The Best… of my love….

It was the best of times, it was the worst of times… Last night, in the Christian church sanctuary, I watched my dear, sweet Melissa, my beloved wife of 22 years weep with me as we watched two of our older daughters, Hannah and Grace sing together with their fellow student an original Christmas song composed by our own L. Grace Espiritu and performed with her sister Hannah at their high school's annual holiday choirs concert. We watched and listened, a sight and sounds to behold, indeed, as our eldest child, Christina and I held on to her mother's hand with deep love and affection. We experienced the joy and the reason for the season of celebration as the hope-filled words of the gospel rang through the lyrics of timeless songs, echoing the good news of life in Christ Jesus our Lord. The Light of Life that has come into the world shone upon us in a fresh, new way that brought tears to our eyes in light of terrible news concerning the recent plight of the body of my dearly held loved one.

 
 

Given the grave situation at hand, I cannot help but tremble as I write. My God, these ought to be the best days of our lives together when the best of our love in life would shine brightly before us for the glory of God. Newly, never before witnessed, unfathomable depths of grief in our immediate family have come upon us as we now together cry out with heartfelt prayers to the Lord our God, the One Who heals us and in Whom alone do we find our healing, comfort and peace. In the Lord alone, we find strength to carry on in the face of such stark, unsettling news. Melissa has been diagnosed with an unusual form of stomach cancer: a rare type of gastric adenocarcinoma with Littinus Plastica. A Google search brings up the following singular web page excerpt:

 
 

Describe diffuse type gastric adenocarcinoma

=subtype of gastric adenocarcinoma

Features

1. Tumor infiltrates as single cells

2. Signet ring cells

3. Diffuse lesion with littinus plastica/ leather bottle appearance

4.Seen in younger pts with equal male: female

5. less clear genetic/environmental association

6. worse prognosis

Pasted from <http://cueflash.com/decks/pathologypt3>

 
 

We have been informed that there is no conventional cure currently known for this condition. Any modern medical treatment or therapy prescribed for this illness would be only palliative in nature. We have become aware of some alternative support measures that anecdotally may have some promise.

 
 

We ask, therefore, with intercessions before the throne of grace for dear friends and family to join with us in pleading before God, calling upon the Lord. At this time we are in urgent need of your prayers for healing, wisdom, grace and mercy. In this our time of need, we place our hope and trust in the Lord our God Who is able to make all grace abound, so that in all things, at all times, having all that we need, we would abound in every good deed to the glory of God. For we know that in all things, God works for the good of those who love the Lord, who have been called according to His purpose. And so we take heart and courage to face these trials in a Sovereign Lord and Gracious God Whose compassions, tender mercies, loving-kindness, steadfast faithfulness and unfailing love are renewed every morning with comfort and strength for the day.

 
 

Please pray for Melissa, my beloved wife and mother of and along with our six children, Christina (19), Hannah (17), [Lydia] Grace (15), Tabitha (12), Priscilla (9), and Sara (6), as well as her husband, their father. She and these, our lovely loving precious daughters, young ladies, growing girls and tenderly treasured little ones are being upheld in prayer. We trust in the Lord Whose healing, reigning and abiding presence is ever with us even through all eternally.

 
 

Now, to the Holy and Anointed One Who is able to do immeasurably more, exceedingly, abundantly far above all we could ever ask or think or even imagine, to Him be glory in the church and throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.

 
 

With The Best… of my love….

Rex (for Melissa) Espiritu

[and our girls]

The Courier Times - New Castle, IN | Religious Perspectives: Embrace the spiritual aspect of Thanksgiving

Friday, November 20, 2009     Religious Perspectives: Embrace the spiritual aspect of Thanksgiving     By REX ESPIRITU First Presbyterian Church     Friday, November 20, 2009         During this season of Thanksgiving, there are many things one may recount as noteworthy items to be grateful for. Some usual, more typical notions of life, health, family and friends among others may come to mind. However, as I further contemplate what elicits gratitude in my heart this morning, a most singular thought occurred. If you had to name one thing, just one thing you would give thanks for, what might that one thing be? I wondered as I wandered on the way today, asking myself in the Lord's presence at this very moment, "What am I most grateful for?"     Now, the way the mind works sometimes, it could either go through a number of tangential paths, following some rabbit trails, perusing through a few strawberry patches and smelling the flowers along the way. Or it could suddenly turn quite focused, set in a single direction, determined to press forward on a particular trajectory. In a few moments, the latter alternative became my own experience. It wasn't long before I found myself wanting to draw upon foundational tenets of personal conviction from past spiritual growth and development, and theological formation in my own journey of faith.     In the liturgical calendar of the Revised Common Lectionary, this Sunday in November, just before Thanksgiving is designated for the celebration of the reign of Christ the King. It marks the end of the liturgical year, culminating in the observance of Christ's kingdom and rule over all, with an eye toward Jesus' coming in Advent. From a Christian, reformed perspective, standing in the stream of a tradition with a high view of the sovereignty of God, this is cause for great celebration! The fact that God rules, the truth that Jesus is Lord, and the certainty of the Spirit's reigning presence among us, along with the sure hope and promise of Christ the King's return in glory: That's all too awesome for even the slightest exuberance in this expressed personality to be contained.     In this vein, one might begin to surmise that this is the one thing I am most thankful for. To be sure, the idea that God is in control can indeed be a strong source of comfort for us no matter what situation we may encounter. A deeper probing of the heart reveals a more personal, profound sense of gratitude. When I read God's love letter to me in Scripture, I find myself giving thanks mostly for the words I hear the Spirit of Jesus saying to me through the Gospel of John (15:16). "You did not choose me, but I chose you ..."     The Lord God Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth, Creator of all including my own very being, chose me! To know and be known as the Lord's, to love and be loved by the Lord, to choose and most of all to be chosen by my Lord and Savior - That continually abiding experience of God is what I am most profoundly thankful for today. As the lyrics of the song "Knowing You" written by worship leader Graham Kendrick goes, "Knowing You, Jesus, knowing You ... There is no greater thing. You're my all, You're the best! And I love you, Lord." I give thanks most of all for You!     Beloved, what are you most grateful for today? In words similar to the apostle, Paul's letter to the saints in Ephesus, I pray that you and your loved ones know this love that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. May you know the Lord's blessings anew in Thanksgiving!
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What am I most grateful for this Thanksgiving?

During this season of Thanksgiving, there are many things one may recount as noteworthy items to be grateful for. Some usual, more typical notions of life, health, family and friends among others may come to mind. However, as I further contemplate what elicits gratitude in my heart this morning, a most singular thought occurred. If you had to name one thing, just one thing you would give thanks for, what might that one thing be? I wondered as I wandered on the way today, asking myself in the Lord's presence at this very moment, "What am I most grateful for?"

Now, the way the mind works sometimes, it could either go through a number of tangential paths, following some rabbit trails, perusing through a few strawberry patches and smelling the flowers along the way. Or it could suddenly turn quite focused, set in a single direction, determined to press forward on a particular trajectory. In a few moments, the latter alternative became my own experience. It wasn't long before I found myself wanting to draw upon foundational tenets of personal conviction from past spiritual growth and development, and theological formation in my own journey of faith.

In the liturgical calendar of the Revised Common Lectionary, this Sunday in November, just before Thanksgiving is designated for the celebration of the reign of Christ the King. It marks the end of the liturgical year, culminating in the observance of Christ's kingdom and rule over all, with an eye toward Jesus' coming in Advent. From a Christian, reformed perspective, standing in the stream of a tradition with a high view of the sovereignty of God, this is cause for great celebration! The fact that God rules, the truth that Jesus is Lord, and the certainty of the Spirit's reigning presence among us, along with the sure hope and promise of Christ the King's return in glory—That's all too awesome for even the slightest exuberance in this expressed personality to be contained.

In this vein, one might begin to surmise that this is the one thing I am most thankful for. To be sure, the idea that God is in control can indeed be a strong source of comfort for us no matter what situation we may encounter. A deeper probing of the heart reveals a more personal, profound sense of gratitude. When I read God's love letter to me in Scripture, I find myself giving thanks mostly for the words I hear the Spirit of Jesus saying to me through the Gospel of John (15:16). "You did not choose me, but I chose you…" The Lord God Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth, Creator of all including my own very being, chose me! To know and be known as the Lord's, to love and be loved by the Lord, to choose and most of all to be chosen by my Lord and Savior—That continually abiding experience of God is what I am most profoundly thankful for today. As the lyrics of the song "Knowing You" written by worship leader Graham Kendrick goes, "Knowing You, Jesus, knowing You… There is no greater thing. You're my all, You're the best! And I love you, Lord." I give thanks most of all for You!

Beloved, what are you most grateful for today? In words similar to the apostle, Paul's letter to the saints in Ephesus, I pray that you and your loved ones know this love that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. May you know the Lord's blessings anew in Thanksgiving!

Thanksgiving through Advent: Rekindling the Gift of God With Us

In this season of Thanksgiving through Advent, I am renewed with a fresh sense of hope, reinvigorated by prayer with zeal and fervor in the Lord, Immanuel—God with us!  The light of the holy days at this time of year burn brightly with broader perspective upon my reentry from traveling in the mountains of Chiapas, Mexico where I and eighteen other pastors from Indiana witnessed indigenous peoples there experiencing the Gospel of Jesus Christ engaging such diverse cultures in a way not unlike that by the church throughout the first century. 

 
 

The Good News rings true for all times and places as we walk together along sacred spaces as a people set apart by God's Word and Spirit among us.  The season of Advent affords us an opportunity by which we can once again give thanks to Almighty God for the Sovereign Lord's grace here and now, during this our time and place, at First

Presbyterian Church, New Castle, Indiana. 

 
 

There is good cause for and there are encouraging signs of hope in our fellowship amidst a burgeoning transformation that the Lord has only begun with, in, and upon us.  It is a/n [re-]iterative process which entails lighting and relighting, igniting and reigniting, fanning and rekindling the flame of God's gift of hope, peace, joy, love and life in our lives to be lived, and in a sense, relived well together for the glory of God. 

 
 

The prophetic writer in the book of Habakkuk reminds us in prayer: 

 
 

Lord, we have heard of Your fame;

we stand in awe of Your wonderful deeds. 

O Lord,

Renew them in our day. 

In our time, revive, and make them known;

in judgment, in justice, may You remember mercy.

 
 

May this be our prayer for and in our own day and time with the Lord's gracious reign among us in our own, larger community of faith in Christ.  And may God find us faithfully lighting anew in Advent the candles of Christ's hope, peace, joy, love and life in our homes in the household of God's blessings at Thanksgiving.  In Him,

Pastor Rex

Rekindling the Gift of God With/in Us

Rekindling the Gift

• Rekindling the Gift of Hope
  
• Rekindling the Gift of Peace
  
• Rekindling the Gift of Joy
  
• Rekindling the Gift of Love
  
• Rekindling the Gift of Life
  

  fan aflame, kindle afresh, light anew
  

  [Reign of] Christ the King
  

  Sunday, November 22
  

  2 Samuel 23:1-7; Psalm 132:1-12 (13-18); Revelation 1:4b-8; John 18:33-37
  

   
   

  The First Sunday of Advent
  

  November 29
  

  Jeremiah 33:14-16; Psalm 25:1-10;               1 Thessalonians 3:9-13; Luke 21:25-36
  

  The Second Sunday of Advent
  

  December 6
  

  Malachi 3:1-4; Luke 1:68-79;                  Philippians 1:3-11; Luke 3:1-6
  

   
   

  The Third Sunday of Advent
  

  December 13
  

  Zephaniah 3:14-20; Isaiah 12:2-6;          Philippians 4:4-7; Luke 3:7-18
  

  The Fourth Sunday of Advent
  

  December 20
  

  Micah 5:2-5a; Luke 1:46b-55; Psalm 80:1-7; Hebrews 10:5-10; Luke 1:39-45 (46-55)
  

   
   

  Christmas Eve
  

  December 24
  

  Isaiah 9:2-7; Psalm 96:1-13;                        Titus 2:11-14; Luke 2:1-14 (15-20)
  

  
  

  Lighting the candles of Advent again… with thanksgiving!
  

  Fan into flame the gift of God in you
  

The Lord Reigns (Christ the King)	Nov 22
The Promise of Preparation	Nov 29
The Promise of Mercy	Dec 6
The Promise of Salvation	Dec 13
The Promise of Blessing	Dec 20
The Promise of Treasure	Dec 24
(Sunday after Christmas)	Dec 27

 
 

With Gratitude for the Tree of Life

2009 November—December

Thanksgiving In the Season of Advent

A Lifestyle of Thanks-Living through the Advent of Christ's Kingdom

The Courier Times - New Castle, IN | Gary R. "Tree" Platts

Monday, November 16, 2009     Gary R. "Tree" Platts     Monday, November 16, 2009         Gary R. "Tree" Platts, age 52, of Huntingburg, formerly of New Castle, Indiana, died at 7:00 p.m., Friday, November 13, 2009 at The Waters of Huntingburg nursing center in Huntingburg.     He was born on February 26, 1957 in New Castle, Indiana to Donald E. and Patricia K. (Killey) Platts. Gary graduated from New Castle High School.     He worked various jobs in Indiana, Louisiana, and Texas before moving to the Huntingburg-Jasper area where he has resided for 23 years.     He was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of New Castle.     He is survived by his parents, Donald E. and Patricia K. Platts of New Castle; one daughter, Arianna L. Kane (9 years old) of Huntingburg; one brother, Kenneth J. (spouse: Teresa) Platts of New Castle; one sister, Laura M. Platts of New Castle; his significant other, Carlotta "Corkey" Davis of Huntingburg; three nieces and two nephews, Tonda U. (Spouse: David) Wicker, Jolene M. Upchurch, Carly P. (Spouse: Josh) Lawson, Jeremy T. (Spouse: Rachel) Platts, Andrew B. (Spouse: Misty) Platts; his aunt, Myrna M. Killey; and by several great nieces and nephews.     Funeral services for Gary "Tree" Platts will be held at 2:00 p.m., on Wednesday, November 18 at the Marcum Community Funeral Home in New Castle.     Friends may call for visitation at the Marcum Community Funeral Home in New Castle from 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m., Wednesday, the day of the funeral.     Burial will take place at a latter date. Memorial contributions may be made to: The American Cancer Society.     Nov. 13, 2009
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Gary Platts Obituary: Gary Platts’s Obituary by the Courier Press.

Gary Platts

HUNTINGBURG, Ind. — Gary R. "Tree" Platts, 52, died Nov. 13, 2009, at The Waters of Huntingburg.

He worked various jobs in several states and was a member of First Presbyterian Church.

Surviving are his daughter, Arianna Kane; parents, Donald and Patricia; sister, Laura; and brother, Kenneth.

Services 2 p.m. Wednesday at Marcum Funeral Home in New Castle, burial is pending. Visitation is 3 to 8 p.m. today EST at Nass & Son Funeral Home and 10 a.m. to services at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society .

Published in Courier Press on November 16, 2009

 
 

Inserted from <http://obits.courierpress.com/obituaries/courierpress/obituary-print.aspx?n=gary-platts&pid=136023270>

The Courier Times - New Castle, IN | David Nelson Ford

Monday, November 09, 2009     David Nelson Ford     Monday, November 09, 2009         David Nelson Ford, age 72, resident of rural Springport, passed away Sunday at Henry County Hospital.     He was born October 30, 1937 in New Castle, a son of the late Frederick and Rosemond Pride Ford.     He was a resident of Henry County most of his life, and was a graduate of Cadiz High School. He served with the United States Air Force for 8 years and was stationed in Japan and Greenland.     Mr. Ford was retired from General Motors after many years of service, and was assigned to Delco Remy and Magnaquench Factories. He was a member of United Auto Worker's Union #662.     He loved sharing time with his family, and enjoyed fishing, nature, outdoors, and working on his farm. He attended the 1st Presbyterian Church.     He is survived by: wife, Edith Rouse Ford whom he married April 15, 1967; 1 son, Matthew David Ford (companion Ramona Ritchey and son Andrew) of Higginsville, Missouri; 3 siblings, Rodney Ford (wife Dixie), Fred Ford (wife Patty), and Teresa Ingle (husband Grant) all of New Castle, Indiana; also, many nieces, nephews, and cousins; brother-in-law, Dennis Rouse (wife Rose) of Rushville, Indiana; sister-in-law, Patricia Parmley (husband Charles) of Somerset, Kentucky.     He was preceded in death by: his parents and 1 son, Andrew Nelson "Andy" Ford.     Visitation will be 2-3 p.m. Wednesday, November 11, 2009 at the 1st Presbyterian Church in New Castle, Indiana. Funeral Service will be 3:00 p.m. Wednesday at the 1st Presbyterian Church with Rev. Rex Espiritu officiating. Burial will be on a later date at Raleigh Cemetery in Rush County. Military Honors will be conducted by the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the American Legion.     Memorial contributions may be made to: the Diabetes Association, New Castle Animal Shelter, and the Henry County Heart Association.     Arrangements are being handled by Macer-Hall Funeral Home with Funeral Directors: Sam Hall, Gary Hall, and Mike Ragan conducting the services.     Online condolences may be sent to www.macerhall.com     Nov. 8, 2009
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PC(USA) - Presbyterian News Service - The Discernment journey

 
 

 
 

 
 

Home > News Service > The Discernment journey

 
 

09967

November 9, 2009

The Discernment journey

A monthly column for the PC(USA) by the General Assembly Stated Clerk

by the Rev. Gradye Parsons

PC(USA) General Assembly stated clerk

LOUISVILLE — Folks often wonder how an overture makes its way to a General Assembly. It is not a speedy process, but it's an effective one that involves discernment through prayer, the study of Scripture, and careful listening to others.

An overture generally starts with an individual idea or inspiration. From there, one of the foundational understandings of our polity is lived out: Decisions are made not by one person, but by people discerning together the mind of Christ.

Often, an overture's first step involves members of the session of a congregation discerning together whether the issue on their hearts should be addressed by the whole PC(USA). In my experience, this is rarely done at one meeting, but over time.

The session sends the overture to the presbytery, where it is considered by a committee. The committee members prayerfully discern together the mind of Christ about the issue, listening to the voice of the session and to one another, as well as their own understanding of Scripture. The committee then sends the overture to the full presbytery, where elders and ministers discuss its merits and answer the critical question: Is this an issue for the whole church?

If approved by the presbytery, the overture goes to the General Assembly, where it will carry the presbytery's name and require the presbytery's support.

General Assembly commissioners and advisory delegates consider the overture in committee, discerning together by listening to voices with wider experiences, to different understandings of Scripture, and to the Spirit speaking through prayer. The item then goes to the whole assembly where, again, listening and seeking are the primary discernment actions.

If the overture passes, its journey continues as congregations, presbyteries, synods, and General Assembly agencies discern what it means for their ministry and witness.

The journey of an overture involves the entire Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). It travels the long distance through our discernment as the whole church, listening for what God is calling the church to be and to do.

Let us all be ready to listen.

 
 

Inserted from <http://www.pcusa.org/pcnews/2009/09967.htm>

Let the Redeemed of the Lord Say So

As we celebrated in this season of homecoming with our sisters and brothers in Christ through anointed worship and praise led by Buchanon Unity ministering in music with us last Sunday, I am continuing to be filled, basking in the afterglow of the Holy Spirit's blessing upon our offering as the Lord leads us anew in the journey of faith. One of the sayings we shared in song together was the saying, "Let the redeemed of the Lord say so…" Having sung and said that, let me say a thing or two here about "sayings" so….

 
 

Have you ever stopped and wondered how often certain witty sayings may come to mind given various situations one may encounter on a given day?

 
 

In my own experience, the thought was brought on recently upon noting John Wooden's 99th birthday as reported by the L.A. Times in which one article listed 99 things about this former UCLA basketball coach. A significant portion of the Twitter-verse (as the universe of Twitter is sometimes referred to) was, on that day last week, all a-Twitter with many a wise quote shared by fans and admirers of this legendary man. Even now, a week or so later, a search on Twitter reveals many social media network users sharing their favorite quotes of his with one another and a whole world of other followers.

 
 

It is worth noting here that our own C.L.A.S.S. (Christian Living At Sunday School) offering on Sunday mornings at First Presbyterian Church includes a group led by John Lansinger in gleaning from John Wooden's life as they read through his book, "A Lifetime of Observations and Reflections On and Off the Court" together. His lifetime of observations and reflections are not only to be applicable in the game of basketball, but they hold treasures of wisdom and insight to be savored beyond the world of sports, with lessons to be learned and applied for his whole life to be lived well. And not just for himself, but for others' lives as well.

 
 

All this got me thinking further this week as we approach the sometimes so-called "Stewardship season" and how that kind of language reflecting a particular sort of narrowed mindset is in need of reformation. How we refer to certain notions of living faithfully in the world can reveal a lack of understanding on our part of the bigger picture, showing an aspect of our lived theology that is in need of correction.

 
 

The following two corrective sayings come to mind: "Stewardship is not a Sunday. It's a lifestyle." "Reformation is not only for a time. It's an ongoing process." That is, stewardship is a transformative way of living from day to day. It is, in effect, responding with love and care for others, in gratitude of heart, for and by the grace we have abundantly and extravagantly been given in Christ. And reformation is, really, a continual changing of heart and mind to become more and more like Jesus. As the Latin saying goes from the time of the great reformation, "reformata et semper reformanda". We are, as Christians in the Reformed tradition, reformed and always reforming according to the Word of God.

 
 

The last Sunday of October is marked on our church calendar as a time when we celebrate, recognize and observe the Reformation. As I shared with our confirmation class a few weeks ago, this year is especially significant in that we are remembering the 500th birthday of the one regarded as the father of Presbyterianism, the venerable reformer, John Calvin. Let us celebrate well by continually, ever more so, living into the lives God has called us to live with one another. Not just for ourselves, but for the world around us in desperate need of the sure hope we have in the good news of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

 
 

Let the redeemed of the Lord say so in new ways with sayings that reflect God's glory and which effect His redeeming grace in Christ for the world. Amen. --Pastor Rex

Revive at 6:15!

Come to worship Wednesday night!

Join us in this Homecoming season as we

sing to the Lord at our midweek Revive! service of prayer and praise on

October 14 at 6:15 p.m.

 

 

Come join with us on Wednesday evenings!

for

A Fall Festival of Celebrations in Praise and Worship

NEW TIME - 6:15 p.m.

 

Inserted from <http://newcastlefpc.org>

PC(USA) - General Assembly Mission Council - October 2, 2009, letter from the Executive Director

 
 

 
 

Home > General Assembly Mission Council > Letters from the Executive Director > October 2, 2009

 
 

October 2, 2009

Give, act and pray

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Anytime a disaster hits, whether it leaves a home burned, a community flooded or an entire island flattened, full recovery is a long-term process.  We ask you now for churchwide call to prayer for all those affected by disasters, especially for those who — in just the past two weeks — have experienced flooding in the southeastern United States, a typhoon in the Philippines, earthquakes in Indonesia or earthquakes compounded by a tsunami in Samoa, American Samoa and Tonga.

Presbyterian Disaster Assistance, using funds from the One Great Hour of Sharing offering, has already begun to respond, either directly to the presbyteries here in the United States or through our mission partners around the world.

This week alone two earthquakes rocked areas of Indonesia.  In West Sumatra, more than 10,000 homes and businesses have been affected and 1,000 lives lost, with this count expected to rise. PDA has been in contact with our PC(USA) mission co-worker in Indonesia, Rebecca Young. Becca works with the Jakarta Theological Seminary and is also a PDA liaison for disaster situations that strike the region. PDA is also working with our partners Yayasan Tanggul Bencana di Indonesia, Yakkumm Emergency Unit, Church World Service and Action by Churches Together (ACT). Once assessments of the damage are reported, we will have a better understanding of the funding needed for long-term recovery.

Typhoon Ketsana hit the Philippines, Cambodia and Vietnam just days ago, with the Philippines being the worst affected. Mandatory evacuations have been issued, as a second typhoon is expected in a matter of days.  Presbyterian Disaster Assistance will be supporting relief efforts through our mission partners, the United Church of Christ in the Philippines and the National Council of Churches in the Philippines, and through a broader appeal by ACT.

A tsunami triggered by a massive earthquake has devastated Samoa, American Samoa and Tonga. More than 32,000 people are displaced, with the death toll rising daily. PDA has been in communication with CWS, National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster and the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency as it relates to American Samoa. Once assessments begin to be reported, PDA will be ready to respond with funding.

And let us remember our brothers and sisters here in the Southeast that experienced massive flooding last week.  PDA is responding to needs in three  presbyteries — Cherokee, Greater Atlanta and Northeast Georgia.  Six PDA National Response Team members responded, and five are still on the ground assessing the damage and assisting with response coordination. Twelve churches in Greater Atlanta Presbytery have requested assistance.  PDA has responded by sending $40,000: $10,000 to support the initial response by the presbytery for needs in the community and $30,000 as a fund for the presbytery to use in support of the 12 effected churches.  In addition, $10,000 has been sent to Cherokee Presbytery to help with immediate relief and $10,000 is being sent to Northeast Georgia Presbytery.  All of these funds have come from the One Great Hour of Sharing offering.  We take this opportunity to thank you for those gifts.  PDA will continue to be in communication with these presbyteries and is prepared to respond to further requests.

We encourage you to pray for all those suffering from these tremendous natural disasters.  We anticipate large appeals for funding.  If you are called to give, please do so through PDA account number DR000148.

Almighty and everlasting God, You are strength to those who suffer and comfort to those who grieve. Let the prayers of your children who are in trouble rise to you.

We claim your promises of wholeness as we pray for those who are ill or are suffering loss and long for your healing touch.

Make the weak strong, the sick healthy, the broken whole, and confirm those who serve them as agents of your love.

Yours in Christ,

Linda Valentine, executive director, General Assembly Mission Council

Gradye Parsons, Stated Clerk of the General Assembly

Bruce Reyes-Chow, Moderator of the 218th General Assembly

 
 

Inserted from <http://www.pcusa.org/gamc/letters/100209.htm>

Response to flooding in Georgia and Philippines

Subject	Response to flooding in Georgia and Philippines
From	Presbyterian Disaster Assistance Rapid Information Network (PDA-RIN)
To	NewCastleFPC
Sent	Tuesday, September 29, 2009 1:46 PM

 
 

You are receiving this email because you signed up to get critical bulletins about Presbyterian Disaster Assistance (PDA) relief efforts.

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Georgia Flooding

Torrential rains falling on saturated soil has caused flooding throughout parts of Alabama, eastern Tennessee, western North Carolina and Georgia. Most affected in Georgia where at least 3,000 homes have been damaged. Georgia Governor Sonny Perdue issued a state of emergency for 18 counties and has asked President Barack Obama for an emergency federal disaster declaration. Four PC(USA) presbyteries are affected, Cherokee, Greater Atlanta, Northeast Georgia and Flint River.

Presbyterian Disaster Assistance (PDA) is responding and has sent One Great Hour of Sharing funds and members of the PDA National Response Team to help the affected presbyteries in their response and recovery efforts. The Westminster Presbyterian Church in Rome, Georgia is serving as a distribution point for relief items and Gift of the Heart kits. The church is certified to serve as a shelter for people and pets should the need arise.

Gifts to DR000015 strengthens PDA's ability to response to disasters in the United States.  Also consider making Gift-of-the Heart kits to replenish those sent to help in the response.  Read the full report.

Philippines

Typhoon "Ketsana", locally known as "Ondoy", swept across metro Manila and parts of Central Luzon on Saturday, September 26, 2009, and brought a month's worth of rain in just 12 hours. The waters rose so fast that people living in low lying areas were caught unaware and had to stay on the roofs of their houses to avoid being swept away by the floods. At least 140 died from the storm, and more than 450,000 people have been displaced and have sought shelter in schools, churches and other evacuation shelters.

Presbyterian Disaster Assistance is responding through with our partners, The United Church of Christ in the Philippines, and the National Council of Churches in the Philippines (NCCP). Local churches in the affected communities have been opened their premises as evacuation and relief centers to provide a safe haven for the displaced families. They are helping to provide the families with basic humanitarian assistance of food, drinking water, non-food relief items, basic medicines and personal hygiene necessities.

An international appeal by Action by Churches Together (ACT) will be forthcoming and PDA will support the appeal for addition relief items with One Great Hour of Sharing funds.

Gifts to DR000012 will help PDA's response to Tropical Storm Ketsana in the Philippines. Read the full report.

Presbyterian Disaster Assistance is now on Facebook.  Please sign-up as a Fan of the PDA page.   Sign in to Facebook, search for "Presbyterian Disaster Assistance" and become a FAN.

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The Courier Times - New Castle, IN | Lifetime of volunteering recognized

Sunday, September 27, 2009     Lifetime of volunteering recognized     Sunday, September 27, 2009         Herb Bunch By BETHANY TABB     btabb@thecouriertimes.com     Anyone who knows Herb Bunch has heard him repeat a famous Harry S. Truman quote: "It's amazing what you can accomplish if you do not care who gets the credit."     Even before he knew who first said it, the New Castle man decided to make that statement his life's goal. He even has notecards printed with the quote to serve as reminders.     It's a statement he believes sums up true volunteerism.     "If you're going out and you're looking for credit just for you, that's the wrong reason," he said. "You've got to be thinking about what you can try to help people accomplish. That's what I've tried to do."     Bunch wasn't looking for recognition, but he recently received some when he was named the winner of Henry County United Fund's annual Danielson Humanitarian Award.     Each year, United Fund asks the community to submit nominations for the award. Executive Director Jenny Dennis said as she looked through this year's nominations, Bunch stood out among the rest.     She pointed to his financial philanthropy as well as his willingness to volunteer.     "He has a huge impact on Henry County," she said.     To Bunch, volunteering is his way of paying back a community that's been good to him. He says every opportunity he's had came from the kindness of other people.     Those kindnesses began as he grew up in Henry County. His father passed away when Bunch was a teenager, and his mother was left with three children to raise on their own.     Money was tight, and for nearly 10 years his family didn't even have a car. But Bunch said people he knew from school and church stepped up to help him.     Later when he wanted to go to college, it seemed impossible. But then a man from Chicago helped pay his expenses so he could attend Wabash College. Back then it wasn't considered a scholarship, he said, but was more like a stipend.     His education was interrupted when he left Wabash to fight for more than a year with the U.S. Army in Korea.     When he returned, he eventually earned a degree in education from Ball State University. After teaching in Lebanon, he earned his master's degree and spent the next 12 years working with handicapped children and adults at New Castle State Hospital.     Then one day he talked to the superintendent of New Castle Community School Corp., who needed a principal for the seventh-grade building. He took that position and was principal until he retired 24 years later.     Then the opportunity arose for him to become executive director of the Henry County Community Foundation. So he worked for the foundation from 1994 to 2000.     "Every time I've turned around, I've had opportunities," he said, "but it's because of people and associating with people and building relationships with people."     Bunch never forgot those opportunities, and he decided the best way to pay those people back was through volunteering his time.     The first thing he did was join the New Castle Noon Optimist Club, where he's still a member today.     Once he joined that organization, it snowballed. Other clubs asked him to help, Bunch said, and he has a hard time saying no.     Over the years, he's served on the Henry County United Fund board, the Indiana Public Radio advisory board, the Comprehensive Mental Health Association and practically every board in Henry County.     He's also served on just about every board possible at First Presbyterian Church, where he's currently an elder.     Working with people is his true passion, he said, and many organizations are about the same, he said. That makes it easy to do as much or as little as you want.     "I guess I looked at it as a challenge, to give of myself ad give something in the way of experience," he said. "Once you get experience in a leadership role, it carries over to other organizations."     Jerry Schaeffer, current executive director of the Community Foundation, met Bunch when he hired her as his secretary. Since then, he's been her mentor for the past 10 years.     Schaeffer said Bunch taught her about philanthropy and what it means to be a volunteer. He also connected her with community organizations like United Fund.     That's why she nominated him for the Danielson Humanitarian award, she said.     "I think it just comes so naturally for him," she said. "He's taught me the more you give, the more you get."
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The future is now: youth ministry task force gets feedback at Big Tent

The future is now: youth ministry task force gets feedback at Big Tent

Written by Leslie Scanlon, Outlook national reporter

Sunday, 19 July 2009 00:00

ATLANTA — What do young people want from the Presbyterian church? And — for the young and energetic, the skeptical and the faithful and the passionate — what do Presbyterian churches have to offer?

 
 

 
 

 A General Assembly task force on youth ministry is wrangling with these questions and more, knowing that, for many young people, the question of why stick with a traditional, mainline denomination when there are so many other choices (and when a growing group of American adults are claiming "no religious affiliation") is a very open question.

 The 2008 General Assembly created a task force on youth ministry, well aware that the Presbyterian churches have seen too many young people walking out their doors and too few walking back in. There are, of course, pockets of hope: the big and enthusiastic turnouts at recent Montreat college conferences, for example; or the commitment of young adult volunteers; or the real stories of individual congregations where organic, creative ministry with teenagers and young adults is flourishing (not just in bigger congregations, but in some smaller ones too).

 But too often, "we literally cut these kids loose," sometimes when they finish high school, sometimes even younger, when they are confirmed, said Kathleen Farnham, director of church relations at Maryville College in Tennessee, who spoke to the task force during an "open mike" time at the Big Tent gathering recently.

 Many of these young adults go on to exciting things — to college and graduate school, travel, volunteer work around the world, and have so much to offer, she said. "This is my new passion," Farnham said. "Once high school kids go on to college, we have to stay connected with them, and stay connected with them as young adults."

 The youth task force will report to the 2010 General Assembly. At its first set of meetings, held in conjunction with the Big Tent gathering in Atlanta, its members spent hours interviewing people, anyone they could grab in the Exhibit Hall, about what excites and frustrates them about youth ministry, what they long to see.

 The task force also has created two teams that will work in the months ahead – one to present examples of "model programs" (concepts that others might learn from, that seem to be working); and one to write a vision statement for youth ministry in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.).

 The task force has 15 members — 10 young people, ages 16 to 21, and five adults — and will meet again in September in Harrisburg, Pa.

 At the Big Tent, the task force conducted more than 60 interviews, spending hours listening to the hopes that people have for youth ministry.

 "I kept hearing over and over again the idea of hospitality," of the broader church accompanying young people on their walk of faith, said Gina Yeager-Buckley, the PC(USA)'s associate for youth ministry.

Hakeem Jerome Jefferson of New Harmony Presbytery said another theme was the importance of the Presbyterian tradition.

 "I wish we could count the number of times we heard the word 'tradition,'"  Jefferson said. But that can mean different things, from the value of the Reformed tradition to saying that in some places, everything is done a certain way.

 Probably three-quarters of the people she spoke with referred to youth being "the future of the church," said Jessie Light of Heartland Presbytery. But "that means they're not thinking about the youth right now," Light said. "The youth should be involved right now, should be taking on these leadership roles right now."

 Kelly Wiant-Thralls is associate pastor of Market Square Church in Harrisburg, and the chairperson of the task force. That "youth are the future" language grates, she said, because "they feel they're already empowered to be leaders."

 Too often, adults "kind of dumb it down" when they talk to young people about faith, said Madison Munoz of St. Augustine Presbytery, instead of thinking that "if you give them leadership positions, they will rise." She spoke of the importance of giving room and space for young people to raise questions about God and what they believe, "not being condescending and not treating them as children."

 The task force members talked about disconnects. What happens, for example, when a teenager wants to be involved with church, but her parents do not?

 What about peer pressure — how is the faith of young people affected by what their friends think and say about the culture around them?

 Sometimes "the church seems to be concerned if we have an atheistic or agnostic in the youth group, but they're there," said Michelle Thomas-Bush, a minister from St. Augustine Presbytery. She heard repeatedly the idea of "giving them space to figure that out" and to let them ask "real questions – not just what we want them to question."

 Yeager-Buckley said there may be some tension in what adults think congregations should offer.

Some involved with youth ministry think "God is calling us to provide a clear message," and not just to say "you'll come to faith when you come to faith. They feel like we've been dangerous … or wishy-washy as Presbyterians, not helping kids to know 'This is what we believe.' "

 Others contend "we need to be in relationship. We need to be there" for young people — wherever they stand in their journeys of faith, Yeager-Buckley said.

 "We need to know as young people that the church is not judging us based on who you are, whether you're a Gothic person or gay," Jefferson said. In the interviews, people spoke of the importance of inclusivity in church – and not just toleration. "Hypocrisy is big."

 People also spoke of the idea of authenticity. "They were looking for integrity and acceptance and transparency," said Rex Espiritu, a minister from Whitewater Valley Presbytery. "Youth will spot right away whether they're really being taken seriously."

 Members of the task force also are aware that those who come to the Big Tent don't capture the breadth of the PC(USA). They were unlikely to find there, for example, teenagers who already feel disconnected from church, who are just going through the motions as long as their parents make them.

Is the PC(USA) relevant to young people?

 There's likely to be more than one answer.

 Thomas-Bush said one interviewee described worship as "so distracting to young people, because it is so different from what they know. … Organ music is distracting to them. Sitting still for 40 minutes is distracting. I thought that was a fascinating way to look at it."

 But she also heard "that the Presbyterian church has a voice with young people. Over and over again, there was not any hesitation. That we have something unique to offer, we have a sense of identity. … They were lamenting that young people may not get that opportunity, that the Presbyterian church is rich with grace and love and belonging."

 
 

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Hinsey-Brown Funeral Service: New Castle, Henry County, Indiana - Obituary for Mariano G. Espiritu

Mariano Espiritu

January 21, 1921 -

September 11, 2009

Mariano G. Espiritu, age 88, of New Castle, passed away Friday, September 11, 2009 at his residence, following an extended illness. He was born January 21, 1921 in Paranaque Rizal, Philippines, a son of the late Apolonio and Felicidad (Garcia) Espiritu.

 
 

Mariano was honored to have served during World War II under U.S. General Jonathan Wainwright, who commanded American and Filipino forces in the last days of Corregidor and Bataan in 1942, thus surviving the Bataan Death March. He graduated from Far Eastern University in Manila, and spent much of his productive work life as a lawyer for Mobil Oil Company in the Philippines. He was well respected as a gifted, compassionate leader who exhibited a passion for justice, seeking to resolve conflicts and reconcile issues between labor union workers and corporate management employees, with an eye toward maintaining fairness to each party and equity for all concerned.

 
 

At great personal expense, he lived out his convictions in advocating for the marginalized masses of workers as a small, fledging nation grew its business through some tumultuous times in the marketplace of Southeast Asia. Down and out of work, he was subsequently vindicated, restored with back compensation and promoted in employment by the company to provide further counsel for management's successful labor relations. God had brought him to deep lows and raised him to great heights for such a time as this.

 
 

Mariano also served as President of the National Oil Workers Union while in the Philippines and was an active member of the Filipino United Church of Christ, where he also served as the President of the church choir. Immigrating to America in 1972, Mariano resided in New York and was an active member of the First Presbyterian Church in Mt. Vernon, NY. In 2007, Mariano and his wife moved to New Castle to be close to their son and his family.

 
 

He leaves to cherish his memory, his wife of over 52 years, Natividad L. Espiritu of New Castle; a daughter, Marina Espiritu Lutz, and her husband Charles of Newark, DE; a son, The Reverend M. Rex (wife, Melissa) Espiritu of New Castle; granddaughters, Laurella E. Lutz of Newark, DE, Christina Espiritu at Huntington University, Hannah, Grace, Tabitha, Priscilla and Sara Espiritu, all of New Castle; a sister, Maria Espiritu Nannie of Seaside, CA; a niece, Nila (husband, Ed) Dimangondayao of Oak Forest, IL, nephews, Dr. Vicente (wife, Doris) E. Velasco III of Phoenix, AZ, Noel E. (wife, Gigi) Velasco of Providence, RI, and Levi E. (wife, Diane) Velasco of Wheaton, IL; a half sister, Prescila Espiritu of Reno, NV, and a half brother, Efren Espiritu of Hawaii.

 
 

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Leonila and a brother, Godofredo.

A Service of Witness to the Resurrection in Celebration of the life of Mariano will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, September 14, 2009 at the First Presbyterian Church in New Castle with the Reverend Dr. Rose Niles officiating. Friends may call from 4-8 p.m. Sunday at Hinsey-Brown Funeral Service in New Castle. Burial will follow in South Mound Cemetery-West Lawn Addition at a later date. Memorial contributions may be given to the First Presbyterian Church, 1202 Church St., New Castle, IN 47362 or at www.newcastlefpc.org or with envelopes available at the funeral home. Online condolences may be expressed at www.hinsey-brown.com

 
 

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The Courier Times - New Castle, IN | Mariano G. Espiritu

Friday, September 11, 2009     Mariano G. Espiritu     Friday, September 11, 2009         Mariano G. Espiritu, age 88, of New Castle passed away Friday, September 11, 2009 at his residence, following an extended illness. He was born January 21, 1921 in Paranaque Rizal, Philippines, a son of the late Apolonio and Felicidad (Garcia) Espiritu.     Mariano was honored to have served during World War II under U.S. General Jonathan Wainwright, who commanded American and Filipino forces in the last days of Corregidor and Bataan in 1942, thus surviving the Bataan Death March.     He graduated from Far Eastern University in Manila, and spent much of his productive work life as a lawyer for Mobil Oil Company in the Philippines. He was well respected as a gifted, compassionate leader who exhibited a passion for justice, seeking to resolve conflicts and reconcile issues between labor union workers and corporate management employees, with an eye toward maintaining fairness to each party and equity for all concerned.     At great personal expense, he lived out his convictions in advocating for the marginalized masses of workers as a small, fledging nation grew its business through some tumultuous times in the marketplace of Southeast Asia. Down and out of work, he was subsequently vindicated, restored with back compensation and promoted in employment by the company to provide further counsel for management's successful labor relations. God had brought him to deep lows and raised him to great heights for such a time as this.     Mariano also served as President of the National Oil Workers Union while in the Philippines and was an active member of the Filipino United Church of Christ, where he also served as the President of the church choir. Immigrating to America in 1972, Mariano resided in New York and was an active member of the First Presbyterian Church in Mt. Vernon, NY. In 2007, Mariano and his wife moved to New Castle to be close to their son and his family.     He leaves to cherish his memory, his wife of over 52 years, Natividad L. Espiritu of New Castle; a daughter, Marina Espiritu Lutz, and her husband Charles of Newark, DE; a son, The Reverend M. Rex (wife, Melissa) Espiritu of New Castle; granddaughters, Laurella E. Lutz of Newark, DE, Christina Espiritu at Huntington University, Hannah, Grace, Tabitha, Priscilla and Sara Espiritu, all of New Castle; a sister, Maria Espiritu Nannie of Seaside, CA; a niece, Nila (husband, Ed) Dimangondayao of Oak Forest, IL, nephews, Dr. Vicente (wife, Doris) E. Velasco III of Phoenix, AZ, Noel E. (wife, Gigi) Velasco of Providence, RI, and Levi E. (wife, Diane) Velasco of Wheaton, IL; a half sister, Prescila Espiritu of Reno, NV, and a half brother, Efren Espiritu of Hawaii.     In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Leonila and a brother, Godofredo.     A Service of Witness to the Resurrection in Celebration of the life of Mariano will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, September 14, 2009 at the First Presbyterian Church in New Castle with the Reverend Dr. Rose Niles officiating. Friends may call from 4-8 p.m. Sunday at Hinsey-Brown Funeral Service in New Castle. Burial will follow in South Mound Cemetery-West Lawn Addition at a later date. Memorial contributions may be given to the First Presbyterian Church, 1202 Church St., New Castle, IN 47362 or at www.newcastlefpc.org or with envelopes available at the funeral home. Online condolences may be expressed at www.hinsey-brown.com     Sept. 11, 2009
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