HOLY COMMUNION MAUNDY THURSDAY

March 20, 2008 at 7:00 pm EASTER SUNDAY

March 23, 2008 at 8:15 am

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17055

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FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

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GIVING WINGS TO THE GOSPEL

WELCOME ~ INVITE ~ NURTURE ~ GROW ~ SEND

40 DAYS OF

commUNITY

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MARCH 29 — MAY 18, 2008

a portrayal of the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, featuring the children of the

Wonderful Wednesday program

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 19 7:00 PM

the Gospel enacted

Staff / Finance / Stewardship 2

Debt Status 3

UMW / Missions 4

New Hope / Servant Spotlight 5

Easter Flowers / Endowment Fund 6

Welcome Cert./Caring Connections 7

40 Days of Community 8-9

Adult Education 10-11

Sunday Evening 11

Children & Families 12

Children’s Ministries 13

Sunday School 14

disAbility Matters 16

Library / Bells 17

Church News & Notes 18

Worship Schedule 19

Youth Rock News 15

Inside this issue:

From the Pastor

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

Volume 8, Issue 3 MARCH 2008

T HE FOLLOWING HISTORICAL STATEMENT and pastoral reflection were “unearthed” by Tom Mullikin, one of our church historians, and sent to me recently. It is helpful

to see the record of care provided to First Church’s building throughout its life. The pastor’s statement about the church is also encouraging, as you will see.

OUR HISTORY: 1936 CHURCH RENOVATIONS

The article below was written by Rev. C. Guy Stambach, minister, First Church, in a brochure entitled, Historical Souvenir 1857-1936, First Church United Brethren in Christ Re-opening Exercises. This brochure accompanied the dedication services of the renovations to the current church in 1936. Those renovations were extensive and included the planting of shrubbery about the church and parsonage, painting and decorating of the entire interior, rebuilding the church organ, repair of church and parsonage roofs, refurnishing the church office, kitchen, and certain classrooms, repairing and enlarging the heating system, installation of modern and efficient lighting fixtures throughout, refinishing and recovering floors, purchase of new hymnals, installation of Acousticons in the auditorium, and adding necessary equipment throughout the building. Also at this time, the large oil painting in the auditorium, Hoffman’s The Last Supper was a memorial gift placed by Mr. and Mrs. W. H. Comfort. The painting of the picture as well as the decoration of the walls of the building was the work of Mr. Robert J. Welsmann, of Baltimore, Maryland. The United States Organ Company, of Philadelphia, rebuilt the organ including the installation of Deagon Cathedral chimes.

THE CHURCH BEAUTIFUL Rev. C. Guy Stambach, 1936

This beautiful building as it now stands is not merely a great monument to the glory of God and the faith of devout people; it is also a place where the soul finds God, and an instrument of conquest of the world for Christ. Brick, steel, and paint are only silent, lifeless, material things, but this plant is more: it is our Church home. It needs to be invested with the home atmosphere where kindred spirits meet and hearts are unified in the love and fellowship of the Christian religion. The

(Continued on page 2)

“The beauty of the temple is cold until

touched and warmed by the fires of Christian

fellowship. The final touch

of beauty is spiritual ….”

Page 2 First News First

FIRST NEWS FIRST

EDITORS: April Prather

Michelle Strawser

The deadline for the April 2008 newsletter is

MONDAY, March 17.

Please submit your articles and/or information prior to this date to

April in the church office or email to office@fumchurch.com.

STAFF / FINANCE / STEWARDSHIP

CHURCH STAFF PASTOR: Michael Minnix (218-0860) ASSISTANT PASTOR: Lucretia Browning LAY LEADER: Tom Helm CONGREGATIONAL CARE COORDINATOR: Tina Eaton DIRECTOR OF ADULT EDUCATION: Juanita Guise CHILDREN’S DIRECTOR: Kim Vensel YOUTH DIRECTOR: Samantha Mariano DIRECTOR OF MUSIC, ORGANIST & SANCTUARY CHOIR: John Devorick ORGANISTS: Bill Ingraham Tom Mullikin BELL CHOIRS: Kathie Bittenbender SOUNDS OF WORSHIP & CHILDREN’S CHOIRS: Flossie Ryder JR. & YOUTH CHOIRS: Nadine Ogden INVOCATION DIRECTOR: Allison Ometz FACILITIES COORDINATOR: Charlie Ryder OFFICE MANAGER: Michelle Strawser ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT: April Prather FINANCE DIRECTOR: Nancy Robinson

MISSIONARIES: COORDINATOR OF THE AVIATION RESOURCE DEPT. FOR GBGM: Mr. & Mrs. Steven Quigg McCURDY SCHOOL: Mr. & Mrs. Matt Nichols HOME FOR REASSIGNMENT: Chris & Martha Stockwell-Goering

L IKE ME, ARE YOU ONE of those people who have found it hard to step

into the electronic age. These days, the kids know more about electronics than those of us who are parents and grandparents.

Were you reluctant to have your paycheck or your Social Security check automatically deposited, at least until you saw if it really worked? Did you wait a long time or maybe have never gotten a debit card? My mom still won’t use those newfangled things. She still thinks she has to make the bank deposit or cash a check at the same location she has always used. She

just can’t believe that she could use a branch office of the bank.

Well, it is time we all got used to the changes that the computer age has brought us. Although I am still afraid of on-line banking, I have recently signed up for the electronic donation. This way, God will always be paid first, before any other expense that I have. It was really easy to sign up. I just picked up the form from the information table in the Narthex, filled it out, attached a voided check and turned it into the church office.

(Continued on page 3)

Stewardship Thought: Painless Giving

beauty of the temple is cold until touched and warmed by the fires of Christian fellowship. The final touch of beauty is spiritual — that the artist and artisan could not give. It will require years to complete this final touch — years of mutual love and sacrificial service by all who meet here.

“The beauty of the temple is cold until touched and warmed by the fires of Christian fellowship. The final touch of beauty is spiritual….” So still we are at work to complete the structure, to finish the beauty, to properly adorn the sanctuary: it is our committed and persistent presence, our love for Christ and for each other, our response to God’s call that makes a building a sanctuary of worship.

As we move through Lent and toward Easter and prepare for the “Forty Days of Com-munity” we will be focusing on those things which Rev. Stambach encouraged us to ad-dress because it is we ourselves who are the body of Christ, the church.

~ Mike Minnix

From the Pastor (Continued from page 1)

Financial Report — Through January 31, 2008 (8 % of year)

Unified Budget

Income $ 70,115 (7 % of budget)

Expenses $ 70,647

Shortfall $ 532

Building Fund $ 3,023

Holy Grounds $ 50

Income during January was slightly below collections a year ago.

A quarterly interest payment of $9,979 was paid during January. Also, $5,000 was paid on the principal from second-mile giving. Most other expenditure items were as expected.

Page 19 March 2008 WORSHIP SCHEDULE

USHERS: (8:15) Eric King, James Alderman, Thomas Helm, Ralph Harkins, Roy Miller, Harry Woods, Winslow Brown; (10:45) Rick Kauffman, Brian Vogl, Rodney Cook, Ed Johnson, Chuck Kershner, Wayde Leister, Mike Ogden, Cephas Zimmerman

MEDIA: Bob Bittenbender & Ron Nichols ACOLYTE: Rebekah Vensel(8:15),

Alexandra Rebman(10:45) CHILDCARE GREETER: Mary Wagner (8:15),

Tracy Holliday(10:45) TODDLERS: Patti Yeager, Shannon O’Leary,

Katarina Maylock, Matt Ober (8:15), Patti Herring, Julie & Deb Lehmer (10:45)

CRIB ROOM: Beth Herbster (8:15), Sue Daum, Sue Brady (10:45)

WEE WORSHIP: Rob & Gerri Nuss, Elisabeth Herring

KIDS WORSHIP: Leslee DeLong, Deb & Phoebe Noss

March 2

USHERS: Youth Department

MEDIA: Fred Espenshade & Roger Walton

ACOLYTE: Caryn Knott (8:15), Philip Noss (10:45)

CHILDCARE GREETER: Jackie Murdough (8:15), Susanna Brill (10:45)

TODDLERS: Kathleen & Rodney Clark, Abbey Vensel (8:15), Rod & Billie Jo Snyder, Brienne Wickenheiser (10:45)

CRIB ROOM: Sandy Walton (8:15), Jill Rahal, Sandy Downey (10:45)

WEE WORSHIP: Katie Hammaker, Rose Rohlmeier, Paige Snyder,

KIDS WORSHIP: Leslee DeLong, Kathy Wagner, Bonnie Campbell, Kristi Quave

March 9

March 16

USHERS: (8:15) Gerry Sheely , Elvin Hess, Bill Seig, Bob Shannon, Roger Miller; (10:45) Larry Buddenbaum, Rick Kauffman, Bob Bittenbender, Barry Eaton, Mark Routch, Rose Rohlmeier, Jake Sunday, Cephas Zimmerman

MEDIA: Ken Rapp & Jeff Snyder ACOLYTE: Mary Eckrote (8:15), Josh Herring (10:45) CHILDCARE GREETER: Sharon Hayes (8:15), Angie Britcher (10:45) TODDLERS: Denise Swank, Kelly King, Megan Koontz (8:15), Shelli Spencer, Rebecca Buddenbaum, Becca

Geiger (10:45) CRIB ROOM: Marilyn Knott (8:15), Amy Erno, Lauren Kenes (10:45) WEE WORSHIP: Lynn Grant, Tracy McHale, Emma Geiger KIDS WORSHIP: Leslee DeLong, Scott & Helene Briggs

USHERS: (8:15) Tom Helm , Charles Glessner, Ben Miller, Ron Nichols, Jim Van Kirk; (10:45) Brian Vogl, Larry Buddenbaum, John Clen-denien, Stuart Diehl, Ken Guise, Mike Leh-mer, Mike McHale, Rose Rohlmeier

MEDIA: Eric Dewalt & Steve Morgan ACOLYTE: David Nesmith (8:15),

TBA (10:45) CHILDCARE GREETER: Rhonda Heiges (8:15),

Sandy Leister (10:45) TODDLERS: Denise & John Kurtz, Kallie Heiges,

Matt Ober (8:15), Mary Alice Rebman, Jill Yother, Jen & Amanda Hilbish (10:45)

CRIB ROOM: Margaret Eckrote (8:15), Janet & Janelle Almond, Amy Dively (10:45)

WEE WORSHIP: Brandi Zimmerman, Chris Grant, Megan Leister

KIDS WORSHIP: Leslee DeLong, Janet & Greg Fennell, Katie Snyder

March 23

Coffee Set-up Schedule — contact Don Karns or Charlie Ryder for scheduling or supplies. Swap with another volunteer if you have a conflict.

Dale Glatfelter March 2

Dick Snyder March 9

Matt Holliday March 16

Don Karns March 23

Dean Otto March 30

Charlie Ryder April 6

Bill & Sue Higgins April 13

Volunteers for Coffee

March 30

USHERS: (8:15) Elvin & Charlotte Hess , Fred & Marcia Espenshade, Gerald & Pat Sheely, Jim & Pam Van Kirk; (10:45) Larry Buddenbaum, Rick Kauffman, Rodney Cook, Barry Eaton, Chuck Kershner, Ed Johnson, Rose Rohlmeier, Jake Sunday

MEDIA: Eric Dewalt & Steve Morgan ACOLYTE: Lindsay Alderman(8:15),

Alexia Ometz (10:45) CHILDCARE GREETER: Cheryl Mengle (8:15),

Lynn Grant (10:45) TODDLERS: Beth & Dave Harris, Jenna Mengle

(8:15), TBA (10:45) CRIB ROOM: Gayle Fugate (8:15), Kevin Long &

Jennifer Turner-Long (10:45) WEE WORSHIP: Karen & Jerry Smith KIDS WORSHIP: Leslee DeLong, Bonnie Camp-

bell, Courtney Vorwald

Sound/Media Request

Have you upgraded your video camera lately for home movies? If so, do you have a good older model sitting around collecting dust? If so, please contact one of the mem-be r s o f t he Sound /Med ia Team. We're looking to replace the video camera used during church services and may be able to use your older model, especially if it has a "S-video" output. Thank you for considering this request.

Page 18 First News First

Addresses of these members, who are 80-plus years of age, may be found in the Church Directory. If we have missed your name, please contact the church office.

Special March Birthdays

CHURCH NEWS & NOTES

Baptism

Birth

Softball 2008

The 2008 softball season is just around the corner. If you are inter-ested in playing on First Church's team in the West Shore Slow pitch Softball League, please contact Roger Walton at 790-9131 (rogerw53@comcast.net) or Eric D e W a l t a t 7 3 2 - 5 4 4 5 (ericdewalt65@msn.com). Practices will be in April and the games will be played from May through July. Ages 16 and up are eligible to play.

Freda Hess March 16

Arthur Murray March 16

L. Dean Davis March 24

Mabel Strock March 28

Kathryn Fishel March 30

Preschoolers), and Vacation Bible School. As a result, First Church’s announcements appeared several times in local newspapers and sparked several calls of interest from the public.

When possible, First Church places paid advertisements in local media to reach out to prospective members. Last year, First Church partnered with three other churches to secure a matching grant from Igniting Ministry, the communications division of The United Methodist Church, to place advertisements on several cable television stations. Our ads ran during the Lent, Back to School and Advent seasons. The ads featured the “Open Hearts, Open Minds, Open Doors” theme and included First Church’s name. This was the first time in our church’s history that we were able to purchase television advertising.

The Communications Committee, in conjunction with the Web Site Coordina-tors Team, is responsible for the design and upkeep of First Church’s Web site. The Web site is a critical component of First

March Servant Spotlight

(Continued from page 5)

Church’s communications efforts as many potential new members — particularly young adults — often view a church’s Web site before deciding to attend.

Other committee tasks include ordering mugs and other promotional items for the Welcome Desk and writing and/or reviewing major communications pieces to include brochures, pew cards and signage within the church.

COMMITTEE NEEDS:

We are looking for members with strong writing skills, graphic design skills, or experience in designing and maintaining Web sites.

HOW TO GET INVOLVED:

Get in touch with the co-chairs via e - m a i l , L o r i H o f f n a g l e , l_hoffnagle@yahoo.com, or Katie Hammaker, kahammaker@comcast.net, or leave a note in our mailboxes at church.

COMMITTEE MEMBERS:

Katie Hammaker and Lori Hoffnagle, co-chairs; Helene Briggs, Matt Holliday, Kevin Long, Patti Vogl, and Mary

Wagner

February 10, 2007

Nathan Christopher Erno Born August 19, 2007

To Michael S. & Amy (Behel) Erno

James Brian DeWire

Born January 21, 2008 To Tim & Linda DeWire

Page 3 March 2008 DEBT STATUS

First United Methodist Church — Debt Status (December 31, 2007)

T HE BUILDING CONSTRUCTION and renovation project completed nearly

ten years ago cost approximately $2.7 mil-lion. Through a three-year capital cam-paign, we collected more than a million dollars for the project. The church bor-rowed a total of $1,450,000 from the Cen-tral Pennsylvania Conference Loan Pro-gram to finance the balance of the project and to acquire the Wagner property on High Street.

We started 2007 with a debt on the church building of $708,600. During 2007, we paid $59,000 on the principal, leaving a balance on December 31, 2007, of $649,600. All of the principal payments were paid from second-mile giving dedi-cated to principal reduction. Also during 2007, we paid $42,179 in interest on the debt.

In addition to the debt for the building, during 2005 the trustees borrowed $190,000 to purchase two houses on Keller Street for future church expansion. The

outstanding balance on January 1, 2007, was $186,000. During 2007, payments of $3,300 on the principal and $11,119 in interest have been made from rental in-come. The December 31, 2007, balance is $179,400.

Total outstanding debt for the building and the rental properties was $839,000 on December 31, 2007.

Below is a history of our payments on the building debt. As you can see, we have not kept pace with earlier years in paying down the principal. This results in higher interest costs, diverting funds from other ministries.

The term of our loan was 12 years, so we should pay it off by 2010. That’s not likely to happen. But we encourage all members, especially those who joined after our capital campaign, to give generously to the Building Fund so we can reduce the debt and interest costs.

FUM Building Debt Summary

Year Beginning balance Interest paid Principal Paid Ending balance

2000 1,450,000 99,523 61,000 1,389,000 2001 1,389,000 96,516 144,000 1,245,000 2002 1,245,000 87,179 164,000 1,081,000 2003 1,081,000 71,119 144,000 937,000 2004 937,000 56,661 91,000 846,000 2005 846,000 50,200 73,000 773,000 2006 773,000 45,654 64,400 708,600 2007 708,600 42,179 59,000 649,600

Now I don’t have to worry if my offering envelope gets to the plate without being left at home or lost. No one has to stay to count my gift to the Lord’s work. The best part is that the Finance Committee and the Church has access to my pledge in a more predictable flow so they can plan better.

Painless Giving (Continued from page 2) Now I can give to the church in a fast, safe and easy way! I am now a part of the electronic age! I hope that you will join me in moving into a new way of contributing to God!

Sue Chapman Stewardship Committee

March 29-May 18, 2008

Page 4 First News First UMW / MISSIONS

Penny Report

There were 8,639 pennies contributed this past month for a total to date of $7,313.40. The church would like to thank all those who continue to support the African Well Project.

Annual Mother/Daughter Banquet

Saturday, May 10 Fellowship Hall

Look for more details in the

April newsletter.

Mark Your 2008 Calendar! DATE TIME EVENT LOCATION

Sunday, April 13 2:00 pm Spiritual Enrichment Day Adult SS Room

Saturday, May 10 TBD Mother/Daughter Banquet Fellowship Hall

Fri./Sat., August 15 and 16 Second-Hand Sale Multipurpose Room

Sunday, November 2 World Thank Offering and Mission Meal

Worship Services and Fellowship Hall

Saturday, December 6 TBD Advent Fellowship Fellowship Hall

More details on all events will follow closer to the dates.

CO-PRESIDENT Lori Hoffnagle 732-6430

CO-PRESIDENT Pat Sheely 766-3151

DEBORAH Becky Bubb 691-7680

ELIZABETH Patti Herring 795-9721

MARTHA Marley Ann Schmick 697-2233

RACHEL Leta Rohlmeier 432-3488

RUTH Gwen Hollinger 790-0265

Circle Leaders

Spiritual Enrichment Day hosted by FUMC along with other local United Methodist churches

Sunday, April 13 2:00 – 4:00 pm

Adult Sunday School Room

Our support makes a difference in the lives of children and their families in our local community!

Come out and learn more about the United Methodist Neighborhood Center.

Look for more details in the bulletin and April newsletter.

Spiritual Enrichment Day

Collections for the annual UMW Second-Hand Sale will run May through July. Look for more details in upcoming FUMC newsletters closer to the date. Collection dates at Mission Central:

Thursday, May 8, 5 – 7 pm

Thursday, May 22, 5 – 7 pm

Thursday, June 12, 5 – 7 pm

Thursday, June 26, 5 – 7 pm

Thursday, July 10, 5 – 7 pm

Thursday, July 24, 5 – 7 pm

Annual Second-Hand Sale

Page 17 March 2008 LIBRARY / BELLS

Ringing in the News!

March Library News

W ITH THE WIND BLOWING swirls of snowflakes against the window, it is

hard to believe Easter is only a few weeks away. In a more world-shattering way when Jesus turned His journey toward Jerusalem, He must have been thinking how short His time was left with His disciples and how much more He wanted to accomplish. During Lent, we symbolically follow Jesus. Many people observe Lent by giving up small sacrifices of favorite things to remind them daily of Jesus’ great sacri-fice. Others add things like more Scripture reading or Bible study to keep their hearts and minds focused on the Scripture. If you are adding reading to your Lenten journey, we have many books that might be of interest to you.

BOUNDLESS LOVE is a collection of devotional readings that shows God’s great love for us. The authors want us to know that God’s love is six essential things:

1. Boundless — never in danger of running out;

2. Fearless — unafraid of even the worst in us;

3. Stubborn — never willing to give up on us;

4. Lavish — holding back nothing from us;

5. Outlandish — proving its character in wild, unbelievable ways; and

6. Intentional — devoting every act toward our highest good.

This is an easy read with a great uplifting message that can benefit every heart.

For fiction readers, THREE DAYS by Melody Carlson is the telling of Jesus’ life through Mary’s eyes. Although it is a work of fiction, it is a book to make you think and appreciate Mary and her special rela-tionship with her Lord and Savior. Bible scholars have long debated whether or not Jesus had siblings. In this book he does, and one of my favorite parts of the book is when his sister says, “Mother, he is only Jesus.” Makes our family dynamics seem small, doesn’t it? When Mary instructs Jesus to help with the wedding wine — he doesn’t call her mother — he calls her woman. The author suggests that he is gently putting her in her place, but as his mother she won’t let him do that. Those are but two of the poignant moments in a book filled with emotion and love. Also, an easy read, you might want to share chapter by chapter at the supper hour during Lent.

If neither of these titles is right for you, we have many other Lent and Easter books to offer you.

See you in the library, Pam, Fran, & Donna

SCRIP ORDER DATES FOR MARCH:

March 2 March 16 March 30

THE BELL CHOIR would like to thank you for your support of our February pie sale. I hope your pies were as good as mine! We continue to fundraise, but are getting close to our goal for the International Symposium next August. Of course, then we have our 2009 Festival to work for…..

The next Hoss’s Community day for the bell choir is Tuesday, March 11. Please mark your calendars and don’t forget to pick up your card! These community days really are like a church reunion at Hoss’s.

Another date to mark on your calendars is that of our annual Handbell Concert. This year it will be Sunday, April 27, at 4:00 pm.

DON’T FORGET THE CHILDREN’S LIBRARY, located on the second floor of the Children’s Wing. There is a large collection of books for children of all ages, along with a wide variety of videos.

Page 16 First News First DISABILITY MATTERS

The Light Beyond the Darkness

What’s keeping you ... or a family member ... or a friend ... from participating fully in the life of First Church? Maybe ACCESS Ministry can help! ACCESS Ministry team members want to hear your unique struggles and work to break down some of the barriers which keep you from full participation! Complete the form on this page and place it in Lisa Wicken-heiser’s church mailbox or contact 975-0225 or wicks7@peoplepc.com.

What’s Holding You Back?

Aaron and I stopped by the church one afternoon to pick up some sandwiches which were being refrigerated in the kitchen. Since Aaron was in his stroller, we proceeded to the lower level via the elevator. The lights were on as we got off the elevator. But, upon entering fellowship hall, we were in the dark! We continued on our way....very slowly and carefully. Upon entering the kitchen, I located the light switch which made finding our sandwiches much easier. And, of course, before heading back to the elevator, I turned the kitchen lights off. And, once again, we were in the dark! But this time it was different. From our darkness we could now see the light beyond fellowship hall. “We just have to keep our eyes on the light to get out of the darkness,” I said to Aaron. Well, needless to say, we found our way to the light … to the elevator … and then home.

Isn’t that the Christian way of life? Keeping our eyes on the Light to get out of the darkness? God, in His mercy, has provided for us the Light — Jesus Christ. And it is only through an intimate

relationship with Christ that we are able to move through (and beyond) the darkness of life toward victorious living.

Those with disabilities (whether temporary or permanent, lifelong or later in onset) often find themselves “in the dark.” Their “darkness” may be private, may be in social settings, may be physical, cognitive, emotional, or spiritual in nature. When they are at church — amongst our church family — may they, through their darkness, see the Light in us. May we be prepared to listen to the unique struggles of those for whom participating in Sunday school and worship is a challenge because of a disability. May we be prepared to see others as God sees them. And may we be prepared to act in love to break down the barriers which prohibit those with disabilities from full participation in the life of the church.. In so doing, we will represent the Light which brings us out of the darkness. And God will use us to support others as they grow in their faith....moving beyond their darkness toward the Light.

~Lisa Wickenheiser

THE NEXT ACCESS MINISTRY MEETING will be held on Tuesday, March 11, at 7 pm in Room 212. Anyone interested in this ministry is welcome to attend!

ACCESS MINISTRY MISSION STATEMENT:

… supporting individuals with disabili-ties and their families by providing access to spiritual education, worship, fellowship, and opportunities to serve.

1.Is a member of your family disabled? yes no

2.Do you have a friend or neighbor who is disabled? yes no

3.What is the disability of your friend/relative?

4.Does he/she attend church? yes no

5.If not, would he/she like to? yes no

6.For your friend or family member to attend this church, what changes, if any, should we make?

Parking.

General Accessibility.

Deaf interpreter.

Large print Bibles.

Better sound equipment.

Better lighting.

Wheelchair access.

Special class for mentally challenged.

Special care for child while family is in church.

Other.

7.We would like to help your friend/family member. If you would like us to contact him/her, please provide his/her name, address, and phone number, along with your own.

Survey of Special Needs

Page 5 March 2008 NEW HOPE / SERVANT SPOTLIGHT

I T IS SAID THAT HOPE is looking for-ward to something with desire and

reasonable confidence. If that is indeed the case, then hope is something a young man by the name of Terrell radiantly exudes. Who is Terrell? He is a 15-year-old African American teenager who is on the honor roll and is a faithful attendee of the New Hope after school program. When asked why he is motivated to succeed in school, his response, “I want the finer things in life, and I know a good education will get me there.”

Terrell is one out of the twenty-plus students that walk through the doors of First United Methodist Church to attend New Hope’s program every week. Sadly, his perspective on the importance of educa-tion is not shared by all. The majority of the students that walk through the doors

have given up hope. How do I know this? The failing grades of the majority say it all. They say: “I’ve given up”; “I don’t believe in myself”; “This is simply who I am.”

Our goal at New Hope is to resurrect hope in the lives of young students. We know this will require three things: time, people, and prayer. Will you partner with us in prayer and help us in our efforts to reach this community for Christ? We believe over time, with the right people and resources, we can make all the difference in the world. If you or someone you know is interested in helping us achieve this goal, contact Logan Jones at (717)-329-3792. Thank you for the use of your facility and for your continual support!

by Dan Ramos

New Hope Resurrects Hope New Hope March Grocery List

Salad Dressing

Canned Ravioli

Graham Crackers

Cooking Oil

Manwich

Dry Milk

Beef Stew

Cleaning Products

Laundry Detergent

New Hope Update

The food pantry reached both its lowest point and its highest level ever in 2007.

224 different families are touched by this organization each month.

65 different children attend Kids Klub (located at First Church) with an average attendance of 22.

79 different youth were in the after school program with an average attendance of 36.

27 children were provided with a week at summer camp.

FUMC Youth Ministries - $900 was raised from the Souper Bowl of Caring program with those receipts going to New Hope.

W ELCOME to “Servant Spotlight,” a new feature of First News First. So

much happens at First Church on any given day! Community outreach ministries, Bible studies, and activities for children and youth, just to name a few. In addition, much work goes on behind the scenes, from planning weekly worship services to setting the church’s annual budget.

Much of this work begins within a committee or task group of dedicated members who meet routinely to brainstorm, plan and carry out the work to which they have been assigned.

First Church wants to recognize our committees and groups for all of the hard work they do. We thought it would be helpful for our congregation to understand more about each of them, and what they do for First Church. Beginning with this issue, we will highlight a new committee or group each month.

COMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEE

Have you noticed First Church’s name in the newspaper lately? Visited First Church’s Web site? Or maybe you brought a visitor to church who received one of the welcome mugs. If so, then you have viewed firsthand the work of the Communications Committee.

The Communications Committee's primary responsibility is to ensure that First United Methodist Church continually presents a professional and welcoming image to both the congregation and the public.

Media relations is an important function of the committee. First Church issued 16 press releases to local newspa-pers and other media in 2007. The releases announced programs like Body and Soul fitness ministry, MOPS (Mothers of

(Continued on page 18)

March Servant Spotlight: Communications Committee

Page 6 First News First ENDOWMENT FUND / EASTER FLOWERS

Plans for Endowment Fund Kickoff Underway

F IRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH has been named an official

“Welcoming Congregation” by the Igniting Ministry Team at United Methodist Communications. Congratulations, and thank you to the Hospitality Team for all of their efforts!

The Hospitality Team makes sure that First Church provides a warm and welcom-ing environment, especially for first-time guests. Their efforts include staffing the Information/Welcome Desk on Sundays, and providing the “red coat” greeters.

“This ministry is so important!” said Rev. Mike Minnix. “Greeters often provide

a visitor’s first impression of our church, and most people make up their minds about a church within the first 10 minutes of arriving.”

Igniting Ministry offers the Welcome Certification program to recognize local congregations for their efforts to actively and intentionally prepare to welcome newcomers.

“Our denomination recognizes hospitality as a vital ministry,” according to Igniting Ministry. “Embracing newcomers and providing opportunities for discipleship in our congregations is a lifestyle.”

(Continued on page 7)

First Church Hospitality Team Receives National Honor

PLANS TO KICK OFF the new Endowment Fund for First United Methodist Church are well underway.

Formation of an Endowment Fund Committee and a written Endowment Fund Agreement were unanimously approved during a church conference last year. Since then, the committee has been hard at work laying the foundation for the development of the Endowment Fund.

A kickoff event to unveil the new En-dowment Fund is tentatively set for early this fall. This will be our first unified effort to raise contributions for the Endowment Fund. The committee plans to time our fundraising efforts with First Church’s centennial celebration, which takes place in 2011.

It is the committee’s hope and prayer that all First Church members will embrace the Endowment Fund, and plan to support it now or in the future as able. More details on the kickoff will be available soon.

The Endowment Fund will be perma-nent, with the intention of generating valu-

able annual income to help support the church and its programs. This will help to ensure the long-term financial stability and continued growth of the church for future generations.

Members will be able to support the Endowment Fund in numerous ways. Di-rect contributions will be accepted, but special focus will be placed on securing planned gifts. Such gifts can include a be-quest to the church in a person’s will, a charitable gift annuity, or a life insurance policy naming First Church as the benefici-ary.

If you are interested in learning more about the Endowment Fund, please contact Bob Bittenbender, committee chair, at (717) 697-6257 or rbittenben@comcast.net, or either of First Church’s pastors, Rev. Mike Minnix or Rev. Lucretia Hurley-Browning.

All congregation members are asked to pray for us as we proceed with this impor-tant and exciting opportunity for First Church!

Easter Flowers

If you would like to place Easter flowers in the Sanctuary, you may do so by purchasing your own flowers and placing them in the Sanctuary by NOON ON SATURDAY, MARCH 22, 2008. If you would like to be included in the memorial insert in the bulletin on Easter Sunday, please complete the following form and return it to the church office by NOON ON WEDNES-

DAY, MARCH 19, 2008. You may also place this form in the offering plate.

Please circle whichever is appropriate:

In Memory of

OR

In Honor of

Person’s Name

Placed by

Will you be picking up the flowers?

Yes_______ No________

Flowers may be picked up after the 10:45 am Easter Sunday worship service.

Page 15 March 2008 YOUTH NEWS

WHAT’S HAPPENIN’

THIS MONTH?

Upcoming Events

6:30 - 7:30 PM SUNDAY

YOUTH CHOIR

YOUTH ROCK NEWS

Youth Spotlight

ANNUAL YOUTH PANCAKE BREAKFAST Apr. 19

40 DAYS CAMP OUT Apr. 25

CONFIRMATION HISTORIC TOUR Apr. 26

COMBINED RETREAT May 2-4

CONFIRMATION SUNDAY May 11

PSALM 150 SENIOR TESTIMONIES May 18 March 2 5-6:30

JH Small Groups SH YF

March 9 5-6:30 JH YF SH Bible Study

March 16 5-6:30 JH Pastors Groups SH YF

March 23 NO YF

March 30 5-6:30 Combined YF

CONGRATULATIONS TO HEATHER OESTERLING!

She was awarded the Silver Key in the Regional Division. This was in the category of mixed media. It was a watercolor titled “Bedroom.” The art was displayed at Strawberry Square for several weeks.

PASSION PLAY Mar. 19

EASTER SUNRISE SERVICE Mar. 23

breakfast to follow in F.H.

40 DAYS OF COMMUNITY KICK OFF Mar 29

PSALM 150 Mar 16

Page 14 First News First

Guess What I Learned in Sunday School!

SUNDAY SCHOOL

THE CHILDREN’S DEPARTMENT is eager to welcome you and your children to Sunday School. Sunday School classes are available for all children and adults. Sunday School gives everyone the opportunity to fellowship and learn more about God in a small group setting.

The Sunday School hour begins at 9:30 AM and ends at 10:30 AM.

MARCH 2

PRESCHOOL

The Last Supper, Mark 14:12-16, 22-25: Jesus gave his disciples a special way to remember him and all that he had taught. We can remember what Jesus taught us.

EARLY ELEMENTARY

Love One Another, Luke 22:7-20; John 13:34-35: Jesus showed his love for his friends at a special meal and gave them a new commandment to follow. We can show love to others.

MIDDLE AND OLDER ELEMENTARY (1-6 Grades):

CAMP SUNDAY in the Multipurpose Room

Blessed Is The King, Luke 19:28-40: Like people of Bible times, we celebrate Jesus as the Son of God. There is no way we can keep the truth about Jesus silent.

Prayer: Dear God, Help us never forget your commandments. We want to always share the truth of Jesus and never be silent about him. Amen

MARCH 9

PRESCHOOL AND EARLY ELEMENTARY

In the Garden, Luke 22:39-46, Matthew 26:36-46: Jesus prayed to God. We can pray to God anytime, and God will always hear our prayers.

MIDDLE AND OLDER ELEMENTARY

Remember Me, Mark 14:12-25, Luke 22:7-20: Holy Communion helps us to remem-ber Jesus and all that he taught us. Jesus gave us a way to help remember him.

Prayer: Dear Lord, Thank you that you always hear our prayers. Help us be ser-vants to others. Amen.

MARCH 16

PRESCHOOL AND EARLY ELEMENTARY

Palm Sunday, Luke 19:29-38; Matthew 21:1-11: When Jesus entered Jerusalem, people were glad and praised God for Je-sus. We can praise God for Jesus.

MIDDLE AND OLDER ELEMENTARY

Gethsemane to Golgotha, Luke 22:39-54: Jesus set an example of obedience and faithfulness to God for us to follow. God will be with us and help us, no matter what.

Prayer: Dear God, We know you will al-ways be with us and help us through every-thing. Thank you for your Kingdom, which is for everyone who believes. Amen.

MARCH 23

PRESCHOOL, EARLY, MIDDLE, AND OLDER ELEMENTARY

Alleluia! Jesus Lives! Luke 24:1-12: Jesus is alive. We celebrate with joy because we know that Jesus is alive. Jesus lives and gives love and hope to those who believe in him. God is more powerful than anything, even death.

Prayer: Dear Lord, We pray for the love and hope we have through the life of Jesus. Give us the joy to reflect this love as fol-lowers of Christ. Amen

MARCH 30

PRESCHOOL, EARLY, MIDDLE, AND OLDER ELEMENTARY

The Emmaus Road, Luke 24:13-35: Two friends met Jesus on the road to Emmaus. They were happy to know that Jesus was alive. We are happy to know that Jesus is alive. Jesus is alive and will always be with us.

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you for the res-urrection of Jesus, through which we can overcome all of our fears. Thank you for Jesus. In his name we pray, Amen.

March 29-May 18, 2008

Page 7 March 2008 WELCOME CERTIFICATION / CARING CONNECTIONS

We are called to love one an-other, in fact, we show our love for God by loving one another! Do you have a little time that you could spend loving and caring for a mem-ber of our congregation or someone from our community who has come to visit First Church?

If so, then maybe you would be interested in writing a note to some-one in need, making a phone call to reach out, providing a meal for someone who cannot cook or taking someone who cannot drive to an appointment. If this sounds like something you can do, then please contact Tina Eaton by phone ( 7 6 6 - 4 6 1 1 ) , b y e - m a i l (wecare@fumchurch.com), or see the Caring Connections display in the coffee area.

C A R I N G O N N E C T I O N S

All United Methodist congregations are invited to submit applications for the certification. To date, only about 200 congregations nationwide have attained the certification.

Congregations must fulfill several requirements to earn the certification. Requirements include having a Welcome

First Church Hospitality Team Receives National Honor

(Continued from page 6) Desk and weekly greeters, designated guest parking, name badges, and signage inside and outside of the building; offering transportation to church for those who need it and providing routine follow-up on visitors.

A letter of recognition from Bishop Jane Allen Middleton follows:

March 29-May 18, 2008

Page 8 First News First 40 DAYS OF COMMUNITY

T HE 40 DAYS OF COMMUNITY campaign is gearing up for kickoff on March 29. The Planning Team has been busy organizing and preparing for this exciting six-week

campaign. Small groups and Sunday Worship Services will provide opportunities for us to Fellowship, Grow, and Worship in love with our First Church family. Mission opportuni-ties will allow us to Serve and Reach Out in love to God’s family. Community friends and neighbors are invited to join our First Church family in this campaign. Now is the time for you to get involved and keep the unity in our First Church Community. Together, as the body of Christ, we will be BETTER TOGETHER.

40 Days of CommUNITY

Kickoff Celebration

T HE 40 DAYS OF COMMUNITY campaign will officially begin with a championship Kickoff Celebration on Saturday, March 29, from 5:00 - 7:30 pm. The fun will start

in the Multipurpose Room at First Church with a potluck supper and entertainment. We will then move to the Sanctuary for an important kickoff message. There will be a special pro-gram for the children after supper. Babysitting will be available for younger children.

Plan now to attend and bring 2 potluck food items to share. Reservations are neces-sary. Make your reservation today by:

(1) adding your name to the kickoff sign-up sheet located on the 40 Days of Commu-nity display table in the Narthex; or

(2) emailing Allison Ometz at ometz@msn.com. Be sure to include the number of people attending (including children) and any need for babysitting.

Small Groups

If you haven’t had the opportunity to sign up for a small group, now is the time. Each small group will meet once a week for a six-week period. These “better together” sessions will become a very important part of your 40 Days of Commu-nity experience as you read and discuss daily devotions from the book, BETTER TOGETHER, written by Pastor Rick Warren.

Hosted by FUM church members there are a variety of small group options that are offered at various days and times through-out the week. There are also several Sunday morning opportunities to meet with others and share in discussion. These Sunday morning groups will meet at different times and locations. Sign-up sheets for all small group involvement are located on the 40 Days of Community

display table in the Narthex. Each sign-up sheet identifies the small group’s host/facilitator, along with the meeting day and time. Hurry — sign up today!

The book, BETTER TOGETHER, will be distributed to small group members through the group host prior to the first small group meeting. A $10 donation for each book is suggested. The first week’s devotions should be read prior to the first small group meeting the week of March 30.

Within the small group, you will have the opportunity to FELLOWSHIP within the group as well as GROW spiritually within yourself. Additionally, you will SERVE and REACH OUT to the surrounding community through a mission opportunity.

Please Pray for the 40 Days of CommUNITY at First Church

Dear Heavenly Father,

We commit this 40 Days of Community experience to your care and guidance. Thank you for creating us to be “BETTER TOGETHER.” Teach us how to love and walk in Your love daily. We want to fellowship, grow, worship, reach out, and serve You faithfully. In Jesus’ Name we pray. Amen

March 29-May 18, 2008

40 DAYS OF COMMUNITY

“BETTER TOGETHER”

Open hearts within the church Open minds in small groups

Open doors to mission opportunities

Page 13 March 2008 CHILDREN’S MINISTRIES

VBS 2008 — A Beach Party! June 23-27, 2008

W OULD YOU LIKE TO SPEND A WHOLE WEEK this summer at a huge beach party complete with surfing lessons, great beach music, beachcombing adventures and so much more?

Sign up for a vacation Bible School leadership role, and you will be promised an incredible week of fun in the Son as you help our children surf through the Scriptures and develop new Beach Be-Attitudes!

“Let us love, not in word or speech, but in truth and action.” – 1 John 3:18

Vacation Bible School is a huge outreach event to children and their families in our community. Adult and youth volunteers are needed in all areas. Consider how you can use your gifts and talents to make VBS 2008 a blast. Teachers and helpers are needed for all ages and in Recreation, Craft, Music, and Snack. Contact Kim Vensel to join the VBS Beach Party, kidscount@fumchurch.com.

There will be a VBS Planning meeting on Tuesday, March 11, at 7 pm in Room 207. All are invited to come and participate!

F IRST CHURCH IS EAGER to welcome you and your child to Tween Fellow-

ship. Tween Fellowship is designed to support kids and strengthen their Christian values. During fellowship, there is time to be with friends and get to know new friends; there is time to play, to pray, to learn, to serve, and to grow together as a community of faith. Tween Fellowship includes fourth-, fifth-, and sixth-grade students and meets the second and fourth Sundays of the month from 5:00 – 6:30 PM in the multipurpose room.

Plan on joining us on March 9 and March 30.

N O EXPERIENCE NECESSARY! We need YOUR help to get ready for

Vacation Bible School ’08 in the crafts department. We have lots of prep work to do for the almost 300 kids and the five crafts that they each complete during our fun-filled VBS week in June. So, to help get ready, we are planning a Crafts Prep day on Saturday, April 5, 2008, from 9 am to 1 pm. You are welcome to join us for as long or short of time as you can! You don't need to be 'crafty' as we will be definitely doing non-crafty things like taking the wicks out of 600 tea light candles, or re-moving wrappers from 300 baby food jars. We also need ribbons tied to fish or-naments and magnets glued to another craft — the list is pretty long! Your children are welcome to help, too. We will have baby-sitting for younger children. Please contact me if you need childcare so we have enough sitters. We'll meet in room 216A-B-C where we always have crafts during VBS. Thanks for your help!

Michelle Coover, 432-3526, coov8@verizon.net

Fellowship

Worship Childcare Workers Needed

Looking for a place to be in ministry? Enjoy getting to know our young children while serving in our worship childcare ministry. Safe Sanctuary clearances are required. Contact Kim Vensel ( 7 6 6 - 4 6 1 1 , x 1 0 2 o r k i d -scount@fumchurch.com) for assistance in completing the clearance process and to volunteer for either the first or second service.

Help Wanted

Sign up now to help out at a Beach Party — VBS 2008!

Page 12 First News First CHILDREN & FAMILY

I F YOU DID NOT RECEIVE A COPY OF the Winter/Spring Schedule for the

children’s choirs, please check the bulletin board above the water fountain in the Gathering Area.

Please note that there are some additional rehearsals as Wonderful Wednesday ends early this year. Those rehearsals are at 4:30 pm on March 26, April 2 and April 9. On those dates, please bring your child to Room 216 at 4:30 pm and pick them up in the main Sanctuary at 5:10 pm.

While the season for the Wee Singers ends in April, the Sunbeams (1st and 2nd graders) will sing along with the Junior Choir on May 4. (Note that this is the first Sunday of the month and not the usual second Sunday.)

On May 4, please take your child to the Choir Room next to Fellowship Hall by 10:20 am. The children will accompany the Junior Choir to the choir loft. They will be dismissed to you immediately after they sing. The 2nd and 6th graders will be honored that morning as they will be moving on to other choirs in the fall.

If you have any questions, please call me at 766-0811. Thank you for the joy of being with your children each Wednesday evening!

–Flossie Ryder

Attention Parents of Wee Singers and Sunbeams

Camp Sunday Event

E XCITING INFO for all you Summer Campers! If you want to know more

about our camping opportunities, log on to the www.umcamps.org. Also, more info will be available live and in person right here in our own First Church via CAMP SUNDAY!

On Sunday, March 2 — in the Multi-purpose Room between 9:30-10:30AM — our first through sixth graders will be learning their Sunday School lesson in a unique way. Our children be presented with a taste of camp life while any questions that parents have will be addressed by those of

Help Us Care for Your Child

Help us shorten the wait in line to check into Wee Worship and Kids Wor-ship. We are in the process of creating cards that you may hand the greeter instead of waiting for the greeter to write down your family’s information. The card will be returned to you when you pick up your child, or the greeter can place it for you in your church mailbox.

In order to create a card for your child, we need your help. Please complete an “All About” form and return it to either the greeter or Kim Vensel. “All About” forms can be found across from the greeter desk. Thank you for your help!

us who have been attending camp for many years now — and wouldn't let a summer go by without signing up for camp. Come visit that day and see why we get sooo ex-cited when the Camping season comes around!

Do not forget that after March 15 the camping fees go up — so get your registrations in on or before that date! More information on registration is available at the tables in the Narthex along with camp brochures! If you have any question, contact Deb Noss at 691-5982 or sdppp@msn.com.

Romp & Stomp

For preschoolers and their parent(s)

Friday mornings 10:30-noon thru March 28.

QUESTIONS? Contact Janice Bowen at

796-0809 or jjgbowen@yahoo.com.

Floor Hockey for kids in 5th—9th Grade.

thru March 13 Thursdays 7:30-8:30 pm

Page 9 March 2008 40 DAYS

Sunday Worship

Our weekly Sunday services will focus on and enhance the content of the weekly book readings through Scripture, music and the pastor’s sermon. This sermon series will begin on Sunday, March 30.

An additional focus of the 40 Days of Community campaign will be to discover how missions (SERVING and REACHING OUT) are an important element in our Christian life. Small groups will be encouraged to join together in a mission outreach during the 40 Days of Commu-nity.

A Mission and Ministry Fair will be held Sunday morning, April 6, in the church Multipurpose Room. If you are currently involved in a mission or ministry and want to participate, please contact Tina Eaton at 766-4611, or at wecare@fumchurch.com to reserve a table. Plan to stop by and experience all the wonderful ways First Church is involved in missions and ministry. This will be an opportunity to “Find the Intersection of God’s Will and Your Gifts.”

Mission Opportunities & Mission Fair

All-Church Special Mission Appeal: “Giving” Life to Holy Grounds

First Church will participate in an All Church Mission during 40 Days of Com-munity. If you, or someone you know, have ever enjoyed time at any of our con-ference campgrounds, then the “Giving” Life to Holy Grounds mission will be of great interest to you. This will be an excit-ing opportunity to SERVE and REACH OUT. Watch for more details.

On Sunday, May 18, we will celebrate our 40 Days of Community during our worship services. The Sunday School hour will include an optional time for personal and group sharing of the 40 Days of Community experience.

Celebration — Sunday, May 18

INFORMATION MEETING for Facilitators of Small Groups for 40 DAYS OF COMMUNITY

"BETTER TOGETHER" Study

Choose from:

Sunday, March 9 9:30 AM-10:30 AM

Location: Multipurpose Room

OR

Wednesday March 12 7:00 PM-8:00 PM

Location: Room 105

These meetings will cover basic information and answer any questions about small groups during 40 DAYS OF COMMUNITY.

Contact Juanita Guise 766-2466 or kguise@comcast.net with questions.

March 29-May 18, 2008

Sunday, April 6 9:15 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

To participate and reserve a table contact Tina Eaton at

766-4611 or wecare@fumchurch.com.

“Find the Intersection of God’s Will and Your Gifts.”

Mission & Ministry Fair

40 Days Information Meetings for Facilitators

Page 10 First News First ADULT EDUCATION

“To Know Christ”

Philippians 3:10

Mark Your Calendar

Helping Hands Class

HAM LOAF DINNER

April 5 Watch for details.

Spring Adult Education

S PRINGTIME is nature’s way of revealing the promise of resurrection

and new life. FUMC Adult Education for the Spring Quarter offers various opportu-nities to reveal the same promise. These include the following:

FAITH BASICS CLASS is hosting:

Social Principles of the United Methodist Church

What position does the UMC take on gambling, the environment, politics, military service, and many more social issues? How does that make a difference to us as a community? If you are interested in this ongoing look at what the UM Church stands for and how that is a part of our decisions, you are invited to join this informal discussion group. Contacts are Darryl Ober and Margaret Eckrote. (Room 207)

“LOOK AT THE BOOK” CLASS is hosting:

Study of II Peter (3 weeks – March 2, 9, and 16)

Easter Sunday – a Special Time of Sharing (March 23)

BETTER TOGETHER /40 Days of Community – (6 weeks – Begins March 30)

This will be a one-hour study using only the book, BETTER TOGETHER. All are welcome. Please sign up at the 40 Days of Community table in the Narthex. Location of study to be determined. Contacts for class are Eric King, Marjorie Snyder and Juanita Guise. (center of Fellowship Hall)

SPIRITUAL FORMATION GROUP is hosting:

Living the Questions 2.0 (Began 1/6 ) — a 21 week DVD based group study exploring beyond the traditions and theologies which many persons have thus far experi-enced. Living the Questions 2.0 will help seekers to discover the significance of Christianity in the 21st century and to grow in a living and vital faith. For more information contact facilitator, Rev. Betty Fribance. (Room 204)

FIRST CLASS — Discussion and study group for college, post college, young twenty-something adults led by Steve and Glenda Norris. (Room B-006)

SECOND CLASS — Discussion and study group for “older” young adults who are in the working world. They study topics at a pace that meets their needs and interest. For more information about the current topic of discussion contact Kevin and Jennifer Long. During the 40 Days of Community the class will read and discuss the book, BETTER TOGETHER, on Sunday mornings. (Room B-019B)

Adult Quarterly: God, the People, and the Covenant – a look into Chronicles, Daniel, Nehemiah, Ezra, Haggai. Topics include: Signs of God’s Covenant; The Covenant in Exile; and Restoration and Covenant Renewal

STUDY FROM THE ADULT QUARTERLY is offered in the following class settings beginning March 2:

CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP – (All stages and ages) Room 125E

F. S. COULTER CLASS – (Men’s Group) Room 125C

GUYER CLASS – (Large Mixed Group) Room 125B

March 29-May 18, 2008

Page 11 March 2008 ADULT EDUCATION / SUNDAY EVENINGS

U-Turn Contemporary Worship Service

Sunday Evenings at 7:00*

Current preaching focus — “The Radical Vision

of Jesus”

Please Join Us!!!!

*Except for the 3rd Sunday of the month, which is the “Psalm 150” service.

Psalm 150

March 16, 2008

Palm Sunday 7:00 P.M.

The crowds that went ahead of him and those that followed shouted, "Hosanna to the Song o f David! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!". Matthew 21:9

This month the Psalm 150 worship service will center on hymns and songs about the Cross. Our pastors will share a message for this special Sunday in Lent.

5:30 Team practice. Babysitting provided.

HELPING HANDS – (Small Mixed Group) Room 105

MAE FETROW CLASS – (Women’s Group) Room 125D

SEMPER FIDELIS – (Women’s Small Group Study) Room 103. This class will participate in the 40 Days of Community by reading and discussing the book, BETTER TOGETHER, during regular class time from March 30 through May 4.

Additional Adult Education opportunities for the Spring Quarter include:

A TIME FOR PRAYER (3 weeks – March 9, 16, and 23)

During this time of Lent as we approach the Passion Week and the upcoming 40 Days of Community en-deavor, we offer this time and place for all who would like to come and be alone with their LORD and pray. For three weeks, the stage in the Fellowship Hall will be an area for you to come and pray, journal, meditate and be alone with God. God invites you to His table, and He will walk with you to the garden and pray with you. Come meet Him on one or more of these Sundays and experience His Presence. (Stage in Fellow-ship Hall)

“BETTER TOGETHER” 40 Day of Commu-nity (6 weeks — begins 3/30)

There are various Sunday morning offerings for your participation in the 40 Days of Community. The book, BETTER TOGETHER, by Pastor Rick Warren, is the study resource for this focused time of growing together as a COMMUNITY of believers. Please sign up at the 40 Days of Community table in the narthex if you desire to participate in any of the Sunday morning groups. There are one-hour and two-hour (with video) options available.

CALL OF THE DEEP - DIVING INTO GOD'S WAY OF LIFE (5 weeks — April 13, 20, 27, May 4, 18)

We live in a world heavily influenced by a culture that tells us to put ourselves first before other people. Our consumer-driven world is focused on getting ahead, obtaining a better lifestyle, having the latest or the biggest or flashiest model. It can leave us feeling that some-thing is missing. When we read the Bible to hear how God would have us live, we see how shallow our culture would have us be if we choose to follow it. To move from a lifestyle characterized by getting more and more "things" toward a lifestyle that is more relational is revolutionary. Imagine if everyone put more value in the relationship we have with God, we could literally change the world. Join this five-week study to explore ways we can experience a deeper relationship with God and one an-other. Each session introduces different people in the story of our faith and provides opportunities to learn from them and their experiences about living our lives accord-ing to God's way. Led by Kim Vensel.

Session one: Diving into Obedience (Multipurpose Room)

Session two: Diving into Kindness (Multipurpose Room)

Session three: Diving into Forgive-ness (Multipurpose Room)

Session four: Diving into Boldness (Multipurpose Room)

Session five: Diving into Belief (Fellowship Hall)

Spring Adult Education (continued)