faith notes january 2014

FAITH NOTES Faith United Methodist Church

300 Ninth Street NW North Canton, Ohio 44720

Phone: 330.499.6040 Fax: 330.305.1600 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.faithumchurch.org

JANUARY 2014 Our boys, Eli and Atty, have been participating in the North Canton Playhouse production of "A Fairy Tale Christmas Carol." All the characters challenge Ebenezer Scrooge to turn his gaze from money to the wellbeing of humanity. In church life we have the opposite challenge - often we train our gaze upon the wellbeing of humanity and fail to lift up the ways in which financial resources facilitate God's call to care for others in Jesus' name. I am shifting my gaze as I stand on the threshold of a new year and want to celebrate what has been, what is, and what will be due to some very wise financial decisions at Faith. What has been

In 2010 the church gathered to discern the places where the energy of the Holy Spirit and our congregational energies intersected. That fall morning we heard God's call for us as we entered into a new decade in the life of FUMC together for the sake of the community, the world, the kingdom of God. That calling included:

Becoming a debt-free church so that all energies and resources could be focused upon mission and ministry.

Passing a balanced budget which would create a realistic and responsible financial ground from which to spring into increased vitality.

What is The finance team has passed a balanced budget for the 2014 fiscal year.

The Ministry Teams and Resource Teams have received the balanced budget positively with an eye toward joining God in innovating and maintaining excellent ministry while using resources creatively.

Through financial analysis of budgets vs. actual expenses over the last several years we have discovered that we have consistently operated within .5% of the projected budget!! This means that those who administer the finances of church and those who have been given the responsibility of utilizing funds have communicated well with one another through the year to keep expenses realistic. We can rightly anticipate the continuation of this healthy trend.

The balanced budget will continue to support our Apportionments at 100%. The Apportionments support the District, Conference and World-wide ministries of the UMC.

The Faith For Tomorrow Fund Drive to retire the mortgage debt has made very healthy progress toward that goal. At the beginning of the Fund drive the debt totaled $535,000. The remaining amount to be paid is $108,000. Thank you for your faithfulness to this goal which will enable greater vital ministry.

What will be The vigorus movement toward meeting financial goals set 3 years ago places Faith UMC in a position

to continue to faithfully answer other goals that God has in mind for this body of Christ that we may reflect the life-giving love of the kingdom of God. What will be? With God all things are possible.

Thank you for all of the ways in which you have participated in the life of a vital church in 2013. We look to 2014 with great hope and promise. We join you in celebration of all the ways in which God's love through this congregation gives life to others in the name of Jesus. Peace and Grace. Pastor Cara

Circle News

Home to American presidents since 1800, the White House has a long and colorful history. Come learn a bit more about its construction and its occupants. McKinley Museum's Kim Kenney never fails to provide a thoroughly enjoyable program that is equal parts entertainment and education. You won't want to miss this one! Date: Tuesday, January 14; Time: 11:45 am-2:00 pm Meal Cost: $4/person Program: Kim Kenney, McKinley Museum, The History of the White House

VERY IMPORTANT: Please call or email Betsy Douce with your reservation (330.494.3337 or

[email protected]) no later than Thursday, January 9th.

Men meet each Thursday at 7:15 AM at Susanna’s on Main St. in North Canton.

All men are welcome. No reservations required. Social

coordinator is Dale Walters.

Circle of Faith

Circle of Faith will meet on Monday, January 13th at 9am. At the Canton Christian Home

with hostess Jane Wells. The program will be “How to Pick a Wife”! Please contact Esther

Brunt if you would like to join the circle. 330-499-7293

Lydia Circle

will meet on Wednesday, January 8th at 12:00 pm in Robinson Hall. Watch the

bulletins for further information. Please call Emmajo Shearer for information

Circle of Love Circle of Love will meet on Thursday,

January 23rd at 7:00pm. We will have our pledge service this evening. Watch the bulletins for further information. All are

welcome! Please contact Patti Deems with any questions.

330-494-7168

From UMW

UMW would like to thank all who supported us in the cookie walk by either making or buying cookies. A special thank you to Kathy Myers for chairing this

event! And a Big Thanks to all who purchased our pies

and pudding.

Over 50? Single? All singles over 50 are invited to join us in

the church parlor on Sunday evening, February16th, at 6 PM. Bring a dish to share and a "white elephant" for the gift exchange. Here's your chance to re-gift

that gift you don't know what to do with! Friends are always welcome. If you have questions, call Bev Temple

330-244-8518.

First Tuesday Please join us to launch the New Year at First Tuesday on January 7, 2014 at 8:30 a.m. in the Chapel for worship, prayer, and sharing. Cheryl Froelich will be our presenter. Then on Tuesday, February 4th John

Buchanan will lead worship. Every First Tuesday we enjoy meaningful presentations and wonderful

fellowship. Many of us go out for breakfast afterwards to continue the uplift! Get up and get going on the First Tuesday of each month.

Thank you for Christmas Blessings Thank you for making our Christmas be an overflowing blessing. Your prayers for Steve’s sister Shelly, your cards, goodies and other expressions of love and support truly filled our home and our hearts with the Spirit of Christmas. We are grateful for you and we are honored to be in ministry with you. May we all see God at work in and through each other in this New Year as we strive together to see and be Christ. Sincerely, Pastors Steve & Cara

Canton Calvary Mission requests cereal/oatmeal for January The Mission feeds over 500 families monthly and appreciates all donations of non-perishable foods, personal

hygiene and paper products. A marked box is located in the gallery for contributions to the Food Pantry. Thanks for your generous support!

Our mission is to comfort those with the prayer shawls that we lovingly create and pray over. We always

welcome new and interested members. We have new yarn and extra needles/crochet hooks for

anyone who would like to join us. Come and learn to knit or crochet

from our talented and caring group. We meet the first Thursday of the month in the Parlor from 2-4pm.

This group meets on Tuesdays at the church in rooms 5 and 6. The hours are 9:00am to 11:30 am. We are currently working on crib quilts for the Aultman

Hospital NICU. Anyone wishing to help make these quilts is welcome.

Come join us!!!!!

Ever wondered about Faith Kitchen? Each month Faith United Methodist Church provides an opportunity for those in need to come and have a meal, some time of worship, and a chance to receive bags of groceries. Get involved in this ministry—a tangible way to share the love and grace of God. We are looking for volun-teers to help on Fridays with set up and Food Pick Up and on Saturdays in several areas! To help on Friday, contact Bob Yoder (330.494.0332) and Saturdays, Cheryl Froelich (330.493.4097 / [email protected]) or Glenn Vanvoorhis (330.495.8323 or [email protected])

Next Faith Kitchen Opportunity: January 25th at Crystal Park UMC

-30 Pairs of glasses for Glasses for Masses were sent in this past month. Thank you to all

who contributed.

-471 Campbell Soup Labels to

collected and sent to the Henderson Settlement in

Frakes, KY.

Faith UMC Food Pantry Needs It has been a busy couple of months for the food pantry here at Faith UMC and we are in need of resupplying our shelves. We can especially use the

following items: spaghetti sauce, peanut butter and jelly, canned fruit and vegetables, boxed potatoes, and cereal. Please put items in the bin

marked Faith Food Pantry. Thanks for your support of this mission.

A Community Christmas—Thank you! On behalf of A Community Christmas, thank you all for contributing to and volunteering for Adopt-A-Family, Giving Tree, Coats for Christmas, and the

General Distribution. You all make this possible. Sincerely, Jake & Lynda Lebold.

Sharing the Love of Jesus Without Words

A couple of weeks ago our family said goodbye to a wonderful woman who impacted her family, community, and world with the love of Jesus Christ. This wonderful woman was my wife’s grandmother and her legacy will forever be honored because of a tradition her daughter (my

mother-in-law) decided to start a few years ago. Nanny (as she was affectionately known by her granddaughters) also desired to share her love of Jesus with anyone she could through a variety of words and actions. In her honor we decided to instill a family tradition where we would be given money at Thanksgiving in order to complete a project in our local communities that would share the love of Jesus with others. Our goal was to have this project completed by Christmas so we could share our experiences as a larger family in her honor.

Read the full story at http://faithumc-refuge.tumblr.com/ Today, I would like to leave you with a question to consider about your relationship with God and to discuss with your students. “Why did God spend four commandments on our relationship with Him and six on how we treat others?” As you wrestle with this question I challenge you to think about how you treat other people, meaning everyone because everyone is worthy of love and valuable in God’s sight. Our story with God started over 3,500 years ago when Moses had a conversation with God on the side of a mountain, in which God asked Moses one simple question, “Will you trust Me?” We are given that same opportunity today as we remember “God places value on each person, and desires for everyone to be free.”

Youth Mission Trip News:

Our mission trip planning, events, and fundraising for our trip to Henderson Settlement in Frakes, Kentucky next summer are in full swing. Here are some ways that you can help us raise the necessary funds to make this trip a possibility.

We are currently distributing M & M tubes filled with candy for you to take and enjoy at your convenience. All we ask in return is that you enjoy the candy and fill the tube back up with change, cash, or checks and return it to the church. We also have our donation boards available in both the gathering area and outside the youth room for your convenience.

On Sunday, January 19th we will be hosting another mission trip brunch to support our team heading to Hen-

derson Settlement this summer. Come and get some great food and see our new team shirts that will be unveiled on that day!

Our students are always looking for opportunities to serve others throughout the year. If you have any questions

about our trip feel free to contact Susan Arnold ([email protected]) or Donny Bell ([email protected]) or Matt Hart ([email protected]). Thank you for your partnering with this life-changing ministry!

Confirmation Information:

Starting this month thirteen of our eighth grade students and two seniors will embark on the journey of Confirmation with their mentors. This will be a wonderful experience that will culminate on Confirmation Sunday, May 4th. On Sunday, January 11th we will be commissioning our Confirmands and their mentors during all three services. On that day you will receive a brochure with all of the students and mentors pictures in it. We encourage you to take this brochure with you as a reminder to pray for the Confirmands and their mentors during this wonderful season in their lives. If you would be interested in assisting our Confirmation program by providing a meal, helping with a retreat, or special event please contact Matt Hart at 330-499-6040 or [email protected] for more information.

http://faithumc-refuge.tumblr.com/

mailto:[email protected]




Troop 12 Update: January 10-12: This weekend is one that our troop looks forward to all year: the Annual Klon-

dike Derby Campout. We gather at Seven Ranges Boy Scout Reservation with other area troops for a weekend full of activities that involve team competition in the cold and snow. Troop 12 had the honor of placing first for seven years in a row…until we missed first place last year. However, we having been making Klondike preparations and are ready to earn back the first place distinction once again. Watch out, fellow campers!

January 17: Let us do the cooking for you on this winter’s night! Our first fundraiser for Troop 12 will be a Spaghetti Dinner. Dinner will be served from 5:00 – 7:30 p.m. in the Family Life Center. The cost is by donation and includes a dinner of spaghetti, salad, roll, beverage, and dessert. Any profits earned will help the boys offset their camping expense costs. As always, thank you for your continued support of Troop 12. We are blessed to be sponsored by such a giving and supportive church family.

MEMBERSHIP CARE

-Benjamin Michael was born on November 21 to Steve and Sonia Flechtner in Indianapolis.

Proud grandparents are Mike and Denny Flechtner.

-John Lothamer will turn 90 on January 9th -Miriam Shuttleworth will turn 93 on January 11th

We extend out deepest sympathy to: -Mindy and Matt Hart and family on the death of her grandmother, Joyce McMillan on November 21, 2013. -Suzie Thomas and Jennifer Radosevik on the death of their father John Dodge on December 8, 2013.

We received cards from: Virginia Bilkert, Kathleen Koteff, Bob Kuchner, Kathy Myers, Maxine Pierce, and Edna Bromley Thank You Notes are located on the bulletin board in Robinson Hallway.

Church Leadership Consecration Church Leaders, the date for Leadership Consecration has been changed to Sunday, January 19

th at all three

worship services. It had originally been scheduled for January 12

th.

Please be present so that you may be recognized and prayed for as you begin your ministries at Faith UMC

in 2014.

Honoring our Veterans In November at our Veterans Honor Service we introduced a Veterans Scholarship program for students at our church starting in 2014. Contact

Ron Lukart for information and requirements. Also, if you would like to make a donation,

send a check to the church office marked "Veterans Scholarship Fund”.

Report from Columbarium Chair, Jan Baker—Did you know? Eighteen persons currently at rest in the Columbarium Fifty plus niches are sold; we supply a signed certificate Fees are $1000 per individual and $800 for each additional immediate family member Fees include name inscription on brass plate on niche and perpetual maintenance of the Memory Garden Commemorative bricks are $125 each Sharyl Syler handles most of the arrangements and keeps records (the Columbarium Chair has a back-up set of

records) We have a sprinkler system for the garden (Dick Seeton operates) Landscaping is handled by the Trustees Columbarium Chair supplies a Christmas arrangement

Perhaps you have seen the Stephen Ministry logo on some of the available materials at various locations in our church. The logo tells the story of a care receiver's journey from brokenness to wholeness through the transforming power of the cross of Jesus. It serves as a simple reminder that it is not the Stephen Minister who restores a person to wholeness. Rather, it is only through the cross of Jesus that a person can be made whole.

The logo's most dominant feature is the cross of Jesus. It reminds us that Christ is at the center of Stephen Ministry and all Stephen Ministry relationships. The broken person behind the cross symbolizes how we are all broken people, broken by our own sin and imperfections.

The whole person in front signifies the wholeness we encounter through the transforming power of the cross of Jesus. It is only through Jesus and his life, death on the cross, and resurrection that we, who are broken people, are made whole.

The circle is a symbol of God's eternal and never-ending love for us. God's love surrounds us, holds us, heals us, with the cross of Jesus at the center of that love.

For more information about our Stephen Ministry program, or if you or someone you know may benefit from the help of a Stephen Minister, you may contact Pastor Steve, Pastor Cara, Pam Honnold (330.494.8650), or Ron Luikart (330.494.7570).

FUMC Core Values

Open Hearts, Open Minds, Open Doors—The People of the United Methodist Church

Worship: Faith UMC believes worshipping God is central to our being.

Growth: Faith UMC believes inquiring minds and spirited dialogue foster our journey of faith.

Lay Empowerment: Faith UMC believes the initiative of its members and friends is vital for the building up of the

Kingdom.

Authenticity: Faith UMC believes we are called to accept and genuinely care for one another.

Welcome: Faith UMC believes there is a place here for everyone to safely share deepest hopes, hurts, insights, and

dreams.

Outreach: Faith UMC believes we are called to extend Christ’s love to the community and the world to meet physical

and spiritual needs.

SCHOLARSHIPS! High School Seniors: The Fall 2014 General Board of Higher Education & Ministry (GBHEM) on-line scholarship application is open January 6, 2014 - March 5, 2014 at this Web page: www.gbhem.org/scholarshipapplication

Living Faith Contributors It is almost time for the 2nd Annual Living Faith Publication! This year, in an effort to be wise stewards of our budget, we are seeking contributors to help cover the cost of the printing. If you’d like to donate to this year’s book, all contributions must be submitted by January 5th. ($25 will include your name/business name; $75 will include a 2x3.5 space which can include your business card or a message; i.e. In memory of…) Thank you to all who contribute to the creation of this ministry book. Questions? Contact: Alison Wright at 330.526.8029 or [email protected] Carmie Johnson, Communications Coordinator at 330.499.6040 or [email protected]

http://www.gbhem.org/scholarshipapplication

http://www.gbhem.org/scholarshipapplication

Explore the Story, Experience the Bible

The Story Small Group & Sunday School Classes Sunday at 9:45 am—Faith Meets Life, The Story, Kim Reynolds, Bobbi Vine, Steven Green, Facilitators, W.Parlor Sunday at 11:00 am—The Story in Room 16 Monday at 10:30 am—The Story—Sandy Vaughn, Facilitator, West Parlor Monday at 7:00 pm— The Story Digging Deeper—Bob Kuchner, James & Terry Morgan, Facilitators, W. Parlor Tuesday at 7:00 pm—Young Adults, The Story: How Does God’s Story Impact Our Story Today, Coordinator: Sarah Snyder, Room 5 Wednesday at 6:00 pm—Dinner & Worship, Robinson Hall Wednesday at 6:45 pm—The Story Continued—Pastors Steve & Cara, Facilitators, West Parlor

Additional Small Group & Sunday School Class Opportunities: Sunday at 9:45 am—Faith Bible Study, Genesis to Revelation, Bob Snyder, Fac., Conference Rm Monday at 7:00 pm— Covenant Bible Study, Contact: Rob & Tory Christian, Room 16 Monday at 7:00 pm— Meditation Class, John Buchanan, Facilitator, Room 8 Tuesday at 6:00 am—Men’s Prayer Group, Contact Person: Ron Luikart, Balcony Tuesday at 8:30 am —First Tuesday Prayer Service, Contact Person: Jan Baker Chapel the first Tuesday of each month Tuesday at 6:30 pm—Women’s: James: Mercy Triumphs, Laura Luikart & Sue Bell, Facilitators, West Parlor Wednesday at 9:00 am— Women’s: The Holy Spirit for an Inspired Life, Linda Reynolds Facilitator, West Parlor Wednesday at 6:00 pm—Dinner & Worship, Robinson Hall Wednesday at 7:00 pm—Art & Spirituality, Pastor Steve, Facilitator Friday at 6:00 pm—Friday Night Out, 2nd Friday of the month (Develop the Heart Date Night), Tallie Paz Coordinator Saturday at 7:00 am—Men’s Life Study, Not a Fan, alternating Saturdays January 11 & January 25, Variety’s Restaurant in North Canton, Kim Reynolds, Facilitator

Interested in forming a new group? See Kathy Schmucker for ideas and to get your group on our winter schedule!

Want to learn more about nurturing your faith? For more information or questions about faith formation opportunities and resources or about starting or getting involved in a small group, prayer group, or Bible study experience at Faith UMC, visit our website or contact Kathy Schmucker, Faith’s Director of Christian Education & Spiritual Formation. 330-499-6040, [email protected]

New Year Prayer Station A prayer experience focusing on John Wesley’s Covenant service will be available beginning December 29 to guide us in praying for the New Year. Anyone interested in helping to create this experience, please contact Kathy Schmucker or Sandy Vaughn.


Sunday School at Faith UMC

“May the Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other and for everyone else.” 1 Thessalonians 3:12

Join us as together we grow and learn to KNOW, LOVE & SERVE the Lord!

The Story for Kids: Faith Nursery, Room 18, 8:30, 9:45, & 11:00 Babies and Woddlers (birth through age 3) are cared for in a nurturing environment where little ones experience God’s love.

Children’s Sunday School at 9:45 & 11:00 am, Following Children’s Message Preschool Ages 3-5 – Room 20 Grades K-2 – Room 6 Grades 3-5 – Room 8

Out of the Box Youth Grades 6-12 at 9:45 & 11:00 am in the Youth Room

Adults @ 9:45: The Story: Faith Meets Life in the West Parlor

Faith Bible Study: Genesis to Revelation in the Conference Room

Adults @ 11:00: The Story in Room 16

**Please stop by the Children’s Welcome Station near the Sanctuary and Family Life Center to sign in children, make their Sunday School name tags, and find information for families! Look for Family Devotions and Weekly Parent Pages on our Story website for suggestions and ideas to share The Story at home with your family!

The Story and Bible Study Resources

As our church digs into the chronological exploration of the Bible through The Story this fall, you

might be inspired to pick up your Bible and explore God’s word in new ways.

Look for Bible study and spiritual practice resources and resources to complement The Story in the literature racks in the hallways, on our website and

in our church library!

Learn more about Bible Study Apps, various Bible translations and the Wesleyan Quadrilateral.

YouVersion and GloBible are apps that enable you to download the Bible for use even when you don’t have

internet access. YouVersion has also recently released the Bible for Kids app.

Be sure to also check out the Faith Formation blog (www.faithumchurch.wordpress.com) for weekly

devotions based on The Story!

Copies of all versions of The Story resources are also available for purchase. Look for the display outside the

church office and Family Life Center.

Stop by the literature rack in the Gathering Area and outside the Youth Room & Family Life Center for

devotional resources and faith formation resources for parents and grandparents. Visit Faith’s Library/Media Center to explore additional resources to help you dig

deeper into the sermon messages and small group studies!

FINDING THE INNER CHRIST OF JOY AND PEACE

An Epiphany Service of Reflection and Silence Monday, January 6, 7 PM, Chapel

Christians recall “Wise Men from the east came to Jerusalem. For we have observed his star at its rising

and we have come to pay homage to him” (Matthew 2:1-2).

The word epiphany means “an inner realization”. We are also called to our personal epiphany of an “inner realization” of who Jesus is and what that means in

our life. Epiphanies are often found in silence and reflection.

Sam Purses and John Buchanan will lead a service of silence and reflection “Finding The Inner Christ of Joy and Peace” in our Chapel, Monday, January 6, 7 PM.

All are welcome.

Seeing Christ Being Christ Devotions: www.faithumchurch.wordpress.com

Seeing Christ Being Christ is Faith UMC’s 2014 theme. To help our congregation focus on this year’s

theme, we will be providing a monthly devotion centered on this theme. The purpose of

using these devotions is to help us unite as the Body of Christ, be intentional in reflecting on the ways God

is calling us to See Christ and Be Christ in our congregation and community, and to guide us in building relationships in and among our ministry

teams as we grow together as Christian disciples.

Friday January 10, 6:00 – 8:45 PM Friday Night Out

(Faith Date Night – Develop the Heart)

Faith UMC has a strong desire to focus on nurturing family relationships through faith. We

invite anyone: singles, adult couples (engaged, newly married or seasoned marriages) to come join us for a short program focusing on

nurturing family relationships, followed by an evening of childcare (ages birth-6th grade) while

you enjoy some time to yourselves to focus on the relationships in your life. Please register online at

www.faithum.weebly.com/friday-night-out-date-night.html.

For more information contact please contact Tallie Paz at [email protected] or Kathy Schmucker at [email protected] with questions or

if you'd like to be involved in any way with this ministry!

Weaving Faith Into Life Wednesday Night Faith Connections is a mid-week opportunity for fellowship, fun and study. The evening begins with a meal and worship experience at 6:00 pm followed by programs and studies for kids and adults.

There are several opportunities to serve on Wednesday nights. For information on how you can volunteer, contact Kathy Schmucker, Sandy Vaughn or Mike Hubble.

All are welcome! Invite your friends, come join the fun and get connected at Faith!

Winter/Spring Session Begins January 15 Wednesday Night Schedule 5:00/5:15—6:00 pm: Children’s Choirs 6:00 pm: Dinner/Worship for kids and adults! All are welcome! 6:30—7:30 pm: Faith Kids, Grades K-5 7:30—8:00 pm: Faith Kids Extended 6:30—8:00 Adult Groups (Please check the calendar as starting times for adults will vary.) Contributions to support Faith’s Wednesday Night Ministry are much appreciated to help stretch the gener-ous contribution from Faith’s Endowment Ministry Team which is enabling us to provide this ministry without cost to families. Look for the donation tags at the display outside the church office and Family Life Center!

-3 section plastic plates, paper dessert plates and bowls -paper cups, to go containers -plastic knives, forks, spoons

Can an hour or two of your time matter in the life of a child and the future of our church?

Impact a Generation with the Love of Christ!

Our Baptismal vows remind us of our call to do all we can to nurture the faith formation and spiritual growth of our children and families. Sunday School and Wednesday Night Faith Connections are two of the ways in which we have a tremendous opportunity to touch the lives of our children and families with the love of Christ. We have children who are excited to experience God and are still in need of a few volunteers to step up to serve as leaders and helpers so that we can nurture their faith journeys.

Preschool: 4th Sunday of the month at 9:45 and 11:00 Grades K-2: 2nd Sunday of the month at 11:00 Grades 3-5: 1st Sunday of the month at 11:00

Grades 3-5: 4th Sunday of the month at 9:45 and 11:00 Nursery openings several Sundays during the month.

Wednesday Nights Faith Connections Children’s Small Group Leaders & Helpers, Wednesdays from 6-8pm

Date Night children and adult small group leaders, 2nd Friday of each month

For more information, see the sign-up sheets at the displays outside the church office and Family Life Center or contact Sandy Vaughn, Kristin Krach, Tallie Paz or Kathy Schmucker.

http://faithum.weebly.com/friday-night-out-date-night.html

http://faithum.weebly.com/friday-night-out-date-night.html



Faith’s Education & Spiritual

Formation Ministry Team is excited to

invite you to check out our Virtual Store!

Visit our website and click on the special links to Cokesbury & Amazon! All purchases made through these online links will help support our

ministries!

Cokesbury

A Reflection As We Begin this New Year

I am no longer my own, but yours. Put me to what you will, rank me with whom you will; put me to doing, put me to suffering. Let me be employed by you or laid aside by you, enabled for you or brought low by you. Let me be full, let me be empty. Let me have all things, let me have nothing. I freely and heartily yield all things to your pleasure and disposal. And now, O glorious and blessed God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, you are mine, and I am yours. So be it. And the covenant which I have made on earth, let it be ratified in heaven. Amen.

Suggestions for using the Covenant Prayer in your daily spiritual practice: -Rewrite the prayer in your own words. -Make praying the Wesley Covenant Prayer a part of your daily devotions. -Pray John Wesley’s Covenant Prayer as you begin this New Year. Surrender yourself to the Lord and seek Him

with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength. -After praying the prayer, take one line each day and meditate on what living a life reflective of this line would

mean for you.

O God, the giver of all good gifts, thank you for giving me this day in which to renew my commitment to walk in Your ways. Help me to perceive the ways in which I can improve my obedience to you. Be present at all times, in every task, in whatever company I keep; let Your love be my compass throughout today’s journey. AMEN

INTRODUCTION TO MEDITATION Investigating Meditation as a way to deepen to Your

Spiritual Journey

Life is a journey which requires many skills. If we seek deep meaning and satisfactions we realize the need for

expanding our spiritual skills. Meditation is a spiritual practice which has been a part of the Christian Church

since its beginning.

Sam Purses and John Buchanan will lead a 6 week introduction to Meditation Seminar, meeting weekly

beginning Monday, Feb. 6, 7-8:30. Both of them have been using meditation as a part of their spiritual journey for many years. This class is designed for those who might be interested and want to know more about meditation as a

spiritual practice.

Meditation is about an inner spiritual journey to the deeper parts of our being, which we call our soul. In a real sense meditation is a unique prayer practice. Meditation builds upon your present spiritual practices and will enhance

them.

Peaking Ahead to Summer Ministries Vacation Bible School: Faith UMC has been invited to host Cokesbury’s VBS Showcase for local churches. Stop by the church on Thursday, January 23 from 4 – 8 pm and check out all the available VBS resources. This is a great opportunity to meet with our Christian Education & Spiritual Formation team to explore if being part of Faith’s 2014 VBS planning team is right for you! For more information contact Sandy Vaughn or Kathy Schmucker.

Camp Read-A-Lot: Plans and preparations are beginning to be made for this summer’s literacy program. Contact Paulette Baker, Laura Luikart, or Kathy Schmucker if you are interested in being part of this year’s planning team.

Donations of children’s books, especially beginning readers and beginning chapter books are much appreciated!

Faith UMC welcomes Sue Capestrain as the part-time Administrative Assistant

Sue grew up in Canton and returned after graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science from Ohio State University. She and her husband Don were married at Faith UMC by Rev. Barb Rich 26 years ago and have two daughters. Morgan is a junior at the University of Findlay and Mallory is

a freshman at Purdue. Some of Sue’s favorite ways to spend time include knitting with her daughters while chatting over a cup of tea, touring the countryside in Don’s 1978 VW Camper and running on the

Canal Fulton towpath with friends. Sue is excited about her new position as Administrative Secretary and looks forward to working with the enthusiastic and welcoming staff at Faith UMC.

The Part-time Administrative Assistant (AA) position was created after a 3-month study of the office and

program staff needs. While the position is similar to the part-time Coordinator of Congregational Development position (CCD) that Lauralee held, it is different in some important ways. All of the clerical/

administrative/membership secretary aspects of the CCD have carried over to the AA position. The non-clerical responsibilities of the CCD such as leading the Lay Leadership/Nominations Team,

organizing and leading lay leadership training retreats and designing and facilitatating new member classes are not included in the AA position. Those responsibilities will be addressed in different ways

through lay empowerment and pastoral leadership. The AA position will provide greater administrative/clerical support to all office, pastoral and program staff.

Sue will start on Monday, January 13. She will be introduced and commissioned in all three worship

services on January 19. Please pray for Sue in her new position and make an effort to get to know her and welcome her to Faith UMC.

Help Out Sue by Following this Weekly Attendance Reminder

One of the responsibilities of our new church Administrative Assistant, Sue Capestrain, will be to look over the attendance pads from each Sunday and record the names in our Church Windows program. In order for Sue to become familiar with all of you, please print clearly your first and last name and the

names of each family member in attendance. If you write “The Johnsons”, Sue may not know how many of the 12 Johnsons in our church were actually in attendance or even if they are from the same

family. If you only write your first name, she won’t know which “Cher” you are! Thank you for helping Sue to get to know you better by taking the time to provide this info.

Ministry Staff Position Open Communications Coordinator Full-time Salaried Position

The Staff Parish Relations Ministry Team (SPRC) is accepting resumes for the Communications Coordinator position now through Thursday, January 9. This position will start in early February. The Search and Hire Team commissioned by SPRC consists of Bob Winther (SPRC Chairperson) and the original Communications Coordinator Search and Hire Team: Kathy Fiala, Rob Christian, Tim Fuller and Aaron Stryker. Please help the church fill this position in the following ways:

-Pray for this process and for the candidates who apply -Tell your friends and family directing them to the church website -Promote this ministry staff opportunity to people you know via email, facebook, LinkedIn, word of

mouth, etc. -Direct all interested persons to www.faithumchurch.org for more information. You may also come

by the office to receive a hard copy of the position posting.

We give thanks for Carmie having served as our first Communications Coordinator. Carmie has advanced the church’s communications ministry tremendously over the 18 months of her service through further developing the church, youth and Faith Friends Preschool websites; creating an FUMC Facebook and Twitter account; starting the weekly newsletter “The Buoy”; building on Faith Notes and weekly bulletin communications; publishing our first and second Living Faith Publications; creating several informative, inspiring and creative videos; contributing to the synergy and enthusiasm of our staff and congregation and so much more. She has proved to us the value and potential of a full-time Communications Coordinator and she has paved the way for our next Communications Coordinator. We will miss Carmie in this staff position, but we celebrate that she and Kyle will become parents very soon. We also rejoice in their plans to be a continued part of Faith UMC. Our blessings go with you. Please look for bulletin announcements about plans to honor Carmie and her time on staff in the near future.

Tuscarawas District Leadership Training “Jesus is Calling”

February 1, 2014 8am-12pm

Westbrook Park UMC

All ministry team chairs are encouraged to attend this event. The church will pay the registration fee for anyone who would like to go. Registration forms are

located in the church office. Deadline: January 24.

http://www.faithumchurch.org

Worship with Us: Sunday Services: 8:30, 9:45, & 11:00 Sunday School: 9:45 & 11:00

Get to Know Us: Reverends Steve & Cara Stultz Costello, Co-Pastors Sharyl Syler—Dir. of Administration & Finance Carmie Johnson—Communications Coordinator Kathy Schumucker—Dir. of Christian Ed. & Spiritual Formation Matt Hart—Dir. of Youth Ministry Lauralee Stiffler—Coordinator,Congregational Development Jan Bilek—Treasurer Susan Arnold—Youth Anministrator Alina Dorto—Dir. of Faith Friends Preschool

Contact Us: Phone: 330.499.6040 Fax: 330.305.1600 Email: [email protected] Website: www.faithumchurch.org

Faith United Methodist Church 300 Ninth Street NW North Canton, OH 44720

FAITH NOTES Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage Paid Canton, OH Permit No. 1809

Mailed on December 30th, 2013

Volunteer Opportunities

Quilters/Sewers Tuesdays, 9-11:30 a.m. Rooms 5 & 6

Nan Davis, Chair

Faith Stitchers: Bring handwork

2nd, 3rd & 4th Thursdays, 2-4 p.m. in the Parlor

Bixler Library

Thursdays, noon to 2 p.m. Candy Ziegler, Chair

The Barbara Whitacre Prayer Shawl Ministry

1st Thursday, 2-4p.m. in the Parlor Mike Fletchner, Contact

Sewing for Missions

1st & 3rd Wednesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m., RH

WORSHIP IN JANUARY Jan 5 COMMUNION Pastor Steve preaching 8:30 9:45 Praise Team 11:00 Chancel Choir 9:45 & 11:00 Sunday School Jan 6 7:00pm Epiphany Service in the Chapel Jan 12 Pastor Cara preaching 8:30 Men’s Chorus 9:45 Praise Team 11:00 Men’s Chorus 9:45 & 11:00 Sunday School Jan 19 Pastor Steve preaching 8:30 Chancel Choir 9:45 Praise Team 11:00 Carol Choir 9:45 & 11:00 Sunday School Jan 26 YOUTH SUNDAY 8:30 Joy Unlimited 9:45 Praise Team 11:00 Joy Unlimited 9:45 & 11:00 Sunday School

WAIT!!! AM I HEADED FOR “FILE 13”?? If you no longer wish to receive the Faith Notes newsletter, please call the church at 330-499-6040 to be removed from the mailing list. Did you know that you can receive a digital copy? Email [email protected] if you’d like to be added to the email list! Help us to be good stewards!

Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat

. EVERY SUNDAY

5:30 Joy Unlimited

6:30 REFUGE

1

OFFICE CLOSED

2 All Day Prayer Stations

Through Monday Jan. 6th

2:00p Prayer Shawl

7:00p Preliminary 20/20

Vision Team

3 4 Scout Pinewood workshop

5 COMMUNION

Pastor Steve preaching

8:30

9:45 Praise Team

11:00 Chancel Choir

9:45 & 11:00 Sunday School

3:00 Confirmation

6 8:00a Wellness Class

10:30a “Story” Bible Study

7:00p Covenant Bible Study

7:00p Finding the Inner

Christ Epiphany Service

7:00p Men’s Basketball

7:00p Evening Bible Study

7 6:00a Men’s Prayer Group

8:00a First Tuesday

9:00a Library Volunteers

9:00a Quilts to Share

9:30a Celebration Bells

6:00p PLC Meeting

6:30p Women’s Bible Study

6:30p Worship Arts Group

7:00p Boy Scouts

7:00p Young Adults

8

8:00a Wellness class

9:00a Women’s Bible Study

12:00p Lydia Circle

12:15p Staff Meeting

5:00p Carol Choir

5:15p Cherub Choir

7:30p Chancel Choir

9

2:00 Faith Stitchers

6:30 Stephen Ministry

7:00p Stewardship meeting

10

5:30p Confirmation Retreat

6:00p Friday Night Out

11

7:00a Men’s Life Study

12:00P Confirmation

Retreat

12 Pastor Cara preaching

8:30 Men’s Chorus

9:45 Praise Team

11:00 Men’s Chorus


Confirmation Commissioning

All 3 services


9:00a Circle of Faith



7:00p Meditation Class



14 9:00a Library Volunteers


9:00a Safe Sanctuary Team


11:45 Second Wind


6:30p Worship Arts Group

7:00p Boy Scouts

7:00p Young Adults




5:00p Carol Choir

5:15 Cherub Choir

6:00p Faith Connections

6:30 Sewing of Missions

7:30p Chancel Choir

16

1:00p Alzheimer’s Support

2:00p Faith Stitchers

7:00p Trustees meeting

17

5:00p Scout Spaghetti

Dinner

Open to the public

18

19 Pastor Steve preaching

8:30 Chancel Choir

9:45 Praise Team

11:00 Cherub Choir


10:00 Confirmation

Brunch after all 3 services











12:00 Office Volunteer Lunch


6:30p Finance Meeting

7:00p Boy Scouts

7:00p Young Adults




5:00p Carol Choir

5:15 Cherub Choir


7:30p Chancel Choir

23 2:00p Faith Stitchers

2:00—8p Cokesbury VBS

Showcase

7:00p Circle of Love

24 25

7:00a Men’s Life Study

Faith Kitchen

26 Youth Sunday

8:30 Joy Unlimited

9:45 Praise Team

11:00 Joy Unlimited


10:00 Confirmation












7:00p SPRC meeting

7:00p Boy Scouts

7:00p Young Adults




5:00p Carol Choir

5:15 Cherub Choir


6:30 New Member Class

7:30p Chancel Choir

30 31

2014 2014

faith notes january 2014

Documents

church life

balanced budget

financial resources

vital church

financial goals

finances of church

kingdom of god

debtfree church