Joy Monthly Newsletter
Transcription
Joy Monthly Newsletter
Issue 176—October 2015 “Although you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and rejoice with an indescribable and glorious joy ...” 1 Peter 1.8 From the Pastor . . . Dear Friends, I write this Pastor’s Perspective as I am away on vacation visiting our oldest son in Denver. We have taken a few days to be in Estes Park and the Rocky Mountain National Park. As the psalmists say, God’s creation is filled with awe and wonder, and the Rocky Mountains never cease to amaze me. There is wonder in both good and tragedy of creation these days. It is fall and the yellow of the aspen trees against the background of the dark green evergreens is beautiful. The elk never cease to amaze me as they come down from the mountains into the meadows (and into the town of Estes Park) for their fall rituals. There is snow at the highest elevations and the sign that winter flirts with us this early is quite something. There are also signs of the tragedy of the western area fires. In Denver you cannot really see the mountains as they are obscured by haze created from the smoke that has moved eastward. We have reflected on the wonder of God’s presence in our life’s adventures these past weeks of September. Out of both pure delight and tragedy comes deepened gratitude for life and new growth. In my awe of fall colors in the mountains and the elks’ rituals, I am grateful for the time to pause and take in the wonder of God’s creation. These moments remind me what a gift it is to be alive and have these experiences. I am also deeply aware of the juxtaposition with suffering. The same wondrous creation has experienced extreme drought and burst into flames. People have lost their homes and belongings, and even more tragic has been the loss of life because of the western fires. As new growth will come to the burned landscape, so too we can trust that God will bring about new possibilities through the experienced suffering. There are many aspects of our life together at church that are awe inspiring: children watching a middle school youth playing Joseph in worship, youth and parents entering into covenant through confirmation for a special time of faith learning, women and men coming back to ministry groups after being away in the summer, new people being introduced to others, tears and laughter in worship, lives being encouraged in Washington Park through the clothing bank and spiritual fellowship of Movie Nights. There have also been moments of loss and sadness from a larger than normal number of deaths this past month. In between, we are reminded of the challenges before us: our need to finish paying for the HVAC system that was installed two years ago, our desire to have a youth director and our missional desires to make a difference in other people’s lives through apportionments and our year’s emphasis on Imagine No Malaria. As the end of the three year capital campaign is closing, we are faced with a debt of approximately $500,000 from the approved budget. The great news is that the budget for the project came within the $2 million dollar approved budget. This $500,000 is simply the amount that we as a congregation approved beyond the $1.5 million dollars we raised in pledges for the HVAC work. Stay tuned to hear more about the campaign, youth staffing and mission emphases as we experience a new church year. See you in worship! Blessings, Pastor Susan OUR CHURCH FAMILY WORSHIP THIS MONTH Our condolences to Nancy Bolender and family on the death of Jim Bolender on Sept. 7; and to Roy Wagner and family on the death of Grady Davenport, husband of Roy’s mother. Thank you—Grateful thanks to Rich and Susan Batchelder, Mary Lynn Han, Lori Ebbott, Bill Crise, Marie Janke, Chris Pagenkop, and Lynn Bennett for their service during FaithWorks, cleaning all the chairs in Fellowship Hall! Thank you to the congregation for your love and care for our foster son, Cartier—from Barb and Deb Abraham. Thank you to JOY assembler John Ross. You are invited—Bill and Jane Crise invite you to a reception in honor of their daughter, Angela, and her fiancée, Katie Borsh, on Oct. 25, an open house from 2:00 to 4:00 pm in Fellowship Hall. Angela grew up in this church and returned when she graduated from college. We would all be delighted to greet you. I will pour out my spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old ones shall dream dreams, and your young ones shall see visions. Joel 2.28 What does community look like when it is living out of its call to be the “people of God”? In this four week series, we are asked to imagine people of God who care, share, believe, receive, seek, dream and change. Looking at several passages from letters to the early Christian church will guide us in our thinking. Let’s come together to imagine and create better relationships, better family, better church and a better world! Your thought for the day … Peace starts with a smile. World Communion Weekend—Imagination October 3/4, 2015 Ephesians 3.16-21 Compassion October 10/11, 2015 Philippians 2.1-10 Taizé Worship: First Friday, Oct. 2, 7:00 p.m. This candle-lit, one-hour service features the singing of simple refrains, scripture readings, and brief spoken prayer. For more information, contact Sue Stanley at sstanley@ umcwfb.org, or Pastor Gerry Harrison at [email protected]. How is it that we are caring and sharing God’s love in the world? Indeed, from the early Hebrew practices of leaving the gleanings of the harvest for the poor to Jesus’ commission to care for the ‘least of these,’ how we show compassion to others is a mark of being the Body of Christ. The scriptures ask us, “Is your heart tender and compassionate?” What is your answer as you grow in discipleship? Transformation October 17/18, 2015 Romans 12 The words “seeking the way of Jesus Christ, trusting the courage to change” remind us that this is a process of moving in the direction of a better community. The Fruition good news is that we are not just endowed with imagiOctober 24/25, 2015 Galatians 5.13-23 nation, but we can rely on the courage God gives us to be the change we want to see in the world. We enter Our last worship experience in this series invites us to into a covenant relationship whereby we are continually reflect on the fruits of our imagining the “kin-dom of reminded of who God is and that we belong to God. On God” - the family of God - in right relationship. Methodthis day, the new Accountable Leadership Team will ism’s founder John Wesley gave us Three Simple Rules offer to share their covenant with the congregation and to follow: 1. Do no harm 2. Do good 3. Stay in love ask for the congregation’s support as we live out God’s with God. Our scripture from Galatians offers up an transformation in our community. image of what this looks like and we offer our lives to 2 ←←←continued live by these guiding principles. THE PUMPKINS ARE HERE, THE PUMPKINS ARE HERE!!! Once again the front lawn of the church has been transformed into a pumpkin patch for the month of October. The Pumpkin Patch will be open for business through Friday, Oct 30: Weekdays: 12:00 pm—6:00 pm Saturdays: 10:00 am—6:00 pm Sundays: 9:00 am—6:00 pm Sign up in the Jones Narthex to help with staffing the pumpkin patch through Friday, Oct. 30. You can also sign up from the church web site via “Signup Genius.” One of the challenges we have had in the past is finding volunteers to tend the pumpkins during the day on weekdays. If your schedule is flexible enough that you could fill even a 1 or 2 hour time slot during these hours, it would go a long way to helping make this mission a success. Last year’s pumpkin patch helped fund the Guatemala mission trip, Feed My Starving Children, and numerous local hot meal programs, including those at St. Vincent and Agape. You are invited to enjoy the pumpkin patch, to The pumpkin patch has become an annual event over the years and it is help sell the pumpkins, and don’t forget to shop obviously a highly visible event for our church in the community. I for your pumpkins!! have had more than one person say to me, “Oh yeah, you’re the church with the pumpkins.” But in order to continue this annual fall transformation of the front lawn we need small bits of time (1-2 hours) from many volunteers. So check your calendars and make plans now to spend a couple of hours tending the pumpkins. Thank you! - Bruce Thompson Thanks for your help again this year. So many people’s lives are improved by the funds raised. Prime Timers Luncheon and Program on Tuesday, Oct. 20 The Salem Witch Trials – Goode Rebecca Nurse portrayed by Jessica Michna You are invited to the Prime Timers October luncheon featuring Leona’s wonderful spaghetti followed by a fascinating program on the Salem Witch Trials as performed by Jessica Michna. Lunch is served at 12 noon in Fellowship Hall and the program follows at 1:00 pm in the Sanctuary. Jessica Michna has traveled all over the US and has received high praise for her portrayals of first ladies: Eleanor Roosevelt, Mary Todd Lincoln, Dolley Madison, Abigail Adams and other historical figures. She has entertained groups throughout America and guests from as far away as New Zealand, Japan and Brazil. Audiences ranging from young children to senior citizens have been equally enthralled. Join Ms. Michna and the Prime Timers on Oct. 20 for this exciting and riveting program. Lunch at noon; program at 1:00 pm. The cost is $10. 3 2015 CHRISTMAS EXTRAVAGANZA: BELIEVE December 12, 3:00 pm / December 13, 4:00 pm Come experience the magic of Christmas at our Christmas Extravaganza, BELIEVE. More than 150 participants will offer music, poetry, scripture, liturgical dance, and drama to help you prepare for and rejoice in Jesus’ birth. We invite you to come and enjoy the glorious sounds of choirs, handbells, and orchestra in this inspiring musical event. The 90-minute program will feature John Rutter's Gloria, a nativity with live animals, and more than 50 angels hovering above the manger in Bethlehem. Children and adults of all ages are sure to laugh, sing, and celebrate the reason for the season. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children. Homosexuality and the Bible Film Series Presented by the LGBT Advocacy Ministry This interesting, insightful, and, yes, controversial topic will be addressed for a total of six evenings in October and November during Wednesday Night Live, beginning Oct. 14 at 6:15 pm in the Chapel. Participants are encouraged to attend all six sessions, but this is not required. We will begin with the showing of a professionally produced film, followed by a confidential question/answer/comment segment. Facilitators will conduct each session, and will be available for additional input or to moderate ideas. “Camp Out” leads off the first two evenings. It is a unique film exposure to gay and lesbian teens at an all-gay Bible camp. Christian counselors work to promote the campers’ greater acceptance and understanding of homosexuality, while attempting to reconcile it with a Christian belief system. The film splits its time between acquainting the audience with each camper and their individual struggle(s), and showing their interactions with other campers during the usual camp activities. As one would expect with teens, their emotions and reactions range from deep-seated angst to pure glee as they reveal their individual differences and similarities. At the end of camp, all leave with new and varying levels of understanding of their roles in the world. Steve Davis and Gary Gussick, facilitators. The second film, “Coming Out ~ Coming In” is a one night only film, a half-hour documentary offered as a vehicle to start new and meaningful conversations among people who do not always agree. It presents personal stories from gay and lesbian Christians who have struggled to reconcile faith with sexual orientation. It takes viewers beyond the current debate in churches about homosexuality to reveal the everyday efforts of faithful people. Cathy and Mary, facilitators. The final film, “For the Bible Tells Me So,” is probably the most complex of the three, and finishes the series on Nov. 4, 11, and 18. Can the love between two people ever be an abomination? Is the chasm separating gays and lesbians from Christianity too wide to cross? Is the Bible an excuse to hate? These questions and more will be explored by group discussion after watching a segment of the film. Richard and Martha Whitaker, trained facilitators, will lead this final film discussion. Invitations are being sent to neighborhood churches, as well as planned “press releases” in the Wisconsin Gazette and Shepherd Express. You are encouraged to sign up early to assure a place for yourself. 4 Pastors Corner…What’s Happening at Church Glen Avenue Homes. The homes have not been sold. The Trustees are working on new strategies to encourage the sale of the homes. Financial Stewardship. 2014-15 Budget. Last year’s budget is still open as we are receiving completions of last year’s pledges. As of 9/21, we have a $7400 deficit on our budget. The Finance Team is anticipating that we will end with with a positive balance. 2015-16 Budget. We are still receiving pledges for this coming year’s budget. We currently have $687,000 of pledged income. With the additional anticipated pledges, a flat budget from last year is projected. The Finance Team is not expecting to receive the desired 15% increase on pledges. The goal of a 15% increase was to hire a youth director and pay 100% of our apportionments. Capital Campaign. Our three year capital campaign for our HVAC project is coming to an end with the 2015 calendar year. As you may remember the approved project total was $2,000,000 with pledges of $1,500,000. We are working toward the development of a second mile financial campaign to include this debt retirement, youth director compensation, and some items from the First Impressions Team. First Impressions Team. As part of the new accountable leadership model, a First Impressions Team was created of members and nonmembers in the demographic we are seeking to reach (families with children). Scott Erickson headed this team and made his presentation to both the Planning Teams and Church Council. A copy of his report can be found in this issue of JOY on pp. 8 and 9. We are also looking for your input (see the survey on p.10). Would you take a moment after reading the report to choose the 10 priorities that you feel our congregation should be working on? The First Impressions Checklist can then be returned to the church office. In advance, thank you. Worship. Since consultant Dr. Marcia McFee has been with us in June, our worship attendance has increased 1 1/2% in the summer from 303 in 2014 to 308 in 2015. Worship Leadership Needs: To sustain changes in worship we presently need 1) persons who can create keynote presentations for the 9 and 10:30 am service (Christy West and Joelle Karth) 2) persons who would be interested in being a worship series coordinator (Pastor Susan) and 3) persons to work with live streaming and lighting in the sound booth (Neil Bubke). Contact the staff whose names are next to each of the items for more information. ꍀԅ Live Streaming. If you are ill, homebound, or traveling you can still worship with us on Sunday mornings. Each week at 9 and 10:30 head to our website, umcwfb.org. On the home page, hit the button that has a movie camera icon and says Watch Online. You will be directed to worship. Missed Sunday worship, but want to watch another time? Hit the “archive” button on this page and watch services from the past three months. You do not need any special applications on your computer to watch. Church Conference Scheduled. A church conference is scheduled for October 19 to elect members for the Accountable Leadership Board. More information will be forthcoming. All members are invited to attend, speak and vote. Following the vote, the new Accountable Leadership Board will meet concurrently with the Church Council until the end of 2015. The new form of governance and leadership will begin January 2016. A Church Council meeting will follow that same evening. Staffing. We welcomed David Hein to our organ bench as our principal organist Sept. 27 at 10:30 am. Funds are being sought through our Second Mile Giving Campaign for a youth director. To date, informal conversations with persons for this position have been had. A formal plan will be presented at the Oct. 19 Church Council meeting. Nancy Ross has volunteered to chair a core Hospitality Team which will be recruiting persons in the area of Sunday morning and special worship service hospitality. This was formerly part of our paid Director of Equipping Ministry’s portfolio. Imagine No Malaria. The United Methodist Church world wide has made a commitment to millions of dollars to eradicate malaria. To date 66 million dollars of our 75 million dollar goal has been given to this cause by United Methodists. It is now our church’s turn. There is more information about this year’s mission effort in JOY. Planning Team. The Planning Team continues to work hard on your behalf. This year’s priorities are being identified as Worship, Adult Member Engagement (evangelism, hospitality, discipleship) and Children/Youth and Family Ministry. We will be continuing to flesh out goals with metrics for these areas and sharing them through the 5 Church Council. ATTENTION: Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts (also Camp Fire USA, American Heritage Girls, and Trail Life USA) Opportunity to Earn the God & Country Award Our church is offering classes to earn the God & Country religious award for all Scouts as listed above, in grades 4-12. See your Scout Handbook for more information. The classes are offered about every three years; this year from October through January. (We don't expect the times to conflict with choir or youth groups.) This fun and significant program allows you to explore many spiritual topics; it includes seven evenings of classroom discussions, service hours, and study and preparation outside the classroom. All work must be completed and all classes attended to receive the award. To register or for more information, contact Laurie Geisel at [email protected], or visit www.praypub.org. ATTENTION: Adults interested in working with Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts on their God & Country Award WE WELCOME OUR NEW ORGANIST David Hein David Hein is our new organist and Chancel Choir accompanist! He enjoys leading congregational hymn singing and strives to find creative, inspiring ways to deepen the congregation’s connection to our hymns and songs of faith. He grew up in south central Wisconsin, in Stoughton, and enjoys the opportunity to travel whenever possible. Currently, he lives with his partner in Sheboygan, near the shores of Lake Michigan. Lately, he's been pondering if it might be possible to boat to church. We are looking for adults to help these young people on their spiritual journey. You can work with 4th & 5th MOPS graders, 6th - 8th graders, or 9th - 12th graders. This is a Mothers of Preschoolers well established program with handbooks, defined Ѩ topics, and lesson plans for each class. You will lead/ We are a local chapter of a national organization that moderate the discussion during the seven classes from meets in churches and allows new moms and moms October through January; minimal preparation is with young children to come together in friendship required. To volunteer or for more information, please and fellowship. The website to learn more is contact Laurie Geisel at [email protected], or visit www.MOPS.org. www.praypub.org. Our group meets at Christ Church on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays through the end of May, 9:15-11:15 am. Each meeting begins with brunch provided by MOPS UNITED METHODIST WOMEN’S members, and then we come together in prayer. We Focus Mission 2015/16 have guest speakers, videos and workbooks, and also do service projects. The message of each meeting is Please help us support the UMW 2015/16 focus always “moms are not alone, and with the help of our mission, United Methodist Children’s Services mom friends and God’s love, all things are possible.” (UMCS). We offer them donations of time as well as donations of full-sized toiletries, hygiene products, men’s/women’s/children’s clean clothing, and monetary donations. This month we are especially asking for full-sized bars of soap. Please bring them to the labeled box near the Women’s Ministry table. MOPS is open to all moms regardless of religious background or church affiliation. We simply offer love, support and two kid-free hours twice a month for moms to unwind and recharge. Finally, the cost: $24 for MOPS materials, $65 a year for materials and speaker fees, $5 per child per meeting for childcare. Scholarships are available. Volunteers from UMW spend Wednesday afternoons at For more information please contact: UMCS helping sort and distribute the clothing and other Holly Dreier at [email protected], or items. Would you like to help? Wednesdays from noon Anna Harmon at [email protected]. to 4:00 pm, whenever you are able. Please contact Linda Groose at [email protected], or 6 Beth Groble at [email protected]. BAY BATTERS The Bay Batters play in a county church softball league (10 teams in 2015) - this year finishing in a tie for third place. The post-season tournament stretched into August, which prevented the team from participating due to injuries and other commitments. Games are on Monday evenings beginning in May; we finish each evening with prayers around the pitcher’s mound. Team ages range from high school to middle age to senior. We are looking for additional players for next year. Let us know if you might be interested in playing. Shown in the team picture: Front row - Mike Salamanski, Jim Armstrong, Dave Bolyard, Scott Mason, Dylan Scheu; Back row - Dick Steinmetz (Coach), Joe Alba, Ken MacDonald, Todd Hatch, Gary Summers, Jason Pokey, Max Arterburn; Not shown - Mike Armstrong, Tony Case, Nick Hatch, John Hoylman, Frank Kotecki, Jim Lathrop (coach) A Heart Felt “THANK YOU”F with Jimmies on Top! The LGBT Advocacy Ministry would like to “scream” its thanks to the Foundations and Memorials committee for picking up the expense of the soft-serve ice cream machine recently added to the food ministry arsenal managed by Ron Jordan—who, along with Leona, serves us so well and so faithfully. As the LGBT Advocacy Ministry soon discovered, purchasing even a used soft-serve machine far exceeded our financial grasp. A brief stab at making Rally Day a giant fund-raiser soon also proved to be equally impractical. Thanks to the Foundation, Rally Day went from being a potential fund raiser to the second opportunity for “ice cream screaming!” (The first went to the Blue Grass Festival folk.) The third outing went to the guests at the first meeting of “Prime Timers,” who received the yummy white squiggle well, and by the time you read this the machine may also have had a debut at Wednesday Night Live. All too often the Foundation’s thoughtful and watchful generosity goes unnoticed or un-lauded. We hereby tip our hats—and the hats of all ice cream aficionados—to these un-sung heroes! 7 UMCWFB First Impressions WEBSITE Were you able to find information easily? What would you improve? Finding information about the church doesn’t seem to be an issue. Web searches easily turned up the church’s contact info, including the website. The general consensus was that there was plenty of basic information, and while the basics were easy to navigate, the rest felt stale and details were hard to get or find. Registration for current events such as VBS and Feed My Starving Children were pointed out as not easy to find. There are links to registering for classes at the bottom of the home page, but a rethinking of how much content, or the size of each element should be considered. Also, as one of the first interactions a new visitor to UMCWFB will have, content about visiting should be more prominent. Reviewing or redefining the purpose of the website and use of systems such as Constant Contact should be considered in conjunction with the use of social media for reaching new members, not just speaking to the existing ones. SOCIAL MEDIA What social media sites do you use? Does the church have a presence there? Could content be improved? Facebook was the most common social network cited while Twitter was also popular. The church’s Facebook page appears to be easy to find, and most current members seem to regularly see posts from Pastor Susan and Pastor Justin. There was also a suggestion to try to make the Facebook account more dynamic by tagging photos and events with church members in an effort to try to broaden the reach of each post. It’s unclear if a Facebook page would allow for that kind of activity, but staff andѨ members could be encouraged to participate in these types of actions. There was confusion about why the official church Twitter account was Pastor Susan’s Twitter account. It would make more sense to have separate account for an “official” stream. There are programs available to help manage multiple streams across multiple networks. TELEPHONE When you called the church, was the voice message or person helpful and inviting? No complaints, but it seemed that most of the respondents were likely to call the church as a last resort. Instead, information was most often sought out through web searches and social media. CHURCH ACCESSIBILITY Were there enough directions to get you to the church and where to park, etc? Once at the building, could you find your way around? Directions to the church are easy to find. There was some confusion on where to park for new visitors. It was unclear if the parking lot at the Christ Scientist church was also available for UMCWFB. If enough time was spent on our website, parking info was all the way down at the bottom of the page. Once at the church it can be hard to navigate, especially for visitors and new members. The greeters on Sunday mornings are always helpful, but if there are groups meeting there during the week, there may not be someone around to point out where to go. The combination of having some rooms be named versus others numbered makes it somewhat confusing, and the rooms aren’t always clearly labeled. Children’s Sunday school classes also needed more consistency or better communication on where to find the kids after the service. Overall, directional signage within the church could be better. Continued next page ... 8 First Impressions, cont’d. CHURCH BUILDING What was your impression of the building and grounds? The building is nice and attractive overall. While generally thought to be well kept, the decor left something to be desired. This is highlighted by some of the recent work in the entries and stairways, and by carpeting the stage in fellowship hall. Little details were noticed as well, such as the baskets for umbrellas in the entry. The exterior may also need some attention. The garden at the west entrance was frequently cited as needing some attending. The landscaping could be trimmed back, and the facade might need to be power washed. The building and grounds are showing their age, and while not unpleasant, updating is needed. CHURCH FACILITIES What did you think of the facilities? Classrooms, restrooms, nursery, etc. Findings here echoed findings for the building itself. Things are generally kept neat and clean, but the building is showing its age and in need of refreshing. Restrooms were mentioned as needing updating, from the old wall paper borders, to a fresh coat of paint. Small details, such as adding some silk flowers, also go far. One response suggested keeping Sunday school and Preschool/Daycare facilities separated, while another noted that the sanctuary stairs looked nicked and could be touched up. WHAT MOST IMPRESSED YOU ABOUT THE CHURCH? 圠Ԇ prompted with questions about the building and This question was at the end of the survey, and even while facilities, the overwhelming response was about the people. The congregation was often described as “warm,” “inviting,” and “welcoming.” Some of the current members did point out that they didn't feel connected until they got involved in some groups. There was also mention that some volunteers may come on too strong. “They mean well, but can be off putting if they don't remember to be welcoming and to treat all the way they would want to be treated. The church should always be welcoming to all.” WHAT DID YOU NOTICE THAT NEEDS IMPROVEMENT? This question only elicited callbacks to earlier statements regarding the need for a “freshening up” of the appearance of the church. While still more than capable of fulfilling its function, the church building and facilities lacked overall form. Please give us your opinions ... Please complete the Congregational Survey on the next page, and return it to the church office by Nov. 1. THANK YOU! 9 First Impressions Checklist Congregational Survey Check your top 10 priorities. _____Internet access throughout building _____Jones Narthex and office complex carpeting _____Cable access in building _____Sanctuary and Chapel carpeting _____Website improvements _____Sunday school classroom carpeting - Nursery -Youth Room - Room 222 - Room 208/221 - Room 210 _____Social media improvements _____Updated outdoor signage _____Individual Use Rooms i.e. keeping Day Care, Pre-school, North Shore School for Seniors, Sunday School as single use rooms _____Choir Room carpeting _____Appropriate communication vehicles for those 40 and younger _____Carpet cleaning machine _____Abatement of tiles/new flooring in sanctuary _____Abatement/new flooring _____main floor _____basement floor _____second floor _____Youth room furnishings/design _____Middle school youth _____Senior high youth 圠Ԇ _____T-cell hearing loop for sanctuary to improve hearing for those with hearing aids. _____Abatement/new ceilings _____main floor _____basement floor _____second floor _____Refinishing of hardwood in chancel area _____Painting of most of the building _____Remodeled bathrooms ______ main floor ______ outside Fellowship Hall ______second floor ______basement floor _____Exterior landscape _____Youth room furniture _____New roof for 810 E. Glen Avenue _____Remodeled stairwell/entrance (this is a required need per the fire marshal) _____Energy efficient windows for sanctuary and north end of building Please return this form to the church office by Nov. 1. Thank you for your input. 10 Women’s Ministries October 2015 Holiday Bazaar Saturday, November 14 9:30 - 2 Get a sneak peek and help craft a project. Wednesday evenings 6:30 - 7:30 pm Crafting with Elayne Room 211 Just drop in! United Methodist Children’s Services Focus Mission 2015 The clothing & toiletries shop is open every Wednesday afternoon. They need: women’s, men’s & teen larger size clothing, please wash & label as such, toilet paper, tampons, pads, diapers, wipes, shampoo, bar soap, toothpaste & brushes, deodorant &/or cash donations. If you would like to be a part of the caring community that helps on Wednesdays, contact Beth at [email protected] The Reading Circle We LOVE a good book! Come share your reading of Where the Wind Leads ԇ by Dr V Chung 7 pm Tuesday, October 6 Walnut Room United Methodist Women Calling all women of every age! There is a place for you in UMW. Nine circles of friendship meet morning, afternoon or evenings. They craft, serve, study, knit, cook, quilt & more! Come be a part. Beth [email protected] Women at the Well Book study and discussion Evenings twice a month. Interested? Contact Kathy [email protected] Stay Tuned Woman’s Day Apart Saturday, January 30 9am - 4pm awesome workshops, delightful lunch faith & friend day 11 WOW Women Offering Worship Every Thursday morning from 9:30 - 11:30 am women gather to worship, sing, pray, study, laugh, smile, welcome, give, cry, contemplate, care, discuss, hug, share, nibble, enjoy and follow - follow the path before them that Christ has set. Come. Follow Jesus for the best adventure you’ve ever had. Nell Nash Director of Caring & Women’s Ministries [email protected] 414.964.2424 x218 OCTOBER ADULT DISCIPLESHIP HIGHLIGHTS This fall semester is off to a great start. New classes are starting this month and the on-going classes are perfect for dropping in as you are able. Check out the list below or the church website for more information, and to register for classes, or contact Joelle Karth at (414) 964-2424 ext. 233 or [email protected]. Wednesday Night Live Classes New! The Bible and Homosexuality - LGBT Film Series, 6:15 – 7:30pm, Oct. 14 – Nov. 18, in the Chapel. Join us as we view and discuss the following films: Camp Out - ten Christian teenagers struggle to confront questions of faith and their sexuality at their first LGBT Christian Youth Camp; Coming out, Coming In - this film gives voice to gay and lesbian Christians who have struggled to reconcile faith with sexual orientation; and For the Bible Tells Me So - an exploration of the intersection between religion and homosexuality in the U.S. If you are not able to attend every session come to the ones you can. Facilitator: Richard Whitaker. Contact: Gary Gussick, [email protected]. Mission ImPossible!, 6:30 – 7:30pm, Sept. 9 – Oct. 14 in the Walnut Room. Special guest Sandy Raasch from the Honduras mission trip will be here on Oct. 14! Each week members of mission teams will provide a presentation about different missions supported by the church. Teams will discuss the service they provide, the challenges they face, the people they serve, and where they have seen God while serving. Drop-ins are welcome! For more information, contact Joelle Karth, [email protected]. Christianity and a Busy Life, 6:30-7pm, Sept. 9 – Dec. 16 in the Jones Narthex. Join us for topical discussions on how to put Christ first amidst the demands of our day to day lives. Topics include: How to include prayer in your daily life, “But I’m so tired on Sunday,” establishing spiritual routines for your family, “I want to serve but I just can’t do one more thing,” discovering good books for children and youth. Drop ins are welcome! Facilitators: Christy West, [email protected], and Joelle Karth, [email protected]. Bazaar Craft Making, 6:30 – 7:30pm, Sept. 9 – Nov. 4, in room 216. Join us for an hour of fun and fellowship as we make crafts for the annual Holiday Bazaar. No previous crafting skills required. Ideas are welcome! For more information contact facilitator Elayne Waeltz, at [email protected] or 414-530-4265. Pastor’s Bible Study, 6:30-7:30pm, on-going class in the Walnut Room. This class meets each week to look at the scripture for the upcoming worship weekend. Drop-ins are welcome! The book “How Will You Measure Your Life” by Clayton M. Christensen will be the focus of the worship series and discussion during November. Facilitator: Pastors Susan, Justin or Tshishinen, [email protected]. Book: $20. The book “How Will You Measure Your Life,” is not required for participation. Foster Parents Support, 6:30 – 7:30pm, on-going, in Fellowship Hall. This support group welcomes all current and prospective foster parents to join them in supportive fellowship. Facilitators: David and Ginny Mike, [email protected]. Sunday Classes and Small Groups Dialogue, 9am, on-going class in the Wesley Room. Select readings from a variety of sometimes controversial topics. This fall we will be discussing “Being Mortal” by Atahl Gawandi. It's a study of end of life choices in light of current medical sciences in the ability to extend lives. Shared facilitators. Contact Steve Davis for more information, [email protected]. Progressive Christianity, 9am, on-going class in Room 210. This class reads and discusses progressive resources to explore growing in faith. This fall we are finishing up Marcus Borg's book, “Reading the Bible Again for the First Time: Taking the Bible Seriously but not Literally.” Facilitator: Pastor Gerry Harrison, [email protected]. Adult Bible Study, 9am, on-going class in Room 208/221. This small group takes an in-depth look at mutually agreed upon Bible studies. Facilitator: Crystal Stinemates, [email protected]. 12 United Methodist Church of Whitefish Bay Ministry to Children from preschool to college F U E L I N G F AI T H I N T H E N E X T G E N E R AT I O N The light of the church and the heart of the family.... Children are born with an innate sense of wonder and faith that is real and authentic. Our role is to provide a foundation of experiences on which children build a life of learning and growth toward a mature and vital faith. Children who become deeply committed followers of Christ who LOVE God, CARE for each other and SERVE in the world. Elementary Sunday School Nursery, Toddler and Preschool Sunday School October Virtue: Individuality October Verse: Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young. Set an example for the believers in what you say and in how you live. 1 Timothy 4:12 aƟng pm e r T — – Or from 4—6 k n u r T 10th ber Octo October Bottom Line: God can help me be brave October Verse: Be strong and courageous. 뜠Ԇ Do not be afraid...for the Lord your God goes with you. Decorate a car! Come in costume! Free Candy and fun for all. The pumpkin patch will be open. RIDE THE TRAIN! Chili and hot dogs for sale. All proceeds go to missions. Friends and Family Game Night October 16th in Fellowship Hall Mark your calendar! Pot Luck Dinner at 5:30 pm Games from 6:00—9:00 pm Christy West Monica Bessette Tracey Grabowski Dir., Children & Family Ministries 414-964-2424 x 221 [email protected] Dir., Carpenter’s Shop Daycare 414-964-2424 x115 13 [email protected] Dir., Tree of Life Christian Preschool 414-964-8733 [email protected] October Birthdays Davis, J. D. 10/1 Gurican, Jacob 10/2 Hansen, Ms. Sandra -Sandy 10/3 Lybeck-Smoak, Mrs. Meg 10/3 Anderson, Mrs. Nancy 10/5 Groose, Mr. Thomas -Tom 10/5 Kotecki, Ms. Heather 10/6 Paull, Mrs. Mary 10/6 Widdifield, Marissa 10/6 Janssen, Mrs. Lynette 10/7 Byers, Mrs. Mary 10/8 Hermann, Ms. Arlene 10/8 Bazar-Besasie, Mrs. Wendi 10/9 Mortellaro, Mr. Anthony 10/9 Novak, Katie 10/9 Arterburn, Mrs. Caitlin 10/11 Felix, Mr. Chris 10/12 Furtsch, Evan 10/12 Hermann, Mrs. Elizabeth -Betty 10/12 Trimble, Mr. Kyle 10/12 Kochan, Mr. Lee 10/13 Marx, Mr. Richard -Dick 10/13 Nuernberger, Mr. Frank -Franklin 10/13 Fellman, Mrs. Carolyn -Cary 10/14 Jeffery, Mrs. Laurie 10/14 Manko, Mr. Wes 10/14 Middleton, Mrs. Mary 10/14 Ebert, Annalise 10/15 Berg, Mrs. Melanie 10/16 Edwards, Mr. Matthew 10/16 Daugherty, Mrs. Kelley 10/18 Douglass, Mrs. Laurie 10/18 Sook, Mrs. Carleen 10/18 Summers, Mrs. Anne 10/18 Alt, Mrs. Ruth 10/20 Dye, Ms. Tasha 10/20 Rupp, Mr. Michael 10/20 Fleming, Mrs. Ruth 10/21 Hokeness, Mr. David -Dave 10/21 Hyland, Mrs. Virginia 10/21 Smith, Mrs. Kathleen 10/21 Gemlo, Mrs. Mary 10/22 Kile, Mrs. Ellen 10/22 Abram, James -Jimmy 10/23 Aeschbacher, Samuel -Sam 10/23 Breese, Christine 10/24 Duncan, Mr. Ryan 10/24 Harrison, Rev. Gerry 10/24 Pheffer, Mrs. Jill 10/24 Sanders, Hallie 10/24 Webster, Mrs. Suzie 10/24 Chiappetta, Mr. Scott 10/25 Kemppainen, Mr. Ross 10/25 Batchelder, Mr. Robert 10/26 Dettinger, Emily 10/26 Potter, Mr. Frederick -Fred 10/26 Burger, Ms. Bev -Beverly 10/27 Lambert-Belke, Mrs. Jodi -Jodie 10/27 Nigh, Mr. Steven 10/27 Kurtz, Ms. Lisa 10/28 Robertson, Ms. Annette 10/28 Earl-Boehm, Dr. Jennifer -Jen 10/29 Fruncek, Mrs. Betsy 10/29 Jordan, Mrs. Leona 10/29 Koenke, Mr. Roger 10/29 Lyons, Jack 10/29 Milia, Mrs. Sarah 10/29 Ward, Mr. Charles 10/30 CELEBRATING THE 70TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE UNITED NATIONS SPOTLIGHT ON THE ENVIRONMENT The United Nations Association of Greater Milwaukee will host its annual United Nations “Birthday” celebration and program commemorating its 70th year on Sunday, Oct. 18, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. The Whitefish Bay Library, Nyama Marsh, director, will again host the program on the 2nd floor at 5420 N. Marlborough Drive, Whitefish Bay. The program, “Spotlight on the Environment,” will be heralded by the Honor Guard of Boy Scout Troop 400 presenting the United States and the United Nations flags, followed by a welcome from Julie Siegel, president of the Whitefish Bay Village Board. Annette Robertson of Whitefish Bay, co-chair of the event, will introduce the keynote speaker, Ken Leinbach, Whitefish Bay, Director of Milwaukee Urban Ecology Centers. Ken’s talk, “It’s Fun to do the Impossible,” a global tour of environmental problems and how his organization copes with one, will be followed by discussion. Whitefish Bay High School Model United Nations (MUN) members led by John Misey will present a brief synopsis of how they participate in the March annual Wisconsin MUN Simulation convened at UW-M, representing the United Nations General Assembly meetings, and students representing member countries compete for performance awards. This year MUN will follow closely the UN summit meetings of the 193 member countries on Sept. 25-27 and Nov. 30Dec. 11. The delegations from member countries will discuss “the new era of sustainable development,” said Jack Murtaugh, chairman of the UNA-Milwaukee Sustainable Development Committee. The UN’s agenda will call for “a commitment to support a climate livable by all, humans, animals and plants.” WFB High School MUN members have participated in UNA-GM programs for many years. Following the program attendees will be able to visit tables and exhibits of organizations allied with interests of the United Nations Assn. Refreshments and program are open to the public and free of charge. This event, “Spotlight on the Environment,” will be “one of Milwaukee’s biggest celebrations of the UN’s 70th year of tremendous work in the world, such as caring for hungry children, refugees and the earth’s well-being,” said Steve Watrous, President of the UNA-GM Chapter. The Mayor’s Committee on the UN will host its annual celebration on Friday, Oct. 23, in the rotunda of the Milwaukee City Hall at 9:00 a.m. There will be speakers and exhibits. Refreshments and program are open to the public and free of charge. The Milwaukee Public Library will fly its UN flag along with the American flag on the flagpole on Wisconsin Avenue. Upon his retirement, the late Mayor Frank Zeidler became a dedicated leader of the UNA-GM and from early youth a lifetime of advocacy of the Milwaukee Public Library, which honors his memory with a special section bearing his name. The United Nations flags will be14flown and displayed at many area schools and public venues during UN week, Oct. 18-27. For further Information contact Joan Robertson at 414-332-4699. student ministries " October, 2015 6th Grade Pre-Confirmation Fellowship and class, Sunday mornings, 10:00 - 10:30, Youth Room 10:30 - 11:30, Room 222 7th & 8th Grade Confirmation Middle School Youth Group Grades 6-8 Fellowship and class, Sunday mornings, 10-11:30. 10:00—10:30 Youth Room 10:30—11:30 7th gr. in Room 208/221 8th gr. in Youth Room ROC: Rely on Christ. Wednesdays, 6:30-7:30 pm Oct 4—7th and 8th graders meet at 10:30 am in the Chapel ROC - All middle school students are invited! Bring a friend for fun, fellowship and food! Questions? Contact Crystal Stinemates at [email protected] A study room is also available. 릐҉ CONFIRMATION RETREAT: Oct. 9-11 Timber-Lee Christian Center Permission slip, payment, and medical release DUE NOW. Male chaperone needed. Contact Laurie at [email protected] HIGH SCHOOL YOUTH Sundays Join us in worship - usher, greet or serve coffee - contact Laurie at [email protected]. Assist with children's Sunday school, the nursery or toddler rooms - contact Christy at [email protected]. High School Choir, 4:30-5:30 pm in the Sanctuary. Additional high school programming coming soon—watch your email for details! During October Oct. 4: Meet in the Youth Room at 10:30 am for waffles and conversation. Assist with pumpkin sales throughout the month of October - contact Bruce at [email protected]. 15 Adults - Would you like to spend time with a great group of kids or help our youth program grow? Contact: Laurie Jeffery at [email protected]. JOY Issue 176—October 2015 Address Service Requested • THE PUMPKINS ARE HERE! Help tend the patch, don’t forget to buy your pumpkins! • TRUNK or TREATING—Oct. 10, 4-6 pm Ҍ STAFF - WHITEFISH BAY UMC WORSHIP and SUNDAY SCHOOL Saturday, 5:00 p.m. “COME AS YOU ARE” WORSHIP (CHAPEL) Nursery Care 0-4 yrs Ministers Pastors Susan Patterson-Sumwalt, Justin Lowe, Tshishinen Chingej, Gerry Harrison Pastor Emeritus Dr. Richard Jones The United Methodist Church of Whitefish Bay Sunday, 8:00 a.m. TRADITIONAL WORSHIP (CHAPEL) Communion on 1st and 3rd Sundays Our purpose is to grow persons as deeply committed followers of Jesus Christ who LOVE God, CARE for each other and SERVE in the world. Sunday, 9:00 a.m. CONTEMPORARY WORSHIP Sunday School: Nursery-5th grade Adult 1) Passionate worship. 2) Pathways to discipleship for all ages. 3) Unique emphasis on ministry with families who have children and youth in the home. 4) Service to those in need in our city and world. 5) A Christ centered caring community. ____________________ Sunday, 10:30 a.m. TRADITIONAL WORSHIP Sunday School: For all ages Communion on 1st Sundays at all services All Church Members We are guided by these principles: Lay Leaders: Sister Earlene Butler, Pat 16 Steve Nigh Kissinger, Chris Kondrick, Dir. Children/Family Ministries Christy West Dir. Carpenter’s Shop Monica Bessette Dir. Tree of Life Tracey Grabowski Dir. Music and Fine Arts Neil Bubke Dir. Adult Discipleship Joelle Karth Dir. Care Ministry Nell Nash Business Manager Pam Vaughan Dir. Food Ministry Ron Jordan Dir. of Evangelism Carleen Sook Interim Office Mgr. Marti Kriefall Staff Assistant Lynn Bennett Organist David Hein Custodian Dan Murphy OFFICE HOURS Mon.-Thurs., 8:30-4:30 Fri., 8:30-2:30 BULLETIN DEADLINE: Tuesdays at noon JOY DEADLINE/NOV. ISSUE: Wed., Oct. 7 Please e-mail your JOY articles to Marti at [email protected].