Here's a taste of What Happened at Seattle First Baptist Church from May to September, 2016
Wednesday, Sept. 25
In addition to our Community Dinner, Pastor Tim Phillips introduced the Adult Learning series he is teaching in October: Evolutionary Theology and Revolutionary Worship. In addition kids and others continued work on a community art project.
Sunday, Sept. 25
Moments from the Day
In Adult Learning, Bill Malcomson presented the second in his series on Religion and Politics. During worship, Patrick Green and the Zaugg clan led the Stewardship Canticle, A Place at the Table. Jim Singletary talked about Stewardship as well as doing Invitations for Involvement. Patrick also gathered the children under the table for Time with Children. Janet Whitlock sang during the Offertory. Pastor Tim Phillips gathered us, and Pastor Ned Allyn Parker preached.
Thank you to Bob Sittig for some "under the table" photography.
In Adult Learning, Bill Malcomson presented the second in his series on Religion and Politics. During worship, Patrick Green and the Zaugg clan led the Stewardship Canticle, A Place at the Table. Jim Singletary talked about Stewardship as well as doing Invitations for Involvement. Patrick also gathered the children under the table for Time with Children. Janet Whitlock sang during the Offertory. Pastor Tim Phillips gathered us, and Pastor Ned Allyn Parker preached.
Thank you to Bob Sittig for some "under the table" photography.
Stewardship Kick-off Sunday, Sept. 18
Honoring the Rev. Dr. Patricia Hunter
We celebrated Patricia's time as a member of the pastoral team at Seattle First Baptist during a luncheon following the service. Patricia received a special gift, a Seahawks jersey for #16, Theologian. Thank you Patricia for all you have shared with us, and thank you to everyone who helped make the luncheon a great celebration.
We celebrated Patricia's time as a member of the pastoral team at Seattle First Baptist during a luncheon following the service. Patricia received a special gift, a Seahawks jersey for #16, Theologian. Thank you Patricia for all you have shared with us, and thank you to everyone who helped make the luncheon a great celebration.
This video is a tribute to Patricia that was played during the luncheon.
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A Place at the Table
We kicked off our annual Stewardship drive during the service, with a theme of "A Place at the Table." Our administrator Darren Hochstedler preached. He and several singers led the congregation in the Stewardship canticle, A Place at the Table. We began using a special table created for the occasion. It is covered with photos of people and events at Seattle First Baptist.
We kicked off our annual Stewardship drive during the service, with a theme of "A Place at the Table." Our administrator Darren Hochstedler preached. He and several singers led the congregation in the Stewardship canticle, A Place at the Table. We began using a special table created for the occasion. It is covered with photos of people and events at Seattle First Baptist.
More from Sunday...
It was a busy day at church. Bill Malcomson began an Adult Learning series on Religion and Politics. Angie Buysse did Invitations to Involvement during worship. The Sanctuary Choir sang Hunger Cries by John Horman. Patricia Hunter led the choir and congregation in singing the spiritual Wade In The Water. Later in the afternoon a group met to learn about the trip to Israel that Pastor Tim Phillips and Rabbi Olivier BenHaim of Bet Alef Meditative Synagogue are leading in November.
It was a busy day at church. Bill Malcomson began an Adult Learning series on Religion and Politics. Angie Buysse did Invitations to Involvement during worship. The Sanctuary Choir sang Hunger Cries by John Horman. Patricia Hunter led the choir and congregation in singing the spiritual Wade In The Water. Later in the afternoon a group met to learn about the trip to Israel that Pastor Tim Phillips and Rabbi Olivier BenHaim of Bet Alef Meditative Synagogue are leading in November.
Wednesday, Sept. 14
Aaron Burkhalter, editor of the Real Change newspaper in Seattle, kicked off our Wednesday night programs for the year with a talk about homelessness and the work that Real Change does.
Homecoming Sunday, Sept. 11
Our church year got off to a great start on Homecoming Sunday. The day began with Cherry Johnson leading a discussion about Home in Adult Learning. A somewhat-forlorn pooch looked on as Fellowship Hall was prepared for the big day.
During worship, Pastor Ned Allyn Parker gathered us and did the Time with Children. President of the congregation Sue Ross welcomed new member Martha Hopler, who was introduced by Carole Cornell. Our musicians went all out for the special day, including a special offertory written by Michell Horsley and featuring Belle Chenault, Jim Ginn, and cellist Janice Ching-Jung Lee. Vicky Thomas and the Sanctuary Choir brought sang two powerful anthems, including a musical version of the gospel lesson, the story of the Prodigal. Pastor Tim Phillips brought it all home with his sermon titled Back Home.
During coffee hour we shared cake provided by Karl and Christina Ris in appreciation for the love and support of this community during Christina's recent illness.
During worship, Pastor Ned Allyn Parker gathered us and did the Time with Children. President of the congregation Sue Ross welcomed new member Martha Hopler, who was introduced by Carole Cornell. Our musicians went all out for the special day, including a special offertory written by Michell Horsley and featuring Belle Chenault, Jim Ginn, and cellist Janice Ching-Jung Lee. Vicky Thomas and the Sanctuary Choir brought sang two powerful anthems, including a musical version of the gospel lesson, the story of the Prodigal. Pastor Tim Phillips brought it all home with his sermon titled Back Home.
During coffee hour we shared cake provided by Karl and Christina Ris in appreciation for the love and support of this community during Christina's recent illness.
Labor Sunday, Sept. 4
We welcomed Pastor Tim Phillips and Patrick Green back home today as they shared the pulpit, talking about what they did this summer during Tim's sabbatical leave. Pastor Ned Allyn Parker did Invitations for Involvement and prayer. Pastor David Kile and Pat Kile served communion together. Melissa Thirloway sang today's gospel lesson from Handel's Messiah, accompanied by Michelle Horsley.
Sunday, Aug. 28
Pastor Ned Allyn Parker preached and led us in a blessing for Pastor Patricia Hunter, who is transitioning from her interim position on the pastoral team to a different role as Theologian in Residence. Sue Ross brought us invitations to involvement. Susan Blythe-Goodman led the Time with Children. We welcomed guest organist Walter Knowles.
Choir Retreat, Aug. 27 and 28
About 60 people gathered at Bastyr University in Kenmore for this year's Sanctuary Choir Retreat. Vicky Thomas and Michelle Horsley led the choir through hours of rehearsal, getting a start on a new year of music. People also had time to share, worship, do crafts, relax, and of course eat. Pastor Tim Phillips was interviewed by Margaret Norton-Arnold about music and worship and the theme "Called as Partners in Christ's Service." The choir resumes singing during worship on Homecoming Sunday, Sept. 11.
All-Church Picnic Sunday, Aug. 21
Picnic Fun on Harvard Ave.
A happy crowd took advantage of the cooler weather to relax, eat, and play during our All-Church Picnic. Even some big kids got in on the bouncing action this year. Thank you to all the staff and volunteers who worked hard to bring us another great picnic.
A happy crowd took advantage of the cooler weather to relax, eat, and play during our All-Church Picnic. Even some big kids got in on the bouncing action this year. Thank you to all the staff and volunteers who worked hard to bring us another great picnic.
How Can I Keep from Singing
~ American Folksong, arr. Richard Walters Annaliese Stelzer-Terminello and Belle Chenault, vocalists Michelle Horsley, piano |
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Worship
Pastor Patricia Hunter gave her last sermon as an interim member of the pastoral staff. She now begins a new role as our next Theologian in Residence. Karen Carlos invited us to participate in upcoming events. Pastor Ned Allyn Parker presented centerpieces that the children prepared for today's picnic. Pastor David Kile prayed. Belle Chenault, Annaliese Stelzer-Terminello and Michelle Horsley provided special music.
Pastor Patricia Hunter gave her last sermon as an interim member of the pastoral staff. She now begins a new role as our next Theologian in Residence. Karen Carlos invited us to participate in upcoming events. Pastor Ned Allyn Parker presented centerpieces that the children prepared for today's picnic. Pastor David Kile prayed. Belle Chenault, Annaliese Stelzer-Terminello and Michelle Horsley provided special music.
Sunday, Aug. 14
Rev. Victoria Carr was our guest preacher. Victoria currently serves as associate pastor for New Beginnings Christian Fellowship in Kent, and as the Ecumenical and Multifaith Campus Minister at Seattle University. Pastor Ned Allyn Parker spent Time with Children. Special music was provided by Muriel Jones-Cashdollar on flute and Aaron Burkhalter on piano.
Communion Sunday, Aug. 7
During the Time with Children, Pastor Ned helped the kids put some finishing touches on yesterday's work party. He also preached and served Communion with Pastor Patricia Hunter. Larry Green and Michelle Horsley combined their talents for Special Music, and video of which is posted below.
We Expect You
~ Andrae Crouch, arr. M. Horsley Larry Green, soloist Michelle Horsley, piano and vocals |
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All-Church Work Party - Saturday, Aug. 6
More than 50 people gathered at Seattle First Baptist on a Saturday morning to clean, polish, clear out, and spiff up our facilities in preparation for Homecoming Sunday and the coming church year. Thank you to all who participated, and a special thanks to our administrator Darren Hochstedler for organizing a great event.
Dueling Organists - Wednesday, Aug. 3
Michelle Horsley and Ruth Draper gifted us with a wonderful concert on Wednesday evening. An appreciative audience listened as the two performed solo and duet works. Thank you both for a lovely evening of music!
Michelle is our current organist. Ruth preceded Michelle as organist at Seattle First Baptist.
Michelle is our current organist. Ruth preceded Michelle as organist at Seattle First Baptist.
Skyscape
~ Joe Utterback Ruth Draper, organ Michelle Horsley, piano |
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A Lover's Farewell: Dido's Lament Revisited
~ Henry Purcell/Ruth Draper Ruth Draper, organist This piece was awarded first place in the AGO Seattle Chapter's "Bach to the Future" composition contest in 2015. This recording is of the world premiere. |
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Ragtime
~ Charles Callahan Ruth Draper and Michelle Horsley, organists |
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Sunday, July 31
Sue Ross, president of our congregation, shared her faith journey in the final Adult Learning session for this summer. She grew up in Baptist churches on the east side of Lake Washington and began attending SFBC in college. She is a research nurse at the University of Washington and considers it an honor and a privilege to be a nurse. Of parenting, she said "It's hard!" and recommended never judging a parent based on a child's behavior. She grew up believing Christianity is a religion of love, and believes in a loving, caring, accepting God. Several people thanked Sue for her thoughtful, capable leadership.
Pastor Patricia Hunter not only preached, but had the coolest fan that's ever graced our sanctuary. We had a special welcome from our of our younger ministers. Pastor Ned Allyn Parker asked the children to help design an upcoming Children and Youth worship service and led us in prayer. Michelle Horsley invited everyone to the Dueling Organists concert this Wednesday. Eric Jeffords, our tenor choir intern, sang beautifully in a solo of a song by Gustav Mahler.
Pastor Patricia Hunter not only preached, but had the coolest fan that's ever graced our sanctuary. We had a special welcome from our of our younger ministers. Pastor Ned Allyn Parker asked the children to help design an upcoming Children and Youth worship service and led us in prayer. Michelle Horsley invited everyone to the Dueling Organists concert this Wednesday. Eric Jeffords, our tenor choir intern, sang beautifully in a solo of a song by Gustav Mahler.
Ich bin der Welt adhanden gekommen (I am lost to this world)
~ Gustav Mahler Eric Jeffords, soloist Michelle Horsley, piano |
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Sunday, July 24
Jim Singletary, who currently serves as vice president of our congregation, shared his faith journey during Adult Learning. We got a very special welcome from the Walker-Burkhalter family and friend. Pastor Patricia Hunter woke everyone up during the Gathering. Pastor Ned Allyn Parker and the children wrote a special letter to Pastor Tim and Patrick during the Time with Children. Anneliese Terminello sang a solo with the Summer Choir. Pastor David Kile led us in prayer. Bill Malcomson, our recently retired Theologian in Residence, preached. He also introduced Pastor Patricia as our next Theologian in Residence.
Sunday, July 17
Nirmala Jeldi shared her faith journey during Adult Education hour. Pastor Kelly Wadsworth was our guest speaker during worship and she preached on Luke 10, verses 38-42. The Summer Choir sang an arrangement of Ralph Vaughan Williams' The Call, John and Joan Benner read scripture, and Pastor Ned Allyn Parker invited us to join him for a special campfire moment during the Time with Children.
(click images to view larger)
Nirmala Jeldi shared her faith journey during Adult Education hour. Pastor Kelly Wadsworth was our guest speaker during worship and she preached on Luke 10, verses 38-42. The Summer Choir sang an arrangement of Ralph Vaughan Williams' The Call, John and Joan Benner read scripture, and Pastor Ned Allyn Parker invited us to join him for a special campfire moment during the Time with Children.
(click images to view larger)
Sunday, July 10
Adult Learning featured Thea Johnson sharing her Faith Journey. The Summer Choir sang Handel's Hallelujah, Amen from Judas Maccabeus and Pastor Patricia Hunter offered her voice in a new way to sing How Can I Say/Bind Us Together, arranged and accompanied by Michelle Horsley. Gary Davis read the scripture of the Good Samaritan and Bob Sittig shared news of Diverse Harmony performing this past week in Denver, CO at the GALA Convention, which joins LGBTQ-straight alliance choirs from all over the world. Pastor Ned Allyn Parker poignantly combined our scripture lesson with the tragedy of recent events, offering hope and strength amidst the devastating effects of racism and intolerance across our country.
Adult Learning featured Thea Johnson sharing her Faith Journey. The Summer Choir sang Handel's Hallelujah, Amen from Judas Maccabeus and Pastor Patricia Hunter offered her voice in a new way to sing How Can I Say/Bind Us Together, arranged and accompanied by Michelle Horsley. Gary Davis read the scripture of the Good Samaritan and Bob Sittig shared news of Diverse Harmony performing this past week in Denver, CO at the GALA Convention, which joins LGBTQ-straight alliance choirs from all over the world. Pastor Ned Allyn Parker poignantly combined our scripture lesson with the tragedy of recent events, offering hope and strength amidst the devastating effects of racism and intolerance across our country.
Fourth of July Picnic for our Neighbors
Seattle First Baptist, Companis, and the Mitchell family pitched in for another great picnic in the parking lot on July 4. It featured food, haircuts, clothes, laughs, dancing, and music. Thank you to everyone who helped make this year's picnic a success. And thank you to intrepid photographers Karen and Lupe Carlos for all these great shots and video!
Sunday, July 3
The day began with Paul Roby sharing his Faith Journey during Adult Learning. He told about his gifts and challenges as a person with autistic features. A scientist who believes based on data, Paul elaborated on this statement: “Love transcends evidence, and love is a choice.” Seattle First Baptist Church is Paul’s home and his rock.
During worship, Christopher Glenn was our guest organist and pianist. Pastor Ned Allyn Parker did the Time with Children. Stephanie Jones did Invitations to Involvement. Pastor David Kile prayed. Vicky Thomas led the Summer Choir (can you spot the two visitors from Hawaii?) and Pastor Patricia Hunter preached.
It was a special day for Bonnie and Jerry Sutton, who are celebrating their 60th Wedding Anniversary. Congratulations!
During worship, Christopher Glenn was our guest organist and pianist. Pastor Ned Allyn Parker did the Time with Children. Stephanie Jones did Invitations to Involvement. Pastor David Kile prayed. Vicky Thomas led the Summer Choir (can you spot the two visitors from Hawaii?) and Pastor Patricia Hunter preached.
It was a special day for Bonnie and Jerry Sutton, who are celebrating their 60th Wedding Anniversary. Congratulations!
Pride Sunday, June 26
In the Parade with Diverse Harmony
Thank you to Bob Sittig for these great shots of SFBC folk and Diverse Harmony in today's Pride Parade in downtown Seattle.
Thank you to Bob Sittig for these great shots of SFBC folk and Diverse Harmony in today's Pride Parade in downtown Seattle.
Adult Learning
Karen Carlos shared her faith journey and how she has healed from being sexually abused as a child. She talked about pillars of her life, such as God, Jesus, Sunday School teachers and ministers including Ethyl May Walters and Dr. Gus Hintz, friends like Janet Hasselblad, and "my rock" - her husband Lupe Carlos III. She shared about faith crossroads and the importance of songs such as I Will Survive, Jesus Loves Me, and They're Coming to Take Me Away. She also mentioned her time as one of the first Companis mission workers, which led to her ongoing work at Hilltop House. Karen said she doubts that her life, including abuse and PTSD and ovarian cancer, is part of God's plan. "I believe God is out there to comfort us, to carry us."
Karen Carlos shared her faith journey and how she has healed from being sexually abused as a child. She talked about pillars of her life, such as God, Jesus, Sunday School teachers and ministers including Ethyl May Walters and Dr. Gus Hintz, friends like Janet Hasselblad, and "my rock" - her husband Lupe Carlos III. She shared about faith crossroads and the importance of songs such as I Will Survive, Jesus Loves Me, and They're Coming to Take Me Away. She also mentioned her time as one of the first Companis mission workers, which led to her ongoing work at Hilltop House. Karen said she doubts that her life, including abuse and PTSD and ovarian cancer, is part of God's plan. "I believe God is out there to comfort us, to carry us."
Moments from Worship
Brian Lew on viola joined organist Michelle Horsley for the prelude. Summer choir included an energetic marimba section. The children got into the Pride Sunday spirit. We sang We Are Marching in the Light of God as one of the hymns. Sami Hoag invited people to volunteer for and attend the Fourth of July picnic. Pastor David Kile led us in prayer and Pastor Patricia Hunter filled multiple roles. Jim Ginn preached and sang. The beautiful flowers were given by Sterling Morris and Bruce Hayes in honor of Jim Ginn and Jim Segaar.
Brian Lew on viola joined organist Michelle Horsley for the prelude. Summer choir included an energetic marimba section. The children got into the Pride Sunday spirit. We sang We Are Marching in the Light of God as one of the hymns. Sami Hoag invited people to volunteer for and attend the Fourth of July picnic. Pastor David Kile led us in prayer and Pastor Patricia Hunter filled multiple roles. Jim Ginn preached and sang. The beautiful flowers were given by Sterling Morris and Bruce Hayes in honor of Jim Ginn and Jim Segaar.
Sunday, June 19 - One Great Hour of Sharing
We continued to recall the massacre in Orlando during our morning service. The McGhee family welcomed us. During the Time with Children Susan Blythe-Goodman encouraged the children to wage peace. Michelle Horsley shared In Memoriam, a piece she wrote for the Orlando victims. Pastors David Kile and Patricia Hunter participated in the service, as did the Summer Choir. Ken and Pat Parker, Pastor Ned's parents, read scripture. Danny Wilks gave a powerful reading of Psalm 13. Pastor Ned Allyn Parker preached and led us in a blessing of the Sanderson family. Zane is leaving the job of sexton and they are moving.
Adult Learning - Faith Journey with George Lawson
George shared about formative events in his early life that shaped his faith. He was born in South Dakota and grew up in Bellingham, where he began his love affair with nature. After serving in the military he attended Linfield College and Andover Newton Theological School. The greatest summer of his life was hitchhiking in Europe and North Africa. One quote: "In the deepest recesses of our souls is a divine unity of all creation." On how he keeps his faith journey alive: An attitude of gratitude; Show Up - Speak Up - Shut Up; Be open to change.
George shared about formative events in his early life that shaped his faith. He was born in South Dakota and grew up in Bellingham, where he began his love affair with nature. After serving in the military he attended Linfield College and Andover Newton Theological School. The greatest summer of his life was hitchhiking in Europe and North Africa. One quote: "In the deepest recesses of our souls is a divine unity of all creation." On how he keeps his faith journey alive: An attitude of gratitude; Show Up - Speak Up - Shut Up; Be open to change.
Wednesday, June 15 - A Service of Remembrance, Action and Hope
We had a very special service to honor the victims of the massacre in Orlando early on Sunday, June 12. Michelle Horsley was one of the speakers. Members of Diverse Harmony sang. A gunman killed 49 people and injured 53 more at Pulse, an LGBTQ nightclub.
Music Sunday, June 12
Hymns of Faith
Music was a means of expressing Praise, Thanks, Assurance, Anguish, Comfort, Grace and Laughter during our worship service. Vicky Thomas, Michelle Horsley, and Belle Chenault led the congregation, Family Choir, Sanctuary Choir and orchestra. Pastor Ned Allyn Parker preached, offering grief and consolation regarding the mass shooting in Orlando. Many readers, soloists and ensemble members contributed to a very special day.
Music was a means of expressing Praise, Thanks, Assurance, Anguish, Comfort, Grace and Laughter during our worship service. Vicky Thomas, Michelle Horsley, and Belle Chenault led the congregation, Family Choir, Sanctuary Choir and orchestra. Pastor Ned Allyn Parker preached, offering grief and consolation regarding the mass shooting in Orlando. Many readers, soloists and ensemble members contributed to a very special day.
Adult Learning
Kathy Cooper shared her faith journey, from her childhood filled with encouragement and love. As an adult, she has lived her faith through her work and her relationships.
Kathy Cooper shared her faith journey, from her childhood filled with encouragement and love. As an adult, she has lived her faith through her work and her relationships.
This Changes Everything
People from Seattle First Baptist and the greater community gathered in the Parlor to watch the movie This Changes Everything after worship. Sandra Jones introduced the movie and invited members of the audience to share their experiences related to climate change.
People from Seattle First Baptist and the greater community gathered in the Parlor to watch the movie This Changes Everything after worship. Sandra Jones introduced the movie and invited members of the audience to share their experiences related to climate change.
Wednesday, June 8
Tonight was the final big rehearsal for Music Sunday. The Intergenerational Choir practiced their bells and sign language. The Sanctuary Choir and Orchestra prepared to lead the congregation in a rousing, hymn-focused worship service on Sunday.
Sunday, June 5
Moments from Worship
Alaa Badr from the Muslim Association of Puget Sound was our guest preacher today. He talked about Ramadan, Islam, and the shared traditions of Muslims, Jews and Christians. Susan Blythe-Goodman congratulated our graduates during a Time with Children. Pastor Patricia Hunter prayed with us and read scripture. Guitarist Meredith Connie performed multiple times during the service, including an extended duet with organist Michelle Horsley during Communion. Pastor Ned Allyn Parker led us into a special time of Communion, and the choir and congregation warmed up for Music Sunday with some rousing hymn singing.
Alaa Badr from the Muslim Association of Puget Sound was our guest preacher today. He talked about Ramadan, Islam, and the shared traditions of Muslims, Jews and Christians. Susan Blythe-Goodman congratulated our graduates during a Time with Children. Pastor Patricia Hunter prayed with us and read scripture. Guitarist Meredith Connie performed multiple times during the service, including an extended duet with organist Michelle Horsley during Communion. Pastor Ned Allyn Parker led us into a special time of Communion, and the choir and congregation warmed up for Music Sunday with some rousing hymn singing.
Celebrating the Rev. Dr. Ned Allyn Parker
We honored Ned during a luncheon following worship.
We honored Ned during a luncheon following worship.
Adult Learning
Lynn Gartner-Johnston facilitated small-group discussions relating to this summer's Faith Journeys series. The groups discussed aspects of their own faith journeys: roots, branches, fallow periods, and blossoming.
Lynn Gartner-Johnston facilitated small-group discussions relating to this summer's Faith Journeys series. The groups discussed aspects of their own faith journeys: roots, branches, fallow periods, and blossoming.
Wednesday, June 1 - Thank you to our Kitchen Crew and Volunteers!
During dinner we said "Thank You" to the people who make our Wednesday Night Dinners possible. It's obvious that many hours (and smiles) go into each meal, and we appreciate all your efforts.
Sunday, May 29 - Memorial Day Weekend
Veterans for Peace
Mike Dedrick, a Vietnam veteran and member of Chapter 92 of Veterans for Peace, was the speaker for Adult Learning this Memorial Day weekend. The organization attempts to:
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Moments from Worship
Pastor Tim Phillips gathered us with a prayer for peace, as Vicky Thomas played a Toll of Remembrance on a bell. Pastor Ned Allyn Parker taught the children that our sanctuary is a Peace Zone during the Time With Children. Beautiful flowers were given in honor of Joyce Ostergren, whose memorial service took place after worship. After the service, Vicky taught several members of the congregation to play bells. These new ringers will be part of Music Sunday on June 12.
Pastor Tim Phillips gathered us with a prayer for peace, as Vicky Thomas played a Toll of Remembrance on a bell. Pastor Ned Allyn Parker taught the children that our sanctuary is a Peace Zone during the Time With Children. Beautiful flowers were given in honor of Joyce Ostergren, whose memorial service took place after worship. After the service, Vicky taught several members of the congregation to play bells. These new ringers will be part of Music Sunday on June 12.
Sunday, May 22 - with Diverse Harmony and Sacred Sources to Heal the Earth
Diverse Harmony
The nation's first Queer-Straight alliance youth chorus joined us for the worship service, singing one number themselves and another one with the Sanctuary Choir. Right after worship we hosted a fundraiser for the group, featuring the chorus, artistic director Jared Brayton Bollenbacher, and board president Bob Sittig. Thank you, all for making the day so special.
The nation's first Queer-Straight alliance youth chorus joined us for the worship service, singing one number themselves and another one with the Sanctuary Choir. Right after worship we hosted a fundraiser for the group, featuring the chorus, artistic director Jared Brayton Bollenbacher, and board president Bob Sittig. Thank you, all for making the day so special.
Sacred Sources to Heal the Earth
This weekend Bet Alef Meditative Synagogue and SFBC hosted a conference featuring Rabbis Arthur Waskow and Phyllis Berman. Rabbi Olivier BenHaim introduced them to our Adult Learning session on Sunday. They led a number of workshops and services from Friday evening to Sunday afternoon.
Rabbi Waskow preached during our worship service. He invited us to pronounce YHWH with no vowels - the way it was originally written in the Torah. The result is an unpronounceable sound - the Breathing Spirit of the world.
Black and white images courtesy of Harriet Platts.
This weekend Bet Alef Meditative Synagogue and SFBC hosted a conference featuring Rabbis Arthur Waskow and Phyllis Berman. Rabbi Olivier BenHaim introduced them to our Adult Learning session on Sunday. They led a number of workshops and services from Friday evening to Sunday afternoon.
Rabbi Waskow preached during our worship service. He invited us to pronounce YHWH with no vowels - the way it was originally written in the Torah. The result is an unpronounceable sound - the Breathing Spirit of the world.
Black and white images courtesy of Harriet Platts.
Other Moments from Worship
Pastor Tim Phillips gathered us. Pastor Ned Allyn Parker did the Time with Children, using a beach ball to represent the Earth. Harriet Platts led us in prayer. Kate Elias brought a blessing.
Pastor Tim Phillips gathered us. Pastor Ned Allyn Parker did the Time with Children, using a beach ball to represent the Earth. Harriet Platts led us in prayer. Kate Elias brought a blessing.
Pentecost Sunday, May 15
Honoring Peach Jack
Our departing Director of Congregational Engagement was honored during the worship service and with a reception and lunch. Thank you for your work among us Peach, and blessings as you continue your ministry in new ways.
Our departing Director of Congregational Engagement was honored during the worship service and with a reception and lunch. Thank you for your work among us Peach, and blessings as you continue your ministry in new ways.
Adult Learning
Lynn Gaertner-Johnston presented the first Faith Journey of this season. She talked about her upbringing as a Roman Catholic, a time of searching as an atheist, her return to the Catholic church for a time, and then finding a spiritual home first at University Baptist Church and now at Seattle First Baptist. More Faith Journeys will be presented at Adult Learning in June and July.
Lynn Gaertner-Johnston presented the first Faith Journey of this season. She talked about her upbringing as a Roman Catholic, a time of searching as an atheist, her return to the Catholic church for a time, and then finding a spiritual home first at University Baptist Church and now at Seattle First Baptist. More Faith Journeys will be presented at Adult Learning in June and July.
Moments from Worship
Vice President Jim Singletary welcomed new member Amber Joy, who was introduced by Gary Davis. Bob Sittig invited people to attend the Diverse Harmony fundraiser next Sunday. Pastor Ned Allyn Parker passed out bits of red during the Time with Children. Pastor Patricia Hunter welcomed us. Pastor Tim Phillips preached, and Martha Hopler came forward to join the church. Musicians Joseph Bichsel and Bruce Carpenter enhanced our worship, as did the hands of Michelle Horsley.
Vice President Jim Singletary welcomed new member Amber Joy, who was introduced by Gary Davis. Bob Sittig invited people to attend the Diverse Harmony fundraiser next Sunday. Pastor Ned Allyn Parker passed out bits of red during the Time with Children. Pastor Patricia Hunter welcomed us. Pastor Tim Phillips preached, and Martha Hopler came forward to join the church. Musicians Joseph Bichsel and Bruce Carpenter enhanced our worship, as did the hands of Michelle Horsley.
Sunday, May 8 - Mother's Day
Moments from Worship
We honored mothers on multiple occasions during a very moving worship service. Pastor Tim Phillips talked about one of our Peacemakers, Alice Franklin Bryant, during the Gathering with her daughter Imogene Williams. Michelle Bradford, a mother of a Diverse Harmony member, invited us to an upcoming fundraiser for the group. Susan Blythe-Goodman talked about chocolate chip cookies during the Time with Children. Pastor Patricia Hunter led us in prayer. Choral Intern Sarah Burkhart sang with Ethan Jones on guitar. Bruce Chittick and Megan Walker joined Pastor Tim in bringing the message. Several soloists, each with their mother in attendance, sang There Is a Line of Women.
We honored mothers on multiple occasions during a very moving worship service. Pastor Tim Phillips talked about one of our Peacemakers, Alice Franklin Bryant, during the Gathering with her daughter Imogene Williams. Michelle Bradford, a mother of a Diverse Harmony member, invited us to an upcoming fundraiser for the group. Susan Blythe-Goodman talked about chocolate chip cookies during the Time with Children. Pastor Patricia Hunter led us in prayer. Choral Intern Sarah Burkhart sang with Ethan Jones on guitar. Bruce Chittick and Megan Walker joined Pastor Tim in bringing the message. Several soloists, each with their mother in attendance, sang There Is a Line of Women.
Adult Learning
Discussion of a planned search for an associate pastor continued. Phil Mortensen of the Personnel Commission and Pastor Tim Phillips explained that the process is entering an "intentional transitional period," but the plan remains to transition to a a different structure for the pastoral team. Many people provided input during the energetic session.
Discussion of a planned search for an associate pastor continued. Phil Mortensen of the Personnel Commission and Pastor Tim Phillips explained that the process is entering an "intentional transitional period," but the plan remains to transition to a a different structure for the pastoral team. Many people provided input during the energetic session.
Sunday, May 1
Adult Learning
Phil Mortensen of the Personnel Commission and Pastor Tim Phillips led a discussion about our future pastoral team. Input from the discussion will be used to formulate plans for an upcoming pastoral search. Another discussion will take place next Sunday.
Phil Mortensen of the Personnel Commission and Pastor Tim Phillips led a discussion about our future pastoral team. Input from the discussion will be used to formulate plans for an upcoming pastoral search. Another discussion will take place next Sunday.
Highlights from Worship and More
The service began with a choral introit featuring three angels. Patrick Green did the Time with Children. Martha Hopler read scripture. Steve Smith did Invitations to Involvement. Janet Whitlock soloed with the choir and Belle Chenault sang during Communion. Pastor Ned Allyn Parker preached.
Later in the day people from Seattle First Baptist supported the May Day marchers who passed nearby.
The service began with a choral introit featuring three angels. Patrick Green did the Time with Children. Martha Hopler read scripture. Steve Smith did Invitations to Involvement. Janet Whitlock soloed with the choir and Belle Chenault sang during Communion. Pastor Ned Allyn Parker preached.
Later in the day people from Seattle First Baptist supported the May Day marchers who passed nearby.