The word is out! The Rev. Joyce MacKichan Walker has announced her retirement at the end of August. “How can that be?” we all thought. Joyce has served Nassau Presbyterian Church as director of Christian education and minister of education for 30 years.
It is time to celebrate her years with us and wish her well in her retirement endeavors. We can be assured that retirement won’t mean rocking on the porch for Joyce.
Therefore, you are invited to celebrate Joyce in these ways:
Register for a luncheon on Sunday, July 1, at 12:30 p.m. at MacKay Center, Princeton Theological Seminary.
Contribute to a purse to express our thanks for her ministry among us.
Submit your words of thanks and well wishes to Joyce and photographs of Joyce during these years of ministry — contribute to the scrapbook below.
The deadline for each of these is June 15 extended to June 21. But don’t put it off, do it now.
Westminster Conservatory at Nassau
Thursday, May 17
The 2017-2018 season of Westminster Conservatory at Nassau will conclude on Thursday, May 17 at 12:15 p.m. with a performance by Trio Brillante. The recital will take place in the Niles Chapel and is open to the public without charge. The performers, Katherine McClure, flute; Melissa Bohl, oboe; and Phyllis Alpert Lehrer, piano are members of the Westminster Conservatory faculty.
The program on May 17 includes J.S. Bach’s Sonata in E-flat BWV 1031 for flute and continuo and the Trio for flute, oboe, and piano by Jean-Michel Damase.
Westminster Conservatory at Nassau recitals will resume on Thursday, September 20.
Please note: there will be no Adult Education Classes on May 20 (Confirmation) or May 27 (Memorial Day Weekend).
Our First Amendment Freedoms
Americans have abruptly stumbled—with almost no preparation—into an era of corrosive anxiety. In the space of two or three years, respected political scientists and policy experts have come to worry that our democracy itself is at risk. We will also consider whether leaders past have not left us the tools to save our unique political system now.
May 6
Making Use of Our First Amendment Freedoms in the Midst of Dangerous Times
Gustav Niebuhr
9:15 a.m.
Assembly Room
In a year in which so many feel overwhelmed by signs of debilitating disruption and savage eruptions, can we draw inspiration and action from the ideals of the Founders? The rights they left us may be the greatest defense of our civic culture that we have.
Gustav Niebuhr is Director of the Carnegie Religion & Media Program and Associate Professor at Syracuse University in New York. During a 20-year career in journalism, most recently at The New York Times and, prior to that, at the Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal and the Atlanta Journal Constitution, Gustav Niebuhr has established a reputation as a leading writer about American religion. His work has been published in books, magazines and online, and he provides occasional commentary on religion for NPR’s “All Things Considered.” Niebuhr is the author of Beyond Tolerance: Searching for Interfaith Understanding in America (Viking, 2009). He was previously a visiting fellow and scholar in residence at Princeton University.
May 6
Using Our Freedoms
Gustav Niebuhr
5:00 – 6:30 p.m.
Sanctuary In partnership with Princeton Public Library
How do the first 16 words in the Bill of Rights point us toward a better society than the one that so challenges our sense of decency now? We will look at a vital legacy of James Madison, 18th century genius whose ideas can act on our behalf now.
Sanctuary
Part of the continuing process of discernment regarding this topic.
May 13
Immigration Law related to Church Sanctuary
9:15 a.m.
Assembly Room
Join us for a summary of the legal issues relevant to churches offering sanctuary to undocumented residents. Our guest will address questions about the status of those who enter the US and remain without immigration classification; obstacles to gaining immigration status on one’s own; and possibilities for undocumented workers, particularly those who have houses, jobs, families with American children. Also explore questions about a church’s role and process, including risks and expectations. Following a presentation there will be some time for questions which have not been addressed.
Sally L. Steinberg is an Attorney, Arbitrator and Mediator, practicing Immigration Law as well as Family Law since 1980. She is a member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association, the New Jersey State Bar Association and Immigration Court Volunteer Lawyer Project. She participates in the Ask a Lawyer sessions at the Princeton Public Library and actively works with politicians, lobbies for Immigration Reform and works with local Immigration clients. Her office is located at 281 Witherspoon Street, Princeton.
1 Corinthians In Depth
Sunday, May 6 & 13, 9:15 a.m.
Maclean House (Garden Entrance)
George Hunsinger leads a verse-by-verse examination of the First Letter of Paul to the Corinthians. In this epistle the Corinthian congregation wrestles with doctrinal and ethical issues in conversation with their “founding pastor,” Paul, and Paul offers compelling good news in his understanding of the cross, the resurrection, worship, and life together in Christian community.
George Hunsinger is Professor of Systematic Theology at Princeton Theological Seminary. He is the founder of the National Religious Campaign Against Torture.
UNITY GATHERING – SUNDAY MAY 6TH, MILL HILL PARK – 2pm
Sunday, May 6th, United Mercer Interfaith Organization (UMIO) is holding its Unity Gathering for the families, friends and those concerned about the victims of homicide violence during the past year. This prayer gathering is focused on remembering those murdered in Trenton over the last twelve months.
The Unity Gathering will be held in Mill Hill Park (165 E. Front Street, Trenton) from 2:00pm – 5:00pm. The prayer gathering is being held by in coordination with several other organizations. The timing of the Unity Gathering each year coincides with National Prayer Day. This year is UMIO’s 5th Anniversary in holding this Unity Gathering.
The interfaith ceremony will feature music, readings, commentary, and prayers. The moderator for this year’s memorial gathering is the Rev. Karen Herandez-Granzen, Pastor of Westminster Presbyterian Church in Trenton. Music will begin at 2:00pm, which will allow families an opportunity to interact with others and avail themselves of information on support services they might find helpful. Speakers will make up the formal portion of the program from 3:00-4:00pm, followed by more music and refreshments.
The families of the victims are invited, as well as members of the community impacted by their loss. UMIO is reaching out to members of the community in the hope of locating as many families as possible. Family members who are interested in attending should contact Rev. Molly Dykstra at Covenant Presbyterian Church, , 609.989.8282.
Use this form for either Adult or Youth Volunteers.
Youth Volunteers (Grade 7 – HS Graduates) must submit a completed “NPC Release and Permission” form. You may download it here: NPC Release and Permission Form (pdf).
Please contact Lauren Yeh (, 609-924-0103, x106) if you have any questions.
Try on teaching for a week! We provide curriculum, morning schedule and lots of encouragement. You provide a willingness to try something new and love for the children of our church.
Sundays, May 20 – September 2
Assist head teachers in either the Preschool or K-2 room
For more information, contact Corrie Berg (, 609-924-0103, x108)
All-Church Retreat
The All-Church retreat is a great way (actually, the best way) to start your summer.
We are going to NorthBay, located two hours south on Chesapeake Bay in Maryland. Our retreat begins with dinner on Friday and ends after lunch on Sunday. The cost is $130 for adults or $65 for children (3–10), and under-3s are free. Private rooms plus bath available at slightly higher cost ($160 adult; $80 children 3-10). Includes all meals and access to activities.
For more information, contact Corrie Berg (, 609-924-0103, x108)
Vacation Bible School & PresbyCamp
“David, the Shepherd King”
Hear stories of how a young shepherd boy became king of all Israel. Chosen by God, this almost-overlooked youngest son grows up to be the hero of the Jewish nation.
Monday-Thursday, June 25-28
VBS, 9am – 12pm – age 3 through rising grade 6 ($30)
PresbyCamp, 12-3:30pm – VBS’ers who are rising grades 4-6 (+$25)
For more information, contact Corrie Berg (, 609-924-0103, x108)
Chancel Drama
“Once Upon a Parable”
Come be part of our group of energetic storytellers who will try to capture the humor and contemporary nature of some of Jesus’ most familiar parables.
August 12-17 & 19
Rising grade 3 through 12
$50 per participant (includes souvenir t-shirt)
Register online (including auditions for solo singing/speaking roles): Once Upon a Parable
Audition Dates: Wednesday, May 16; Sunday, May 20; or Wednesday, May 23
For more information, contact Ingrid Ladendorf (, 609-924-0103, x108)
Loaves & Fishes
Volunteering for Loaves and Fishes, whether it’s donating food, or money or time, is an opportunity to be fed as well. It’s an opportunity to join and be a part of our community of faith in action, as we do what our Lord asked of us. As we prepare food, make meals, serve and clean up, we are serving our most vulnerable neighbors. And I think you will find that in the midst of all the hubub and action and swirl, if you can take a moment to breathe, you’ll find that you are being fed, too.
So please, come, be fed. Be fed by making meat loaves or cookies. Be fed by donating to St. Mary’s. Be fed by feeding the less fortunate. Volunteer for Loaves and Fishes. August 18th at St. Mary’s Cathedral.
Saturday, August 18
All ages
St. Mary’s Cathedral, 151 North Warren Street, Trenton, NJ
Sign Ups for Meatloaf & Cookie Making, as well as jobs on Saturday in Trenton, to be announced soon – watch this space!
Youth Trips
Time to double-check those packing lists and download all the forms!
NorthBay, Thursday, June 28, to Monday, July 2
ASP, Sunday, July 15, to Saturday, July 21
Beyond Malibu – Mountain, Friday, July 27, to Saturday, August 4
Beyond Malibu – Sea Kayak, Wednesday, August 8, to Friday, August 17
For more information, contact Mark Edwards (, 609-933-7599)
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Lauren Yeh, 609-924-0103 x106,
I am sorry to report that all of our classes are filled. If you have already registered your child or children and need information about fees due, forms due or drop-off/pick-up procedures, please contact Lauren Yeh.
Join the Full Faculty of The New School for Music Study in their final recital of the 2017-2018 season. The recital will take place on Sunday, April 15 at 2:30 in the Sanctuary of Nassau Presbyterian Church. The recital, “Music Is Emotion” will celebrate the transformative power of music. The performances will journey through a range of emotions and moods, featuring solo and chamber works by J.S. Bach, Mozart, Debussy, Glass, and many more!
The recitals are free and open to the public. Donations accepted.
Westminster Conservatory at Nassau
Thursday, April 19
On Thursday, April 19 at 12:15 p.m. the series Westminster Conservatory at Nassau will present Larissa Korkina and Esma Pasic-Filipovic, duo pianists. The recital will take place in the Niles Chapel and is open to the public without charge. The performers are members of the Westminster Conservatory faculty.
The program on April 19 includes Franz Schubert’s Fantasy in F Minor, D. 940, and two works by Felix Mendelssohn: Fantasy in D Minor and Allegro brillante, op. 92.
The final Westminster Conservatory at Nassau recital of the academic year will take place on May 17 and will feature Trio Brillante – Katherine McClure, flute; Melissa Bohl, oboe; and Phyllis Lehrer, piano.
Please note: there will be no Adult Education Classes on April 1 (Easter) or April 29 (Communiversity).
Nassau Making a Difference
Nassau’s engagement in and commitment to local mission runs deep and wide. This year’s mission series focuses on three long-standing relationships in Princeton and Trenton. Come both to be inspired by the work in progress and drawn into the stories of the need for justice, advocacy and helping hands.
April 8
Against All Odds
9:15 a.m.
Assembly Room
Princeton native, Paul Robeson, was the epitome of the 20th-century Renaissance man. He was an exceptional athlete, actor, singer, cultural scholar, author, and political activist. Several NPC members are working with our Witherspoon Street Presbyterian Church friends to restore and renovate Paul’s birthplace at 110 Witherspoon Street. The Paul Robeson House is established as a memorial to Paul’s life and his unwavering commitment to equality on behalf of the poor and underserved.
Denyse Leslie, Clerk of Session at the Witherspoon Street Presbyterian Church and Vice President of the Robeson House Board; Ben Colbert, President of the Board; and Board members from both churches will help us know more about this remarkable man and the exciting plans for his birthplace.
April 15
Trenton – A Tale of Two Cities
9:15 a.m.
Assembly Room
Come for an insider understanding of the city of Trenton and many of the challenges and opportunities Trenton currently faces, including the changing demographics and medical state of affairs, among others.
Jane Rohlf Boyer, MD, an internal medicine specialist in Trenton, is also a long-time community activist, enthusiast and supporter. She and her husband Ted know and care deeply about Trenton and about those who live there.
Adriana Abizadeh is the Executive Director of The Latin American Legal Defense & Education Fund (LALDEF) in Trenton. She is committed to programs and services focused on the well-being of Latin Americans, their civil rights, and access to health care and education.
April 22
Free at Last
9:15 a.m.
Assembly Room
Come hear Jim McCloskey tell the story of his latest, and one of his “most rewarding” cases. On December 20, 2017, Centurion freed and returned to their eagerly awaiting families three ex-soldiers who had spent 26 years falsely imprisoned for a 1992 Savannah, Georgia murder. From start to finish Jim will walk us through this nonsensical tale of justice going awry and how truth can indeed be stranger than fiction.
Jim McCloskey is a current member of Nassau’s session, and the founder of Centurion Ministries, the Princeton based non-profit that works to free persons who have been wrongly convicted.
Retirement on Your Terms
Retirement isn’t a rocking chair and a gold watch anymore. There are nearly as many ways to retire as there are retirees, and what works for one may not be the best solution for another. Join us for a series on successful retirement that addresses questions like when to retire, and the impact of work, familial and community engagement, lifestyle, and faith on quality of life in retirement. (Please note: Financial planning will not be discussed in this series.)
April 15
Factors associated with health and successful aging
9:15 a.m.
Music Room
People in the U.S. are living longer than ever before and many seniors live active and healthy lives. But there’s no getting around one thing: as we age, our bodies and minds change. There are things you can do to stay healthy and active as you age. Come and discuss some of the most important factors associated with healthy aging. Review the health “secrets” of the people leaving in the Blue Zones; areas where people live long and wholesome lives. Participants will have the chance to ask questions on specific “issues” and “difficulties” that they may have faced in their quest to change unhealthy behaviors and attain a healthy lifestyle.
Labros Sidossis is currently Distinguished Professor and Chair, Department of Kinesiology and Health, at Rutgers University, USA and Professor of Nutrition at the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Harokopio University, Athens, Greece. Dr Sidossis’ teaching and research has focused on the mechanisms regulating human health and diseases (e.g obesity, insulin resistance, dyslipidemias, severe burn injury). He has also studied the factors determining successful aging in populations in the Mediterranean region and the USA.
April 22
Meaning and Purpose As We Age
9:15 a.m.
Music Room
As we age our roles and responsibilities change, but every stage of life presents opportunities for purpose and meaning. Learn strategies for engaging with others, serving, and deepening our faith that can make our retirement spiritually rich, satisfying and happy.
The Rev. Robin Bacon Hoffman serves as chaplain to the diverse community at Meadow Lakes, a Springpoint Senior Living retirement community in East Windsor. She earned her M.Div. and Th. M. degrees at Princeton Theological Seminary, after careers in chemical engineering and IT consulting. Ms. Hoffman leads a variety of continuing education workshops for Rutgers University School of Social Work, including Positive Aging, Promoting Wellness in Older Adults and Ethics Essentials. She lives in Princeton Jct. with her husband Jeff, not far from her daughters and grandchildren.
1 Corinthians In Depth
Sundays, 9:15 a.m.
Maclean House (Garden Entrance)
George Hunsinger leads a verse-by-verse examination of the First Letter of Paul to the Corinthians. In this epistle the Corinthian congregation wrestles with doctrinal and ethical issues in conversation with their “founding pastor,” Paul, and Paul offers compelling good news in his understanding of the cross, the resurrection, worship, and life together in Christian community.
George Hunsinger is Professor of Systematic Theology at Princeton Theological Seminary. He is the founder of the National Religious Campaign Against Torture.
The voices of incarcerated men of color speak out in writings by current and former inmates. Tackling the prison-industrial complex, assumptions about prison life, and the challenges faced after release, Caged lays bare the human costs of a for-profit justice system.
Caged follows a Black family’s struggle to survive the generational cycle of mass incarceration. Combining stories, interviews, and writing by current and former inmates, this poignant community-devised play uses gripping truths and soulful dialogue to reveal the human cost of America’s for-profit justice system.
Nassau & Westminster Presbyterian Churches are going as a group on Opening Night, Saturday, May 5 AND the following week, Saturday, May 12. You are invited to participate at the special group rate.
Group rate tickets for these performances are very limited. Please make your reservations as soon as possible.
Seating in this theater is “open.” You may purchase companion tickets at the regular rate on the Passage Theatre website: http://passagetheatre.org/caged/ and still find seats together that night.
