GOD WILL DO THE

HEAVY LIFTING
Kris and Simon Morgan
Page 6

Vol 48, #10 October, 2008

 Have You
Ever Read
a Book that
has Changed
Your Life?
Would you be willing to share it?
I have discovered that the men
and women in our local jails do
not have adequate reading mate-
rial. They are desperately in need
of Biblically-solid, culturally-rele-
vant books. What I DO NOT want
is for you to empty your library
of the books you don’t want and
bring them to church. What I DO
want is for you to pick one book
that was personally significant and
bring it to my office at church. I
will ensure that these books get
into the hands of our local inmates.
Thanks for taking time to do this. I
know it will make a difference for
many people hungering for truth
and hope.
2 | www.fpco.org
ON THE WAY
with Dr. David D. Swanson
Dear FPCO Family and Friends,
“When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a
child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me.” 1 Corinthians 13:11
To be honest, I have never much cared for Paul’s rather arrogant pronouncement
in his letter to the Corinthians. He seems to be saying that he has mastered the whole
notion of what it means to be a Godly man, and I guess I don’t think its that easy. His
words are a little hard to swallow, but he’s also right. Our male pride is what often
keeps us from accepting that. Godly men act like men, not like children. We just don’t
want to hear it.
If you spoke to my wife, she would tell you that, indeed, there are times when I am
childish – when I speak like a child and act like a child and reason like a child. I have
even been known to yell like a child, drive like a child and eat like a child. The reason
for that is fairly simple. Men (and women), like children, tend to be rather self-driven
because we are convinced the world still revolves around us. It doesn’t. I know that, at
least cognitively, but I still fight against it.
Since my conversion to Christ, I have tried to put away those childish things and
live like King David, a man described in the Psalms as being “after God’s own heart.”
Even so, David made a lot of mistakes. The reality is this: being a Christian man in
today’s world is tough. That does not excuse anything, but sometimes it helps to ac-
knowledge the difficulty. Men are famous for not asking for help, but in this situation,
we’d better slow down and get some because we CANNOT do it by ourselves.
This month, the men of First Presbyterian Church have a great opportunity to con-
tinue down that path away from childhood and towards Christ-like manhood. We will
gather in Lee Fellowship Hall on Saturday, October 18 at 8:30 a.m. for a morning with
Patrick Morley, author of The Man in the Mirror. Mr. Morley is one of the foremost
lay leaders in men’s ministry today, and he has recently updated his successful book so
that it addresses the current issues men face. We’ll be done before lunch and home in
time for college football!
This may seem like a small thing – one Satur-
day morning – a few hours – but I believe it is sorely
needed by many men, including me. I pray that the
men of our church will take the time to think about
their lives – perhaps their childish ways – and come
with an attitude of humility, ready to be taught. If
you have not already registered, you can do so on-
line at www.fpco.org/register. May God continue to
mold and shape each one of us more closely into the
image the one true Man, His Son and our Savior,
Jesus Christ. With thanks and praise for this, His
Church, I pray for His
Grace and peace,
David
www.fpco.org | 3
 In January, First Presbyterian Church will join to- Registration is one easy step; sign up for the orienta-
gether in a church-wide Bible study, The Economy of God. tion session and the Bible study all at one time.
Through it, we will explore the abundance of wisdom and Register at www.fpco.org/register or contact Lori
guidance provided by God in relationship to money and fi- Needham at lneedham@fpco.org or 407-423-3441. ■
nances, not so much in what He wants from us, but what
He wants for us.
Dr. Swanson’s Sunday sermon message will provide
BIBLE STUDY ORIENTATION &
the backdrop for the weekly group Bible study. Now is the DESSERTS ON NOV 9 & 16
time to make plans to gain God’s perspective on the eco-
nomic fortunes, or misfortunes, of our time.
Jo
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Study participants need to register now and attend an dess
de sser
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at eria
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orientation session on November 9 or 16 at 6:30pm in Lee Regi
Regist
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Fellowship Hall. Come to receive your study materials, the
short paperback book, “Your Money Counts”, and enjoy
fellowship and desserts. The orientation session and read- STUDY LEADER TRAINING SESSION
ing are required prepartion for the Crown study which will
begin January 18.
ON OCT 25
Existing Bible Study/Life Group leaders will register Exxis
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ti roup
roupp lea
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ders
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their entire group. Individuals not currently particiating volu
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add SSun
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on Sundays, from 4:30 – 6:30pm. Free child care and chil- Octo
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25,, fr
from
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aree en
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23 -3344
41 x1 146
463 3
per person or couple (sharing one set of materials).

4 | www.fpco.org
 By Re
Rev.
v. Don
onna
na M
McC
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Cleelllan
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Have you ever felt left out? Like everyone had been invited
to the party except you? That everyone knew something and
everyone was talking about it and you had no clue what they
were talking about?
Those feelings are not unlike what I experienced when
it seemed as though EVERYONE at FPCO had been through
this thing called CROWN except me…and I DO NOT like to
be left out!!
Oh, and I was assured that Crown was not just about mon-
ey but more about lordship (a topic I do like to talk about!) and
not one person said anything negative about their experience.
In fact here are some of the comments I did hear:
“Our Crown Ministries experience did far more than just teach
us God’s view on possessions and money (although it certainly did
that). It gave us teaching that strengthened our marriage, made us
better parents and introduced us to people that became lifelong
friends. What a blessing!” Bill and Nancy Robbinson
“Crown was really our first small group experience at FPCO.
We got to know others in the church and it brought us together
in study over the area of money. The study brought us closer
as a family and more accountable to each other…” Mike and
Rebecca Bedell and Wil Brown
“Michelle and I joined in a Crown Ministry study in the
spring of 1991 and it radically altered the way we lived and
live…away from the world’s values of debt, accumulation for
self and placing our self-worth on the ‘stuff’ we have. Some of
our most valued friendships today are the people that we jour-
neyed with in that Crown study, 17 years ago. Also, resulting
from our heart transformation, our family began to live under
the banner of ‘as for me and my house, we are going to serve the
Lord!!’ We went on to lead several other Crown groups over the
years and so look forward to our church family experiencing all
the freedom that Crown brings.” Kent and Michelle Sterchi
Those comments and the following Scriptural truths
are why I am VERY excited to join those of you who
have not yet experienced LIFE together in a Crown
small group.
Jesus spoke without apol-
ogy about money. In 27 of the
43 parables, Jesus spoke di-
rectly about money and own-
ership. One researcher (I have
not counted them) made these
observations about Scripture:
• 30 verses on baptism
• 225 verses on prayer
• 300 verses on faith
• 700 verses on love
• 2350 verses on money,
finances and material
possessions
Apparently God knew there would be a lot of lessons His
people would need to learn concerning money.
It is not that money is bad or that God has something
against wealthy people. Jesus was a friend to both the poor and
the wealthy. And the verse often misquoted, 1 Timothy 6:10,
does not speak of the evil of money but of the love of money as
the root of all kinds of evil.
In Matthew 6 we are warned about the danger of storing up
treasures that fade away, rust or wear out…and we are encour-
aged to store up treasures in heaven “For where your treasure
is there will your heart be also.”
The truth is earthly treasures will never satisfy our souls…
they will always leave us wanting more…on the other hand…we
can invest in eternal things and it will change/soften/enlarge
our hearts. And we will learn the joy of living for something
(Someone) more than self.
That is why I am excited about Crown! Not because I nec-
essarily love talking about money. But because I am looking
forward to learning with others about what God says about
Lordship…over all of life…money included. ■

www.fpco.org | 5
 MR. UNIVERSE
RELIES ON GOD
FOR STRENGTH
Kris and Simon Morgan share
their fitness and faith connection
By Kristin Davis

Just outside the Edington Ministry Center, I wait

for members Simon Morgan, two-time Mr. Universe,
and his wife, Kris. I look around for a guy with melon-
sized biceps, prominently displayed under some too-
tight T-shirt. Instead, I find Simon, dressed casually
in a loose-fit, white-collared shirt and dress pants.
Moments later, Kris arrives, looking just as fit as her
husband, with son Charlie, 6, and daughter Ellie, 5,
in tow. Ellie is wearing a princess crown and a plastic
jeweled necklace while Charlie sports a Boston Red
Sox baseball cap, a necessity when your mom is a
Boston native.
Kris apologizes for the two unexpected guests,
but explains that the family does just about every-
thing together nowadays. That includes leading a new
ministry that started in September called Become FIT
(Faith, Integrity and Technique). Become FIT is an eight-
week program which teaches participants the importance
of exercise, nutrition and establishing a personal relation-
ship with Christ. “At the end of the eight weeks, you’ll have a
blueprint of [how to get to] where you want to be,” Kris says.
“It’s not about judgment; our goal is to get you healthy.”
Each week, the couple leads a one-hour class to pro-
vide participants with the knowledge and tools they need
for a healthier lifestyle. During this time, Simon and Kris
share tips on subjects such as how to eat right and how to
exercise effectively. They also share insight as to what the
Bible says about taking care of one’s body. “The body is a
temple of the Lord,” Simon says, referencing 1 Corinthians
6:19. “Your body is not your own; and it’s the greatest gift
you’ll ever get.”
Although Simon is new to Christianity—he was baptized
in July 2007—his passion for fitness has been a lifelong af-
fair. Growing up in London, he played popular sports such
as rugby and soccer. After breaking his ankle during a soc-
cer game in his early 20s, he went to physical rehabilitation
and got turned on to lifting weights. “I started [building]
6 | www.fpco.org
my legs, then it became a whole body thing and it all
started from there,” he says. To take his training to the
next level, Simon began entering body building compe-
titions and fulfilled a lifelong dream by opening his own
gym in 1997. It was called Castle Gym, as it was located
near the Windsor Castle. “The queen was my neighbor,”
he says. “You could hit [the castle] with a baseball from
the gym.”
It was there he met the other love of his life, Kris.
In March 1999, Kris was on business in London from
Boston, where she worked for a software company. She
traveled for work often and, a gym rat herself, always
looked for a place nearby to work out. Simon still re-
members the first time she walked into his gym: “She
had a baseball cap on; all I could see was her smile.” Af-
ter going out, the two realized they shared many of the
same interests. Kris also enjoyed body building, even
competing in the Eastern States Championships in the
early 90s. Several dates and three weeks later, Kris de-
cided to extend her stay in Europe … indefinitely. She
asked her company to relocate her there.
When she flew back to Boston to get her things
to be,’” Kris says. After joining the church, Simon and Kris slowly
from home, Kris got another unexpected surprise: Simon pro-
began to repair the damage that had been done to their relation-
posed. “I always joke that I couldn’t understand what he was
ship. Many times prior to that, Kris says she thought about filing
saying [with his accent],” she says. “I just thought, ‘You’re cute,
the divorce papers. But something kept telling her to wait.
I don’t know what you’re saying, but sure.’” The couple married
“Faith was the only thing that saved our marriage,” she says.
in July 2001 and had their first child, Charlie, in 2002. Ellie fol-
“The Lord wasn’t present in our marriage. He had to break it
lowed just one year later.
down to build it back up.” They started to get more involved in
As Simon’s family grew bigger, so did his bodybuilding ca-
the church, attending the 8:30am worship service and participat-
reer. He was training two hours a day, six days a week, to prepare
ing in Bible studies such as the “Awaken” series, where they say
for one of his biggest body building competitions yet: Mr. Uni-
they learned how to become more conscious Christians. Kris and
verse. His hard work paid off; he won the title in 2002. Simon’s
Simon soon found that God had an even bigger plan for their lives
life was beginning to feel complete with his career success and
than even they were aware of.
the new additions to his family. But after he won the Mr. Uni-
Simon and Kris had always discussed starting a training
verse title a second time in 2004, he says things took a turn for
business together to help others get fit, but, after joining the
the worst. A bad crowd began to circulate around him and his
church, they decided their expertise could also be used for a
gym. “As Mr. Universe, I lead a selfish life and it was all about
greater purpose: starting a ministry at FPCO to get members in
me,” he says. “I was idolized and I idolized my body. Along with
shape physically and spiritually. “It was always my goal to help
this came the social trappings of alcohol, drugs and adultery.”
others in a physical aspect, and now, it’s in a spiritual aspect as
Deciding it was time for a change, Kris and Simon moved to
well,” Simon says. Through Become FIT, Kris and Simon hope
Orlando to be closer to Kris’ parents, who retired there. Simon
to be a resource for those that want help, but are too afraid to
sold Castle Gym and packed his bags, ready to start fresh and
ask. “We welcome anybody and everybody,” Kris says. “There
leave his troubles behind. But it wasn’t that easy. He began to
are no levels; it’s just about being healthy.” Kris and Simon
stray down the same bad path he was on in London, over-party-
help participants set attainable goals, but they stress that each
ing and hanging out with all the wrong people, he says. He and
individual must do the work to reach them. “We want to teach
Kris separated as a result, and Simon turned to alcohol to avoid
them to do this,” Kris says. “We want to get them started, but
his problems. He started to realize it was going to take someone
the journey is all their own.”
much stronger than himself to get through this.
As the conversation draws to a close, Ellie climbs onto her
“I worked on my relationship with the Lord,” he says. Recog-
dad’s lap, takes off her plastic jeweled necklace and places it
nizing his need for support, Simon searched for a church that he
around Simon’s neck. Not exactly an accessory one would nor-
could call home. Friend John Cash invited him to a community
mally find on a Mr. Universe, but Simon isn’t fazed. These days,
Bible study, and his son, John Cash III, extended the Morgan’s
he takes himself a little less seriously, and his relationship with
an invitation to attend a church service at FPCO. After listening
God a little more so. “[This program] is not about you,” he says.
to Dr. Swanson’s sermon, they say they both knew they had come
“It’s about honoring what God’s given you.” ■
to the right place. “We just thought, ‘Wow, this is where we want

www.fpco.org | 7
 DIANE BISH
IN CONCERT
ON FPCO’S TAYLOR ORGAN
By Dr. Rebecca Bedell, Worship & Culture
Diane Bish is the most visible and influential classical organist
performing today. Concert and recording artist, composer, conduc-
tor, and international television personality, Diane Bish has dis-
played her dazzling virtuosity and unique showmanship the world
over to international acclaim. Her performances have been hailed
by critics as “stunning”, “virtuoso”, “fiery”, and “astonishing”.
Miss Bish’s television program The Joy of Music is broad-
cast to over 300 million people around the world each week. The
show combines exhilarating organ and ensemble performances
with an informative, inspirational narrative and exciting world
travel. After twenty-five years of continuous broadcast, The Joy
of Music is one of the longest running television programs still in
production with new programs taped, edited and broadcast each
year. The Joy of Music library boasts over 500 episodes featuring
famous cathedrals, concert halls, churches and organs.
Ms. Bish will present a concert of music for the organ in
the FPCO Sanctuary on Sunday, October 12, 2008; sponsored
by the American Guild of Organists and FPCO. Tickets are $10
and are open seating. Purchase tickets at the door or by mail-
ing a check for $10 to Central Florida AGO at 2515 Woods Edge
Circle/Orlando, Fl 32817/Attn: Diane Bish Concert Tickets.
About the Taylor Organ
The Taylor Organ was made possible by a gift in 2000 from
Jane and Tom Taylor to the members of FPCO and the com-
munity at large. The pipe organ is one of the oldest musical
instruments, representing the longest and largest continuous
literature of any instrument. Indeed Mozart named it “the King
of Instruments!” This new organ at FPCO is a unique combina-
tion of ancient organ building techniques and modern, digital
technology. Patterned after the French Symphonic and Amer-
ican Classic styles, this instrument will be capable of playing
the most demanding literature from the softest service music
to the glorious concert repertoire. Equally at home in worship,
solo, choral accompaniment, or to a complement full orchestra,
8 | www.fpco.org
the organ at FPCO dates from 1955, originally built by the
Moller Company of Hagerstown, Maryland. We have used
many of its best pipes and wind chests and have added
new pipes from Northern Ireland, Czechoslovakia, as well
as new pipes and chests from the Jim Lauck workshop in
Michigan, who restored and installed the organ to its pres-
ent state. There are 36 ranks of pipes num-
bering 2,196 individual pipes. This is sup-
plemented by a vast array of digital voices
which are sampled pipe stops from many
of the finest organs in the world, including
3 ranks of Arp Schnitzger diapasons dat-
ing from the time of J.S. Bach. This entire
apparatus is controlled by a new 4 Manu-
al Custom Allen Renaissance™ console.
Added together, the organ speaks with the
equivalent of 163 ranks of pipes, making it
one of the largest instruments in Florida!
An unusual feature of this organ is the
“floating” string division, which is playable
from any manual and pedals. Patterned
after the famed Skinner string sections in
many of their larger installations, it speaks
from either the front or rear of the church.
Dedicated in January, 2000, by renowned organist, Alan
Morrison, the instrument stands as a testament to the majesty
and beauty of God’s creation. The Taylor organ has and will con-
tinue to offer praise in worship, weddings, memorial services,
concerts, and other special events that touch the lives of all who
enter our sanctuary. J.S. Bach inscribed many of his composi-
tions with the dedication “Soli Deo Gloria”…to God alone be the
Glory. It is within this spirit that we strive to provide a suitable
offering of excellence and adoration in the use of this magnificent
instrument under the brilliant hands and feet of Diane Bish, one
of the most visible and influential organists in America today. ■
 WANTED: JOIN THE
Enough Men to Fill the Choir Loft! CHRISTMAS CHOIR
Men’s Choir Sunday on October 19
2008 Christmas Concert:
That’s right men – we need you! NO experience required! On
October 19 VoiceMale will sing, and we want to fill the choir
Rejoice! ... God With Us
loft! We will be singing an energetic, fun Gospel anthem as well Have you wanted to sing with the choir, but don’t feel that
as other music for the service. Rehearsal tapes will be available you can make the commitment to sing all year? Here’s your
so you can practice in the car, the shower or wherever! chance!

Several rehearsals will be offered—come to all or as many as Beginning on Thursday night September 25, the choir
you can. will begin preparing the music for this year’s Christmas
Sunday October 5 10:00 – 10:30am Sanctuary concert. The concert will be presented on December 12
Thursday October 9 6:30 – 7:30pm Sanctuary and 13, so for Christmas Choir singers, it is only a 12-week
Sunday October 12 10:00 – 10:30am Sanctuary commitment. We would love to have you join us!!
Thursday October 16 6:30 – 8:30pm Sanctuary
Sunday October 19 7:30am call Sanctuary Rehearsals for Christmas music will be on Thursday evenings
from 7pm – 8pm in the Sanctuary. Child care is available with
RSVP to Lucy Edgerton at x1273 or a reservation. Please RSVP your interest in singing in the
Jim Stowers at jstowersjr@cfl.rr.com Christmas Choir to Lucy Edgerton at 407-423-3441 x1273.

www.fpco.org | 9
 Weekda
WEEKDAY SCHOOL……
MORE THAN A PRESCHOOL!
Hallelujah! Let the children come……oh, what a joy it is to see
precious young children in the halls and classrooms here at First Pres-
byterian Church. The spirit of God’s love and excitement fills Allen
and Yowell Halls again this year. I keep hearing that “Weekday School
is more than a preschool; it is a ministry for the whole family.” I now
believe this to be true and here is why:
Weekday School is blessed by God; there is no doubt that God
is at work in this place! We see His handiwork everywhere we look.
First and foremost, we pray. We pray for God’s protection, His wis-
dom, and His guidance in everything we do and for each individual.
Secondly, we see transformation in the lives of all who participate in
this ministry, and we know that our Lord is in the business of trans-
forming lives.
God’s work begins with the growth and change we witness in
the lives of children. Each child comes with a unique personality,
temperament, learning style, and set of behaviors. We love them
all and desire to help each one to grow up to reach his or her God-
given potential. As the year progresses, we will see the quiet child
become more outgoing, the disruptive child gain self-control, the
10 | www.fpco.org
By Donna Speer, Director of Weekday School
unsure child grow more confident, and all children grow academi-
cally by leaps and bounds!
We see transformation in the lives of moms and dads. Every year
parents tell us how they themselves have grown spiritually both from
the materials and events Weekday School provides, as well as trying
to answer children’s deep theological questions such as, “Does God
have friends, or is He alone” or “What does God look like?” Families
come to know Weekday School as a partner in guiding and main-
taining their Christian homes. We provide Women’s Devotional Stud-
ies, Thanksgiving Worship, Cup of Christmas Tea, Mother’s Brunch,
Daddy and Me Day, Chapel, Faith and Family Newsletter, Advent and
Lent Devotionals for this purpose.
Lives are changed by the involvement of our volunteers; we have
an incredible amount of talent on our Advisory Board, Fun Fair and
Silent Auction Committees, Room-mothers and classroom volunteers.
We welcome new ideas, and see God at work through the many gifts
and talents of those that give tirelessly to benefit this ministry. Many
parents have shared that they have made “friends for life” from their
involvement here.
Last, but not least, God is at work in the midst of our staff. We
are a group of 48 women who love each other,
have a big heart for children, and are growing
in our faith as well. The dedication of these
women never fails to amaze me with their
desire to provide the very best for the sake of
young children.
Yes, there is no doubt that God continues
to bless Weekday School; it truly is more than
a preschool, and it is an honor to be associ-
ated with this great ministry. ■
ay School
FINDING A NEW PATH
By Kim Hawkins, Weekday School Mom
“So, where will Connor be going to Preschool?” asked several
friends. “Preschool?” I thought to myself, “What’s preschool? Isn’t
kindergarten preschool?” My husband and I didn’t attend preschool,
and we think we turned out okay. But as my conversations contin-
ued, I realized that in today’s educational environment, where kids
are pushed at an earlier age, preschool was not only an option but a
necessity. Now, where should he go?
Enter the Weekday School. Through the recommendation of our
friends, Dawn & Chip Herron, we investigated the Weekday School
and found the tender, loving environment that would be perfect for
our oldest son, Connor. At that point in our lives I can honestly say
that a Christ-centered education was not a priority for us. But I truly
believe that we were being gently pushed toward the Weekday School
from above; He knew that we, as a family, needed more in our lives.
Connor entered a “4-day” class in August 2004; a year that had
already seen a few challenges for our family and that had left me,
personally, a little lost. Earlier in the year my husband, Andy, had a
brain tumor removed, which thankfully was benign. Then I was laid
off from my job, and one month later we had our second child, Jack.
I was not prepared to be a stay-at-home mom; I was ready to resume
work after a short maternity leave. After much discussion we decided
it would be best for our family if I stayed home. Now I was no longer
a working mother, I was a homemaker (a word that
made me cringe). And I was lost.
I can clearly remember our New Parent Orienta-
tion. Not only did I learn all about lunch bunch, the
Fun Fair and those important carpool rules; I was in-
troduced to the concept of Women’s Devotional Stud-
ies. I recall Beth Emsley stating that if you wanted
to meet other mothers, Women’s Devotional Studies
was the place to be. I had never been involved in a
Bible study; I was raised
Catholic, we didn’t really read the Bi-
ble. But as I entered the room that first day, I was overwhelmed by
the welcoming nature of all the women involved. Again, a gentle push
from above; He knew what I would need.
During the spring of 2005, I suffered a miscarriage. It was a
devastating blow to our family. If not for the love and support of my
Women’s Devotional Studies group, lead by Lou Ann King, and other
families from Connor’s class, I truly do not know if I could have han-
dled it. Connor felt the loss as well, and was comforted by his teachers
during that time. My family has weathered a few more difficulties and
one very joyous event, all with the help of the precious women in the
group. I have learned more about myself and my Creator through
these studies than I thought possible.
The question of “Preschool? What’s preschool?” never entered our
minds with our second child, Jack; he was signed up before he was one
year old. He loves the Weekday School. And Maggie, our 10 month old,
her enrollment forms were pretty much sent from the hospital!
The Weekday School gave our son a solid foundation for his fu-
ture; both academic and spiritual. But it also provided me with an
avenue to find a new path for my life; one that continues to delight and
amaze me everyday. ■
www.fpco.org | 11
 You’re Invited!
Weekday School’s

FUN FAIR
& SILENT AUCTION
Saturday, November 15 • 10am-2pm
Silent Auction in the King Parlor
TICKET
Fun Fair on the Great Lawn, in S
Lee Fellowship Hall, and under the Angel Wing $
per p
15
erson
(child
24 monren under
ths FRE
E)

Tickets on Sale Now in the Weekday

School Office
Includes: Admission to Silent Auction, lunch and lots of fun activities like pony & train
rides, bounce house, giant slides; story time, music, games, clowns and face painting!
Silent Auction Program will be available online November 8 www.fpco.org/funfair

12 | www.fpco.org
Christian Care is Never Outdated
Stephen Ministry January Training Class
Accepting Applications
By Tammas Smith, Director of Pastoral Care
God’s command that we love one another is the same now as it was thou-
sands of years ago. How are you showing God’s love to others? Stephen Min-
istry is one way you can do that.
Every day you see people who are hurting: those who have lost a job, lost
a loved one, gone through a divorce, or are battling a terminal illness. Stephen
Ministers are God’s representatives who bring His love to those who are hurt-
ing. God is waiting to make a difference in their lives through you!
Spiritual gifts are gifts to give away. God gives them to us, and we use
them to serve others. How are you using your gifts right now? Are you look-
ing for a new way to use them? If your spiritual gifts include one or more of
the following--faith, mercy, teaching the faith, encouragement, or knowing--
consider Stephen Ministry, our congregation’s one-to-one care giving ministry.
This may be just what you’ve been looking for!
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will
reap a harvest if we do not give up” (Galatians 6:9).
Find out about this important ministry of our congregation and how
you can get involved by contacting Tammas Smith at tsmith@fpco.org or
407.423.3441 x1455. ■
The Power of a Shoebox:
Operation Christmas Child
By Carol Welker
Millions of children around the world live in circumstances we could not
even imagine. Often all they long for is to know they are loved. You can bring
God’s love to them in the simplest of gifts…a shoe box. By filling it with
personal items, school supplies and toys you can tangibly give love to a child
desperately in need of hope. The boxes are accompanied by evangelistic ma-
terials and follow-up discipleship programs so the shoe box is only the begin-
ning. In fact, the Bible story book that goes in each box is now written in over
70 languages. Because of Operation Christmas Child many children and their
families have come to know Jesus Christ as Lord.
Listen to what some children who have received a box say:
“I believe Jesus loves me and poverty is not a hindrance to my dreams.”
(Philippines)
“Learning more about Him encouraged me to keep going and not to worry
about the things that I don’t have.” (Paraguay)
“Thanks for the opportunity to give my life to Jesus.” (Pakistan)
Please join us in bringing eternal hope to the children of this world.
And, as you pack your box pray for the child who will receive it. Get in-
volved and be amazed to see how God can use a small gift –your gift – to
touch a child’s heart.
Each box must be accompanied by a brochure. These will be available in
the Angel Wing, in Allen Hall, and in the Welcome Center starting Sunday, Oc-
tober 19. Drop off your shoe boxes Sundays, November 9-23 under the Angel
Wing or in the Welcome Center during the week.
For information or questions contact Carol Welker at cwelker@fpco.org
or 407-423-3441 x1490. ■
ACCESS CONTROL
TO FPCO BUILDINGS
GOES INTO EFFECT
By Dr. Keith Wright, Executive Pastor
In our desire to better protect our children, as well
as our employees, FPCO will be implementing access
control to its buildings this month.
As a church, we have a unique dynamic that we
hold in tension. On the one hand, we are called to be
Christ’s witnesses in the place where God has planted
us—downtown Orlando. That means that we need to
be open and accessible to all who have needs, and all
who seek spiritual growth and care. On the other hand,
we have over 700 children on campus each day in one
of our 4 schools (The Christ School, Weekday School,
Little School, and the Infant Childcare Center…for
those of you trying to figure that out).
As we have studied the best ways to address this
tension, one recommendation has been to secure the
exterior doors to areas where children are present.
That means, during the day, several doors across cam-
pus will be locked. Employees and screened volun-
teers will be issued a photo identification badge that
will also provide them access to the areas they need
to go. Guests to the church will need to check in with
the receptionist in each of our buildings to obtain a
visitor badge.
There may be times that you come on campus and
try to open a door, go to an office, or try to walk to a
ministry area where you have gone for years…and you
will discover a locked door.
Please keep the following thoughts in mind before
you get too frustrated:
• Try to remember why we are doing this—to
keep kids safe.
• Know that we are also trying to be good
stewards of the property (real and personal)
that God has entrusted to us.
• Understand that there will be kinks in the
system. We ask for you patience as we
implement these new controls, and work
through whatever issues will arise.
• Be friendly with our receptionists who are
here to welcome, assist, and serve.
• See the new photo identification badges as a
way to put faces and names together. When
you see someone without a badge, use that a
an opportunity to greet and welcome them. ■
www.fpco.org | 13
 NEWS & NOTICES
Mission Partner Amani ya Juu Sankofa Fashion
Narrative Show on October 4
Amani is a self-sustaining, sewing-marketing-training project
for the marginalized women in Africa. The women modeling
at this fashion show will be wearing clothes that they have
made and learned to make while working together through
faith in God to provide a higher peace. Purchase tickets at
www.fpco.org/sankofa or call the church Mission office for
more information.
Register Now for Upward Basketball League
Which Begins October 13
Children, Kindergarten-6th grade, will have fun learning
while experiencing good sportsmanship and spiritual growth.
Pick up a registration form at the Recreation Ministry Office
or call 407.206.2406. www.fpco.org/upward
Attend Health and Fitness Fair on November 6
Our Recreation Ministry invites you to stop and explore the
many ways you can be fit and healthy…and have fun while do-
ing it! Chair massages, flu shots, and a variety of vendors will
be present. Open to the public, so invite a friend to join you
Thursday, November 6, from 10:30am-2:30pm in the CLC
Fitness Center & Gym.
Eagle Rock High School Fall Retreat
Our Student Ministry will take a group of high school students
to the Smoky Mountains for a spiritual retreat on November
21. The cost is $399, and a $100 non refundable deposit re-
serves your space. Sign up now at www.fpco.org/register or
call the Student Ministry office for more information.
Middle School Great Pumpkin Chase
All middle school students and friends are invited to the be-
loved annual scavenger hunt and great pumpkin chase on
Sunday, October 26; 5:30-7:30pm. The cost is $5 per person
and the church bus will leave at 5pm to head off to the Rose
Isle Neighborhood. Register: www.fpco.org/register or call
407.423.3441 x2350.
First Connections Seminar Offers Opportunity to
Get Plugged In at FPCO
Considering church membership or simply want to know more
about FPCO? First Connections is a five week class designed to
14 | www.fpco.org
help you experience and connect with life at FPCO. It’s a great
way to make some friends, learn some basics about faith and be
exposed to the life changing ministries of FPCO. The fall ses-
sion will be held October 12 - November 9 on Sundays , 9:30-
10:45am, in Room 320 of the Edington Ministry Center. Please
register at www.fpco.org/register or call 407-423-3441.
Infertility Support Group Forming
Church members Amy and Wes Bishop are helping to form
a new support group for those dealing with infertility. If you
would like to take part, please call Sharon in the church’s
Congregational Life office at 407-423-3441.
Jobs Partnership, A Mercy Corridor Initiative
Needs Volunteers
This is a great local mission opportunity to help lift up our
brothers and sisters who are seeking to equip themselves to
better provide for their families through this job readiness
program. Sessions run through December 4 and there are a
variety of needs for light snacks, transportation and other one
time service opportunities. To volunteer, please contact Al-
lison Beck at acbeck@earthlink.net or 407-489-3422.
Whois? Sermon Series Continues
Power, presence, knowledge, holy, just, unchanging, truth,
mercy, sovereign and faithful. These are the vital and Biblical-
truths we are exploring through Dr. Swanson’s sermon series
entitled “Who is?”. We will journey through current pop cul-
ture thought and the truth of Scripture to discover who God
truly is. Sermon copies are available immediately following
the worship services. A series collection will also become
available.
Cancer Support Group Meets 3rd Wednesday of
each Month
Beginning Wednesday, October 15 join the Women’s Can-
cer Support Group in the Rotunda on the 2nd floor of the
Clayton Life Center at 12pm. A light lunch will be served.
In a comfortable and supportive environment we will share
experiences, pray and create friendships. RSVP to Sharon at
407.423.3441 x1159 or sbrandenburg@fpco.org. www.fpco.
org/care/cancersupportgroup.
Congratulations to:
Alene and Julian Foley on the birth of their daughter, Chris-
tina Marie Foley, on August 16, 2008. Proud grandparents
are Julianne and Ken Foley.

Jen and Nat Hutchins on the birth of their daughter, Emma

Katherine Hutchins, on August 27, 2008

Nikki and David Brown on the birth of their daughter, Emery

Elizabeth Brown, on August 28, 2008. Proud grandparents
are Becky and Don Brown.

Blakely and Zack Callaham on the birth of their daughter,

Wylie Elizabeth Callaham, on August 27, 2008. Proud grand-
parents are Sally and Gratten White.

Sympathy to:
Kathy and Curtis Grace on the death of his mother, June
Grace, on August 7, 2008. Mrs. Grace was the grandmother
of Sarah Grace and Katie Grace Miller.

Sharon Twitchell on the death of her mother, Alma Twitchell,

on August 7, 2008.

Sarah McCutcheon on the death of her husband, Dave Mc-

Cutcheon, on August 13, 2008. Mr. McCutcheon was the son
of Carole McCutcheon and father of Rachel McCutcheon.

Anne Banta on the death of her brother, Richard Greer, on

August 15, 2008.

Doyle Crose on the death of his son, Randy Crose, on August

17, 2008.

Tiffany and John Bultema, on the death of his father, John

Bultema II, on August 19, 2008.

Martha Tucker on the death of her mother, Betty Ann Tucker,

on August 22, 2008. Mrs. Tucker was the grandmother of Me-
gan Balingit.

Ed and Polly Brandon on the death of his sister, Mary Ann

Correll, on September 2, 2008.

August ‘08 Giving Snapshot

General Operating Contributions Budgeted Surplus
(Deficit)
August Gifts $420,618 $534,539 $(113,921)
Year-to-date Gifts $937,731 $1,067,627 $(129,896)

Cash in Bank $244,461 Line of Credit $200,000

Immeasurably More Outstanding Balance $6,114,649

IM August Gifts $52,896

IM Year-to-date Gifts $94,880
(net of 10% tithe to Missions)

Contact Dr. Keith Wright for a full revenue &

expense summary

www.fpco.org | 15
 THE MAN IN THE MIRROR EXPERIENCE
Saturday, October 18 • 8- 11:45 am • Lee Fellowship Hall
$35 per person/ $250 per table of 8 • www.fpco.org/register

Don’t miss this rare opportunity to kick back, examine your
life more deeply, get your spiritual life in sync, and spend time
with Pat Morley and other likeminded men. The “experiences”
Pat will cover include…
• Becoming a Cycle Breaker
• Reconciliation With Dad
• The Born Again Experience
• The Experience of Full Surrender
• Building a Shakable Kingdom
• An Angry Spirit
• Realizing How Much I Love and Need My Spouse
Patrick Morley. Ph.D.
“The ministry of Man in the
Mirror exists,” says Pat Mor-
ley, “in answer to the prayers
of all those wives, mothers, and
grandmothers who have for de-
cades been praying for the men
in their lives.”
After spending the first part
of his career in the highly compet-
itive world of real estate develop-
ment, Pat has been used through-
out the world to help men think
more deeply about their lives.
In 1989 he wrote The Man in the Mirror, a landmark book
that poured from his own search for meaning, purpose, and a
deeper relationship with God. With over 3,000,000 copies, this
best-selling book has captured the imaginations of hundreds of
thousands of men worldwide, and was selected as one of the
100 most influential Christian books of the twentieth century.
Five of his 15 books have received critical acclaim.
Through Pat’s speaking and writing he is a tireless advocate
for men, encouraging and inspiring them to change their lives
in Christ. Every Friday morning since 1986, Patrick teaches a
Bible study to 150 businessmen in Orlando which is webcast
throughout the United States.
Patr Morley graduated with honors from the University
of Central Florida, which selected him to receive its Dis-
tinguished Alumnus Award in 1984. He has earned a Ph.D.
in Management and completed post-graduate studies at
the Harvard Business School and Oxford University, and
graduated from Reformed Theological Seminary. For sport
he races a 1974 Porsche 911. He lives in Winter Park, FL
with his wife, Patsy. They have two grown children and two
granddaughters. ■
www.maninthemirror.org

PERIODICALS RATE
First Presbyterian Church of Orlando US POSTAGE PAID
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campus distribution). Periodicals postage paid at Orlando,
Florida. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to COLUMNS,
106 East Church Street 106 E. Church St. Orlando, FL 32801-3390.
©2008 First Presbyterian Church of Orlando COLUMNS.
Orlando, FL 32801
FPCO Main Office: ( 407-423-3441 POSTMASTER: Time Sensitive Material
www.fpco.org Please Deliver by September 29, 2008

Traditional Services: 8:30am & 11am

Genesis Services: 8:30am & 11am
Sunday School: 9:45am

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