The Messenger - First United Methodist Church, Whitewater
Transcription
The Messenger - First United Methodist Church, Whitewater
The Messenger Page 1 The Messenger December 2014 Whitewater Area Regional Ministry - WARM Volume 9, Issue 12 WARM Christmas Eve Services Special points of interest: Christmas Eve Christmas Musical Birthdays & Anniversaries Salvation Army Bell Ringing Youth Group Activities A very WARM Christmas Eve for Everyone!! All are invited to each of these services! First United Methodist Church - 4 pm, a Candlelight Family Christmas Celebration. The children of our church will share their gifts. We will hear and sing the songs of the season. Richmond United Methodist Church - 6 pm, Christmas in the Country. A candlelight service for all to enjoy. First United Methodist Church - 7 pm, a Candlelight Traditional Christmas Service. Come and hear a message of joy and grace as we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior! The Chancel Choir will be sharing their musical gifts. Inside this issue: Christmas Joy 3 Children’s Ministry 5 Prime Time 6 Scrip 7 Children’s Musical 9 Birthdays/ Anniversaries 21 Calendar 22/23 LaGrange United Methodist Church - 8 pm, come and enjoy a service of Lessons and Carols! First United Methodist Church - 11 pm, come to a Traditional Service of Lessons and Carols and enjoy the musical ministry of the Praise Team. The service will be filled with scripture, carols and candles as we sing the “Silent Night” when Christ was born. The Messenger Page 2 Helping Hands, Giving Hearts All three churches of the Whitewater Area Regional Ministry are again participating in the purchase of gifts for children of needy area families. Some of these families are associated with Bethel House, either current residents or postinhabitants who still could use a little bit of help during this Holiday season. Name tags are now available in Fellowship Hall at First UMC, from Dawn Mathews at LaGrange UMC, and in Fellowship Hall at Richmond UMC. Along with the tags will be a sign-up sheet. Please sign up next to the number on your gift tag. This will help us keep track and make sure the children’s gifts are fairly equal. Please purchase for the child listed on the tag. In some cases I’ve passed on ideas of the child’s particular interests. (I have found this particularly helpful when shopping for someone I don’t know.) Some of the gift tags list specific food items. It is our intention that each child will Toys for Kids submitted by Dawn Mathews receive a gift of clothing and some type of toy. Two people may be shopping for the same child. Also, each family will receive boxes of “kid-friendly” food items. Gifts should be wrapped and returned to LaGrange UMC or the Church Office by December 14. Please tag the gifts. You do not need to wrap the food items. The LaGrange youth will be helping with the gift deliveries and the assembly of holiday treat bags for each child. Monetary gifts are also welcome and will be used toward food certificates. These should be turned in by December 10. Please call me at 262.495.2478 with any questions. submitted by Duane Dickens First UMC will participate in the Whitewater Optimist Club/Food Pantry Toys for Kids program. Last year the Optimist Club provided toys for over 300 kids through the Whitewater Food Pantry. Please take a tag off the board in Fellowship Hall and purchase an item for that child. We suggest a maximum of $25 per gift so we can keep all things equal. We need the family number and the child’s first name on the tag attached securely to the gift-wrapped package, please. Gifts must be returned to First Church no later than Sunday, December 14. They will be distributed to the families before Christmas by the Whitewater Food Pantry. If you have any questions, please contact Duane Dickens, 262.473.2761. The Messenger Christmas Joy Again the month of December promises to be exciting and spirit-filled at First United Methodist Church. Please come and worship on these special Sundays. Sunday, December 7: On this second Sunday of Advent we will again have the Advent Ensemble playing for worship. This is a group of five instrumentalists playing violin, flute, guitar, cello, and hammered dulcimer. They will play a variety of Advent/Christmas songs from different eras and places. We will also remember Christ’s birth and sacrifice as we take communion. Sunday, December 14: On this third Sunday of Advent the Whitewater Area Regional Ministry Choir and friends will be presenting the Christmas Oratorio (Oratorio de Noël, Opus 12) by Camille Saint-Saëns at the 10 am worship service and again at 4 pm. submitted by Jim Athas Considered one of the most beautiful Christmas works ever written and premiered on Christmas 1858, Saint-Saëns composed it in 10 days at the age of 23! It will fill hearts with lyrical melodies and powerful chords. The UWWhitewater Chancellor’s String Quartet, harpist Lauren Hayes, and organist James Athas will accompany this Romantic style oratorio. The presentation features numerous soloists: sopranos Barb Taylor, Barb Athas and Jessie Tuinstra; alto Katie Fortney; tenors Drew VanNorman and Craig Engstrom; and baritone Adam Taylor. Sunday, December 21: This last Sunday of Advent will feature our Praise Team as well as some piano duets. Jim Athas and his brother, David, will do some Mannheim Steamroller favorites. Our Praise Team will be singing some wonderful Christmas songs, with accompaniment Loose coins at FUMC The Loose Coins of December will bless many of the unfortunate in our community as they replenish the Benevolence Fund and make themselves useful, with the guidance of the church staff, for the needy ones who come to our Page 3 on flute, guitar, and dulcimer. This will be a joyous service that will lead us into Christmas Eve. Wednesday, December 24: Our church will have three services on Christmas Eve. The 4 pm service is our family service. We will have children playing instruments, with wonderful Christmas carols. At 7 pm we will feature a service of lessons and carols, with music provided by the Chancel Choir and Lauren Hayes on the harp. The 11 pm Christmas Eve service will be filled with scripture, carols and candles, as we sing of the “Silent Night,” when Christ was born. Please come to any or ALL of these services. Christmas spirit and songs will joyfully enrich your celebration of the season. submitted by Mary Anne Gerlach church door. Pray for all those who need such assistance as you donate generously. Remember that bills for the loose coin offering need to be put in an envelope and marked “loose coin.” [Jesus said] “I tell you, whenever you did this for one of the least important of these brothers of mine, you did it for me!” Matthew 25:40 Your loose coins will bless many of the unfortunate in our community. The Messenger Community Clothes Closet “Brethren, do not be weary in welldoing.” 2 Thess 3:13. Paul’s words to the Thessalonians are meant to encourage us, too, for there are many ways we can continue in well-doing this December. Look for gift boards (one sponsored by WARM and coordinated by Dawn Mathews, and another sponsored by the Optimist Club and coordinated by Duane Dickens), and the mitten “treebox”! Look for the box with the happy little tree, and you will have the option of clipping donations to the branches, as well as putting them in the box. As donations come in, they will be distributed to the Clothes Closet. Speaking of the Community Clothes Closet, thank you, thank you for your many donations. As of this writing, Kay Robers reports that jackets, boots and mittens are flowing out the door so fast that there aren’t any left, so please keep those donations coming! The Closet is grateful to the congregation of Richmond UMC, who donated the clothing and other useful items they had left from their rummage sale – there were many very nice things. Thank you! “The Nearly Naked 5K run is coming soon!” Kay says. “The WHAT?”, I say. She explains: “A clothing drive – or maybe I should say an unclothing drive. The runners come with many layers of clothing, which they shed at donation stations along the way. At the end, they get a warm, fuzzy robe, and a medal. We need lots of participants in the run, as well Page 4 submitted by Mary Anne Gerlach as volunteers to help at registration, take care of donations, and welcome the runners at the end of the run.” The run will take place on December 7 at 11 am, with registration at 10 am, starting and ending at Randy’s Restaurant & Fun Hunters Brewery. Let Kay know if you plan to be a part of this fun event. Runners can round up donations from friends and neighbors, and then figure out how to wear them all (and still plan to be wearing a little something at the end). You don’t have to be a runner to donate. Maybe December 7 will be a warm day? Yeah, right! WARM BLANKETS would be very welcome! We can also warm a few hearts during this Christmas season with some gently used toys, dolls and games for our Christmas shoppers. Do you have extra Christmas decorations or a tree that you aren’t using any more? Think Clothes Closet! Remember that the Closet is open on the first and third Saturdays from 8:30 to 11:30 am [as well as the preceding Fridays from 4 to 5:30 pm until further notice – due to increased donations (Yay!) and growing needs (sadness)]. The Community Clothes Closet is on the second floor of The Congregational U.C.C. Church. In case of a clothing emergency, call Kay Robers (262.379.0187). Food Pantry On the first Sunday of each month all three churches of WARM have Food Pantry day. On those days, everyone is invited to bring food pantry items that will be donated to the local Whitewater Food Pantry. The Food Pantry is always in need of canned goods, fresh produce, baked goods, dish soap, laundry soap and any other cleaning products. Thank you for your generous donations! The Messenger Children’s Ministry Promise Point A Month With Joseph In Promise Point we are learning that the Old Testament is about God gathering a people to Himself. God continues to teach us how to enthusiastically love Him and our neighbors and to study what is right in God’s eyes in order to more faithfully follow Him. This month we have focused on the story of Joseph during our Gathering time, our game time, and in our small group time. We have learned that even in the bleakest of times, losing or being rejected by family, being put in prison, and being falsely accused, God is present with us. He works behind the scenes to create His big picture story and works in our Page 5 submitted by Heidi Cook hearts through His message, causing us to trust Him, to work and be a leader in all situations, and to finally celebrate with Jesus at the end of our days. It has been a joy to see how God is fulfilling his promise to Abraham and Sarah to make their children as numerous as the stars (the children often hold up a banner of stars as they sing). We have changed the words of Shout to the North to reflect on our stories as we worship: Kids of faith rise up and sing Of the great and glorious King. He is strong when you are weak. All His promises He’ll keep. Chorus Shout to the North and the South. Sing to the East and the West. Jesus is Savior to all. He is Lord of Heaven and earth. Children of Abraham The God of Jacob is with us. On His ladder we will climb Faith in Jesus is our rhyme. (Chorus) Joseph’s life was like our Lord. His brothers were jealous of Him. God made Him rule and feed us all. Let Him reign in our hearts. (Chorus) Promise Point Potluck Christmas Party December 10 will be a special day of reflecting on the foretelling of Jesus in Micah as well as having some fun Christmas treats and games. It will be geared to outreach to friends, so kids are encouraged to invite their friends to join in on the fun and submitted by Heidi Cook learning! We will also be having a Potluck dinner, so be thinking about what dish you would like to bring and pass! A “friends’” invitation card will be coming out for this event. The Messenger Prime Time Page 6 submitted by Lisa Otterbacher It’s hard to believe, but Christmas is almost here! Prime Time (High School youth) and FLOOD (Middle School youth) teamed up with the Building and Grounds Design Team to decorate the church for Christmas. All of the fun commenced on November 23. Thank you to all of our youth, the Building and Grounds Design Team, congregation members, and the amazing parents that helped to create beauty to praise and celebrate the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ. Prime Time has been busy with selling Christmas wreaths and securing youth commitments to our 2015 Mission Trip to New Orleans. If your permission slip isn’t in yet or if you have any questions, please contact Time ime r P t uVal a a gre y Julie D e.” The t h g b m li ess high dinated through r eakn otos o d h w o e p c k a e s or ing Thes that wa d has w outlin y s o t i n G v g i act How board si them. led “ entit ade card s helped m d ha kids w Go o h and Ms. Julie and she’ll get you everything you need. As always, our congregation has been very supportive with wreath sales! And we are hopeful they will continue with their generosity by donating baking ingredients for our annual Cookie Walk fundraiser. You can purchase and donate that special ingredient you look forward to enjoying when the cookies and chocolate covered treasures are baked and ready for sale! Please mark your calendars for December 6 and come to the Cookie Walk. Cookies will also be available on Sunday, December 7 between and after worship at First Church. On the horizon for 2015 is our annual 30-Hour Famine Lock-in and the Student-led worship service at First Church. Can you believe 2015 is almost here?! We remain so thankful for the support of our united congregations. We could not be such an engaged and successful youth group without all your support through faithful prayers and giving hearts. May God bless each of you, and may your love and support of the youth help them to grow in faith and develop into young adults. As faithful mentors you are preparing our youth to withstand any challenges they will face. Through your witness of faith may they receive God’s unyielding strength, courage and love. God bless!! Page 7 The Messenger The Gathering Many thanks to all who worked at the Gathering Free Community Meal this past year. Thursday, November 20 at Brookdale was our (FUMC’s) last time to help submitted by Mary Anne Gerlach out this year. Deb and Dave Gamble worked and Joan Stone and Jean Leedham donated desserts. This was our last opportunity to participate - Scrip - a No-Cost Fundraiser!! Looking for a gift for your child’s teacher? That hard to shop for teenager? A stocking stuffer? Scrip is the perfect solution. Currently scrip is offering several small denomination gift cards just in time for the holidays. These cards will only be available while supplies last, so don’t wait to place your order. The following small denomination cards are available: Amazon.com Gift Cards $10 AMC Theatres $10 Applebee’s $10 Barnes & Noble $5 CVS Pharmacy $10 Groupon $10 IHOP $10 as of this writing, the Gathering meals will not continue next year. submitted by Gina McManaway Outback $10 Panera Bread $5 Pizza Hut $5 Regal Entertainment Group $10 Target $10 Starbucks $5 Walmart $10 Each scrip/gift card you purchase gives the church a percentage of your purchase, yet you still get to spend the entire amount of the purchase price. For example, if you purchase a Woodman’s card for $50, you go to Woodman’s and spend the $50! If you don’t spend the entire $50 the remaining amount remains on the card for you to spend the next time you go to Woodman’s. You don’t lose that balance. This is true for any “Scrip” card you purchase! As always, there is a long list of retailers who participate in this program. Pick up a current list at the Scrip table at either First UMC or Richmond UMC. This truly is a way to give to your church without it costing you a dime. If you have any questions about this fundraiser, call Gina at 262.473.2131. Happy shopping, and thank you for supporting our ministries! Could you do a lot of Christmas gift card shopping with the Scrip program? YES!! Messenger Deadline December 15 Page 8 The Messenger Great Job submitted by Heidi Cook On our Singing Sermon Sunday, November 16, the Team Jesus Drummers, led by Christine Hayes, played a wonderful arrangement of I’m Diggin’ the Lord during worship. The Drummers Advent Meditation Everyone of WARM is invited to join Pastor Kim Brumm at Richmond UMC for Advent Meditation on Thursdays, also accompanied the Tenors/Basses in Harambee. They did an excellent job and really added to the beautiful, worshipful Sunday. Our Children’s Choir, directed by Jen Soehner, led the congregation in singing Rich Mullin’s Awesome God. We were honored to hear the voices of the children and to sing a contemporary worship tune with them!! submitted by Pastor Kim Brumm December 4, 11, and 18 from 6:30-7:30 pm This is a time to come and sit in sacred space, listening to instrumental music as you pray, meditate and reflect on the season of Advent. Personally, I LOVE it!! WARM Worship Schedules First UMC 8 am - Chapel Service 10 am - Sanctuary 10:20 am - Sunday School/Children’s Choir LaGrange UMC 9 am - Worship 9 am - Sunday School Richmond UMC 9 am - Worship Sunday School following worship All three WARM churches have Food Pantry collections on the first Sunday of each month. Please continue to give generously to our local Food Pantry. First UMC December 7 2nd Sunday of Advent Communion: In the pews “HOPE” (Miracle on 34th Street) Mark 1:1-8 December 14 3rd Sunday of Advent 8 am “BELIEF” (Elf) Isaiah 61:1-3, 8-11 John 1:6-8, 19-28 10 am WARM Choir Cantata December 21 4th Sunday of Advent “FAITH” (A Charlie Brown Christmas) Luke 1:26-38 December 28 1st Sunday of Christmas Hymn Sing RUMC December 4 Advent Meditation 6:30-7:30 pm December 7 2nd Sunday of Advent Communion December 11 Advent Meditation 6:30-7:30 pm December 14 3rd Sunday of Advent 10 am & 4 pm, WARM Choir Cantata @ FUMC December 18 Advent Meditation 6:30-7:30 pm December 21 4th Sunday in Advent WARM Youth Pageant @ FUMC, 4:30 pm December 28 1st Sunday of Christmas Page 9 The Messenger A Stewardship Message Our initial pledge giving results at First Church are reason to celebrate. The 2015 pledges received on Consecration Sunday are more than a 17% increase over the same pledges given in 2014! As I think about this increase the more thankful I feel as today’s economy is still uncertain for many, and the multitude of appeals for other benevolent giving is plentiful. These giving increases show the priority and importance we have for supporting FUMC/ WARM ministries and new ministries. I have also noticed the magnitude of volunteer giving in a variety of ministries and missions, which is also a reason to celebrate. Certainly Christ is at work within the lives of our congregation as the joy of giving and service is evident everywhere. With the holiday season approaching, we can use the message of Enough to help guide us in our Christmas giving to look for ways where we can give back or give forward. My kids and grandkids frequently ask to play favorite board games or cards over the holidays. Christmas Musical 2014 Save the Date!! December 21 Christmas Musical 2014! God With Us by Laura & Robert Keeley Join us as we focus on the theme of Exile and Restoration. Adam and Eve are exiled from the Garden: Israel is exiled to Babylon. God’s message was still held in esteem by a remnant. Israel returns to build a temple, thanks to the leadership of Ezra and Nehemiah who believed God’s Word. It’s submitted by Dave Gamble It always seems to me that this family time far exceeds the value of the latest toys or gadgets. I plan to apply the Enough principles of simplicity to my holiday spending this year. Thanks again to all who have made gifts or are in the process of making your gift. If you have not yet submitted your estimate of giving card, you may place it in the Sunday offering or drop it off or mail it to the church office in care of Jayne Haskey. Your gifts and service are making a difference for God’s ministries. submitted by Heidi Cook the temple that our Lord and Savior would set His feet upon, as the Living Temple, for all who would believe! Travel with us from the Garden of Eden to the Birth of our Savior, the end of our exile from our Heavenly Father Spiritual Restoration! We have some traditional hymns and tunes and some contemporary songs from Chris Tomlin and Aaron Shust, who used the words of Martin Luther for inspiration for their Christmas song! Musical dates for your calendar are: Wednesday, December 17 - 3:15-5:15 pm, Musical practice Saturday, December 20 - 10 am-noon, Dress Rehearsal Sunday, December 21 4:30 pm, Performance/ Dessert reception (Kids, please show up at 4 pm to be ready for the performance time.) All of WARM is invited along will family and friends to this performance! Discovering the Joy through Simplicity and Generosity! Page 10 The Messenger Confirmation 2014-15 submitted by Rev. Susan Bresser Confirmation Introductions Ben Stoll & Caroline Wieman Maci Parrish & Julie DuVal Calvin Otterbacher, Jr. Mentor Introducing Confirmation Student, Benjamin Stoll Nickname: Ben Born: Fort Atkinson, WI Family: 1 brother Hobbies: Football, basketball, running, reading (all types of literature) Gifts & Strengths: Sports, academics (math) What I like best about church: Learning new things God: The Creator Travel Plans: Brazil Biggest Challenge for Teens: Communicating in person because we are all so focused on technology Introducing Confirmation Mentor, Caroline Wieman Born: Waukesha, WI Family: 2 daughters, 2 grandchildren Who I was as an 8th grader: Good student, talkative, sassy with my mother, independent thinker Employed: Retired, but taught high school for 30 years Gifts & Strengths: Hard worker, good cook Best thing ever: Getting married and having children God: All-knowing, all-powerful, always present, forgiving, creating Why I’m involved in the life of the church: The church has many flaws, but it is the best organization in the world and it helps people Joy in the church: Worship, seeing the children learning, singing, making friendships Faith tradition growing up: Evangelical United Brethren Introducing Confirmation Student, Maci Parrish Born: Tomah, WI Family: 1 brother, 1 dog, 1 cat Hobbies: Dance, volleyball, cheer, shopping, friends Gifts & Strengths: Dance, sports, sense of humor, trustworthy What I like best about church: God accepts me for who I am; I can be myself God: Miracle worker, father/mother, creator, all-knowing Travel Plans: Amsterdam and Paris Biggest Challenge for Teens: Pressure to do well in school, attitudes of other kids Introducing Confirmation Mentor, Julie DuVal Born: Sheboygan, WI Family: Husband, Tom, three children: Emma, Tommy & Jimmy Who I was as an 8th grader: Loud, played volleyball, active, friends were my world Employed: Delavan-Darien School District, reading specialist Gifts & Strengths: Teaching, leading, creativity Best thing ever: Family, friends and faith God: Strength, Friend, Creator, Love, Generous Why I’m involved in the life of the church: Because I find love and happiness in my faith, and because my family and friends are here Joy in the church: Youth and the great things they accomplish Faith tradition growing up: Dutch Reformed Introducing Junior Mentor, Calvin Otterbacher Grade: 12th Grade (Senior), Whitewater High School Born: Wisconsin Who I was as an 8th grader: Rebel, trouble Employed: Construction and Duck Inn Favorite Subject in School: Auto shop Future Plans: U.S. Army Gifts & Strengths: Responsible, reliable What I like about church: Learning more about the unknown God: Leader/Teacher Best thing ever: Finding God Biggest Challenge for Teens: Peer pressure Page 11 The Messenger Produce Table Winter is coming, and the produce table is looking pretty empty. Thank you for all your donations of produce and cash; together we raised $385.82 to send to Paul Webster’s project in Mujila Falls. There is information about Paul’s project on the mission bulletin board in the hallway by the kitchen. Following are some excerpts from Paul’s November 2014 e-mail bulletin. “How many loaves do you have?” Jesus asked. “Seven,” they replied. Mark 8:5 We are looking for two dedicated Missionary Couples... Dear Friends and Supporting Churches: “I am back in our site at Mujila Falls as of yesterday. It has been a long three weeks doing repairs on our truck and buying supplies for the project and my house. Unfortunately, I had a double bout of malaria during the hottest days of the dry season. It was very difficult. While we are getting thunder and sprinkles, we have not seen our first heavy rain here at Mujila Falls, though we know it is fast coming. We will be struggling this year to get caught up on our work and trying to make adjustments for the loss of my colleague, Tshala Mwengo. I have seen that Hamilton and my workers have done a superb job submitted by Mary Anne Gerlach of keeping the project together during my six months state-side. I want to openly thank them for their honest and hard work at keeping our trees from burning during the dry season, harvesting our crops, and keeping our animals safe and fed during the six-month-long dry season that can often destroy whole herds of animals due to starvation. The above scripture was the theme for our itineration. God is always ready to do the multiplication. It is up to us to provide the catalyst. Let us imitate Christ in his compassion for the people. He understood the pain of hunger and insisted that the people be fed. At Mujila Falls we remain dedicated to that task. It has been hard coming back to Mujila Falls Agriculture Centre knowing that I will be alone as the only missionary on site unless we can find two dedicated Missionary Couples to commit to coming and sharing the work of this ministry. I have requested from Global Ministries that first and foremost we need an American couple with experience in farm finance and management. We are now a mature agriculture station with all of the needs of any farm in the Midwest. We have moved toward more technology and higher capital investment. We have about 70 head of cattle and around 130 goats and sheep. We have 2000 chickens and are cultivating around 100 acres of land. We have tens of thousands of pine trees in our sustainable forest and continue to teach gardening and fruit culture. We still have our day care center and continue to do outreach with local churches, community groups, women, and formal trainings with Peace Corps, and Universities and High Schools. We are also looking for a second couple, preferably with university training here in Africa in Tropical Agriculture. We ask that if you are interested, you may contact me at my e-mail address so that we can discuss how your Godgiven talents can be matched with the many needs we are trying to answer here in NorthWestern Zambia. I am sure that God is already appealing to you to make a commitment today.” Donations can come through our Advance Special Number, 15016A. Your Brother in Christ, Paul Webster Page 12 The Messenger Mitten Box submitted by Mary Anne Gerlach Look for a Mitten Box, coming soon to Fellowship Hall at FUMC. Again this year we will gather mittens, hats, and scarves and distribute them as they come in, continuing through December (when Congratulations! They have committed to witnessing through church and community... Congratulations to Jennifer Crone (FUMC) and Mindy Wade (Richmond UMC) for fulfilling all requirements needed to complete their Lay Servant Ministries certification. Jen and Mindy have received training to use their witness, leadership and service to inspire others to a deeper commitment to faith and more effective Cookie Plates Again this year United Methodist Women will be assembling “Cookie Plates” for people from our congregations who need a little cheer at Christmas time! They will assemble the plates on Saturday, December 13 starting at 9 am at First Church. They are asking anyone the box will morph into a mitten “treebox”). Snow boots and warm socks are also welcome. submitted by Pastor Kim and Pastor Susan discipleship. They have received education opportunities to grow in their knowledge of the Scripture and the doctrine, heritage, organization and life of the United Methodist Church. They have committed to witnessing through church and community leadership, care-giving ministries and spoken communication. They are trained to support and minister to the local church and will continue to look for leadership opportunities in the local church. Thank you, Jen and Mindy, for your commitment to the local congregations of FUMC and Richmond UMC, and thank you for your continued support and commitment to WARM ministry. submitted by Jen Soehner wishing to donate cookies to have them at First Church by that time. You are welcome to drop them off earlier in the week as well; just make sure they are labeled. They are expecting to assemble about 50 plates and will deliver them that same day. Those of you who would like one of your cookies on each plate should plan accordingly. The Messenger United Methodist Women What do you want to know about? UMW will be holding their yearly program planning meeting on Thursday, January 8 at 6 pm in the Library at First Church. We have programs Page 13 submitted by Jen Soehner on spiritual growth and social action, along with others. We will be discussing program ideas for 2015. If you would like to be a part of the planning or have Clown Ministry Workshops Here are the clowns visiting the folks at Hearthstone on Sunday, November 16. They visited two different units of 12 people each. They introduced themselves with a personal written card to each resident. They gave them a goody bag that they opened and put the colorful beads on the people. Also, they took some of the goodies out of the bag to make sure the receiver knew what all was in the bags. After some programming ideas, please come and join us or email/call Jen Soehner, [email protected] 608.201.6408. submitted by Elaine Frietsch the personal visits, the clowns sang “You Are My Sunshine” and “Jesus Loves Me” with all the residents joining in on the singing. These songs are so special to all these people. They then closed with the clown prayer and shook hands and hugged everyone as they left to go to the next unit. These rookie clowns and helpers did such a wonderful job of not only entertaining, but of personal interaction with all the residents and even the workers. And since the average age is 11, we can hardly believe what a spectacular presentation they all provided for the 24 residents and workers. May God bless them and this ministry for a job well done and led by children. Praise the Lord!! FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH Rooted in Community Rooted in Faith Branching out into the Future! The Messenger Page 14 Kid’s Mission Hut Vision The hut will reflect the Christians’ call to mission world. Our hope is to begin our outreach by partnering with the local Bethel House ministry. We hope that the kids will be touched by the stories they hear and will feel compassion on those less fortunate, as Jesus has taught us to do. Please contact Heidi if you are willing to help fund this project, decorate, or even A future vision for the Children’s Ministry is to turn the computer lab into a Mission Hut. Décor will reflect that of possibly a thatched hut, and signs will reflect messages of committing our lives to the Lord and following where He leads. We hope that the hut will reflect the Christians’ call to mission both here and around the Kid’s Corner Stephen Ministry Stephen Ministry in Action “Before I retired from coaching, my team was in the Super Bowl six times. I thought nothing would ever match that. But being a Stephen Minister has also been one of the greatest experiences in my life.” says Bill Arnsparger, who coached for 23 seasons in the NFL. His last stop was as defensive coordinator for the San Diego Chargers. After he be a mission liaison bringing Bethel House and/or various other ministries to the kids! Let’s make good use of our computer lab!! submitted by Elaine Frietsch Calling all kids! On Sunday, December 21 after the 10 am worship service at FUMC we will all gather in the Kid’s Corner in Fellowship Hall. Our project will be to make Candy Cane Candlesticks and Jesus’ Birthday Banners. This event will be Stephen Ministry Matches Super Bowl Experience. Taken from submitted by Heidi Cook for children of all ages and adults. Call Elaine Frietsch (262.308.8752) for more information or to volunteer to help. submitted by Rev. Kim Brumm retired from coaching in 1997, he trained to become a Stephen Minister in Torrey Pines Christian Church in La Jolla, CA. During his coaching career, Arnsparger heard about Stephen Ministry several times. “I knew it was important, so I waited until the right time in my life to get involved,” Arnsparger says. “The hours I’ve invested in Stephen Ministry have brought me closer to the Lord and to others in my congregation. I find serving as a Stephen Minister very rewarding. It’s an opportunity to work with people and really help them. Each care receiver inspires me to build my faith. I always benefit from our time together. I’ve learned that I can’t always predict and plan what each visit will be like. I work to be open to new developments, and I hang in there See Stephen Ministry on page 19 Page 15 The Messenger The Big Wrap Up ...wrapping, wrapping and having a wonderful time... Here we are wrapping and wrapping and having a wonderful time laughing and laughing and eating pizza and pumpkin pie. A big thank you to the special friends and family members that gave up their Sunday afternoon to join us. (We did watch the Packer game while we were working!) submitted by Elaine Frietsch These 90 gift packages will be distributed to the needy children and adults at the Food Pantry, Bethel Houses, Salvation Army, Agape House, PADA affected victims and many more locations. Again, thank you so very much to Clara, Jane, Jan, Kris, Mindy, Molly, Emma, Nancy, Clarissa, Community Outreach There will be a Community Outreach Training on Saturday, December 6 from 10 am3 pm at Asbury UMC Emily, Vivian, Sharon, Laura, and especially Arlene from Chicago (who brought the pizzas!). And a big thank you to all the friends, neighbors, family members and organizations that have donated items or money to support this wonderful ministry for over 20 years. Praise the Lord! submitted by Rev. Kimberly Brumm located in Madison, WI. Everyone of WARM is encouraged to attend this training. There will be a car-pool leaving from FUMC at 8:45 am. Please contact Pastor Kim if you are interested in going. Page 16 The Messenger Thank yous Thank you to the clowns for visiting Hearthstone. Pics on page 13. Dear Prime Time Youth Group, Thank you for the delicious meal delivered to my house the other day. Please accept this donation as a token of my appreciation. Sincerely, Audrey Tuinstra Dear United Methodist Women, Thank you so much for your generous donation to PADA (People Against Domestic & Sexual Abuse). We are so grateful for your support and dedication to survivors of domestic abuse. Dear Church Family, Even though late but nevertheless with sincerity, Barb and I want to thank our FUMC family for your prayers, and often much more, offered during this time of healing. We are both gaining strength as we begin to return to our normal church activities through the week. We wonder how some can choose to go through life without the support of a church family. We would find it impossible!! Barbara and Wendell Swift Hi Elaine and the Clowns from FUMC and RUMC, I would like you to know how thoughtful it was for you to come to Hearthstone last Sunday. When I saw Shirley on Sunday I couldn’t even get her attention to get her awake, but she reacted to you folks! She doesn’t talk, but she did say thank you. Thanks for the note, beads, doll and candy. She will enjoy them. The patients at Hearthstone may not seem to be receptive, but I am sure they enjoyed having you there. I know Shirley did! Thanks again, Dean Taylor Sincerely, Liz Hanson & PADA Staff Mission Opportunities Midwest Mission Distribution Center May 11-15, 2015 If you are interested in this trip (there are 16 openings), please read on and then contact Mary Anne Gerlach, 262.473.6781 or Pastor Kim, 608.289.8618. Midwest Mission Distribution Center is a disaster relief facility located on an eight-acre campus, four miles south of Springfield, IL. Construction began in October of 1999 and opened for ministry in the year 2000. MMDC is a caring ministry of the United Methodist Church. MMDC is also a submitted by Rev. Kim Brumm cooperating depot in the UMCOR (United Methodist Committee on Relief) Relief Supply Network as of January 2010. MMDC’s campus provides opportunities for individuals and groups of all walks of life, denominational backgrounds, abilities, and ages to help provide disaster relief kits and resources as well as educational and medical supplies to those in need both locally and internationally. MMDC provides that “hands on” mission experience. When volunteers come, there are a number of projects that they may be involved in. Volunteers pack kits, sort items, and sew school bags, hospital gowns, and quilts. Volunteers box goods, help with mailings, build crates and desks, repair bicycles and sewing machines, help unload items, fill shipping containers, organize materials, and whatever the needs are at any given time. There are opportunities for those with special skills, trades, and those at peak abilities, as well as opportunities for individuals who may be more limited. No matter what your abilities, there is an important job that needs you! see Mission on pg. 18 The Messenger First UMC offers electronic giving, which allows you the convenience of making donations on a scheduled, automatic basis. If you are writing checks and preparing envelopes every week, or if you prefer to stop writing Page 17 checks altogether, you will especially appreciate electronic giving. It is convenient for you and provides a donation consistency for our church. We use a company called Vanco Services through the Wisconsin Annual Conference. We have several families participating, and the process is very simple. You set the amount and the date you want to give. The monies are transferred from your checking/ savings account to the church account. To set up an electronic donation, simply fill out the form below or ask Jayne for an authorization form to fill out and return it to the Business Office. Donations can be debited automatically from either a checking or savings account. If you are interested, please contact Jayne Haskey (262.473. 2131) for more details. Authorization Form Church name: Your name: Address: City, State, Zip: E-mail address: I would like to make the following contribution: General Operating Fund $ per week per month (circle one) Checking/Savings Information Please debit my (check one) Checking account (attach voided check) Routing #: Savings account (attach voided deposit slip) Account # Valid routing # must start with 0, 1, 2 or 3 I authorize the above organization and Vanco Services to process debit entries to the above account. I understand that this authority will remain in effect until I provide reasonable notification to terminate the authorization. Authorized signature: Date: / / Page 18 The Messenger Mission continued from page 16 MMDC distributes its kits, resources and supplies after a request for items has come in and has gone through the appropriate channels for approval. MMDC makes a point to connect with local organizations as well, to provide aid particularly with those items that are taken in that do not quite meet all of the size restrictions for the kits. MMDC, a part of the UMCOR network, often gives UMCOR supplies to respond to disasters both within the United States and abroad as they see fit. The UMCOR Relief Supply Network consists of other sites, including MMDC, that provide aid through UMCOR. As of the end of September 2014, MMDC has sent out 8,098 Health Kits, 1,226 Layette Kits, 4,684 Cleaning Kits, 3,541 School Kits, 1,224 Sewing Kits, 11,613 Student School Bags, 10,870 Personal Dignity Kits plus additional Bedding Kits, Birthing Kits, Teacher School Bags, and School Desks. MMDC has a dorm as well as a duplex and RV sites that can be reserved for longer stays, but also welcomes day groups and individuals who would like to get involved in the ministry of MMDC. There are many buildings on the campus including the offices and warehouses which also house the woodshop and four additional workshops. Within the campus there is also the Twice Giving Gift Shop. All of these buildings and additions were paid in full through the help of volunteers and donors. MMDC has no indebtedness! Please visit their website for more information: www.midwestmissiondc.org UMCOR Sager Brown Baldwin, LA June 20-27, 2015 The UMCOR (United Methodist Committee on Relief) Sager Brown Depot is the headquarters for UMCOR’s relief-supply operations. Each year more than 2,000 volunteers prepare about $4 million in supplies for shipment from the Baldwin campus. Locally, UMCOR Sager Brown reaches out to Baldwin neighbors through food distribution and housing rehabilitation projects, engaging volunteers in these projects that help families and the elderly. We had sixteen openings; eight are already taken so there are eight left. You do not want to miss out on this great trip! Great mission work, great people, great food and great accommodations. Wednesday of that week we will travel to New Orleans for a peek into the south! For more information, see Pastor Kim. The Messenger Page 19 Stephen Ministry Update when new problems come up. I know I can’t just write a prescription to make my care receiver feel better. My job is to listen and to care. God takes care of the rest. Asked about similarities between Stephen Ministry and football, Coach Arnsparger says, “Stephen Ministry builds confidence, both in the Stephen Ministers and the care receivers. Stephen Ministry takes teamwork; in supervision we need to work together to provide the best care possible - to our care receivers and to one another. Each opportunity to care is a new challenge, a new University Ministry HABITAT FOR HUMANITY The local Whitewater build will begin in March 2015. They will be building a five bedroom house for a family of eight! I will keep you posted as to dates that you will be able to help on the build. If you have never experienced a Habitat build, I strongly encourage you to participate for a unique experience in community mission. You do NOT need any building experience. It is on-thejob training! continued from page 14 experience, just as each game is.” Men sometimes wonder if Stephen Ministry is right for them. Coach Arnsparger shows that following Jesus in giving and receiving care is truly a “sport for real men.” submitted by Rev. Kim Brumm FREE LUNCH The last Free Lunch of the semester will be served on December 16. We will start up second semester on February 3, 2015. Thank you to all the volunteers that have joyfully helped serve this last semester. We could not complete our mission to go into the world without your help. I am most excited to see how our new food program with Feeding America will affect our food budget. Dolores is the first to tell you how much she is purchasing for a fraction of what we were paying when using food service products. VOLUNTEERS/ SERVICE WORK The trend for graduation is that students must have designated hours of volunteer service work in order to complete their major. We currently have two sisters that volunteer on a regular basis on Tuesday mornings preparing trays of goodies for Free Lunch. Two more students are volunteering with Jeff and Heidi Cook in our Wednesday Night Youth Group from 6-8 pm. WHERE ARE THEY NOW? I certainly don’t keep up with all our graduates of UW-Whitewater and Free Lunch, but I can let you know that Rev. Dan Verdigan is a United Methodist pastor in Cuba City, WI Page 20 The Messenger WARM Business Meetings for November December 1 WARM Charge Conference (FUMC), 6 pm supper, 6:30 pm meeting December 2 WARM Staff Mtg., 9 am (FUMC) Looking for information? See who to contact!! First UMC Pastor Susan Bresser 262.458.2309 (home) 608.333.4249 (cell) [email protected] www.fumcwhitewater.org LaGrange UMC Pastor Don Norman 262.472.9166 (home) 920.723.3862 (cell) [email protected] www.warmlagrangeumc.com Children’s Ministry Coordinator FLOOD (Middle School Youth) Heidi Cook 262.379.0421 (cell) [email protected] Deadline December 15 December 16 WARM Staff Mtg., 9 am (FUMC) December 18 SPRC, 6:30 pm (FUMC) WARM Contact Information Richmond UMC Pastor Kimberly Brumm 262.473.5622 (home) 608.289.8615 (cell) [email protected] http://richmondumc-wi.homestead.com Messenger December 9 Finance, 6:30 pm (FUMC) Prime Time (High School Youth) Tom & Julie DuVal 262.949.7309 (cell) [email protected] Tim & Lisa Otterbacher 262.409.0300 (cell) [email protected] Promise Point Mike Soehner 608.201.6494 (cell) [email protected] Steven Ministry Coordinator Mindy Wade 920.723.4385 (cell) [email protected] The Messenger Page 21 Adam Aurit Sally Kate Hixson Bud Holley Ginger Katzman FUMC Birthdays Lynn Binnie Ben Crone Charlie Fortney Clara Bastian Dorothy Hughes John Bresser Casey Judd Linda Kimball Tom McComb Matt McCrea Jerry Gorby Sarah Hoffmann-Hoots John Tuinstra Kenneth Heiman Linda Kachel David Byrne Tom DuVal Barb White Dave Gamble Katie Fortney Meikayla Korf Tom DuVal Aaron Katzman Rhonda Perkins-Aurit Lauren Hayes Carole Scharinger Kathy Bullis Alex Partoll Cliff Floerke Jon Kachel Bruce Parker Eva Bresser Janet Hollingshead Amy Houwers Cooper Leason Cheyenne Minton Russell Zell Terry Boydston Beverly Grosskreutz Keir Johnson LUMC Birthdays Jessica Wilson Jon Marshall Trula Smith Bob Nelson Penny Fritsch Payton Taylor Eric Taylor John Duerst Laura Schmekel Michelle Taylor Samuel Wilson FUMC Anniversaries Lynn & Cheryl Binnie Tom & Ginger Katzman Robert & Kay Miles Kevin & Kathy Bullis Britt & Michelle Minton Jake & Mary Anne Gerlach Hugh & Sue Gnatzig LUMC Anniversaries Gordon & Alyce Smith RUMC Anniversaries Cliff & Patty Storlie RUMC Birthdays Casey Kelleher Caitlyn Karbash Gina McManaway Ron Schoppe Jack Fearn Erin McManaway Steve Wade Nate Youngbauer Lorelea Sisley Salvation Army Bell Ringing @ Sentry Saturday, December 20, 10 am-5 pm All members of WARM are invited to sign up to ring the Salvation Army Bell in front of Sentry! This is a most worthwhile mission. We work with several other churches in our community to keep the bells ringing! There is a sign up sheet at FUMC in Fellowship Hall, or call the Church Office for anyone interested. There will be one-hour shifts to choose from. Page 22 The Messenger CLR - Cristo La Roca FUMC - First United Methodist Church LUMC - LaGrange United Methodist Church RUMC - Richmond United Methodist Church Sun Mon December 2014 Tue Wed Thu Church Events Fri Sat 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Food Pantry Sunday/ Communion 8 am - Chapel Service (FUMC) 8:15 am - Choir Practice (LUMC) 9 am - Worship (LUMC & RUMC) 10 am - Sanctuary (FUMC) 1 pm - CLR Worship (FUMC) 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 4-5:30 pm - Clothes Closet @ Cong. Church 6 pm - Prayer/ Worship (CLR @ FUMC) 20 8:30-11 am Clothes Closet @ Cong. Church 10 am-5 pm Salvation Army Bell Ringing @ Sentry 25 26 27 5:30 pm - The Gathering @ St. Luke’s 6 pm - WARM Charge Conference (FUMC) 8 am - Chapel Service (FUMC) 8:15 am - Choir Practice (LUMC) 9 am - Worship (LUMC & RUMC) 10 am - Sanctuary (FUMC) 1 pm - CLR Worship (FUMC) 4 pm - Cantata (FUMC) 1:30 pm - Esther Circle (FUMC) Messenger Deadline Messenger Deadline Messenger Deadline 9 am - Staff (FUMC) 10 am - Womens’ Group (CLR @ FUMC) 10:45 am - UM Free Lunch (FUMC) 1:30 pm - Kindred Caregivers (FUMC) 10 am - Womens’ Group (CLR @ FUMC) 10:45 am - UM Free Lunch (FUMC) 6:30 pm - Finance (FUMC) 9 am - Staff (FUMC) 10 am - Womens’ Group (CLR @ FUMC) 10:45 am - UM Free Lunch (FUMC) 9:30 am - Wed. Morn. Bible Study (FUMC) 7 pm - Chancel Choir (FUMC) 9:30 am - Wed. Morn. Bible Study (FUMC) 7 pm - Chancel Choir (FUMC) 9:30 am - Wed. Morn. Bible Study (FUMC) 7 pm - Chancel Choir (FUMC) 21 22 23 24 28 29 30 31 8 am - Chapel Service (FUMC) 8:15 am - Choir Practice (LUMC) 9 am - Worship (LUMC & RUMC) 9 am - Kid’s Christmas (LUMC) 10 am - Sanctuary (FUMC) 1 pm - CLR Worship (FUMC) 4:30 - WARM Children’s Pageant (FUMC) 8 am - Chapel Service (FUMC) 8:15 am - Choir Practice (LUMC) 9 am - Worship (LUMC & RUMC) 10 am - Sanctuary (FUMC) 1 pm - CLR Worship (FUMC) 10 am - Womens’ Group (CLR @ FUMC) 10 am - Womens’ Group (CLR @ FUMC) Christmas Eve 4 pm - FUMC 6 pm - RUMC 7 pm - FUMC 8 pm - LUMC 11 pm - FUMC New Year’s Eve! CLR overnight 9 am - Prayers & Squares (FUMC) 6:30 pm - Advent Meditation (RUMC) 4-5:30 pm - Clothes Closet @ Cong. Ch. 6 pm - Prayer/ Worship (CLR @ FUMC) 9 am - Devotions @ 6 pm - Prayer/ Brookdale Worship (CLR @ 10 am - Devotions FUMC) @ Blackhawk 6:30 pm - Advent Meditation (RUMC) 9 am - Prayers & Squares (FUMC) 6:30 pm - SPRC (FUMC) 6:30 pm - Advent Meditation (RUMC) Merry Christmas Office Closed Merry Christmas Office Closed 6 pm - CLR Children’s Christmas (FUMC) 8:30-11 am Clothes Closet @ Cong. Ch. 10 am-1 pm Cookie Walk (FUMC) 10 am - Community Outreach @ Asbury 9 am - Cantata Rehearsal (FUMC) 9 am - UMW Cookie Plates (FUMC) Page 23 The Messenger CLR - Cristo La Roca FUMC - First United Methodist Church LUMC - LaGrange United Methodist Church RUMC - Richmond United Methodist Church FLOOD - Middle School Youth Group Prime Time - High School Youth Group Sun Mon December 2014 Tue Wed Thu Youth Events Fri Sat 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Food Pantry 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 25 26 27 6 pm WARM Charge Conference (FUMC) Sunday/ Communion 9 am - Sunday School (LUMC) 10 am - Sunday School (RUMC) 10:20 am - Sunday School (FUMC) 3 pm - We Care No Prime Time 9 am - Sunday School (LUMC) 10 am - Sunday School (RUMC) 10:20 am Children’s Choir (FUMC) 7 pm - Prime Time (FUMC) Messenger Deadline Messenger Deadline Messenger Deadline 10:45 am - UM Free 6:45 am - Breakfast Lunch (FUMC) Club (FUMC) 3:30 pm - Promise Point 5 pm - Confirmation Christmas Party 6 pm - Drumming 6:30 pm - FLOOD All Wednesday Night WARM programs held at FUMC 10:45 am - UM Free 6:45 am - Breakfast Lunch (FUMC) Club (FUMC) 3:30 pm - Promise Point & Potluck 5 pm - Confirmation Christmas Party 6 pm - Drumming 6:30 pm - FLOOD All Wednesday Night WARM programs held at FUMC 10:45 am - UM Free 6:45 am - Breakfast Lunch (FUMC) Club (FUMC) 3:15 pm - WARM Children’s Pageant Practice 6:30 pm - FLOOD Christmas Party All Wednesday Night WARM programs held at FUMC 21 22 23 24 28 29 30 31 9 am - Children’s Christmas (LUMC) 10 am - Sunday School (RUMC) 10:20 am - Sunday School (FUMC) 4:30 pm - WARM Christmas Pageant (FUMC) 9 am - Sunday School (LUMC) 10 am - Sunday School (RUMC) Christmas Eve 4 pm - FUMC 6 pm - RUMC 7 pm - FUMC 8 pm - LUMC 11 pm - FUMC New Year’s Eve 6 pm - Angels in Action (CLR @ FUMC) No Angels in Action 6 pm - Angels in Action (CLR @ FUMC) Merry Christmas Office Closed 5 pm - Cookie Bake Lock-in Merry Christmas Office Closed 6 pm - CLR Children’s Christmas 10 am-1 pm Cookie Walk (FUMC) 10 am - Children’s Pageant Rehearsal (FUMC) 10 am-5 pm Salvation Army Bell Ringing @ Sentry WARM: First UMC, LaGrange UMC & Richmond UMC The Messenger is published by the Whitewater Area Regional Ministry 145 S. Prairie Street Whitewater, WI 53190 Phone: 262.473.2131 Fax: 262.473.2362 E-mail: [email protected] Return Service Requested We’re on the Web First UMC fumcwhitewater.org LaGrange UMC warmlagrangeumc.com Richmond UMC [email protected] Susan Bresser Lead Pastor, Whitewater Area Regional Ministry (WARM) Donald Norman Pastor, LaGrange UMC Kimberly Brumm Pastor, Richmond UMC, University Ministry and WARM Caring Ministries Norma I. Albino-Noriega Pastor, Cristo La Roca Heidi Cook Children’s Ministry Coordinator Michael Soehner Wednesday Youth Director Tom & Julie DuVal/Tim & Lisa Otterbacher High School Youth Leaders Megan & Brooke Linse and Renee Stoll Nursery Care, FUMC Dolores Feltych University Ministry Lunch Coordinator Jim Athas Director of Music, FUMC Christine Hayes Chancel Choir Director & World Drumming Instructor, FUMC Jen Soehner Youth Choir Director, FUMC Janet Hardt Pianist & Choir Director, LUMC Elizabeth Asher Pianist, RUMC Mindy Wade Stephen Ministry Coordinator Betty McManaway & Joe Sherman Custodian & Maintenance, FUMC Jayne Haskey Office/Business Manager/Administrative Assistant, WARM Gina McManaway Clerical Assistant, WARM