August 2014 Volume 16 Issue 7 Glimpses of Grace at Grace United Methodist Church Grace UMC Sunday Services Contemporary Worship 9:00 am Sunday School 10:05 am Traditional Worship 11:00 am 2113 Old Monrovia Road Huntsville, AL 35806 (256) 430-0003 www.graceumchsv.org Grace Staff Senior Pastor Bryan Sisson Associate Pastor Todd Noren-Hentz Director of Youth Ministries Adam McNeil Director of Children’s Ministries Darcy Bierer Office Administrator Vicki Sheehy Music Director Gianna Gimenez Praise & Worship Leader Doug Wright Accompanist Curtis Lindsay Facilities Manager Ben Allen Nursery Coordinator Kalyn Polatty Sign Up Now for 6 New Adult Studies Beginning in August! Wednesday nights: Religion & Science: Ancient & Modern Wisdom Meet Led by Dave Hickman and Todd Noren-Hentz Wednesdays at 6:00 pm, August 13 th thru October 1 st in Fellowship Hall Room #1 This course is intended to give you some insights into the processes by which God’s creation may have occurred. We’ll examine reasons for tensions between these two worlds, some of the great contributors to each field, and gain deeper insights into both worlds. Being a whiz in science is not needed. No text is required, and read-ahead handouts will be provided. Dare to Dream: Creating a God Sized Mission Statement for Your Life by Mike Slaughter Led by Pastor Bryan Sisson Wednesday Evenings from 6:00 – 7:00 pm, August 13 th -September 17 th Are your goals too small? Are you living the “just get by” plan? Or is there a greater God dream for you that if lived to the fullest could permeate and inform every move you make? Participants will learn how to develop a life mission statement that helps the fully commit to a God-directed lifestyle. Books have been ordered and can be purchased from Pastor Bryan at the first session for $12. Meditation Led by Chris Weaver and Phil Graham Wednesday Evenings from 6:30–7:15 pm, August 13 th - September 17 th **Note time – good option for those committed to helping with meal cleanup, making 6:00 pm start time difficult. ** The format for the ‘Meditation Period’ will include periods of reflective silence and both Scripture readings and meditation readings taken from the Celtic Daily Prayer. An action component as a living response to contemplative practice will also be introduced in each period. Both Chris Weaver and Phil Graham will provide resources for those who wish to commit and fully participate. Class Offerings at Other Times: Growing As Parents A Free, 6-week course on Sundays from 4:00 to 5:30 pm in the Craft Room Childcare & programing available for kids (great for parents with kids in GraceFull Singers!) Join us for a series of weekly, topical discussions led by various experts from the community, including Rocket City Mom, Jim & Holly Cecil, Rev. Jim Norris, Lysa Parker, and Pastor Todd. Let Your Life Speak Listening for the Voice of God by Parker J. Palmer Led by Christy Noren-Hentz Tuesday Evenings at 6:00 pm from August 12 th - September 30 th We’ll discuss God’s call on your life and how God wants to use you in Kingdom work. We’ll also discuss the problem of depression and searching for meaning in your life. With wisdom, compassion, and gentle humor, Parker J. Palmer invites us to listen to the inner teacher and follow its leadings toward a sense of meaning and purpose. Order your book through Amazon for $10.99 Childcare provided upon request. Children of the Day: A Study of First and Second Thessalonians A Woman’s Bible Study led by Mary Graham Tuesday Mornings at 9:30 am, begins August 12 th Join our Tuesday morning Women’s group and Beth Moore to walk the shores of Thessalonica with this verse-by-verse Bible study of 1 and 2 Thessalonians. See page 7 for more details on this study.
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Transcript
August 2014
Volume 16 Issue 7
Glimpses of Grace at
Grace United Methodist Church
Grace UMC
Sunday Services
Contemporary
Worship
9:00 am
Sunday School
10:05 am
Traditional Worship
11:00 am
2113 Old Monrovia Road
Huntsville, AL 35806
(256) 430-0003
www.graceumchsv.org
Grace Staff
Senior Pastor
Bryan Sisson
Associate Pastor Todd Noren-Hentz
Director of Youth
Ministries
Adam McNeil
Director of Children’s
Ministries
Darcy Bierer
Office Administrator
Vicki Sheehy
Music Director
Gianna Gimenez
Praise & Worship Leader
Doug Wright
Accompanist
Curtis Lindsay
Facilities Manager
Ben Allen
Nursery Coordinator
Kalyn Polatty
Sign Up Now for 6 New Adult Studies Beginning in August!
Wednesday nights:
Religion & Science: Ancient & Modern Wisdom Meet Led by Dave Hickman and Todd Noren-Hentz
Wednesdays at 6:00 pm, August 13th thru October 1st in Fellowship Hall Room #1 This course is intended to give you some insights into the processes by which God’s creation may have occurred. We’ll examine reasons for tensions between these two worlds, some of the great contributors to each field, and gain deeper insights into both worlds. Being a whiz in science is not needed. No text is required, and read-ahead handouts will be provided.
Dare to Dream: Creating a God Sized Mission Statement for Your Life by Mike Slaughter
Led by Pastor Bryan Sisson
Wednesday Evenings from 6:00 – 7:00 pm, August 13th-September 17th Are your goals too small? Are you living the “just get by” plan? Or is there a greater God dream for you that if lived to the fullest could permeate and inform every move you make? Participants will learn how to develop a life mission statement that helps the fully commit to a God-directed lifestyle. Books have been ordered and can be purchased from Pastor Bryan at the first session for $12.
Meditation Led by Chris Weaver and Phil Graham
Wednesday Evenings from 6:30–7:15 pm, August 13th - September 17th **Note time – good option for those committed to helping with meal cleanup, making 6:00 pm start time difficult.** The format for the ‘Meditation Period’ will include periods of reflective silence and both Scripture readings and meditation readings taken from the Celtic Daily Prayer. An action component as a living response to contemplative practice will also be introduced in each period. Both Chris Weaver and Phil Graham will provide resources for those who wish to commit and fully participate.
Class Offerings at Other Times:
Growing As Parents
A Free, 6-week course on Sundays from 4:00 to 5:30 pm in the Craft Room
Childcare & programing available for kids (great for parents with kids in GraceFull Singers!)
Join us for a series of weekly, topical discussions led by various experts from the community, including Rocket City Mom, Jim & Holly Cecil, Rev. Jim Norris, Lysa Parker, and Pastor Todd.
Let Your Life Speak Listening for the Voice of God by Parker J. Palmer Led by Christy Noren-Hentz Tuesday Evenings at 6:00 pm from August 12th - September 30th We’ll discuss God’s call on your life and how God wants to use you in Kingdom work. We’ll also discuss the problem of depression and searching for meaning in your life. With wisdom, compassion, and gentle humor, Parker J. Palmer invites us to listen to the inner teacher and follow its leadings toward a sense of meaning and purpose. Order your book through Amazon for $10.99 Childcare provided upon request.
Children of the Day: A Study of First and Second Thessalonians A Woman’s Bible Study led by Mary Graham Tuesday Mornings at 9:30 am, begins August 12th Join our Tuesday morning Women’s group and Beth Moore to walk the shores of Thessalonica with this verse-by-verse Bible study of 1 and 2 Thessalonians. See page 7 for more details on this study.
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Pastor’s Ponderings
“Continue to love each other with true Christian love. Don’t forget to show hospitality to strangers, for some who have done this have entertained angels without realizing it.” – Hebrews 13:1-2, New Living Translation Recently I have been in a great deal of prayer and reflection over the growth of Grace. In particular, I’ve tried to be more spiritually attentive to how it is that we, as church, can reach out to and encourage those who are new (as well as those who are “regular” visitors and members) to find their place within the Body of Faith here at GUMC. My personal time with God has led to conversations and discussions and meetings that all come down to one thing – a desire for the church to connect with those who are not yet fully participating members. No doubt – spiritual growth happens in worship, but what I’ve been more focused upon within the last few months is how is growth happening outside that one hour a week? How is it that we’re being called to help lead and inspire and encourage people to take next steps in journeys of faith and to find opportunities to more meaningfully/spiritually CONNECT with others? A few weeks ago a friend passed along an article to me that I found interesting. It touched on possible reasons why your local church isn’t growing, and it challenged the reader to consider reasons why churches who want to grow end up staying small. Honestly, the read was a painfully real look at the possibilities of why the local church might not be connecting with those wanting to join and grow through spiritual connection. What the author suggests is that what it comes down to is a willingness (on the current members’ part) to connect, - to invite and share love with someone new. And it doesn’t have to happen AT CHURCH. Often relationships formed outside the walls of the church building lead to renewed spirits within. Sharing a personal experience he writes, “We used to have friends over on Friday night to play cards. We would have dessert, tell jokes, and play games together. One day I suggested to my wife that we invite a couple who had visited the church to join us on Friday night. We did, and we had a good time in the process. During the entire evening,” he writes, “we never said anything about church or Sunday school or the Bible or anything remotely religious. But, do you know what? They joined the church in a few weeks. Now, he is teaching a class himself. And they would both tell you that they were not living the disciples’ life before they played cards and ate dessert with us that night.” Interesting experience: that new couple joined – they became more involved and had opportunity to grow on a deeper level – through a simple act of invitation. And not even to “church” at that! They were able to take a next step in their faith journey as a couple as a result of the invitation to connect.
And for me, one of the areas where we – as a church - have room to grow in our reaching out to others is through INVITING. We forget what it’s like to be new, we forget what it’s like to try to connect when others already seem so connected. Quite frankly, it’s hard – no matter how old we are - to walk into a situation as a new person and try to begin to make meaningful connections with the people around us. It can prove daunting. And truth be told, walking into a church for the first time can be just as difficult as being a young kid and starting over in a new school or an adult starting a new job. We wonder where we’re going to sit in worship...we wonder if people will even say “Hello”...we wonder if the whole experience will be a comfortable one and whether or not we will feel “at home.” And quite frankly, because of those questions and more, many people in our society today choose to avoid the situation all together. Church becomes one more “area” in life that they tend to avoid because they’re fearful of whether or not they will fit in. My hope and prayer for Grace UMC is that as people of faith we will begin to change that, that we will do everything in our power to encourage people into God’s house for worship and fellowship AND CONNECTION. And that begins with inviting people to attend worship with us, friends and neighbors we know are new or looking for a church home (How about claiming the challenge of inviting someone new to come worship with you this month?!?!)...It begins with SPEAKING and WELCOMING people at church, going out of our way to make sure that all who are new and entering God’s doors for the first time feel as if they have a place (How about claiming the challenge of speaking to FIVE new people in worship this month?!?!)...It begins with opening our eyes and hearts to brothers and sisters around us and, as Paul suggests, continuing “to love each other with true Christian love.” This is the challenge before us - offering, sharing, living out God’s call to love others as Christ first loved us. Will you join me in responding to that call??? I look forward to seeing you SOON!
- Pastor Bryan
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Happenings At Grace
Blessing of the Backpacks
Hey kids and teens!! Bring your school backpacks to church Sunday, August 3. During both services, Pastor Bryan will share in a special blessing over them during the Children’s Message. So bring your packs, and let’s prepare for the first day of school TOGETHER!
Exploration Classes Begin Soon!
Pastor Bryan will be leading a five-week class on Sunday afternoons at 3:00 pm for those new to the church and wanting to join. It will begin Sunday, August 3, and each week we will discuss topics pertaining to our faith and spiritual journey here at Grace UMC. We will meet in Fellowship Hall #3, and all are invited to come and learn more! Childcare will be available for those who need it - just let us know! If you would like more information or want to sign up, please contact Pastor Bryan at (256) 430-0003.
Church Workday On Saturday, August 9, Grace UMC's Trustees are heading up a workday to focus on cleaning up the church grounds. We will gather from 8:00 am-12:00 pm to work on trimming bushes, cleaning out shrubbery beds, and general grounds clean-up. All are invited and welcome to join in! Please bring tools (shovels, trimmers, etc.) and gloves. If childcare is needed, please contact the Kalyn Polatty at (256) 430-0003.
Wednesday Family Nights Begin Soon!
Join us for food, fellowship, and Bible Study for the entire
family. The fun begins on August 13 and continues through
September 17. We will have dinner from 5:00-5:45 pm.
Then at 6:00 pm we will offer Bible studies for children (Wee
BZ & BZ), youth, and adults. Mark your calendars and plan
on being a part of this special fellowship!
Wednesday Night Meal Hosts Needed! Can you believe it? School starts soon and so do the Wednesday Night Suppers! Food and Fellowship is looking for groups within the church family to sign up to do a dinner between August 13 and September 17. You will have help from a member of Food and Fellowship. Please discuss this with your committees, Sunday school classes, etc. and help us make it a fun fall for Wednesday Night Suppers. Look for the signup sheet outside of the Sanctuary, and choose a Wednesday night. For more information, contact either Nancy Jackson (256-830-0678 [email protected]) or Donna Evans (256-527-2414 [email protected]).
Calling All Youth and Kids in Grades 1-8! GraceFull Singers begins August 17 and we want YOU! We will be preparing a Christmas musical to be presented Sunday, December 7, followed by a church-wide potluck. Come and join us for lots of fun, singing, drama, and more. Rehearsals are on Sundays from 4:00 -5:30 pm. We will take a few holidays off; full schedule will be distributed after we begin rehearsals, but feel free to contact director Gianna Gimenez if you have questions before then. Dress rehearsal is December 6. Sign up on Grace's website, or at the table in the hallway at church. Can’t wait to see you!
Soda Price Increase Congregational Care uses the money raised from the soda machine to fund the Steak-Out coupons sent out to individuals in the congregation, cards, caring for homebound, fruit baskets, and any need in the congregation. Due to the increase in Steak-Out coupons, increase in soda prices, and the team taking on additional responsibilities, the soda price was recently raised to 75 cents. Thank you for understanding the price increase and your continued support to these ministries.
Outdoor Church
Grace UMC is sponsoring Outdoor Church at the Manna House
in downtown Huntsville in Saturday, September 6th, from
8:00 am - Noon. If you’d like to help as a volunteer cooking
food for the homeless on that Saturday, please contact Brian
The 2014 Church-Wide Picnic will be on Sunday, October 12, at Monte Sano State Park from 2:00 - 5:00 pm. Plan to join in the fun!
Serving Communion in Worship Would you like to assist in serving communion during the Sunday morning services and at other special services? You can sign up now on the bulletin board across from the kitchen at church. Dates are available from now until the end of the year.
New Banners for Hallway and Sanctuary We are in the process of raising funds which will enable us to purchase new banners to decorate the hallways outside the Sanctuary, as well as decorating the Sanctuary itself. If you would like to be a part, please place a check into the offering plate made out to the church with “Banner Fund” noted in the memo line. Thank you!
4
Family Life Ministry News
Men of Grace
Each week at 11:30 am various men from Grace UMC and their friends gather for lunch at a local restaurant to talk about life, faith, and our church. We rotate to a different day of the week each month. In August, we will meet on Tuesdays. To receive information about upcoming lunch gatherings, visit http://graceumchsv.org/mailman/listinfo/ mog_graceumchsv.org and sign up for our email list, or contact Buddy McMullin at (256) 683-4164 or [email protected].
Join the Grace Supper Club!
It’s time to sign up for the 2014-2015 Grace Supper Club. Our monthly small group meals will be held from September 2014 through May 2015 at a local home or restaurant selected by the host. GSC is a low-commitment, low-stress way to get to know other people in our congregation a little bit better. There are no prerequisites, and anyone can participate either as an individual or as a family.
Everyone at Grace UMC is welcome to participate in this great fellowship opportunity. and for 2014 we’re adding a Substitute List for people who feel they cannot participate in every scheduled GSC but who would still like to participate occasionally.
See the sign-up table at Grace or contact Jim Marconnet at (256) 772-3946 or [email protected] for full information. We need everyone to register by mid August in order to get the small groups and hosts assigned so that monthly meals can start in September.
Grace Disc Golf Association
The Family Life Ministries Team has started the Grace Disc
Golf Association. It’s for all ages and skill levels. Disc Golf
is free to play and easy to learn. If you don’t have your own
discs, we’ve got some to share. On the last Sunday of each
month through September, we’ll gather for lunch somewhere
quick at noon and at a different Disc Golf course at 1:00 pm.
So join us for lunch, or just join us at the course. If it is
raining, we will not meet. Our next outing will be on
Sunday, August 31. We’ll eat at Schlotsky’s (University
We have Pick-up Basketball every Wednesday evening at 7:30 pm in the gym. Interested in staying informed about Pick-up Basketball? Ask Pastor Todd to put you on the email list! We also have a Facebook and Twitter for basketball if you’d like to keep up that way Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GraceUMCBB Twitter: @GraceUMCBB
Grace Family Fun Fly
Sunday, August 3, from 1:00 - 4:00 pm
We fun-loving pilots, spectators, family, and friends get together in the Grace Ministry Center Gym once a month to fly our small indoor electric radio-controlled airplanes, helicopters, and multi-copters. New pilots, experienced pilots, and spectators of all ages are always welcome to sport fly for fun. We have several small electric R/C race cars available for
younger children to drive, without cost or obligation. Contact Jim Marconnet at [email protected] or (256) 772-3946 for more information.
Grace Golf Association
The Grace Golf Association (GGA) is an informal golf group open to all members and friends of Grace United Methodist Church. Our mission is simple: enjoy Christian fellowship and friendly competition playing a game we enjoy. Men and women, juniors, seniors, hackers, and scratch players are all welcome.
GGA plays once per month between March and October. Contact Scott Kowerduck ([email protected]) for more information or to get on the email list for information pertaining to GGA events. The next GGA outing will be on Saturday, August 23, to Joe Wheeler State Park in Northwest Alabama.
Parents’ Night Out
PNO is for infants and children up to 5th Grade and is conducted on select Friday evenings. PNO is a “drop-in” type program and is open for participating parents and children between 5:00 and 10:00 pm. PNO relies upon adult volunteers, paid nursery staff, and youth helpers. We hope you will invite your friends, neighbors, and co-workers to be a part of this program.
The next scheduled PNO is Friday, September 26, from 5:00 to 10:00 pm and costs $10 per child, with a $20 family maximum. Children 5 and under are asked to be picked up by 9:00 pm. You can register online at www.graceumchsv.org/pno.
Our final PNO date for 2014 is Friday, December 5.
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Missions
Missions That We Regularly Support
with Donations:
Huntsville Assistance Program – Food donations
Blount Hospitality House – Personal-sized toiletry items
Redbird Community – Soup barcodes from Campbell’s
Labels for Education
Ronald McDonald House – Pop tabs from soda cans
New Futures Homeless Shelter – Monetary donations
Volunteer Your Time with
These Important Ministries:
Salvation Army Soup Kitchen – Make sandwiches at Grace at
8:30 am on Mondays, August 11 & 25
Contact: Imogene Johns, (256) 837-0324
Meals-on-Wheels – Meet at the Huntsville Senior Center on
Drake at 10:15 am on Friday, August 15,
to serve meals to the homebound.
Contact: Donna Evans, (256) 420-6401
Wheelchair Ramp Installation – Meet at the church at
8:30 am on Saturday, August 9.
Contact: Chuck Evans, (256) 527-2413
Please note: Chuck reports that the
ramp being installed this month is
fairly large, and that extra help is
needed.
Huntsville Assistance Program Needs HAP is in need of donations to help those without enough food in our area. In an attempt to bring awareness and reminders to everyone, we highlight the most needed items in the newsletter each month. For August we are requesting
soap, shampoo, and Kleenex. Please bring your non-expired, non-perishable food items to the Joel Curry Food Pantry in Fellowship Hall #3. Mark out the barcodes before putting them in the pantry.
Please note: The food pantry at HAP is always in need of basic food items. We ask for additional non-food items because individuals can not use Food Stamps to purchase any paper products or soap products.
Meals to Grow - Backpack Food Program
Our community has a great number of children who
don’t get enough to eat at home. During the school
year, the free lunch program helps provide for these
children during the week, but the weekend can seem
very long when you are hungry. Trinity United Methodist
Church in Huntsville started addressing this problem in 2008
with the Meals to Grow program (www.mealstogrow.org).
Every Friday, bags of food are placed inside the backpacks of
children at high risk of hunger during the weekend. In 2012,
we began collecting and packing food at Grace to contribute
to the great need at University Place Elementary School.
As the program has grown, we have been able to serve other
schools. In 2013, we began serving children next door at
Providence Elementary School, and students at Montview
Elementary School. It’s humbling to see the gratitude of the
children, teachers, principals, and staff at each of the schools.
The children’s eyes grow wide with delight when they see us
bringing in food. The team of people working at the school,
who know the needs better than anyone, thank us endlessly. I
am grateful our congregation has been so generous
responding to the need.
If you are called to serve in this ministry, there are many ways
to help. We always need food, monetary donations, and
prayer. We need help packing bags, too. Contact Rachael
We resume packing on the 3rd Monday of every month at 6:00
pm starting on August 18. We owe a special thank you to the
children at VBS this year! They collected over 800 items for
this mission to give us a great start on the new school year!
Thanks, Grace Kids!!!
The following items are needed for each bag:
1 Pop-top can of soup with meat (such as Progresso, Chunky, etc.)
1 Pop-top canned meal (such as Chef Boyardee Ravioli, etc.)
1 Fruit cup or pop-top can of fruit
2 Packages of peanut butter crackers or cheese crackers
2 Individual sized boxes of cereal or 2 cereal bars (or breakfast product)
4 Healty snacks (such as granola bars, Cheez-Its, packages of crackers, fruit snacks, Rice Krispie Treats, raisins, Sun Chips, etc.
1 Shelf-stable milk in juice-box size (such as Yoohoo! Or Hersheys, etc.)
6
Join the Fun at Grace
Literary Ladies
All women of the church are invited to join the Literary Ladies in their monthly discussion
of a book. They meet the third Monday of each month at 10:00 am. Nursery care can be made available if needed. For more information, contact Callie Vincent at (256) 539-9870 or [email protected].
Our upcoming books are:
August 18: “A Good Man: Rediscovering my Father, Sargent Shriver” by Mark Shriver Please read and come discuss “A Good Man” with us, no matter what your political persuasion. Written by his son, this is a personal, inspiring, funny, and sad look at the life of Sargent Shriver who was a good man of great faith, hope, and love who did a lot for our country.
September 15: “A Call to Action: Women, Religion, Violence and Power” by Jimmy Carter
GraceFull Players/GraceFull Players Dancers
Luncheon on Sunday, August 10 Our next GraceFull Players/Dancers luncheon will be on Sunday, August 10, after the second service at 12:00 pm. Please plan to join us and bring a covered-dish for lunch, fellowship and planning. Discover the wonderful ways you can give and receive through our ministry of sacred dance and drama. We would love to see some new faces involved! For more information, contact either Shannon Rosenthal at [email protected] or (256) 895-0253, or Susan Allen at (256) 895-9191 or [email protected].
Scrapbook/Craft Night
The Scrapping/Crafters will meet at the church on Friday, August 8 from 5:00 - 11:00 pm. We would love to see you there. It’s always a good time of food and fellowship. You can come for the entire time or for only part of the time. Please join us and bring a snack and beverage to share. Feel free to bring a friend or two or three, and enjoy this time together. For more information, contact Susan Brown at (256) 722-3898 or [email protected].
Grace United Methodist Women Friendship Circle News
The Grace United Methodist Women will have their August meeting on Thursday, August 28, at noon. All are invited to bring a sack lunch and join us! A dessert will be furnished. For further information, contact Betty Lawson at (256) 837-2824.
Fun Timers News
Overview of Our Last Meeting
The FunTimers met at the church July 14. We had a special guest, lots of fellowship, and some tasty snacks. Our special guest was our Associate Pastor, Todd Noren-Heniz. Todd shared with the group his journey to becoming a United Methodist minister. Todd was brought up in the Baptist faith, and it wasn’t easy to make the decision to change.
As most of you know Todd is married to Christy who is also a minister, and she is the pastor of a church in Huntsville. They have one son, Carter. Carter is very active in all of the activities of the church. You will see him most often as an acolyte in the morning service.
Todd brings to the church a lot a serious wisdom but also, he is very funny and loves to make people laugh. We can all say, THANKS!!
Upcoming Meeting Join us on Monday, August 11, when our guest speaker will be our County Commission Chairman, Dale Strong. This will be a great opportunity to learn more about Dale, things that are
happening in our county, ask questions, and enjoy a time of fellowship!
You don’t have to be a member of the Fun Timers to go with us on trips, but you do need to be fun-loving regardless of your age! Come join us! For more information, contact Callie Vincent at (256) 539-9870 or [email protected].
Christmas Card Class There will be a Christmas card class at the church on Saturday, August 9 at 9:00 am. Participants will get a stamp set, a punch, adhesive, and make a dozen cards for $45. There will also be a raffle with nice prizes in which all of the raffle proceeds go to the New Futures home. Contact Marsha Hosner at (256) 771-0025 if you would like to participate.
New Planters Special thanks to the Green Team for paying for and having installed the beautiful planters at the church front door and around the sign at the street. We appreciate our gift of beautifying the church grounds!
Upcoming Women's Bible Study Begins Tuesday, August 12, at 9:30 am
Join our Tuesday morning Women's group and Beth Moore to walk the shores of Thessalonica with this verse-by-verse Bible study of 1 and 2 Thessalonians. During this nine week study, you'll learn how to let go of past mistakes and discover your circumstances are not coincidental - God's timing is impeccable! Whether you're facing family crises, medical diagnoses, relationship troubles, doubts, or fears, you'll come away encouraged that even though it may not feel that way, you are exactly where Christ wants you to be! All are welcome- this is a great opportunity to invite your friends and neighbors to share in the learning, joy and friendship of our group! Study guides are available at the Lifeway Christian Bookstore. Childcare can be made available- but Mary will need to know if you need it. Please call her and let her know so she can coordinate with the nursery staff. Please call or email Mary Graham at (256) 424-3835 or [email protected] with any questions.
The Children of Grace Need You! Have you lived in another country? Are you willing to share your experiences? We are looking for Grace members or friends to come and share their life experiences with the children of Grace. We ask that you talk to the kids for 20 minutes one Wednesday night. You can share your experiences; games you play; songs you sing; and favorite places to go. What a wonderful gift it would be to them, so please consider sharing in this special way!
Mission Madness is starting soon. Contact Holly Cecil at [email protected] if you would like to help.
New Baby! Congratulations to Nathan & Katie Rigoni on the birth of Charlotte Elliana Rigoni on July 19, 2014. Charlotte weighed 8 lbs.13 oz. and was 19½ inches long. Welcome, Charlotte!
Recent Baptism We celebrate with Nancy Horvath on her recent baptism and
profession of faith on Sunday, July 27! Congratulations to you, Nancy!
Memorial & Honorary Gifts to Grace
Banner Fund
In memory of Juanita Owen’s mother
- given by Maryann Golson
In memory of Mandy Mitchell’s Nana
- given by Maryann Golson
General Fund
In memory of Juanita Owen’s mother
- given by Dell Segler
Green Team
In honor of the Wheelchair Ramp Team
- given by Larry & Denise Pelham
Imagine No More Malaria
In memory of Fran Goodrich
- given by Anonymous
*To make a memorial or honorary gift, please make checks
payable to Grace UMC. On the memo line, list the name of
the person being honored or memorialized, and the fund in
which you wish the money to be deposited.
Prayer Concerns: Helen Matthews, Joann Wiemers, Jim Martin, Martha Rothermel, Herb Goodrich, and Stacey McIntyre.
Due to budget cutbacks, we’ve eliminated all fact checking from the Grace Youth Times. Therefore, you may not be able to believe anything you read on this page.
LIVING STONES TRIP LABOR DAY WEEKEND – HUNTSVILLE, AL – The youth of Grace UMC are headed to Camp Living Stones in Engelwood, TN August 30 – September 1. The trip costs $165 per person, due by August 24. A $30 deposit is due by August 3 to reserve a spot.
Students are excited to return to Living Stones. “It’s tradition, you know. We always go and it’s a great time.” says one Sr. High student. “This time last year, I was warned that a mutiny was planned if we didn’t go to Living Stones,” says Youth Director Adam McNeil. “This year, I got us signed up early and we’ve planned all the fun stuff the students love.”
The weekend includes high and low ropes courses, zip lining, white water rafting, and a new element the students haven’t experienced before.
Go to youth.graceumchsv.org for more info, signupgenius.com/go/10C0D4CABAA29ABF85-living to sign up.
YOUTH TO STUDY ZOMBIES, PASTOR CONCERNED – HUNTSVILLE, AL – Pastor Bryan Sisson is concerned about the youth of his church. “They’re just so interested in zombies, it has me worried. I understand that they plan to study zombies this fall on Wednesday nights. [Youth Director] Adam assures me that the study is Biblically relevant, but I just don’t see it.”
Starting August 6 at 6:00 pm, GUMY will begin reading The Zombie Apocalypse Survival Guide for Teenagers in small groups. The book is designed to get students talking about what seems like small issues today, that become bigger issues under the stress of the ‘zombie apocalypse.’
“Some of the lessons are kind of fun and light. Many get very deep. We talk about a time with no cell phones, but we also talk about making bonds with others in order to survive. The youth will have plenty to say on all the topics.” explained one Small Group Leader.
The study takes place each Wednesday at 6:00 pm from August 6 – September 24.
Dates to Remember August 3 – Living Stones Deposit Due ($30) August 6 – September 24, 6:00 pm – Small Groups August 8, 8:00 pm – Lock Out August 10 – Promotion Sunday, New Sunday School classes start August 13 – Family Night Meals begin August 24 – Living Stones Balance Due ($135 after deposit) August 30 – September 1 – Living Stones Trip
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Children’s Ministry Notes
Our Children’s Ministry exists to be a place where kids:
Know the love and joy of Jesus Christ Invite everyone to know Him Develop a heart of service
Seek God and his Word
With each letter in our KIDS Logo having a meaning, we hope that this assists each of us in sharing with others what Grace KIDS ministry is all about.
Promotion Sunday On Sunday, August 10, all children will move up to their new Sunday School classes.
Grades Kindergarten - 5th will meet upstairs for Sunday School at 10:05. They will meet with Mrs. Darcy for a few minutes and then break down into 3 age groups: K/1st, 2nd/3rd and 4th/5th. We hope this will bring more age appropriate learning to all the children at Grace.
Age 4 meets in Room 104 with some great volunteer teachers.
Ages 2/3-We’d like to once again be teaching these young ones during Sunday School hour. If you are willing to rotate into this classroom, please contact Darcy Bierer.
Children’s Worship and Wonder for 4 year olds-2nd
Grades meets during each service. Children are dismissed during the service to attend this class.
Children's Church Has a New Name! Beginning Sunday, August 10, Children’s Church will become Children's Worship and Wonder. We have some great stories and activities planned, so don't forget to join us on Sundays during the 9:00 and 11:00 services. Worship and Wonder is for 4 year olds-2nd Grade. Parents: There will be an Open House on Sunday, August 3 after the second service. Come and see the materials and pick up some information.
WEE BZ and BZ Wednesday night Wee BZ and BZ classes are just around the corner! Come join us for some fun, interactive time with the Bible. BZ, for Grades K-5th, will be all about Science and how it relates to God. We'll have guest teachers who know their stuff, games and other awesome activities! Wee BZ, for ages 2 years-PreK, will be a fun, age appropriate time to learn about God's love and His Son, Jesus. All the fun begins on Wednesday, August 13, at 6:00 pm. See you there!
Acolyte Training Acolyte Training will take place on Sunday, August 17, at 3:00 pm. Children who are in 1st Grade and up and are interested in being Acolytes at the 11:00 Service should attend. Questions? Contact Darcy Bierer.
Club 45 Starting Sunday, August 17, from 5:30 to 7:00 pm
Are your tweens feeling left out? One program is too young, and the other program is too old. Come check out Club 45, a program for the middle years which will be led by Jim and Holly Cecil. The program is designed with your tween in mind. It will help bridge the gap as the kids transition from our elementary program to our youth program. We will be using materials designed by Preteen Ministries.
The first meeting will be an informational meeting for parents. While parents hash out the details, the kids will be playing games and getting to know each other. Do you have questions, concerns, or are you excited to help? Please contact the Cecils at (256) 828-1387.
Mission Madness Starting Wednesday, September 24, from 6:00 to 7:00 pm, bring your kids to Grace to learn about the people who have embraced the sentiments of the song, Here I Am, Lord.
Here I am, Lord. Is it I, Lord? I have heard you calling in the night. I will go, Lord, if You lead me. I will hold your people in my heart.
The kids will learn about missionaries and the countries they serve. Our first program will be about John Wesley, England, and the English people. Come join us as we learn, sing songs, play games, and eat!
Movie Mania for Grace Kids Keep an eye out for upcoming Movie Nights for Grace’s Kids. The first movie with be Diary of a Wimpy Kid. Club 45 kids will know why this movie was selected. If movies are not your child’s thing, bring a board game to share. Watch for more details coming soon. This will be a great time of fellowship and fun for the kids.
Nursery Ministries Grace UMC is blessed to have the following
Individuals serve on the Nursery Ministries Team:
Nursery Coordinator: Kalyn Polatty
Brittany Allen Olivia Bell
Sarah Davis Caroline Dobbie
Van Ely Cassie Flowers
Deanna Gipson Samantha Ramsey
Jenny Shaw Ashley Sylvester
Brittany Walton Samantha Weir
10
Grace Family Events
Notes!
A big thanks to Grace United Methodist Church for your continued support of Relay for Life of Madison. You are making a meaningful difference. We al know too many people who’ve been touched by cancer. Thank you for joining us in this fight to find a cure.
We truly appreciate you, Karen Borden, American Cancer Society
Dear Grace United Methodist Church, Thank you so very much for allowing us to use your church building for our Lion’s Gate Book Sale in May! You have blessed us in so many way. Please accept this donation as a part of our appreciation.
In Christ’s Love, Lion’s Gate Members
Talent & Treats to Triumph Join us with your friends and family on Saturday, September
6, from 6:00-8:00 pm in the Grace gym for a delicious potluck
dinner and a delightful talent show with participants of all ages
presenting a wide variety of talents. Admission to the talent
show and dinner is free! Also, a selection of scrumptious baked
goods and desserts will be available for sale to take home with
you following the show.
This event is a fundraiser for a very
special 28 year-old named Jenny
Rhoden who is currently in a
professional treatment center called
the Center for Change in Orem, UT
battling for her life and mental
health against anorexia. A love
offering will be taken during the event to help her cover the
high costs of medical and living expenses while she receives the
care she so desperately needs. All proceeds from the bake sale
will also be put towards these costs.
Jenny is my best friend and a blessing from the Lord to all who
know her. She desires with all her heart to triumph over
anorexia, but she cannot do so without God’s provision. One
of the ways that I know God will bless her is through the
contributions, no matter what size, of people like you. I look
forward to seeing you soon at this fundraiser! If you are unable
to attend, please consider giving a donation. I can give you
information on how to do so if this option is best for you. My
Due to the large number of events at Grace, only a few important church events are highlighted here. Visit our online calendar at www.graceumchsv.org/calendar for full details. A weekly calendar is also posted on the church office door.
Important Grace Events in August
August 3 (Sunday) Both Services – Blessing of the Backpacks
August 3 (Sunday) 1:00 pm – Grace Family Fun Fly
August 3 (Sunday) 3:00 pm – Explorations Class Begins
August 6 (Wednesday) 6:00 pm – Youth Small Group Begins
August 8 (Friday) 5:00 pm – Scrapbook/Crafters Night
August 8 (Friday) 8:00 pm – Youth Lock Out
August 9 (Saturday) 8:00 am – Church Outdoor Work Day
August 9 (Saturday) 8:30 am – Wheelchair Ramp Install
August 10 (Sunday) – Promotion Sunday
August 10 (Sunday) 4:00 pm – SPRC Meeting
August 10 (Sunday) 12:00 pm – GraceFull Players Luncheon
August 11 (Monday) 8:30 am – Salvation Army Sandwiches
August 11 (Monday) 2:00 pm – Fun Timers’ Meeting
August 12 (Tuesday) 9:30 am – Women’s Bible Study Begins
August 13 (Wednesday) 5:00 pm – Wednesday Family Nights
Meal & Bible Studies Begin
August 15 (Friday) 10:30 am – Meals on Wheels
August 17 (Sunday) 3:00 pm – Acolyte Training
August 17 (Sunday) 4:00 pm – GraceFull Singers Practice Begins
August 17 (Sunday) 5:30 pm – Club 45 Parent & Child Information Meeting
August 18 (Monday) – Newsletter Deadline
August 18 (Monday) 10:00 am – Literary Ladies
August 18 (Monday) 6:00 pm – Meals to Grow Packing
August 23 (Saturday) – Grace Golf Association
August 24 (Sunday) 5:30 pm – Club 45 Begins
August 25 (Monday) 8:30 am – Salvation Army Sandwiches
August 28 (Thursday) 12:00 pm – United Methodist Women
August 30 - September 1(Saturday - Monday) – Youth Trip to
Camp Living Stones
August 31 (Sunday) 12:00 pm – Disc Golf Association
3 Bart Bierer/Don Love 10 Gail Linton/Andrew Riley 17 Liz Hayes/Mary Hayes 24 Mary Iffrig/Gina Barlow 30 Betty & Nick Van Valkenburgh
11:00 am
3 Sangita & Ashok Bhatnagar 10 Steve & Charli Goetz 17 Joanne Weis/Lynn Higginbotham 24 Martina MacIntyre/Tony Lee 31 Amit Patel/JoAnn Gore
Acolytes (11:00 am)
3 Carter Noren-Hentz/Harper Rasmussen 10 John Allison/John Murray Jr. 17 John Murray Jr./Ainsley Lenahan 24 Josie Sisson/Robbie Pierson 31 Carter Noren-Hentz
Guest Deliveries
3 Don Love 10 Jennie Rountree 17 Gina Barlow 24 Tonia Stulting 31 Carl Ivey
CHURCH OFFICE HOURS The church office hours are Monday through Thursday from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm. Our pastors and staff are available by appointment in the afternoons. If you need to contact Pastor Bryan on Friday or Saturday, call his mobile phone at (256) 527-5042.
BULLETIN DEADLINE
The deadline for information for the church bulletin is Tuesday afternoon. Please contact Vicki Sheehy at (256) 430-0003 about information that needs to be included.
ARE YOU RECEIVING E-MAIL ANNOUNCEMENTS? If you have e-mail, we encourage you to join our announcements list. You can sign up online from the church web page at www.graceumchsv.org.
NEWSLETTER INFORMATION The newsletter is published monthly, on the 4th Monday of each month. Articles are due by the 3rd Monday of the month. Articles are received by e-mail: [email protected] OR place articles in newsletter mailbox in church office. Thank you for your contribution of articles.
GRACE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH Pastor’s Mobile/Voice Mail # - (256) 527-5042 Pastor’s email—[email protected]
RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED
Grace UMC is a “Safe Sanctuary” Church. Summaries of our Child and Youth Protection Policy are always available.