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Do all the good you can

In all the ways you can

In all the places you can

At all the times you can

To all the people you can

As long as you can.

-John Wesley

Birthdays 2

Serving this month 3

Just for Kids 4 & 5

Thanks 6

Celebrations 7

Calendar 14 & 15

Youth 18

Upcoming events 19

In the news 24

Prayer concerns 26

Inside this issue:

February is the love month. This is the month that we are to express to the one we care most about how much he/she means to us, just how much we

love him/her. Sometimes we do it with gifts, or with special dates, or even with a perfectly prepared meal

at home or at a really special place.

Sometimes our love is expressed in other ways and to other persons or things. We love our grandkids. We love the Steelers (still). We love to go shopping. We love hunting, our chickens, our dogs or our cats.

Love is what does make the world go round.

“Love is patient, love is kind, and is not jealous; love does not brag and is not arrogant, does not act unbecomingly; it does not seek its own, is not provoked, does not take into account a wrong suffered, does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.” (1 Corin-thians 13:4-6). That passage from I Corinthians goes

on to say that love never fails.

An interesting thought along that line is as I read the letters that were written to the seven churches in Revelation. Spiritual defection; Spiritual defection or loss of first love, begins with forgetting the joy of your salvation, including the thrill of Bible study, prayer, worship, and the sense of belonging to the Lord Jesus. Christ said to the church at Ephesus,

(Continued on page 27)

Volume 6 Issue 2 FEBRUARY 2017

Grace to you and peace from God our Father

and the Lord Jesus Christ.

-2-

1 Ella Boothby

Gracie Sechler

3 Brett Pletcher Brayden Miller

Luke Kohan

8 Shannon Berkey

9 Cody Kimmel

Michele Klein

10 Dawn Pletcher

Elijah Stene

12 Debbie King Gail Minerd Kristen Sanner

Tim Heiple

Todd Pritts, Jr.

15 Charles King, II

17 Denton Lester, Jr.

18 Cindy Miller

19 Skip Temple

Alan Jackson

20 Tara Pritts

22 Heidi Pletcher

26 Scott Boothby

Julia Jackson

27 Brenda Keefer

28 Haley Beahr Liisa Temple

Deb Miller

*Interesting note: there are

no anniversaries this month.

We are in need of 40 persons (including children & youth) willing to write or submit a favorite devotion for our Lenten Devotional booklet. This is an inspirational tool to help you as you read it daily during the time leading up to Easter and the resurrection of Jesus the Christ. Please consider participating and sending your devotion by email to cathielester@live.com or giving it to Cathie before February 22. Thank you for your participation. You may use the form on page 21.

Please use the checklist below and include in your devotion:

Your title

Scripture reference

Your devotion

Thought for the day

A prayer

Credit to the author and source if not you

-27-

“Remember from where you have fallen” (Rev. 2:5a). He was saying, Remember how you were before your love became cold. Spiritual defection, cold love, also involves a decrease in the quality, if not the quantity, of Chris-tian service, and the Lord therefore told the Ephesians, “do the deeds you did at first? ” (vs. 5c). Without love,

what we do is empty, simply done in the flesh with no spiritual satisfaction.

A devotion I read recently asked the question, what one thing could you not live without? There were several answers that people gave to this question. Some said my family. Some said their car. Some even said a television, but none of those who were questioned said God or Jesus. I guess the thought that it being a Christian devotion those asked would be people of the Christian

faith, perhaps, perhaps not…

I really truly can see how people can lose their first love, their joy and enthusiasm for Christ, because they let themselves get caught up in the things and ways of the world. They move away. Jesus did tell the church at Ephesus that they were doing some things well, but what He was really asking was, “who

are you doing all this for?” He had something against them.

When we are young and fall in love, the excitement and joy of that experience cannot be duplicated. We are in the clouds. When we marry and time goes by, it seems that even though the love is there it is not as hot and

breathtaking as it was in the beginning.

The love we have for Jesus Christ is an entirely different kind of love, yet when we first “find Him” our love and enthusiasm is over the top, but as time goes by we seem to fall into a ho-hum relationship. He will not tolerate a ho-hum relationship. Remember that love in the sense of our relationship with Christ is first and always obedience to Him. So as He said to the church in Ephesus He says to us, “Remember from where you have fallen, and repent

and do the deeds you did at first” (Rev. 2:5). Too many people move away.

I see too many with a sense of something missing in their spiritual lives and

what it is; is the love for Jesus. I mean loving Jesus first. It’s missing…

See you in church,

Pastor Denton

“But I have this against you, that

you have left your first love.”

Revelation 2:4

-26-

Our Country/Leaders Bishop Cynthia Moore-Koikoi Supt. Bill Blair and family Pastor Denton Ethel Pletcher Ethan, Forrest & Barb Stark Roger Hart Evelyn King Skip Temple Shirley Walter Gail Minerd John Stevanus Darlene Stevanus Denise Phillippi Lorraine Kruse Gabe Ohler Cathy Qualters Mary Ann Leazier Dolores Kurtz Todd & Amy Euen Government leaders Unrest in the nation Persecuted Christians John & Elaine Price Police officers First responders Carrie Beth King Billy/Bill/Connie Hearn Jimmy Philippi Patty Pounds Erica Henry Virginia Koerbler Dawn Defibaugh John Defibaugh

Shanna Breegle Future of our nation Jake (Dalton) King George & Nancy Bowman Katie Ansell Evelyn Hoover Candee Jackson Amy Kohan Jeremiah King Jim & Jenny Kauffman Ken Hauger Kerry Kimmel Phyllis Cunningham family Julia Miller George Henry family Victims & families of tragedies The homeless Nathan Ohler family Bill Rush family Herb Lozott Bob Ohler Catherine Ohler Military Guard Shanda Tomer Blair family Mildred Eisenberg Shirley Thomas family Illness at school Rene Temple Tom Brougher Derek Keifer Laura & Brandon Hoover Evelyn Throyer Our President & family Supreme Court Jamie Singo Calvin Ulderich Alex McClintock Cyndi Witosky

Alice & Mick Stiver Lost Women of the March Kevin Steede family Easton Pritts Martha Barletta

Sanctity of human life

Military/Families Matthew May

Charles Trimpey Clyde Pletcher, Jr.

Mike Shultz Denton Lester, Jr.

Stephen Bigler Jake Johnson Jamie Miller

David Rogers Melissa Bailey Richard King

Randi Thomas Joe Gusbar Brad Barta

Max Strasiser Kurt May

Christopher Sterner John Benford

Aaron Engleka Ryan Fuller

Spencer Cross Landon Henry

Families of fallen soldiers

“If my people, who are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and

seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will

forgive their sin, and will heal their land.” -2 Chronicles 7:14

-3-

ACOLYTES Hunter Berkey & Maxx Stevanus

GREETERS OFFERING TEAM Feb. 5 Eldon& Loretta Sechler The Sechlers Feb. 12 Leon & Cook Ohler Calvin & Rhonda Ulderich, Todd & Tracy Pritts Feb. 19 Jamie & Mindy Singo Jamie & Mindy Singo, Cathie Lester & Maxine Augustine Feb. 26 Pastor Denton & Cathie Tim & Jill Heiple, Dale & Jill Shultz

February 5 February 12 February 19 February 26

February 5 February 12 February 19 February 26

If you are unable to acolyte, greet or usher on your Sunday,

please find a replacement. Thank you.

Mark Temple Haley Beahr

Gary Weimer

Marijke Tubbs

Angie Millin Linda Henry

Connie Pletcher

Emily Singo

FIRST SCRIPTURE LESSON

Serving this month

Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12) Deuteronomy 30:15-20 Leviticus 19:1-2, 9-18

Exodus 24:12-18

1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16) 1 Corinthians 3:1-9 1 Corinthians 3:10,11, 16-23

2 Peter 1:16-21

If you are unable to read on your Sunday,

please find a replacement. Thank you.

SECOND SCRIPTURE LESSON

LOOKING FOR AWESOME, ENERGETIC, SPIRIT-FILLED

persons to take part in Sunday services. We need greeters and ushers to

fill a Sunday. A reminder that one of your membership promises is

SERVICE. In case you’re wondering, other promises with membership

are PRAYERS, PRESENCE, GIFTS and WITNESS. Challenged

yet? Sign-up sheets are on the bulletin board.

-4-

-25-

TITLE

SCRIPTURE REFERENCE

DEVOTION (use extra paper if needed)

AUTHOR (credit to the author/source if not you)

PRAYER

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

-24-

Congratulations to Joe Blough & Rhett Pletcher on their recognition at an All County Soccer Awards banquet at Somerset High School on January 15th. Rhett received the First Team Award and Joe received Honorable Mention. Four additional Rockwood players

were honored.

S o m e r s e t b o y ’ s j u n i o r - h i g h basketball team defeated Forest Hills to win the championship of the Jerry Smith Memorial Basketball Tournament last month. Elijah Breegle scored six points in the game. He also won the 3- point

contest. Congratulations Elijah.

Brother and sister, Glenn & Faith Millin took first places in their g ra des a t t he Roc kwoo d E l em e n t a ry Sc ie nc e F a i r . C o n g r a t u l a t i o n s o n y o u r

achievement.

Kaylie Miller wrote an article recently published in the Somerset Daily American. It was in response to “What is your

new year’s resolution.” She wrote:

A popular quote that I found on social media states that the phrase “Do not be afraid” is written in the Bible 365 times and

is God’s daily reminder to live every day being fearless.

I can say that I certainly did not live all 365 days of 2016 (or any year prior for that matter) fearlessly. Isaiah 41:13 states “For I am the Lord your God, who

takes hold of your right hand and says to you, do not fear; I will help you.”

This year I want to be able to give more of my time to God and be able to completely, positively, and confidently, put my trust in Him every day so that I

am able to live “fearlessly.”

I want to be able to develop a trust in Him that will radically transform every

situation of my life.

I will aim to see every day as a clean slate and chance to be a better version of who I was the day before. I encourage everyone to live every day of 2017

fearlessly.

-5-

Answer: D (See 1 Kings 19:9-12, NRSV.)

Wesley Chapel is in need of a VBS Director for this summer. Would you please prayerfully cons ider th is awesome opportunity to serve. There are many children who are depending on YOU to say yes!

Please let Pastor Denton know.

Bible Quiz

At a time of deep struggle in Elijah’s life, God made his presence known to him. How? A. In a strong and destructive wind B. In an earthquake C. Through fire D. Through silence

C O N F I R M A T I O N CLASSES TO BEGIN

If you are twelve years old and want to confirm your baptism and become a member of

Wesley Chapel, please let Pastor

Denton know.

-6-

We want to thank you for everything that you do for the Rockwood Food Pantry. We want you to know how much we appreciate your contributions (food, gift cards, everything). We want to let you know what a blessing you are. Please let everyone

know we said thank you. God bless you all, George & Nancy Bowman

We would also like to express gratitude for your kindness and the gift card we received from your amazing congregation. The prayers are appreciated more than

you know.

On behalf of my son, Michael Reed and grandson Nicholas, I wanted to thank your congregation for the prayers, love and support during this most difficult time. Your generosity has helped Michael to move into his new home. This has been a good step for both of them. While family, friends and community have been helpful to Michael, he is most touched by the faceless families that have reached out to him. He is sincerely thankful and most blessed by what you have done. One wish that Michael’s wife Constance had was that her story would be told. I would hope that if you have not already done so, you would find some time to watch Constance’s story. It is on Youtube. She continues to help others with her message. Thank you

so much, love, Grant Reed.

Thank you for the fruit, thoughts, prayers and cards. Stella Beeman

Thanks for all the good things I got from your church on Christmas. Thanks again.

Elaine Stevanus

Thank you so much for the Christmas basket. Mom loved the sweet goodies and the fruit was enjoyed by all. Again, thank you and blessings to your congregation in

the new year. The Virginia Koerbel family

We would like to show our appreciation for your business with this donation to your church. The agency would like to wish you a Merry Christmas and a joyous and

healthy new year. Sincerely, Jason & Staff (Sechler Insurance & Financial Services)

Dear members of Wesley Chapel United Methodist Church, In Touch Hospice is truly honored to be the recipient of your Thanksgiving offerings. Truly blessed.

Thank you. Sincerely, Melissa Muhollen, Clinical Director (Continued on page 11)

-23-

39. IN MALACHI God pours out His blessing on you.

40-43. IN THE GOSPELS God puts on human flesh to save you.

44. IN ACTS He gives you His Spirit.

45. IN ROMANS He works all things together for your good.

46-47. IN CORINTHIANS He corrects, teaches, and loves you.

48. IN GALATIANS He sets you free.

49. IN EPHESIANS He calls you His workmanship.

50. IN PHILIPPIANS He gives you joy.

51. IN COLOSSIANS He completes you.

52-53. IN THESSALONIANS He presents you with future hope.

54-55. IN TIMOTHY He offers you counsel and encouragement.

56. IN TITUS He equips you for good works.

57. IN PHILEMON He turns your slavery into brotherhood.

58. IN HEBREWS He invites you to come before His throne.

59. IN JAMES He teaches you practical religion.

60-61. IN PETER He gives you victory over suffering.

62-64. IN THE THREE EPISTLES OF JOHN He assures you of eternity and invites you to walk in His light, life and love.

65. IN JUDE your God tenderly keeps you from falling and presents you faultless before His throne.

66. IN REVELATION. He bestows the ultimate honor upon you as He receives you as His beloved and treasured bride.

-JenniferRothschild.com

In 2016, we sent over 20 pounds of greeting cards to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, two pounds of cancelled postage stamps to Stamp Camp USA and eight pairs of glasses for the Lion’s Club. We are adding another saving opportunity in saving coupons for a military base in the United Kingdom to assist families of our

soldiers. So in 2017 you have the awesome opportunity to help others through

these four different missions.

fronts of greeting cards for St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital

cancelled stamps for Stamp Camp USA

used eyeglasses for the Lion’s Club

coupons for the military families in the United Kingdom

Thank you for helping. If you have any questions, see Pam Weimer.

-22-

One Mission Society is a charter member of the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability. All contributions are dispersed in full compliance with the ECFA and IRS guidelines. In rare exceptions when projects are over funded, those funds may be reallocated to an approved project per IRS guidelines. An audited financial statement is available upon request. No goods or services were provided in exchange for this donation unless noted as non-deductible.

January 2017

Remittance address: One Mission Society, PO Box 1648, Monument CO 80132-1648

Visit www.onemissionsociety.org for more information.

Email info@onemissionsociety.org to sign up for monthly email updates.

On Facebook? Like our OMS page at www.facebook.com/onemissionsociety.

Jesus said, “Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them, for to such

belongs the kingdom of God” (Matthew 19:14). Children are important to our

heavenly Father. OMS ministers to children in the Starfish Kids (in the north)

and SHEEP (in the south) sponsorship programs in Haiti, children at the

Christian Academy in Mozambique, and in the 10:2 Kids ministry in Colombia,

just to name a few. You can read more about some of our ministries to kids in

our January issue of OMS Outreach magazine.

Thank you for your gifts that help support outreach to children and adults in

more than 75 countries around the world of OMS.

Just one of the many children ministered to by SHEEP in Haiti. For more information,

please visit

https://onemissionsociety.org/give/SHEEP.

OMS President

-7-

Congratulations to Flint David Breegle who was dedicated on Sunday, January 15 during worship service. Many family members and friends were present and looked on in support. May God bless you

fully Flint David.

Congratulations and welcome to Raelynne Diane Tomer, daughter of Westley & Shanda (Blair) Tomer who was born January 21 at 10:41 p.m. Raelynne is the first child for the new parents and weighed in at 8 lbs. 5 ozs. Measuring 20.5 inches. Proud grandparents are Connellsville District Superintendent Bill & Beth Blair and

Tom & Cindy Tomer. God bless you.

Congratulations and welcome to Emerie Elizabeth Kellman, daughter of Kris & Andrea Kellman who was born January 24 at 2:57 p.m. Emerie joins two year old sister Amelia at home. She weighed in at 7 lbs. 6 ozs. and measured 19.25 inches. Proud grandparents are Dale & Jill

Shultz, Stuart & Marla Kreinbrook, Al & Elaine Kellman and Kathy Kellman.

God bless you.

Congratulations and best wishes to Danyelle Shultz and Mike Burkholder on their engagement. Danyelle is the daughter of Dale & Jill Shultz and Stuart & Marla Kreinbrook. Mike is the son of Randy and Kim Burkholder. A September 2, 2017

wedding date has been set.

-8-

Roxann Blough placed a tracker on one of our shoeboxes destination. We have been informed they went to Burundi, South Africa. Enjoy the following information about the children who live there knowing their gratitude is directed back to God

and Wesley Chapel.

Shoebox gifts collected in the United States in 2016 will be delivered to 112,560 children in Burundi. Praise God that over 311,404 children have received a shoebox since 2008, when

Operation Christmas Child began distributing gifts here.

Burundi has 11 million people and is located in Southeast Africa

46% of the population is 14 years old or younger

Operation Christmas Child delivers the good news of Jesus Christ to children

around the world.

Opening Closed Doors As follow-up to a shoebox distribution, Farudin traveled to a remote village every week to teach The Greatest Jour-ney lessons to the children. One week he was not able to go and remind them, and he worried that the children would forget. When he arrived the next week after a one hour trip, all of the children were gathered, in the rain, with their lessons in their hand, eager to learn more.

Prayer Requests From Ministry Partners in Burundi

Praise God for His

provision this past year.

Pray as the team

continues to extend OCC into new areas.

AFRICA

-21-

Since Fat Tuesday is the same day as Mardi Gras, you can find the date of Fat Tuesday in this and future years in When Is Mardi Gras? Related Terms As mentioned above, Fat Tuesday was originally known as Shrove Tuesday, and in French it is called Mardi Gras. Among the English-speaking peoples of Great Britain and her colonies, Fat Tuesday is often known as Pancake Day, because they used up their dairy and eggs by making pancakes and similar pastries. Likewise, Fat Tuesday is known as Paczki Day, after the rich, jelly-filled donuts made by Poles in Poland and the United States. The period from the last Sunday before Lent through Fat Tuesday is known as Shrovetide (and, today, the term Mardi Gras is often applied to the entire period of Shrovetide). In the Mediterranean countries (where the languages are derived Latin), Shrovetide is also known as Carnivale—that is, "goodbye to meat" (from carne, meat, and vale, farewell). - from the web

Dear Wesley Chapel United Methodist Members,

On behalf of Somerset Area Ministries and the peo-ple who ride the Sam Vans, I want to thank you for your generous gift in sup-port of the Sam Van ministry. Your continued support is very much appreciated. Your gift helps with cell phone costs, EZ Pass, insurance and fuel expenses. You are helping us get people to medical appointments or to visit hospitalized

loved ones or friends. As you know we transport persons of all ages.

I am happy and thankful to share the services we have provided to our fellow Somerset residents through the Sam Van ministry. During 2016 we provided rides for 721 people in 433 trips and traveled 61,340 miles. Four-hundred sixty-four riders to Pittsburgh in 233 trips and 257 riders in 199 trips to other loca-

tions like Johnstown, Altoona, etc.

In June we traded the GMC van on a new Honda Odyssey van because our passengers were having a hard time getting into the GMC. The Honda will haul as many passengers using less fuel and providing a more comfortable ride. The Honda has 15,00 miles on it already. We can use more drivers and a person or group that might be interested in cleaning the

vans.

Once again, thank you for thinking of the Sam Van and the ministry we fulfill. Your generous

gift is surely helpful. In His Service,

Rev. Charles Olson, Treasurer.

-20-

What is Fat Tuesday? By Scott P. Richert

Fat Tuesday is the traditional name for the day before Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent in the Western Christian churches, including the Roman Catholic Church and Protestant churches. (Clean Monday is the first day of Lent in the Eastern Catholic and Eastern Orthodox Churches.) Fat Tuesday is more commonly

known as Mardi Gras, which is simply Fat Tuesday in French.

A Day of Preparation Historically, the day before Ash Wednesday was itself a rather solemn day of preparation for the penitential season of Lent. Many Christians took part in the Sacrament of Confession on that day, which is why it became known as Shrove Tuesday. (Shrove is the past tense of the word shrive, which refers to a priest hearing a confession, assigning penance, and forgiving the sins of the penitent.) The Origin of the Term Over time, however, the solemn nature of the day was joined with (and later gave way to) one last feast before the Lenten fast. In centuries past, the Lenten fast was far more rigorous than it is today, and Christians were required to ab-stain from all meat and food that came from animals, such as milk, cheese,

butter, eggs, and animal fats.

But all of those items needed to be used up before the fast began, and vari-ous Christian nations developed their own meat dishes, rich breads, and des-serts for one last feast before the austerity of Lent. And thus the day became known as "Fat Tuesday" for obvious reasons. Anticipating the Joy of Easter After Fat Tuesday, meat and dairy and eggs would all be preserved in vari-ous ways, and brought out again for the Easter feast (which lasted a full eight days, from Easter Sunday through the Sunday after Easter, known today as Divine Mercy Sunday). Thus the voluntary giving up of foods that are good in themselves to focus on spiritual growth was both preceded and followed by the

recognition of the good things that God has given us.

When Is Fat Tuesday? Since Ash Wednesday always falls 46 days before Easter Sunday, Fat Tuesday falls on the 47th day before Easter. The earliest date that Fat Tuesday can fall is February 3; the latest is March 9. in 2017 it falls on February 28.

-9-

The Greatest Journey

Your shoebox is just the first step to transforming a young life for eternity. Every shoebox gift delivered by Operation Christmas Child is a tangible expression of God’s love. It also presents an opportunity in more than 100 countries for our church partners to invite children into a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ through our follow-up discipleship program. The Greatest Journey is a dynamic approach to discipleship—including 12 engaging Bible lessons—that local trained teachers are using to instruct the next generation of believers on how to become devoted followers of Christ and boldly share their faith with others.

Worldwide, 10.9 million children have enrolled in the program since 2009.

This year in Burundi these Bible lessons will be offered to children who receive a shoebox gift. These 12 lessons guide children through a study of who Jesus Christ is, what it means to follow Him, and how to share this exciting message with others. Over 46,000 children in Burundi have enrolled in this program since

it started, and more than 34,000 have graduated.

Will you help us “go and make disciples of all nations” as Christ commanded? Sign up for a monthly gift of $6, and each year you will give 12 children study materials, a New Testament, and the opportunity to learn what it means to devote their lives to sharing the Good News of eternal grace through Jesus Christ.

The Greatest Journey, "Therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest” (Matthew 9:37-38). God is a n s w e r i n g t h o s e prayers through The Greatest Journey, the discipleship program Samari tan’s Purse offers for boys and girls who receive shoebox gifts through Operation Christmas Child. We train teachers and supply local churches with everything they need—including Bibles for graduates. Through The Greatest Journey, over 3.8 million children have prayed to receive Jesus Christ as their Savior, and 4.2 million have promised to prayerfully share the Gospel with friends and family.

-10-

Dear Friends of Meals on Wheels

of Somerset County,

The Meals on Wheels Program is in need of volunteer drivers and carriers to deliver the meals, and food packers who help in the kitchen getting the meals ready for those who deliver them. Would you please help us by putting an announcement In your church bulletin and newsletter asking for anyone wiling to volunteer from your congregation? Typically, volunteers serve for only a few

short hours one day per week.

Meals on Wheels serves up to 200 client meals per day of which it takes many volunteers to prepare, serve, package and deliver these meals. Our nu-merous volunteers have testified they thoroughly enjoy their volunteer hours and find it fulfilling to know they are helping provide a low cost, hot nutritious

meal to those in need.

We could not possibly provide this service to our community without the help of volunteer assistance. Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer at Meals on Wheels may contact us at (814) 443-2787 for additional information or for an-swers to any questions they may have between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and

12:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Thank you so much for considering this request. We pray someone will see

our need and contact us. Happy New Year!

Sincerely, Lori Nist,

Meals on Wheels Director

The Fitness Challenge for the Somerset Daily American 5k/10k run/walk and/or fitness challenge begins on February 5. Christine Singo is coordinating Wesley Chapel’s participation in this cause which supports the SOS Secret Santa, The Salvation Army and St. Francis Sharing & Caring. The registration/entry fee for anyone interested is $20 (includes t-shirt) or $25 after May 8th (with t-shirt if available). Please see Christine for entry/participation forms or if you have other questions. Let’s show a good representation for Wesley Chapel United

Methodist Church (and feel good about it too).

-19-

A MEN’S BREAKFAST will be held on

Saturday, February 4, at 8:00 a.m. ALL men are invited to come and share in a time of food and fellowship. A study on the book “Faith Commander” (living five values from the parables of Jesus by Korie Robertson &

Chris Howard). Future dates which are February 18 & March 4, 18 will complete the study and fellowship. If you have any questions, see Gary

Weimer or Pastor Lester.

ANNUAL WILD GAME DINNER. The date is set for Saturday, February 25th at 5:30 p.m. Our speaker

for the evening will be Tom Hyndman.

If you need tickets, please see the following: Blaine Walter, Russ Pletcher, Brad Pletcher, Bobby Miller,

Dave Henry, Skip Temple or Leon Ohler.

Baby Shower. . . We will be collecting baby items for the month of February. The baby items will be donated to the Somerset Birthright office. Please place the donated items on the table in the hallway. Thank you for supporting Birthright. Please contact Pam

Weimer if you have any questions.

Congratulations to Brad Pletcher who took this 14 point trophy buck at Whipkey Dam on the first day of

the season.

-18-

O u r Y o u t h G r o u p delighted attendees at a recent Spaghetti Dinner fundraiser. Ninety-six guests were greeted by young well-dressed hostesses, hosts and servers. The atmosphere was that of a fine restaurant and the food, prepared by the youth themselves (with a little help) was delicious. Their responsibility continued with clean-up after. Proceeds of $1100 will help fund youth events. Thank you to the Youth, their advisor Tyler

Pritts and to Jamie Singo and those adults who helped them out.

-11-

Our food pantry items for February are canned vegetables or fruit. You may bring your donations to the church during the month of February. We are currently supplying the Rockwood Area Food Pantry located at St. Luke’s Lutheran Church in Rockwood. Hours for distribution are 4:30 - 6:30

p.m. the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month. Thank you.

Dear Wesley Chapel, during this time of giving thanks to the Lord, we want you to know how appreciative we are for you. We thank you for all of those who volunteered their time this year, to help spread the good news of the Gospel to children in our counties. We believe God used you! Thank you for serving the Lord this way. You are needed! Jesus said, “Your Father in heaven is not willing that any of these little ones should be lost.” Matthew 18:4 God Bless you this season and

throughout the year. Hillary and CEF of Fayette-Somerset Counties

Wesley Chapel, thank you for your sponsorship at our Pledge Banquet. We truly appreciate your financial support and we request your prayers for our staff and students as we strive to raise up a new generation who love Jesus. Be blessed,

Susie Harshbarger, Administrator (Somerset Christian School)

Many many thanks for all the nice things you do for me. I know that God will bless

you very much. Janie Cramer

Many thanks to the “crew” who undecorated the church, sanctuary, Sunday school rooms and fellowship hall and for the removal of the Christmas tree. Your dedication and willingness to get this task accomplished is very much appreciated. Thanks

also to those who prepared a great lunch when the job was finished.

(Continued from page 6)

The AGAPE kids will be collecting new or gently used backpacks, duffle bags or suitcases for the Children’s Aid Home. There is a great need for these items as the children are placed in new homes or are granted weekend visits. Donations

will be collected during the month February.

SAVE THE DATE. The AGAPE KIDS and youth have set the date of February 15, to go snow tubing at Seven Springs. Adults are welcomed to go as well. The time is set for

6-8 p.m. watch the bulletin for more details.

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Courses for the 2017:

LAY SERVANT CLASSES

BASIC COURSE

Rev. Bev Roscoe and Rev. Roger Howard at Paradise

Rev. Samuel McClintock at Addison First

Ministry isn’t just a clergy endeavor; all Christians are called to serve. Laity serve on the front line of evangelical living. This course helps laity explore and

discover their unique call in serving God, neighbor and the greater church.

YOUTH COURSE

Debbie Conn at Paradise

Kyle Cramer at Addison First

This is the same as course described in Basic. Helps youth explore and discover their unique call in serving God, neighbor and the greater church. This

course is open to students in grades 8-12.

ADVANCE COURSES

GO PREACH!

Rev. Tom Shirer and Rev. John Logan at Paradise

Rev. Denton Lester at Addison First

Required by our Conference for those who wish to become Certified Lay Speakers.

This course is designed for those who have not completed formal preaching training, for pastors seeking a basic refresher course, and for others who are

called upon to preach in a pastor’s absence.

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LEADING BIBLE STUDY

Rev. Rick Helsel at Paradise and Addison First

This course opens a new world for many Lay Servants who have not had professional training in biblical interpretation. It reminds us as United Methodists that Bible study and biblical interpretation are a core part of our

spiritual journey.

Any of the courses listed can be taken for personal enrichment

Online Registration available at www.wpaumc.org under Connellsville District

If you register online, please bring your form with your pastor’s signature.

Questions? Contact: Connellsville District Office 724-628-3453

Or Connellsville District Lay Servant Ministries

School Director -Tracy Shultz -814-289-1117

Tracy.Shultz@gmail.com

CONNELLSVILLE DISTRICT LAY SERVANT SCHOOLS This year we are having two (2) schools. The first one is during Lent at Paradise UMC in Mt. Pleasant for five (5) weeks. The second one is after Easter at Addison First, for four (4) weeks.) You may attend either or both

Schools.

FIRST SCHOOL

Paradise UMC

105 Hoke Road

Mt. Pleasant, PA 15666

2:00 pm - 5:00 pm

MARCH 5, 12, 19, 26 and APRIL 2, 2017

SECOND SCHOOL

Addison First UMC

739 Main Street

Addison, PA 15411

1:30 pm – 5:30 pm

APRIL 23, 30 and MAY 7 Skip Mother’s Day), and 21, 2017

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1. IN GENESIS He fashions you with His hands.

2. IN EXODUS He delivers you from slavery.

3. IN LEVITICUS He gives you access to Himself.

4. IN NUMBERS He shelters you in cities of refuge.

5. IN DEUTERONOMY He guides you with His hand.

6. IN JOSHUA He gives you a divine purpose.

7. IN JUDGES He shows mercy in spite of repeated failures.

8. IN RUTH He grafts you into His family.

9-10. IN SAMUEL He makes the insignificant significant.

11-12. IN KINGS He esteems you by His faithfulness.

13-14. IN CHRONICLES He makes your prayer powerful.

15-16. IN EZRA & NEHEMIAH He restores you and equips you.

17. IN ESTHER He makes you royalty.

18. IN JOB He sustains you in suffering.

19. IN PSALMS He draws you close& listens for your voice.

20. IN PROVERBS He reveals His wisdom to you.

21. IN ECCLESIATES He gives meaning.

22. IN SONG OF SOLOMON He draws you to chase Him.

23. IN ISAIAH He reveals the Savior to you.

24-25. IN JEREMIAH & LAMENTATIONS He gives you hope.

26-27. IN EZEKIEL & DANIEL the Lord joins you in the fire.

28. IN HOSEA God pursues you to buy you back.

29. IN JOEL He blesses you when you repent.

30. IN AMOS He bears your burdens.

31. IN OBIDIAH He keeps His covenant to you.

32. IN JONAH He uses an imperfect man for His perfect plan.

33. IN MICAH He invites you to walk humbly with Him.

34. IN NAHUM He comforts you.

35. IN HANAKKUK He places your lowliness in high places.

36. IN ZEPHANIAH He sings over you with great joy.

37. IN HAGGAI God makes His dwelling among you.

38. IN ZECHARIAH He assures you of His coming.

66 Ways GOD Loves You

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ACCOUNTABLE DISCIPLESHIP

Rev. Rob Rabenstein at Paradise ONLY

This course focuses on the concept of the household of God, the importance of scripture as divine revelation, Wesleyan understanding of grace and the importance of the office of class leader in the development of the Methodist movement. You are encouraged to look at your own faith community and see

how it is (or is not) a reflection of genuine Christian Love.

LIVING OUR UNITED METHODIST BELIEFS

(UNITED METHODIST HERITAGE)

Rev. Beverly Spore at Paradise ONLY

This course will explore the special gifts of theology, witness and organization that The United Methodist Church brings to the church universal, how we got where we are today and how our distinctive emphases are still needed in the 21st-century church. This is a required course for Lay Servants who wish to

become Certified Lay Speakers.

LIFE TOGETHER IN THE UNITED METHODIST CONNECTION

(UNITED METHODIST POLITY)

Rev. Beverly Spore at Addison First ONLY

This course is required for Lay Servants who wish to become Certified Lay Speakers and an excellent resource for any small group desiring a greater understanding of how United Methodist relate to one another both at home and around the world. Participants will need the (United Methodist Book of Discipline and Polity, Practice and the Mission of The United Methodist Church)

by Thomas Edward Frank.

DISCOVERING YOUR SPIRITUAL GIFTS

Rev. Mark Sholtis and Wanda Ross at Paradise ONLY.

This course helps participants understand spiritual gifts and how the church can use them to fulfill its mission and ministry. This course is required for Lay Servants who wish to become Certified Lay Speakers. Participants will also learn what it means to be a spiritual leader and will be equipped to lead others

in exploring and using their spiritual gifts. (Continued on page 17)

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Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat

1 2

* Rich, Marsha, Haley & Luke Beahr

3

* Michael, Michelle, Jordan & Sidney Henry

4

* Doug Knight

5 HOLY COMMUNION

Conference &

Wesley Missions

* Our military

6

* David, Sonja, Ciara & Marcus Rogers

7

* John & Darlene Stevanus

8

* Todd, Kayt & Claire Pritts

9

* Bob, Cindy, Kaylie & Jenna Miller

10

* Charlie, Martha & Marybeth Mitchell & Yu

11

* Dottie Vought

12 BOY SCOUT SUNDAY

* Our shut-ins

13

* Harry & Mary Ellen Hoover

14

* Gail Minerd

15

* Nellie Pletcher

16

* Harold & Patti Pritts

17

* Randy & Michele Klein

18

* Betty Henry

19 TRANSFIGURATION

OF OUR LORD

Building & Special

Maintenance

* Our church

20

* Skip & Maxine Temple

21

* Scott & Rhonda Boothby

22

* Eldon & Loretta Sechler

23

* Bill, Beth, Jordan, Ryan & Preston Blair

24

* Wes, Shanda & Raelynne Tomer

25

* Dave & Linda Henry

26

* Our country

27

* Jason, Shanda, Elijah & Flint Breegle

28

* Stephen & Brooke Bigler

* Andy, Kristen, Steven & Adam Sanner

Agape 6:00 p.m. Chimes 6:00 p.m.

Youth 6:00 p,m,

Agape 6:00 p.m.

Chimes 6:00 p.m.

Snow tubing 6-8 p.m.

Chimes 6:00 p.m.

Agape 6:00 p.m.

Chimes 6:00 p.m. Newsletter deadline

Bible Study

7:00 p.m.

Bible Study

7:00 p.m.

Bible Study

7:00 p.m.

Bible Study

7:00 p.m.

February 2017February 2017

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Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat

1 2

* Rich, Marsha, Haley & Luke Beahr

3

* Michael, Michelle, Jordan & Sidney Henry

4

* Doug Knight

5 HOLY COMMUNION

Conference &

Wesley Missions

* Our military

6

* David, Sonja, Ciara & Marcus Rogers

7

* John & Darlene Stevanus

8

* Todd, Kayt & Claire Pritts

9

* Bob, Cindy, Kaylie & Jenna Miller

10

* Charlie, Martha & Marybeth Mitchell & Yu

11

* Dottie Vought

12 BOY SCOUT SUNDAY

* Our shut-ins

13

* Harry & Mary Ellen Hoover

14

* Gail Minerd

15

* Nellie Pletcher

16

* Harold & Patti Pritts

17

* Randy & Michele Klein

18

* Betty Henry

19 TRANSFIGURATION

OF OUR LORD

Building & Special

Maintenance

* Our church

20

* Skip & Maxine Temple

21

* Scott & Rhonda Boothby

22

* Eldon & Loretta Sechler

23

* Bill, Beth, Jordan, Ryan & Preston Blair

24

* Wes, Shanda & Raelynne Tomer

25

* Dave & Linda Henry

26

* Our country

27

* Jason, Shanda, Elijah & Flint Breegle

28

* Stephen & Brooke Bigler

MEN’S BREAKFAST 8:00 a.m.

MEN’S BREAKFAST 8:00 a.m.

SEWING SESSION 9:00 a.m. - noon

* Andy, Kristen, Steven & Adam Sanner

Agape 6:00 p.m. Chimes 6:00 p.m.

Youth 6:00 p,m,

Agape 6:00 p.m.

Chimes 6:00 p.m.

Snow tubing 6-8 p.m.

Chimes 6:00 p.m.

Agape 6:00 p.m.

Chimes 6:00 p.m.

Wild Game Dinner 5:30 p.m.

You are encouraged to remove this center page calendar and place it on your refrigerator for the month for reference.

*Denotes daily prayer focus.

February 2017February 2017