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2019 Advent & Christmas Schedule & Events

December 2019

Sunday, December 1 9 a.m - Traditional Worship Service

10:10 a.m. - Sunday School 11 a.m. - Contemporary Service (The Well)



Saturday, December 14 9 a.m. - 12 Noon - Festival of Three Kings

Sunday, December 15 9 a.m. & 11 a.m. Worship Services —

Special Traditional Christmas Music w/ Orchestra, Contemporary Music, Adult Handbells

& Children’s Choirs


10:10 a.m. - Birthday Party for Jesus Youth & Adult Sunday School

11 a.m. - Contemporary Service (The Well)

Christmas Eve Services 4 p.m. - Traditional Worship Service

6 p.m. - Contemporary Service (Nursery for age 5 & under at both services)



CHRISTMAS MUSIC SUNDAY: “Joy to the Soul” December 15 at Both Services

Join us on December 15th at both the 9 and 11 a.m. worship services for “Joy to the Soul.”

This day at both services we will feature the entire music ministry of Helena UMC in one music-filled Christmas service. Each service will have our traditional ensembles: Adult Choir,

Handbells and Orchestra as well as our Contemporary Praise Team sharing in worship together. We will also feature all of our children’s ensembles as well as our new Youth Choir.

Together as one church we will celebrate the Christmas season combining all of our great musical ministries at both services!

T HOUGHTS B Y R EV. W ES S AVAGE

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We’ve all experienced long wait times whether in our favorite restaurants, amusement parks, or possibly the worst waits of all, in an over-crowded airport. I suppose you have eagerly awaited a number of arrivals in your life. For kids, Christmas seems to take forever to arrive. Our son seems to start his Christmas wish list in August each year!

Advent is a time of preparation and anticipation. The term literally refers to the “arrival” of the promised Christ-child, the Son of God, Jesus. Citing the prophet Isaiah, the Gospel writer Luke writes, “Every valley shall be filled in, every mountain and hill made low. The crooked roads shall become straight, the rough ways made smooth. And all people will see God’s salvation (Luke 3:5-6).” The people of Israel had been awaiting the promised Messiah not for 10, 50, or even 100 years. This was a multi-generational time of waiting which exceeded 400 years! Needless to say, many were ready to see the Lord’s promises fulfilled and were looking for God’s salvation.

What valleys have you walked in lately? What mountains seem to stand in the way of a life of joy and contentment? What crooked paths are you ready to see made straight? Ready or not, we will see God’s salvation soon! I invite you to join our church family as we all prepare ourselves through prayer, study, and corporate worship this season of Advent. I wish you and your family a joy-filled Christmas season.

In the peace of Christ, Wes Savage

WINTER WEDNESDAY KICKOFF:

Team Trivia Fundraiser 2.0

On Wednesday, January 8, our Student Ministry will be hosting

a team trivia night fundraiser for everyone in the church!

Form your teams and get to studying! Topics range from pop-culture, movies and music to the Bible. Teams should consist of 3-5 people

and the cost for a team to enter is $50.

There will be a chili and grilled cheese dinner that starts at 5:30 p.m. and the trivia will

begin at 6 p.m. Good luck!

NOTE: Children’s Fellowship Fun for 4K-5th grade will take place 6-7 p.m.

Nursery will also be provided.

Contact Jeff Moore at [email protected] or 205 663-0111 with any questions.

mailto:[email protected]


Godpods: Women’s Study #Godpods is a new adventure in Bible study that will feature a different Christian podcast each week. Designed to encourage and inspire you on your faith walk, the class will spend more time listening and learning from these authors as well as others: Jen Hatmaker, Lysa Terkeurst, and Annie F. Downs. Don’t worry if you are new to podcasts, we have everything you need to get plugged in! Facilitators: Michelle Hall & Heather Simmons; Cost: no fee When: Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m beginning January 15.

SMALL GROUPSDirector of Missions & Christian Education: Sherri Smith, [email protected]

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How Happiness Happens Do you feel happy? Only 1/3 of Americans surveyed said they were happy. How can this be? In this book author Max Lucado shares the unexpected path to a lasting happiness, one that produces reliable joy in any season of life. Based on the teachings of Jesus and backed by modern research, How Happiness Happens presents a surprising but practical way of living that will change you from the inside out. Facilitator: Linda Wolfe When: Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m beginning January 22; Cost: $15

The Parables of Jesus Jesus communicated deep spiritual truths through simple, vivid, and engaging stories. Woven from the stuff of everyday life, the parables of Jesus made the kingdom of God understandable and accessible to his listeners. This DVD-led study will give you new insights into his parables and their meanings that will help you to appreciate more fully their relevance for your life. Drop-in class. Facilitator: Steve Shadix When: Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. beginning January 15: Cost: book optional for $5

Simon Peter Peter was just an ordinary guy who heard and followed God’s extraordinary call. This six-week study by Adam Hamilton will help you to discover your special gifts, talents and abilities that God can use to make a difference today. Each session features a video segment with the author on location in Israel and Italy. Facilitator: Bruce Dooley When: Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. beginning January 15; Cost: $13

Fellowship Study This study group is for families with young children who want to fellowship with others and learn more about our faith through Bible study. The class lessons are chosen to help young families learn the practical truths and doctrines of the Bible that will help them grow together in the grace and knowledge of our Lord. Different studies are used throughout the year. Facilitators: Rev. Wes & Laney Savage When: Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. beginning January 15; Cost: no fee

Holy Listening Learn to listen to God in a new way through scripture, yoga and breath prayer. Take the time to slow down and listen to your body and in doing so listen to God. Each week features a scripture verse followed by yoga postures with a breath prayer for relaxation pose. This practice will invite you to develop an awareness and understanding of your whole self — with your breath, body and spirit. Beginners and drop-ins are welcome to attend. Each session will last a half hour. Facilitator: Sherri Smith When: Begins Wednesday, January 15 at 6:30 p.m.; Cost: no fee — bring your mat or towel.

Guys’ Bible Study Expect great fellowship, uplifting testimonies and meaningful discussion each week as the group follows The Upper Room Disciplines 2020 daily devotional book. The group will meet outside at the pavilion or in room 200 upstairs if there is inclement weather. Facilitators: Brandon Baker and Brian Henley When: Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m beginning January 15; Cost: $12

Holy Listening

With Breath, Body & the Spirit



Open Hearts Have you struggled with mental illness yourself, have a family member that suffers, or a friend that suffers? Then, this is the small group for you. This is open to both men and women. We will have guest speakers from time to time from licensed professionals. This is a support group to talk about daily life events. Facilitator: Heather Biciste When: This ongoing class takes place Sundays at 2:30 p.m. in room 126. For more details, you may contact Heather Biciste at [email protected].

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SMALL GROUPSDirector of Missions & Christian Education: Sherri Smith, [email protected]

Yoga In this class, the basic foundational yoga postures are practiced to align, strengthen and promote flexibility in the body. Full body relaxation and balance are the goals with a full range of motion for the body. The instructor gives detailed instructions for each posture so whether you are a beginner or more advanced, all levels are welcome. Bring your mat. Class is offered all year. Facilitator: Erin Roberson, certified instructor When: Mondays at 6:30 p.m; Cost: $5/session

REFIT Class REFIT combines cardio dance movements, toning and flexibility. The body-mind-spirit emphasis of the class creates an uplifting experience that lasts beyond the workout. Each session features a short devotion offered by the instructor at the end of the class. This class is offered all year. Facilitators: Alesia Aaron and Jenni Hodge, certified instructors When: Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m.; Cost: $5/session

Women’s Bible Study Looking for a morning Bible study and fellowship? Our women’s group invites you to be a part of the study that meets every Thursday morning. Strengthen your knowledge of scripture in a gracious environment as we seek to understand the Bible better, together. The group meets throughout the year and drop-ins are welcome at any time. Facilitator: Liz Ewing; Cost: No fee: bring your Bible When: Thursdays at 10 a.m. beginning January 2.

KnitWitnesses Our KnitWitnesses meet every Thursday to knit prayer shawls and lap blankets for those who are ill or suffering a loss, plus they also make plarn mats for local homeless people

Prayer Group Prayer is an essential element of a dynamic relationship with God. The purpose of prayer is to seek God and then listen for the grace to sustain us and the patience to keep going in all circumstances. Join us on Thursday mornings as we pray for the church, our neighbors and the world. The group utilizes the churchwide prayer list as a beginning point for prayer. Class meets in the Church Library (room 126). Facilitator: Joe Eversole When: Ongoing — Thursdays at 10 a.m Cost: no fee

Wednesday Morning Study Looking for a morning Bible study? This class is led by Peggy Scott with class study to be determined. The class will feature weekly study and ongoing discussions about the material. Facilitator: Peggy Scott When: Wednesdays at 10 a.m. beginning January 15. Cost: TBD

and children in Honduras. If you would like to join them they would be happy to teach you how to knit or plarn! Facilitator: Joyce Peterson; Cost: no fee When: Ongoing — Thursdays at 2 p.m. in rm. 120.

For more details about any of our Winter 2020 classes for adults, please contact Sherri Smith [email protected].





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YOUTH (6th - 12th Grade)Director of Student Ministries: Rev. Jeff Moore, [email protected]

Youth Christmas Party Bring your friends, your silliest Christmas costumes and join us for a great night of food, games, candy

and prizes. We’ll start at 5 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall.

TEAMTRIVIA

MYSTERY OUTING:

Broom Ball … so much fun!

REMINDER TO YOUTH: Team Trivia Fundraiser 2.0

On Wednesday, January 8, our Student Ministry will be hosting a team trivia night fundraiser.

Form your teams and get to studying! Topics range from pop-culture, movies, music and the the Bible.

Teams should consist of 3-5 people and the cost for a team to enter is $50. There will be a chili and grilled

cheese dinner that starts at 5:30 and the trivia will begin at 6 p.m. Good luck!

REMINDER… Our last Wednesday Night Youth

will be on December 11.



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CHILDRENDirector of Children’s Ministries: Cynthia Dooley, [email protected]

Wednesday Night Children's Activities6:30 - 7 p.m. — Different Activities each week: December 4: KidVenture (4K-5K in rm. 103; 1st-2nd grade in rm. 152; 3rd-5th grade in rm. 151)

December 11: Cookie Decorating Mission Time 7 - 7:30 p.m. — Children’s Choir for 4K-5th grade 7:30 p.m. - til adult groups end Fellowship Time

**NOTE: Childcare for age 3 & under in room 106

REMINDER: January activities start January 8, 2020!

Save the Date… Vacation Bible School

June 15 - 18, 2020

Our Trunk or Treat was a huge success with a great turnout

from our church and community…

BIRTHDAY PARTY FOR JESUS

Sunday, December 22 10:10 a.m.

Fellowship Hall For Kids of all ages

… and everyone had a wonderful

time!



SYMPATHYBlake and Becky Austin in the death

of their son, Michael Austin.

The family of Edna Kelley.

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COMMUNITY UPDATES

MEMORIALSIn Memory of Dean Averette

a donation was made to our General Fund by an anonymous donor.

In memory of Steve Wutschke a donation was made to our Music Ministry

by an anonymous donor.

In memory of Michael Austin a donation was made to our Backpack Buddies Ministry

by Alan and Deborah Given. In memory of Dean Averette, Francis Hinds’

sister, a donation was made to our Backpack Buddies Ministry

by Beverly Robinson and John McGraw. In memory of Edna Kelley

a donation was made to our Mission Fund by an anonymous donor.

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS

Year-End Pledge Reminder:This has become a special time of the year as we have each chosen to respond to God’s generosity in our lives in making a pledge commitment for the upcoming year. When we each make our pledge, we are giving our Finance Committee important information so that they can be excellent stewards of our church in 2020. It’s not too late to turn in your 2020 pledge! If you haven’t yet completed your Estimate of Giving for 2020 card you may email Sheila Thomas directly at [email protected] or you may place it in the mail.

With gratitude, Helena UMC Finance Committee

FROM THE FINANCE OFFICE:

Earl & Donna Strickland John & Maureen Mangels

Year-End Giving ReminderThe end of 2019 is quickly approaching! To ensure your contributions qualify as a 2019 tax-deductible donation, the IRS requires that they must be received or postmarked by December 31, 2019. Please note these specific deadlines:

BY MAIL The postmark date on the envelope must be no later than December 31.

IN PERSON Your donation must be received in the church office by Noon on Tuesday, December 31.

ONLINE GIVING Online gifts must be entered before midnight, December 31. Visit Helenaumc.org and click “Giving” to follow step by step instructions.

TEXT GIVING Text gifts must be submitted by midnight, December 31. Text to 205-379-8582 the amount of your gift (include the dollar sign before the amount) and then follow the registration link.

Place address label here

2035 HIGHWAY 58HELENA, ALABAMA 35080Office: 205-663-0111 - Fax: 205-664-9673

Our church mission is to make every day about Christ, through loving, teaching & serving.

Your Advent ResourcesWe encourage each of you to take advantage of the wonderful Advent Resources available

to you through our church. Families each have been given the “Come to Bethlehem and See!” sticker calendar. Cynthia Dooley can provide this to you if you haven’t gotten yours yet!

We are giving to every person a copy of our homemade Advent Devotional Guide. Our Vision 2020 Prayer & Spiritual Growth Team has once again blessed our church by coordinating the creation of a devotional guide written by church members. We are thankful to them for their work and thankful to each person who wrote a devotional. These will be handed out in worship on Sunday, December 1.

You’ll also receive a copy of the United Methodist Children’s Home Advent Activity calendar, which is a scratch-off calendar prompting you to a number of special and fun activities

as we approach the birth of Jesus.

For those that travel for work, consider joining Rev. Wes Savage in a Virtual Advent Study beginning December 1 at 6 p.m. This Virtual Study will prepare your heart for the Christmas season as your

imagination is awakened to the glory of God’s kingdom. Rev. Wes Savage will lead the class as a virtual small study that is available on an app or by book (no charge for class). The study is Protagonist

and is available at seedbed.com. To register for this Advent class, contact Sherri Smith at [email protected] or call the church office.

http://seedbed.com/


http://seedbed.com/


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