
Franklin Circle Christian Church
+Caucus This Sunday To Discuss Music and Worship
by Pastor Allen V. Harris
I would like to personally invite all members, friends, and visitors of Franklin Circle Christian to a “caucus” following worship and community hour this Sunday, October 11 to discuss the question, “What would you like to see in the music and wor...ship life of Franklin Circle Christian Church?” No decisions will be made, but your insights and ideas will be recorded.
This caucus is part of two processes in which our congregation has been engaged over the past few years. One is the Anti-Racism/Pro-Reconciliation initiative, which our congregation took to heart a year ago with our new mission statement. In working with the Regional Anti-Racism Team, we have learned that oftentimes, because of the history of racism in this country, people are hesitant to express their honest feelings when persons of other races are present. In the caucus format, we first meet separately, as persons of color and persons who are Anglo/Caucasian, but then we come together as one to compare and discuss our findings.
The second process this Sunday’s caucus addresses comes out of my work over the past several years seeking to discern the elements of dynamic multi-cultural, multi-racial worship. From my visits to churches in Minneapolis/St. Paul, Washington, D.C., New York City, and here in Cleveland, along with much reading and research, I understand the central role that music, especially music in worship, has in allowing a congregation to become fully the “beloved community” that Jesus calls us to be, where we can become “a house of prayer for all people.”
More importantly, in my ongoing conversations with the folks who worship, serve, learn, and share in this congregation’s life, I have come to see that the power of music, especially music in worship, is deep and wide in almost every single person’s spiritual life. I have also heard and felt a deep yearning for our dynamic and diverse congregation to offer other places and additional ways in which more people’s spirituality can connect through music that speaks in new and equally powerful ways. This caucus is an opportunity for us to hear of and share those yearnings.
Please stay just a little longer this Sunday and share your thoughts, ideas, and feelings with us.
Pastor Allen
Read More
by Pastor Allen V. Harris
I would like to personally invite all members, friends, and visitors of Franklin Circle Christian to a “caucus” following worship and community hour this Sunday, October 11 to discuss the question, “What would you like to see in the music and wor...ship life of Franklin Circle Christian Church?” No decisions will be made, but your insights and ideas will be recorded.
This caucus is part of two processes in which our congregation has been engaged over the past few years. One is the Anti-Racism/Pro-Reconciliation initiative, which our congregation took to heart a year ago with our new mission statement. In working with the Regional Anti-Racism Team, we have learned that oftentimes, because of the history of racism in this country, people are hesitant to express their honest feelings when persons of other races are present. In the caucus format, we first meet separately, as persons of color and persons who are Anglo/Caucasian, but then we come together as one to compare and discuss our findings.
The second process this Sunday’s caucus addresses comes out of my work over the past several years seeking to discern the elements of dynamic multi-cultural, multi-racial worship. From my visits to churches in Minneapolis/St. Paul, Washington, D.C., New York City, and here in Cleveland, along with much reading and research, I understand the central role that music, especially music in worship, has in allowing a congregation to become fully the “beloved community” that Jesus calls us to be, where we can become “a house of prayer for all people.”
More importantly, in my ongoing conversations with the folks who worship, serve, learn, and share in this congregation’s life, I have come to see that the power of music, especially music in worship, is deep and wide in almost every single person’s spiritual life. I have also heard and felt a deep yearning for our dynamic and diverse congregation to offer other places and additional ways in which more people’s spirituality can connect through music that speaks in new and equally powerful ways. This caucus is an opportunity for us to hear of and share those yearnings.
Please stay just a little longer this Sunday and share your thoughts, ideas, and feelings with us.
Pastor Allen
Read More

Franklin Circle Christian Church
Film Forum & Discussion: Family Name by Macky Alston
A film about family histories, race, sexuality, and secrets.
Thursday, October 15, 7-9 p.m.
Franklin Circle Christian Church ~ 1688 Fulton Rd. ~ Cleveland, Ohio
No charge, refreshments will be served, ample parking.
Call 216-272-0622 or go to www.FranklinCircleChurch.org ...for more info.
Longer Press Release:
What Secrets Are Hidden In Your Family's History?
Family Name Video To Be Shown & Discussed October 15 @ 7 p.m.
I invite you to join us as we watch a documentary film by Macky Alston about his exploration of his family's heritage, and how it intersects with our nation's history regarding slavery, race, and diversity. ~ Rev. Allen V. Harris, Pastor, Franklin Circle Christian Church.
This documentary was produced by Macky Alson, a young white, gay seminary student (now pastor) and filmmaker who has been a friend of Pastor Allen Harris in his New York City days. Macky has made a documentary film about a curious occurrence. While attending a family reunion in North Carolina one year, he noticed in the local newspaper a notice about another Alston family reunion happening nearby. When he went to investigate, he found a wonderful celebration - of an all-Black Alston family! This film looks at the intersection of family histories, the legacy of slavery and race in America, and how families deal with secrets.
Join us on Thursday, October 15 at 7 p.m. to watch this film and then discuss it afterwards. There is no charge, and refreshments will be offered. The neighborhood and community are welcomed and encouraged to attend. The church is located at 1688 Fulton Rd. on Cleveland's Near West Side, in Ohio City.
Our Widening The Circle Forums are a means for our congregation, neighborhood, and broader community to explore in a creative manner critical issues of diversity, hospitality, and inclusiveness. This is part of our commitment to be an Open & Affirming, Anti-Racist/Pro-Reconciling, and Accessible Congregation.
The Widening The Circle Forums are usually planned on a monthly basis and include a creative or interactive element (film, speaker, interactive exercises, etc.) ample time for discussion, and refreshments. There is never a charge, and suggestions for future topics, speakers, films are always encouraged.
For more information, call the church at 216-781-8232 or go to our website: www.FranklinCircleChurch.org.Read More
A film about family histories, race, sexuality, and secrets.
Thursday, October 15, 7-9 p.m.
Franklin Circle Christian Church ~ 1688 Fulton Rd. ~ Cleveland, Ohio
No charge, refreshments will be served, ample parking.
Call 216-272-0622 or go to www.FranklinCircleChurch.org ...for more info.
Longer Press Release:
What Secrets Are Hidden In Your Family's History?
Family Name Video To Be Shown & Discussed October 15 @ 7 p.m.
I invite you to join us as we watch a documentary film by Macky Alston about his exploration of his family's heritage, and how it intersects with our nation's history regarding slavery, race, and diversity. ~ Rev. Allen V. Harris, Pastor, Franklin Circle Christian Church.
This documentary was produced by Macky Alson, a young white, gay seminary student (now pastor) and filmmaker who has been a friend of Pastor Allen Harris in his New York City days. Macky has made a documentary film about a curious occurrence. While attending a family reunion in North Carolina one year, he noticed in the local newspaper a notice about another Alston family reunion happening nearby. When he went to investigate, he found a wonderful celebration - of an all-Black Alston family! This film looks at the intersection of family histories, the legacy of slavery and race in America, and how families deal with secrets.
Join us on Thursday, October 15 at 7 p.m. to watch this film and then discuss it afterwards. There is no charge, and refreshments will be offered. The neighborhood and community are welcomed and encouraged to attend. The church is located at 1688 Fulton Rd. on Cleveland's Near West Side, in Ohio City.
Our Widening The Circle Forums are a means for our congregation, neighborhood, and broader community to explore in a creative manner critical issues of diversity, hospitality, and inclusiveness. This is part of our commitment to be an Open & Affirming, Anti-Racist/Pro-Reconciling, and Accessible Congregation.
The Widening The Circle Forums are usually planned on a monthly basis and include a creative or interactive element (film, speaker, interactive exercises, etc.) ample time for discussion, and refreshments. There is never a charge, and suggestions for future topics, speakers, films are always encouraged.
For more information, call the church at 216-781-8232 or go to our website: www.FranklinCircleChurch.org.Read More
What Secrets Does YOUR Family Have?
Time:7:00PM Thursday, October 15th
Location:Franklin Circle Christian Church Media Center

Franklin Circle Christian Church Franklin Circle Christian Church will be celebrating Great Communion Sunday tomorrow. In honor of the 200th Anniversary of the writing of Thomas Campbell's "Declaration & Address" and World Communion Sunday, we will be using a "model" order of worship from his son, Alexander Campbell. Come join us! 10:30 a.m.
Bicentennial Of The Declaration & Address
Time:10:30AM Sunday, October 4th
Location:Sanctuary at Franklin Circle Christian Church

Franklin Circle Christian Church
Join us for worship at our regular Sunday morning time of 10:30 a.m. tomorrow when we will celebrate the renewing waters of Baptism through creative and interactive ways. The service will be in our Chapel, and will be in our "contemporary style" of celebrating. Making the day especially wonderful will be the Reaffirm...ation Of Baptism of Jacob Pruitt and the Baptism of Willie Glover. You don't have to dress up, you can drink your coffee/tea while worshipping, and you can praise God from the depths of your soul!
Won't you join us?Read More
Won't you join us?Read More
Renewing Our Baptism By Living Intentionally
Time:10:30AM Sunday, September 27th
Location:Chapel at Franklin Circle Christian Church

Franklin Circle Christian Church
Jason & deMarco to Perform THIS Sunday, Tickets Still Available!
Nationally-known recording artists, Jason & deMarco, will be in concert at Franklin Circle Christian Church on Cleveland's Near West Side on Sunday, September 27 at 7:00 p.m. Tickets are $10 per person General Admission and tickets will be available at th...e door on the evening of the concert. The building is accessible and there is ample parking available. The Church is located at 1688 Fulton Rd. near W. 28th & Franklin Blvd.
The duo performed as part of "River City Saturday" at the UCC General Synod in Grand Rapids, Michigan in late June of this year. The Dallas Voice says, "Jason & deMarco have developed a beautiful and highly unusual duet technique." DNA Magazine declares, "The duo aims to mix a spiritual message with a strong mainstream aesthetic and their symbiotic approach is definitely working."
Their award-winning Showtime documentary film, "We're All Angels" gives an in-depth look at this couple who are both professional and romantic partners. On stage and in the movie they confront their audiences with compelling issues such as spirituality and its relationship to sexuality, the power of music, obligations to community, self-acceptance, and the resistance of many within the Christian community to their love for each other.
Local recording artist, Diana Tyler, who is a member of the North Eaton Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), will perform prior to Jason & deMarco. She offers a selection of folk and Christian music with guitar and vocals.
The concert is offered as part of Franklin Circle Christian Church's one year anniversary of becoming "Open & Affirming." Tickets are available from the church office Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. or at the door prior to the concert. More information about the concert, including parking details, can be found at www.FranklinCircleChurch.org or by calling 216-272-0622.
Read More
Nationally-known recording artists, Jason & deMarco, will be in concert at Franklin Circle Christian Church on Cleveland's Near West Side on Sunday, September 27 at 7:00 p.m. Tickets are $10 per person General Admission and tickets will be available at th...e door on the evening of the concert. The building is accessible and there is ample parking available. The Church is located at 1688 Fulton Rd. near W. 28th & Franklin Blvd.
The duo performed as part of "River City Saturday" at the UCC General Synod in Grand Rapids, Michigan in late June of this year. The Dallas Voice says, "Jason & deMarco have developed a beautiful and highly unusual duet technique." DNA Magazine declares, "The duo aims to mix a spiritual message with a strong mainstream aesthetic and their symbiotic approach is definitely working."
Their award-winning Showtime documentary film, "We're All Angels" gives an in-depth look at this couple who are both professional and romantic partners. On stage and in the movie they confront their audiences with compelling issues such as spirituality and its relationship to sexuality, the power of music, obligations to community, self-acceptance, and the resistance of many within the Christian community to their love for each other.
Local recording artist, Diana Tyler, who is a member of the North Eaton Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), will perform prior to Jason & deMarco. She offers a selection of folk and Christian music with guitar and vocals.
The concert is offered as part of Franklin Circle Christian Church's one year anniversary of becoming "Open & Affirming." Tickets are available from the church office Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. or at the door prior to the concert. More information about the concert, including parking details, can be found at www.FranklinCircleChurch.org or by calling 216-272-0622.
Read More
Tickets WILL Be Available At The Door!
Time:7:00PM Sunday, September 27th
Location:Franklin Circle Christian Church

Franklin Circle Christian Church
Mid-Week Bible Study
Fall 2009 Theme: Understanding The Book Of Revelation
Led by members of the class!
Every Wednesday, 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. No expertise necessary! All are welcome.
September
2 Introduction To The Book Of Revelation – Pastor Allen
9 John’s Vision of the Heavenly Christ (1:1-20)
16 Letters To Churches (2:1-...29)
23 More Letters To Churches (3:1-22)
30 John’s Vision Of God And The Lamb (4:1-5:14)
October
7 Opening The Seven Seals Of God’s Scroll (6:1-8:2)
14 Sounding The Seven Trumpets (8:3-11:19)
21 Ohio City Near West Forum on Safety @ FCCC
28 The Satanic Trinity: The Dragon & The Two Beasts (12:1-14:20)
November
4 The Seven Bowls Of God’s Wrath (15:1-18:24)
11 The Final Victory & The Last Judgment (19:1-20:15)
18 John’s Vision Of The Heavenly Jerusalem (21:1-22:21)
25 Community Thanksgiving Service
Primary resource for this fall’s study: “Breaking The Code: Understanding The Book of Revelation” by Bruce M. Metzger, Nashville: Abingdon Press, 1993, 106 pages; and Leader’s Guide.
Read More
Fall 2009 Theme: Understanding The Book Of Revelation
Led by members of the class!
Every Wednesday, 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. No expertise necessary! All are welcome.
September
2 Introduction To The Book Of Revelation – Pastor Allen
9 John’s Vision of the Heavenly Christ (1:1-20)
16 Letters To Churches (2:1-...29)
23 More Letters To Churches (3:1-22)
30 John’s Vision Of God And The Lamb (4:1-5:14)
October
7 Opening The Seven Seals Of God’s Scroll (6:1-8:2)
14 Sounding The Seven Trumpets (8:3-11:19)
21 Ohio City Near West Forum on Safety @ FCCC
28 The Satanic Trinity: The Dragon & The Two Beasts (12:1-14:20)
November
4 The Seven Bowls Of God’s Wrath (15:1-18:24)
11 The Final Victory & The Last Judgment (19:1-20:15)
18 John’s Vision Of The Heavenly Jerusalem (21:1-22:21)
25 Community Thanksgiving Service
Primary resource for this fall’s study: “Breaking The Code: Understanding The Book of Revelation” by Bruce M. Metzger, Nashville: Abingdon Press, 1993, 106 pages; and Leader’s Guide.
Read More
Needing A Little "Revelation" In Your Life?...
Time:7:00PM Wednesday, September 2nd
Location:Chapel - 2nd Fl.

Feel Free To Share This Widely! Short Release Nationally-known recording artists, Jason & deMarco, will be in concert at Franklin Circle Christian Church, 1688 Fulton Rd. on Cleveland’s Near West Side on Sunday, September 27 at 7:00 p.m. ...

Franklin Circle Christian Church
Come join in our congregation's annual "Outdoor Worship Service & Picnic." Come casual: Wear shorts and, if you have it, a camp/conference t-shirt. We'll celebrate the amazing camp & conference program of the Ohio Disciples of Christ, and hear back from out children, youth, and adults as to what makes camp special fo...r them.
Bring a dish to share. Don't worry about what to bring, just bring it! We'll have the hamburgers, hot dogs, buns, and drinks already here.
And bring a friend!Read More
Bring a dish to share. Don't worry about what to bring, just bring it! We'll have the hamburgers, hot dogs, buns, and drinks already here.
And bring a friend!Read More
Enjoy worship in God's "natural" sanctuary!
Time:10:30AM Sunday, August 23rd
Location:Lawn of the Masonic Temple Next Door

Franklin Circle Christian Church Keep up on the events at the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) General Assembly! Live video of the evening worship services, texts of sermons, photo galleries, and updates on the status of business items!
Source: www.disciples.org
The website of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in the United States and Canada.

Franklin Circle Christian Church
Vacation Bible School!
Franklin Circle Christian Church, 1688 Fulton Rd., Cleveland, OH 44113
August 3-7 @ 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Children 3-12 years old are welcome!
“Christ Parable Detectives!”
Michelle Brown - VBS Director
Christ Parable Detectives will discover the mystery we call parables. There will be lessons, crafts, m...usic, computers, supper, and much more. Sign up today and join the C.P.D. crew. For kids from the church, the neighborhood, anywhere!
For Registration Forms and more information, call 216-781-8232 or go to www.FranklinCircleChurch.orgRead More
Franklin Circle Christian Church, 1688 Fulton Rd., Cleveland, OH 44113
August 3-7 @ 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Children 3-12 years old are welcome!
“Christ Parable Detectives!”
Michelle Brown - VBS Director
Christ Parable Detectives will discover the mystery we call parables. There will be lessons, crafts, m...usic, computers, supper, and much more. Sign up today and join the C.P.D. crew. For kids from the church, the neighborhood, anywhere!
For Registration Forms and more information, call 216-781-8232 or go to www.FranklinCircleChurch.orgRead More
Christ Parable Detectives at your service!
Time:5:30PM Monday, August 3rd
Location:Franklin Circle Christian Church

Franklin Circle Christian Church This is the annual Adult Conference of the Christian Church in Ohio, June 15-19, meeting at the wonderful Northwest Christian Church in Upper Arlington (Columbus area), Ohio.

Franklin Circle Christian Church
This is my sermon from June 21, 2009 reflecting on Jonathan and David's love for one another, from 1 Samuel 18:1-5. It was entitled, “The Essence Of Worship: Reflecting Divine Diversity.”
I hope you'll listen to the MP3 of it and give me feedback. The sound is a little poorer than usual, as I walked across the front... of the nave with each color of the rainbow as a separate place where I stopped.
Peace,
AllenRead More
I hope you'll listen to the MP3 of it and give me feedback. The sound is a little poorer than usual, as I walked across the front... of the nave with each color of the rainbow as a separate place where I stopped.
Peace,
AllenRead More
Source: www.franklincirclechurch.org
*Hint: do a right click on your mouse and click "open in new window" to have the text and your media player open at the same time! You may have to minimize the media player to see the text screen.

Franklin Circle Christian Church
Late Summer Bible Study
The Letter & Spirit Of The Law
Every Wednesday at 7 p.m. you are invited to our Mid-Week Bible Study in the Chapel. We are studying a new theme, “The Letter & Spirit Of The Law” that will run through August. Members of the class will explore the biblical place and purpose of law, and its related... topics of covenant, promise, Jesus' ultimate law, and Paul's understanding of the Spirit of the Law.
No previous Bible Study experience is necessary. Dress is casual, and bring a friend!
Dates and Topics:
July 8 - The Ten Commandments ~ Patty Groetsch
July 15 - Consequences Of Not Following The Ten Commandments ~ Michelle Brown and Joe Stanley
July 22 - Marriage and Family Laws ~ Steve Rubin
July 29 - Laws Concerning Social Security and Welfare ~ Jane Cheiky
August 5 - NO CLASS - Vacation Bible School
August 12 - Criminal Laws ~ Rick Smith
August 19 - The Greatest Commandment ~ Pastor Allen and _________
August 26 - The Letter of the Law and the Spirit of the Law According To Paul ~ Pastor Allen and ____________Read More
The Letter & Spirit Of The Law
Every Wednesday at 7 p.m. you are invited to our Mid-Week Bible Study in the Chapel. We are studying a new theme, “The Letter & Spirit Of The Law” that will run through August. Members of the class will explore the biblical place and purpose of law, and its related... topics of covenant, promise, Jesus' ultimate law, and Paul's understanding of the Spirit of the Law.
No previous Bible Study experience is necessary. Dress is casual, and bring a friend!
Dates and Topics:
July 8 - The Ten Commandments ~ Patty Groetsch
July 15 - Consequences Of Not Following The Ten Commandments ~ Michelle Brown and Joe Stanley
July 22 - Marriage and Family Laws ~ Steve Rubin
July 29 - Laws Concerning Social Security and Welfare ~ Jane Cheiky
August 5 - NO CLASS - Vacation Bible School
August 12 - Criminal Laws ~ Rick Smith
August 19 - The Greatest Commandment ~ Pastor Allen and _________
August 26 - The Letter of the Law and the Spirit of the Law According To Paul ~ Pastor Allen and ____________Read More
A little sacred text to chew on and digest...
Time:7:00PM Wednesday, July 15th
Location:2nd Fl. Chapel at Franklin Circle Christian Church

Franklin Circle Christian Church The Youth Group of Franklin Circle Christian Church, with the leadership of Colleen Munley, Youth Director, will host a car wash and bake sale on Sunday afternoon, July 12. Please bring your car, and tell your friends and neighbors all about it.
"Please Wash Me!" still written on your dirty back car window?
Time:12:00PM Sunday, July 12th
Location:Franklin Circle Christian Church parking lot























