An Invitation

All are invitedchurch family, family, friends, neighbors to Sippel Hall (a change from the gym) on Saturday, April 30th between 10:00 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Absolutely wonderful, fascinating and interesting treasures will be on display representing the collections and hobbies of our church folk. Refreshments to benefit youth camp scholarships will be available. Please come, see and enjoy the fellowship. If you want to participate in the exhibit, but havent signed up, contact Susan Babcock (310) 326-9003 for information. Excitedly, Membership Committee

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April 14, 2011

Disciples Womens Ministry

There will be no DWF luncheon in April. The next luncheon will be on May 22nd. This will be our annual spring tea and the Service Project will be Doctors without Borders. Doctors Without Borders/Mdecins Sans Frontires (MSF) is an international medical humanitarian organization created by doctors and journalists in France in 1971. Today, MSF provides aid in nearly 60 countries to people whose survival is threatened by violence, neglect, or catastrophe, primarily due to armed conflict, epidemics, malnutrition, exclusion from health care, or natural disasters. MSF provides independent, impartial assistance to those most in need. MSF reserves the right to speak out to bring attention to neglected crises, to challenge inadequacies or abuse of the aid system, and to advocate for improved medical treatments and protocols. In 1999, MSF received the Nobel Peace Prize. Doctors w/o Borders MSF's work is based on the humanitarian principles of medical ethics and impartiality. The organization is committed to bringing quality medical care to people caught in crisis regardless of race, religion, or political affiliation. MSF operates independently of any political, military, or religious agendas. Medical teams conduct evaluations on the ground to determine a population's medical needs before opening programs. The key to MSFs ability to act independently in response to a crisis is its independent funding. Ninety percent of MSF's overall funding (and 100 percent of MSF-USA's funding) comes from private sources, not governments. In 2008, MSF had 3.7 million individual donors and private funders worldwide. MSF is neutral. The organization does not take sides in armed conflicts, provides care on the basis of need alone, and pushes for increased independent access to victims of conflict as required under international humanitarian law. MSF's principles of action are described in the organization's 1971 founding charter which established a framework for its activities.

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Dear Friends, On behalf of All Peoples Christian Center staff, volunteers and program participants, I would like to thank you for your continuous contributions and support. It is such a wonderful feeling to know that there are people like you that care about our community. Through your donations we are providing services and programs that enable our community to grow and gain self-confidence in themselves. Our days starts at 6:30 a.m. when the children arrive for daycare as their working parents are off to their jobs knowing they are leaving their children in a safe environment. By 8:30 a.m. the building is alive with youth attending high school, and the staff busy preparing for a day of helping families who need support in numerous programs and services throughout the Center. I welcome you to come and tour our facility so you can see the difference you make with your donations. Thank you again. Sincerely, Saundra Bryant Executive Director All Peoples Christian Center 822 East 20th Street Los Angeles, CA. 90011 (213) 747-6357

Adult Sunday Class

On Palm Sunday (April 17), we will finish up our discussion about the meaning of Jesus death by doing some Bible work on 2 Corinthians 5:14-21. We will be off for Easter Sunday (April 24) so everyone can enjoy the pancake breakfast! Starting in May, Larry Campbell will help us consider some of the issues raised by the Bill Mahr movie Religulousthe classes will include clips from the movie. The class meets Sunday mornings in Room 7 at 9:30. All are welcome!

Food Offering Also Received on Easter Sunday

Though Easter falls at the end of April this year, we will still be receiving our regular fourth Sunday Food Offering for April to support the growing needs of His House ministry. Preferred Items include: Peanut Butter, Jam, Tuna, Mayo, Fruit or Pudding Cups, Cup of Noodles, Boxed Mac & Cheese, Canned Fruit, and Cereal.
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Holy Week Schedule:

April 17: Palm Sunday Worship, 8:30 & 10:30 Easter Eggcitement Childrens Program after worship April 19: Tuesday Prayer Service, 5:45 pm April 21: Maundy Thursday Dinner: 6:00 pm Maundy Thursday Worship & Drama: 7:00 pm April 22: Good Friday Prayer Vigil, 6:00 am6:00 pm Sign up for 20 minute intervals Good Friday Prayer Service, 6:00 pm April 24: Easter Sunday Worship, 8:30 & 10:30 am Floral Cross built from our cuttings Pancake Breakfast in between services
(more details below and on page 9.)

And They Went Out

Our April 21 Maundy Thursday worship will be built around And They Went Out, a dramatic presentation of the Last Supper, with several disciples sharing monologues on what might have transpired, and how it might have felt. Our worship will also include communion, and special music from our choir. Dramatic presenters include Larry & Peggy Campbell, Jill Foster, Samantha Lubrani, Vince Mercado, Glenn Oden, Ted Oden, Judy Rickabaugh, Dylan Rogers, Mark Tenace, Jeff & Michele Wood, and Janet Wysong. Our evening begins with dinner at 6:00 pmplease RSVP to the church office if you plan on eatingwith worship following at 7:00 pm.
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CHURCH FAMILY PRAYERS & CONCERNS

In & out of the hospital: Eileen Powell is in the ICU with blood pressure and kidney problemsWalter Morrison is home again after being hospitalized for painNora Pagdilaos brother, Apolinar Reyes Jr., has had a mass removed and is awaiting further evaluation Annette Carew (Stans stepmother) is back in the hospital. Martha Halsteads granddaughter, Emily, is suffering from pulmonary failure, in addition to continuing heart problems. Continuing Treatment: Evelyn Wright is waiting for test results on a possible inflamed optic nerve Ed Gherna (Mary Matsons father) continues on hospice careMisty Levis grandmother (Linda Kirbys mother), Debbie Galyardt (Grants sister). Battling cancer: Milly Rapers daughter is recovering from thyroid cancer surgery Shawn Knutsen (Kelly Rogerss sister) most recent chemo treatment has helped her stabilizeLinda Houstons friend, Joyce EigesVi Fietz (Steves stepmother)Pat Patterson (Doreen Jacksons friend)Susan Babcocks dog, Pumpkin, has had a cancerous growth removed, and is under observationJohn & Anne Beechers dog Buck does not have cancer, but is still experiencing difficult symptoms. Separated from loved ones: Sarah Iannucci has gone for a two-week visit to see her ailing mother in the Philippines.

With Sympathy
Lisa Roberts and her family are in our prayers on the death of her grandfather, in St. Louis, earlier this month.

Special Easter Offering

Our church receives six over-and-above, special offerings through the year to support the ministries of our wider church. Our Special Easter Offering goes to the work of what we call General Ministries in the US & Canada. Through the General Church, our gifts undergird a wide array of Christian work, including:

Programming for Disciples Women (many Torrance women enjoyed last years national gathering through this ministry) Programs and materials for Youth Ministries Support of missions work around the globe Ecumenical and interfaith relations with other Christian communions and world religions This is just a sampling of the work the Disciples of Christ are doing beyond Torrance and beyond the Pacific Southwest. Further information and envelopes will be available on Palm Sunday and Easter (April 17 & 24.)
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April 2011 (Revised)

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday WORSHIP SERVICES 8:30 and 10:30 am Sunday School 9:30 am

Thur

10
His Hands Bake Sale Lent Small Group 7:00 p.m. Newsletter Lent Small Group 7:00 p.m.

11

12
Love Group 9:30 Prayer Meeting 5:45 Prayer Shawl 7:00 Womens Board 7:00

13
Lent Small Group 10:00 Prayer Shawl 2:00 Lent Small Group 7:00

Lent Sm 7:00

Choi

17
Palm Sunday Eggcitement

18

19
Faith Group 1:30 Prayer Meeting 5:45 Prayer Shawl 7:00

20

Prayer Shawl 2:00

Maundy Dinn Worsh

24
Young Adults 7:00
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25

26
Prayer Meeting 5:45 Prayer Shawl 7:00

27

Prayer Shawl 2:00 Elders 7:00

Choi

)
Friday Saturday
April Birthdays
Earl Woods (6) Laurel Nelson (6) 2 Rick Reeley (7) Stephanie OBrien (9) Sue Zukas (12) Carol Wright (12) Jack Perry (14) Kevin Session (14) Charles Bales (14) 9 Amanda Ruhs (15) Brandon Matson (16) Savannah Navarro (17) Susan Babcock (17) Harriett Sherwood (17) Bonnie Evans (18) Andrea Whobrey (20) Matt Townsend (20) Bryce Matson (26) 16 Doris Wilson (26) Stan Carew (27) Mens Breakfast Daniel Nelson (27) Jerry Gimbrone (28) 8:30 a.m. Lent Small Group Glenn Oden (28) William Wheatley (30

rsday

14

15

mall Group 0 p.m.

ir 7:00

10:00 a.m.

21

22
Good Friday Prayer Vigil 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Worship Service 6:00 p.m.

23

Thursday ner 6:00 hip 7:00

28

29

30 ANNIVERSARIES
Kurt & Suzanne Nelson (18) Eric & Vicki Johns (22) Hobby Nora Wiehe (28) Gene & Collection Inside & EileenHall (27) Charlie Sippel Powell

ir 7:00

10:00 to 1:30
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Education Notes & News

Children have been learning about the Lenten season and what it means to get ready for Easter. In May the children will be learning about Bartimaeus. They will learn to define faith as belief and trust in God. Scripture Verse beginning 5/1: Jesus said to him, Go; your faith has made you well. Mark 10:52a Bible Explorers needs your gently used throw pillows for our workshop rooms. Do you like working with children? How would you like to lead a Bible Explorer class by doing art, music, storytelling, cooking, media, games or science? Stewardship is your time and your talent (gifts). Do any of our workshops match your talents/gifts? Please contact Shirley if you would like to hear more about our program and how our children can benefit from your talents/gifts.

SAVE THE DATES

Loch Leven work party May 14th & 15th. $15 per person see Shirley Woodman for details. This work event is open to all church family. We will be painting, patching, landscaping, weed pulling and the list goes on. Bring your gloves, work clothes, work shoes, hat and whistle while you work. This event is to help prepare the camp for summer. This is a good opportunity to fellowship with our extended church family and meet the new camp director Sloan Hamilton. Come and join the party and help us preserve our beloved Loch Leven. YOUTH ADVENTURE/CHI RHO - these groups will have a busy weekend in May as they will go to the Loch Leven clean up camp (May 13th & 14th), as well as walk in the Relay for Life (May 14th) and have a sleepover at the church the same evening. Youth will be collecting sponsorships for Relay for Life so please feel free to stop one of them and support Relay for Life through our Youth. SUMMER CAMP - deadline for registration is usually about a month before the camp date - Contact Shirley Woodman for registration forms or get them on line at http://lochleven.org/ JR CAMP week of 6/26 Chi Rho week of 7/17 CYF 1 week of 7/24 CYF 2 week of 8/7
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ALL CHURCH RETREAT @ LOCH LEVEN June 3rd - 5th Contact Jill Foster for details. VBS - July 11th through 15th Contact Jill Foster or Shirley Woodman if you are interested in helping the week of VBS or if you are able to give a donation to support VBS. Sat, 9/24 Rock the Loch - All day fundraising music festival supporting Loch Leven.

Holy Week Observances:

Palm Sunday (April 17)We will conclude our Lent series on the Lords Prayer, and celebrate Jesus entry into Jerusalem with a childrens Parade of Palms in both services, and extra offerings from the choir at 10:30. AND invite any children you know Easter Eggcitement Childrens Program, which will include an egg hunt, crafts, and a special visitor! The fun begins after 10:30 worship. Tuesday Prayers (April 19 at 5:45 pm)our regular gathering will have a s p e c i a l Week emphasis. Holy

Maundy Thursday (April 21)Our commemoration of the Last Supper will begin with dinner at 6:00 pm, followed at 7:00 pm by a worship service built around an original drama, And They Went Out Good Friday (April 22)we will observe our annual Prayer Vigil from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm, in the Prayer Chapel. You are invited to sign up for 20 minute intervals. The vigil will conclude with a brief Prayer Service at 6:00 pm. Easter Sunday (April 24)Our celebration of the resurrection will include additional special music, a Floral Cross built from our cuttings, and a Pancake Breakfast in between services invite a friend.
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Upcoming Sunday Messages

April 17 For Thine Is the Power & the Donkey (Matthew 6:13 KJV, Matthew 21:1-11) Very early on, the church added a word of glory to the Lords Prayer. On Palm Sunday, we see Jesus moving toward a kind of power and glory. But what kind of glory is it? And what does his use of power and glory teach us about our own lives? April 24 Where We Meet Jesus (Matthew 28:1-10) Earthquakes, a lightning-bright angel, and fainting soldiers! Matthews telling of the discovery of the empty tomb has the most spectacular special effects of all the gospels. But they all happen after the resurrectionJesus is not in the shock and awe. Instead, he meets the women, as he meets us, suddenly, as they are on their way to share the good news. May 1 Alternative Easter (Matthew 28:8-15) Jesus disciples receive the good news of his resurrectionbut the powers of this world construct an alternative version. On the one hand, empowerment and faith; on the other hand, fear and suspicion. On the one hand, good news, on the other, conspiracy theories. May 8 Worshipping and Wavering (Matthew 28:16-17) Jesus appearance at the end of Matthew inspires worship, but also allows for doubt. And so it has been with the church ever sincegreat faith and amazing works by dedicated and wholly imperfect people, just like us. May 15 The Great Co-Mission (Matthew 28:18-20) Jesus passes on an enormous responsibility to the eleven who surround himthe discipling of the nations, the immersion of those yet to be included, the teaching of lifechanging lessons and commandments. The great news within this good news is that we are never alone in the task.

Wednesday Morning Bible Study

Our Wednesday morning study group has finished the Lent Series on the Lords Prayermany thanks to Susan Babcock for her wonderful facilitation. We will be taking two weeks off, and then resuming our study of the minor prophets on May 4. We are meeting from 10:00 to 11-ish in the Choir Room all are welcome!
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Footnotes
Many of us got Don Zukass email about his baptism storya journey that, until now, has felt incomplete to him. Some of you have also heard my baptism story, but here goes again: I was sprinkled as an infant in the Lutheran Church, and confirmed as a teen (after two years of catechism.) After some family shake-ups, I ended up at the Disciples church down the street. A more conservative congregation, they required me to be immersed in order to be a membersomething of a surprise to me, and one at which I took a hint of Lutheran offense! Still, I submitted, and am wholly happy to be able to look back on my baptism as a personal and powerful experienceeven if some of that power has been back-loaded in. Like most Disciples congregations, First Christian Church of Torrance observes open membershipthat is, we honor the baptisms people bring from their life in other traditions, whatever the form. But over the last few months, a desire to have the remembered experience of immersion has arisen among a number of our people. And so during 8:30 worship on Easter, we will be celebrating the baptisms of a beloved number from within our familysome new, some renewed, some long-termall desiring this powerful rite of Christian faith. As baptism is a deep symbol of death and resurrection, it is completely appropriate that we experience it on Easter. Our 10:30 worship will have its own unique joy, as the choir will add extra musical offerings. But I encourage you to come make a morning of it (well have breakfast between services) and celebrate the immersions of Terry Linehan, Frank Mitchell, Susie Noble, Elba Woods, Florian Zukas, and Don Zukas. There are other baptism stories among ustales of slowly making our way along a winding way, or of being struck by a bolt from above. Stories of backfilling, or backsliding, or of rounding off a longing that began long ago. Soif you have them, tell them! And have a joyous Easter! Shalom, Steve Home phone: 310-212-5950 email: steefeets@hotmail.com

Just a reminderthe week after Easter (April 25-30) I will be in town, but out of the office for a Reading Week. I will be available for emergencies, but other concerns can be directed through Camelia. Next Newsletter articles need to be at the church office by May 2, 2011
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NON PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID

FIRST CHRISTIAN CHURCH (Disciples of Christ) 2930 El Dorado Street Torrance, CA 90503 (310) 328-2820 Fax 310 328-2929 E-mail - fcctorr@pacbell.net Web address - fcctorrance.org Sunday Schedule 8:30 a.m. - Worship - Informal 9:30 a.m. - Church School for all ages 10:30 a.m. - Worship - Traditional Childrens Worship - Ages Pre-school through 2nd Grade (During the Traditional Worship Service)

TORRANCE, CA PERMIT NO. 109

Or Current Resident

Nursery Provided For birth through age 3 during Sunday School and Contemporary & Traditional Service Office Hours Monday - Friday 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Staff Steven Fietz, Senior Pastor Ted Oden-Minister of Contemporary Worship Administrative Assistant Camelia Olloque Choir Director - Ken Potter Nursery Attendant - Amanda Ruhs Dorie Hernandez
TIME VALUE DATA DO NOT DELAY EXPEDITE

The Christian Messenger

First Christian Church 2930 El Dorado Street Torrance, CA 90503

Officers Chair - Chery Carew Vice Chair - Jerry Jonas Treasurer Jimmy Koontz Financial Secretary - Charlotte Sandberg Clerk Angie Ahumada

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