August 2016Issue 68Volume 8

First United Presbyterian Church1303 Royal Heights Road • Belleville, IL 62223

618.233.0295 • www.firstunitedpres.org

We are a Christian church that glorifies God through meaningful worship, active discipleship,

faithful service and nurturing fellowship.

FALL

2016KICKOFF

WORSHIPSCHEDULE

August 7

8:00 & 10:30 am

The Rev. Robert J. Dyer

Minimal Requirements of

Christianity

1 Corinthians 8

August 14

8:00 & 10:30 am

The Rev. Robert J. Dyer

Overcoming Hard Times

2 Corinthians 4:1-12

August 21

8:00 & 10:30 am

Ninth Sunday after Pentecost

The Rev. Robert J. Dyer

Gifts from God Sunday

1 Corinthians 12:4-13

August 28

8:00 & 10:30 am

Tenth Sunday after Pentecost

The Rev. Robert J. Dyer

Feeling God’s Power Through Us

2 Corinthians 12:1-10

The Steeple is published 12 times per year by

First United Presbyterian Church,Belleville, Illinois

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1303 Royal Heights Rd, Belleville, IL 62223

SPECIAL EDITION: Fall Kickoff 2016The annual Fall Kickoff announces the start of a new year of programs and activities for Wednesday Youth Groups, Sunday School classes and for all church groups. First United is rolling out the red carpet for everyone! Members are encouraged to “try out” a new group or return to a group they previously attended. Have you ever wondered just what the Mission Committee supports, what the Helmsmen, Merry Mates or Sand Dollars are all about, what Presbyterian Women or the PW Circles contribute to First United or how the Choir, Prime Chimes and United Bells prepare for musical offerings on Sunday? The choices are many as there are some 40 groups and organizations plus Sunday School classes for youth and adults of all ages. Listed here are many of the groups and classes to consider and information about meeting times:

Adult Discipleship/Sunday School Classes - See page 5 New: Thoughtful Christian Gathering - See page 5Chancel Choir – Thursday, 7:00 pmChildren’s Sunday School Programs – See page 8College & Young Adults – AnnouncedFaith Community – Special EventsFaith in Fiction – 2nd Wednesday, 9:00 amFriends Dine Out – 1st Monday, 6:00 pmHannah Circle – 3rd Wednesday, 11:30 amHelmsmen – 3rd Saturday, 6:00 pmKIX – See page 8Lamplighters Circle – 3rd Tuesday, 1:00 pmLibrary Committee – 2nd Wednesday, 10:00 amLoaves & Fishes – 3rd Wednesday, 9:30 amLydia Circle – 1st Wednesday, 7:00 pmMaryMarthas – 2nd Friday, 7:00 pmMen’s Bible Study – Every Wednesday, 8:30 amMerry Mates – 2nd Friday, 6:00 pmMission Committee – 4th Wednesday, 6:30 pmPotlucks with a Purpose – Last Tuesday of January, April, July and October, 6:30 pm Prayer Chain – Contact Joy Didier or Beth SheldonPrayer Shawl Ministry – 4th Wednesday, 9:30 amPrime Chime – Thursday, 1:00 pmPresbyterian Women – 1st Friday beginning in Sept. , 11:30 amPYC – See page 8Quilters – Tuesday, 9:30 am and Thursday, 10:00 am Sand Dollars – 1st Friday, 6:30 pmSports Ministry – Activity every 3rd or 4th Sunday ( Varies)Stephen Ministry – 4th Tuesday, 7:00 pmTIM – See page 8United Bells – Thursday, 6:00 pmWoodcarvers – Monday, 6:00 pm

New Blessings

Family News Information current as of July 26

Ministering to God’s People

In Our Prayers

August 7USHERING 8:00 amConi JacksonMary PollockKathy SchmidtUSHERING 10:30 amKC ClaytonGigi & Roger CoxAdrian CroissantAlly DyerSusy RybickiLITURGISTJim NicholasAMBASSADORRosemary EhrsteinPHONEJoyce LiedBUS DRIVERLarry ScottCOUNTERSJohn DorrisJohn HeslopHOSPITALITYHelmsmenSOUND OPERATORMark VandiverVIDEO OPERATORAlex TambalaNURSERY ATTENDANTSCrib RoomKristin LinkVicki McAdamsDiane WinlandEmily WinlandToddler RoomKeely & Mike GilesAbby SmithCaroline Smith

August 14USHERING 8:00 amJackie & Dan BainterLou Stark USHERING 10:30 amSharon & Jerry GaskillMarian & Jim MorrisBetty ScherrerMitch Stark Karen ThompsonDean WallenLITURGISTJoe FedakAMBASSADORNorma JacksonPHONEJane WilkinBUS DRIVERMatt HallCOUNTERSJohn DorrisJohn HeslopHOSPITALITYMerry MatesSOUND OPERATORDan HarresVIDEO OPERATORRich StehnachNURSERY ATTENDANTSCrib RoomNatalie Maley-BillKari BechtoldToddler RoomAmy AbernathySean Choo KimTodie Elsea

August 21USHERING 8:00 amBillie & Steve ChaneyUSHERING 10:30 amBabs HillAl KrausCyndi & Ed LangenShawn Lankford Larry ScottLITURGISTDanny HalelAMBASSADORBrenda & Roger DollPHONEPat DayeBUS DRIVERDennis HubbardCOUNTERSJoe HarnistDennis HubbardHOSPITALITYMission CommitteeSOUND OPERATORMark VandiverVIDEO OPERATORAlex TambalaNURSERY ATTENDANTSCrib RoomVolunteers NeededToddler RoomJane BynumCathy JensenSharon Scott

August 28USHERING 8:00 amKathy & John HarrymanShirley Thien USHERING 10:30 amAlex AbernathyAmy AbernathyGrace FarinasDan HarresElizabeth KearnsShirley & Bob SamplesLITURGISTKeely GilesAMBASSADORSharon & Jerry GaskillPHONEPam Halel Linda GurrBUS DRIVERCliff FittsCOUNTERSJoe HarnistDennis HubbardHOSPITALITYFall KickoffSOUND OPERATORDave EppsVIDEO OPERATORRich StehnachNURSERY ATTENDANTSCrib RoomKate HallLaura HallPam & Danny HalelToddler RoomAnn HunterJoy HunterSharon Gaskill

For Paul & Marie Kueker on the death of their son, Steven Kueker, who died on July 17 in St. Louis.

Our Deepest Sympathy

Bill Burke (The Shrine Apts.)Jean Canale (Home)Cindy Corell (Haiti, see page 8)Irene & Wade Coverdell (Cedarhurst, Shiloh)Mary Diel (Rosewood)Nellie Elam (St. Paul’s Nursing Home)Sue Hall (Home)Helen Handley Fabre (St. Paul’s Asst. Living)Bernice Handrich (Chesterfield, Missouri)

Mary Hotta (Home)Lucile Katty (St. Paul’s Apts.)Bonnie Krause (St. Paul’s Apts.)Adam Landry (Illinois Veterans’ Home, Anna, Illinois)Bill Lawrence (Cedarhurst, Shiloh)Ted Lawrence (Home)Jeanette McCurdy (Knollwood, Caseyville)Lane Miller (The Shrine Apts.)

Mary Ellen Pollock (Still Waters Senior Living)Nancy Reinecker (Home)Wanda Lee Schmidt (Highland Nursing Home)Roberta Symonds (Home)Our efforts to express our faith clearlyOur efforts to grow spirituallyOur efforts to discover & use our spiritual giftsOur efforts to serve the communityOur efforts to care for one another

Makenna Lucille Beebe was born on July 1 in St. Louis. Makenna is the daughter of Kym and Bradley Beebe and the granddaughter of Ellen and Bill Beebe. Reid Macklin Farquhar was born on July 27 in Pennsylvania. Reid is the son of Becky and Mack Farquhar and the grandson of Dede and Tom Farquhar.

Our efforts to reach new believersPeople who are depressed and anxiousAll world leadersOur enemiesOur eldersOur deaconsOur trustees

Presbyterian WomenGive-a-Meal-a-Month (GAMAM)Thank you for supporting this program! The menu to the right suggests non-perishable items to buy during August. All items collected are taken to the Catholic Urban Program Food Bank which ministers

to families in the Metro East. Fill up a yellow GAMAM bag or fill your own bag and bring the items to the church. Monetary gifts are also welcome; make checks payable to First United Presbyterian with the memo to PW GAMAM.

Circle Activities in August• On August 16, Lamplighters will meet at 11:30 am for lunch and fellowship at The Hop House Southern Eatery in O’Fallon. For more information, contact Amy Brummitt.

Menu for August

Canned Tuna

Macaroni and Cheese

Canned Mixed Vegetables (no or low salt)

Canned Fruit (lite or in fruit juice)

Powdered Milk

Additional Items:Baby Care Month

Diapers

Diaper Wipes

Formula (with iron)

Monetary donations always welcome.

GIVE-A-MEAL-A-MONTH

Sponsored by Presbyterian Women

• On August 17, Hannah Circle will go to Tim & Joe’s Restaurant, 6500 West Main Street, Belleville, at 11:30 am. Make reservations with Marilyn Linton.

Grief Support CornerBy now you all should be familiar with FUPC’s Grief Support Team and the significant amount of support our group facilitators have provided to those who have experienced the loss of a loved one. To quote from a note I just received from one of the participants: “Thank you so much for your time, kindness, care and concern shown to me during the Grief Share sessions. Your encouragement has truly blessed me!” Please express your gratitude to our facilitators the next time you see them: Amy Brummitt, Rick Farinas, Joyce and Dwight Lied, Abbey Croissant, and Bob Samples, and to Caryn Meder and Joy Baltz for their work “behind the scenes.”

Our next session will begin in December. We need time to re-focus our efforts, develop goals and milestones to grow this ministry, and to recruit new facilitators to replace those who are answering God’s call in other ways. If you feel the call to join us as a session facilitator or in another support role, please talk to any one of us to get more information. I can assure you the rewards you will receive from this ministry are beyond anything I can express in words. ~ John Mann, 624-3020, 558-5669, jmann385@gmail.com

Presbyterian Community Preschool Please share with your family and friends that there are still openings in our Preschool! There are two classes for 4-year olds: Tuesday/Thursday and Wednesday/Friday. There are two classes for our 3-year olds: Monday/Wednesday/Friday and Tuesday/Thursday. Families can schedule a Meet and Greet with the teachers and visit the classrooms. For applications and more information, call the Preschool, 233-4809.

Transportation MinistryDo you need a ride to the 10:30 Sunday morning worship service? Do you need a ride to and from a doctor’s appointment? Or do you have another transportation need? First United has a team of drivers waiting to transport you! NOTE: New drivers are always welcome. For

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the Sunday bus ministry, call Dennis Hubbard, 920-6594. For other transportation need, call Bob Samples, 624-3340.

Parking on SundaysSome of our members need to park closer to the building. If you are one who does not, please choose a parking place further away and enjoy a little exercise, too. Thank you for your help.

ScholarshipsOn behalf of our church family, the Scholarship Committee of Christian Education is pleased to announce the Presbyterian Scholarship and Ray Angerer Scholarship recipients for 2016-2017:•  Nicole  Lonsdale will head to the University of Louisville in the fall to study communications and music. •  Jennifer  Rea will attend Murray State University and major in Music Education and voice K-12. •  Morgan  Smith will begin her studies at Fontbonne University in St. Louis with a plan to work in the area of Speech Language Pathology.•  Emily  Winland will study Music Business and Commercial Business at Millikin University. Congratulations ladies! Best wishes and prayers as you continue your education!

Welcome to our Newest Member!Shirley Callison was received by Reaffirmation of Faith on Sunday, July 19.

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Left-Right: Emily, Nicole, Morgan, Jennifer

Adult Discipleship

Adult Fellowship

Feasting on the Word Bible Study (Sundays)Join this group at 9:15 am on Sunday mornings in the Conference Room (200) as participants study different Bible passages.

Date Focus and ScriptureAugust 7 Trust vs Fear: Luke 12:32-40August 14 Preserving Faith: Hebrews 11:29-12:2 August 21 Straightening Out: Luke 13:10-17

NEW: Thoughtful Christian Gathering (Sundays)A new Bible study will kick off on August 28 in the Vista Room. The first one-week study is “Importance of Context.” Interpreting a biblical text out of its context can produce confusion and division among Christians. What are common errors, and what steps can we take to read the Bible in its most original context?

Pastor’s Classes (Sundays, 9:15 am, Vista Room, 206)• August  7:  Coffee Chat with  the Pastor Come spend an hour asking questions and chatting about whatever the group wants to discuss with the pastor. • August 14: FUPC 101 – What We Believe Great class for new people looking to learn more about our church. Also great for

long-time members looking for a refresher! This is the first in a three-week series. This week we will chat about what we believe about God, church, faith, etc. Explore what Presbyterian Christians believe and the basic faith teachings of our church.•  August  21:  FUPC 101  – Our Church’s Mission Another great class for new people exploring or long-time members getting better connected. This is the second in a three-week series. This week we will explain the particular goals and mission of our church as we are seeking to glorify God through our church’s worship and activities.• August 28: FUPC 101 – How to Get Connected New to the church or just looking to get better connected with the church? This week we will give you an overview of all the wonderful ministries of our church and then show you how we help each other get connected to activities, ministries and meaningful experiences within our church.

Parent Class (Sundays)The Parent Class will meet during August at 9:15 am in the Library (102). Grab a cup of coffee and join the class discussion led by Leah and Shawn Lankford. All parents and grandparents are welcome!

August 1: Friends Dine OutIf you enjoy an occasional dinner out, why not join this dinner group at a different restaurant every first Monday of the month. On August 1, we will meet at Longhorn Steak House, 6115 N. Illinois Street at 6:00 pm. For reservations or more information, call Marcia Mellone, 398-9895, or Betty Bucknell, 397-2114.

August 10: Faith in FictionThe book for August is Robert E. Lee: A Biography by Emory Thomas. The life of Robert E. Lee is the story - not of defeat but of triumph - in clearing his family name, in marrying properly, in his work as an engineer on the mighty Mississippi, in becoming the towering figure over all other military men and who commanded the Confederate army in the Civil War. The book for September is March by Geraldine Brooks. Come join us at 9:00 am, August 10, in FirstXpression (202). Contact Susy Rybicki if you need information, 792-9458.

August 12: Merry Mates Merry Mates will hold a regular meeting with dinner and program on Friday, August 12, at 6:00 pm, in Eversull Hall (104). The guest speaker for the evening will be Rachel Jackson, Executive Director of Project Compassion. For more information, contact Vicki McAdams, 405-227-8950.

August 24: Prayer Shawl KnittersWe meet on the 4th Wednesday of the month, any time after 9:00 am, at the home of Betty McRoberts. Come and join this wonderfully positive group and experience the joy and blessings that come with gifting these shawls. Want to learn to knit or crochet? Then come and we will teach you. Just want to see what

we are about? Then you are very welcome! Many churches are represented, so don’t hesitate to bring along friends or neighbors. Coffee and breakfast yummies will be ready. Chicks with Sticks is a great bunch – come and see! For information, call 791-1386.

New: Veterans Life GroupIf you are a veteran and would like to join a Life Group for Veterans, contact Shawn Lankford, 222-1641, or Ken Stange, 624-0406. They are tentatively planning a Veterans’ Day Pancake Breakfast on Saturday, November 12.

Ad o p t -A- H i g hway : On Saturday, June 25, seven met at 8:00 am and braved the heat to pick up trash along our 1.06 mile stretch of Highway 161. A little past 10:00 am, their mission was completed, and they piled their trash bags at the main entrance of First United for all to see on Sunday morning. Pictured are Chuck & Karen Thurig, Jean Morgan, Jim & Donna Nicholas and Lou Stark.

Cleaning AngelsThanks to the many cleaning angels who came on Saturday, July 16, to clean the Sanctuary. Under the inspirational leadership of Jackie and Dan Bainter, the windows, pews and carpeting were refreshed for worship! Many hands made the burden light. Please consider joining this enthusiastic group when the call comes out for fall cleaning of the Chapel and Sanctuary. ~ The Worship Committee

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Ways to Serve and Give

Renovation Timeline to Be DeterminedThe church does not yet have a detailed renovation timeline, because we are currently being diligent in reviewing contracts and design decisions upfront. Once those details are set, we can put a schedule in place. Every effort will be made to create minimal inconvenience to our ministries and events. A general outline is given here:Window Replacement – This will be the first major project. It is important to complete the window work before renovation begins in those particular rooms. Delivery time for the window order is 6-12 weeks. Once the windows and their hardware are near delivery, the demolition of the existing window walls will begin. Therefore, it will be at least one month before the window project can begin.Kitchen Renovation – We are considering ways to accomplish the

kitchen renovations while waiting for the window delivery.Availability of a Certain Space – Without a specific renovation schedule, it is difficult to know about the availability of Eversull Hall, the Library, the Patio, the Kitchen, the Preschool rooms or rooms adjacent to those having windows replaced. If you have a concern about space for your group’s ministry needs or events, please let the Office know, and they will notify the trustees, Pastor Rob and the renovation team. We will do our best to accommodate all ministry needs during this process.And finally… As soon as we have the renovation schedule established, it will be available in the Church Office, sent by email to those on the e-Weekly list, and published in the next issue of the Steeple. Thank you. ~ Pastor Rob and the Renovation Team

August 13: Belleville Blessing BanquetHelp Beacon, Caritas, and Project Compassion, which all help our community. Attend the First Annual Blessing Belleville Banquet at 6:30 pm at Fischer’s Restaurant, Belleville. Along with dinner, there will be a silent auction and live music by Bailey Guinn. Tickets are $45, with sponsorship levels at $100, $250, and $500. The event is organized by Ally Dyer. Purchase tickets on Sunday mornings, at blessing.belleville@gmail.com or call 315-9659.

September 3: Fall PW/Helmsmen Rummage SaleGet ready – it’s coming: The 2016 fall rummage sale on Saturday, September 3, 8:00 am – 12:00 pm. Clean out closets and storage areas for clothing, shoes, old Christmas decorations, picture frames, books, and anything else that can be useful to those in need in our community. All donations must be clean, in good condition, and in good working order. As before, we will not pick up or accept large furniture items or TVs; these items are not in demand and too difficult to dispose of after the sale. Bring in items on August 25. Please place everything behind the screens at the back of the Gym. The Office Staff can arrange to unlock the Gym door as long as it is during regular office hours. For more information, contact John Mann, 624-3040, or Mary Jo Mordhorst, 397-4914. From  the  Jewelry  Ladies:  The Jewelry Ladies thank you for your past contributions and are gearing up to participate in the rummage sale on September 3. We welcome all contributions and will have a marked basket in Cornell Commons to donate jewelry. A workday is planned - watch for more information.

Sunday Coffee Hour HostsThank you to everyone who has hosted Sunday coffee hour in 2016. There are still several opportunities in the fall. It’s fine to keep things simple with only coffee and donut holes; there are instructions to order the donuts and you can be reimbursed. Please see if any of these dates work for you, your church group or ministry: September 4, 11; October 9; November 6, 20, 27; December 4. This time on Sundays is an important part of our fellowship at First United, and those who host do much to support that effort. Thank you all! ~ Faith Community Committee

Wednesday Youth MealsWow, summer went fast! It’s time to plan Wednesday youth meals. Pull out your calendar, check your Wednesday nights, and dust off your favorite recipes. Shop, prepare (at home or at church), help serve, and clean up. You could even order pizza! And… there is a great kitchen crew to help out! All groups or families are welcome. Questions? Call or text Jess Mokriakow, 910-3738, or email Jmokriakow@gmail.com.

Campbell Soup Labels: Program EndingIn the past few years, participation in Labels for Education (LFE) has declined. As a result, Campbell has come to the very difficult decision to wind down the LFE program. Please turn in all labels by October 1 to the container near the Royal Heights Road Chapel entrance. This final collection of labels will be delivered to Kindercottage to redeem for school supplies. Presbyterian Women thank all who have generously contributed labels!

Area Prayer Shawl Gathering and TeaThere was an excellent turnout at St. Augustine Catholic Church in Belleville on June 22, with 65 women and several men. Pastor Rob gave the invocation and welcome. It was a gym of chatting, happy ladies, beautiful examples of hand work, prayers, and from the First United group… delectable tea nibbles.

A Bear-y Good Time!

Off to a Great Start

Day of Compassion

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Merry Mates spent a fun evening at the  Grizzlies  game  on  Friday,  July 15, and Izzy the Grizzlie even made a new friend!

The FUPC Softball team heads into the second half of the season with a 7-2 record, good for a tie atop the standings in the seven-team John Ellis Memorial League A Division. Come out and cheer on the team!

On Saturday, May 21, First United participated in Project Compassion’s Day of Compassion, when 50-75 care packages were delivered to the homeless in St. Louis. Those helping from our church were Mike Moore, Marcia Mellone, Bob Samples and Maddie Langen, Morgan Smith and Caroline Smith from our TIM youth group. First United will next participate in a Day of Compassion on Saturday, August 27. Each week, members of our church family bring personal hygiene products, snacks and single serving items of food; these are collected in the marked bags on the pew outside the Sanctuary. If you are interested in helping with this ministry, please call Bob Samples, 624-3340, or Marcia Mellone, 398-9895. P

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Children & Youth LifeChildren’s ChapelAfter the time of Sharing Faith with Children during the 10:30 worship service, children ages 3 through 3rd grade are invited to leave with Worship Leaders and Greeters for a special worship time in Children’s Chapel. Children will hear God’s Word through stories. The stories for August are three parables: The Treasure, The Fishnet, and The Two Sons; and then on August 28, a new year will begin with Orientation and The Light. Children will gather in God’s name, hear God’s Word through stories, respond to God’s Word, and then receive their own blessing as they are picked up by their families.

FaithQuest in AugustFaithQuest is the Sunday morning Sunday School class for students who finished grades K-5. During August, students will conclude the rotation called “Who’s Who in the Bible” with a study of Nehemiah and Jonah. August 21 is FaithQuest Year in Review with activities to review the 19 different rotations during the past school year. Promotion Sunday to the next grade will be August 28. On this Sunday, there will be an orientation to FaithQuest. Each week, students will meet in the Sanctuary at 9:15 am for a brief opening and then move to different workshop locations.

August 24: Youth Groups BeginOn August 24, join Christian Education and Youth Ministries for our annual Fall Kickoff event for a new school year of children and youth programs! All children, youth and their families are invited to celebrate with dinner, games and activities, followed by informational meetings.6:00 - 6:30 pm Welcome/Dinner6:30 - 7:00 pm Large Group Games6:30 - 7:00 pm PYC, KIX, and TIM Parents receive paperwork and have time to fill it out7:00 - 7:30 pm Large Group Meeting for PYC, KIX, TIM and Parents7:30 - 8:00 pm KIX & TIM Group Time (Homework Club for PYC)

Regular meeting times will begin on August 31. PYC (grades 3-5) will meet from 5:15 pm – 7:30 pm; KIX (grades 6-8) and TIM (grades 9-12) will meet from 6:00 pm - 8:15 pm. Dinner is included. Bus transportation to the church is available. If you need a ride, please contact Kaitie Kautz, 233-0295 x112 or kkautz@firstunitedpres.org, before your child rides the bus.

August 28: New Sunday School Year BeginsOn Sunday, August 28, the new Sunday School year will start when children and youth are promoted and move to their new classes. •  Preschool Sunday School, for 3-5 year olds, will meet in the Yellow Room (Room 100) on the lower level. •  FaithQuest, for grades K-5, will meet in the Sanctuary and then move to different workshop areas.•  KIX, for grades 6-8, will meet in the back room in the Youth Area (Room 121). •  TIM, for grades 9-12, will meet in the front room in the Youth Area (Room 121).

2016-2017 VolunteersWe are looking forward to a great 2016-2017 school year at First United and have many wonderful volunteers lined up to work with our youth!Youth Sponsors: PYC – Stephanie Foltz, Nancy Kreeb; KIX – Kari Bechtold, Natalie Bill, Mike Giles, John Guinn, Andy Link; TIM – Brenda Fedak, Joe Fedak, Angie Sheridan, Chris Sheridan, Will WeeksSunday School Teachers: KIX – Kari Bechtold, Dan O’Saben, Sue Perez, Susy Rybicki; TIM - Anne Dulski, Mandy Guinn, Will WeeksWednesday Dinner Coordinator: Jessica Mokriakow

2016-2017 Youth Ministries Volunteer TrainingWednesday night KIX and TIM volunteers will have training on Wednesday, August 17 at 6:00 pm. Watch emails and the bulletin for location. KIX and TIM Fall Sunday School teachers will have training on Sunday, August 14, at noon at the church.

PYC (Presbyterian Youth Club) News (grades 3-5) •  Wednesday, August 24, Fall Kickoff for PYCers and their families will be from 6:00-7:30 pm. For families who have children in PYC plus an older youth in KIX or TIM, we will offer Homework Club until 8:00. •  August 31, September 7, 14, 21 & 28: Regular meetings of PYC, 5:15-7:30 pm; Homework Club will follow until 8:15 for those with older siblings in KIX and TIM.

KIX (Kids in Christ) News (grades 6-8)•  Wednesday, August 24: Fall Kickoff begins. Dinner at 6:00 pm; ends at 8:00 pm. Be sure to let Kaitie know if you need a ride on the bus BEFORE August 24!

•  Sunday, August 28: New Sunday School year begins. Meet in the back room of the downstairs Youth Area (Room 121).

TIM (Teens in Ministry) News (grades 9-12) •  Wednesday, August 24: Fall Kickoff begins. Dinner at 6:00 pm; ends at 8:00 pm. Be sure to let Kaitie know if you need a ride on the bus BEFORE August 24!•  Sunday, August 28: New Sunday School year begins. Meet in the back room of the downstairs Youth Area (Room 121).

Youth Bus Transportation NoticeBus transportation to the church is available for PYC, KIX and TIM participants starting on September 2. If you need a ride, please contact Kaitie Kautz, 233-0295 x112 or kkautz@firstunitedpres.org.

How solid is your foundation? FaithQuest students constructed buildings using different materials for foundations during a lesson on how to lay solid foundations to grow in their faith.

Attendance and Giving

Date Worship Pledges & Contributions    Attendance  as of June 30, 201606.05.16 331 Pledged $43,332.00 06.12.16 225 Unpledged 1,525.00 06.19.16 270 Loose Offerings 361.9706.26.16 267 Schnucks eScrip Cards 50.88 Per Capita 95.00 Capital Campaign Funds 117,964.36 Additional Information: Online Giving* 5,286.00 * The Online Giving amount is not a separate income, but is incorporated in the other income categories.

If you have questions, please contact the Budget Committee Elder, Joe Fedak, 233-1213.

June 2016

From the Mission CommitteeProject Compassion NFPTwo houses, one on either side of the current office, were donated to Project Compassion. Both houses and the current office need renovations; volunteers are needed to complete the work. Look for a signup table in Cornell Commons to help with the project.

September 17: 3rd Annual International Mission Festival The Mission Festival is held to bring overseas’ mission programs to the attention of members and our surrounding community. Tastes from Around the World will begin at 5:30 pm and will include a free meal. Many great food dishes, representing twelve international mission countries we support, will be served. A slide show of international music, featuring the sights and sounds from these foreign countries, will entertain during dinner. A variety of international crafts will also be for sale. We do need your help for this to be a success. Mark your calendar, plan to attend, and bring a guest. To learn more, contact Mission Committee members, Chuck Thurig, 277- 8493, Andy Morgan or Dwight Leid, or contact Faith Community Committee members, Mary Teague, 235-6728, or Martha Dexheimer.

September 17: Tastes from Around the WorldWe need your help with the International Mission Festival! Once again, Faith Community is excited to help the Mission Committee highlight the work done by FUPC mission co-workers in many countries. Letters are being sent to the various groups and ministries, asking them to consider hosting a table for a particular mission country. Beginning August 14, look for a table in Cornell Commons to sign up or for more information. Once a group has chosen their country, they can then create their own menu (recipes can be available) and decide how best to represent their country’s cuisine. This is a wonderful opportunity for First United to come together in food and fellowship while celebrating the remarkable mission work sponsored by our church community! ~ Faith Community Committee

October 23 through 29: Adult Mission TripThe Adult Mission Trip will visit Kemmerer Village in Assumption, Illinois, about a two-hour drive from our church. KV is close enough that you can come for the day, if you cannot stay the entire week. Possible projects are: replace the roof on a single-story cottage; indoor painting in several buildings; lay noodle board over drywall in several bathrooms; install 500 feet of wooden fence. If you are interested, please mark these dates on your calendar and talk to Andy Morgan, ajl6527@juno.com, Dwight Lied or Chuck Thurig.

Meet a Mission Worker Cindy Corell is another of the 13 mission co-worker teams supported by your Mission Committee. Cindy has been based in Port au Prince, Haiti since 2013 serving as the Presbyterian Hunger Program/Joining Hands companionship facilitator, connecting presbyteries and churches in the United States with a network of churches, grassroots groups, and nongovernmental organizations in Haiti. Around the world the Joining Hands network strives to alleviate poverty and suffering through community education, advocacy, alternative economic activities, lifestyle changes,

and spiritual grounding. The goal is to restore the wholeness of God‘s creation and the healing of the human family through prayer, mutual visits, humble accompaniment, repentance, and mutual transformation.

In 2010, when she made her first trip to Haiti, Cindy sensed a heartfelt connection with this Caribbean country and its people. “I learned that everything I’d ever accomplished in 48 years of living had prepared me for being in that land of beautiful people,” she says. “I was forever changed, and I could no longer be satisfied in an ordinary job and only finding fulfilling and meaningful work on the side.” Cindy left a 27-year career as a journalist to accept a mission appointment in Haiti. Having traveled to Haiti and having co-chaired a Virginia-based nonprofit organization that funds educational endeavors in that country, she knows any ministry there is fraught with challenges and frustrations. When facing difficult situations, Cindy is confident that family, colleagues, friends, and supporters will stand with her. She realizes that progress will come slowly, and she vows to “rejoice in triumphs, however small.” Cindy says she hopes her work with people in Haiti and the United States will result in transformed lives in both countries. “I want people to feel comfortable asking questions, even tough questions, about why life in Haiti has been so hard, especially for farmers in what was once such a verdant land.” To read more about Cindy, visit her website at http://tinyurl.com/jgjskcy

Visit the Mission CommitteeThe Mission Committee meets in the Conference Room (200) at 6:30 pm on the fourth Wednesday from January through October and on the third Wednesday in November and December. Our meetings are open to all. Come visit us!

Cindy Corell

Calendar of Events August 2016MONDAY, AUGUST 16:00 pm Friends Dine Out6:15 pm Softball vs. Zion Lutheran Blue - FUPC Field

TUESDAY, AUGUST 29:30 am Quilters9:30 am Staff Meeting6:00 pm St. John Bosco Center Gym Time 6:00 pm Woodcarvers

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 38:30 am Men’s Bible Study9:30 am Deacons’ Prayer Group1:00 pm Personnel Committee

THURSDAY, AUGUST 410:00 am Prayer Quilters10:30 am Parish Nurse 6:00 pm Summer Sack Lunch Program7:00 pm Equipping Team

FRIDAY, AUGUST 510:30 am Summer Sack Lunch Delivery

SATURDAY, AUGUST 6

SUNDAY, AUGUST 78:00 am Worship9:15 am Sunday School10:30 am Worship

MONDAY, AUGUST 86:00 pm Woodcarvers6:15 pm Softball vs. Christ Church #2 - Belleville East High School7:00 pm Trustees

TUESDAY, AUGUST 99:30 am Quilters9:30 am Staff Meeting6:00 pm St. John Bosco Center Gym Time 6:30 pm Christian Education Committee

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 108:30 am Men’s Bible Study9:00 am Faith in Fiction4:30 pm Evangelism Committee

THURSDAY, AUGUST 1110:00 am Prayer Quilters10:30 am Parish Nurse 6:00 pm Summer Sack Lunch Program

FRIDAY, AUGUST 1210:30 am Summer Sack Lunch Delivery6:00 pm Merry Mates

SATURDAY, AUGUST 136:30 pm Blessing Belleville Banquet - Fischer’s Restaurant

SUNDAY, AUGUST 148:00 am Worship9:15 am Sunday School10:30 am Worship 12:00 pm Youth Volunteer Training

MONDAY, AUGUST 156:00 pm Woodcarvers6:15 pm Softball Game - (TBD)

TUESDAY, AUGUST 169:30 am Quilters9:30 am Staff Meeting11:30 am Lamplighters to The Hop House Southern Eatery - O’Fallon6:00 pm St. John Bosco Center Gym Time 6:00 pm Stewardship Committee6:30 pm Session

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 178:30 am Men’s Bible Study9:00 am Loaves & Fishes9:30 am Deacons’ Prayer Group11:30 am Hannah Circle at Tim & Joe’s, Belleville5:30 pm Worship Committee6:00 pm Youth Volunteer Training6:30 pm Vision Committee Meeting

THURSDAY, AUGUST 1810:00 am Prayer Quilters10:30 am Parish Nurse Available

FRIDAY, AUGUST 19STEEPLE DEADLINE 5:30 pm Living the Minivan Dream (Formerly MOMs Group) - Thoman Park, O’Fallon

SATURDAY, AUGUST 20 6:00 pm Helmsmen Picnic at Church Pavillion

SUNDAY, AUGUST 218:00 am Worship9:15 am Sunday School 10:30 am Worship12:00 pm Youth Ministries Committee

MONDAY, AUGUST 22 Preschool Orientation6:00 pm Metro East Chorale6:00 pm Woodcarvers6:15 pm Softball Game - (TBD)

TUESDAY, AUGUST 23Preschool Orientation9:30 am Quilters9:30 am Staff Meeting6:00 pm St. John Bosco Center Gym Time 6:30 pm Stephen Ministry

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 24Preschool Orientation8:30 am Men’s Bible Study9:30 am Prayer Shawl Ministry6:00 pm Youth Fall Kickoff6:30 pm Mission Committee

THURSDAY, AUGUST 25Begin Bringing Rummage Sale Items Preschool Orientation10:00 am Prayer Quilters10:30 am Parish Nurse Available7:00 pm Chancel Choir

FRIDAY, AUGUST 26Preschool Orientation9:30 am PWCT Meeting

SATURDAY, AUGUST 279:00 am Compassion Day for FUPC (Deliver Items to Homeless)9:00 am Visioning Summit in Youth Area

SUNDAY, AUGUST 288:00 am Worship9:15 am Sunday School10:30 am Worship 11:45 am Acolyte and Jr. Usher Training

MONDAY, AUGUST 299:00 am Preschool Begins6:00 pm Metro East Chorale6:15 pm Softball Game - (TBD)6:00 pm Woodcarvers

TUESDAY, AUGUST 309:30 am Quilters9:30 am Staff Meeting6:00 pm St. John Bosco Center Gym Time

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 318:30 am Men’s Bible Study5:15 pm PYC6:00 pm KIX & TIM, Youth Supper6:30 pm Wednesday Night Live

S AV E T H E D AT E

September 3Rummage Sale

September 3Sand Dollars

Fall Picnic

September 10Belleville Helping

Belleville

September 17International

Mission Festival Dinner

Plastic Floral Vases Please return the plastic vases, used for chapel and sanctuary flowers, to the church. The florist, Artiste de Fleurs, will reuse them. Thank you! ~ The Office Staff

Church Directories Are Here! The church directories have arrived and are ready for pick up in the Commons. They have been labeled with names of those who had their picture taken. Thank you. ~ Erma Jean Vandiver

Training for Acolytes and Jr. Ushers Training for Acolytes (Grades 4-5-6) and Jr. Ushers (Grades 7-8) will be held on Sunday, August 28 at 11:45 am in the Chapel. We appreciate them as they serve God as His servants.

Legacy Please remember First United in your will.

TIM Mission Trip

FUPC Youth On the Go!

KIX Great Escape New PlaygroundJuly  11-16,  six  KIX  youth  and  two  adults ventured to Green Lake, WI for a week at The Great Escape. They heard from speakers on w h a t i t means to trust God’s p l a n f o r u s w h i l e l e a r n i n g t o t r u s t o n t h e high ropes course.

Thank you, Trustees, for ordering and installing the new slides and tunnels for the playground. Everything is now ready for play!

Six TIM youth and two adults experienced God at work through their interactions with people they met in Somerville, TN. They painted, built wheelchair ramps, and completed simple home repairs while making new friends from around the country.  They even fit in an afternoon off in Memphis.

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THE STEEPLE1303 Royal Heights RoadBelleville, IL 62223

Publication Postage

USPS 442-180Belleville, IL

PAID

F I R S T U N I T E DP R E S B Y T E R I A N

Senior Pastor / Head of Staffrdyer@firstunitedpres.orgThe Rev. Robert J. Dyer

Director of Christian Educationsfoltz@firstunitedpres.org

Stephanie Foltz

Director of Youth MinistriesDirector of Equipping Ministries

kkautz@firstunitedpres.orgKaitie Kautz

Director of Musicajensen@firstunitedpres.org

Andy Jensen

Organist/AccompanistDennis Bergin

Office Staff (8:00 am - 2:00 pm)lorlet@firstunitedpres.org

LuAnn Orlet

Financial Secretary (12:30 - 4:30 pm)polson@firstunitedpres.org

Pat Olson

Art Directorjhalton@firstunitedpres.org

Jody Halton

Director of Audio/Video Ministriesvideoministry@firstunitedpres.org

Loren Elliott

Maintenance SupervisorJim Hoffman

CustodianHerschel Bey

Sunday Childcare SupervisorSue Hall

Parish Nurseajlied1@aol.comJoyce Lied, RN

The SteepleArticles and Suggestions

TheSteeple@firstunitedpres.org

OUR STAFFFALL KICKOFF DATES

Wednesday, August 24Kickoff for Youth Families

PYC, KIX, TIM

Sunday, August 28Kickoff for

Sunday School Classesand

All Church Groups

August 2016Issue 68Volume 8

First United Presbyterian Church1303 Royal Heights Road • Belleville, IL 62223

618.233.0295 • www.firstunitedpres.org

We are a Christian church that glorifies God through meaningful worship, active discipleship,

faithful service and nurturing fellowship.

FALL

2016KICKOFF