A NOTE FROM PASTOR JEFF | APRIL 2024
Dear North Lake:
The Session has approved a new 2024 summer worship schedule as an experiment with two services:
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Contemporary at 9 AM in the Fellowship Hall and
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Traditional at 11 AM in the Sanctuary
This schedule will go into effect on Memorial Day weekend, Sunday, May 26, and run through Labor Day weekend.
This trial schedule was approved after several months of discussion, consultation with various groups and leaders, and a congregational survey. The response to consolidating the two traditional services has been overwhelmingly positive. Many encouraged this move while also voicing a desire for ample time in between the services for fellowship, a smoother parking transition, and other activities.
The survey yielded 429 responses, more than half of our average Sunday attendance. Almost exactly one-third of the survey responses came from each of the three services; that’s a remarkably even distribution. The data and comments indicated strong support for a change. 84% said they are willing or very willing to adjust and try a new schedule. 15% said they were still undecided, a “wait and see” posture. And only 2% answered that they were unwilling to try a new schedule. The surveys submitted also featured countless affirmations and hopeful statements regarding our worship services at North Lake.
The new summer schedule means some change for all who worship on campus. Contemporary worshippers are asked to shift a half hour earlier. The 11:15 congregation shifts fifteen minutes earlier. Obviously, if you are a regular at 8:15, and you have a preference for traditional worship, the new schedule poses a significant change in your Sunday morning. Some of our early folks love to go out to breakfast with other North Laker after worship. Perhaps you will reverse that to rendezvous for an early breakfast followed by worship at 11 AM. However you do it, we certainly hope you will migrate to another service time at North Lake.
Any alteration to the Sunday morning schedule is complicated by the number of people, groups, ministries, and factors to be considered. All the parts comprise a system, so changing one thing involves changing an entire system. Beginning Memorial Day weekend, we will experiment with this new schedule. Between now and then you will hear us communicating repeatedly to get the word out loudly and clearly. Then we will to observe how well this new pattern achieves our objectives. By midsummer we will be doing further evaluation, seeking your input again. What we learn from this summer experience can help us frame plans farther into the future.
Of course, the purpose of our worship does not change: to God be the glory!
Blessings,
Jeff
Rev. Dr. Jeffrey A. Hosmer
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JOIN US SUNDAYS FOR WORSHIP
Traditional 8:15 & 11:15am
Contemporary 9:30am
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April 7
Pastor Jeff Hosmer
"Living Stones"
1 Peter 2:4-5
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April 14
Pastor Shawn Smith
"Hard to Believe"
Luke 24:36-48
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April 21
Pastor Jeff Hosmer
"A New Creation in Christ"
2 Corinthians 5:17
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April 28
Pastor Jeff Hosmer
"The Worst Trades of All Time"
Psalm 106:20
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WELCOME EVANGELINE TAYLOR - VISITATION PASTOR |
North Lake welcomes Pastor Evangeline Taylor as our new Visitation Pastor. Evangeline was ordained Minister of Word and Sacrament in the PC(USA) in 2000 following a 23-year career as a vocal soloist with the US Navy Band and with the US Army Band. She served several churches in the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia as Senior Pastor.
Evangeline then completed nine years as Associate Pastor for Congregational Care at The National Presbyterian Church in Washington DC and five years as Director of Seniors Ministries at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Alexandria, VA.
Her husband Jeff is retired with 29 years of service in the US Navy Band and 26 years as a copyright examiner at the US Copyright Office. He also served for 26 years as Director of Music at Heritage Presbyterian Church in Alexandria, VA. After 45 years in Alexandria, VA. Evangeline and Jeff moved to the Villages 9 months ago. They have two daughters, Adrienne and Lisa, and five grandchildren.
We are excited for Pastor Evangeline to join our Pastoral Staff and we know that you will be blessed by her ministry at North Lake.
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Legacy of Hope Debt Reduction Campaign Update
Please celebrate with us as we have
now reduced our mortgage balance to $860,257
Thank you for your generosity in donating to this campaign to make
North Lake DEBT FREE for MINISTRY!
It is not too late to become part of the Legacy of Hope of North Lake!
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Join us for our First Steps Class on Wednesday, April 10
from 6:30 to 7:30 PM
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Look for your North Lake Steps Tours Guide in Holy Grounds Cafe! |
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with questions or to let us know you will be attending!
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All are welcome - come to one or come to all!
ALL CLASSES ARE AT 1:30 PM IN THE HOPE ROOM
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Basic Christian Beliefs - Monday, May 29
Learning to Pray - Thursday, May 2
Introduction to Reading the Bible - Monday, May 6
Writing and Authority of Scripture - Thursday, May 16
What’s a Presbyterian? - Monday, May 20
Five Simple Ways to Share Your Faith - Thursday, May 23
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FINANCIAL REPORT February 2024
ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT
NLPC Operations:
Financial Report – February 2024
NLPC Operations:
In February, our Giving to Operations was $148,378. In the chart below, looking at January and February combined, our Giving is 12% below 2023 and 6% below our 2024 Budget. Expenses for February are $159,507 and year-to-date are 3% less than both the 2024 Budget and Actuals of 2023. We will continue to monitor the gap between Giving and Expenses as our collective desire is to strive towards a balanced budget.
Giving and Expenses Year-to-Date:
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Facilities:
The annual facilities repair budget is $36,000 and another $24,000 goes into a reserve fund for larger capital expenses. At the beginning of the calendar year, there are several projects ready to be completed. Here is what was completed in February:
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A variable start controller was added to the one Sanctuary 50 Ton HVAC 15 Hp blower motor for more efficient and quieter operations. $9,600
- The Memorial Gardens sidewalk was repaired, repainted, and resealed. $5,275
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The carpets in the lobby were professionally cleaned. $600
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The facets in the women’s bathroom were upgraded. $400
Legacy of Hope: We are thankful to see the mortgage balance below $1M.
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As of this writing, the Legacy of Hope Campaign has been "Given or Pledged" a total amount of $370,755. As dollars come into the campaign, the principal is being reduced each month. The mortgage principal balance at the end of February is $917,106. The mortgage principal and interest payments account for $165,528 of the annual Operating
Budget.
THE BIG THREE:
Operation Homebound (OHB) revenue for February is $23,267 which is $1,452 over budget. This month the expenses are $29,812 and under budget $4,533. The Designated Account Balance is $134,927. Efforts continue to add new customers along with pursuing Grant programs to increase revenue.
Christian Food Pantry (CFP) The Christian Food Pantry had expenses of $5,873 this month and is operating under budget by $5,406. The Designated Balance is $130,400. The Christian Food Pantry is also exploring applying to Foundations for Grant money assistance.
Little Blessings (LB) reported Revenue is $52,411 this month with Expenses of $50,257. With Revenue over budget $5,161 and Expenses under budget $2,172. Little Blessings has a designated fund balance of $262,016. Little Blessings has a Scholarship account with a balance of $26,320. Interviews for a replacement Director continue and are in progress.
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APRIL SECOND MILE OFFERING |
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North Lake’s Second Mile Offering for April
Operation Homebound
A North Lake "Big 3" Ministry
Operation Homebound is a daily meal delivery program available to those who can no longer prepare meals for themselves due to persisting medical conditions. The program operates Monday through Friday including holidays. The OHB office phone number is 352-689-1040.
We are excited about the future! We are revising menus, based on feedback from our clients. We are exploring ways to raise funds to sustain the program.
Our volunteers are amazing and a pleasure to work with!
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FAB Dinner - Tuesday, May 7, 2024
MENU: Mojo Chicken, Corn Casserole, Moros Rice, Garlic Roll, Apple Crisp & Ice Cream
Sign up for dinner HERE or
Sunday mornings, April 27 and May 5 in the church lobby.
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LITTLE BLESSINGS PRESCHOOL
Along with this news comes some artwork created by some of our four-year-old artists after they studied stories from the Bible. The teacher asked them, “What did God create?” Each child had a different response but I thought these pictures were wonderful. Isn’t it amazing that at any age, people can state some things that God created? In a world where evil seems to dominate, some people know God and can share and be thankful for the wonderful things that He created. As followers of Jesus, we need to share the message because many people have not had the opportunity to hear about God and His wonders. We are teaching our students to stand up and speak out about God and share the Good News!
Other things going on this month…
The school year will quickly be ending. We will be getting ready to complete the final assessment on our VPK students. I know, before even seeing the results that they are going to do very well. The children have learned and grown physically, cognitively, and spiritually while here at Little Blessings this year. I am proud of the teachers and their hard work with all the children this year. We have had many struggles in the past year, but God has always provided and given us the strength to keep going. I know people here in our church family have been praying for us, the students, and their families and those prayers have been answered. Thank you all.
Save the date! VPK Graduation | May 14th at 7:00pm
in the Fellowship Hall
Everyone is welcome to see our shining “stars” as they graduate and get ready to head to Kindergarten.
Linda Brown
Director of Little Blessings
or (352) 753-8484
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KITCHEN AND DRIVER VOLUNTEERS NEEDED |
Operation Homebound is in need of Kitchen and Driver Volunteers. Join our incredible team of Volunteers that have made our Ministry what it is today. With over 1 MILLION meals served and counting, the need for our program, to those who are in circumstances beyond their control, is ever growing. We are excited for the future. We are in the process of revamping the menus, looking at events to raise money and awareness to our Ministry. Just a few hours a week can help us keep moving forward.
You can contact me at 352-689-1075 for more information. God Bless!
Chip Rice
Director Operation Homebound
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CHILDREN
VBS 2024 | JUNE 17-21
9 am - 1 pm
Thank you for thinking about serving during VBS. Below I have provided you with some brief descriptions of the “job” requirements for each position.
If you are interested, please let me know ASAP as we need to get your clearances done before you can serve with children.
or by phone or text at 352.399.0252
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Watch for information about Summer Camp 2024! |
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In His name, Heather S Hough - Children’s Ministry Director
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Minerals & Supplements
Do We Need Them?
with Dr. Randy Braddom
MONDAY, APRIL 8 AT 2:00 PM
in the Hope Room
Sign-up sheet at the Discipleship Desk
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SUMMER WOMEN'S BIBLE STUDY
Lord, Teach Us to Pray
This summer's Women's Bible Study focuses on spirituality and the Lord's Prayer.
Led by Judy Truscott, this Kerygma class will be held in the Faith Room from 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. on Thursdays, June 13 through July 25.
For more information and to register, please call Judy at 352-259-3371.
DEADLINE to enroll is Monday, May 13.
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Tickets are available online HERE
There are two performances of this sequel called The Cat's Meow Murder Mystery - Big Frank Ties the Knot. Don't miss out sign up for a night fun of with 20's attire and murder to solve.
Get your tickets now to this PW event to benefit the Missions of the Presbyterian Women
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OPERATION HOMEBOUND BENEFIT CONCERT
May 21, 2024
6:00 PM
Fellowship Hall
North Lake Presbyterian Church
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Join us for an evening with Donna Moore Living Legends Show to benefit our beloved Operation Homebound (OHB) Big 3 Ministry
Tickets are $40 and available HERE
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The upcoming summer months are a perfect time to BOGO shop in air-conditioned comfort and help the Christian Food Pantry provide for our clients.
Our donations may be dropped off on Sunday mornings or anytime during church office hours, Monday through Thursday | 8:30 AM - 4 PM.
We are always in need of paper products as well.
Contact Carrol Neal at christianfoodpantry@gmail.com or (352) 259-0788
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WAYS TO VOLUNTEER AND MAKE A DIFFERENCE!
Spring is here and we see God's beautiful natural wonders all around us in Florida. Holy Week was inspirational as always as we now turn to new and current volunteer opportunities.
Presbyterian Women's major fundraiser: "The Cat's Meow Murder Mystery - Part 2 and with two performances this year on April 11th and 12th. That means twice as many volunteers are needed. Contact me to find out more.
VBS 2024 - Heather Hough, our endearing Children and Youth Director, is busily planning VBS (Vacation Bible School) for the week of June 17th -- 21st.
All you former teachers and "children lovers" must check your calendars and sign up to make this summer event outstanding. Volunteer now by emailing Heather.hough@northlakepc.org.
Operation Homebound (OHB) needs Kitchen and Driver Volunteers. Join our incredible team of Volunteers who have made this Ministry what it is today. Just a few hours a week can help us keep moving forward, contact Chip Rice, Director OHB at 352-689-1075 for more information.
Remember if you want to find a spot to serve and just don't know where you might fit, contact me. I'm sure I can find the perfect spot that will use your talent and desire to help in Life@NorthLake.
Love and blessings, Judy
North Lake Volunteer Coordinator
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IN MEMORY OF
Jim Mitchell 3/1/2024
Phyllis Sample 3/23/2024
Bob Alexander 3/28/2024
Bob Cook 3/30/2024
I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven. MATTHEW 16:19
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WEDNESDAYS AT 10 AM
Now through May 1
North Lake’s GriefShare support group meets at 10 am in the Grace Room.
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GriefShare is a grief recovery support group where you can find help and healing for the hurt of losing a loved one. Find comfort, direction, and peace of mind at a GriefShare recovery support group. |
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for any of these upcoming offerings
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NEW! WOMEN'S CANCER SUPPORT GROUP AT NORTH LAKE
Join other women on the 1st Thursday each month in the Faith Room for a Women’s Cancer Support Group. The group is led by Anne Dismuke.
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PW ANNUAL GATHERING - MAY 23, 2024
Bible Study and Mission Work coupled with outstanding fellowship are the hallmarks of Presbyterian Women and their monthly circle meetings. Even if you are not currently active in a circle, come and see the enthusiasm displayed by this hard working group. Small group spirit and sisterly love abound each month -- come to the Gathering and then plan to be a circle member next fall.
CIRCLE MEETINGS - Pick up our brochure at the Discipleship Desk or click above.
You may also contact Mary Bontempo, Moderator directly at Email Mary
Presbyterian Women have 7 circles that meet once a month from Sept. through May. ALL WOMEN who attend NLPC are invited and encouraged to participate. The Circles will be meeting the second week of the month. Please contact the circle leader, if interested in attending one of these circles.
PLEASE NOTE: for more detailed information about Presbyterian Women’s Circles, leaders, and times please pick up our PW pamphlet at the Information Desk. OR direct your questions to the Moderator, Mary Bontempo.
SAVE THE DATE:
Return of the CAT’S MEOW RETURN, BIG FRANK TIES THE KNOT:
Thursday, April 11 doors open at 6:00 p.m. and the play starts at 6:30, and Friday, April 12 the doors open at 12:30 p.m. and the play begins at 1:00 p.m.
Please note: this event is a “Fund Raiser” for our Presbyterian Women’s mission projects.
ANNUAL MAY GATHERING – May 23 in Fellowship Hall.
CT and MISSION MEETINGS
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BIRTHDAYS IN APRIL
We celebrate the following birthdays within the North Lake family of faith!
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MILITARY PERSONS OF THE MONTH
Please pray for all members of our Armed Services, remembering those listed here and their families.
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Petty Officer 2nd Class Alan Koubek
U.S. Navy
Grandson of Bev Koubek and
Nephew of Cindy Koubek
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Major Doug Sackett
U.S. Army
Son of Richard and Joyce Sackett
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Seaman Christopher Pavlik
U.S. Coast Guard
Grandson of Robert and Carol Sabourin
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Sgt. Ron Reel
U.S. Army Reserves
Grandson of Tem Hiesberger
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Want to set up an online giving account? It's fast and easy. Contact Ruth in the Finance Office at 352-753-8484 or by Email
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