MEETINGHOUSE MONTHLY

Volume 14/Number 12/December 2013

Celebrate Advent and Christmas 2013 Christmas Eve

Calendar of Advent and Christmas Eve See inside front cover for a complete listing.

Carol Sing and Dinner Messiah Christmas Carol Sing and Dinner Sun, Dec. 8, 6 pm - See page 11.

Messiah - Dec. 14 & 15, 4 pm See page 5 for details.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

Photo Gallery/Christmas Calendar….....2 Speaking Pastorally……….……………3 New Church Members……………….. 4 Musical Notes/”Baby Huggers Needed.. 5 Outreach for Christmas………….…… 6 From the Parish Nurse………….…..... 7

Q & A about FCCOG…………......……8 Book Corner/Christmas Tree Sale...……. 9 Church School………………….….......10 Soup Kitchen/Youth/Carol Sing Dinner.11 Rev. Brenda Stiers/Thank You…..……..12 Rummage Room/Need Photographers...13

Women’s Fellowship/Moms Group...14 Flower Donations/Dec Assignments..15 Stewardship………………..…….... 16 Opportunities for Christmas Gifts.... 17 Dec B-Days/Life Events…..….…….18 Rummage Room Year in Review…...19

Visit our Photo Gallery to view event photos: www.fccog.org/photo-gallery/

Harvest Sunday - November 24

Wonderful Wednesday - November 13

Advent and Christmas Eve Calendar December 1:

First Sunday of Advent; 10 am worship; 2 pm Advent Craft Workshop

December 8:

Second Sunday of Advent; 10 am worship; Deadline for Giving Tree gifts; 6 pm Christmas Carol Sing and Dinner

December 9:

7 pm Messiah Rehearsal

December 11:

7:30 pm Messiah Dress Rehearsal with Orchestra

December 14:

4:00 pm Messiah Performance in the Meetinghouse

December 15:

Third Sunday of Advent; 10 am worship; 4 pm Messiah Performance

December 22:

Fourth Sunday of Advent; 10 am worship; Live Nativity at outdoor Creche (weather permitting)

December 23:

10 am Rehearsal for 4 pm Nativity Pageant

December 24:

10 am Lessons and Carols for our youngest families; Cherub Choir sings; White Gift Offerings*; Nativity Pageant 4 pm Family Service: “Once in Royal David’s City” Nativity Pageant; Children’s Choir Sings; White Gift Offerings* 5 pm Community Carol Sing around the Tree on the Lawn 8 pm Communion & Carols Service 11 pm Candlelight Lessons and Carols Service

December 25:

Merry Christmas and Peace to All!

January 1, 2014:

Happy New Year!

January 5, 2014:

Epiphany Sunday; 10 am worship; Regular Church School

* See page 17 for details about White Gifts.

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By: Rev. Mark Montgomery

Speaking Pastorally

In 1996, I moved to Houston, TX to work as an intern at Memorial Drive Presbyterian Church. While there, I lived in the garage apartment of the house of Dick and Carol Harris. They had two daughters still at home, Rachel and Janna, both young teenagers at the time. I became part of their family and through years of graduations, birthdays, weddings and other life events, we have been present for one another. There was no question when I received the message that Rachel’s 4-month- old son, Grant, had passed away on November 5 that I would travel to Charlotte, NC (where Rachel and her husband, Steve, now live) to be with my family. While traveling there, I was in varying stages of unrest. At points, I cried with grief. At other points, I found myself gripping the steering wheel as I experienced deep anger. I had never met Grant and I was sad that I never would. I ached for the pain that Rachel and Steve and their own parents were experiencing. The flood of emotion was deep and I kept thinking to myself, if I am feeling this lost, that which Rachel and Steve were feeling had to be unbearable. Arriving, things were as expected. We cried and questioned and wondered and grieved, but it was faith that took me by surprise. I know both Rachel and Steve to be faithful people, but they lived a faith during this that stirred deep within my soul. They graciously welcomed people at the funeral home. They cried openly and allowed grief to happen. They smiled while telling stories of their son. All these actions were grounded in a strong faith. They spoke of this at Grant’s Memorial Service. Some of the phrases that I recall from the letter they wrote to their son and read at his service were: We are grateful that God sent you a week early so that we could have more time with you. Because you were born by a caesarean section, we will always have the scar on your mom’s belly to remind us of you. We wish that you were here with us, but if that cannot be, we are glad that you are with Jesus. The letter was beautiful. I was inspired. Rachel and Steve had placed themselves snugly in the palm of God’s hand. Their grief was confronted by faithful love. Somehow, being around them, I myself knew without a doubt that God was holding us all. We were all there together, with Grant, in God’s great care. Approaching Christmas, we will hear the story of another faithful mother who lost her son much too early. Having watched Rachel and Steve, I now have a different image of Mary and Joseph, the birth of Jesus, and his too-early death. Strange, right, that one experience could give way to a shift in my image of the Christ story? That is just how powerful the faith story witnessed in NC was, and continues to be. I’ve often pictured Joseph riddled with fear during Mary’s pregnancy, but now I see a strong father who, though fearful, knew that God was with his wife and him. He found purpose in this reality. Before, I pictured Mary debilitated by a deep grief when her son was taken from her, but now I see a mother who knew that, though her heart was broken, God’s grace would sustain her and through her and her son bring light to the world. This is Advent for us. During this season of shadow, we recognize that God’s light will always appear. We recognize that our lives are imperfect, sometimes heartbreaking, sometimes overwhelming. We even find ourselves in the midst of death. We see Jesus born in a stable, and it could be hopeless but instead it is beautiful. We see Jesus die too young and we could be fearful, but instead we are greeted with life everlasting. I’ve seen two parents lose their son and yet they still find the strength to stand at his memorial service while those around them sing Amazing Grace. Heartbroken, there they were in the palm of God’s hand. From this place, they became light in the midst of shadow. Sometimes, in the Advents of our lives, that’s all we can do. Just stand, or sit, or lie down and know that when we do so we rest snugly in the palm of God’s hand. By doing so, we bravely witness that God can use any story, even a tragic one, to bring hope and healing. By living this faith, we become light in the shadow, we are made new, we become the people who proclaim, “God showed up, and we will never be the same!” May your Advent be filled with renewal, giving way to a Merry Christmas and the deep peace and faith that Christ is, indeed, among us.

Mark

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Welcome to Our New Church Members

Kristen Bodenstein

Jennifer Muller Caitlin Hayes and Jalil Nebbari with their children, Jasmin, Mikayla, Annalise and Ryan

Heather Schimenti

Laura Nugent

Dawn and Charles Ginste with their children, Charlie, Hanna and Elsa

Kelly and Frank Reeves with their son, Rexford

Nishani Naidoo and Devan

Tennillle and Daryl Smith with their sons, Brian and Charlie

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“Musical Notes” First Music and Arts Continues with the 47th Annual Messiah Concerts The holidays are brimming with great live performances and our annual Messiah concert is just one of those exciting events. Our Festival Chorus and Chamber Orchestra will fill our Meetinghouse with the sounds of this beloved masterpiece. Our soloists this year will be our own Hanna Golodinskii, soprano; Sarah Bleasdale, mezzo-soprano; Blake Friedman, tenor, and Samuel Hepler, bass.

Our performances this year will be on Saturday, December 14, and Sunday, December 15, both at 4:00 pm. Admission is free-will offering, with a suggested donation of $20. Share the details of our wonderful concerts with your friends, co-workers, and family and invite them to come with you. If you enjoy singing but can’t make a regular commitment to Chancel Choir or another choir, you are invited to join the chorus for our 47th annual Messiah concert. This year there is only one choir rehearsal on Monday, December 9 from 7:30 – 10:00 pm in the sanctuary. There is also a dress rehearsal with orchestra on Wednesday, December 11 from 7:30 – 9:30 pm. There is a refundable score deposit of $20. There are no auditions; everyone is welcome, and you’re certainly encouraged to invite your singing friends and neighbors. The singers always have a great time; just ask one! Contact Dr. Craig Scott Symons, [email protected], for more information.

More “Baby Huggers” Needed Each Sunday morning the Undercroft is bustling with many new families bringing their children to Church School and Child Care. Consequently we have a new need for “Baby Huggers” in our Nursery. Children in the Nursery range in age from a few months to walking age. You do not have to sign up for every week but we do need at least two people every Sunday. If there are fewer babies than we expect, you just check in and take a beeper to church so we can beep you if you are needed. If you are able to help with this special ministry, please email [email protected].

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Outreach for Christmas The Christmas Tree Sales serve as one of our major Outreach activities we do as a First Church family. This year we will be intentional about who shall be receiving donations from our Tree Sale which historically has generated close to $20,000 in net proceeds each year. The organizations include:     

Neighbor to Neighbor Shelter for the Homeless Inspirica Den for Grieving Kids The Silver Lake Conference Center

Here is some information about these agencies and why they are receiving our support: Neighbor to Neighbor (NTN): The mission of NTN is to improve lives by providing for the exchange of food, clothing and basic living essentials in an atmosphere of kindness and respect. NTN is the only food pantry in Greenwich and staff know first hand that families are making choices between food, heat, rent, medical care, and school supplies. NTN seeks to alleviate the negative consequences of food insecurity by providing clients a balanced choice of foods from a menu designed by a nutritionist. In addition to donated food, NTN uses donated funds to purchase fresh produce, lean meat, low-fat milk and 100% whole wheat bread. Shelter for the Homeless helps men who are homeless or at risk of being homeless because of various circumstances: mental health or substance abuse issues, loss of job, eviction or detachment from friends or family, and transition out of the justice system. Compassionate donors like First Church make it possible for the shelter to help these men with referrals for healthcare, a safe and warm place to stay, and a hot and nutritious meal. When basic needs are provided - such as food and shelter - their clients can focus their energies on improving their situation. Our donations also allow the shelter to offer programs and services that get men on their feet and moving forward toward a self-sufficient life. Inspirica: Inspirica’s mission is to break the cycle of homelessness by helping people achieve – and maintain - permanent housing and stability in their lives. As one of the largest providers of services to the homeless in the state of Connecticut and the largest in lower Fairfield County, Inspirica provides emergency shelter, transitional housing, permanent supportive housing, and affordable housing to approximately 240-260 people each night. Additionally, it provides education and employment services, youth services and access to a vast array of other services such as medical and dental care, in-patient substance abuse treatment, psychiatric care, etc. through a network of formal, strategic partnerships. The Den for Grieving Kids (the Den): The Den offers evening peer support groups for bereaved children and families, school-based bereavement groups and trauma response services for elementary, middle and high school students. Serving Faifield County since 1993, it offers an array of programs to allow children ages 3-18 to learn ways of coping with grief and the changes it brings. The Den is open to any child or family that has Continued on page 9... 6

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From the Parish Nurse … by Sue Asselin, RN Medicare Part D It’s that time of the year again. We’re finishing up turkey leftovers and contemplating our gratitude, coming into Advent and preparing to celebrate Jesus’ birth. In the midst of this, for those of you with Medicare, is the last chance for open enrollment for Medicare Part D (prescription drug insurance). Changes must be made by December 7, and can be done online at www.medicare.gov. Even if you are happy with your current plan, it is wise to review your options each year. Plans can, and do, change, as do your current medications, and all this affects your out-of-pocket expense. Overwhelmed with options? Need help sorting through the choices? Fear not! Help is available. No-cost counseling is offered through the Town of Greenwich and here at FCCOG. Personal counseling sessions include internet navigation and comparison of plans. For an appointment with a Town of Greenwich counselor, call the Commission on Aging office at 203-862-6710. For an appointment with your Parish Nurse, call Sue Asselin at 203-637-1791, extension 21. Celebrating Home Hospice Many of you know that I moonlight as a home hospice nurse. The Greenwich Hospital Home Hospice Program is near and dear to my heart. We assist people who wish to live out the end of their journey at home. Each year in December, we pause to celebrate this mission, remember loved ones lost, and support those left behind, at the Annual Tree of Light Ceremony. This year it will be held on Monday, December 9 at 5:00 pm in the Noble Conference Center at Greenwich Hospital. The interdenominational event features readings, music, and reflection and ends with an outdoor tree lighting and hot cocoa reception. All are welcome. More information can be found on the literature racks outside the Auditorium. Memory Friendly Congregation The Stephen Ministers have been participating in awareness training aimed at making everyone more supportive and sensitive to individuals experiencing memory loss. Maureen and Bill Mathews from the Stamford Counseling Center at the First Congregational Church of Stamford have provided great insight into how to help everyone fully participate in the life and work of the church. We look forward to continuing the conversations. Anyone who would like to join in future meetings or get more information on what it means to be a Memory Friendly Congregation can speak to Reverend Avery Manchester; Linnea Stenberg, Stephen Minister Leader; or Sue Asselin, Parish Nurse. Listen Online Our Recent Second Hour - Preventing Falls at Home - was a helpful presentation by Physical Therapists, Sue Cavanaugh and Marisha Tamakuwala. The energetic pair offered sound advice from practical footwear to uncluttering our pathways. One tip for doing laundry in the basement: Safer to use a canvas bag and throw your laundry down ahead of you, than carry a basket with 2 hands and not be able to see the steps below you. Much more can be heard in the recording found on our website: FCCOG.org on the homepage under “News You Can Use.” Then look for “November 17 Second Hour.” Recordings of other earlier Wellness Seminars can be found by clicking the “Pastoral Care” tab at the top of the homepage, and then click “Parish Nurse.” T h e M e e t i n gh o u s e M o n th l y

Preventing Falls at Home

Practicing balance

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Q & A about FCCOG with Senior Deacon Chris Cantwell and Trustees Chair Chris Hartwell Q: Why do we use different versions of the Bible for our readings and different hymnals for our hymns? A: There are several reasons why the use of different sources has evolved over time. There was a movement several decades ago to make readings and hymns more in keeping with the changing social consciousness of the general population. Readings and hymns that presented issues in a way that was more conscious of the evolving societal views of gender equality and other aspects that differed from those of the centuries before meant that religious groups wanted to present ideas in new ways. Also, as theological learning evolved and better translations of original texts became available, it made sense to recast readings and associated learning in a more accurate light. First Church uses both because there are times when the older versions are more relevant for the message the clergy is trying to present and times when the more modern version is most appropriate. The hymnal issue, however, is still alive. Recently, several very good hymnals have been published (brought to our attention by Craig Symons), and we are exploring these as an alternative to the New Century Hymnal. Q: How much of the Church Budget consists of “operational expenses” relating to the maintenance of Church properties? What do these expenses represent? Can efforts be made to reduce these expenses? A: Operational expenses relating to Church properties, excluding compensation and benefits paid to Church employees, account for about 16% of total expenses. The main categories of these expenses include grounds maintenance, building maintenance, insurance, gas, electric, water, waste disposal, security systems, property taxes, broker commissions on rented properties, commercial cleaning for the preschool, repairs and capital improvements. The directly related compensation and benefits paid to church employees account for an additional 5% of total expenses. (In comparison, compensation and benefits paid to all other Church employees constitute about 72% of total Church expenses.) While some categories (such as utilities) may leave little room for savings, the Board of Trustees has initiated an effort to identify potentially lower cost sources for many of the goods and services necessary for the maintenance of Church properties. Q: Is the Asset Management Committee considering a change in the spending policy for the Endowment Fund? How would the proposed change affect the growth of the Endowment and the amounts contributed to the Church’s operating budget each year? A: The Asset Management Committee (“AMC”) is charged with establishing investment policies that will maintain a balanced allocation of assets to provide for both growth of principal and current income. Its policies are reviewed at least annually to assure that these purposes are being optimized. For many years, the AMC’s spending policy has provided for the contribution to the Church’s operating budget of all dividends and interest earned (net one-half of management fees paid). However, this spending policy has become problematic in the current low interest rate environment, and the problem has been further compounded by the Church’s recent budgetary challenges. The goal of producing a substantial and relatively predictable stream of income for the operating budget has come into conflict with the primary goal of achieving long term, balanced returns. Ambiguities have also arisen as to whether certain investment income items constitute dividends or capital gains. Accordingly, the AMC intends to propose that the Trustees modify the spending policy to provide for a fixed withdrawal rate of 3.25% of year-end account values, based on a 3-year rolling average. This type of spending policy is now favored by most endowments. The rate of 3.25% was determined through historical analysis to yield the same aggregate spending results experienced under the old policy during the last 12 years. The proposed change is not intended to affect the percentage of total return contributed to the operating budget over time. However, it should reduce year-to-year volatility in the amounts of the distributions, and, hopefully, will optimize total return by removing any incentive to allocate assets to investments that produce current income rather than capital appreciation.

Email your questions to [email protected] or [email protected]. 8

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Avery’s Book Corner for December This month I would like to recommend a novel for inspiration and reflection: Broken for You by Stephanie Kallos: 

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National best seller and Today show Book Club selection, “Broken for You” is the story of two women in self-imposed exile whose lives are transformed when their paths intersect. Stephanie Kallos’ debut novel is a work of infinite charm, wit and heart. It is also a glorious homage to the beauty of broken things. Stephanie Kallos’ lovely and heartfelt first novel is a gift. A story of broken hearts and broken promises, it is also the story of the ways we put things back together—messily, beautifully, and, ultimately, triumphantly. In this sparkling debut novel, Stephanie Kallos has created an extraordinary testament to the power of love and forgiveness.

Continued from page 6 … Outreach The Den for Grieving Kids (the Den) (continued): experienced a loss and needs a place to go for support or needs someone to talk to that can help them deal with their grief. The Den does not receive reimbursement from any insurance or government source and never charges a fee for services. Silver Lake Conference Center will help to change the lives of the young people who go there as they form an intentional Christian community for the week and learn about themselves, one another, God, Jesus, the Bible and the great outdoors! And, of course, they learn to love God, love their neighbor and love themselves! Donations to Silver Lake can help with anything from light bulbs to leaders, cookies to scholarships, crosses to sheet music, basketballs to meatballs and everything in between! Volunteer to Help at the Christmas Tree Sale! Volunteers are needed across the various shifts to help sell trees. We have organized our tree selling into multiple shifts throughout the day with each shift lasting approximately 2 1/2 hours each. We will be selling the trees between 8:00 am and 4:00 pm on Saturdays and 11:00 am to 4:00 pm on Sundays. We still are in great need of Captains who can assist in recruiting volunteers, Cashiers who monitor the cash box, and Elves of all ages and sizes to help with the selling of the trees. This is one opportunity where you meet others in your First Church family and feel great about being able to give to others in the community. The link on the Church website where you can sign up for one of the above opportunities is: http://www.fccog.org/about-us/volunteer-opportunities/christmas-tree-and-wreath-saleform/ (or go to the church website homepage at fccog.org and click on the link under News You Can Use). Please help us to help others.

And don’t forget to buy your Christmas tree and other items from us! The sale will continue each weekend in December until the trees are sold out.

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Church School Advent “Make Your Own” Craft Fair For “Children” of ALL Ages!!

CHRISTMAS Check out these 2 great opportunities to be a part of Christmas here at First Church:

1. Families or other groups of 4+ to stage a LIVE Nativity Scene at the outdoor Creche on the church lawn (live sheep included!) for 20-30 minutes each between Noon and 4:00 pm on Sunday, If you have never been to this annual event, December 22 (weather-permitting). Join it will become your tradition! in on this fun “first” at First Church! There are 10 stations, each with a different gift 2. There are several opportunities for or decoration to make. children and family participation on This is so popular that even our Middle School Christmas Eve at either the 10:00 am or it! School; Youth Choir Sings Novemberkids 3: wouldn’t Regularmiss Church 4:00 in pmChurch services. You and/or your November 10: Veterans’ Day Weekend; Service Sundaychild(ren) focus on can Inspirica read scripture or participate Sunday, December 1 in the live nativities during worship November 17: Regular Church School at 4:00 pm). 2:00Harvest – 4:00 Sunday; pm All Choirs Sing; Bring(children November 24: bag(s) ofonly non-perishable groceries for Neighbor to Neighbor and H.O.M.E. Co-op in Orland, Maine Food Pantries In the Daniels Center you and/orService your children are interested December 1: Thanksgiving Weekend; 1st SundayIfof Advent; Sunday; Advent “Makein Children bring your parents and either or both of these opportunities, please Your Own” Craft Workshop 2:00 - 4:00 pm (see inside back cover for details). make pet gifts, photo ornaments, and contact Rosemary at [email protected] some new exciting crafts! by Sunday, December 8.

December in the Church School December 1: 10 AM - Service Sunday – Advent Countdown and Christmas Greetings for our troops 2-4 PM - Advent “Make Your Own” Craft Fair December 8: Regular Church School – Old Testament Prophecies of Jesus’ Birth 6–8 PM Christmas Carol Dinner (Not just a Church School activity but an event for everyone!) December 15: Regular Church School – Mary learns she will be the mother of Jesus 3rd Graders discuss the real meaning of Christmas 11:30 AM-1 PM 4th & 5th Graders return to Pilgrim Towers. Children and some of their parents will visit to share some holiday cheer! We will sing carols and bring the congregation’s Giving Tree gifts to our friends at this special residence in Stamford. December 22: 10 AM Worship - 3’s and 4’s have Church School; Kindergarten and older participate in worship including a special sermon message from our Middle School class.

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Soup Kitchen Volunteers –

Youth Programs

Making Food to Feed Our Neighbors and Friends We need families or teams of friends (3-4) to cook chili for January (4th or 5th), February (1st or 2nd) and March (1st or 2nd). The time you donate in the kitchen preparing chili will make a difference in the lives of 100-150 neighbors dealing with food insecurity. And you'll have a few hours of fun with family and friends making a meal. To participate, contact Tom Mahoney at [email protected]. The shopping list and cooking instructions are provided. And we’d also like to thank, again, all those who volunteered their time over the past year and cooked chili for those in need at the Soup Kitchen. They are: 

Linda, Bruce, and Tommy Glover

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Wendy Yu and her Cadette Girl Scout Troup

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Teachers Cara Olmsted, David Alfano, Mark Mohn, Beth Press, Charlotte Lorthioir, Shaw Speer, and Students Emma Olmsted, Grace Alfano, Jennie Olmsted, Marielle Laffan, Lara Olmsted, Elizabeth Mohn, John Romano, Victoria Mueller Bradford, Kendall Schrohe, JQ Norrgard, George Wheelock.

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Mary Ann and Gordon Assing

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Girl Scout Troup 50650, based at Eagle Hill School, Leaders Cathy Goff and Jennifer McMorrow. Kayak Krew - Betsy Kreuter, Frann Ward, Lou Lacagnina, Micky Fossum, Nancy Fountain, Paul Pacent, Tom Mahoney.

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John Fryback and Theresa King

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Harlan and Wendy Reynolds

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Ken and Erna Olson

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Giff and Ruth Reed

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The Fong Family

SPF Highlights December 6-8: Holiday Retreat to Silver Lake Space is limited. Permission slips needed by December 4.. December 15: Christmas Caroling Luncheon December 22: Progressive Dinner JPF Highlights December 8:

FCCOG Christmas Potluck

December 13: Late Night Laser Tag! Space is limited. Permission slips needed by December 6. December 15: Caroling Luncheon December 22: Challenge - Christmas Eve Planning For more details about these and other Youth events, check out fccogyouth.com.

Christmas Carol Sing and Dinner Sunday, December 8, 6:00-8:00 pm Don’t miss this wonderful intergenerational tradition in the Auditorium on December 8 at 6 pm. Everyone is invited. The more the merrier and the more ages the better, too! Suggested donation for the meal is $5 per person with a $20 maximum per family. Please also bring a side dish along with you for the buffet table (enough to serve 8-10 people). The Parish Life Committee will provide entrees, dessert and beverages. Sign up at Coffee Hour or by contacting the Church Office. See you there!

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Reverend Dr. Brenda Stiers Memorial Service at First Church March 22, 2014 Reverend Dr. Brenda Jane Stiers, 74, of Boulder, CO, died unexpectedly Sunday afternoon in the Boulder Community Hospital after a courageous battle to overcome sepsis. Brenda dedicated her life to helping others through her strong faith, ministry in the United Church of Christ, volunteer service, and love for her family and friends. Her passions included debating political and social issues, discussing current movies and books, and traveling. She was a lifelong learner, teacher, and mentor. After graduating from DePauw University in Greencastle, IN, in 1960, she went on to earn an M.S. in History from Southern Connecticut State University in 1968, a Masters of Divinity from Yale Divinity School in 1983, and a Doctorate of Ministry from Princeton Theological Seminary in 1990. Brenda and husband, Tom, were longtime residents of Old Greenwich, CT, where Tom was senior minister of the First Congregational Church of Greenwich. After Tom’s retirement, Brenda and Tom worked in New York, NY,

Phoenix, AZ, and Seattle, WA, before settling in Boulder, CO. Brenda’s long career included working as Director of the Sage Advocate Program in New Haven, CT; Director of the Commission on Aging in Greenwich, CT; Executive Director of the Council of Churches and Synagogues of Lower Fairfield County, CT; Executive Minister of The Riverside Church, New York City, NY; Executive Director of the YWCA, Greenwich, CT; as an interim minister for several congregations; and as a lecturer in Pastoral Theology at Yale Divinity School. Brenda served in numerous leadership positions as a volunteer with the National Council of Churches and other ecumenical and social justice organizations, and she treasured her time on the Board of Advisors of Yale Divinity School. Equally dedicated to global peace and local action, Brenda spent many wonderful hours supporting homeless, hunger, and elder-care organizations in Connecticut, New York, and Colorado. Most recently, she provided

leadership on the Boulder County Commission on Aging and the Newcomers Club. Brenda (Enmeier) was born in Vincennes, IN, and married Thomas Lowell Stiers in the Gobin Memorial Methodist Church in Greencastle, IN, in 1961. She is survived by her husband Tom; her daughter Gretchen Stiers and wife Silvana Solano; her daughter Heather (Stiers) Dorn, husband Jonathan Dorn, and grandchildren Hadley and Abigail Dorn; her sister Barbara Bunting and brother-in-law David Bunting, and their children Sarah and Dave Bunting; her three Bixby cousins; and her brother-in-law Charles Edward Stiers, wife Pamela Stiers, and children Chris, Tanya, and Carrie Stiers. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a contribution in Brenda’s honor to the Brenda J. Stiers Scholarship Fund at Yale Divinity School (409 Prospect St., New Haven, CT 06511) or to The First Congregational Church of Greenwich, 108 Sound Beach Avenue, Old Greenwich, CT.

Thank You! The Board of Trustees of First Church would like to express our sincere appreciation to

Bobbie Hopkins, of Berkshire Hathaway Home Services for the generous donation of her services and broker commissions with respect to church properties.

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Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from The Rummage Room 191 Sound Beach Avenue, Old Greenwich Holiday Season Calendar of Events: When the 'The Best Little Christmas Shop in Town' opened on Monday, November 25, the volunteer Elves had transformed it into a magical winter wonderland with twinkling lights and a stunning array of options to enhance the gift-giving season. Every day 'new' merchandise is brought out to give shoppers the thrill of discovery at amazingly low prices. Come early and come often as The Rummage Room’s net proceeds, in keeping with the Christmas spirit, go to brighten the lives of less fortunate women and children. Saturday, December 7: LAST DAY FOR DONATIONS UNTIL JANUARY 2. Saturday, December 7: First Light celebration in Old Greenwich from 5:00 to 8:00 pm. Bring your family and your neighbors for Christmas carols and great shopping. Every shop will have their own delights. Santa Maria will welcome you to The Rummage Room with open arms and a tray of cookies. Monday, December 9: All Christmas merchandise will be 25% off for the week. Monday, December 16: All merchandise will be 50% off for the week. Friday, December 20: Holiday Party for Rummage Room customers from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. DOORS WILL CLOSE AT 5:00 PM AND NOT REOPEN UNTIL THURSDAY, JANUARY 2, 2014 at 10:00 am. Wednesday, December 25: MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL. Thursday, January 2: The Rummage Room reopens. All Christmas merchandise 75% off. Wish List for December: Everything Christmas! Hours of Operation: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday through Friday and 10:00 am to 1:00 pm on Saturday. Donation Hours: 9:30 am to 4:30 pm Monday through Thursday and 9:30 am to 12:30 pm on Friday and Saturday. **** PLEASE DO NOT LEAVE DONATIONS WHILE THE SHOP IS CLOSED FROM DECEMBER 21 TO JANUARY 2, AS THERE WILL BE NO ONE TO COLLECT THEM. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to our customers, donors and volunteers. May your Holiday happiness equal the appreciation we feel for your amazing support year-in-and-year-out. The Rummage Room will be celebrating its 50th year in October of 2014 … watch for and join the festivities! Maria Drieghe, Manager The Rummage Room Committee The FCCOG Women's Fellowship Board

Photographers Needed for Christmas Eve Services Do you plan to attend any of the Christmas Eve services (especially the 8:00 pm and 11:00 pm services)? Do you love taking pictures? Do you want to help us out? We are looking for volunteers to take photos for us during our Christmas Eve services (including the Christmas caroling around the tree at 5 pm). If you are willing and able, please contact Barb Wilkov at [email protected]. Merry Christmas!

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Women’s Fellowship Kettle Quilters: We need quilters to help us finish our quilt for the Women’s Fellowship spring raffle. The pattern for this year’s quilt is the classic “Log Cabin” but it may be more appropriate to call it “Greenwich after Hurricane Sandy 2012.” Why? Come and see for yourself! Mondays 9:00 am -12:00 pm Tuesdays 7:30 pm -9:00 pm Bring a friend! Use your old skills and acquire new ones! Enjoy the fellowship of like-minded women! Be inspired to try something new. See you on Mondays or Tuesdays in Room 203 (next to the kitchen)! Inge Thalheim 203-637-9614 Hilary Lawrence 203-637-1214

Save the Date! Bigelow Tea Party Thursday, January 23, 2014 3:30 pm in the Auditorium Come and enjoy an afternoon of fellowship and “tea.” Learn about the history and value of tea by the Bigelow Tea folks. Bigelow Tea and more will be served.

Nights Off Update: Night's Off will not be meeting in December since it is such a busy month. In January we will be making soup for the Souper Sunday Soup Sale (more info below). We will have a social gathering in February. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to everyone.

Tai Chi Fitness with Luis Duarte Improve your balance, health and well being. Come and experience the many wonderful benefits of Tai Chi and Qi Gong exercises. Classes are held on Wednesdays at 8:00 am and Thursdays at 9:00 am. Only $10 per class, $8 for seniors. Join us! You’ll love it! All are welcome.

W O M E N ’ S F E L LOW S H I P A N N UA L S O U P S A L E “Souper Bowl” Sunday is coming February 2, 2013 so get ready for the Fourth Annual Women’s Fellowship Soup Sale in the Auditorium from 11:00 am-1:00 pm (or ‘til the soup runs out!). $10/qt. for wonderful homemade soups, chili, and stews from our church members. We'll begin collecting soup at the church in mid-January so stay tuned!

For Moms of Very Young Children — Join us in December ! If you have a baby, toddler and/or 2 year old, join us for an opportunity to meet and relax with other moms and their young kids. The group meets the 2nd and 4th Friday of every month (only Dec. 13 this month) from 9:00–10:15 am in Room104. For more information, contact Kristen Jacks at [email protected] or call her at 203-344-1961.

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Christmas Memory/Honor Flowers and Decorations The Chancel Committee invites contributions for decorations for the Meetinghouse this Christmas. Any amount is welcome. Please deliver the completed form with your check to the Church Office (payable to the First Congregational Church Flower Fund) on or before Sunday, December 8. Thank you. In Memory/Honor of : ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ By: ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ Enclosed is my check in the amount of $_______________ Please print names legibly to minimize spelling errors.

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DECEMBER Responsibilities and Assignments Deacon Assignments: Invocation - Linnea Stenberg Hospital Notes - Paul Olmsted Memorial Service: Wendy Reynolds - Dec. 1 Bob Small - Dec. 8 Linnea Stenberg - Dec. 15 April Condon - Dec. 22 Ed Oppedisano - Dec. 29 Coffee Hour Committee Hosts: 1st 2 Sundays-Chancel Committee Last 3 Sundays–Church Committee

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December 1 Communion: Chris Cantwell - Capt Gordon Assing - Setup John Fryback - Setup Wendy Reynolds - Setup April Condon - Setup Carole Lang - Cleanup Elaine Teeters - Cleanup Betsy Kreuter - Cleanup

Ushers Needed for Christmas Eve Services If you’ve ever been an usher and want to and CAN usher for one or more Christmas Eve Services, please contact Bobby Littlefield at 203-967-3341 or [email protected].

Christmas Eve 8 pm Communion: Intinction - Deacons serving Wendy Reynolds Chris Cantwell

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Like, Connect, Celebrate As of November 24, we had received 207 pledge cards and a total of $702,984 of financial support for the programs and ministries of First Congregational Church in the coming year. We ask that those who have not yet made their intention known will return their pledge cards as soon as possible so our Budget Committee will have a strong foundation on which to build a plan for 2014. Meanwhile, the Board of Trustees gratefully acknowledges pledges from the following members and friends, as well as those who wish to remain anonymous. Chuck & Maryan Ainsworth Bob & Persis Alden David & Colleen Alfano Mary Ruth Allen Erling & Diane Andersen Ty & Cyndi Anderson Luis & Laura Angel-Lalanne Shawn & Susan Asselin Gordon & Mary-Ann Assing David & Jean Ayres Sue Baker Nofal & Elizabeth Barbar Gary & Deb Berner Janet Blasberg Steve & Betty Bonsal Phil Bradford & Dorothy Mueller Don & Ginny Breismeister Virginia Burgess Chris Cantwell J. Robert Carey Curt & Joyce Carlson Judy Chapman Joan Cleworth Sally Colegrove Tim & Allison Coleman John Collins April & David Condon Bill & Marian Cordner Libby Craig Steve & Ashley Crihfield Doris Moss Davenport Gregory & Meg Dempsey John & Joan Denne Rick & Marilyn Derr Dana & Sally Dolloff Sean & Susan Doyle Mary Durland Anders & Mariann Ekernas Laura & Dave Erickson Susan Eveland Libby Fatum Bob & Mary Ferry Charles & Joyce Field Mary Fike & Joseph Dowling

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Jane Finch Bill Fossum Michaela Fossum Nancy Fountain Dick & Kathy Fraser Randy & Lindy Freeman Natalie & Billy Frenz Frosty & Don Friedman Harold Frost John Fryback Donna Gargagliano Den & Melanie Garnett Pat Geismar John & Jan Gelb Lile Gibbons Bob & Judy Goodchild Ann Goodson Al & Judy Gordon Allen Green & Christie Coon Dale Greene Phoebe Griffith & Joe McBride George Handley Chris & Olga Hartwell Olivia Hartwell Glenn & Donna Hascher Larry & Barbara Hathaway Larry & Erlinda Haviland Robyn Helmer Bill & Claire Henry Carol Hermance Sybren & Janette Hoekstra Bobbie Hopkins Lisa Hudson Lucinda S. & Barton Hunter Helen Ingraham Gerald Isaacson Paul & Joan Johansen Marc & Julie Johnson Mi Heh Kim Barbara Kneen Paul & Diane Kretschmann Betsy Kreuter Eric & Pam Kreuter Fred & Nanette Laffan

Rosemary Lamie Franklin & Carole Lang Tad & Pat Larrabee Gail Lauridsen Mary Leinbach Mary Lennon Catherine Lepoutre Clem & Jenny Lepoutre Ginge Liddel Ruth Lindegren Bobby Littlefield Robin Loughman Bob & Carolyn MacLea Karen & Martin Mair Joseph & Wendy Mallory Avery Manchester Carol Mawhinney Stu & Sue McCalley Patricia McCarter Chuck & Nancy McConnell Leon McKenzie Bob & Pat Mendelsohn Ben & Lea Menegon Fred & Marie-Noelle Meyer Jan & Prill Meyer George & Alida Meyers Christopher Mill Gary & Judy Miller Mark Mohn & Beth Press Kevin & Marcie Molloy Chris & Betsy Moore Darlene Moore Tripp & Laura Moore Sally Morgan Jim & Nancy Morris Dale & Sherry Myer Richard & Tamara Ng-Yow Eric & Kellie Norrgard Jack & Barbara Norrgard Enid Norris Paul & Lynn O’Gorman Paul & Cara Olmsted Eleanore Olsen Ken & Erna Olson

Ed & Barbara Oppedisano Karen Pacent Nancy Palamarcuik Bill & Mary Jane Penwell Dorothy Pidgursky Steve & Nancy Pierson Hans & Sandra Plickert Pat Pollack Sandra Radosh Mary Ranta Barbara Rawn Giff & Ruth Reed Harlan & Wendy Reynolds Barrie Richmond Pamela & Richard Riggs John & Marie-Theres Riis Chuck & Dee Robarts Dorothy & John Robertson Lynn Robertson Charlotte & Arthur Robinson Beth Rollins Lori Romano Bill & Sandy Rose Lilian Ruiz Mike & Christina Russell Peter Russell Leonard & Yanna Saari Bill & Irene Savage John & Elizabeth Schinto Eric & Lesley Schless Bill & Louise Schmitt Patricia Schmitt Dave & Elizabeth Schrobe Stuart & Jean Serenbetz Jay & Debi Shaw Justin & Jennifer Shaw Bill & Alice Sherwood Peter & Ann Simpson Betty Sleath Bob Small Elen Sotzing Bob & Pa Speer Jim & Tommie Starkweather Linnea Stenberg T h e M e e t i n gh o u s e M o n thl y

Opportunities for Christmas Gifts of Love and Joy from the FCCOG Congregation ____________ Rides to Christmas Eve Services If anyone would like to provide transportation to a Pilgrim Towers resident for our Christmas Eve services, please let Rosemary know and we can offer them this gift of worship and friendship. Share Your Meal Would you like to share some holiday joy on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day? If you would like to be a guest at someone’s table or if you have extra space at your table, please call the Church Office and we will put your name on the list. We will then help make the match! Giving Tree There may still be gift tags available with wishes for gifts from our neighbors at H.O.M.E. Co-op in Maine and Pilgrim Towers in Stamford. The Giving Tree is in the hall outside the Auditorium. There is a Log Book which you must sign next to the gift tag number(s) for the person to whom you are giving. Please affix the original gift tag to the package when you return it and be sure to log your return into the book. The deadline for returning your wrapped and tagged gift(s) is Sunday, December 8. These gifts will be lovingly delivered to H.O.M.E. in Maine and Pilgrim Towers. White Gifts White Gifts are clothing, toys, books or other useful items wrapped in white paper that are offered during our 10:00 am and 4:00 pm services on Christmas Eve. The white paper gives the illusion of snow under the trees in the Meetinghouse. Ribbon and bows are not necessary but gifts should be labeled indicating an appropriate age and gender. All gifts will be donated to local agencies who can then distribute them throughout the year to someone who has a special need. (Hint: If you find yourself without white paper at the last minute, some patterned papers reverse to white or you can use white tissue paper. Help the Typhoon Haiyan Survivors in the Philippines And if you have wondered how you might be able to help the Typhoon Haiyan survivors, check out this special UCC website: http://www.ucc.org/disaster/philippines_typhoon_appeal.html.

Continued from previous page … Stewardship Meg & Dave Stewart Tom & Brenda Stiers Anne Stolley Jack Sweger Elaine & John Teeters Inge Thalheim Sheila Tolmie Joan Torelli

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Cindy Tredwell Mike & Brook Urban Barbara Van Buren Marc & Leslie VanDermeer Don & Connie Van Rhyn Anne Wachsman Jeff & Jean Watkins Robert & Nancy Weeks

Arthur Weigner Stephen Weigner Barry & Peg Wentworth Car Westbrook Tom & Lori White Lynn White Montanari Peggy Whitlock Susan Wilder

Webb Williams Nancy Wolf Jane Yates Kirk & Karen Young Xin Yun & Pei Fan Zhang Josh & Emily Ziac

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D 12/01 12/01 12/01 12/01 12/02 12/02 12/02 12/02 12/02 12/03 12/03 12/04 12/04 12/04 12/04 12/04 12/05 12/05 12/05 12/05 12/05 12/05 12/05 12/05 12/06 12/06 12/06 12/06 12/07 12/07 12/07 12/07 12/07 12/07

Wallace Jansen Susan Cohen Kathy Fraser Jack Schneider Barbara Luce Judith Chapman William Sandberg Ted Carter Abby Huth Elizabeth Janis Lauren Bacon Helen Ingraham Pamela Sheehy Nicole Thompson Andrew Sproule Edward Sproule Gail Halvorsen Anne Strother Robert Speer Richard Ng-Yow Niklas Simonsen Christina Pastore Katherine Janis Jacqueline Ryckman Linnea Perelli-Minetti John McCue Paul Olmsted Katherine Anderson Patricia Pollack Katharine Wall Chris Cantwell Holly Hanbury-Brown Jillian Leigh Lucas Dell'Abate

12/08 12/08 12/09 12/09 12/09 12/09 12/09 12/09 12/09 12/09 12/10 12/10 12/11 12/11 12/11 12/11 12/11 12/12 12/12 12/12 12/13 12/13 12/13 12/13 12/14 12/14 12/14 12/14 12/15 12/15 12/15 12/15 12/16 12/16

William Savage Edward Mendelsohn Polly Koehler Joyce French Barbara Norrgard Elizabeth Bonsal Cathy Sibirzeff Joshua Ziac Peder Maarbjerg Ivan Golodinskii Anne Stolley Barbara Oppedisano Terri Kutzen Justin Goh Frank Osborn Peter Gurciullo Olivia Gurciullo Sue Baker Mercedes Nugent Hannelore Moeckel-Rieke Dr Ralph E Ahlberg Margaret York Sarah Saviskas Rebecca Coleman Karen Pacent Alison Tierney Sarah VanDermeer Lila Jane Braddock George Taylor Theodore Allen Alex Sibirzeff Ellie Dempsey Barrie Richmond Anne Sherrerd

L ife E vents: Baptisms Sabine Brooks Cagnoni, daughter of Lesley Brooks Hathaway and Pablo J. Cagnoni

Deaths Dr. Brenda Stiers Chuck Livingston

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ECEMBER

12/16 Jennifer Breismeister 12/16 Ashley Tufts 12/16 Emily Weir 12/16 James Willard 12/17 Caralliene Westbrook 12/17 Patricia Mendelsohn 12/17 Lise McDonald 12/17 Michael Provoost 12/17 Alexander Ng-Yow 12/18 Jack Provoost 12/18 Bobby Bailey 12/19 Robert Luce 12/19 Erin Kilmurray 12/19 Rachel Wolfe 12/19 Amanda Scopelliti 12/20 Gerald Rigg 12/20 Maya Sahrbeck 12/21 Peter Janis 12/22 Robert Burdick 12/22 John Fountain 12/22 Drake Teeters 12/22 Kristin Riggs 12/23 Arthur Weigner 12/23 Marc Mallett 12/23 Will Speer 12/23 Cassie Dunn 12/23 Lindsay Anibal 12/24 Sandy Plickert 12/24 Andrew Schay 12/24 Christina Assing 12/24 Wyatt Davis 12/25 Dale M Greene 12/25 Kellie Norrgard 12/25 Frank Reeves

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12/25 Mark Sproule 12/25 Parker Bonnell 12/25 Darin Jacks 12/25 John Gabriel Freeman 12/26 Stephanie Hanbury-Brown 12/26 Tyler Sandberg 12/27 Julie Smith Koppenheffer 12/27 John Gordon 12/27 Philip Thalheim 12/27 Langley Mallett 12/28 Karen Robbins 12/28 Linda Wilkinson 12/28 Suni Unger 12/28 Jake Carlson 12/29 Diana Klingner 12/29 Christian Burke 12/29 Esther Hoekstra 12/29 Trevor Kelly 12/30 Stuart McCalley 12/30 Frederic Parker 12/30 Jeff Waggaman 12/30 Benjamin Quick 12/30 Karen McCalley 12/30 John Allen 12/30 Jake Allen 12/30 Thomas Hedrick 12/30 Charles Carnegie 12/30 Andrew Sisley 12/30 Eloise Mallett 12/31 Adriana Seibert 12/31 Ciella Angel-Lalanne

Mark Your Calendars: The Church Offices will be closed Wednesday, December 25 and Thursday, December 26) for Christmas, and Tuesday, December 31 and Wednesday, January 1 for the New Year Holiday.

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January 2013

February

March

December 2012

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THE RUMMAGE ROOM

*2013 Calendar Review* A Year of Windows for a Good Cause

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Manager Maria Drieghe and assistant manager Nancy Hamilton have designed and decorated The Rummage Room windows for many years. The windows have won over 20 awards in that period of time from groups such as The Greenwich Chamber of Commerce, The Garden Club of Old Greenwich and other business and civic organizations in the area. All of the items used in the windows have been donated from The Rummage Room's generous supporters who make all things possible! Thank you.

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The First Congregational Church of Greenwich 108 Sound Beach Avenue Old Greenwich, CT 06870 Phone: 203-637-1791 Fax:: 203-637-1540 www.fccog.org

Nonprofit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Stamford, CT Permit No. 7017

The First Congregational Church of Greenwich Ministers: The Members of The First Congregational Church of Greenwich Interim Senior Pastor: Rev. John W. Collins, [email protected] Associate Pastor for Youth Ministry: Rev. Mark D. Montgomery, [email protected] Associate Pastor for Communication and Adult Education: Rev. Daniel B. England, [email protected] Associate Pastor for Pastoral Care: Rev. Avery C. Manchester, [email protected] Director of Music: Dr. Craig Scott Symons, [email protected] Director of Church School: Rosemary Lamie, [email protected] Director of Membership: Ginny Breismeister, [email protected] Director of Communications: Barbara Wilkov, [email protected] Parish Nurse: Susan Asselin, RN, [email protected] Director of Preschool: Darla Kohler, [email protected] Pastors Emeriti: Rev. Dr. Thomas L. Stiers and Rev. Sally Colegrove Director of Music Emeritus: Dr. John Stansell

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