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. 26 December 20, 2017 Page  December 20, 2017 First Christian News

There are far too many people to thank to single out individuals. Starting with the parents who made sure their children were at rehearsals to our dedicated staff of church school teachers to the musicians who backed up the children’s singing to Terri Burton who put the pro- It was wonderful to be back in church Sunday, even gram together so seamlessly to the children themselves, if only for the morning service. I was overwhelmed and who did such an incredible job. very humbled by the warm response of the congrega- But I have to mention by name Jennifer Le’au, who tion when I entered the Sanctuary. And Peggy and I directed the Pageant, and Ty Parr, who was in charge both appreciate your love, good wishes and your en- of the music. Starting in October these two ladies be- couragement to follow the doctor’s orders to take it easy gan working on the Pageant and they work continued, and allow my body to heal. And Sunday I heard several without stopping, until Sunday afternoon when all the frightening stories about relapses. So I promise – I am costumes were re-packed for another year. They would going to slow down --- for a while! tell you that it is all about the children and youth who That said, what a wonderful day to return to wor- are the “super-stars” of the Pageant. I will tell you that ship. The Children’s Christmas Pageant is always a high- the “super-stars” behind the “super-stars” are Jen and light of the year and it just seems to get better and bet- Ty, two enormously talented ladies who love our chil- ter, year after year. I watched the Pageant unfold from dren as if they were their own. the balcony, which really is the “best seat in the house,” Thank you to the entire “Pageant-Team” for a job and it looked like well over one-hundred children and well done! youth filled the Chancel. Mary and Joseph were marvelous caring for five and Now a word about this coming weekend and the a half month old Lincoln Mesta, who played the role of New Year – Sunday, December 24th, is Christmas Jesus without a wiggle or a peep. I heard so many com- Sunday/Christmas Eve. It is the fourth Sunday of ments after the Pageant about the narrators having their Advent and the fourth candle of the Advent Wreath will lines memorized and speaking so clearly. There were also be lit. Church and church school will be at the usual comments about the children knowing all the words of 10:00 AM time slot. all the songs and singing so beautifully. The innkeeper At 5:00 PM our Christmas Eve festivities begin with and the Star of Bethlehem played their roles so well and the Living Nativity scene in front of the church patio. without a word. It is amazing how hand motions, a Mary, Joseph and all the animals will be there until 5:30 graceful pirouette and facial expressions communicate so PM when the Family Christmas Eve service begins. The much. And those marvelous three kings – making their Children’s Choir and the Youth Choir will be participat- entrance down the center aisle, singing so beautifully, ing in this service which has become one of the largest and every word could be heard, even in the balcony. of the year. After the service Mary and Joseph will return There were not only many comments about the and the animals will again be present for the children’s “quality” and “beauty” of the Pageant, but also about enjoyment. Many people who do not enjoy being out how the “traditional story” never gets old. People love late at night join the children and their families for this to see and hear that story and they never tire of it, as was joyous, celebrative and “wonderfully alive” service. evidenced by a packed sanctuary and balcony. At 11:00 PM we will again celebrate the birth of First Christian News December 20, 2017 Page 

Jesus at our Christmas Eve Candlelight Service. This church finances are in the red. We will know exactly traditional service has been welcoming in Christmas how much after this Monday’s Stewardship Council morning for over sixty years. It is quite popular with meeting. The interesting thing is that we have stayed our community and is always a highlight. The Chancel within our budgeted expenses. Outside income, such Choir will be singing the glorious music of Christmas. as TV/movie shoots and parking, rentals, etc. have been Come worship at one or all of our Christmas Eve on target. The financial deficit is in congregational -giv services as we celebrate the greatest wonder the world ing. In other words we have not received what our con- has ever known – the birth of the Christ Child. Don’t gregation pledged at the beginning of the year. miss being part of this glorious celebration. But … it is not too late. We will keep the 2017 fi- nancial books open until January 8, 2018. Pledges can The church office will be closed on Christmas Day. be brought up to date by cash, check, gifts of stock or We hope everyone has a wonderful day of peace, joy any other creative way that comes to mind. And I, for and the realization of God’s great gift of Jesus. one, have the ultimate faith that by year’s end, when the Tuesday through Thursday, December 26th – 28th, books are closed, we will have a balanced budget and the office will be open 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM. On Friday, finish in the black. December 29th, the office will be open from 9:00 AM I know our people. I know their love for this church until Noon. I would remind you that during this time and its ministry. And I have faith that we are all people the play yard is being demolished and rebuilt so if you of our word. And The Word! are in the area please stop and see the progress. The of- fice and CNS staff would love to show you all that is Our traditional Strength of a Cable Sunday will be happening. You may also use this opportunity to leave observed on January 14th. We look forward to this ser- your over-and-above year-end offering or bring your vice of dedication of our church family for 2018. It is pledge up to date. Diane Hirsch will be happy to assist the Sunday when we will receive your 2018 financial you with these details. pledges/intentions of giving. Sunday, December 31st, is New Year’s Eve. There Our prayer is that 2018 will be a year of peace, har- will be only one English speaking service at 10:00 AM. mony, good will and joy and that the differences that Both the 5:30 PM SpiritSong service and the 7:00 PM have divided the people of the world will, in some way, Evenlight service will be on hiatus on New Year’s Eve. be put behind us for the sake of God’s Kingdom on Pastor Alfredo’s Spanish service will meet at 1:00 PM Earth. in the Chapel as usual. Then from 8:00 PM to 1:00 AM My entire staff, church and Christian Nursery there will be a New Year’s party in the Social Hall. Last School, join Peggy and me in wishing each of you a year Pastor Alfredo’s congregation spent New Year’s Eve very Merry Christmas and a most Joyous and Happy with another church. This year that church is invited to New Year. join Pastor Alfredo and his congregation for a New Year’s I’ll see you in church. celebration. Our entire church family is invited to join Pergé! Alfredo and his congregation for this joyous celebration, Pastor Bob complete with wonderful food and fellowship.

This is a practical reminder – at this point our Page  December 20, 2017 First Christian News

What has come into being in him was life, and the life was many of the local traditions that surrounded the win- the light of all people. The light shines in the darkness, and ter solstice were re-imagined as opportunities to preach the darkness did not overcome it. —John 1:4-5 Jesus Christ as the light of the world. The evergreens Many people today argue that there is a culture represented eternal life, and the red berries of the holly “war on Christmas” as folks in public places are encour- leaves came to signify the blood of Christ. aged to offer the greeting of “happy holidays” instead of Today we find many ways to honor God and Christ the traditional Christian greeting of “Merry Christmas.” this time of year. We give gifts to one another as tokens Those of us in the church feel pretty safe saying “Merry of our love and regard for each other, as a way of of- Christmas” to those who come and go from our estab- fering gratitude and acknowledgement. We can remem- lishment, but historically speaking that has not always ber that even the Magi came bearing gifts to the Christ been the case either. Did you know that in 1644, all Child, and it makes the sentiment a holy one. We give to Christmas activities including singing, dancing, seasonal the Salvation Army, support Trees4Kids and Operation plays, games, carols, and cheerful celebrations related to Santa Claus and remember our church with special gifts the observance of Christmas was outlawed in the Puritan- and affection. And we often hear the question, “Wouldn’t dominated Parliament of England? And the Puritans in it be nice if we could have the Christmas Spirit all year New England (America) soon followed suit. round?” Christmas was outlawed in Boston and the Plymouth The reality is, we can have this spirit always when Colony. It was a criminal offense to celebrate Christmas. we remember that the trappings of a holiday, any holiday According to “Once Upon a Gospel” (Twenty-Third come and go. What abides with us always is the holiness Publications, 2008) Christmas trees and decorations were of the lives we are given, the grace of God whose love considered unholy pagan rituals. Stores and businesses holds no bounds, and the promise of a Child born into were required to remain open on Christmas Day, and our hearts and into our world when we remember to cel- town criers walked through the streets on Christmas Eve ebrate that life, which is “the light of all people.” calling, “No Christmas! No Christmas!” Even Thomas Merry Christmas. and Alexander Campbell, early leaders of the movement Pastor Louise that started our own denomination were opposed to the “hanging of the green” and the setting up of Christmas trees in the sanctuary of our churches. In England, the ban on the holiday was lifted in Current or former 1660 when Charles II took over the throne. However, Diaconate needed the Puritan presence remained in New England and Christmas did not become a legal holiday there until ... for the 5:30 & 11:00pm Christmas Eve 1856. Even then, some schools continued to hold classes services. Current and former Diaconate on December 25 until 1870. It is interesting that many of our Christmas tra- contact Kevin Bailey to volunteer ditions do have their origins in the pagan practices of [email protected]. Northern Europe. As the Church began to establish itself in France, Germany, England and other parts of Europe First Christian News December 20, 2017 Page 

Pledges this year will be collected at church on tant, the church could not operate without its members Cable Sunday, January 14, 2018. In the coming weeks, providing sweat equity as well. Please get involved in the Stewardship Council will work to inform members the church’s ministries, fellowships and groups – you about what it means to pledge and tithe to the work of won’t regret it. the church. Please plan to make your pledge on Cable Sunday, A pledge is a personal and confidential commitment January 14, 2018! between you and God about how you will financially Stewardship Committee support your church home. Pledges are a basis for the congregation to develop a realistic budget that will un- derwrite ministries. Your pledge will be confidentially maintained in the church office. You may raise or lower your pledge anytime during the calendar year. HOLIDAY OFFICE You might wonder how to develop your pledge. A pledge should be made after thought and prayer. HOURS & Hopefully, your pledge will be significant to you and NEWSLETTER will truly represent your faith and relationship with God. You may make your pledge based on weekly, SCHEDULE monthly or yearly amounts. Your pledge may be made through your credit card (contact the church office.) The church office will close for the What’s difference between a pledge and a tithe? The Christmas Holiday at Noon on pledge represents your commitment to the church – a Friday, December 22nd and re-open tithe represents a biblically based percentage of your in- at 9am on Tuesday, December 26th. come to give to the church. The scriptures suggest that For the New Year Holiday the you should give 10% of your income to the work of office will close at Noon on Friday, God. While you may not feel it is possible for you to December 29th and re-open at 9am tithe at this time in your life, it is a worthy goal for on Tuesday, January 2nd. which to strive. As you develop your pledge, think about how it This will be the final newsletter of 2017 compares to other aspects of your life. Do you spend more on movies and entertainment than the amount —our next newsletter will be rd you give to the church? Do you spend more on a car published on January 3 , 2018. payment than your pledge? Only you and God will know the answers to those questions. As you contemplate your pledge, please also think about how you can give your time and talent to the congregation. While your monetary support is impor- Page  December 20, 2017 First Christian News

join us for Worship & More this christmas season Cocoa & Carols December 21 — 5:30 pm in the Annex Join us for hot cocoa and pizza then off to go caroling in the neighborhood. Thank You Christmas Eve from Trees for Kids Services Looking under the tent at our 5 remaining trees Morning Worship — 10:00 am and the end of our 35th annual Trees for Kids Christmas Servicio en Español —1:00 pm Tree Lot season, I am filled with wonderful memories of Live Nativity — 5:00 pm Worship for the Family — 5:30 pm all the good things that surrounded us. (Communion will be served in the Chapel I’ve seen the lot grow and thrive through the many before and after the 5:30 service.) generous acts of kindness and beauty of a great num- Candlelight Service with ber of people that come to volunteer at the lot. Like the Chancel Choir — 11:00 pm Dorothy Brooks, the glue of our operation, keeping our volunteer needs filled from tent-up to tent-down, New Year’s Day ensuring we have someone there each hour of the day. Then there are those who gave generously of their time Services and money to buy food and prepare it for the volun- Morning Worship — 10:00 am teers (Barry and Kathy Dantagnan, Mary Manocchia, En Español — 1:00 pm Barbara Campbell, Kristina Frost - just to name a few). There will be no 5:30 pm SpiritSong service or Those who provided water and snacks to quench thirsts 7:00 pm Evenlight service on New Year’s Eve. and to quickly sate our volunteers—Loretta Rodriguez and Erin Zavala. The generous good-natured spirit New Year’s Party of work and sweat in heavy lifting, cutting, standing Join Pastor Alfredo Gomez and members and nailing of trees lead by guys like Craig Brooks, Joe of our Spanish speaking congregation for Vallero, Bryan Zavala, Scott Fain, Jeremy Gillett, Jim a New Year celebation in the Social Hall Coehlo; the delivery of trees by Jeremy, Jacob Beam, from 8:00 pm to 1:00 am. Matt Hallada and Jeff Hallada; the daytime supervision of Jeremy Gillett and Jacob Beam, with Matt and Jeff joining in the late afternoons. Jacob and Joe Beam, for installing and striking the tent lights. The fellowship, First Christian News December 20, 2017 Page 

T4K Thank You continued customer service and spirited engagement at the lot know what I’d do if you (Trees for Kids) weren’t here. We shared by Scott Riley, Chris Rodriguez, Patricia, Ranya have to come here and get our tree here each year,” or, “I & Jim Coehlo, Terry Hall, Diana Jenkins, and Mary like to take a walk through the trees.” Heiss, just to name a few. There is life in this ministry extending far beyond A few years ago I could easily list the names of the what was anticipated when it began. This is a ministry families and people that came to the lot to volunteer. of gathering together to be giving, caring, and an in- I’m glad to say that has been difficult recently, as more strument of change. It gives us the opportunity to build and more people are coming to the lot to have their peace, restore hope and joy, and to experience love—not Trees for Kids experience. I am not able to recall all of just for others in the community, but it also enables us the names, but your faces are etched indelibly on my and asks us to have that experience within ourselves. mind and heart. I apologize for not being able to name everyone, but I am grateful to have had the experience When the tent comes down, my son and I are usu- of working beside you. ally the last to leave. We sweep the lot together. We talk There are wonderful stories and experiences creat- about the happenings of that season, and we laugh alot, ed and and unfolding a the lot. Seeing members of the mostly at ourselves. When the last bucket of needles is church who sit on one side of the pews meet for the first deposited, I pick up my son and wrap him up in as big time members who sit in a different part of the sanctu- a hug as I can muster (often to him saying, “Dad… I ary. Seeing the beautiful interaction of the members of can’t breathe.” - LOL) and I say, “thank you” to him, the community that surround the church (not neces- usually weeping. I thank him for enduring papa’s crazi- sarily church members), have their own Trees for Kids ness, for the time spent at the lot, and for any hurt or experience. Witnessing people interact is what I enjoy disappointment I created. All I’ve ever heard in those the most, it brings so much joy and is a big part of why I moments is, “It’s okay, papa. I had so much fun! I love come back each year—you see a lot of stuff worked out, you, papa. Can we do it again next year?” We’ll see, son. worked through and celebrated. In my opinion this is We’ll see. Okay... yeah. the reason the ministry exists and the reason I continue to be a part of it. Dear Church family, each and every one of you, Each year, I am overwhelmed by the number of thank you. Thank you for your prayer, good thoughts, people that I meet who have kept their tradition of patience, understanding, love and beautiful support of coming to our lot for 2 years, 5 years, 15 years, or are T4K, each year. just starting the tradition. And, yes, I’ve met some who’ve made it their tradition since we opened in 1982 Merry Christmas! – thirty-five years ago. The reality is that we are part with peace, of the community, and are woven deeply into it and the phils our community relies on us being there doing what we do. I often hear from people within our congregation but, more surprisingly, from the surrounding commu- nity—believers, non-believers, the not-sure, and those of different belief systems. They say things like, “I don’t Page  December 20, 2017 First Christian News

10 Anastashia Chavez Ken Dallara 11 Julie Houlihan Tony Kaye 12 Dillon Mount Dino Schofield Jeanine Speiser Catherine Kelleher Charlie Tiede Phil Restivo 13 Kurt Johnson 25 Maggie Gattis 1 Austin Alexander 14 David McKinzie Amanda Johnson Dillen Furry Phil Restivo III Tyana Parr 2 Sage Dawe Joey Vallero Anastasia Zubkoff David Friedrich 15 Connie Cross 26 Barbara Mack Eva Sloan Adrian Gonzalez-MacNeil Richard Peardon 3 Kaylee Hirsch 16 Larry Day 27 Lee Arter, Jr. Ryan Hirsch Luke Hallada Daisy Bishop Evan Klein 17 Russell Curtis Samantha Bock Joan Merrill Samantha Meade 29 Caitlin Currin 4 Veda Semarne-Heatherton Cosmo Moore Christopher Dearth Catherine (CG) Mirich Megan Snodgrass Melinda McInerney 5 Jon Joyce 18 David Colwell 31 Lukas Chavez Magnolia Lajoie Cynthia Helmerich Rod Conti John Randi Daniel Rossi Leo Powell Lydia Yang 19 Britton Askerneese 6 Gabrielle DeRouen- Anthony Dallara Hawkins Braden 20 John Beal Jessica Pichardo Emily Fuller 7 Jennifer Caloca Jose Murillo Henry Richardson Jensen Ray Sue Williams Carter Williamson 2 Rollie & Sue Bigbee 8 Mercy Diaz 21 Camden Richardson Henry Lehn & Patti Patton-Lehn Isabella Ellwein Jarrett Stotts 3 Kent & Alexandrea Young Nicolette Hill 22 Katie Treibach Bryan & Erin Zavala Matthew King Nancy Valdez 4 Galen & Louise Goben 9 Doug Fitzsimmons 23 Emily Inaba 6 William & Melanie Maseredjian Christopher Goben Kini Voorhies 20 David & Deborah Wheeler Duran James 24 Byron Armantrout 21 Nathan & Megan Burkart Diana Jenkins Elizabeth Bax 30 Bob & Janet McComb First Christian News December 20, 2017 Page 

Poinsettia Dedications

The Annino Family In loving memory of Kamekichi Takahashi, Tomiyo Takahashi, Toye Nishida, Frank Annino, Rose Annino, Mary Wheeler, Nancy Dorff and Andrew Dorff.

Kevin, Jenny & Landon Bailey In honor of our family. In memory of lost loved ones. In celebration of our FCCNH.

Elizabeth, Michael, Sydney & Danielle Bax In loving memory of Barbara Bax and Alice Ludwick. We miss you. You are forever in our hearts. Now there’s a little bit of Heaven everywhere.

Marti Benton In memory of Gaynelle Bock. You are always in my heart and prayers. Love and miss you!

The Berry Family In celebration of our wonderful Auntie, who just beat Stage 4 ovarian cancer. Praise Lord!

Peggy & Bob Bock In loving memory of Heather Kenney, Phil Rossi, Maurice Davis, and Billie Kline. In gratitude and love for the Prayer Group. Page 10 December 20, 2017 First Christian News

Peggy & Bob Bock continued— In appreciation for Terri Burton, our church’s amazing graphic artist, who always goes above and beyond to make the most beautiful bulletins, newsletters, booklets and programs! In honor of Josh Elson and all our amazing Choir members and musicians for both the 10:00 AM and 5:30 PM services. In appreciation to Jeremy Gillett, Ty Parr, and Jennifer Le’au for their love and dedication to our children and youth. In thanksgiving for all the wonderful Tree Lot volunteers. Once again, the Tree Lot was a success because of their hard work and dedication!

Shelley Cherwinski In memory of my loving grandparents Vern & Helen Cherwinski.

Debra Chyba In loving memory of Marta Chyba, from her family. In memory of my loving mother, Honey Lanning.

Gaye Coffman & Ian Williamson In loving memory of Gaye’s dad, Scott. In gratitude for our parents, Linda, Roy & Hazel. With love and joy for our precious children, Rebecca and Carter.

Stacey Constantine In memory of my mother, Olga Stromerson, who loved Christmas and all its wonders. We miss you Angel Olga. Love, Stacey, Craig and Chris

Chris, Sheryl, Allison & Michael Conte In loving memory of Pat and Gino Conte. In loving memory of Ruth Patzig.

Connie Cross In memory of my husband, Jim, daughter, Cheryl Carroll, and parents, Gladys & Delbert Crews.

Irion DeRouen In memory of Lee R. DeRouen, Nevers DeRouen, Bill Simar, Billie Kline and Maurice Davis.

The Eiklor Family In memory of Geraldine Eiklor. First Christian News December 20, 2017 Page 11

Sheryl Fitzpatrick In memory of my beloved mother, Eunice Combs.

Terri C. Hall In memory of my lovely mother, Valerie Hall Watters, who loved our church. In celebration of our fabulous pastors, church staff & devoted volunteers.

Sally Hallada In honor of my amazing family for their constant support. In loving memory of John Marshall Fuller.

Mary Heiss In honor of my amazing church family. In honor of the birth of our Lord, Jesus.

Dusty Ann Holdren In memory of Jan Holbrook (aunt) and Charly Holbrook (grandma) - my angels in heaven.

Ginger Ireland In honor and memory of James Harold Ireland. In honor and memory of Harold & Eleanor Hirst. In honor and memory of Leon & Leola Ireland. In honor of Robert & Peggy Bock.

Mike & Vicki Jackson In memory of mother Eva Sodergren.

Sylvia & James Jefferies In celebration of the one place we truly call home.

Cindy Kaller In memory of James & Betty Coontz. In honor of Shawn Coontz.

Jeanne Karpenko In memory of mother Ada Phillips.

Dick Kline In memory of Billie. Page 12 December 20, 2017 First Christian News

Josh, Teresa, Emma & Landon May In honor of Joan Norland.

Nelle and Wendell Niles In loving memory of my brothers Les and George Longshore. I miss you every day. In loving memory of my dear friends Mary Wheeler and Nancy Dorff. In loving memory of Blair Renshaw, Darren Dahlman, Maxie Leviss, and Andrew Dorff. All gone way too soon. In loving memory of Keith Wheeler, Maurice Davis, Leon Saliba, Billie Kline and Heather Kenney. In honor of our wonderful children and great sons-in-law and our seven awesome grandchildren, Jack, Teddy, Nelle, William, Georgi, Shepard and Pippa. In honor of Bob and Peggy Bock who have been loyal friends for 45 years. You are very special to us and we love you very much.

Betty Papanek In honor of Pastor Bob & Peggy Bock.

Gary, Jan & Jason Peterson In loving memory of parents and grandparents, Mel & Irene Mosena. In honor of our grandchildren, Maddie & Mason Snodgrass and baby girl coming January 2018.

Jose Pretlow & Linda Finnell In memory of Neil & Barbara Pretlow. In memory of Richard Knapp.

Gina Quintero Piantanida

Susan Randi In celebration of FCCNH, the Pastors, the Choir, the staff and the Spirit. You will always be in my heart.

Phil Restivo To my beautiful son, Philip. Thank you for enduring your dad through the lot. I love you...papa. In memory of my father, pmr sr. love, your phils In honor of our FCCNH church family for your wonderful support of Trees for Kids. First Christian News December 20, 2017 Page 13

Lael Robinson In memory of Edwyn & Melba Sherwood (my parents), Ron Robinson (my husband) and Bill Jinkaway (my father in law).

Thomas Rogillio

Toni Rossi In loving memory of the best husband, father and Santa ever, Phillip Wayne Rossi. In celebration of my son, Daniel whom has been my guardian angel.

Frank Sakata In memory of Betty Sakata for the special life we shared and the joy of the happy moments and memories.

Phyllis Stevenson In memory of my son Christopher Stevenson.

Ken & Linda Walmsley In celebration of our love for our children, Anthony, Adam and Elise. They light up our world! Page 14 December 20, 2017 First Christian News

I greet you in the Wonderful and Magnificent name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Following our fun and spirit filled weekend, all youth activities including Sunday school are on hiatus Thursday, December 28 until January 7th. This coming Sunday is Christmas #1 Barry Dantagnan Eve and the following Sunday is New Year’s Eve. In this Terri Hall season of expectation and hope, I find that very few Jackie Fecske things are more important than being with family and Wednesday, December 20 those we love. Thus, my prayer for all of us is that we Studio City Team Sunday, December 31 enjoy the time we can spend with friends and family. Art Dielhenn Let’s us be reminded this Christmas season to continue Sunday, December 24 Larry Gerber spreading the good news of Jesus Christ. The birth of #8 Sally Hallada Sarah Whalen Jesus gives us hope beyond the grave, it provides peace Jill Groswirth Ian Reed in a world of sin, creates joy during moments of sorrow, Joe Beam Justin Barnette and most of all his birth gives us Love to share with the Jacob Beam Danny Pino people of God. Allow this Christmas season to take you beyond the process of gift giving and receiving. This Christmas Food Pantry VOLUNTEER ContactS remember that if Christ be lifted up he’ll draw all men Transportation Teams: Heather Hatch 508.667.1609 unto him. May we lift Christ up today and each and Congregation Representative: everyday with the hope that all of human kind will Erin Zavala [email protected] soon realize allowing Christ into their lives is the start of a new life, which ultimately, will bring them everlast- ing life! I pray we are all reminded that the greatest gift another way known to all, costs us nothing. The most valuable gift to donate to the pantry card has very humble beginnings, and the greatest gift is Make your donations to the Interfaith Food Pantry through the FCCNH web page for everyone to have and receive the love of Christ. (https://fccnh.charityfinders.com/Donate%20Cash). Move Forward this Christmas season knowing that Christ will come again. THE FOOD PANTRY IS IN NEED OF: Canned tuna, canned chicken, rice, canned Merry Christmas FCCNH, and beans (pinto, navy etc.), boxed (dry) cereal, I wish you a very Happy Happy New Year! diapers, powdered milk, baby food, peanut butter and tomato products! Jeremy Gillett Director of Youth Ministries First Christian News December 20, 2017 Page 15

By Way of Report Church Staff

Sunday, December 17 - Third Sunday of Advent Robert M. Bock 10:00 AM Worship 274 Senior Pastor 5:30 PM SpiritSong Service 32 Louise Sloan Goben 7:00 PM Longest Night 22 Associate Pastor Alfredo Gomez 7:00 PM Wednesday Meditation 8 Pastor, Spanish Speaking Congregation Sunday School Children 60 Jennifer Le’au Sunday School Youth 22 Interim Director of Children’s Ministries Sunday Evening Youth 16 Jeremy Gillett Director of Youth Ministries Tyana Parr 10:00 AM Worship $11,160.37 Director of Children’s/Youth Choirs 5:30 PM SpiritSong Service $524.00 Joshua Elson 7:00 PM Evenlight Service $953.00 Music Director 7:00 PM Wednesday Meditation $14.00 David Rigsby Organist Christine Karasseferian otal eneral ffering T G O $12,651.37 Director of Finance Gillian Bonacci Disciples Mission Fund (Christmas) $225.00 Church Administrator Food Pantry $315.00 Diane Hirsch Human Needs $250.00 Administrative Asst./Web Master/Publicity Coordinator Youth Fund $100.00 Gabriela Dorantes Administrative Assistant Operation Santa Claus $120.00 Terri Burton Good Samaritan Fund $1,000.00 Church Publications Parking Lot Fund $2,000.00 Michele Amundsen Wedding Director Operation Christmas Child $10.00 Elmer Maldonado Special End of Year Donation $15,000.00 Building & Grounds Superintendent Dial-A-Carol Fundraiser $159.00 Miriam Mancilla Director of Christian Nursery School Greg Kirkland Media Director N e w s l e t t e r VOLUNTEER STAFF Craig Brooks, Jordon Goldschmidt, Jeff Hallada, Matt Hallada, Janette Jara, John Henry Kreitler, Tom Louie, Susan Marble, Jeff McFadden, Denise Ovaldson Sound Technicians is midnight sunday! Luis Oliart Security PLEASE SUBMIT ARTICLES VIA EMAIL TO [email protected] or [email protected] IN MEMORIAM Earle Immel Please indicate “newsletter” and/or “bulletin” in the Minister of Music Emeritus subject line if articles are for publication. Articles can Merle E. Fish, Jr. also be delivered to the office M-F, 9am to 5pm. 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 December 24, 2017-Christmas Eve email: [email protected] 10:00 am Jay Aldrich (O) Sheryl Fitzpatrick (C) Pastor & Senior Editor Robert M. Bock 5:30 pm Richard Follett Art Direction Terri Burton 7:00 pm Aliza Ramos Web Master Diane Hirsch Diaconate: Shelley Cherwinski Production Services Chris Qualls Byron Armantrout Kathy Dantagnan Barry Dantagnan Emeritus Mike Dobbin Mary Ann Steuterman Billie Kline Ellen Dobbin Lillian Carlson Heather Kenney David Olsen Margaret Defibaugh Cathy Melendez Scott Riley Fern Donald Chuck Mont Debbie Geraci Jean Johnson Wanda Kanoy Denise Bourne Helen Scarna Kay Smith Betty Van Zanten Shirley McClure Diaconate needed for the 5:30 & 11:00pm Deborah Wheeler Virginia Stebbins Christmas Eve services. Current and former Diaconate Cindy Kaller email [email protected] to volunteer.