Denver First Church

December 6, 2009
keeping in touch...
DFC Ministerial Staff
Shawn A. Siegfreid
Lead Pastor

Stephen Abbott
Young Adult & Family Pastor
Rich Cantwell
Business Administrator
Bud Curry
Hospital Chaplain
Tina Hayhurst
Pastor
Mike Hull
Student Ministries Pastor
Scott Nauman
Pastor of Worship & Arts
Jerry Nelson
Minister of Instrumental Music
Randy Smith
Christian Education Pastor
Marvin Suyen
West Campus Pastor

DFC Church Board

John Bruneau
Bob Cheney
Curtis Clay
Glenn Domokos
Table of Contents
Troy Edwards
Vini Giannatala
Bryant Jaggers 1. The Mystery of the congregation…
Judy Jones Manger
Gregg Moran
v. how you can
Gene Rakes 2. news update help…
Bud Roe
Kathy Tate i. important info… vi.final word...
Jim Webb
Ron Williams ii. kotchadoingood!” 3. calendar of events:
Bonnie York
iii. board perspective December 6-12

Denver First Church iv. timely news for the

3800 E. Hampden Avenue
Englewood, CO 80113
303/761-8370
www.DenverFirstChurch.com
News Update
Important info...
Dear Members and Friends of DFC,

I hope this week’s “eblast” finds you hope-filled and celebratory as we journey together
through the Advent season, anticipating anew God’s great gift to creation – his only
Son, our Savior. This year, perhaps more than any other in my life, I have sensed God
speaking to me through the events and people surrounding the birth of Christ.

I have especially marveled at the humility of God. I have a 4-month old son named Ian.
With the experiences of Ian’s short life fresh in my mind – several months of feeding,
diaper-changing, crying, and the sort – it is difficult to wrap my mind around the God of
the universe, Creator of life itself, coming into the world just like my son did back in July.
Completely helpless. Totally dependent. Entirely un-impressive. What an amazing
Savior we have in Jesus, who being in very nature God, “did not regard equality with
God as something to be exploited, but emptied himself, taking the form of a slave,
being born in human likeness” (Phil. 2:6-7).

I was reminded of that humility this past Sunday as we worshipped together with our
children. How humble and honest they are as they approach matters of faith. Helpless.
Dependent. Un-impressive. Yet, it was these voices that ushered us into the presence of
God. They helped make straight the way of the Lord in our hearts on Sunday.

Let us reflect this season, right in the midst of all “our plans,” on this mind-boggling truth:
In order to make right our relationship with Him, God came as a little, helpless,
dependent, un-impressive, baby. “For God’s foolishness is wiser than human wisdom,
and God’s weakness is stronger than human strength” (I Cor. 1:25). And for those of us
who have believed in Him, the Spirit of that little infant Jesus, now dwells in us. May we
live in such a way that the humility of that baby pours through us, bringing peace to
those around us this season.

Grace and peace to you, brothers and sisters,

Pastor Stephen Abbott

Please take a moment to read several announcements listed below that will appear in
Sunday’s Insight. If you are viewing these in the eblast, click on each for important de-
tails; if you are reading this in the hard copy, please refer to the Insight for important de-
tails regarding these upcoming events.
A Night of Hope Bake Out: Bake Sale
Tennyson Center Ministry Navajo Shoebox Meeting
Christmas on Wheels Three Nights in Bethlehem
Waves Christmas Party Rock Christmas Party
Come On Ring Those Bells Sunday Night, December 13
Single’s Christmas Party Sale in the Bookstore

Today’s email will cover the following topics: “Kotchadoingood!”, Board Perspective,
Timely News for the Congregation and How You Can Help
News Update
“kotchadoingood!”

Thanksgiving Offering
Thank you to everyone who gave to the Thanksgiving Offering for
Others! We have exceeded our goal of $75,000! As of Tuesday,
December 1st, we have collected $79,542 that will go to help
people “Across the Street and Across the Sea!”

Nazz Jazz Concert - Jerry Nelson

Thank you Jerry Nelson and Nazz Jazz for the wonderful music that
you have given us through the years! The finale concert on Sunday,
November 22nd was amazing. We truly appreciate you, not only
entertaining us, but leading us in worship. You will be missed!

Christmas Décor - Dixie, Linda and Team

Thank you to Dixie Whittaker, Linda Jackson and their team of
extremely capable volunteers for decorating the church for
Christmas. The decorations are beautiful and create such an
atmosphere of joy and celebration!

Shoebox Christmas Response

Thanks to everyone who filled and returned a Christmas Shoebox!
All the boxes that were returned to DFC will be taken to the Navajo
Nation in Chilchinbeto, AZ from December 11-13. Thank you for
blessing children in need!
News Update
Board perspective...
Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

The activities of the church are in full swing as we enter into this Advent season. The
Board does not have its monthly meeting in December, but the work of the ministries
pushes ahead at full steam. If you’ve glanced at the financial updates, you might
notice we’re running significantly behind where we would like to be in order to
accomplish all ministry activities in which we hope to participate. Anything extra the
Lord might lay on your heart to give right now would greatly improve our ability to
continue to minister according to that plan. The Board is required to keep the church
fiscally accountable, and we will be responsible with whatever resources you entrust to
your church. We do thank you for your incredible generosity, even in difficult economic
times!

STOP! Whatever is racing through your mind, let it go. As Pastor Shawn pointed out
Sunday, we must take the time to revel in the season. Maybe your passion level is
running a little low. It's funny how the hectic pace of all the activities happening at
Christmas can actually lull us into slipping right past the real Focus of the season. Let's
take the time to fall in love with Him all over again.

As I look at Matthew 2:9-12, I'm struck by the passion of the wise men. They were not
Jewish. They did not have the luxury of being exposed to all of the messianic
prophecies the way an Israelite would have been. They had the writings of Daniel and,
based upon just that knowledge, they noticed the birth of the Christ. The learned
members of the Sanhedrin missed it. The Pharisees didn't catch it. But the wise men
noticed.

They saw a star that scripture indicates others didn't see. Again, they expected it. They
followed the star and they carried incredibly costly gifts with them to present to this
King. Though He was promised to the Israelites and not them, still they anticipated Him.

After concluding that the star they saw was pointing to the fulfilment of the prophesies
of Daniel, they traveled 800 or 900 miles to the foreign land of Israel. This "star" appears
to have likely not been a celestial body but the Shekinah Glory of God. Matthew 2:10
tells us they were "overjoyed" when they saw the star again in Bethlehem. Then, in verse
11, the Bible simply states, "they opened their treasures and presented Him with gifts."
What a beautiful, natural response to the recognition of the Christ.

What was so different about the wise men that they noticed what everyone else
seemed to miss? They anticipated Him. This Christmas I want to anticipate Him. I mean,
can you imagine? The Creator of the universe became Emmanuel, God with us. Every
time we think of it, it should still overwhelm us!

Serving Him Alongside of You,

Vini Giannatala
 News Update
timely news for the congregation...
Calendar
December Dates:
12/05 A Taste of Christmas
12/06 Advent Theme: Peace
12/06 DFC Christmas concert - “A Night of Hope” - 3:00 pm
12/06 Bake Out: Bake Sale
12/11-13 Navajo Shoebox trip
12/13 Advent Theme: Joy
12/13 DFC Children’s Christmas program
12/13 Evening of Music with Special Speaker: Pastor Shawn
(bring homemade cookies please!)
12/20 Advent Theme: Love
12/23 No Wednesday Evening Activities
12/24 Christmas Eve service - 5:00 pm
12/25 Merry Christmas! - church building closed
January Dates:
1/1 New Year’s Day - church building closed
1/3 No evening service - church building closing at 2:00 pm

Bake Out: Bake Sale

This Sunday, December 6th, be sure to stop by the Breezeway here at DFC and buy
some yummy treats from the Bake Out: Bake Sale! Throughout the year, the Bake
Out Ministry distributes homemade baked goods to local businesses to bless their
days. The proceeds from the Bake Sale go to Mission:Denver.

“A Night of Hope”
DFC’s Christmas Concert, “A Night of Hope,” is being presented by the Worship &
Arts Ministry this Sunday, December 6th at 3:00pm. It is a free concert although we
do have “tickets” available for you to use as invitations for your friends, neighbors
and family. Please be in prayer for those who need to be invited, those coming
News Update
timely news for the congregation...

End of Year Giving Reminder

The end of year is quickly approaching (believe it or not!!). Contributions (tithes
and offerings) that you would like to be posted in 2009 need to be dropped off at
the church or postmarked by 5:00 pm on December 31st. If you have questions,
please call the Business Office at 303/761-8370.

Children’s Rehearsal Schedule

“The Mystery of the Manger” Children’s Christmas musical is scheduled for Sunday,
December 13th at 10:30 am. Dress rehearsal is Saturday, December 12th from 9:00
am -12:00 Noon in the main Sanctuary. The Cast Party will be 12:00-1:00 pm in the
main Fellowship Hall following rehearsal

Status of Harold Fleshman

Harold Fleshman, our former Hospital Chaplain, had back surgery recently. He had
been transferred to a rehabilitation center after the surgery and began having
severe pain. Harold went in for surgery again on Wednesday, December 2nd to fix
the problem that was causing his pain. The doctors believe that the surgery went
well. Please be in prayer for Harold and Wilma during his recovery.

Jerry Storz Resignation

Jerry Storz, our interim 1st - 4th Grade Director, submitted his resignation in recent
weeks, to be effective December 16th. The resignation is due to his heavy
academic schedule as he continues to pursue his doctorate.

Jerry made significant contributions to DFC Children’s Ministries during this interim
period. Under his leadership, we saw forward movement in Children’s Church, the
Bible Blast, Trunk-or-Treat, and the Children’s Christmas program.

He assisted us in working through some challenging moments. We appreciate the

impact Jerry’s committed service has had upon the children and Children’s
Ministries of DFC.
News Update
timely news for the congregation...
Kid’s Corner

Christmas in the Children’s Department

“Three Nights in Bethlehem” has returned to the Children’s Department on

Wednesday evenings. Our DFC kids are experiencing the sights and sounds of this
Holy Land. Designed much like a living museum, “Three Nights in Bethlehem” is
allowing our kids to experience what life was like when Jesus was born. The
Census Taker checks the children into the village, the weaver demonstrates how
to card wool and weave on a loom, the shop keepers have baskets filled with
grapes, cheese, and breads, a couple invites the children to view a one room
home, and the rabbi encourages the children to study in the ancient synagogue.
Wednesday, December 2 was the first night in this series. If you would like your
children to know what life was like when Jesus was born, and if you would like
your children to have sights and sounds swirling in their heads when they sing
Away in a Manger, please join us in the Children’s Department on Wednesday,
Dec. 9 and 16 at 6:30 PM for the remaining “Three Nights in Bethlehem” dates.

The Children’s Department would also like to invite everyone to the children’s
Christmas musical called “The Mystery of the Manger.” Our children will present
this musical on Sunday, December 13, 2009 at 10:30 AM. As we listened to the
kid’s choir sing a favorite song from this musical last Sunday, we were all blessed
by their sincere and angelic voices. Their desire to share the message of Christmas
on December 13 is real, so please join us and bring your neighbors who are
longing to hear the Christmas story.

As our children participate in engaging opportunities like “Three Nights in

Bethlehem” and “The Mystery of the Manger”, our prayer is that these experi-
ences will make a lasting impression on their lives so that they will always sing…

Be near me, Lord Jesus; I ask thee to stay

Close by me forever, and love me, I pray;
Bless all the dear children in thy tender care,
And fit us for Heaven to live with thee there.
-Martin Luther

Sincerely,
Susan Foster
News Update
how you can help...

Fighting Hunger during the Holidays

In November, the DFC Pantry helped feed 42 families (147
individuals). We depend on your contributions to help those in
need. If you are able, please donate non-perishable food, hygiene
and paper goods to the Pantry. Right now, we are running low on
hygiene items like toothpaste, soap, shampoo and all sizes of
diapers. We truly appreciate your donations.
News Update
final word….

On a couple of occasions this past year, I have had the delightfully

serendipitous experience of hearing the testimony of Dr. Diane Dike,
featured speaker for Saturday’s “A Taste of Christmas 2009.” Diane was
formerly an aspiring athlete/singer/performer who was suddenly stricken
with the compound diagnoses of cryoglobulinemia and vasculitis.

Today, her life is very day-to-day, with frequent uncertainty that she will
see the day’s end. And yet, she lights up a room when she enters. Her joy
for Jesus and exuberance for life are refreshingly contagious. Dr. Dennis
Prager, nationally syndicated talk show host and rabbinical scholar, has
stated that people who pollute their relational environments with a bad
attitude have the same effect as if they had walked in with terribly
offensive body odor. I can say that Dr. Dike has the opposite effect:
though wheelchair-bound, she enters a room transcending its
confinements, bearing the rich fragrance of the risen Christ.

Dr. Dike, and others like her, embody the hope we find in Jesus. We
celebrated that hope this past Sunday, the first Sunday of the Advent
season. May the hope He brings burn brightly in our hearts, empowering
us to rise above life’s challenges and grace our world with the fragrance
of His Spirit.

Randy Smith
 Calendar of Events
December 6-12

Sunday, December 6: Wednesday, December 9 (continued):

8:00 am: Praise Team Sound Check 6:00 pm: Waves Christmas Party (Wave Pool)
(Sanctuary)
Rock Christmas Party (Salvation Army)
8:30 am: Choir & Orchestra Sound Check
(Sanctuary) 6:15 am: Nursery open for Birth - 2 years old

9:00 am: Sunday School (all ages) 6:30 pm: Celebrate Recovery
(Room 200, 202)
Nursery & Preschool open
Wednesday Night Prayer
10:30 am: Morning Worship Service (Community Room)
(Sanctuary)
Women of the Word Bible Study
Nursery available (Fellowship Hall)
1st - 4th Grade Children’s Church Celebration Choir & Orchestra
(GLA) (Riverpointe - off-site)
5th & 6th Grade DOGS Worship
Children’s Activities for all ages
12:00 pm: Shoebox Trip Meeting
(Community Room) Thursday, December 10:

Rock Creativity Team Meeting 8:30 am: MOPS (Fellowship Hall)

(Rock Room) 6:30 pm: Celebration Choir & Orchestra
1:30 pm: Missions Council Meeting (The Village - off-site)
(Community Room) Friday, December 11:
3:00 pm: A Night of Hope (Sanctuary) Navajo Shoebox Trip Leaves
5:00 pm: Puppet Practice for 5th & 6th Grade 5:00 pm: Celebrate Recovery Sponsor
(GL Room # 12) Meeting (Cry Room)
Bible Quizzing Practice for Blue Level 6:00 pm: Celebrate Recovery
- 4th - 6th Grade (GL Room # 14) (Fellowship Hall)
Monday, December 7: Divorce Care
9:40 am: Celebrate Recovery Sponsor (Community Room)
Meeting (Cry Room) Divorce Care for Kids
Tuesday, December 8: (Room #6)

7:00 am: Men’s Bible Study Saturday, December 12:

(GL Conference Room) 7:00 am: Men at Prayer (Community Room)
9:00 am: Women of the Word Leaders Mtg Ladies Prayer Walk (Parking Lot)
(Fellowship Hall)
9:00 am: “Mystery of the Manger” Dress
9:30 am: Women of the Word Bible Study Rehearsal (Sanctuary)
(Fellowship Hall)
10:00 am: Heaven’s Calling Seniors Choir
7:00 pm: Bereans Prophesy Bible Study (Julia Temple Center)
(Fellowship Hall) - meet at DFC at 9:30 am
Wednesday, December 9: 12:00 pm: “Mystery of the Manger” Cast Party
9:00 am: IN Group “Christmas on Wheels” (Fellowship Hall)
(off-site)
5:00 pm: Women of the Word Leaders Mtg.
(Fellowship Hall)
5:30 pm: Bible Quizzing Practice for Red Level
- 1st - 3rd Grade (GL Room # 2)