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In this edition of GPconnect:
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Deadline for petitions and resolutions extended to March 28
Deadline to submit fliers for Annual Conference Session announced
GPconnect wants to hear your stories
Save-the-date for Mission Partnership Meal
Need childcare for the Great Plains Annual Conference Session?
Truck available June 10-11 for United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) donations
Long-time U.S. Nebraska District Court judge and United Methodist, the Honorable Warren K. Urbom to be recognized
EQUIP DISCIPLES
Small membership churches gather for ABIDE
Camp Fontanelle director of programming visits O’Neill First UMC
Lenten studies at the resource center
METour is getting underway – accepting registrations for 2014 Great Plains tour
Ministering to those adversely affected by criminal-justice system by becoming a Healing Community
United Methodist Church Foundation offers enewsletter
United Methodist Communications offers United Methodism 101
Wichita First UMC offers basic disaster and early response training on March 22
Youth ministry for a mobile generation
The youTheology program at Saint Paul School of Theology becomes the freestanding youTheology Institute
CLERGY EXCELLENCE
Great Plains Candidacy Summit
Discover Ministry — Great Leaders for Great Churches
WorshipWay offers resources to clergy
MERCY AND JUSTICE
Supporting troops through care packages and letters
Pray for families to stay together and for deportations to end
Arapahoe FUMC sponsors Lydia Patterson Institute work team
Disaster training to be in Ogallala and Grand Island
When the community goes global
What is your church's Hands on the Great Plains event?
Mount Sequoyah to host annual work week end of April
One Great Hour of Sharing pastor’s kit
UMW Assembly to be held April 25-27
CLASSIFIEDS
Clear Lake UMC in Houston in need of director of student ministry
Digital media coordinator sought at Trinity Heights UMC in Newton, Kan.
Madison Avenue UMC in Derby, Kan., looking for pianist/keyboard musician
Deadline for petitions and resolutions extended to March 28
All items for action must be submitted to the conference secretary by March 28 in order to be included in the workbook of pre-conference materials. The only exceptions will be items being addressed at a later date by the Connecting Council or approved for late submission by the Annual Conference Sessions Planning Team.
Items for action must be submitted either by email to the conference secretary at gpsecretary@greatplainsumc.org or on disc mailed to Diane Jensen, Box 526, Fort Calhoun, NE 68023.
All late items for action may be included in the packet distributed at registration if approved by the Annual Conference Sessions Planning Team. If approved, the person or group submitting the late item shall supply 1800 copies printed on 8 ½ x 11” paper and punched with three holes to Roxie Delisi at the conference office in Lincoln (3333 Landmark Circle, Lincoln, NE 68504) no later than May 15. In addition, the person or group must submit an electronic file to the Conference Secretary prior to the beginning of annual conference.
Deadline to submit fliers for Annual Conference Session announced
Fliers for the 2014 Great Plains Annual Conference Session can be included in the pre-conference materials or in the packets that will be handed as attendees arrive at Annual Conference Session to pick up their nametag. Fliers submitted for pre-conference materials must be emailed by April 15. The pre-conference materials will be available online only unless requested by mail. Fliers to be included in the packets must be mailed — 1700 copies pre-printed — to Roxie Delisi (3333 Landmark Circle, Lincoln, NE 68504) by May 30. The conference office is able to print your flier for you for a fee. Black and white on white paper is $23.50, black and white on colored paper is $30.50, and color copies will cost $115. The deadline to submit fliers for packets that the conference office is to print is May 23. Fliers are to be submitted to Roxie at rdelisi@greatplainsumc.org. If you have any questions, you can also call Roxie at 402-464-5994, ext. 107.
GPconnect wants to hear your stories
If you have a story you think would make a great GPconnect item, we want to hear them. Send all GPconnect submission through the “Submit a Story” link on the right. If you have any issues with the link, you can also go directly to the form at https://gp-reg.brtapp.com/Submitanewsstory. While photos are currently not able to be attached to the form, directions on where to send them are on the form. Photos are still very much encouraged.
Save-the-date for Mission Partnership Meal
All attending the Great Plains Annual Conference Session are invited to the first Mission Partnership Meal, on Thursday, June 12, at noon, at Embassy Suites. Plans are being made by the three mission partnerships with Haiti, Nigeria and Zimbabwe to share information. Include the meal in your plans for Annual Conference. Embassy Suites is located across the street from the Lied Center, where Annual Conference is being held.
Need childcare for the Great Plains Annual Conference Session?
The deadline for childcare is May 1. Register now. The first Great Plains United Methodist Conference Session is scheduled for June 11-14, 2014, at the Lied Center for Performing Arts in downtown Lincoln, Neb. Information is available at www.greatplainsumc.org/annualconference. Information specific to childcare is posted at www.greatplainsumc.org/ac-childcare.
Truck available June 10-11 for United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) donations
A semi-trailer will be available June 10-11 to accept UMCOR kits, cleaning buckets and donations. The truck will be located at 3333 Landmark Circle, Lincoln, Neb., adjacent to the Lincoln Office of Great Plains United Methodists. Note the truck will not be available during the entire duration of the Annual Conference Session.
Now is the time to organize your UMW, youth groups, local congregation, etc., in gathering or preparing donations to load into the truck. The best way to know how to assemble kits would be to go to www.midwestmissiondc.org and click on ‘Projects’ or ‘Kits.’ There you can see all the requirements for items.
Items currently needed include treadle sewing machines (MMDC has a repair shop to work on them), cloth diapers (MMDC has a pattern for making them), receiving blankets, hand towels and any of the UMCOR kits listed online — bedding kits, sewing kits, school kits, birthing kits, cleaning buckets, health kits and more. Individual/bulk items will be accepted in addition to complete kits.
More information will be provided in the Annual Conference registration material regarding how to locate the office and specific hours when your gifts will be received.
If you have questions or need ways to motivate participation in this mission giving, contact Mary Ann Bede at stringbedes@windstream.net or 402-421-8264 or Pastor Alan Gager, conference secretary of global ministries, at agager@greatplainsumc.org.
Photo: The Rev. Lyle Schoen at the UMCOR truck during the Nebraska Annual Conference Session in 2013.
Long-time U.S. Nebraska District Court judge and United Methodist, the Honorable Warren K. Urbom to be recognized
A celebration of Urbom's distinguished career on the Federal Court Bench is scheduled for April 25, 2014.
The United States District Court for the District of Nebraska invites you to a celebration honoring the Honorable Warren K. Urbom for his distinguished 44-year career on the District Court bench. The reception will be held on Friday, April 25, 2014, from 1:45 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., in Courtroom No. 1 on the fifth floor of the Robert V. Denney Federal Building, 100 Centennial Mall North, Lincoln, Nebraska. The Court will be thanking Judge Urbom for his legendary service to the federal court, and recognizing his legacy in the American justice system. Save this date on your calendar if you are able to attend.
Questions regarding the event may be directed to Susie Cordero at susie_cordero@ned.uscourts.gov or (402) 661-7376.
Small membership churches gather for ABIDE
By the Rev. Dr. Eric Ford, Wahoo, Neb.
Using the Great Plains videoconferencing system to connect Ainsworth, Neb. and Salina, Kan., members from 22 congregations gathered the first weekend in March to begin the latest class of ABIDE. The main text for the process comes from John 15 where Jesus tells his disciples to, “Abide in me, as I will abide in you … and you will bear much fruit.”
ABIDE is a ministry offered by the Great Plains Conference Congregational Excellence Team under the direction of Spiritual Leadership, Inc. The stated goal of ABIDE is to help small membership churches “develop spiritual leaders, create transforming environments, and establish processes that bear fruit.”
By using what is called the “L3 process” of “loving, learning and leading” a small group of 4-8 persons from each congregation will spend the next 16 months together building a strong team, analyzing their local church context, and discerning God’s call; the entire process is aimed at focusing upon the strengths of small membership churches.
Previous churches that have been through ABIDE can testify to its effectiveness. Some congregations see an increase in worship attendance and giving. Other groups begin new ministries that connect with their communities. All participants grow in their faith and leadership abilities.
As the Great Plains Conference seeks to increase the vitality of local congregations, ABIDE is one way that small membership churches can remain alive and relevant in their local contexts. As ABIDE leaders say, the aim of the year-and-a-half experience is to, “Abide in Christ, advance God’s mission, and be alive in God’s glory!”
To learn more about ABIDE contact the Rev. Micki McCorkle in the Wichita office at mmccorkle@greatplainsumc.org.
Camp Fontanelle director of programming visits with O’Neill First UMC
On Sunday, March 9, the First UMC in O'Neill, Neb., was happy to have Derek Bergman, program director at Camp Fontanelle, come and share with the church some of the joys and fun experiences of campers and the impact camping has on young person's faith. Derek spent the day with the congregation and was present in the late afternoon for the Sand Creek Cluster Youth Rally held at the church. Derek shared with the youth some of the fun things that happen at camp. His excitement was contagious and the Rev. Craig Collins, pastor at O’Neill First UMC, believes several of the youth will be seeing him again this summer. Derek taught the youth a game he brought with him that campers enjoy called 9 Square in the Air (see photo). It was a long day for Derek, especially with the time change. He left home early in the morning for the three-hour drive and it was after dark when he headed back home. First UMC in O’Neill would like to thank Derek for his commitment and sacrifices in order to get the news out about camping.
Lenten studies at the resource center
What is grace? We often speak as if we know what “grace” means, but do we? Do we allow grace to change our lives and mold them or do we settle for “wimpy” grace? This Lenten season learn more about the power of God’s grace to shape our lives and embolden us with three special studies on grace.
Max Lucado’s new study “Grace: More Than We Deserve, Greater Than We Imagine” challenges us to allow grace to shake us to our senses and recognize its power to not only change individuals but whole communities. Guides and a book are available to accompany these seven sessions:
- The Grace-Shaped Life — God’s In the Business of Changing Hearts
- Jesus Stooped Low To Take Our Place — The Story of the Woman Caught in Adultery
- You Can Rest Now — Salvation Is An Unmerited Gift of God
- Accepting The Gift of Wet Feet — Jesus Washes His Disciples’ Feet
- Coming Clean Within Grace That Abounds — Confession is a Radical Reliance on God’s Grace
- Chosen To A Guaranteed Place In The Family — We Never Outgrow Our Need For God’s Love
- Sustaining and Sufficient Grace — God’s Supply of Grace Never Runs Out.
If you have a women’s group that is looking for a Lenten study on grace, consider Liz Curtis Higgs’, “Embrace Grace.” Spend a joy-filled hour with Liz, author of “Bad Girls of the Bible,” as she gives a touching and funny — but poignant — message on her own faith journey and the vital truths she’s learned about the gift of grace. Wherever you are spiritually, whatever you have been through emotionally, God has already enfolded you in his arms. Liz’s book “Embrace Grace — Welcome to the Forgiven Life’’ accompanies this 1-2 session study.
Although Philip Yancey’s “What’s So Amazing About Grace,” came out a number of years ago, its message is as powerful today as it was then. Through interviews and true life stories, Yancey leads us on a journey towards understanding and embracing grace. This study is wonderful for Lent as well as the weeks following Easter. Leader and participant guides are included with these 10 lessons:
- The Missing Ingredient: A Beautiful Word, a Powerful Concept
- Letting Grace Soak In: God’s Love For the Undeserving
- An Unnatural Act: Extending Grace When You’ve Been Wronged
- The Art of Forgiving: Responding With Grace When It Seems Impossible
- Skin Deep: The Power of Grace to Penetrate Racism
- Grace Put To the Test: Grace In the Face of Disagreement
- Grace Abuse: Cheapening Grace and Robbing Its Power
- The Church Backslides: How Legalism Corrupts Grace
- Dispensing Grace: How Can We Do It?
- Counterforce: Grace Set Loose In the World
To reserve one of these studies on grace email Diane Dunkerson at ddunkerson@greatplainsumc.org or call 800-435-6107. To see a complete list of all studies on grace see the online catalog at www.gpresourcecenter.org.
METour is getting underway – accepting registrations for 2014 Great Plains tour
The Missionary Education Tour (METour) of the former Kansas West Conference was born out of an idea which came to Louise Dutcher Johnson who grew up in Kansas unaware of the rich opportunities for Christian service through the Methodist Church. Although her college major was sociology, she was torn between careers in social service and being a Methodist deaconess. She had no idea the two could be combined until she was teaching on the staff of the Woman's Home Missionary Society. After she returned to her home conference to work with youth, the idea came to Dutcher to take a bus load of girls on a tour in nearby states to see firsthand the wide variety of social services carried out by the Women's Society of Christian Service.
In 1950, Dutcher was serving as a deaconess and conference director of youth work and was an ex-officio member of the conference Woman's Society of Christian Service Executive Committee. The women had been challenged by the Boys' Work Committee of the conference to provide some kind of trip for girls similar to the Boys' Travel Camp. Dutcher presented her idea and plan for such a mission tour. Girls were to be chosen equally from the seven districts involving secretaries of youth and missionary personnel in the selection. The Wesleyan Service Guild was invited to participate in the project with the conference guild secretary on the planning committee and a representative of the guild from each district eligible to go on the tour.
The trips now go in different directions of the United States: Northwest, Northeast, Southwest and Southeast. The goal is to provide experiences for youth women who grow up in Kansas Methodist Churches to be aware of the opportunities to serve others.
This year is a new adventure as we transition to the Great Plains United Methodist Conference. METour will be doing a Great Plains METour to open a new door to Nebraska and Eastern Kansas participants. The young women on the tour will start in Concordia, Kan., on June 6. A tentative itinerary includes Youthville in Dodge City; Camp Norwesca located near Chadron Neb.; Annual Conference Session in Lincoln for supper with UMW members there; Auburn UMC in Auburn, Neb.; and Topeka’s Harvest Bank. The METour will be June 6-15. Applications can be accessed through the UMW page on the conference website.
Seven adult sponsors are also needed for the tour. Current openings include Dean of Women and a Technology person (camera and website-savvy to keep pictorial records along the way). If you are interested or know someone who might be, contact Heidi Bolton at metourcoordinator@yahoo.com.
Ministering to those adversely affected by criminal-justice system by becoming a Healing Community
On Saturday March 1, 2014, the Criminal Justice Committee of Wichita and St. Mark UMC hosted Doug Walker from the General Board of Church and Society in Washington, DC, to share the vision of being a Healing Community and Station of Hope for people newly released from prison and jail. Participating in the training were members of St. Mark UMC, Dellrose UMC, Big Brothers/Big Sister of Sedgwick County, Urban League of Kansas and Wichita State University. St. Mark and Dellrose are the first United Methodist churches in the Great Plains Conference to complete the training and establish themselves with the national model of ministry to returning citizens and their families and friends.
Healing Communities brings mercy and justice together. The primary components of the training are 1) to reduce stigma and provide a welcoming and supportive atmosphere; 2) to provide formal and informal supports through the congregations; 3) to encourage volunteers for jail and prison programs; 4) to be mentors to the returning citizens and their children/youth; 5) to develop a network of referrals so resources are known and available; 6) to be advocates and build mobilization to end mass incarceration and create a genuinely fair, just criminal justice system.
Each group was encouraged to define their own vision and develop their own model of becoming a Station of Hope. St. Mark UMC has chosen to be a Station of Hope by 1) offering to go to court with the individual and/or family member involved in the criminal justice system; 2) write letters to persons in jail or prison; 3) visit persons in jail or prison; and 4) provide a safe place for persons to meet, share their experiences, and know they are loved and supported.
Any person, group or church interested in participating with St. Mark UMC may contact Obadiah Blackmon at 316-258-5835 or odadiahblackmon@yahoo.com, or Nancy Jackson at 316-990-2149 or nancyandjackie@yahoo.com.
More information is available on the GBCS website at Healing Communities Partnership. If you are interested in your congregation becoming a Healing Community, contact Doug Walker at dwalker@umc-gbcs.org. You can learn more about Healing Communities on its website at www.healingcommunitiesusa.com.
Photo: Pictured are Suzie Van Tries, Tina Frierson, Susan Mukwindidza, Nancy Jackson, Obadiah Blackmon, Megan McClelland, Stephanie Regier, Peggy Elliott and Brian Robinson.
United Methodist Church Foundation offers enewsletter
Every week the United Methodist Church Foundation sends out an enewsletter. Various theological and biblical topics are covered. Current information on personal finance, planned giving and charitable giving is also included. If you would like to receive the enewsletter, you can sign up here.
This week’s enewsletter
United Methodist Communications offers United Methodism 101
United Methodism 101, offered by United Methodist Communications (UMCOM), will be offered April 2 – May 14. Registration deadline is March 30. United Methodism 101 is designed for new church members and anyone else wanting to know more about the history, structure, beliefs, ministries and challenges in the United Methodist faith. You may be surprised at all there is to discover about the denomination. The course includes four web-based lessons, each with many interactive features. Lessons take about 30 minutes to complete.
Click here for more information
Wichita First UMC offers basic disaster and early response training on March 22
Basic disaster response training
Wichita First UMC, 330 N. Broadway, Wichita, Kan., is hosting a basic disaster response training event on Saturday, March 22, from 9 a.m. until noon, in room 107B. This training enables people to receive a disaster response photo identification badge that will identify the participant as a volunteer through the Great Plains Conference disaster response efforts. The training will equip you to understand and minister to people in times of crisis, especially during the long-term recovery efforts.
Lunch is not provided. There will be a $2 cost for the badge. To reserve your place at this training event, contact Annette Schmidt at alschmidt@cox.net or 316-648-8220.
Early response recertification training
Wichita First UMC, 330 N. Broadway, Wichita, Kan., is hosting an Early Response Team recertification training event from 1 until 5 p.m., in room 107B This training is for those individuals who have previously been certified for disaster Early Response Team, but need to renew their certification — certification is good for three years.
Early Response Teams (ERT) are trained through United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) to be self-sustaining and capable of providing assistance as soon as it is safe to supplement the first official responders’ efforts. ERT’s help those affected from a disaster by securing property and assisting with debris removal. They also observe and report the survivors’ needs to the local incident coordinator. An UMCOR ERT identification card is required for access to a disaster site — cards will be issued upon completion of the recertification training requirements.
ERT certification also requires successful completion of Safe Gatherings certification that lasts four years. If your Safe Gatherings certification has, or is, expiring go through the certification process online at www.safegatherings.com.
There is no cost for the class. To reserve your place at this training event, contact Annette Schmidt at alschmidt@cox.net or 316-648-8220.
Youth ministry for a mobile generation
You're mobile, they're mobile. It's hard to get everyone in the same place. Even families are on the move. What does this mean for your youth ministry? How do you engage youth? How do you engage families?
Be a part of Youth Workers' Gathering 2014, on March 28-29, at Calvary UMC in Wichita, Kan., and discover answers to these questions and more. Offered by youTheology Institute, the theme for this gathering is Beyond Youth Groups: Youth Ministry for a Mobile Generation, and will feature keynote speaker Charles Harrison.
Click here for more information and registration or go to www.ExtraordinaryYouthMinistry.Com/YWG2014.
The youTheology program at Saint Paul School of Theology becomes the freestanding youTheology Institute
youTheology Institute has transitioned to a stand-alone organization with expanded offerings and ministry opportunities.
Developing faithful leaders for a diverse church and world, continues to be the mission of youTheology Institute, which has been working behind the scenes to transition from a multi-purpose program to a full-fledged youth-centric institute.
As a Pan-Methodist youth ministry, the institute prepares leaders, deepens faith by providing curriculum resources, on-line community building and outreach opportunities for middle and high school students and youth workers to serve their churches, communities and God.
The institute is youth and youth worker focused, with unique areas to learn and build leadership:
Building on the proven success of the youTheology program, the youTheology Institute develops and empowers young men and women to become leaders who will serve their community, church and the world. In addition, the institute provides programs, training and support for youth workers to create, enhance and nurture youth-centric ministries to honor God.
For more information on the youTheology Institute and its success building spiritual leaders of tomorrow visit http://vimeo.com/24024725 or www.youtheology.org.
youTheology Institute is a non-profit organization, so donations are tax-deductible.
For media inquiries regarding youTheology Institute, contact Claire Smith, Director at 913-538-1783 or info@youtheology.org.
Great Plains Candidacy Summit
As the 100 year old hymn says, “The voice of God is calling its summons in our day!”
If you or someone you know is feeling the call of God toward professional ministry the Board of Ordained Ministry has created a new event to help them enter the candidacy process.
The Candidacy Summit is a two-day retreat for people entering the path to ordained or credentialed ministry. It is for anyone feeling called to the ministry of elder, deacon or local pastor who has done some discernment work with their pastor, spoken to their district superintendent, and is ready to take the next step toward professional ministry.
The first candidacy summit will be on June 27-28, 2014, at Saint Mark’s United Methodist Church in Lincoln, Neb.
The Candidacy Summit will be a place to ask questions, connect with other people who are starting the ordination process, learn about different types of ministry, and begin to understand the process used to prepare for full time service to God through the UMC. Participants will also complete some of the required testing to jump start the Candidacy process.
A guide for candidacy, Summit schedule and registration are available on the Great Plains website.
Discover Ministry — Great Leaders for Great Churches — save the date
Is someone in your church possibly just waiting for you to direct them toward serving as a pastor in a local church? Do you know someone who has the gifts for ministry? Are you a lay person who is wondering if full or part time ministry is for you? Often those of us who are leaders in the church are not sure how we can help someone else discern a call from God. Discover Ministry is a place for that to happen.
Discover Ministry is an event designed for those who are wondering about responding to God's call to either full-time or part-time ministry. It is also for those who are serving as a District Superintendent Supply (DSA), Certified Lay Minister (CLM) or Certified Lay Servant to learn more about the opportunity for becoming a local pastor.
There are two Discover Ministry events currently scheduled. The first one is May 10, at First United Methodist Church, 823 Merchant, in Emporia, Kan. The second one will be Sept. 27, in Beatrice, Neb. More details to come on the September session. Both events will be from 10 a.m.- 2:30 p.m. CDT, with lunch included. Registration is now open for the May 10 Discover Ministry session. Online registration can be found at https://gp-reg.brtapp.com/DiscoverMinistry. There is no cost to participate.
Please share this invitation with someone who might be called. If you have questions, contact Nancy Lambert at 402-464-5994, ext 126.
WorshipWay offers resources to clergy
The WorshipWay is a resource designed especially for clergy. This issue discusses Lent and offers a tip for music in a small congregation.
Click here to read the latest enewsletter.
Supporting troops through care packages and letters
Since 2001, thousands of American soldiers have been deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan and away from their family and friends.
According to the U.S. Department of Defense, in 2013 there were 520,000 active soldiers. But they aren’t without moral support.
The Nebraska Troop Support makes it their goal to let soldiers know there are people back home thinking about them and praying for them. This organization sends letters and care packages to those serving overseas. So far, they have sent more than 9,000 packages.
“Each package that goes out is filled with love to someone willing to risk their lives for us,” Nebraska Troop Support Founder Beth Tielke said.
Nebraska Troop Support started in 2006, Tielke said, when the National Guard in O’Neill, Neb., sent 176 troops overseas. One woman said she would send cookies to these troops if someone could help pay for postage. From there, it snowballed.
“You never know what one small thing can do,” Tielke said. “That one small gesture is like a small rock thrown in a pond. The ripples keep growing farther and farther out.”
Everything that makes this possible is donated, according to Tielke. She said people; organizations, including members from nearby United Methodist Churches; businesses, schools and musicians have donated items to send, money for postage or their time to show they care about our troops.
Janice Morrill, a member of the Page United Methodist Church in Page, Neb., and four others from her congregation regularly help Nebraska Troop Support.
Morrill said she sends soap bags that contain personal hygiene products and hand-written letters. She mostly writes to the soldiers about the weather and the day-to-day activities in her community. Sometimes, Morrill said the soldiers write her back.
Morrill’s letters are sent in hand-made envelopes that are made from old calendars she thought were too pretty to throw away.
In fact, Morrill makes extra envelopes to sell in a local store, and the profits are donated to Nebraska Troop Support.
Tielke said that so many people and organizations have donated items and money that she couldn’t name them all without fear of leaving someone out. But she thinks it all comes together for a reason.
“I figure it’s God’s plan,” Tielke said. “There’s no one that would have the items and the money at the same time unless God’s thinking of it.”
Pastor Stuart Davis, from Page UMC, said while his congregation hasn’t had an organized movement to support Nebraska Troop Support yet, they are planning to write letters and collect kits during the Change the World Event on May 17 and 18.
“One person who does something is just as important as one million dollars,” Tielke said.
To contribute to Nebraska Troop Support’s cause, you can send your letters or donations to: Nebraska Troop Support, 515 East Donegale, O’Neill, NE 68763, or visit their website at www.nebraskatroopsupport.com.
Pray for families to stay together and for deportations to end
Editor's note: The following was submitted by Andrea Paret, Great Plains Conference peace with justice coordinator.
“So once again, I, the Lord All-Powerful, tell you, ‘See that justice is done and be kind and merciful to one another! Don't mistreat widows or orphans or foreigners or anyone who is poor, and stop making plans to hurt each other.’” Zechariah 7:9-10
Many faith and other groups are calling for a National Day of Action on April 5, to end deportations. Bill Mefford, director of civil and human rights of the General Board of Church and Society, says that “as we approach 2 million deportations we are not anywhere closer to reforming the U.S.'s broken immigration system. Deportations have devastated communities and torn apart families. It is time to pray and act so that President Obama ends the policy of mass deportations.”
For more information, read here.
It is hoped that many of you will participate in prayer vigils; include a prayer in your worship service or bible study group; or in other events. If you and/or your church are planning a prayer vigil or other event, let Sandy Sypherd ssypherd@windstream.net or Andrea Paret amparet08@yahoo.com know. GBCS is continually updating the grassroots immigration journal listing all the events across the nation. This information is shared with White House staff and others to show the grassroots support for genuine just and compassionate immigration reform.
Photo: Bishop Trimble and Bishop Carcaño praying in front of the White House on Presidents Day shortly before being arrested for advocating for an end to deportations.
Arapahoe FUMC sponsors Lydia Patterson Institute work team
First UMC in Arapahoe Neb., sponsored a work team of nine to the Lydia Patterson Institute in El Paso, Texas, March 4-7. The group worked in the school cafeteria, library and did various repair jobs at the school and guesthouse. The interaction with the students and staff always brings the group great joy and makes even hard work seem like fun.
Founded in 1913, Lydia Patterson Institute is the only remaining United Methodist institution in the United States that serves a predominately Hispanic population. The mission of the Lydia Patterson Institute is to represent the Christian faith as understood by the United Methodist Church; provide quality bi-lingual, cross-cultural academic education; provide a center where local church leaders, clergy and lay persons, may receive training and experience; and develop leadership skills in persons interested in positions of Christian ministry.
Disaster training to be in Ogallala and Grand Island
If you are willing to help in the early days following a disaster, this training event is for you.
A very good way to prepare for disasters is to become trained in early response activities. When media coverage shows how lives have been harmed, emotions run high and we find ourselves ready to jump up off the couch and offer help. Now is the time to become trained so you are ready to offer help and can be involved in the early disaster response ministry and service. This invitation is for you to attend a one-day UMCOR training for Early Response Teams.
The training session is open to members of all congregations. The May 3, training will be from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., at First UMC in Ogallala, Neb., (421 N. Spruce St.). The May 10, training will also be from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., at Trinity UMC in Grand Island, Neb., (511 N. Elm St.).
The cost for the disaster training is $25, which covers meal, training materials, t-shirt and ERT badge. You can register online at www.greatplainsumc.org/disasterresponse.
When the community goes global
Fremont Public Schools in Fremont, Neb., were closed Monday, Feb. 17, so the youth group from Fremont First UMC decided make the hour long drive to Lincoln, Neb., and volunteer. The group partnered with MAD DADS and helped prepare bicycles for shipment to Africa. The 16 students and four adults’ goal was to get the bikes from storage, remove and zip-tie the pedals to the bike, alien the handlebars so they fell in line with the bike frame and then put the bikes in rows of 50. Through the mud, wind and scraped knuckles the group ended with 202 bicycles prepared for shipment. The group had a lot of fun and are already excited to see what next years’ one-day mission will bring.
What is your church's Hands on the Great Plains event?
The above story is an example of a church going outside its walls to minister to its community. Congregations across the Great Plains Conference are invited to take part in hands-on mission projects or work days in their communities between April 26 and May 18, 2014. Register your event at handsonthegreatplains.org where many resources are provided to plan your event, such as online training videos, a planning guide, logos and more.
Links to resources are also available at www.greatplainsumc.org/handsonthegreatplains. Planning and implementation grants are available from United Methodist Communications www.umcom.org/rethinkchurch.
Mount Sequoyah to host annual work week end of April
Mount Sequoyah would like to invite all members of the South Central Jurisdiction to join them for Mount Sequoyah Annual Spring Work Week. The spring work week will take place Sunday, April 20, at 6 p.m., and run through Friday, April 25, at 10 a.m., at Mount Sequoya Retreat and Conference Center in Fayetteville, Ark.
Attendees will get the opportunity to help clean up the grounds, plant, mulch, weed and more. If you are unable to attend the entire week, late arrivals and early departures can be accommodated. Guests will have the opportunity to interact with the Mount Sequoyah Board of Trustees as well as enjoy some of the surrounding Fayetteville community.
The cost for the week ranges from $250 to $375, depending on private or shared room. Meals are included in the price. You can register online.
If you would like more information, contact Emily Gentry, program manager, at emily.gentry@mountsequoyah.org or 479-443-4531.
One Great Hour of Sharing pastor’s kit
Your to-do list just got shorter and easier!
- How can we help you inspire members to learn more about the life-changing work of the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR)?
- How can we amplify your voice as you try to explain the importance of the upcoming One Great Hour of Sharing offering?
- How can we give you fresh and engaging tools to help spread the word that without UMCOR’s many ministries—supported by this once-a-year Special Sunday offering – people will go hungry, children may die, families will be without homes and healing after a disaster cannot begin?
The One Great Hour of Sharing Pastor’s Kit answers all these questions.
The customized downloadable kit provides worship resources, devotional, bulletin inserts, graphic images, and more. From children’s sermons, news release templates to Lenten Facebook images, this one-stop tool kit will simplify your daily to-do list and enable you to share this giving opportunity visually, informatively and inspirationally.
Using these tools, it’s easy to explain, promote and inspire your congregation to donate to ministries within a ministry. Download resources here.
Get your congregation involved in helping UMCOR respond to disasters. Before and on March 30, you are the VOICE of One Great Hour of Sharing. Shout it loud! Together can we save lives, brighten futures, deepen faith and bring others to Jesus Christ.
And, don’t forget to tell your congregation that UMCOR is not subsidized by the United Methodist World Service Fund or apportioned funds. Without donations from United Methodists, UMCOR could not guarantee that 100 percent of all other funds raised for a disaster will be used for the specific cause.
UMW Assembly to be held April 25-27
Make It Happen! UMW Assembly 2014, will be in Louisville, Ky., at the Kentucky International Convention Center April 25-27, 2014, with an optional, pre-event Ubuntu Day of Service Thursday April 24. Former Secretary of State, Hillary Rodham Clinton, will deliver the Saturday morning keynote address April 26, at the assembly.
Click here for more information including rates, registration, downloadable fliers and other announcements.
Clear Lake UMC in Houston, Texas, in need of director of student ministry
Clear Lake UMC in Houston, Texas, is seeking a full-time director of student ministry to join their team. Located near Johnson Space Center in a metropolitan area, Clear Lake is an active and friendly church who is Christ-centered and mission minded. The director of student ministry will work with the student leadership team and the staff to develop and grow a well-balanced student ministry based on the church’s three-part strategy of Worship, Connect and Serve. The director of student ministry will have the following primary responsibilities:
- Provide leadership in all student ministry programming and supervise student ministry staff
- Develop relationships with students from 6th to 12th grade, their families and volunteers
- Equip by recruiting and training parents and volunteers; and, by seeking personal growth opportunities
- Ensure that student ministry records and facilities are well kept and tended
- Nurture students and families throughout life events
Qualified candidates will have:
- A personal commitment to Christ
- Joy in teaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ
- Experience in a student ministry — preferably a large church setting — and in planning events with a strength in delegation
- Excellent written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills
- Skilled with technology
Interested candidates should send a cover letter and resume to Jenny Sanders at Jenny@clearlakemethodist.org.
Digital media coordinator sought at Trinity Heights UMC in Newton, Kan.
Trinity Heights UMC in Newton, Kan., is accepting applications for a digital media coordinator. This creative and flexible individual will be responsible for effective communication through the church website and other marketing tools as well as oversee all technological aspects of worship. The position is part-time and pay is commensurate with experience. No programming skills are required. Applicants should have experience with many forms of print and video media and be adept at learning new software. Send cover letters and resumes to the Rev. Amy Lippoldt at amylippoldt@att.net by March 27.
Madison Avenue UMC in Derby, Kan., looking for pianist/keyboard musician
Madison Avenue UMC in Derby, Kan., is in need of a part-time church pianist/keyboard musician to help lead Sunday worship services in a small church of more than 80 members. Responsibilities may also include Wednesday evening choir practice. Compensation is dependent on skill, training and experience with a live audition is required. If you are interested, send resume or questions to the Rev. Ed Friesen, Madison Avenue UMC, 900 E Madison Ave, Derby, KS 67037. You can also email maumc@sbcglobal.net or call 316-788-1073.
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