Grace Presbyterian Church 2100 Tice Valley Boulevard Walnut Creek, CA 94595 Sunday Worship at 10 AM www.gracewc.

org May 2014

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Monday May 19th Congregational Lunch & Program Noon, Oak Room The program features information about Voices of Poverty, an interfaith effort to address poverty in our county. See page 7.

55 Years and counting... 19582014

Grace

IN THE WORLD
May, 201 4

Dear Grace-filled friends,

____

On Maundy Thursday I mentioned to those present that I marvel at the generosity of our members when it comes to caring for one another. At the same time, I marvel at your reluctance when it comes to your asking for or accepting assistance. Many of you are quick to respond to requests for a ride or to provide aid when someone is sick. I also routinely hear such refrains as, No, I am fine, I can do it myself, or I dont want anybody to help. I confess that I too have this stubborn streak occasionally. For many of us it has been ingrained that we must be self-sufficient and totally independent, while at the same time recognize that others need help and that we are called to assist. This equation doesnt work out. Initially Peter refused Jesus offer to wash the disciples feet, but then relented and allowed his Lord to kneel before him. Later Jesus commanded, Love one another the way that I have loved you. For Peter to understand what was being demanded of him, he needed to experience the care that Jesus was providing. Our willingness to love others is measured not only by the care we provide but also the care that we accept. The apostle Paul celebrated our interdependence as he described us as being members of one body and in need of each others care. (Rom. 12 and 1st Cor. 12). Recently the Deacons began a program of calling on our active members to see how you are doing and to hear your joys and concerns. Please anticipate and welcome this ministry of the Deacons. If you are not an active member but would appreciate a call a couple of times a year, please call the church office and we will get you on the list. In The Servant Song we sing: Will you let me be your servant, let me be as Christ to you? Pray that I may have the grace to let you be my servant too. We are pilgrims on a journey; were together on the road. We are here to help each other walk the mile and bear the load. Blessings from a pilgrim, Roger

Memorial Day ..................... 2 Retreat ............................... 2 Social Security photos ...... 2 Honoree of the Month ........ 3 Radical Hospitality ............. 3 Calendar ......................... 4-5 CCIC .................................. 6 Are Your Affairs in Order? .. 6 New Member...................... 6 Grace in the Family ............ 7 Men of Grace ..................... 7 Church Luncheon............... 7 WORSHIP WITH US SUNDAYS 10:00 AM, Sanctuary 11:00 AM, Join us for Fellowship in the Fireside Room CONTACT US Regular Office Hours, M-F 9 to 3

Monday, May 26th Picnic begins at Noon Concert at 1:00PM

gracepreschurchwc@gmail.com 925-935-2100 www.gracewc.org

Day Retreat
Saturday, May 31 in the Oak Rm. 10 AM to 3 PM Lunch will be provided
Pick up an invitation: bring a friend.

PASTORS & STAFF: Pastor: Roger Reaber Pastor Emeritus: Charie Reid Pastor Emeritus: Robert Williams Parish Associate: Diana Barkley Music Director: Steve Cram Office Manager: Judy Williams Financial Scty.: Jennifer Wallace

JUNE GITW Article submission Deadline: May 12

Upcoming Events...
COME TO THE MEMORIAL DAY PICNIC! Memorial Day is a holiday with quite a history. Some may remember when it was called Decoration Day, and the main purpose was decorating military graves. Others may recall decorating family cemetery plots and holding family reunions. Many associate the day with flags flying, parades marching, and national pride. Some consider Memorial Day the "first day of summer," and especially appreciate the "three-day weekend." Almost everyone thinks it is a perfect day for a picnic! You are invited to a Memorial Day Picnic and Patriotic Concert Monday, May 26 Picnic begins at Noon, Concert at 1 PM at Grace Presbyterian Church Campus This is a joint activity for all members and friends of Grace Church and Rossmoor Friends of Grace. You are encouraged to bring families, neighbors, and guests. And remember to wear your brightest red, white, and blue clothing. The RFOG committee is managing publicity, invitations to RFOG guests, RSVPs, name tags, decorations, and hostess duties. The picnic lunch of hot dogs, salads, chips, cold drinks, and dessert is being organized and prepared by Sonja Luscher, Sharon Lyons, and a team of helpers. The concert will be performed by Steve Cram in our sanctuary. This event is free, but advance reservations by May 21 are necessary so we may arrange sufficient food and seating. Gracegoers may sign up following worship services or at the church office. Phone reservations will be taken by El Nungesser 256-4361; Joan Larsen 947-6698; or the church office 935-2100. Social Security play and reception were enjoyed by about 180 guests.

GRACE IN THE FAMILY

Saturday, May 31 in the Oak Rm. 10 AM to 3 PM

The richness of the 23rd Psalm will be explored throughout the day by a variety of activities which will invite participants to gain a greater awareness of Gods loving presence and call to abundant living. The retreat will be led by Pastor Roger Reaber and Patricia McCarthy, who brings years of experience from her work at Holy Redeemer Retreat Center in Oakland. Julia Linde will share her musical gifts at the piano. The retreat planning team also includes Rosalyn Cannelora, Leslee Prahl, and Jan Zimmerman. Lunch will be provided, so please call in your reservation for the day -invite a friend! Call 925-935-2100.

Day Retreat

Happy May Birthdays!

1Ann Breitinger 5Phyllis Carman 7Glenn Watkins 8Paul Luscher 9Rita Dorst 10Joan Wilson 10Steve Wolfe 13Barbara Albaugh 13Joyce Benton 13Lavenia Black 13Sara Taylor 14Sonja Luscher 15Gale Katz 15Coby Welty 16Renate Owen 16Marjie Tweedie 18Maybelle Corrigan 18Leola Lightowler 20Jessica Reaber 21Paul Martina 24Lorena Gundel 30Carla Bray 31Peggy Peifer 31Dorothy Sattler

Men of Grace: An invitation to attend two challenging programs

For Friday, May 9, please review The Great Ends of the Church Book of Order G-1.0200, which gives an overview of the following constitutional principle: "The great ends of the church are the proclamation of the gospel for the salvation of humankind; the shelter, nurture, and spiritual fellowship of the people of God; the maintenance of divine worship; the promotion of social righteousness; and the exhibition of the Kingdom of Heaven to the world." On Friday, June 12, we will have an Update on Habitat for Humanity and its projects in Walnut Creek. Gail Peterson of our Witness and Ministry Department will introduce Habitat Director Tori Bommerito of the local program. This could qualify as "promotion of social righteousness" as people with their sweat equity and community help obtain homes for their families. Men, save the second Fridays of each month at 10 a.m. for study and fellowship in the Church library. A no-host luncheon follows at the nearby Rossmoor Diner. For more information, please call Pastor Emeritus Robert Williams at 925-935-7377 or the Church office at 925-935-2100.

Congregational Luncheon
Monday, May 19 at Noon Oak Room
The Rev. Will McGarvey, executive director of the Interfaith Council of Contra Costa County, will speak on Poverty in our County. He will also discuss recent efforts to address this issue through the Voices of Poverty Forum, which is led by Temple Isaiah and the ICCCC. All church members and their guests are invited to attend. The cost is $5 for lunch. The menu is being lovingly planned by Sonja Rev. Will McGarvey Luscher and is sure to be delicious. Tickets can be obtained after church on Sundays, 4/27, 5/4 and 5/11, at circle meetings, or in the church office. Please purchase your ticket by May 13.

Baby Dear

In Memory Violet McKay

September 27, 1917 to April 2, 2014

Evidence of spring was on the Grace Campus right before Easter. A newborn deer was spotted just outside the preschool play yard fence. Mama deer left for just a short time which allowed a few lucky kids and adults to see a miracle in action. The baby was the size of a full-grown house cat and perfectly hidden amongst the surrounding leaves.

CCIC Update for April 2014

Have you checked the price of eggs or a can of fruit lately? Looking at grocery prices lets you know immediately how much the five food boxes Grace donates monthly make a real difference in the lives of struggling families in our area. Spring, a time of renewal and promise, is a perfect time to thank all of you who faithfully support the food barrel and food boxes especially those of you who shop at Costco! Every can is appreciated -- but the arrival of multiple items is a real blessing when putting together our monthly donations to Child Protective Services. We have just delivered our 465th box as of April. There is something gratifying in putting the lid on the final monthly box indicating our commitment to feeding the least of these as Christ has instructed us to do. Remember, God loves you -- and theres something you can do about it. by Sharon Lyons CCIC Grace Representative

DOES YOUR FAMILY KNOW YOUR WISHES?

Last week I planned my own Memorial Service. Yes, I chose the scripture and the hymns. I also wrote my own obituary, and reaffirmed my bequest to the Endowment Fund. No, I am not terminally ill. I am simply "getting my ducks in a row" and it feels pretty good. In last month's newsletter I urged Grace members to create a personal file at the church with the background information mentioned above. You shouldn't ask others to do something you won't do yourself, so I tried it. It was thought provoking, and kind of fun, and not at all sad. My children were surprised but appreciative. When I attended Dottie McGhee's lovely memorial I saw an example of her careful planning, and I was glad I'd made the effort. So again I urge you to "be prepared." Contact the church office to set up an appointment to create your file. If you are able to make a bequest to Grace Church it will be considered a legacy of love, and handled with care and deep gratitude. Submitted by Reta Wilcox

May Honoree of the Month Marjie Tweedie

Marjorie has been a member of Grace Church for more than fifteen years. During that time she has volunteered her time and talent in many ways. For Marjorie, thats doing what comes naturally. I grew up in a wonderful Christian family that was always active in church, she said. Born in Fresno, Marjorie and her family also resided in Los Angeles and Santa Monica. While in Los Angles, the family lived across the street from the library, which likely encouraged Marjories love of reading. Her connection with libraries became a turning point for Marjorie later in life. Her plans were to earn a masters degree and seek employment as a librarian. But while working in the university library -- Marjorie met the Reverend Herbert Tweedie. After her graduation from UCLA, the couple was married at Santa Monica Presbyterian Church in July 1942. And thus began her active life as a pastors wife, homemaker, substitute teacher, community volunteer, and eventually mother of three. She taught Sunday school in each church where her husband was pastor in a variety of California cities. In addition, she was recruited by the Synod of California to be a teacher of teachers; she did this throughout California and Nevada. After Herberts retirement, he continued part-time in ministry work in San Francisco and Oakland. When the couple decided to downsize their Daly City home of 32 years they considered Rossmoor. At that time, Rossmoor was still being developed, and so they came to Walnut Creek and moved into a brand new home in November 1988. After Herberts passing, Grace was the place where I found my church home and family. Marjorie has served as an elder and is in her second year as a deacon. She heads the prayer chain, is active in Lydia Circle, and secures ushers for worship services. In addition, she volunteers once a week in the church office and is a greeter on Sundays. In the past, she volunteered her musical skill in the bell choir for 14 years. Still a lover of books, Marjorie volunteers in Rossmoors library. Over the years, she enjoyed many wonderful trips with Herbert in the United States and Europe. Marjorie cherishes spending time with her family. Her daughter, Penny Manis, resides in Daly City. Sons Dr. H. Timothy Tweedie lives in Modesto, and the Reverend Dr. James Tweedie resides in Long Beach, WA. Marjorie enjoys time with her seven grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. We hope you will join us to honor Marjorie for her volunteerism on behalf of Grace Church on Sunday, May 18.

New Member Kris Ludwigsen

Grace Church has the pleasure of welcoming three new members, Ruth Huffman, Walter Kessenik and Kris Ludwigsen. We will introduce you to Walter and Ruth in a future edition of GITW. 6

Kris Ludwigsen comes to Grace with a Protestant potpourri background. Her Scottish Presbyterian forebears were missionaries to Hawaii in the 1800s. She attended Florida Presbyterian College in St. Petersburg, and earned a Ph.D. in clinical psychology from Emory University in Atlanta. She was an assistant professor of psychology at the University of Dayton before joining the United States Air Force. She served in Desert Storm prior to retiring as a lieutenant colonel in the Reserves. While at Kaiser Permanente, she developed a Work Stress

Mediation Program and led a Chronic Pain Management Group. Kris foreign travels have taken her to India, Thailand, and Bali, among other countries. In the Bay Area, she enjoys opera, ballet, and the symphony. A member of the California Writers' Club, Mt. Diablo branch, Kris is currently refining a novel set in 19th century Paris and New Orleans, based on a true tale of attempted murder within a noble family. Kris resides in Martinez. Please join us in wishing Kris a warm welcome to Grace Presbyterian Church.

the chancel bells enhanced the choir music. Many families and friends shared in the celebration, and the children enjoyed an Easter egg hunt. April 2014 Recap WORSHIP: About 50 enjoyed a potluck supper followed by worship on Maundy Thursday, April 17th. The sanctuary was decked in its finest Spring garb for the Easter Sunday celebration. The flowering cross, the lilies, the fabric backdrop, and the flowers high on the wooden cross all set the stage for a joyous celebration of the risen Christ. We had a full house with over 175 people in attendance. Five guest singers and OUTREACH: The Social Security play was a rousing success as a truly grand outreach to the community. It was attended by about 180 people and raised $214 for Meals on Wheels. The play itself was very funny and quite entertaining. The Presbyterian Women put on an incredible spread of food for the reception. COMING ATTRACTIONS: On Mothers Day, May 11th, there will be a free guitar concert with Glenn Staller at 3 PM. Glenn plays a broad

variety of music classical, Brazilian, Argentine, flamenco, and other regional styles. On Memorial Day, Monday, May 26th, come enjoy a picnic and a patriotic organ concert. This is a joint activity for all members and friends of the church and RFOG. Festivities will start at noon. Be sure to invite family, neighbors, and friends. Restore your soul and uplift your spirits at a Day Retreat on Saturday, May 31 from 10 AM to 3 PM. Psalm 23 will provide the theme. There will be music and lunch will be served. Please bring a friend and join us. Florence Stone, Outreach Coordinator 3

Please join in our Radical Hospitality movement. You and your guests will have a wonderful time.

Grace Church Calendar

SUNDAY
SUNDAY FELLOWSHIP

May 2014
WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY
SATURDAY

MONDAY
CConference Room FFireside Room LLibrary OOak Room SSanctuary PASPerforming Arts Society PWPresbyterian Women

TUESDAY

ASSIGNMENTS

9:00 Yoga/Parkinsons (O)

May 4 - Esther Circle May 11 - Business May 18 - Team 1 May 25 - Deacons

10:00 Worship & Education (C) 6:00 ATC Bible Study (L) 6:30 Bell Choir (S) 7:30 Chancel Choir (S) 7:45 AA (F)

10:00 PW Board (F)

3
All DayYoung Life Reunion Party (O)

5:30 Chess School (F, L, 9)

6:30 ATC-Theology Class (L)

10:00 Worship/Communion 11:00 Fellowship (F) 11:20 Good News Study (L)

5
10:00 Parkinsons Yoga (O)

10:00 Power Prayer (C)

3:00 Standing Ovations (O) 4:00 PAS Teacher Recital (S) 7:30 AA (F) 7:00 Boy Scouts (O) 7:30 SUBUD (F)

10:00 Bible Study (L) 1:00 Bridge (F) 1:15 Caring Callers (L)

9:00 Yoga/Parkinsons (O)

9
9:30 Susanna Circle (F) 10:00 MENS CLUB (L)

10
2:00 PAS Teacher Recital (S) 4:00 Reception (F) 6:30 ATC-Theology Class (L) 7:00 PAS Winners Concert (S)

6:00 Debtors Annon. (F) 7:00 Scout Leaders (L)

10:30 Discipleship (C) 12:00 Lydia Circle (F) 6:00 ATC Bible Study (L) 6:30 Bell Choir (S) 7:30 Chancel Choir (S) 7:45 AA (F)

5:30 Chess School (F, L, 9)

11

10:00 Worship (S) 11:00 Fellowship (F) 11:20 Good News Study (L) 3:00 GLENN STALLER MOTHERS DAY CONCERT (S) 5:00 PAS Teacher Recital (S) 7:30 AA (F)

12

13

10:00 Parkinsons Yoga (O) 11:00 Needlers (F)

10:00 Power Prayer (C) 11:00 Witness & Ministry (C) 11:45 Ether Circle (F)

14

9:00 Business (C) 10:00 Bible Study (L)

15

9:00 Yoga/Parkinsons (O)

16

17

9-10 Parkinsons Group (F) 10:00 Parkinsons Meeting (O) 3:00 PAS Teacher Recital (S)

11:00 RPEA (F) 1:00 Bridge (F) 6:00 ATC Bible Study (L) 6:30 Bell Choir (S) 7:30 Chancel Choir (S) 7:45 AA (F)

6:30 Family of Women (F) 7:00 Boy Scouts (O)

7:30 PAS Concert (S)

6:00 Debtors Annon. (F)

5:30 Chess School (F, L, 9)

6:30 ATC-Theology Class (L)

18

10:00 Worship (S) 11:00 Fellowship (F) 1:00 PAS Teacher Recital (S) 4:00 PAS Teacher Recital (S) 7:30 AA (F)

19

NOON CHURCH LUNCHEON & PROGRAM (O) 10:00 Power Prayer (C) 3:00 Standing Ovations (O) 10:00 Parkinsons Yoga (F) 7:30 SUBUD (F) 7:00 Boy Scouts (O) 7:30 PAS Board (L)

20

21

10:00 Bible Study (L)

22

9:00 Yoga/Parkinsons (O) 9:00 Newsletter Folding (L) 6:00 ATC Bible Study (L) 6:30 Bell Choir (S) 7:30 Chancel Choir (S) 7:45 AA (F)

23
10:30 PAS Concert (S)

24

1:00 Bridge (F) 4:00 Session Executive (C) 6:00 Debtors Annon. (F)

5:30 Chess School (F, L, 9)

6:30 ATC-Theology Class (L)

25

10:00 Worship (S) 11:00 Fellowship (F)

26

Memorial Day Holiday Office is Closed NOON MEMORIAL DAY PICNIC AND PATRIOTIC ORGAN CONCERT (S, F & COURTYARD)

27
10:00 Power Prayer (C)

28

10:00 Bible Study (L)

29

9:00 Yoga/Parkinsons (O)

30

31

10 TO 3 RENEW YOUR SPIRITDAY RETREAT (O)

1:00 Bridge (F) 6:00 Debtors Annon. (F) 7:00 Session Meeting (L)

7:30 AA (F)

6:00 ATC Bible Study (L) 6:30 Bell Choir (S) 7:30 Chancel Choir (S) 7:45 AA (F)

5:30 Chess School (F, L, 9)

6:30 ATC-Theology Class (L)