First Presbyterian Church of Fort Lauderdale's Christianity and Culture Night Speaker Series and Enrichment Classes Demonstrate the Power of Perseverance and Passion

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., Sept. 25, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Ever wonder how normal, everyday people persevere and overcome the challenges life presents them with? Find out how during the 2014-2015 Christianity and Culture Night Speaker Series and Enrichment Classes at First Presbyterian Church of Fort Lauderdale.

"The Power of One: Ordinary People Doing Extraordinary Things" will feature five individuals who will talk about their triumphs and tribulations in their attempts to effect positive change and improve lives.

"Just like the very human figures found in The Scriptures, when we pay attention to what God is telling us we have the power to touch people," said Rev. Dr. Connie Ast Caldwell. "God created every single one of us with gifts and abilities. By attending these seminars, I'm hoping that people will get inspired to listen to what God wants. As a result, they will be blessed."

Each seminar will be held on the first Wednesday of each month (through February 2015) from 7 to 8 p.m. in the Study and Renewal Center (1417 SE 4 Street, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301). RSVP by email to [email protected] or by calling (954) 598-9312. The seminars are free and open to the public. Childcare will be provided upon request and should be noted when RSVP is submitted.

The Speaker Series
October 1
Barb Burnette, Helping Abused Neglected Disadvantaged Youth [HANDY]
Embracing Our Youth 
Barb Burnette will talk about how one person's vision led to the foundation of HANDY, an organization that works with troubled and vulnerable young men and women and finds ways to help them develop into productive adults.

November 5
Jamie Amelio, Caring for Cambodia [CFC]
Graced With Orange
Jamie Amelio has been honored by the Cambodian government for her work to build schools in that country. She will talk about her work, the importance of "Being Orange" and why she's known as the "Lawn Mower."

December 3
Andy Mitchell, Operation Lift Hope
Our National Treasures
Andy Mitchell will talk about this country's living, breathing "National Treasures" – veterans. Active in numerous organizations, Mitchell's main focus is his brainchild, Operation Lift Hope, which connects various organizations that provide opportunities for veterans.

January 7
Brittany and Joanne Young, A Spring of Hope [ASOH]
The Power of Water
In 2007, Joanne Young took her teenage daughter, Brittany, to South Africa. The trip changed Brittany's life. Now a social entrepreneur and writer and in 2013 a guest faculty member at Drexel University's School of Public Health, Brittany will talk about what she learned. The pair will also talk about their experience with the global water crisis and the work they are doing to address it in South Africa.

February 4
Barbara Grevior, PAWS Humane Society of Broward County
Helping is a Must
As the founding president of PAWS, Barbara Grevior believes "Pets Are Worth Saving." She has also been instrumental in Relay for Life, receiving an award for her role in creating it, and will talk about her role in developing the Humane Society from its humble origins to what it is today.

Feed Your Body Before Your Spirit
Before you learn from the speakers, gain enrichment through taste with a meal prepared by Chef Phil, the church's resident chef. Healthy meals will be served in the Fellowship Hall on Wednesdays at 5:45 p.m. For dinner, RSVP by the Monday before each seminar by emailing [email protected] or call (954) 462-6200.

Additional Opportunities for Fellowship and Enrichment
Experiencing God
Knowing Christ is not something you can learn through a method or study program. It comes when you develop a relationship with him and he reveals himself to you when he is ready for you to join him in his work. Beginning January 14, 2015, Rev. Dr. Connie Ast Caldwell leads a study group that focuses on how the relationship with God can be strengthened. The classes will be held Wednesdays at 6:45 p.m. in the Study and Renewal Center. The cost of the workbook is $15. For more information, email [email protected] or call 954-598-9312.

For additional information about First Presbyterian Church, its worship schedule or its diverse array of faith-based and social programming please visit www.firstpres.cc or call (954) 462-6200. Like what First Presbyterian Church of Fort Lauderdale is doing? Show it by clicking here.

About First Presbyterian Church of Ft. Lauderdale
Founded in 1912, First Presbyterian Church of Ft. Lauderdale is located on the banks of the New River in the historic Colee Hammock neighborhood in downtown Ft. Lauderdale. With more than 1,800 members, and a strong core of volunteers, First Presbyterian Church of Ft. Lauderdale prides itself in offering something for everyone, regardless of age. Since 1947, First Presbyterian Church of Ft. Lauderdale has operated Happyland Day School, a pre-school for ages two to Kindergarten that provides a quality Christian environment for the children of the community. Adult, youth and children choirs as well as youth groups offer ample opportunity for fellowship at any age. An Adult Activity Center is open to senior citizens and features weekly lunches, entertainment and monthly bus trips. First Presbyterian Church of Ft. Lauderdale offers two regular Sunday services as well as special worship services held throughout the year to commemorate significant days. For more information, please visit the website at www.firstpres.cc.

MEDIA RELEASE CONTACT
Laurie Menekou, (954) 732-0754
[email protected]

SOURCE First Presbyterian Church of Fort Lauderdale