Book Club
Category Archives: Church Information
January Sunday School: The Gospel of John
This January you are invited to learn more about the Gospel of John. Matthew, Mark, and Luke are known as the synoptic gospels. These three share many stories and traits. John is different. It’s a beautiful and intriguing book. It’s only in John where we hear Jesus’ “I am” statements, and it is in John where we do not get a birth story for Jesus but instead poetry.
The Christian Discipleship Team invited Dr. Stan Harstine from Friends University to teach on John for four weeks, January 9, 16, 23, and 30, at 10 am in the Great Room. Dr. Harstine serves as Professor of Religion at Friends.
Dr. Harstine is originally from El Dorado. He did his undergraduate work at Kansas State University and his Masters of Divinity from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Before pursing his doctorate work, he taught and pastored. He completed his Ph.D. at Baylor University and has taught at Friends since 2002.
Stan is the author of three books on the Gospel of John. His most recent book explores how paying attention to themes introduced in the Prologue when they are repeated throughout the Gospel identifies places of emphasis in the story of Jesus.
He and his wife are active in the First Baptist Church of Towanda, Kansas. Their three sons are married, and they are blessed to have two amazingly cute grandsons.
The class itinerary is this:
Week One – January 9: History and Overview of the Gospel of John
A look at the earliest manuscripts, various descriptions frequently used of John and an overview of the entire Gospel.
Week Two – January 16: The Importance of the Prologue for Understanding the Gospel of John
A look at John 1:1-18, various approaches to recognizing the structure of John that aid in its understanding and essential themes to attune to throughout the gospel.
Week Three – January 23: Testimony as a Thread in the Johannine Tapestry
An examination of various internal witnesses and how their testimony move John’s story forward
Week Four – January 30: Comments on Confusing Characters
A look at various male and female characters in the Gospel and understanding their contribution to our reading the gospel.
Angel Tree
This year we again participate in the Angel Tree. Like in 2020, the Angel Tree is virtual.
You may go here Sign In – Angel Tree (theangelgivingtree.org) and set up an account and adopt an angel.
After you purchase your gifts, bring them to Grace, and we will deliver to the drop off location.
If you want to participate but are not comfortable with the online set-up, contact the church office, 316-684-5215, for help.
You may choose between adopting angels (children), stars (adults), or both. All Angel Tree gifts are due to Grace by November 29.
Session Minute Summary: September 2021
The Grace Presbyterian Session met on September 20, 2021, in the Grace Alcove and on zoom.
- The meeting was opened and closed with prayer.
- The Session joyfully welcomed Janice Fahrenholtz as an affiliate member to Grace. Janice remains a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Tribune.
- In August, Catherine shared with the Session about a special gift that a couple in the church would like to make. The staff is talking about ways to use this gift and will report to Session in October.
- The Grace Covid policies were updated. Masks continue to be required, but those who are fully inoculated may decide whether to wear them – and we strongly encourage masks. The mask policy for staff remains – masks are required for all.
- There is an afternoon Session retreat in October. Catherine will send out a poll for dates.
- The Bylaws were reviewed, updated, and will be presented to the congregation at the next congregational meeting.
- Financial reports were given and received.
- A report was given by the group looking at the 9 am service.
- Other reports were given.
- Full Session minutes are always available upon request.
Advent Wreaths and Candles
In 2020 we experienced Advent worship at home and online. As part of the at-home experience you were invited to make or purchase an Advent wreath. We sold simple gold wreaths and candles.
We are in the building for Advent this year, but you may want to continue the tradition of lighting candles in your home. If you bought a wreath last year and need candles, we have them. Contact the church office, and we’ll have them ready for you. If you did not purchase a wreath but would like one, we have them. Again, contact the church office, 316-684-5215. The candles are free, and the wreaths are $10.