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The Christmas Giving tree is going Up Sunday, November 22
Be sure and come to church Sunday November 22nd or 29th and pick up an ornament (or two or three). As in past years, each ornament will have the name and age of a person (child or mother) and a few ideas of what they would like for Christmas. We have 62 people we are buying for this year. There will also be some ornaments that just say food, Walmart or gas gift card. We ask that you gather as many ornaments as you want to, be sure to indicate to a volunteer which ornament you took, and purchase gifts cards or gifts, valuing no more than $25 per gift. Then bring your unwrapped gift, with the ornament attached, to church by Sunday December 6. Separate wrapping paper and bows always appreciated. We will have a luncheon party after church and then we will deliver the gifts to the organizations in time for them to enjoy Christmas! Thanks for bringing joy to our community in a meaningful way. Have questions? Ask Elizabeth Pribor or Dianne Modrell.

Poinsettia Orders    
It’s time to order poinsettias for Christmas. There is a sign-up sheet in the Gathering Space. The cost is $10 per plant. Please note on your check that your payment is for poinsettias.

Gingerbread House Party Saturday, December 510 am to noon
Join us on Saturday, December 5 from 10 am to noon in Fellowship Hall to decorate
gingerbread houses. The cost is $14.00 per gingerbread house. All children and adults are welcome. Please sign up in the Gathering Space no later than November 30.

 

Presbyterian Women Cookie Exchange December 11, 9:30am
The annual Presbyterian Women’s brunch and cookie exchange will be on Friday, December 11 at 9:30 am. Charlotte Ridley will be hosting. Bring 2-3 dozen cookies to exchange. Please RSVP to Charlotte at 314-821-8524 or email Yolanda at adminasst@faithdesperes.org .

 

 

Parents Day Out Saturday, December 12 11:00am to 3:00pm
Parents, for only $10.00 per child you can get 4 hours of babysitting by our teens here at the church. Sign up in the Gathering Space by December 10. If you have any questions speak to Annie or Beth Willock.

Advent Sermon Series “I Believe Even When…”
A timeless story that is still relevant. The story of the birth of Jesus is filled with common themes of human drama: unknowing, doubt, disgrace, fear, oppression, hardship. The words of an anonymous poet begin, “I believe in the sun, even when it is not shining…”

During Advent, we hear the affirmation that in spite of what feels like the absence of light, love and sometimes God, we can acknowledge the presence of hope through Christ “even when…” Advent begins next Sunday, November 29.

Jason Meyer
Our own Jason Meyer was asked to write something about the Mizzou events for a social justice blog of one of his Harvard Law professors.  Check it out! https://systemicjusticeblog.wordpress.com/2015/11/13/on-privilege/

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Dear Faith Des Peres Community,

Last week I started a short sermon series that talks about our new vision statement: "A faith community that challenges the present to change the future to make Christ known".  This week we'll talk about the phrase to change the future.  Changing the future weighs heavily on whether we challenged the present, so if you missed last Sunday you can find a copy of the sermon here.  You're a big part of our vision, so I hope you'll make time to be present on Sunday.  Do you know anyone looking for a church home?  This is a great time to invite them so they can hear for themselves what we're all about.

On a different subject, Faith Des Peres is now a part of Amazon Smile.  All you need to do is to go to Amazon via www.amazon.smile.com, and just underneath the search bar at the top of the page you'll see a little drop down box with "supporting" next to it.  Click on that and search for Faith Des Peres and make us your preferred charity.  Every time you shop at Amazon using the www.smile.amazon.com link (which your computer will eventually memorize), a percentage of the proceeds from your shopping will come to us.  This is a great way to contribute to the church.  (FYI: keep using your Schnucks escrip card, too.  We get about $750/year from Schnucks.  Imagine what we can do at Amazon!)

Thanks everyone for your support and for making this church a great place to  serve!  

See you Sunday,

Annie

PS: PALS meet on Sunday at 9:30.  Our theme is Thanksgiving.  I'm looking forward to seeing everyone.

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Sermon Series Continues November 15 and 22
Vision 20/20
At Faith Des Peres we’ve set a vision to challenge the present to change the future to make Christ known.  But what does that mean?  How do we do that?  Can I really do that?  Join us as we explore together the answers to these questions and how you are vital to our vision.

Poinsettia Orders    
It’s time to order poinsettias for Christmas. There is a sign-up sheet in the Gathering Space. The cost is $10 per plant. Please note on your check that your payment is for poinsettias.

The Christmas Giving tree is around the corner!
You may still be eating Halloween candy and not have finalized plans for Thanksgiving, but we are already planning the Christmas giving tree at Faith Des Peres. Our tree will go up on Sunday, November 22nd and be covered with ornaments. As in past years, each ornament will have the name and age of a person (child or mother) and a few ideas of what they would like for Christmas. The children are from Southside Early Childhood Center and Lydia’s House and the mothers are from Lydia’s House; both organizations we support over the years. There will also be some ornaments that just say food or gas gift card. We ask that you gather as many ornaments as you want to, be sure to indicate to a volunteer which ornament you took, and purchase gifts cards or gifts, valuing no more than $25 per gift. The ornaments will be up for two Sundays (Nov 22 and Nov 29). Then bring your unwrapped gift, with the ornament attached, to church by Sunday, December 6. We will have a light luncheon party after church and then we will deliver the gifts to the organizations in time for them to enjoy a wonderful Christmas. We have spoken to volunteers at both agencies. They commented on how much they appreciate and count on Faith Des Peres to help their families at Christmas. And - for some of us who no longer have small children – a fun way to get down the toy aisle again! Thanks for bringing joy to our community in a meaningful way. Have questions? Ask Elizabeth Pribor or Dianne Modrell.

Christmas Wreaths
Henry and Tommy Epling are selling wreaths (various sizes and prices) for Boy Scout Troop #457 before and after church this Sunday, November 15.  Wreaths will be available for pick-up on November 29 at church.  If you won’t be at church, they can deliver them to your house.  Payment is preferred at the time you place you your order.  Thank you for your support! 

Lunch Bunch Tuesday, November 17 11:30 am
For several years a group of members and friends of Faith Des Peres have been meeting on the third Tuesday of every month at Miss Sherri’s on Manchester Road.  Men and women are welcome. Join us for fellowship and lunch on Tuesday, November 17 at 11:30 am.

Women’s Bible Study Wednesday, November 18 9:30am
Plan to join the PW Bible study on Wednesday, November 18 at 9:30 am in the Gathering Space as they meet for their monthly bible study. All women are welcome to attend.

Gingerbread House Party Saturday, December 5 10 am to noon
Join us on Saturday, December 5 from 10 am to noon in Fellowship Hall to decorate gingerbread houses. The cost is $14.00 per gingerbread house. All children and adults are welcome. Please sign up in the Gathering Space no later than November 30.

 

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Dear Faith Des Peres Community

Dear Faith Des Peres Community,

This week I’ll begin a 3-week sermon series that focuses on our vision statement: Our vision is to be a faith community that challenges the present to change the future to make Christ known.  On Sunday we’ll look at the phrase “challenges the present” and the prophet Micah’s age old question “What does the Lord require of you?  To do justice, to seek kindness, and to walk humbly with our God”. (Micah 6:8)   As a church, we’re not just here to gather with other Christians for worship and support and guidance.  We’re also here to roll up our sleeves and do something, and sometimes that means challenging the present so that God’s kingdom can be fully realized here.  It means doing justice, seeking kindness and walking humbly with God.

 

The next 3 Sundays are really important ones in the life of the church as we explore our vision together and seek to put this vision into action, because it should guide everything we say and do. These are also good Sundays to invite someone to join you.  Perhaps you know someone who’s looking for a church, or maybe you know someone who wants to make a difference in the world but doesn’t quite know how or where to start.  We’ll talk a lot the next three weeks about how we’re making a difference (making Christ known) and how others can join us in this incredible journey we’re on.  Imagine what a difference we can make in people’s lives when working together to do justice, seek kindness, and walk humbly with God.

 I’ll see you Sunday.

 Blessings,

Annie     

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Sermon Series
November 8, 15, and 22
Vision 20/20
At Faith Des Peres we’ve set a vision to challenge the present to change the future to make Christ known.  But what does that mean?  How do we do that?  Can I really do that?  Join us as we explore together the answers to these questions and how you are vital to our vision.

 

Sacred Conversation on Race Sunday, November 8 3-6 pm
Closing Worship & WHAT’s NEXT?! First Presbyterian Church, 401 Darst Rd., Ferguson. Let's get together and talk. Then let's talk about what we're going to DO. 

The Christmas Giving tree is around the corner!
You may still be eating Halloween candy and not have finalized plans for Thanksgiving, but we are already planning the Christmas giving tree at Faith Des Peres. Our tree will go up on Sunday, November 22nd and be covered with ornaments. As in past years, each ornament will have the name and age of a person (child or mother) and a few ideas of what they would like for Christmas. The children are from Southside Early Childhood Center and Lydia’s House and the mothers are from Lydia’s House; both organizations we support over the years. There will also be some ornaments that just say food or gas gift card. We ask that you gather as many ornaments as you want to, be sure to indicate to a volunteer which ornament you took, and purchase gifts cards or gifts, valuing no more than $25 per gift. The ornaments will be up for two Sundays (Nov 22 and Nov 29). Then bring your unwrapped gift, with the ornament attached, to church by Sunday, December 6. We will have a light luncheon party after church and then we will deliver the gifts to the organizations in time for them to enjoy a wonderful Christmas. We have spoken to volunteers at both agencies. They commented on how much they appreciate and count on Faith Des Peres to help their families at Christmas.  And - for some of us who no longer have small children – a fun way to get down the toy aisle again! Thanks for bringing joy to our community in a meaningful way. Have questions? Ask Elizabeth Pribor or Dianne Modrell.

Christmas Wreaths
Henry and Tommy Epling are selling wreaths (various sizes and prices) for Boy Scout Troop #457 before and after church on November 8 and 15.  Wreaths will be available for pick-up on November 29 at church.  If you won’t be at church, they can deliver them to your house.  Payment is preferred at the time you place you your order.  Thank you for your support! 

 Poinsettia Orders     
It’s time to order poinsettias for Christmas. There is a sign- up sheet in the Gathering Space. The cost is $10 per plant. Please note on your check that your payment is for poinsettias.

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Dear Faith Des Peres Community

Dear Faith Des Peres Community,

There’s so much happening this Sunday I don’t even know where to begin.  But it’s all good!  So I’ll just dive right in . . .

·         Kids, wear your costumes to church!

·         Parents, bring any extra candy for Feeding the Flock/Circle of Concern before you eat it             all!

·         We’ll celebrate Samantha and David’s wedding after church with – what else – cake!  
         (Because that’s what everyone needs the day after Halloween.)

·         We’ll celebrate the saints of the church and the saints of our lives since it’s All Saints’ Day.

·         We’ll send off the scarves in style.  Hint hint, this involves YOU.

·         At 3:00, we’ll gather for our second Sacred Conversations on Race.  Missed the first one?  
       Don’t worry.  You can jump right in at any time.

 

It’s a good thing we all get an extra hour of sleep.  No excuses to miss this Sunday.  And why would you want to?!

Blessings,

Annie

PS: Invite someone to join you!

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Church-Wide Survey
In an effort to better understand how our members found Faith Des Peres and why they chose Faith Des Peres, the Membership Expansion Center is conducting a brief survey by email using surveymonkey.com.  It will only take you 2-3 minutes to complete the survey and your answers are anonymous. We need all family members who are members of the church to complete the survey.  The Membership Expansion Center will use the results of the survey to identify our target audience and articulate our message in our marketing efforts.  Please know that our efforts to market the church are not just about increasing our numbers, they are about living out our vision to challenge the present to change the future to make Christ known.  We appreciate your assistance with aiding in this effort.  The Membership Expansion Team

Advent Devotion Book 2015
It’s hard to believe but it’s time to start thinking about Advent. Two years ago, the Worship Arts Committee started publishing an Advent devotion book to give people the opportunity to connect more fully with the church and to provide a worship guide to be used at home during the week. If you would like to submit a short (250 words or less) devotion and prayer for the book, please let Annie know. Submissions are due November 8.

Upcoming Sermon Series
November 8, 15, and 22
Vision 20/20
At Faith Des Peres we’ve set a vision to challenge the present to change the future to make Christ known.  But what does that mean?  How do we do that?  Can I really do that?  Join us as we explore together the answers to these questions and how you are vital to our vision.

Feeding The Flock
On communion Sundays we collect food for Circle of Concern food pantry.  The idea behind Feeding the Flock is that while we are spiritually fed at Christ’s table, we are called to physically feed others. The children of the congregation gather together and pull a wagon through the sanctuary, collecting food donations.  If you forget your donation Sunday, the bin is always available in the Gathering Space. Thank you for your support.

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Dear Faith Des Peres Community

Dear Faith Des Peres Community,

This Sunday I’ll wrap-up my sermon series “DIY: A Faith of Your Own But Not On Your Own” and the subject is the church.  What is your understand of what the church is called to be and do?  What does God call the church to be and do?  Please think about your answers before Sunday. 

We’ve covered the following topics in this series: God, Jesus, Holy Spirit, Christianity and Other Religions, evil, and now the church.  My hope is that the series has given you the opportunity to better articulate what it is you believe about each of those subjects.  My hope is also that you will actually write a statement of faith!  To that end, I’ll be available in the Gathering Space this Sunday at 9:30 for anyone who wants to try writing a statement of faith.  I’ll have resources available to help assist you with that, if you need them, and I can answer any questions you have.  I can also push you to go a little deeper!  All you need to do is show-up ready to write.

On November 1, we’ll celebrate All Saints Sunday and we will “send off” the scarves in a very special way.  You won’t want to miss it!  Do you know someone who has lost a loved on this year or experienced another type of loss?  This is a good service to invite them to attend.  And kids, wear your Halloween costumes!  Clocks move forward – an extra hour of sleep!

Blessings,

Annie

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Buddy Pack Volunteers Needed
The buddy packs program provides weekend meals for 12 students at Tillman Elementary school.  There are three different types of volunteer opportunities for this school year.  We need two volunteers to pack the food in bags, every week after church.  We nee one volunteer a week (on either Thursday or Friday) to deliver the food to Tillman Elementary School in Kirkwood.  Finally, we need one volunteer a month to unpack the food and stock it in the buddy packs closet. Sign up by using the links below.

http://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0d4aaba922a5fd0-buddy

http://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0d4aaba922a5fd0-buddy1

http://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0d4aaba922a5fd0-buddy2

 

Advent Devotion Book 2015
It’s hard to believe but it’s time to start thinking about Advent. Two years ago, the Worship Arts Committee started publishing an Advent devotion book to give people the opportunity to connect more fully with the church and to provide a worship guide to be used at home during the week. If you would like to submit a short (250 words or less) devotion and prayer for the book, please let Annie know. Submissions are are due November 1.

All Saints Sunday, November 1
Next week we’ll remember the saints of the church who have died this past year, and we’ll recognize the saints in our lives who have impacted us, loved us, molded us, and made us who we are.  This service will include a time of anointing and we’ll have a special “send off” of the scarves.  Do you know someone who has lost a friend or loved one this past year?  This is a good service to invite them to attend. 

Church-Wide Survey coming this week to your inbox!
In an effort to better understand how our members found Faith Des Peres and why they chose Faith Des Peres, the Membership Expansion Center is conducting a brief survey by email using surveymonkey.com.  It will only take you 2-3 minutes to complete the survey and your answers are anonymous.   We need all family members who are members of the church to complete the survey.  The Membership Expansion Center will use the results of the survey to identify our target audience and articulate our message in our marketing efforts.  Please know that our efforts to market the church are not just about increasing our numbers, they are about living out our vision to challenge the present to change the future to make Christ known.  We appreciate your assistance with aiding in this effort.  The Membership Expansion Team

 


Presbyterian Women Bible Study Wednesday, October 28
Plan to join the PW Bible study on Wednesday, October 28 at 9:30 am in the Gathering Space as they meet for their monthly bible study. All women are welcome to atten

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Dear Faith Des Peres Community

 Dear Faith Des Peres Community,

There’s a lot going on this weekend at church!  Trunk or Treat/Bonfire/Storytelling is Saturday at 5pm.  Everything takes place in the back parking lot.  Details are posted below.  I hope to see you there!  On Sunday, Rev. Miriam Foltz is the guest preacher.  Miriam is the organizing pastor of UKirk, a Presbyterian campus ministry on the campuses of Wash U and SLU.  I’m really looking forward to hearing Miriam talk about this new ministry and ways Faith Des Peres can get involved.  Also this Sunday, PALS meet at 9:30 in the Gathering Space.  The church is one of those rare places where children, youth and adults share the same space and this provides a unique opportunity to promote healthy, cross-generational connections between people.  This Sunday PALS will get to know one another better and look together at their hopes for the church and how their faith has influenced them.  Since I’m leading PALS, I’m unable to lead the class on gun violence I announced last week.  As soon as I can, I’ll reschedule that class.  And last, don’t forget that Buddy Packs sign-ups are taking place online and in the Gathering Space after church, and the California Pizza Kitchen fundraiser is Monday.

Whew!  That’s a lot happening.  I hope to see you this weekend!

Blessings,

Annie 

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Trunk or Treat/Storytelling/Bonfire Saturday, October 17 5pm
Let's usher in fall - FDP style! Trunk or Treat is back by popular demand.
Don your Halloween costume. Decorate the trunk of your car or back of your van and pass out Halloween treats to the Trunk or Treaters.  The Storytelling and Bonfire follow Trunk or Treat. Bring what you would like to drink and a snack to share. S'more fixings will be provided. The festivities begin at 5 pm in the back parking lot. A fun time is promised for all ages. Pets welcome. You are invited to come for some or all of this event.

Pals Program Update/Adult Learning Opportunity, October 18, 9:30 am
Young people and their mentors met for the first time as Pals in September.  They played a
Jenga-type get to know you game, and some of them sat together during worship.  Pals meet again on Sunday, October 18 at 9:30 in the Gathering Space.  Coffee and doughnuts will be provided along with a table topic for conversation. 

California Pizza Kitchen Fundraiser Monday, October 19
The Presbyterian Women's group is hosting a fundraiser at California Pizza Kitchen in Creve Coeur on Monday, October 19. 20% of the sales generated from the fundraiser will be given to Lydia’s House. Come for lunch or dinner, and you can dine in or dine out. Print this flier to take with you.

Lunch Bunch Tuesday, October 20 11:30 am
For several years a group of members and friends of Faith Des Peres have been meeting on the third Tuesday of every month at Miss Sherri’s on Manchester Road.  Men and women are welcome.  Please join us for fellowship and a buffet lunch on Tuesday, October 20 at 11:30 A.M.

Sermon Series ends October 25
DIY: A Faith of Your Own But Not On Your Own
Few Christians arrive at a set of beliefs that they can set in stone for the rest of their lives.  What we believe evolves in response to insights into the Bible, the Christian tradition, questions and changes in life circumstances, or things that happen in the larger world.  Faith is a living thing.  But sometimes it’s hard to articulate what we believe.  The purpose of this sermon series is to help you name a faith of your own. 

Buddy Pack Volunteers Needed
he buddy packs program provides weekend meals for 12 students at Tillman Elementary school.  There are three different types of volunteer opportunities for this school year.  We need two volunteers to pack the food in bags, every week after church.  We need one volunteer a week (on either Thursday or Friday) to deliver the food to Tillman Elementary School in Kirkwood.  Finally, we need one volunteer a month to unpack the food and stock it in the buddy packs closet. You can sign up with the links below.

http://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0d4aaba922a5fd0-buddy

 

http://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0d4aaba922a5fd0-buddy1

 

http://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0d4aaba922a5fd0-buddy2

 

Advent Devotion Book 2015
It’s hard to believe but it’s time to start thinking about Advent. Two years ago, the Worship Arts Committee started publishing an Advent devotion book to give people the opportunity to connect more fully with the church and to provide a worship guide to be used at home during the week. If you would like to submit a short (250 words or less) devotion and prayer for the book, please let Annie know. Submissions are due November 1.

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Welcome to Faith Des Peres

Welcome to the Cass Family, New Church Members
Cody, Katie and Carter Cass live in Southampton in St. Louis City. Carter is 9.5 months old and is crawling all over the place. He is the sweetest baby and so much fun. Cody works at Express Scripts in Specialty Pharmacy and Katie works at Barnes Jewish Hospital as a Nurse Anesthetist. We love the outdoors and spend as much time as we can at our family property in St. Clair, MO. We are very excited to join the FDP family. 

Welcome Guest Preacher Rev. Miriam Foltz
We welcome Rev. Miriam Foltz, organizing pastor of UKirk, to Faith Des Peres. UKirk, or 'university church,' is the new Presbyterian campus ministry at Washington University & St. Louis University. Under the oversight of the Presbytery's New Worshiping Communities Commission, UKirk launched in January 2015 under the leadership of Pastor Miriam Foltz.

Housed at Trinity Presbyterian Church in University City, students gather there on Sunday evenings for dinner and worship with communion. UKirk connects during the week with students on campus through a Wednesday evening discussion group at SLU and through 'caffeinated conversations' on Friday afternoons at WashU. UKirk joined with the Lutheran (ELCA) Campus Ministry earlier this month for our first Fall Retreat, and we are busy planning upcoming mission projects, including a Spring Break Service Trip in March. It's an exciting time for Presbyterian campus ministry in St. Louis!

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Dear Faith Des Peres Community

Dear Faith Des Peres Community,

This Sunday I'm continuing my sermon series "DIY: A Faith of Your Own" with the topic of evil. What do you believe about evil and/or why bad things happen to people?  What do you think a Christian's or church's response should be when bad things happen? What do we say and do after a mass shooting, for example? And where is God in all of this? Come, listen and learn.

On Sunday, October 18 at 9:30 (while Pals meet in the Gathering Space; we’ll meet in the Adult Room), I'm going to lead a discussion on gun violence.  It's a topic that's been on my mind since the Oregon shooting, and as a parent it's one that hits close to home.  I hope you'll come and be a part of the dialogue.

On Sunday, October 18 we’ll welcome Rev. Miriam Foltz, organizing pastor of UKirk, to Faith Des Peres.  UKirk is a new Presbyterian campus ministry at Washington University and Saint Louis University that Miriam started in January.  I’m looking forward to hearing Miriam preach and learning more about how Faith Des Peres can partner with and support UKirk. 

And last but not least, if you haven’t checked out our Facebook page lately, please do so.  Like it and share it (sharing gets the most views).  We’ve been talking about how we can share our faith in the DIY series, and nothing is easier than pressing a “share” or “like” button. 

See you in church,

Annie  

PS: Feel free to wear your Cardinals gear on Sunday.  Go Cards!

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Welcome to the Cass Family, New Church Members
Cody, Katie and Carter Cass live in Southampton in St. Louis City. Carter is 9.5 months old and is crawling all over the place. He is the sweetest baby and so much fun. Cody works at Express Scripts in Specialty Pharmacy and Katie works at Barnes Jewish Hospital as a Nurse Anesthetist. We love the outdoors and spend as much time as we can at our family property in St. Clair, MO. We are very excited to join the FDP family. 

Trunk or Treat/Storytelling/Bonfire Saturday, October 17 5 pm
Let's usher in fall - FDP style! Trunk or Treat is back by popular demand.
Don your Halloween costume. Decorate the trunk of your car or back of your van and pass out Halloween treats to the Trunk or Treaters.  The Storytelling and Bonfire follow Trunk or Treat. Bring what you would like to drink and a snack to share. S'more fixings will be provided. The festivities begin at 5 pm in the back parking lot. A fun time is promised for all ages. Pets welcome. You are invited to come for some or all of this event.

Save the Date! California Pizza Kitchen Fundraiser Monday, October 19
The Presbyterian Women's group is hosting a fundraiser at California Pizza Kitchen in Creve Coeur on Monday, October 19. 20% of the sales generated from the fundraiser will be given to Lydia’s House. Come for lunch or dinner, and you can dine in or dine out.

Pals Program Update/Adult Learning Opportunity, October 18, 9:30am
Young people and their mentors met for the first time as Pals in September.  They played a Jenga-type get to know you game, and some of them sat together during worship.  Pals meet again on Sunday, October 18 at 9:30 in the Gathering Space.  Coffee and doughnuts will be provided along with a table topic for conversation. 

While the Pals meet, their parents also meet for a time of study that is open to anyone in the congregation.  In October, Pastor Annie will lead a discussion on “Gun Violence-Gospel Values: Mobilizing in Response to God’s Call”.  Are you tired of hearing about shootings and agree that prayer is not enough?  Come, listen, learn and get mobilized. 

Lunch Bunch Tuesday, October 20 11:30 am
For several years a group of members and friends of Faith Des Peres have been meeting on the third Tuesday of every month at Miss Sherri’s on Manchester Road.  Men and women are welcome.  Please join us for fellowship and a buffet lunch on Tuesday, October 20 at 11:30 am.

Guest Preacher Next Sunday
Next Sunday we’ll welcome Rev. Miriam Foltz, organizing pastor of UKirk, to Faith Des Peres.  UKirk is a new Presbyterian campus ministry at Washington University and Saint Louis University that Miriam started in January.  Join us to hear Miriam preach and to learn more about how Faith Des Peres can partner with and support UKirk.  

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Dear Faith Des Peres Community

Dear Faith Des Peres Community,

This weekend I’ll continue my sermon series “DIY Faith” with a look at the relationship of Christianity to other religions.  How do we witness to the love of God we see in Jesus Christ in an interfaith world?  Are all religions equal? Do we need to set aside what we believe for the sake of the common good?  We’ll explore these and other questions this Sunday.  This is a great Sunday to invite friends and family because the topic is so pertinent.  Have you invited someone lately?

Also this Sunday, we’ll celebrate the Great Eucharist Feast of Thanksgiving outside with food and wine much like Jesus would have celebrated the Seder meal.  Why?  Because it’s World Communion Sunday and it seems appropriate to do so.  I love the symbolism of World Communion Sunday!  And again, it’s a great day to invite friends and family to join you.

As I write this, some of the Session members and I are in Kansas City for a Leadership Institute at Church of the Resurrection.  As we live into our Vision 20/20 goals and lead the church, please pray for us.  Our goals are big but attainable with your prayers and support.

This is a busy weekend for the church, too.  Food Outreach is Saturday morning, the TNTs will meet Friday night for dinner, and Sacred Conversations on Race is Sunday at 3. Put your faith into action by joining one of these groups!

Blessings,

Annie 

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TNT Event Friday, October 2, 7 pm
The TNT group is getting together at Billy G’s in Kirkwood on October 2 at 7:00pm.  TNT used to stand for twenties and thirties (age) group.  We have kept the name, but the age group has expanded a bit.  The group is a dinner and special activity group that meets a few times a year.  There’s no agenda really, just time with folks from church.  Free childcare is offered at the church beginning at 6:30 pm.  RSVP to Beth Willock if you can come and/or need childcare. 

Next food packing at Food Outreach is Saturday, October 3 at 8 am.
Want to know how you can make a difference in people’s lives in just a few short hours? Come join members of Faith Des Peres at Food Outreach on Saturday morning, October 3. There we will pack food into individual meals that will be given to those living with HIV/AIDS and cancer that are living at or below the poverty level. We start at 8am and are done before 11 am. Food Outreach requests that volunteers be 11 years old and in 5th grade. Contact Clarissa Schuller-Meyer for more information.

Sacred Conversations on Race, Sunday, October 4, 3-5 pm.
A model for congregations who want to have the difficult but necessary conversations centered on racial tension. Trained facilitators will guide people of faith through exercises discussing their own experiences and listening to the experiences of others. This conversation is for anyone who is interested in sharing and learning.  This Sunday, October 4 from 3-5 pm we will meet at FDP to spend time in prayer, learning, speaking and listening.   

Welcome to the Cass Family
Cody, Katie and Carter Cass live in Southampton in St. Louis City. Carter is 9.5 months old and is crawling all over the place. He is the sweetest baby and so much fun. Cody works at Express Scripts in Specialty Pharmacy and Katie works at Barnes Jewish Hospital as a Nurse Anesthetist. We love the outdoors and spend as much time as we can at our family property in St. Clair, MO. We are very excited to join the FDP family. 

Trunk or Treat/Storytelling/Bonfire Saturday, October 17 5pm
Let's usher in fall - FDP style! Trunk or Treat is back by popular demand.
Don your Halloween costume. Decorate the trunk of your car or back of your van and pass out Halloween treats to the Trunk or Treaters.  The Storytelling and Bonfire follow Trunk or Treat. Bring what you would like to drink and a snack to share. S'more fixings will be provided. The festivities begin at 5 pm in the back parking lot. A fun time is promised for all ages. Pets welcome. You are invited to come for some or all of this event.

Save the Date! California Pizza Kitchen Fundraiser Monday, October 19
The Presbyterian Women's group is hosting a fundraiser at California Pizza Kitchen in Creve Coeur on Monday, October 19.  20% of the sales generated from the fundraiser will be given to our group. Watch for further information.

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Dear Faith Des Peres Community

Dear Faith Des Peres Community,

This week I’ll continue my sermon series “DIY: A Faith of Your Own but not On Your Own” with a look at what the Bible, church tradition, and contemporary theology teach about the Holy Spirit.  The Holy Spirit is probably the least talked about aspect of the Trinity and therefore what we believe about the Holy Spirit is likely fuzzy.  But with all the talk these days about people being “spiritual but not religious”, maybe it’s time to look more closely at the Spirit and the Spirit’s role in our lives.

On October 4, I’ll talk about the intersection of Christianity and other religions.  How we as people of faith interact with people of other religions is a very important topic and will only become more so as the country gets more and more religiously diverse.  I hope you’ll be here for it, and invite your friends, too.  This is also World Communion Sunday, so we’ll go outside for the great communion feast and celebrate with food and wine.

The scarves will continue to move around the sanctuary as we explore how our faith journeys are all unique.  Thank you to Leslie Barnes and Danny Mortimer for all of their help with the liturgical art installations!

Blessings,
Annie  

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Faith Des Peres Family News

Welcome to the Cass Family
We are excited to welcome Cody, Katie and Carter Cass as new members of our Faith Des Peres Family. Cody and Carter were baptized last Sunday.

 

Congratulations to Rufus & Judy Sisson
Their daughter Jen and her husband Isaac welcomed their beautiful new daughter on August 25th. She weighed 7lbs, 6oz and was 19 1/2 inches long. Her name is Emma Maria Calderon. Emma and Jen are doing wonderfully!

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Together at Faith Des Peres

Disciples Gathering
Disciples Gathering (K-5) will meet with Clare Dingus this Sunday. Hope to see everyone there.

Sermon Series
DIY: A Faith of Your Own But Not On Your Own
Few Christians arrive at a set of beliefs that they can set in stone for the rest of their lives.  What we believe evolves in response to insights into the Bible, the Christian tradition, questions and changes in life circumstances, or things that happen in the larger world.  Faith is a living thing.  But sometimes it’s hard to articulate what we believe.  The purpose of this sermon series is to help you name a faith of your own.  Subjects covered include: God, Christ, Holy Spirit, evil, and the church.  

Trunk or Treat/Storytelling/Bonfire Saturday, October 17 5pm
Let's usher in fall - FDP style! Trunk or Treat is back by popular demand.
Don your Halloween costume. Decorate the trunk of your car or back of your van and pass out Halloween treats to the Trunk or Treaters.  The Storytelling and Bonfire follow Trunk or Treat. Bring what you would like to drink and a snack to share. S'more fixings will be provided. The festivities begin at 5 pm in the back parking lot. A fun time is promised for all ages. Pets welcome. You are invited to come for some or all of this event.

Presbyterian Women Bible Study
Plan to join the PW Bible study on Wednesday, September 30 at 9:30 am in the Gathering Space as they meet for their monthly bible study. All women are welcome to attend.

Tai Chi Classes Resume September 28
Tai Chi classes are beginning again!  Tai Chi has proven benefits of improved balance, lowered blood pressure, improved immune system, and improved mood.  Classes will be held Monday evenings beginning on Sept. 28th at 5:30 in the Gathering Space.  Classes are just $5, pay as you go, and last one hour.  Dress comfortably.  Bring a friend or make a friend. You'll enjoy this soothing meditation in motion! For further information contact Susan Marting 314-609-9091.

Next food packing at Food Outreach is Saturday, October 3 at 8 am.
Want to know how you can make a difference in people’s lives in just a few short hours? Come join members of Faith Des Peres at Food Outreach on Saturday morning, October 3. There we will pack food into individual meals that will be given to those living with HIV/AIDS and cancer that are living at or below the poverty level. We start at 8am and are done before 11 am. Food Outreach requests that volunteers be 11 years old and in 5th grade.  Please sign up in the Gathering Space.

TNT Event Friday, October 2, 7 pm
The TNT group is getting together at Billy G’s in Kirkwood on October 2 at 7:00pm.  TNT used to stand for twenties and thirties (age) group.  We have kept the name, but the age group has expanded a bit.  The group is a dinner and special activity group that meets a few times a year.  There’s no agenda really, just time with folks from church.  Free childcare is offered at the church beginning at 6:30 pm.  RSVP to Beth Willock if you can come and/or need childcare.  

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Dear Faith Des Peres Community

 

Dear Faith Des Peres Community,

This week, I’ll continue my sermon series “DIY: A Faith of Your Own but not on Your Own” with a look at Jesus Christ.  In preparation for this Sunday, begin to think about what you believe about Jesus.  For you, is Jesus God in the flesh?  Do you think of Jesus as a friend?  Did he die to save you from your sins?  Is he a historical figure?  Loaded and difficult questions, I know!  But don’t worry, I’ll help you unpack it this week.

We’ll celebrate two baptisms this Sunday, too.  Cody Cass and his son Carter are being baptized, and Cody and his wife Katie are joining the church, too.  I hope you’ll be here to celebrate and welcome them. 

Last but not least, Beth Willock, Danny Mortimer and I were in Chicago this week for a worship arts planning session, and we took into account the positive feedback about the pew formation and liturgical art we received from you.  This Sunday, the pews will remain in the round but the scarves will move around.  I hope to see you here!

Blessings,
Annie  

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