September 2022 Issue

First Community Older Adult Times wishes you fall blessings. In this newsletter, you will find current programs and gatherings along with links and emails to help you get connected.


If you or someone you know would like a paper copy of this issue, please contact Robin.


Find out more about the FC Older Adult ministry and view previous issues of this newsletter here.

A Note from the Editor

Dear Friends,


How are you? I feel as though the summer flew by, and suddenly, I am in the mix of fall and all the wondrous things this season brings. We have kids going back to school, football on TV, and, here at church - the start of a new program year. I pray you can take a moment and enjoy the seasons changing.


I have been thinking about how often we count down to something: the days, the minutes, the seconds. Why do we always count down? We tend to get nervous that there's not enough time left, that we better hurry up and do something before time runs out. Life seems to shove us into proving ourselves by needing to get as much in before it's too late. The stress and anxiety can be overwhelming - especially with all the social media and news stories to compare our lives.


How about counting up? We have been able to live X amount of days; we have been blessed with X amount of friends; we can breathe X amount of breaths and have X amount of tears and X amount of moments to laugh. I like the thought of counting up and being grateful to have all those numbers to add. (Thinking of my son and the number of milkshakes he's had this last week alone is also overwhelming. But I think we can still include that as something to count up.)


As far as any of us know, we will have tomorrow. Let's hold onto that. And let's be thankful for all the days leading up to now. Nothing should hold us back from enjoying the knowledge that we are enough and all the wonderful, challenging, sad, and glorious moments we can count. Nothing to prove. "Just being." The good and the bad. Those numbers are priceless.


So keep on counting (and enjoy a few milkshakes along the way).


Robin Hood

Care Coordinator

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Daily Devotional

UCC Still Speaking

The Finish Line

Liz Miller


Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses … let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us. - Hebrews 12:1 (NRSV)


A skeptical friend recently asked me, “Do you really like running?” I replied, “No, but I love the teammates I run with.”


I’m a part of a triathlon team with athletes whose ages span over fifty years. Some of us race to win and many more of us (including me) are thrilled to finish a race at all.


At weekly practices it may seem like we focus on training, but when you listen closely you hear connections that go deeper than swapping swim stats or biking tips. We also swap stories from our lives that range from caretaking concerns to career questions, from newlywed bliss to navigating widowhood. We talk about how to heal from injuries due to strained muscles, but we also talk about healing from broken homes and strained relationships—conditions for which there are no easy fixes, only the ability to hold space for each other.


One of our slogans is, “Run your own race,” meaning you shouldn’t compare yourself to someone else or assume that what works for another athlete will work for you. My teammates can’t help me be a faster runner, but they keep me going when I would rather quit in the middle of a hot, humid, hilly, hell of a race.


Knowing something about their struggles gives me inner strength when self-doubt threatens to knock me over. Hearing their cheers as I cross the finish line reminds me that I’m not alone, even when I’m literally in last place.


Prayer

Dear God, I don’t love being in the back of the pack, but I’m grateful for the teammates who wait for me at the finish line every single time. Amen.

Back To School Blessings

By Rev. Mary Kate Buchanan, Minister of Pastoral Care

For 20 years of my life, September has always been back to school time. I always loved collecting all the supplies I needed and picking out my outfit. There’s just something about a fresh pack of crayons, isn’t there? I’m not in school anymore and I’m guessing the vast majority of you aren’t either, but I think this season still might have something to teach us if we take a moment to consider. We are lifelong learners after all!

 

School Supply Shopping. In other words- gathering what we need in order to thrive and learn. What items can you gather to set you up for your continued learning? Maybe it’s a Bible or a book from the library you’ve been wanting to read. What do you need to bring with you on your journey as followers of Jesus?

 

New Shoes. In other words- out with the old and in with the new! “This is how it’s always been done” closes our mind off to an opportunity for a fresh look and a new perspective. What “old shoes” can you throw away in order to have room for some new ones?

 

The Bus. In other words- A whole lot of patience! Whether you’re waiting for it to come, waiting for your stop, or waiting behind it in traffic, the bus teaches us a valuable lesson about patience. We don’t get to always get off first…sometimes it’s someone else’s turn! How might you let someone else shine who doesn’t get the spotlight very often?

 

Recess- In other words- a break to play! We, too, need some time to play and let loose. We come back with brains that are more creative, open to new ideas, and look for signs of the Spirit at work all around us. When can you set some time aside to let loose?

 

As we step into this new school year as lifelong learners, I invite you to look towards the youngest among us for some guidance on your journey. Jesus said, “Let the children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.” (Mt. 19:14)


Older Adult Ministry


A Day at Akita

Tuesday, October 18

North Campus Parking Lot

9 am - 5 pm


Our Older Adult Ministry Team set a date for October 18 for another day trip to Akita. We will meet at North Campus at 9 am, set to leave no later then 9:30 to head down to Akita. We will enjoy lunch, a guided nature tour with Greg Wittmann, and some time to explore all that Akita has to offer. Please join us! You can register HERE or by contacting Robin Hood at (614) 488-0681 ext. 235


A January Gathering

Save the Date!


We will be planning another fun gathering in the beginning of December for our older adults to enjoy each other over some dinner and fellowship. More information for this event will be coming soon!


If you would like to get involved to help plan either of these fun events please contact Robin at rhood@FCchurch.com or (614) 488-0681 ext. 235

Navigating the Ten Thousand Things

By Rev. David Hett, Minister of Spiritual Life & Learning

Lao Tzu, in the Tao Te Ching, uses the phrase “the ten thousand things.” I often equate this to the ten thousand things of everyday life—the chores and demands and requirements, and also the infinite possibilities for distraction, the numberless varieties of things that can attract our attention, even just the 10,000 thoughts that spring up, seemingly almost hourly, and especially during my meditation time!

 

So, one practice of presence is to experience the possibility of giving attention to one thing only while “holding” the recognition of the 10,000 (or infinite) appearances of the Divine in all her manifestations.

 

Poet and spiritual teacher Mark Nepo writes about the “ten thousand hands” of the heart, “that want to lift and hold everything, to leave no dream untried,” but he points out that “the life that carries the heart has only two hands.”

 

This is, he says in his regular column in a recent issue of Spirituality & Health Magazine, is a common, inner tension. “For, as human beings, our being is infinite and unlimited, but our humanness is very finite and limited:”

 

And so, intoxicated with life, we reach for more than we can carry, and meaning well, we promise more than we can ever hope to care for. In this way, we try to live as many lives as possible rather than inhabit the one life we are given.

 

A friend and I, talking about the limitations brought about by aging, brought to my mind the phrase Stephen Jenkinson uses to describe how we “Come of Age,” a phrase that has become practically a mantra for me. He calls it deepening through diminishment. Thus, it’s not so much about losing capacity, as it is about going deeper into our hearts, our souls, even deeper in the interests we attend to, into a limited number of the ten thousand things.

 

Feeling this common, inner tension, Nepo writes, we are seduced by the want to do everything and to go everywhere—though we can’t. It was when forced to lie still after a spinal tap during my cancer journey that I discovered that everything and everywhere is holy. It was humbling to realize that I can find God anywhere, if I dare to stop running and be completely where I am. [Boldface mine.]

 

In The Gospel of Luke’s story about Jesus visiting with Mary and Martha (who might actually be the same person, and for a psychological-spiritual reading of this story, it’s definitely wise to see ourselves on both ends of the spectrum), with Martha busy doing the ten thousand things—all her tasks—and Mary sitting at the feet of the teacher, Jesus tells the ten thousand things part of ourselves, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things; there is only one thing needful, and Mary has chosen the better part.”

 

In the practice of presence as taught by many teachers, the one needful thing is paying attention to what’s most important in that moment—and that is, whatever you are doing in that moment, whatever or whoever is right in front of you.

 

When reaching for everything, we inevitably fall short of loving anything completely, says Mark Nepo. But through loving one thing or person thoroughly, [paradoxically] we can extend our love to everything and everyone we meet.

 

This, he says, is one form of “heartwork,” of being a spirit in the world. Thus, he writes:

 

Let’s help each other resist the urge to seek what will complete us in a dreamy want of everything. Instead, let’s try to love everything, as it grows in us and through us, one touch at a time. This is the sacred work that ennobles us to come alive and, in turn, to enliven the world. [Boldface mine.]

 

I am holding a Zoom event showing a recent lecture by Mark Nepo on this theme of “Heartwork: Being a Spirit in the World” Tuesday, September 20, at 7 pm with a short discussion time following. If you’re interested you can register HERE

 

Also, if I can get a minimum of 15 participants I will be facilitating a series on the practice of presence, based on a book called “The Unfolding Now,” by the founder of the Diamond Approach, A.H. Almaas. I am an ordained teacher of this Work, and we will learn and engage in the primary practice of this psychological-spiritual school, the practice of inquiry. Here’s where you can find out more, and potentially register for this group experience.

Harriet's Bench

By Pam Jameson, Director of Facilities Ministry

Members of Guild RSZ provided a bench at our North Campus location by the patio entrance to honor and celebrate our beloved member, Harriet W Brown, who passed away in May 2019. Harriet received her Block of Wood in 1957. She was a member and Chair of Guild Group RSZ and served as the President of the Guild. She was involved in many areas of the church, including the Older Adult Council and Friendship Circle #18.


Recently, rose bushes and ground cover were planted around the bench. We hope you take the opportunity to sit, relax, and reflect on the blessings and beauty surrounding us.  

Before

Work in progress

Finished work of art

Quest Singles
By Nancy Dunn, Leader

If you are a single who enjoys meeting new people, join us for a dinner and/or book discussion. Most of us are in our sixties and up, but we welcome all ages. If you would like to be on our e-mail list, contact Nancy Dunn at ndunn1975@gmail.com or call (614) 771-4869 for more detail about current plans. If you have an idea for a fun activity, let us know!

Note: Our dinner times have changed from 5:30 pm to 6 pm throughout the summer. Book Discussion times remain the same.


Upcoming Dates and Activities


Thursday, September 15

101 Beer Kitchen

7509 Sawmill Road, Dublin

 

Sunday, September 18

5:30 pm

MCL Cafeteria

Book Discussion

The Cuckoo’s Calling

By Robert Galbraith


Thursday, October 6

6 pm

Anna’s Greek Cuisine

7370 Sawmill Road

 

Sunday, October 16

5:30 pm

MCL Cafeteria

Book Discussion

No title chosen yet

 

Thursday, October 20

6 pm

Hunan Lion

2038 Crown Plaza, Dublin

(Bethel and McKitrick Blvd)


Let Nancy know if you plan to attend.

Congregational Care

You may receive a call or note from one of our Congregational Care Ministers (CCMs) as we continue to check in on our congregation. These care ministers are helping us call, visit, and write notes to members and visitors of all ages. We will be welcoming a new class of Congregational Care Ministers in the month of October. 


If you have a care or pastoral need, please let us know by contacting Robin at (614) 488-0681 ext. 235 or rhood@FCchurch so we can call and check in on you.

Daily Prayers and Activities

You will find activities and readings below.





Lord God,


We thank you that it is your will to strengthen us through your presence, through Jesus Christ, the leader of your cause, who is and remains victor among all on earth. Our souls need strength and our hearts need confidence so that in our time we can draw near to you and to your kingdom. Bless us with the Holy Spirit whenever we begin to grow weary. Your Holy Spirit can give us the strength to believe and hope, the strength to see the salvation that is coming to give joy to all the world. Amen.


*© 2022 Plough Publishing House.

 

What's Happening at FC






Older Adult Opportunities and Contact Information:

 

  • Older Adult Ministry Team – meets monthly from September through June (except December). Discusses and plans programs, volunteering, events and gatherings for the Older Adult community. Contact Robin Hood at rhood@FCchurch.com or (614) 488-0681 ext 235


  • ElderWisdom Book Group – meets monthly from September through May. Discusses various books (determined by group). Do not have to read book to join. Contact Lorelei Lotozo at LoreleiLanier@gmail.com or Robin Hood at rhood@FCchurch.com or (614) 488-0681 ext 235


  • Guild Groups – various women’s small groups that meet monthly. Activities vary including fundraisers, volunteer work, and social gatherings. For more information or to get involved contact Nancy Withers at nancyfly70@gmail.com


  • The Gathering – a time for fellowship, a light meal and short worship service.  Meets weekly on Wednesdays from September through May. 


  • Bible Study – meets weekly from September through May and a few times during the summer months. Contact Rev Mary Kate Buchanan at mkbuchanan@FCchurch.com or Robin Hood at rhood@FCchurch.com or (614) 488-0681 ext. 235


  • Heart to Heart – First Community Church food pantry at South Campus that has various volunteer needs through out the week. Serves clients on Tuesdays and Thursdays and restocks shelves and fills bags throughout the week. Contact Yohan Kim at ykim@FCchurch.com or Amy Caskie at acaskie@FCchurch.com




  • The Spiritual Life & Learning Center – a community helping people navigate their unique journey; welcome people from all religious and spiritual traditions and from no tradition – anyone at any juncture of life. Various small group opportunities meet on a weekly basis. For more information contact David Hett at hettds@FCchurch.com



  • Women Living the Questions – women of any age interested in exploring spirituality and deepening their spiritual lives meet weekly on Wednesdays over Zoom to discuss various, usually contemporary, spiritual teachers. Please contact Linda Baldeck at lbaldeck927@gmail.com or (614) 459-0722

Recipe of the Month

The recipe for September is from Ted and Bobbie Celeste. Ted created this pork chop dish to create some flair for his daughters. They now rave about the taste and always ask to have it prepared when they return home.


Pork Chops

(The Way the Kids Love Them)


Ingredients:

  • 4 large pork chops (loin, preferably)
  • 1 Tbs butter
  • 1/2 onion, chopped
  • 1/2 green pepper, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, crushed
  • 1 cup chopped mushrooms
  • 2 cups Paul Newman's spaghetti sauce


Directions:

Broil the chops long enough to cook them through. While the chops are broiling, heat the butter in a large skillet. Simmer the garlic, mushrooms, green pepper and onion over medium heat. Once the chops have been cooked through, place them in the skillet; spoon the mixture over the chops. Add the spaghetti sauce to the top of the chops; let them simmer for a minute or two. Turn them over, spooning the mixture on top of the chops.

Yield: 4 servings

ElderWisdom

Book Group

Thursday, September 29, 1 pm

Library, South Campus


ElderWisdom is a book group that meets in the Library at South (1320 Cambridge Blvd). The group will meet on September 29 at 1 pm. You do not need to have read the book to attend – just come and join us for an open discussion. Please contact Lorelei Lanier Lotozo at (614) 209-7125 or Robin Hood with questions or to add your name to our email list.

September book: Holy Rascals by Rabbi Rami Redux
October book: Orphan Master's Son by Adam Johnson

Fall Kickoff - Worship Schedule

Wednesday Evenings - New Opportunities













One Final Thought

Richard Rohr's Daily Meditation

From the Center for Action and Contemplation

Week Thirty-Five: The Parables of Jesus 

A Sheep Lost and Found       

               

In this 1951 sermon, theologian and mystic Howard Thurman (1900–1981) reflects on Jesus’ parable of the lost sheep, starting with the sheep’s perspective. Click here to read the Gospel passage (Luke 15:4–7).


A sheep was enjoying his grass . . . and then when he started feeling chilly, he didn’t recall, but the only thing that he remembers is that suddenly he became aware that he was cold, and there was a throwback in his mind, and he realized that he had been cold for some time. But, the grass was good. Then he looked around, and he discovered that he was alone. That everybody had gone. That is, that all the sheep had gone. And he began crying aloud.


And then the shepherd, who had many sheep, missed him when he got back to the fold, and he left his ninety and nine . . . to try to find this sheep that was lost. And Jesus says, “God is like that.” Nothing heavy and theological about that. Very little that is dogmatic, technically, about it. Just that here is a shepherd who loves his sheep, and one of the sheep in doing the most natural thing in the world—and that is to eat the grass—did it with such enthusiasm and over a time interval of such duration that he didn’t know when the shepherd called, and he was lost.


And why was he lost? He was lost because he was out of touch . . . with the group that sustained him, the group that fed him, that gave him a sense that he counted. That’s all. And as soon as he was out there alone, he said, “I’m just here by myself. Nothing but me in all of this? And I want to feel that I count with the others.” There’s a certain warmth in that. There’s a certain something that is creative and redemptive about the sense of community, about the fellowship.


Thurman speaks of the pain of being separated from our communities:

Insulation is something that is spiritual; . . . there’s something inside of me that pulls up . . . the drawbridge. . . . Sometimes I do it because I’m afraid; sometimes I do it because I’m clumsy and awkward, and I don’t quite know how to establish a relationship or relationships with my fellows that can float my spirit to them and bring their spirit to me. . . .


Now, Jesus says that God is like the shepherd, seeking always to find those who are out of community with their fellows, and when they have found it, when they have found their community with their fellows, then all the world seems to fit back into place, and life takes on a new meaning. . . .


The lost sheep. The searching shepherd. And the cry of anguish of the sheep was the voice of identification that the shepherd heard. That is how God is, if we let him.

         

Interested in Membership?
To learn more about First Community or to become a member, contact Kristy Glaser.

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Do you have thoughts or comments about the FC Older Adult Times? Please email or write Robin Hood, Congregational Care Coordinator and Editor, at 1320 Cambridge Blvd, Columbus, OH 43212.

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