tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13749976137683760982024-03-13T01:52:40.993-04:00RE:sourceThe Presbytery of Eastern Virgina
Resource CenterThe Resource Center of the Presbytery of Eastern Virginiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17164722660058524117noreply@blogger.comBlogger47125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1374997613768376098.post-11981310680153596682011-03-11T10:51:00.000-05:002011-03-11T10:51:52.308-05:00Questions... and Answers (New Resources)<div style="text-align: center;">The titles of some of our new resources seem to have a theme: </div><div style="text-align: center;">Questions... and Answers. </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkfzL2ReGzXn2VbohPKfkNQLkt7kQLvMzu207mxg0RR7bz3j2j1tvzSP9JCewUlK6nSEZ5tPeXTuRWDjtGw6xHi8ySok_KUSfS6H8HbNKO619zKGQr7faRb9Q5vdm50I8vEpZ9VBygFFo/s1600/what%2527s+the+least+i+can+believe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" q6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkfzL2ReGzXn2VbohPKfkNQLkt7kQLvMzu207mxg0RR7bz3j2j1tvzSP9JCewUlK6nSEZ5tPeXTuRWDjtGw6xHi8ySok_KUSfS6H8HbNKO619zKGQr7faRb9Q5vdm50I8vEpZ9VBygFFo/s320/what%2527s+the+least+i+can+believe.jpg" width="207" /></a></div><strong><em>What's the Least I Can Believe and Still Be A Christian?: A Guide to What Matters Most</em></strong>, by Martin Thielen<br />
Part 1 of this book presents ten things Christians don't need to believe. In short, Christians don't need to believe in closed-minded faith. For example, Christians don't need to believe that Jews are going to hell or that it's heresy to believe in evolution. <br />
Part 2 presents ten things Christians do need to believe - what matters most, if you will. They need to believe in Jesus - his life, teachings, example, death, and resurrection. A great benefit of these beliefs is that they provide promising answers to life's most profound questions, including:<br />
"Where is God? What brings fulfillment? What about suffering? And is there hope?"<br />
Many people in the 21st century hunger for an alternative expression of Christian faith that's different from the judgmental and narrow-minded caricatures they see on religious televsion and in the news. This book offers such an alternative. It articulates centrist, mainline, and moderate Christianity in a way that's fresh and easy to understand. It also offers authentic Christian insights that speak to our deepest human needs.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi18fUQlr_4haFaoxhX3EOVK-H3aNmfBwaCseVqZwdxmMlcRRo9xUZmPIDU4WosO08myLOb3BEtASmJ7IEOPWhWLZaHgLKNzVW0CJ9I8-K61_Z9MzjQ4Z3DANzjPWr3_aqpJrox8LRVVcU/s1600/questions+christians+hope+no+one+will+ask.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" q6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi18fUQlr_4haFaoxhX3EOVK-H3aNmfBwaCseVqZwdxmMlcRRo9xUZmPIDU4WosO08myLOb3BEtASmJ7IEOPWhWLZaHgLKNzVW0CJ9I8-K61_Z9MzjQ4Z3DANzjPWr3_aqpJrox8LRVVcU/s200/questions+christians+hope+no+one+will+ask.jpg" width="135" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><strong><em>The Questions Christians Hope No One Will Ask (with answers),</em></strong> by Mark Mittelberg</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> Through a national poll conducted bythe Barna Group, Mittelberg uncovered the questions Christians most fear being asked. Complete with discussion questions, this book will help you meet today's hot-button issues head on. </div> Questions include the following: "Sure, Jesus was a good man. Why make him into the Son of God, too?; Didn't evolution put God out of a job?; Why are Christians so obsessed with abortion?; What makes you so sure God even exists?; and Christians are hypocrites - so why should I listen to you?"<br />
This book has gotten excellent reviews. <br />
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<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEI2LrjvIc4yComYUYT7WDk0iFETo1HQDKLJ0d-KeCWFuU7_FSDZ2u0AjQEXScmZq4Zj_cb8EFxD2-m7HmspodJVgAcV_Bhmgzqlc8x7WxYY6paX0ukvsi5VFeB4kFlEiONo-WWLjLiyo/s1600/more+presbyterian+questions.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" q6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEI2LrjvIc4yComYUYT7WDk0iFETo1HQDKLJ0d-KeCWFuU7_FSDZ2u0AjQEXScmZq4Zj_cb8EFxD2-m7HmspodJVgAcV_Bhmgzqlc8x7WxYY6paX0ukvsi5VFeB4kFlEiONo-WWLjLiyo/s320/more+presbyterian+questions.jpg" width="207" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><strong><em>More Presbyterian Questions, More Presbyterian Answers: Exploring Christian Faith</em></strong>, by Donald K. McKim</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> Subtitled "Exploring Christian Faith", this book is a follow-up to his 2003 bestseller "Presbyterian Questions, Presbyterian Answers". This study-friendly guide articulates the basic tenets of the faith and answers some of the most frequently asked questions about being a Presbyterian.</div> Clifton Kirkpatrick, Stated Clerk Emeritus of the GA and Visiting Prof. at Louisville Pres. Seminary states, "Donald McKim once again makes the Presbyterian and Reformed faith come alive for people all across the church. McKim poses questions that Presbyterians are asking - about others, about social and ethical issues, about what we believe, and about the future - and provides clear and inspiring answers to each one of them. This is a book that every Presbyterian should read and take to heart!" <br />
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Got Questions? Need Answers? Know someone who does? Stop by the Resource Center!The Resource Center of the Presbytery of Eastern Virginiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17164722660058524117noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1374997613768376098.post-52338776814731776802011-02-21T11:07:00.000-05:002011-02-21T11:07:32.286-05:00March Educators Luncheon on the Peninsula!As Spring nears and our thoughts turn to preparation for the coming year at our churches, one thing we’ll be thinking about is teacher training. Another is a change of scenery, so we're heading to the Peninsual for our Educators Luncheon in March!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhloMScZGpEuLBOUMNuS6vGVoyo0NQOG1S9LWqKACnXLR2TqnnnC4hjiWVfLkVXi7ENEOt73bdb9BynzDaHVIILtXK2vtzgpPC4erDr29kbL8fGyJFAwjwe1AX4teDcUJXsjouBRM6usBs/s1600/teacher2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="251" j6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhloMScZGpEuLBOUMNuS6vGVoyo0NQOG1S9LWqKACnXLR2TqnnnC4hjiWVfLkVXi7ENEOt73bdb9BynzDaHVIILtXK2vtzgpPC4erDr29kbL8fGyJFAwjwe1AX4teDcUJXsjouBRM6usBs/s400/teacher2.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong>Cynthia Geisert and Kristen Koger invite you to the Educators Luncheon on March 3, 12:00pm, at Yorkminster Presbyterian Church as they present <span style="font-size: large;">“The Holiness of Teaching”</span>. </strong></div><br />
This presentation will not be about programming or “10 ways to improve communication” or ...or …or …but rather a little spiritual deposit into the soul bank to inspire us in our educational activity. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWIA_lTLpoij92_NuyYH0wn2vpG4iFfIKy4xZzXM90y3P_YeXVXBAfA5MUtQ_zwjZ5Z90We0hMI1-Ix-idxrVCXyExrC3smuP4zh4vhLF3AybHkPg-JCB_vxpQpw80jRPXTjL4EioZNoo/s1600/bible+reading.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" j6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWIA_lTLpoij92_NuyYH0wn2vpG4iFfIKy4xZzXM90y3P_YeXVXBAfA5MUtQ_zwjZ5Z90We0hMI1-Ix-idxrVCXyExrC3smuP4zh4vhLF3AybHkPg-JCB_vxpQpw80jRPXTjL4EioZNoo/s320/bible+reading.JPG" width="255" /></a></div>Join us for this special time together at one of our Peninsula churches. Bring a bag lunch… Yorkminster will offer drinks, dessert, and wonderful hospitality. <strong>RSVP soon to Donna Rae Barrow, Resource Center Director, 757-397-7063 or </strong><a href="mailto:donnarae@pcusa-peva.org"><strong>donnarae@pcusa-peva.org</strong></a><strong>. </strong>The Resource Center of the Presbytery of Eastern Virginiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17164722660058524117noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1374997613768376098.post-50893020095506532912011-02-15T17:18:00.000-05:002011-02-15T17:18:29.388-05:00Fritz and Christine & Their Very Nervous Parents<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYJzTvEsw3CX24Ss2jcGvBansx6PVOvSW-W0SM4t1CRQrtOoQN8rM3nhb0o3Tv74zO65iF16-WEkcZVUx5N0zCwoJc4ZMJaZ1R4mqnh55ZnV7UnRL46nNt9KHNngu5y3hhc1jdAJ1THHM/s1600/fritzandchristine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYJzTvEsw3CX24Ss2jcGvBansx6PVOvSW-W0SM4t1CRQrtOoQN8rM3nhb0o3Tv74zO65iF16-WEkcZVUx5N0zCwoJc4ZMJaZ1R4mqnh55ZnV7UnRL46nNt9KHNngu5y3hhc1jdAJ1THHM/s320/fritzandchristine.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>A wonderful new addition to the Resource Center, <a href="http://www.mattmatthewscreative.com/mattmatthewscreative.com/Fritz_%26_Christine.html"><i>Fritz and Christine & Their Very Nervous Parents</i></a> is a parable about vocation, serving others, and living life more prayerfully. Subtitled "A Story for children and the adults who love them", the story is based on the following questions: "Would Fritz and Christine be a blessing to the world, or not? Would they think of others, or only of themselves? And Would they be givers, or takers?" <br />
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These questions are repeated as reflection questions for the readers within the story. The following prayer is also sung (with music and words on the back of the book) several times: "O God's dear children as you grow, Be kind to everyone you know, Help neighbor and all those in need, and Turn away from selfish greed."<br />
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This is an excellent book for all those wishing that contemporary children's books had a little more substance and direction to them. <br />
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And <a href="http://www.mattmatthewscreative.com/mattmatthewscreative.com/Fritz_%26_Christine.html"><i>Fritz and Christine</i></a> is not just for children. A recent adult Sunday School class in our presbytery used verses of Scripture along with the shared reading of this delightful book as their lesson. Choir members in the class were able to lead all in singing the musical prayer. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIOwAFHggNYNQieF4Da2tj3Npy7KpOKNYf-daUjvPWsxT84JyjOAdAsUvzLzlO8g1aYAiQv0SYhdJDv6HOY0nosoOexmdo88_9uX58B1yfx96bQUHIW0nOCehQeF-88a9MgfkXNZYXSu4/s1600/mattmatthews.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIOwAFHggNYNQieF4Da2tj3Npy7KpOKNYf-daUjvPWsxT84JyjOAdAsUvzLzlO8g1aYAiQv0SYhdJDv6HOY0nosoOexmdo88_9uX58B1yfx96bQUHIW0nOCehQeF-88a9MgfkXNZYXSu4/s1600/mattmatthews.png" /></a></div><br />
Born and raised in Hampton and later accepting a call to Simonsdale Presbyterian Church in Portsmouth, <a href="http://www.mattmatthewscreative.com/mattmatthewscreative.com/Bio.html">Matt Matthews</a> loves to write. His first novel, <a href="http://www.mattmatthewscreative.com/mattmatthewscreative.com/Mercy_Creek.html"><i>Mercy Creek</i></a>, winner of the South Carolina Arts Commission First Novel Prize, will be published in the May 2011 by the award-winning Hub City Press. Look for <a href="http://www.mattmatthewscreative.com/mattmatthewscreative.com/Mercy_Creek.html"><i>Mercy Creek</i></a> later this year in the Resource Center.The Resource Center of the Presbytery of Eastern Virginiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17164722660058524117noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1374997613768376098.post-83367847860036596682011-02-08T15:09:00.000-05:002011-02-08T15:09:56.623-05:00New Studies at the Resource CenterLooking for a small group or Sunday School study for adults? We've got a few new ones at the Resource Center...<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><strong>Infuse</strong> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpSA-aoWhFZ1F7DTglRhYhza5ok0dfTwW42QpQ3yxVLP5V-ADIuTJczY5k_isS3OdW4Z0EULDPJoV7OdNge85zDYJfuGnqMmCe7qKV4ur3_ZNUP07L-kgLnQBd_9aFEh_O9e1kyvobeQI/s1600/Jonah.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpSA-aoWhFZ1F7DTglRhYhza5ok0dfTwW42QpQ3yxVLP5V-ADIuTJczY5k_isS3OdW4Z0EULDPJoV7OdNge85zDYJfuGnqMmCe7qKV4ur3_ZNUP07L-kgLnQBd_9aFEh_O9e1kyvobeQI/s1600/Jonah.jpg" /></a> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><strong>Colossians: The New Old Perfectly Imperfect You</strong> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><strong>Esther: Courage in a Complicated World</strong> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><strong>Jonah: Fish, Flaws, Forgiveness</strong> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><strong>Matthew: One King to Rule Them All</strong> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong></strong> </div><div style="text-align: left;">This series shows God at work in real people, at real places, in real ways - both in the Bible and in our lives today. The study guides are packed with background, context, and historical insights to help all of us, not just Bible scholars, discover where God's Word and daily life intersect. </div><br />
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With these studies, you can engage in lively discussion and learning without having studied the Bible before doing each lesson, and you can use these effectively for small group or personal study.<br />
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The approach to Bible study in this series emphasizes discovery (the reader discovers what the Bible has to say by asking questions and seeking answers from the passage studied.) Additional insights from history and other sources help to fill in details that connect this story to the larger story of God's love and care for us all. <br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><strong>Being Reformed - - New Titles</strong> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrxpnjIVD6gNSYhsfJaOk-koYPKAdMNpgcI7WThgnfmZ4TvxMuyJS5yIDCExUowsWkiKzw2iqeHU4SDdPA597HNpNZC5Oj95oP5kBSSPqp2bKpNCYRIB9AtFRIqTN_DUrL6JGFyGVUnjM/s1600/media.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrxpnjIVD6gNSYhsfJaOk-koYPKAdMNpgcI7WThgnfmZ4TvxMuyJS5yIDCExUowsWkiKzw2iqeHU4SDdPA597HNpNZC5Oj95oP5kBSSPqp2bKpNCYRIB9AtFRIqTN_DUrL6JGFyGVUnjM/s1600/media.jpg" /></a><strong></strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><strong>Being Reformed: A Brief Statement of Faith</strong> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Examine the background and context of A Brief Statement of Faith, as well as its Trinitarian structure and how it relates to beliefs in the ecumenical church, the Protestant Reformation, and our Reformed theological tradition.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><strong>Being Reformed: Recognizing God's Grace</strong> </div><div style="text-align: left;">Through Scripture, history, theology, and practical life examples, this study examines grace in the Bible, throughout Christian history, and through Reformed understandings. </div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><strong>Being Reformed: Stewardship of Creation</strong> </div><div style="text-align: left;">Explore the biblical bases for our care of creation along with sessions on being environmentally friendly at home, at church, and in the world. </div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><strong>Being Reformed: Wisdom from the Early Church</strong></div><div style="text-align: left;">This study discusses the formation of the Christian tradition on major theological issues as the church sought its Christian identity, including: forming the Christian Bible, developing a doctrine of God, confessing Christ, building the church, and shaping Christian life.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong>In The Works</strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><strong>How Do I Make It Right?</strong><br />
<strong>How Do I Begin?: Sharing Your Faith</strong><br />
<strong>What Do I Do With My Life?: Serving God Through Work</strong><br />
<strong>What Do I Owe?: Managing the Gifts God Gives You</strong><br />
<strong>Where Do I Come In?: Joining God's Mission</strong><br />
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This series is all about missional living. Offering hands-on activities and follow-up action options, these studies explore how Christians can join in God's mission in the world using the gifts they've been given. Although it is in a small group format, it would also make an excellent adult Bible study. <br />
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Each book includes five inspiring daily readings for each week, five easy-to-use discussion guides with opening and closing activities, Bible study, and stimulating questions and activities, follow-up action options to apply the study to real-world life.The Resource Center of the Presbytery of Eastern Virginiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17164722660058524117noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1374997613768376098.post-55958624022132230242011-01-21T12:21:00.000-05:002011-01-21T12:21:34.119-05:00Two exciting PW events on the Southside!Two exciting Presbyterian Women events are coming up on the Southside...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyIJn_FuItmICtTszqnJHkemg3OhwkNWm0HVpYioxW1tWfyyxViR2f3Q54wQ_EdSu8cIpLxFxxxP5cde4iThUWhEQBZnZmHZUnFa6YOWCaa8Z8zNM77R4TwNhO4izhpPrve46HKMYNMGY/s1600/living+wholly+for+God+at+Providence.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyIJn_FuItmICtTszqnJHkemg3OhwkNWm0HVpYioxW1tWfyyxViR2f3Q54wQ_EdSu8cIpLxFxxxP5cde4iThUWhEQBZnZmHZUnFa6YOWCaa8Z8zNM77R4TwNhO4izhpPrve46HKMYNMGY/s640/living+wholly+for+God+at+Providence.JPG" width="456" /></a></div>The Presbyterian Women of <a href="http://maps.google.com/maps?rls=com.microsoft:en-us:IE-SearchBox&oe=&um=1&ie=UTF-8&cid=0,0,6317164998864769930&fb=1&hq=providence+presbyterian+church&hnear=Virginia+Beach,+VA&gl=us&daddr=5497+Providence+Road,+Virginia+Beach,+VA+23464-4124&geocode=1381435201555979149,36.814277,-76.181116&ei=yb05TYDiEZGWsgPCl8ClAw&sa=X&oi=local_result&ct=directions-to&resnum=2&ved=0CB0QngIwAQ">Providence Presbyterian Church</a> invite you to "Women Living Wholly for God" on Saturday, January 29th from 9am - 2pm. This wonderful day of bringing God more and more into our everyday lives includes special guest speaker, Kelly Miller, professional organizer/home stager and author of the blog, <a href="http://tidybrownwren.blogspot.com/">The Tidy Brown Wren</a>. Kelly will offer guidance on organizing our home to be a blessing. A chef from Williams Sonoma will delight our senses with a cooking demonstration and we'll also enjoy a video from Liz Curtis Higgs. The labyrinth and spirituality stations will be set up in the church parlor for a few moments of quiet with the Lord. A healthy breakfast, a good-for-you soup and salad lunch, and childcare are included in the $5 registration fee. Please call Jane Everton, 495-5532, to register today!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqqOrLetwkIMfrg_PkxArCCaswh6TXw_-juV-6VhaitPeUh-_xpTygpFB6TVaBW0covDpVDcp74FscVtVQLya2wG_CLpTStmb4-5s6I9HtvH8FXaE30WlnsYsx4MZF2CENhQ2Vq4FS2fA/s1600/Women+of+the+Bible+at+GCPC.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqqOrLetwkIMfrg_PkxArCCaswh6TXw_-juV-6VhaitPeUh-_xpTygpFB6TVaBW0covDpVDcp74FscVtVQLya2wG_CLpTStmb4-5s6I9HtvH8FXaE30WlnsYsx4MZF2CENhQ2Vq4FS2fA/s640/Women+of+the+Bible+at+GCPC.JPG" width="386" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The Presbyterian Women of <a href="http://maps.google.com/maps?rls=com.microsoft:en-us:IE-SearchBox&oe=&um=1&ie=UTF-8&cid=0,0,14321072336537352123&fb=1&hq=grace+covenant+presbyterian+church&hnear=Virginia+Beach,+VA&gl=us&daddr=2228+Princess+Anne+Road,+Virginia+Beach,+VA+23456-3536&geocode=2972940819330562828,36.759051,-76.023822&ei=W7M5TdDbN464sAPmwbH9Ag&sa=X&oi=local_result&ct=directions-to&resnum=2&ved=0CB0QngIwAQ">Grace Covenant Presbyterian Church</a> extend an invitation to you for the wonderful drama, "Women of the Bible: Stories of Passion, Power, and Purpose," presented by award-winning <a href="http://www.womenofthebible.com/">Biblical dramatist, Anita Gutschick</a>. This weekend event begins on Friday evening, February 25th (coffee and dessert included), and continues on Saturday morning, February 26th (breakfast bites and lunch included). Childcare for little ones is also included in the $35 registration fee. It is the prayer of the Women of Grace that the Heavenly Father bless your time with them, revitalizing and energizing you to love and serve in His name. Contact Grace Covenant for more information, 427-6478.</div>The Resource Center of the Presbytery of Eastern Virginiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17164722660058524117noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1374997613768376098.post-10515938522524248842011-01-18T16:12:00.000-05:002011-01-18T16:12:28.897-05:00"Why Are These Presbyterian Churches Growing?" - book review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcdi2TiDBozR7aWGlUe3y2rdBoXAqJX2YJPMenzvTQYMc9_nr7igAWur0dGDgjBToO-6TV4QMXdEXfJKiZrq7-QCqiYseMAdA3uCP795l5nmOto7tKFnB4axnDKD1eDhkpRn45hde0vho/s1600/why+are+these+presbyterian.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcdi2TiDBozR7aWGlUe3y2rdBoXAqJX2YJPMenzvTQYMc9_nr7igAWur0dGDgjBToO-6TV4QMXdEXfJKiZrq7-QCqiYseMAdA3uCP795l5nmOto7tKFnB4axnDKD1eDhkpRn45hde0vho/s320/why+are+these+presbyterian.jpg" width="216" /></a></div><u>Why Are These Presbyterian Churches Growing?: (The Story of Fifteen Thriving Presbyterian Churches</u><br />
<u> </u>Foster H. Shannon<br />
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Green Leaf Press, Alhambra, CA<br />
<br />
2009 <br />
<br />
Why is it that Fifteen Presbyterian Churches in California have shown substantial membership growth? Their exciting stories challenge and encourage all of us, while their unique examples teach us how to improve our ministries in the local church.<br />
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<br />
<br />
"The answer, of course, is a combination of excellent leadership and excellent programs of ministry that attract new people. The book compares membership and attendance gains from 2002 to 2007, along with background information about the community and the church. A summary of the staff and programs gives a snapshot of the congregation's ministry in a typical week. The churches offer us many possibilities for growth beyond the incentive of favorable demographics. A concluding chapter gives a few general suggestions for us to consider in following the example of these growing churches." <br />
<div style="text-align: right;">Reviewed by Pastor Doug VanNiel,</div><div style="text-align: right;">Bethany Presbyterian Church,</div><div style="text-align: right;">Zuni</div><div style="text-align: right;"> </div><div style="text-align: left;">Want to know more? Check it out at the PEVA Resource Center! </div>The Resource Center of the Presbytery of Eastern Virginiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17164722660058524117noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1374997613768376098.post-798876599330520522011-01-13T22:02:00.001-05:002011-01-13T22:08:11.129-05:00Contemplative Retreat in February<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLn2OqJAWRY0cCiOMz3zplTpp8lACX9IbfhtnqRHbRYr1wpdnM4ZjHVtIiHgYg6eZ6t7I8FJu9Epi3M1RpgoAhhjutfO1NBB6raRmmQIYLOCNIckU__Ll0UO5hrTzqSCLZyj08_HZlq8s/s1600/sset.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLn2OqJAWRY0cCiOMz3zplTpp8lACX9IbfhtnqRHbRYr1wpdnM4ZjHVtIiHgYg6eZ6t7I8FJu9Epi3M1RpgoAhhjutfO1NBB6raRmmQIYLOCNIckU__Ll0UO5hrTzqSCLZyj08_HZlq8s/s400/sset.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">As winter deepens and our pace slows down a bit, it is the perfect season to recollect ourselves, to take some time to sense where our inner compass might be pointing, to listen quietly to our soul’s stirrings. </div><br />
Whether we are facing a transition, or simply need reminding of what is foundational for each of us, our “homeground,” this contemplative retreat will provide the space, rest and discovery needed to navigate life’s passages. <br />
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During this weekend of quiet time, artwork, presentations, journaling, community, walks in nature, yoga, delicious meals, and more, we will explore:<br />
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Being attuned to endings and beginnings<br />
Identifying our homeground, our sources of strength<br />
Ways of listening that encourage and deepen us<br />
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"To be contemplative does not mean to be curious about the world or to collect information, but to be quiet before the world and recollect oneself.” - Marv Hiles<br />
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The location is the incomparable Cobb Island Station retreat center just north of Cape Charles. This expansive and soulful facility offers a beautiful waterfront setting, grounds for strolling, a labyrinth, hot-tub, and very comfortable accommodations and meeting rooms. Limited accommodations are available for overnight lodging. Spaces are also available for retreat participation during Saturday only, or during both Saturday and Sunday. <br />
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Dates: 9:00am Saturday, February 5th, till 2pm Sunday, February 6th.<br />
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Information/registration: <a href="http://www.esva.net/%7Edryon/retreat.htm%20">http://www.esva.net/~dryon/retreat.htm </a><br />
Registration deadline: Tuesday January 25th, 2011. Debbie Ryon 710-4661 or dryon@verizon.net <br />
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Rates: <br />
Full weekend, with overnight accommodation, materials and all meals: <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Double: $225 Private: $275 </div>Saturday only, materials & meals through dinner, no overnight accommodation: $75<br />
Saturday & Sunday, materials & meals through dinner, no overnight accommodation: $125<br />
Friday night extension (7 pm arrival for evening quiet time, no dinner)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Double: add $50, Private: add $75</div><br />
About the leaders:<br />
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Nina Frost Close is an experienced retreat leader, spiritual director, career counselor, the director of Adult Education at Marble Collegiate Church in New York and the co-author of Soul Mapping: An Imaginative Way to Self-Discovery. She divides her time between New York and her Onancock home.<br />
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Nancy Collins, PhD is an administrator and career counselor for Old Dominion University. She also teaches student development courses for Eastern Shore Community College. Nancy has an interest in how art helps us to discover ourselves.<br />
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Debbie Ryon is a facilities engineer, leader of a local “Art & Soul” group and an avid contemplative retreat participant. The Resource Center of the Presbytery of Eastern Virginiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17164722660058524117noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1374997613768376098.post-62299336001996425862011-01-10T10:58:00.000-05:002011-01-10T10:58:16.087-05:00Book Talk with Dr. Louis B. WeeksYou are invited to the inaugural "William Smith Morton Library Book Talk" - a new program through Union Presbyterian Seminary's "Union Live" initiative to bring Union resources to you and your church.<br />
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"William Smith Morton Library Book Talks" will semi-annually bring you a featured author who is also an alumnus/a of Union Theological Seminary, Presbyterian School of Christian Education, Union-PSCE or Union Presbyterian Seminary.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF6ED6Aq3W7EWK1txRLJzUlEzD26qxJsx7egwLd4hcsC2VLuSG4E1XRMkJfyD-xHOIfmexBY6szUF_MZ33N6wF5eL_goAO6l2dSPcOgg6JaiOLLArrKit5fFfoSwDMNCgCyHsGIJwstkk/s1600/UPS+Book+Talk.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF6ED6Aq3W7EWK1txRLJzUlEzD26qxJsx7egwLd4hcsC2VLuSG4E1XRMkJfyD-xHOIfmexBY6szUF_MZ33N6wF5eL_goAO6l2dSPcOgg6JaiOLLArrKit5fFfoSwDMNCgCyHsGIJwstkk/s400/UPS+Book+Talk.JPG" width="296" /></a></div>The first of these features Dr. Louis B. Weeks' <u>To Be a Presbyterian</u>, with discussion and Q&A. For thirteen years, as Union and PSCE federated, and as the new programs opened in Charlotte, NC, Weeks served as President. His books include <u>To Be a Presbyterian-Revised Edition</u> (2010); <u>All For God’s Glory: Redeeming Church Scutwork</u> (2008) <u>The Presbyterian Presence: Bible Words That Shape a Faith</u> (1992); and <u>Making Ethical Decisions</u>. He co-edited six casebooks, and he co-edited the Presbyterian Presence (1989-1993), a seven-volume study of the PC(USA). He writes regularly for several websites, including Resourcing American Christianity, Faith and Leadership, and The Presbyterian Leader. He is also one of the authors of the new PC (USA) curriculum, <u>Being Reformed: Faith Seeking Understanding</u>. <br />
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You may attend the Book Talk in person or you may view the discussion live by registering for the webinar <a href="http://upsem.edu/forums/">here</a>. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcNcKSHp-kTm5L0DX-8MSZ2bLIpQJ3oo6Y2wCF9lNlbBSlqAXzAveExzwgPXzkW47tJ0awS2S0gHHs7feDDf6bZWnD0kEq13PBj2aTVa0sBM1plWVKXVJS-_aFcweKKGvkSes2G6Y3ELo/s1600/To+Be+a+Presbyterian.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcNcKSHp-kTm5L0DX-8MSZ2bLIpQJ3oo6Y2wCF9lNlbBSlqAXzAveExzwgPXzkW47tJ0awS2S0gHHs7feDDf6bZWnD0kEq13PBj2aTVa0sBM1plWVKXVJS-_aFcweKKGvkSes2G6Y3ELo/s200/To+Be+a+Presbyterian.JPG" width="127" /></a></div>Resources by Dr. Louis B. Weeks are available in the Resource Center... check the <a href="http://rqmweb.requestmanager.org/search.asp?q=peva">online catalog</a> and reserve a title today!The Resource Center of the Presbytery of Eastern Virginiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17164722660058524117noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1374997613768376098.post-67269850768220890072010-12-29T15:03:00.000-05:002010-12-29T15:03:05.502-05:00God in America<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipDMWJCluQrM_hpUYf470lggUWqcC5gxlfU_8brAizx6dil4sKKeCsEDIc9PNW_r8vue_vhTH2a2v-32hiOl8AuwmhEePsux3nRmuHdVsH3zNSf3TYcl9d43PJ-zDcC_6DUR45NAfOR18/s1600/pPBS3-8267377reg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipDMWJCluQrM_hpUYf470lggUWqcC5gxlfU_8brAizx6dil4sKKeCsEDIc9PNW_r8vue_vhTH2a2v-32hiOl8AuwmhEePsux3nRmuHdVsH3zNSf3TYcl9d43PJ-zDcC_6DUR45NAfOR18/s1600/pPBS3-8267377reg.jpg" /></a></div>Yesterday's Daily Break section of the Virginian Pilot highlighted the Top 10 TV Shows of 2010. Among the 10 'top examples of when TV soared' this year was the PBS series, <u><b>God in America</b></u>. Here's the article's summary:<br />
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"In this six-hour documentary, "Frontline" and "American Experience" joined forces to tell the story of America with religious faith as its narrative thread. Religious liberty was a founding principle that helped shape America's identity, and this film, spanning 400 years, surveys the rough-and-tumble competition of the religious free market that resulted."<br />
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This resource tells the sweeping and dramatic story of religious life in America, examining more than 500 years of American religious history, from the voyage of Christopher Columbus to the 2008 presidential election. Examine this history as it has played out in public life, exploring the complex interaction between religion and democracy in the United States; the origins of the American concept of religious liberty; the dynamics of the ever-evolving American religious marketplace; and more. The series explores its themes through a series of emblematic stories of the country's religious history, and the political and spiritual journeys of important historical figures.<br />
<br />
Included are Disc One, Episode One: A New Adam; Disc One, Epidsode Two: A New Eden; Disc Two, Episode Three: A Nation Reborn; Disc Two, Episode Four: A New Light; Disc Three, Episode Five: Soul of a Nation; Disc Three, Episode Six: Of God and Caesar. <br />
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Also included on Disc Three: bonus behind the scenes videos and printable materials (study guide, eight Visiting Sacred Spaces guides, and viewing party tool kit). <br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">This multi-DVD documentary is available at the PEVA Resource Center... </div><div style="text-align: center;">check it out and learn more </div><div style="text-align: center;">about how religion carved our nation's history, </div><div style="text-align: center;">and consider it for a small group study</div><div style="text-align: center;"> in the coming year. </div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div>The Resource Center of the Presbytery of Eastern Virginiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17164722660058524117noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1374997613768376098.post-9070891051110464822010-12-25T10:24:00.000-05:002010-12-25T10:24:05.124-05:00Merry Christmas!Joy, peace, and hope to you as you celebrate the birth of Christ!<br />
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<div style="color: #351c75; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Your savior is born today in David’s city. </i></span></div><div style="color: #351c75; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>He is Christ the Lord.</i></span></div><div style="color: #351c75; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Luke 2:11</span><i> </i></span></div>The Resource Center of the Presbytery of Eastern Virginiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17164722660058524117noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1374997613768376098.post-29745081571534944502010-12-20T12:32:00.001-05:002010-12-20T13:02:49.432-05:00Cokesbury VBS Preview!<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnNfXAEYSJcZJBJrNvDDuJ-s0U-E6fzrLG7CaHTKtTuUXzs8E5dEPHkaM2MrIHhbTakRMUkbyjQac6JuU1lHy5_dpJ6P8yoP4ngk9-wP4J4zS4LsZV0eN6OVX-48GId7BOlReeiFkCvpA/s1600/Nazareth+VBS+2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnNfXAEYSJcZJBJrNvDDuJ-s0U-E6fzrLG7CaHTKtTuUXzs8E5dEPHkaM2MrIHhbTakRMUkbyjQac6JuU1lHy5_dpJ6P8yoP4ngk9-wP4J4zS4LsZV0eN6OVX-48GId7BOlReeiFkCvpA/s1600/Nazareth+VBS+2011.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGQx7-VSeIIoXlB8gupGDCdzCYKOj0ZaZps3FZ4autH825_m3h6crWG-hVCWNTSpQpc_nFaDJsdtxfPVV6yyIZfsBTsflamI7iVdEEHtxxuqrY42CBgE8hNfi-Tuuf06KsSIjkyLxniTU/s1600/pandamania+VBS+2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGQx7-VSeIIoXlB8gupGDCdzCYKOj0ZaZps3FZ4autH825_m3h6crWG-hVCWNTSpQpc_nFaDJsdtxfPVV6yyIZfsBTsflamI7iVdEEHtxxuqrY42CBgE8hNfi-Tuuf06KsSIjkyLxniTU/s1600/pandamania+VBS+2011.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjzlx_Tmh-KPiJa4t9VK6AS7pLtNkCxpgQKil3EuVPUTZaTI50r-s5dYHvESffTn2Btil9kfobOW7EMbC4zqkSumR_OqOFXZ6G5KIH1geWzBaCP5c3fC5Hev3qk9Ts99ETPbEJTk5dVUc/s1600/Shake+it+up+VBS+2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjzlx_Tmh-KPiJa4t9VK6AS7pLtNkCxpgQKil3EuVPUTZaTI50r-s5dYHvESffTn2Btil9kfobOW7EMbC4zqkSumR_OqOFXZ6G5KIH1geWzBaCP5c3fC5Hev3qk9Ts99ETPbEJTk5dVUc/s1600/Shake+it+up+VBS+2011.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkF5MQ2GG-spZO899OQ3rTc8YwefEBDcJ8e7J7t7CbgL6Ket299SgRiYHun7EaF-15PzP8qzjttj28x12QY9Q1s5ucOZXWjaJ4b0CX4CM-3xA-KN_rSEu8k0bYq2UKhI6y1rQTaIOb6Nk/s1600/Island+Odyssey+VBS+2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkF5MQ2GG-spZO899OQ3rTc8YwefEBDcJ8e7J7t7CbgL6Ket299SgRiYHun7EaF-15PzP8qzjttj28x12QY9Q1s5ucOZXWjaJ4b0CX4CM-3xA-KN_rSEu8k0bYq2UKhI6y1rQTaIOb6Nk/s1600/Island+Odyssey+VBS+2011.jpg" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Great news! I’ve just received word that the dates/times are set for the VBS preview at the Chesapeake Cokesbury store are set:</div><br />
Thursday, January 27th, at 12:00 noon and again at 3:00 pm.<br />
Saturday, January 29th, at 10:00 am (with the Group Publishing representative) and again at 12:30 pm.<br />
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PLEASE remember to RSVP for this special event<strong> by calling the Cokesbury store, (757) 312-0084.</strong><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLG_fsqa9txKV9cBZweVt8XMIYKmteZIZNa-dFunp_xIt5Tp_RBfq4p7JE5Ggiy_1uaZJlB-0O6vQ4u0X9wXPfYK6kasnttE5OuHIxD2WXm2RICE1syjGMwbx1fiXhzBOb2kUmNIBRlAo/s1600/renew+augsburg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="146" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLG_fsqa9txKV9cBZweVt8XMIYKmteZIZNa-dFunp_xIt5Tp_RBfq4p7JE5Ggiy_1uaZJlB-0O6vQ4u0X9wXPfYK6kasnttE5OuHIxD2WXm2RICE1syjGMwbx1fiXhzBOb2kUmNIBRlAo/s200/renew+augsburg.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
As an additional note, Augsburg Fortress will not be publishing a traditional Vacation Bible School curriculum this year. Augsburg is offering the new ‘green’ VBS curriculum introduced last year: ReNew. Learn more about this exciting option by clicking <a href="http://www.augsburgfortress.org/store/category.jsp?clsid=260821">here</a>.The Resource Center of the Presbytery of Eastern Virginiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17164722660058524117noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1374997613768376098.post-52488126669034427042010-12-17T09:00:00.000-05:002010-12-17T09:00:37.978-05:00Hurried and worried?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqFH0_wlf66LcLo4YN3DEu2lm2F98y6r8R7pBZN9mzS4am-WMKEirBQTbWCyZafTVYrDQffnlTCCbWOt9ZdqZoVxH4DMSrtaqZs3nQZxpsbjaFoge76yP0RtPhxWgrBxYVfRqC2_T2hUM/s1600/christmascover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqFH0_wlf66LcLo4YN3DEu2lm2F98y6r8R7pBZN9mzS4am-WMKEirBQTbWCyZafTVYrDQffnlTCCbWOt9ZdqZoVxH4DMSrtaqZs3nQZxpsbjaFoge76yP0RtPhxWgrBxYVfRqC2_T2hUM/s200/christmascover.jpg" width="154" /></a></div><br />
Is the rush and stress of the holiday season getting you down? There's still time to find ideas for living more simply and rediscovering what Advent and Christmas are really about. Check out <a href="http://www.pcusa.org/resource/ideas-reclaiming-advent-and-christmas/"><i>Ideas for Reclaiming Advent and Christmas</i></a> from PC USA's Enough for Everyone ministry. This 4-page downloadable booklet offers great ideas for incorporating prayer, responsible gift-giving, and serving sustainable holiday meals. The booklet also lists resources for further study.<br />
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Here's an excerpt from the Holiday Gifts section:<br />
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<b>"</b><u><b>Holiday Gifts</b></u><br />
The Magi traveled a long distance to bring gifts to Jesus. Their gifts honored the child and provided for the family. Today, gift giving can be a tricky topic. Like the Magi, we should find humble gifts that honor our loved ones while honoring Christ and remembering why we celebrate Christmas in the first place.<br />
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<u>Meals:</u> Give the promise of food and meals to people on your list. Promising to eat lunch with loved ones at their workplace or school once a month is a great way to spend more time together.<br />
<u>Homemade Gifts</u>: Knitted items, framed photos, handcrafted toys, works of art, and other personally made gifts show care and concern for the recipients because they require time and thought to create.<br />
<u>Commitment:</u> Make a commitment to someone this season. Find ways to serve the people on your list by committing to care for them. You might shovel snow, prepare meals, plan events, or schedule a vacation."<br />
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Enjoy a simple, sane, and sustainable holiday!The Resource Center of the Presbytery of Eastern Virginiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17164722660058524117noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1374997613768376098.post-77736988741360226882010-12-14T09:28:00.000-05:002010-12-14T09:28:40.671-05:00January Educators Luncheon - Be I.G.<span style="font-family: inherit;">Educators, Youth Leaders, Pastors, Volunteers, you are invited to the next Educators Luncheon to be held at the Presbytery of Eastern Virginia Resource Center. Mark your calendars now and bring your lunch on <strong>Thursday, January 6th, at noon</strong> for a great time of learning and sharing together. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPzk6FNu9-4hyphenhyphenSqXSi_SCkg0RVEY-EapskTQ7zQmHJ1RlLrY0RnCjQaiOvhncg-SlFz46lauEeU0Gj1HXMkhFqsZh8Hsxlj14xjcB94DNnkXEgiHuHf2lofsLaUCQRcKPjBJLLFTQBOTc/s1600/intergenerational%252520photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPzk6FNu9-4hyphenhyphenSqXSi_SCkg0RVEY-EapskTQ7zQmHJ1RlLrY0RnCjQaiOvhncg-SlFz46lauEeU0Gj1HXMkhFqsZh8Hsxlj14xjcB94DNnkXEgiHuHf2lofsLaUCQRcKPjBJLLFTQBOTc/s1600/intergenerational%252520photo.jpg" /></a></div>January's topic offers <strong><u>BIG ideas for Being I.G.</u></strong>! To grow as a church family means celebrating our similarities and exploring our differences among all ages. In short, it means being intentional about being intergenerational (I.G.). This presentation will include 'field tested' I.G. events for small and large groups. Discover ways to engage all ages in fun, biblical, historical, and seasonal activities within your small or large congregation. Tweak 'em and own 'em. Jacqui Horton, DCE at First Presbyterian Church, Virginia Beach, will bring her creativity and enthusiasm to share with all!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvg8Ky3RxXueq7KzA0TgllMARE6XRMAkbvY6na4_kSjL4MgjqQ-jL2rQjzktVsHZapw0IMUt_9kC2czt2nkgWueo67c9oqsIOom6Ns3DB-yXcGNpJKqgZEu8DK5ygDe1a0h7txHL0_KJU/s1600/watering2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvg8Ky3RxXueq7KzA0TgllMARE6XRMAkbvY6na4_kSjL4MgjqQ-jL2rQjzktVsHZapw0IMUt_9kC2czt2nkgWueo67c9oqsIOom6Ns3DB-yXcGNpJKqgZEu8DK5ygDe1a0h7txHL0_KJU/s1600/watering2.jpg" /></a></div>Please RSVP to Donna Rae Barrow, Resource Center Director at PEVA, before Tuesday, January 4th, by calling 757-397-7063 or sending a message to <a href="mailto:donnarae@pcusa-peva.org">donnarae@pcusa-peva.org</a>. The Resource Center of the Presbytery of Eastern Virginiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17164722660058524117noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1374997613768376098.post-14672688209496161942010-12-07T12:26:00.000-05:002010-12-07T12:26:34.971-05:00Thoughtful Christian Sale!<em>The Thoughtful Christian</em> is an online resource center and marketplace featuring downloadable studies for youth, adults, and parents, as well as thousands of books from many of the most compelling authors in the fields of Christianity, spirituality, and religion. <br />
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And they're having a <strong>12 Days of Christmas Sale</strong>!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHQ-CcsREjbcl5pJ2vcRQE1gr1SjyrlwsujDxt6ML36rEQfjTqIt9bqDmLgeELyvDpn1JaWmmWYo6PH9sZ2MK2aMs79DCW-u2VOt2gGSepmz8HyrOW8gG-cPWwN3H3BMKCAV7EXT3aI4A/s1600/12_days_of_christmas_main_medium250.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHQ-CcsREjbcl5pJ2vcRQE1gr1SjyrlwsujDxt6ML36rEQfjTqIt9bqDmLgeELyvDpn1JaWmmWYo6PH9sZ2MK2aMs79DCW-u2VOt2gGSepmz8HyrOW8gG-cPWwN3H3BMKCAV7EXT3aI4A/s1600/12_days_of_christmas_main_medium250.jpg" /></a></div>Beginning December 6 through December 17, customers can take advantage of great deals on books as well as subscriptions and renewals to <em>The Thoughtful Christian</em> downloadable Sunday school resources. <br />
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A new special will be added each day, along with FREE shipping on book orders of $25 or more. To view the "12 Days of Christmas" calendar, featuring a listing of the specials available each day... click <a href="http://www.thethoughtfulchristian.com/Pages/Item/1464/12-Days-of-Christmas-Promotion.aspx?utm_source=Updates+from+The+Thoughtful+Christian.com&utm_campaign=e824dda40a-12+Days+of+Christmas+Deal-Introduction&utm_medium=email">HERE</a> and enjoy the savings!The Resource Center of the Presbytery of Eastern Virginiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17164722660058524117noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1374997613768376098.post-41660965518239654372010-12-01T11:03:00.002-05:002010-12-01T11:04:22.420-05:00Jesse Tree resources, and a free download!Welcome to December... a time of waiting and watching in wonder! <br />
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One way to enhance this time of expectation is to create a Jesse Tree. A Jesse Tree is a small tree decorated with symbols portraying the spiritual heritage of Jesus, a royal family tree of sorts. Check out these resources to get started:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUc6a4Ro4YmmfOutoFDeNcuxd1LSy_uPuFu5yz8G-k3kPXEY787SKXVDowElGSYh34dVwYgTWHSDuisYz8dwSVXbQuDUaLGmCf8iDDYoWYtFXhIMl70gn99vm-uYTvyyKQ5CyRGdkxUWs/s1600/Jesse+Tree+Anderson.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUc6a4Ro4YmmfOutoFDeNcuxd1LSy_uPuFu5yz8G-k3kPXEY787SKXVDowElGSYh34dVwYgTWHSDuisYz8dwSVXbQuDUaLGmCf8iDDYoWYtFXhIMl70gn99vm-uYTvyyKQ5CyRGdkxUWs/s1600/Jesse+Tree+Anderson.gif" /></a></div><br />
<strong><u>The Jesse Tree: Stories and Symbols of Advent</u></strong><br />
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This lovely book, written in 1966 by Raymond and Georgene Anderson, shares the heritage of Jesus in stories and symbols. The Resource Center has used this book to create a bulletin board Jesse Tree that climbs up the wall and over part of the ceiling, symbols floating for all to enjoy!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIyQk-EcEecVNefRdG_OMz_hCGRa6u3pbPopWAeFhaF5Sww3Q9SC4hoV0eFWP8gP1eaYFnZs4jFlNAYuZcnIeTtOjI90AyUejiN2MLZPmTxIUliO3mFwbQsvf2EpB6Glqz6pJ5hmlvC7M/s1600/Jesse+Tree+McCaughrean.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" ox="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIyQk-EcEecVNefRdG_OMz_hCGRa6u3pbPopWAeFhaF5Sww3Q9SC4hoV0eFWP8gP1eaYFnZs4jFlNAYuZcnIeTtOjI90AyUejiN2MLZPmTxIUliO3mFwbQsvf2EpB6Glqz6pJ5hmlvC7M/s200/Jesse+Tree+McCaughrean.jpg" width="166" /></a><br />
<strong><u>The Jesse Tree</u></strong><br />
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In this modern-day story, the symbols are added day by day during the season of advent, and day by day the old stories are retold, culminating in the stories of the first Christmas. Whether the twenty-four stories in this book are read during Advent or enjoyed one afternoon in mid-summer, they are a great addition to the understanding of Advent and the Jesse tree for all ages.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPdTZXaEusjjRBqfYCyQ_Dj0DACkXw2ihemCr62dd2kycohQ9ANmjXExCgBGwVPlni0PTEunkukva026Rhp841H3Oc0ia9Efgoh0261MJh56Am3qbIbCBs3YQIpn960ETkDtnErphA6Ko/s1600/Jesse+Tree+A+Holy+Experience.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" ox="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPdTZXaEusjjRBqfYCyQ_Dj0DACkXw2ihemCr62dd2kycohQ9ANmjXExCgBGwVPlni0PTEunkukva026Rhp841H3Oc0ia9Efgoh0261MJh56Am3qbIbCBs3YQIpn960ETkDtnErphA6Ko/s200/Jesse+Tree+A+Holy+Experience.JPG" width="149" /></a><br />
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There are lots of activities and recipes and Bible studies out there in 'Blog-land', but I recently found this sweet one from Ann at<em> A Holy Experience. </em>It's free, downloadable, printable, and includes some lovely ornaments to cut out for each day's reading. In addition to the daily scripture, there are meditations, prayers, and ways to 'unwrap His love in the world' - small gestures to share the good news. Click <a href="http://www.aholyexperience.com/2010/11/free-jesse-tree-advent-devotional-book/">HERE</a> to learn more about downloading this resource.The Resource Center of the Presbytery of Eastern Virginiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17164722660058524117noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1374997613768376098.post-57323160113182789782010-11-25T11:12:00.000-05:002010-11-25T11:12:54.238-05:00Happy Thanksgiving!<div style="text-align: center;"><i>May the enduring love of our Creator</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>fill us with gratitude and responsibility</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>for all we have been given.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Amen.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK-hg0b16sU-qa847laqcltNgXU_-GpZk8gv1jBrlSFrWPsbnc19a5lk52z5yue5psbtcV-k5KTCXC4thy2SUlg-H8Zubij7CUxJNPLSjxHOg7BIEpLugxqeXP3x5Ia2BLiSU8d1C8_es/s1600/9780962714719.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK-hg0b16sU-qa847laqcltNgXU_-GpZk8gv1jBrlSFrWPsbnc19a5lk52z5yue5psbtcV-k5KTCXC4thy2SUlg-H8Zubij7CUxJNPLSjxHOg7BIEpLugxqeXP3x5Ia2BLiSU8d1C8_es/s400/9780962714719.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
From "For Everything There is a Season: 75 Blessings for Daily Life," a wonderful resource filled with preparation, welcoming thoughts, prayers, Bible texts, reflections, ritual actions, and blessings for all the seasons of our lives. The Resource Center of the Presbytery of Eastern Virginiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17164722660058524117noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1374997613768376098.post-63530770474708654382010-11-17T14:15:00.002-05:002010-11-17T14:20:22.144-05:00Youth Resources coming soon!Two new items for youth are on their way to the Resource Center:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSpFgjSZrkgsYWHG1Q7Vvwd5LfubF1sL3Lw3S3QmnyaSuY_AX7m9Hma9lb-Guj8wgewfyzNxdw-DvB-mHSGLq2XqwSclXKWIkfiHW2ppxPTsuVSgGZ5uJ6vW4b4iK-rSB7dj-0y586PG4/s1600/harrypotter_productpage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="296" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSpFgjSZrkgsYWHG1Q7Vvwd5LfubF1sL3Lw3S3QmnyaSuY_AX7m9Hma9lb-Guj8wgewfyzNxdw-DvB-mHSGLq2XqwSclXKWIkfiHW2ppxPTsuVSgGZ5uJ6vW4b4iK-rSB7dj-0y586PG4/s320/harrypotter_productpage.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong><em> InSight: Harry Potter</em></strong> (15 minute DVD with guide for discussion) – <em>InSight, </em>the unique new series from Stephen Skelton (<em>The Mayberry Bible Study</em>, <em>Gilligan's Island & the Seven Deadly Sins Bible Study</em>, etc.) is focused on hot topics at the intersection of culture and Christianity. Engaging entertainment from a faith perspective, each entry in the series will equip you to reach youth, adults, and seekers by asking three relevant questions. In <em>InSight: Harry Potter</em>, you’ll discover the answers to: </div><div style="text-align: justify;"> What does the author say? – Learn why Rowling said her belief in God inspired Harry Potter</div><div style="text-align: justify;"> What does the story say? – Uncover Harry’s prophecy, ‘power’ of love, and title of ‘chosen one’</div><div style="text-align: justify;"> What does the Bible say? – Find out which two Bible verses Rowling said summarize the series</div><div style="text-align: justify;"> Complete with direct quotes from the author, an overview of major Christian imagery in the series and discussion questions in the guide, <em>InSight : Harry Potter</em> equips you to start a conversation with a cultural hot topic only to lead into a talk about the more important matters of the Christian faith.</div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf2fT5iA-xH3sdxJ_e2pf8LDzM-z2BaG-ju0AoPkv8Nw3JHQJi1eL3gqwe3YWxFszotEknhQljYVeiVrd7DsTjX6dXEn7rJIpLtf79cFURPQLPrmTb6Z9UfCeUcj_DOKuyQL0RUGs9Bms/s1600/me+teen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf2fT5iA-xH3sdxJ_e2pf8LDzM-z2BaG-ju0AoPkv8Nw3JHQJi1eL3gqwe3YWxFszotEknhQljYVeiVrd7DsTjX6dXEn7rJIpLtf79cFURPQLPrmTb6Z9UfCeUcj_DOKuyQL0RUGs9Bms/s320/me+teen.jpg" width="212" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong><em> the me I want to be: becoming God’s best version of you: teen edition</em></strong> / John Ortberg with Scott Rubin – God’s best version of you is waiting. But first, John Ortberg has two very important questions: </div><div style="text-align: justify;"> Are you REALLY LIVING = full of joy and peace, in harmony with God, others, self; curious, willing to learn and experience opportunities to grow toward the Best Version of yourself;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong>OR</strong></div><div style="text-align: justify;"> Are you DECAYING = lacking mental and emotional energy, feeling uneasy and not very content, too self-focused?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"> Ortberg has some intriguing answers to those questions in this curriculum and will help youth guage spiritual health and deal with real issues faced as a teen in today’s world. The five sessions, each planned for approx. 60 minutes in length, include: Discovering the Spirit; Renewing My Mind; Redeeming My Time; Deepening My Relationships; Transforming My Experiences. This curriculum kit contains: 1 softcover book; 1 participant's guide; 1 DVD with five video session and leader’s guide.</div>The Resource Center of the Presbytery of Eastern Virginiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17164722660058524117noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1374997613768376098.post-53619970136950267202010-11-15T18:17:00.000-05:002010-11-15T18:17:35.514-05:00Gluten-free GingerbreadAs the season for building houses and stables and cottages with gingerbread approaches, please remember to be inclusive. Many of our friends beside us in our churches have discovered a sensitivity to gluten. I went searching and found the following recipe <a href="http://onlysometimesclever.wordpress.com/2007/12/03/gingerbread-for-cookies-houses-gfcf/">on the web</a>, checked it with a doctor mom of a gluten-sensitive child, and it's safe! Tried this recipe over the weekend... it's delicious!!! We'll be using this recipe at our church's Advent workshop so that EVERYONE can partake.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWISDHgq0Go60QXPxP7KTMl9l7ZOXDGexyZIiLns94XAnzHA7wQn_nUiuVauLhV6mY69S57pd1uE4TuMa6Xlo9QFt_QMG0frmVA_FEqcpQynmVXEj4fQ9w-se5W1iTfl543j3oLbWZyWc/s1600/gingerbread+men.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWISDHgq0Go60QXPxP7KTMl9l7ZOXDGexyZIiLns94XAnzHA7wQn_nUiuVauLhV6mY69S57pd1uE4TuMa6Xlo9QFt_QMG0frmVA_FEqcpQynmVXEj4fQ9w-se5W1iTfl543j3oLbWZyWc/s400/gingerbread+men.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<i>Gingerbread for Cookies & Houses (GFCF)<br />
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This is a sturdy, versatile dough that is just right for gingerbread cookies — either crispy or chewy — and for the walls and roof of your allergen-free, gluten-free, casein-free gingerbread house. The cookies are not super- sweet, so they work well for icing. (I used royal icing for the gingerbread house; many recipes can be found online.)<br />
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This recipe does freeze very well. Thaw in the fridge, then bring to room temp before rolling.<br />
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(12/13/09 Note: It’s getting harder to find amaranth flour. Today, I made the cookies, substituting 1⁄2 cup quinoa flour and 1⁄2 cup millet flour for the amaranth, and they turned out great. I also altered the amounts of sweet rice flour and brown rice flour. ALSO — Bob’s Red Mill Brown Rice flour seems to be milled more finely than Arrowhead Mill’s. If you use Arrowhead Mill’s, expect your cookies to be a tad grittier.)</i><br />
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<i>GFCF Gingerbread Cookies<br />
Makes about 8 dozen medium-sized cutout cookies<br />
• 1 cup amaranth flour</i><br />
<i> • 2 cups potato starch </i><br />
<i>• 3 cups sweet rice flour </i><br />
<i>• 3 cups brown rice flour </i><br />
<i>• 2 Tbsp xanthan gum </i><br />
<i>• 3 Tbsp baking powder</i><br />
<i> • 3 Tbsp potato flour (optional) </i><br />
<i>• 2 Tbsp ground ginger (or more, if you like ‘em really gingery) </i><br />
<i>• 1 Tbsp ground allspice </i><br />
<i>• 1 Tbsp ground cinnamon </i><br />
<i>• 1 1/2 tsp ground cloves </i><br />
<i>• 3 cups powdered sugar </i><br />
<i>• 2 cups dark brown sugar </i><br />
<i>• 2 cups shortening </i><br />
<i>• 1 cup eggs (depending on size, 4-5 eggs. Measure into a glass measuring cup.) </i><br />
<i>• 1/2 cup + 2 Tbsp dark molasses (OR 1/3 cup blackstrap molasses) </i><br />
<i>• 1 Tbsp salt<br />
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. </i><br />
<i>2. In a large bowl, with a whisk, mix together the flours, starch, xanthan gum, baking powder, and<br />
spices until well-combined. Set aside. </i><br />
<i>3. In another large bowl, cream together the powdered and brown sugars, shortening, eggs, molasses and salt. </i><br />
<i>4. To the sugar mixture, add flour mixture, about 2 cups at a time, stirring with a wooden spoon. Once the flour mixture is mostly incorporated, knead the dough in the bowl, slowly punching the dough down in the middle and folding the sides of the dough into the middle. Or, put the dough on a non-stick surface (like a silicone mat or a marble slab), and knead it on there. Incorporate all the flour mixture until you have a stiff dough.<br />
5. If the dough is too dry, and will not hold all of the flour, add a Tbsp of water at a time until it will gather into a ball. Resist adding water if at all possible. The dough works best if it is not very moist.<br />
6. If you refrigerate or freeze the dough, bring to room temp before rolling. For the most uniform cookies, and definitely for the large sections required for gingerbread houses, roll the dough right onto a large piece of foil or parchment, then pick up the sheet and transfer to the cookie sheet. Working with about 1/4 of the dough at a time, roll the dough 1/4′′ thick. From this dough, either cut sections for your gingerbread house from a template, or use cookie cutters.<br />
7. Greasing the pan is not necessary, but I favor using nonstick foil. For best results, use insulated pans. (Hint: for your own insulated pans, take two regular jelly roll pans, and between them, add a layer of heavy duty aluminum foil that has been wrinkled, then partially smoothed out. This will create an air gap between the two pans.)<br />
8. If you roll your cookies to 1/4′′ thickness and bake on insulated pans as suggested, baking time is 19 minutes. If your cookies are thinner, and/or you’re using thinner pans, bake time will be shorter. When done, the corners of your cookies will just start to brown, and the middles will no longer feel spongy. Also, you can bake for 16-17 minutes to produce a softer, chewier cookie (this is not recommended for gingerbread houses, though).</i>The Resource Center of the Presbytery of Eastern Virginiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17164722660058524117noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1374997613768376098.post-36284164136445022802010-11-06T20:38:00.001-04:002010-11-06T20:45:52.181-04:00Shepherd's Speedy Snacks<i>Christmas Extras: Faith Filled Ideas for Celebrating Christmas</i> by Jan Kershner is one of the new books at the Resource Center, and it's filled with lots of fun and easy projects for the Advent season. The projects each have an objective, supply list, time needed, preparation steps, and even what to say and ask the children as they work on the project.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdKdNmW8x2yYDjwOGi04QlZODEMOxiMz8TdIjQpOrR7xRKpQLG7yfy3UOPbf5E2-BjMtmJ6jaUIrerL5w_XxUHm2ABcpJxh14fCvLX4jaOpwKeVRmDBCm9k1l-3eyj1l5i1zhXCCxProg/s1600/christmas+extras.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdKdNmW8x2yYDjwOGi04QlZODEMOxiMz8TdIjQpOrR7xRKpQLG7yfy3UOPbf5E2-BjMtmJ6jaUIrerL5w_XxUHm2ABcpJxh14fCvLX4jaOpwKeVRmDBCm9k1l-3eyj1l5i1zhXCCxProg/s1600/christmas+extras.gif" /></a></div><br />
I'm on the team designing the Advent workshop at my church: <u>Preparing the Way at Providence</u>. Like most Advent workshop events, there will be stations for creating Advent wreaths and Chrismons, a corner for stories to be read, tables of fair trade wares, and yummy refreshments. But what I was looking for was a fresh approach to 'getting the word out' about the event. That's when I read <i>Christmas Extras</i> and came across Shepherd's Speedy Goodies on page 22. Perfect!<br />
<br />
I started off at the computer, developing a topper for the bag that would contain what I renamed 'Shepherd's Speedy Snacks'. On one side of the topper were details about <u>Preparing the Way at Providence</u>. On the other side (after the topper is folded) is the 'what to say' section from the project as shown on page 22... a story about the shepherds leaving on a journey to see the baby Jesus. I also included the ingredients of the 'Snacks'. Four of these toppers fit on a page, and were printed onto cardstock, cut to size and folded in half. On to the mixing!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtfw-S2k03WQo-pbTn7mW_6ZuY80uMCN9JvV9TtXdXjMArxKgrArw11HieXx0qJejNJNUyL8SbP875u7fsBkQ9ViblG7WjGtbwT9KPU9pJLD0tq8v7U7CFcTwR4bADXKwYu7Q3rulclPE/s1600/IMG_0538.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtfw-S2k03WQo-pbTn7mW_6ZuY80uMCN9JvV9TtXdXjMArxKgrArw11HieXx0qJejNJNUyL8SbP875u7fsBkQ9ViblG7WjGtbwT9KPU9pJLD0tq8v7U7CFcTwR4bADXKwYu7Q3rulclPE/s200/IMG_0538.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfoKk8EHgvky_vU3r__pss3ogwyAerDJJGJh8U1YllDX1Q2mTgljd30SdocXrjVT1c4kqOWh3lZ6MgDho8D1xiYSx8ZuMS4vJVs0XCMouXerqbZsPYay1P5DM57gAZOeI1aydUm9tm8Yw/s1600/IMG_0536.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfoKk8EHgvky_vU3r__pss3ogwyAerDJJGJh8U1YllDX1Q2mTgljd30SdocXrjVT1c4kqOWh3lZ6MgDho8D1xiYSx8ZuMS4vJVs0XCMouXerqbZsPYay1P5DM57gAZOeI1aydUm9tm8Yw/s200/IMG_0536.JPG" width="200" /></a><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY_U2ylfIb8QLQZQeZHhZmTIQhTiGDiX6xAzz8m7_gRrGcckJpTdt-AWYwHmG6mM3esDSiuvNunsz0PhfsTbx33y49Yglrl2_TaA-SwBXvVqKpAkyYOl-_DcrWp96G8uFBc1UxZ1D0sbg/s1600/IMG_0540.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY_U2ylfIb8QLQZQeZHhZmTIQhTiGDiX6xAzz8m7_gRrGcckJpTdt-AWYwHmG6mM3esDSiuvNunsz0PhfsTbx33y49Yglrl2_TaA-SwBXvVqKpAkyYOl-_DcrWp96G8uFBc1UxZ1D0sbg/s200/IMG_0540.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFWOSsBzIfilCGAD0Fbpj7PqvwqIghL4MHEDCmt1XIo4hmN_aUS_v7JtKfJLTbNDXq_Xxw_6UsJLxeQS0_pmWtiAScYjWxLJDx8WUvPEcRGW4RyABjDlgtW3uej8YbXG9GsLUb-mXpKoA/s1600/IMG_0542.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFWOSsBzIfilCGAD0Fbpj7PqvwqIghL4MHEDCmt1XIo4hmN_aUS_v7JtKfJLTbNDXq_Xxw_6UsJLxeQS0_pmWtiAScYjWxLJDx8WUvPEcRGW4RyABjDlgtW3uej8YbXG9GsLUb-mXpKoA/s200/IMG_0542.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><br />
For the 'Speedy Snacks', I mixed Cheerios, pistachios, and dried cranberries: nutritious and festive in color. I measured out 1/3 cup per bag and sealed it shut. The topper was then stapled on and that was all there was to it! The youth will help assemble these bags of 'Snacks', making quick work of the process.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlV1C_sL33WQO7hcv2E_G2lV_M8QEKtMSbBG1enPnoEuoqMor7SBd_lqnxyB3NuPXVNvpK0iyqOifmWEWsr1Y_Ubz2Hu323o2sCVq53AURi6uvcls-PyPW9bzdhXmvAwdeOhbhEGumhuA/s1600/IMG_0546.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlV1C_sL33WQO7hcv2E_G2lV_M8QEKtMSbBG1enPnoEuoqMor7SBd_lqnxyB3NuPXVNvpK0iyqOifmWEWsr1Y_Ubz2Hu323o2sCVq53AURi6uvcls-PyPW9bzdhXmvAwdeOhbhEGumhuA/s200/IMG_0546.JPG" width="200" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz9kU95ZU8BsQkUbnRtoLv3HWFERBzMNOTjIArfjveuaz3RRqo5mK96iRhpyLU5HWZb1awVeMrmkFREcjfMKFt7UUlHsALcB0BRkeKfES91bWbpLfBxA7O2MXi8nFiMAjZxHjlXh5J7Ng/s1600/IMG_0550.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz9kU95ZU8BsQkUbnRtoLv3HWFERBzMNOTjIArfjveuaz3RRqo5mK96iRhpyLU5HWZb1awVeMrmkFREcjfMKFt7UUlHsALcB0BRkeKfES91bWbpLfBxA7O2MXi8nFiMAjZxHjlXh5J7Ng/s200/IMG_0550.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXTEdIzI9q8mmREcOFYCFqrmTkFUQw65FbQpXlkf1LpiVtngIhhL2YY-8A11qiQVOlO_i2P0CQzSMnrrlrpsQVMkwYU43o__-Hw1RYqVuNoBgabztGN6ozSt36yT17ClP5WU7b7RYHlQg/s1600/IMG_0554.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXTEdIzI9q8mmREcOFYCFqrmTkFUQw65FbQpXlkf1LpiVtngIhhL2YY-8A11qiQVOlO_i2P0CQzSMnrrlrpsQVMkwYU43o__-Hw1RYqVuNoBgabztGN6ozSt36yT17ClP5WU7b7RYHlQg/s400/IMG_0554.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>These tasty little marketing tools will be handed out during our post-worship fellowship time... a tasty snack, a quick story, and an invitation to the Advent workshop. <br />
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Check out <i>Christmas Extras</i> for some Sunday School fun, for Children's Church lessons, or maybe some surprising inspiration!<br />
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PS - <i>Easter Extras: Faith Filled Ideas for Easter Week</i> is available, too!The Resource Center of the Presbytery of Eastern Virginiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17164722660058524117noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1374997613768376098.post-32624629769997993962010-11-03T21:31:00.001-04:002010-11-05T11:29:50.047-04:00New Resource: Canon and CreedNew resources arrive almost daily at the Resource Center! One such resource is this offering in the newest phase of the Interpretation commentary series: <b><i>Canon and Creed</i></b> by Robert W. Jenson. <br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgA26fbhSYHyd5I_itb09aIpLOP__I5qJyvt4Uhs9YtM1nyXZFaskQFRD98QJ-7IGk4_v9SL0zsQm3yBQKjh8IWmGTd6oCQcJHHaAxkR0N35WCpYXfD3Or09GUgMqN14IROGtMf-psqkw/s1600/canon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgA26fbhSYHyd5I_itb09aIpLOP__I5qJyvt4Uhs9YtM1nyXZFaskQFRD98QJ-7IGk4_v9SL0zsQm3yBQKjh8IWmGTd6oCQcJHHaAxkR0N35WCpYXfD3Or09GUgMqN14IROGtMf-psqkw/s200/canon.jpg" width="132" /></a> In this challenging work, Jenson posits that for the sake of its integrity through history, the church must always remember that canon needs creed and creed needs canon and that the church must govern its discourse and practice by their joint import. But how does the church understand and protect the relation between its Scripture and its creedal formulations? No one is more qualified to address that question than Jenson, who shows how canon and creed work together and interact and who argues that neither is sufficient to guide Christian faith without the help of the other.<br />
This book will enable contemporary interpreters and teachers, pastors, and laity to attend to the questions and understand the tensions that are always present as the church seeks to hold canon and creed together. </div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;"> "…In this short book, Jenson renews our sense of shock that Scripture, creed, and theology could ever have become separated in the modern church. What is more, he teaches us how to reweave them, both by precept and by example," commented R. Kendall Soulen, Professor Systematic Theology, Wesley Theological Seminary.</div><br />
Additions to this Interpretation series will focus on the Bible's most enduring passages and most vital themes, bringing to these topics the insight and faithful wisdom that are longtime Interpretation hallmarks. Planned titles include: <i>The Ten Commandments, Eschatology, Violence in the Bible, Sacraments, Miracles, Women in the Bible,</i> and many more. Check out the first in this series from the Resource Center!The Resource Center of the Presbytery of Eastern Virginiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17164722660058524117noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1374997613768376098.post-64870106250738341712010-10-30T17:47:00.000-04:002010-10-30T17:47:24.937-04:00Beyond Games and Soup Kitchens with Rodger NishiokaA couple of weeks ago, several of us from the Presbytery of Eastern Virginia attended a seminar at Union Presbyterian Seminary with Rodger Nishioka, Benton Family Chair in Christian Education, Columbia Theological Seminary. The title of the seminar, "Beyond Games and Soup Kitchens: Nurturing a Passionate Spirituality in Youth Ministry," didn't begin to cover the treasures unfolded in the two days spent in dialogue together. <br />
<br />
I must admit that I LOVE learning. Crave new information like others crave chocolate. I took 13 pages of notes over the two days. I'm still transcribing those notes, so let me share what some others took away from our time with Rodger Nishioka:<br />
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<i>The one thing Rodger said that really stuck with me was, and I’m paraphrasing, “the Golden Rule is well and good to get us started, but what I think God is really calling us to do is love our neighbor as they want to be loved. This means we must get to know them enough to know how best they are loved, not simply place our own wants and needs on them.”</i><br />
<i><br />
What a fascinating idea! I’ve already shared this with my youth and they also had a really positive reaction to the idea. I hope that in my ministry, I am loving these youth as they need to be loved!</i><br />
<div style="text-align: right;">Sarah Ramsey<br />
Director of Youth Ministries<br />
Williamsburg Presbyterian Church</div><div style="text-align: right;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><i>I think the thing that intrigued me the most was the discussion of moral realism vs moral relativism and our role in guiding them through this shift. Not that I was completely oblivious to these different ways of thinking, but the emphasis on this helped me to think about the way that I interact with my youth group. It also forces me to gauge the expectations I have for my kids and will allow me to adjust accordingly.</i></div><div style="text-align: right;">Sherri Egerton</div><div style="text-align: right;">Program Director</div><div style="text-align: right;">Makemie Woods Camp and Conference Center</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">During the seminar, resources for further reading were recommended... this one is currently available for checkout from the Resource Center:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilc08hVAQc1Xwnz13r73AJJPUcD0kJLUCMJ_oTf5mWTDghbamHn3vzwtybjwIzIeQoyV-ORmx0FIFi4zQhw0m4XUxli0lEx9AbJP_O51Hpk509odYSVZ1svbrE5-B8pO_fSCL7T3ugTc8/s1600/practicing+passion.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilc08hVAQc1Xwnz13r73AJJPUcD0kJLUCMJ_oTf5mWTDghbamHn3vzwtybjwIzIeQoyV-ORmx0FIFi4zQhw0m4XUxli0lEx9AbJP_O51Hpk509odYSVZ1svbrE5-B8pO_fSCL7T3ugTc8/s200/practicing+passion.jpg" width="133" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: left;">Kenda Creasy Dean's "Practicing Passion: Youth and the Quest for a Passionate Church" - this book offers a compelling new model for reaching, discipling, and empowering today's youth. The uniqueness of this book lies in its relocating youth ministry in practical theology rather than in educational theory or psychological or social development. It pays attention to the theological mooring that youth need to connect with the church and hold firm amid the growing demands of popular culture by focusing on the theological resonance between the passion of Christ and adolescents' experience of passion. She uses this to develop a framework for youth ministry that draws on the historic practices of the Christian community as a 'curriculum of passion."</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;">Want to learn more? Rodger Nishioka is coming to our area! He'll be at Makemie Woods March 18-19. Mark your calendars now and look for more information to come.</div>The Resource Center of the Presbytery of Eastern Virginiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17164722660058524117noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1374997613768376098.post-86394816909968882432010-10-26T19:29:00.000-04:002010-10-26T19:29:47.169-04:00Educators Luncheon in November<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcdT2FHErf7OMoZn96AYf8OFd8YF5tAxu7xSQzo92PcJKnnVWotAgL068j3If3rUIO-3eq0Q-6jiopxLeOXoNrKvbL2GVdwDgLfJ7YxHAqGAKs8w94_gCYJUmu2cIW0rP_lUVqIn2WQ74/s1600/MP900439453.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcdT2FHErf7OMoZn96AYf8OFd8YF5tAxu7xSQzo92PcJKnnVWotAgL068j3If3rUIO-3eq0Q-6jiopxLeOXoNrKvbL2GVdwDgLfJ7YxHAqGAKs8w94_gCYJUmu2cIW0rP_lUVqIn2WQ74/s400/MP900439453.JPG" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #783f04; font-size: large;">Educators Luncheon</span><br />
<span style="color: #274e13;">Conversation and Inspiration </span><br style="color: #274e13;" /><span style="color: #274e13;">from Makemie Woods and PEVA Youth Ministry</span><br style="color: #274e13;" /><span style="color: #274e13;">Thursday, November 4th – Noon</span><br style="color: #274e13;" /><br style="color: #274e13;" /><i><span style="color: #274e13;">Special Guests: Rev. ‘Mike’ Burcher and Sherri Egerton</span></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: black;">How can we as Christian Educators and Youth Leaders support each other? Do you have questions about PEVA Youth Ministry? What’s the latest news from Makemie Woods? And how do the answers to these questions help us as we seek to nurture and educate the youth in our churches?<br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: black;">Mike and Sherri will be joining us next Thursday, November 4th, at the Resource Center to share and discuss ways Makemie Woods and PEVA Youth Ministry can support the ministry of the local congregation. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: black;"></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><span style="color: black;"></span><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinSVNs6G4IavJtI0xqTa__58Scu-8boXnax8REoW59QIF4mJtCdJKSSBRWyEcINjVeP1af2PnGRYBKsNd_DqOce_3W62loigyD6mPYD8W1JGtrY4L27jxrdL0awPcTzR_P7ByTH2sdeOI/s1600/MP900439444.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinSVNs6G4IavJtI0xqTa__58Scu-8boXnax8REoW59QIF4mJtCdJKSSBRWyEcINjVeP1af2PnGRYBKsNd_DqOce_3W62loigyD6mPYD8W1JGtrY4L27jxrdL0awPcTzR_P7ByTH2sdeOI/s200/MP900439444.JPG" width="200" /></a><span style="color: black;">Bring your thoughts, your questions, a brown bag lunch, and ANY EDUCATORS AND YOUTH LEADERS from your church wishing to attend. RSVP to Donna Rae Barrow, PEVA Resource Center Director, by Tuesday, November 2nd - - 397-7063, ext. 313 or <a href="mailto:donnarae@pcusa-peva.org">donnarae@pcusa-peva.org</a>. </span><i><span style="color: #274e13;"><br />
</span></i> </div>The Resource Center of the Presbytery of Eastern Virginiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17164722660058524117noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1374997613768376098.post-83819448663391490842010-10-22T14:12:00.000-04:002010-10-22T14:12:05.430-04:00"Common Threads"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJK32oTVHSM9g7m3yt9-maJNMldjG23YFikrrGXP3A8o8p9nxEc0TT_KwWtrFn64QObfAXuax7PjFDecAolsfMMe0aDcGAH0vhONY9x0fdWVArqPe08X8PY_fuexxqLtC89ycFADV-hp4/s1600/knitting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJK32oTVHSM9g7m3yt9-maJNMldjG23YFikrrGXP3A8o8p9nxEc0TT_KwWtrFn64QObfAXuax7PjFDecAolsfMMe0aDcGAH0vhONY9x0fdWVArqPe08X8PY_fuexxqLtC89ycFADV-hp4/s400/knitting.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Rev. Dr. Cynthia Higgins </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">of First Presbyterian Church in Hampton</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">will be the guest speaker at the</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Praying Hands Prayer Shawl Gathering</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">"Common Threads" </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Saturday, November 13, 2010</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">9:30 am - 3:00 pm</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">St. Joseph's Catholic Church</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Cordier Hall</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> 512 Buckroe Avenue, Hampton</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlOOSkTMqDTOVZZSP-IV5elq2JY2cyXIbfLaFJNGp6IWtZEZnR8MitxNQowgtmANiATN0tZgNnLCTmnmLstOkF8UyghvVtQ26-FoWukcixPCafA4bhnOcPwWFEdJd_sNHsivvGynLdwz8/s1600/handsknitting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlOOSkTMqDTOVZZSP-IV5elq2JY2cyXIbfLaFJNGp6IWtZEZnR8MitxNQowgtmANiATN0tZgNnLCTmnmLstOkF8UyghvVtQ26-FoWukcixPCafA4bhnOcPwWFEdJd_sNHsivvGynLdwz8/s320/handsknitting.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">This is a wonderful opportunity for those involved in Prayer Shawl ministry to come together to create new friendships, take part in a prayer shawl blessing service, and leave with a fresh way of looking at the work we have been called to do. The $15 registration fee includes lunch and all activities.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">The deadline to register is November 6th. Please contact Carol Smith to register, 757-850-5900, 757-876-4217, or <a href="mailto:jdamazon@aol.com">jdamazon@aol.com</a>. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div>The Resource Center of the Presbytery of Eastern Virginiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17164722660058524117noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1374997613768376098.post-26808765613800355162010-10-20T13:50:00.001-04:002010-10-20T13:54:10.550-04:00Equipping the Saints - CancelledThe Resource Committee met yesterday afternoon and reviewed submitted registrations for Equipping the Saints scheduled for November 6, 2010. Regrettably, registrations were not sufficient to warrant holding such a large and outstanding event. We have decided to cancel Equipping the Saints.<br />
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We learned much from the registrations we did receive, however, and are looking at ways to present desired topics in a less formal setting in the future. <br />
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The Resource Center looks forward to serving your ministries in the days to come.The Resource Center of the Presbytery of Eastern Virginiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17164722660058524117noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1374997613768376098.post-15202126490948013592010-10-14T19:28:00.000-04:002010-10-14T19:28:15.135-04:00World Communion: A Children's Sermon<div style="color: #444444;"><i>Jacqui Horton, Director of Christian Education at First Presbyterian Church, Virginia Beach, has written and presented many sermons and programs for children. Her enthusiasm and creativity shine through in everything she does. Let's take a peek at one of Jacqui's recent children's sermons about World Communion Day...</i></div><br />
<div style="color: black; text-align: justify;">"Look around you. Looks like something special might happen today. What do you think is going to happen? We’re going to celebrate Communion, or the Lord’s Supper. </div><div style="color: black; text-align: justify;"><br />
Let’s get a better look shall we? Come with me and gather round close so we can examine these beautiful, wonderful smelling loaves of bread. (Children are asked to smell hot rolls fresh from the oven Yummmm) When you smell the aroma of fresh baked bread what’s the first thing that comes to your mind? <i>“I want to eat some!”</i> </div><div style="color: black; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="color: black; text-align: justify;">And if you’re really hungry you might get excited while anticipating the taste to come. You know this is going to be good because you have eaten home baked bread before right? Your mouth might start watering, right? That’s because your senses of smell and taste trigger memories.<br />
</div><div style="color: black; text-align: justify;">I selected breads that come from different countries, different parts of the world. Let’s see if you can guess which countries these breads represent. (Holding up a loaf of French bread) “Do you know what kind of bread this is?”<br />
<i>“Is it Italian?”</i> “No.” <br />
<i>“Is it American?”</i> “No.” <br />
<i> “I know, it’s from Subway!”</i> “No, good guess though. It is not from the country of Subway! It’s a loaf of French bread, from the country of France.”<br />
</div><div style="color: black; text-align: justify;">Here we have some German rye and pumpernickel, middle-eastern flat bread, naan from India, Mexican corn tortillas, Italian bread, sourdough bread from California, and even Irish soda bread which I couldn’t find at the store so I made it myself. Since I’m Irish and Scottish, and because we have some friends visiting from Northern Ireland today, I just had to have some on our World breads table today. They’re the Montgomeries and I can hardly wait to meet them because my mother was a Montgomery, too. Small world huh?<br />
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Did you notice the kaftan I’m wearing? My friend, Peggy brought this to me from the mid east. Do you recognize the batik table cloth? It was made by women from the Congo, our sister church in Africa. Why do you think I brought these out today?</div><div style="color: black; text-align: justify;"><br />
It’s because Christians all over the world are celebrating Communion, the Lord’s Supper today. When we break and eat bread today you can bet that others across seas in every direction are doing the same thing. All day and even while we are sleeping Christians of every denomination will be celebrating the Lord’s supper. Why? Because Jesus asked us to break bread and eat bread to help us remember him. It’s kind of a memory trigger cause when we eat it, we remember what Jesus said, “This is my body take and eat, do this in remembrance of me.” And the bread is for everyone all over the world who claim that Jesus is Lord and Savior. Isn’t that wonderful?</div><div style="color: #444444; text-align: justify;"><br style="color: black;" /><span style="color: black;">Let us pray...</span><br style="color: black;" /><span style="color: black;">Thank you, God for our daily bread. Thank you for the bread of life, we call Jesus. We can’t wait, to taste your goodness. Amen."</span><i> </i></div><div style="color: #444444;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #444444;"><i>If you'd like to share more lessons using bread and other biblical foods, check out this book available at the Resource Center...</i></div><div style="color: #444444;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiueHrBB_s36upv2UeylosHGsyDjGB6iuSg93dduRljAnzgPdeFz_eTtwfev_-ljXmvQnZxF18bJNgBK0SCMbFXDTMlojiFoZongIA3AkSC_99n-0ElSUDWRqBz1zTpb1KkN6k-z1C5R-g/s1600/milk+honey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiueHrBB_s36upv2UeylosHGsyDjGB6iuSg93dduRljAnzgPdeFz_eTtwfev_-ljXmvQnZxF18bJNgBK0SCMbFXDTMlojiFoZongIA3AkSC_99n-0ElSUDWRqBz1zTpb1KkN6k-z1C5R-g/s200/milk+honey.jpg" width="133" /></a></div><div style="color: #444444;"><i> Milk and Honey Cooking School: </i></div><div style="color: #444444;"><i>Learning the History of God's People through Cooking and Eating</i></div><div style="color: #444444;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #444444;"><i>by Daphna Flegal and LeeDell Strickler</i></div><div style="color: #444444;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="color: #444444;"><i>This resource walks the presenters through the history of God's people from Adam's first bite of the forbidden fruit to the breaking of the bread at the Last Supper in Jerusalem. Every event that happened to God's people made an impact on their lives, and that included the food.</i></div><div style="color: #444444;"><i><br />
Milk and Honey provides detailed instruction on how to set up the event and how to involve not only adults, but also children in the final presentation. While learning about the events that impacted the Hebrew people, the participants will get to sample such foods as Abraham's Goat Cheese Dip, Unleavened Bread, Esau's Pottage, Challah Braid, Grecian Honey Cheesecake, and Roman Bread Pudding. In addition to the foods, the presenters will instruct the class in the social etiquette as well as the right and wrong way to eat with bread as one's utensil.</i><i></i></div>The Resource Center of the Presbytery of Eastern Virginiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17164722660058524117noreply@blogger.com0