PCPC Life February 13 Newsletter - Palma Ceia Presbyterian Church

3 5 0 1 S a n J o s e • Ta m p a , F l o r i d a 3 3 6 2 9 • 8 1 3 . 2 5 3 . 6 0 4 7 • w w w. p a l m a c e i a . o r g
Rev. John DeBevoise • Rev. Nicole Partin Abdnour
February 2013
... from the Pastor’s Desk
Ash Wednesday Lent :
e Lenten journey from the ashes of death to resurrected life
begins on the rst day of Lent, Ash Wednesday, February 13th,
which signi es a time to turn around, to change directions, to
repent. e rst step of this journey calls us to acknowledge and confront our
mortality, individually and corporately. In many traditions, this is symbolized
through the imposition of ashes — placing a cross on one’s forehead. During
the imposition of ashes the words “You are dust, and to dust you shall return”
(Genesis 3:19) are repeated again and again. We are to remember that we are
but temporary creatures, always on the edge of death. On Ash Wednesday, we
begin our Lenten trek through the desert toward Easter.
Ashes on the forehead are a sign of our humanity and a reminder of our
mortality. Lent is not a matter of being good, and wearing ashes is not to
show o one’s faith. e ashes are a reminder to us and our communities of
our nite creatureliness. e ashes we wear on our Lenten journey symbolize
the dust and broken debris of our lives as well as the reality that eventually
each of us will die.
Trusting in the “accomplished fact” of Christ’s resurrection, however, we
listen for the Word of God in the time-honored stories of the church’s Lenten
journey. We follow Jesus into the wilderness, resist temptation, fast, and
proceed “on the way” to Jerusalem and the cross. Our Lenten journey is one of
metanoia (“turning around”), of changing directions from self-serving toward
the self-giving way of the cross. (Excerpts from the Companion to the Book of
Common Worship).
Ash Wednesday Prayer
“Holy God, treasure of faithful hearts, through Jesus
Christ you taught us how to pray, to give, to serve, to live.
Reshape, restore, and renew us by the hidden power of your
Spirit, so that we may receive the way of life that is the true
reward of the faithful, through Jesus Christ our Savior.”
SPRING TRAINING
FOR CHRISTIANS
February sees us entering the liturgical
season of Lent. You may start the month
celebrating with pirates and the Super
Bowl but, before the month is over, the
church will try to focus your thoughts on
spiritual discovery and discipline.
Lent is the period of about six weeks prior
to Easter, and it is a time when Christians
are encouraged to rediscover the
disciplines and practices of the Christian
life. It is a season of preparation,
re ection and the strengthening of one’s
self in the Christian life. Taking on these
Christian practices often entails letting go
of some other behaviors in order to make
space, or changes, in one’s life to promote
faithfulness.
Lent originated in the very earliest days
of the Church in preparation for Easter,
when the faithful rededicated themselves
and when converts were instructed in
the faith and prepared for baptism.
By observing the 40 days of Lent, the
individual Christian imitates the gospel’s
report of Jesus’s withdrawal into the
wilderness for 40 days. It also imitates
the 40 years during which the Hebrews
Continued on Page 9

2 | www.palmaceia.org
2013
Pastor’s Desk 1, 9
INSIDE FEBRUARY
Sunday, February 3rd – Luke 4:21-30
Jesus preaches in his own hometown
Morning worship services at:
8:30 a.m. (Traditional and Connection)
9:45 a.m. (Connection) and 11:00 a.m. (Traditional)
e Rev. John DeBevoise will preach during Traditional and
Connection services.
Sunday, February 10th – Luke 9:28-36
Trans guration Sunday
Morning worship services at:
8:30 a.m. (Traditional and Connection)
9:45 a.m. (Connection) and 11:00 a.m. (Traditional)
e Rev. John DeBevoise will preach during Traditional and
Connection services.
Wednesday, February 13th – Ash Wednesday
Ash Wednesday is the traditional beginning of the ancient
Christian season of Lent, the six-week period leading to Easter.
It is the season when Christians place a special emphasis on their
practices of prayer, Bible study and Christian living. It is a period
of preparation. Ash Wednesday emphasizes Christian repentance
- the setting aside of old self and the placing of Christ-like
behaviors. ere will be two opportunities for worship on Ash
Wednesday, one at noon in the chapel and the second at 6:30
p.m. in the sanctuary. Both will be 30-minute services, which
will begin the pilgrimage of this season, including an opportunity
for those who desire the traditional sign of receiving ashes on
one’s forehead or hand in the mark of the cross.
Sunday, February 17th – Luke 4: 1-13
e temptation of Jesus
First Sunday in Lent
Morning worship services at:
8:30 a.m. (Traditional and Connection)
9:45 a.m. (Connection) and 11:00 a.m. (Traditional)
e Rev. John DeBevoise will preach during Traditional services.
e Rev. Nicole Abdnour will preach during Connection services.
Sunday, February 24th – Luke 13:31-35
Courage in the face of trouble
Morning worship services at:
8:30 a.m. (Traditional and Connection)
9:45 a.m. (Connection) and 11:00 a.m. (Traditional)
e Rev. Nicole Abdnour will preach during Traditional services.
David Bonnema, Youth Director and Seminarian, will preach
during Connection services.
Vespers worship services
In addition to other services, Vespers worship will be held on
Sunday evenings (with the exception of February 3rd for “super”
football reasons) at 6:00 p.m. in the chapel with prayers, scripture
readings, the sacrament of communion and (when scheduled)
baptism.
Inside February 2
Worship 3
Preschool 4
Mission 4 - 5
PW Women 6
Youth 7
Life of the Church 8
Fellowship 9
Adults / Family 10
Discipleship 11
PCPC Vision Statement
We are called to be a community of disciples in Jesus
Christ, who, seeking unity in the faith, are living our lives
in joyful obedience to God’s Word. Worshiping Christ,
learning in Christ, growing in Christ, caring in Christ,
acting in Christ, reformed in Christ.
PCPC LIFE
Published monthly by the Palma Ceia Presbyterian Church.
Edited by Robin Simmons.
Submissions:
E-mail Robin at pcpcnewsletter@gmail.com, or place your information
in her church o ce mailbox.
E-News:
If you are interested in receiving PCPC e-news, please send an e-mail
to pcpcpress@gmail.com.
PCPC Anchor line: (813) 254-PCPC.

EMBRACING CHRISTIAN
PRACTICES DURING LENT
is year at PCPC, a variety of opportunities are available for those
desiring to strengthen their Christian practices during Lent and the 40
days leading up to Easter.
Worship:
roughout Lent, there will be Mid-day, Mid-week worship services
on Wednesdays at 12:00 p.m. in the chapel. ese services will
last 30 minutes and will include scripture readings, prayer, quiet
contemplation, music and the Sacrament of Communion. Lent begins
with Ash Wednesday on February 13th through the last Wednesday in
Lent on March 27th.
e Sunday evening Vespers services across Lent will occur at 6:00 p.m.
in the chapel and will last approximately 30 minutes. ese services will
include the Sacrament of Communion, group prayer, scripture readings
and, on occasion, baptism. ere will be prayers for the healing of
oneself and others, the opportunity to renew baptismal vows and the
opportunity for extended silent prayer.
Bible Study:
e Koinonia adult class meeting in the chapel at 9:45 a.m. on Sunday
mornings will be particularly welcoming for folks who are taking on
the practice of attending Sunday school during Lent, and they will be
studying the scriptures used by the pastors in the sermons during the
morning worship services. (For more information, contact Bill Wallof
(Bill@palmaceia.org).
e ursday morning Scripture Study that meets at 7:30 a.m. in the
conference room for an hour will also be particularly welcoming for
folks who are taking on the practice of scripture study during Lent, and
they will be studying each morning the scriptures used by the pastors
in the sermons in the Sunday approaching. (For more information,
contact Bill Wallof at Bill@palmaceia.org).
e Tuesday morning Prayer Group that meets in Eastminster at 7:30
a.m. for an hour presents yet another opportunity for folks who are
taking on the practice of prayer during Lent. (For more information,
please contact Joanne Snyder at prayer@palmaceia.org).
On Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. in the chapel throughout Lent, Pastor
John DeBevoise will be reading through the Gospel of Luke. e
readings will last 15 minutes, and will conclude with a quiet time of
prayer. Time will be allowed for those who desire to linger in prayer.
Anyone is welcome on any Wednesday, and also to voluntarily share in
the reading out loud of scriptures.
Compassion:
Lent will nd PCPC sharing in the grand opening of the new and
expanded Faith Cafe. Watch the bulletin calendar for this date and be
a part of PCPC’s supporters to attend the opening of this ministry that
feeds the poor. During Lent, PCPC will also be collecting the One
Great Hour of Sharing O ering, which is received on Palm Sunday.
is o ering is dedicated to ghting poverty locally and around the
world. e o ering will be publicized more in bulletins and newsletters
in March.
worship at pcpc
Palma Ceia Presbyterian Church o ers several
options for worship. On Sunday mornings,
there is a traditional service held in the sanctuary
at 8:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. At this service
we follow the Order for the Lord’s Day from
the Book of Common Worship and follow the
pattern of “Gathering, e Word and Sending.”
Hymns are led by a choir and selected from e
Presbyterian Hymnal.
In addition, there is a contemporary worship
service called the Connection held in the
multipurpose room in Covenant Hall at 8:30
a.m. and 9:45 a.m. e service o ers a relaxed
environment with a message by a pastor and
music provided by a worship band. e sermons
typically follow a series format.
A vespers worship service is o ered on Sunday
evenings at 6:00 p.m. in the chapel. is
service includes scripture readings, prayer and
meditation.
e sacraments, baptism and communion,
are o ered at all three services - Traditional,
Connection and Vespers.
ere is something for everyone at Palma Ceia
Presbyterian Church, and we welcome you to
worship with us.
ORS HIP
PCPC Life February 2013 | 3W

By Nancy Little, Preschool Director
I think of how we all sometimes struggle with
what to say, and in the best way, when a person we
care for has a signi cant loss. It brings to mind
a very heartfelt letter written by a former student
at PCPC’s preschool to her teacher, who had
recently lost her husband. With permission, I share
excerpts from a handwritten sympathy letter by
Jessica Wetherington. Although Jessica has special
challenges, she also has special gifts to convey her
feelings.
“Dear Maria Viera,
Don’t be sad and don’t be angry please don’t cry.
Just calm down and relax everything will be alright.
Look I understand it is hard for you do understand
this but you got to believe me things will get better
again.
It’s ok Just be yourself your carefree now Just like
me now you can be happy if you want to be happy
Maria.
Just go with the ow OK and take your time and do
what you can to get busy and move on with your life.
Spend your time with you son you know what you
wanna do with your life get to know your siblings
and family.
Spend some time with your friends they
may stick with you in the near future
Maria Viera Just tell your son what he
want to do and I want to say I am sorry
about your husband.”
PRESHCOOL
e letter is signed: Jessica Claire
Wetherington.
4 | www.palmaceia.org
“And he made no distinction between us and them,
having cleansed their hearts by faith.”
Jessica makes some insightful suggestions
to her grieving friend. Among them: take
your time, stay close to family and friends
who love you, be active and tell people
what you need. And, Jessica expresses
human compassion to her friend. I often
hear individuals say that they don’t know
what to say to those who are grieving.
My former student, Jessica, of whom I
am so proud, knows what to say, and she
shares it con dently in Christian spirit
and compassion.
Papoli is Connected
Village Partners International (VPI) was established several years ago as
a partner to PCPC in our missions in Uganda, Haiti and Beth El and
a means of opening those missions to individuals and organizations
outside of PCPC. One of the projects of VPI was to bring electricity
into Papoli.
e following is a letter from Samali Nyabeli regarding the advent of
electricity in Papoli. Samali is a Community Development Facilitator in
Papoli and recently visited PCPC with Emmanuel Ofumbi and Martha
Kawala. She writes:
“Just as a candle can help one navigate a dark room, one spark of
illumination can resolve many of life’s unanswered questions.
Two years ago, Village Partners began the process of bringing electricity
into the village of Papoli, Uganda. Even though the last utility pole was
only one-half mile from our village, the wheels of progress move rather
slowly in Uganda. However, we are very excited that Papoli is NOW
CONNECTED.
Electricity is now available in the Robert Cooley Pediatric Clinic, the
school and it is available in two small upcoming commercial centers
within the village.
Bringing electricity to the village was meant for speci c purposes and not
intended to serve the general population. Due to the simple, agrarian
lifestyle of the villagers, VPI and village leaders felt electricity on a larger
scale could cause more harm than good.
Electrical equipment and facilities will considerably improve the overall
quality of care available to patients of the pediatric clinic and, eventually,
the outpatient clinic, which is currently under construction. It will also
improve the overall operation of the clinics. Eventually an electric pump
will supply the clinic with running water.
Unless a Papoli student is fortunate enough to move on to higher
education and possibly college, their knowledge of the outside world is
very limited. Electronic learning aids can open up a whole new world
to them through sights, sounds and unlimited information is will
help them better compete with other schools in our district that have
had electricity. It will also inspire many to go further than they had
ever dreamed possible. Just a few used lap top computers and video
equipment would be a blessing for our community. Any help with that
would be greatly appreciated by our teachers and students.
Electricity to the two small commercial centers will stimulate business
and allow villagers to compete with other centers in our area. Upon
learning that electricity would be available, many villagers became very
excited about the possibility of a machine being installed in one of the
centers that would grind their grain for personal and commercial use.
Electricity will also result in new businesses being established such as
mobile phone charging, woodworking and welding. is would allow
more villagers to participate in small business ventures and help them
rise above subsistence farming.
e people of our community and leaders of the Papoli Community
Development Foundation extend their deep appreciation to VPI and all
the donors who made this dream come true. Electricity is now full time
in Papoli.
ank you very much and God bless.”
Acts 15:9
– Samali Nyabeli

FIRST IMPRESSIONS
It was an exhilarating sight as our small plane glided over the
mountains from Port au Prince to the small grass runway in the
northern town of Pignon, Haiti. Upon our arrival, we traveled
12 miles through the mountains on wooden benches in the back
of a truck. I was told it would be a bit bumpy but I thought,
“How bad could it be to travel only 12 miles?” I never would have
dreamed it could be so treacherous! is gives you an idea of the
condition of the roads, and it took more than two hours to travel
to our destination. We were almost constantly jolted and jostled
around, traveling over large rocks, giant ruts and through muddy
creeks. Along the way, we saw many donkeys burdened with
heavy loads and many young children who were completely naked
or wore just a shirt. Many of the few power poles along the way
looked as if they were about to fall onto the road.
Finally arriving in Mombin Crochu, I observed a sleepy village
with children walking the streets in their sharp, school uniforms,
and shopkeepers sitting outside their concrete block stores. Most
of the town noises came from the children playing or the goats,
pigs and other animals wandering around and being herded
through the streets. Much of the population lives outside of the
town proper - some of them more than a two-hour walk from the
town and medical services. e roads are rocky, often very steep,
and many creeks are only accessible by foot.
Except for seeing naked children, the prevailing poverty there
was not immediately evident while walking through the streets,
though. It was only by talking with the town people that the
extreme hardships were revealed. One young woman begged us to
take her young children because she was unable to care for them.
e government-run hospital in Mombin Crochu was
considerably larger that I ever imagined. However, it is badly in
need of repair and decent equipment. Its roof leaks. Most of its
electrical xtures don’t work. Mold is evident and much of the
equipment is old or rusty from the dampness. Most windows lack
screens, or the screens that do exist are in need of repair. ere
have been pleas to the government for assistance. Employees are
paid a modest government salary; however, payment is sporadic
and salaries were two months behind schedule when we were
there. e government also does not provide doctors; the two
doctors on sta are funded entirely by PCPC’s partner, Village
Partners International.
I sensed a desperate hunger for education among
the older children, most of whom have little hope
of obtaining the funds needed for higher education.
Many of the primary school-aged children can’t a ord
to attend public school because of the cost of tuition,
plus uniforms, supplies and shoes. ere are some
free schools in Haiti, yet they are only located in the
larger cities. Our translator, Pastor Fred, runs a free
private school out of a dilapidated church, where he
holds Sunday church services. He spends much of his
time raising funds to pay the teachers and purchase
school supplies. e sight of these poor children
seeking education in such primitive surroundings, and
the dedication of the teachers and school committee
members, moved me to tears.
When you experience such a situation, as I did, you
feel a desperate urge to provide some sort of assistance.
Assistance exists throughout Haiti, yet it is usually
best to provide organized help through PCPC and
organizations like Village Partners International that
follow God’s lead to provide a better way of life within
this sea of despair. en maybe, with God’s help, the
many organizations and individuals that are lling their
particular niches can organize and combine e orts
to turn things around in this poorest country in the
Western Hemisphere.
“But when you give to
the needy, do not let your
left hand know what
your right hand is doing,
so that your giving may
be in secret. And your
Father who sees in secret
will reward you.”
Matthew 6:3-4
– Dennis Bradt
MISSION
PCPC Life February 2013 | 5

FEBRUARY PW CIRCLE GROUPS
Circle #1 – Chairs: Margaret Stevens & Ann Geuther
February 4th, 10:15 a.m. at Penny Dewell’s home,
4307 Woodmere Rd.
Circle #2 – Chair: Carolyn Norton
February 4th, 10:15 a.m. at Dona Clark’s home,
2902 W Waverly Ave.
Circle #3 – Chairs: Barbara Shepard & Kippy Pitisci
February 4th, 10:15 a.m. at 3202 W Oakeller St.
Circle #4 – Chairs: Mary Lou Bondi & Barbara Meng
February 4th, 10:15 a.m. at Palma Ceia Presbyterian,
Room 112
Circle #5 – Chairs: Jo Goldsmith & Gay Rivas
February 5th, 7:00 p.m. at the home of Gay Rivas,
3810 N. Oak Dr., Unit N-41
Circle #6 – Chairs: Nancy Nelson & Cheryl Fraser
February 11th, 11:00 a.m. at Jenifer Ownby’s home,
3203 W. Parkland Blvd.
Circle #7 – Chair: Sarah Stichter
February 4th, 10:30 a.m. in the PCPC third- oor library
(adjacent to the PW room)
Circle #8 – Chair: Janice Piechowiak
February 5th, 6:30 p.m. (dinner) and 7:15 (Bible study)
at Betsy Bradt’s home, 2104 S. Curt Circle
Circle #9 – Chairs: Leah Maurer & Maegen Luka
February 4th, 8:30 a.m. in PCPC’s Westminster room
214 with nursery care available.
6| www.palmaceia.org
PCPC Circle girls!
NURTURE
your FAITH
PCPC to Host 2013
Presbytery Gathering
e month of February is now upon us. February
brings us the Florida State Fair, the Strawberry
Festival, Valentine’s Day, President’s Day and, this
year, as during many other years, the beginning of
Lent. For Presbyterian Women (PW), it also brings
the Annual Gathering of the Women of Tampa Bay
Presbytery.
In last month’s PW article, I encouraged you to
attend the gathering and to be a part of the worship
and the fellowship opportunity it brings. Again, I
urge you to keep the gathering in your prayers and
on your calendar.
e 2013 Gathering Committee has been hard
at work preparing for this event. e registration
forms have ( nally) arrived, and we are getting closer
and closer to February 16th when all the work will
come together.
If you are already part of a circle, your circle leader
has the registration form and will be happy to
sign you up. e cost is $8.00 per person, which
includes lunch (cooked by our own Coretha
Johnson). If you are not in a circle currently but
would like to be present, you can contact Julianne
McKeel, Jennifer Pandol or me and we will help
you with the formalities. Registration deadline is
February 6th.
Please join us on the morning of Saturday, February
16th. We look forward to seeing you there.
Anne Loomis
PW President, 2012-2013

YOUTH 2013
check us out on wednesdays & sundays!
SUMMER TRIPS
All summer trip forms are on the youth website! (www.
pcpcyouth.com).
Both middle school summer events, Disciple Now (June 10th-
14th) and Southwind (July 25th-30th), are lling up quickly! Be
sure to place your deposits soon! ($50 for Disciple Now / $100
for Southwind).
Sign-ups for the high school mission trip to Jamaica (June 22nd-
28th) were due at the rst of this month. If this is news to you
and you are having a slight panic attack, contact David Bonnema
immediately.
THE GREAT ADVENTURE
is summer we are trying something completely new. We will
be taking high school students on what we are calling, “ e Great
Adventure!” We will spend July 8th -13th up in the Blue Ridge
Mountains of Georgia, experiencing God in this beautiful setting
while enjoying adventurous activities like hiking, zip lining and
white water rafting! Our emphasis on this trip will be to provide
high school students with a rmer foundation of faith. Each
day we will encounter big theological questions to provoke deep
critical thinking, while equipping our students with knowledge
and a stronger understanding of Scripture and theology.
e capacity for this trip is 26 students, so turn in the $100
deposit to Kenny Hubbell ASAP to hold your student’s spot!
Deposits are due by March 17th.
CHECK US OUT!
middle school
On campus Middle School Youth events are in the gym.
February 6th: Youth Group, 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
February 13th: Valentine’s Day emed Youth Group!
Candy Provided!
February 20th: Youth Group, 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
February 27th: Youth Group 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
high school
On campus High School Youth events are in the gym.
February 3rd: Super Bowl Party at the Cooper’s
Residence! No Youth Group
February 10th: Youth Group, 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
February 17th: Youth Group, 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
February 24th: Youth Group 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
David Bonnema
Director of Youth Ministry
Palma Ceia Presbyterian Church
www.pcpcyouth.com
Kenny Hubbell
Associate Director of Youth Ministry
Palma Ceia Presbyterian Church
www.pcpcyouth.com
YOUTH
PCPC Life February 2013 | 7

“Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that
at the proper time he may exalt you.”
Con rmation Class
8 | www.palmaceia.org
of
2013
We are pleased to introduce PCPC’s new con rmation
class of 2013, which includes 50 high school students who
participated in Christian studies over an eight-week period.
One of the main focuses of the class was the examination
of the grand biblical narrative, studying a speci c biblical
piece in chronological order. Along the way we continually
asked of the group, “How is the biblical story also your
personal story?” At the conclusion of the class, each
student wrote his or her own personal statement of faith.
Congratulations to this year’s con rmation class!
ose in the 2013 con rmation class include:
Elizabeth Andrews, Caroline Carter, Brooke Cockrell,
Kennedy Cooper, Brower Davis, Megan Delmissier, Ronnie
Fair, Emma Frierson, Toni Gaertner, Alyson Gage, Austin
Gage, Drew Glisson, Julia Gomez, Max Gomez, Robert
Gomez, Ansley Gould, Lily Ann Guagliardo, Megan
Harris, Sarah Harris, Allie Hendry, Will Hershock, Addison
Hill, Lexi Hutchinson, Henry Jetmundsen, Lauren Lastres,
Micah Lomel, Hillary McLauchlin, Sophia Meyer, Tab
Mickelson, JB Morris, Quinn Morris, Ryan Pitisci, Gri n
Porter, Gunnar Raney, Gracie Reddick, Sarah Rossi, Libby
Ru , M.E. Schatzberg, Daphne Schmid, Khaki Schmid,
ea Schmid, Melanie Shepherd, Chad Singletary, Ti any
Smith, Jodi Traster, Holly Wells and Marissa Wilson.
PCPC’s 2013 Con rmation Class - Welcome New Members!
the LIFE
of the church
WEDDING
12/31/12 Anderson Lee Smith & Tony Michael Sasso
BIRTHS
01/02/13 Charlotte Mitchell,
daughter of Allison and John Mitchell.
01/04/13 Caroline Mullinax,
daughter of Laura & John Mullinax.
BAPTISMS
01/13/13 Marixaydee Maldonado Ortiz
NEW MEMBERS
01/06/13
Elizabeth Miller Andrews
Caroline Ann Carter
Brooke Ann Cockrell
Kennedy Lauren Cooper
Joseph Brower Davis, V
Megan Nicole Del Missier
Allison Ronnie Fair
Antonia Grace Gaertner
Alyson Mae Gage
George Austin Gage
Andrew Scott Glisson
Julia Adele Gomez
Maxwell Alan Gomez
Ansley Walker Gould
Lily Ann Guagliardo
Rebeccah Allison Hendry
William John Hershock
Addison Elizabeth Hill
Henry Rogers Jetmundsen
01/09/13
Emma Elisabeth Frierson
Megan Renee Harris
Sarah Elizabeth Harris
1 Peter 5:6
Lauren Olivia Lastres
Micah Laine Lomel
Hillary Ann McLauchlin
Sophia Kay Meyer
Michael Quinn Morris
Ryan Christopher Pitisci
Gri n Henry Porter
Gunnar William Raney
Grace Elizabeth Reddick
Sarah Grace Rossi
Elizabeth Anne Ru
Madison Elizabeth Schatzberg
Daphne Grace Schmid
Dorothea Pauline Schmid
Katherine Brandon Schmid
omas Chad Singletary
Jodi Leah Traster
Holly Margaret Wells
Marissa Lauren Wilson
Melanie Frances Shepherd
Ti any Meriwether Smith
TRANSFERS:
12/20/12 Alex Morrison to
e Summit Church, Durham, NC

Continued from Page 1
wandered in the desert before they were ready to enter the Promised
Land. All churches that have a continuous history extending before
1500 AD observe Lent. e practice of observing this season has roots
in the earliest years of the church.
is year, Lent begins on Wednesday February 13th - Ash Wednesday
- and ends on Saturday March 29th, the day before Easter. e date of
the great celebration of Christ’s resurrection on Easter travels across the
calendar.
Here is a bit of trivia; Easter is always the rst Sunday after the rst
full moon after the Spring Equinox. is is a witness to the fact that
originally the date for Easter (although it has drifted in the calendar a
bit) was tied to the Jewish celebration of the Passover.
I like to think of Lent as a journey – a time of moving from the place
we are at, to the next place where God wants us. I think of Lent as a
time to intentionally strengthen practices of the Christian faith through
prayer, Bible study, generosity, Sabbath keeping, worship and benevolent
acts. Many people think of Lent as a time of fasting and sacri ce,
such as giving up chocolate or red meat on Fridays. Lent, however, is
not about being miserable; it’s about entering into a time of preparation,
self-discovery and positive change. ink of it as a sort of Christian
Spring training.
ese 40 days of Lent can also be for you and your family an intentional
time of faith renewal and practice. So what are you leaving behind
this Lent? What are you embracing for Lent?
John
Rev. John DeBevoise
Age mile-marker celebrations were in abundance in January during a
Wednesday night dinner honoring those at PCPC who have attained
their 80s and 90s! Imagine all of the accumulated wisdom, too,
within this group! Seated, from left: Martha Clark, Hazel Arnett, Mary
Hatton, Winnie Feltrop, Joanne Britt, Susan Barksdale, Pat King, Phyllis
Keller. Standing, from left: Clyde Clark, Larry Dickson, Chuck Rayburn,
Margaret and Charlie Stevens, Dan Miller, Mary Pope,Crowell Dawkins,
Virginia Owen, Bob Hardaway, Jo Goldsmith, Art Connelly.
Wednesday Dinner
Whenever we gather around tables to share meals
with one another, it can be a sacred experience as
our bodies and souls are fed and nourished.
FEBRUARY MENU
February 6th – Valentine’s Day dinner
Pot roast, potatoes, carrots, onions and green
beans
February 13th – Ash Wednesday dinner
Fried chicken, potatoes and peas
February 20th – Witness and Service
Committee presentation on Village Partners
International.
Meat or vegetable lasagna
February 27th
Pulled pork, coleslaw and baked beans
* ere is always a celebratory cake during
the fi rst Wednesday dinner of each
month for those with birthdays, and
one complementary birthday dinner
is redeemable through the month.
Pricing
Cost Per Person: $5.00
Cost Per Child:
Free (ages 0-2)
$2.00 (ages 3-6)
$3.00 (ages 6-12)
$5.00 (ages 12 and up)
Cost Per Family: $15.00
Booklet of 6 meals: $25.00
Please call the church o ce,
813-253-6047, to make reservations
for dinner. e 2012-2013 menu is
posted on the website,
palmaceia.org/Fellowship.
FELLOWSHIP
PCPC Life February 2013 | 9

adults &
PARISH NURSE CORNER
e church Parish nurses, Gayle Hudson, RN, and Martha Spicklemire, RN,
provide informative news each month in order to:
1. O er educational materials and resources to the congregation.
2. Provide patient advocacy tips to assist with individual medical needs.
National Wear Red Day
Red is always in fashion, but there is no better time to wear
your favorite red dress than on “National Wear Red Day”
which is February 1st, 2013. Each year, the rst Friday of
February is designated as a day when we call attention to the
number one killer of women: heart disease. It is also a day
when we celebrate women who are taking action to protect
their hearts.
Here are some startling facts to consider about women and
heart disease: One in four women in the country will die of
heart disease compared to one in 30 who will die of cancer.
Twenty three percent of women will die within one year
after experiencing a heart attack. Within six years of having
a heart attack, 46 percent of women will be disabled due to
heart failure. Heart disease cannot be cured. It is a lifelong
condition- once you get it, you will always have it.
Risk factors for heart disease include high blood pressure,
high blood cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, obesity and lack
of exercise. It is known fact that 80 percent of women ages
40 to 60 have one or more of these risk factors. Research
tells us that having just one risk factor doubles a woman’s
chance of developing heart disease.
e best way to reduce your chances of a heart attack is to
identify any risk factors you have and learn how to reduce
them. Develop a close relationship with your doctor and
keep him or her fully informed of any changes that might
signal an increased risk for heart disease. Some things that
you can do right now are to become more physically active,
stop smoking, try to reduce your exposure to stress, get
plenty of restful sleep and cut down on high sodium and
high calorie foods.
e Heart Truth campaign is sponsored by the National
Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. e centerpiece of e
Heart Truth is the “Red Dress,” which was introduced in
2002 as the national symbol for women and heart disease
awareness. e red symbol illustrates a woman’s focus on
her “outer self” yet the need to focus on her “inner self” as
well. For more information, go to www.heartruth.gov.
10 | www.palmaceia.org
families
YOUNG AT HEART
e next Young At Heart gathering
will be held at Bayshore Baptist Church
on ursday, February 21st from
12:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., featuring
inspirational speaker Betty Gray of
“Encourage Me” ministries. e cost is $7, and please
make reservations through Bruce Farnell in the church
o ce (813-253-6047) or receptionist@palmaceia.org.
– B.J. Johns, Social Worker
FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT
PCPC’s Children’s Ministry team is hosting
a Family Movie Night on Friday, March 1st
in Fellowship Hall at 5:30 p.m., so mark
your calendars! is is an opportunity for families to
spend time together and to meet other
church families. We will have hot dogs and
popcorn and watch “Because of Winn-
Dixie”- a “PG” rated lm that has received
5 Dove awards and the “family-approved” seal for all ages.
Movie reviewers say, “ is is a must-see movie. It has all
of the elements of a quality family lm: warmth, credible
characters, good writing and wonderful acting.” Feel free
to bring the kids in their pajamas, and bring blankets or
beach chairs, as we will sit picnic style. RSVP to nancyc@
palmaceia.org.
“For he says, ‘In a favorable time
I listened to you, and in a day
of salvation I have helped you.’
Behold, now is the favorable
time; behold, now is the day of
salvation.”
2 Corinthians 6:2

CHRISTIAN EDUCATION
Save the date ...
e Christian Education Department invites all fourth and
fth grade girls, and all fth grade boys, AND their parent(s) to
join in “Just Say Know” - a class in which we will take a look
at God’s great gift of human sexuality. e class will be held
on Sunday, Feb. 24th from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. with a pizza
lunch. A $15 fee covers the cost of materials. Please register by
contacting Linda Beckham at the church o ce (813-253-6047)
or Linda@palmaceia.org.
Don’t forget to check out the website for Cedarkirk Camp and
Conference dates for the summer of 2013, and sign up early!
Full or partial scholarships are available by contacting Linda
Beckham at Linda@palmaceia.org. Cedarkirk can be reached
at Cedarkirk.com
Vacation Bible School planning is underway, so round up your
friends and sign on to the best round up in town, Son West
Roundup. Our Trail bosses are Catie Witherspoon and GG
Van Aelst, who will be looking for ranch hands to teach the
stories of our faith to our little cowpokes! Make sure you have
June 10th – 14th on your calendar! Registration is open to all
children who have completed four-year-old preschool through
the sixth grade. Children ages 0 - 3 will have age appropriate
and theme related activities. Don’t wait! Contact Catie at
cwitherspoon@tampabay.rr.com and GG at ggvanaelst@gmail.
com today!
– Linda Beckham,
Director of Christian Ministry
Valentine s Day Prayer
Love is patient; love is kind. Love is not envious
or boastful, or arrogant or rude. Love does
not insist on its own way, it is not irritable or
resentful. Love does not rejoice in wrongdoing,
but rejoices in the truth. It bears all things,
believes all things, hopes all things, endures all
things. Love never ends. We thank you, O God
for your love and for how it dwells within us as
we dwell within you. Out of your love we pray
now to you about those things you have placed
upon hearts this day... Lord, hear our prayer.
SUNDAY MORNINGS
e Nursery, C103
Nursery care is provided for all infants through toddler
two each Sunday while parents are in worship and
Sunday school, from 8:15 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. Workers
are experienced child care workers, current in rst aid
and CPR. All parents are asked to sign in at the main
preschool desk in Covenant Hall. Pagers are available
for your convenience. Contact Nursery Coordinator
Jeanne Rowe at the church.
Sunday School, 9:45a.m. -10:45 a.m.
Sunday school is an opportunity for your children
to learn the Word of God while spending time in
fellowship with their peers. Pre-K 2 class is located
on the rst oor of Covenant Hall (CH102). Pre-K
3 and 4 classes are on the rst oor of the Eastminster
building (E102 and E103). Kindergarten through
5th grade classes are located on the 2nd oor of the
Westminster building.
Godly Play, C101
Children ages 3 through 1st grade are
invited to participate in Godly Play
following “ e Time with the Children”
in worship both at the 8:30 and the 11:00
a.m. worship services.
(Parents, escort your children to Godly Play
when the children are dismissed from the
sermon).
Richelle Sanchez with “Auntie” Keira Kant.
DISCIPLESHIP
PCPC Life February 2013 | 11

3501 San Jose • Tampa, FL 33629
Phone: (813) 253-6047
Fax: (813) 254-5274
Anchor Line: (813) 254-PCPC
www.palmaceia.org
FEBRUARY 2013
“I have loved you with
an everlasting love…”
Jeremiah 31:3
ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
Installation of Elder Class of 2015
Sunday, January 27, 2013
NON-PROFIT ORG.
US POSTAGE
PAID
PERMIT NO. 104
TAMPA, FLORIDA
Front row: Diggs Vann, Tony Buntyn, Martha Spicklemire, Stacey Singletary, Cindy Goding,
Jeff Willis, Miller Detrick. Back row, with Rev. John DeBevoise and Rev. Nicole Partin Abdnour:
Sara Winston, Marsha Rydberg, Chip Fletcher (not shown, Caroline Collier, Hunter Brownlee)