It is sometimes difficult to worship while leading worship.  First, no matter how experienced, there is anxiety preceding a service of worship.  I find myself asking questions such as, "Will the message be clear?  Is it true to the scriptural text?  Will it keep folks awake, or, will the gentleman who sits in the middle of the ninth pew, fall asleep and snore again?"  (Yes, you know who you are!)  

   In addition to concerns about the sermon there are the practical logistical concerns to consider:  designing the liturgy so that it flows smoothly, selecting hymns that are in sync with the lectionary text, making sure the cordless microphone is switched on.  Though it has never been my experience while at St. Andrew, I have served churches where I've worried about whether the organist and choir director will pick up on their cues.  (Have I put them to sleep as well, or are they surfing the web and texting again?)  There are numerous details and moving parts that go into planning a service of worship.  (Are the batteries dead in the cordless microphone?)

   Perhaps the most important is, "Will the service as a whole glorify God?"   It's one thing for worship to be pleasing to a congregation, but will it be pleasing to the ONE whom we are there to worship?  With so many details to tend to, it is sometimes difficult for those leading worship (me and Lisa) to experience worship.

   This past Sunday I experienced worship in a way that I have not in experienced it in a long time.    For this, I want to thank Brandi Schoel and the youth of St. Andrew.  The time and heart they put into leading worship allowed God's Word to come alive!  As a congregation, St. Andrew is truly blessed to have such talented and dedicated youth.  Their music, their testimonies, and their leadership were inspirational.  They brought a richness and vitality to our service of worship that only youth can bring.  Perhaps we should incorporate their talents in more of our regular worship services.

   They also showed us how variety and innovation can be incorporated solidly into the framework of worship within the Reformed Tradition.  Indeed, last Sunday's service gives us much to think about and ponder as we look toward the future of St. Andrew during this period of planning and transition.

Alan

Presbyterian Women
   The Presbyterian Women's Council will have a business meeting on Tuesday, March 3, 2015 in the church parlor. All Women are invited to attend to discuss this year's mission projects and activities. Call Linda Heilig, Moderator with questions!

Kirkin' of the Tartans Update
   Decisions are bein' made!  The Kirkin' is set for April 19.  We will hold one single service, to be followed by an all-church potluck (outdoors if weather permits).  There are a number of events and entertainments being planned for that.
   Now, then:  if ye be Scots, and it doesn't matter if that is just a wee dram, or if you bleed haggis and speak fluent Robbie Burns, we would like to get the clan(s) you will be representing properly recognized.  Please either send an e-mail to goleafsgo01@gmail.com, stop Tim Bergan in the hall, or keep an eye out for a sign-up poster.  If you have tartan dress, or just a swatch, plan to display it proudly (yes, there will be men in kilts)!
   If you don't have any of the Scots in ye, not to worry!  We are all the clan of St Andrew!  Bear his colors (the blue and white that you see on the bulletin), or come in the dress that best represents your own heritage and family.  Remember, the service is in celebration of the Presbyterian church, which only BEGAN in Scotland!  Our members come from the Far East, the Middle East, Africa, Europe, Latin America and even far off Wisconsin, California and <gasp> Fort Worth!!!
   Let's celebrate where we're from and how far we've come!

Join the Ambassadors
   We still have spaces for more Ambassadors. We have fun meeting and helping visitors to worship with us. We serve one Sunday every 6 to 8 weeks.  Not too much time involved, but meaningful to the growth of our church. For more information call Wally Davis 940-262-0871.

   St. Andrew Presbyterian Church has a website and app, called "The Table," devoted to helping members stay in contact with one another. You can:

• Find contact information like address, phone number and email addresses with those you're connected with on the site
• See pictures, interests and skills of fellow members
• Pray with your church family by submitting names and reasons for prayer and by offering prayer support instantaneously

   If you would like to be a part of "The Table," contact Judy Stoughton at candjstoughton@aol.com or Kathi Sale at kathisale@yahoo.com to receive the link by email. You will then fill out your profile and explore the site. You can download the app for your phone on the Apple App store or Google Play by searching for "The Table."

Calling all fans of musical theater!
   Aspiring actors and singers of all ages are invited to participate in a Musical Scenes Production here at St. Andrew that will feature short scenes from operas and musicals. Everyone who would like to participate will be offered a role... no "tryouts" required! Whether you've always wanted to be in a musical, have music skills you're not currently using, or would just like to have fun exploring new music, you're invited to be part of this fun and uplifting multi-generational show.
   On Sunday, March 1 at 2pm, all interested singers/actors are invited to attend an informational meeting in the Adult Choir Room. Please have something in mind to sing for us (one-on-one, no audience!) so we can help find the perfect song to showcase your voice. Anything from "Happy Birthday" to "Amazing Grace" to your favorite song from a musical will work great! The show has opportunities for every comfort level, ranging from speaking-only to a one-line solo in a big chorus number to performing a role in a whole scene. Rehearsals are flexible: by appointment on weeknights, and 2 Saturday afternoon workshops. The performance will be held at St. Andrew on April 12.