NEWS @ FIRST
January 8, 2021
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MORNING WORSHIP SERVICE
Online access beginning at 7:00 a.m.
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Congregational Meeting
THIS Sunday, January 10, 12:15 pm via Zoom
All Church members are asked to participate in the brief congregational meeting this Sunday to elect three officers to fill unexpired terms.
The nominees are as follows:
Lorraine Foltz - elder, class of 2022
Denise Landers - elder, class of 2022
Elaine Barnett - at-large member of
church officer nominating committee, class of 2021
Click on the link below to read their biographies:
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Click on the link below to participate in the Congregational Meeting: |
Please keep these, and all of our church officers, in your prayers. We are grateful for their leadership and dedication as they serve. |
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A Message from Your Stewardship Team
The pandemic has meant new patterns for all of us, but virtually every day new pledges arrive in the mail at the church office. We are so encouraged by that steady stream. Here’s where we stand as of Jan. 4:
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We are making progress, but still have significant ground to cover. Pledges can be made online, or by calling Lisa Garcia in the finance office, or by filling out a pledge card. Please call us at (941) 955-8119, if you need one mailed to you. With so much uncertainty in the world, the faithfulness of this community means so much. We are grateful for your persistent witness. |
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We want to see YOU at our virtual Coffee Hour |
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Sunday School resumes this week! |
Happy New Year, First Presbyterian Families!
I hope that everyone enjoyed their holiday break! Sunday School will be back in session this Sunday, January 10.
Please use the updated Zoom links below for each class
(the old links will NOT work).
This week we are focusing on the Meaning of Epiphany and sharing our "Star" words. If your family has not received your "star" words yet, please let me know and I will get them to you!
Looking forward to coming together again!
Grace and peace,
Lydia Chapdelain
Children and Youth Leader
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The monthly PW Bible study led by Jean Luker meets via Zoom next Tuesday, January 12 at 10:00 a.m. We will study the fourth lesson in the 2020-2021 Horizons study Into the Light: Finding Hope Through Prayers of Lament. All women of the church are welcome to join the meeting. The study guide is not required to join. Deborah circle meets immediately following for fellowship and PW updates. The information to join the Zoom meeting is as follows:
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Mary-Martha circle meets via Zoom on Wednesday, January 20 at 10:00am for Bible study and fellowship. All are welcome to join the meeting. The lesson will be on Dividing Theological Issues lead by Ellen Millar. The study guide is “The Protestant Reformations” by Donald K. McKim and can be purchased online from pcusa.org. Contact Elaine Barnett at ewbarnet@tampabay.rr.com to request the Zoom meeting invite.
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Updates on COVID-19 Vaccines
From Cheryl Track
Faith Community Nurse
I received several emails last week that long-term care facilities in our area are on a priority list for getting the COVID-19 vaccine. Doctors Hospital, Sarasota Memorial and Manatee Memorial Hospitals have received the first allocation of the vaccine as I write. As the general public gets closer to having the vaccine available, I think it’s important to be reviewing reputable sources about the vaccines and have a conversation with your doctor if you are unsure about receiving the vaccine.
The CDC is an excellent resource, updating the site often, and is a fluid document. (www.CDC.gov)
THE BOTTOM LINE: Getting vaccinated is one of the many steps you can take to protect yourself and others from COVID-19. Stopping the pandemic requires using all the tools available. Vaccines work with your immune system so your body will be ready to fight the virus if you are exposed. Other steps like covering your mouth and nose with a mask when around others, staying at least six feet away from others, avoiding crowds, and washing your hands often help reduce your chance of being exposed to the virus or spreading it to others.
Here are some excellent resources that I hope you will take the time to review, write down any questions you may have, and discuss with your doctor.
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COVID-19 Vaccinations Available for Seniors, Age 65+
Appointments are filling up quickly. Manatee County is using a lottery system whereby you register and then get randomly selected to be scheduled for an appointment. Please be aware that if you have your initial shot there, you need to have your second shot there, too.)
The Department of Health in Manatee County is offering vaccinations to seniors, age 65 or older, by appointment Click HERE or go to their website for more information (https://mymanatee.org/departments/public_safety/coronavirus_information/covid-19_vaccine ).
The Department of Health in Sarasota County is offering vaccinations to seniors, age 65 and older, by appointment only. Sarasota County residence is not required, but snowbirds must remain in Sarasota County for their second round (28 days after the first appointment). Click HERE or go to sarasota.floridahealth.gov for more information.
Vaccine Registration Assistance for FPC Sarasota Seniors
We are aware that many of our over-65 members are quite confident with computers and smart-phones, but some of us may be frustrated by technological hurdles to signing up for vaccines. If you find yourself in the latter camp, some of our tech-savvy members have volunteered to help.
For those who need help registering online for the vaccination, you may call the church (941-955-8119) and leave a message with your request. Someone will contact you to make arrangements to assist you.
Several members have offered to help those needing assistance. Please email info@firstpressarasota.org if you would like to volunteer as well.
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We all have to wear them--why not show off your church and support the youth! The blue masks with FPC logo are just $5. The proceeds go to benefit youth ministries. Contact the church office to pick one up or have it mailed to you. |
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New Adult Education Classes
The Bible, God and the Future for Presbyterians
This study focuses on what the Reformed and Presbyterian traditions have believed in the past and the ways key theological understandings matter in our Christian lives in the church and world today. Theological issues include the Bible, God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit. Using scripture, music and conversation, this 6-week series will began on Zoom January 5 and will continue for the next five Tuesdays at 11:30 a.m. The classes are led by Elaine Barnett.
January 12 - God for Presbyterians
January 19 - Jesus Christ for Presbyterians
January 26 - The Holy Spirit for Presbyterians
February 2 - The Church for Presbyterians
February 9 - The Future for Presbyterians
Illuminating Lent: A Look at the Lord’s Prayer
Studying together for these six weeks in Lent will deepen faith and enhance knowledge through the exploration of the Lord's Prayer. Each session examines a part of the prayer, its theological understandings, and what it means for Reformed Christians in practical ways during Lent. The class begins the week after Ash Wednesday--February 23--via ZOOM at 11:30 a.m. and ends Holy Week on March 30 at 11:30 a.m. The classes will be led by Elaine Barnett.
You can sign-up for this series by emailing Elaine at
February 23 - Introducing Lent
March 2 - Upward: What We Do For God - Glorify God
March 9 - Inward: What God Does in Us - Communion with God
March 16 - Downward: What God Gives to Us - Providential Provisions
March 23 - Forward: Where God Leads Us - Discipleship
March 30 - Onward: What God Will Do - Resurrection Hope
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Family Promise
Immediate Need
A new family is entering the Family Promise program. The mom, a recent widow whose spouse died of fast-moving cancer, has six children under the age of 14; the youngest is two years old. After her husband's death, COVID hit and she lost her job. Shortly after, her car broke down and is not repairable. On top of it all, her landlord died and the heir to the property presented her with an order to vacate. As of December 31, 2020, she and her children became homeless.
A local parish is providing the family with a hotel stay for a few more days. This family is facing some immediate challenges as Family Promise tries to get them safely housed: short-term housing, transportation, temporary care of their two small dogs, and contacts for potential job leads for the mom. Click on the link below to read how you can help:
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First Presbyterian Church and
iTNSunCoast Renew Contract for 2021
For many, getting a ride is a challenge! That is why First Presbyterian has renewed their partnership with iTNSunCoast to help you get to our limited church events and the other important places you need to go.
iTNSunCoast is a dependable, local non-profit that provides rides using volunteer and paid drivers who use their own cars. Rides are available Monday through Friday until April 30, 2021, due to COVID.
Cost: If coming to a church event, you pay just one way! First Presbyterian will pay the other way and the $50 annual membership fee for First Presbyterian Church Members for 2021.
If using iTN for non-church related rides, you will be responsible to pay the cost both ways.
Looking for something to do? Make a difference in someone’s life and in your community by becoming a volunteer driver!
For more information or to become a member, call 941-364-7530 and tell them you are a member of First Presbyterian Church, or register online at itnsuncoast,org. More questions? Contact Cheryl Track, 941-320-3828.
are? (Be remaining!"
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Dysphagia Support Group
First Presbyterian was preparing to host a Dysphagia Support Group, called "The Digest," when the church building closed due to COVID. This group is currently meeting via Zoom.
The Digest is the only support group in the entire state that is supported by the National Foundation of Swallowing Disorders (NFOSD).
The group meets via Zoom the third Thursday of each month, 6:30-8:00 p.m. (the next meeting will be Jan. 21) Email info@dysphagiadigest.com
if you are interested in participating or have questions.
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FPC’s Mission Partnership with
All Faiths Food Bank
NEWS
Our distribution site will remain open through March 2021.
Thursday Mornings ONLY
8:45 - 11:30 am
(distribution 10:00 - 11:30 am)
Our partnership with All Faiths Food Bank will continue as an emergency food distribution site.
The food distribution is by drive-through with volunteers loading cars as clients circle in the parking lot during the allotted time.
Please consider becoming a part of this exciting ministry
to our community!
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Sign up NOW to volunteer at First Presbyterian's
ALL FAITHS FOOD BANK
EMERGENCY FOOD DISTRIBUTION SITE
Volunteers are needed each Thursday.
Task options include sorting and distributing food, setting up,
cleaning up and directing traffic.
Volunteer Times
Thursdays: 8:45 - 11:30 pm
All safety measures are in place:
Masks and closed-toe shoes required for volunteers;
gloves and hand sanitizer provided;
masks required for walk-up food recipients
FOR MORE INFORMATION contact
Bob Kirkpatrick, rkirkhv@aol.com or (941) 761-2455
or Dave Householder, dphouse47@gmail.com or (724) 462-4235
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Giving Options
Please continue to mail your contributions to us at the church or donate online. Your gifts make a great difference during this challenging season.
Online: If you are interested in giving electronically through our secure e-giving process, please visit FirstPresSarasota.org and select the online giving button.
Texting: Are you interested in the convenience of contributing by text message? Text FPC2050 to 73256 to donate via text. Standard rates may apply.
Mail In: During this time when the church campus is closed, all mail, including contribution checks, securely arrive to our church office.
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Remembering Our Church Family in Prayer
Thank you for upholding members of our congregation with special prayer needs during this time. Click on the attached link for a complete list:
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We Care Poster Recipients
Select the link below for the names of our members who were recently in the hospital and received a We Care poster-card on behalf of the congregation. Please keep these members in your prayers for healing and consider calling or sending a note of encouragement.
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Preparing for Flu Season During COVID-19
Getting a flu vaccine this winter can reduce your risk of getting the flu and help save medical resources needed to care for people with COVID-19. It’s important for everyone to do their part to stay healthy.
Prevent the spread of flu and other respiratory illnesses by reminding each other to:
Mask Up: Cover your nose and mouth with a mask when out in public.
Lather Up: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
Sleeve Up: Roll up your sleeve to get a flu shot.
January and February are peak months for the flu season. It takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies to develop in the body and provide protection against influenza virus infection.
Children (aged 6 months to 8 years) who need two doses of vaccine to be protected should start the vaccination process sooner, because the two doses must be given at least four weeks apart.
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First Presbyterian Preschool GROWING STRONG
The preschool staff and the families are thankful to all those who have contributed to our preschool community. Thanks to you, we are over halfway to our fundraising goal of $50,000.
If you have not had the opportunity to donate, you can be a part of helping our preschool continue to GROW STRONG with gifts over-and-above your regular church offering.
For online donations, use the weblink below. Thank you again for keeping our church / preschool community STRONG!
Grace and peace,
Clare Carter, Preschool Director
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Free Zoom Webinar Thursday, January 14, 2:00 p.m.
from the Green Team of
First Congregational United Church of Christ, Sarasota
Join the Green Team of the First Congregational UCC Sarasota for this informative, free Zoom webinar featuring two experts on Sarasota Bay and local sustainability programs and achievements!
Topic: Positive Impacts on Local Sustainability Efforts - A Conversation with Local Experts, Darcy Young, the Director of Planning and Communications for the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program, and Dr. Erika Diaz-Almeyda, Assistant Professor of Biology and Environmental Studies at New College, who will talk about their programs and how they impact sustainability in our region. You will have the opportunity to ask questions during the program.
All are welcome, but you must register in advance to participate. Simply click the link below.
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.
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We’re Here for You!
The FPC care team, Stephen Ministers, deacons, elders and church staff want you to know we are here for you. Please feel free to reach out to Cheryl Track, faith community nurse (941) 320-3828 if we can be of support to you.
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