoora
y

3,000,000

2,000,000
1,000,000
0
JUNE 11

JUNE 12

JUNE 13

JUNE 14
ANNUAL REPORT |

JUNE 15
2014-2015

33

BALANCE SHEET
ASSETS
CASH & INVENTORY
INVESTMENTS
RECEIVABLES
PROPERTY, PLANT & EQUIPMENT
OTHER ASSETS
TOTAL ASSETS

2015 2014
$2,807,578
$2,243,934
$34,211 $36,398
$18,870 $24,159
$20,943,146
$21,751,534
$142,549
$102,872
$23,946,353
$24,158,898

CURRENT LIABILITIES
LINE OF CREDIT
UNEARNED REVENUE
OTHER CURRENT LIABILITIES

$0
$86,022
$542,663

$112,425
$75,286
$329,879

TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES

$628,685

$517,590

LONG TERM LIABILITIES

MORTGAGE LOAN
$345,360*
$1,664,186
HOCF INTERFUND LOAN
$554,941
$554,941
LOC SEPARATION AGREEMENT
$0
$692,111
TOTAL LONG TERM LIABILITIES
TOTAL LIABILITIES

$900,301
$1,528,986

$2,911,237
$3,428,827

NET ASSETS
UNRESTRICTED FUNDS
$1,349,486
$970,573
DESIGNATED FUNDS
$1,764,976
$1,441,979
UNRESTRICTED NET ASSETS
$19,302,904
$18,317,520
TOTAL NET ASSETS
TOTAL LIABILITIES & NET ASSETS

$22,417,367
$23,946,353

$20,730,071
$24,158,898

NOTE: FY14-15 results are preliminary as reported, final audited

results will include certain adjustments for GAAP.

*Paid off 7/15/15

FIRST PRES RESERVES

1,000,000

OPERATING RESERVES

900,000

CAPITAL RESERVES

800,000
700,000
600,000
500,000
400,000

34

JUNE 11

2014-2015 | ANNUAL REPORT

JUNE 12

JUNE 13

JUNE 14

$561,245

$875,721

$446,198

$842,263

$258,825

$388,906

$241,915

$327,671

100,000

$549,993

200,000

$240,627

300,000

JUNE 15

REVENUES & EXPENSES

REVENUES

1415 BUDGET

MEMBER CONTRIBUTIONS
GENERAL OFFERINGS
TRUSTS & WILLS
CHARITABLE FOUNDATION
TOTAL CONTRIBUTIONS

$6,503,189
$6,096,865
$6,150,717
$83,681
$77,934
$75,104
$0
$5,000
$0
$0 $0 $0
$6,586,870
$6,179,799
$6,225,821

SPECIAL MINISTRIES REVENUES

WORSHIP & CULTURE
CONGREGATIONAL CARE
YOUNG ADULTS & FAMILIES
EVANGELISM & OUTREACH
MISSIONS
DISCIPLESHIP
SERVICES
TOTAL SPECIAL MINISTRIES REVENUES

$67,784
$129,396
$79,000
$5,316
$7,747
$5,000
$323,532
$206,816
$258,750
$637,895
$700,622
$718,575
$1,293,231 $1,153,549 $1,231,892
$18,800 $22,119 $21,050
$288,300 $429,258 $251,800
$2,634,859
$2,649,508
$2,566,067

1415 ACTUAL

1516 BUDGET

OTHER REVENUE
GENEROSITY
$50,000 $61,336 $0
IM REVENUE
$0 $0 $0
NET INVESTMENT INCOME
$0
-$6,330
$0
INTEREST INCOME
$1,000
$698
$700
MISCELLANEOUS REVENUES $0 $0 $0
MEMORIAL GARDEN
$6,100
$10,150
$8,000
TOTAL OTHER REVENUES
$57,100
$65,854
$8,700
TOTAL REVENUES
$9,278,829
$8,895,161
$8,800,587

EXPENSES
MINISTRIES EXPENSES
WORSHIP & CULTURE
CONGREGATIONAL CARE
YOUNG ADULTS & FAMILIES
EVANGELISM & OUTREACH
MISSIONS
DISCIPLESHIP
SERVICES
TOTAL SPECIAL MINISTRIES EXPENSES

$1,384,042
$1,401,821
$1,309,129
$299,974
$271,057
$271,526
$1,082,901
$939,412
$1,008,369
$1,054,557
$1,045,388
$1,123,360
$1,751,697 $1,626,472 $1,664,645
$293,173 $254,990 $395,809
$3,050,879 $3,056,547 $2,902,638
$8,917,224
$8,595,688
$8,675,475

OTHER EXPENSES
PRINCIPAL & INTEREST
RESERVES
TOTAL OTHER EXPENSES
TOTAL EXPENSES
NET-BEFORE CAPITAL CONTRIBUTIONS

$236,605
$111,469
$125,000 $176,760
$361,605
$288,228
$9,278,829
$8,883,916
$0
$11,244

$5,112
$120,000
$125,112
$8,800,587
$0

CAPITAL CONTRIBUTIONS
CAPITAL RESERVE
OPERATING RESERVE
TOTAL CAPITAL CONTRIBUTIONS
NET-AFTER CAPITAL CONTRIBUTIONS

$5,622
$5,622
$11,244
$0

ANNUAL REPORT |

2014-2015

35

First Presbyterian Church of Orlando

106 E. Church St., Orlando, FL 32801

106 East Church Street, Downtown

407.423.3441

| 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
fpco.org/live

36

Fall 2015 | COLUMNS

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

bimonthly by the First Presbyterian Church. Circulation: 3,000.
(2,500 by US Mail, 500 by on-campus distribution).
Periodicals postage paid at Orlando, Florida.
POSTMASTER:
Send address changes to
COLUMNS, 106 E. Church St. Orlando, FL 32801-3390.
2015 First Presbyterian Church of Orlando COLUMNS.

POSTMASTER: Time Sensitive Material

Please Deliver by AUGUST 20, 2015

PERIODICALS RATE
US POSTAGE PAID
ORLANDO, FL