PEWSLETTER
WEEKLY
First Presbyterian Church
Lincolnton NC

" Are you the Messiah? "

(Click on Scripture Passage)
Join us for worship on Sunday at 10:30 AM as we light the Advent candle of Joy.

The third Sunday came to be a time of rejoicing that the fasting was almost over. Gaudette Sunday (“Rejoice,” from an ancient antiphon based on Philippians 4:4) has an especially joyous emphasis, so often rose (pink) as a symbol of joy is seen to replace the purple. The shift for this Sunday reflects this lessening emphasis on penitence as attention turned more to celebration of the season.

We also find out if Jesus answers the question: Are you the Messiah?

Blessings and peace,
Rev. Dr. Joan Martin

Worship Teams for 2020

As 2019 comes to a close, and 2020 approaches, it is time to start creating the 2020 "Worship Teams" calendar. I have the list of names of people who have been serving. That is not a final list! If YOU would like to step up and help in any way - Greeter. Offering, Worship Leader, Children's Time, Nursery, and Lock-up - do let me know ASAP.
Either email me, kmrobinson51@gmail.com, or call 704 435-2756 and leave a message. I would like to add some new people to our lists. If you are serving but feel you need step away, also let me know. Thanks. - Kathy Robinson
Fall Handbell and Children’s Choir Schedules

Dec. 15 and 22

Children - 9:30 AM - Choir Room
December 15th

Greeters & Offering
Myra Jane and Rick Ramseur
Worship Jan Duncan
Joyground Pam Sipe
Children’s Time Barbara Crumley
Lockup Chip Crumley
Refreshments Anna Gilbert

December 22nd

Greeters & Offering
Adrienne and Jamie Hodges
Worship Alice Gene Abrams
Joyground Ann Hallman
Children’s Time Kathy Robinson
Lockup Rick Ramseur
Refreshments Kathy Robinson

I f you cannot serve, please find your own replacement and notify the office of the change.
Mark Eldridge
Becky Forester, Friend of Pam Sipe
Helen Fox, Evelyn Ross' mother
Ralph Freeman
Ann Haire
Judy Holland
Rev. Don Jafvert, Jane Rollin's father
James Johnston, Kim Fitzpatrick’s father
Barbara Jones, Becky Beatty's mother
Meghan Lafferty
The Lafferty Family
Torie Lykins, Bill Thomas' great-niece
Bonnie Mullen
Bryan Ross, Jim Ross' son
Eric Sipe
Keith Talley, friend of Pam Sipe
Brenda Yu, friend of Jan Duncan
December 10, 2019
Dear friends,
With a couple of days reflection after my final Sunday with you, I want to say thank you. Not only for the wonderful worship experience of handbells and baptisms and sending me out in song; not only for the cards and gifts and best wishes; not only for the delicious refreshments and wonderful carrot cake (Evelyn!). But for your love and support these past 3 years and 10 months; for your commitment to your church and congregation, your willingness to try new things and approach church differently; for your willingness to step up and fill leadership roles; and for your patience and understanding as God called me away right in the middle of Advent.
We did some great things together and other things were left undone and unfinished, such is the nature of ministry and life. But I believe you are stronger than when I arrived and better prepared to take the next steps in your journey as a congregation. In the midst of certain times of trial to come please don’t forget to love each other. You don’t have to always like each other, or agree on everything, or think the same way, but remember to love each other. That is the only way the Church has survived as long as it has and the only way it will continue in whatever form the future holds.
Scottie and I will cherish our short time together. Moments like the grandparent’s shower, pastor appreciation day and our final worship service are etched in our hearts forever, as well as the friendships, ministry, worship and study we did together. We are grateful for your prayers and appreciative beyond measure for your witness in Lincolnton.
Blessings and peace,
Rev. Danny Trapp
Ramseur Christmas Program
First Presbyterian Church Sanctuary, Wednesday December 25, 2019 10:30 AM
 
You  all know the story about the little drummer boy who had no material gift to present to the Baby Jesus and so he played his drum to the delight of all that were gathered. Years ago my Mother told me that story was the inspiration for what is now known as the Ramseur Christmas Program. As most of you know, this informal gathering has become a joyous celebration where anyone (young or old) can offer his or her talents in honor of that same Christ Child. We invite you to come worship with us and share any talent great or small—sing a song, play an instrument, read a poem, tell a story—whatever you would like to do. Please let me know any time before Christmas if you would like to perform and we will put you on the program. ~~ Rick Ramseur

Church Finances – November 2019
**November expenses are typically impacted by our bi-annual insurance premium. Last month’s expense was $7,093, an $806 increase from November 2018.

Cash Reserves on November 30, 2019 = $138,178
Serve the Lord with gladness...
Psalm 100:2
"Working Hand in Hand With The Lord"


Emergency Services
Soup Kitchen
LINC Meals
Nursing Home Ministry
Amazing Race Against Hunger (replaces Hunger Walk)
Christmas Ministry
Souper Bowl of Caring


REACH TEACH FEED LOVE
Church Staff
Rebecca Beatty Director of Music, Organist becbea50@gmail.com
Jill Goins   Administrative Assistant admin@fpclincolnton.org
Kristen Willis  Preschool Director  preschool@fpclincolnton.org
Nancy Rudisill  Sexton     admin@fpclincolnton.org