A Publication of First Christian Church of North Hollywood A Congregation of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) Robert M. Bock, Senior Pastor Louise Sloan Goben, Associate Pastor Jennifer Le’au, Interim Director of Children’s Ministries Jeremy Gillett, Director of Youth Ministries Alfredo Gomez & Loydi Rivas Gomez, Pastor, Spanish Speaking Congregation Young Lan Kim & Young Jun Yang, Korean Pastors Volume LXII No. 44 May 2, 2018

Who is this, that even God is faithful the winds and seas obey him? – 1 corinthians 10:13 – Page  May 2, 2018 First Christian News

joyfully continued Sheri’s tradition. Her enthusiasm and creative teaching style is contagious with her young, as well as older, singers. All the children and youth who sang in Sunday’s concert were inspirational and amazing. If you know any children or youth who are not part of Ty’s program, please encourage them to join one of her two choirs. What they will learn and experience could be My doctor calls it “Star-Wars Medicine.” I call it truly life-changing. Music is the International Language. a modern day miracle. I learned in February that the Understanding it and sharing in it broadens one’s hori- aortic valve in my heart had gone from “moderate” to zons immeasurably. It brings a true sense of magic into “severe.” There was no option but heart surgery. After the lives of children and youth as well as adults. getting through the Lenten Season, with all its activities, plans were formalized for surgery at the Heart Institute This Sunday, May 4th, is a special anniversary which of Cedars Medical Center. slips by each year without much notice. Yet, 35 years Then a marvelous opportunity was presented. I ago, a ministry was started on May 6th (1983) which could apply for entrance into a trial for low risk patients has served thousands of people and undoubtedly saved for the TAVR procedure. After a battery of tests and in- hundreds of lives. Our church family was one of the terviews and tons of paper work I was accepted into the founders of the Valley Interfaith Food Pantry, a ministry trial on April 16th and surgery followed on April 19th. started by five congregations, three Christian and two I went into surgery at 3:30 PM, was in ICU before 6:00 Jewish, which is now supported by a coalition of twelve PM and released to go home by my surgeon before Noon congregations and over thirty schools, both public and the following day. That is the future of heart surgery. And private. The ministry has grown to be a model organiza- to me, that is a miracle. tion, a template for other food pantries throughout Los I thank all of you for your many cards, emails, phone Angeles Country. calls, prayers and well wishes. I’m following my doctor’s I offer sincere thanks and congratulations to Luis orders and those of my very talented and personal nurse Oliart, the elected chair of the Pantry board of directors, – Peggy! to all the volunteers from our church family for their hard work and dedicated service and to everyone who My first official outing, with the blessing of my supports this marvelous ministry. Without FCCNH, cardiologist, was to the annual concert of our Children’s and its continual generous support, the Pantry could and Youth choirs. I vividly remember when John Wolf- not be all that it is in fighting hunger, homelessness and ersberger, our former Regional Minister, told me – “If mental illness. you want to grow your church, start a children’s music program.” The next year Sheri Izzard started our children’s While I’ve been recuperating, I keep hearing about choir and our first summer Music Camp. Both were wonderful plans to use the “Reverse Offering” which was huge successes. distributed to those present on the Sunday after Easter. When Sheri retired to Kansas we enlisted the help There are still some envelopes with $20.00 bills in them of another very talented musician who loved children. Ty for anyone wishing to add to their investment principle Parr took the reins of the choir program from Sheri and or for anyone who missed the original opportunity. First Christian News May 2, 2018 Page 

We will all bring our offerings plus whatever we have made from them on Pentecost Sunday, the birth- day of the church, May 20th. When you bring back the original $20.00 and the “interest” you’ve made, you will For those of you who know someone serving in the armed be given credit for the entire amount on your quarterly forces, as well as people serving in other capacities, we giving statement. want to lift them up in prayer... please let us know when Let your creative thoughts abound and if you need they come home! another $20.00, or if you want an initial $20.00, make Christopher A. Bernstein Joshua Bigbee sure to see me on Sunday. Chris Diaz Thomas Matthews We also want to continue to pray for peace, for wisdom Our local camps are almost ready for registration. for the world’s leaders, and for the people of all war-torn Please see the link below and be ready to save your child’s areas of our world. place now. Once word is on the street, registrations fill up rapidly. If you have any questions please call the church office – 818-763-8218. Registration link: www.fccnh.org/children-youth/camps-fccnh/

Every Sunday is an inspiring day at the corner of Moorpark and Colfax. But some days go beyond inspir- ing. I’m sure this Sunday will be one of those. The Rev. Marilyn Fiddmont will be our guest preacher at both the morning and 5:30 Spirit Song services of worship. Marilyn has a unique way of combing her cutting edge sense of humor and her brilliance with the message of the Gospel. I look forward to conducting the service and shar- ing with Marilyn and our wonderful worship team. I sincerely hope you will join me at one of our services. And elsewhere in this newsletter make sure to see The theme for this year’s Vacation Bible School is the delightful pictures of and Susan Seaforth Lego – Let God! and we are indeed using the perennially Hayes at the 45th Daytime Emmy Awards celebration popular Lego building blocks to offer a creative way of last Sunday. Bible Story-Telling. If any of you have Lego blocks or Duplo Blocks for little hands and would like to donate Have a wonderful week. Be well. Be happy. Be safe. them to the Church, we would be thrilled to be able to And always be loving! See you in church. use them with the children this summer. You might be surprised at the creativity of building Pergé! with God. Pastor Bob Pastor Louise Page  May 2, 2018 First Christian News

…pray without ceasing… will invite others into making a concrete connection to – 1 Thessalonians 5:17 our Creator. Paul admonished his little congregation in Thes- There are many things our congregation has salonica to “…pray without ceasing.” We bear witness dedicated itself to through the years; sharing the Gospel in our community to the power of those prayers, and message, serving our community in a variety of ways, celebrate God’s gracious love and witness to the world. I creating an open space for people to worship and be invite you to come see the beauty of those prayers as we received, celebrating an open Communion Table, and fill our patio with this witness to the world. undergirding all the work we do with prayer. I think most of you are aware of the regular meetings of our Prayer Pastor Louise Group – every Monday morning and Tuesday evening. And while I admit to not knowing the complete history of this wonderful ministry, I do know it has been a vital part of this congregation since the 1940’s. It was begun because of death of an infant of a church family. The people knew that this family desperately needed prayer and support. Sixty-plus years later this Prayer Group continues to keep us lifted and held in the most difficult of circum- stances, as well as celebrate with us in our joys and life changes. Many of us have come to rely on this deeply committed gathering of those who practice “the power of prayer.” It has made a genuine difference in our lives and in the lives of others we have entrusted into their steadfast commitment. Since we are so very aware of the importance of prayer, it seems like a natural endeavor to encourage our community to connect with God, (or their Higher Power, however that is conceived by others) to pray for one another and our nation, its leaders, and our world. It seems to me we can always use the Wisdom that comes from a source greater than ourselves. The last two Sundays, we have invited people to write their prayers on pieces of fabric that we are making into “prayer flags.” These flags will be strung in our patio, near the Peace Pole that was established several years ago. This is such a festive reminder that prayer/connection to God is an essential witness to our faith, and hopefully First Christian News May 2, 2018 Page 

Living thE Questions “Call to Covenant” Mondays • 7:00 pm in the Annex May 7 • Incarnation: Divinely Human May 14 • Prayer: Intimacy with God May 21 • Compassion: The Heart of Jesus’ Ministry May 28 • Memorial Day; NO MEETING June 4 • Creative Transformation June 11 • Embracing Mystery

... to the amazing and talented members of our Children’s friday, may 18 and Youth choirs (pictured above)--I’m so proud of you 5:30 pm • Parking Lot for all your hard work and incredible performance at this past Sunday’s Sing Unto the Lord concert! To the parents of these wonderful young peo- ple—I know you’re as proud of them as I am. Thank you for the flowers, cards and good wishes but Join us in the parking lot at 5:30 pm especially for your on Friday, May 18 for a Food Truck & love and support year Family Movie Night. Bring your blankets, round. chairs and appetite! More surprises Ty Parr, and details to come. Children’s & Youth Choir Director Page  May 2, 2018 First Christian News

Aliza Ramos, Elder • 29 April 2018

I recently parted ways with my beloved car of over June 11 – June 22 seventeen years. It was not an easy decision to make. I Music Theater Camp (2 week camp) really did love that car. And it didn’t feel like the right June 25 – June 29 time to buy a new car. Managing my expenses since I Cooking Camp bought my condo last year has been challenging. And, July 2 – July 6 I’m getting laid off next month. Dance-Fit Camp Why am I telling you this? Because I write what I know. And what I know is, I trusted God with the decision to July 9 – July 13 buy my home and I have no regrets. I trusted God with Photography Camp the decision to buy a new car and I know it was in His July 16 – July 20 timing. I trust God to guide me to my next job, because Art Camp He has been faithful in the past and I know He will July 23 – July 27 continue to be. Vacation Bible School Last month, I celebrated the anniversary of my home. July 30 – August 3 Last week, I celebrated the purchase of my new car. Today, Music Camp I celebrate my birthday! I also celebrate the faithfulness of God by continuing to be faithful in my giving to my church. For more info about camps go to: I don’t know what God has planned for my future, but www.fccnh.org/children-youth/camps-fccnh/ I do know this: I don’t need to know what God is doing with my life to trust Him; I just need to trust Him.

from Christian women’s fellowship

The CWF Jewelry Sale went very well on April 22nd and $179 will go into the CWF account. Many, many thanks to all the FCCNH members who contributed their beautiful jewelry to us. We had some new items that we were able to box as gifts at the main and the children’s table as well. Please keep us in mind as you come across any other lovely items you’d like to donate, and give them to Sue, myself or leave them in the Narthex baskets. We will definitely have at least one more Jewelry Sale later this year. First Christian News May 2, 2018 Page 

the Pasadena Rose Parade comes to Studio City May 20, 2018 • 12:00 pm

RESERVATION DEADLINE THIS SUNDAY N a t i o n a l Day of Prayer Please join Christian Women’s Fellowship (CWF) for a delicious lunch and Powerpoint presentation by May 3, 2018 the Chair and Vice Chair of the Pasadena Tournament Making every effort to keep the unity of Roses Public Relations and their Committee Members. of the Spirit through the bond of peace. This exciting program will include a history of the Parade — Ephesians 4:3 and you will have the opportunity to ask questions about the inner workings of the Granddaddy of them Thank you to everyone who has made a all. Don’t miss it! prayer flag. We will display these our flags th Reservations by THIS SUNDAY, May 6 are in the courtyard near the Peace Pole on May absolutely essential to ensure your place for lunch 3rd, inviting anyone from the community and this very special program hosted by CWF Group to join with us in the unity of Spirit for II for the cost of only $5 for members and $10 for our nation. Stop by on Thursday to pray or non-members. Please call the church office at 818- make a flag! 763-8218 or Ann Jones at 818-769-2661 to make your reservation.

Please join us during Meet and Greet follow- ing the 10AM service on May 6th to participate in “Cards for Christ,” spreading the love of Christ through card-making! We provide the supplies, you bring your creativity (and $5), and you will enjoy making a greeting card or two to celebrate any occasion. If you don’t have the time, or the creativity, we will have “grab ‘n go” packages you can purchase. Help us support our beloved church in this fun family activity! A Reverse Offering Event Yours in Christ, th THIS Sunday, May 6 Mona, Aliza, and Shirley Page  May 2, 2018 First Christian News

Youth & Young Adult Retreat • Ages 14–25 makemake you your voicer voice hea hearrdd May 18–2018–20,, 2018

This is a special invitation to all youth and young adults - ages 14-25 - to attend our Spring Youth and Young Adult Retreat at Loch Leven on May 18-20, 2018. It is tough sometimes to be a Christian and also feel that the world is not the way it ought to be. How do we allow love to guide how we communicate TRUTH? Let’s learn together how to MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD in a crazy and noisy world. Pastor and Parents, please encourage your young leaders to attend this retreat. It will provide a boost in the impact they make in your local communities. Chaperones are welcome (over 25) but must be willing to submit to a background check. Register today! For more info and application link email Janette Jara, [email protected].

Bill Hayes and , known around the world as Doug and Julie on “,” were honored at the 45th Daytime Emmy Awards last Sunday, April 29th, with Life Achievement Awards. Over seventy- five members of the Hayes family sat in the audience and cheered as this inspirational couple accepted their special Emmys with typical dignity, grace and charm. Both Bill and Susan have served as Elders, members of our Congregational Board and have sung in the choir since joining our church family the early 1970’s. Congratulations Bill and Susan. We are so very proud of you and your many accomplishments. First Christian News May 2, 2018 Page 

ing a special place. But I contend that what truly makes FCCNH special is the growing number of children and youth that help to make up this congregation. They are eager and committed to growing in their faith. They are willing to serve and learn and we thank the church for setting a wisdom table for them to do so. Let the people of God say Amen, Amen, and Amen!

Jeremy Gillett, Director of Youth Ministries

I greet you in the Wonderful Magnificent name of UPCOMING our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. CELEBRATION Last week an angel smiled down on our youth and donated new furniture to the Youth Hut. We have two OF brand new sectional sofas. The new look adds flair, style, comfortability and a touch of home to our surround- ings. We are so grateful for such a kind and wonderful gesture. While we are thankful for our new furniture, I also want recognize that our youth have angels that appear Jim McInerney throughout the year. Some angels have contributed food Saturday, May 12th • 2:00 PM throughout the week, other angels donate to mission trips and the camp scholarship fund, while other angels pray United Methodist Church of Palm Springs diligently for the mental, physical and spiritual safety 1555 E. Alejo Road • Palm Springs, CA 92262 Contact: of our youth. Melinda McInerney We are forever grateful for the support. There is some- 3077 East Ventura Road • Palm Springs, CA 92262 thing truly special about this place, yes there is something unique about our church! For some it might be the PLEASE NOTE: The June 16th memorial service for beautiful campus structure that sets us apart and gives us Ernie Dade has been postponed–the new date will be our uniqueness. Perhaps it could be the diversity of the posted when the family has made a final decision. leadership team that makes our church special for some. Maybe it’s the variety of activities and outreach programs we provide to the communities around us. It is true that Our love and sympathy surround each of these components are examples of FCCNH be- these families in their loss. Page 10 May 2, 2018 First Christian News

Thursday, May 3 #1 Rae Eiklor Mike Eiklor Neil Eiklor Heather Hatch Devan Manley Wednesday, May 9 Ashley Couch Studio City Team

What do I do Sunday, May 6 Thursday, May 10 if I am homeless? #2 Fred Sloan #5 Rosey Tamkin Heather Hatch Family: Call LA Family Housing at 211 or 818-255-2766 to Louise Goben Barbara Erdahl make an appointment. Galen Goben Jeff Goben Derek Reisinger Individual: Homeless Navigation Team at 818-255-2703 Hutch Huchinson Devan Manley (messages checked daily) Denise Bourne (ten.) Ashley Couch Youth (14-24): Call 818-755-8796 or visit the Village Family Services drop-in center M-F 11am-5pm at 6081 THE FOOD PANTRY IS IN NEED OF: Coldwater Canyon, North Hollywood, CA 91605 Canned tuna, canned chicken, rice, canned If you encounter someone with a mental illness, please call beans (pinto, navy etc.), boxed (dry) cereal, the sb82 mobile triage team at 818-610-6726 and a DMH diapers, powdered milk, baby food, peanut team will come out, hopefully same day. If you see someone in butter and tomato products! danger of hurting themselves or others, please call 911. another way Other useful resources to donate to the pantry Mental Health Support: 800-854-7771 Make your donations to the Interfaith Food Pantry through the FCCNH web page Sexual Assault Support: 818-886-0453 (https://fccnh.charityfinders.com/Donate%20Cash). Domestic Violence Support: 800-978-3600 Veterans Support Services: 877-4AID-VET Substance Abuse Hotline: 888-777-8565 Food Pantry VOLUNTEER ContactS Reclaim Property: 213-866-6355 Transportation Teams: Heather Hatch 508.667.1609 Services listed above are associated with LA County or Congregation Representative: other organizations linked to the SFV Homeless Coalition. Erin Zavala [email protected] First Christian News May 2, 2018 Page 11

By Way of Report Church Staff

Sunday, April 29, 2018 ______Robert M. Bock Senior Pastor 10:00 AM Worship 166 Louise Sloan Goben Associate Pastor 5:30 PM SpiritSong Service 23 Alfredo Gomez 7:00 PM Evenlight Service 8 Pastor, Spanish Speaking Congregation 7:00 PM Wednesday Meditation 6 Jennifer Le’au Interim Director of Children’s Ministries Sunday School Children 42 Jeremy Gillett Sunday School Youth 23 (in service) Director of Youth Ministries Evening Youth Group 11 Tyana Parr Director of Children’s/Youth Choirs Joshua Elson 10:00 AM Worship $3,924.54 Music Director 1:00 PM Servicio en Español $40.00 David Rigsby 5:30 PM SpiritSong Service $417.00 Organist Christine Karasseferian 7:00 PM Evenlight Service $330.00 Director of Finance 7:00 PM Wednesday Meditation -- Gillian Bonacci Sunday School Children $10.00 Church Administrator Diane Hirsch Administrative Asst./Web Master/Publicity Coordinator Total General Offering $4,721.54 Gabriela Dorantes Administrative Assistant Disciples Mission Fund (Easter) $12.00 Terri Burton Church Publications Children/Youth Choir Concert $208.00 Michele Amundsen Meet & Greet $1.00 Wedding Director Reverse Offering (1 return) $21.00 Elmer Maldonado Building & Grounds Superintendent Miriam Mancilla Director of Christian Nursery School Greg Kirkland N e w s l e t t e r Media Director VOLUNTEER STAFF Craig Brooks, Jordon Goldschmidt, Janette Jara, John Henry Kreitler, Tom Louie, Susan Marble, Jeff McFadden, Denise Ovaldson is midnight sunday! Sound Technicians Luis Oliart PLEASE SUBMIT ARTICLES VIA EMAIL TO Security [email protected] or [email protected] IN MEMORIAM Please indicate “newsletter” and/or “bulletin” in the Earle Immel subject line if articles are for publication. Articles can Minister of Music Emeritus also be delivered to the office M-F, 9am to 5pm. Merle E. Fish, Jr. Minister Emeritus First Christian News First Christian Church of North Hollywood A Congregation of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) 4390 Colfax Avenue North Hollywood, CA 91604 - 2898

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First Christian Church of North Hollywood 818/763-8218 • FAX 818/763-8457 Web Site: www.fccnh.org May 6 email: [email protected] 10:00 am Janet Bruce (O) Jay Aldrich (C) Pastor & Senior Editor Robert M. Bock 5:30 pm Anna Sigala 7:00 pm Aliza Ramos Art Direction Terri Burton Web Master Diane Hirsch Diaconate: Jill Groswirth Production Services Marla Fain Byron Armantrout Rae Eiklor Mike Eiklor Emeritus Barbara Wiles Mary Ann Steuterman Billie Kline Janet Bruce Lillian Carlson Heather Kenney Jeff McFadden Margaret Defibaugh Cathy Melendez Jennifer McFadden Fern Donald Chuck Mont Jean Johnson Wanda Kanoy Upcoming Diaconate: Helen Scarna Kay Smith May 6 Jill Groswirth & Marla Fain Betty Van Zanten Shirley McClure May 13 Hillary Iffrig & Erin Zavala Deborah Wheeler Virginia Stebbins May 20 Gaye Coffman & Ian Williamson Cindy Kaller May 27 Debbie Geraci & Oleta Diamond