updates for 10/18

I apologize in advance if I should miss anyone in this.  We are deluged with situations this week which need our prayers.  So if you find someone you know who needs our prayers not listed, please add them in and send to the rest of us.

 

Hospitalization

            Bruce Cornell was admitted to Princeton yesterday with a blood clot in his lung.  He seems to feel well and they will treat him, hopefully returning home soon.

 

Improving

            Justin Latta we hope is improving considering his many tests from yesterday

            Beth and Wally are both making strides

            Crickett is having less pain though it seems to become worse when she over extends herself

            Charlotte Hamilton is doing okay with her shoulder but as developed a problem in her foot – pain is extreme

 

Upcoming surgeries or procedures

            Stacy Bennett – rotator cuff – Oct 23

            Kristi McNeal – more testing for MS

Ernestine Wardlow – continuing testing Monday, Oct 21 (endoscopy and colonoscopy); she is healing well from cancer surgery and ending her treatments the last of October

            Steve Bradley – still looking at prostate surgery probably in November

 

Thanksgiving

Phillip Contorno has received a clean bill of health regarding cancer.  This is an amazing story of God's love and grace through doctors and medicine under the watchful eye of the Holy Spirit.

And I must give thanks for Crickett's diagnosis which tells us she does not need any chemo or radiation or ongoing medicine related to cancer.

 

This is a long list – so forgive me if I've missed anyone.

ALSO - REMEMBER TO JOIN US SUNDAY FOR YOUTH SUNDAY. This promises to be an enjoyable and edifying service.  Barri has spent tireless hours in preparation with the kids.

 

 

Rev. Randolph Kesler

Prayer concerns for 10/18

Please remember Suzanne Webb's sister, Carol Webb Marsh, who is having an MRI next week. She is still having problems with one of her shoulders. She has already had two surgeries in both shoulders in the past year. She will have another surgery in this shoulder after the results of the MRI.

updates for 10/17

Justin is home and sleeping off the sedation from this morning.  Doctor said she didn't see obvious major problems (like blockages, ruptures, etc.) but she took numerous biopsies of the esophagus, stomach, small intestines and rest of colon and will send those to lab for further testing.  She mentioned a couple of other issues, changed some of his meds and added a new one, and gave new instructions for a diet to follow for a few days.  She seems to think if we can get all these issues calmed down then his system will begin to adjust and take over. 

 

Thank you all for your prayers and please continue to pray for him.

 

Vicki Latta

Update on Beth Barker

Beth is doing very well. She is not having to use oxygen today and her swelling is down. She's getting stronger!

Prayer concerns for 10/15

Beverly Dodson underwent a hip replacement on Monday and is going home today.  Please keep her in your prayers as she recovers and goes through therapy.  If you would like to send her a card her address:  1120 Camelot Circle, Hoover, AL 35226. 

 

Also, we ask that you keep Charlie Parsons in your prayers as he faces several challenges with his health.  He has to be on medication without any changes for 30 days before he can continue seeking treatments.

 

Finally, let us continue to hold Kristi close in prayer this week in regards to her eye.  She has begun to be able to see out of it a little, but it is still weak.  She is having an MRI tomorrow (Wednesday, Oct. 16th) and she is awaiting the results of her blood test which is testing for MS or Lupus.  Our Lord is close and is overseeing whatever has blocked her vision.  Let us pray for a return to normal sight and good health for Kristi.

Prayer concerns for 10/11

Vicki Latta asks us to resume our prayers for Justin.  Since his surgery he has not been able to work a full week or to be free of pain.  He has severe pain, vomiting and is unable to eat regularly.  Something else is apparently going on and he will see another gastro – doctor soon.

 

Rev. Randolph Kesler

 

Update on Charlotte Bruce

Becky's mom, Charlotte, received good news after her thyroid surgery.  She is cancer-free and doing great!  Thanks to all who have kept this sweet lady in your prayers.

We are grateful to our Sovereign God for His constant care and everlasting love!

Peace,

Barri

Church Picnic and OCC

If you have not already signed up for the Church Picnic and OCC Packing Party this Sunday, October 13, after the worship service, PLEASE DO SO BY THE END OF TODAY!  

 
For the shoeboxes we still need small flashlights with batteries and small, soft dolls.
 
Thanks!!!

Update on Crickett

Crickett saw the oncologist yesterday who told her that she needs NO treatments, either chemo or radiation.  He will see her again in a year.  This is a marvelous blessing and we are grateful for your prayers and support during this ordeal and we are thankful for such a loving church family.

 

Randy

Prayer concerns for 10/03

Gooooood Morning Prayer Troopers!

 

Wally is cancer free!  Praise be to God!  He is thinking he will go back to his house today.  He is feeling better and his pain is better too.

 

Please continue to keep Jean King in your prayers as she is having a difficult time with recovery from her gall bladder surgery.

 

Have a great day!

Love,

Becky

Prayer concerns for 10/02

Bruce Cornell is out of surgery (seeding) and is doing fine. He ought to go home in 3-4 hours. Please continue to keep him in your prayers. 

Charlie Parsons is on our prayer list at church and is the brother of Sue Parsons who works with Keith.  Sue is the grandmother of Gracie Ann Poole.

 

Charlie is at Brookwood Hospital now due to fluid retention but he had previosly been at UAB where they suggested that he try to get to Emory where they could give him a "heart clip".  The procedure could help him if they can do it.  His appointment at Emory is scheduled for Oct. 14th.  However, he is very weak right now.  His kidneys are beginning to fail.  His doctor has taken him off all his diuretics because his kidneys are getting worse.

 

Charlie's wife is requesting prayer that Charlie doesn't retain any more fluid and that he is able to go to his appointment at Emory on the 14th.  Our Lord and Father is our Sustainer in times of trouble.  Let us lift up this family in one accord.

 

Love,

Becky

Prayer concerns for 10/01

Please remember Bruce Cornell in your prayers.  He will begin treatments tomorrow.

Updates for 09/30

Beth Barker has settled in at The Oaks.  Wally Barker will be going home with his daughter, Susanne, this afternoon.  Jean King is recovering from her surgery at home.

Updates for 09/27

Wally and Beth are both doing fine this afternoon.

Charlotte Bruce, Becky's mom, has gone home.

 

Rev. Randolph Kesler

Update on Charlotte Bruce

Surgery went well but took a little longer than expected (no problems though). She is out of recovery and is resting and hopes to go home tomorrow. Thanks for your prayers!

Update on Beth and Wally

Current plans for Beth include remaining in the hospital until Saturday which will permit her to be at the hospital for Wallace's surgery which will take place Friday morning, the exact time still unknown till later today. Then she will be transferred to the Oaks for rehab for up to twenty-one days. So she will be well provided for while Wallace is recuperating from his surgery. Thanks for all your prayers and I want to say a great big thank you to Becky Jinright and Theresa Sanford who organized a finely tuned care system to tend to Beth and Wally's needs during this time. If I should include any other than those two in the leadership of this effort, I apologize; I just simply did not know about you. I am always gratified and amazed by the loving kindness of this congregation in being the hands of Christ in caring for family and friends in need. You are a blessed and "blessing" congregation.



Grace and Peace

Randy

Prayer concerns for 09/26

Please remember Becky Jinright's mother, Charlotte Bruce, who will be having thyroid surgery on Thursday.

Update on Jean King

Jean has come out of surgery and is now in recovery. She's doing well and will probably go home this afternoon.

 

Prayer concerns for 09/25

Please remember the following in your prayers today:

 

Jean King, who is having gallbladder surgery this morning at St. Vincent's
 
Beth Barker, who is responding to treatment for pneumonia and is still at Brookwood

 

Wally Barker, who is scheduled for surgery this Friday at Brookwood
 

Prayer concerns for 09/24

Please remember Jean King in prayer who will be having surgery tomorrow morning at St. Vincent's, Mr. Smitherman (Vicki’s dad) as he goes to the Chiropractor tomorrow, Beth Barker as she wrestles with pneumonia, and Wally Barker as he prepares for his surgery this week.

 

Here’s an update from Vicki on Justin:  Surgeon said this morning that he does not have a "bleed" (internal bleeding & that was a concern). He said the fact that Justin had gotten very sick on Friday after the surgery and has been sick several times since last week it has set his recovery time back some and caused more severe bruising and pain than normal.  He wants to give it a least 3 more weeks for his body to adjust and compensate for the loss of his gall bladder and if he doesn't improve they will start him on some medication that will assist with that transition.  He is to rest and maintain a bland diet and will be off work another week.  Thanks for your continued prayers for him.

 

Prayer request for the Latta family

Vicki Latta asked me to pass along to you all that Justin is still having some issues following his surgery.  His right side is still very sore and bruised.  He is scheduled to see the surgeon in the morning.  Also Vicki's dad, Paul Smitherman, is having severe pain in his right leg and 3 doctors have told him its severe muscle strain, but the anti-inflamatories are not helping nor are the muscle relaxers.  He is currently using crutches to get around to try and keep pressure off his leg.  He is scheduled to see a Chiropractor on Thursday. 
 
Please keep the Lattas and the Smithermans in your prayers and pray that both of the problems will be discovered so that they can receive some comfort.  
 
Love,
Becky

Prayer concerns for 09/23

Please pray for Beth Barker. She has been admitted to the hospital with pneumonia.

Update on Building

Jim Byram tells me that the grading contractor began work on the new property on Friday, Sept. 20, 2013. We give thanks to the Lord for his goodness, for the skill, effort and exceptional persistence of the Building Committee (Jim Byram, Jack Cornelius, Ira Latham, Lesley Romano, Heinz Skolud) and to this marvelous congregation who has stood with this effort over a long period of time and in overcoming many obstacles.  We also are grateful to several different Sessions of this congregation who have been patient and faithful in the execution of their duties and ministries.  Thanks be to God for those who have provided financial support that this hymn of praise to the Lord may be sung in the lives of our people.

Rev. Randolph Kesler
First Presbyterian Church
Bessemer, AL

Prayer concerns for 09/20

Wally Barker's surgery will be next Friday, Sept 27th.  He will likely be in the hospital 3-5 days and recovering for about 3 weeks. 

 

Charlotte Bruce is scheduled for thyroid surgery next Thursday, Sept 26th.  She should only have to stay 1 night in the hospital. 

 

Please be in prayer for them as they prepare for that and for speedy recoveries!

 

Love,

Becky

Memorial Service for Ethel Norton George

The memorial service for Mrs. Ethel Norton George's (Barry Norton's sister) will be Saturday, September 21st at Riverchase United Methodist Church in Hoover.  There will be a visitation at 1:00 and the service will be at 3:00.

Prayer concerns for 09/18

Please remember Charlotte Hamilton who is having shoulder surgery tomorrow at St. Vincent's downtown. 

Also remember Wallace Barker who will see a surgeon this week about upcoming colon surgery.

 

Rev. Randolph Kesler

First Presbyterian Church

Bessemer, Alabama

 

update on Crickett

Crickett saw the doctor this afternoon and all good news.  Best is that the pathology report came back clear.  Doctor called it good.  Thanks for your prayers – please continue them.

Randy

Prayer concerns for 09/13

Please continue to prayer for healing, peaceful rest, and deliverance from pain for Crickett and Ernestine following their surgeries this week. They are both at home.

Praise be to our Lord and King for the encouraging report from Bruce Cornell's CT scan!

David Finn's sister is doing okay, but let us continue to lift her up in prayer.

As Perry's step-mother awaits the results of her pathology report, let us pray for peace and patience and rest in Our Father's Arms.

Justin Latta had surgery to remove his gallbladder at noon and Wally Barker has a follow up appointment from his colonoscopy later today. Please keep them close in prayer throughout the day and let us pray for best possible results and quick healing as God's Glory will be revealed in all these situations!

Love,
Becky

Prayer request for 09/13

Justin Latta will be having gallbladder surgery tomorrow around noon.  Please keep him and Vicki and Buster in your prayers! 

 

Love,

Becky

Arrangements for Gene Tucker

People's - Hueytown
Saturday, Sept. 14
12:30  Visitation

02:00  Funeral

Update on Crickett and Ernestine Wardlow

Both are doing well and should go home later today.

Sympathy for the family of Gene Tucker

We express our love and Christian sympathy to the family and friends of Gene Tucker who passed away this afternoon.

Once we know of any arrangements, we will send that information to you.

Peace,
Barri

Prayer Requests for 09/11

Please remember Crickett today.  Her surgery will be early this morning.
 
Please also remember Ernestine Wardlow's surgery is Thursday 9/12. She has to be at St Vincent's at 5:00am and her surgery is suppose to be at 7:00am. They are saying it will be a 2 hour surgery. If everything goes well she is suppose to come home sometime that day.

Prayer Concerns for the week of 09/08

Please remember the following in your prayers this week.

 

Beverly Wood’s sister (Debbie Hatcher), procedure on 09/09

Crickett Kesler, surgery on 09/11

Ernestine Wardlow, surgery on 09/12

David Finn’s sister (Susan)

Perry Phillips’ step-mom (Linda)

Vicki Latta’s dad (Mr. Smitherman)

Gene Tucker (currently at Ginger’s home)

Ken Ware (currently at home)

Prayer Request for Gene Tucker

Please remember Gene Tucker and his family, who has just recently been in the hospital. He is at home now - the doctors can't do anything more for him. 

Update on Crickett

Crickett saw the doctor Tuesday.  The antibiotics have reduced the infection somewhat.  He gave her a second round of them and will see her next week to monitor the progress.  The surgery will be scheduled when he feels that the infection is gone. Thanks for your prayers for her in this situation.  We look forward to being back at work on Sept 16 when Sabbatical ends.

Sympathy for the Norton family

Our Christian love and sympathy go out to Barry and Lavada Norton and Barri and Ted Pratt in the loss of Barry's older sister, Ethel who died yesterday.  She suffered from a short illness and now is at peace

Prayer requests for August 22

Please keep Crickett in your prayers as she is being treated for an ongoing infection.  No other surgeries or treatments can begin until this infection is resolved. She will be going to see her doctor again next Tuesday. 

Sympathy for the family of JoAnn Kierce

Our Christian Sympathy is extended to the family and friends of JoAnn Kierce, who passed away this morning. 

There will be a graveside service at St. Paul United Methodist Church in Greenville, AL this Sunday, August 25, at 4:00 PM.

Arrangements for Grace Higginbotham

Peoples Chapel Hueytown on Thursday
Visitation at 10 AM
Service at 11 AM
Burial at Highland's

 

Prayer Concerns for August 19

Goooooood Morning Prayer Troopers!

I have an update on our Crickett.  Her oncologist believes that a mastectomy is the best option.  At the present time, it will not need to be a radical mastectomy, but that will be confirmed later.  Crickett goes back to her surgeon next Tuesday the 27th.  Expected date for mastectomy right now is first week in September.  Let us pray that no further cancer is found so that she will not need a radical mastectomy and that she will continue to heal from the last surgery she had.  Also let us continue to hold her and Randy close in our hearts and prayers and pray for both of their strength and victory over their illnesses.

Also, Julie Bradley has another court appearance tomorrow. Let us continue to pray for her strength and victory over her situation as well.

Keep the family of Grace Higginbotham in your prayers as she has recongnized her final and eternal victory.  I understand the funeral will be Thursday, but more information will be forthcoming.

Remember, as friends and family and children of God, no one fights alone!

Love,
Becky

Prayer Concerns for August 12

Grace made it through the night but remains unresponsive.

Barri Norton's sister Ethel (in South Carolina) is also near death this morning.

Thank you for your faithful prayers.

Randy Kesler
Pastor
First Presbyterian Church
Bessemer, Al, 35020

Update on Grace Higginbotham

I'm told you received word this morning of Grace's worsening condition.  Having talked to Michael (her son) this evening, she is not expected to live through the night. You may not know it, but Grace transferred her membership to First Pres in Tuscaloosa and Charlie Durham, her pastor now, will be handling the service.

I can tell you that Peoples' Funeral Home in Hueytown will handle the arrangements.  I'll keep you informed as word comes.

Grace is so sweet, kind and loving.  Heaven will be enriched with her presence.  Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord in the power of the Holy Spirit.

Randy Kesler
Pastor
First Presbyterian Church
Bessemer, Al, 35020

Prayer Concerns for August 1

Let us remember Dr. Holt this morning as he is recovering from some skin cancer surgery done yesterday.

Also, Crickett's pathology report shows they did not find cancer but they did find some DCIS cells which are precancerous.  More surgery will be required once she heals from last week's surgery.  With the second surgery, the doctors will remove the DCIS cells and test them.  If they still indicate pre-cancerous, she will need to have a mastectomy.   An uneasy wait both for the second surgery and the results forthcoming so please lift her up and ask for strength and peace to encompass her.

Love,
Becky

prayer request for Austin Marino

Pray warriors Just found out that old church members, Eddie and Vickie Snider's grandson, Austin Marino was in a bad motorcycle wreck, prayers for him and his family.

Love and prayers,
Dominga

prayers for July 30

Please remember Julie Bradley throughout the day today but especially at 1:15 which is her scheduled time for her and her attorney to meet with the Shelby County mental health judge.   The Lord will be there too!  :)

Update on Beth Black:  She is still unconscious but is responding to some external stimuli.  The doctors still don't know the extent of her head trauma and are waiting for her to wake up.   Please include her in your prayers and ask for God's healing to continue and strength for the family to continue to care for her in the ways needed while she is sleeping.

Let me give you also a brief update on Gracie Poole.  She and her parents went to Houston to meet with the doctors there regarding her lung transplant.  She made a big impact on the doctors and nurses there, stole their hearts I understand!  The relocation to Houston does not have to happen just yet.  The doctors there and here in B'ham are in communication and working together for the best care for Gracie. 

This is from Gracie's mom's blog:

She is definitely a lung transplant candidate-however they feel it's too soon for her to be put on the waiting list. I honestly was shocked by that conclusion! They say she needs to be in the best possible physical shape and also weaned down off of her ventilator and oxygen as much as possible, if possible. They also want us to discontinue her ivig infusions-which are to boost her immune system-to see how her bodies levels are on its own now-she hasn't been without these infusions for 3 years now. She is on the bare minimum settings on her ventilator anyway and has been for some time now. She has been on 1 1/2 liters of extra O2 for a long time now, so we started watching her sats and turned down her O2 and she has been without any extra O2 for two shop days now-that is also a first! So this week she will start boot camp, for lack of a better term. HA she will have Extra PT and try to beef up her muscles and endurance as much as she can tolerate.

So you see they have a lot to do and just so you understand the situation, the tests in Houston concluded that Gracie's lungs are performing at an unsatisfying rate.  She has part of one of her lungs removed some time ago and now much of the lung she has left is black and nonfunctioning.  Her doctor said that if you were to put both her lungs together, they would be functioning at just under 50%.  Yet Gracie still enjoys her play time and her siblings and all that she is able.  Their family gives all the credit to God.  And the other thing is Gracie is well aware that God is right there with her and will tell you so!

Love,
Becky

Arrangements for Lee Grider

Our Christian sympathy is extended to the family and friends of Lee Grider, on his death. Visitation & service are today at Peoples Chapel in Hueytown. Visitation is at 1:00 PM and the service at 2:00 PM.

Congratulations to Jeff Obert

Congratulations to Jeff Obert on the birth of a new grandson, Lane Powell, born this afternoon. Congratulations also to proud parents, Eva Jean Powell and her husband. Lane was 7 lbs 8 oz and 20 inches long.

Update on Crickett

Crickett had surgery this morning for cysts in the breasts. The doctors think everything is fine and she'll be going home this afternoon.

Church Office closed 07/12

The Church Office will be closed Friday, July 12.

Prayer Request for Tom Barnes

Please pray for Tom Barnes, who is a former member. He will be having a stent removed this Friday and has been told that the chances of a good outcome are very low.

youth yard sale and SVPC

Dear Church Family,

Please remember our youth sponsored yard sale Saturday at 7:00 AM and lasting until..........we are guessing until noon-ish. Join us at Shepherd of the Valley for some great buys for a great project! We would love to shop and visit with YOU!

The proceeds from this yard sale will go to the Property Pay-off Project from our youth. Thank you for helping them to make this sale a success!

Don't forget that The Way will NOT meet Sunday evening so we can share in Father's Day with our family and friends. See you back there on June 23rd as we laugh with The Beverly Hillbillies and study a great scripture lesson and life applications.
Peace,

Barri Pratt
Director of Youth and Outreach
First Presbyterian Church
Bessemer, Alabama

Youth Car Wash CANCELLED

The weather has caused us to cancel our car wash today. It looks like rain and thunderstorms will be passing through all day, so we've decided the safest thing is to cancel.

Thank you for your support!

Barri

Arrangements for Mary Sue Caldwell

Arrnage for Mary Sue Caldwell are as follows:
Thursday, May 16
Visitation 12:30 at McCalla Funeral Home
Graveside 02:00 at Highland Memorial Gardens

Sympathy to Dominga Toner

We extend our Christian Sympathy to Dominga Toner and family on the death of her brother-in-law, Mickey (Hubert Floyd Moss, III), yesterday morning. The service is Tuesday in Montgomery. Please remember Dominga and Heinz as they travel to Montgomery for the funeral.

Helen Holmes

Helen went home this early morning. We are glad for her journey and
pilgrimage. Arrangements are listed below. Thank you for your
continued prayers.

In Christ,
Randy


-------
Sunday Afternoon February 3, 2013
Visitation is 2pm at Berney Points Baptist Church off the Alford Ave
exit on I-65 in Hoover.
Funeral will follow at 3pm in the church.
Burial will be at Elmwood Monday morning at 10:00am.

Sunday, February 3rd

We will not have youth this Sunday evening, February 3rd.

Since we will not be having SVPC evening worship and hand bell
practice and the Presbyterian Women quarterly meeting will be right
after worship, this should help simplify for some of you. I know some
of you will be ALL about watching the Super Bowl AND trying to get
homework done!!

I hate not meeting 2 weeks in a row so I sure hope I will see you at
Sunday school this week.

We will be collecting for Souper Bowl of Caring again immediately
following worship. Thanks for helping with this. We collected over
$300.00 last week from this very giving congregation. That should be
a nice gift to our local Meals on Wheels and the wonderful ministry
they lead. Did you look us up on their website?

(Also, do you have March 2nd marked off for us hosting the Greatest
Generation Celebration? I need to hear from you on that, please.)



Thanks and love,
Barri Pratt
Director of Youth and Outreach

Update on Eugene Latta

I wanted to just update everyone about my father-in-law's (Eugene
Latta) condition. The hospice nurse was out today and she said he is
declining rapidly. The cancer is now in his bones, liver, brain, and
possibly other organs. He is now on morphine for the pain and he is
experiencing some personality changes(nurse did say this was normal).
She said that he would be wheel chair bound soon and that probably
within a week or two he will start having trouble remembering his
family. (if at all). Please continue to pray for him and our family.

Thanks,

Vicki Latta

update on Helen Holmes

Please say a special prayer for the Holmes family this morning.  Helen is not very responsive.  No extraordinary measures will be taken for her except for the prayers of the faithful of the Lord.  Please remember Mike and Donna and their family.

Randy

update on Phillip Contorno

To Special Friends & Church Family,

Everyone has been waiting to know about Phillip's test.  It wasn't totally what we were praying for, but God is still Blessing us!!!  Small marble size recurrence in right lung, but the rest of the body was CLEAR!!! (We saw Pet Scan) PRAISE GOD!!!

Dr. Y recommends Cyber Knife treatment for this one spot.  This is a noninvasive non surgery treatment.
It is a robotic arm that precisely identifies tumor location and delivers high beams of radiation with      extreme accuracy.  Dr. Y says 99.9 % he feels this will take care of this spot!!!  Will see radiologist next Tuesday and find out more about treatment and when to start.

PLEASE KEEP LIFTING US UP IN ALL YOUR PRAYERS!!! PRAYING FOR GOOD RESULTS!!!!!

LOVE TO ALL & GOD BLESS

PHILLIP & LEE

Sunday, January 27, 2013

Dear Church Family,

This Sunday morning in worship we will take just a moment to honor our own Sarah Southerland.  Sarah graduated from Auburn University in December and we want to give her our congratulations and well-wishes!

Also, immediately following worship our youth will be collecting for Souper Bowl of Caring.  Our First Presbyterian youth have taken part for years in this time of collective sharing all across America.  This year we will give our monetary donations to our local Meals on Wheels, a very special ministry of this church. No food items will be gathered for this offering.  We will also have another chance for you to give next Sunday, February 3rd. Thank you for always being so giving in the name of Christ.

Then, also on this Sunday, January 27th, we will have a lunch bunch.  If you have not turned in your reservations, please call the church office if you plan on joining us.  We will enjoy a wonderful meal together, a time of fellowship, and hear from our elders about their ministry teams and their goals for the coming year.

We will NOT be having The Way worship services out at Shepherd of the Valley this Sunday evening since the lunch bunch keeps us later in the afternoon.  Also, we will NOT have those SVPC services on February 3rd due to the Super Bowl game.  We hope this will help you in your planning and scheduling for your family.

Let's all be together, sisters and brothers, this Lord's Day in worship of His Holiness and Grace!

Peace,

Barri

Greatest Generation Celebration request

Dear Friends,

Our January newsletter included an article about an upcoming event that the youth of our church are planning.  I hope you read it and are ready to do some jitter-bugging!  We will be celebrating our church members, family, and friends who are part of The Greatest Generation and we would appreciate your help in these efforts.

In case you did not remember the details from the newsletter, here is an excerpt: 

Do you remember The Great Depression, World War II, Citizen Kane, Glenn Miller, gas rationing, scrap drives and Fireside Chats?

If so, then you are invited to a party in YOUR honor!  Our youth at First Presbyterian would like to honor and salute you if you were born before 1946 or if you are part of what our nation considers its "Greatest Generation."

We will have good music – (REAL music, like you remember!) great food, a little dancing, and fellowship to celebrate all that you have given to us through your sacrifice and patriotism.

The entire congregation is invited to this time of celebration on Saturday, March 2, 2013 at 11:30.

The Fellowship Team is on board for helping with the lunch and other food items.  Russell is learning about the Andrew Sisters and other amazing music. Randy is sharpening up his interview techniques so we can find out some wonderful details of those exciting and trying days in our nation's history.  

Could you play a part in this very special celebration?  We would love to have you help in honoring these great folk!  If you are interested, please, just give me a call (church 424-3950, cell 914-7034, home 425-7325) or an email and then we can talk more details as our team comes together.

Your efforts will greatly bless those who have blessed us so very much!

Thank you,

Barri Pratt

Director of Youth and Outreach

Presbytery retreats and camps

Hello, one and all!!!

I am attaching two flyers from the presbytery about youth camps and retreats for your information. If anyone is interested, please let me
know.

The senior high retreat coming up very quickly in February, is for 9-12th graders, and is at Camp McDowell. I will not be able to attend but anyone who would like to could just let me know and we can chat.

Have a great week!

Barri Pratt
Director of Youth and Outreach

=====================================

SLPYC Senior High Winter Retreat at Camp McDowell

What: Sr. High Winter Retreat

When: February 1-3, 2013

Time: Sunday, 11 am (after 10 am Worship)

Cost: $85.00 - A $10.00 late fee will be charged after January 28.

=====================================
2013 Living River Summer Camp Schedule


Elementary Camp @ Rolling Hills, completed 2 - 5 grade, June 2 - 7

Middle School Camp @ Rolling Hills, completed 6 - 8 grade, June 9 – 14

Discovery Camp @ Rolling Hills, completed 4 - 8 grade, June 16 - 21

Senior High Camp @ 4-H Center, completed 9 - 12 grade, June 23 - 28

You & Me @ 4 -H Center, completed 5K - 2 grade, June 24 - 29


ALL CAMPS WILL TRAVEL TO LIVING RIVER

~All camps begin Sunday afternoon and run through Friday afternoon except You & Me.~

Camp Committee is looking for Camp Co-Directors. If you are interested or have a suggestion, please contact Robert Hay at 205-978-0320 or robert.haysr@gmail.com

update on Bradleys and Sumner

Foster and Ann Bradley along with Jimmie Lou Sumner on their way to Atlanta Sunday morning had an automobile accident.  They have been to the hospital and are now on their way home to Birmingham.  They will hurt from seat belt burns and air bag deployment for a while and Jimmie Lou has a broken hand.  Other than this they are well. Kathy is with them and helping them on the return trip.  They ask us to thank the Lord for the blessing of not being injured more than they were.

Randy

final details on Snow Mountain

We will leave from Shepherd of the Valley in McCalla in the church van at 7:00 am on Saturday, January 19^th.  That is THIS SATURDAY!  We are guessing that we will be back by 8:00 pm.  Your student will call you when we get on the road and know a more specific time.

Please have plenty of extra dry clothes and socks with you.  Extra shoes would even be a good idea!  They suggest water resistant clothes including your boots and gloves. 

You may want to bring sunglasses for the glare of the snow but you will need to have them on a string of some sort, I would think.

I will need your signed permission slip.  If you are bringing a guest please make sure you have theirs with you that morning!!!! The only one I have so far is Caroline's.  The form is attached to this email again.

We will stop at some point for a little breakfast but I do not know what time or where so if you need food early, please eat something before you leave home.

I will have some little snacks and waters on the van.

You will need money for that breakfast and for lunch and supper.  You will also need money for snacks, hot chocolate, etc. at the park and that is never cheap.  The S'mores packets you can buy for the fire are $5.00.  There are also gift shops so you know what that means!  A trip to a theme park can be expensive so be sure your student knows how much you want her/him to spend.

Here is the Snow Mountain website link if you would like to check it out some more.  http://www.stonemountainpark.com/events/Snow-Mountain.aspx

Please feel free to email or call me if you have any questions. 

I am so excited that we have been given this day together to share in the wonder of faith family enjoying God's creation.  I am thankful that our church is funding this trip and that we have the health in our bodies to do this!  Thanks to all you adults who are giving up your Saturday to go with us!  You are a treasure!

Peace,

Barri Pratt

Director of Youth and Outreach

Sympathy to Brenda Atkins

We extend love and sympathy to Brenda Atkins, our church secretary, tonight.  She texted me a few minutes ago that her mother had died. When she knows more, she will let us know.  Her mom had been in very poor health for quite a while but I believe her death was unexpected. Please remember Brenda, Mike and family.  Thank you.

Randy

Bible Study resumes

Bible Study resumes this evening at 5:30pm.  We'll be studying 2 Kings 1 about the translation of Elijah and the continuation of prophetic ministry by Elisha.  I believe that these two prophets probably form the nucleus in St. Mark's thinking in the formulation of the First Gospel.  Jesus' ministry has several significant parallels with their lives and miracles.  We welcome  you to join us in the Chapel for this opportunity for Christian spiritual formation.

Randy Kesler

First Presbyterian Church

Bessemer, Alabama 35020

205-424-3950

Arrangements for Linda Grable

Memorial Service for Linda Grable (Dominga Toner's sister) is this Friday evening at 6:00 at Brown's in Bessemer.

Prayer request for Dot Howell's grandson

Please pray for Beaux Allen Waites, Dot Howell's grandson, who has RSV and is back at Children's Hospital.  Please no visitors as he is in isolation - just special prayers.

Sunday, September 30th

God has poured out His love into our hearts - Romans 5:5, NIV

It's time to pack those shoeboxes!  On Sunday, September 30^th, we will have lunch immediately following morning worship and then wrap and pack to do our part to help reach hurting children for Christ.  If you are interested in learning more about the discipleship part of OCC, here is a link to the "Greatest Journey" information on the Operation Christmas Child website: http://www.samaritanspurse.org/index.php/GreatestJourney/index/

Please invite others to attend on Sunday.  Please make lunch reservations through the church office.  Please bring soft toys for younger children or socks or t-shirts or ball caps or flashlights with batteries if you still would like to donate OR you can donate for the $7.00 per box shipping fee.  Please, most importantly, be in prayer for Samaritan's Purse as they lead this mission AND for the children who will receive these gifts.

This year we do NOT need you to bring wrapping paper, tape or scissors.

Thank you so much for participating in this work that touches millions of children across the world with a simple gift that is powerful enough to change lives with the Good News of Jesus Christ!

Arrangements for Mary M. Wanninger

HEARTFELT PRAYERS AND SYMPATHY are extended to Ellis Wanninger, Rev. Susan Laney and the entire family at the death of beloved wife and mother, Mary M. Wanninger on Wednesday, September 26, 2012.  The Memorial service will be Friday, September 28 at 5:00pm in the Sanctuary of South Highland Presbyterian Church.  Visitation will follow in the Davis Family Hall.

Sunday School 9:30am Tomorrow

FPC Family - Please join with all of us this Sunday morning at 930am in the Fellowship Hall for a group Sunday School Lesson including lite breakfast.  Yayyyyy!  Dan Stephens (Assoc. Ex. Presbyter) and his wife will be helping us celebrate by teaching the lesson. Barri (Youth and Outreach) will announce the winner of our summer attendance contest.  This will be enjoyable.  Please make every effort to join your Christ family tomorrow morning.

 Randy

Update on Cary Southerland

Cary is out of surgery and doing fine.

Prayer Request - Cary Southerland

Please remember Cary Southerland, who had an accident a couple of weeks ago, and is having surgery on his shoulder now. Thank you!

prayer request - Clint Cherry

My Aunt Sue requested that I put my Uncle Clint Cherry on the prayer list.  Uncle Clint is my dad's twin brother - living in Arkansas. He's diabetic and got a cut on his leg that he did nothing about.  Now he's very sick in the hospital and they'll probably have to amputate.

-Brenda

Prayer Update and Praise Report

Just wanted to give everyone a update.  Aunt Sara had surgery to put plates on her neck to brace her back.  She is suppose to have surgery on her wrist today.  She opened her eyes Wednesday for the first time in two weeks.  We see it as hopeful!!!  God is good.  Agape, Donna

prayer list - Linda Grable

Good morning Brenda, Please put my sister Linda Grable on the prayer lists. She  has been diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. She will be going to UAB's CCC today to start meeting with doctors about her treatment.  As always thanks, for being our secretary, prayers, D

Prayer Request, Fred Jobe

Please keep Fred Jobe (Elizabeth Ware's father) in your prayers.  He is under hospice care.

Prayer Request - Sarah Tarvin

Please remember Mike Holmes aunt in your prayers.  She is still awaiting suregery because of blood pressure and breathing  problems.  She is in a serious condition.

Operation Christmas Child packing party

Dear Church Family,

We have a very special time together coming up on Sunday, September 30^th, immediately following morning worship.  This will be our day to pack our Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes!  It is a great time  to serve as Christ's hands and feet on earth as we pack our little gifts that mean so much to a child in a desperate situation.  Please share this mission opportunity by inviting friends and family.  Lunch will be provided but we do need to have your reservation by calling the church office or by signing up on Sunday.

The following should help you remember what we have gathered this year for our boxes.  Some of the items we still need are soft toys for young children.  Then, for September we are collecting miscellaneous items such as ball caps, socks, t-shirts, flashlights with extra batteries, etc.  Some people have even sent small flip-flops since they will fit in the box and not take up too much room. 

We could still use more shoe boxes, please!

Thank you so much for supporting this mission opportunity where we are a part of a huge effort to show Christ's love in a very meaningful and transforming way!

Barri Pratt

Director of Youth and Outreach

First Presbyterian Church

Bessemer, Alabama

 2012 Operation Christmas Child  

Items to collect schedule

May – small toys

June – hair brushes, barrettes, combs, brushes, etc.

July – toiletries such as washcloths and mild bar soap, tooth brushes and paste

August – school supplies (if pencils, then pencil sharpeners)

September – miscellaneous items such as socks, t-shirts, ball caps, flashlights with extra batteries

Anytime– shipping fee of $7.00 per box.

What to bring to pack in a shoe box (You may want to share this list with friends you will invite to the packing party on September 30^th.)

TOYS

small cars, balls, dolls, stuffed animals, kazoos, harmonicas, yo-yos, jump ropes, small Etch A

Sketch®, toys that light up or make noise (with extra batteries), Slinky®, etc.

SCHOOL SUPPLIES

pens, pencils and sharpener, crayons or markers, stamps and ink pad sets, writing pads or paper, solar calculators, coloring and picture books, etc.

HYGIENE ITEMS

toothbrush, toothpaste, mild bar soap (in a plastic bag), comb, washcloth, etc.

OTHER

hard candy and lollipops (please double bag all candy), mints, gum, T-shirts, socks, ball caps;

sunglasses, hair clips, toy jewelry, watches, flashlights (with extra batteries)

A PERSONAL NOTE  (you can do this ahead of time or we will do them at our packing party on September 30th!) In a separate envelope, you may enclose a note to the child and a photo of yourself or your family.

Alma Porter

We express Christian Sympathy to the family and friends of Alma Porter, who passed away this afternoon.  Arrangements are pending.

Reminder: Missionaries or games @ Sun Sep 9, 2012 (SVPC, The Way)

more details » Missionaries or games When Sun Sep 9, 2012 Calendar SVPC, The Way Who • SVPC The Way - organizer

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September 9th starts us back!

Hey, y'all!

This attached photo is just so precious I had to send it even though I may

have sent this exact one before!!  You all were sooooo sweet to Miss Jean!

Are you ready for some football???  How about some pumpkin pie????  What are you wearing for homecoming????  But the most important question today is.......will you be with us on September 9th as we kick off at SVPC?

Yeppers, we will start at 5:00 as usual but we do have a few new things in scheduling to try.  We will not eat supper until 6:00 so we can have pizza with the faith family over at the church house before worship starts at 6:30 for The Way.  Now, don't you worry, we will still have sodas and some sort of snack to begin with so there is no one starving.  We don't want that but we do think it will be a great time to share with the rest of our SVPC family and have time to do all of our stuff.  Also, just as a heads up, there will be a few weeks, off and on, that we may meet downtown at FPCB and we may meet there early.

Please put on your calendar, if you haven't already, OCC packing party on September 30th.  We will not meet that evening since we will be packing boxes starting right after morning worship.  Then we have our big day which is Children and Youth Sunday on October 21st.  We really need to know who will be able to commit to this project so we can do our best as we lead worship for our church family.

I would like to put out something for you all to pray over and see what you might do in this time.  Think about inviting friends to come with you on Sunday evenings.  Think about reaching out to someone you may not have spoken to in awhile but you think this might be just the place for them to be.  Pray that the Holy Spirit will help you know how to be used at Shepherd of the Valley.  You guys can make a difference here, God could really use you in this journey of growth for Him and His kingdom!

Our first meeting on the 9th will be some fun and activities but also we will be looking at our schedules (please bring your school schedules, football schedules, events, any plans you know you have) and talking about what you would like to do this season.

I hope to see you all there at 5:00 and then supper at 6:00 and worship at 6:30!  Love ya!

Barri Pratt

Director of Youth and Outreach

First Presbyterian Church

Bessemer, Alabama

Youth lock-in update - more photos

Here are some more!  You guys are sooooo cute!  There are so many more but I will put them up at church, I guess.

Miss Barri

Youth lock-in update

Well, happy Monday to ya!!

If you were not at church yesterday, know that you were missed greatly and if you missed the lock-in on Tuesday night last week, you were missed and missed out!!  You, too, could have won grand prizes at our very own Olympics and had a red, white, and blue dessert!  But mostly you missed out on hand delivering little crafts to some folks and getting lovely hugs from Miss Jean (Goodwin)!  You took some great photos of our church and really helped me by getting the OCC gifts organized. We hope you will ALL be with us on our next adventure; whatever that may be!?!?  It just isn't the same without each of you.

I want to thank you guys for being sooooooo awesome and fun to be with.  Miss Donna and I are very blessed!

I know school starts back too soon for some of you but my prayers are with each of you as you begin a new year of experiences and learning.  You are each a minister for Christ as you go into your school with a great desire to reflect His love!  You change the world each day you do that for Him!  Thank you!

I want to re-remind you of some dates:

·        Youth and children start back to regular Sunday schedule on September 9^th

·        Sunday, September 30^th after worship will be the Operation Christmas Child packing party with lunch

·        Sunday, October 21^st will be youth and children Sabbath followed by our annual church picnic

·        I am guessing that our trip to help pack up OCC right after worship will be on Sunday, November 18^th, but that is a guess

I hope that helps you all out and that you have all those dates on your calendar now.

We REALLY need you all to be praying about our time we want to dedicate to God in preparation for youth and children Sabbath, October 21^st.  We need to know that you ALL hope to make this a time you dedicate to your service to the body of Christ so we can make it awesome for our Creator and Father!  Youth and kids, could you let me know how you feel about that, please?

I hope you like the pictures.  I may send more in another email.

Love you lots!

Miss Barri