UMC SCHOLARSHIPS - wpa-email.brtapp.comwpa-email.brtapp.com/files/tables/emails/2016486/files/02_May...  · Web viewIn Microsoft Word, you can c. lick on the words below to easily

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GREENSBURG DISTRICT CONNECTOR e-NEWSMay 30, 2018 Next issue: June 12, 2018(Please submit articles for the next newsletter by Monday, June 11, 2018)

Note: To make viewing the newsletter easier to locate new/updated information, please look for *NEW* next to the title or search for “*NEW*” in the search bar.

DISTRICT CONTACT INFORMATION:307 Freeport Street, Delmont, PA 15626 Phone: 724-461-7178 Fax: 724-461-7428Pat Nelson, DS: [email protected] Lori Begg: [email protected] District Website: http://www.wpaumc.org/districtsClick here to view previous editions of the Greensburg District e-news Click here To view the online Greensburg District Calendar

UNITED METHODIST CONFERENCE CENTER CONTACT INFORMATION:1204 Freedom Road, PO Box 5002, Cranberry Township, PA 16066-0002 Phone: 724-776-2300 Website: www.wpaumc.org Email: [email protected] Click here to subscribe to the Conference and/or other District e-newslettersClick Here to view the Western PA UMC Conference e-News weekly publication for Conference wide news (the District e-news does not include all of the Conference wide information)

In Microsoft Word, you can click on the words below to easily navigate (“jump”) to the following sections of the newsletter:

Calendar

Birthdays/Anniversaries/Joys/Concerns

Articles pertaining to 5 Areas of Focus

Clergy Corner

Help Wanted

Youth & Young Adult Ministry

Camping Information

This and That

Greensburg District Calendar of Events

Date EventMAY 2018May 31 Community Meeting to Discuss Opioid Help Services Available- Scottdale Public Library- 6:30 PMJUNE 2018Jun 2 CANCELED District Help ShopJun 4 Mental Health First Aid Course 8:30 AM-5:30 PM- Clarion County- see below for detailsJun 6 *NEW* Orientation to Ministry Track A and B @ Annual Conference- Grove City. See Details below.Jun 6–9 Annual Conference note dates are: Wednesday- Saturday (Grove City College); Jun 6 Leadership Day @ Annual Conference- Speaker: Nancy Beach, Leadership Coach, 1-5 PM evening Bible

Study (details in future Conference e-news editions and the Conference website:Jun 7 Clergy Spouse Brunch- click here for invitation or see details below in the newsletter.Jun 9 Indoor Flea Market, Bake Sale & Lunch to benefit Women’s ministries.- Monroeville UMC 8 AM-1 PMJun 13 *NEW* Financial Peace University- Summer Class @ Greensburg First UMC. Classes meet Wednesday evenings

from 7:00 - 8:30 PM. Free class preview - June 13. Cost: $45/family. Jun 16 *NEW* Early Response Team Training-Erie First UMCJun 16 Make-Up Clergy Ethics Training- 9 AM-4 PM, Cost $25, Conference Center. See

register. Jun 22 *NEW* Strawberry Festival 5-8 PM Circleville UMC- details belowJun 27-28 Young Preacher’s Festival- Leawood, KS. Click here for details. Jun 30 *NEW* Reaching New People Workshop, Greensburg First UMC 9AM-4PM, $15/pp –see details belowJULY 2018Jul 6-8 “Unstoppable Women” Conference- Olmsted ManorJul 10 Training Opportunity for Church Admins/Secretaries: Pre-Charge Briefing 10 AM-12 PM @ District

Office. RSVP by July 3rdJul 11 Pre-Charge Briefing for Clergy @ District Office- 10AMJuly 12 *NEW* Healing Service- 7 PM @ Arona UMC- 2037 Main St. Arona, PA 15617 Jul 12-15 Mission u-California University of PA (Sampler Day: July 14, 2018)Jul 14 ERT Re-Certification Class -8:30 AM-12:30 PM, Latrobe UMC, $25pp, RSVP to Rich ZiegenfusJul 16-20 Uth 4 Missions @ Jumonville (note: new location!) Jul 18-20 *NEW* Adult Prayer Retreat- Jumonville with Bishop Cynthia Moore-Koikoi, Cost: $190 Jul 19 Pre-Charge Briefing for Clergy @ District Office-6 PMJul 23 *NEW* Early Response Team Training First UMC in TitusvilleJul 27 6th Annual Faith Night at PNC Park- Pirates vs. Mets. 7:05 PM -This is on a Friday night! See details

below. AUGUST 2018Aug & Sept Clergy One-on-One Meetings (sign up will be at Pre-Charge Briefings in July)Aug. 12-18 (tentative dates)

Fundraising bike ride from Pittsburgh to DC to raise money for camperships. Contact Rev. Chris Kindle for more details or to help plan it! [email protected]

Date EventAug. 17-26 Westmoreland County Fair Hospitality Tent Volunteers Needed; Contact Rev. John Gerber at

[email protected] or 814-688-4124 for information or to volunteerAug. 26 Clergy Family Picnic- 4-9 PM; Contact Rev. Chris Livermore to RSVP.SEPTEMBER 2018Sept 5 Greensburg District UMW Day Apart - Camp Allegheny- Speaker: Luella KriegerSept. 9 Butler DS Installation Ceremony: Rev. Eric Park- location: tbdSept. 15 Pittsburgh DS Installation Ceremony: Rev. Dawn Hand- location: tbdSept. 22-Oct. 1 Honduras Mission Trip- click here for details & application.Sept. 28-30 Autism Family Retreat- Jumonville. Click here for details Sept. 30 Erie-Meadville DS Installation Ceremony: Rev. Dennis Swineford- location: tbdOCTOBER 2018Oct 6 Greensburg District UMW Fall Meeting- Leechburg First- speaker TBAOct. 7 Johnstown DS Installation Ceremony: Rev. Sung Chung- location: tbdOct. 13 *NEW* Greensburg District Helpshop- New Stanton UMC- Cost: $15/ppOct 27 WPA Conference UMW Annual Fall Meeting in the Franklin DistrictDECEMBER 2018Dec 28, 2018-Jan 15, 2019

Mission of Peace- Youth Mission trip to the Philippines

JUNE BIRTHDAYS AND ANNIVERSARIESHappy Birthday and Anniversary to those clergy families celebrating this month! If your information is mistaken or not included, please contact Lori at [email protected] to update your information! Thanks!

BIRTHDAYS ANNIVERSARIES2-Rev. Tammy Falcsik7-Rev. Jill Croushore7-Rev. John Jefferis7-Jim Gross9-Rev. Sung Chung11-Rev. Jeffrey Conn15-Kelli Whitehead15-Rev. Beverly Gross

15-Rev. Jerrad Peterman17-Jared Bane18-Elise Jefferis25-Keith Dunn28-Rev. Craig Peterson30-Sandra Schmeling30-Rev. Robert Moffat

3-Rev. Sung & Jihye Chung3-Rev. Bill (deceased) & Sandra Schmeling5-Rev. William & Karen Kemp6-Rev. Bill & Lisa Pieringer13-Rev. Sang & Grace Choi20-Rev. Justin & Stephanie Judy22-Robert & Rev. Donna Gabler24-Rev. Jerrad & Becky Peterman27-Rev. John & Patsy Ciampa

JOYS & CONCERNS Please pray for all churches and pastoral families in transition because of new pastoral apointments. Rev. Ron Fleming is dealing with some asthma & respiratory difficulties. Please keep him in your prayers.

GREENSBURG DISTRICT APPOINTMENTS CHANGES (EFFECTIVE JULY 1ST)Click here to read all WPA Conference Appointments

Rev. Beverly A. Spore-from Connellsville District to Leechburg First UMC. Rev. Dawn L. Check- from Butler District to Greensburg Otterbein UMC. Rev. Joseph J. Yurko- from Franklin District to Youngwood: Christ UMC Rev. John E. Ciampa- from Harrison City: Community UMC to retirement Rev. John W. Seth- from Youngwood: Christ UMC to retirement Rev. Sung S. Chung- from Greensburg: Otterbein UMC to Johnstown: DS Rev. Jerrad R. Peterman- from Leechburg First to Harrison City: Community *NEW* Paul Funk (Hillside UMC) was appointed to Germany UMC (Indiana District)

NEWSLETTER INFORMATION ALIGNED WITH THE FIVE AREAS OF FOCUS **

1. Developing Principled Christian Leaders2. Creating New and Renewed Congregations3. Engaging in Ministry with the Poor4. Promoting Abundant Health5. Dismantling Racism

To read more on the Five Areas of Focus, click here. Send us your info on these areas of focus in your church and share the news. ** Newsletter also includes: “Clergy Corner” , “Youth & Young Adult Ministry”, “Camping Information”, “Help Wanted”, and "This 'n That" section at the end of the newsletter.

1. DEVELOPING PRINCIPLED CHRISTIAN LEADERS*NEW* ERT EARLY RESPONSE TEAM TRAININGWPA will be providing Early Response Team Trainings.This is an UMCOR certified training for Disaster Response ministries of Volunteers in Mission. Non-United Methodist participants are welcome but will not be badged or deployed through the UMCOR-UMVIM ministry network. Verification forms or clearances are required from UMs on the day of the training - badges will not be issued for participants until they are received. Early Response Team trainings will be offered from 9am - 5pm at the following locations:

Saturday June 16, 2018 at Erie First UMC Saturday June 23, 2018 at First UMC in Titusville

Click here to Register.

Doors open and registration starts at 8:30am. There are reasonable accommodations for those who may prefer to come to the area on Friday evening. If you have problems registering online, please call the United Methodist Center at 1-800-886-3382 and ask for Jane for assistance.

Class attendees will receive an updated ERT Manual and T - Shirt.

Successful completion will result in participants being badged for a three-year certification and supplied with the information that will give badged ERT participants the information to deal with situations in local communities as a result of natural disasters.

All participants are required to have verification from the local church that they have completed Safe Sanctuary Training and have received necessary Background checks.

The necessary forms for Safe Sanctuary certification or verification can be found within this registrationFor more information please contact [email protected]

LAITY LEADERSHIP ACADEMYThe purpose of this academy is to provide a group of laity with a multi-session, systematic opportunity to be equipped in local church leadership in order to develop new paradigms in their personal and corporate lives that can assist their congregation to be thriving and faithful.

The time commitment for the Academy is eight gatherings over a two year period. In addition to these gatherings we ask that each participant engage in independent study and reflection on various related topics.

Topics:Module 1 Build a sense of covenant and exploring the Biblical and theological basis of stewardship. Module 2 Strategic PlanningModule 3 Leading with Vision, Mission, and Core ValuesModule 4 Effective leadership development through recruiting, developing, and deploying volunteersModule 5 Engaging Mission Minded Millennials Module 6 Conflict ResolutionModule 7 Communication, marketing, and telling your storyModule 8 Legacies: Effective congregation endowment development

A small group morning session with an afternoon session with a larger group for clergy and laity.

Contact Rev. Ed Bailey, Executive Director, United Methodist Foundation of Western Pennsylvania

ERT RE-CERTIFICATION TRAININGEvery 3 years ERT’s are required by UMCOR to be re-certified. If you were last certified in 2015 and want to maintain your certification a class is scheduled for Saturday July 14, 2018 at 8:30 am at Latrobe UMC on Main St., Latrobe, PA 15650. This is a four-hour class. Parking is available on the side street of the church. Prior registration is required. You may do so by forwarding your name and phone number to Rich Ziegenfus as listed below, who will follow up with you for more detailed information. The cost is $25.00 which can be paid the day of the class. Please arrive by 7:45am to complete the registration process. Contact information is listed below should you have any questions.

Richard P. Ziegenfus Phone: 724-238-3158 Fax: 724-238-3153 e-mail: [email protected]

****************************************2. CREATING NEW & REVITALIZED MINISTRIES*NEW* REACHING NEW PEOPLE WORKSHOP When: Saturday, June 30 2018, 9:00AM-4:00PM

(Registration begins at 9:00AM – Workshop begins at 9:30AM – Lunch will be provided.)Where: First UMC Greensburg (15 East Second St, Greensburg PA 15601)Registration fee = $15

Church pastors and lay persons are invited to attend this strategic planning workshop designed to help churches grow their membership. The Reaching New People Workshop will be led by Rev. Kim Griffith, United Methodist Pastor, new church planter, and coach at Griffith Coaching.

• Learn the strategic differences between 1955 and today• Discover how to reintroduce your church to the community• Define your pastor's role in reaching new people• Define your congregation's role in reaching new people• Network with other teams for ideas and techniques• Teams will develop an action plan to take home

To register online, click here. To print out a form and register by mail or to see a flier for the event, see attachments to the newsletter email called: “Reaching New People Registration” and “Reaching New People Flyer-WPA edition 2”. For questions, please contact Pastor Jill Croushore at (724) 420-4154 or [email protected]

WESTMORELAND COUNTY FAIR HOSPITALITY TENT VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

Westmoreland County Fair Hospitality Tent Volunteers Needed; Contact Rev. John Gerber a [email protected] or 814-688-4124 for information or to volunteer. Click here for more details.

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL FOLLOW UP MANUAL IS AVAILABLE! (John and Christine Zimmerman)

A while back we surveyed local churches about evangelism practices and attitudes. We discovered that Vacation Bible School is the number one evangelistic outreach of churches today. We also discovered that few have an effective follow up plan and that there are no resources available for a follow up plan....until now!

This 25-page manual is a one-of-kind comprehensive resource to help churches implement a follow up plan for the unchurched kids who attend VBS. It can simply be introduced into any VBS program as a compliment to the planning materials.

Don't let another VBS go by wishing that you would have thought about follow up with all the great kids that came to VBS! Click here to be directed to the ABOUT FACE website. Click here to order the book. Paperback Price: $5.99

****************************************3. ENGAGING IN MINISTRY WITH THE POORMISSION TRIP TO HONDURAS- Application due: June 1stSaturday, Sept. 22- Oct. 1, 2018We in the WPA Conference have an ongoing relationship with the UM mission in Honduras. Besides the history of UMVIM teams that contributed to the founding and growth of the mission since Hurricane Mitch,

the mission has enjoyed a series of seminars from David Stains over the years, and worship events. Bishop Cynthia has also made an official visit to affirm our interest and relationship. The current mission is to complete construction of a rural church. If you wish to volunteer, please send in the completed application to: Dr. David Stains, 722 Lawrence St. Johnstown, PA 15904. email [email protected] by June 1, if possible. This is the Conference Encounter with Christ Committee's major project of the year. In any case, please pray for the mission, and those who participate. Click here for application.

****************************************4. PROMOTING ABUNDANT HEALTH

*NEW* FINANCIAL PEACE UNIVERSITY-SUMMER CLASSJoin the Financial Peace University summer class at Greensburg:First UMC (15 East Second St, Greensburg PA 15601).  Memberships may be purchased at a discounted rate of $45 per family through the church.  For additional information, please contact Rev. Jill Croushore (724) 420-4154 or [email protected].  Register online at: greensburgfirst.org.

Classes meet Wednesday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 PM.Free class preview - June 13June 20 -  Lesson 1: Super SavingJune 27 -  Lesson 2: Relating With MoneyJuly 11 -  Lesson 3: Cash Flow PlanningJuly 18 -  Lesson 4: Dumping DebtJuly 25 - Lesson 5: Buyer BewareAugust 1 - Lesson 6: The Role of InsuranceAugust 8 - Lesson 7: Retirement and College PlanningAugust 15 - Lesson 8: Real Estate and MortgagesAugust 22 - Lesson 9: The Great Misunderstanding

MENTAL HEALTH FIRST AID COURSEMental Health First Aid is an 8-hour course on Monday, June 4 that teaches you how to help someone who may be experiencing a mental health or substance use challenge. The training helps you identify, understand and respond to signs of addictions and mental illnesses. From 8:30 am – 5:30 pm at Clarion County MH/MR, 214 South 7th Ave, Clarion, PA 16214. Instructor: Jen Bankard at [email protected].

FAQ’s https://www.mentalhealthfirstaid.org/faq/ . Online registration

Here is a way to find out about trainings and trainers near you: https://www.mentalhealthfirstaid.org/take-a-course/find-a-course/

HEALING SERVICE Thursday, July 12th, 2018 at 7 PMHosted by the Arona United Methodist Church- 2037 Main St. Arona, PA 15617

Open to all!!! “Healing is for Everyone, Especially people With Hurts, Habits, Hang-ups and Addictions”Tammy Taylor will be preaching the Word, Worship by Tonya Carrington and Karen Martin

All prayer warriors are welcome to attend.

For more information please contact: Pastor Bruce Anthony at: Home-724-834-0567 Cell-412-610-5485 [email protected] Is Welcomed to Attend

****************************************5. DISMANTLING RACISM

*NEW* FACING THE FUTURERev. Sung Chung attended “Facing the Future" sponsored by GCORR. They celebrated the diversity and the ministry of the cross-racial and cross-cultural appointments but also shared the pains and struggles. They learned from each other and expanded the network throughout the country. The picture to the left is our group from the conference.

ANTI-RACISM GRANTSThe General Commission on Religion and Race (GCORR) is eager to provide grants to engage UMC teams with strong, diverse community partners who together will change racist and xenophobic systems, policies or practices in their communities. The application for 2018-2020 grants is online now. Learn more.

TOOLKIT TO ADDRESS HATE & VIOLENCEAfter “Unite the Right” rallies in Charlottesville and other cities, white supremacy, nationalism, violent extremism, and hate in America have been laid bare. Church leaders have spoken out against it and the General Commission on Religion and Race has compiled a toolkit of resources that may be useful for individuals, a small group, or congregation on the themes of white supremacy, hate, and violence post-Charlottesville. Click here for more information.

WPAUMC ANTI-RACISM RESOURCESIn response to a request from Bishop Moore-Koikoi, the Conference Anti-Racism Team (ART) compiled a list of suggestions for Western PA churches to address racism. Click here to downloaded the list from the Conference website Discussing Racism page.

LIVING TOGETHER WELL IN A DIVERSE WORLDHow can United Methodists can lead in living together well in an increasingly diverse world. Five leaders offer some way to do it. Click here to read more.RACISM RESPONSE: EMBRACE LOVE – THEY ARE PRECIOUS IN HIS SIGHTUnited Methodists seek racial justice: We recognize racism as a sin and seek to eliminate it.As followers of Christ, we embrace love and affirm all persons as equally valuable in the sight of God and therefore work toward societies in which each person’s value is recognized, maintained, and strengthened.

Click here to find stories, resources and tools to learn more about the issue of racism and the ways you can advocate for the fair treatment of all people. Topics include:

• Ways United Methodists can take a stand against racism• Five tips to help address racism with children• At Sunday worship, pastors decry racism• Rights of Racial and Ethnic Groups• White Privilege in the United States• Global Racism and Xenophobia

************* CLERGY CORNER *************CLERGY EVALUATIONS, CONTINUING EDUCATION & PARSONAGE INSPECTION FORMS- WERE DUE MAY 15TH

* NEW * Evaluations: All clergy were emailed the evaluation form links in April and those links will direct you to completing the 3 online forms. The evaluations must be completed online and submitted online. Please use the links sent in April (or mailed to you by the District Office or Ben Harsch).

Continuing Education: Click here to view the continuing education form, print out and submit to the District Office. An attachment of the form is also at the bottom of this email.

Annual Parsonage Inspection: Click here to view the continuing education form, print out and submit to the District Office. An attachment of the form is also at the bottom of this email.

CLERGY MOVING EXPENSES As the church enters a season when appointments change, pastors move to new appointments may be surprised to learn that the recently passed Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will require treating their moving expenses as income. The Rev. Ken Sloane of Discipleship Ministries, explains. Read commentary See latest GCFA statement

MISSED THE CLERGY TAX WEBINAR? View the recorded webinar Clergy Taxes: Don’t Live in Fear! Handouts of the slides are available for download in a 3-up format for note taking.

*NEW* APPLY FOR A VITAL WORSHIP GRANTThe Vital Worship Grants program at the Calvin Institute of Christian Worship focuses on projects that connect public worship to intergenerational faith formation and Christian discipleship. Grant proposals can be submitted by emerging and established churches; seminaries, colleges, and schools; hospitals, nursing homes and other organizations. The grants are funded by Lilly Endowment Inc. Click here for more information.

*NEW* ORIENTATION TO MINISTRY TRACK A AND BOrientation Track A AND B on June 6 at Grove City. Any candidates who are finishing up group mentoring should try to attend Track B in the afternoon. A representative from United Seminary will be on hand to discuss their options. Financial aid information will be shared by Bill Hastings. Register

CLERGY ETHICS TRAINING (MAKE-UP SESSION)Saturday, June 16th from 9AM-4 PM @ the Conference CenterCost: $25All clergy who missed the previous trainings are expected to attend the full session in order to meet their convental expectation. This includes elders, deacons, local pastors (full and part time), extension ministers or anyone serving as clergy. The training is valuable and required by the Book of Discipline. The small fee is to cover a book and lunch. Click here to register.

SAVE THE DATE! PRE-CHARGE BRIEFINGS There will be 2 opportunities to attend the Pre-Charge Briefing. All clergy are expected to attend one of these sessions. Mark your calendars and plan to attend.

Wednesday, July 11 @ 10 AM- District Office Thursday, July 19th @ 6 PM- District Office

Please note: There will be a special opportunity for Church Secretaries/Administrative Assistants to attend a training on completing the required forms for Charge Conference. See below:

ATTENTION: TRAINING OPPORTUNITY FOR CHURCH ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANTS & SECRETARIES1. Pre-Charge Briefing (for Admins/Secretaries only)

Tuesday, July 10, 201810AM-12 PMGreensburg District OfficeRSVP to [email protected] by Tuesday, July 3rd

ATTENTION LOCAL PASTORS!Please use the following address for correspondence to Sara Wrona regarding Local Pastor Issues such as mentor reports and Course of Study registrations: Rev. Sara Wrona, First UMC, 134 Custer Avenue, Vandergrift, PA 15690.

CLERGY EXCELLENCEThere's an updated list of continuing education opportunities at wpaumc.org/leadershipdevelopment

UMC SCHOLARSHIPS There are a variety of scholarships at http://scholarship.umc.org/

SCHOLARSHIP FUND FOR DEACONS A new scholarship for those pursuing deacon ordination has been set up with the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry added for those pursuing deacon ordination. It honors Rubie Butterworth, who dedicated her life to serving through the church. Lean more.

CLERGY SCHOLARSHIP GRANTSThe Office of Loans and Scholarships at the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry on Wednesday awarded more than $1.66 million to 206 recipients of the Excellence in Clergy Leadership Scholarship. The scholarship was created to help United Methodist clergy avoid excessive educational loan debt, minimize financial stress and build financial acumen. Learn more.

************HELP WANTED**************NEW* CUSTODIAN NEEDED AT IRWIN FIRST UMCPART-TIME CUSTODIAN: The Irwin First U Methodist Church is accepting applications for the position of Evening Custodian. Responsibilities include general housekeeping, maintenance, grounds care, snow removal, minor repairs, and event support. Candidate should be Christian centered, with a pleasant disposition, good organizational skills and be able to work a flexible schedule. This is a part-time position of 20-25 hours per week with no benefits. Applicants are required by law to have passed the State Police Criminal Record Check, the PA Child Abuse Clearance and the FBI fingerprint check. Interested persons may contact the church at 724-863-6858 or by email at [email protected]. Cover letter and resume with references may be sent to: First United Methodist Church, Attn: Staff Parish, 310 Oak Street, Irwin, PA 15642

*NEW* YOUTH MINISTER OPPORTUNITY Are you a motivated, grace-filled Christian looking for part-time work? Join our team at Irwin First United Methodist Church! This position is roughly 20 hours/week and includes planning/coordinating/promoting activities with our youth and their friends to increase their faith. Activities include weekly youth group meetings, periodic youth events (fellowship, service projects, retreats), and some assistance with high school Sunday School. Personal commitment to Christ; working with youth using creativity, understanding, & kindness; Biblical worldview; and strong organizational/communication/team-building skills are necessary. Music/guitar skills, preaching capabilities, and computer/multi-media skills are a plus. Future potential growth into additional areas of ministry are available if mutually agreeable! Please send resume & cover letter to: Irwin First United Methodist Church, 310 Oak Street, Irwin, Pa 15642 or email: [email protected] . Any questions, please call the church office at 724-863-6858

SEEKING EMPLOYMENTA local Greensburg person is seeking employment in any of the following areas: Organist/Pianist/Choir Director. If you are seeking someone with these skills, please contact Mary Jo Young at 412-793-3701

******YOUTH &YOUNG ADULT MINISTRY******NEW* TIMOTHY CIRCLE MENTOR TRAINING (ONLINE) We all know the benefits of youth having strong Christian role models in their lives, but some adults don’t know how to start or maintain that kind of relationship. The Timothy Circle online mentor training is a great place for them to start – it gives them the tools they need and they can do all of the coursework in their own time over a 3-week period online. Imagine if every youth sponsor on a mission trip this summer had conversations about faith and calling with young people on those hours-long bus rides? It would be amazing, wouldn’t it?? This training is meant to give laypeople the skills to better mentor young people in your churches. The Timothy Circle mentor training is designed by the United Methodist-based Institute for Discipleship and the Denman Award-granting Foundation for Evangelism. Training is available online (this summer) at www.beadisciple.com/timothy.

UNSTOPPABLE WOMEN: The Unstoppable retreat for young women (high school - mid-20s) is scheduled for July 6-8 at Olmsted Manor retreat center. The cost is just $25 because Unstoppable Scholarships are available. Email Laramie ([email protected]) or Denise ([email protected]) for scholarship details. Visit the Unstoppable Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/umwunstoppable/

YOUTH EVENTSCheck out all the Youth Events from the Conference: https://www.wpaumc.org/youtheventsUth 4 Missions (a missions event for youth groups) is July 16-20 at Jumonville (new location). Both work sites and outreach sites will be available. Cost is $220/person. -Includes housing, meals, mission site work, campfires, worship, and fun! For youth in grades 6-12. More info including the schedule and to register is at www.wpaumc.org/youthevents

YOUTH MISSION U, for youth in grades 6-12 will be held at California University of PA from July 10-15. Plan to attend; bring a group from your church. Registration will open soon. Get details at wpaumc.org/youthmissionu

The next national gathering of United Methodist youth will be July 10-14, 2019, in Kansas City, Missouri. Young People’s Ministries, a division of Discipleship Ministries, is announcing details of the event to give churches time to plan for their youth to attend. The national gathering for United Methodist youth takes place every four years. Read press release

THE YOUTH 2019 MEDIA KIT IS HERE! We are less than two years away from YOUTH 2019 and there is no better time to start getting your youth excited for all

the fun we are going to have in Kansas City. And what better way to do that than with our YOUTH 2019 Media Kit! The next national gathering of UM Youth will be July 10-14, 2019, in Kansas City, Missouri. Plan now for your youth to attend. The national gathering for UM Youth takes place every four years.

For questions, check out the Youth Events Page on the Conference website or contact Amanda Gilligan, Coordinator of Young People’s Ministries, at [email protected] or (724) 776-2300 ext. 224

*********CAMPING INFORMATION**********NEW* DEEPLY ROOTED, UPWARD REACHING CAMPING CAMPAIGN VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

The value of camping and retreat ministry is definitely more significant in our days of advanced technology. According to Dr. Jacob Sorenson and Dr. Paul Hill, the key characteristics of camp experience are:

Camp is RELATIONALCamp is PARTICIPATORYCamp is DIFFERENT FROM HOMECamp is A SAFE SPACECamp is FAITH-CENTERED

Dr. Sorenson has continued his study and has found that there are basic key characteristics of camp which have led to long-term improvements in the lives of campers and these include:

IndependenceSelf-ConfidenceGrowth in Faith

Growth in Knowledge of God

Isn't this what our youth, families and our churches need more than ever so they can understand and learn how to live their Faith? That being said, the capital campaign is asking for 1 or 2 names of folks from each church that may be willing to serve as Council Visitors for the Deeply Rooted, Upward Reaching Campaign. They will be trained as to what their task would be if they are willing to serve in this awesome capacity. The first training session will be held Wednesday, June 6th from 1:30-3:30 at STEM Auditorium on the Grove City College Campus. There will also be other locations in June and July that will be hosting these training sessions. Here is a tentative list:

June 30th 9-11am at Conference Center in Cranberry Twp June 30th 2-4pm in Washington July 2nd 6:30-8:30pm in SomersetJuly 14th 9-11am in PunxsutawneyJuly 14th 2-4pm in Ebensburg

If you feel willing to help, it would be greatly appreciated. Please contact any of the co-chairs with your contact information (name, email and phone number) and someone will be in contact with you.

Co-Chairs for the Greensburg District for Bishop Moore-Koikoi's Deeply Rooted, Upward Reaching Camping Campaign:

Carla Holderbaum - [email protected] - 412-607-1851

Elizabeth Somes - [email protected] - 1-808-381-5496

Todd Libengood - [email protected] - 412-805-8514

CAMPING & RETREAT MINISTRIESCamping & Retreat Ministries are an important part of our life together. See what opportunities are available!

CAMP ALLEGHENY o 2018 Calendar of Events Click here . o Website: https://www.campallegheny.org/

JUMONVILLE o 2018 Calendar of Events: https://jumonville.org/coming-events/ o Website: https://jumonville.org/o *NEW* Adult Prayer Retreat from Wednesday, July 18 - Friday, July 20 at Jumonville with Bishop

Cynthia Moore-Koikoi. There will be times of learning about prayer and how to pray. There will be conversation, free time to explore Jumonville, campfires, fellowship and wonderful food. Participants will be staying in private rooms at Jumonville's Inn, so space is limited to 9 rooms. The cost of this event is $190. Sign up today!

WESLEY WOODSo 2018 Calendar of Events: http://www.wesleywoods.com/ o Website: http://www.wesleywoods.com/

OLMSTED MANORo 2018 Calendar of Events: http://www.olmstedmanor.org/events.htmlo Website: http://www.olmstedmanor.org/

*NEW* CHERRY RUN CAMP MEETING

Camp meeting is July 28-Aug 5th, 2018. Click here for a registration brochure and details.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY: Cherry Run Campmeeting, is a family camp near Rimersburg, PA that is owned and operated by the Franklin District. The camp is in need of volunteers to work at the camp in varying capacities. Volunteering at the camp would be a wonderful short term mission work project for teams or individuals. Helpers are needed in the two weeks prior to camp

and kitchen help is needed the week of camp. Please contact Mr. Dennis Mahle (814-648-1676) for more information and to schedule a day or two to work at the camp. You will be blessed in this ministry. ~~~Cherry Run Camp Meeting Board

FUNDRAISER BIKE TRIP PITTSBURGH TO WASHINGTON, D.C. TO BENEFIT CAMPING INITIATIVEAug. 12-18 (Tentative dates)Come ride 300+ miles from Pittsburgh to DC to raise money for Camperships. If you want to be part of the planning process or are interested in going, contact [email protected].

************** THIS 'N THAT ***************NEW* PRAYING OUR WAY FORWARD The Council of Bishop and The Upper Room are launching Phase 3 of Praying Our Way Forward. United Methodists are asked to pray daily and fast weekly with the bishops from June 3 through the Special Session of General Conference in February, 2019. Learn more.

PASTORAL RESOURCES AVAILABLERetiring Pastors, John Ciampa (Harrison City: Community) and John Seth (Christ: Youngwood) have many books to offer that would make great resources for another pastor. Please contact John and John if you are interested in learning more about the materials they have available. Click here to email Rev. John Ciampa. Click here to email Rev. John Seth.

INDOOR FLEA MARKET, BAKE SALE AND LUNCHSaturday, June 9, 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

The Monroeville UMC United Methodist Women will host a Flea Market, Bake Sale and lunch at 219 Center Road in Monroeville. If you wish to rent a table to sell your crafts, "fleas," or other items, please call the church at 412-372-7474 or email [email protected]. Tables are $20 each. If you come to the Flea Market you will have a chance to see over 30 vendors, buy homemade bake sale items and buy lunch (the menu items include hot dogs, sauerkraut, haluski, mac 'n cheese, and beverages). All proceeds go to the United Methodist Women for missions. For questions and information, please contact Betty Henderson, Coordinator of Communication Ministries, 724-733-4768

*NEW* STRAWBERRY FESTIVALFriday, June 22, from 5-8 p.m Circleville United Methodist Church - 11600 Parkway Drive, No. Huntingdon

Strawberry Shortcake and ice cream - $6.00 Children age 6-12 - $3.00; Children under 5 are free. Also available to purchase are hot dogs, haluski and root beer floats. The Fellowship hall is handicap accessible and air conditioned.

AT THE LAKE MINISTRIES

She’s in the Water! Congratulations to At The Lake Ministries!  The JoAnn M was lowered into the water of Lake Erie, marking a milestone for a new ministry that will offer persons living with a variety of disabilities to enjoy fishing or cruising on the lake. Watch!Stay up-to-date and “like” the At The Lake Ministries Facebook page.

6TH ANNUAL FAITH NIGHTThe 6th Annual Faith Night will be held on Friday, July 27, 2018 following the Pirates-Mets game at 7:05 p.m. Enjoy discounted tickets for the Pirates-Mets game and stay after the game to hear Manager Clint Hurdle and your favorite Pirate players and coaches share their personal experiences with how their faith has impacted both their lives and their careers in baseball specifically. Being that Faith Night is being held on a Friday for the first time, we expect the event to be even more popular than ever! Therefore, it is highly recommended securing seats with a deposit. Groups of

15 or more can secure a block of seats with a deposit, then will have until June 11 to give your final ticket count and pay the balance. Contact Chad Glover at [email protected] or 412-325-4756.

ANNUAL CONFERENCE The registration is open and available for all clergy, church delegates, and lay equalization delegates to register! Cost of the event is $100 and churches are encouraged to pay the cost of the registration for the people going to the annual conference from your church. Other things to know:

Annual Conference 2018 will held at Grove City college. For those unable to be physically present as guests, it will be live-streamed. Watch for more information. Check the wpaumc.org website for the schedules, worship services, business, and events going on during our time together.

A new Conference Pictorial Directory will be put together with the members of conference at Grove City. (Some folks had their pictures taken at District Conference and will not have to have another picture taken). Please plan to have your picture taken for the directory, so we can put names/faces together and keep the conference in our prayers.

AC Offerings: There will be two special offerings received during annual conference--one for the Camping and Retreat Ministries Initiative and the other for the Bishop’s Discretionary Fund. Contributions to the offerings also may be made online at www.wpaumc.org/onlinepayments.

*NEW* Mission Barn- This year at Annual Conference we will be focusing on collecting hygiene kits and cleaning buckets, as those are what is needed the most. We are also going to be doing a district monetary donation bucket challenge – in celebration of our 10-year anniversary. Stop by our display in the inside display room to help support the mission barn in your district bucket! Click here to view the Mission Barn newsletter! See instructions for the kits.

WPA CLERGY SPOUSE BRUNCH June 7th9 AM (Registration), 9:30 Brunch Program-NoonLocation: Rathburn Hall, Grove City College (100 Campus Dr., Grove City, PA 16127)RSVP: May 21st

Cost: $15/ppPlease click here for invitation. Invitations were mailed out the beginning of May. Childcare will be provided. Monetary donations will be collected for the Eastbrook Mission Barn. Questions? [email protected]

UNITED METHODIST NOW- A NEW BI-WEEKLY E-NEWSLETTERThe United Methodist Church invites you to check out our new biweekly e-newsletter specially created for all church members. United Methodist Now will highlight examples of Christian living, share inspirational messages and focus on what it means to be part of our connection. Subscribe for free.

ONLINE PAYMENTS CAN BE ACCEPTED FOR THE WPA UMC CONFERENCE CENTERThe Conference now offers a greatly expanded online payment capability! This service will allow churches and individuals to submit payments electronically, instead of mailing checks to the Conference Center. Separate webpages with online payment instructions have been set-up for Camping & Retreat Ministries, At the Lake Ministries, Pension & Healthcare, and Local Church Remittance. More information can be found at the conference website at http://www.wpaumc.org/onlinepayments

HELPFUL LINKS Western PA UM Conference - www.wpaumc.org Clergy Appointments- https://www.wpaumc.org/appointments In Focus Publication - http://www.wpaumc.org/infocus Joyful Noise - http://www.wpaumc.org/joyfulnoise Subscribe to Publications - http://www.wpaumc.org/subscribe Conference Resources - http://www.wpaumc.org/resources Conference Events Registration Page: https://www.wpaumc.org/register Reflections!- wpaumc.org/blogs Imagine No Malaria -https://www.facebook.com/ImagineNoMalaria Discipleship Ministries https://www.umcdiscipleship.org/ People are looking for a church to visit. Help them find you! update-your-find-a-church Special Sundays for 2018: Conference and General Church Special Sundays/Weekends for 2018 are listed on

the Conference website. See the dates at https://www.wpaumc.org/specialsundays Official Journal Online: https://www.wpaumc.org/2017journal

WPA CONFERENCE CENTERwww.wpaumc.org

1-800-886-33821204 Freedom RoadP.O. Box 5002

Cranberry Twp, PA 16066-0002