Christ United Methodist Church | christumcmobile.com | 251.342.0462

Water for Life.................................. front coverA Note from Pastor Jeff.................................... 2Holy Week Activities ........................................ 3 Adult Opportunities ........................................ 4Youth Ministry................................................. 5 Children’s Ministry...........................................6Recreation Ministry..........................................7Various Ministries.......................................8-12Pastoral Care.................................................13 Weekly Events/Library...................................14 Monthly Calendar......................................... 15 Family Easter Experience ............... back cover

What’s Inside

Worship Services

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MARCH 2015

The early morning sunlight pierces through the boards that make up the shelter she calls home. In this one room building, her family lies asleep. She rises early and begins her day. There is just enough water and bread from last night’s meal to serve as breakfast. Her husband awakens to head out for a long, hard, hot day of labor. The two oldest children begin their walk to school five miles away. The younger two children gather their buckets and make their way to the water source. This will be their first trip of the day, with two more to follow.

Her family’s lives depend on her ability to get water. Even though the water source is tainted saltwater, she will carry her five gallons of tainted water the half-mile back home. This is her life. For her, there is little hope. This back-breaking labor dominates her day; it dominates her life. Her life is about to change significantly!

In September, Christ UMC and St. John UMC, partnering with the UMC of Cote d’Ivoire, will

open a clean water well for this village in Cote d’Ivoire. Clean water changes everything. No longer will she have to spend hours each day gathering water. No longer will she worry about the diseases that unclean water carries. Now, all her children will have time to go to school.

Access to clean water will change her daily life.

But, we are believing God will provide so much more.

We are praying that this gift of love, clean water, will be the door that God will use to open the hearts of the villagers to the gift of Living Water, the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Clean water will change the daily activities of the people in

Gnangoussou. Living Water will change the hearts of the people. Living Water will change the eternal destinies of these people. Living Water really does change everything.

With the opening of the well, we will open the doors of a new church building. In this village, the main religion is an indigenous tribal

religion that does not look favorably on the Gospel. The nine family members who comprise the small UMC church in Gnangoussou experience daily intimidation from those who follow the local religion. Our hope is that by providing the village with a gift of love, clean water, they will open their hearts to the gift of Living Water.

This mission will take focused prayer from all of us. We want to come alongside our brothers and sisters in Cote d’Ivoire to make an eternal difference in the lives of the people in Gnangoussou. Every person deserves to have clean water. Every person deserves to have access to Living Water. Together, with God’s help, we will make a difference. n

And if you give even a cup of cold waterto one of the least of My followers,

you will surely be rewarded.” Matthew 10:42 (NLT)

Water for Life

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RE-MARKABLEOPPORTUNITYThese Lenten weeks leading up to Easter Sunday are filled with hope and opportunity! I pray that it will be a re-markable season of re-newal for all of us.

n Re-pentance: Confessing our sin and our utter dependence upon God. Changing our minds and our directions as we turn our lives in a total way toward God! Let us seek God as He has sought us.

n Re-vival: Allowing the Spirit of God to revive our hunger and thirst for God and His Kingdom. Pray for the Holy Spirit to bring the fire of love and faith.

n Re-newal: Let’s renew our commitment to Jesus and His body, the church. Love God and love one another. Let’s renew our commitment to pray, be present in worship, be generous givers, serve others and share “what Jesus means to me.”

n Re-surrection: May we find the resurrection and life that only a living Christ can bring us! Let us be encouraged and joyful for death and sin have been defeated. They have no power over us!

If you have not picked up your Lenten Prayer Calendar and Water for Life bottle, we encourage you to do so. Pray and give daily for this mission.

Please remember to bring your Water for Life bottle (filled with $40) with you on Easter Sunday.

…“If any one thirst, let him come to me and drink.” John 7:37

In Christ,

Get started in the right direction with Starting Point. Learn about the Christian

faith, the mission of our church and membership. You will also learn how to

get connected into the life of Christ UMC!

SUNDAY, APRIL 26 4:00 P.M. - 6:00 P.M.HOSPITALITY ROOM

REGISTER AT: christumcmobile.com/startingpoint

ARE YOU NEW TO CHRIST UMC?

SEVEN YEAR PLAN REPORTRob Blackwell, Church AdministratorSince FORWARD and the Seven Year Plan (7YP) work together, this article will now include information on both FORWARD and the 7YP. Remember, FORWARD is Christ UMC’s primary financial and stewardship emphasis, while the 7YP is our plan to aggressively reduce, and eventually eliminate our debt. These two components of our overall financial program work hand in hand to accomplish our goals of properly funding the ministries of the church while simultaneously paying down our debt. Our tithes go to FORWARD and those funds are fed into both the General Fund (which funds the ministries and operations of the church) and the 7 Year Fund (which pays down the principal on the debt). The amount going to each is specified by the Budget and the 7YP Payment Schedule and is managed by the Finance Committee. This year, our goal is to pay $1,150,000 on loan principal, in addition to the $2,000,000 we plan to pay down from the proceeds of the Crossroads sale, while still funding the ongoing ministries of the church. This is an aggressive goal and depends on all of us giving our anticipated pledges and other gifts. If our giving doesn’t keep up, both operating budget and principal payments will fall behind, so please be attentive to that need and help us achieve what we have purposed to do. Keep in mind that since FORWARD now funds both the Operating Budget and the 7 Year Plan, it is no longer necessary to designate gifts directly to the 7YP. Your gifts to FORWARD are already being used to fund the $1,150,000 7YP goal. If you have any confusion over FORWARD, the 7YP or how they work, please contact me at rob@christumcmobile.com or 251.706.3321 and I’ll be glad to answer your questions.

$1,388,000thru February

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Family Easter Experience | Saturday, March 28He is risen! Join us for a wonderful day filled with fun as we celebrate and experience the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Entertainment for all: Inflatables, cotton candy, snow cones, games, hot dogs, popcorn, puppet and drama team performances, HOPEFUL Bag Build, egg hunt for kids and Hunger Games-style egg hunt for youth.

Palm Sunday Services, March 29Join us at one of our regular worship times.

Seder Passover Meal | Thursday, April 25:30 p.m. | Christ Center Gym | Join us as we celebrate the Passover meal Jesus and His disciples celebrated before the crucifixion and resurrection. Must preregister at christumcmobile.com/seder. Limited space available. Cost: $10 adults/$5 children (5 years and up). Child care available for children under five.

Maundy Thursday Communion ServiceThursday, April 2 | 7:00 p.m. | SanctuaryMaundy comes from the Latin Maunde, which means command, referring to the words of Jesus “a new command I give to you.” Come experience communion at tables of twelve, representing Jesus and the disciples at the last supper.

Good Friday Concert: The Weeping Tree | Friday, April 37:00 p.m. | Sanctuary | Presented by Christ UMC Sanctuary Choir with orchestra and narration. The Weeping Tree is a portrait of the Cross that uses beloved hymns, beautiful anthems, thoughtful narration and sacred symbols to create a touching testament to the grace of God.

Easter Sunday, April 5Sunrise Easter Worship | 7:00 a.m. | Sanctuary | Child care not available

Traditional Easter Worship | 8:00 a.m., 9:15 a.m. & 10:40 a.m. | Sanctuary | Child care available

NewSong Contemporary Worship | 9:15 a.m. & 10:40 a.m. | Christ Center | Child care available

Youth Worship for Middle and High School | 9:16 a.m. | Christ Center - upstairs in Youth Area

Preschool - Kindergarten Worship | 9:15 a.m. & 10:40 a.m. | E-149

1st grade - 5th grade Worship | 9:15 a.m. & 10:40 a.m. | Fellowship Hall

Evening Worship | 5:00 p.m. | Christ Center | Child care available

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Adult Bible Studyopportunities

SUNDAY MORNING STUDIES8:00 a.m. | Revival, Faith as Wesley Lived It by Adam Hamilton | Room A-206 | Wesley’s message of faith continues to speak to us in the 21st century. His story is our story, defining our faith and challenging us to rediscover our spiritual passion. A class for ladies only.

8:00 a.m. | Bible Study: 1st Thessalonians | Room A-201A class for men only.

9:15 a.m. | Spring Quarterly Methodist Curriculum: Acts, John & 1 Corinthians | Room A-209Topics covered in this study are The Pledge of God’s Presence, The Community of the Beloved Disciple and One in the Bond of Love. A class for senior adults.

COMING IN MARCHn Forgiveness, Finding Peace Through Letting Go By Adam Hamilton | Led By Brian Johnson Tuesdays beginning March 10 | 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. | Room E-245 | “If your enemies are starving, feed them some bread; if they are thirsty, give them water to drink.” Proverbs 24:17 (CEB) There is nothing more crippling than holding on to anger. Anger, more than any other emotion, has the power to consume all aspects of our lives, distort our sense of purpose and destroy our relationship with God and others. Hamilton argues that revelation comes when we realize that forgiveness is a gift we give ourselves rather than to someone else. He also contends that only when we learn to forgive others and ourselves can we truly receive forgiveness from God. Books are available at the first class meeting for $10 with prior registration. To register for class or child care, contact Sonya Carson at sonya@christumcmobile.com or 251.706.3365.

COMING IN APRIL n Soul Keeping by John Ortberg | Begins Wednesday, April 8 | 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. | Hospitality Room | Led by John Sellers | Anxiety, Depression, Fear, Loneliness: These are all symptoms of a soul that has lost touch with its source of life. Like a flower snipped from the vine, the soul that is not turned toward God can only wither away. In Soul Keeping, bestselling author John Ortberg sheds light on the most overlooked, underrated and least understood part of your being. With a workable and relevant approach, he shows how living the “with God” life isn’t just a good idea—it’s the only way to find lasting peace and satisfaction. The textbook and workbook are both recommended. To register and order the book, contact Sonya Carson at sonya@christumcmobile.com or 251.706.3365. The cost of the set is $20 if purchased through the church. Several websites offer the book new and used as well as audio, e-book and mp3 formats.

n Marriage Study | Thursdays, beginning April 9 | 6:30 p.m. - 7:45 p.m. | Hospitality Room Led by Jim Kinder | Falling in love is easy. Staying in love and acting like it is another thing. It takes commitment and an understanding of your spouse; their needs and motivations. Staying in love for a lifetime is possible and worth it. Join Pastor Jim and Kari Ann Kinder for a marriage study designed for those who have been married three years or less.

WATER FOR LIFE: A CHURCH-WIDE LENTEN STUDYWater is needed to sustain life. Spiritual water is needed to sustain our faith and relationship with God. Jesus refers to water many times in the New Testament. The Jewish laws required cleansing with water in the Old Testament. In the world are many places where physical and spiritual water are rare or unavailable. How do we as followers and witnesses for Christ provide both of these where it is needed? Class opportunities available now:n 8:00 a.m. | Room A-207 – For couples with children of all agesn 9:15 a.m. | Room A-206 – For 50 plus adults, singles and couplesn 9:15 a.m. | Parlor – For senior adultsn 9:15 a.m. | Room A-201 – For 40 plus adults, singles and couplesn 9:15 a.m. | Room A-202 – For senior adults

n 9:15 a.m. | Room A-203 – For senior adultsn 9:15 a.m. | Room C-221 – For singlesn 9:15 a.m. | Room D-204 – For couples with childrenBegins March 8n 9:15 a.m. | Room D-203 – A class for couples with children

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MARCH ACTIVITIESn 7 | Hands & Feet Youth Local Missions | For 6th - 12th grade | We will partner with a local organization in our community to help those in need. Details and registration information at christumcyouth.com/hands-feet.

n 13 | High School: Mini Campout | For 9th - 12th grade 6:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. | Grab a friend and get ready for some fun outdoors. What could be a better combination than s’mores, chilling on the ENO, grilling hot dogs, and an epic battle of Capture the Flag? Cost $5. Register at christumcyouth.com/minicampout.

n 14 | Middle School Fun Night: Pi Day at Pump It Up | For 6th - 8th grade | 8:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. | Who cares if you haven’t memorized all 5 trillion plus digits of Pi. The only ones we care about tonight are 3.14 because that’s the date this party is happening. Invite all your friends for a night of ALL THE PIE YOU CAN EAT! Cost: $10. Register at christumcyouth.com/piday.

n 20 - 21 | Overnight Confirmation Retreat at Dauphin Island UMC | Depart CUMC: 4:30 p.m., Friday - Return to CUMC: 12:00 p.m., Saturday. It’s important that students eat an early dinner prior to arriving. We will have some heavy snacks later in the evening.

n 29 | Confirmation Celebration | 5:00 p.m. | Sanctuary Student rehearsal - 4:00 p.m. | Students should wear dress clothes for this service. Students that have completed the attendance requirements will be confirmed.

YOUTH MINISTRY STAFFTyler Vittetoe, High School MinisterEmail - tyvittetoe@gmail.com

WEEKLY PROGRAMSVisit christumcyouth.com for more details. n SUNDAY MORNINGS: Breakfast is provided starting at 8:00 a.m.9:16 Worship | Youth Area | 9:16 a.m. - 10:20 a.m. A great worship venue for middle and high school students.

Middle & High School Bible Study | Youth Lounge | 10:40 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Youth Singers | Rehearsal | 10:20 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.Youth Ringers | Rehearsal | 11:00 a.m. - 11:40 a.m.

n SUNDAY NIGHTSMiddle & High School | 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Hang out and get to know new friends as we break into small groups.

n WEDNESDAY HANGOUT AND WORSHIP Re:Fuel | Youth Area | 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. | Wednesday Night Bible study for middle and high school students. Eat and hang out with us | 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.Bible Study | 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

STAY CONNECTED WITH USCheck in with us at Want to get text updates? MS text @CUMC to 475.252.2857HS text @HSGR to 475.252.2857Visit christumcyouth.com for all our events

COMMITMENTBy Tyler Vittetoe, High School Minister We have another exciting month of weekly meetings and events coming to CYM! As we continue to prepare for a busy summer in a few months, we are putting some effort into improving our weekly services and meeting times. March is a special time for our middle school students who are finishing their Confirmation journey. The journey ends with an incredible retreat, where the students and their leaders get away for a day to reflect on the commitment that they are going to make to God and to our congregation. This is a great time for us as a church family to remember the importance of Confirmation. It’s not just a commitment that the student makes, but one that we, as a congregation, make to them.

The commitment that we make as a congregation is to nourish and support the spiritual growth of these students. Since I have been serving on staff in our youth ministry, I have seen a strong support from adults in many areas of our congregation. As a youth minister, it makes me proud to see a congregation so committed to reaching students in their journey with Christ, and setting a worthy example for them to model their life after. Speaking of supportive adults, I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude for all of our youth leaders and volunteers who give of their time every week to have a direct impact on the students they serve.

Christ UMC Youth Ministry

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STAY CONNECTED WITH US CUMChildren CUMCKidz

WEEKLY PROGRAMSVisit christumcchildren.com for more details. n Sunday Mornings | All Sunday School classes are located in Building E. Visit the Next Generation booth for location of classes. 8:00 a.m.: 3K – 4K | E-146 K5 – 5th | E-248

9:15 a.m.: 3K – 4K | Bldg E | Sunday School K5 – 2nd | Bldg F | Elementary Worship 3rd – 5th | Bldg E | Sunday School

10:40 a.m.: 3K – 4K | Bldg F | Preschool Worship K5 – 2nd | Bldg E | Sunday School 3rd – 5th | CCAA | Tween Worship

n WEDNESDAY NIGHT DINNER AND WORSHIPDinner: 5:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. | Fellowship HallPreschool Worship: Bldg. E, Rm 149 | 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.K5 - 5th Grade Worship: Fellowship Hall | 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

CHILDREN’S MINISTRY STAFFAshley Walker, Early Childhood Minister; Email: ashley@christumcmobile.comJon Seale, Elementary Minister; Email: jon@christumcmobile.comChristie Ford, Kidz Crossing Director; Email: christie@christumcmobile.com

MARCH ACTIVITIES n 7 | Family Service Day and Pump It Up | 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. | We will be gardening on the CSports fields then meeting at Pump It Up for pizza, bouncing and fun! Children must be accompanied by an adult. Cost $10. For more information contact Jon Seale at jon@christumcmobile.com.

n 11 | Preschool Fun Day: A Day of Crafts | 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | For preschool aged children | Fellowship Hall Crafts are fun to make for little ones, but sometimes it gets a little messy. Join us and bring the mess to us! Register at christumcchildren.com/register by Friday, March 6.

n 21-22 | Family Camping at Fort Gaines | The well-preserved ramparts of Fort Gaines have guarded the entrance to Mobile Bay for more than 150 years. Enjoy a great weekend camping in the officers quarters or your own tent with your family. Cost $20 per camper. Register at christumcchildren.com/register by Friday, March 13.

n 28 | Family Easter Experience | 10:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. He is risen! Join us for a wonderful day filled with fun as we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. There will be inflatables, performances by the Christ UMC Puppet Ministry, a petting zoo, trackless train ride, an Easter Egg Hunt and family worship.

Upcoming Eventsn April 1 | Preschool Fun Day: Easter Egg Decorating

n April 17 | Elementary Fun Night

n April 17 | Parent’s Night Out

n April 25 | Family Service Day at 5 Rivers Delta

NEVER TOO EARLYBy Jon Seale, Elementary Minister This past month, our Children’s Ministry service project was to help a refugee neighborhood with their community garden. This garden is owned by Ransom Cafe Ministries and the families get to keep half of everything that is grown there. In that neighborhood, the majority of the families are refugees from different countries in northern Africa. Seeing our kids raking leaves, pulling weeds and tilling dirt to plant potatoes for this community was a blessing for all. It is never too early or too late to learn about serving others for Him. Join us this month!

Vacation Bible School VolunteersIn just a few short months, Christ UMC will be filled with the sights and sounds of kids participating in a fun Bible Blast to the Past. We need a lot of volunteers to help make this the best VBS yet! Volunteers are needed to help in leader rolls, drama, snacks, crafts, registration and more. For more information, visit cumcchildren.com/vbsvolunteer or contact Courtney Ward at courtneyw@christumcmobile.com.

E-NEWS via christumcchildren.com

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CHRIST CENTER HOURS Monday - Friday: 6:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. Saturday: 8:00 a.m.- 6:00 p.m. For additional recreation information, call 251.706.3326

or visit: christumcsports.com. Visit /cumc.recreationministry to stay up-to-date with the Recreation Ministry.

CSPORTS REGISTRATIONn SPRING YOUNG RUNNERS CLUBFor K5 – 9th grade | Practices are on Tuesdays for K5 – 2nd grade, Tuesdays and Thursdays for 3rd - 9th grade. Required Parent Conference is March 23. Practices begin Tuesday, March 31 and the season ends May 23. Fee is $35.

n FLAG FOOTBALL (summer sport)For K5 – 6th grade (completed). All teams are co-ed and evaluations are May 4 and 5. Practices and games are once a week, during the week. Season begins May 18 and ends July 17.

Visit christumcsports.com or visit the Recreation Desk to fill out a registration form and pay.

MARCH DATES n 2 – 6 | Baseball/Softball team and individual pictures

n 8 | Daylight Savings Time - SPRING FORWARD!

n 23 | Young Runners Club Parent Conference

n 27 & 28 | Volley 4 Christ 678 Volleyball Clinic

n 31 | Young Runners Club Practices begin

LET GOD BREATHE NEW LIFE INTO YOUR HEALTHY EFFORTSPosted by Dee Eastman & Janet Hertogh | By Rick Warren“We will never turn our back on you; breathe life into our lungs so we can shout your name!” Psalm 80:18 (MSG)

Breathing is one of the few functions of your body that you do automatically—but it can also be done mindfully. When you remember to breathe deeply, you can actually clear your body and mind. By slowing your breathing, you can lower your heart rate and your stress level! Breathing is a powerful way to strengthen your body.

Mindful breathing is a reminder that your need for intimacy with God is like your need to breathe in air. King David sang, “I live and breathe GOD” Psalm 34:2 (MSG). God can breathe new life into you and your efforts to become healthier. He says, “I will put breath into you and bring you back to life. Then you will know that I am the LORD” Ezekiel 37:6b (TEV). Check out danielplan.com.

RECREATION INFORMATIONRecreation includes an indoor walking track, fitness room and basketball courts as well as regular fitness classes. All participants should complete a registration card in order to participate in any area of Recreation Ministry. Children 18 and under must have a parent/guardian signature on their registration card and children 14 and under must have a parent/guardian present.

n The Fitness Room requires a one-time fitness room orientation, held Monday through Friday at 6:30 p.m.n The basketball gym is reserved for Christ UMC members and visitors who regularly attend services and up to three of their guests.

Fitness Classes:The first class is FREE then $5 per class or you can purchase a 6-class card for $25.n Yoga Classes are Mondays and Thursdays at 6:00 p.m., and Tuesday and Thursday at 9:00 a.m.n PiYo Classes are on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 9:00 a.m.

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EXPERIENCE THE LENTEN SEASON AS JESUS DID LAGRANGE, GA | MARCH 25-27The Explorations in Antiquity Center offers an amazingly authentic setting designed to bring the ancient, Biblical world to life. Celebrate the beginning of the Lenten season with Pastor Bobby and experience life as in Jesus’ day. Share a Passover meal like Jesus and His disciples did at the Last Supper. Sit in an authentic goat hair tent like the nomadic shepherds lived in; make bread and butter; visit tombs like the one where Jesus was buried and catacombs like those early Christians used for worship; enter a village through the city gate; step into a Time Tunnel and learn about the worship practices of pagans, Jews and Christians.

n Wednesday, March 25 – Travel by bus to Callaway Gardens for a tour of the gardens and arrive in LaGrange, GA for a two-night stay.

n Thursday, March 26 – Experience daily life in Biblical times by enjoying a Passover meal,learning how the shepherds made bread and visiting a replia village like in Jesus’ day.

n Friday, March 27 – A briefing of what we learned and head home. For more information, contact Kathryn Twilley at kathryntwilley@gmail.com or call 251.404.4414 or Bobby Williams at 251.342.0462, ext. 264.

INSPIRIT: A TIME TO REKINDLE, RELAX AND RENEWAging faithfully with keynote speaker Missy Buchanan. A ministry event designed for adults ages 50 plus. The retreat is from April 9 - 11 at Blue Lake Assembly, sponsored by the Alabama-West Florida Conference Older Adult Task Force. For more information or to register, contact Kim Pratt or Ed Sells at 251.342.0462, ext. 231.

CHRIST UMC 50+ MINISTRY CRUISE TRIPSail away with Pastor Bobby on Sunday, May 17 on a seven-night cruise aboard the Carnival cruise ship The Dream. Enjoy fun, fellowship and time in the Word…all while at sea! We depart from New Orleans to four ports—Mahogany Bay, Honduras, Belize and Cozumel. Rates start at $470 per person based on two people per cabin. Please call Kathryn Twilley to book your cabin at 251.443.7501, 251.404.4414 (cell) or email ktwilley@cruiseshipcenters.com.

UNITED METHODIST WOMEN ANNUAL BAKE SALE –

SUNDAY, MARCH 29 Yum, Yum, YUMMY! Can’t you just smell those good, sweet smells coming from the Courtyard and Recreation Desk areas?

The ladies of the United Methodist Women will be serving up some tasty baked goods for your Sunday dinner dessert.

Get your favorite cakes, pies, breads and cookies and help the United Methodist Women in their support of our mission

agencies. All proceeds go directly to helping women, children and youth in need.

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1. What is your name? Sonya Carson. My name is actually pronounced Sonyae.

2. What is your position at Christ UMC?Adult Ministry Administrative Assistant.

3. How long have you worked at Christ UMC: Eight years.

4. What do you do in your role at CUMC? Some of my major responsibilities include providing administrative support for all activities related to the Adult ministry (meetings, classes, office supplies), input data collected into the EMS Calendar program, maintain a planning calendar for use by the staff and attend monthly planning meetings and handle reservations for Christ UMC rooms/event facilities.

5. How does a person get in touch with you at Christ UMC?e-mail: sonya@christumcmobile.com and phone: 251.706.3365

6. What do you like the most about your job?I love people and I love that my job allows me to serve in a Christian environment with diligence and perseverance.

7. What’s your favorite Bible verse or Christian song? My favorite Bible verse is Jeremiah 29:11, “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the LORD, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”’ My favorite Christian song is "For Your Glory" by Tasha Cobbs.

8. What motivates you (other than God) each day? My daughter.Being a single parent becomes very challenging at times. I know that she depends on me and because of that I can’t afford to stop. I must be that positive role model.

9. What are some of the things you like to do on your off day? Spend quality time with my daughter, shop and relax.

10. If you were to tell one person "Thank You for helping me become the person I am today,” who would it be and what did they do? My mother was a prayer warrior with deep faith in God. She worked two jobs in order for us to never go lacking of things—never thinking about herself but always others. As a single parent, she pushed us to be the best that we could be and to always trust God. Inspite of any obstacles she encountered, she overcame. Out of six children, one has a doctorate degree, two have masters degrees and two have bachelors degrees.

11. When are you the happiest? When my daughter is happy!

12. What is your proudest accomplishment? Earning a Masters of Business degree.

13. What is your favorite game, activity or sport to watch and/or play? My daughter has been dancing since two years old and has grown into a very beautiful dancer. My favorite activity is watching her light up the stage with her performances.

14. If you could live anywhere, where would it be? Hawaii.

Employee Spotlight: Getting to know SonyaEver wonder about the folks that work behind the scene during the week? Things are always happening at Christ UMC, seven days a week. Allow us to share a little bit about our staff each month through a question and answer session.

Rob Blackwell, Church AdministratorOur Online Giving program is coming this month! We hope that this will help everyone take a step up the Giving Ladder by making it more convenient to give using whatever transaction method you prefer. Some will prefer to continue using checks, others will opt to use their debit or credit card, or even bank draft. If you forget your checkbook one Sunday, just pull out your phone during the Offertory! If you are homebound and watching the live web stream of the service, or even if you’re on vacation, you can give from wherever you are!

The flexibility doesn’t end there. With our Online Giving program, administered by PushPay, you will be able to give from your computer, tablet or smartphone. You can do this through the Christ UMC web page link, the easily installed app, or even via text messaging. When you access the secure system, you can give from a debit or credit card or draft directly from your bank account. You can give once or set up a recurring automatic gift, and if you like, the secure app will retain your information so you don’t have to key it in each time and will save a transaction history for your records! One cautionary note, however: we strongly discourage anyone from going into debt to support the church. If you feel called to give more and don’t have the money in your budget, examine ways to earn additional money or reduce your expenses. And if you have difficulty with credit card discipline, stick with debit card or ACH bank draft. More information will be provided in Sunday services and on the church website later this month. If you have any questions in the meantime, contact Rob Blackwell at rob@christumcmobile.com or Patricia Parker at patricia@christumcmobile.com.

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While recognizing that you have been asked to give on multiple occasions, we have a pressing need for a new organ in the sanctuary of our church. The present organ has served us well since 1982, but is outdated and deteriorating rapidly.

The Organ Search Committee has selected a Rodgers Infinity Organ which will serve our congregation for many years to come. Having the latest digital technology, it can even be updated free as new sounds and programs are developed.

The list price of this organ is $181,360. The Organ Committee has obtained a special, limited time purchase price of $129,700. With tax and some installation costs, we have set a goal of raising $150,000. We presently have nearly $30,000 already donated.

With your help, we hope to raise the needed funds by May 10, Mother’s Day, and have the organ installed over the summer. A project like this will obviously need everyone’s participation as well as some significant gifts of five, ten or even 25 thousand dollars.

Donations can be made to CUMC and designated “Organ Fund”. You will also have the opportunity to make your donation in honor or memory of loved ones. All memorials will be listed in a nice quality booklet which will be given out at the Organ Consecration concert. Memorials of $5,000 or more will be listed on a plaque to be located in a significant place. As part of the Body of Christ, we hope you will find it in your heart to be a CUMC Organ Donor.

CAN WE MAKE THIS HAPPEN? By Ralph Gudeman

Bob Rist will lead another C-Sing experience on

Friday, March 206:30 p.m. | Christ Center, 2nd floor

For this event we will feature several bluegrass groups. If you like a hymn-sing experience, you will not want to miss this event. Everyone is invited.

No admission but bring a beverage, dessert to share.

STEPHEN MINISTERS ARE AVAILABLEStephen Ministry is a lay caring ministry being used by Christ UMC to increase care and outreach to hurting people. Through this ministry,

Christ UMC is able to equip and empower a team of lay people—Stephen Ministers—who provide one-to-one, Christ-centered care to people experiencing grief, unemployment, hospitalization, loneliness, divorce, financial stress, a terminal illness or other life difficulties.

Confidentiality is a core value for Stephen Ministry. If you would like to know more about Stephen Ministry or receive a Stephen Minister, please contact Donna Alexander at 251.510.0905. Your call is confidential.

COOK, EAT, LIVE SMART Christ UMC Health Ministry is proud to present Cook, Eat, Live SMART as a resource for our members.

It can be so hard sometimes with our busy lives to make healthy choices in what we eat and what we feed our families. Cook, Eat, Live SMART will help you with a real world scripture-based, no diet approach to learning what healthy eating really is and navigating the confusing lingo of the food industry. Erin Akey is a Certified Nutrition Coach and Kid’s Nutrition Specialist and Ben Akey is a Certified Personal Fitness Chef who will help via a monthly support group! You can then follow along at home for daily devotions and inspirations via Facebook.

Join us for some fun and education that will help you and your family learn to Cook, Eat, and Live SMART! We will meet the first Monday of each month in room A-201 with our first meeting on Monday, April 6 at 6:30 p.m. For more information, please contact Erin Akey at 251.366.8325 or email erineakey@gmail.com.

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Brenda MuseJoined Sunday, February 8, 2015

Brad SheltonJoined Sunday, February 8, 2015

Dubby and Sheree MooreJoined Sunday, February 1, 2015

Wilbur BiceJoined Sunday, February 1, 2015

Gavin GroveJoined Sunday, February 8, 2015

Esther Hicks Joined Sunday, February 15, 2015

Judy MasonJoined Sunday, February 15, 2015

Linda and Ben StoryJoined Sunday, February 22, 2015

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with a ministry today!Visit christumcmobile.com/volunteer for current volunteer opportunities.

TUESDAYS6:30 p.m. - Supper/meeting

LOCATIONHome of Jim & Amy Mitchell

6724 Candlelight Court speakisay@aol.com or 251.767.1325

WHAT IS GAP? It’s a casual Bible study group for unmarried graduates and professional men

and women, ages 23 - 35. The focus is on learning from the Bible, as well as how to grow

in our relationship with God and His people.

ABOUT RANSOM CAFE Ransom Cafe’s mission is to combat physical and spiritual hunger locally and throughout the world by using quality fresh ingredients in the food served, helping others learn about food preparation, job preparedness, participating in community missions and showing the love of Jesus through acts of service.

DONATION BASED LUNCHESTHURSDAYS

11:00 A.M. - 2:00 P.M.

The Grounds Ministry is looking for volunteers to help take care of Christ UMC’s grounds. If you have been blessed with a talent of landscaping/gardening and have a specific area of interest, we would like for you to join us. n Meet as a group for work days on the 1st and 3rd Saturday mornings of each month. n Receive reminder emails. n Work around weather and church events. n Schedules are flexible and you can come at your convenience. n A variety of projects and areas are available.

Please let us know when you can volunteer and in what area. If you are interested in joining us, please contact Pierce Staples at 251.599.2071.

SHARE YOUR TALENTS WITH US!Find help and healing for the hurt of separation and divorce.

DivorceCare is a friendly, caring group of people who will walk alongside you through one of life’s most difficult experiences.

Don’t go through separation or divorce alone.

Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m.Christ Center | Rm C-221

Child care available for infants - 5th grade.For more information, contact Dawn Bratcher at dawn@christumcmobile.com or 251.706.3328.

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Brooke Osburn and family in the death of her mother Carla BarnesLillie Hamilton and family in the death of her father Peter DixonShirley Hanrath and family in the death of her brother Charles SchneiderJon Seale and family in the death of his aunt Norma FulfordSusan Foster and family in the death of her husband Norman FosterDavid Nelson and family in the death of his mother Thelma NelsonCraig Ferguson and family in the death of his sister Mary Katherine GustinKen Buurma and family in the death of his mother Betty BuurmaJudy Sizemore and family in the death of her mother Louise CarterBrad Brightman and family in the death of his father Bradford Brightman, Jr.

Courtney Ward and family in the death of her grandfather Floyd MathisAnita Albano and family in the death of her father Bernie FarrellHelena Craig and family in the death of her husband Claude CraigJoe Keyser and family in the death of his stepfather Claude CraigGeri Hare and family in the death of her husband C.L. HareLee Stapleton and family in the death of her husband Lamar StapletonJeff McFarland & Jan Carter and families in the death of their grandmother Evelyn McFarlandZach Robinson and family in the death of his mother Helen Robinson

THE STEPHEN MINISTRY CAN HELPDid you ever want to talk to someone but felt no one really wanted to listen? Stephen Ministers

are trained to listen well. They will listen to you and respond lovingly and non-judgmentally. They are not there to tell you what you should or should not do. If you need

someone who will really listen to you as you work through a problem, you may want to consider a Stephen Minister.

For more information, contact Donna Alexander at donna@christumcmobile.com or 251.342.0462, ext. 225 for more information.

For more information, contact Donna Alexander at donna@christumcmobile.com or 251.342.0462, ext. 225 or visit christumcmobile.com/celebraterecovery.

A Christ-centered 12 step program for life’s hurts, hang-ups and habits. Recovery is a journey you don’t have to travel alone.

Every Thursday6:30 p.m. Building F

Tuesday, March 108:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.Across from Recreation Desk

Provided by Susie OllhoftChrist UMC Health Care Ministry

FREE BLOOD PRESSURE CHECKS

MONDAY, MARCH 96:30 P.M. - 7:30 P.M. | PARLOR

Christ UMC Christian Cancer Support meets every 2nd Monday of the month.Please join us for cancer education, faithful testimony, information/referral and prayer.

Contact Teresa Atkins at tratkins1@mchsi.com or 251.653.0364 for more information. For child care, contact Kim Pratt at kim@christumcmobile.com or 251.706.3331.

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STAY CONNECTED WITH CHRIST UMCCHRISTUMCMOBILE.COM

To receive the Christ UMC In The Loop email blast or

electronic version of the monthly newsletter, visit CHRISTUMCMOBILE.COM/MEDIA

SUNDAY8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Coffee & Donuts8:00 a.m. Sanctuary Worship Service Sunday School - All Ages9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Library open9:15 a.m. Sanctuary Worship Service NewSong Worship Service Early Elementary Worship Preschool Sunday School 9:16 Youth Worship Adult Connection College Connection10:20 a.m. Youth Singers 10:40 a.m. Sanctuary Worship Service NewSong Worship Service Adult Sunday School Tween Worship Early Elementary Sunday School11:00 a.m. Youth Ringers 5:00 p.m. Evening Worship Service Youth Worship Preschool & Children’s Choir 6:00 p.m. College Group MONDAY8:00 a.m. Lifegate

TUESDAY9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Library open6:15 p.m. Exaltation Ringers6:30 p.m. GAP (off campus)

WEDNESDAY8:00 a.m. Lifegate9:30 a.m. Mom’s Bible Study5:00 p.m. Children’s dinner/worship5:30 p.m. Youth Re:Fuel6:15 p.m. Stephen Ministry6:30 p.m. Adult Studies Singles Bible Study Youth Bible Study Sanctuary Choir Single Mom’s Class DivorceCare THURSDAY9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Library open11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Ransom Cafe6:30 p.m. Celebrate Recovery

MONDAY - FRIDAY8:45 a.m. - 12:45 p.m. Preschool9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Mom’s Day Out

JEFF’S PERCEPTIONS | 7:40 A.M.WKSJ 94.9 FM | WRKH 96.1 FM | WTKX 101.5 FM

OR ONLINE AT christumcmobile.com/jeffsperceptions

LOCATIONThe Music Hallway, Building B.

A convenient drop box is located in the hallway just outside the Library.

HOURS OF OPERATIONTuesday 9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.Thursday 9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.Sunday 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

LISTEN TO JEFF’S PERCEPTIONS

LIBRARY

During March the Lighthouse Library is celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with novels by two of our favorite authors and fun children’s books about St. Patrick and leprechauns. Stop by the Library in March and ask one of our leprechauns for a Bible verse pocket coin. We hope you enjoy the following books and movie:

For children:n The Night Before St. Patrick’s Day – What happens when your daddy catches a leprechaun?n There was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Clover – Find out why she swallowed a clover and what else she may have swallowed.n The Story of St. Patrick’s Day – All about a 4th century little boy who grew up to become a priest.n That’s What Leprechauns Do! – There could be some mischief involved in this story.

Novels for adults: n Galway Bay and Of Irish Blood – By Mary Pat Kellyn Ireland: A Novel and Simple Courage: The Story of Peril on the Sea - By Frank Delaney

Family DVD:n The Water Horse: Legend of the Deep

LIKE USfacebook.com/christumcmobile

FOLLOW UStwitter.com/christumcmobile

PODCASTchristumcmobile.com/media

WATCH LIVEchristumcmobile.com/media

Weekly Activities

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Lent is a 40-day period of preparation for Easter

Sunday and signifies the 40 days that Jesus spent in

the desert after His baptism. It is a penitential season

marked by prayer, fasting and abstinence,

and almsgiving.

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6:30 p.m. Christian Cancer Support Group

5 6

8:30 a.m. Free Blood Pressure Check

1 2 3 4

6:30 p.m. DivorceCare

6:30 p.m. DivorceCare

6:30 p.m. Celebrate Recovery

6:30 p.m. Celebrate Recovery

6:30 p.m. Celebrate Recovery

11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Ransom Cafe

SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY

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Communion Sunday

11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Ransom Cafe

11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Ransom Cafe

10:00 a.m. Lydia Circle9:45 a.m. Esther Circle

11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Ransom Cafe

For more information on Christ UMC, visit christumcmobile.com

Go to KindermusikAtchristunited.comCall Trish Dougherty at 251.706.3336 or

trish@christumcmobile.com.

5:30 p.m. Crossroads Circle

6:30 p.m. DivorceCare

6:30 p.m. DivorceCare

March

Summer registration is now available.

Family Easter Experience

10:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m. C-Sings Gospel Sing-A-Long

LaGrange, Ga Ministry trip: Explorations in Antiquity Center

Spring Forward

10:00 a.m. Family Service Day

Hands & Feet Local Mission

11:00 a.m. Preschool Fun Day

Family Camping at Ft. Gaines

Volley 4 Christ Clinic

6:00 p.m. HS Mini Campout

8:00 p.m. MS Pi Day at Pump it Up

Confirmation Retreat

Palm Sunday

5:00 p.m. Confirmation Celebration

4:00 p.m. Starting Point6:30 p.m. Celebrate Recovery

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CHRIST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH6101 Grelot Road • Mobile, AL 36609-3611251.342.0462 • christumcmobile.com

ON-GOING

WEDNESDAY STUDIESn Methodism is Not a Four Letter Word6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. | Hospitality Room | Led by Jeremy Steele | The theology, history and structure of the Methodist church is powerful, full of the Spirit and enables transforming ministry all over the globe. During Lent, we will discuss the deep theological, historical and organizational roots of our particular perspective on Christianity.

n Bible Study With Pastor Bobby: The Wilderness Journey | 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.Room A-209 | We all have “wilderness” times in our lives. Times of loneliness, despair, illness, depression, desertion and more. Learn from Pastor Bobby Williams as he brings to life Biblical characters who have also experienced the wilderness in their lives. Characters like Jacob, Elijah, Hosea and even Jesus.