Providence Press Is Published Monthly by Providence Presby- Terian Church

December 2009 Volume 20 Number 12

rovidence Press Providence Presbyterian Church “You also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood.”

e Tre celebrations of Christmas, of complete with its own traditions, ur course, take place in these decorations, and family rituals. r O nde two rooms of the home as U d we open presents, gather This Advent season at Provi- the yon der Be around the fire, and share dence Presbyterian Church, we Un ss & in delicious holiday food hope you will help us “deck the rpa Ove and traditions. We decorate halls” throughout the season as these areas with signs of the sea- we make the wanderer’s jour- son, but no decoration is as ney to the manger. Advent is a heartwarming and special as season of preparation, of By Pastor Mark R. Renn the Christmas tree. As we repentance, and of making hang ornaments on the room in one’s heart for the It is a familiar sight in living evergreen branches, we arrival of the Savior. It is rooms around the world to see are reminded of special also a time of anticipa- brightly wrapped gifts and fes- times and meaningful tion, and nothing height- tive holiday bags underneath the memories, and recall the ens our sense of holiday family Christmas tree. Although people with whom excitement like seeing we wait for most of the gifts to be we’ve shared this “tree- gifts under the tree. displayed on Christmas morn- trimming”’ experi- There will be one big ing, one thing is sure—nobody ence in the past. Each difference, however, likes the look of a bare floor year brings new regarding the final underneath the Christmas tree. people into our destination of the In fact, as family gifts and other lives, and we make gifts under our presents begin to accumulate new memories sanctuary tree. under the Christmas tree, our that we will cher- They will be for a sense of excitement and anticipa- ish in the years to world in need, tion grows. This should be no come. Although given in love from different at our church. we each experi- our hearts, to ence this holiday meet the needs Theologically speaking, the ritual in differ- of those lacking sanctuary of the church serves as ent ways in our basic comforts both the living room where we own homes throughout gather to share life together as a and families, the winter family as well as the dining room the church pro- months. where we share in the meal of vides us with a the Eucharist. Our cultural shared “home,” (See “Pastor” on page 2) Providence Presbyterian (“Pastor,” from page 1) Church (251) 633–9701 Here’s the basic idea: We will collect items for our food pan- www.providence-pc.org try as well as items to be dis- [email protected] tributed directly to the Mark Renn, Pastor homeless on December 19. A Email: [email protected] Cell phone: (251) 895–3216 group of concerned members Betty Blakeman, Administrative of our church were moved to Assistant action following our study of Joanne Hayes, Bookkeeper Mike Yankoski’s book, Under Wendy Mouner, Nursery Staff the Overpass, and have decided Gene Noce, Treasurer Evelyn Watkins, Choir Director to come up with some creative ways to meet basic needs while providing opportunities Newsletter Editor for building relationships Ken Gadomski 660–8565 respectfully with the homeless Session Nedra Bloom 661–9669 community in our city. A toiletries (hotel soaps and Blanket ministry Youth group of us will take these shampoos, lotions, mouth- Steve Crenshaw 649–9518 items with coffee, drinks, and wash, etc.). These items The pictures on this page Evangelism donuts to distribute directly to should be folded and placed and the next one were taken Gene Crossley 343–4074 those in need, sharing in a time in categories under the on Saturday, November 28. Clerk, Administration A number of Providence Al Drinovsky 634–0860 of fellowship. Christmas tree in the Stewardship Sanctuary. members and friends helped Kevin Fredelake 660–7420 We are asking that you look tie blankets for the homeless Buildings & Grounds through your closets and attic You are also encouraged to as others decorated the Pam Garner 649–4816 and bring in warm clothes bring in items for our food church. Worship Liz Gross 607–7309 (blankets, sleeping bags, pantry throughout Advent Discipleship jackets, sweaters, sweatshirts, and place them under the C. J. Kriner 990–5783 pants, wool socks, shoes, win- tree. We want to be Above (L-R): Betty Blakeman, Buildings & Grounds ter hats) as well as used back- reminded each week of how Michelle Nall • Below: Mary Mastrangelo 602–1993 packs, duffel bags, and basic much we as a congregation Matthew Renn • Next page Worship left: Evelyn Watkins • Next Betty Montjoy 633–3103 are giving away, especially Nurture as we frantically scurry page top: Dean Gross • Next Don Purvis 645–8900 about for those perfect gifts page bottom (L-R): Pam Buildings & Grounds for our loved ones. Hope- Garner, Liz Gross • Photos by Jeny Williams 633–5976 fully, as we find these items Ken Gadomski and Evelyn Fellowship Watkins Shepherd Program Director and share them with those in Betty Montjoy 633–3103 need, we will come to consider the recipients of these gifts as loved ones as well. Providence Press is published monthly by Providence Presby- terian Church. The deadline for Christmas is a season of giv- articles is the second-to-the-last ing, and I can’t think of a bet- Sunday of the month. Email ter symbol for this effort Mission...... 3 articles to kengadomski@ than the beautiful tree that Worship Team talk...... 4 comcast.net or leave them in the adorns our sanctuary with newsletter box in the Church Creation Corner...... 5 office. This month’s contributors: such warmth during the hol- Book reviews...... 6 iday season. I hope that this Christian education...... 7 Betty Blakeman Gene year the space below our Providence history ...... 8 Crossley Margaret Henderson sanctuary tree overflows Session activities...... 9 Mary Mastrangelo Michelle with gifts for our neighbors Nall Mark Renn Manny Boy Scouts ...... 10 Russo Ken Shaw Evelyn in need. Shoebox Christmas...... 13 Watkins Jeny Williams Hanging of the greens .... 14 Hoping that we want less Condolences...... 16 and give more, Worship volunteers...... 16 Just for kids ...... 16 December calendar...... 17 December events ...... 18 •page 2• MISSION

Homeless Coats, jackets, sweaters, outreach rain ponchos Blankets By Margaret Henderson Socks (new and prefera- Recently, after reading the bly woolen—not cotton) book Under the Overpass, a One-sized clothes, such small group felt moved to as sweatsuits reach out to the homeless in

for those in need. While we each person search for ways will be ready to share our to make a difference in faith if asked, we don’t go another’s life by reaching specifically to testify our out to a person or group . . . faith—but, rather, to begin a and inviting others in our relationship, believing that church community to join our presence and willing- you. ness to take a risk serves as a testimony in itself. “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed I hope others are moved to citizens can change the world. take some action to serve Indeed, it is the only thing that our community and offer a Toiletries (hotel soaps, those in need, and I ask that ever has.”—Margaret Mead connection, along with a shampoos, hand wipes, shared meal and an offer of facial tissues, tooth- blankets, coats and other paste, mouthwash, necessities. toothbrushes—perhaps in little bags) We invite others to join us in Foodstuffs to share, this action—either by such as banana bread or accompanying us on our bags of cookies planned visit on Saturday, December 19, and/or by Remember, these individu- contributing items to be als don’t have a way to carry shared with those in need. much, so something that We plan to place these items folds up small or can be under the Church Christmas carried in a pocket would tree prior to our visit. be best.

Suggested items could be This will be an informal visit any of the following: but, we hope, one with positive outcomes. In reaching Backpacks out to others, we pray for our own growth as well as •page 3• orship Team WTALK By Mary Mastrangelo, personal experiences with Worship Elder mission trips to Brazil and The will Russia so well. She experi- Our pulpit supply for “ King enced and was deeply moved November 22 was Teressa by abject poverty of physical Ramsey. She gave a moving reply, ‘I tell you the and emotional needs in these and motivational message. two countries. She has chosen She is the Executive Director truth, whatever with God’s grace to make her of Family Promise of Coastal life’s work a service to “the Alabama, Inc. and has a you did for one of least of these.” She was an Master’s degree in Social encouragement to our service Work from the University of to homeless families though Alabama. This background the least of IHN here at Providence. has given her a strong base from which to serve “The the brothers of mine, In summary, our congregation Least of These.” was warm and welcoming, and she was responsive in the This was the title of Teressa’s you did for me.” same manner. She compli- message, based on two mented our choir by saying scriptures. One, Proverbs she thought she was hearing a 19:17, reads, “He who is The second is Matthew truth, whatever you did for CD when she first entered our kind to the poor lends to the 25: 34-40; the fortieth verse is one of the least of the broth- church. We are grateful for her LORD, and he will reward a familiar one. “The King ers of mine, you did for inspiration. him for what he has done.” will reply, ‘I tell you the me.” She interweaved her

Madrigal Christmas Feast Monday Night Ladies’ Study

The Episcopal Church of the Redeemer in Mobile will By Jeny Williams be hosting a Christmas Madrigal Feast on Saturday, December 19, at 6:30 pm. Tickets are $55. The Monday Night Ladies’ Study is considering taking the challenge of reading the whole Bible in 2010. Everyone who attends is encouraged to “dress the part” of a medieval Lord or Lady and become part of the cel- We would use a guide to complete this with individual ebration for the birth of the Christ child. readings each day. Our weekly meetings would attempt to catch the highlights from the week’s readings. This celebration will include music for the evening from the best-selling Celtic recording artists Mithril, a sump- ANYONE tuous meal served in five courses, singing and dancing INTERESTED? performances, and a scripted play, all taking place in the “Great Hall” in and Please contact amongst the guests. Jeny Williams (633–5976 or For more information or to purchase ggsi@ tickets, contact the Episcopal Church bellsouth.net). of the Redeemer (639–1948 or secretary@ redeemerepiscopal.org or www.redeemerepiscopal.org).

•page 4• CREATION

A Mountain of trash 4. Be mindful of the extra things you buy impulsively at O this time of year that you don’t really need (the danc- By Pastor Mark R. Renn ing Santa, the musical wreath, the latest holiday “craze”). Try to keep decorations simple; remember, The holiday season is one of the most notorious just because it’s cheap, doesn’t mean you should buy it! R seasons of consumption and waste in our country. We buy things that we don’t need, we pur- 5. With lots of holiday guests in town, we go through a chase gifts for “the person who has everything,” lot more bottles, cans, and containers. Now might be N and we create in our wake a trail of waste that is a good time to start collecting things to be recycled. hard to avoid. On trash day following Christmas For more information about where to take your recy- day, it is truly shocking to see the amount of trash clables, visit http://www.cityofmobile.org/recycle. E that is put out on the curb, generated by our cele- 6. If you do a lot of holiday cooking from scratch, bration of the Savior’s simple and humble birth. remember that you can bring in all of your vegetable Here are some suggestions for reducing your waste to the compost piles in the community garden waste as well as increasing your positive impact at the church. R during the holiday season. 7. Finally, don’t put your Christmas tree out of the curb 1. Wrap your gifts in reusable gift bags and tissue paper at the end of the season. The City of Mobile collects rather than the traditional wrapping paper. Save what- Christmas trees and chips them into mulch to be dis- ever can be reused for next year. tributed to the community! We picked up a load of this mulch for FREE last year for the playground at 2. Give gift cards or make donations to a favorite charity the church. Pastor Mark will be glad to pick up your in someone’s name to avoid “buying for the sake of tree and take it to the collection site. Call the church buying.” office or email [email protected] 3. Pay attention to things that can be recycled. For exam- With all of these suggestions, I hope that you will think ple, cardboard, wrapping paper, and other types of through some ways to reduce your trash output this hol- paper can all be taken to paper recycling dumpsters at iday season. Cottage Hill and Hillcrest, in the old Bruno’s parking lot, no sorting necessary! Live simply and give simply as we celebrate our Savior’s humble birth.

•page 5• Book reviews by Ken Shaw God takes away our supports (pruning) to enable us to focus on Him CHILDREN’S BOOK REVIEW Turning My Mourning into for a fuller more productive life. God’s Dancing: Finding Hope in love aims most at the broken and frail. Hard Times Nouwen seems to be dealing with his own brokenness by living a life of ser- By Henri Nouwen vice to others. This book offers another Nouwen, an perspective as we undergo hard times. ordained priest and a world-renowned Adventures in Prayer teacher and mentor, subtitles this book By Catherine Marshall “Finding Hope in Made famous by Hard Times.” Born her book on her What is God Like? in the Netherlands husband Peter in 1932, he had first- Marshall, A Man By Beverly Lewis with hand trials with the Called Peter, illustrations by Pamela Querin Nazi occupation. Marshall, now Mrs. Dancing is enjoying life with hope. He LeSourd, presents a Lewis, a best-selling author of fiction wrote about five steps in the dance that collection of earlier for both children and adults, answers are possible even while facing bad cir- writings from the a question most children ask at one cumstances. Guideposts maga- time or another. God is presented as a zine. They are knower of all things, loving, power- These are expanded in his five chapters: based on critical experiences and how ful, trustworthy, and ever present. prayer played a part in their resolution. These answers are given as a brother 1. “From Our Little Selves to a Larger and sister experience normal chil- World” reminds us how suffering The chapter titles focus on the prayer of dren’s activities, including a back- brings us to God. helplessness, the prayer that helps your yard sleep-out. The illustrations add to the book’s appeal. 2. “From Holding Tight to Letting dreams come true, the waiting prayer, Go” encourages us to jump in faith the prayer of relinquishment, the prayer This book for younger children has a to our Father’s care. in secret, the prayer of joyous blessing, and the claiming prayer. Prayer is message that will keep them when 3. “From Fatalism to Hope” discour- essentially our choice to acknowledge doubts and trials arise in later years. ages acceptance of fate to an expec- God’s supremacy and meet His stipula- It can also help children formulate tation of God’s blessing. tions to get promised blessings. questions related to God. 4. “From Manipulation to Love” underscores that any attempt to Jesus, who felt prayer was essential for support others must be rooted in His ministry, is our example. This book acceptance. is helpful for those needing encouragement in their prayer life. 5. “From a Fearful Death to a Joyous Life” speaks to the most difficult Growing Deep in the experience we all must face. Death Christian Life is the door to absolute wholeness and blessing. By Charles Swindoll Nouwen makes the analogy of the Now president of Dallas Theological pruned grapevine that looks dead but Seminary, Swindoll was formerly a later produces better fruit. At times, (See “Library” on page 7) •page 6• Christian Education Advent Devotional The readings will help us dig Each week, participants will deeper into the theological read through the daily read- By Pastor Mark Renn implications of the Advent ings and be responsible for and Christmas season, and bringing “a comment and a This Advent, during the our discussion will aim to question” to the group on Sun- Sunday School hour, we will bring those revelations to day from one of the readings. be gathering in the Confer- bear upon our life and expe- This will ensure that the dis- ence Room to share and dis- rience of the holidays. cussion is participant-led and cuss what we are reading in should make for a fun and our selected Advent devo- The books have been pur- diverse study opportunity. tional, Watch for the Light. chased and are available for a suggested donation of $12. I hope you will join us for this This book contains a collec- We are asking that couples new way of growing together tion of devotionals and short and families share one book during the Advent season. readings from some of the so that we don’t have to greatest writers and thinkers make a second order. Contact Liz Gross if you’d like from various disciplines. a copy of the book.

(“Library,” from page 6) DVD REVIEW pastor for 23 years. He begins this book by Veggie Tales—Rack, Shack & Benny: Lesson in emphasizing the need Peer Pressure for people to have a solid understanding for By Phil Vischer and Mike Nawrocki their faith. Theology, or the study of our faith, With the subtitle furnace. Rescued has the reputation of of “A Lesson in by God, they and being material only that Peer Pressure” the boss sing a seminary students and the case say- “do-what-your- should consider. The cause for this, in ing that the main mother-tells- large part, is that theologians have not characters repre- you” song. made theology readable or practical. sent Shadrack, Swindoll contends that this book is both Meshack, and Though the as he explores the central tenets of doc- Abednego, this movie is defi- trine and discernment, the Bible, God the DVD presents a nitely produced Father, the Lord Jesus Christ, the Holy plot that is for the younger Spirit, the depravity of man, salvation, already known, child, I question the return of Christ, resurrection, the but the alimenta- to what extent body of Christ, and the family of God. tion is very good. peer pressure is a problem for that Flavoring the book with a number of sto- Typically colorful age group. ries, Swindoll does provide answers for and fast-paced, the hope that is within us.This easy-to- the story is about However, the read volume could be read after the a chocolate fac- point of doing evening meal and discussed with the tory that makes what their mother family as a way to acquaint each member bunnies. When the boss sets up a tells them does justify the DVD. with areas that were heretofore hazy. It giant bunny to be worshipped, the could also serve as a reference book for refusing characters are sent to the answers as they arise. •page 7• ThisThis monthmonth inin thethe historyhistory ofof ProvidenceProvidence

December 1989—A baby “The Light of the World,” December 1997—$200 was December 31, 1999—The shower was held for Karen written and directed by collected to buy gifts and youth attended a Mysticks Baker. Barbara Fortenberry and clothes for the Presbyterian hockey game. assisted by Linda Payne. Home for Children. December 9, 1990—John December 2000—Roy Massey and Sadie Twilley December 4, 1994— December 6, 1998—Bill and Schneider was received into joined Providence. Providence charter member Dodi Berry, Buck and Mina membership by the Presby- Jack Walton died. Bolton, Ricky Bolton, Ted tery of South Alabama. December 23, 1990— Bolton, Eleesa Carroll, Matthew Merrill, son of December 1995—The Youth Cathy and Jesse Cotter, December 16, 2001— Kimberly and Paul Merrill, Club Choir presented a Nancy Creekmore, Barbara Fox and Linda and was baptized. Christmas concert under the Michelle and Ross Dickens, Terry Goodman joined direction of Linda Payne with Thom Fowler, Sandi and Providence. December 1990—The the musical assistance of Steve Hamil, Jeremy Har- Service Bible Task Group Gloria Payne. grove, Megan Knowles, December 2001—Nedra collected canned goods and Carla Massey, Joan Rom- Bloom directed the youth toys for a needy family for December 1995—Providence mes, Emily Shearer, Rod Christmas play, “The Best Christmas. collected gifts for the Simmons and Tori VanOrman, and Christmas Pageant Ever.” siblings at the Presbyterian Heather and John Weaver Following the presentation, December 1991—Cross- Home for Children. joined Providence a chili supper was held to stitch crismons were made help fund the upcoming for the church Christmas December 17, 1995—Elton December 6, 1998—Eleesa youth trip to the Logos tree by Myrna Andrews, Love was baptized. Carroll and Tori VanOrman Conference in Massanetta Linda Beukenkamp, were baptized. Springs. Sharon Crenshaw, Cecilia December 17, 1995—Jack and Estes, Janet Lambard, and Lucille Crenshaw, Pam December 26, 1998—Hope December 6, 2001— Marion Noce. Garner, and Elton Love joined Merrill, daughter of Providence member (and Providence. Kimberly and Paul Merrill, mother of Betty Montjoy) December 6, 1992—Barbara was baptized. Frances Leonard died. Fortenberry and Axel and December 24, 1995—Kathy Virginia Nelson joined Veland and Al Taylor were December 1998—The December 2002—The youth Providence. married at Providence. Children of God Choir, presented “Twenty-Four directed by Linda Payne, Days Before Christmas,” December 1992—The first December 8, 1996— presented “A Star is Born.” directed by Nedra Bloom. A cookie exchange was held in Providence member Bob The LOGOS Choir, directed chili dinner and youth trip to conjunction with the annual Garverich died. by Marty and Sue Forsyth, Sports Extreme followed. Hanging of the Greens. sang several Christmas December 20, 1996—The steel selections. December 14, 2003—Sydney December 1992—Socks beams for the new church Dimarco was baptized. were collected for a building were erected. December 1998—Cathy Christmas “Sock Tree,” Cotter was named the new December 2003—The given to the Presbyterian December 1996—Members Outreach Coordinator. Outreach Bread Ministry Home for Children. caroled at Bay Manor Nursing began. Home in West Mobile. December 1998— December 5, 1993—Don ReAffirmation donated a set December 5, 2004—Mary and Nedra Bloom joined December 1996—Members of tone chimes. Mastrangelo and Bob and Providence. were first asked to bring an Kathy Ramige joined angel, labeled with their name December 12, 1999—Cindy Providence. December 1993—The Adult and the date, to decorate the and Noel Riley joined and Youth Choirs presented church Christmas tree. Providence. (See “History” on page 16) •page 8• Session activities October 11 Stated Montjoy will attend the Were informed that the a new AV Supervisor Session Meeting next Presbytery Buildings & Grounds position will be forth- meeting. elders have investigated coming. the cost of construction of Contributed by Gene Were informed that the Determined that the Ses- a new deck to serve as an Crossley, Clerk of Session Stewardship Elder is sion had long-since outdoor worship area; cooperating with Elder authorized the use of tabled the matter for now. Received a letter from Jerry Williams to pair church space by the Boy The Child Advocacy stewardship and Were informed that the Scout Troop for meet- Center, acknowledging mission. Worship Elder and Pastor ings other than troop Providence’s gift had Mark met with Stanley Ott meetings so long as Reviewed the church been received. to learn more about the there is no conflict with calendar. Referred material from small group emphasis of usage by the church. Received the quarterly the Acts 16:5 Initiative. Volunteer Mobile con- Were informed that a financial review, which cerning a money raising Were informed by the survey instrument to be indicated that the opportunity to the Worship Elders that elders a part of the personnel church is on track with Youth elder. are needed to serve as review process is being this year’s budget. Received a letter from Healing and Wholeness developed. Approved a motion to Elders. Stacy Harris expressing Were informed that the approve the Treasurer’s appreciation to the Were informed by the photograph of Pastor Report dated September church for emergency Stewardship Elder that the Mark awaits framing. 30, 2009. assistance. Stewardship Pot Luck Approved the loan of Were informed that the Dinner and Talent Show Approved the minutes ten chairs to Debbie and Clerk of Session will are scheduled for Satur- of the September 13 Mike Smith for Thanks- develop a recom- day, November 14. stated meeting. giving. mended record reten- Were informed that a rec- Were informed by Pas- tion policy for review. Discussed upcoming ommendation concerning tor Mark that the issue events. “What is it to be a Were informed by the healthy church?” will be Discipleship Elder that a central theme in com- leaders for the Adult MAKING STRIDES AGAINST ing weeks. Sunday School Class are needed for November BREAST CANCER—UPDATE Were informed that the 15 and 22. next Pastor’s Study will Thank you, Providence, for your generous be Beyond the Worship Were informed by the support of the 5-mile Making Strides Against Discipleship and Youth Wars by Thomas Long Breast Cancer Walk through Downtown Mobile and that it will be held elders that Ignition and on October 27 and Mobility are doing well. on Saturday, October 24. November 10. Approved a motion to We are proud and pleased and thankful to report Discussed the decor of purchase signs for the the Narthex and the three Eagle Scout that Team Providence (Leah and Myrna optimal location for the projects at Providence— Andrews, Sharon Crenshaw, Laura Fletcher, wheelchair. Approved a the Prayer Path, the Michelle Nall, Stephanie Renn, and Lori motion that the mirror Community Play- Seman and her friend Amanda Toris) not only be moved from the sanc- ground, and the Garden. met our goal of $1000 but exceeded it! We tuary into the Narthex. Were informed that the raised a grand total of $1458 for the fight against Discussed the New air conditioner condens- breast cancer. Members Class and a ers in the nursery and future baptism. the kitchen are receiving attention. Thank you so much. Agreed that Jeny Williams and Betty Discussed carpeting the Michelle Nall classrooms. •page 9• Boy Scout Troop 292 Scoutmaster Update By Manny Russo, map and compass, hiking The troop will camp on Winter Camp is December Scoutmaster safely, building campfires, and December 4-6 for the last 28-31 at Maubila Scout Res- much more. These scouts also campout of the year. This ervation in Jackson, AL. This Service to others and fun had a church service on Sun- campout will again focus on will be a fun camp and will have been the focus of the day morning before they “outdoor skills,” which will allow the scouts to acquire troop since the last newslet- returned to Mobile. help the scouts appreciate merit badges that they can- ter. On October 24 the troop nature and preserve it. not get at summer camp. participated in the “Making Eleven scouts and adults Merit badges are knowledge Strides for Breast Cancer” camped at Bear Lake, which is In previous newsletters you and skills that are acquired walk in downtown Mobile. about 5 miles from Camp have seen articles regarding on vocations, hobbies, citi- Scouts were challenged to Paquette. This group will the Order of the Arrow zenship, safety, and much raise a total of $5 by ask- be going to Philmont (OA). Our Scout District, the more. Scouts can take merit ing 5 neighbors Scout Ranch in Spanish Trail District, devel- badge classes in Weather, to make a $1 June 2010 for a 16- oped a local OA Chapter. which teaches about Meteo- donation each. day trip through Troop 292’s own Barkley rology; Citizenship in the The scouts then the mountains of Kiel was elected as the first Nation, which teaches the arrived downtown New Mexico. These Lodge Chief for the chapter. constitution and obligations Mobile at 8:00 am on scouts had only their The troop is pleased that we have as a citizen of this October 24 and backpacks with their Barkley chose to take on this great country; collecting walked the 5-mile route to gear and food for the week- responsibility and demon- (coins/stamps); and many bring attention to this wor- end. They trekked about 17 strate his leadership skills. more badges. thy cause. This event miles. This was a practice trek The main purpose of the OA stresses the importance of to help the scouts learn to use and this chapter is to pro- The troop Christmas Party helping others, which is a their equipment, such as back- vide service to the Mobile will be December 15. The value in scouting. packing stoves. They had to Area Council of the Boy scouts will play “Dirty learn to work together as a scouts and help young Santa,” enjoy fellowship, The November campout “Crew.” Everyone performed scouts develop leadership and have some good food. was awesome. The troop well. However, many of the skills, honor, and responsi- This Christmas Party will traveled to Munson, FL, scouts learned quickly that bility. The OA will hold their culminate the 2009 year of which is close to Milton. The they did not have the correct Fall Ordeal or induction for Scouting for your troop. The troop camped at Camp gear and will need to ask Santa new members on December next Scout meeting after this Paquette. The older scouts for it! A second practice trek 11-13. The troop has three will be January 5, 2010. provided instruction to the will take place on December scouts who will go through younger scouts on basic out- 18-21 in north Alabama. This this process. They are Chan- Once again, thanks for your door skills, such as using a will be a 21-25 mile trek. dler, Zac, and Hunter. support of Troop 292.

Making Strides for Breast Cancer Walk • page 10 • Scout Fair

Top left and right: Knot tying • Above: Fire starting • Right: First aid • Below left: Cooking • Below right: Webelos

• page 11 • Paquette Camp and Hike

• page 12 • Shoebox Christmas Thank you for your generous support of Operation Christmas Child this year. We collected 36 shoeboxes to help spread Christmas to needy children around the world.

Above: Leah Andrews • Above right (L–R): Allison Gross, Joshua Andrews • Below (Back to front): John Curtis Andrews, Dean Gross • Photos by Ken Gadomski

(L-R) Front row: Dean Gross, Joshua Andrews; Middle row: Melodi Hacker, Allison Gross; Back row: James Hacker, Ryan Mouner, Leah Andrews, Myra Roebuck, Lydia Gross, John Curtis Andrews • page 13 • HangingHanging ofof thethe GreensGreens–– NovemberNovember 2828

Top left (L-R): Jeny Williams, Lydia Gross • Top right: Sharon Smith • Above left (L-R): Ken Gadomski, Stephanie Renn, Allison Gross • Left (L-R): Jude Mosley, Ken Gadomski • Right: Karrie Bryson • Photos by Evelyn Watkins and Ken Gadomski

• page 14 • Above left: Lydia Gross • Above middle (L-R): Jerry Williams, Ken Gadomski, Pastor Mark Renn, Josh Mosley • Above right: Julia Bozant • Left (L-R): Jeny Williams, Lucky Esneul and grand- daughters Karrie and Rachael Bryson • Right (L-R): Stephanie Renn, Jerry Williams, Josh Mosley (hidden), Jessi Gadomski • Below left (L-R): Jeny Williams, Jerry Williams, Rachael Bryson • Below right: Matthew Renn

• page 15 • Condolences Worship service volunteers schedule

To Mattie Dean and By Mary Mastrangelo, Worship Elder Family Date Liturgist Communion Ushers On the death of Mattie’s December 6 Tom Fletcher Bill Berry brother, Edward Lewis, Buck Bolton on November 5. Joan Rommes TBA

To Tracy Murrill December 13 Don Bloom Gene Crossley and Family Tom Fletcher Aggie Roebuck On the death of Tracy’s Jerry Williams nephew. December 20 Nedra Bloom Mary Mastrangelo To Nan Reed and Don Purvis Family Les Taylor Marlene Taylor

On the death of Nan’s December 24 Intinction husband, Al. Jeny Williams Jerry Williams

December 27 Jerry Williams Betty Blakeman Al Drinovsky Michelle Nall TBA

(“History,” from page 9) December 2005— Providence adopted two IHN families for Christmas.

December 10, 2006—Annie Formwalt joined Providence.

December 2007—The first intergenerational Advent Sunday School was held.

December 2007—The first youth Dirty Santa party was held.

December 14, 2008— Debbie and Mike Smith joined Providence.

• page 16 • December 2009

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 2 3 4 5 “For unto us a child 6:30 pm 5:30–7:30 pm 7:30–8:30 pm 6:00 pm 5:30 pm Boy Scouts Mobility AA meeting Youth prepare the Well is born, unto us a Troop #292 7:00 pm College Care packages Choir Church office son is given” Benny Harden closed —Isaiah 9:6 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 2nd Sunday in 6:30 pm 6:30 pm 5:30–7:30 pm 7:30–8:30 pm Church office 9:00 am Advent Worship Team Boy Scouts Mobility AA meeting closed Men’s Group 9:30 am Jud Lambard Troop #292 7:00 pm Mark Renn 6:00–8:30 pm Worship Mattie Dean Choir Live Nativity 11:00 am Jerry Williams Sunday School 5:30–7:00 pm Ignition Bill Berry

13 14 15 16 17 18 19 3rd Sunday in December 14–20 6:30 pm 5:30–7:30 pm 7:30–8:30 pm Church office TBD Advent Pastor Mark out Boy Scouts Mobility AA meeting closed Women’s Group 9:30 am of the office Troop #292 7:00 pm Jeanne Clyde Anderson TBD Worship Choir Schnaars Clothing/food 11:00 am distribution to Sunday School the homeless 12:10 pm Lizzy Benefield Session meeting 5:30–7:00 pm Ignition

20 21 22 23 24 25 26 4th Sunday in 6:30 pm Church office 5:30 pm Church office Advent Boy Scouts closed Candlelight closed 9:30 am Troop #292 Communion Christmas Worship— service Cantata 7:30–8:30 pm 11:00 am AA meeting Sunday School Church office 12:00 noon closed Youth Christmas Christmas Eve party 5:30–7:00 pm Ignition 27 28 29 30 31 1 2 9:30 am 6:30 pm 7:00 pm 7:30–8:30 pm Church office 5:30 pm Worship Boy Scouts Choir AA meeting closed the Well Troop #292 New Year’s Eve New Year’s Day Dot Harcey

• page 17 • Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage Paid Providence Presbyterian Church Mobile, AL 2320 Schillinger Road South Permit No. 363 Mobile, AL 36695 www.providence-pc.org

hat’shat’s upup inin December?December?

Advent Sunday School Mobility (Junior & Senior High) Sundays, December 6, 13, 20—11:00 am Wednesdays, December 2, 9, 16—5:30–7:00 pm Choir Cantata the Well Sunday, December 20—9:30 am Saturday, December 5—5:30 pm Christmas Eve Candlelight Communion Women’s Group Thursday, December 24—5:30 pm Saturday, October 17—TBD Live Nativity Youth Christmas Party Saturday, December 12—6:00–8:30 pm Sunday, December 20—12:00 noon Homeless Food/Clothing Outreach Youth Prepare College Care Packages Saturday, December 19—Time TBD Friday, December 4—6:00 pm Ignition (Grades K–5) Sundays, December 6, 13—5:30–7:00 pm Share this page with a friend!