Chronicle the

August 22, 2013 - volume 46, number 1

From the Pastor’s Study A Message From Rev. Dr. Larry Hayward T hrough All The Ci rcli ng Ye ars

Westminster I Presbyterian CHURCH

n the past few months, we have lost some beloved people who have been longtime members of this church. Several of whom lived to be 100 – Don Fowler, Lowrie Beacham, Helen Baughman. During this same time period, I have had the opportunity to meet with some of our young adults – both as they attended new member classes and as I substituted for Casey in a “Faith on Tap” meeting. It is a joy to serve a congregation—or be a member of a congregation— where the ages vary and where there is so much life and energy among all our age groups. How much we are all the same, yet how different our experiences are that shape us. Yet God is “above all, through all, and in all,” including us wherever we are in life. The hymn “God of Our Life” comes to mind:

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God of our life, through all the circling years, we trust in Thee; In all the past, through all our hopes and fears, Thy hand we see. With each new day, when morning lifts the veil, We own Thy mercies, Lord, which never fail.

Table of Contents Adult Education

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Ch ildr en an d Fa mily

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Flying Solo

3

L if e Event s

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M em ber I nv olv e ment

2

Men of Westminster

5

M issions

6

Music Ministry

13

Spot light on Sen ior s

12

St ewar dship

14

W omen’s M in ist ry

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Have a blessed final few days of summer, and I look forward to seeing everyone in the fall. —Larry

Westminster’s Waiokeola Luau! Saturday, September 28, 5:00-7:30 p.m. Fun, Food, and Fellowship for all ages! Fellowship Hall and Church Yard (weather permitting) Approximate schedule of events (subject to adjustment!): 5:00 - Crafts, Activities, Ukelele Music, and Munchies for everyone! 5:45 - Hawaiian Dinner (provided for modest fee - watch for more details) 6:45 - Hula Dance performance by local traditional hÇlau (with audience participation!)

“Waiokeola” means “Water of Life” based on John 7:38 where Christ says, “Out of the believer’s heart shall flow rivers of living water.” Come rejoice in the living waters of Christ which bring us together in fellowship as one church family!

2701 Cameron Mills Road, Alexandria, Virginia 22302 p. 703.549.4766 f. 703.548.1505 www.wpc-alex.org

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Member Involvement News

We welcome to the Westminster Nursery: • Ella Jane Tappouni, born March 12, daughter of Susi and Amar Tappouni, little sister of Alex. • Emma Amelia Pond, born June 12, daughter of Leigh Anne and Chris Pond, granddaughter of Andrew & Mary Klein. • Jack Andrew Burkholder, born July 2, son of Mary Beth Walker and Richard Burkholder, little brother to Charlotte. Please remember in prayer the family and friends of : • Nancy Henry Lasley, who died on May 27 • Helen Frances Hille Baughman, who died on July 26 • Claude B. “Buzzie” Harris, who died on July 29

In my 20+ years as a member at Westminster I’ve seen many people who epitomize the involved member. Two of these people recently entered the eternal kingdom and I think it will be instructive to review their service. Pat Chisolm was a member for more than 25 years. He and his wife, Nancy, moved to the Atlanta area about 10 years ago, but anyone who was a member during the time they were here in Alexandria will remember Pat. He was “Mister Westminster.” Not only did he serve as a Deacon and three terms as an Elder, he was active in every aspect of Westminster life. On Sunday mornings he made it a point to greet every visitor he could. As soon as the service was over, he left the choir loft and circulated through the Sanctuary and Fellowship Hall in search of visitors whom he would warmly greet and encourage to give Westminster a good look. As an Elder he served on the Nominating and Stewardship Committees. He also preached a sermon and it was one of the best Remembrance Day sermons I have ever heard. But Pat’s Sunday activities were only the most visible of his activities. He also printed the Sunday bulletins (and this job entailed using real ink on a cantankerous printing press). Of his own volition he also visited hospitalized members, often arriving even before the minister. Most importantly, Pat was a catalyst for other members, encouraging them to get involved and helping them when they did. He is one of the reasons I have become so involved in the life of Westminster. The second member I would like to remember is Buzzie Harris. His service was not as public as Pat’s but it was just as deep and provides a great example of living the Christian life of service. Buzzie was always doing things for others. I got to know him on numerous mission trips and as a Board member of a local non-profit. In addition to Westminster mission trips, Buzzie also participated for several years in a mission to Haiti sponsored by the Rotary Club. No job was too small or menial if it helped to further the mission. Church participation was a priority in Buzzie’s life. He and his wife, Nancy, were in attendance nearly every Sunday as well as attending family retreats and other events. Both of these people are great examples for us as we enter a new season of church activities. One of the best ways to remember them is to emulate their commitment to service and participation. The monthly Chronicle and the weekly Westminster Update are chock full of ways to be an involved member. As you are contemplating these opportunities, remember Pat and Buzzie as you step forward to volunteer.

Yours in Christ, Art Sauer Membership Involvement Coordinator

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Flying Solo (Singles) Ministry For more information about Flying Solo Singles (40’s and above), please contact: Nancy Hall Berens, Director of Congregational Life and Singles Ministry at [email protected] or 703-549-4766 ext. 121 or visit our page on the church website at: www.wpc-alex.org/singles. Saturday, August 31 Virginia Scottish Games and Festival Bagpipes, sword dances, fiddlers, sheep dogs, caber tosses … and haggis! Join us for a taste of the Scottish Highlands right here in Virginia. Kilt optional!! For carpooling, please RSVP to Nancy by August 30. Carpools leave at 9:00 a.m. and return late afternoon. Otherwise, meet us out there. Get your own ticket at the gate ($20). More information at www.vascottishgames.org. Location: 5089 Old Tavern Road, The Plains, VA 20198

End-of-Summ er O uting !

August 27 September 24 7:00 p.m. in the Johnson Parlor Each month we make sandwiches for the Bag Lunch program then have dinner together. Please bring a dish to share. Materials for sandwich-making are provided.

M onthly Pot luck s

Monday, September 9 Walker’s Grille, 6909 Metro Park Drive, Kingstowne Walker’s supports sustainable farming and building practices by serving locally grown organic food in a restaurant modeled on a “green” design. Carpool from church at 7:00 p.m. or meet there at 7:30 p.m. (please note later time).

Monthly Dine-O ut

Monday, October 28 7:00-9:00 p.m. in the Haverkamp Room “The Faiths of the Founding Fathers” by David Holmes October’s book selection explores the religious views of many of the “founding fathers” as well as their wives and daughters. Was our country founded, as many believe, as a “Christian nation”? What is the difference between orthodox Christian views and Deism? How do the beliefs of the founding fathers and mothers compare with what we experience as Christianity today? What role has religion played in the lives of some of our modern presidents?

Flying Solo Book Group

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Annual Fall Retreat October 11-13, 2013 Graves’ Mountain Lodge “Creative Aging: What is My Call Now?” Leader: Marjory Zoet Bankson, author, artist, spiritual guide At every stage of life, there is a “red thread” of meaning and purpose which God has woven into our very being. Discovering that thread helps us set priorities and know where to open our hearts without reserve. Using personal story, collage, and biblical story-telling, we will explore the issue of call as it comes at critical times of choice and change. As we discover new ways to share our unique gifts with others, there will be time for individual reflection, connecting with each other in small groups, and creative worship together. You may find it interesting to read Marjory’s book “Creative Aging: Rethinking Retirement and NonRetirement in a Changing World” before the retreat, although it is not required reading. The church library will have two copies of the book to borrow, Marjory will make copies available in September for $15, or you may purchase the book on your own. It is also available as an e-book. Books will not be sold during the retreat. Please let Nancy know by September 3 if you’d like to purchase a book through Marjory. Deadline to register for retreat is Monday, September 23. Please note that there are only a few single rooms available so please let Nancy know as soon as possible if you need a single room. Registration material is available at www.wpcalex.org/singles.

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The Care Line For many years, WPC has maintained the Care Line, a separate phone number on which we record news of births, weddings, deaths, and funerals/memorial services of members. Staff have recently been considering whether the Care Line has outlived its usefulness. In recent months, we have added a message to the Care Line, asking callers to let the office know when they call it, and have gotten no responses. Since this information is available through verbal announcements during worship and in the worship bulletin, and it does not seem as though the Care Line is being used much, we have decided to discontinue its use as of September 1. Please contact Eileen Jinks, Coordinator of Pastoral Care, if you have any questions or comments.

Women’s Ministry For more information, contact Clara Beth Van de Water, [email protected]. All women are invited to a join a circle for fellowship and Bible study when meetings resume in September. Six groups meet monthly, in daytime or evening. One evening circle, Mary circle, is for mothers of young children. This year’s Bible study is “An Abiding Hope: The Presence of God in Exodus and Deuteronomy.” Details are in fliers in the literature rack or online under “Presbyterian Women” on our church website. Contact Elizabeth Martineau at [email protected] for more information.

W om en’ s F rien dsh ip Cir cle s

All women are invited to read The Wreath by Nobel prize-winning Scandinavian author Sigrid Undset, the first book in her classic Kristin Lavransdatter trilogy. Recommended English translation is by Tiina Nunnally (Penguin Classics). Come to a discussion on Monday, September 23 at either 11:00 a.m. or 7:30 p.m. in Johnson Parlor.

Wo men ’s Bo ok Grou p Pic k fo r S eptemb er

All women are invited to learn and play the card game “Shanghai” on Monday, September 2 at 7:15 p.m. in the Haverkamp Room. Coordinator is Diane French.

Play the Shangh ai Card Game

Fall Appalachia Service Project Trip To the ASP Center in Guyan Valley, West Virginia October 17-20, 2013 Roll up your sleeves. Pick up a Hammer. Change a Life. For more information or to sign up, contact [email protected]

All women are invited to make heart pillows and stuffed toys for Alexandria Hospital on Wednesday, September 4, at 9:30 a.m. in Haverkamp Room. Coordinator is Nancy McIver.

W ork D ay for Alexandria Hospital

The Presbyterian Women’s Board will meet with new Moderator Elizabeth Martineau on Wednesday, September 4 at 7:30 p.m. in Westminster Room. Circle chairs or representatives and the coordinating team are requested to come.

Presbyterian Wom en Boar d Meeting

All women are invited to hear retired state department officer Andrea Farsakh speak about Women and Islam on Wednesday, November 6 at 7:30 p.m. in Haverkamp Room. More details to come!

Wom en’ s Fall Gath ering

Save the weekend of March 14-16, 2014 for the annual women's retreat! The leader will be Dr. Patricia Lyons, Episcopal priest and upper school religion teacher at St. Stephens and St Agnes School.

Women’s Retreat

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Men of Westminster September 13, 7:00 – 8:30 a.m.; Fellowship Hall Dr. Victor P. Zabielski will be the featured speaker at our September 13 Breakfast Meeting. His topic will be A Primer on the Geology of Virginia and the U. S. East Coast. Much of the information concerning “global warming” and “climate change” that appears in the print, radio, and TV media today reflects a short term perspective that spans only a few decades at most. Here is your chance to get a longer term perspective of the vast geologic and climate changes that the mid-Atlantic Coast of North America has undergone over millenniums. Victor Zabielski is a professor of geology and the Assistant Dean of Geology at Northern Virginia Community College in Alexandria, Virginia, having taught there since 2003. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Geology from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, a Master of Science degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and received his Ph.D. in Geology from Brown University. He also received a two-year post-doctoral fellowship from the University of Minnesota. He worked as a consulting geologist for George Marshall Consulting Geologists in Averill Park, NY, before joining the faculty at NVCC. The field work associated with his work has ranged from the Bahamas, Oman, and in the Canadian Arctic off the coast of Elsmere Island.

2nd Friday B re akfast

January 31 – February 2, 2014; Hallowood Retreat and Conference Center Next year’s Men of Westminster winter retreat will take place the weekend of January 31 - February 2, 2014. Our retreat leader will be Dr. Bruce Douglass, a Director of the Reformed Institute of Metropolitan Washington and an Associate Professor in the Department of Government at Georgetown University. Those of you who have attended Sunday morning adult education classes at Westminster taught by Bruce Douglass are well aware of the clarity of thought and introspection that he brings to the discussion of reformed theology and social ethics. Those men who have attended previous retreats know how enjoyable and rewarding the program, food, and fellowship have been. Mark your calendar to make sure that you keep this weekend open. Sign up will begin in mid-October.

2014 Me n’s Re tr eat

Spirit Lake Eagle Project

by Ben Aland

The idea for my Boy Scout Eagle Scout project started with Art Sauer, who approached me a couple years ago to suggest that if I hadn't chosen a project, I might consider doing something to support the Bdecan Church at the Spirit Lake Reservation. At the time, I didn't give it much thought, until I set up a meeting with Kathy Mukai and Mr Sauer. At our meeting, they told me that the church mission at Spirit Lake really needed two things: books and underwear. Underwear? I didn't understand until they explained it to me – you can get hand me down clothes ... but no one wants hand me down underwear. As I started planning my project, I had to explain the underwear part many times. Eventually, my Scout leaders agreed: I would collect 250 books and 150 articles of clothing which would be shipped to the new Youth Director at the Bdecan Church at Spirit Lake. An Eagle project is more than just getting something done. It's all about planning, documenting, planning some more, doing, and still planning more. It was up to me to figure out how to collect all of those items, as well as the money it would take to ship them to North Dakota. That's where Westminster Presbyterian Church made things happen. I had two collection days at the church, on Sundays after the 11:00am Service. Janet Riksen made sure everyone knew about those collections. On both days, I collected an enormous amount of books, clothing, and money. Then, I teamed up with other Scouts to sell baked goods (to raise money for shipping and materials) and to collect donations of clothing at WalMart. I collected about 635 books (and bought another 20 with donated money), and over 730 articles of clothing. I also collected far more money than I needed for shipping, so I converted some of it into $300 worth of WalMart gift cards. The rest will go to the church to support Spirit Lake. My team packed everything into 16 boxes one Sunday afternoon in the Fellowship Hall, and we shipped them off over a week in June. 15 boxes made it intact (we lost one box of second-hand books). The Youth Director Joe Obermeyer at Spirit Lake said it was an incredible gift. What the whole experience taught me is that we should never underestimate the generosity of our church members, or even complete strangers at WalMart. I gained a real sense of what being part of a church family and even a community family really meant. I hope as a new Elder, I can give some of that back.

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Focus on Missions The Westminster Community Grant Program provides area charitable organizations with a one-time financial commitment to meet specific needs. The program was launched last year and all applications for grants were evaluated in relationship to our CHESS theme – Children, Hunger, Education, Shelter, and SelfSufficiency. Requests could be made in amounts up to $5,000. We had a tremendous response again this year. 35 area organizations submitted applications totaling more than $158,000 in requests. Careful review of all these applications has given the local mission committee a new level of respect and admiration for the array of organizations and the service they provide to our community and neighbors in need. While all the applicants were arguably worthy we had to narrow the field. In 2013 we were able to fund five grants totaling $23,037 and the recipients of the Westminster Community Grant are:

Westmin ster Com muni ty Grant Pr ogram 2013

Carpenter’s Shelter - $4,275 www.carpentersshelter.org The grant will pay for 3 commercial washers, identified as being needed to be replaced based on age and the result of an energy audit. The new machines will significantly reduce water and electricity costs. “Carpenter’s Shelter is grateful for the generous support of Westminster Presbyterian Church. Through their recent Community Grant program, Carpenter’s Shelter will be able to upgrade our washers and dryers to increase the energy efficiency of the shelter.” -Lissette Bishins, Executive Director of Carpenter’s Shelter

Casa Chirilagua - $4,784 www.casachirilagua.org The grant will go to provide education support to support resources for after school programs for Hispanic middle-schoolers. Much of what we are funding will be resources that will be usable for years to come. “In alignment with Casa Chirilagua’s objective to increase science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) curriculum in their after-school programs, this grant will enable the organization to fully fund the new Teens Club (Fall 2013), Kids Club (Spring 2014), and FIRST LEGO League (FLL) programs through which students will produce and present a working robot created by each group. The grant will also provide 40 tablet applications and student registrations for Greg Tangs World of Math, enabling students to engage in educational math games and track progress as they aim to increase their math competencies.” -Sarah Dale, Development Coordinator

Lazarus Ministry at St. Paul’s - $4,978 www.stpaulsalexandria.com/ministries/outreach1.html The grant will fund the necessary upgrading of the program’s client database which is needed to improve the emergency assistance offering to the poor in Alexandria and to help connect them to other programs that may help them. “St. Paul’s Lazarus Ministry is honored and thrilled to be a recipient of a Westminster Community Grant for 2013. While our current services focus primarily on crisis remediation, we also strive to connect our clients to programs to advance self-sufficiency ... Thank you again to Westminster Presbyterian Church for sharing in the vision of a brighter future for our neighbors.” -Dorothy Pearson, Coordinator of the Lazarus Ministries

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worship well Senior Services of Alexandria - $4,000 www.seniorservicesalex.org The grant will purchase new computers to effectively administer Senior Services programs. Senior Services is Alexandria’s leader in helping our seniors stay in their own homes by providing support services. Our population of seniors in the Alexandria area is rising and funding from multiple sources is becoming more and more important. “We are fortunate to receive four new computers through the generosity of Westminster Presbyterian Church’s community grant program. With these new computers we will function more efficiently enabling us to better serve our senior clients, their families and caregivers through our programs including Meals on Wheels, Friendly Visitors and our Resource Center.” -Janet Barnett, outgoing Executive Director, Senior Services of Alexandria

Guest House’s “Together We Bake” - $5,000 www.friendsofguesthouse.org The grant will purchase educational materials and equipment for students to become certified in food preparation and therefore be better equipped to find jobs. “This certification allows for preferential hiring, a higher starting salary and opportunity for management positions. The women now fully believe they are deserving of a second chance and we are so grateful for Westminster’s support.” -Stephanie Wright, Together We Bake

We invite you to learn more about these organizations by visiting their websites. A big thanks goes to Priscilla Goodwin, Emily Schell Jones, Julie Taylor, Jacqueline McClay, Kristin Eagan, and Carl Behnke for volunteering to be on the taskforce that the local mission committee relied on to sort through and review the application. Each member of the taskforce has agreed to be a liaison to a recipient organization so that we may better share in the joy these grants bring to each organization. The Local Mission Committee looks forward to making the Westminster Community Grant Program an annual tradition. In order to fund 2014 grants we need to raise approximately $7,000 in 2013 to supplement the level of anticipated stewardship and Westminster Foundation support next year. A special offering is being taken in conjunction with the announcement of these grant recipients. Your consideration and financial support at any level is greatly appreciated. Thanks very much to those who have already given – we have received over $5,000! Truly Westminster is a special place. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the local mission committee chair, Sean Heather, at [email protected].

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Cong ratulations, 2013 UO&A Graduates! This past May, three young women from the United Orphanage and Academy in Moi's Bridge, Kenya graduated from secondary school, and they Miriam Mwihaki have passed the national exams required to pursue further studies. Miriam Mwihaki and Sarah Mweka are awaiting letters to attend university in the fall, and Sarah Mweka Maureen Jendeka will begin courses at a college or training school. It has been a blessing for Westminster to have been a part of their lives and education thus Maureen Jendeka far, and we wish them the very best as they begin this next chapter.

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Children and Family Ministry Contact Casey FitzGerald with questions.

Third G rade B ible Pr esenta tion Sunday, September 22, 11:00 worship service All third graders will receive their new Bibles as a part of the worship service on September 22. We will meet in the library following Creation Station for the pinning on of flowers and to receive more information! September 22 and 29, 9:30 a.m. in Westminster Room How can grown-ups help the children they love worship at Westminster? Parents and other caregivers are invited to join Casey in discussing the significance of worshiping alongside our childrenand how to do it! Bring questions and experiences.

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Calm Parentin g W orkshop Friday, October 18 (7:00 -9:00 p.m.) and Saturday, October 19 (9:30 -11:30 a.m.) Are you tired of the power struggles, yelling and sibling fights? Want to stop the defiance and disrespect? Exhausted trying to make everyone happy? Come be a part of the workshop presented by Kirk Martin. The workshop is “practical, life-changing and laugh-out-loud funny.” Child care available. Learn more at celebratecalm.com.

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Sunday, September 8, 9:45 – 10:45 a.m. Come explore Creation Station, our Sunday school for elementary-aged children. Each month we explore new Biblical stories and themes. The whole family is welcome to spend the whole hour with us, or just drop by for a few minutes! We will have games, activities, and a Children & Worship demonstration. Take this opportunity to sign up for teaching and shepherding. Contact Patty Chamberlain to serve at [email protected].

Cr ea tion St ation Ope n Hou se

This year, we will continue with our successful WHOLE FAMILY Sundays— these Sundays will give families the opportunity to learn and grow TOGETHER. Moms, Dads, Grandparents, siblings (of any age), and more are invited to learn God’s story together. The intergenerational Sundays will prepare families for learning and understanding the Biblical story that will be focused on for the rest of the month (when the K-5th graders have their own education time). Our first Whole Family Sunday will be on September 15, Wandering in the Wilderness!

Whole Family Sundays!

Fridays, 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Starts September 13 Creation Station 303/305 Parents and young children are invited to join us each week for informal play time. This is a fantastic way to meet other parents and children in the church.

Fridays for FAMILIES!!

Saturday, September 14, 4:30 – 7:00 p.m. (raindate, September 21) Church Picnic Area Families are invited to join us in our annual fall barbeque at the church! Bring your children and a salad, side, or dessert to share. We will provide burgers and hot dogs! Don’t miss this wonderful opportunity for fun and fellowship. This year we are attempting TWO BOUNCE HOUSES—one for the smaller kids and one for elementary-aged children!!! RSVPs appreciated – please email Jessica Thurnes at [email protected].

Children and Families BBQ

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worship well Megan McGormley, Vice Chair, National Mission Committee

National Hunge r Mo nth

I have never struggled personally with hunger. My parents insisted that I always clear my plate at every meal when I was little, so I don’t like to waste. My heart ached in college when I saw the trays heading toward the cafeteria dish room on the conveyor belt, stacked full of half eaten pizza, pasta or sandwiches. I didn’t know what to do or how to help, so I didn’t try. When I worked weekends at a pizza restaurant in graduate school, I was shocked to see whole, untouched pizzas dumped into the garbage at the end of the night. I pleaded with the manager to send them to a shelter, but he shook his head and said they had tried, but there were issues with sanitation and accountability if people got sick. Several non-profit organizations that are focused on ending world hunger recognize September as National Hunger Month. As a member of Westminster Presbyterian Church, there are several ways we can draw attention to and do something about hunger in our city, nation and world. One opportunity is to volunteer with the Northern Neck Food Bank or the Society of St. Andrew (SoSA), gleaning organizations that work with churches, farmers and food banks in Virginia and across the United States. By picking and sharing edible food that would have otherwise gone to waste, Westminster Presbyterian Church members have taken part in collecting thousands of pounds of apples and corn donated to local food banks. Look for another apple gleaning trip this fall. Many of our members have a Cents-Ability bank on the dinner or kitchen table. Prayerfully remembering God’s children who are in hunger by the simple act of setting aside five cents per meal, per person, is a powerful and meaningful way to continue the conversation about hunger in our homes. This opportunity allows us to remember what we have and learn to talk together around the dinner table about our response to Jesus’ teachings to serve the poor. It also offers a chance to raise real money to deal with hunger, at the local level through our Adopt-a-Turkey Program, or on a national level through our Presbytery and Presbyterian Church U.S.A. Our next Cents-Ability collection date is Sunday, September 29, and if you don’t already have a bank you can pick one up at church. These are just two of the many ways our church cares about and responds to the issue of hunger in our city and our world, but they are by no means the only way. Street people packets, bagged lunches, The Last Saturday Food Distribution through ALIVE, and Bread for the World letters are just a few more. One of SoSA’s ten steps to ending hunger is not to be discouraged. “Every step we take brings us that much closer to ending the unnecessary evil of hunger. Begin small. Continue to do whatever you can to be a part of the solution.”

B rea d for t he W or ld Of f er ing of Le tt er s Westminster will be joining churches across the nation in Bread for the World's annual Offering of Letters, urging Congress to protect as much as possible key programs that address hunger and extreme poverty in the nation. Some proposals in Congress call for a cut in funding for the most important program, SNAP (formerly called Food Stamp), of at least $20 Billion, as well as reductions for WIC (Women, Infants and Children assistance). Cuts of this size would be devastating for many families that are struggling in an economy still recovering from the recession. Unemployment remains high by historical levels and many more of those employed are working shorter hours. BFW estimates that up to 2,000,000 Americans now eligible for SNAP may face reduced or denial of benefits in the new

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fiscal year starting in October. Letter writers will be requesting that Congress develop a balanced and bi-partisan approach to the federal budget that recognizes the critical needs of many poor and struggling families while also considering other important budget and fiscal issues. The International Missions Committee will have information and numerous resources available after the morning service to help those wanting to express their concern, providing stamped envelopes, sample letters and information on faxing, emailing or calling.

Meals on Wheels Did you know Westminster members deliver Meals on Wheels the third Tuesday of every month? You can be part of this critical effort by volunteering only two hours of your time. Work with a friend or make a new friend while you

bring a meal and a smile to a home bound senior in Alexandria. For more information, please contact [email protected].

Ce nt s- Abilit y Of fe ring Thank you to everyone who recently brought in Cents-Ability offerings. All that loose change really added up! We collected $755.34! Please continue to collect at your dinner tables in preparation for our upcoming collections on September 29 and November 17. This year-round endeavor is a great way to have conversations with your family about hunger in our city, nation and world, and to support Local Mission's Adopt-aTurkey program and other PCUSA efforts. For more information about CentsAbility, please contact [email protected].

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Fall 2013 S unday Mo rning Ad ul t Education Programs

Tables for 8 Begins in September! Welcome to the 19th year of Tables for 8 at Westminster! Join this fun group for camaraderie and delicious food. Each Table of 8 or 9 meets in members’ homes every four to six weeks to dine and to enjoy fellowship. Sponsored by Congregational Life, Tables for 8 is open to all adults, both singles and couples, and provides an excellent opportunity to get to know other Westminster members in a casual setting. Each individual or couple agrees to host at least once in the year at the member’s home. The host or hostess provides the main course, while other participants within the group fill in with other dishes (appetizers, salad, dessert, etc.) Sign up by e-mail ([email protected]) or in person during Fellowship Hour following the 11:00 a.m. service on the four Sundays in September: Sept. 8, 15, 22, and 29. The kick-off potluck dinner to meet your new group for this year will take place on Saturday, October 5 at 6:30 p.m. in the Haverkamp Room. You do not need to be present on Oct. 5 to participate; a member of your group will contact you if you are unable to attend the kick-off. If you plan to attend the Oct. 5 kick-off, please notify Janet Harris at [email protected] and plan to bring a dish of your choice to serve eight people. It also does help to know if you cannot be present. We look forward to having many new participants and will be happy to welcome back previous members. BON APPETIT !!

Programs are held from 9:45-10:45 a.m., except as noted. All adults are cordially invited; no registration required. Contact Director of Adult Education and Women's Ministries Clara Beth Van de Water at [email protected] or 703-549-4766 extension 120.

SEPTEMBER Why Karl B arth Matte rs

September 8-29, Haverkamp Room, Dr. R. Bruce Douglass, Director, Reformed Institute of Metropolitan Washington; Professor of Political Science, Georgetown University Karl Barth, a German- speaking Swiss theologian, is arguably the most influential 20th century Reformed Protestant thinker. He is the primary author of the Barmen Declaration, a Christian confessional response to Nazism. Dr. Douglass will introduce Barth's life, times, theology, and continued profound impact on American Protestantism. September 15, Westminster Room, Westminster Green Team We see God’s hand in the delicate details of creation, yet often miss the religious and moral connections to our actions related to energy, resources, and climate change. You can read more about the Westminster Green Team in this edition of the Chronicle.

Love the Creator, Care for the Creation

September 22 and 29, Westminster Room, Rev. Casey FitzGerald, Associate Pastor for Children and Families and Young Adults How can grown-ups help the children they love worship at Westminster? Parents and other caregivers are invited to join Casey in discussing the significance of worshiping alongside our children-and how to do it! Bring questions and experiences.

Pare nt ing in t he Pe ws

OCT OBER Living i n Re lat ion sh ip Syste ms: Fr om Fa mil ies to Work pla ce s t o G od

October 6-27, Haverkamp Room, Rev. Jaques Hadler, Professor, Virginia Theological Seminary; Episcopal priest While our society emphasizes individuality, and God creates us to be unique, God also creates us to be in relationships. These relational systems have powerful effects on our thoughts and behaviors. Learn how to navigate through these effects, whether married or single, both for good relationships and strong selves. These insights can be applied in family, marriage, paid and volunteer work, at church, and with our Lord. Based partly on Roberta Gilbert's book Extraordinary Relationships. October 6 -27, Westminster Room, 9:30 A.M, Elders Kathy Harkness, M.A., former NOVA teacher and Carlyle C. (Connie) Ring, J.D., attorney The featured topics, each presented with reflections by a scholar, will be “The God of the Old Testament,” “Jesus and Christianity,” “The Gnostic Gospels,” and “The Sins of the Church.” Discussions of sometimes perplexing issues related to these topics will be led by Connie and Kathy. NOTE the 9:30 a.m. starting time.

“Serious Answers to Hard Questions” Video and Discussion Series

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worship well

REFORMED INSTITUTE PROGRAMS For more information about these events, visit www.reformedinstitute.org or contact Mary Hill, Program Coordinator for the Reformed Institute, at 703.518.5125 or by email, [email protected]. An exploration of two hot-off-the-press hymnals: Lift Up Your Hearts (CRC/RCA) and Glory to God (PCUSA) Saturday, October 19, 2013 from 9:30 a.m. to Noon Old Presbyterian Meeting House, Heritage Hall in the Elliot House The Reformed Institute presents a leadership development opportunity with Dr. Martin Tel, Director of Music at Princeton Theological Seminary. This event is designed for professional and lay musicians, choristers, worship committees and anyone interested in hymnody and the music of the church. Participants will explore these new resources, answering such questions as: What is distinct about the theological approach to worship in these hymnals? What is the place of the Psalter? What additional liturgical materials are available? How might these hymnals be used in our contemporary situations? This event is free to members of Reformed Institute sponsoring churches; $20 fee for others, payable at the door.

Re -For me d Hym na ls for R eform ed Folk

Th e Last Seg regated Hour: The Memphis Kneel-In s and the C ampaig n for Southern Church Desegregation

Saturday, November 9, 2013 from 9:30 a.m. – Noon in Haverkamp Room A presentation by the author, Dr. Stephen R. Haynes, of Rhodes College in Memphis, TN. Co-sponsored by Westminster through a generous grant from the Rasmussen Church and Society endowment fund and the Reformed Institute of Metropolitan Washington. There is no fee for this event. The author’s book will be available for sale; checks and cash accepted.

Youth Kick-off Breakfast! Sunday, September 8; 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. Fellowship Hall Enjoy a great breakfast to start off our youth program year! All youth grades 6-12, parents and siblings are invited!

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Westminster Green Team Recently a group of Westminster members began meeting as a subcommittee of the National Mission committee to explore ways in which we could integrate an interest in the environment with our faith, and with service to both the congregation and the community. We’ve met a couple of times, and have decided to call ourselves the Green Team. The team takes its mandate from the opening chapters of Genesis: “God saw everything that he had made, and indeed, it was very good.” Gen. 1:31 “The Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to till it and keep it.” Gen. 2:15 Our mission is to respond to Scripture's teaching that creation is a gift from God, which we are charged to nurture and protect. Through education and action, we hope to promote responsible stewardship of this gift, here at Westminster, and in our communities, nation, and world. We are just beginning the process of determining how best to go about fulfilling this mission. Some of us have already been working to help Westminster save money and resources by becoming more environmentally friendly. Some of us remember the efforts begun by the late Reverend Karen Blomberg, Westminster's Associate Pastor for many years. And some of us are new to the idea of creating an environmental ministry. All of us know we need the congregation’s help and participation in this effort. We would love to hear from you – please send examples of environmental stewardship the church has already undertaken, as well as ideas and suggestions for what more may be done, or anything you would like the Team to research to National [email protected].

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Clan ancestry. “My ancestors came from several branches of the Campbell clan. There were the Campbells from the west coast of Scotland and up to Iona, the Campbells of Argyll, the Campbells of Cawdor and the Campbells of Breadalbane. My dad’s kid sister was the genealogist for the family and traced things back to those locations. There’s even some story about an ancestor who was a judicial authority and from there it was a straight shot to Charlemagne.” Early church going. “Practically every Sunday we would be there. And my dad, though, he was an engineer, he grew up in a family that had Bible studies – his father was a minister – so he naturally wound up being a Sunday school teacher. So that was my orientation.” Favorite hymn. “How Great Thou Art.” Childhood friends. “My wife, Mary Jane, and I were both Dallas residents, went to the same high school – Woodrow Wilson High School. Both of us attended Southern Methodist University. We were married in 1952.” Most rewarding aspect of being a physician. “If you just weren’t dismissive, the patient was helped. You have to listen to the patient. You cannot dismiss them. One patient I saw, already dismissed by the orthopedist, practically told me what the diagnosis was, and immediately I had the imaging necessary for the consultant to see the patient and fix the problem.” Key wisdom passed on to your children. “That all people, from young children on up, know themselves as children of God. And to recognize that about everyone else – all children of God.” Advice for living well. “The goals that you have for yourself and the goals for the community around you, maybe even the country at large, are those that adhere to the ideas in Malachi: do justice, seek mercy and walk humbly with your God.”

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worship well

Spotlight on Seniors

Part of an ongoing series featuring stories from the lives of our senior members. Seniors are asked to contact Eileen Jinks, Coordinator of Pastoral Care, or one of the deacons to participate. Eileen Jinks spoke with Bob Campbell for this interview.

An Interview with Bob Campbell

Virginians in the family tree. “My dad’s father and grandfather came from Woodbridge, Virginia. Dad’s father always spoke with a Virginia accent, which when he was later on dealing with Hispanic congregations, they would tease him about that. My grandfather had gone to seminary, had pastorates in Kentucky and Tennessee, and from there went to Lancaster, Texas, just east of Dallas. He helped raise funds that got the Austin Presbyterian Seminary up and running, and it’s still going to this very day. And from there, the family moved to Austin, where my grandfather had oversight of Hispanic congregations south of Austin with lay pastors. As a matter of conscience, since the people in their congregations spoke Spanish, they decided in their own home to speak only Spanish. So my dad’s first language was Spanish.”

Deep in the heart of Texas. “My folks met at Texas Tech in Lubbock, where Dad went to teach engineering and my mother had come from western Oklahoma to take education courses to help with the literacy effort in the area. After they married, they went down to Dallas, where Dad taught engineering at Southern Methodist University. We lived a few blocks off campus. I had a younger sister, Mary, and a younger brother, Paul. Dad was then hired by Shell Petroleum, and we moved to St. Louis for five years when I was 10. “Not long after that, Pearl Harbor came along. My dad had signed up for ROTC to supplement his income and was ordered back to Dallas to work on communications contracts with companies in the area that were helping to provide war material. I remember that on Saturdays, they would hire teenagers to go out and work on track maintenance. I got to be 18 and was drafted into the Navy to go to San Diego Naval Station. About four weeks later, bombs were dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, and the war was over.”

Medical career. “I went to pre-med school there at SMU and later joined other classmates carpooling out to Southwestern Medical School in Dallas. After I finished medical school in ’52, my post-graduate work in internal medicine was in Denver and my last year in Birmingham, Alabama. “Then I went back to Dallas and got into practice. A number of us put up a twostory building a couple of blocks out of town. In that building were two pediatricians, two surgeons, a urologist, ophthalmologist, several medical specialties were represented there. A small 100-bed hospital, Doctors’ Hospital, was nearby. People there were smart, well trained, and covered the needs of the community. “In later years, I served as the medical director for the C. C. Young retirement community in Dallas, founded in the 1920s. It has independent, assisted living and nursing care. When I was there, the nursing care section had 190 beds.” Family ties. “Mary Jane and I raised three children in Dallas. Molly [Roden], our oldest, moved to the Alexandria area 30 years ago. Our son, Billy, is a singer and lives in Dallas. Our youngest son, Andy, died of cancer just short of his 31st birthday. He was a really good guy. Everyone who knew him remarked about his humility and the way he always lifted up everyone around him. We have four grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.”

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worship well

Musi c Mini stry Outreach Upd ate!

• During the past Church Program Year, there were fourteen wonderful visits to members in their homes, in Washington House, Leewood Healthcare Center, Sunrise of Arlington, and both Goodwin Houses. There were sixteen people who participated in this ministry. • Again this summer, there were two “Musicale and Hymn Sing” events for Church members and residents of Goodwin House Alexandria, and Goodwin House Bailey’s Crossroads. Programs included a piano solo, vocal solos, and of course, the wonderful sing-along Hymns! • THANK YOU to ALL who participated and to ALL who we visited!

The Past Church Program Year:

• Starting in October and continuing through May, with the same format as the last program year, participants will meet after Church on the third Sunday of each month, and on the third Monday of each month (usually in the afternoon), and will visit a nursing/retirement home or a member’s home. • Anyone in the Church is welcome to join in singing hymns/sacred music or perhaps playing instruments. • Come and experience the beauty of God’s universal gift of music as it lifts and heals all our spirits, providing that common thread that connects us deeply to one another and to the Holy. This precious gift of love and beauty reaches out and touches us not only emotionally and intellectually, but spiritually, as well.

Chu rch Pr ogram Ye ar 201 3-2 01 4:

The Music Ministry Outreach will continue under the leadership of Carolyn Carmack, with the assistance of Eileen Jinks, Pastoral Care Coordinator, and with the caring and amazing participation of the members of this body of Christ. If you are interested in being part of the Music Ministry Outreach, please contact Carolyn Carmack by email: [email protected], or by phone at the Church: 703-549-4766, Ext. 115.

• There will be a meeting on Sunday, August 25 at 11:10 a.m. in the Sanctuary following worship for anyone interested in ringing or learning to ring Handbells. • There is always a need for substitutes for Handbell rehearsals and occasionally for playing in worship Services. Also, full-time openings occasionally occur in both of Westminster’s Handbell groups, the Westminster Ringers and the Celtic Cross Ringers. • The meeting will be at the Handbell tables in the Transept and Handbells will be out for people to try ringing. Also, experienced “ringers” will be present to provide tips on proper ringing technique. • Consider being part of this music ministry for Westminster’s worship Services, and experience the joy of Psalm 150 –praising God in His sanctuary –with instruments. All are welcome!

Handbell Ringing In terest Meeting in Augu st!

If you are interested in attending, please contact Carolyn Carmack by email: [email protected], or by phone at the Church: 703-549-4766, Ext. 115

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W e s t m i n s te r ’ s C r a f t Wo r k s h o p C l a s s e s Westminster’s craft workshop meets in open session on Tuesdays, 9:30 a.m. - noon and 7:30 p.m. – 10. Anyone is welcome to walk in and work on their own project. No registration is required. We have also scheduled the following classes, which do require registration. To register for any of these classes or for more information, call Madeline Ramsey, 703-379-7458. Please register at least ten days before the class to enable us to prepare for you. Thanks.

F u s e d G l a ss J e w e l r y : S e p t e m b e r 7 , 1 0 a . m . – 3 p .m . In class you will pick dichroic glass and set up and fuse three pieces of jewelry. You will learn to run the kiln, and class will include the findings so that you go home with three finished pieces. Options include a pendant, earrings, ring, bracelet, key ring, and others. You do not need to bring anything, and total cost for the class is $90.

B e g i n n i n g S ta i n e d G l a s s : O ct o b e r 2 , 9 , 1 6 , 2 3 7:30 p.m. – 10 p.m. In this class you will make two suncatchers and a small stained glass panel. You will learn the basic techniques of lead came and copper foil construction. Total cost is $110. All supplies are provided and tools are shared, so you don't need to buy anything else.

B e a d S t r i n g i n g a n d Kn o t t i n g : N o v em b e r 21 7 : 3 0 p . m . – 1 0 p. m. You will learn knotting techniques and will complete a necklace and a pair of earrings in class. Beads are provided and include black onyx, jasper, and others. Cost of this class is $40, and you will get a bead board and a pair of knotting tweezers to keep.

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Chronicle the

A publication of Westminster Presbyterian Church Contributors: Members, Friends, & Staff of Westminster Dawn Campbell, Production Editor

NON-PROFIT U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT #9 ALEXANDRIA, VA

Sunday Worship 8:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.

Church Staff Larry Hayward . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Pastor Patrick Hunnicutt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Associate Pastor Casey FitzGerald . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Associate Pastor Paul Stetsenko . . . . . . . . . .Director of Music Ministries Clara Beth Van de Water . . .Director of Adult Education and Women’s Ministries Nancy Hall Berens . . . . . . . . . . .Dir. of Congregational Life and Singles Ministries Patty Chamberlain . . . . .Director of Children’s Activities & Senior Activities Jill Ewell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Pastoral Care Associate Eileen Jinks . . . . . . . . . . . .Coordinator of Pastoral Care Janet Riksen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Director of Missions Art Sauer . . . . . .Membership Involvement Coordinator Nancy Bea . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Business Administrator Jim Buchanan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Facilities Manager Carolyn Carmack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Financial Assistant Tara Cain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Executive Assistant Jessica Thurnes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Program Assistant Larry Johnson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Sexton Marvin Johnson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Head Sexton Eddie Watkins . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Sexton

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

Church Office: 703-549-4766 • Fax 703-548-1505 WebSite: http://www.wpc-alex.org CARE Line: 703-684-2934

Time Sensitive

Westminster Presbyterian Church, 2701 Cameron Mills Road, Alexandria, Virginia 22302

No te s From the Stewardship Committee Making a D iffe re nce by Mark Pollock

We all want to know that our giving truly makes a difference. Having been a member of Westminster for the past four years, I have grown to realize how valuable the gifts from this wonderful congregation are. These gifts come in many forms and have an impact internationally, nationally and in our very own backyard. Over the years, I have given money to various charities with a plethora of objectives around the world. But, I have seldom had the ability to see the good my money does. I usually just write a check. Sometimes not even willingly, sometimes I feel obligated because of a friend has asked me to help, or for some other reason. I have never felt so close to the results of my giving as I do through Westminster. I see our members provide meals for those in need every week – bagged lunches, Meals on Wheels and at the Carpenter’s Shelter. I see how we come together to supply whole Thanksgiving dinners to over 200 families though the Adopt-a-Turkey program. I see how we send our people, books and money to benefit those at Spirit Lake and the Appalachian Service Project. I see how our church has created a school and a ministry that is growing and thriving in Moi's Bridge, Kenya. Westminster is different. I am involved. My family is involved. I choose to give here because I see it working. I see the church community caring for, reaching out to, and seeking the fellowship of its members. I see the way Westminster affects me, my family and our world. When I give to Westminster it makes a difference … I make a difference … and that makes a difference to me.

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