On The

C O N TA C T U S
To arrange a baptism
Contact Worship x1451
To arrange a wedding
Contact Weddings x1453
To arrange a funeral or memorial service
Contact Pastoral Care x1455 with Dr. David D.
To arrange a memorial donation
Contact Finance x1479
To donate flowers for worship services “Always be prepared to give an answer to
Contact Worship x1451
everyone who asks you to give the reason
To place a notice in the bulletin or newsletter
Contact Communications x1467 for the hope that you have…” 1 Peter 3:15
With questions about your pledge or donation
Contact Finance x1479
With a change of address
Contact Membership x1471 G o ahead. Take a chance. Step out. Get out of your “comfort
zone.” That’s what I am going to ask you to do during this
coming Lenten season, and if you’ll step out just a bit, I think it
To purchase a sermon tape or CD Bookstore
Contact x1438 could really make an impact.
To let us know when you or a loved one are hospi- The first time I saw it, I was in Dallas visiting my parents. We
talized - Contact Pastoral Care x1455 were on spring break with the kids and it was about two weeks
To join the Chancel Choir before Easter. As I drove the neighborhoods near my parent’s
Contact x1273 house, I kept seeing these simple white crosses in front of various
For child care reservations - Early Childhood houses. Some were in flower beds, some were placed in front of
Contact x2250 a hedge of bushes and others were simply propped on the porch
With questions regarding the budget next to the door. There was also one in my parent’s front flower
Administration - Contact x1459 bed. I finally asked my Dad, “What’s up with all the white cross-
To reach the Security Office es?” He said, “Oh, those are all members of our church. On Eas-
Contact 407-415-9793 ter morning we flip the crosses around and it says, ‘He is Risen!’
For Weekday School It’s a witness, but it also helps us see where our members live in
Contact 407-996-5864
the area. It’s been really neat.”
To find out about Sunday school classes As it turns out, there is a nationwide “cross witness” during
Contact Spiritual Formation x1463
the Lenten/Easter season, and FPCO is going to be a part of it this
With questions about the FPCO Web site
year. The benefits are twofold: witness and community. Here’s
or this Columns publication
Contact Communications x1467 how it will work: During the latter half of this month, we will

To reserve meeting space
Contact Special Services x1469
Hospital Calls:
The hospitals are no longer able to notify us of
our members who are hospitalized. If you know of
someone who is in the hospital, please notify the
pastoral care office at 407.423.3441, extension
1455.
Pastoral Emergencies:
For pastoral emergencies outside of the 8:30
a.m.- 5:00 p.m. church office hours, please leave
a voice mail message at the main church number
407.423.3441, extension 400. The
message center will page the minister on call,
who will reply as soon as possible.
Need Help?:
Dependency assistance, cancer support group,
grief support, divorce care, infertility group,
please contact Pastoral Care x 1455
distribute crosses at the church to anyone who would like to take
part. You don’t have to be a member! (The crosses come with the
necessary supports for putting them in the ground.) Once you
get them home, choose an appropriate place and set it up with
the blank side facing the street. Ash Wednesday is February 25th
and the first Sunday in Lent is March 1, so please have it set by
February 25. It won’t hurt to start early! If you have an apartment
or condo, you may choose to put it on a balcony or porch. Then,
on Easter Sunday, turn your cross around so that “He is Risen!”
faces the street.
Now, I know some of you are wondering, “Why would I do
this? I’m not sure I want to be that “out there” about my faith.” I
certainly understand those feelings, but I also want to push you
a little bit on that. Peter reminds us in the text above that we
always need to be ready – that part of our task as believers is to
bear witness to the hope we carry in Christ. I don’t think there is
a better – or easier – time of year to talk about our hope in Christ

2 | www.fpco.org
Way
Swanson
February 15 - March 15
9:30am – 10:45am
320-EMC
Register online:
www.fpco.org/register
For more information
contact Amy Heck
407.423.3441 x1474
aheck@fpco.org
than in the season of His cross. And you don’t even have to initiate a
conversation! Here’s what I have found: When churches do this, people
start seeing the crosses and someone will ask you about it. When they do,
all you have to say is, “Oh, that’s a ministry of my church as we prepare Feel the Connection
for Easter.” If they ask more questions, great. Invite them to join you for
worship. Tell them about what we’re doing. Give them a recent edition of
the Columns so they can see what our church is about. Send them to our
Web site (www.fpco.org).
to God’s Love,
Friends, people are searching. They’re hurting. They’re wandering.
We believe Christ is the hope of the world, so why would we not do what
we can to share that hope, even if it’s a bit outside our comfort zone? Pray Christ’s Church,
about it and consider joining us in this. I know you will be blessed by
doing it.
Then, there is the “community” benefit. One of the challenges we face
as a large downtown church is helping people feel they belong. We live all
Your Faith
over town. We have four worship services, so its easy not to really know
others or be known. However, if we all take part in this, we will begin to
see other FPCO families that live in our neighborhoods. It becomes a great
source of encouragement as you see other crosses far and wide. I would
hope that perhaps one night, something might happen like this: You’re out
taking a walk. You see a cross in someone’s yard and you think, “I should
knock on the door and introduce myself” and then you do. Next thing you
know, that person becomes a friend in your neighborhood. What a bless-
ing that would be.
Seminar for those who
So go ahead. Take a chance. Step out. Plant a cross in your front yard have recently joined FPCO,
for six weeks and see what blessings and opportunities the Lord will give
you. Join us in being a part of a larger witness to our community about are considering church
First Presbyterian Church and our love for the Lord, Jesus Christ. May this membership, or simply
coming Lenten season be a time of true growth for you and for our church,
and I write want to know more.
With joy and expectant hope, www.fpco.org/firstconnections

David

www.fpco.org | 3
 Dancing With
The Pastors
Benefit For The Homeless Community

F irst Presbyterian Church of Orlando has long served the homeless

in downtown Orlando with the Gospel message and outstretched
hands of Christ. We share this desire to serve the homeless on be-
half of Christ with others. The Christian community in downtown Or-
lando is uniting to address the critical issue of homeless members
of our community and their specific needs by establishing a Drop In
Center for the Homeless in downtown.
The Drop In Center for the Homeless vision is to create a place where the homeless can come during business hours
to be in a welcoming environment out of the elements, have access social service agency resources, meet with counselors,
social workers and Christian lay ministers so that provision may be offered to get one’s life back to holistic sustainability.
While at the center, the homeless will have access to restrooms, a shower, computer and a phone. Case workers from
regional social service agencies will have space to provide the holistic help to the homeless that is so desperately needed.
Most importantly, the center will be a place where a homeless individual can come to have not only their physical, but also
their spiritual and emotional needs met through the ministry of church members from local congregations.
You can be part of making all of this happen by purchasing a ticket or sponsoring a table for upcoming Dancing with
the Pastors Benefit. An exciting event modeled after TV’s “Dancing
with the Stars” is scheduled for February 20, 2009. Pastors from five
downtown churches will be lacing up their dancing shoes to compete
in Orlando’s Dancing with the Pastors. See our very own Dr. Swan- “You can be a part of making
son compete against four other worthy competitors including Pastor
William Andrews of the Heart of Mercy Church. The goal of this all of this happen.”
event is to raise significant funds that will go towards the renovation
of the Wall Street property.
You will not want to miss this exciting event! Make plans now to
gather your friends and family for a night of fun, fellowship, dancing to the music of Michael Andrew and the Swingerhead,
food, and, most importantly, fundraising to benefit the homeless in our community.
Never will so much fun do so much good! See you there! n

This event will be held on February 20, 2009 at The Ballroom at Church Street from 6:30-11:00pm.
Tickets are on sale now at www.dancingwiththepastors.com.

4 | www.fpco.org
www.fpco.org | 5
 F ami l y
Matters
The Palma family faces life’s hardships with faith.
T alking with the Palma family, all six of
them, you can’t help but want to be the sev-
enth member. They’re warm, inviting and filled
with love for God, the church and one another.
Married for more than 30 years, Cherry and
Paul are the parents of four boys, Jonathan,
29, 27-year-old twins Jeremy and Jason, and
Josh, 24. Throughout the years, they’ve over-
come many hardships, from near fatal illness-
es in their immediate family to the loss of both
Cherry and Paul’s fathers. But no matter what
challenges life has brought, they’ve always
faced them together, with an unwavering faith
that God has a plan.
6 | www.fpco.org
By Kristin Davis
In New York City, Cherry and Paul first met in New York
City while working the Columbia Presbyterian Hospital. He
was a resident with dreams of becoming a neonatologist; she
was a head nurse in the neonatal ICU. “We would share a little
bit of ourselves, of our lives, of what we were going through,”
Paul says. Born in Jamaica, Cherry came from a much differ-
ent background than Paul, a native New Yorker. But their dif-
ferences were overpowered by their chemistry, as their con-
versations rarely skipped a beat. “It was surprising how much
we seemed to have in common,” he says. “And then there was
the whole exotic Jamaican thing that was attractive.” And the
attraction was mutual. Cherry inches her chair closer to Paul
in the interview room. She rests her hand on his shoulder and
gives him a thoughtful look, “I respected him.”
Their love for one another has been tested by demanding
work schedules and distance, such as when Paul left New
York to complete his fellowship at the Herman Hospital at the
University of Texas. But even distance couldn’t push them
apart; Cherry transferred to Herman a year later as the orienta-
tion neonatal nurse. Although she was passionate about work-
ing with newborns and their families, she soon felt a greater
call to start one of her own. She left her job to raise their first
son, and never looked back. Just 19 months later, Cherry gave
birth to Jeremy and Jason. “I took my job [as a mom] very seri-
ously,” she says. “Paul was at work at the hospital and my job
was at home raising the boys. And when I say that, it’s not to
diminish his role because he was above and beyond there [for
us]. He wouldn’t come home and close the door. I think that’s
a key issue in the boys having turned out as the young men
that they are. Because of the father they have.”
As their family began to grow, so did their desire to find
a place where all their spiritual needs could be met. Cher-
ry was raised in an Anglican church while Paul was raised
Pentecostal, so they searched for a place that could support
both of their beliefs. “We finally got settled in a Presbyterian
church in Houston and found it to be a good balance for us,”
Paul says. Jonathan, Jeremy and Jason were baptized there,
and the lessons they learned in church were supported by the
real-life examples their parents set. “It’s never like, only our
mom would go to church or only our dad would go to church,
it was always a family event,” Jeremy says. “It’s still a family
event.”
After finishing his fellowship, Paul searched for a job in
a place where he and Cherry could settle down permanently
and raise the boys. With its palm trees and sunny weather,
Florida was their top pick. Paul landed a neonatologist posi-
tion at what is now the Winnie Palmer Hospital. In his 25
years there, he’s seen many things that have reinforced his
faith, such as the daily deliveries of 1½- to 2-pound babies.
“I tell every family that God has a special interest your baby,”
Paul says. “That’s perhaps most helpful when families lose
their babies. The understanding that God is in control in each
of our lives is very important to get across to families.”
This trust in God’s plan also got Paul and his family
through the near loss of their own son, Josh, who was born
after they moved to Orlando. He suffered from Meningitis at
age 3. “He was deathly ill,” Cherry says. “Paul was on call
and had called to check in and I just said to him, ‘You need
to come home, something’s really wrong with Josh.’” By the
time they got him to the hospital, he was unresponsive. The
nurses rushed him into the Intensive Care Unit. “I prayed and
I truly left it in God’s hands,” Cherry says. “I didn’t know if we
“He was always there to
guide, challenge, support,
and encourage us.”
would have Josh in the morning.” At 4am the next day, Josh
woke up and asked for a root beer. Cherry knew things were
going to be just fine.
It was always important to Cherry and Paul that their
children knew that faith came first, family second. This be-
lief has been deeply instilled in all four boys since they
started attending FPCO as children. Although they lived in
Maitland at the time, they all agreed that the message was
worth the drive. “I remember being young and Dr. Eding-
ton, regardless of the message, [having] this uncanny ability
continue on page 8
www.fpco.org | 7
 to keep the attention of a 5-, 6- or 7- year-
old. Dr. Edington was so much a part of
my Christian upbringing,” Jeremy says.
“When Dr. Swanson came, I [knew] he
was going to be fantastic for our church.
He has that same kind of presence about
him that Dr. Edington did.” The Palmas
knew that God had led them to FPCO
when their pastor in Houston, John Tol-
son, moved to Orlando and became a
pastor there. “He certainly was the cata-
lyst for our becoming members at FPCO,”
Cherry says. “His lessons and teachings,
along with those of his late wife Ruth
Anne, have been invaluable to us. He was always there to
guide, challenge, support, and encourage us.”
The family never missed a Sunday church service togeth-
er, even between shuffling the boys from basketball practice to
baseball games and track meets. Paul always set the example
that church was a priority, no matter what else they had going
on. “I remember those days when dad would just work Satur-
day night and bring your church clothes to work and meet the
rest of the family at church,” Jonathan says. “After sleeping for
two hours,” Jason adds. The boys got involved in Fun in the
Son summer camps, youth group meetings and choir practice.
“It formed a lot of our individual relationships with God,”
Jonathan says. Josh agrees, adding that their parents taught
them that God should be a part of their everyday life, not just
their Sunday church service. “Not only were they very in-
volved in our church life, but outside of the church, they were
sure to impress upon us that your faith is a part of your social
and professional life so that it’s a very realistic faith,” Josh
says. “Our parents’ example and their actions have spoken to
me more than anything they might have said directly.”
The boys’ grandparents have also given them spiritual
guidance. “[Our] grandparents went to church every Sunday
and really established this foundation for us,” Jeremy says.
“And they stressed it when we were younger. They wanted
you to understand what they believed in.” Jonathan remem-
bers having long conversations with Cherry’s father, Big Dad-
dy, about what it meant to be a Christian. “In college, I wrote
a paper for religion class and he reviewed it and we prob-
ably talked for like an hour about this paper and this reading
I had done,” he says. “I think a lot of people have this per-
ception that Christianity is just some sort of blind faith, non-
intellectual thing and you haven’t thought stuff out, that’s one
8 | www.fpco.org
thing I took away from Big Daddy.” As a pastor, Paul’s father,
Grandpa Palma, also helped guide the boys in the right direc-
tion. “He had this presence and was just a Godly man,” Jer-
emy says. Although both grandfathers passed away when the
boys were young adults, their words continue to echo through
the lives of their children and grandchildren. “It’s invaluable;
it’s the best gift,” Jason says. “We’re extremely fortunate to
have parents that care about us as much as they do. All the big
questions, if they don’t have answers, they’ll direct us to some
literature. It’s the best asset you could ever have.”
All four boys have found success in their chosen career
fields, and they continue to search for ways to share their faith
with others in every aspect of their lives. Following in his fa-
ther’s footsteps, Jonathan recently completed his pediatric res-
idency in California. Jeremy continues to build his resume as
an insurance defense attorney, while his twin brother moved
back to Orlando from Washington, D.C., last spring to join a
small corporate investing firm. And Josh manages his own ca-
reer as a professional wakeboarder. “We’re not in a ministry
type profession, but you can lead by example and hope they
can see your faith come out in your actions,” Jeremy says.
Paul and Cherry say they can’t take all the credit for
their children’s accomplishments. “That’s part of the reason
the church here has played a very important role,” Paul says.
“We were able to both teach them and expose them to the
principles of our faith, to a relationship with Christ and the
importance in your faith having an impact in your daily life,
daily decisions and your future. It was a challenge for us. As
parents, you want to do things right.” Paul looks around the
table at his boys, then at his wife and smiles. “I’m sure we
made mistakes as we went along, but [looking at] the guys, we
did OK.” n
The 2009 Easter
cross witness
Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man,
unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ…
-The apostle Paul to the church at Ephesus

U N I FY C E L E B R AT E
This Lenten season, First Presbyterian Church of Orlando
will join in the Easter Cross Witness as a community of believers
who have a passionate desire to uplift the name of Jesus Christ
and spread the Word in Orlando.
In your yard or apartment window, a cross is placed blank
side out during Lent and is turned on Resurrection Sunday to
declare, “He is Risen…And It is Finished! The two short de-
clarative phrases on this simple cross changed everything. Both
phrases, consisting of three simple words, altered the course of
world history; Both statements are true. The weight of the real-
ity behind these two phrases is staggering. The fact that Jesus
has risen from the dead after finishing His mission of offering
His life as a perfect sacrifice is why we celebrate Easter.
The Easter Cross
Witness was created
to testify to the truth
contained in these
statements. It was cre-
ated for those who
believe in the truth-
fulness of these state-
ments and who de-
sire, during the Easter season, to publicly testify to their faith.
This Easter Cross is not yard art. It is not an Easter decoration.
It was created to be a witness and a celebration. As you place
the cross in your yard or window of you apartment, ask the
sovereign Lord to use this simple cross for His glory, and re-
joice… He is Risen!
T E S T I FY
Church members will display the plain side of the cross in
their yard or homes beginning Ash Wednesday, February, 25 and
throughout the Lenten season. On Easter Sunday, flip the cross
to display the side reading “He is Risen” and “It is finished” to
share our Christian message for all to see.
3 Prayers:
1. As we plant the crosses in our yards or apartment win-
dows, may we joyfully once again acknowledge that we be-
long to the Risen Christ. Ask Him to use this simple cross
to re-energize our own hearts so that we may have renewed
joy to share with others about the wonders of what has been
finished.
2. Pray that this silent, visual witness will lead to appro-
priate opportunities for a verbal witness. As we have oppor-
tunity to share the hope that is within us, pray that we will
possess a winsome boldness and speak the truth in love.
3. When the visible witness is over, ask the Lord to grant
us much grace and renewed vigor to go about the noble
task of loving our neighbors as Christ loves us. This is the
best witness and acid test, and they are watching. May we
take to heart the wisdom of Saint Francis of Assisi who
stated that he was compelled to preach the gospel at all
times, in all places, with all his might even if it meant re-
sorting to words. People must see the gospel in action be-
fore they can hear the good news. All words + no love in
action will = futility. n

Pick up your free cross: (after services under the Angel Wing)
Sunday, Feb 15 Sunday, Feb 22 Ash Wednesday, Feb 25

www.fpco.org | 9
 Bring a friend to Christ?

ME?
Are You
Serious?
By Rev. Case Thorp,
Associate Pastor for Mission and Evangelism

S o, you’ve made a friend, and your being a friend, how do

you bring a friend to Christ? Ultimately our Reformed
theology assures us that we do not bring anyone to con-
fession of faith in Christ. It is the wooing of the Holy Spirit
and God’s movement in someone’s life that enables them
to confess faith in Jesus Christ. We are, however, used by
God at various times and in various ways to help someone
discern the Spirit’s call and explain the faith by our words
and/or our deeds such that they gain a more complete un-
derstanding of God in Jesus Christ.

10 | www.fpco.org
 Many years ago a friend asked me what it meant to be
‘saved.’ A girl he badly wanted to date had a Baptist back-
ground and without mincing words she told him she would
never date someone who was not ‘saved’. Sure, his motivation
for finding Jesus rested in a brunette dental student, but the
motivation was there, none the less. I shared what she meant
and why it mattered to her so much. He listened, read the
books I gave him, but hungered for more.
Promise Keepers was having a huge men’s rally at the
Georgia Dome and I invited him to join me with a group from
my church. I fasted for the three days of the conference asking
that God would move in his life and he would confess faith in
Jesus Christ. It was so awkward when we broke for meals and
I mysteriously disappeared from our group. I spent those meal
times in prayer asking that God move in his life. At the end
of the three days I gave him a Bible with his name embossed
on the front. Never once did I get confirmation that my friend
accepted Christ over that weekend. However, over a year later
while traveling through his new city of choice, Washington,
D.C., he casually referenced his commitment to Christ and the
role I had played. I was dumbfounded.
He never got the girl (She actually dated me for a while!!
Ha!), but he got Jesus. My friend is now the state chairman for
one of the two major political parties, a position of great influ-
ence. I give thanks to God that God has someone in that role
of political authority advocating for kingdom values.
It is rare, however, to experience the full cycle of someone
coming to faith. As Scripture alludes, we may be the sower of
seeds, we may reap the harvest, but there are numerous mini-
conversions in someone’s life before the main conversion.
You may be the one who sows a seed for a friend; you may
be the one who nurtures and strengthens the budding stalk;
you may have the joy of harvesting a new soul that confesses
faith in Jesus Christ. Bill Cain, our former evangelism pastor,
was fond of quoting the statistic that people often have nine or
more encounters with Christian testimony before confessing
faith in Jesus. Consider, for instance, the numbers of people
along the way that showed you Jesus as you came in to a sav-
ing understanding of Him.
The challenge for us remains this: allow your faith to ex-
ude everything you are and do. First, pepper your language
with phrases like, “Before I was saved…” or “Because of Je-
sus…” or “My faith teaches me to…” Those around you will
take notice. And yes, if you say that with authenticity and base
it in your experience, rarely will you have reason for embar-
rassment. And if so, isn’t it worth having your heart revealed
for such a Savior?
Second, perform random acts of compassion and mercy.
Take your neighbor a plate of cookies or mow their lawn with-
out first asking. Leave your waiter a larger tip than normal
with the phrase, “To God be the glory.” On top of random acts,
purposefully build your day around acts of compassion and
mercy as you listen a little more intently to that person in the
office that drives everyone nuts, or as you parent your child
in a manner that is befitting the Lord. Be known as a compas-
sionate person and others will see Jesus in your actions.
Finally, do not take the true, but poor excuse by saying,
“Others will see my actions and one day ask, ‘What is your
motivation and why do you do the things you do?’” Perhaps I
am a bit jaded, but that perspective has been used as an excuse
for far too long to keep from looking too evangelical. Friends,
we are evangelicals. All Christians that carry the DNA of the
gospel are change agents with an evangelical orientation.
Don’t be afraid to call the question of faith with someone with
The challenge for us remains
this: allow your faith to exude
everything you are and do.
whom you’ve gained a great trust and who will allow you to
speak into their lives. Ask the questions: “Is God at work in
your life through this?” “If you knew Jesus, do you think things
would be different?” “How could faith in Jesus help with this
situation?” Then, be ready to offer the saving message of the
Gospel, share your testimony, and walk with someone as they
confess faith in Jesus Christ. Wow, what a moment that is.
Curious about offering the Gospel and telling your testi-
mony? Stay tuned for more next month… n
www.fpco.org | 11
The Plight of
the Iraqi Refugees
Syria and Lebanon have played an incomparable role in the
history of mankind. Many of the greatest human achievements
had their beginnings in this ancient land. In this area of the
world, man discovered the secrets of agriculture and metallurgy
and invented the first alphabet.
In Damascus, Syria, the world’s oldest continuously inhab-
ited city, many civilizations have left their mark over the centu-
ries: Aramaic, Greek, Roman, Byzantine and Arab. Paul traveled
the Road to Damascus (Acts 9:1-9) and his life was changed in
a twinkling. Our lives continue to be changed today because of
what happened on that dusty road more than 2000 years ago.
Lebanon is the home of the Cedars of Lebanon (2 Chronicles
2:1-16) which built Solomon’s Temple and it is reflected on their
national flag. Much history has taken place in these two Middle
East countries and it continues today in our news.
The dramatic increase in violence, lawlessness and reli-
gious persecution in Iraq has resulted in massive displacement
of Iraqis. Estimates for the number of Iraqis who have fled into
Syria and Lebanon since the US-led invasion of Iraq in 2003
vary. Some believe as many as 4 million have left their homes.
Present conditions for Iraqis in Syria are poor. The Iraqis
are classified as illegal migrants. Lebanon has provided Iraqis
recognition as refugees since 2007, however less than 10%
register with UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).
The registration guarantees only partial protection and many
feel there is no point in registering at all. In addition they fear
they may be detained or deported by police on their way to
the UNHCR office because of their illegal status. It is extreme-
ly difficult for them to find work without legal status and if
they do, most are day-workers without guaranteed rights or
By Punkin Durio, Member
continuous employment at below standard pay rates.
As the numbers grow, the material assistance to Iraqis has
begun to diminish over recent weeks. Many have access only to
diapers and sanitary towels. Many cannot send their children to
school because they cannot afford supplies and clothes.
In November, while in Syria and Lebanon, I was able to visit
some of the centers that are helping the refugees. Through a non-
profit organization, Heart for Lebanon, I visited clinics, food dis-
tribution warehouses, day care centers and private homes. My
heart was broken. Professionals who make a great living back
in Iraq and have great respect and a refined culture are living in
6x6 spaces with no bathroom or kitchen and are being charged
$150 a month rent. Many had no food and no work.
One day, my friend Cathy and I visited two young women
in their rooms. I saw little in the way of material things. The
rooms were sparsely furnished with single beds. I saw no kitch-
ens or bathrooms. They said their husbands were out looking for
work. We were able to share Christ with the women and the first
woman, with tears streaming down her face, accepted Jesus as
her Savior. The second said she was already a believer.
Another day, we were called to visit another young woman.
She was visibly depressed, scared, ashamed and embarrassed.
She never stopped crying from the moment we had arrived. She
told us her husband was looking for work that day, but we later
found out he had abandoned her after only one month of marriage
and escape from Iraq. She claimed to be a believer and I asked to
pray with her. In my prayer I asked Jesus to send friends around
her that would be like family since she was alone in Lebanon. I
prayed for comfort and blessings for her. OUR GOD IS SO WON-
DERFUL AND FAITHFUL! Within seconds after I finished pray-
ing, there was a knock on the door and there stood the two young
believers we had witnessed to the previous day in another neigh-
borhood. God had answered my prayer. I asked them to please
watch out for Maggie and to be her family. They agreed. When we
left there were tears of joy for God’s answered prayer. n
Punkin Durio is a member of First Presbyterian Church. She
decided to join after having been so blessed by repeated hospital
visits by our staff, deacons and elders. Formerly with Campus
Crusade’s Jesus Film Project, Punkin is now an associate with
Missionary Ventures based here in Orlando and leads short term
mission trips abroad on a monthly basis. Pray for her as she
returns March 28 to April 5, 2009, to Iraq to continue serving in
Christ’s name. She can be contacted a pdurio@mvusa.org.
DO PEOPLE
REALLY CHANGE????
By Rev. Donna McClellan, Associate Pastor of Prayer and Spiritual Formation
This is a question that I have considered often ever since an
elder at a church I formerly served said to me very adamantly
“Let’s face it, people do not change.” The first thought that came
to my mind when she said that was “Then why am I a pastor?” I
was caught off guard at the time but my response today would be
something like “maybe people do not change on their own but
God can and does change people every day when we are willing
to cooperate with the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives.” This,
to me, is one of the reasons I love the term “spiritual formation”.
It is not just about Biblical knowledge, it is not just about mis-
sion/action…it is about allowing God to change our hearts, that
our lives will then be changed and we will be moved to action
directed by Him.
Since the department in which I serve
is called Prayer and Spiritual Formation,
I am often asked questions regarding
God is the only one who can separate the true from
what spiritual formation means...it is not the false, the only one who can purify the motives of
a term Presbyterians are typically famil-
iar with, so here is my attempt to at least
the heart.
offer a basic definition of what we mean
by Christian spiritual formation…there
is a plethora of material written about spirituality and spiritual
formation that is spiritual but certainly not Christian.
Hungryhearts (a newsletter from the office of spiritual for-
mation in the PCUSA} gives the following basic description “…
an activity of the Holy Spirit which molds our lives into the like-
ness of Jesus Christ. This likeness is one of deep intimacy with
God and genuine compassion for all creation. We cooperate with
the work of the Spirit through practices that make us more open
and responsive to the Spirit’s touch …”
In a recent article in Christianity Today called “Spiritual
Formation Agenda,” Richard Foster begins with this observa-
tion: “Our world today cries out for a theology of spiritual growth
that has been proven to work in the midst of the harsh realities
of daily life. Sadly, many have simply given up on the possibil-
ity of growth in character formation.” He continues; “Everyone
thinks of changing the world, but where, oh where, are those
who think of changing themselves?”
He goes on to say: “We are, each and every one of us a tan-
gled mass of motives; hope and fear, faith and doubt, simplicity
and duplicity, honesty and falsity, openness and guile. God is
the only one who can separate the true from the false, the only
one who can purify the motives of the heart. But God does not
come uninvited. If certain chambers of our heart have never ex-
perienced God’s healing touch, perhaps it is because we have
not welcomed the divine scrutiny.” (p 29, 30,31)
Spiritual formation and, closely associated with it, spiritual
direction have to do with engaging in disciplines such as study,
solitude, worship, prayer, meditation, simplicity, and celebra-
tion, ( to name a few) for the purpose of becoming more like
Christ. These disciplines are not meant to be an end in them-
selves. As Dallas Willard cautions in The Human Body and
Spiritual Growth; “this process of ‘Conformation to Christ,’ as
we might more appropriately call it, is constantly supported by
grace; and otherwise would be impossible. But it is not therefore
passive. Grace is opposed to earning, not to effort. In fact, noth-
ing inspires and enhances effort like the experience of Grace.”
Grace is opposed to earning, not to effort.”
Christian Spiritual Formation is also closely linked to com-
munity. As Greg Ogden explains, in Discipleship Essentials,
“Transformation occurs when we grapple with the truth of God’s
Word in the context of transparent relationships. It is a biblical
axiom that the Holy Spirit will have free sway in our lives to the
extent that we open ourselves up to one another…we cannot
grow in Christ alone. We are people of community.”
This year will afford us many opportunities to look more
carefully at Spiritual Formation and spiritual direction. We will
do so as we worship together and we will do so as we open
ourselves to the “scrutiny” of the Holy Spirit alone and together
that we might be changed from the inside out.
We invite you to engage with us in the discipline of prayer
on Wednesday evenings from 6:30 – 7:30pm as we gather to pray
and encounter Christ together. Watch for more opportunities in
these regards or contact me at the church dmcclellan@fpco.org.
I would love to have a conversation with you! n
www.fpco.org | 13
 COMING TO
WORSHIP
Is it really that big a deal?
By Dr. Rebecca Bedell,
Minister of Worship and Culture

Well, in a word yes.

God considers it a very big deal.
One of the first Bible verses that I ever
memorized, after John 3:16, was Hebrews
10:25 which states:

“Let us not give up meeting together,

as some are in the habit of doing, but let us
encourage one another—and all the more as you
see the Day approaching.”I
I really love this verse – it has been very instructional to my heart.
Let’s unpack it together:

14 | www.fpco.org
 “Let us not give up meeting together…
First, this shows me that we are all tempted to let other things get in the way of coming to worship. We’re too tired,
the kids are cranky, we got home late…we all face it, but the key phrase is “let us not” – implying that the “giving up” is
a choice. We choose to come to worship or we choose to let our circumstances keep us away. The Bible also tells us that
“where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” Do we treasure our time of worship with our fellow believers? If we
treasure our time in worship, our hearts are sure to be blessed.
Secondly, it speaks of “meeting together.” We live in an isolated age where you can catch a sermon on TV or via the web
and while that is great and we are all thankful for technology, the sermon alone is not worship. Worship is coming before
the Lord, giving Him the offering of your time, seeking Him in His temple, bringing an offering of praise to Him, and meet-
ing Him along with other believers. It is participatory, it is relational and it is important to our spiritual formation.

…as some are in the habit of doing…

Ouch. Most of us don’t really know what to do with this phrase. Sometimes this has been us and sometimes it has been
people that we know. A “habit” infers a regular behavior or set of behaviors. Experts tell us that” habit” only forms after 30
days – so that’s four continuous worship opportunities missed. Unfortunately good habits are hard to form and bad habits
are hard to break. The great thing is that coming to worship not only draws you closer to God, but puts you into the larger
community of God’s people. You are not alone!

…but let us encourage one another…

It is always encouraging to know that we are not alone in our lives. There is energy when people gather. We need to
encourage one another to come to worship. When we get to worship we need to lift each other up. We need to focus on
encouragement. A kind word or one of encouragement does us all good.

…and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”

Our world needs the saving power of Jesus Christ. We need the saving and renewing power of Christ in our lives.
The day of Jesus’ return is approaching. Hopefully, with every passing week and year we will grow deeper in our rela-
tionship with Christ and in our relationships with others. As you read in the Palma’s story, one of the first places that
people experience that connection is in worship. The season of Lent is a beautiful parallel of awaiting the coming day.
We prepare for Christmas during Advent. We prepare for Easter during Lent. We prepare for the second coming of Christ
every day of our lives.
Come to worship. Make it the best “habit” in your life. Invite your friends and family. Encourage those around you. It
is good to come into the house of the Lord. We’ll see you there. n

Worship & Prayer Opportunities

Sundays, 8:30 and 11am, Traditional Worship
Sundays, 8:30 and 11am, Genesis (Non-Traditional) Worship
Wednesdays, 6:30pm, Prayer Ministry Meeting

Coming Soon – Monday night Genesis!

www.fpco.org | 15
 Decide Not
To Give Up! By Alice Fortunato, Director of Recreation Ministry
As resolutions go, some of the most popular are to start a
fitness program, get in shape or lose weight. Starting something
new isn’t the hard part…making it stick is. Maybe by approach-
ing fitness from the different angles, like spiritually, mentally
and physically, it won’t be as difficult. So to jump right in…and
cover your bases:
1. Ask for help, make an appointment with God.
Start each day with prayer.
2. Start moving! Do something fun; take a walk
for the fun of it! Go skating, turn the music up and
dance, get down on the floor and stretch a little, play
hide and seek with the nearest mammal. Don’t hold
back; laugh if you feel like it!
3. Read a book, just for fun! Pick an inspirational
person and read their autobiography or biography.
4. See if a buddy wants to meet for walking, running
or working out.
We are taking care of God’s gift to us, our health. When we
don’t have it, there isn’t much we can do. Come to think of it,
why do we take it [health] for granted?
Some great reasons for staying in good health:
1. Better immune system – less sick days.
2. Increased oxygen capacity – not worn out doing
everyday tasks.
3. Fights depression – feeling better about every-
thing.
16 | www.fpco.org
4. Wards off osteoporosis, heart disease and helps
manage diseases like diabetes.
5. SLOWS DOWN THE AGING PROCESS. Or at least
what we can do about it!
Sitting around can be equated with aging so fight it with
all your heart, soul, mind and body. Starting around age 30,
people lose around 7 pounds of muscle and replace it with twice
as much fat. Aerobic capacity drops each year by a few per-
cent. By age 65 it drops 65%! According to Dr. Golding who has
been conducting a study over more than two decades, a moder-
ate 45-minute a day program Monday – Friday makes the aging
curve lower than even he thought! He says, “I think probably 90
percent is disuse, 10 percent is aging.” When asked if you could
do less and still benefit he says, “That is the million dollar ques-
tion; I’d like to say the minimum is three times a week. But even
people who come once or twice a week are making significant
changes.” This is great news and we just need to take the advice
we would so freely give to someone else, just do it!
If you are looking for a place to start, Fitness@First is located
in the Clayton Life Center on the second floor. Prices are the
same as last year, and we have fitness trainers, Kris and Simon
Morgan, Thomas Sapp, Stephanie Brady and Dawn Byrum, to
help you set up a program tailor-made for you.
A free orientation about how to use the equipment is avail-
able to everyone. We have 15 group fitness classes a week to
pick from and EVERYONE is welcome! n
With the coming year don’t be complacent, Try this Healthy Recipe

get moving! for the New Year:

Take 3-4 boneless chicken breasts and
pound until relatively even in thick-
We have Family Fitness, Wellness and Group Exercise classes to meet all ages and ness. Place in glass pan - use 4 or 5
physical needs from Physabilities to Kickboxing…Look for NEW EVENTS like Social fresh limes and squeeze juice over
Dance Classes, Family Cycling, Summer Volleyball Clinics, Box Lunch Seminars… chicken. Add ¼ cup of olive oil and
not to mention AM and Noontime Basketball, Upward Basketball and all our on- add enough white wine to just cover
chicken. Sprinkle a small amount of
going group fitness classes.
white pepper over chicken. Place in
Don’t miss out on the opportunity of such a fine facility at your fingertips! refrigerator for an hour or so.
While chicken is marinating, prepare
NEW FITNESS CENTER MEMBERS salsa. Finely chop or dice 4 or 5 plum
tomatoes, 1 small bunch of finely
GET 25% OFF A MEMBERSHIP chopped cilantro, 1-2 finely chopped
Bring this coupon in to the shallots (or spring onions) – mix in
Recreation Ministry Center: a bit of salt and pepper, and lightly
pack ingredients into bottom of bowl,
FITNESS CENTER MEMBERS take red wine vinegar and pour in
until just reaches top of ingredients,
GET ONE MONTH FREE ADDED
so as not to make soupy but salsa-y.
TO THEIR MEMBERSHIP!! Place in refrigerator. Take chicken
and grill. Serve chicken with a blob
EVERYBODY WINS!! of salsa on top and a skirt of greens
on bottom.

Fitness@FIRST Class Schedule

Jan. 2, 2009 - March 1, 2009
TIME MONDAY TUES WED THURS FRIDAY

12:10-12:45pm Indoor cycle Yogalates Indoor Cycle Zumba Indoor Cycle

Stephanie Alice Angela Giselle Stephanie

12:10-12:45pm Zumba H.I.T. Boot Camp Chisel & Sculpt Hard Core Yoga
Giselle Saje/Erlene Stephanie Saje/Erlene Saje

5:30-6:15pm Zumba Indoor Cycle Zumba Core

Jeralee Erlene Frank Thomas

5:30-6:15pm Zumba
Frank

6:15-7:00pm YogaFit/Minh-Thi

Community Akijitsu Martial Call for class info

Classes Arts Classess

Free are offered to learn Ask the desk for Personal Trainers
Orientations how to use our more information are available to
fitness equipment target your fitness needs

For more information on classes contact

407.206.2406 • afortunato@fpco.org • abrown@fpco.org • www.fpco.org/fitness
www.fpco.org | 17
 d-now testimonial
By Olivia Barrow, 7th Grade Student

The most fun and life changing experience that I have had was our church Disciple Now re-
treat. I knew this was going to be a blast; staying the weekend at Isabel’s house with all my friends
in a good Christian environment. When I got my letter from my counselors, they seemed awesome.
When I arrived at Isabel’s house, Caitlin, one of my counselors, came to help me with my bags. She
was very kind and pretty, had a bit of an accent. When I entered the house all my friends were run-
ning around already having fun. I knew I was going to have the time of my life.
Later that night it was time for our Bible study. We all sat around Caitlin and Jenny as they
began to tell us about themselves. They both went to Clemson and had very good testimonies. Dur-
ing the Bible study we would answer some questions that were pretty tough. All of us discovered
that night; we aren’t as close to Christ as we would want to be.
The next day we were supposed to go someplace fun and exciting, so we chose Downtown
Disney! We also had the opportunity to celebrate Katherine and Elizabeth’s birthday. When we
were driving to Disney there was non-stop talking all around. It would be even crazier when we got
there. We all just spent the day walk-
ing around eating ice cream and getting
airbrush tattoos. The funniest part was
when Caitlin tried on a Minnie costume When I entered the house all my friends were
for children. Toward the end we all
headed for the giant gift shop and met running around already having fun. I knew I was
up with Julianne and Browning. When
we got back to the house we were then going to have the time of my life.
getting ready for our worship time in
the Warehouse. Mr. and Mrs. McLean
drove us to First Pres and we headed for
worship. It took a while before we could come in, and they were giving away t-shirts.
When they opened the doors our group was lucky to get close to first row. As they started the
music I couldn’t hear anything but the band and the Lord beginning to speak within me. When it
was time for Browning to give the devotion we all sat down. He talked about three men and how
they were the only ones who did not bow down to the king. They did that because that wasn’t their
king, God was. Some people were crying as others had their heads bowed. When it was time to
sing again we began with a prayer and we all knelt down and put our hands on each other’s shoul-
ders. At that time I didn’t care what people thought I just focused on God and He spoke within
me. That was one of the times I asked God to be in my life forever.
When we went back to the house my parents drove us home and we ended the night with an-
other Bible study. We went so in depth that night that I felt a change in me. I was looking forward to
the next morning because we would go to church and see our parents. I would tell them about my
life changing experience and our amazing worship time. We all walked in the doors to church and
began to have some more time with God. When we all were about to leave we said our good-byes
to Caitlin and Jenny. When I walked to my car I was a different person, one who would start a new
relationship with God that would last FOREVER! n

18 | www.fpco.org
Sankofa Reflection
Soon after I moved back from Nairobi, Kenya, God told me
(really He told others who then convinced me) that we should
bring some of the women I worked with at Amani ya Juu to the
United States for a Fashion Tour. Amani ya Juu means “Higher
Peace” in Swahili and is a sewing and reconciliation project
committed to fair trade and holistic development of marginal-
ized women who come from various countries of Africa.
During my year at Amani we launched a clothing line
which provided more work and new skills for several of the
women. Amani announced the new clothing line in October
2007 through a fashion show called Sankofa. Through brilliant
costumes, choreography, lighting and music the women used
the runway as their stage to depict their courageous journeys
from their war-torn homes to their new life of wholeness and
reconciliation at Amani.
The Nairobi Sankofa show was well received and our Amer-
ican supporters were very eager for us to bring it stateside. After
months of dealing with the US Visa and Passport processes, 10
of the women were approved to come to America for a three-
week tour. Because my name and phone number was on their
documents, a US Immigration Officer would call to ask me ques-
tions about each woman: why she was coming and what was
my relation to her and the organization? God certainly was pres-
ent and moving in each conversation because I never felt good
with my explanation to an Immigration Officer about a fashion
tour being produced by African refugee women. (I think it still
sounds odd and I have been a part of it since the beginning!)
Honestly, nothing about getting them here was simple and there
were many times I questioned God about whether this was a
wise decision. But every time I wanted to give up I would pic-
ture the faces of the women who graciously welcomed me in to
their lives and was quickly reminded that this was a small feat
for my mountain moving God.
The women arrived in early October and Orlando was the first
stop of the four-city tour. I remain grateful that FPCO graciously
donated the Lee Fellowship Hall for the Sankofa event. Nearly
350 people attended the Orlando show and 2,500 people saw the
show throughout the four cities. The response to the show and
to the Amani organization was incredible and I believe we will
continue to see more fruits of the labor in years to come.
Seeing America through their eyes was a blessing I will re-
count for the rest of my life. There were so many “firsts” for them
that I was so fortunate to witness: first time on an airplane, first
time getting free water in a “magic fountain” (water fountain),
first time at McDonalds and using fountain soda machines, first
time to see the ocean and touch the beach sands (and they live
By Scarlett Stewart, Member
in a coastal country!). Seeing their reactions to the way many
Americans live was eye-opening, often humorous and mostly
humbling. Some of their questions that still stir in me today
include: “Does everyone in Orlando have more than one room
with sofas? Why does that dog have on a shirt and goggles (sun-
glasses)? If I lived in America, do you think I could survive?”
Throughout the tour I knew these women were having a
grand effect on the people they encountered. However, it was
not until after they returned to Kenya that I began hearing stories
from the countless volunteers and receiving letters from various
individuals who were touched by their visit, that I realized how
much these women truly ministered to these cities. I finally saw
that this was much more than a fashion tour gaining exposure for
the Amani organization; it was their mission trip to America.
Hosting my African sisters in my home town and at my
home church is something I never imagined could happen. The
women were so well received by the Orlando and FPCO com-
munity and continue to send me notes of thanksgiving and ap-
preciation. I have included some letters from volunteers who
made the Sankofa Tour possible as well as those who were im-
pacted during their visit. Also, there is a note of thanks by Mary
Maina, the Amani Director in Kenya who led the ladies through-
out the tour.
To learn more about the Amani ya Juu project or to watch
the Sankofa show online please visit www.amaniafrica.org.
Also, you can support the Amani women by purchasing some of
their beautifully handcrafted products through the online store.
Many thanks to the FPCO Mission Ministry, staff and volun-
teers for making Sankofa a tremendous success in Orlando. You
made lofty dreams come true.
continue on page 20 to read the letters from volunteers
www.fpco.org | 19
Sankofa
volunteer letters
 First Presbyterian Church of Orlando

DIVORCE RECOVERY
MINISTRY
13-week Support Program

Thursdays; February 12 - May 7

Kids Group at 6:30pm in 312-CLC
Adult Group at 6:45pm in 106-CLC

www.fpco.org/register

Congregational Care
407.423.3441 x 1159
sbrandenburg@fpco.org
fpco.org/care/divorcecare
News & Notices
Register Now for MusikGarten!
Online registration for spring classes will close February 9.
Our classes are open to children from birth to 5 years and
are designed for the parent and child to enjoy music class to-
gether! Classes begin February 3! For more information, con-
tact Stephanie Mixner at 407.423.3441 x1186 or smixner@
fpco.org. The spring schedule can be found at www.fpco.org/
childrensmusic.
Divorce Care Sessions Will Begin February 12
Divorce Care for Adults and DC4K (Divorce Care for Kids)
will begin our winter/spring sessions on February 12, 2009 in
CLC 106 for Adults and CLC 312 for kids from 6:30-8:00pm.
We will meet for 13 Sessions and you can join in at any time.
For questions or to let us know if you are coming - Please call
Sharon Brandenburg at 407.423.3441 x1159 or e-mail her at
sbrandenburg@fpco.org.
Register Now for First Connections Classes
Registration is now open for the February/March First Con-
nections Class. First Connections is a five week class designed
to help you learn and experience life at FPCO. Make some
friends, learn some basics about faith in a non-threatening
atmosphere, and be exposed to the life changing ministries
of FPCO. Sundays from 9:30-10:45am in Room 320 A & B
on the third floor of the Edington Ministry Center. For more
information please contact Amy Heck at 407.423.3441 x1474
or aheck@fpco.org.
Purpose, mission, and relationships are foundational to FPCO
and are the building blocks of First Connections. For those of
you who are exploring membership or simply want to know
more about FPCO—come and take a look.
Father-Daughter Dance to Be Held on February 28
We invite dads to take their middle school daughters out to
dinner and come to church for the Student Ministry spon-
sored Father-Daughter dance on Saturday, February 28.
There will be food, dancing, DJ and pictures. The dance
will be held in the Warehouse, from 8-10pm. So, for $25 per
couple, come and take advantage of this great opportunity for
dads to spend some quality time with their daughters! Dress
is Semi-Formal. Please RSVP online at www.fpco.org/regis-
ter. Deadline to RSVP is Tuesday, February 24.
After School Outreach Ministry Volunteer Opportunity
The After School Outreach Ministry will be taking students to
visit the Orange & Seminole County jails on Wednesday, Feb-
ruary 25th. Proper identification for adult chaperones must be
submitted to the jails by February 11th. Please contact Jenny
Arrison for more info @ 407-423-3441 or jarrison@fpco.org.
Share Your Faith With the Easter Cross Witness
First Presbyterian Church of Orlando will take part in the
Easter Cross Witness which was created to give Christians an
opportunity during the Easter Season to witness to the Risen
Christ. In your yard or apartment window, a cross is placed
blank side out during Lent and is turned on Resurrection
Sunday to declare, “He is Risen…And It is Finished! It is our
prayer that FPCO members will take this opportunity to share
with others the hope that is within us, and as a tangible way to
express our faith during Lent. The Easter Cross Witness binds
the body of Christ together as churches of many denomina-
tions gather together under the cross in unity. Pick up your
cross after worship services under the Angel Wing on Sunday,
February 15 & 22 and on Ash Wednesday, February 25.
Sympathy to:
The family and friends of Virginia Milligan, who died No-
vember 19, 2008.
The friends and family of Dorothy Englert, who died Decem-
ber 5, 2008.
Adrienne Evans on the death of her grandfather, Marion Cun-
ningham, on December 5, 2008.
Lilian and Jonathas Moreira on the death of her mother,
Odette Lima, on November 30, 2008. Mrs. Lima was the
grandmother of Marianna, Lucas and Amanda Mello.
The friends and family of Hilda Alexander who died Decem-
ber 12, 2008.
The friends and family of Linda Dauphin, who died Decem-
ber 15, 2008
Bettie and Bucky Allen on the death of her sister, Lallie
Burke, on December 21, 2008.
The family and friends of Don McAllister, who died Decem-
ber 22, 2008.
Dave and Dianne MacIntire on the death of his father, Col.
H.A. MacIntire on December 25, 2008.
June and Jim Wieland on the death of her brother, Paul Roep-
nack, who died December 27, 2008.
Anne Banta on the death of her brother-in-law, Lee Woods, on
December 28, 2008.
Suzanne and John Bigalke on the death of her father, Grant
Staton, who died December 30, 2008. Mr. Staton was the
grandfather of Sara and Brady Bigalke.
Mo Hoffman on the death of his wife, Nancy Hoffman, on
January 2, 2009
Scott & Bonnie Tew on the death of his mother, Nan Martinez,
on January 4, 2009. Mrs. Martinez was the grandmother of
Roger and John Tew.
December ’08 Giving Snapshot
General Operating Contributions Budgeted Surplus/
(Deficit)
December Gifts $ 1,190,213 $ 1,209,661 $ (19,448)
Year-to-date Gifts $ 3,500,351 $ 3,879,523 $(379,172)
Line of Credit $150,000
Immeasurably More Outstanding Balance $4,954,649
IM December Gifts $ 263,664
IM Year-to-date Gifts $ 1,222,167
(net of 10% tithe to Missions)
Contact finance office for a full revenue & expense summary.
www.fpco.org | 23
Conference declares
tebow not jesus
Tebow Rant
January 09
The Miami Conference on Christology, meeting January 1-8 at the Orange Bowl Hotel, issued its findings this morning in a
1,456 page treatise. Theological scholars from all over the world, including the Darrell K. Royal Chair of Theology and Athletics
at Harvard University, declared, without equivocation, that contrary to recent claims, Tim Tebow is NOT, in fact, Jesus. While the
report has been met with outrage in some circles, theological faculty at Yale, Fuller, Gordon-Conwell, Oxford, and Cambridge issued
statements supporting the conferences findings. Pope Benedict followed by issuing an encyclical entitled, “Postmodernism and
Tim Tebow: The Christological Conundrum.” Roman Catholics, especially those at the University of Notre Dame, hailed the Pope
for his strong and clear leadership in strongly defining where Tim Tebow fits in the pantheon of saints (just below Mother Theresa)
and whether current Catholics can pray to Tebow (“only in dire circumstances.”) The Pope denied rumors that following last night’s
game, Tebow had turned the Gatorade into wine and fed the crowd of 70,000 with only four hot dog buns and two hamburger patties,
with 74 garbage bags of buns left over. Representatives from Benny Hinn Ministries immediately tried to take credit for providing
the food.
Scholars were still undecided on the significance of Urban Meyer’s post game comments when he said, “As Charlie Strong and
I walked away from Tebow’s house after our first recruiting visit, he said to me, ‘Urban, were not our hearts burning as we sat along
side him on the couch?” n

Representatives from the PCUSA, United Methodist Church, Southern Baptist Convention, Episcopal USA, and Worldwide
Lutheranism planned to make a statement today in support of the Miami Conference findings, denying, yet again, that Tim
Tebow is Jesus.
- AP Wire Services

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Traditional Services: Sundays, 8:30 &

11 a.m. in the Sanctuary
Genesis Services: Sunday, 8:30 &
11 a.m. in Lee Fellowship Hall