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Many Thanks for a Christmas Day Blessing

On December 25, 2009 at our sixth annual Christmas Day meal, over 125 hungry guests were treated to their fill of turkey, gravy, ham, green bean casserole, corn, mashed potatoes, bread and desserts. Twenty of our church families cooked turkeys or hams at home and brought them to the feast. Another dozen families made green bean casseroles at home and delivered them in time for the meal. Around 40 volunteers (church members, friends and new comers from the community), donated their time between 1:30 and 5:30 p.m. to cook, serve, entertain and host our guests. The deacons had purchased gifts for children, blankets, and McDonald’s gift certificates for all of the diners. One family in the congregation had also prepared backpacks filled with gifts that were given to the 25 children who came to eat with their families.

Thanks to all who helped us share God’s love with so many people this Christmas!

Thanks...A Ton!

...or, we could almost say - thanks a ton and a half. The response to our RICE AND BEANS drive for our friends in the Presbyterian churches in Honduras has been wonderfully overwhelming. As of Monday morning, November 23, when the first piles were boxed for transport to Tampa, we had brought in 1,660 pounds of rice, and 676 pounds of small red beans (for a total of OVER ONE TON OF FOOD). Those items were delivered to Tampa before Thanksgiving. The beans and rice that have been brought in since, will be boxed this week and they will make their way to Tampa before the container is shipped to Honduras the second week of December. Thanks for sharing so generously with our Christian brothers and sisters in need!

Festival of Christian Artisans Photos

During the month of August, Christian Artisans specializing in various disciplines shared their talents with others having a desire to learn. Take a look at the photos that were taken to see what makes First Pres such a special church!

Mission Honduras 2009

Once again, our church mission team to the country of Honduras has arrived safely back in the states with incredible stories to tell of how God is at work in our world.

The group of 29 people who traveled June 20-27 to Honduras was the sixth group of missionaries our church has sent to the Presbytery of Honduras since 1998. These men, women, and youth from our church visited Presbyterian churches in Nacaome, Moropocay, Las Crucitas and La Venta. Our missionaries joined with a Honduran physician in church based clinics. The First Presbyterain team also assisted the men of the Moropocay church in laying the foundation for a new education building, and painted the interior and exterior front of the new sanctuary of the church of Nacaome.

Recent Tower Chimes newsletters have first-person reports from the mission trip. Click here for the Tower Chimes page.

We want to thank our mission partners -- the entire congregation -- for the financial and spiritual support that made this trip, and our ministry in partnership with our Honduran brothers and sisters in Christ possible.

Mission Honduras Presentation and Dinner
October 4, 12:15 p.m.

As a thank you to all who prayed and paid for our trip, our 2009 Honduras Mission Team will be cooking and serving a congregational luncheon on Sunday, October 4 (World Communion Sunday). Please plan to join us in McLeod Hall at 12:15 p.m. for chicken and rice, tortillas, plantains, refried beans, and flan. There will be a Mission Show and Tell at each table (hosted by one of our 29 "2009 missionaries"). And the whole group will tell about our most recent Mission Honduras experience, with the help of a video and multi-media show captured and edited by mission team member Pam Baker. Mark you calendars and come and celebrate this wonderful mission partnership!

Tons of New Photos!

Check out hundreds of new photos in six brand new albums! You'll find lots to look at, including the Madrigal Feaste, Youth Talent Show, and Souper Bowl of Caring, as well as several others. Take a look and see what makes First Pres such a special place!

Beyond Mammography: A Women's Breast Health program.
Special Guest Speaker: Dr. Mary Gardner
(Sponsored by your Parish Nurse Program)
For Men and Women of our Congregation

May 17, 12:00 - Lunch; 12:45 - Program

Dr. Gardner, a diagnostic radiologist and Director of Breast Imaging at USF, has extensive experience in diagnosing and preventing breast cancer. Her previous experience has been at Moffitt Cancer Center, Lakeland Regional Cancer Center, and Winter Haven Hospital. Dr. Gardner will be discussing the latest diagnostic tools available in diagnosing breast cancer in it's earliest stages. By empowering women and men with knowledge and choice, together we can help beat this disease. Don't miss this opportunity to be your own advocate.

Parish Nurse Events

• Blood Pressure Screening on the fourth Sunday each month.
• AED Training for ushers will be offered Sunday, February 15, immediately following both services in the Edinburgh Annex room.
• Informational Program: What’s it all about? February 15 at 12:15 p.m. in McLeod Hall.

Were you recently prescribed a medication by your doctor and you don’t understand why? Do you feel like you aren't getting the answers you need from your doctor's office? Have you been given a diagnosis that is troubling or confusing? Are you suffering a loss (loved one, job, family pet) and feel like you just aren't getting through the grief? Do you feel stressed or overwhelmed and need someone to talk to? Are you a caregiver for a loved one and don't understand the illness or disease process that your loved one is experiencing? Or are you wondering if it might be becoming more than you can handle? These are just some of the things that a parish nurse can help with. If you would like to get help from a parish nurse, please call the church office at 294-3121.

Farewell, Sue

After nearly thirteen years of service to God here at First Presbyterian Church, Sue Vaughan, our church secretary is retiring. Sue has been a friend to many as the person who is right inside the office door. Her warm smile, wonderful skills, and professional manner have been a blessing to our church. Sue will be moving soon after retirement to Brunswick, GA, where she will be close to her daughter's family (and two of her grandchildren!). We will miss Sue. Her last day on the job is Friday, January 30. Please let Sue know what her ministry here has meant to you.

...and Welcome, Jan

We welcome Jan Sanders to our support staff as an administrative assistant. Jan is from Lewisburg, Tennessee and now resides in Winter Haven with her husband Mark and son John. She is a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Lewisburg. Come by the office and say hello to Jan.

Fall Fest Photos!

Fantastic photos from the Fall Fest! Feel free to fix your focus on these fresh photos of funny and far-out faces found at First Pres at the Fall Fest! Phenomenal flights of fancy flitted to and fro! And everyone found their fill of fun, fellowship, and flavorful food. Finally fired up for the photos? Time to finish fooling around find the photos!!!

Dr. C. Alan Harvey
Tenth Anniversary Celebration
September 21, 2008

On September 18, 1998, Dr. C. Alan Harvey joined our staff as the Associate Pastor here at First Presbyterian Church of Winter Haven. To mark this special occasion, we will have a special reception in Alan’s honor in McLeod Hall following the 11:00 a.m. worship service. Please plan to drop by and show your appreciation to Alan for the first ten years he has shared with us in ministry.

Summer Mission Opportunities: Volunteers Needed

Saturday Soup Kitchen: Cooks/Helpers Needed.
Our weekly ministry of providing a hot meal in the name of Jesus Christ to the hungry in our community will not hit a summer slump. We feed an average of 60 people each Saturday night. The crews usually meet in the church kitchen around 2:00 p.m. Saturday for food prep and set-up. The serving hour at our 737 building is 4:00 – 5:00 p.m. Clean up is usually done in 30 minutes, and the volunteers are out the door by 5:30 p.m. – filled with the knowledge that lots of our neighbors will not go to bed hungry that night! If you would like to be a part of this ministry of care and compassion, sign up on the bulletin board in McLeod Hall. Head cooks and helpers are needed.

Bag Lunch Ministry: Assemble Food Bags On Your Own Schedule.
For nearly 20 years, First Presbyterian Church has responded to Matthew 25 by feeding every hungry person who comes to our doors. This Bag Lunch Ministry is feeding an average of 30 people each weekday. Food items are purchased in bulk by the deacons, and volunteers are needed to assemble bag lunches. It takes about an hour or two for one person to bag 125 lunches (one week’s worth of our distribution). If you would be willing to come by, just call the church office and find out how our supply is holding out and schedule your time to help. Volunteers are welcome to come and assemble lunch bags as individuals or in one of our church groups. During the summer we seem to need more people to assemble than in the winter.

Meals on Wheels: Summer Drivers Needed
Each weekday, over one hundred residents of our area depend on the drivers from Meals on Wheels to deliver the hot, nutritious lunch and personal contact that helps them stay in their own homes. During the summer months, when many regular Meals on Wheels volunteers are away at their alternate addresses, Meals desperately needs fill-in drivers. It takes a couple of hours around lunch-time to deliver the meals on a route. If you could help one or more days a week, or even one or two days this summer, it would be a God- send. Meals on Wheels is located on Sixth Street, NW, directly across from our church. Call their office at 299-1616 or drop by to find out where you are needed.

New Photo Album Additions!

Want to see what happened at VBS and the Veterans Picnic? This is the place. Hundreds of new photos have been added to our online Photo Album. Take a look!

Children's Spring Musical
Wednesday, May 7 at 5:30

Please don't miss the Children's Spring Musical, "Journey of Praise". The program will be followed by dinner in McLeod Hall. Please reserve your spot for dinner by signing up on the announcement sheet tear-off, in McLeod Hall, or call the church office. The menu will be spaghetti, breadsticks, salad, dessert, and iced tea or lemonade. Reservations are needed by Monday, May 5 at noon.

Easter Photos!

Pictures from our Easter church-wide breakfast and children's egg hunt can now be viewed in our online Photo Album. Please take a look and see why First Presbyterian Church is known for fellowship and fun!

Presbyterian Women’s Garden Party Luncheon
April 21 at 12:00

All women of the church are invited to come to McLeod Hall on April 21, 12 o’clock for fellowship and a program by Dr. Negley. Bring a covered dish and invite a friend. There is a sign-up sheet in McLeod Hall on the PW bulletin board. The Birthday Offering envelopes will be available and the offering received congregation wide on April 27.

Talent Show & Spaghetti Supper
Sunday, April 27 at 5:30

There will be nothing store bought about our sauce, meatballs, bread, or desserts. We have the pleasure to announce that we have a special group of volunteers cooking our spaghetti dinner from scratch. We will start with a wonderful salad with many toppings to choose from. We want to satisfy everyone’s appetite so we added a no meat sauce in addition to having a meat sauce. You will not leave hungry! Fresh bread and butter will soak up all the sauce and then you will finish off with dessert options that will melt in your mouth.

This year the church talents reaches from little ones singing songs, dancing and telling jokes to our older ones playing piano, singing and playing different instruments. Robert Volpe has volunteered to come back as a FPC youth alumni and MC our event. We are excited to have Robert and we are also excited to announce that Jimmy Hankin will be performing! We have missed him over the past years and are very proud to have him back on our stage.

Come out and join with our church family for a wonderful night.

Choral Concert
Sunday, March 16, 4:00 P.M.

On March 16, at 4:00 pm, the choir of First Presbyterian, joined by a number of singers from the community, will present the Fauré "Requiem" at First Presbyterian Church in the sanctuary. Patty Muller, organist at Beymer United Methodist Church, will be the organist. Our soloists will be Mike Harris, Baritone, and Joanne Rasmussen, Soprano.

The program will include an organ solo by Johann Sebastian Bach, based on the familiar hymn "All Glory, Laud, and Honor." Along with the Fauré "Requiem", the fifty voice choir will sing "Blessed Jesu, Fount of Mercy" by Dvorak and "Go, My Children, with My Blessing" by Pelz; based on the familiar Welsh tune "All Through the Night".

There will be a reception after the concert where we will celebrate the end of a very successful Concert Series! Admission is free and an offering will be taken to help defray the expenses of the concert series.

Second Annual Bell Festival
February 23, 4:00 p.m.

On February 23 at 4:00 p.m., the Festival of Music Series will present the Second Annual Bell Festival Concert. A number of bell choirs will gather at First Presbyterian Church to rehearse together for several hours prior to the afternoon concert.

Valerie Stephenson, accomplished vocal and instrumental teacher, handbell composer, arranger, author, conductor and clinician will be directing. A resident of Jacksonville, Ms. Stephenson directs and rings with the Southside Handbell Ensemble and is a member of the First Coast Ringers. Ms. Stephenson will conduct the group numbers, all of which are her own compositions. Each bell choir will also present a special number on their own. The First Presbyterian bell choir will present a spiritual arranged by Ms. Stephenson that will feature Mike Harris on saxophone. You will want to be there, as you’ve never heard a piece like this before! The concert will last about 45 minutes and will feature some exciting music.

This will be the last Bell Festival hosted by First Presbyterian before being passed to the American Guild of Handbell Ringers and a new regional venue, so you won’t want to miss it!

Car Show Luncheon
Monday, February 25, 2007 - 11:30 a.m.

All folks 55 and older in our congregation (and your friends!) will not want to miss our February Prime Timers Luncheon. The program will stir your memories of CARS FROM THE PAST. Steve Negley will be leading a little drive down memory lane, with the help of many friends who are bringing their classic cars. Plan to enjoy the fellowship around the table as we eat a nice lunch and tell a few stories of cars from each of our pasts. Then take some time to linger in our automotive time capsule outside. For lunch reservations and transportation call Dick and Doris Hill at 292-9762.

New Photos!

Check out all the new pictures of recent events at First Presbyterian Church! We've posted photos from the Fall Festival, Madrigal Nights, and Handel's Messiah concert.

First Presbyterian Presents "Messiah"
December 9, 4:00 p.m.

We are pleased to announce that the Festival Music Series will present the Christmas section of "Messiah" by Handel on December 9, at 4:00 p.m. in our sanctuary. "Messiah" is one of the most favorite of all choral works. For over fifty years this composition has been part of our Winter Haven Christmas celebration and now we are partnering with other local musicians to make it happen again. The choir has been formed from the combination of our Chancel Choir and other singers who have sung "Messiah" for years as well as other interested singers. We are expecting a choir of sixty voices and an orchestra of twelve players. The orchestra will be led by our own K. C. Davidson as Concert Mistress. The vocal soloists are Dr. Eugenia Garrity, soprano; Dawn Bernhardt-Spicer, contralto; Nick Brata, tenor; and Ron Hatley, bass. Kim Reisinger and Patty Muller from Beymer United Methodist Church will play organ and harpsichord respectively while Keith Rasmussen will conduct. There is no admission charge but a freewill offering will be taken to assist with the expenses of the concert. A reception will be held in McLeod Hall immediately after the program. We plan on a packed church for this exciting and meaningful event. Mark this on your calendar and come EARLY for a good seat.

New Online Calendar!

First Pres Online is pleased to announce a new and improved calendar page. The calendar has a sharp new look and several new features. With the new calendar you can…

• navigate more easily
• view a month at a time, one week, or just one day
• print the calendar in portrait (tall) or landscape (wide) layouts
• use a powerful search tool to find events
• see events for only the group of your interest (“music”, for example)
• have it send you an e-mail reminder before an event occurs
• have it invite a friend to an event via e-mail

Your Piece In Our Puzzle

During the month of October, the 1000 pieces of our church puzzle have been mailed to the women, men, youth, and children who together are First Presbyterian Church. The invitation with each piece has been "please bring your puzzle piece with you as we make First Pres. the most wonderfully complete church it can be." We know that some of our puzzle pieces have been delivered to people who are not physically able to attend church at this time. Elders and pastors of the church will be dropping by to visit these members in the next few weeks, and will be glad to bring your piece of the puzzle back to church from that visit. We know that some of our puzzle pieces have been mailed to college students (as we have tried to secure current addresses). We hope to see you in worship over the holidays. Please bring your puzzle piece and drop it in the collection plate when you are with us at Thanksgiving or Christmas. We know that the rest of the puzzle pieces are in the hands of those of us who are here in the greater Winter Haven area. We hope that you will come for worship soon, and when you do, please drop you puzzle piece in the collection plate. We are reassembling the puzzle each week ---- Come to the narthex before or after worship to see how it all fits together!

Organ Recital
October 28

Keith Rasmussen will present his first organ recital in Winter Haven at the first Presbyterian Church, 637 6th St. N.W., on October 28 at 4:00 pm. Keith has been the Director of Music at the church for two years.

There will be three major works presented. The first is the ever popular "Toccata and Fugue in d minor" by J. S. Bach. Even though this work was originally composed for the violin, it has become Bach’s best-known organ work. Mr. Rasmussen will also present the "Pedal Variations on a theme by Paganini" which are written for the pedals except for the last variation. The work uses various pedaling techniques; including single notes, chords, and slides. The last piece on the program will be the "Passacaglia in G" by Leo Sowerby. This is one of the most epic American works for the organ of the 20th century and is very listenable.

The concert will be in the sanctuary of First Presbyterian. There is no admission charge and a reception will follow. A retiring offering will be received to help cover the cost of the Festival of Music Series.

Ray Vaughn Barber

August 8, 1947 – September 27, 2007

Our Custodian and Friend
Since December, 1986

Honduras Mission in Photos

Members of First Presbyterian Church recently returned from their mission trip to Honduras. They brought back with them hundreds of photographs of their experiences, which you can now view in the Photo Album section of our web site.

The following is a brief excerpt from the July 15th Tower Chimes newsletter describing part of the trip. You can read more about the trip in the most recent issues of The Tower Chimes.

"On Monday, we loaded our six truck convoy and headed north to our first worksite, Agalteca. Over the next four days, our medical professionals John Eycleshimer, Lia Gray, and Gale Waters, and our support team, worked alongside Honduran physician Dr. Moreno offering medical clinics at the churches in Agalteca, Guiamaca, Guatemalita, and Puenta Jalan. We treated a total of 900 patients in our clinics! A smaller contingent of our group traveled back each day to work alongside the pastor and two members of the church in Agalteca on construction of their manse. On Friday, we broke camp and journeyed back to Tegucigalpa where we visited the hospital and university with two of our Honduran hosts."

The New Deck Is Complete!

The area under the oak tree between our student center and playground has been graced with a marvelous new deck. The dream of having a place for picnics, musical gatherings with youth, and great Christian fellowship became a reality through the hard work and generosity of our members. The money for the project was given in memory of Mary Gray, by her friends and family. The construction of this incredible area was completed under the supervision of Warren Glenn, Ross Kosmensky, and Sam Bryant. Special thanks also to those who labored along side our supervisory crew: Rich Dobler, Alec Kosmensky, Mike Legaspi, and Steve Negley.

Come celebrate Mary’s memory as you join with our church family under the tree.

Vacation Bible School – Avalanche Ranch
July 22-26, 2007
6:15 – 8:30 p.m.

You better come along: everybody’s going on a wild ride through God’s word. We’re following our leader. All our friends will be there, and we better hang on tight cause it’s a wild ride! Cowboys and cowgirls register now for a toe tapping good time year at VBS! The round-up has begun and we are counting on you all to attend. All cowboys and cowgirls should meet in the Mess Hall (McLeod Hall) at 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 22. Our Chuck Wagon Chow for that night will be hot dogs, tater tots, grapes, baked beans, chocolate chip cookies, and drinks. All cowboys, cowgirls, and their families are invited to come “chow down.” Parents, adults, and youth volunteers who would like to join in the fun as Ranch Hands are welcomes to attend. Please contact in order to complete the necessary training for the week.

New Photos of Christ Kids in Action!

New photos of the most recent Christ Kids bowling trip can now be viewed in our online Photo Album. Please take a look and see why kids are having a really fun time at First Presbyterian Church!

Recognition of Our High School Seniors

On Sunday, May 20, at the 11:00 a.m. worship service, our church will honor our graduating high school seniors Grace Blankenship, Lana Groetsch, Michael Lyons, Morgan Schreiber, James Bruce, Shea Irvin, Chalsey Martin, Bud Shinn, Alex Girouard, Will Jax, Jeffrey Powell, Taylor Snively, Thomas Griffis, Lindsay Larson, Adam Roe and Sarah Strang. We will honor them with a special gift and our prayers for the new chapter in their lives. Please join us for worship, and then plan to gather with our seniors in McLeod Hall following the service at a reception to be held in their honor.

Congratulations Rev. Alan Harvey! On May 24, our Rev. Alan Harvey will become The Reverend Doctor C. Alan Harvey, as he receives his Doctor of Ministry degree from Pittsburgh Theological Seminary. The Session of our church wants us to celebrate this wonderful event with A RECEPTION AND A GIFT The Reception – On Sunday, May 6, you are invited to a reception honoring “Dr.” Harvey in McLeod Hall immediately following the 11:00 a.m. worship service. Please plan to come and congratulate Alan before he heads off to Pittsburgh for the graduation service. The Gift – The Session has already authorized the purchase of a new pulpit robe for Alan (complete with doctoral bars). This will be funded from the wills and bequests area of our church’s restricted funds. They are also inviting members of the congregation to contribute to a love offering for Alan to use in celebrating his accomplishment. If you would like to give towards this love gift, send your gift to the church with the memo, “Alan’s Love Gift.”

Boy Scout House Open House February 11, 2007 Please plan to join us on Sunday, February 11, for an OPEN HOUSE at the Boy Scout House in the T. Oakley Andrews Scouting Center. For well over a year, dedicated volunteers have worked to transform this decades old meeting place into a safe, attractive and modern home for Boy Scout Troop 121. Join us after the 11:00 a.m. service for some refreshments and the celebration of a job done well!

Soup Kitchen Christmas Dinner Not wind, nor rain, nor Christmas Day storms could dampen the spirits of those who served or dined at our Soup Kitchen Christmas Day dinner. Dozens of volunteers prepared or served the wonderful feast of ham, turkey, pork loin, green bean casserole, mashed potatoes and gravy, broccoli, spiced apple rings and Christmas cookies, to our 75 hungry and appreciative guests. The day featured live Christmas music, a superb meal, and gifts for all the children and adults who journeyed out to our soup kitchen for this Christmas dinner. Thanks go out to the host of volunteers – Melissa Rowker, Lenny Hollister, Claire Parks, Jackie Pinckney and her daughter, Carol, Mike Legaspi, Dick Saxon, Judy Suprina, Susan Pittsley, Pat Miller, Bruce & Sally Whitney, Retha Wright, Ted Threadgill, Linda Dinger, Ray Kazmark, Laura Hoch, Claire McAdams, Lauren and Tina Huston and her mother, Jean, Polly Wilson, Betty Stephens, Dianne Repass, Stephany Alexander, Judy Wagy, Marie Wilson, Lynn Baker, Tina Groetsch, Lee & Pam Wilkinson, Adam, Amy and Dale Smith, Don Dinger, Sylvia Chambers, Teresa, Steve, Thomas and Stewart Negley, Jill, Ross and Megan Kosmensky, Punkin, Sarah Claire and Squire Smith, Lyn Swart, Jean, Dave, Kristin and Lindsay Tannahill, Barbara & Joel Smith, and Joyce Hostler – who cooked, served, cleaned, sang and welcomed our soup kitchen friends in celebration of the birth of Christ.

New Photos! Pictures from the dedication of the Memorial Garden at First Presbyterian Church and this year's Madrigal Feaste are now online. Please click on the thumbnails above, or visit our Photo Album page to see some of the exciting things that are happening at First Presbyterian Church of Winter Haven!

Amy Smith, New Church Educator Welcome, Amy Smith, our new Church Educator! Amy began her ministry with us on Wednesday, November 8. Part of her morning was spent getting acquainted with our church staff. On her first afternoon on the job, Miss Amy greeted the children in our Christ Kids program and their parents. She has hit the ground running, and you will be seeing her smiling face all around our church. If you happen by the church office, please stop in and introduce yourself, and welcome Amy to our little part of the body of Christ.

Memorial Garden Dedication Wednesday, November 1, 6:30 p.m. You are invited to the dedication of the Memorial Garden of First Presbyterian Church of Winter Haven. After years of planning, and nearly a year of construction, the Memorial Garden at First Presbyterian Church is a reality. Please plan to join us for the dedication of this wonderful area on Wednesday night, November 1 (All Saints’ Day). Supper will be served in McLeod Hall from 5:30-6:20 p.m. At 6:30, we will share some reflections of the Memorial Garden project, and celebrate the careful oversight given to move our vision forward. At 7:00 p.m. we will gather outside in the new Memorial Garden at First Presbyterian Church for our service of dedication.

Easter Photos! Pictures from our Easter church-wide breakfast and children's egg hunt can now be viewed in our online Photo Album. Please take a look and see why First Presbyterian Church is known for fellowship and fun!

The Angel Van A less publicized ministry of this church that has been ongoing since 1994 is our Angel Van Ministry. Volunteers, recruited by and among our deacons, provide transportation to the 11:00 a.m. worship service on Sundays. Those needing a ride call the church office by noon on Fridays. Our church secretary then notifies the designated driver for that Sunday, of the person or persons who will be his or her passengers. Often the driver will then call the persons on Saturday to verify that a ride is still needed and to confirm the time for pick up. On Sunday the passengers will be picked up at the designated time and transported to the church for the service. The driver will also give instructions about a meeting place and pick up following the service for the ride home. This is a great service for those who need a ride. So if you need one, call us and we’ll be happy to see you get to the church on time.

Lenten Cantata Our chancel choir will present the well-known "Seven Last Words of Christ" by Théodore Dubois on Sunday, April 2. The work will be presented at both services, with a reception for the choir after the second service. The Cantata takes about forty minutes to perform and deals with the traditional seven last sayings of Christ on the cross. The composition finishes with the earthquake after the death of Christ and then a choral hymn that points us forward to the resurrection and the affirmation of our salvation. K. C. Davidson, Tom Mulrooney, and Mike Harris will sing the three solo parts and will be accompanied by Director Keith Rasmussen at the organ. Plan on attending either of these special services and bring your friends. This is one of the best known Lenten compositions and is very easy to listen to as well as very compelling. You won't want to miss this special service!

Youth Retreats and Camps - Not Just a Week of Vacation! “The best week of your life!” This means more than just a good time or a good option for now or a mediocre experience. It refers to a life changing segment of time that has long lasting, even eternal consequences. Here are the 2006 opportunities (To learn much more, see page 5-6 of the Mar. 12 Tower Chimes): Montreat, June 4-10, 2006 - Join over 1200 young people from all around the country for a great tradition. First Presbyterian Church youth stay in a private home and enjoy community meals along with "Life Stories." Senior High Skipalooza! This year we traveled to Boone, North Carolina for two days of skiing and a day of tubing. We created a theme of "Light of the World - He Is and You Are." Middle School Great Escape, July 14-17 - The days are filled with non-stop fun and adventure. Bring a friend and ignite a faith and friendship in Christ that will last lifetime. Honduras is a mission trip experience that focuses on serving others and challenging our global understanding of following Christ. We schedule this trip on alternate years.

Live Nativity Coming Soon! Follow the brilliant starlight’s beam which will be seen for miles away to YOUR church! Come and see the stable underneath the trees of the grassy parking lot. If you’re coming from 6th Street, turn left onto Avenue H NW and then take the 2nd LEFT driveway into our church’s rear parking lot to park and view the scene. Bring your friends and neighbors! Come and see your brothers and sisters portraying the Holy Family, Angels, Shepherds and Wise Men! Come and see a donkey and sheep and sense the earthiness of the stable! Come and listen to The Story told in the Scriptures! Come and hear and join in the singing of beloved Christmas carols! Come and enjoy some light seasonal refreshments of hot cocoa, apple cider, home baked cookies and snacks! Invite your friends and neighbors while they are here to tour our church sanctuary when it is at its loveliest! This is First Presbyterian Church’s Live Nativity Scene and like the CH__CH, it just will not be the same if _UR_ missing from the cast, the crew or the spectators of these presentations of our Savior’s birth!

Madrigal Nights Hear ye, hear ye! Announcing First Presbyterian's 7th Annual Madrigal Nights! For the first time ever, there will be TWO nights of feasting, frivolity and fellowship. Friday evening, December 2 at 7:00 p.m. will feature a light fare of wassail, cheese and bread, and dessert. Saturday evening, December 3 at 5:00 p.m. will feature a full fare of wassail, nuts, fruits, cheese and bread, soup, pork loin, and dessert. Donations of $10 for Friday evening and $25 for Saturday evening are required in advance. Child care will be provided for both nights. Tickets will be sold in the church narthex after Sunday services through November 27.

Welcome, Keith Rasmussen! The Session is pleased to announce that we have called our new Director of Music Ministries. Upon the unanimous recommendation of the Music Director Search Committee, the Session has extended a call to Mr. Keith Rasmussen to join our staff as Director of Music Ministries/Organist. Keith was born in Wisconsin, and has spent much of his professional career in music ministry in Canada. He holds a Bachelors degree in Organ and Piano Performance and Choral Techniques and a Masters degree in Music in Organ Performance, both from Andrews University. He has also been involved in post-graduate work in Musical Arts. Keith will be coming to us from Statesville, North Carolina, where he has served for the past five years as the Director of Music Ministries at First Presbyterian Church. His ministry there has included all the duties of organist for an active Presbyterian congregation, and with vocal and handbell choirs with adults, youth, and children. Keith has also been active with a church concert series and community musical activities. Keith and his daughter, Joni, a recent graduate of Appalachian State University, will be moving to Florida in mid-October. He plans to begin his ministry with us on October 24.

New Children's Library Now Open! Be sure to drop by our new Children's Library now located in Room 205 on the second floor of the CE building. You will find a warm, welcoming, kid-friendly environment filled with excellent reading opportunities for all ages of children. Bethany Owen, creator of this special space, will have this area open before and after worship each Sunday morning. Bring your kids and keep checking out books for take-home reading.

Building on a Dream Our congregation has begun a great mission adventure with brothers and sisters in Christ throughout our community – BUILDING ON A DREAM. Members of the Winter Haven Interfaith Ministerial Alliance (an alliance of the pastors of the historically black congregations in our city) and the Winter Haven Ministerial Association (an association of the pastors of the historically white congregations in our city) have, under the guidance of Habitat for Humanity of East Polk County, launched the "Building on a Dream" project. The governing boards of fifteen area churches have joined together as sponsors of this build. They have committed the necessary financial resources and pledged to encourage their members to join together in building a home for a family of God’s children in our city. The walls on the home for Quentin “Q” and Chenita Hilton and their family were begun on July 9. Come by any Saturday you can as we BUILD ON THE DREAM together at 721 Avenue R, NE. Bring your hammers and work gloves. Our summer build days will begin at 8:00 a.m. We will break at 10:00 for a bounteous snack and wrap up around noon.

Vacation Bible School Pics! 193 brand new photos from our Serengeti Trek Vacation Bible School are on the web! Click here or on the picture (left) to see the pictures.

Congratulations 2005 Confirmands! (Click on photos to expand)

Soup Kitchen Help Needed "Too many cooks spoil the broth" is a frequently heard adage. This will not necessarily happen, provided there is a head cook, who can direct and oversee the cooking and serving responsibilities. Please check the sign up list in McLeod Hall to see when head cooks for our Soup Kitchen ministry are needed with your availability. Don't know what the head cook does? Then please check the manual in the church office for answers to any unanswered questions you may have. Sometimes we have many volunteers to assist, but no one to serve as head cook. This could be your time to say, "I think it needs a little more salt." "The soup or casserole is my favorite and a family specialty." "We can stretch it by adding some more water." Please consider this as an opportunity for you to minister to others by feeding them in Christ's name! Thank you! The Soup Kitchen also distributes personal care items to those who need them. So what can we use? Small bars of soap, bottles of shampoo, tubes of toothpaste, spray or stick deodorant, toothbrushes, combs, and disposable razors are great. Your contributions of these items will be greatly appreciated. You may place your donations in the pink and blue plastic barrels located in McLeod Hall, next to the decorated grocery cart which collects dry and canned goods for Family Emergency Services. Thanks for your help!

Souper Bowl Results! The air was charged with anticipation and sweat poured from the gridiron gladiators as the ball sailed from one end of the field to the arms of a fleet footed, end zone hunter. The Souper Bowl of Caring was well attended and a big success. Who won? You may ask. While many youth and adults enjoyed playing the game, the big winners were our friends at Spring Lake Nursing Center and the many homeless who visit our Soup kitchen. The friendship and visitation that took place there is memorable. The generous contribution from our church to the Soup Kitchen was $867 along with two large barrels of canned goods. Thanks to the many of you who participated. See you again next year! The total raised for 2005 was $2,658,897 from 7,739 churches and non-profits. Click here to see the pictures!

Live Nativity Scene Photos If you didn't get to attend First Presbyterian's Live Christmas Nativity Scene on December 18 and 19, take a look at the pictures that Christian Educator Mike Gillespie took of this very special presentation.

Securing Our Future The Securing Our Future campaign for First Presbyterian Church of Winter Haven is officially underway. This program hopes to keep our church on a solid foundation by helping us provide the facilities needed to nurture the next generations of disciples of Jesus Christ. Members and friends of our congregation should have received an information packet introducing Securing Our Future in the mail. The packet contains our campaign video on DVD. If you did not receive your packet, or if you would prefer a video in VHS format, please call Lillian Harden at the church office (294-3121), and we will deliver the appropriate materials. To watch the campaign video now via streaming media, click on one of the links below: Click here if you have a modem (56k/28k/16k) Click here if you have a broadband connection (DSL/Cable at 150k) (If you cannot play the video above, you may need to download Real Player. To download the free version, click here.)

After Hurricane Charley passed through... We had worship on Sunday morning, August 15, 2004, under the porte cochere, because we had no electricity and so there were no lights, air conditioning and amplification. Click here to view some pictures of this historic service. But even before that activity our Saturday Soup Kitchen was open less than 24 hours after the storm blew through Polk County. Hunger does not take a holiday nor does it subside after experiencing a storm! This is a gentle reminder of our commitment to this ministry — that is, that we will provide a Saturday evening meal for those who are hungry. Are you interested in helping with this important ministry? Then please sign up on the sheets posted on the bulletin board in McLeod Hall or contact Linda or Andy Stavres, coordinators, at 325-0974.

Our Purpose Each week if you turn to the back of the Sunday Worship Bulletin or the Tower Chimes newsletter, you will notice a statement entitled "Our Purpose." It is a declaration of the ways in which the congregation of First Presbyterian Church pledges to "show God's kingdom in the world." This statement is now a permanent part of First Presbyterian Online. Click here to read "Our Purpose."

Christmas is coming! (“Christmas in August”, that is) We will have “Christmas In August” on Wednesday evenings, August 18 and 25, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. What Is “Christmas In August?” It is a time when people will come together for making or repairing Chrismons. It is a time when those with sewing skills can make costumes for the Madrigal Feast or the live nativity scene. It is a time when the ark will be dismantled and a stable will be constructed. It is a time when Christmas carols will be sung, Christmas cookies will be munched and cider will be sipped. We are not trying to rush the seasons by having “Christmas in August”, we are just trying to be ready when it comes! So, adults come join us for “Christmas in August” — a time for getting together, making preparations and having fun!

News Date: June 24, 2004

See the Pictures!

Lava Lava Island was the place to be this week! Those who visited the island (a.k.a. Vacation Bible School) had a great time, as evidenced by all the smiles that you'll see in the pictures. Click here to see them.

News Date: June 9, 2004

First Presbyterian Opportunities Now Online

First Presbyterian Church On-Line would like to announce the addition of its newest web site area detailing the wide array of Opportunities that we offer. The new information can be found under the "Opportunities" heading in the menu section. If you've been waiting to learn more about what First Presbyterian Church has to offer, this is your chance. Make sure to check back from time to time to see what we're doing to make First Pres a fantastic place to be!

News Date: May 18, 2004

Congratulations High School Graduates!

The High School Graduating Class of 2004 took part in a special recognition during the 11:00 worship service on Sunday May 16th, and a reception was held afterwards in their honor. Congratulations to Sarah Claire Smith, Jessica Burns, Courtney Marshall, Allison Burke, Perry Oakley, Tia Pittsley, Heather Hart, Eric Roe, Alan Tiner, Travis Sowards, Alex Bruce, Alex Wales, Chris Williams, Danny Fielder, Elizabeth Calvin and Danielle Thompson. (Click on the picture to enlarge the photo).

News Date: May 16, 2004

Confirmation Class Photo Album

Pictures taken during this year's 6th Grade Confirmation Classes are now online. Click here or on the thumbnail on the left to see them.

News Date: May 11, 2004

Mike Legaspi - Director of Student Opportunities

Beginning May 9, Mike Legaspi joined our church family as our Director of Student Opportunities. Mike brings the excitement and experience gained by working with middle and high school youth in Presbyterian churches around Central Florida for over a decade. Mike is coming to us from Village Presbyterian Church in Tampa. He will direct our fabulous team of volunteers and youth as our young people keep growing in their love for God and service in Christ’s name. Welcome to First Pres, Mike!

News Date: May 6, 2004

Confirmands Honored

News Date: April 19, 2004

Visit Our Online Photo Album!

If a picture is worth a thousand words, then our web site is worth a book -- a very big book! In the last two years, we have filled our Online Photo Album with over 1,100 photographs from events like our Java Jam, Souper Bowl, Madrigal Dinner, Advent Workshop, Fall Festival, Cedarkirk youth trip, Vacation Bible School, and an impressive 11-part series from the 2003 Honduras Mission. If you want to know what is going on in the life of our church, the Photo Album is a great way to take a look. You'll find the Photo Album easy to use. The main page contains all the different events, with the newest additions at the top. The photo pages themselves are presented in a thumbnail format that is attractive and easy to navigate.

News Date: March 14, 2004

Java Jam Pics

Everyone was in the swing at the Java Jam at First Pres on Friday, March 12. The joint was packed, the coffee was flowing, sweet Florida strawberry treats were being consumed and everyone was digging the cool sounds that were being layed upon them. In short, the gig was real gone, dig? Check out some of these images from the show!

News Date: February 23, 2004

A Legacy of Love

The scriptures tell us that life itself is a gift from God, and we know that we are called to live each day in grateful response to that gift. Many of us have found great joy and purpose in obedient service to God with our time, talents, and financial resources. As we think ahead to God's promise to us of a life that never ends, we might also consider how our service to God here may go on beyond our earthly life. There may be a source of joy for those who follow us, and also be some joy to us now, in planning to leave a legacy of service and love. We invite you to explore the opportunity for giving beyond your earthly life as you consider giving a Legacy of Love...

News Date: February 8, 2004

Souper Bowl 2004 Pictures!

February 1, 2004: On the back fields of the Spring Lake Nursing Center under a balmy Florida sky the two competitors prepared for battle. They met at the center of the gridiron, toe to toe, the challenge set: The Youth of First Presbyterian Church of Winter Haven intended to plant the flag of Upstart Victory at the peak of the proverbial hill which their elders laid claim as Kings. Supremely confident of their ability to fend off what they considered a feeble attack on their supremecy, the elders that met on the field that day considered victory a foregone conclusion. Then the contest was under way as youthful vigor and athleticism competed against experience and measured persistence. In the end, the elder team, winded and in some need of ice packs, emerged from the contest still clinging to the flag of superiority ...at least until the next Souperbowl!

A good time was had by all at the Souperbowl this year. Many cans of food were collected to support the Saturday Night Soup Kitchen, and Seniors at the Nursing Center were treated to a football spectacle, and were warmly greeted by the contestants at the end of the game. Pictures of the mighty event have been posted, so take a look!

News Date: January 27, 2004

Soup Kitchen Ministry

The Christmas Day meal sponsored by our senior high youth was a wonderful outreach of Christian love to the hungry in our community. The deacons are interested in continuing this type of ministry with a Soup Kitchen. The deacons are planning to offer this feeding ministry on Saturday evenings in February and March, 2004. The simple soup/sandwich meals will be prepared in our church kitchen by volunteers and then served out of our 737 building. The planning team will be meeting in mid-January to work on details. If you are interested in helping cook, serve or clean-up, please sign the list on the deacon bulletin board in McLeod Hall Our first serving night is Saturday, February 7. Please sign up in McLeod Hall to help us cover all the evenings. We can never have too much help, even if the slots are filled on one night, come out and join us. We will find a place for you in the ministry!

News Date: December 30, 2003

Presbytat IV

News Date: December 30, 2003

Three New Photo Collections Online!

Photo collections from the Fall Festival, Advent Workshop and Madrigal Dinner are in the Photo Album. Check them out here.

News Date: November 24, 2003

Middle School Youth at Cedarkirk Photos

News Date: October 1, 2003

The Mission Continues...

When our mission team returned from Honduras in late July, they told us that the physical and spiritual needs of the people in Honduras don’t end when we and other North Americans return home. Our dream is to continue sending teams of missionaries to Honduras regularly to be Christ’s servants there; to give to the Three Cents-a-Meal program as it supports our international partnership with the Presbytery of Honduras; and to find ways to get much needed supplies shipped from our abundance to meet their needs. On dates throughout August and September, people from our congregation met at our 737 building to help make this dream a reality. The group sorted through the small mountain of medicines and medical supplies donated by Gessler Clinic and Albertson’s Pharmacy. In addition, The Heart of Florida Regional Medical Center in Haines City donated a large volume of surplus medical equipment and supplies. These items are being prepared to travel in November to the Hospital Escuela in Honduras in a special container from our Presbytery.

To see more photos of the mission to to Honduras, click here.

News Date: September 17, 2003

New Funtastic Friday!

The first Friday of each month all 1st-5th graders and their friends are invited to a rip-roaring, run 'n play night of recreation FUN! This program is dedicated to Christian play focused around the themes of cooperation and encouragement. Participants need to bring $3.00 for their pizza supper. Good running shoes with socks are a must. The program meets in McLeod Hall or the 737 building from September-May. The next Funtastic Friday is October 4, from 6 to 8 P.M. Don't miss out on the fun!

New Adult Classes On Sunday Morning

It’s great to start our fall Church School program. We have four excellent choices in adult studies available on Sunday morning from 9:45-10:45.

• Tweenager-Plenary Class (McLeod Hall) - Dr. Negley is leading a study of Shirley Gutherie’s classic book, Christian Doctrine.
• Harriett Thompson Class (Room 103 of the C.E. Bldg.) - Bob Hubbard is currently leading a weekly Bible study focusing on the books of James, 1-2 Peter, 1-2-3 John, and Jude. Earle Roberts will be teaching the class when he returns from Ohio.
• Covenant-Seekers Class (Room 207 of the C.E. Bldg.) - Mike Gillespie is leading a study of William Barclay’s classic work, The Mind of Jesus.
• Perspectives Class (Room 201 of the C.E. Bldg.) - Dr. Jim Threlkel and Glenn Thomas facilitate a class discussion focused on finishing a study on church denominations in the United States.

News Date: August 7, 2003

Honduras Photos

Photos from the missionary trip to Honduras are now online! 21 youth and adults spent July 19-26 in a variety of ministry settings in this, the second poorest country in our hemisphere. We worked in support of a Honduran doctor, helping run three one-day clinics (which averaged treating over 175 patients per day). We painted a church and a school, delivering the school supplies donated by our VBS children. We visited a hospital where Presbyterian mission dollars and supplies save lives daily. We worshipped in churches built by the three-cents-a-meal offerings, and saw how our Christian brothers and sisters are making disciples for Christ and spreading the gospel in exciting ways. Click here to visit the Photo Album.

News Date: July 2, 2003

Huge Photo Album Update!

Added to the photo album this week are seven new collections. We hope you enjoy the new pictures from Easter, Bright Sunday, the Presbytat III Dedication, Christ Kids Picnic, Promotion Sunday, H.S. Senior Recognition Sunday, and Vacation Bible School. Click here to visit the Photo Album.

News Date: May 28, 2003

Congratulations Graduates!

First Presbyterian's Eighteen High School Graduates were honored at a service and reception on Sunday, May 18. The graduates are (in alphabetical order) Blake Bentley, Lauren Clarke, Claire Denlinger, Blair Dunham, Ryan Groetsch, Megan Johnson, Katie Kennedy, Nick Larson, Steven Lockhart, Patrick Lockwood, Sam McAdams, Thomas Negley, Christy Pearson, Treva Plowden, Erik Saterbo, Kristen Siegel, Jacob Spence and Robert Volpe. Best wishes to these outstanding young adults! (Click here, or on the picture at left to see a larger version)

News Date: May 13, 2003

Confirmands Honored

Congratulations to our 2003 confirmands! Sixth graders Lindsay Snyder, Chelsea Beaver, Nicholas Elmore, Ricky Montney, Austin Schreiber, Marjorie Kendall, Derek Kelley, Mary Strang and Austin Johnston were honored on Sunday, May 11, with a special service and reception. Welcome, new members!

News Date: April 17, 2003

Youth Scavenger Hunt Pics!

How about this as a caption for this picture: "Rub-a-dub-dub, three men in a ... shopping cart." Or maybe, "Attention shoppers! Grinning high-school boys on aisle nine, buy two get one free!" No? Ok, how about, "I hate it when someone uses a cart and forgets to clean out the Scavenger Hunters when they're done!" Make up your own captions to the Youth Scavenger Hunt pictures in our online Photo Album.

News Date: March 26, 2003

God Be with Ye… Rev. Harriett H. Cale

For the past two years, our church has been blessed with the wonderful ministry of Rev. Harriett Cale. In early April she plans to move to New Orleans, LA. There she will be close to several children and grandchildren. We will be celebrating Rev. Harriett Cale’s ministry with us this Sunday, March 30, at a reception in McLeod Hall following the 11:00 a.m. worship service. Please join us as we thank this wonderful servant of God for her years of ministry with us.

Shrove Tuesday Pancake Dinner Pics!

Photos from the Shrove Tuesday Pancake Dinner are hot off the griddle! Check 'em out in the online Photo Album.

News Date: March 11, 2003

The Presbytat Chronicles

Someday you'll say that you read it here first...
Jimmy Glockenspiel (pseudonym?), aspiring Man of Letters, has released his Presbytat Chronicles Trilogy to the world. The Chronicles contain three missives written by Todd...er...Jimmy, documenting the construction of the Presbytat III House, a Habitat for Humanity home in Winter Haven sponsored by local Presbyterian churches. In his letters you'll find pith and humor of a quality rarely encountered elsewhere. You can also view photos of the project in the Online Photo Album.

News Date: March 5, 2003

Christ Kids Bowling Pics!

When you think of fun, you think of two things, right? Christ Kids, First Presbyterian's program for kids that meets every Wednesday after school, and...bowling! It may sound crazy, but we took these two fun elements and combined them. The result was, well, indescribably fun! But don't take our word for it -- see the pictures in our online Photo Album.

February 12, 2003

Saturday Nite Live

Saturday Nite Live is a program designed for physically and mentally challenged adults, which meets at the church on the third Saturday night of each month. Money from our church budget provides the building space and utilities, as well as a small portion of the operating expenses for Saturday Nite Live. The photo (right) shows a few of the fifty-two special needs adults who attended the "Sock Hop and Hot Rod Rally" cutting a rug at at our 737 building last year. Upcoming events include a Valentines Dance this Saturday, and a boat trip to watch the Cypress Gardens ski show on May 17. (Volunteers are needed to provide boats. See "Calling All Boats" in the latest Tower Chimes for details.)

A planning team coordinates the activities and volunteers are always needed to help work with the crafts, serve refreshments, and give and receive hugs and support from our wonderful participants. If YOU believe that God is calling you to make a difference in the lives of these wonderful people who enjoy the ministry of Saturday Nite Live, then call Maggie Hankin (318-9686), Ed & Joan Houston (324-2584), Dave & Bonnie Ryan (967-4727), or Earle & Katie Roberts (324-7277) for more information, or simply join us at the church any third Saturday night from 7:00 - 9:00 p.m.

News Date: February 4, 2003

Presbytat III

The walls and trusses are up on Presbytat III, our third Habitat for Humanity home built in cooperation with other Presbyterian Church USA congregations. Teams are working each Saturday from 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Our church is providing snacks and lunch and the larger group of workers on Saturday, February 15. Come and join us as we build a decent home with another family full of God's children. Photos from our our most recent work day can be found in the online Photo Album.

News Date: January 26, 2003

Welcome, Mike Gillespie!

On Monday, January 13, Mike Gillespie, our new Church Educator arrived at First Presbyterian Church. Before the end of his first week, Mike had met with the Christian Education Committee, played with the children at Christ Kids, eaten with the men's lunch group, the Wednesday night supper crowd, and the Tweenagers, and unpacked most of his books.

Mike comes to our church from Florence, Kentucky, where he served as Church Educator at Lakeside Presbyterian Church for the past seven years. Before that, Mike had served churches in Kansas, Texas and Florida. Mike is a Certified Associate Educator in the Presbyterian Church (USA), and has been active on committees at the local church, presbytery, and General Assembly levels. Mike has published books, curriculum, and leader guides on Christian subjects as diverse as parenting, Bible study and devotionals, youth ministry, and Vacation Bible School (just to mention a few).

Mike brings a wealth of experience and energy. Stop by and meet him the next time you are by the church!

News Date: January 5, 2003

Visit Presbyterians Today Online

Did you know that the award-winning magazine Presbyterians Today is available on the web? Visit the site and you will be introduced to articles from the magazine about Presbyterian people, beliefs and mission. You will be able to read some of what is in the current issue, find out what's coming up in the next issue, and look at what is planned for future issues. Information about special subscription offers and reduced-rate subscription plans for churches is available online. Subscriptions, sample copies and free promotional materials can all be ordered from the Presbyterians Today web site.

News Date: July 1, 2002

Photo Page Is Online!

We've started an online Photo Album that we hope you'll enjoy. As we collect pictures that we want to share, we'll post them as new pages in the Album. Take a visit, and if you have any pictures of an event that you'd like to publish in the album, so that we can all share in the memories!

News Date: April 15, 2002

Tower Chimes Now Available by E-mail!

If you've been reading the Tower Chimes on the Newsletter Page, you are familiar with its many advantages: it's available on Tuesday, it's in full color, it can be printed (also in color!), you can save it on your computer, and you can read it anywhere there's an internet connection! Well, now the Tower Chimes is available by e-mail! By just , you can begin receiving the Tower Chimes every week by e-mail. E-mail is far less expensive for the church because it saves on production costs and postage. So, once you're comfortable receiving the Tower Chimes by e-mail and you're ready to help the church reduce mail costs, contact the office and let them know you'd like to cancel your printed copy.

News Date: February 5, 2002

THE T-SHIRTS ARE HERE! THE T-SHIRTS ARE HERE!

The new First Presbyterian t-shirts are here! They are selling for the low, low price of $7.00 for the first shirt, $6.00 for additional shirts within your family. Many have been sold, but it's not too late to become a part of the new fashion craze! Get one or two for yourself today! Click here for a large picture!

News Date: October 8, 2001

If you're looking to get a jump on what's happening at First Pres, read the Tower Chimes on-line. You can read the newest one on Tuesday each week - several days faster than the mail! Plus, with our new Tower Chimes Archive, you can catch up on the news you might have missed!

News Date: September 3, 2001

First Presbyterian Church of Winter Haven is online!

The site opened its doors on September 3, 2001. On our opening day, the following pages are available: Home (this page) , Worship , Staff Directory , Location , This Week , Calendar , Newsletter (Tower Chimes) , and Links.

You may notice that some sections are not yet available. We are hard at work preparing these areas, and in the coming weeks and months, we will be opening these sections to you and announcing them right here.