VCS 2019: Who is My Neighbor?
2019-06-25 09:00 - 15:00, 2019-06-26 09:00 - 15:00, 2019-06-27 09:00 - 15:00, 2019-06-28 09:00 - 15:00 (America/New_York) | East Liberty Presbyterian Church, 116 S. Highland Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15206, United States
Vacation Church School will take place daily June 24–28, 9 am–3pm, guided by our theme: Who is My Neighbor? Learning to Love like Jesus.
Through crafts, music, activities, games, worship, reflection, and Bible study, children ages 4 through grade 5 will explore God’s call to love our neighbors as ourselves.
Spots are still available, but fill fast.

Registration Forms
Registration forms for campers and volunteers are
available on our VCS webpage.

Lend a Helping Hand
Youth in grades 6–12 and adults of all ages are needed to serve as volunteers. We need folks who can serve all week and even those who can spare just three hours. A list of requested items for donation will be available soon.

Volunteer Training
There is a mandatory training session for all volunteers following Sanctuary worship on Sunday, June 23. Click here for details.

Juneteenth Parade and Celebration
2019-06-29 10:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York) | Freedom Corner, 1500 Centre Ave, Pittsburgh, 15219, United States
Pittsburgh’s 2019 Juneteenth celebration will be held June 28–30. ELPC will participate in the parade, beginning at Freedom Corner (Crawford St. and Centre Ave.), Saturday, June 29, 11 am. Line up begins at 10 am. Wear your ELPC t-shirt and put on walking shoes to march behind the ELPC banner to Point State Park, where the festivities will continue throughout the weekend.
Our Young Adult Ministry will have a setup in the park with blankets, chairs, and water to spend the afternoon celebrating Juneteenth!
Looking for more information? Youth and young adults, contact Kelli Booher at KelliB@coh.net or 412.441.3800 x114. Other ages, contact Michele Bossers at michele2285@gmail.com.

About Juneteenth
Juneteenth is the oldest known celebration commemorating the ending of slavery in the United States. Dating back to 1865, it was on June 19 that Union soldiers notified the city of Galveston, Texas, with news that the war had ended and that the enslaved were now free. Although this was two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation became official on Jan. 1, 1863, the proclamation had little impact on Texans until the war ended. With the surrender of General Lee in April 1865, the Union forces were finally strong enough to influence and overcome the resistance, freeing all slaves. This news was met with joy and celebration and Juneteenth was born as an annual celebration of emancipation and freedom.

LGBTQ Ministry Spiritual Gathering
2019-06-30 11:30 - 13:30, 2019-07-14 11:30 - 13:30, 2019-09-01 11:30 - 13:30 (America/Halifax) | East Liberty Presbyterian Church, 116 S. Highland Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15206, United States
All are welcome at this monthly spiritual gathering of LGBTQ Christians and their allies.
Contact Wil Forrest at 412.260.2554 or Wil@coh.net to learn more and to attend.
God created you. God loves you.
Be yourself.

Keep Families Together: Out of Cages & In Their Homes!
2019-07-02 18:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | East Liberty Presbyterian Church, 116 S. Highland Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15206, United States
Immigrant families face separation constantly, this time thanks to Ben Carson and his Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). A new proposal would evict mixed-status families from subsidized housing, requiring everyone except senior citizens to prove citizenship. This would mean that if a woman living in subsidized housing has her brother who is applying for asylum temporarily staying with her, both would face eviction unless the brother moved out. More than 100,000 families would face eviction if this rule is put in place.
HUD admits its mixed-status rule will NOT reduce wait lists, but WILL reduce the quality and quantity of housing. This is clearly another attack on immigrants and poor people, and we will let the government know why we will not stand for it.
Join us to take part in the federal public comment period to oppose this rule change and take a stand against family separation. Public comment periods are an incredibly effective way to influence federal policy.
This event is part of Just Harvest’s Power of the Pen series—monthly events to write letters to public officials to create real world change. Dinner will be provided.

2019 Film Festival | Won’t You Be My Neighbor?
2019-07-14 11:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York) | ELPC – Good Samaritan Room, 116 S. Highland Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15206, United States
This documentary paints a portrait of the philosophy and work of cardigan-wearing children’s entertainer Fred Rogers, star of the popular show Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.
A former minister, Fred Rogers creatively communicated themes of empathy and acceptance, race relations, kindness, and tolerance using a colorful cast of puppets and friends for more than 30 years.
Along with archival footage, Rogers’ contemporaries and cast-mates reflect on his legacy.

Sponsored by the Neighbors Committee
Runtime: 94 minutes

About the 2019 Summer Film Festival
Each year, the ELPC Mission Board and Mission Committees sponsor and host a summer film series. This year’s themes are a continuation of our ongoing focus on facing systemic racism. Everyone is invited to stay after worship on Sundays, July 14, August 4, and August 18, and join us in the Good Samaritan Room to view the movies, discuss the themes, and enjoy a light lunch together.

Tuesdays in the Park @ West End - Elliott Overlook Park
2019-07-16 17:30 - 19:00 (America/New_York) | PA
This summer—one Tuesday a month—we are visiting lesser-known Pittsburgh parks to enjoy a picnic, explore nature, and expand our faith in fellowship through scripture and dialogue.
This month, we’ll visit West End – Elliott Overlook Park. Pack your dinner, bring a chair/blanket, and let’s explore!
If you need a ride, contact Kelli Booher at KelliB@coh.net or 412.441.3800 x114.

2019 Film Festival | Urban Roots
2019-08-04 11:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York) | ELPC – Good Samaritan Room, 116 S. Highland Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15206, United States
Once an industrial powerhouse of a lost American era, Detroit has been devastated by the loss of half its population due to the collapse of manufacturing. By the looks of it, the city has died. But now, in the empty lots, in the old factory yards, and in-between the sagging blocks of housing, seeds of change are taking root.
Dedicated citizens have started an urban environmental movement with the potential to transform not just a city after its collapse, but also a country after the end of its industrial age. Urban Roots shows Detroiters working to fulfill their vision for locally-grown, sustainably farmed food in a city where people—as in much of the county—have found themselves cut off from real food.

Sponsored by the Justice Committee
Runtime: 94 minutes

About the 2019 Summer Film Festival
Each year, the ELPC Mission Board and Mission Committees sponsor and host a summer film series. This year’s themes are a continuation of our ongoing focus on facing systemic racism. Everyone is invited to stay after worship on Sundays, July 14, August 4, and August 18, and join us in the Good Samaritan Room to view the movies, discuss the themes, and enjoy a light lunch together.

Karl Sellner Memorial Benefit 2019
2019-08-10 16:00 - 21:00 (America/New_York) | Pittsburgh New Church, 299 Le Roi Road, Pittsburgh, PA, 15208, United States
Please join us for what is sure to be a great evening of music, food, raffles, games, and friendship in remembrance of former Hope Academy student, Karl Sellner. All proceeds from the event will go to a scholarship at Hope Academy.
This fund honors his memory and ensures that his love of music will live on through the beautiful voices, playing of various instruments, dance and acting of children for many years to come.
If you are unable to make it to the event but would still to make a donation to the scholarship fund, here is the link to the Hope Academy donations page.
Click HERE to make a DONATION to Hope Academy’s Scholarship Fund (select the Karl Sellner Memorial option) or Donate an Item for the AUCTION

ABOUT KARL SELLNER
From an early age, Karl Jacob Sellner was simply captivated by his grandfather John Alden’s music, foreshadowing his life-long love of the performing arts. This passion was nurtured by his family and by his many experiences as a student of Hope Academy. As a teen and young adult, Karl became an accomplished guitar player and lyricist. As with his love of music, Karl found the other things he cared about early in life, including his wife Shelby, and his calling to join the US Army to serve, like his grandfather had during WWII. Like so many gifted musicians before him, Karl’s light was also shadowed by bi-polar disorder. On, September 11, 2016, Karl’s pain was too much and he ended his life. The support of the Hope Academy community was treasured by his parents and 6 siblings during this time of grief, and together, they channeled this sadness into the Karl Jacob Sellner Memorial Fund for Hope Academy. This fund honors his memory and ensures that his love of music will live on through the beautiful voices, playing of various instruments, dance and acting of children for many years to come.
ABOUT HOPE ACADEMY OF MUSIC AND THE ARTS
Hope Academy of Music and the Arts, an outreach program of East Liberty Presbyterian Church, offers a safe place where young people of diverse racial, ethnic, cultural, socioeconomic, religious and linguistic backgrounds can further their personal and artistic growth through the study and performance of theater, dance and music. We strive to create a diverse and inclusive artistic community that provides deep arts instruction through a sequential and progressive program; that supports the personal and artistic growth of students and teaching artists, alike; and contributes to our community’s positive growth and cultural vibrancy. Over 350 young people and their families participate in Hope Academy’s programs throughout the year.

LGBTQ Ministry Potluck & Fellowship
2019-08-17 11:00 - 14:00 (America/Halifax) | East Liberty Presbyterian Church, 116 S. Highland Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15206, United States
All are welcome at this potluck lunch and fellowship time of LGBTQ Christians and their allies. Bring a dish to share.
Contact Wil Forrest at 412.260.2554 or Wil@coh.net to learn more and to attend.
God created you. God loves you.
Be yourself.

2019 Film Festival | BlacKkKlansman
2019-08-18 11:00 - 13:30 (America/New_York) | ELPC – Good Samaritan Room, 116 S. Highland Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15206, United States
From visionary filmmaker Spike Lee comes the incredible true story of an American hero.
African-American detective Ron Stallworth sets out on a dangerous mission: infiltrate and expose the Ku Klux Klan with the aid of a more seasoned colleague, Flip Zimmerman.
Together, they team up to take down the extremist hate group as the organization aims to sanitize its violent rhetoric to appeal to the mainstream.

Sponsored by the Peace Committee
Runtime: 134 minutes

About the 2019 Summer Film Festival
Each year, the ELPC Mission Board and Mission Committees sponsor and host a summer film series. This year’s themes are a continuation of our ongoing focus on facing systemic racism. Everyone is invited to stay after worship on Sundays, July 14, August 4, and August 18, and join us in the Good Samaritan Room to view the movies, discuss the themes, and enjoy a light lunch together.

ELPC Celebrates Anthony Williams
2019-08-18 11:30 - 13:00 (America/New_York) | PA
Join us for this Special Fellowship Time honoring Anthony Williams.
Anthony Williams has served as a youth worker at ELPC for over 18 years. As an integral part of our youth ministry team, Mr. Anthony has nurtured the faith of generations of teens at ELPC, chaperoned dozens of Mission Trips and retreats, led a basketball ministry for youth in the community, and supported Confirmands on their journey to adult membership at ELPC.
Whether through an interactive Bible Study or a game of Spades, Mr. Anthony has taught the love of God in Christ to all, and has modeled what it means to put one’s faith in action. Late this spring, Mr. Anthony was named Head of School of The Neighborhood Academy. With this exciting transition in his life, Mr. Anthony has discerned the need to step down from his role at ELPC to dedicate his time and energy to his new position.
We give thanks for Mr. Anthony – for his impact on the lives of many here at ELPC and at TNA. We will celebrate his 18 years of service during a special fellowship time in his honor, following the 10 AM worship service on August 18. Please join us to thank him and wish him well on the next leg of his journey!
If you can’t be there, send a few words of well-wishes, a picture or a fun memory that we’ll include in a gift to him … send photos and or memories to HeatherS@coh.net.

Tuesdays in the Park @ Friendship Parklet
2019-08-20 17:30 - 19:00 (America/New_York) | Friendship Parklet, Friendship and Cross Street, Pittsburgh, PA, 15224, United States
Our last Tuesday in the Park summer series will be held at Friendship Parklet in the neighborhood of Friendship, next to West Penn Hospital!
Caliente pizza will be provided, but feel free to bring your own food and drink. We will have blankets to sit on, so bring a chair if you would like.
Let’s soak up the end of summer outside sharing good food and conversation with each other.
Questions? Contact Kelli Booher at KelliB@coh.net or 412.441.3800 x114.

2019 Summer Celebration of Service
2019-08-22 18:00 - 19:30 (America/New_York) | ELPC – Courtyard, 116 South Highland Avenue, Pittsburgh, 15206, United States
As a faithful ELPC servant, YOU are invited to our Annual Summer Celebration of Service and Volunteers in the Courtyard (or Social Hall if it’s raining).
Hamburgers, hot dogs, veggie burgers, fixings, and drinks will be provided. Please plan to bring either a side dish or dessert to serve about 8 people. If you want your container back, please label it with your last name. No need to bring serving utensils.
You do not need to RSVP. Just come and attend a relaxing evening of fellowship, food, and appreciation! Let us serve you in thanks and gratitude!

Drive-In Movie Time
2019-08-30 18:15 - 23:00 (America/New_York) | Dependable Drive-In Theater, 549 Moon Clinton Rd., Moon, 15108, United States
Let’s take a trip back in time and experience the movies outdoors at Dependable Drive-In Theater (549 Moon Clinton Rd., Moon). We will meet at ELPC and leave the Highland Ave circle drive at 6:15pm.
Things to bring: money for the concession stand (or your own snacks), a chair and any extras you might have for fellow YAMs, and a blanket/jacket as it does get chilly at night.
Space in the church van is limited. Please RSVP to Kelli at KelliB@coh.net or 412.441.3800 x114.

Coffee Talk
2019-09-06 06:30 - 20:30 (America/New_York) | ELPC – Second Floor Parlor, 116 S Highland Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15206, United States
Coffee Talk is an annual event where we meet to drink coffee, relax, and discuss a specific topic. This year’s topic is Grown Up. Do you consider yourself grown up? Waiting to grow up? What was something you looked forward to as a child when you would think of being a grown up?
Bring a story and a dessert to share, Café Justo will be provided.
Come hang out and let’s brew up some good conversation!

Rally Day Breakfast
2019-09-08 09:30 - 09:45 (America/Halifax) | ELPC – McKelvy Room (114), 116 South Highland Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15206, United States
On Rally Day, we will resume our regular Sunday schedule with Journey worship at 8:45 am, Church School at 9:45 am, and Sanctuary worship at 11 am. As part of our Rally Day Celebration, the Children & Families Ministry Team will host a light continental breakfast at 9:30 am to welcome everyone back to Church School. Grab a bite to eat and greet friends in the Fellowship Room on the first floor before heading to class.
Parents and guardians, please note that you will be asked to complete a new registration form for your children to participate in ELPC programs.

Renewable Energy Fair
2019-09-08 12:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York) | ELPC – Social Hall, 116 South Highland Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15206-3911, United States
Do you want to find out how to switch to all renewable electricity? Are you trying to decide whether solar panels would work on your house? Do you know how to measure your carbon footprint?
To find answers to these questions and other energy-use matters, you are invited to attend a Renewable Energy Fair following Sanctuary worship. Representatives from renewable energy suppliers will be available to answer your questions and help you make the switch. There also will be a solar energy adviser. Please bring your electric bill.
Another important action is to calculate your carbon footprint. Information and help will be provided, and as well as an explanation of the carbon offset concept. For example, offset your air travel by paying into a project that reduces CO2 emissions by an equivalent amount. If you know your yearly electricity use (in kWh, from the electric company), your yearly gas use (in MCF or therms, from the gas company), and approximate annual miles traveled, the Environmental Team can help you determine your carbon footprint.
A light lunch will be provided. For more information, contact Nancy Heastings at n.heastings@comcast.net.
Hosted by the Environmental Team of the Justice Committee

Just Engagement
2019-09-09 18:00 - 20:00, 2019-09-16 18:00 - 20:00, 2019-09-23 18:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | PA
Are you frustrated by the issues in the world, but don’t know how to call yourself to action?
Join us on Mondays in September (9, 16, 23, 30), 6–8 pm, as we study Just Faith Ministries’ Just Engagement: The Power to Change. This 8-week study includes grounding in scripture; reflection on past and present social movements; wisdom from community advocates; tools for successful advocacy; and resources to support you as you discern how your gifts, skills, and passions are best utilized to create social change.
Two books are required (financial assistance is available): Faith Rooted Organizing by Alexia Salvatierra & Peter Heltzel; and Live Justly by Eugene Cho.
Please register with Kelli Booher at KelliB@coh.net. Food and refreshments will be provided.
Sponsored by the Justice Committee

80s Skating Night
2019-09-14 19:00 - 22:30 (America/New_York) | PA
Youth in grades 6 -12 are invited to a fun fall kick-off event: an 80s-themed skating night!
Please meet at ELPC at 7pm. We will drive to Neville Roller Dome near Coraopolis in the church van and return home at 10:30pm. Bring $10 to cover skating and skate rental. RSVP to Sara Hackett.
Bring a Permission Slip

Tai Chi @ ELPC
2019-09-17 10:00 - 11:00, 2019-09-24 10:00 - 11:00 (America/Halifax) | East Liberty Presbyterian Church, 116 S. Highland Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15206, United States
ELPC will offer Tai Chi classes on Tuesdays, September 17–December 10, 10–11 am. Experience flowing movements and a relaxing workout.
The cost is $30 for all 10 weeks, or $3 per session. Please pre-register with Kate Carlson at KateC@coh.net or 412.441.3800 x116.

"Just Engagement" Retreat
2019-09-21 09:00 - 15:00 (America/New_York) | PA
Whether or not you are a part of our Just Engagement study on Monday nights, this retreat is for all young adults, so let’s retreat!
We are setting this day aside to get to know each other and to reflect together on how our Christian faith calls us to work towards change. We will look at our faith/spiritual tradition and explore how it may root us in order to go into the world and care for justice.
Lunch will be provided. RSVP to Kelli Booher at KelliB@coh.net.

Church Picnic
2019-09-22 12:15 - 14:00 (America/Halifax) | East Liberty Presbyterian Church, 116 S. Highland Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15206, United States
Bring your friends and neighbors to our annual Church Picnic following Sanctuary worship! Food will be served in the Social Hall, and seating will be available in the Social Hall and Courtyard. Activities will be available for persons of all ages once everyone has been served.
ELPC will provide fried chicken, hot dogs, macaroni and potato salads, beverages, and dessert. Please bring a side or salad.
Join us as we spend time together as a faith family, enjoying good food and good company.
