Guilford Park Presbyterian History

Today's Guilford Park Presbyterian Church traces its history back to 1947. In that year, as Greensboro grew to the northwest, one of the city's oldest churches, Buffalo Presbyterian, assisted there in the formation of the Fairfield-Kirkwood Chapel. The first services at the chapel were held outdoors under the oaks at the southeast corner of Fernwood Drive and Fairfield Avenue.

The congregation began with a welcoming spirit and has retained it over the years as it has grown. Currently, Guilford Park members and friends participate in an expanding range of ministries involving worship, biblical study and education, pastoral care, service and mission, and fellowship opportunities for people of all ages.

The Rev. J. W. McGinnis was installed as the first pastor of the Guilford Park Presbyterian Chapel in 1948. The first wooden chapel was soon outgrown, and new facilities were built in succeeding years on the northwest corner of the intersection of Fairfield and Fernwood drives. Today, the site of the old chapel has become a playground beneath the oaks, and sometimes an overflow parking lot.

From the first, Guilford Park members shared in its work and mission to the fullest. Members assembled the church's German-made tracker organ. They decorated the sanctuary with wood carvings of beautiful intricacy. Women saved coupons for kitchen utensils and equipment while establishing circles for worship and service, supporting missions at home and overseas, and taking increasing part in the governance of he church.

Members speedily established a nursery and preschool program, joined in annual ecumenical services with area churches and in 1973 began one of the city¹s first senior citizens programs. Guilford Park has also fostered the Disciple program offering in-depth Bible study to strengthen the faith service activities of members. Sunday School classes invite fellowship and study each week, using Bible study and topical studies on contemporary faith issues. A yearly enrichment series is held which brings in expertise for a weekend of spiritual growth and development. Youth ministry has continued to expand, with both middle school and high school youth participating in yearly mission trips, summer conferences, and leading worship. An intergenerational vacation Bible school operates each summer for a week in the evenings.

Guilford Park Presbyterian Church
1998-2012

1998

January  Claire Smith began work as church secretary.
January 25  David Cameron, Interim Associate Pastor, left GPPC.
January 25  Signing of Care Cards for members of the church who are in need of prayers was initiated.  This was sponsored by the Pastoral Care Committee.
January  A gift of $36,000 was made to the Presbyterian Counseling Center in honor of Don and ‘Neal Lannon.  A room and a deck at the new PCC location were named in their honor.
February 15  The Fiftieth Anniversary of GPPC was celebrated.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Guests included past ministers and their wives; deceased ministers’ wives, charter members, guests from the Presbytery, Synod, Buffalo Presbyterian Church (the Greensboro church that sponsored the formation of GPPC).  The guest speaker was Marj Carpenter, past moderator of the General Assembly, Presbyterian Church USA.  A special anthem,  Now Let Us All In Hymns of Praise  was commissioned of area composer Sally Ann Morris for the celebration.  A special publication entitled, Growing Through Faith: A Fifty Year Journey was written by members of the church.  A catered luncheon (provided by Jack Lamb) immediately followed the service. The GPPC Timeline was displayed through March 1 in the Fellowship Hall.
March 8   Margie Boyd was called as Associate Pastor.
May 10   Margie Boyd preached her first sermon at GPPC.
May 19  Bobbie Jackson and Margaret GeBauer received the Presbyterian Women’s Honorary Life Membership at the annual Spring Gathering.
June 7-11  Washington DC Youth Mission Trip, a new mission trip for the youth took place.  This was in addition to the annual West Virginia Mission Trip (June 7-13).
August 1  Kyle Goodman assumed the position as part-time Youth Director.
September 27 The new Presbyterian Counseling Center,with director Dr. Robert Herron, opened on Richfield Road.
October 1  The Parish Nursing Program, a health-related ministry, began.
October 4  A music program entitled A Sacred Concert to the Glory of God was provided by David Pinnix and Marilyn Burris in memory of Hugh McLauchlin, Sr. and Louise McMahan Pinnix.
October 21  “Wednesdays Together” a dinner/Bible Study program began.
November 29  A new early worship service begins during Advent.
December 1   Chris Hickling received the Eagle Scout Awardfor designing, planning, and supervising the building of theoutdoor classroom across the street from the church.  Thiswas in commemoration of the Fiftieth Anniversary of GPPC.

1999

February 28 A second early worship service began during Lent
March 28  The middle school group had an afternoon Blessing of the Animals Service.
April 5  Pat Parham began as the secretary.
April 11 A Congregational Nursing Program of Health and Healing began with the support of the Moses Cone Health System and the GPPC Pastoral Care Committee.
May 18 Barbara Sasser received the Presbyterian Women’s Honorary Life Membership at the annual Spring Gathering.
June  GPPC began plans to sponsor a Kosovo family in partnership with Lutheran Family Services.
June 27  Morning Prayer Service (9:00-9:30) began June 27 and went through late August.
July 29 The Mustafa family from Kosovo arrived in Greensboro and was greeted by GPPC members.
October   Pat Parham leaves as secretary.
November Led by Ellen Weiner, GPPC assisted the flood victims in Tarboro due to Hurricane Floyd.
November  Glenda Miller became our secretary.
November Margie Boyd was invited and attended The Ecumenical Theology Workshop presented by the Office of Theology and Worship of the Presbyterian Church in Geneva, Switzerland.
November Mary and Arthur M. Winstead, Jr. and Nancy A. and John A. Winstead proposed to the Session the establishment of a scholarship in memory of their sister Jan Winstead Huss.  This would be used as an award to a graduating high school senior who is a member of GPPC.

2000

January- Results of the health surveys conducted by the Moses ConeHealth System Parish Nurse Program were shared with members who participated.
February 14  The GPPC Session and Salem Presbytery requested that Pastor Emeritus, the Reverend Don Lannon, take on the role of Parish Associate.
February 20  GPPC became a support church in the Interfaith Hospitality Network.
April 5-8  GPPC, along with an ecumenical group of five Greensboro churches, built Greensboro’s 154th Habitat for Humanity house.
April 15 PW Workday was held.  During this time Easter baskets for the children and mothers at Pathways Center were assembled.
April 18-21  Rocky Mount mission trip to repair flood damaged homes.
Occurred.
May 16  Peg Lukens received the PresbyterianWomen’s Honorary Life Membership at the annual Spring Gathering.
May 18  First meeting of  the Third Agers, (which later became The Prime Timers) a newly formed group for church members who are 55 years and older.
May 21  Zachary Weiner presented plans to the Session for his Eagle Scout projectwhich was to build a wooden playhouse in the enclosed playground area.
June  The Evangelism and Outreach Committee introduced permanent name tags for use at worship and other church events.
June 26-June 30  West Virginia mission trip to repair homes occurred.
July 23  The congregation voted to purchase the house and lot on 2110 Fernwood Dr.  After clearing the property, the church would be readily visible from Lawndale Drive.
July 26-July 21  A mission trip to urban Atlanta for middle schoolers to assist in food bank, soup kitchen, and community gardening took place
August  Chris McGraw was the first recipient of the Jan Winstead  Memorial Scholarship.
Fall The Presbyterian Counseling Center, an arm of GPPC’s ministry to our church and community, celebrated its 25th anniversary
October 21  PW  Horizon Study Overview:  The speaker was Frances Taylor Gench, (sister of David Taylor) author of the study: Women and the Word - Studies in the Gospel of John.
November 26  An Advent Booklet, comprised of daily thoughts and meditations submitted by members, was distributed.
December 10  The congregation voted to purchase the house and lot at the corner of Lawndale and Bluemont Dr. After clearing the property, the church would be readily visible from Lawndale Dr.

 2001

February 4  An Old Fashioned Meeting was held.  This was  a special service of worship, at which time the combined choirs of the church presented a program recalling the heritage of favorite hymns and church music.
March 24-25  First GPPC Enrichment Series made possible by a gift from the estate of Ruth Lamb was held  Dr. Isabel (Izzie) Rogers was the keynote speaker and spoke on “Living the Reformed Faith in Today’s World”.
March A new van was purchased for the church.
April 7 PW Workday was held at which time Easter baskets for the guests at Pathways Center were assembled, and flannel blankets for a hospital in Africa were sewn.
April 11-15  A senior high mission trip to Urban Atlanta occurred.  The purpose was to work with homeless agencies, children’s after-school programs, and food distribution organizations.
April 12  On Maundy Thursday, The Centenary Players of Centenary Methodist Church (Mime Troupe) presented the Passion Drama.
April 22  Dr. John Wilson and his wife Nancy, charter members of GPPC, spoke and presented slides of their mission work in North Korea.  They work with the Christian Friends of Korea food program, which Dr. Wilson was instrumental in starting.
May 6  Kyle Goodman, assistant youth minister, was recognized for his service as he prepared to leave in early summer to enter Columbia Theological Seminary.
May 13  “Blessing of the Animals” which wassponsored by the Middle School and Senior High Fellowships was held.
May 15  Ann Shelton received the Presbyterian Women’s HonoraryLife Membership at the annual Spring Gathering.
June  Katie Robbins and Katy Bowman were recipients of the Jan Winstead Memorial Scholarship.
June 24-30  10th Annual Mission Trip to Webster County, WVA to repair homes occurred.
July 22-29  The Appalachian Middle School Mission Trip to participate in construction and humanitarian projects in Cooperhill, TN occurred.
September  Extended Communion (which was approved by the General Assembly) began.  This allowed GPPC elders to serve communion to home-bound individuals following a worship service when communion was served to the congregation.
September 1  Mark Dragon became the youth ministry assistant.
September 23  AService of Wholeness,which was an opportunity to receive Christ’s healing, was held.
October 20-21  The Ties that Bind the Generations,a workshop led by Juliann Cooper-Goldenberg and sponsored by The Prime Timerswas held.
November 4  All Saints Day was observed. At worship service, the congregation remembered and gave thanks for those members who had died in recent years.

2002

January 20  Nine churches officially celebrated an agreement (Churches Uniting In Christ) to share sacraments, work in community missions, work for racial justice, etc.  This made official the shared worship and mission interaction GPPC had already been doing with neighboring churches.  Locally, GPPC had previously shared worship and mission interaction with our Episcopal, United Methodist and Lutheran sisters and brothers
February 3  Spiritual Renaissance Singers in Concert performed at GPPC.   This group sang African-American spirituals.  The performance was followed by a covered dish supper and the 2002 Annual Meeting
March   Adult Ministry Survey sponsored by the Prime Timers was distributed to assist in developing programs that deal with aging.
April 2-5  Twenty-one senior high school students and adults spent a week in New York City participating in various ministries to the homeless population.   
April 19  Lewis Bledsoe, former GPPC pastor, died in Charlotte.
May 21  Judy Campbell received the Presbyterian Women’s HonoraryLife Membership at the annual Spring Gathering.
May 21 Presbyterian Women’s 80th birthday was observed at the annual Spring Gathering.
June 10 First GPPC Blood Drive sponsored by The PresbyterianWomenwas held.
June 23-29  GPPC Adults and senior high students participated in a mission trip to West Virginia.
Summer  GPPC sponsored a refugee Montagnard family of 5, resettling from Cambodia through Lutheran Family Services.
August   Mark Dragon resigned the youth ministry assistant.
August 4-8  Middle schoolers participated in a mission trip to inner city Charlotte.
September 14  Habitat Happening  (craft sale, yard sale, and bake sale) raised over $20,000 (out of a needed $25,000)  necessary to begin building our Habitat for Humanity House in 2003.  This was a joint effort between our church and the United True Holiness congregation.
October 2  ‘Neal Lannon was recognized by Salem Presbytery for her example in ministry during retirement years.
October 12-13  2002 Enrichment Series wasled by John Bell, a musician and congregational song leader, based in Scotland in the Iona spiritual community.
November  The PW sponsored Operation Christmas Child during the month of November to collect and distribute shoe boxes filled with toys, hygiene supplies, school supplies, etc. to children in need.
November 17  A Sabbatical Leave Policy for the GPPC pastors was approved by the Session.

2003

January  First GPPC Pictorial Directory since 1995
February 2  At the annual meeting, the congregation approved that the Session’s Sabbatical Policy for both pastors be added to their Terms of Call.
February 8 and February 15  The Long Range Planning Committee of the  Session began group meetings with the congregation to discuss ways to build on our strengths and add new strengths in the coming years.
February 23  GPPC approved sponsorship of Tim and Marta Carriker, missionaries to Brazil.
March 9 and March 30  Faith in Action, a new GPPC program, which aimed to show how faith can help prepare and plan for life’s later years by providing information on wills, health care, power of attorney, and other issues of later life began.  GPPC was selected to participate and receive training in a pilot program with 5 Winston-Salem churches.
March 22-23  2003 Enrichment Serieswas led by Rodger Nishioka, an associate professor of Christian education at Columbia Theological Seminary in Decatur, GA.  He presented a variety of programs to address the issues of what our church will look like in five years.
April  Wilkes Bass was hired as the early worship music director.
May 20  Phyllis Hall received the Presbyterian Women’s Honorary Life Membership at the annual Spring Gathering.
May 23-May 31  Margie Boyd served as a commissioner to the 215th  General Assembly in Denver Co.
June 5-June 7  A “Blitz” to begin the Habitat for Humanity Housebegan.  This was a joint effort between our church and the United True Holiness congregation.
June  Matt Pierson, a graduate of the University of Virginia, was hired as Youth Director for the middle and senior high youth programs.
June  T.J. Blanchette resigned as Financial Secretary.
June 24  Phyllis Johnson began as Secretary/Receptionist.
August 17  The Session voted to reduce the size from 28 elders to 16 elders over a 3 year period.
September 28  Dedication of the Habitat House built jointly by GPPC/United True Holiness congregations was held.
November 2-16  The PW sponsored Operation Christmas Child to collect and distribute shoe boxes filled with toys, hygiene products, school supplies, etc. to be given to children around the world suffering because of war, poverty, natural disasters or neglect.

November 15-16  First “10,000 Villages” sale at GPPC raised $6000.00.  This project provided a fair price to third world crafts people, and they received 60% of the profits made at GPPC.

2004

March 5-7  2004  Enrichment Series.  This weekend included a wide variety of arts opportunities in which members could participate. Among the activities were hand bells, rhythm and drumming, pottery, woodcarving, fabric art, and dance.
March  Matt Pierson resigned as Youth Director for the middle and senior high youth programs.
April 12-15  Senior High Mission Trip to New York City occurred.
April 17   GPPC PW Women’s  Retreat at Carmel by the Lake wasled by Judy Herron.  The theme was “Learning to Love Ourselves as We Love Our Neighbors”.
May 1 David Sutton began GPPC’s first Sabbatical which lasted three months.
May 18  Lynn Carey received the Presbyterian Women’s Honorary Life Membership at the annual Spring Gathering.
May 30  GPPC celebrated Marilyn Burris’ service as she retired after nine years as the Director of Children’s and Youth Music.
June 6  Full time “Year Round Early Worship (YES)” began.
June 6   A breakfast was held to support the Sandercock family as they prepared to leave for Mexico with Salem Presbytery.
June 27-July 2  Middle School mission trip to Washington, DC occurred.
July  An “Intercessory Prayer Ministry” formed for the purpose of lifting up concerns regarding the physical/spiritual/personal needs of loved ones and acquaintances as requested by the congregation.
July  Tami Fields was hired as the Associate Music Director.
August 14  GPPC  participated in the Agents of Grace CommunityService Event in which dozens of other churches of all denomination
in Greensboro performed several hours of community service throughout the city
September 19  Children’s Church for grades K-3 began.
September 19  Dedication ceremony for the Children’s Wing  Murals was held.  The murals were made possible by a memorial gift from Laura Ratkus’ family and were painted by artist, Martha Herbolich.
December 5 After 31 years of service to seniors in the community, the Senior Citizens group ended this ministry.

2005

January  Tsunami relief effort began.  This involved packing health kits to be sent to the hardest hit areas. The goal of 600+ kits was met. It was sponsored by the Service Committee and the Presbyterian Women.
January    Dee Jones began as Associate Director of Music to fill the position vacated by Tami Fields.
February 6  A reception honoring David Sutton’s Tenth Anniversary was held.
February 7  David Pinnix left for the former Soviet Republic of Belarus with a delegation from the Salem Presbytery.  Their mission was to participate in a dialogue with people from the Orthodox church about worship and church practices in the Presbyterian church.
March 6  Presbyterian Women sponsored a “Diaper Shower” to benefit mothers living at Pathway House.
April 13-17  GPPC Service Committee sponsored a mission opportunity for adults (college and beyond) to do Urban Ministry work in the  Washington, DC area.
April  GPPC became more visible and more parking was added as homes purchased on Lawndale Drive were cleared.
April 24  Mission Mania (fundraiser) at the Greensboro Children’s Museum was held to benefit GPPC’s 2005 mission opportunities to Washington DC, Mexico, and Western North Carolina.
May 17  Lillian Barnes received the Presbyterian Women’s HonoraryLife Membership at the annual Spring Gathering.
May 23 Margie Boyd began a three month Sabbatical Leave.
July 11  Kim Row was hired as Christian Educator for Children and Youth
September GPPC began exploring ways to aid in disaster relief to the victims of Hurricane Katrina.
September  The Stephen Ministry program, a 12 year program at GPPC closed.
Fall  Adult Ministries became a new Session committee, but continued to be composed of two separate committees, “Adult Ministry” and “Older Adult Ministry”.
October 2  Don Lannon, pastor of GPPC for 20 years and Pastor Emeritus, died.
October 23  The first Children’s Sundaywas held at GPPC and elementary aged children led the service.
October 25  Bobbe Jackson was honored as one of Salem Presbytery’s“Outstanding Older Adults”.
November 13  Organ Donor Sabbath was held.  The purpose of this observance was to raise awareness about the miracles performed everyday through organ and tissue donation.
December  The Angel Tree Network began.  It was an event for children of prisoners and was sponsored by the Worship Committee and the senior and middle school youth.  Presents were purchased by GPPC members, and a Christmas party was held for the families.
December  Advent began with a new look of new blue paraments, blue wreath candles and a blue advent banner which was made by ladies in the church.
December 4  A “Service of Healing and Wholeness was held.
December 18  A Congregational Meeting was held to dissolve the pastoral relationship with David Sutton as of December 31. He had accepted the call to Nazareth Presbyterian Church near Spartanburg, SC.  A reception was held honoring the Suttons.
December  A Transition Team was named to conduct a search for an Interim Pastor and to prepare the process for electing a Pulpit Nominating Committee.
December 22  Glenda Miller resigned as Administrative Financial Secretary.  Phyllis Johnson assumed the position as Church Administrator.

2006

February   Refurbishing of the sanctuary began.  New carpet, pew cushions, and paint were part of the refurbishing which was the first in twenty-five years.
March 12   “Blanket Sunday” was sponsored by the Presbyterian Women.  Money was collected for Church World Service which purchased blankets for worldwide distribution.  A total of $786.00 was collected to purchase 157 blankets.
March 26  Prayer Shawl Dedication was held.  These shawls are made by members of the church and given to those who are ill or need comforting.
April 1  Gavin Meek began his ministry at GPPC as the Interim Pastor.
April 21-23  The fifth edition of the Ruth Lamb Enrichment Series was held.  Fil Anderson was the leader and the theme was, “Fuel for the Road of Life”.
May 16  Eleanor Jordan received the Presbyterian Women’s HonoraryLife Membership at the annual Spring Gathering.
May 27  This marked the 50th anniversary of the use of our sanctuary. The Reverend James McGinnis, GPPC’s first pastor, preached the sermon at that Service of Consecration in 1956.
May  Congregational Care Committee developed a new ministry of visitation to supplement pastor visits to homebound members.
June Dee Jones resigned as Associate Director of Music.
July Brian Fitts became the Director of Music for the YES Service.
July Rebecca Stevens became the Director of Music for Children and Youth.
July 30 Renewal of Wedding Vows service was held during worship.
September The large oak tree on the corner of Fairfield and Fernwood Drive was roped off to protect it.  This tree was where the first worship services of GPPC began in 1947.
September 10  A Congregational Survey was administered.
September 10  “Presbyterian 101” led by Gavin Meek began.
September 27  “Timeline Program” was held at which time a discussions took place regarding the timeline in the Fellowship Hall.  This timeline depicted highlights in GPPC’s history since the 50th anniversary in 1998 until the present.  Members were encouraged to write their own words or phrases on the timeline about the events.
October 25 and November 15  Results of the Congregational Survey were presented and discussed.  The Transition Team used this survey to develop a Mission Study to determine what the congregation wanted as their vision, mission, ministry goals and ministry activities. It was also used to determine what skills, abilities, and characteristics the congregation wanted in the new pastor.
October 29  Members of GPPC, who had belonged to the church for fifty years or longer, were recognized on Reformation Sunday with a certificate.
November 5  All Saint’s Sunday was held.  At this time, candles were lit for each church member who had died in 2005 through November 2006.
November 8, 12, and 19  A Stewardship Fair was held so that members could select committees on which to serve and assist in the ministry and mission of GPPC.
November 18  Dedication of the 2006 Presbyterian Habitat House was held.

2007

January 21  Sharing Groups, consisting of church members,began 4 consecutive weeks of meetings to share thoughts and ideas on the Vision, Mission, Ministry Goals, and Ministry Activities of GPPC.
February 25  A Lenten Sermon Series on “The Lord’s Prayer” began and continued through April 8.  Lenten banners were introduced weekly through this time and each part of “The Lord’s Prayer” was reflected in the Lenten banner.
March 6-March 20 Gavin Meek was on Study Leave exploring Paul’s first missionary journey through the Mediterranean.
March 16 The high school youth participated in an overnight homeless experience on the church grounds. They also collected donations of new socks for the homeless in Greensboro.
March 25  Pastor Nominating Committee, for the purpose of finding a new pastor, was elected.
April  A CD, Singing Our Faith, produced by the GPPC Men’s Chorus and commemorating their 10th anniversary was made available to the congregation with all proceeds going to the Greensboro Urban Ministry.
April 1  Gavin Meek completed one year as the Interim Pastor for GPPC.
April 1 Linda Fitts was recognized for ten years of service to GPPC as the wedding coordinator.
April 14  Final Chance Saturday was held to give church members a chance to review and provide feedback on The Planwhich gives our vision, mission, and ministry plan for GPPC .
April 15  Easter Music Sunday and the commissioning of the Pastor Nominating Committee took place.
April 22-29  Gulf Coast Mission Trip
April 28  GPPC Presbyterian Womensponsored “A Labyrinth Prayer-Walk with God”. 
May 4  A Presbyterian Partnership for Habitat Fundraiser, with a pancake supper, crafts and baked goods, was held at Starmount Presbyterian Church.    
May 15  Catherine Owens received the Presbyterian Women’s HonoraryLife Membership at the annual Spring Gathering.
May 20  The Mission Committee sponsored a Bread for the World/Offering of Letters at Guilford Park to encourage members of Congress to strengthen the U.S. Farm Bill
May 20  Men Singing Their Faith took place at GPPC.  In addition to our Men’s Chorus, the men’s choirs of Providence Baptist, St. James Presbyterian, and Community in Christ performed.  This first concert raised $1,672.12 for Greensboro Urban Ministry.
July 1 GPPC “Tool Men” Ministry announced. This was a new ministry of the Congregational Care Committee to assist GPPC seniors, senior couples, or single parents with minor home repairs.
July 28  Plans were announced by Abe Jones and Bob Kollar for the preparation of a booklet honoring the service of men and women of GPPC in World War II to the present.  This booklet would also serve to preserve these stories so that current and future generations might know and appreciate the time and sacrifices made to protect the freedoms we enjoy today. Sixty-seven veterans are to be interviewed
August 20-28  Gavin Meek led a group of GPPC members on a Presbyterian Heritage Tour of Scotland.
September   A new group, Almanah Women, was formed. This group of women who are widowed will gather several times a year for support and fellowship.
September 16  Formation of the GPPC Music Task Force was announced to develop a plan for meeting the future music ministry staffing and program needs.
September 16  A Congregational Meeting was held for the purpose of increasing the size of the Session from 16-19 members. Approval by the congregation meant that one additional elder would be elected each year until a full slate is reached in 2011.
October 1-9 Margie Boyd was on Study Leave.
October 7  To celebrate World Communion Sunday and GPPC Unity, one worship service was held. International bread was served for communion, and the service was followed by a covered dish luncheon where members brought an international food dish. 
October 28  Members of GPPC, who had belonged to the church for fifty years or longer were recognized on Reformation Sunday with a certificate.
November 4  All Saints Sunday at which time candles were lit for each church member who had died since the previous All Saints Sunday.
November 14 Prayer Service for Drought Relief was held.
December 4 Presbyterian Women sponsored their first fund raising event at Ten Thousand Villages.  PW received 15% of the sales which was distributed to local and global charities.

2008

January 13  As a result of the activities at the PW Wintering Gathering, a new ministry was adopted.  Pillows were made by church members and given to Moses Cone Cancer Center for patients receiving chemotherapy.
January 18-19  The Ruth Lamb Enrichment Series presented An Enrichment Event for Couples entitled, Making Love Work,  led by Drs. Beverly and Tom Rodgers.
February 3  The GPPC Music Task Force announced plans to survey the congregation for its suggestions for the direction of the music program.
February 17  The Session approved supporting our Kirkwood neighbors’ motion for rezoning of the area at Cornwallis and Lawndale (which was facing commercial development) back to Moderate Residential which would prohibit the commercial usage of the property.  The neighborhood association appreciated GPPC allowing them to meet in our fellowship hall, and many indicated that this was the first time they had been in our church.  The developers eventually withdrew the rezoning request.
March 16  In celebration of Palm Sunday, GPS joined the Enough for Everyone program of the Presbyterian Church (USA) to use eco-palms. This program promotes responsible harvesting processes to protect the palm forests throughout Central America.
April  The Property Committee applied for a grant from the presbytery’s Green Fund.  Monies  from the grant and from church member donations would enable the church to make Guilford Park more energy efficient.
April 13  Members were encouraged to participate in an outreach program with our Kirkwood neighbors to tutor students in grades K-2 in reading at Irving Park and Alderman schools.
April 21  Loretta James began as the interim organist and choir director.
April 27  Dr. David Pennix retired after 40 years as Director of Music for Lord’s Day Worship and Organist. A reception honoring his 40th anniversary and his retirement was held.
May 13  Sarah Harrill received the Presbyterian Women’s Honorary Life Membership at the annual Spring Gathering
May 18  A congregational meeting was held to recommend the purchase of the property and house at 2410 Lawndale Drive for $150,000.
May 18  Bread for the World/Offering of Letters allowed members of GPPC to encourage members of Congress to pass the Global Poverty Act. Members wrote over 450 postcards.
June 1  Take the Pastors with You on Vacation began.  Vacation bags were prepared with a picture of one of the pastors in them.  Pictures taken by members with the pastor at vacation spots were posted on the bulletin board throughout the summer.
June 15  The American Guild of Organists hosted their first Summer Organ Series at GPPC.
June 29  Gavin Meek announced to the Session that he would be leaving GPPC August 3 to accept the call as Interim Pastor of First Presbyterian Church in Charlottesville, Virginia.
July  New green paraments were completed for the sanctuary..
July 4  Members participated in the annual Fourth of July Parade in Kirkwood by building, riding, and throwing candy from a float.
July 16  GPPC Summer Talent Show and Ice Cream Social was held
July 20   GPPC responded to the call of the Greensboro Urban Ministry to hold a special food drive.  In addition to members bringing goods to church, volunteers distributed empty grocery bags in the Kirkwood neighborhood on July 20 and collected them on July 27.
August 3  This Sunday was Gavin Meek’s last worship service with GPPC.  A reception was held in the afternoon honoring him and celebrating his ministry among us. 
August 3  A reception was held at First Presbyterian Church by the Presbyterian Counseling Center for Dr. Robert Herron and Judy Herron. It was announced that the PCC/Herron Scholarship Fund was renamed in their honor. This fund underwrites the cost of mental health services provided by the PCC for those in financial difficulty.
August 17  A lawn party was held at GPPC for everyone in the Kirkwood neighborhood.  There was food, games, and live music.
September 6  Clady Vincent celebrated her 100th birthday.
October 5  A congregational meeting was called by the Session.  The purpose of the meeting was for the congregation to hear the report of the Pastor Nominating Committee to consider the call of a Minister of Word and Sacrament to be the Pastor of Guilford Park Presbyterian Church. It was announced that the Reverend Virginia Lee Wood from the Presbyterian Church of Madison in Madison, New Jersey was the committee’s selection to be pastor at Guilford Park.  The congregation voted to accept the committee’s recommendation.
October 21  Orientation/training for church members serving as reading tutors for Reading Connections began.  This is an adult literacy agency that provides free and confidential services that help to improve basic literacy skills, self-esteem, community service and leadership skills among new adult readers.
October 26  Pablo and Jan Feliciano were welcomed to Guilford Park.  They are missionaries in Mexico whom we support financially and by sending church members on Salem Presbytery mission trips to Mexico.
November 2   This was All Saints Sunday at which time candles were lit for each church member who had died since the previous All Saints Sunday.
November 6  The Girl Scouts of Guilford Park partnered with the church to present an Escape School Workshop, an abduction prevention program, to church families and guests.
November 16  A coffee welcoming the Reverend Virginia Wood as pastor of Guilford Park was held.
November 20  The PW sponsored Operation Christmas Child to collect and distribute shoe boxes filled with toys, hygiene products, school supplies, etc. to be given to children around the world suffering because of war, poverty, natural disasters or neglect.  This year everyone in the church family was included in preparing these boxes from Kidsjam children to the Prime Timers.  The goal of filling 100 shoe boxes was met..
November 30  New Advent banners were displayed.  They brought the messages of hope, peace, joy, and love and were made by members of the Fine Arts Sub-Committee and other church members.
December 14  Celebration of Margie Boyd’s 10th Anniversary as Associate Pastor at Guilford Park was held during the annual Christmas breakfast. She preached her first sermon at GPPC on May 10, 2008.
December 17  A Blue Christmas Service washeld for those who had lost loved ones or were in need of comfort and healing during the holiday season. Scripture, prayers, and song acknowledged God’s love during difficult times.

2009

January  Janet Dawson joined the staff as our congregational nurse.
January 4  The installation service for the Reverend Virginia Wood as pastor of Guilford Park Presbyterian Church was held during combined worship services.  This was led by an Installation Commission of the Salem Presbytery.  Those taking part in the installation included Reverend George Carpenter, Reverend Neil Dunnavant, Reverend Lee Ellenwood, Elder Tim Peck and  others.
January 25  At the PW Winter Gathering, the church women packed Care Boxes for  soldiers on active duty in Iraq and Afghanistan, made pillows for the Moses Cone Cancer Center, made tray favors for Greensboro Mobile Meals, prepared Caring Cards for the hospitalized and homebound, made sandwiches for Greensboro Urban Ministry, and made  No-Sew” Blankets for Hospice Kids Path.
February 8  Pictorial directory picture taking began.  For the first time the directory would be available .on the GPPC website.
March   GPPC’s website was redesigned and updated.
March 15  A Lenten Journey for the whole family was held.  At this time members journeyed through interactive learning stations and explored Lenten traditions and history through prayer ribbons, candle lightings, graffiti wall, pebble writings, jelly bean prayers, story bracelets, poetry, and much more.  
March 21  GPPC Spring Men’s Rally was held.  Men were introduced to many church activities in which they could become involved.
April 12  60th Anniversary of One Great Hour of Sharing was observed.  This offering is provided to people experiencing needs around the world..
April 15  Calvin :His Life and Legacy, a five week study on John Calvin and led by Virginia Wood began.  This coincided with the 500th anniversary of Calvin’s birth.
April 19  At the Session meeting, a motion was passed to rename the Sunday 9:00 service, Contemporary, and the 11:00 service, Traditional.
April 24-25  The high school youth participated in World Vision’s 30 Hour Famine project .  For this project, students fasted for 30 hours in solidarity with those who are hungry.  They raised $360.00 to send to World Vision to help fund programs caring for children.
April 26  Mitch McGee, Housing Support Team Coordinator of Family Service of the Piedmont, presented the Minute for Mission at the worship services.  He explained the “Partners Ending Homelessness” Initiative. As part of this program, during the month of May, Guilford Park’s Mission Committee collected gently used kitchen, bath, bedroom, etc. items to help people transitioning from homelessness to a home. These items were placed in housewarming gift baskets and presented to these clients.
May  The Organ Capital Campaign began.  The Walcker organ which was installed in 1967.needed to be refurbished and rebuilt.  The goal was to raise $80,000.  The appreciated value of the GPPC rebuilt organ is estimated at $500,000.
In 1967, GPPC committed $14,000 to have the organ built in the plant in Ludwigsburg, Germany.  It was then disassembled and shipped to the United States to be reassembled and installed by a team of GPPC volunteers along with Dr. Harold Andrews, the organist and choir director at that time.  The first worship with the new organ was July 1966. Guilford Park had the first such organ in Greensboro
May  The Support Team Network was introduced. This program promotes a team approach to helping people through times in their lives when they may need ongoing support in various ways.  This concept matches GPPC members’ talents and skills to other members’ needs.
May 3  The Lannon Society was introduced at the worship service.  This was established to recognize and honor those whose vision and generosity move them to support Guilford Park Presbyterian Church through an estate plan gift.  The society was named in honor of Don and ‘Neal Lannon whose long service to Guilford Park exemplifies the ideals of the Christian life.
May 12  Phyllis Setzer received the Presbyterian Women’s Honorary Life Membership at the annual Spring Gathering.
May 13  The  4th  GPPC Annual Mission Fundraiser Spaghetti Dinner and Dessert Auction was held.  Over $5000.00 was raised to support 2009 mission trips.
May 18  Bread for the World/Offering of Letters allowed members of GPPC to encourage members of Congress to support polices, programs, and conditions that would alleviate hunger in developing countries.  Members wrote 237 letters.
July 20  Christmas in July began.  This was a health program to help members lose weight by Christmas, which would give them a Christmas gift to themselves.
July 30  In an effort to Go Green and due to rising mail costs, The Guilford Guidepost started being emailed to members. It was also available on the website, www.guilfordpark.org, and hard copies will be mailed upon request.
August  GPPC’s first on-line pictorial church directory nears completion.
August 15  Dr. Bill Allred assumed the position of Director of Music Ministries. His responsibilities will include coordinating the music program of the church, playing the organ, directing the Chancel Choir and Children’s Choirs, accompanying the Contemporary Worship Service, directing the Hand Bell Choir and assisting the Men’s Chorus.  Brian Fitts will continue in his position as Director of the Contemporary Worship Service.
August 16  A farewell coffee was held for James Enoch, church sexton, to honor him for his 20 years of service at GPPC.
August 23  A Recognition and Farewell was given to Loretta James for her dedication to our music ministry during her interim position at GPPC..
August 30  A reception was held welcoming our new Director of Music Ministries, Dr. Bill Allred.
August 30  During Rally Day, the youth were asked to bring their book bags for a special blessing during the Children's Message in worship.
September 13   This wasHealth Sunday  A health survey was offered to members of the congregation.  Responses were analyzed so that health education and programs could be specifically designed and offered to GPPC members.
September 16  A Congregational Forum was held.  This was conducted by consultants from the Center for Congregational Health, representatives from the Presbytery, and Session members.  The purpose was for providing background information for a future congregational meeting.
September 20  The Session formed a Transition Team to guide the congregation through any future transition.  The. Reverend Jim Rissmiller, Associate Presbyter for Salem Presbytery, met with the team on October 22  for initial training.
September 20  The Session formed The Forward Together Task Force  a seven member task force that guided the Session and Congregation through the months ahead by leading small group discussions.  They also held listening visits, where individuals and couples met with two task force members to share their experiences, concerns, and hopes.  The task force was trained by the Reverend. Carl Utley.
September 27  A congregational meeting moderated by the Reverend Curtis Patterson, COM representative of Salem Presbytery, was held for the purpose of responding to Reverend Virginia Wood’s request to Salem Presbytery to dissolve her pastoral relationship with GPPC.  The request passed.
October 3  The YES Praise Ensemble presented a Contemporary Music Evening at which time they sang musical anthems written for specific times of the church calendar year, including the seasons of Advent, Christmas, Lent, Palm Sunday, Easter, Pentecost and times in between.
October 4,  Worldwide Communion Sunday was observed.  To help with the international spirit of the day, the Fine Arts Sub-Committee collected from members a variety of fabrics from other countries.  These were used during the celebration of the sacrament of the Lord’s Supper.
October 15  The Reverend. Dr. Bill Waterstradt of Montreat, NC began work as our “bridge” interim pastor.
October 26  The GPPC Men’s Fellowship chorus celebrated 13 years of singing together.
November 13-14  The Sanctuary Organ Restoration Rummage Sale was held to raise funds for restoring the organ.  A bake sale and a Florida Indian River Citrus Fruit Sale were also held in conjunction with the fundraising. Over $6000.00 was raised.
November 15  The Session concurred with the Transition Team's recommendation that
Dr. Bill Waterstradt  be named as GPPC’s Interim Pastor.
December 20  The Session approved the purchase of a defibrillator, utilizing $850.00 from memorial funds to supplement the $650.00 contributed toward this purchase. The training for its use was provided by the supplier to anyone interested.  Janet Dawson, congregational nurse, oversaw this process.
December 27  The Organ Capital Campaign Committee reported that the goal of
$80,000 had been met in only six months to refurbish and rebuild the pipe organ.
The project will begin in early 2010.

2010

January 10   A reception for Bill & Margaret Waterstradt was held as they began their interim ministry with GPPC.
February  Janet Dawson announced that we will be celebrating National Heart Month by installing our Automated External Defibrillator (AED) in the Church
March  The high school youth participated in the 30 Hour Famine during the Lenten season.  They fasted for 30 hours to show solidarity for those who do not have enough to eat.  They hoped to raise $360.00 to sponsor a child in need for one year.
Nine of the youth fasted for 30 hours and prayed for children in need of food, clean water, medical attention, schooling, and economic opportunities.
March 14  The middle school youth held a Haitian Benefit to raise funds to send to Haiti after the earthquake that occurred on January 12  Originally a  Lenten Project, it became a benefit.  In addition to demonstrating their musical talents, the youth also showed entrepreneurial skills by setting up a concessions stand and selling concessions. The youth raise $1000 and received coverage from WFMY-TV.
March 17, 21,, and 22..The Forward Together Task Force made their report to the congregation.  The Transition Team will address the recommendations made by the FTTF.
April  The New Member Committee transformed the main entrance to the narthex as a welcome area to GPPC.  A new awning was added to the outside entrance and a
quilted banner designed by Linda Wightman was hung over a handcrafted table which was made by Rick Cromer. Ernie Skillman made the brochure rack with the Presbyterian Seal at the top. The brochure rack will serve as a welcome source
for information about our ministries to visitors.
April 4—(Easter Sunday)  The organ was played at the 11:00 service for the first time since renovations began.  Although there was still some work to do, the congregation appreciated the music. The Chancel Choir sang Haydn’s , Little Organ Mass, and was accompanied by guest instrumentalists, including David Pinnix at the organ.
April 4—(Easter Sunday) A new banner for Easter was displayed that was made by the Fine Arts Sub-Committee . The banner is divided into four parts, which represent the Christian Year shaped by the life of Christ.
May  Janet Dawson announced that Guilford Park had received recognition from the
Partners in Health and Wholeness program which is sponsored by the North Carolina Council of Churches  This award is given to congregations that “have demonstrated that as people of faith they strive to live an abundant life of health and wholeness by naming a congregational health promoter, serving healthy food and beverage at church meals, and reducing the impact of smoking on themselves and their neighbors”.
May 12  A silent auction for goods and services was added to the annual Mission Fundraiser Dinner and Dessert Auction.  This fundraiser supports the church’s mission efforts and netted $4,917.25 this year.
June 18  The first annual Guilford Park Tennis Round Robin was held at Hamilton
Lakes Pool and Tennis.Club
July 25  A Congregational Meeting was held to hear a report from the Nominating Committee and vote on the proposed slate of Pastor Nominating Committee members. The recommendation passed.
July 25  Bill Allred presented a recital on the newly refurbished organ. He was joined by other Guilford Park musicians
August, 8  The Men’s Chorus celebrated 14 years of singing .together by performing at the 11:00 service.. Former and current members were invited to sing and celebrate their 14 years of “singing the faith” together.
August 30  The Guilford Park  Preschool Program began it's 26th year .
September 26  The dedication of the renovated Walcker Organ was celebrated with a special worship service at 11:00 AM  and a recital at 4:00 PM featuring Susan Bates, organist at West Market Street United Methodist Church . These were to celebrate the rebuilding of Guilford Park’s Walcker organ.  (see May 2009 for details of the Walcker organ which was installed at Guilford Park in 1967)
October 2  The Ruth Lamb Enrichment Series (a bi-annual event)was led by Marjorie Donnelly, M.Ed.  She presented an Enneagram workshop. The Enneagram is a tool for spiritual self discovery and change.
October 18  Plans for an Columbarium wall with 40 additional niches were announced.
December  The New Member Committee created and launched a GPPC Facebook and Twitter page.

2011

January 2  The new addition to the Columbarium was dedicated during worship service.
February 27  This Sunday was designated as Habitat Sunday at GPPC. There was a special offering to support the Presbyterian Partnership for Habitat at which time  $1,245.00 was collected. The partnership of fifteen churches was currently constructing their 17th house
March 13 and during the Season of Lent  A meditation center was set up in the back of the sanctuary with some visual reminders of the events of the season leading up to the days of the death and resurrection of Christ.  Members of the congregation were invited to write prayers and petitions on strips of paper which were woven into a loom and which represented the fabric of our congregation woven together as an offering to God.
May 1  The middle school youth hosted A Blessing of the Animals. 
April  The Greensboro Historical Museum invited veterans at GPPC to submit pictures, details of service, and a personal narrative to be used in a new interactive display, Service and Sacrifice: Stories of Greensboro’s Veterans.
April 1  A team of volunteers from GPPC broke a record  at the Greensboro Urban Ministry food drive at Harris Teeter on Westridge Road. The previous time the church took part in this event, they collected 1,224 pounds of groceries.  That amount was nearly doubled April 1 when 2,381 pounds were collected.
April 10  At the GPPC spring picnic, the children participated in a Kids Walk for Hunger.  Proceeds of the event went to Greensboro Urban Ministry.
April 17  A Community Garden Ministry at GPPC was approved by the Session.  This garden will be located behind the fellowship hall on the part of the lawn facing Lawndale.Drive.  With this new ministry, GPPC will join other churches who have gardens and whose missions will be to give food to area agencies to distribute to those who do not have access to fresh produce. An ongoing support network among the gardening churches, as well as continuing support from the NC Agricultural Extension Agency, will support this project. The site is large enough to eventually support  8 to10 raised beds.
April 17  The Session approved a request from the Missions Committee to provide support to the Interactive Resource Center (IRC).  The IRC provides basic needs for the homeless (showers, haircuts, nursing care, training, etc.) Guilford Park’s role would be to provide a simple lunch one day a month for six months for their Lunch and Learn Program.
April 17  An Andrew Ministry team was formed and members trained to reach out to the community to attract new members to Guilford Park.
May 15  It was approved by the Session for Guilford Park to join the Volunteer Center of Greensboro.  Membership would allow GPPC to be a Service Learning Provider for
Guilford County high schools. This means that our youth will be able to earn school credits when they volunteer in the nursery, participate in any of the church’s mission programs, or attend a mission trip.
May 17  At the Presbyterian Women’s Salad Supper, the PW sponsored a Boxes for Soldiers.  The women packaged articles donated by the congregation
for our servicemen and women in lieu of choosing a Lifetime Membership recipient. Chris McGraw, a member of GPPC, and his unit of 24 soldiers were the beneficiaries of this project.
May 27  This was the 55th birthday of the GPPC sanctuary. It was on May 27, 1956, that the Guilford Park congregation gathered at the front of the old church and walked across the street to the new sanctuary.  The first service of worship was held that date. An open house was held in the afternoon to give members and others an opportunity to view the new facilities, especially the stained glass windows enfolding the large cross. The sanctuary was built at a cost of $123,000.
June 14  The process of removing the stained glass windows in the sanctuary to repair water damage in the chancel area began.
June 29  It was announced to the congregation that Margie Boyd would be leaving GPPC to begin a new ministry as the Pastor/Campus Minister at Cullowhee Presbyterian Church, on the campus of Western Carolina University   Her last date at GPPP was September 11.
August 20   Parents were invited to come to church and decorate a Faith Box to hold their child's church photos, certificates, Sunday school crafts, and other church mementoes.
September  The Mission Committee began providing lunch once each month for the Interactive Resource Center’s Lunch and Learn program.  Church volunteers assist in packing the lunches at the church which are then transported to the Center.
September 11  This day marked the 10th anniversary of 9/11/01.  Time was taken during the worship service to reflect upon that day.
September 11  A Congregational Meeting was held to dissolve the relationship between GPPC  and the Associate Pastor, Margie Boyd.
September 11  A reception honoring Margie Boyd and her ministry at GPPC was held
September 18 A congregational meeting was held.  The purpose of the meeting was for the congregation to hear the report of the Pastor Nominating Committee to consider the call of a Minister of Word and Sacrament to be the Pastor of Guilford Park Presbyterian Church.  It was announced that the Reverend Dr. Jeffrey Paschal, from the First Presbyterian Church of Wooster, Ohio, was the committee’s selection to be pastor at GPPC.  The congregation voted to accept the committee’s recommendation.
September 18  This was Clean Out Your Pantry Day.  Families were asked to bring a bag of non-perishable food items for distribution to Greensboro Urban Ministries.
October 16  Chris McGraw met members of the congregation to offer thanks to Guilford Park for the support given to him and to share stories and pictures from his recent deployment in Afghanistan.
October 16Celebration of the Blessing of Our Children service was held.  All children were invited to help lead both services . 
October 22,  An event entitled Forward Together: Guilford Park and Our New Pastor. was held.  Dr. William Christian, an ordained pastor in the PC(USA), a counselor, and an author was the facilitator.  Dr. Christian led participants in an experience that helped prepare them for Dr. Paschal’s arrival.
October 23  This was Bill Waterstradt’s last worship service with GPPC.  A reception was held for Bill and Margaret so that the congregation could express gratitude to the Waterstradts for their service to GPPC.
October 24  The Reverend Dr. Jeff Paschal began his ministry at GPPC
October 30Receptions were held after each worship service towelcome Jeff and Beth Paschal to GPPC.
October 30  The first annual Trunks O Treats was held. Adults decorated their car trunks in Halloween style and brought Halloween treats for the children.  The children dressed in their Halloween costumes..
November  Janet Dawson, congregational nurse offered a Writing as a Tool  workshop.  This was a two part workshop designed to help members deal with grief, loss, hurt, anger, and loneliness through writing.
November  The Presbyterian Women invited the congregation to help Build-A-Backpack for the Doris Henderson Newcomers School.  Refugee students at the school were in need of backpacks and school supplies. The PW collected items through mid-December.
November 6  Jeff’ Paschal’s first Consecration Sunday Celebration was held.  The Reverend Stephen McCutchan, retired pastor of Highland Presbyterian Church in Winston-Salem, was the guest preacher. There was a celebratory brunch after the 9:00 service and a celebratory luncheon after the 11:00 service. 
December  For many years, Richard and Carolyn Sherrick have shared their vast collection of Nativity Scenes which they have accumulated from their travels around the world. Once again, these were displayed for the members to view at the church.
December  Levina Kollar was honorably retired as accompanist for the GPPC Men’s Chorus after 10 years of service.
December 18  The Session approved changing the name of the Adults and Older Adult Ministries Committee to Adult Education Committee.
December 18  The Session approved that Dr. Robert Herron be named as a Parish Associate for Spiritual Formation to assist Dr. Paschal in teaching, pastoral care, and occasional preaching for a one year period.  This was later officially approved by Salem Presbytery.

2012

February 7  The Reverend Dr. Jeffrey Paschal was officially examined and received into Salem Presbytery at the First Presbyterian Church in Winston-Salem.
February 13  The first Lunch with Jeff was held in the parlor.  Church members signed up to enjoy lunch and have fellowship with Jeff and other church members.
February 17  The first Guilford Perkwas held.This began a monthly “coffee night” of live music, fellowship, and refreshments.
February 19  The installation service for the Reverend Dr. Jeffrey Paschal, as pastor of Guilford Park Presbyterian Church, was held at 4:00 at the church.  Those taking part in the service included: 
The Rev. Tempe Fussell, Pastor, Sedgefield Presbyterian Church
Elder Judy Herron, PNC Chairperson, Guilford Park Presbyterian Church
The Rev. Joel Long, Interim Pastor, First Presbyterian Church of Boone
The Rev. Dr. Sam Marshall, General Presbyter, Salem Presbytery

Elder Dianna Wright, Associate Presbyter and African American Advocate
    Salem Presbytery.
A reception followed the service.
February 28  Janet Dawson, congregational nurse, was given a Performance Excellence Award by Moses Cone Hospital.
March 11  The Middle School Youth hosted a workshop, entitled Making Crosses:  A New Way to Pray.  The purpose was to “discover how the spiritual practice of making crosses can deepen a life lived for Christ”.  A wood carver was present to provide inspiration.
March 29  The Guilford Park Preschool held a “Welcome Home Celebration”.  GPPC Vietnam Veterans were invited to attend so they and their families could be honored and thanked for their service as American Heroes.  Handmade gifts were presented to the veterans.
Season of Lent –Easter  Using the theme, Journey to the Cross, The Fine Arts Committee prepared the sanctuary for worship during this season.  Using banners (with prints of members’ footprints) and palm branches, the congregation was led through the darkening road of personal reflection and study through Jesus’ journey into Jerusalem.  Then in remembrance of Good Friday, all symbols were removed and the sanctuary prepared for the celebration of the resurrection.  Butterflies, made by all ages of the congregation, enhanced Easter Sunday .
April 8  Jeff Paschal had his first column as a News and Record Town Square Community Columnist published in the News and Record.
May 2  The Adult Education Committee sponsored an information session on Amendment One to discuss the concerns that many Christians and other citizens have regarding the amendment.  Legal, theological, and spiritual issues were addressed.
May 6  Janet Dawson, congregational nurse, was honored on May 6 for having been chosen as a Top 10 Nominee for the 2012 Nurse of Distinction Award.  She was featured in the News and Record.
May 15  Judy Herron received the Presbyterian Women’s Honorary Lifetime Achievement Award at the annual PW Salad Supper.
May 15  Loaves & Fishes & Other Good Dishes, the third cookbook published by Guilford Park Presbyterian Women, went on sale. GPPC “chefs, cooks, and culinary connoisseurs” contributed recipes.The proceeds of the sales will go to benefit Wello and the Waterwheel.  Wello is a social venture whose mission is: to effectively deliver clean water to a thirsty world.
May 20  The Finance and Property Committee launched a campaign to raise $65,000 to replace the current church van.  The new bus will have an electric wheelchair lift and will enable members of all ages to travel in comfort and safety on mission and fellowship activities.   
May 27  A community kickoff for residents of the Kirkwood area was held at GPPC. An energy program was presented by the city. This program was to help those residents learn more about a city run energy program which would assist homes in becoming more energy efficient.  Several times in the past, GPPC has offered the use of our church to the community.
June  A Congregational Planning Group was organized to lead the congregation in updating the GPPC’s mission statement and vision statement and to provide measurable goals for GPPC’s future development.
June 10  At a congregational meeting, the congregation voted unanimously to proceed with plans to hire a part-time Designated Associate Pastor for a three-year term.  This person would devote ten hours a week to Presbyterian Campus Ministries, ten hours a week to young adult ministries at GPPC (high school graduate age to early forties), and ten hours a week for GPPC membership at large (Congregational Care, Fellowship, Adult Education and Mission).  Funding for the position will be augmented with a grant from Salem Presbytery of $10,000 in the first year and $5,000 in the second year.  .
June 17  The Adult Education Committee announced plans to initiate a program, led by Jeff Paschal, that would encourage all members of GPPC to read through the entire Bible during 2013.
June 17-August 26  GPPC Summer “Between” Programs for all Ages was held during the regular Sunday School hour. A series of events open to all worshippers and visitors was designed to be inter-generational and novel during the summer months. This time would also allow visitation between the 9:00 and 11:00 AM worshippers. The programs were on diverse themes including music, eco-spirituality, mission trips, understanding/planning Presbyterian funerals, cultures of other countries, and Bible games.
July  The banner used during this season called Ordinary Time is meant to celebrate the Christian year which is shaped by the life of Christ.  Each quarter of the hanging banner has a white background and features different liturgical colors in the outer area and a portion of yellow and gold in the center.  When these four quadrants come together, they form the white cross which represents the resurrection of Jesus and the sunburst in the center recalls that joyous season of Easter. At Guilford Park, this banner has also been used as a symbol of our coming together as the family of God.  The colors are – blue for Advent, purple for Lent, red for Pentecost/Palm Sunday and green for Ordinary Time.  This banner was created with fabric given by members of the congregation.
July 15  A progress report on the Guilford Park Donation Garden indicated that it had produced abundantly.  The harvest of tomatoes, squash, zucchini, green peppers, etc. helped to alleviate hunger issues in our community. Vegetables were harvested twice each week and taken to drop sites for the Second Harvest Food Bank, which distributed the food to those in need.  Vegetables were also taken to GUM since there was a critical food need there. A new sign created by Maria Boulton and installed by Joe Browning was placed in the garden. Along with the name of the garden, Guilford Park Donation Garden, was the descriptor, "Planting Seeds of Hope for our Community”. This expressed the goal of providing not only fresh vegetables but also a caring message for those struggling in tough economic times.
July 15  The session passed a motion, brought by Mike Sasser, which would allow teen boys from Urban Ministries’ Partnership Village to play basketball once a week in the church’s fellowship hall. 
July 22  A Congregational Meeting was held for the purpose of electing the Associate Pastor Nominating Committee.
August 22  Companions in Christ, led by Bob Herron and Martha Higgins began.  This was a small spiritual formation group that provided ways and paths for participants to grow closer to God and provided spiritual growth and renewal.  The group met for 28 weeks.
September  Janet Dawson, Congregational Nurse, continued to be available one Sunday a month to do blood pressure checks for members and answer health questions. She also continued to offer classes for members on mobility, exercise, home safety, CPR, etc.  In addition, she continued to share useful health information on the bulletin board, in the library, and other places throughout the church as well as work with homebound members and those in hospitals or other health facilities.
September 15  The youth of the church held a Car Wash to raise money for the new church bus. The youth raised $620.00 at this event.
September 23  Jeff Paschal conducted his first  Blessing of the Animals service.  Church members, as well as neighbors in the community, were invited to bring their animals for this service and blessing.
October 7  This was World Communion/Peacemaking Offering Sunday.  Carolyn and Dick Sherrick prepared the communion bread and shared the story of the recipe.  The recipe has been traced back to Lena Venable, who was a member of the Tinkling Springs Presbyterian Church, Tinkling Springs VA, until her death in the early 1900’s.  Around 1950, the recipe was brought from Virginia to Warner Memorial Presbyterian Church in Kensington, MD by an associate pastor, and it has served as that church’s communion bread ever since.  The Tinkling Springs church was one of the early churches in that area of Virginia and was founded in 1740.
October 13  The youth of the church held a Talent Show to raise money for the new church bus.  This was followed by a pizza and salad supper.  Raffle tickets were also sold.  The prize was a weekend at Ginny Taylor’s mountain home.
October 20-21   The 2012 Ruth Lamb Enrichment Series (a bi-annual event) was held.  Voices of Immigration:  Listening for Christ was led byThe Reverend John Fife, Presbyterian minister, human rights activist, and former Moderator of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (USA).  Reverend Fife founded the group, No More Deaths, which seeks to prevent deaths of immigrants along the US/Mexican border by offering them humanitarian aid.  During September and October, prior to the Enrichment Series Weekend, the topic of immigration was discussed at Wednesdays Together , at a six week adult Sunday School class on immigration, and during a study of the book, Trials of Hope and Terror, by Miguel A. De La Torre. In addition, pamphlets and other material were available to members.  Reverend Fife spoke Saturday evening, October 20th on A Tragic Failure:  Immigration Policy and Border Security.  There was a catered meal prior to his presentation in the sanctuary.  Members of the community were invited to attend.  On Sunday, Reverend Fife preached at both services on Searching for Jesus in all the Wrong Places. In conjunction with ReverendFife’s visit,at the 11:00 service the chancel choir sang several Latin American songs.
The Pennies for Thirst Offering went to the “No More Deaths” organization that Reverend Fife founded.
Members of theRuth Lamb Enrichment Series subcommittee were Melanie Rodenbough (chairperson),E.B. Taylor, Mike Sasser, Karen Hornfeck, Emmy Biaggi and Robert Hickling. 
October 27  Members of the congregation joined Jack’s Pack at the Annual Down Syndrome Network of Greater Greensboro’s .Buddy Walk .    
October 29  The church was notified that Guilford Park members had contributed $727.98  to support the mission of No More Deaths, the ministry founded by The Reverend John Fife, our 2012 Ruth Lamb Enrichment Series speaker.
October 31  Janet Owen retired as Guilford Park’s Financial Secretary.  At the October Session meeting, she was recognized for her service and presented with framed pictures of Guilford Park.
November  The new church bus arrived.  It is a fourteen passenger 2012 Ford Bus, includes one wheelchair lift, and can carry two wheelchairs.  It also has overhead luggage bins, footrests, and more.  As of October 21, pledges and gifts totaled $65,161 exceeding the goal of $65,000. 
November 1  Jane Sharp was hired to replace Janet Owen as our Financial Secretary.
November 25  In preparation for The Year of the Bible, Jeff Paschal began offering three Sunday School classes on November 25, December 2, and December 9.  In these classes, Jeff explored with participants how we got the Bible, criteria for interpreting it correctly, and resources to help during the Bible study.  Additional classes will be offered in 2013 as The Year of the Bible begins.  Additional information was given to the congregation through a PowerPoint presentation, handouts, and brief presentations during several Sunday services.  Digital material will be placed on the church website.  More than 120 members have signed up for the study.
December 2  Four new Advent banners were presented during each of the Sundays in Advent.  They represented the feelings of waiting, anticipation, expectation, and the knowledge that something unknown and special was coming into our lives. The Fine Arts Committee made the banners.  
December 16  At the recommendation of the Church Planning Committee, the Session  of GPPC adopted the following motto for our congregation:  “Celebrating Christ with open minds, loving hearts, and serving hands,”
December 31  Guilford Park Presbyterian church had 476 active members.