2008 at First Presbyterian

January 6, 2008, the Christian Education Committee made plans for 6 weeks of Bible Study and Prayer and a 3-day study of the ancient spiritual tool of personality types known as The Enneagram. In February the University of Life series would be “I believe in God, Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit," each part to be explored by Rev. Kehle, Rev. Barbara Farwell or Dr. Douglas Wright. Norma Mack resigned her position as of February 15 and Cynthia Sanders became the Administrative Assistant. Tina and Chris Vasiliow entertained with Irish Ballads after the Irish Stew Dinner the Kitchen Angels prepared for the St. Patrick’s Day celebration on March 12th. In April, Janie Williams and Claire Eliason were honored by receiving “Senior Service Awards” presented by Presbytery at the Orangewood Presbyterian Church. First Presbyterian hosted over twenty health and wellness agencies April 4 at a health fair. On the 16th court came to Swain Hall when Judges Judy, Wapner and Brown put the Nursery Rhymes on trial. Charles Sedgewick and Claire Eliason were honored by Agua Fria for their services. The “Blood Pressure Clinics” continued in Swain Hall following the 4th Sunday Services. Shirley McVicker had started the Prayer Shawl Ministry in May and by June they had shawls ready for the ill or shut-ins. PW began collecting personal grooming items, school supplies and canned goods. July 16th was Pizza night with card games. Irene Stephenson began work in the office as Administrative Assistant while Norma Mack continued as Financial Secretary. On August 20th we learned to play “Froggie Farkle,” ending the evening with dessert. September 2nd was a car pool to a ball game and on the 17th we had a bus trip to Organ Stop Pizza. In October Dr. John Barklind resigned as Senior Pastor. In December the Senior Trippers went to see “Holly Jolly Christmas” at the Broadway Palms Theatre. The third annual PW High Tea was on the 13th and on the 17th we were served a Christmas Dinner and entertained by the Handbell Choir. On Christmas Eve 2008 we were served Punch and Cookies in Swain Hall prior to the 5PM Service. Winter visitor Roxanne Fogarty became a church member in 2008.

~Donna Roth