Pastor on Call
For an emergency over the weekend, please contact our Summer Seminary Intern, Susan Sexton.

* * * * * * * * * * * *

Sunday, July 29, 2007
Susan Sexton, preacher

Scripture:
Luke 11:1-13

Fellowship:
Please join other Kirk members for ice cream, provided by the Mission Committee, on the patio following the 10:00 a.m. worship. Donations will be gratefully accepted to benefit our Guatemala loans and scholarship mission effort.

* * * * * * * * * * * *

Attendance Sunday, July 15:
10:00 a.m.: 405

Attendance Sunday, July 22:
10:00 a.m.: 350

* * * * * * * * * * * *

Jody's Journal

Dear Family and Friends at the Kirk,

I am enjoying our special series of Worship at the Kirk this summer. I want to thank the many people who have a part in preparing and designing a special service almost every week. This week we are featuring prayers for healing and wholeness. Recently I participated in such a service while on vacation when I attended a Presbyterian church. I went forward to receive prayer for a member of the Kirk who was fighting cancer. I watched as other members of the church came forward with friends to receive prayers for many situations. It was very moving and I felt the closeness of our God in a special way. Often in such services we think of physical healing. But I encourage you to think of the healing of the mind, the emotions, the soul, or of relationships. I encourage you to come to Worship open to the possibility that God can provide healing and hope for you and/or your friends. If we could be vulnerable with one another, we all would have a story to share of a broken place in need of God’s healing grace.

In the coming weeks we will also give you a taste of other forms of worship. I’ve been working with Ken Purchase and Mary Kay on the Contemporary Service on August 5th. Later in August we will enjoy a Gospel Sunday featuring the special group known as “The Master’s Men” and also a service of Contemplative worship. My hope is that you will experience a variety of services of worship that feed the soul of many a Christian.

I also hope you’ll remember to come to the special Sunday school forum at 9:00 a.m. before the service. The topic is on the theme of the day in worship. We’ve had some great classes so far.

As the fall approaches, I am getting excited about a new opportunity for Kirk members to grow in Bible knowledge while also growing as disciples of Jesus Christ. We are going to be offering the very popular program DISCIPLE here at the Kirk. I taught it years ago in Newton and enjoyed it. It is a program that originated in the Methodist church but has been used in many denominations. There will be an opportunity to take the class on either Monday or Wednesday nights starting this fall. There are information sessions scheduled for Sunday August 12 after worship and for Wednesday August 15 at 7:00 p.m. Look in the bulletin and newsletter for more details. If you have any questions, call me, Cader Howard or Craig Nygard.

I hope you are taking time to read the Long Range Planning goals and comments. I’ve been reading them and have learned quite a bit about Kirk members and how God is leading our conversation. Simply go to the website and follow the links. In September we will be having a special Saturday event to select goals. Pray for God’s Spirit to lead us as we seek to discern where God is leading us.

It’s a joy to serve with you at the Kirk. I’m looking forward to sharing the future with you.

Grace and Peace,

Jody

* * * * * * * * * * * *

Mary Kay's Cary Days

Dear Friends,

I with to thank the many musicians in our midst who have stepped forward this summer to provide special music for our services. In addition to the usual preparation, there has been an added element of heightened theme consciousness for each piece chosen, as we try to support musically the various focus topics of each week. Special gratitude goes to Lori Volpe, the Ethiopian singers and most recently, the children’s ensemble of Hope Choir for their sensitive singing of “Adoration” and “Feed the Hungry People” as we learned more about the problem of homelessness.

As we continue on with our summer worship services of varying styles, this Sunday’s music supports the concept of healing and wholeness in our faith. Our summer intern, Susan, and her friend, Cheryl Benze have created an interesting musical setting of a prayer. Susan set out to find a Celtic melody to adapt that would enhance a text that was special to her. Cheryl is a Celtic harpist and agreed to sing this piece, as well as to provide a new accompaniment to this tune. She will also play her own arrangement of “The King of Love My Shepherd Is” as a prelude for worship. We are singing that beloved hymn “There is a Balm in Gilead,” too!

Having my daughter, Ashleigh, with me for the summer has been so nice, but I am reminded how quickly the time goes by as she anticipates returning to college soon. My thoughts are turning to plans for the start-up of our many music ensembles. We will begin rehearsals for all ensembles the first week in September, with children’s choirs to begin on Sunday, September 9. For detailed information, please go to www.kirkofkildaire.org/worsh/music.html for a direct link to our music page. There is childcare available for all adult ensemble evening rehearsal hours – Chancel Choir, Chancel Ringers, Grace Ringers. In August, please look for an online registration for the children’s ensembles, but do feel free to contact me or any of our volunteer directors with questions or to register for any of the groups. As we have purposely designed our ensembles for a variety of ages, skill and style interests, we have a place for everyone!

August worship music will feature our own acoustic ensemble, Psalm 150 leading us in contemporary worship, the professional male gospel group “The Master’s Men,” Laura Kaufman (Kirk member, flautist, NC School for the Arts graduate), and a harp ensemble organized by Julia Cobley! Come and enjoy!

Peace,

Mary Kay

[contents]

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Attention Presbyterian Women
Please join us at our annual Salad Supper, to be held on Thursday, August 16, at 6:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall. Bring a salad to share. Drinks and desserts will be provided. If you need childcare or transportation, please contact Kathy Keller.

[contents]

Summer Forum #3
This week's Sunday School Forum is a Bible study and exploration of health and healing. This forum will be led by Warren Bock, the Kirk's Pastoral Associate.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

COMING THIS FALL!

Disciple Bible Study an approach to Bible study that emphasizes disciplined reading and listening to Scripture. It is used in congregations among many denominations across the country. It results in biblically-nourished persons committed to live as disciples. The study is based upon a different theme each week which is explored through reading extended portions of scripture at home. In class learning is accomplished through open discussion of Biblical issues and working in smaller groups to examine the meaning of the scripture for our discipleship. There will be information meetings held on Sunday, August 12 immediately following worship in the Session Room and on Wednesday, August 15 in Room M-18 off of the Fellowship Hall at 7:00 p.m. Please contact Cader Howard if you have questions.

[contents]

One Last Chance for Directory Photos! The photographers will be here on Friday, July 27 from 1:00 p.m. - 8:45.p.m. and on Saturday, July 28 from 9:00 a.m. until 4:45 p.m. Please contact Julie Sherk to schedule a time.

If you are unable to attend this last photo session, we still want to include you. For charge of $5.00 we can accept a previous photo (photo, email, or CD) for the directory! The directory won't be complete without you. Group Photos (of various Kirk groups) - you still have time to submit a group photo (no candids please). Contact Julie Sherk for submittals.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Meals On Wheels Volunteers Needed
We are in need of two volunteers for Meals on Wheels (each for different routes) on the 4th Wednesday of each month. The delivery of meals is in Cary, once per month, and it usually takes about one hour. Meals are picked up at the Lutheran church off Kildaire Farms Road between 10:30 and 11:00 a.m. All volunteers go with a partner who ends up being a friend - a great way to get to know new people. If you are interested in helping, please call or contact Patty Snow.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

KOALA Staff Search Update
Our search for a new van driver continues. This person will be responsible for transporting students from Briarcliff Elementary School to the Kirk once a week, on either Tuesdays or Thursdays. The time commitment is a scant 45 minutes (2:45-3:30). Please note that KOALA volunteer training begins in September and that a driver has to be trained and seated behind the wheel by October. For more information about driving, contact Jerry Rhodes.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Library Lingo

“Presbyterians Today” (PT) is our denomination’s monthly journal. We keep it in the top left slot of the library’s magazine rack. Even if you have no time to see all the other magazines, take time to read it whenever you can (but please don’t remove our only copy!).

The June issue has a fascinating article about the bi-centennial of the first African Presbyterian church, founded in 1807 in Philadelphia, describing its monumental “cathedral” built in 1811, and featuring its first equally monumental minister Rev. John Gloucester. Its initiative is alive today in the National Black Presbyterian Caucus (NBPC) whose 39th convention is being held in Philadelphia during this week. There is a bi-centennial homecoming planned for Sunday 10/21.

Several pages of this issue discuss domestic violence (“breaking the silence”). A small article features the Ramah PC in Huntersville NC (north of Charlotte), founded in 1783, which is the first church certified by FAITH (fellowship actions impacting the habitat), a program to promote environmental stewardship of church properties sponsored by the NC Wildlife Federation.

The July issue is a bit of a summer smorgasbord, but you might be interested to catch the cover story entitled “Trapped Souls”, written by associate editor John Sniffen. “Upfront” he recalls the day his 89-year old father slipped into Alzheimer’s “spiritual journey,” and in the article he gives many helpful comments and references for any of us who face the difficult periods of our own healthy lives when we are called upon to look after relatives or friends with this incurable illness. He lists the name of a worthwhile film “Quick Brown Fox,” made by a Seattle Presbyterian elder about the progressive decline of her own mother. It can be ordered thru www.wmm.com from a group called “women make movies” for $30.

(Elder Willem van Eck)

[contents]

Stephen Ministry Beginning on Sunday, July 29, Warren Bock will be attending a seven-day Stephen Series Leader’s Training Course in Pittsburg, PA. He will be participating in this continuing education event regarding how to organize and direct our Stephen Ministry. Warren is a trained Stephen Minister. He has been actively meeting with the Stephen Leader Team, serving our Stephen Ministry here at the Kirk as “Pastoral Liaison.” We ask the congregation to keep Warren in your prayers that he may have safe travel and a Spirit-filled learning experience.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Our Congratulations to Shelly Bowser and James Jackson who were married at the Kirk on July 14 and to Nancy Stokes on completing her Lay Ministry training.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Prayer Request Of The Week - Please pray this week for the adults and youth attending Montreat and Summer in the City conferences.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Prayers: We pray for Paul Miller, Carolyn Cobb, Brenda Armstrong, Beth Brown, Louise Harter, Helen Floyd, Janice Coats, Jeff Slack, Alan MacIlroy, Colleen Calwell.

If you would like more information regarding any of our concerns, please contact the church office.

Glenaire Healthcare Unit: Ruth Wagnon, Nedra Chesnutt, Martha Haake, Louise Harter, Mary Frances Webb, Lillian Soo-Hoo.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

[contents]

A time to pray, discern, and comment upon the Goal Options.
This week’s option is Staffing

Goals for this week concern Staffing. Those of you who attended the weekend events with Roy Oswald, learned that there is a formula used to determine whether or not a church is adequately staffed. Concerns were raised as to whether or not we are appropriately staffed. In light of these concerns, please continue to pray for our staff as you discern these goal options.

June 3 Worship
June 10 Mission
June 17 Education
June 24 Aspirations
July 1 Caregiving
July 8 Facilities
July 15 Improvements
July 22 Member Involvement

July 29 Staffing (Focus of the Week)

• Develop an appropriate staffing strategy to accommodate and align with the church size, growth, and programs.

• Committees of the Kirk are to identify and network with other churches and their areas of programming and concern such that the network of committees can work together for greater effectiveness.

August 5 Strengths to Build On

Commentary on all goal options, as well as resources needed, secondary goals, and a place for feedback can be found by going to the Kirk’s web page and click on Long Range Planning Information or by clicking on http://www.kirkofkildaire.org/joomla/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=71&Itemid=104. We’d like for you to take a few minutes to share your thoughts and have any questions answered concerning the Goal Options with the Long Range Planning Committee. You may do this in person on Sunday mornings following the worship service by talking with the LRPC representative standing at the front of the sanctuary near the baptismal font. Of course, you may also do this at the web site.

During this time of discernment, the congregation is asked to pray about the Goal Options. Pray that we may see God’s perspectives and that we may hear God’s mission for the Kirk. In a discernment period we try to align our future with God’s mission. Please pray for the Kirk, for each other, and for the Kirk to remain devoted to hearing God’s mission for our church and pray that we all become disciples of that mission.

Grace and Peace,
Amy Woynicz, Craig Nygard, Larry Nielsen, Lisa Miller, Don Stephenson, Jody Welker

[contents]

Guatemala Fund-Raiser
Scholarships: We hope to provide ten scholarships to Palá per year with a three-year commitment. Scholarships are $400 per year. To date we had collected $5,925.
Economic development: Our goal is to provide as many loans as possible with a minimum of $4,000 for the first year with an additional $1,000 for each of the next two years, $6,000 total. To date we have raised $2,495.

Thanks to everyone who has given. If you haven't given, please prayerfully consider doing so. Any contribution toward a scholarship or the loan program will be gratefully accepted. A little money goes a long way in Guatemala.

Remember also to attend the social on the porch this Sunday, July 29, after worship. Peach ice cream will be served by an energetic team led by Lynnie Sullivan. If you have preordered a half gallon of ice cream to enjoy at home, please pick it up at the social unless you have made prior arrangements with Lynnie.

* * * * * * * * * * * *

August Food Drive for Infants
During August, the Kirk is collecting food for the youngest of our community's hungry. Most food drives collect items that infants cannot eat, so we are targeting products specifically for them. The proceeds will be taken to the Food Pantry, run by Urban Ministries of Wake County. Please bring formula (powdered or premixed), infant cereals, juices, fruits, vegetables, and meats in cardboard or plastic containers only-no glass. There will be a collection box outside the office throughout the month. Thank you for the gift of food.

* * * * * * * * * * * *

September Katrina Trip
There are still four openings for the September 23-29 mission trip to New Orleans. You must sign up by August 10. To do so, please contact Chris Mazzara.

* * * * * * * * * * * *

Guatemala Mission Trip
Our next trip to Guatemala is scheduled for January 5 - 12, 2008 and we would like to take a group of 12 - 15 people. Anyone college age and older is welcome to apply to accompany us. During the week, you grow closer to members of the Kirk, to new friends in a Christian community in Guatemala, grow spiritually and work on a project. People who go on these trips often return spiritually renewed and personally transformed with an increased vision for mission.

If you have any questions at all, please contact Hal Jordan or Virginia Anthony.

[contents]

[contents]