C NNECT - Lord's Word Rejoicing in the - Church of the Palms
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
C NNECT
Rejoicing in the
Lord’s Word
LOVING GOD. LOVING NEIGHBOR.
Summer 2019 • www.churchofthepalms.org
inside this issue
SUMMER
pg. 4 A Message from Dr. Stephen D. McConnell
5 Who We Are
JOIN THE Features
SUMMER 6 Opportunities to Serve
Global Partners Committee
CHOIR 8 God’s Love Is Everlasting
Global Partners Committee
10 Happiness Hacks
Deacons Health & Wellness
11 A Garden That Grows Memories
Memorial Garden
12 Teacher Appreciation Month
Palms Preschool
13 Back to Basics Tutoring
The choir meets early in the
Music Building and rehearses
14 Acolyte Graduation
simple hymn arrangements /
easy anthems. No experience 15 Presbyterian Women & Palms Library
16
necessary.
Senior Graduating Class of 2019
Summer Choir Dates
June 16
July 7 & 21
17 Student Ministry
18
August 4 & 18
Youth & Family Ministry
Please arrive an hour prior to the
service to rehearse the music. Robe,
music & folder will be provided. Connect With Us
23 Upcoming Events
24 Grow Strong In Your Faith
Classes & Small Groups
2 COP CONNECT | Summer 2019
IN YOUR TIME OF NEED
WE’RE HERE FOR YOU
Hospital Visits
If you are in the hospital or are going to be admitted into a hospital and would like a visit
from the pastors and Visitation Ministry Team, please contact Ann McColgan (941.924.1323 x
210). Due to privacy reasons, hospitals will not provide us with the information that we need
unless they have your consent to do so. As such, we want to ensure that we are aware of your
visitation needs.
Many people face a crisis every day in their lives. Whether they are caring for a sick
family member, going through a long period of unemployment, or experiencing
incurable pain, they may benefit from the support and care of a Stephen Minister.
Contact Dr. Hmingi Browne: hbrowne@churchofthepalms.org
COP CONNECT | Summer 2019 3
A MESSAGE
from Dr. Stephen D. McConnell
There was something so heartbreaking when, It’s something for us to be mindful of as the
during Holy Week, we witnessed the blazing fire and Church of Jesus Christ. We have no fire to fear!
destruction of the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. In fact sometimes the fire is the Holy Spirit
For a moment we feared that the entire structure that burns away the old and unnecessary in
would be consumed and 850 years of history would order to leave room for some restoration. In
be lost. But then we learned that its stone framework fact, we journey right now between Easter and
withstood the ravages of the flames. And then we Pentecost – a season when Jesus raises our
learned of the massive and generous outpouring of hope and expectation for the coming of the
the human community to ensure that it would rise Holy Spirit’s fire to burn the dross, refine the
again from the ashes. By now you will have already gold and make us ever new again for a world
read and heard the metaphors the story suggests desperate for hope.
about the course of human life. Horror and hope can So again, we need not ever be afraid. What
arise out of the same story. may first be an occupied tomb is soon to be an
It’s certainly what we pondered as Jesus made his empty grave! What may first be calamity is just
way into the destroying flames of hate consummating the starting point for something new to arise.
in the life-ending cross. All hope seemed lost. Love What may first be bad news could be just the
humbly bowed before the powers of fear and took on prelude to good news.
the sin of the world. And when they took him down Easter puts on the tip of our tongue a new
from the cross we wondered, is this the end? But question - despite what should ever happen,
then to learn that Love bent but did not break. And what next will rise from the ashes?
out of the ashes of Good Friday came the hope and
new life of Easter. Out of the grave of Golgotha came
Jesus rising out of the ashes.
4 COP CONNECT | Summer 2019
WHO WE ARE
• To celebrate and employ one another’s gifts,
Church of the Palms is an experience, and knowledge.
• To empower each other in creating a
oasis in an otherwise chaotic meaningful impact…a lasting legacy.
world. We believe, quite • To support one another’s growth and
simply, that to follow Jesus wellness. We’re all about connection and
intentional community, facilitating the
means to love one another. development of deep, abiding friendships.
WE LOVE God. WE LOVE Neighbor.
That’s it. And we’re excited that you’re here.
COP CONNECT | Summer 2019 5
GLOBAL
PARTNERS
Committee
OPPORTUNITIES TO
SERVE
ByBy
Patricia Gottman
Patricia Gottman
6 COP CONNECT | Summer 2019
In our recent generosity campaign, we were given the to receive sustenance, a welcoming smile, and hope. A
challenge to consider how we might invest our heart team of 14 people is needed to cover this event. We begin
shares; that is, our time and talent – as well as our the afternoon sorting donations, assembling food bags,
treasure – in loving and supporting our neighbors. The and preparing for the hot meal distribution. When the
Global Partners Mission Committee would like to feature doors open we greet the families, distribute the assembled
three wonderful opportunities to do just that coming up items to them, and witness the grace of God’s work in their
over the next three months. smiles, hugs, and murmurs of appreciation. If you happen
to know Creole or Spanish a lively conversation can ensue
Habitat for Humanity – but the smiles exchanged really say it all! We will leave
On Saturday, May 11, a Church of the Palms work team will the Church at around noon and should be back no later
assist Habitat for Humanity as progress continues on their than 8:30 pm. Bring a snack, water, and wear comfortable
new 40-home Sarasota community known as Hammock clothing and prepare for an experience that will change
Place. Work on the first phase of these homes has begun your outlook forever about how your favorite fruits and
and the project features “cutting edge construction vegetables get to your local grocery store. For more
methods that exceed green building standards” while information about Mision Peniel, visit www.misionpeniel.
providing ultimately 40 families with a solid home in a safe com. To sign up for this event, contact Pat Gottman, GPMC
community featuring 3 bedrooms, a 2-car garage, washer/ Advocate for Mision Peniel at pjgottman@gmail.com or
dryer and new appliances, and lawn maintenance. In fact, stop by the sign-up table between services on Sunday, June
a recent grant by the Church of the Palms Foundation 16.
funded the first 10 washers and dryers for this Habitat
for Humanity effort. Our work day will start at 7:30 am Day of Hope
and go until noon. Work location and assignments will Another day of service now being planned is this year’s
be announced two weeks before. You must be at least 16 Day of Hope on Saturday, July 20. Many of you are already
years of age. Wear sturdy closed-toe shoes and prepare familiar with this extraordinary event, but if you haven’t
to get dirty! For more information about Hammock Place, had the opportunity to see it yet in action, it is one that
check out Habitat for Humanity’s website at should not be missed! The breadth and depth of this day
www.habitatsrq.org. To sign up for this service event, of open generosity and love will bring joy to your heart that
stop at the sign-up table between services on April 28, will last for a very long time. The day is worth your time…all
or contact Tom Webber, GPMC Advocate for Habitat for three of these opportunities are truly worthy of your heart
Humanity: webber.thom@gmail.com shares investment! Sign-ups for this important day begin
Sunday, April 28 between services. For more information
Mision Peniel contact Dotti Tyle: dayofhope@churchofthepalms.org
On Friday, June 28, a team from Church of the Palms is
signed up to serve the hot evening meal to Immokalee For more information about these and other service
farmworkers with our mission partner Mision Peniel. This opportunities with any of our Mission Partners, don’t hesitate
is a fun event where we are asked to represent the “face to reach out to any GPMC member. Please consider signing
of God” - the meaning of Peniel – to the many needy men, up for one or all of these events. There is much to be done in
women and children who arrive at the mission each Friday the mission fields…Loving God and Loving Neighbor.
COP CONNECT | Summer 2019 7
GLOBAL
PARTNERS
Committee
FROM CHARLIE AND
CAROL HAEUSSNER
Dear Friends,
On the following page is a
letter that we received from
Mayada Jazrawi, the wife
of Pastor Haitham Jazrawi
of the Kirkuk Presbyterian
Church in Iraq. In the
letter Mayada describes
her latest visit to the local
women’s prison. There she
visits with a friend telling
the women of God’s love,
and giving them some
gifts that they otherwise
would not have. Once
again Mayada exemplifies
what it is to love your
neighbor as yourself, and
to fulfill Christ’s message
of Matthew 25:31. Please
continue to support the
Iraq Presbyterian churches
with your prayers.
God’s
Love is
EVERLASTING
8 COP CONNECT | Summer 2019
Dear Brothers & Sisters in Christ, This Christian woman informed us
that all the women in the jail had been
Greetings & Peace. I hope that this note very excited to see us lately because
finds you all well. I am writing to you they know we love them truly without
today to share some details about our restrictions.
most recent visit to the Kirkuk Women’s
Jail. We are always happy to see them
welcoming us with such love. It is a
My friend Susan and I went to the testament that our work is not in vain
women’s jail on Monday (March 11) - and that the Lord’s promises are indeed
there were 35 women and 8 children in true when he tells us that “My [God’s]
total. Since last Friday (March 8) was word that goes out from my mouth: It
International Women’s Day, we decided will not return to me empty, but will
to take them a small gift, body lotion accomplish what I desire and achieve
and face cream. We applied the cream the purpose for which I sent it” (Isaiah
on their faces and reminded them while 55:11).
applying the cream that they are all
beautiful in the eyes of their Creator. Several of these women are married
We told them that it’s God’s wish that to ISIS militants. Many of them were
they would reach out to Him through active participants in ISIS’ mission
prayer. We stressed to them that God because they truly believed it. We treat
loves them as they are, regardless of them all the same, despite the fact
their past or age...we also told them that we remember what they did to us
that it’s perfectly ok to continue taking as Christians, not only them, but their
care of our bodies even as we age older. husbands and children too, many of
They were struck by these simple words; those kids have been indoctrinated in
many of them needed to hear such the ways and beliefs of ISIS as well.
encouraging words; some were even
very shy from the words they said, and We provided them with brand new
we could see them blushing. mattresses and pillows. It appears that
there was a certain contagious skin
There was one Christian woman condition that forced the jail leadership
amongst them. She works at the City to burn all the mattresses to ensure the
Bank and she has been wrongfully germs were dead.
accused of embezzling. This is a pattern
we’re seeing; Christian women working I want to thank you once again for your
in banking have been continually continued support to our small ministry,
accused for embezzlement they did both financial and spiritual. Please
not commit. We brought her a special continue to pray that we can continue
gift, a copy of the New Testament and to serve these women and that the Lord
David’s Psalms. She was very excited to would make his will known to us as we
receive the Gospel; she was very clearly continue our service.
depressed, understandably. We had May our Lord be with you all. Your sister
confirmed with the jail leadership that in Christ,
we are indeed allowed to bring Bibles to
the jail as long as we only hand them out - Mayada Jazrawi
to Christian inmates; this is indeed a
tremendous blessing.
COP CONNECT | Summer 2019 9
DE A C O NS
He a l th
and
Wellness
WRITE A THANK-YOU NOTE
Reflecting on a friend’s impact can brighten
your day and theirs.
SNAP A SMARTPHONE PHOTO
It directs your attention, which may enhance
your pleasure in the moment.
DROP (ALMOST) EVERYTHING
One study found that the more people multi-
tasked, the higher their anxiety.
GET SOME SUN
It may help regulate mood by boosting
serotonin, a brain chemical linked to calmness.
JOT DOWN WHAT YOU’RE GRATEFUL FOR
Doing so has been linked to greater feelings
of happiness.
THINK ABOUT DOING SOMEONE A FAVOR
New research shows that that’s enough for a lift, even before you act.
DO A MINI MEDITATION
A brief but consistent mindfulness habit can help people better react
to stress.
BUY TICKETS TO AN EVENT
People get more joy from experiences than things, and many memories
sweeten with time. Want to feel better fast
without having to revamp
- From Healthy Living Magazine your personality? These
activities have been shown
to ease stress or increase
happiness, and you can do
Happiness Hacks
them anywhere.
10 COP CONNECT | Summer 2019A Garden That
Grows Memories
By Sue Angle
We are surrounded by beauty at our church. Some of the Are the ashes placed under the tree as part of a memorial
beauty arises in our vision as we enter a Sanctuary that lifts service? No. To maintain the loveliness of the garden, no
our minds and hearts to the Word of God; the majesty of visible evidence of the placement of cremains will be seen,
the 209-year-old Oak “Fellowship” tree in the center of our and scattering of all cremains will be in private with only
courtyard; and the Memorial Garden that brings all that the minister and a member of the Memorial Garden Board
beauty into a lasting memory. in attendance.
The founding members of Church of the Palms included How can I find a particular name? A Memorial Garden
in their long-range planning a provision for a Memorial Book is maintained in the church office listing names of
Garden to serve as the resting place for the cremains of persons whose cremains are scattered in the garden and
church members. This dream became a reality on Sunday, the location of names on the granite wall.
June 6, 1993, with the dedication of the Memorial Garden.
The following is information regarding the purpose and Who funds the care of the Garden? The Memorial Garden
procedures of the Memorial Garden: is maintained by contributions for perpetual care and
not by funds from the regular church budget. Members
What is the Memorial Garden? The Garden is a place interested in arranging for inclusion in the Memorial
of beauty encouraging quiet meditation, prayer, and Garden should complete a request form and submit a
remembering. Its Memorial Garden Wall contains the minimum contribution of $500 for each individual member
names of Church of the Palms members and spouses who or spouse.
have made applications to have their names placed on the
wall without years of birth and death. After death, the years Who administers the Memorial Garden? A board of church
are engraved. This is not the same as a church cemetery members elected by the congregation administers the
or columbarium. Some members of the church choose to Memorial Garden. Anyone wishing to learn more about our
place their names on the Memorial Wall, but do not have garden is welcome to contact one of the members of the
their cremains placed in the Memorial Garden. Memorial Garden Board: Sue Angle, Virginia Greenawalt,
Lee Gast, Paul Nielsen, Jan Ricci, Reid Wettersten.
Where are the cremains placed? The ashes are placed
under the oak tree where tall plants protect the area from
foot traffic.
COP CONNECT | Summer 2019 11Teacher Appreciation Month
at Palms Preschool
Many of our Palms Preschool staff have
been teaching at Church of the Palms for a
number of years! Each day our philosophy
is put into action as we teach a love for
learning, and more importantly, a love for
the Lord. This staff works tirelessly to plant
seeds of faith, in addition to teaching about
friendships and modeling how to treat one
another. Palms Preschool is proud to be a Sandy Shockley Viola Mast Silvana Bond &
mission of Church of the Palms. Yrene Carrasquero
Alicia Spalding Andrea King Bailey Gardner & Carol Lane Carol Stephen
Amanda Burgos
Coleen Cox Debbie Ledesma Diane Bingham Eileen Watson Liz Homer
Lucero Zambrano Magy Quintero Mandy Jewell Mary Comp Melinda Mulkey
Michele Phillips Monica Lopez Shelby Dalton Shirley Mallard Vanessa Vargas
12 COP CONNECT | Summer 2019Back to Basics Tutoring
Another Successful Year
By Linda Evans
Tutoring began with 60 students in September and ended
with 178 students in April 2019. These students range from
1st graders to college students. This mission of the church
would not be possible without the dedicated and passionate
volunteers. There were 168 volunteers who served as registrars,
exit supervisors, tutors and substitute tutors.
The tutoring program is a one-to-one homework help session
for one hour on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Each tutor selects the
day and time that is most convenient to him/her and are then
matched with a student in the grade level desired by the tutor. I
want to thank every volunteer for donating both their time and
talent to academically and socially supporting these students
from all over Sarasota and Manatee counties. There were more
than 30 different schools; public, private, charter and home
schooled students who attended Back to Basics Tutoring.
Registration for the next school year (2019-2020) has begun.
Volunteer registration forms can be obtained on Sundays in the
courtyard between services, at the front desk and online. To
register online, please go to www.churchofthepalms.org/tutoring
We will begin our 28th year of tutoring starting in September
2019. We hope that all of our current volunteers will remain
with the program so that more children can benefit from your
knowledge and support.
I Have Worked for Him by Dee Webber
Every math problem I have helped a struggling child to solve,
I have worked for Him.
Every book I have read to a class of first graders,
I have worked for Him.
Every new pencil I’ve given to a student without,
Every new spiral notebook, every box of Crayons,
Every nap pillow or Christmas stocking I’ve sewn,
I have worked for Him.
Every speech I have made
To raise funds for His children,
Every e-mail I’ve written to reach potential volunteers,
Every meeting I’ve had, with schools, churches, friends, foundations,
businesses, etc.,
Continually searching to find ways to help children in need,
I have worked for Him.
Forever and ever and ever and ever,
Realize what you can do and just do it,
Join the greatest Job Force in all the world.
And, work for Him.
COP CONNECT | Summer 2019 13ACOLYTE Graduation Among our recent high school graduates, there was one Acolyte member. Congrats again and best wishes to: Walter Homeister (pictured top left). Acolytes are important participants in our worship service. The Family Ministry will be providing an introduction On every Sunday, you can see them carrying the flame class for rising 3rd and 4th graders in the fall. Meanwhile, forward and lighting the chancel candles. We have a anyone in the qualified age group is welcome to join the fantastic team of students ranging from grades 3rd - 12th; ministry, anytime. Contact Worship Coordinator Yoko and taller, more experienced Acolytes are always there to Spivey: yspivey@churchofthepalms.org mentor the newer members. It is amazing to watch them grow, both in faith and height! 14 COP CONNECT | Summer 2019
Presbyterian Women Always
Working to Serve Christ By Linda Evans
Presbyterian Women are busy donating their time, The Peace River PW Day Spring Retreat on April 1 and 2
talent and treasures for many missions! Loving was meaningful and powerful with guest speakers,
Stitches supplies handmade quilts, caps and a mission project, singing, and meeting new
other sewn and knitted items for babies, friends throughout our Peace River Presbytery.
veterans and the handicapped; and Pack
N’ Play (bassinets/playpens) packages are We are looking forward to our installation
supplied monthly to Healthy Start. Tuttle of new officers on May 4 at 10:30 am with
Elementary is receiving specific supplies a beautiful celebration and lunch in the
for fifth graders and general supplies Campus Center. Please join us for this
for the beginning the school year. Some event. Our kick off date for the new year
Circles have also donated to Selah Freedom. will begin in September when Pastor Hmingi
Finally, many of the PW women volunteer will present our new Bible focus on the Ten
at the Easter Egg Hunt and/or spent their Commandments.
time tutoring, singing, visiting nursing homes and
studying the Bible.
Palms
Library
Room 202 Educ. Bldg.
Librarian Recommendations
Lifelines: Sound Advice from the Heroes of the Faith
by Mike Pilavachi and Andy Croft
Take a walk with David, Ruth, and Joseph and learn from
their successes, struggles and failures. Checking out books is easy. To sign up for a library ID,
fill out a request form and put it in the book return
Control Girl by Shannon Popkin
basket. Next sign out the book on the form located on the
Shannon Popkin shares what she has discovered about
clipboard. It’s that easy! Books should be returned to the
her own control struggles and God from studying seven
return baskets in the satellite libraries, in the church office
women in the Bible.
or in the library (room 202) on the second floor of the
The Library is “Branching Out” Education Building.
Recently, you may have seen our new satellite libraries
Search Our Library Collection Online
- carts or shelves filled with library books in the Palms
Are you looking for a specific book or have a subject in
Center and Campus Center, where you can check out
mind? Go to the Apple or Google app store on your mobile
books and DVDs on the go, including the Pastors’ Picks,
device (phone or tablet) and search for Destiny Discover.
“God in Hollywood” 2018 and 2019 selections, and works
Simply download this free app, enter Sarasota as your
by C.S. Lewis.
location and Church of the Palms Library, as your “school.”
Destiny Discover will allow you as a guest to search our
library for authors, titles and subjects.
COP CONNECT | Summer 2019 152019
Presenting
The Graduating Class of
AVERY BRANNAN AVERY LONG
University of North Carolina Florida State University
Chapel Hill
LAUREN BROWN ALLISON MCHENRY
Tulane University, University of Florida
New Orleans, Louisiana
BRENAN CAREY
TOMMY MORTON
University of Florida
Job Corps / Culinary
LILLI CARLTON
Wake Forest University LIBBY MOSER
Winston-Salem, North Carolina Tufts University
Medford, Massachusetts
SEAN CAROLL
University of Central Florida KALI PLATTNER
Florida International University
JACOB DAY
Florida State University ABIGAIL QUIGLEY
University of Florida
AMY DUNN
University of Florida CHARLEE RUTH
Florida State University
MADELYN EGAN
University of Florida ROWAN VOLINO
Florida State University
KELLI ELLIOTT
JULIA WEBER
University of South Florida
University of North Carolina
Asheville
KAVIA GHOSE COLTON WEITZEL
University of Central Florida Florida State University
WALTER HOMEISTER Become Palms Angel
Gap Year A Palms Angel prays for his or her student, sends
an encouraging note, a text, an occasional gift card
or care package. Contact Mike Murphy (mmurphy@
churchofthepalms.org, 847.372.4661). You may also sign up
under the tree on Senior Recognition Sunday (May 12).
16 COP CONNECT | Summer 2019STUDENT MINISTRY
Thank You to Our Volunteers
Here at Church of the Palms, we believe that ministry happens when people allow God to work through their gifts and talents, but
especially their time. We are so grateful for the love these volunteers show for our teenagers by spending their evenings with the
kids, listening to their stories, encouraging them, and praying for them. Thank you! - Steve Sipes, Student Ministry Director
COP CONNECT | Summer 2019 17YOUTH & FAMILY MINISTRY Chapel Kids: Making a Difference by Carol Homeister This fall the Palms Preschool kids who participate in Chapel brought in their own offerings during the theme of Giving. In turn, the money collected was used to purchase a piglet as an income source for a family in need through The Presbyterian Mission Agency World Mission. This impacted our Palms Preschool Chapel kids in such a way that they have continued to bring an offering each week for Chapel time. Since January, the children have given $45.57 and will again choose a life-giving animal or tool to impact lives across the globe. The children have truly learned the gift of love through what it means to help others by giving. Small Gifts. Big Impact. Bookmark Sunday, May 5 Student Ministry bookmarks will be available under the tree for those who sponsored a student (they will be mailed for those unable to pick up on May 5). You will also have the opportunity to sponsor Student Ministry and receive a bookmark, if you haven’t already done so. First Confirmation lock-In Confirmands serving at the 90’s luncheon Congratulations to Our 2019 Confirmation Class Since January, our 8th graders have been going to class, worshipping, serving and exploring their faith together! They were confirmed on April 28. We are so grateful for their teacher Beth Rogers and for the mentors who have been on the journey with them: Elizabeth Dexter, Cindy Lanoue-Foster, Bryan Haas, Coletta Musick and John Sego. Our 2019 Confirmands: Ava Ashton, Quinn Brannan, Natalie Carrion, Ella Emmrich, Ava Epstein, ClaraMay Homeister, Shea Jones, Brett Koch, Emily Lepow, Grace Mannion, Stuart McFall, Gavin Montisano, Isabella Sanguinetti, Stephanie Schitea. 18 COP CONNECT | Summer 2019
COP CONNECT | Summer 2019 19
20 COP CONNECT | Summer 2019
COP CONNECT | Summer 2019 21
CONNECT WITH US
Summer
Upcoming events, classes & small groups
22 COP CONNECT | Summer 2019UPCOMING EVENTS
For more upcoming events, contact information and locations visit
www.churchofthepalms.org
May 4 Presbyterian Women: Installation of New Officers / Kim Meeder, 10:30 am
5 If Music Be the Food Concert, 3 pm
10 Palms Preschool Mother’s Day Tea, 3 pm
11 Habitat for Humanity: Help Build a Home Service Opportunity
12
Senior Recognition Sunday
New Members Class, 10:15 am
18 Palliative Care Seminar, 10:30 am
23 Palms Preschool VPK Graduation, 6 pm
25 Memorial Day
28 Palms Preschool Summer Camp Begins
June
2 Blood Drive, 8:30 am
3 Vacation Bible School (June 3 - 7)
9 New Members Class, 10:15 am
10 Sarasota Young Voices Summer Camp (June 10 - 14)
17 Middle School Mission Camp (June 17 - 21; 17 students & 5 leaders )
28 Serve a Meal @ Mision Peniel, 12 pm
29 Dominican Republic Family Trip (June 29 - July 6; 5 families )
July 4 Independence Day
13 Montreat Trip (July 13 - 20; 26 high school students & 5 leaders )
14 New Members Class, 10:15 am
20 Day of Hope
29 Palms Adventure Camp for Middle School Youth (July 29 - Aug. 2)
August 1 Back to Basic Tutoring Online Registration Begins
11
Blessing of the Backpacks, 9 am
New Members Class, 10:15 am
25 Aloha Sunday
COP CONNECT | Summer 2019 23grow
strong
in your
faith
classes + small groups
designed to help you grow as a disciple of Jesus Christ.
Sunday
The Gospel according to Matthew: Prophecy Fulfilled
Please note: Class will meet until the end of May, then break for the summer. Class resumes in September.
10:15 - 11 am • Chapel Reception Room
The book of Matthew, the first of the four Gospels, provides a unique look at the life of Jesus as the
author interjects more than 130 Old Testament quotes and references which connect Jesus to Messianic
prophecies. Come explore this fascinating book with us as we search the scriptures and discover that what
was concealed in the Old Testament has been revealed in the New Testament. Led by Dale Vollrath
Christians Understanding Today: Using the Wired Word
Please note: Class will meet until the end of May, then break for the summer. Class resumes in September.
10:15 - 11 am • Palms Center Rm. 10 (PC-10)
Scripture can give us insight as we try to follow Christ while responding to swirling events. We examine
topical, non-political current events using God’s word as our guide. A group of ministers and laypersons
provide the outline but it’s our insights that make it relevant to our lives. Come to add your understanding
or just gain from the thoughts of others each Sunday. Led by Kyle Quattlebaum: kyleqsb@yahoo.com
Tables of 6 Dinner Fellowship Groups
Small group fellowship dining
Get to know each other as brothers and sisters in Christ over a meal. Each group decides the date and
time of their meeting which is held in a home or restaurant (no meetings on church campus). If you are an
interested couple, single, or family with children, contact: Pastor Hmingi: hbrowne@churchofthepalms.org
24 COP CONNECT | Summer 2019classes + small groups
Monday
Firm Believers Women’s Exercise
9 - 10 am • Palms Center Gym
The class is designed for seniors and includes low impact aerobics, strengthening, balance and stretching.
Led by Ethel Webb (elcewebb@gmail.com), RN retired, Certified Senior Fitness Instructor
Tuesday
Men’s Bible Study & Breakfast
7 - 8:30 am • Off Campus
This group is open to all men who would like the opportunity to get to know other men from our church
while deepening their faith through Bible study and prayer. Please bring a Bible. We are currently studying
the book of I Peter. Led by Dale Vollrath: dale.vollrath@yahoo.com
Women of the Word (WOW)
11 am - 1 pm • Chapel Reception Room
We are currently studying Lysa TerKeurst’s It’s Not Supposed To Be This Way until May 28. During the month
of June, we will read Mark Batterson’s book If, which is built on the promises of Romans 8.
Led by Mary Ann Vollrath: mavollrath@gmail.com
Women’s Prayer Group
2 - 3:30 pm • West Meeting Room
This is a time for encouragement through God’s Word and prayer. Prayers are for our church, country,
family relationships, and people with addictions. We are studying Luke. Join us to know Jesus Christ more
clearly, to love Him more dearly, and to follow Him more nearly. We welcome all prayer requests.
Contact Gaye O’Brien Preston: 377-3480
Gentle Grace Yoga
Please note: Class will take a break during the month of May and resume June 4.
1 - 2 pm • Palms Center (during the summer the class will meet in the Campus Center) • Cost: $5
This class is accessible for beginners, allowing space for those more advanced to strengthen their practice.
Led by certified Yoga instructor and church member Susan Neisler: 941.928.2317
COP CONNECT | Summer 2019 25classes + small groups
C.S. Lewis Reading Group
May 7 & 21; June 4 & 18 • 6 - 7 pm • Chapel Reception Room
The group, led by Dr. McConnell, is currently reading Lewis’ Space Trilogy.
Contact Judy Bacon: judithbacon@verizon.net
Stephen Ministry
Please note: There will be NO meetings in July
Third Tuesday of the month • 6:30 - 9 pm • Education Building, Room 206
Receive continuing education and meet in small supervised groups every third Tuesday of the month. If
you’d like to become a Stephen Minister or are in need of one: contact Pastor Hmingi Browne:
hbrowne@churchofthepalms.org
Combined North & South Home Bible Study
Second & fourth Tuesday of the month • 7 - 9 pm • Off Campus
We are studying I Corinthians. Please join us for Bible study, prayer and fellowship.
Contact Wayne Kindt: 228-6349, waynekindt6349@gmail.com
Wednesday
Men’s Bible Study
7:30 - 9 am • Chapel Reception Room
The Gospel of Luke is called the gospel of the gentiles and we are finding a lot of evidence for that
description as we go chapter by chapter. Led by Tom Webber (webber.thom@gmail.com) & Rev. Fred Marsh
Watercolor Wednesdays
10 am - 12 pm • West Meeting Room
Come and enjoy the company of other artsy folk! Please remember to bring your own supplies. Led by Julia
Boeger. Contact Hmingi Browne: hbrowne@churchofthepalms.org
Prayer Shawl Group
3:30 - 4:30 pm • Chapel Narthex
We are knitting prayer shawls. Please bring your own needles and yarn. All are welcome to join us, including
first-time knitters.
Contact Hmingi Browne: hbrowne@churchofthepalms.org
26 COP CONNECT | Summer 2019classes + small groups
Book Talk Group
Every last Wednesday of the month • 12 - 2 pm
Join us for a book discussion over lunch. We will discuss Encountering Our Wild God by Kim Meeder. We
meet off campus. Contact Pastor Hmingi for meeting location. Led by Julie Boeger & June Wilson. Contact
Pastor Hmingi Browne: hbrowne@churchofthepalms.org, 941.924.1323
Wednesday Night Life: Finding Wisdom In the Bible For Living In a Difficult World
May 8 • 6:30 - 7:30 pm • Campus Center
Presented by Dr. Tremper Longman, we will discover that Proverbs is a book that increases our emotional
intelligence, but also teaches us to be good people who “fear the Lord.” Our exploration of Proverbs will
lead us also to consider the message of the books of Job and Ecclesiastes. Contact Pastor Hmingi Browne:
hbrowne@churchofthepalms.org
Wednesday Night Life: Keys to a Happy Healthy Brain for the Temple of God
May 15 • 6:30 - 7:30 pm • Campus Center
We have more control over our brain fitness than we may think. Presented by Dr. Dan Watts, we will explore
how to keep our minds sharp, stress less and sleep better.
Contact Pastor Hmingi Browne: hbrowne@churchofthepalms.org
Thursday
Extraordinary Women Group
May 2 - July 18 • 7 - 8:30 am • Chapel Reception Room
We are currently studying Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World by Joanna Weaver.
Contact Faith Reynolds (faithreynolds@me.com) or Robin Sego (sego1@juno.com)
Adaptive Movement Class
10 - 11 am • Off Campus
We work on balance, range of motion, standing/sitting, walking, use of light weights to tone muscles
and improve coordination, etc. The classes are lead by Kay Sanchez (retired Parish Nurse) at Bee Ridge
Presbyterian in their Fellowship Hall. Contact Susy Scholl: 941-321-5703, susyschollblack@gmail.com
COP CONNECT | Summer 2019 27classes + small groups
Palms Bridge Club
Every first and third Thursday of the month • 7 - 9 pm • Chapel Reception Room
Contact Nancy Kanellos to make your reservation or to be placed on the substitute list. Substitute players
are greatly appreciated (and needed) as well as players who are able to play on a regular basis.
Contact Nancy Kanellos: 320-3478
Friday
Firm Believers Women’s Exercise
9 - 10 am • Palms Center Gym
The class is designed for seniors and includes low impact aerobics, strengthening, balance and stretching.
Led by Ethel Webb (elcewebb@gmail.com), RN retired, Certified Senior Fitness Instructor
Loving Stitches
Fourth Friday of the month • 9:45 am - 12 pm • West Meeting Room
We create items for Healthy Start, the Veterans Hospital, teddy bears for the local Sheriff and Police
departments and chemo hats for local patients. Knitting and crochet instructions are available.
Contact Alberta Adams: 924-8464
Grief Support Group
10 - 11:30 am • Chapel Reception Room
All those who have lost a loved one are invited to attend. Led by licensed counselor Linda Martin of
Samaritan Counseling. We use the Grief Share curriculum.
Contact Hmingi Browne: hbrowne@churchofthepalms.org
Eat, Meet & Be Merry
Last Friday of the month • 11:45 am - 1:30 pm • Off Campus
Join Pastor Hmingi Browne for food, conversation and fellowship at Der Dutchman. Friends and relatives
are also welcome. Contact Hmingi Browne: hbrowne@churchofthepalms.org
28 COP CONNECT | Summer 2019classes + small groups
Faith-Based Recovery
2 - 3 pm • Education Building, Room 206
All who are interested in recovering from addiction and willing to turn to God in Christian faith are
welcome. Please contact Dr. Hmingi Browne. Led by licensed counselor Linda Martin of Samaritan
Counseling. Contact Hmingi Browne: browne@churchofthepalms.org
NEW MEMBER CLASS Sundays: May 12, June 9,
July 14 & August 11
10:15 am - 12 pm Chapel Narthex
Explore what it means to make a deeper commitment to the Church of the Palms family. Then be
received into membership at 11. Affiliate memberships are also available.
WINE
Tasting Club on May 17
You are invited to come, learn and enjoy a sampling of
California wines and light bites. Led by Steve Soboleski
who worked in wine distribution for over 10 years. Space
is limited! RSVP by May 13 to Pastor Hmingi Browne:
hbrowne@churchofthepalms.org
COP CONNECT | Summer 2019 2930 COP CONNECT | Summer 2019
COP CONNECT | Summer 2019 31
32 COP CONNECT | Summer 2019
COP CONNECT | Summer 2019 33
34 COP CONNECT | Summer 2019
day of
hope
Day of Hope is about children and the loving church being the
hands and feet of Jesus on this day.
Church of the Palms is preparing for this • Volunteers. We need Ambassadors to escort
important local mission on Saturday, July 20, families around our campus as we extend God’s
love to our children. You will get to see firsthand
2019. The Day of Hope helps the neediest
the smiles.
children in our community be prepared for the
upcoming school year! How can you help? Day of Hope is an important mission at Church of the
Palms, helping children and families right here in our
• Monetary Donations. These ensure that we are community! Thank you for your support.
able to purchase all our supplies for the students.
• New Children’s Socks. Please purchase athletic
type socks and retain in original packaging. They
can be dropped off at the church office or on
Sundays at the Day of Hope table in the Palms
Center.
• Children’s Books (new or gently used). The books
are an added treat for our children. They can be
dropped off at the church office or on Sundays at
the Day of Hope table under the tree.
• Toothpaste & Tooth Brushes
For more information about this mission or to volunteer, contact Dotti Tyle: dayofhope@churchofthepalms.org
COP CONNECT | Summer 2019 3536 COP CONNECT | Summer 2019
Pickleball Schedule
Palms Center
May Schedule
Intermediate/Advanced Pickleball
Tuesdays & Wednesdays: 9 am - 12 pm
Beginner Pickleball
Thursdays: 9 am - 12 pm
Open Play Pickleball
Tuesdays: 6 - 9 pm
June 17 - August 12 Schedule
Open Play Pickleball for all sessions
Mondays, Tuesdays & Thursdays: 1 - 4 pm
Pickleball will be closed during:
June 3 - 14
July 29 - August 2
* Cost: Church members: $2 • Visitors: $4
COP CONNECT | Summer 2019 37Blessing of
the
Backpacks
August 11 Kids are invited to bring their
backpacks for a special blessing.
Families start in worship together!
9 am Traditional Kids will then be escorted to
10 am Contemporary Impact Kids.
38 COP CONNECT | Summer 2019AL OHA
SU N DAY
AU GUST 25
10 AM - 12:30 PM
We invite you to worship with
us at the 9, 10 or 11 am services.
Then join us for some food, conversation
and a look at the exciting ways we plan
to live into our mission to Love God and
Love Neighbor.
COP CONNECT | Summer 2019 393224 Bee Ridge Rd, Sarasota FL 34239
941-924-1323 • www.churchofthepalms.org
Sanctuar y Worship:
Sundays, 9 & 11 am
Contem porar y Worship:
Sundays, 10 am • Campus Center
Lives tream (Online Worship):
Sundays, 9 am
www.churchofthepalms.org/watch.html
Our Pastors, staff and Session invite you to
share not only in our worship, but also in the
exciting opportunities that Church of the Palms
offers to learn, serve and grow in your faith.
www.churchofthepalms.org
The Connect magazine is a publication from Church of the Palms (3224 Bee Ridge
Rd, Sarasota FL 34239; 941.924.1323). If you would like to receive Connect via US
Postal Service, please contact Jackie Gomez, 924-1323 x 204You can also read
