Weekly Email News

EMAIL ADDRESSES:To reach Alyce – johnstown.ds@wpaumc.org

To reach Stacey – johnstown.office@wpaumc.orgDistrict Office Phone Number: 814.361.2464

District Office Fax Number: 814.361.2465

JOHNSTOWN DISTRICT OFFICE HOURSMonday – Thursday 7:30 am to 1 pm

Tuesday April 12, 2017

510 Locust StreetJohnstown, PA 15901

Johnstown District ofthe United Methodist Church

SAVE THE DATE!Johnstown District Conference will be held on Sunday, April 30, 2017 at the Windber: Calvary United Methodist Church, 1800 Stockholm Avenue, Windber, PA. The conference will begin at 3 pm on that day. Pastors, please mark this on your calendar so you are able to attend and please encourage your laity to attend also. If your church has information to share at District Conference, please be advised that we will have tables set up in the back of the church for such information to be distributed.

RETIREMENT DINNERMonday, May 22, 2017 at Red Lobster in Johnstown at 6 pm. Invitations will be going out next week regarding the dinner. Please join us as we celebrate the retirement of Rev. John Snyder and Rev. Emily Byrd and the re-retirement of Rev. Jon Gulnac.

ATTENTION ALL LADIESSue Duffield will be at Seward UMC on Friday, May 12 for a Ladies's Night Out.  A light supper will be served at 6 PM for those who wish to come.  It is free (donations welcome).  Sue will be on at 7 PM with a humorous and encouraging message for all women.  A free-will offering will be received during the program.

UNITED YOUTH MINISTRY NETWORKYES & AMEN “But in Him it has always been ‘YES!’ for all of God’s promises have been fulfilled in Christ with a resounding ‘YES!’ and through Christ, our ‘AMEN’ ascends to God for his glory.” 2 Cor. 1:19-20. Worship experiences are open to all youth! Time for all events is 6:30 pm to 8:20 pm.

- April 12: Westmont High School led by Chris Valente from Bridge to Life Church- April 19: Windber High School led by Andrew Taylor from Faith Chapel Church- April 26: Forest Hills High School led by Jim Gay from Greater Johnstown Christian

Fellowship Church

CAMP ALLEGHENY WORK DAYOur official work day is Sat. April 29th with work week officially being 4/24-4/30.   We have several big projects planned including;  

         Tree top removal, chipping, hauling, stump grinding and general cleanup from some tree thinning we are doing

         Amphitheater construction – building a 24’x32’ stage and bench seating for 200.         Roof repair on the Camp Center.         Wall repair in the pump house at the pool         Numerous other Summer preparation projects

 The timber company arrives tomorrow.     We can use any and all assistance starting this Friday for clearing tree tops, chain sawing, hauling, chipping etc…  Also, we will begin pouring the cement for the benches at the amphitheater on Monday.   So basically I am saying come on out anytime starting Friday that you can.  Please call ( 814 754 5122 ) or email me to let me know anytime you can come out. My thanks to each of you for all you do for the Kingdom! 

UMW WOMENThe spring UMW Meeting will be on April 20, 2017 at Arbutus Park Manor. The guest speaker of the meeting will be Dahlia Sterling, from Mission U. Reservations are required and may be obtained by calling Phyllis at 288-3018. Cost for lunch is $6. The meeting will begin at 9 am with registration with a 9:30 am start. We will be collecting paper products and items for Mom’s House at this meeting.

PANCAKE BREAKFAST AND BAKE SALEThe Grove Avenue United Methodist Church, 501 Grove Avenue, will hold a Pancake Breakfast and Bake Sale on Saturday, April 29, 7:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.  

Tickets are available from any Grove Avenue Church Member, at the church office, and at the door. Cost is:  Adults -$5.00, Children (under 12)-$2.50.

"The Grove Avenue United Methodist Church, 501 Grove Avenue, will hold its Semi-Annual Flea Market on Saturday, May 13 9, from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.   ½ Price Sale is Saturday, May 20, from 8:00 a.m. to Noon.”

PARK AVENUE UMC IN SEARCH OF MUSICIANSPark Avenue UMC is in search of a keyboard player and/or guitarist for 1 Sunday per month. If you or any of your friends are interested in this, please contact Pastor Len Findley at 814-659-9141 or Linda at 814-288-0108.

SEVERAL CHURCHES IN SEARCH OF MUSICAL GROUPSA few of our local churches are in search of musical groups who could perform at a Sunday morning service during summer months. If you happen to know of any, please contact Stacey at the District office and give her the proper contact information. Thanks!

Volunteers NeededRISE – a light dinner followed by a contemporary Worship and Praise Service every Thursday night at the Garfield Street UMC at 6 pm. RISE is a shared ministry of the United for God Cooperative and the Ebensburg UMC. This ministry is growing, already we are adding more partners, most recently Homestead Ave. UMC.

You are invited to be part of this new ministry! There are opportunities for everyone to share the love of Christ and to use their gifts. Help is needed in cooking, serving, clean up, welcoming, singing, playing a musical instrument and just worshiping with others. Please let Pastor Carol know if you are willing to help. You do not have to commit to any particular number of times, just as your schedule allows. The Spirit is rising in Johnstown!

Bethel Hollsopple: Notes and NewsWe will be hosting the Conemaugh Township Area Ministry Good Friday service from noon until 3 pm.

We are thanking God for parents who are bringing their children to church.  It's heartwarming to see their eagerness to learn and participate.

W.A.C.K. MENU

A free community dinner, served at the Windber Area Community Kitchen, will be held from 4 pm-6 pm Saturday, April 22, 2017, at Calvary United Methodist Church, 1800 Stockholm Ave in Windber PA.

The meal will be sponsored and served by Windber Church of the Brethren.

The menu will feature Pork Loin, Mashed Potatoes & Gravy, Corn, Fruit Cocktail, Assorted Desserts and Coffee/Punch. All are welcome!

The Windber Area Community Kitchen (W.A.C.K.) is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization.

PIRATES vs. CARDINALS – AUGUST 17, 2017Join Johnstown: Bethany UMC on Thursday, August 17, 2017 for Faith Night at PNC Park for a baseball game featuring the Pittsburgh Pirates vs. the St. Louis Cardinals. Bethany will be taking a motor coach to PNC Park to watch the Pirates take on our division rivals, the St. Louis Cardinals. Please call the church office at 814-266-9588 as soon as possible to make your reservation(s). Cost is $50 for the ticket and the bus ride! A $20 non-refundable deposit will reserve your seat on the bus and get your ticket for the game (Section 128). Deadline for deposit is May 15 and balance of $30 is due July 10. Price includes $10 for concessions!

VOLUNTEERS WANTED!JUMP is looking for retired men and women who are seeking a rewarding experience.

PAY: NONE

BENEFITS: Investment in your community; serve God by doing ministry to help the less fortunate

Current JUMP leaders are aging and dealing with health limitations. They will help with permits, design, materials transport, and paperwork.Priority for jobs goes to handicap needs, followed by home repairs addressing safety issues. Teams are generally 3 to 5 people and most jobs are completed in 2 to 3 days. We need team leaders and team workers, hopefully with some fix-it experience, but we will train any interested individual.This is a part-time volunteer effort. JUMP has tools but bringing your own is encouraged. Access to a small truck or van is also helpful but not necessary.For more information, call Franklin Street UMC at 535-8288.

PLEASE JOIN US FOR OUR SPRING HELPSHOP!Johnstown District Help Shop

Saturday, May 6, 2017"Including Everyone in God's Love"--handicapped accessibility, inclusion, and the local church

Grove Avenue United Methodist Church, 501 Grove Avenue, Johnstown, PA 15902$10 per person -- Continuing education credits available.

Registrar:  Karen Kinkade, 814.266.2514340 Hostetler Road, Johnstown, PA  15904

A note from Gary Hale…

Greetings to all,I would like to invite you to a meeting of the Greater Johnstown Covenant Ministry. We are a group of pastors and leaders dedicated to bringing together pastors and leaders from Johnstown and surrounding communities to bring a new level of unity in Johnstown so we may see revival break out in our churches and community.

A friend of mine, Pastor Gary Mosorjak , told a very important story at Bethany UMC prayer breakfast. Back in 1977 Pastor Burns of Oakland United Methodist Church was planning to bring in David Wilkerson for a Holy Spirit revival on July 20, 1977. David would only come if there was unity among the pastors and they would all support his coming. Pastor Burns was not successful in bringing the pastors together so David said he would not come. As most of you know instead of getting a flood of the Spirit on July 20th we got a flood of rain and dams bursting that changed our city negatively. Around 80 people lost their lives, millions of dollars of destruction, and it was instrumental in the mills closing.

Years ago going down 56 by-pass into the city the Lord showed me His Spirit coming upon the city like a great flood. I know to see that happen we need to work together and as God sees us in harmony and humbling ourselves before Him He will send His Spirit and bring revival to the churches and to the entire community.

Gary HalePresident of Greater Johnstown Covenant Ministry.

Encounter with Christ UMVIMMission to Colombia August 15-23

In August of 2017, the Conference Committee on Encounter with Christ in Latin America has set it focus on Brisas del Mar, Colombia, as the location for a VIM Mission. As always, we have the cooperation of the Conference of the Evangelical Methodist church of Columbia, acting as our guides and hosts.

Brisas del Mar has been a significant center of ministry and mission for some time. Not many years ago, the drug cartels controlled this part of Colombia, and the local population suffered extremely at their hands. The Methodist Church reached out to these people, and even to their oppressors. When this area became pacified, the Church had gained wide respect for its involvement, and used its good name to foster ministries in health, education, and church work.

The purpose of our proposed mission in Colombia is to do construction and improve the facilities in Brisas del Mar. Details of the actual building plans will develop with the ongoing correspondence with the Colombian Church leaders.

Those who are interested in participating in this mission should complete the attached from and mail it to the Mission Team Leader, Dr. David Stains, at 518 Fronheiser Street, Johnstown, PA 15902. If you have questions, you are welcome or call at 814-539-0044 or 539-0532. Email at

clementof@hotmail.com. Realistically, you can probably expect total expenses to be about $2,000.00.

I hope the Lord opens doors for us to work together. Pastor David Stains

“MESSY CHURCH”Park Ave UMC will sponsor "Messy Church" the last Saturday of every month from 3-5 pm. This is an event that highlights the family. There is a time of welcoming, a craft or game time, a time for celebration and each month we will be serving a meal and the best part is it is absolutely free. Call the church for more details at 814-288-4725. We'll see you at "Messy Church".

There will be a Community Tenebrae Service at Westmont Presbyterian Church on Friday, April 14th at 7:30 PM. All are welcome! 

HOPE IS RISING CONFERENCEJoin the Oakland United Methodist Church Family on Saturday, April 29, from 8:30 am – 12:30 pm, as we learn how to build a culture of prayer through prayer teams. Our speaker, Dr. Luther Oconer, an ordained elder in the Pampanga Philippines Conference of the United Methodist Church, is currently serving as a professor of United Methodist studies at United Theological Seminary. He has a research background in the Holiness Movement, Pentecostalism, and mission history. Following a teaching on how to build a culture of prayer, Dr. Oconer will lead an altar call.

- $10 Registration fee includes a light continental breakfast- Clergy may receive ½ CEU for attending this event.

Registration deadline is Tuesday, April 25, 2017. Please phone Oakland UMC at 814.266.3678.

CLERGY REMINDERS:UPCOMING DEADLINES:All clergy - please give this your immediate attention. Please check "Required Annual Forms" on the WPAUMC website for more information. Of course, all of these deadlines can be met BEFORE the deadline!

March 1 – Fund Balance Report – Submit to District OfficeThe following churches have not submitted their 2016 Fund Balance Report to the district office:Coalport Charge: IrvonaConemaugh: FirstDunlo/Sidman/Beaverdale Charge: Sidman & BeaverdaleGlasgow Larger Parish: UtahvilleHollsopple: Bethel/Centennial Charge: HollsoppleJohnstown Ferndale/Faith/Park Avenue Charge: Ferndale & FaithJohnstown: Franklin StreetPointSewardSpanglerUniontown

March 31 –2016 Worker’s Compensation – Send to Conference Center – Attn: Holly Sawyer

May 1 – Spring Equitable Compensation Applications – Submit, if applicable, to District Superintendent

May 15 -2017 Clergy Evaluation – Submit to District Office

May 15 –Continuing Education Report Form – Submit to District Office

May 15 –Annual Parsonage Inspection – Submit to District Office

 

District Prayer Chain- Tammy Hay, Admin. Assistant for Connellsville District- Pastor Penny Adams- Arch Moore, brother of Pastor Tom Moore- Dorothy Weaver- Kathy McKee- Shawn Crum- Dan Dembinsky- Rev. John Mize’s Father- Rev. Doreen Griffith- Stan & Gene Mickolick- Laura Williams- Our Country and our Leaders- All Pastors and Laity in the Johnstown District

Alyce’s Schedule: April 17 – Alyce in office amApril 18 - Alyce in CranberryApril 19 – Alyce at CabinetApril 20 – Alyce at CabinetApril 21 – April 22 – April 23 – Camp Allegheny Booster Dinner – 5 pm

Save the date! Annual Conference 2017 is June 8-11, 2017

Conference News and Events

Continuing Education EventNew Castle: First United Methodist Church

Please join us for a Family Systems Workshop on “Integrated Leadership: Spirit, Emotions, Intellect, Behavior” on Friday, April 28 and Saturday, April 29, 2017. This is a workshop for families, professionals, clergy, co-workers, teachers, medical personnel, human resource and social service persons, anyone whose lives or livelihood puts them in relationship with others. Cost is $25 and includes 1 CEU for full 2-day participation. Please contact New Castle First UMC at firstumc@firstumcnc.org for more information and/or to register.

Continuing Education Event at Olmsted ManorThe Kane District in partnership with Warren Area Ministerium is hosting a half-day event with Heather Bennett from Blessed Earth. Their mission statement is: “Inspiring faithful stewardship of all creation.” They present a biblically based approach. They have partnered with over 40 seminaries across the United States through

their Seminary Stewardship Alliance (Asbury and Duke among them). Newsweek and Christianity Today have listed Matthew and Nancy Sleeth, the founders of Blessed Earth, among the top fifty Christian leaders in America.

Heather Bennett and her husband Ryan, a United Methodist elder, lead the Blessed Earth Tennessee chapter. Heather always had a love for creation, but there was a disconnect between what she heard in church about creation and how she observed people treating creation. As an adult, she read Serve God Save the Planet by Dr. Matthew Sleeth. The book gave her a voice to say there is a connection between what we believe and how it should be lived out. Heather

received her M.S. in Sustainability from Lipscomb University in 2014 and started Blessed Earth Tennessee, serving the southeastern portion of the U.S. Heather is married to Ryan, a United Methodist elder. They have one son and make their home in Franklin, TN. Where: Olmsted Manor Retreat Center, Rt. 6, Ludlow, Pa. When: April 21, 2017, 9:00 a.m. to noon with lunch to followWhy: It’s good to be together, to come apart, to learn, fellowship, eat and be inspired and better equipped to

serve and reach outWho is invited: Pastors and interested lay leaders. Space is limited to first 60 reservations.Sponsors: Rouse Warren County Home, Warren Area Ministerial Association, Kane District of the United Methodist ChurchSign up by: April 15th call or email the Kane District Office

kane.office@wapumc.org 814-945-6975Note: While there is no fee for the event, to reduce waste, we will bill anyone who signed up for lunch and doesn’t come and stay for lunch $10. Goal: To leave inspired of heart, equipped with practical applications and anxious to segue with others who also love creation but don’t know the Creator. Bio: Heather Bennett always had a love for creation, but there was a disconnect between what she heard in church about creation and how she observed people treating creation. As an adult, she read Serve God Save the Planet by Dr. Matthew Sleeth. The book gave her a voice to say there is a connection between what we believe and how it should be lived out. Heather received her M.S. in Sustainability from Lipscomb University in 2014 and started Blessed Earth Tennessee, serving the southeastern portion of the U.S. Heather is married to Ryan, a United Methodist elder. They have one son and make their home in Franklin, TN.

March 27, 2017

Dear Members of the Western Pennsylvania Annual Conference,

Greetings of Grace, Peace and Love in the Matchless Name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.As our Denomination continues to move forward to reflect a welcoming and inclusive global face, faithful to the mission, vision, core values, and upholding our Five Areas of Focus, as the clergy and lay members of WPA we must continue to celebrate our diversity, build strong relationships with one another which is an important thread in the making of disciples for the transformation of the world.

If we are to celebrate diversity and build relationships with one another, it is important that we begin by hearing the rich history of our agencies, boards and caucuses in the United Methodist Church who have worked and continue to be advocates ensuring that there is a place FOR ALL at the table.

We invite you to join us at Monroeville United Methodist Church, 219 Center Rd., Monroeville, Pa. 15146 on May 20-21 2017. Our National and Jurisdictional Executive Leadership of the historic organization Black Methodists for Church Renewal (BMCR) will be with us to share historic and valuable information about BMCR and other caucus’ in our denomination.

On Saturday, May 20th we will gather from 9:30am-5:00pm. A catered lunch and dinner will be served on Saturday and conclude on Sunday, May 21 2017 after morning worship with a fellowship lunch.

In order to make our time together an enjoyable and informative experience, we have secured hotel accommodations at the Comfort Inn Conference Center, 699 Rodi Road, Penn Township, Pa. at a group rate of $79.00+tax/per night (double or single occupancy) with free breakfast both Saturday and Sunday. You are responsible for making your own hotel reservations. To obtain the group rate deadline for making hotel reservations is Monday, May, 1st, 2017.

Laity Scholarships Grants ($100.00 max) are also available. (visit www.wpaumc.org/forms)Registration information for program and hotel accommodations is available on line by visiting www.wpaumc.org/events or www.wpaumc.org/calendar

This is a conference wide event and is open to all Lay and Clergy. It is our prayer and hope that you will join us for a special and important time such as this. May God continue to Bless you and keep you.

Sharon Gregory, Conference Lay Leader, Western Pennsylvania Annual ConferencePresident, Association of Annual Conference Lay Leaders (AACLL)NEJBMCR Chairperson, Nominationsconferencelayleader@wpaumc.org412-727-1235 (Home)412-636-3857 (Cell/Text)

Harry Denman AwardsAt Annual Conference each year, the Evangelism Team honors three persons who possess a desire to increase the Kingdom of God with the Harry Denman Award. The Categories are: Clergy, Youth and Laity. The Team encourages congregations to nominate candidates for these awards now so they may be recognized at our 2017 Annual Conference.

What distinguishes a Harry Denman Award recipient is an on-going commitment to introduce others to the good news of Jesus Christ in various ministry settings. They will be recognized for help numbers of people ignite or re-ignite their faith journey. Does your pastor fit that description? Is there a youth or lay-person in your church who needs to be considered? Then please, begin the nomination process.

You can download nomination forms from the following website: www.foundationforevangelism.org. The Evangelism Team asks for all nominations to be in by May 5. We need time to make our selections and order the awards from the Foundation of Evangelism. If you have nominated someone before and they were not selected, please try again.

Help the Evangelism Team honor folks who deserve recognition for the Kingdom-work they are performing. If you have question or trouble downloading the forms, call Pastor Al Kimmel at 814-758-3667. Submit your nomination via email at this address: alk2733@gmail.com or send them to Pastor Al Kimmel, Herminie UMC, 3365 Pike Street, Herminie, PA 15637. Please mark “Denman Award” on the envelope.

Family Autism Retreat at Jumonville Camp - September 22-24, 2017. This weekend retreat allows families of children living with autism to enjoy a mountaintop experience that will combine coveted parental free time with an opportunity for quality family time. Hope is provided through time for worship, rest and relaxation in a safe Christian setting capable of caring for children with Autism. All ages are welcome! Registration deadline September 15, 2017. Brochure/registration form or Register online

OLDER ADULT RETREAT Olmsted ManorJuly 17-21, 2017 (Mon. dinner – Friday lunch)

Theme: “Stained Glass Windows: Letting God’s Holy Spirit Shine!”Deans: Mrs. Lois Hiles and Mrs. Glenda MerrittBible Teacher: Rev. Bruce K. MerrittMusic Director: Robin SwankCost: Tuition: $16.00 + Room and Board: $264 = $280

Price includes class, 4 nights stay, 12 meals, and evening entertainmentCamperships available for first time attendees!

For more information: Olmsted ManorP.O. Box 8, Ludlow, Pa. 16333814-945-6512info@olmstedmanor.org www.olmstedmanor.org

Glenda and Bruce Merritt1268 Fells Church Rd, Belle Vernon, Pa. 15012724-379-4502pastorbruce56@yahoo.com

Thank you for any publicity that you can give this retreat. It is a week of Bible teaching, worship, fun, good food, and fellowship. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me!Abundant Blessings…Pastor Bruce K. Merritt

SHORT-TERM MISSION PROJECT OPPORTUNITY AT CHERRY RUN CAMP The Franklin District camp is always in need of adult volunteers to help with the work of the camp. Working and helping at Cherry Run is a great short-term local mission project for church groups or for individuals. Work one day or as many as you are able. Cherry Run Camp especially needs volunteers to help the week prior to camp to clean and prepare the grounds and buildings for camp. They are also looking for volunteers to serve in the kitchen during camp. They have a camp cook who plans and buys for the camp, but he needs extra hands to prepare and to serve the meals. Individual volunteers or a team of four individuals are needed each day to assist the cook. Your help is greatly sought-after and appreciated. For more information or to volunteer, contact Judy McQueen, Cherry Run Camp Meeting Board Member, at 724-846-7565 or revmac@comcast.net.

5TH ANNUAL FAITH NIGHT AT PNC PARKThursday, August 17, 2017. Enjoy discounted tickets for the Pirates-Cardinals game at 7:05 pm and stay after the game to hear from Manager Clint Hurdle and many more Pirates Players and Coaches discuss how faith has impacted their lives, both on and off the field. The Faith Night presentation will last approximately 45 minutes. Early bird pricing for groups of 15 or more. Contact Chad Glover at (412) 325-4756 or chad.glover@pirates.com or Ryan Vizzini at (412) 325-4777 or ryan.vizzini@pirates.com

2017 Confirmation Class Tours

2017 Confirmation Class Tour Schedule

April 21, Friday - Morning May 12, Friday - Morning and Afternoon May 13, Saturday - Morning

Reservations are on a first-come, first-served basis. Use the links above to the reservation form for the session you choose. Have a confirmed number of students and adults in your group when you register. Confirmation tour sessions fill up quickly. If you are unable to attend after you register your group, contact Rev. Greg Cox.

Registration begins at 9 am for mornings and 1 pm for afternoons. Sessions run from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm and 1:30 pm to 4:30 pm respectively.

Weather Conditions

In the unlikely event of snow or weather cancellations, we will follow the Seneca Valley School Districts for cancellations only.  We will also follow up as soon as possible for notices through email. In the event of a delay, we will operate on a normal schedule throughout the day of Confirmation Visits.

Make sure to:

Download the School Release Form Print it out on church letterhead Send it to each student's school to be properly excused from classes on the day of your tour.

Minister's Chorus (Rev. Steve Morse)Rev. Steve Morse is the director of this chorus and would love for you to join him at one of his upcoming concerts.  

Upcoming Concerts

April 20, 2017  Carmichaels UMC May 25, 2017 Combined chorus with Susquehanna Conference- Westside UMC, Clearfield Pa Sept. 21, 2017 Linesville/Harmansburg UMC Oct. 19, 2017 Mount Hope UMC Nov. 16, 2017 Brookville First UMC

New Newsletter Available Now!! Prison Outreach MinistryKeep up with WPA Prison Outreach Ministry volunteers in their latest newsletter. Learn more about the ministry and how you or your church can get involved at: wpapom.org.

GIVE TO WEST VIRGINIA FLOOD RELIEFGive to WV Flood Relief - The Western Pennsylvania UM Conference, is gathering funds under the designation #WV2016 and encouraging local churches to take up an offering or give online.

Keep Up With Upcoming Events - WPAUMC ConferenceThe website for upcoming events is: http://www.wpaumc.org/events. The Conference Calendar can now be found on the website under “Calendar” instead of “Events”, to save any confusion.

Follow the Western Pennsylvania Conference on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wpaumcCONFERENCE MISSION OPPORTUNITIES

You can now check our running list of WPA VIM Trip Opportunities online anytime at www.wpaumc.org/opportunities

UMVIM/UMCOR TRAINING ACADEMY Registration is open for the Northeast Jurisdiction’s 2017 Academy, set for March 26-29 at Pocono Plateau Camp and Retreat Center in Cresco, PA. Spring, Summer Volunteers Needed in Connellsville: The Connellsville Flood Recovery Center still has 109 active cases in the aftermath of flooding last August. Volunteer assistance is needed for repair and rebuilding at many of those homes. UM volunteers from several districts, including Erie, Butler, Connellsville, Pittsburgh, Greensburg, and Johnstown have helped. Housing and hospitality for teams serving multiple days is available, but one-day teams are common. One team from Latrobe UMC serves once a month! Volunteers can register online at connellsvillevolunteers.org/2016/09/08/how-to-volunteer/ or email volunteer@wpaumc.org.

UMCOR Needs Health, Bedding Kits: Katie Peterson, new executive director of the Eastbrook Mission Barn, notes that UMCOR has put out a call for health and bedding kits. Get kit details at wpaumc.org/MissionBarn. UMCOR Kits Needed: Cleaning buckets, health kit, and bedding kit ingredients can be gathered by local communities and congregations. UMCOR kits can be received at Eastbrook Mission Barn, at the Conference Center or at one of the official Mission Barn sub-depots. Eastbrook Mission Barn is on call to deploy their kits through the UMCOR Relief Supply Network through their national system. Kits collected in UMCOR's name are UMCOR property and unverified kits cannot be given out in UMCOR's name by local groups. Can’t Wait for Summer Mission U? Check out the Mini Mission U event May 7-9 at Olmsted Manor. Study subjects are from 2016 Mission u. Learn more Uth4Mission – Summer 2017: Hands on service,

worship and fellowship for Youth grades 6 -12 at Pitt at Johnstown. Estimated cost: $275. www.wpaumc.org/youth

Mission U – July 2017: Service and learning for Kids, Teens & Adults at Cal U. www.wpaumc.org/missionu. Registration’s Open for Mission u 2017! Learn about the July 27-30 event for adults, youth and children and download a flyer to share at wpaumc.org/missionu.

UM A.R.M.Y. – Your church can be a youth work camp as Youth and chaperones partner with UM A.R.M.Y. to love your neighbors. www.ne.umarmy.org.

Eastbrook Mission Barn – Ramps, relief supplies and Outreach. ALL ages can serve for one day in the New Castle area. www.wpaumc.org/missionbarn For Mission opportunities, please go to www.wpaumc.org/opportunities. This is the best place to see what is open.

House of the Carpenter Team – June 18-24, 2017 in Wheeling, West Virginia. Join House of the Carpenter in holistic approach to mission and community development. Volunteers engage the community for mercy, justice and spiritual formation. This team will focus on home repair and other tasks. Ages 14 to Adult. Cost $375. Red Bird Family Team – July 9-15, 2017: Volunteers enable Red Bird Mission to builds up the community and witness to Christ. Kids ages 7-12 with adult, Youth (age 13+) and Adults. Estimated cost: $600 for Youth and Adults. Kids: $450. UMCOR Sager Brown Team – July 30-August 5, 2017: Join the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) in the work of disaster response and fighting poverty at Sager Brown, their main warehouse and shopping depot. Volunteers engage in local outreach and in preparing relief supply kits as signs of comfort and hop to a community in distress. Age 16+. Estimated cost $2,500. Individual Volunteers in Mission: Change your life by becoming an individual volunteer. Learn more at umcmission.org/Get-Involved

Keep up with UMCOR, Mission News: Effective today, the UMCOR Hotline, which provides updates about the United Methodist Committee on Relief will become a bi-weekly publication. On alternate weeks, UMC Global Ministries’ Connect ‘n Mission will be published. You can subscribe to both publications.

Pastor Rapheal Koikoi on Loan to WPA!  Beginning February 1, the Rev. Raphael Koikoi will begin serving a new extension ministry in Western Pennsylvania, but remain a member of the Baltimore-Washington Conference under appointment by Bishop Latrelle Easterling. Read more.

CLERGY DEVELOPMENTVital ministry requires a plan. Let this be a tool to create your continuing education plan. Opportunities are listed here by areas of focus to allow you to target an area where you need to grow. Our Conference focus for 2016 is Leadership. There are some great leadership development events coming up! Which ones could help strengthen your ministry?

Youth Zim CampApplications are now available for the 2017 Youth Zim Camp. The dates are June 20- July 5, 2017. Get details and application.

Thrive - Ministry on the Edge

April 30 – May 2, 2017Double Tree by Hilton, Pittsburgh, PA, 15205Cutting Edge SpeakersInteractive BreakoutsTravel/Lodging - Book Room nowWestern PA Scholarship Form

 VIM Connellsville Disaster Response

As the recovery continues in Connellsville, funds are being requested from local churches, pastors and

individuals to the Conference Disaster Response - Advance Special #DR0000911. Gifts can be made online

at wpaumc.org/online payments or sent to the Conference Treasurer's office at 1204 Freedom Rd., PO Box

5002, Cranberry Twp., PA 16066-0002. While Connellsville Area Community Ministries money will go directly

to the victims, funds contributed to the advance will go to other needs like tools, materials, and volunteer

support for the teams who will be working over the coming months in the flood damaged homes.  UMCOR has

already granted funds for PT staffing to manage this recovery, and our Conference Mission Coordinator is

working with others to secure father grants for the response office and staff. Volunteers and work teams are

needed to get people back into their houses before cold weather sets in.  To sign-up or to volunteer

visit www.connellsvillevolunteers.org or call 724-366-0408.

2017 Conference VIM Teams

Find out how to apply for a team and see new teams as they are announced at wpaumc.org/opportunities . Costs include travel, housing, most meals and VIM insurance.

Contact Rev. Stephanie Gottschalk for more information, stephanie.gottschalk@wpaumc.org .

724-776-2300 ext 241

MISSION VIMpossible PILGRIMAGE TO GERMANY - Western PA UMs are invited to join a spiritual pilgrimage, On the Trail of Martin Luther, in Germany from Apr 19-30, 2017. The year marks the 500th anniversary of Luther's Ninety-Five Theses and a major turning point in the Protestant Reformation. Collette, the tour company, will support WPA Volunteer-in-Mission Scholarships to help make VIM service possible for all God's people.    Highlights… Mainz, Worms, Gutenberg Museum, Erfurt, Wartburg Castle, Lutherhaus, Eisleben, Dresden, Leipzig, St. Thomas Church, Wittenberg, St.

Mary’s Church, Berlin --- For more information contact: Stephanie Gottschalk--(724)776-2300 orstephanie.gottschalk@wpaumc.org

Mission VIMpossible Pilgrimage to Germany: Western PA UMs are invited to join a spiritual pilgrimage, On the Trail of Martin Luther, in Germany from April 19 – May 1, 2017. This year marks the 500th anniversary of Luther's Ninety-Five Theses and a major turning point in the Protestant Reformation. Collette Tour Company, will support WPA Volunteer-in-Mission Scholarships to help make VIM service possible for all God's people. Cost: $3,990. Luther Trail Webinar: Get details

House of the Carpenter Team – June 18-24, 2017 in Wheeling, West Virginia. Join House of the Carpenter in holistic approach to mission and community development. Volunteers engage the community for mercy, justice and spiritual formation. This team will focus on home repair and other tasks. Ages 14 - Adult. Cost $375.

Red Bird Family Team – July 9-15, 2017: In Eastern Kentucky, chronic poverty makes life a struggle for people in this mountainous area of Appalachia. Volunteers enable Red Bird Mission to builds up the community and witness to Christ. Kids ages 7-12 with adult, Youth (age 13+) and Adults. Estimated cost: $600 for Youth and Adults. Kids: $450.

UMCOR Sager Brown Team – July 30-August 5, 2017: Join the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) in the work of disaster response and fighting poverty at Sager Brown, their main warehouse and shopping depot. Volunteers engage in local outreach and in preparing relief supply kits as signs of comfort and hop to a community in distress. Age 16+. Estimated cost $2,500.

ZIM Camp – July-August 2017: Despite widespread challenges, the UMC in Zimbabwe has grown and continues in vital ministry and dynamic worship. ZIM Camp offers youth two weeks a chance to build relationships through District partnership projects, all in the spirit of Chabadza. Ages 15-18. Cost $2500.

Fiji Team – fall 2017 (Dates to be determined): Cyclone Winston devastated parts of the Fijian Islands in February 2016. We are working with our brothers and sisters in the Methodist Church in Fiji and the UMC to meet their ongoing needs with solidarity and encouragement. Cost to be determined.

Olmsted Manor Upcoming Events:

Women’s Retreat with Sue Duffield Ministries“Laugh, Cry, Pray, Give”April 23-25, 2017http://www.olmstedmanor.org/spring-womens-retreat-2017.html Fly Fishing Retreat with Gary Kell, John Swart, and George Lilja“The Secrets to Fly Fishing Success”April 29-May 1, 2017http://www.olmstedmanor.org/fly-fishing-retreat.html Mini Mission U with Rev. Dr. James Ritchie“The Bible and Human Sexuality”May 7-9, 2017http://www.olmstedmanor.org/mini-mission-u.html Pastors’ Academy with Bishop Cynthia Moore-Koikoi“Why Do We Have to Talk About THAT?”

May 22-24, 2017http://www.olmstedmanor.org/pastors-academy.html