first united methodist june 2015 church of gilbert the...
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First United Methodist
Church of Gilbert 331 S. Cooper Road
Gilbert, AZ 85233
480-892-9166
www.gilbertumc.org
https://www.facebook.com/
FUMCofgilbert
Rev. Robert Hoshibata,
Bishop
Rev. Robert Burns,
District Superintendent
Rev. Deborah Lerner,
Senior Pastor
Rev. David J. Harriss,
Associate Pastor
Rev. Tina Rees,
Deacon
Worship Schedule
8:00 Traditional Service
9:00-9:30 Coffee Hour
9:30 Traditional Service
Sunday School for All Ages
10:30-11:00 Coffee Hour
11:00 Contemporary
Service
12:00 Reception on Patio
Professional Nursery Care
7:45am-12:30pm
Office Hours
Monday-Friday
8:00am-4:00pm
Preschool
480-892-9166
gilbertpreschool.com
June 2015
The Evangel
Invitation & Welcoming Committee It's A Jesus Thing....
We are very excited to be venturing out into the community on Saturday, June 6th. The Invitation & Welcoming team is looking for at least ten volunteers to head out to the Riparian Center on Guadalupe & Greenfield to hand out Otter Pops. Sounds almost silly to do but it absolutely is a Jesus thing. Sharing the joy
and love of being a Christian is to be out in our community giving a small gift, sharing a smile, and representing God's love. Join in the fun! Be moved to participate and you will get so much out of this adventure. We will meet at the church at 8:30am, then be at the park from 9:00-11:00am. Contact Adriana Hernandez ([email protected]) or Richard Rico ([email protected]) to sign up. If you are nervous, bring a buddy....it's going to be great!
Youth Fundraiser Dinner Variety Show Saturday, June 6
th from 6:00-8:00pm
On Saturday, June 6th, from 6:00-8:00pm
the youth of FUMC-Gilbert will be having their final fundraiser before the mission trips in July. The night will be a Variety Show with Dinner where you will be served dinner and entertained by different performances by youth and adults. There will also be a raffle the night of the dinner show. To support the youth in furthering the kingdom of God, you may purchase tickets ($20.00 VIP seating, $15.00 adults and $7.00 children) by calling the church office at 480-892-9166.
Exploring Class Are you new to First UMC?
Want to learn more about the church? Want to know more about Methodism
or what it means to be a member of the church? Join us for a time of Exploring on Sunday, June 7
th from 2:00-4:00pm in the activity
center. Meet our staff and some key lay leaders. Get your questions answered. Get involved in our mission and ministry. Dessert will be served. RSVP to Dina at [email protected] by June 4
th. Free childcare will be provided. Contact the
church office at 480-892-9166 with questions.
Dear Friends,
The long summer is upon us – the season of using oven mitts on the steering wheel and taking care not to blister the children on car seats and door handles. For many of us it is a season of retreat – of staying inside feeling blessed to have good air conditioning and ice makers in the freezer or of driving up to the mountains to enjoy air that does not singe the nostrils.
Unlike our northern friends, who hibernate in the winter until they have cabin fever, here in Arizona we hole up inside in the summer until we are ready to scream. Why not make this a summer for developing your spiritual life more fully – for reading the Bible and books that point you toward the fullness of life God intends for you to have? Put the kids down for a nap. Crank the a/c down a notch. Plump up the pillows and give God a piece of each day.
For daily devotions that help you read through the Bible in one year, I recommend the Life Journal available at lifejournal.cc. If you prefer to use your Ipad or Iphone, go to this website for the daily readings either in text or audio format. There is a prescribed format for responding (S-O-A-P; for Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer) that will help you focus on the Word God has for your day. If you prefer to use printed media, you can order a spiral bound journal for your personal use.
Try reading a great book on spiritual life. Here are a few that have been helpful to me (many are available on Kindle through Amazon):
Experiencing God by Henry Blackaby (Watch for a class in September.) Experiencing the Spirit by Henry Blackaby Crazy Love by Francis Chan Fresh Faith by Jim Cymbala Hearing God by Dallas Willard The Divine Conspiracy by Dallas Willard Follow Me by David Platt The Anatomy of Peace: Resolving the Heart of Conflict by The Arbinger Institute The Jesus Manifesto by Leonard Sweet and Frank Viola Deep and Wide by Andy Stanley Crash the Chatterbox: Hearing God’s Voice Above All Others – by Steven Furtick
Fiction: In His Steps by Charles M Sheldon (This book was the basis for the What Would Jesus Do movement – a quick and easy read that provides much food for thought.)
Read, pray, worship, drink lots of cold water, and let the Spirit of God heal, renew, refresh, and restore you.
Have a wonderful summer!
Blessings, Pastor Deborah
A Message from Pastor Deborah
June 2015 Page 2
Desert Southwest Annual Conference Thursday June 18 – Sunday June 21
Renaissance Hotel in Glendale Our pastors and lay members to annual conference will be meeting in Glendale Thursday June 18 – Sunday June 21 with all other churches from Arizona and parts of Nevada and California. The meetings will include worship, intro-duction of new clergy being ordained or accepted as members of the conference, and consideration of a number of resolutions. Additionally, delegates to the 2016 General Conference (the world wide meeting of Methodists held eve-ry four years) and the Jurisdictional Conference (the western United States) will be elected during our session. Please be in prayer for our delegates.
Page 3 June 2015
There is a thin line between love and hate. The truth is that both of these emotions are motivated by passion. Passion is the driving force behind love and hate. There is also a thin line between fear and faith. When the opportunity to give our testimony regarding how Christ is working in our lives, how do we respond? When there is an opportunity to sign a pledge to give 1/10 to the Lord during stewardship month, how do you and I respond? When there is an opportunity to serve the marginalized, how do we respond? When there is any opportunity to offer Christ to a hungry world, how do we respond? Many of us are fearful of sharing our testimony, serving the marginalized, giving 1/10, and offering Christ to the world even when Christ calls us to do all of these things.
One of my favorite texts is the Mark text selection in the Revised Common Lectionary for Father’s Day, June 21
st. The lection
from Mark 4:35-41 is a story which is centered around fear and faith and the thin line that exists
between these two extremes.
My first observation is in reference to Christ’s call to his disciples and their response. Christ summons his disciples to go on a mission with him and they respond immediately. Jesus says, “Let us go across to the other side.” And leaving the crowd, they took him with them in the boat, just as he was. One of the difficulties of discipleship involves getting people engaged to serve in various hands on missional opportunities. In a local church website, only brief information was given regarding a specific ministry. At the end of the sentence were the words, Click here and a member of the church will get in touch with you. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if our church worked this way? Wouldn’t it be wonderful if our main priority was seeking out church seekers and seeing these seekers as a priority and a missional opportunity? That is, if we sought out those whom we have not seen before and said, “My name is David Harriss. Are you new here?” If the response is “yes” I move forward, “Let me show you around the campus. What areas of
ministry are you interested in?” We often rely on the bulletin inserts to give instruction and fail to see the newcomer as a ministry opportunity. Jesus said “Follow me” and the disciples went with him. There were no doubts and no fears, only a deliberate intention to do what Jesus called them to do.
Suddenly, a great storm appeared out of nowhere. This storm shook the boat and the disciples were scared that they might perish. But Jesus was in the stern, asleep on the cushion. So they (the disciples) woke him and said to him, “Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?” And he (Jesus) awoke and rebuked the wind and said, “Peace! Be still!” And the wind ceased and there was a great calm. He said to them, “Why are you afraid? Have you no faith?” For the disciples, the presence of Christ should have eased their fears, calmed their senses, and given them peace in their hearts and minds. However, even with the presence of Christ in their midst, they were fearful when the storms arose without any warning.
What was our excuse for not giving 1/10 to the Lord? Did we feel that the presence of Christ in our lives would not be enough? That is, are we fearful that God might not fully take care of us, so we need to stash away some funds rather than give God His due? What was our excuse for not giving our testimony? Do we feel threatened and afraid that people would give us a dirty look? What was our fear for not getting involved in hands on missional opportunities? Are we afraid of others who are so vastly different from us? Was the mere notion of offering Christ to others enough for you and me to let go of any fears? Or, do outside fears become a priority in our lives and cause us to back down from offering Christ to others? It is my dearest hope that when the storms of life arise, we will offer Christ out of great faith and not be so deeply moved by human fears.
A Message from Pastor David Mark 4:35-41 - The Thin Line
Ask Me Anything Sunday, June 21st
If you are a newcomer among us, or someone who would like to deepen your involvement with the church by finding just the right class or opportunity to serve, plan to meet with Pastor David Harriss, who plans adult ministry opportunities, and Lori Wiemers, who helps people find their niche to serve, for a brief conversation on the church patio right after each worship service. They will ask you a few questions to find out what you’re seeking, and help you find just what you are looking for. Or, you can ask them any question you might have about the church and they will find the answer!
Page 4 June 2015
Save the Date: Sunday August 16, 2015
Our Centennial Celebration Guest Preacher: The Rev. Dr. Richard Morrison, former
associate pastor
Plan to be here for a very special morning of worship
followed by a catered luncheon. More details will follow.
Helping Others
With a Meal Through Food Tidings, our church
provides meals to those in our congregation experiencing an illness, death, unexpected crisis, or birth of a new baby. Food Tidings is an online program that allows us to schedule
meals for families in need, listing which days meals are needed, food allergies, etc. And just a reminder that take out food is ok, too! If you would like more
information about the program or would like to be involved, contact Vicki Hansen
Friday Nights Live
6:00-8:00pm Activity Center
All are Welcome
June 12th - Bingo Night with pizza
June 26 - Karaoke with fried chicken
July 17 - Movie Night with subs
July 31 - Beachball volleyball with
burgers & dogs
Dinners: $3/person, $12/family
Please let us know you are coming by
signing up on the patio on Sunday
mornings or by contacting Pastor David
or Ryan Collins, Youth & Family
Ministries Director, at
Page 5 June 2015
Preschool News www.gilbertpreschool.com
Registration for 2015~16 Share the news with a friend… we have a few spots open in our
3 year old and PreK 4’s classes. Our program teaches children
about Jesus’ love and prepares them academically for
elementary school. Check out our website or call 480-892-0166
for more information!
10 Years and counting! We have been teaching preschoolers for 10 years
here at church! Each class has been treasured and
such a JOY to teach! Our very first group of PreK
are now headed into high school.
Here’s a picture of a few of our alumni. What a
blessing to have this ministry at our church.
Thanks to all of the people who support and
encourage us!
Details about the start of the school year Enrolled students will receive a packet in the mail in early July about Open House night and the first days
of school. We are already excited to begin another awesome year of preschool!
Summer Fun Ideas Spending time together is the most special part of the summer! Keep the activities simple and just enjoy
them.
Blow Bubbles
Go on a nature walk in the morning and find each of the colors of the rainbow
Paint with water on the back porch
Play a Christian radio station and have a dance party
Make a cave or fort by covering a table with several sheets, have a picnic in there!
Make Clean Mud
Materials needed: 1 bar of Dove (or other moisturizing soap), 1 roll of white toilet
tissue, warm water, and grater. Grate the soap onto your sand and water table or into a large bin.
Have children rip toilet tissue into the bin. Add warm water a little at a time. Mix together with
hands - enjoy! Extension: Try adding glitter to the mix—beautiful!
Page 6 June 2015
11am Kids Worship - Room 205 Enjoy singing, crafts, games and snacks
while learning about Jesus Christ!
Children ages 4 and up are welcome.
Children’s Ministry—[email protected]
Promotion Sunday, June 7th All children will be promoted to the next grade!
9:30 Sunday School
Calling all Parents of Youth and Children:
Check out summer camps offered by the Desert Southwest Conference throughout the summer. Summer camp can be an important part of the faith formation for the children and youth in your care. The camp brochure
and information can be found at http://www.dsccamps.org/summer-camps.html.
Monthly Prize Giveaway
We will be giving away another tablet this month! The giveaway will take place during our
monthly assembly on June 7th. We will also celebrate May birthdays and hand out May
attendance awards on June 7th. Remember, you can earn tickets by attending Sunday
School and Kids Worship. Be on the lookout for other ways to earn extra tickets!
Vacation Bible School Week
June 8 – 12 Register at the red Welcome to Worship cart on the church patio on Sunday mornings or
email [email protected].
Preschool 3/4 yr olds Room 146
Kindergarten Room 145
1st Grade Room 145
2nd Grade Room 203
3rd Grade Room 203
4th Grade Room 205
5th Grade Room 205
6th Grade Room 205
Page 7 June 2015
If you have any questions, contact Ryan Collins, Youth Director, at [email protected]
UPCOMING EVENTS
VARIETY SHOW
On Saturday, June 6th, the students will be
putting on a variety show and dinner as a
fundraiser for the summer mission trips. We are
in need of “acts” for the variety show and ask
that each student participate. We are looking for
singing, dancing, music, comedy, skits, lip
syncs, air guitars, etc.! Please sign-up by
contacting Ryan at
BEAT THE HEAT TRIP
On Saturday, June 20th, the students will gather
for a Beat the Heat Trip. We will pack lunches
and water, head to the Tonto Natural Bridge to
do some hiking and then enjoy a refreshing
swim in the Verde River. Some spending money
for Dairy Queen will be needed. If you’d like to
attend, please RSVP with Ryan Collins at
GIRLS NIGHT
On Friday evening, June 26th, there will be a
Girls Night for all girl students from 7th to 12th
grade. For more information, contact Ryan at
[email protected] and watch for
information via e-mail and bulletins.
REGULAR GATHERINGS
Sunday Mornings, 9:30-10:30
Junior High in room 200
Senior High in room 140
Sunday Evenings, 5:00-7:00
*On break for the Summer*
Wednesday Evenings.
5:45-7:30
*On break for the Summer*
Youth Choir/Band Practice If you sing or play an instrument, join us in the Sanctuary on Sundays from 12:30-1:30pm!
FUMC-Gilbert Youth June 2015
Page 8
June 2015 Page 8
Music Ministry Marty Province, Music Director
As we approach the summer months, most of the organized ensembles prepare for a much-needed break. During this time, it is my pleasure to thank all of those who have helped to make our music program successful this past year. (At the risk of leaving someone out) – kudos to Susan Bowers and the Cherub Choir; also, to Kristin Hull for filling in for Susan during the Bowers’s trip this spring; Tami Bruce and the Chapel Chimes; Beth Boesch for providing music for the 11:00 Children’s time; and our accompanists Norma Mayne and Sally Poeske. One member of the music team who continues his work during the summer is our organist, Jonathan Cochran. It is rare to find a performer of his caliber who can also effectively accompany a choir, and we are VERY blessed to have him. Finally, to the people without whom we would have no music program – everyone who fills the rosters of all of our ensembles. We offer our heartfelt thanks for all you do to bring music into our services. We are putting the final touches on the schedule for music in the summer months, and I personally look forward to everything our members have for us this year. Although I miss seeing the Chancel Choir and Wesleyan Bells during the summer, the variety of music is always exciting, and this year promises to be no different (can you say Indian flute or violin and autoharp duet?) To the members of the congregation who have yet to be involved in our music program, we invite you to consider joining one or more of our groups next fall. The Chancel Choir kicks off the first Wednesday in August, and watch for announcements about the other programs. Finally, and on a personal note, at Gilbert Methodist, I am blessed to have been surrounded by a number of warm, talented, and caring people – from the children’s leadership mentioned above, to members of our music groups and the youth as they prepare to lead in worship, to members of the congregation who have been receptive to our offerings. Finally, I am especially thankful for Pastor David and Pastor Deborah. I appreciate their willingness and encouragement in letting us experiment and grow in the way we worship through music. The Third-Friday Jam Session will resume in the fall. Put September 18 on your calendar now, and “ come play with us.”
Your Sunday Newspaper Coupon
Booklets are Needed! The P&G, Smart Source, and Red Plum booklets from the
Sunday morning newspapers are used to purchase food for the Gilbert Open Arms Food Bank, Family Promise, and treats for our Sunday school children. Please place the booklets on the
wire shelving in the activity center entryway on Sundays or bring them to the church office during the week.
Last year, using the booklets, almost $1,000 worth of food was
purchased for $344.00.
Page 9 June 2015
Desert Southwest Conference Early Response Team Due to recent flooding, the Methodist Rio Conference of Texas has asked the Methodist Southwest Conference of Arizona to send our Early Response Teams (ERT) to help the victims of the flooding. We will be helping elderly people and single parents who have no family support system. We are sending four teams of 7 people to Texas starting June 20th. Each team, including members of our church, will be in Texas for 9 days, including two weekends. We are asking for three things:
Financial help: Each team member has to provide their own transportation, food and shelter. This is estimated as $400 per person. Any financial help will be appreciated.
Staffing: If you are interested in becoming an ERT member, certification training is available. No one will be allowed in the flood area without ERT Certification.
Prayers: This will be hot, humid, hard work. Your prayers will be appreciated.
For information about Early Response Team training, please visit http://www.desertsouthwestconference.org/disaster-preparedness-response-and-recovery.
For more information, please contact Herb Miller at [email protected].
TENTH AVENUE
NORTH
LIVE AT CHASE FIELD
FIRST PITCH AT 6:40PM
FOLLOWED BY A POST-GAME CONCERT
Join the D-backs, 1st Gilbert UMC, and hundreds of churches from across
Arizona at Chase Field as they host Faith & Family Night!
FRIDAY
AUG 28
TH
v
Purchase Ticket for $16
On the church patio on Sunday mornings
Or contact Kristy Bottesch at [email protected]
Page 10 June 2015
Our 99 Favorite Scriptures As we move toward our 100
th anniversary (in August, 2015) we are identifying the “favorite” scriptures of this
congregation and inviting you to take them as memory verses each week. Each week, the church bulletin will contain two or three of our favorites. We hope you will take this opportunity to memorize a small amount of scripture, adding to the storehouse of treasure in your heart.
For June our scriptures are:
For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted; a time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; a time to throw away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; a time to seek, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to throw away; a time to tear, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; a time to love, and a time to hate; a time for war, and a time for peace. Ecclesiastes 3:1-8
Those of steadfast mind you keep in peace— in peace because they trust in you. Isaiah 26:3
For we walk by faith, not by sight. 2 Corinthians 5:7
He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness.” So, I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me.” 2 Corinthians 12:9
So then, whenever we have an opportunity, let us work for the good of all, and especially for those of the family of faith. Galatians 6:10
Now to him who by the power at work within us is able to accomplish abundantly far more than all we can ask or imagine. Ephesians 3:20
Be angry but do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, and do not make room for the devil. Ephesians 4:26-27
And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ has forgiven you. Ephesians 4:32
When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. Psalm 56:3
For God alone my soul waits in silence, for my hope is from him. He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I shall not be shaken. On God rests my deliverance and my honor; my mighty rock, my refuge is in God. Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your heart before him; God is a refuge for us. Psalm 62:5-8
O come, let us sing to the Lord; let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation! Psalm 95
Page 11 June 2015
Congratulations Confirmation Class Makenna Jo Lee Arbogast Jackson Scott James Katelyn Virginia Johns Madison Kathryn Lutes Reagan Elizabeth Metz Ainsley Madison Snyder
Missions Committee Family Promise: Thank you to all the volunteers that assisted with Family Promise during the week of May 17
th through May 24
th! Your help is greatly appreciated! If you were not able to participate this time around,
watch for further information because we will be doing this again in a few months.
First Sunday Communion Food Drive: What do a Sushi Chef and a Chuckwagon Cook have in common? Some of their favorite ingredients are needed by Gilbert Open Arms! The 2015 Conference Mission Project is to collect tuna & beans for our local food bank, Gilbert Open Arms. This drive will continue through June 14th. The Missions Team will be handing out bags to collect these items for our regular First Sunday Communion Food Drive in June. Please take a bag and fill with tuna & beans to help the food bank fill their shelves with these important protein items. Other non-perishable items will be accepted, but we want to focus on the tuna & beans at this time.
Watkins Homeless Shelter: Volunteers are needed to help cook a hot meal in the church kitchen on June 13th from 2:00-4:00pm and serve the meal at the shelter in Phoenix from 5:00-7:00pm. Meet at the church at 4:30 to caravan. If you are interested, sign up on the Missions Team kiosk located in the activity center. Travel size toiletry items, clothing, and shoes of all sizes are being collected to deliver to the shelter as well. All donations can be dropped off in the activity center.
Annual New Backpack Drive for Students and Used Backpacks for the Homeless: Coming this month, the Missions Team will be collecting new backpacks and school supplies for students at UMOM Watkins Homeless Shelter, Children's First Academy, and other low-income students. This year, we will also be collecting used backpacks to distribute to homeless people, so as you purchase a new backpack for your children, save those old backpacks to recycle. We will be patching small holes if needed, so donate those old backpacks you no longer use. They are a much needed item for homeless people.
Sewing Enthusiasts! The Sewing Circle is taking a break for the summer, and will not meet until September. Watch for notices when we will resume regular meetings. There are some exciting projects planned for the fall so stay tuned. Please contact Carol Miller at 480-273-7171 with any questions.
Church Name Tags
Stop by the red Welcome to Worship cart on the church patio to purchase an engraved name tag.
Each name tag is $8.50. Please include your payment when you order your name tag. Name tags are available for pick up at the Welcome to Worship cart one week after the order is placed. For more information, please contact Dina in the
church office at [email protected] or 480-892-9166.
Page 12 June 2015
Living the Questions - LTQ Living the Questions adult Sunday School class continues to explore the topics currently being written about by pastors, lay leaders, teachers and other contemporary thinkers. What were the original intentions of the writers of the scriptures? How can we apply those guidelines to Christian life in the 21st Century? Our core curriculum was written by 2 local Methodist ministers and it is being used worldwide. It is both DVD and discussion-based. We meet on Sundays at 11:00am in room 142. We are an open study group and welcome thoughtful and diverse opinions.
In June and July we will leave the LTQ curriculum for a series of shorter lessons, to accommodate participants' travel schedules. Look in the weekly church bulletin for the topic each Sunday. For answers to questions, contact Odus or Diana Elliott at 480-786-0055 or [email protected].
Christian History Adult Sunday School We are studying the book, Misquoting Jesus. During the month of June we will conclude our study of this book.
We have learned about the process of determining the original text within the books of the new testament. While we do not have any originals, scholars have been able, to their satisfaction, to discover from the variety and evolution of specific texts, what the author felt was important. There were mistakes, especially in the first few centuries, that the copyists made without any intent. The changes made that were intentional for theological reasons are troubling, but also help to determine the original meaning.
There were numerous disputes among the Christian groups regarding a woman’s role in the church. They held a prominent place in the emerging Christian communities from the earliest of times. Alterations of texts supported a changing attitude such as whether they should speak in the church. Controversies with Jews was another area of argument which came to affect the texts that were eventually to become the new testament.
Our author, Bart Ehrman, states that the more he studied the manuscript tradition of the new testament, the more he realized just how radically the text had been altered over the years by scribes. They were not only conserving scripture but also changing it. By trying to understand what the authors wrote, how it might have significance for them and how to make sense of their own situations, scripture was changed.
We meet each Sunday in room 201 at 9:30am.
Homebuilders Sunday School Class
The Homebuilders Sunday School class is studying Becoming a Contagious Christian, Releasing the Hidden Evangelist in Every Christian - Picture our church members as evangelists who: Demonstrate a contagious Christian character … Build spiritually strategic relationships … Direct conversations toward matters of faith … Communicate their faith in a style that's personal and natural … Explain biblical truths in everyday language … Respond to the most common objections to Christianity. Becoming a Contagious Christian is a proven course designed to equip believers for effective evangelism in today’s world. It avoids stereotyped approaches that feel intimidating to many Christians. Instead, it shows ordinary believers how they can share the gospel in a natural and powerful way while being the person God made them to be. Each session’s exercises, discussions, self-assessments, and video vignettes give step-by-step guidance to help participants become effective communicators for Christ to those around them. The class meets on Sunday mornings at 9:30am in room 142.
Wednesday Morning Men’s Bible Study The men's breakfast Bible study will resume on Wednesday, November 5 in room 133 at 7:30am. Rev. Bob Skinner will lead the study again this year. We will continue our study of the book of Romans. All men are invited to participate in this discussion/fellowship group. For additional information contact Odus Elliott at 480-786-0055 or [email protected].
Page 13 June 2015
Gray Matter Adult Sunday School Class The 11:00am adult Sunday School class is studying Growing a Spiritual Family by Dennis and Barbara Rainey. Where is your family headed? Is your goal in life to live in a gated suburban community and to achieve wealth, status, and to have your kids go to a high profile university in order to repeat this cycle? All of us want the best for our children. Is there more to life than gaining the most toys? Come and share the experience of growing a spiritual family. The class meets in room 133 each week and is led by class participants.
Faith, Family, and Fearless Conversations
The 9:30 Sunday morning parenting class is studying Fearless Conversations. Can we really beat temptation? What does it really mean to follow Jesus? How can I know Jesus is really alive today? These are all questions that we will tackle in this series. Come and meet with other parents for fellowship and support and to foster your personal relationship with God. The class meets in room 136. Please contact Vicki Hanson at [email protected] for more information.
Inquirers Sunday School Class 50 Commands of Jesus The Inquirer’s class is doing a study of the ’50 Commands of Jesus’. Join us for this discussion based study of Christ’s commands for how we should be living our Christian lives. Ask anyone how many commands Jesus gave us and you’ll get many different answers. Are these the ‘definitive fifty’? Probably not but they provide an excellent starting point. We meet each Sunday at 9:30am in room 133.
Art Silent Auction Original art and giclees by artist, Steve Clack, are being auctioned off to raise funds for the youth and Orchard
Africa summer mission trips. Five original art pieces are on display in the activity center with silent auction bidding
sheets. Bidding will continue through noon on June 14th. Winning bidders will then be notified. If you would like to
support our youth and those representing our church family in Africa, this may be a great way to help them out. Stop
by the activity center and take a look!
Wednesday Night
Programs
Our Wednesday Night Programs are on break. Please plan on going us on August 12th for our
next season of programs. Classes will be offered for all ages and free nursery care will be provided
for our little ones. Dinner will be served at 5:45 for a cost of $3/person or $12/family. Music rehearsals will also take place on Wednesday
evenings.
Watch for details as we get closer to August.
Page 14 June 2015
Please Welcome our New Church Member
Debby Williams joined the church on May 17th by profession of faith and was baptized that same morning. Debby has two daughters and is an office manager for the Arizona Sports Commission. She is interested in gardening, working with
children and Girl Scouts. Debby also provides childcare in our nursery.
Looking for Gently Used Computers and Wi-Fi Equipment Have you bought a new Wi-Fi router, computer, tablet, or laptop recently? If so, you may have your “old” equipment laying around and taking up space. Donate them to our church’s IT program and help us refresh some of the computers on campus. Concerned about your data? We will securely wipe your computer before using it, or give you a CD that you can use to wipe it yourself. Drop off computers at the church office or Wesley Room. Questions? Contact Philip Tesarek at [email protected] or 480-510-4588.
Orchard:Africa Our first international mission team will travel to South Africa as part of Orchard:Africa on July 9-20. The team
includes Gayle Disch, Richard Frazier, Rick Frazier, Rev. David Harriss, Adriana Hernandez, Robin Lee, Phil Rees, and Lisa Strazz. To learn more about Orchard:Africa, please visit www.orchardafrica.org.
Page 15 June 2015
Health Ministry: Helping with an AED Unit
In everything do to others as you would have them do to you; for this is the law and the prophets. Matthew 7:12
Automatic External Defibrillator or AED units are found in churches, airports, schools, shopping malls, grocery stores, and stadiums. As a Christian leader it is important for you to feel confident to help out if called upon. If you familiarize yourself with the process to use an AED, you are better able to understand and can be more effective when helping others. You do not need a CPR card or to be a health care provider in order to assist. Your actions may help to improve the victim’s chance and quality of survival.
If called upon, you are assisting with CPR and rapid defibrillation until the Emergency Medical Response Team arrives. These teams have the trained professionals, medications, and equipment to continue the rescue effort and transport the victim to the appropriate facility. When the team arrives you will be able to step away when instructed.
When is an AED Unit Used? AEDs are used on victims who are unconscious, not breathing and have no pulse. Cardiac arrest occurs when the heart stops beating effectively. A common cause of cardiac arrest is ventricular fibrillation. In ventricular fibrillation the heart is in a very fast quiver rather than in an effective squeeze to allow for circulation of the blood in the body. The shock delivered by an AED machine actually stops the heart’s electrical malfunction so that it can restart in an effective rhythm.
Begin with Prayer Calm your soul. Breathe a simple prayer such as “ Lord guide my hands” or “ help me to help my brother”. Remain calm so that you may understand instructions clearly.
Turn On/Start An AED machine is often turned on when the machine is opened. When turned on, an AED machine will begin to instruct the user. Pay close attention to the voice prompts.
Apply Pads Apply the 2 pads to the victim’s bare chest. Dry with an absorbent cloth if the chest is wet. There are pictures on the AED pads to help in this. There is no exact placement on this. 1. The upper right chest just below the collarbone. 2. The lower left chest below the breast.
Clear The machine will advise rescuers to stand clear of the victim while the heart rhythm is analyzed. Clear means that no person should be touching or in any way connected to the victim. This will prevent an electrical current from being administered to someone who does not need it and could be harmed by it.
Shock Advised If a shock is advised, the machine may instruct the rescuer to push the shock button. Some AED machines do not have a shock button and will automatically deliver the shock after instructing everyone to clear the victim.
Analyzing An AED machine will automatically analyze the victim’s heart rhythm every 2 minutes. In those 2 minutes, 5 rounds of high quality CPR should be administered. After 2 minutes the voice prompt will instruct everyone to clear the patient so that the heart rhythm can again be analyzed. The voice prompt will inform you if a shock is needed or not and to continue CPR when indicated.
Repeat Cycle This cycle is repeated until an emergency response team arrives. Analyze/shock if needed/continue CPR if indicated.
Recovery If a victim responds, place the victim on their side until the Emergency Response Team arrives.
At First United Methodist Church of Gilbert, we have 2 AED machines on campus. One is located just inside and to the right of the church lobby or narthex. The second one is located just inside and to the right of the activity center. Both AED machines are in clearly marked AED cabinets with the appropriate rescue items attached, including AED pads, air mask, gloves and scissors. If you have any questions or concerns please contact Therese Pineda, RN, Health Ministry Co-Chair, at 602-686-1259.
Page 16 June 2015
Church Recycling Programs The church provides a number of opportunities to recycle. The large green bins in the southeast corner of the front parking lot, near the activity center, accept paper of all kinds, including newspapers, magazines, junk mail, flattened cardboard boxes, etc.
There are marked baskets in the activity center entryway for the collection of used toner and ink cartridges and empty juice pouches (Capri Sun). There is also a marked basket to collect empty cosmetic and hygiene containers such as lipstick tubes, compacts, toothpaste tubes, lotion and shampoo bottles, etc.
Throughout the campus you will find containers for the collection of empty soda cans, plastic water bottles, and miscellaneous papers.
In the kitchen, there is a large recycling container for the collection of empty cans and other recyclables.
The church collects all recyclables and is able to receive cash for these items, which in turn, is used to fund church programs.
Bringing your recyclables to church has an impact not only on our church ministries but also this wonderful world that God created!
Stephen Ministry
“Bear one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ” Galatians 6:2 NRSV Stephen Ministry is the one-to-one caring ministry that takes place in congregations that use the Stephen Series system. The best way to understand how Stephen Ministry works is to learn about three groups of people involved in this ministry: Stephen Leaders, Stephen Ministers and care receivers. Stephen Leaders establish and direct Stephen Ministry in a congregation. They –
Build awareness of Stephen Ministry within the congregation and community
Recruit and train Stephen Ministers
Meet with potential care receivers to assess their needs
Match care receivers with Stephen Ministers
Provide Stephen Ministers with ongoing supervision and continuing education People learn to serve as Stephen Leaders by attending a Leader’s Training Course, a one week conference that introduces the resources used to lead Stephen Ministry, develops key skills and gets people excited about this caring Ministry. Most congregations begin with two to four Stephen Leaders, typically including a pastor, possibly another church staff person and one or more lay leaders. Stephen Ministers are congregation members trained by Stephen Leaders to offer high -quality, one-to-one Christian care to people going through tough times. A Stephen Minister usually provides care to one person at a time, meeting with that person once a week for about an hour. Twice a month, Stephen Ministers gather with their Stephen Leaders for supervision and continuing education. The curriculum to become a Stephen Minister includes 50 hours of training in the principles and skills that equip them to provide high-quality, Christ-centered emotional and spiritual care to others. Care Receivers are people, congregation members and others in the community who receive care from a Stephen Minister. These are people struggling through a difficult time in life – experiencing grief, divorce, job loss, chronic or terminal illness or some other life crisis. Why am I bringing this up?
Be cognizant that our church is trained and prepared to provide these services.
As leaders in the church it is likely that you will be reached out to in confidence when someone is in crisis. It’s important that you know (1) you can refer someone to get help in a private manner (2) you can provide a Christ-centered alternative (or in addition to) support system and (3) showing Christ’s love.
How does it work? Call or email Pastor David at [email protected].
Page 17 June 2015
As you make your summer travel plans, remember to set up your electronic giving so your church continues to receive your offering even when you are away. Both you and our church will benefit if you don’t have to play catch-up with your giving when you return from summer travels. Use your smart phone to access the church’s giving site through the QR code below, or visit the church web-site, gilbertumc.org, and click on the on-line giving logo. If you need help, call the church office.
General Fund Financial Summary at April 30, 2015
YTD Actual YTD Budget Variance to Budget Favorable or (Unfavorable) General Giving $258,572 $256,170 $2,402 Other Income $68,387 $68,521 ($134) Total Income $326,959 $324,691 $2,268 Total Expenses $320,468 $326,386 $5,918 Income Over/(Under) Expenses $6,491 ($1,695) $8,186
Operating Cash on Hand $100,831 Desired Minimum Operating Cash on Hand (2 months of expenses) $140,000 Average weekly giving income YTD at 4/30/15 $15,210 Average weekly giving income YTD last year (at 4/30/14) $15,270 Average weekly giving needed to meet our approved 2015 expense budget $16,955 Year-to-date general giving was $2,402 over budget, and $1,000 behind 2014 giving for the same period. Year-to-date expenses were $5,918 under budget. This was due primarily to timing differences, with the remaining variance due to some vacant positions. Our year-to-date net income of $6,491 was $8,186 better than the budgeted deficit. If you have any questions about the church’s finances, please contact Garin Campbell, Finance Chair (623-363-0662, [email protected]) or Deanna Helland, Church Treasurer/Accountant (480-892-9166, [email protected]). Thank you for your faithful financial support of our church.
Page 18 June 2015
Our Condolences to: Sharon Kotsonas and family on the death of her son, Nicholas Whittington The family of Jerry Nivison on his death.
Columbarium & Healing Garden Our healing garden is a place of healing of mind, body and spirit. It was designed using the Beatitudes, Matthew 5: 3-10, as a tranquil retreat for those facing difficult times, as well as a place of peace in which to honor and remember loved ones.
Single niches, including an urn and engraving of face stone are available for $1,500 for church members and $1,700 for non-members. Double niches, including two urns and engraving of face stone are available for $1,750 for church members and $2,250 for non-members. For those who are buried elsewhere, we offer memorial wall plaques for $300. Other garden fixtures including benches are available.
Contact John Bowers at [email protected] for more information or stop by the church office for an information packet.
Christian Women’s Fellowship Group
The Christian Women’s Fellowship Group will meet on Thursday, June 5th at 9.30am in room 142. All women are invited. Refreshments will be served.
Book Club The Book Club has decided to continue to meet on the 4th Thursday of the month throughout the summer. The group meets at the home of June Morrison at 11:30am. Bring a lunch to enjoy while discussing the current book. Please RSVP to June at 480-892-4777 to let her know you are coming, and contact Molly Hahn at [email protected] or 480-227-9574 with any questions or for more information. The following books have been selected for this season:
June 25 Same Kind of Different Than Me by Ron Hall
July 23 Abundance by Peter Damandis and Steve Kotler
August 27 Zoo by James Patterson and Michael Ledwidge
On September 24, the group will gather to select new books. Please bring no more than 3 books for consideration.
1 Ashley Reid
Debby Williams
2 Ryan Lamb
3 Diana Elliott
Vicki Hanson
Therese Pineda
Barry Turnrose
4 Zack Foote
Mason Ramirez
5 Warren Begley
Susan Bowers
Margaret DeBolt
Emily Minks
Shawn Smith
6 Maya Harriss
Sara Sanders
7 Shauna Harris
Ashley Scharff
8 Tom Dare
Lorelei Karavakis
10 Laura Contreras
Rita Wagner
11 Jonathan Cochran
Alexis Eggen
Katie Smith
Brody Smith
12 Riley Fairley
Judy Zangri
13 Karen Coleman
Hailey Lamb
Chloe Metz
14 Skylar Ossian
Brooke Sheahan
15 Christie Dorf
Marie Frazier
Hayden Kopp
16 Riley Lang
Denise O’Dening
17 Barb Perry
18 Kim Dare
Marsha Lehman
Natalee Rycraft
19 Brittany Anderson
Kimberly Anderson
Ed Stressman
20 Austin Becker
Hannah Becker
21 Marie Frazier
Aaron Leong
22 Gayle Disch
24 Nancy Ball
Kalia Carpenter
Lisa Sotomayor
25 Vicki Harding
Michelle McClain
26 Kyle Rickman
Lindsay Schmidt
28 Keith Asplin
Karla Romfo
29 Brandon Rickman
30 Krista Dare
Marisol Harriss
David Hughes
2 Steve & Penny Erwin - 36 yrs
3 Dean & Laura Boever - 20 yrs
3 Scott & Trish Stressman - 9 yrs
4 Jim & Midori Hall - 53 yrs
6 Roy & Carolyn Phelps - 51 yrs
7 Jim & Sue Reeves - 49 yrs
7 Chris & Rachel Wiley - 7 yrs
8 Robin & Patty Lee - 42 yrs
9 Rick & Marie Frazier - 25 yrs
9 Jason & Cindie Rempel - 14 yrs
10 Bruce & Linda Faber - 9 yrs
11 Phil & Tina Rees - 27 yrs
14 Al & Judy Zangri - 46 yrs
18 Kendall & Lara Fink - 22 yrs
18 Eric & Stacy Schmidt - 21 yrs
19 Chris & Craig Thompson - 44 yrs
20 Molly & Dan Hahn - 62 yrs
20 Barry & Kate Turnrose - 40 yrs
20 George & Rita Wagner - 34 yrs
21 Rick & Diane Hagenson - 35 yrs
22 Sean & Michelle Comstock - 3 yrs
25 Carl & Samantha Panco - 4 yrs
28 Scott & Katie Bouchie - 12 yrs
29 Karl & Sharon Kotsonas - 7 yrs
30 Joe & Norma Mayne - 42 yrs
30 Tom & Linda McKinley - 29 yrs
If we have inadvertently missed your birthday or anniversary, contact Dina at
480-892-9166 or [email protected].
June Birthdays Anniversaries
Page 19 June 2015
Pray for our Churches You are encouraged to pray for the churches and pastors of the Central East District of the Desert Southwest Conference. Please pray for the following churches in June:
Staff & churches of
the Central West
District, North
District, and South
District
Altar Flowers The Sunday morning altar flowers may be donated “in memory of” or “in honor of” a special person or event. The cost for each bouquet is $32.40. Only a few Sundays in 2015 remain available for donation including September 20, September 27, October 25, and November 8. If you would like to donate the flowers on one of these Sundays, please contact Dina in the church office at [email protected] or 480-892-9166.
331 S. Cooper Rd.
Gilbert, AZ 85233
480-892-9166
Fax: 480-892-3545
First United
Methodist Church of
Gilbert
We’re on the web at
www.gilbertumc.org
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