1 Christ United Methodist Church | christumcmobile.com | 251.342.0462

BY KATIE MORGAN, CHRIST UMC MEMBERHomecoming Sundays are always a special thing at CUMC. Growing up here, I remember enjoying August services because they had a more relaxed atmosphere—it really did feel like a “Homecoming.” It was nice to dress more casually at Sunday services in August—although, my dad’s idea of “more casual” was not wearing a tie! And, yet, even though it was relaxed, I always felt Jesus in the worship. I remember looking forward to going to church and hearing the Circuit Riders play, and, there were always special programs and guest preachers that made the Homecoming month seem special. It was a time for our church to grow, as we received so many visitors each and every Sunday.

As a dancer, and someone who really appreciates music, I also enjoyed the special musical services during August. Ralph always seemed able to put together super Sunday music for the Homecoming month, and he made sure to always include fantastic guest musicians! The Worship services were always packed and the energy was high. You could feel God’s presence as everyone enjoyed the special music and guest speakers.

I remember Don Moen joining the Circuit Riders and laughing and singing with them with his wonderful voice! One other guest musician I’ll always remember is the fabulous guitarist, Doyle Dykes. What he could do with the guitar was so special. I felt like God was speaking to me through his guitar strings. He always had funny and sweet stories he would share about his Christian faith and his family.

When Ralph asked me to do a video testimony for this year’s Homecoming, I was excited and humbled to share my story. It will be an honor for me to give back to the church that has meant so much to me my whole life. I hope it conveys to the congregation what my faith means to me. I have had to trust God many times in my life without knowing why He was leading me down a certain path. But as always, He has a reason for everything. The other events for this year’s Homecoming sound so exciting, I can only hope I will be able to be there for some of this year’s Homecoming services!

HOMECOMING

AUGUST 2016 ISSUE

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Every year the town where I grew up has a week-long celebration called Homecoming. It is a time when families who have moved away come back to town. A carnival comes to town during this same week and serves as the main gathering place for families to reunite.

I like to celebrate Homecoming a little differently. I like to go for a run through downtown, past the school (K-12, all in one area), and end up at the old cemetery. As I run past these familiar landmarks, memories flood my mind. I remember my first job, my first date, and my last football game. I think about how I got from where I was, to where I am now. For me, Homecoming is about returning to your roots, remembering who you are, and where you came from. Ultimately, God uses this time to refocus my life on Him.

Our 2016 NewSong Homecoming will focus on three building blocks—which serves as the foundation of our Faith: Trust, Initiative, and Identity. Each week a member of our Next Generation team will discuss one of their building blocks. We will learn about their ministry, and how they utilize their building block foundation to strengthen their ministry. They remind us to strengthen these building blocks in our own lives.

n SUNDAY, AUGUST 7: Ashley Walker, our Director of Children’s Ministry, will discuss the first steps in our faith development – Trust.

n SUNDAY, AUGUST 14: Jeremy Steele, our Next Generation Minister, will discuss Initiative: taking the first steps to putting our faith into action. The Great Romance band will lead us in worship. You can listen to their music at thegreatromance.com.

n SUNDAY, AUGUST 21: Mike Rollins, our Director of Youth Ministry, will discuss how we find our Identity in Christ.

RETURNING TO YOUR ROOTSJim Kinder, NewSong Pastor

Homecoming in August.........................cover

Notes from Pastors Rob and Jim............... 2

August Homecoming................................3

Adult Opportunities..............................4 & 5

Youth Ministry...........................................6

Children’s Ministry....................................7

Recreation Ministry...................................8

Bible Conference......................................9

Various Ministries...............................10-11

New Members........................................12

Pastoral Care..........................................13

August Calendar.....................................15

AUGUST 2016 ISSUE

Worship Services

Can’t make it to church? Watch services online at christumcmobile.com/livestream

Our family has been so blessed in how the Christ UMC family has welcomed us back into the fold. We are so grateful for the ways that Jeff, Norma,

the staff, and all of you worked so hard to pave the way for us to enter into this new role. The cards, gifts, food, and visits to our new home have been such wonderful signs of grace and welcome. One family even took us on a nighttime alligator cruise! Our first Sundays at the church were so much fun. We enjoyed reconnecting with old friends, and beginning the process of making new ones. We were especially thankful for the excitement and joy we felt on Sunday, July 10, as I preached for the first time to our combined services. We had the opportunity to worship in NINE of our worship services in just our first two weeks. It is obvious that the Holy Spirit is moving and active as our people gather to worship. The beautiful

variety of our services and the amazing talent being offered to God is breathtaking! I’m so excited about our August Homecoming Sundays this year. Augusts have always been special at Christ UMC. Our staff has planned some amazing things in our Sanctuary services and our NewSong services to make sure this year is special, as well! Part of what makes Homecoming Sundays great is because the people of Christ UMC love inviting people to come to church. I hope you will invite friends, family members, neighbors, and co-workers to come along. We will be doing a special sermon series on the homecoming stories of the Bible in our Sanctuary services. You don’t want to miss Worship in August! Again, thank you for your incredible welcome. We are so humbled and honored to serve Jesus here with you!

Peace, Rob

WONDERFUL WELCOMERob Couch, Senior Pastor

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SUNDAY, AUGUST 7n SANCTUARY | 8:00 A.M. | 9:15 A.M. | 10:40 A.M.Sermon – Coming Home: Prodigal Son with Senior Pastor Rob Couch. 9:15 Praise Band will play big band/Jazz style worship music and a special video testimony featuring our own Katie Morgan, internationally renowned ballerina.

n NEWSONG | 9:15 A.M. | 10:40 A.M. | CHRIST CENTERSermon – Building Blocks: The First Steps in our Faith Development – Trust with Pastor Jim, Ashley Walker, Director of Children’s Ministry and the Next Generation Ministry. Music by the NewSong Band and a special video testimony featuring our own Katie Morgan, internationally renowned ballerina.

n EVENING WORSHIP | 5:00 P.M. | CHRIST CENTER Sermon – Rabbi Jesus: The Jewish Miracles with Pastor Jeremy Steele.

n CHURCH-WIDE PICNIC | Join us after morning services for fun, food and fellowship at the Pavilion. We will have a cookout, inflatables, and field games. Hot dog and hamburger plates: $4.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 14Artwork by local Christ UMC artists will be on display.n SANCTUARY | 8:00 A.M. | 9:15 A.M. | 10:40 A.M. | Sermon – Coming Home: Nehemiah with Senior Pastor Rob Couch. Jim Gasser, a potter, will demonstrate his craft while sharing his testimony. Allanda Small Campbell will be our guest vocalist.

n NEWSONG | 9:15 A.M. | 10:40 A.M. | CHRIST CENTERSermon – Building Blocks: Putting Our Faith in Action with Pastor Jeremy Steele and the Next Generation Ministry. The Great Romance will lead us in worship.

n EVENING WORSHIP | 5:00 P.M. | CHRIST CENTERSermon – Rabbi Jesus: Scandalous Gentile Ministry with Pastor Jeremy Steele.

n CHURCH-WIDE PICNIC | Join us after morning services for fun, food and fellowship at the Pavilion. We will have barbecue, water games and a giant slip and slide. Pulled pork sandwich plates: $5.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 21Artwork by local Christ UMC artists will be on display. n SANCTUARY | 8:00 A.M. | 9:15 A.M. | 10:40 A.M. Sermon – Coming Home: Revelation with Senior Pastor Rob Couch. Mobile’s own Excelsior Band will be our special guests during services. We will also feature Christian artist, Crystal Keyser, as she creates a painting during worship services.

n NEWSONG | 9:15 A.M. | 10:40 A.M. | CHRIST CENTERSermon – Building Blocks: Finding our Identity in Christ with Mike Rollins, Director of Youth Ministry. Music by the NewSong Band.

n EVENING WORSHIP | 5:00 P.M. | CHRIST CENTERSermon – Rabbi Jesus: A Jewish Rabbi on Trial with Pastor Jeremy Steele.

n CHURCH-WIDE POTLUCK | 5:00 P.M. | CHRIST CENTER Join us for a church-wide potluck supper. We will provide the meat and tea. Be sure to bring a family-sized side dish or dessert to share. The Christ UMC Staff band will provide music!

SAVE THE DATE: COMBINED SERVICES SUNDAY, AUGUST 28

8:00 A.M. AND 9:15 A.M. IN THE SANCTUARY

& 10:40 A.M. IN THE CHRIST CENTERGuest speaker, Dr. Ben Witherington, will preach in all three

morning services and The Voices of Mobile from the University of Mobile, will be our special musical guest during services.

EVENING WORSHIP: 5:00 P.M.|CHRIST CENTERSpecial speaker, Dr. Ben Witherington, will preach.

For more details on our Bible Conference, visit page 9 or christumcmobile.com/bibleconference.

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Adult Bible Study

Opportunities

SUNDAY MORNING STUDIES FOR ADULTSBEGINS AUGUST 7n 9:15 A.M. | FORGIVENESS BY ADAM HAMILTON | Rm A-202 | The author relates forgiveness to carrying around a backpack full of rocks. Learn how receiving and giving forgiveness can bring grace, reconciliation, joy and freedom. A class for ages 50+ adults.

n 9:15 A.M. | THE MIRACLES OF JESUS BY MATT WILLIAMS | Rm A-206 | Jesus was not only a teacher, He was a healer. This study opens our eyes to the impact Jesus had on those He touched and what it reveals about the heart of God. A class for ages 50+ adults.

STUDIES CONTINUING INTO AUGUST n 9:15 A.M. | LIFE APPS BY ANDY STANLEY Rm A-201 | Learn how to apply Jesus’ teachings to our everyday life. A class for all adults.n 9:15 A.M. | THE GOSPEL OF MARKRm C-201 | A class for single adults.

WEDNESDAY EVENINGS WITH SINGLES MINISTRY n YOUR MOVE BY ANDY STANLEYWEDNESDAYS | 6:00 P.M. | Christ Center Assembly Area | In this study, Stanley offers four powerful questions that will help you determine your best move when confronted with decisions that you never anticipated having to make.

BEGINS TUESDAY, AUGUST 2 n NEW GAP STUDY: THE BOOK OF JAMES | 6:30 P.M. | 6724 Candlelight CourtIf you have never been married and are between the ages of 22 to 35, GAP: Graduates and Professionals was created for you. Led by Jim and Amy Mitchell in their home, this group enjoys food, Bible study and fellowship. The study of James will begin when GAP reconvenes after a short summer break. The gathering begins with supper followed by casual discussion-oriented Bible study. For more information, contact Jim and Amy at speakisay@aol.com or 251.767.1325.

WEDNESDAYS, AUGUST 3 - 24n A STUDY OF EXODUS WITH PASTOR JEREMY STEELE | 6:00 P.M. - 7:00 P.M. | Hospitality Room | The people of God are enslaved. They are crying out for a redeemer. How will God respond to their cries? Exodus tells the story of how God redeems us from slavery and leads us into God’s promises for us. The Exodus story happened in the desert in and around Egypt and happens every day among the oaks in Mobile, AL. Understanding the Biblical story will help us understand our own story. Join Pastor Jeremy for this study of the whole book of Exodus! Child care available for children through 5th grade. To register for child care, contact Sonya Carson at sonya@christumcmobile.com or 251.706.3365.

BEGINS SUNDAY, AUGUST 7n BECOME A LEADER | 10:40 A.M. | Rm A-202 | Have you ever wondered what it would be like to lead a small group, or been told you would make a good leader? Learn some basics of leading a small group in this four session class led by Marcia Jacobs, the Group Life Minister. It will be a non-threatening, no commitment environment. This class is not for those who are already leading small groups or classes, but is a safe place for those who want to learn some skills to give it a try. For more information, contact Marcia at marciaj@christumcmobile.com or 251.342.0462, ext. 214.Class size limited to 12.

MONDAYS, BEGINNING AUGUST 15n GENESIS | 6:00 P.M. - 8:00 P.M. | Rm A-206 | Join Brenda Davis as she leads a Precept Bible study of Genesis, an in-depth study which establishes people in God’s Word using Inductive Bible Study. “Inductive” means we use the Bible as the primary source of study to learn about God and what the Bible teaches. The lessons will be divided into five parts:SESSION 1: Chapters 1 & 2 | Five weeks from Monday, August 15 – September 19.SESSION 2: Chapters 3 – 11 | Eight weeks from Monday, September 26 – November 14.There will be a holiday break followed by three sessions covering Chapters 12 – 50 beginning in the spring. Child care available with prior registration. For more information or to register and order your book, contact Sonya Carson at sonya@christumcmobile.com or 251.706.3365.

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SAVE THE DATE: COMING IN SEPTEMBER

n PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS | Led by Brad Boland | Room A-209 | Learn basic tips to help anyone become a better photographer. Everyone who carries a smartphone has a capable camera available to capture important moments. Make your photos better by using a few simple tips! Topics covered: framing, lighting, and introduction to photography terms.

n QUILTING | Led by Bonnie Johnson | Room A-204 | Learn how to easily construct a 12 1/2 inch quilt block using the foundation strip-piecing technique. Your red, white and blue block will be sewn together to make a “Quilt of Valor” for a Veteran who served during war time or a returning, active duty service member. Materials will be furnished but you will need these supplies: fabric, scissors and long quilt pins. If you have a portable sewing machine with a 1/2 foot, we would appreciate you bringing it. Limited to 16 people.

n DEAF TEEN QUEST | Rm A-209 | Learn about this great service and opportunities given to deaf teens in and around our community from coordinator Pam Crosby. Pam gives a very informative video presentation about their summer camping program, as well as ongoing programs.

n EXODUS | Hospitality Room | The third installment of Pastor Jeremy Steele’s Study of Exodus.

n WOOD CARVING | Led by Ron Johnson | Room A-207 | Create a small gift. Explore how easy it is to take a small piece of wood and turn it into something special. We will have three or four projects prepared, with instructions, for completing an item or two to take home. Choose from carving a cross from a rough cut out, a Santa pencil, a small bird pin, or a small fish pin. Additional carving information will be available for those who are looking for a lifetime hobby. Supplies provided will be an x-acto knife (bring your own if you have one), wood cut outs, paint and finishing materials. Limited to 15 people. For questions, call Ron Johnson at 251.343.5406 or e-mail robojo2@aol.com. In subject line put CUMC Carving class.

n FITNESS ROOM ORIENTATION | Visit the Recreation Ministry for instructions on how to use the fitness room equipment.

FIVE QUILTS OF VALOR CEREMONY6:00 P.M.|SANCTUARY

Quilts will be awarded to military veterans who served our country during war time. Each quilt is made from squares created at last year’s Summer Gatherings. Come and Enjoy seeing the completed

quilts as our own church members are honored for their service and sacrifice.

SUNDAYS, BEGINNING SEPTEMBER 11 | Church-wide study of Dr. Ben Witherington’s study of Romans. More details to come!

BEGINNING WEEK OF SEPTEMBER 12n BRIDGE LESSONS – Mondays beginning September 12 | 9:00 A.M. - 11:00 A.M. | Rm C-221n ENTRUSTED – BETH MOORE’S NEW STUDY ON 1 & 2 TIMOTHY | Tuesdays, mornings and evenings, beginning September 13 | Led by Brenda Ragland and D. J. Johnsonn MOM’S BIBLE STUDY | Wednesdays beginning September 14 | 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.| The Parlor | Led by Laura Steele | Child care provided. n PASTOR’S CLASS WITH BOBBY WILLIAMS – STUDY OF RUTH | 6:00 P.M. - 7:00 P.M. | Rm A-209 | The book of Ruth is clearly a study of redemption. Redemption refers to the process by which people, property, and prestige are restored to a family that has lost them through poverty, violence, or some other cause. Come along with Pastor Bobby as we explore the riches of God’s word for each of us. n BABY STEPS: SPIRITUAL DEVELOPMENT IN THE FIRST FIVE YEARS | 6:00 P.M. - 7:00 P.M. | Hospitality Room | Taught by Pastor Jeremy Steele | “I know I should be doing something to help my child grow spiritually, but what?” This class will equip you with age-specific and developmentally-appropriate tools to help your child (or grandchild) grow spiritually in the first five years. Four weeks of practical help that concludes with a panel of veteran parents to help provide the answers you need.

Following the ceremony, select one of these classes:

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AUGUST ACTIVITIESn 5 - 6 | FRESHMAN RETREAT | Leave Christ UMC: Friday at 4:30 p.m. – return Saturday at 5:00 p.m. | For incoming 9th Grade students | Romar Beach, FL | This is a special retreat for rising freshmen who are transitioning into our High School Ministry! Students will hang out and enjoy beach time. They will also spend time growing friendships and connecting with some of our high school students. Cost: $50. Register at christumcyouth.com/register.

n 12 | UPCOMING 6TH GRADE LATE NIGHT | 5:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. | We understand that sometimes coming to a new environment can be intimidating for 6th grade students. This is an event to help students feel comfortable with our Youth Area, our staff and some of our students. Join us for a night of games, worship and learning about our Student Ministry. Cost: $15. Register at christumcyouth.com/register.

n 14 | PROMOTION SUNDAY | Students will move up to their new age group according to the school year. More details will be shared as this day gets closer.

COMING IN SEPTEMBERn 11 | TEENAPALOOZA | 5:00 p.m. | Pavilion | Join us to kick off the school year at the most epic party for teenagers in Mobile! This year, we will have car smashing, awesome inflatables, live music, and lots of food! Don’t forget to invite your friends! Cost: $5

n 18 | FALL PARENT MEETING | 10:40 a.m. | Hospitality Room | All parents of 6th -12th grade students are invited to join us as we review our Fall activities and important program information. You will have an opportunity to ask questions and get answers about what’s happening in the Youth Ministry.

STAY CONNECTED WITH USCheck in with us at Want to get text updates? Middle School text @CUMC to 81010High School text @HSGR to 81010Visit christumcyouth.com for all our events.

By Alissa Hadden, Youth Ministry InternNature has always been one of the most powerful ways for me to be moved by God’s love and mercy. Mountains, sunsets, rivers, trees, gardens, and rainstorms should point us to our Heavenly Father, our Creator who promises to always provide for our needs. These wonders can become our cathedrals, our classrooms, and our places for fellowship and growth.

One thing that I love so much about nature is that it speaks depths of truth that I can never find the right words for. It doesn’t speak verbally through words, but rather with movement and beauty. It always worships our Father, reminding me to continually do the same. The different facets of nature never cease to depend on one another, such as tomato plants needing bees and flowers for pollination or trees needing precipitation and the sun for proper growth. Nature is so mysterious to me, and it always reminds me that God is in control of my life.

Just as pieces of nature depend on one another, we as humans need to learn from each other and help each other grow. I encourage you to begin seeking God’s promises through the Creation that surrounds us everywhere we go.

WEEKLY SUMMER PROGRAM|christumcyouth.com n SUNDAY MORNINGS: 9:16 Worship | Youth Area | 9:16 a.m. – 10:15 a.m.An engaging worship service for Middle School and High School students.Bible Study | C - 204 | 10:40 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

n SUNDAY NIGHTS: Bible Study: 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Dinner: 5:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Cost: $3

YOUTH MINISTRY STAFFMike Rollins, Director of Youth Ministry mrollins83@gmail.comBeth Lodwick, Admin. Assistant beth@christumcmobile.com

SEEK GOD’S PROMISE

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AUGUST ACTIVITIES n 12 | BACK TO SCHOOL SPLASH | 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. CSports Fields | What better way to kick off the new school year than with a splash party? Enjoy the end of summer with water slides, games, and hot dogs.

n 14 | PROMOTION SUNDAY | Students will move up to their new age group according to the school year. More details will be shared as this day gets closer.

n 21 | PUPPET CAMP | 3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. | For 3rd Grade and up | Fellowship Hall | Interested in puppets? Want to learn how to join Christ UMC’s Puppet team? Join us for this fun training camp!

CUMChildren CUMCKidz christumcchildren.com

Ashley Walker, Director of Children’s Ministry ashley@christumcmobile.com

Christie Ford, Kidz Crossing Director christie@christumcmobile.com

Sam Gochey, Associate Children’s Minister sam@christumcmobile.com

CHILDREN’S MINISTRY STAFF

SPIRITUAL GROWTH

WEEKLY SUMMER PROGRAMFor more information, visit christumcchildren.com n SUNDAY MORNINGS All Sunday School classes are located in Building E.

By Sam Taylor Gochey, Associate Children’s MinisterAs a new school year quickly approaches, our minds are flooded with a mile long “to do list” that has to be completed before the first day of school. As parents we want them to be fully prepared as they walk through those school doors with their nicely pressed uniforms, new backpacks, and all of the necessary school supplies that are needed for them to get through the day. Some will be fighting back tears watching their little ones walk through that classroom door, while others will be sighing with relief that another school year has begun. With all of that said, the most important way to prepare your child for school is to let them know that they are loved and that God is with them.

While academic growth is a very crucial part of your child’s development, let’s not forget the importance of their spiritual growth.

God clearly puts the responsibility of our children’s spiritual growth on the parents. The first day of school for most of us marks the beginning of a very busy schedule. Days will be filled with homework, and numerous extra-curricular activities that will make you feel as though you are running in circles. Through all of this chaos, we must not forget to make time in our daily schedules for family devotion. Families are busy and sometimes getting to sit down and have dinner together is nearly impossible. As parents, we need to make the choice to take a time-out, no matter how busy the day, and have family devotion. By doing this, we are choosing as a family to have God as the first priority in our lives. What we as parents do today will have a great impact of the choices of our children later in life.

n 8:00 A.M.: WORSHIP3K – 4K | E – 146

n 9:15 A.M.: WORSHIPK3 – K4 | Fellowship Hall K5 – 2nd | E – 250 3rd – 5th | CC Assembly Area

n 10:40 A.M.: SUNDAY SCHOOL K3 | E – 148 K4 | E – 146 K5 | E – 144 1st – 5th | Building E – Upstairs

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By Rick Warren - For more information, visit danielplan.com. Discipline is about creating habits. We need to create small habits in our lives that together build up into big results. These habits might be sleeping a bit more, moving our bodies, calming our minds, eating a little differently, adding a few new foods that are positive, refocusing our thoughts and replacing them with God’s Word—any habits like these will day by day shift us into a profound capacity for self-care and healing. The discipline of those small habits will add up to a thriving life. One of the most fruitful habits we can form in the areas of food and fitness is to add joy to the way we move and the way we eat. When we experience movement as joy, we celebrate the fact that our bodies can move in a particular way. Movement becomes an offering of our bodies to the God who made them able to move in so many ways. Likewise, taking joy in trying a new food lets us celebrate the abundance God has created. We can look forward each day to the new pleasures God has in store for us. Food for Thought: Small habits lead to ever greater enjoyment of the life God has blessed us with. For more information visit 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 the Recreation Ministry. Children under 18 must have a parent/guardian signature on their registration card, and children under 14 must have a parent/guardian present.

n FITNESS CLASSES: 1st class is FREE then $5 per class or purchase a six-class card for $25.

n YOUR WAY FITNESS: Monday, 7:00 p.m. | Tuesday/Thursday 6:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. | Personal training in a group setting.

n YOGA CLASSES: Mondays/Thursdays at 6:00 p.m., and Tuesdays/Thursdays at 9:00 a.m.

n FITNESS ROOM: Requires a one-time fitness room orientation, held Monday - Friday at 6:30 p.m.

n BASKETBALL GYM: Reserved for Christ UMC members and visitors who regularly attend services and up to three of their guests.

CSPORTS REGISTRATIONSn REGISTER NOW: 678 BASKETBALL SKILLS & DRILLS CAMP | August 23 – September 15 | For 6th – 8th Grade boys and girls for 2016/17 | Camp will be on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Participants will learn valuable skills through drills and scrimmages with experienced, higher level coaches. Fee is $35. Register in person at the Recreation Desk.

n REGISTER NOW: YOUNG RUNNERS CLUB (YRC)For K5 – 9th Grade for 2016/17 | K5 – 2nd Grade train for 1 miler, 3rd – 5th Grade train for 5k, and 6th – 9th Grade train for 5K or 10k. Season begins the end of September, ends mid-November. Fee is $40 for new YRC and $20 for YRC returning from Spring 2016.

n BASKETBALL | For K5 – 6th Grade | Registration begins in mid-August. Evaluations are October 17 and 18. Season begins November 1 and ends late January. Fee is $85.

n CHEERLEADING FOR BASKETBALL | For K5 – 5th Grade Registration begins in mid-August | Parent Orientation/uniform fitting October 20. Tuesday practices begin November 1. Season ends late January. Fee is $85.

DATES TO REMEMBER n 4 – Soccer coaches meetingn 8 – Soccer practices beginn 13 – Soccer Clinicn 18 – 678 Basketball Camp coaches meetingn 20 – Soccer picturesn 23 – 678 Basketball Camp begins

CHRIST CENTER HOURS Monday - Friday: 6:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. Saturday: 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. For additional information, call 251.706.3326 or visit: christumcsports.com.Visit /cumc.recreationministry to stay up-to-date with the Recreation Ministry.

A THRIVING LIFE

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It’s time for us to get excited about the incredible gift we have: The Bible. Knowing and understanding the scriptures not only helps us form our beliefs, but hear the voice of God challenging us to live lives of faithfulness in our world.

In August, we will host a two-day Bible conference with one of the world’s leading Bible scholars and our own teaching pastors to help unlock and unleash the power of the scriptures in our lives. Dr. Ben Witherington has written over forty books, including The Jesus Quest and The Paul Quest, both of which were selected as top Biblical study works by Christianity Today. He is also the author of our fall small group focus on the book

of Romans. Along with many interviews on radio networks across the country, Witherington has been seen on the History Channel, NBC, ABC, CBS, CNN, The Discovery Channel, A&E and the PAX Network.

This year he will be giving special focus on the book of Romans while our own teaching pastors offer Bible breakouts on everything from Biblical archaeology to the power of the Psalms. It is not often that we get the opportunity to learn so much in two days and engage with a world-renown scholar. Please join us for the whole conference and invite your friends to come along!

SUNDAY, AUGUST 28n 8:00 A.M. | 9:15 A.M. | SANCTUARY n 10:40 A.M. | CHRIST CENTERRomans: Set Right, and Set on Fire | Dr. Ben Witherington will be the guest speaker during all combined services and The Voices of Mobile with the University of Mobile will be our special musical guest.

BIBLE BREAKOUTS | 4:00 P.M. n The Essential Jewish Background to the New Testament Hospitality Room | Led by Pastor Jeremy Steele

n The Whole Bible in an Hour | Christ Center Assembly Area | Led by Pastor Rob Couch

n EVENING WORSHIP | 5:00 P.M. | CHRIST CENTER Romans: The Righteousness of God and the Setting Right of the Sinner with guest speaker, Dr. Ben Witherington.

MONDAY, AUGUST 29n LUNCH SESSION | 12:00 P.M. | CHRIST CENTER GYMPreregistration is required. Cost for lunch is $10. Register at christumcmobile.com/bibleconference.Romans: The Love of Christ Which Will Not Let Us Go with guest speaker, Dr. Ben Witherington.

BIBLE BREAKOUTS | 1:15 P.M. n Top 10 Biblical Archaeological Discoveries | Hospitality Room | Led by Pastor Jeremy Steele

n How to Study the Scriptures to Come Alive | Christ Center Assembly Area | Led by Pastor Bobby Williams

n EVENING SESSION | 5:00 P.M. | CHRIST CENTER GYMRomans: The Ethics of Christ and the Ethics of the Kingdom with guest speaker, Dr. Ben Witherington.

BIBLE BREAKOUTS | 6:00 P.M.n Leading Nehemiah’s Way | Hospitality Room | Led by Pastor Jim Kinder

n The Power of the Psalms | Christ Center Assembly AreaLed by Pastor Rob Couch

SCHEDULE FOR THE CONFERENCE

Church-wide study of the book of Romans will begin September 14.For more details and to register for the Lunch session,

visit christumcmobile.com/bibleconference.

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DIXON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL SUPPLY DRIVE

JULY 24 - AUGUST 8With the opening of the 2016 – 17 school year upon us, the families and faculty at Dixon Elementary will once again be enriched by our assistance in providing much-needed school supplies in this high-poverty area. School supply lists can be found in the Sanctuary Gathering Area and the Christ Center Recreation entrance. Maybe even more important will be the prayers and words of encouragement that you will write on the back of the cards that you have picked up listing the requested supplies for the teacher that you chose.

Donations are due by 12:00 P.M. on MONDAY, AUGUST 8 near the Recreation Desk in the Christ Center. Volunteers are needed in the Christ Center on August 8 beginning at 8:30 a.m. for separating/loading the donations, and on August 9 at the church at 9:00 a.m. for delivery and unloading of supplies at Dixon.

Helping the children and families of the Dixon community is a highly rewarding outreach of the church! Share in the joy of helping others!

PREMARITAL CLASSESAUGUST 16 - SEPTEMBER 6

Planning to marry soon? Prepare your marriage for a lifetime as you plan for your wedding day. Weekly sessions will begin August 16 and end September 6. Classes are from 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Contact Brenda Davis at 251.422.6210 or e-mail brendadavis3@gmail.com to register or for more information.

WHY DO WE GIVE?Rob Blackwell, Church AdministratorAs Christians, we are taught in both the Old Testaments (OT) and New Testaments (NT) that we should give financially to God’s work through the church. But in talking with people, I have found that we give for different reasons. Many people give because they are committed to the work being done in the church and see the practical need. I include myself in this category. The church can’t accomplish its important work without funds to operate. Many people give in obedience to God’s Word. I include myself in this category as well. Sometimes people ask if tithing is taught in the NT, or if it is an OT law that Christians can ignore. I really believe the NT supports the concept of the tithe, but I’m not sure whether its identity as a “law” is the main point. Is prayer a law, or reading the Bible, or going to church, or feeding the poor? No, yet we don’t debate these issues, we just do them, both in obedience to and as a faith response to God’s love. So what is the “main point” of giving? Since God primarily seeks to gain our hearts, and since He knows our hearts tend to follow our treasure (Mt 6:21), I believe God instituted giving as a way to help us with that. He asks us to give to Him first, before our bills and toys, and to give in an amount significant enough that it is a sacrifice for us to do so. When we do that consistently, our hearts are pulled toward God, our relationship with Him is strengthened and our spiritual health is improved. It’s also a wonderful bonus that God’s people are blessed and His work is accomplished in the process!

$296,000Principal

$1,000,000

$3,000,000

$4,000,000

2016

FO

RWA

RD P

ROG

RESS

$2,000,000$2,228,000thru June

FORWARDGOAL $4,879,000

FORWARD Receipts

PrincipalPayments

Principal PmtGOAL $750,000

Our goal is to help you with your hurts, discover hope for the future and experience God’s healing. Don’t go through it alone! This is a 13-week study where you will meet every Wednesday from 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Child care provided for infants through 5th grade. On first night, please arrive at 5:45 p.m. to register. For more information, contact Dawn Bratcher at 251.706.3328 or dawn@christumcmobile.com.

FALL SESSION BEGINS WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 7

6:00 P.M. | RM C-221

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n August 10 | 11:30 A.M. | Christ Center Assembly Area | Pastor Rob will join Pastor Bobby for a time of greeting and inspiration. Rob will share his story. Bring you lunch, invite a friend and make a new friend Enjoy a 5 – 10 minute devotion, music, short movie clips, etc.

n September 14 – Comedian | 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. | Christ Center Assembly Area (2nd floor) | Bring your own lunch | Bring a friend, make a new friend | Enjoy a 5 – 10 minute devotion, music, short movie clips, etc.

n August 19 | Exploreum – Sherlock Holmes Clocktower MysteryLeave CUMC: 9:00 a.m. | Cost: $12 | Lunch: Cafe – Dutch Treat Pastor Bobby will be leading a day trip to the Gulf Coast Exploreum to experience Sherlock Holmes and the Clocktower Mystery. A terrible crime has been committed and Victorian London’s most celebrated detective needs your help to find out “whodunit.” Call Kim Pratt for reservations at 251.342.0462, ext. 231.

n September 16 | Gulf Quest National Museum of the Gulf of Mexico | Meet at CUMC: 9:00 a.m. | Cost: $16 | Lunch: at the Museum – Dutch Treat

n October 21 | Five Rivers Safaris – Boat ride on the Delta & Exhibit Hall | Meet at CUMC: TBA | Cost: $20 | Lunch: Blue Gill – Dutch Treat

n November 18 | History Museum of MobileMeet at CUMC: 9:00 a.m. | Cost: $10 | Lunch: Spot of Tea – Dutch Treat

For Reservations, call Kim Pratt at 251.342.0462, ext. 231.

Ministry

CHOIR GROUPn Youth Singersn Youth Ringersn Sanctuary Choirn Exaltation Ringersn 9:15 Praise Bandn Children’s Choir (1st - 5th grades)n Living Soundn Men’s Ensemblen One Heartn Preschool Choir (K4 & K5)n Renaissance

PRACTICE TIMESSundays, 10:20 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.Sundays, 11:00 a.m. – 11:40 a.m.Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.Tuesdays, 5:45 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.Wednesdays, 5:30 p.m. – 6:15 p.m.Sundays, 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.Sundays, 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.Sundays, 5:30 p.m. – 6:15 p.m.Sundays, 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.Sundays, 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.Sundays, 6:15 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

START DATEAugust 14August 14 August 24September 6September 7September 11September 11September 11September 11September 11September 11

I’m looking forward to our new Season! Please call me with

any questions.

Ralph Gudeman: 251.342.0462, ext. 221 or e-mail

Ralph@christumcmobile.com

CHRIST UNITED METHODIST WOMEN August brings a General Meeting and study to be held at Toulminville-Warren Street United Methodist Church. A study about Created for Happiness: Understanding Your Life in God by Cynthia A. Bond Hopson and Sarah Heaner Lancaster will be expertly led by Clara Esther, UMW Board Member, on SATURDAY, AUGUST 13 from 10:00 A.M. – 2:00 P.M. Lunch will be provided for those who RSVP to your Circle leader. If you are riding the bus, we will leave from Christ UMC parking lot at 9:15 a.m. If you wish to caravan with the bus, please gather in the bus parking area before the 9:15 departure time. This study will be especially significant as we reflect about what God wants for us.

For more information, please contact Joyce Genz, 251.259.1675 or jgenz@comcast.net.

WONDERFUL WEDNESDAYS Join Pastor Bobby for 2nd Wednesday Luncheons. Just for adults. Special guest speakers will be:

FABULOUS FRIDAYS Join Pastor Bobby for Fabulous Friday fun. Transportation provided from Christ UMC and back. Just for adults.

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Annette BunchJoined Sunday, June 19, 2016

Susan RichardsonJoined Sunday, July 17, 2016

CORRECTION: Rob and Jan Cloutier

Joined Sunday, June 12, 2016

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!

NEW DATE: SUNDAY, AUGUST 28 9:00 A.M. - 10:30 A.M. | HOSPITALITY ROOMREGISTER AT: christumcmobile.com/startingpoint

ARE YOU NEW TO CHRIST UMC?

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 or 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 e-mails. 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!

“Anyone who welcomes you is welcoming Me and anyone who welcomes Me is welcoming the Father who sent Me.” – Matthew 10:40 (NIV)

Just 20-30 minutes of your time, once per month on a Sunday, can make such a difference to a visitor. Drop by on Sundays between 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Discover the Joy booth in the Sanctuary or the Information Desk in the Christ Center to sign up to volunteer.

CART DRIVERS NEEDED

Joan WeaverJoined Sunday, July 24, 2016

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Justin & Jared McDonald and their families in the death of their father, Ron McDonald

Gene Wilson and family in the death of his mother, LaNelle Wilson

Ginger Copeland and family in the death of her father, William Copeland

Floyd McBride and family in the death of his brother, Leo McBride

Gerald Grovenstein and family in the death of his mother, Pearl Grovenstein

John Seitz and family in the death of his father, Charles Seitz

Benita Murphy and family in the death of her mother, Diane Fitzpatrick

The family of Thomas Mitford Hudson, Jr.

Mary Lee Malone and family in the death of her brother, Broadman Chambers

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 Thursday | 6:30 p.m. | Building F

TUESDAY, AUGUST 168:30 A.M. - 11:30 A.M.Across from Recreation Desk

Provided by Susie OllhoftChrist UMC Health Care Ministry

FREE BLOOD PRESSURE CHECKS

STEPHEN MINISTERS CAREOur Stephen Ministers provide confidential, one-on-one Christian care.

WHAT IS A STEPHEN MINISTER?Stephen Ministers are lay people—Christian men and women—trained to provide one-to-one care to people experiencing a difficult time in life, such as grief, divorce, job loss, chronic or terminal illness, relocation, or separation due to military deployment. Stephen Ministers come from all walks of life. Their commonality? A passion for bringing Christ’s love and care to people during a time of need.

Since 1975, more than 600,000 people from more than 11,000 congregations and other organizations have been trained as Stephen Ministers. Would you like to know more about becoming a Stephen Minister at CUMC? If so, please contact Donna Alexander at 251.510.0905. Your call is confidential.

MONDAY, AUGUST 8 | 6:30 P.M. - 7:30 P.M. | PARLOR Christ UMC Christian Cancer Support meets the 2nd Monday of each 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/PUBLICATIONS

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 Sunday School10:20 a.m. Youth Singers (Starts Aug 14)10:40 a.m. Sanctuary Worship Service NewSong Worship Service Adult Sunday School Youth Bible Bible Tween Worship Early Elementary Sunday School11:00 a.m. Youth Ringers (Starts Aug 14)5:00 p.m. Evening Worship Service Youth Worship

MONDAY8:00 a.m. Lifegate

TUESDAY9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Library Open6:30 p.m. GAP: Graduates & Professionals

WEDNESDAY8:00 a.m. Lifegate11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Ransom Cafe6:00 p.m. Adult Studies Singles Bible Study DivorceCare6:15 p.m. Stephen Ministry6:30 p.m. Sanctuary Choir (Starts Aug 24)

THURSDAY9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Library Open11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Ransom Cafe6:30 p.m. Celebrate Recovery

Weekly Summer Activities

ONLINE GIVING IS NOW AVAILABLEVisit christumcmobile.com/give OR install the Pushpay app from the Google Play Store or the App Store OR text “christumc” to 77977.

LIKE USfacebook.com/christumcmobile

FOLLOW UStwitter.com/christumcmobile

PODCASTchristumcmobile.com/sermons

WATCH LIVEchristumcmobile.com/livestream

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

OR ONLINE AT christumcmobile.com/perceptions

LISTEN TO PERCEPTIONS

Prizes will be awarded in the library through August 7.

Lighthouse Library Hours

Congratulations to 18 boys and girls who signed up and participated in the Reading Safari Summer Reading Program. If you have not turned in your card, it is not too late. Record your six books and two DVDs and take your card to the library and receive a prize package.

Reading SafariReading SafariLIGHTHOUSE LIBRARY’S

SUMMER READING PROGRAM

SUNDAYTUESDAY

THURSDAY

9:00 a.m. – Noon9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

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

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

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

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

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

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8 9 10 1211 13

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313028 29

6:30 p.m. Christian Cancer Support Group

4 51 2

6:30 p.m. Celebrate Recovery

6:30 p.m. Celebrate Recovery

For more information on Christ UMC visit christumcmobile.com

6:30 p.m. Celebrate Recovery

SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY

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REGISTER NOW FOR FALL CLASSES Register for classes by visiting

KindermusikAtchristunited.comCall 251.706.3336 for more information.

10:00 a.m. Lydia Circle

Mary & Martha Circle at mailcircle.net

5:30 p.m. Crossroads Circle

9:45 a.m. Esther CircleCOMMUNION

SUNDAY IN NEWSONG

8:30 a.m. Free Blood Pressure check

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

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

6:00 p.m. Divorce Care6:00 p.m. Singles

Bible ConferenceCombined Services8:00 a.m. Sanctuary9:15 a.m. Sanctuary

10:40 a.m. Christ Center5:00 p.m. Evening

Worship

6:00 p.m. The Exodus Study begins Freshman Retreat

6:30 p.m. Celebrate Recovery

5:00 p.m. 6th Grade Late Night 6:00 p.m. Back to School Splash

PROMOTION SUNDAY

3:00 p.m. Puppet Camp5:00 p.m. Church-Wide Putluck

SUNDAY

SUNDAY

SUNDAY

Bible Conference

6:30 p.m. GAP Study: The Book of James Begin

6:00 p.m Divorce Care6:00 p.m. Singles

678 Basketball Skills & Drills Camp

CSPORTS Soccer Clinic

6:30 p.m. Premarital Classes Begin

12:00 p.m. Dixon School Supplies Donations Due

10:00 a.m. UMW General Meeting & Study11:30 a.m. Wonderful

Wednesdays

9:00 a.m. Fabulous Fridays

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

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

6:00 p.m Divorce Care6:00 p.m. Singles

6:00 p.m Divorce Care6:00 p.m. Singles

6:00 p.m Divorce Care6:00 p.m. Singles

6:00 p.m. Family Gathering

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

Visit page 9 for Christumcmobile.com/bibleconference

for more details.