August, 2002 Strongsville United Methodist Church

On Sunday, September 1st we will return to the regular worship schedule:

Sunday Worship – 9:30 am & 11:00 amSaturday Contemporary Worship – 5:00 pm

Property Purchase UpdateOn July 15th the City Council of Strongsville held a public

hearing on the Church’s request to re-zone the property located on Webster and Royalton Roads. Strongsville United Methodist Church has entered into an agreement to purchase this 14.8 acre parcel if it is re-zoned from residential use to public facility.

City Council must vote to place the re-zoning issue on the November 2002 ballot for consideration by the voters of Strongsville. The purpose of the public hearing was for the Council members to hear arguments both for and against the re-zoning issue being placed on the ballot. Council did not vote on our request at the July 15th meeting. Our prayer is that their vote in our favor will come before the end of July.

If our request is placed on the November ballot, it must be passed by a majority of the voters in Strongsville and by a majority of the voters in Ward 1 (where the property is located).

Please keep this issue in your prayers asking God to bless our efforts and direct our actions.

Youth are invited to Leadership QuestLeadership Quest is a one week mini-Tentmakers training

session for youth which will be held this year in Indiana. Participants from SUMC will be joining youth from several other churches, sleeping in tents and growing in their personal walk with Christ. Activities include life-management training, learning how to give your personal testimony to others, learning to lead Bible studies, and many other ministry skills. High School students who are interested in attending Leadership Quest 2003 should call Greg Grimwood at the church (238-6135) for more information.

Ukrainian family to arrive this summerThe Ukrainian family that our church is sponsoring has not

yet arrived in Strongsville, but is expected to arrive before the end of summer. The Administrative Board has voted to accept the responsibility for assisting this family of five with their relocation. Our church will be providing suitable furnishings for an apartment, household items, clothing, school supplies,

and other necessities.

If anyone in the congregation has a truck or trailer and is able to assist with furniture moving, please contact John Huie, Missions Chairperson. (Phone 440-878-0798 or e-mail johnjulieh@peoplepc.com)

Please prayerfully consider how you can help be part of welcoming this family to Strongsville. Additional information has been posted on the Missions Bulletin Board along with a sign-up sheet for those who are willing to provide specific items.

Growing up in today’s world is tough! Youth and children must be able to face this reality and live with purpose, hope, faith and joy. We believe that these qualities of life are uniquely found in a relationship with Jesus Christ. Logos exists to help our Church foster this relationship with a proven system of nurturing ministry.

Logos… Builds Christian relationships, Nurtures youth and children into a committed faith

relationship with Jesus Christ, and Prepares them for a lifetime of Christian

discipleship.Our Logos program involves youth, children, parents,

pastors and the congregation in a weekly, four-part ministry where Christian relationships are modeled and practiced.

On Sundays, August 4th and 11th, following both services, you will have the opportunity to register your youth and children (grades K – 12) for the 10th year of Logos at SUMC. Logos begins on Thursday, September 5th.

There is also a need for adult help in several critical areas of Logos. Everyone in the congregation is asked to prayerfully consider how they might be part of this vital ministry. We need teachers for our Kindergarten, 3rd, and 5th grade Bible hour classes (Bible hour is from 6:30 – 7:30 pm). Substitute teachers and teacher’s helpers are also needed. Playtime is scheduled from 7:30 – 8:30 pm and requires the help of adults who enjoying playing games or doing crafts. If you can commit one or two weeks during our 12 week semester or you can be at the church for about 1 ½ hours each week during those 12 weeks, we can put you to work.

To find out more about Logos and how you can help our youth and children experience the transforming love of God, call Lynne Koszkalda (238-0883), Carol Perri (238-1041) or Bev. Wells (572-1415).

From Pastor Paula’s deskRecently I have been reading a book titled Me

and My Big Mouth by Joyce Meyer -- partly because the title sounded amusing, and partly because I know I sometimes stick my foot in my mouth. (I’m sure some of you can relate.)

  In the book she references many passages of Scripture that deal with the words we speak. And let me tell you, there are many. One in particular I would like to share with you is found in Proverbs 25:11: “A word fitly spoken and in due season is like apples of gold in settings of silver.”   As I have been reading over this verse I have seen with new eyes the ways in which words should be used to build others up. As servants of the Most High God we are given the opportunity to bless others with our words. In the context of families, friendships or even casual acquaintances our words have impact. When we compliment a friend, or a parent speaks with high regard about their child, those words help to encourage and build another up. We bless others with the use of words in this way. They are like the golden apples, valuable and priceless to the recipient.  Yet, in the world around us and even among Christians, we spend some of our words foolishly. We speak against others because they believe differently, dress differently or even do things in a different way. Then our words discourage and even hurt relationships. Words spoken in secret about someone will impact him or her. These words are like apples full of worms, which rot over time.   I am working in my own life, with God’s help, to fill the baskets of people’s lives around me with words that are priceless.   So ask yourself this, “Have I spoken a word which is refreshing and life-changing to someone today?”Lord, help me today to speak words which will be precious to the people I meet throughout my day. Allow them to receive my words as a priceless gift from You. Amen May you be Blessed today! 

Friday FellowshipFriday Fellowship has nothing planned for August. Our

meetings will resume in September. We hope you are enjoying your summer.

August Birthdays2nd Jean Cornean, 85 19th Norma Myers10th Elizabeth Karman, 90 28th Mildred Delau12th Isabelle Bruggers 29th Vi Chaff, 86 13th Marie Stands 31st Alice Waltz14th Chuck Staley, Donald Schultz

Anniversaries10th Russ & Ginny McKee, 59 years19th John & Ruby Gormsen, 52 years31st Walter & Darlene Wilson, 56 years

United Methodist MenWelcome to the 2002-2003 men’s group. We are planning

a full slate of monthly gatherings, promising some good entertainment and great food! All our meetings and sign-up sheets will be posted on the men’s bulletin board in the hallway next to the crib room.

We are planning to have a UMM kickoff/cookout at Bonnie Park in the Metroparks (off Pearl Rd.) on Monday, August 19 at 6:30 pm. Hope to see all men of the church that night for some good food and great fellowship. Watch the church bulletin for more details. And as always…pass the word…bring a friend.

In His name, Mark Milia (440) 572-0602United Methodist Women

We would like to thank all the women who participated in Women’s Sunday on July 14. Special thanks to Pastor Paula for sharing our day, Betty Smith who was the liturgist, Vickie

Eicher and the Women Choristers, Laurie Berendsen, and Adeline Huss. An added blessing that day was to see the Girl

Scouts receiving their awards. The girls have been working with Shelly Hartman for the past year to earn these awards.  United Methodist Women "End of Summer" Picnic

Monday, August 26th, 6 pm Bonnie Park Shelter 

Sloppy Joe Sandwiches, Drinks and Dessert will be providedPlease bring a side dish to share for 6(salad, fruit, or your own favorite dish)This is for all ladies of the church --

a great time to renew friendships and make new onesRSVP: Karen Muskoff 572-1084

Notes from the Nurses School is fast approaching and some are questioning the

idea of leaving their kids alone for those couple hours until you get home from work. There is no specific age when children are ready to stay home alone because children mature at different rates. It is most important to know if your child feels comfortable being home alone and has the levelheadedness to handle an emergency. What is the amount of support you can count on from neighbors, family and friends?

Consider your child's maturity level and his ability to handle a variety of situations. If you answer "yes" to most of the following questions, this may indicate your child is ready to stay alone. Has he handled brief periods of being left alone well? Will he come straight home after school? Will he be lonely or frightened? Can he manage simple jobs like fixing a snack and taking phone messages? Is he physically able to unlock and lock the doors? Can he solve small problems himself? Does he know when and how to seek outside help? Is he prepared to handle an accident or an emergency? Will he follow the rules set for him and use his time productively?

Make sure your child knows names, addresses and phone numbers for your workplace, your backup person, and emergency services. The child should know not to enter your home if a door or window is open or broken; what to do if someone knocks on the door; the location of a flashlight if the power should fail; how to exit quickly in case of a fire. Review basic first aid procedures and put together a first aid kit.

Sit down with your child and go over rules such as what to do if a stranger comes to the door or if friends want to come over. Decide together what kinds of snacks are allowed and how much, what things are "off limits" until a parent is home, and how the time alone will be spent. Some working parents ask their child to check in by telephone. A central check-in center is helpful such as a bulletin board or message area with magnets on the refrigerator door. You can post reminders for the day as well as important phone numbers. Chores and projects can be a part of your child's afternoon routine. Decide on specific times for chores, homework and free time.

Continually evaluate your arrangements and be flexible. Consider new ideas if your plan doesn't work. Talk often with your child and listen to her likes and dislikes, fears and frustrations, joys and triumphs. This is a time of increased responsibility and independence. Together you can build on her ability and confidence to care for herself. (Adapted from www.childcareaware.org)

Come see us in the Parlor on August 25th after the 9:30 service for your monthly

blood pressure check.Betsy Mowry and Gail Spence

Looking for a place to study the Word of God? You are invited to be a part of CrossTalks. Each Tuesday morning from

10 - 11:30 am we gather to study together in depth a specific book of the Bible or theme based on what the Scriptures have to teach us about the topic. Anyone can join us (men and women of any age) as Pastor Paula leads the group each week. If you are interested in participating please contact Ruby Gormsen (238-4052) so we can order material!

$$ Mid-year Financial Report $$The budget approved by the Administrative Board requires

an average weekly offering of about $11100. Having reached the halfway point of the year, we have received 46% of our projected budget. Expenses have been kept at 45% but a number of items have not been paid. The trustees are just starting to spend their budget on needed maintenance items. New gutters have been installed on the church along with new carpeting in the atrium. New windows are being ordered for the Bonnie Lane parsonage. This time last year, we were two months behind in Conference apportionments. This year we are only one month in arrears. The 4% we are under budget on donations would cover the cost of all these items.

If you are on vacation or just visiting other churches during the summer, please remember that your church has year-round commitments. Donations can be dropped off at the office during the week or mailed in to the church so you don’t need to play catch-up at the end of the summer.

Capital Campaign funds continue to come in. As of the end of June, $584,542.86 has been donated towards our goal of $650,000. We hope to reach this goal by the first of November.

Record of Contribution statements for all donations from January 1 - June 30, 2002 have been mailed. If you have not received one or have any questions, please call the church office and leave a message or e-mail the Financial Secretary at: philg@strongsville.org

Christian Education NewsLooking toward fall

Where is the summer going? I can’t believe it’s time to start planning for fall. Before you know it, it will be winter. You won’t believe what we’ve got planned for Christmas. Christmas? Wait a minute, let’s back up. First on the agenda is Sunday School. That starts in September.

This year, Carol Williams and I are asking that you prayerfully consider making a bigger commitment than last year. We would like to see teachers taking on a whole quarter at a time, if possible. (Some of you have already done that). So much more can be accomplished if we had that kind of commitment for every classroom. Once you’re done with the quarter, you could be done for the year, unless you want to do more.How would this help our children’s ministry? First, children need consistency, especially the younger

children. It’s important to a child to know who’s going to be leading his/her class each week. It gives him/her a sense of security and familiarity. Second, children need to connect to and build

relationships with those who are helping them along their spiritual journey. You can never underestimate the impact a Sunday School teacher may have on a child’s life or their walk with Jesus Christ. Third, children are known. It’s difficult to mentor a child if

his/her teacher does not know the child’s name or something about him or her.

This is not to say that a shorter commitment would not be appreciated or welcomed. We understand that life presents lots of challenges and that one individual can only be pulled in so many directions. If you can only serve occasionally, we can always use substitutes, or perhaps you would consider team teaching with someone so that you wouldn’t have to be here every Sunday of the quarter. (Some of you have done that, too). If you don’t feel ready to teach, we can use you as an aide.

We give thanks for everyone who helped with Sunday School last year. Your time and talents were greatly

appreciated. But please understand that in several classrooms this past year we, and some of the classroom coordinators, were on the phone weekly to get people to help out. We do not want to continue doing that. We know that you would agree that our children deserve more.

Thank you for your prayerful consideration in this area of need!

In Christ,Debbie Burd, Director of Christian Education

“And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ…” Ephesians 4:11 A special needs Sunday School class for multi-handicapped children is being researched and hoped to be in place by January, 2003 during the 11:00 am service. If you have an interest in this area, please contact Debbie Burd at (440) 238-6135. A new high school Sunday School class will begin the first Sunday in August in the Parlor at 9:30 am. New Format! Watch your bulletin for more details to come!

Angel Tree Kids are going to camp!Project Angel Tree is usually associated with Christmas-

time, but this year, thanks to the wonderful generosity of SUMC, we were able to help send ten Cleveland area Angel Tree kids to summer camp! Angel Tree camp is similar to other summer Bible camps. Campers sing, attend Bible classes, praise Jesus and enjoy the water, the sunshine and the great outdoors. What a great way for city Angel Tree kids to experience God’s love and His creation. Thank you for helping make it all possible.

Angel Tree fundraising will start up again in August or September, so be on the watch for ways in which you can help. Our goal is to give you ways to let your light shine to Angel Tree children and their families – and it is working!The Middle School & Senior High Logos classes and teachers

Stephen MinistryOur congregation is fortunate to have its own Stephen

Ministry program. Stephen Ministers are equipped to help you deal with any personal crisis. Maybe you are in this situation, or know someone who is. We can help! All relationships are strictly confidential.

We have installed a mailbox next to the Stephen Ministry bulletin board in the main hallway outside the nursery. Feel free to submit your concern in this mailbox (it's locked and only one person has the key, a trained Stephen Ministry leader). One of the leaders will contact you to discuss your need for a Stephen Minister. Or you can just call one of us, Jim Boyer (572-4976),

Mark or Karen Milia (572-0602), Hildi Fitzpatrick (572-5004) or Bev. Wells (572-1415).

Additionally, we are asking you, our congregation, for your prayers for this ministry. We are asking God's help in identifying anyone in need of this ministry, and also for the future of this ministry in our church. Thank you for your prayers.

 Opportunities to help

othersSchool supplies will help needy

childrenThe GOLD (Gifts of Love

Delivered) Project helps provide school children with needed school supplies. Flyers with information about this program are available in the narthex or you can call Diane Nickle (572-5136) for more information.

Boxes for the supplies are available in the atrium between services. Completed boxes can be dropped off in the atrium by Sunday, August 4th.

Bible Collection for Prison Fellowship MinistriesAs part of the requirement for their Girl Scout God and

Church award, Felicia Weisbrod and Betsy Boyer are collecting new and slightly used Bibles for donation to Prison Fellowship Ministries. Boxes will be available at the church until August 14th for your donation.

The Strongsville Food Bank is in need of the following items: spaghetti sauce, cereal, peanut butter, canned meat or meat products (tuna, Spam, etc.), and whole meals (Hamburger Helper, LaChoy, etc.) Please support the Food Bank by keeping donations strong during the summer months. Put your gifts on the table across from Greg’s office downstairs.

The Food Bank serves between 100 and 150 families a month, distributing about $2500 in nonperishable goods and Tops gift certificates. Ann Miley, Coordinator, writes, “The Food Bank can only continue its mission because of people like you. Your faithful support of our clients is greatly appreciated.”

Youth Mission Team travels to West Virginia

During the week of June 23rd to 29th, 6 youth and 4 adults from SUMC joined participants from 6 other local churches to assist the residents of southern West Virginia. On May 2, 2002, over 4 inches of rain fell on McDowell County in 6 hours. Citizens of Welch, WV, where the mission team was based, saw flood waters cover much of the downtown business district and submerge homes in 2-4 feet of water. In the city of Coalwood, one of the communities we served, the flood impacted 90% of all homes.

This year’s mission trip was organized by the Berea UMC, and involved nearly 100 youth and 40 adults. Teams of 8 to 9 youth and 2 to 3 adults were assigned projects by the United Methodist Church-supported McDowell Mission Team. Projects included the removal of silt and mud from foundations, laying moisture barriers in crawl spaces, removing sludge from basements, replacing damaged drywall, and rebuilding damaged floors.

However, more important than the physical assistance provided to each resident was the emotional and spiritual support provided by the youth. Every resident has stories and pictures to share and emotional scars that need as much rebuilding as their homes.

We were housed in the local middle school, positioned high above the center of town on the side of one of the many hills that form the picturesque valley. Our daily schedule involved a wild wakeup serenade by Associate Pastor Jan (P.J.) Yandell at 5:45 am followed by morning prayers and breakfast prepared by our super team of cooks. The workday was followed by showers (warm only if you were one of the first work teams to return) and time to play. Each evening we gathered at the foot of the hill in the Welch UMC for entertaining team reports, recognition of bloopers and good works, music, and youth-led devotions. On Wednesday we took half a day off and went swimming and attended the Bluefield Orioles minor league baseball game.

To see highlights of the trip go to www.umcb.org and click on Work Mission 2002.

Here are a few personal thoughts from some of our team:“I thought the mission trip was a great way to spread God's love. My work team got along very well together. The best part of the trip was meeting new people who believe in the same things as we do. It was great that 130 people ignored the poor conditions of the bathrooms and the fact that they had to sleep on the floor of a gym to focus on the purpose of our trip - spreading God's love.” ----Mike Border

“This trip, just like last year’s, allowed me to see life differently. You see it as if you were in a run-down community. It makes you appreciate what you have. The trip was a lot of fun especially with the social aspects after work when we had time to talk, play games, and have fun. Talking to the people was strange, not because of who they were, but that they were in a flood, some losing everything, and yet they were as happy as we were and some even happier.”

-—Matt Huie

“As a first time adult helper, I was not sure what to expect. Strange and unexpected things began to happen. Without prompting, the youth of my work team quickly began to care for each other’s needs. These teens were eager to WORK and they did! As they began to talk with the residents they were helping, their mannerisms changed and they used words such as ‘Sir’ and ‘Thank you.’ During one of these moments, a vision popped into my mind of a tongue of fire above each head. On the way home, everyone said it was fun and they’d had a good time. So, perhaps it was not a vision after all.”

----Candy Michalski

“Monday: We had to wake up at 5:45, really not a good thing. . . . .Tuesday: I think I’m sleep deprived . . .It was another good day and it felt very rewarding to help the Perkins (clean up after the flood) . . . .Wednesday: Mrs. Perkins bought us Kentucky Fried Chicken for lunch -- she is a very nice lady. . . .The funniest thing was watching Mr. Hotz bob for apples (at the baseball game)Thursday: This trip is so much better than I thought it would be and I’m having a lot of fun. . .” ----Victor Perri

Our Mission Team: (top row, left to right) Randy Border, Michael Border; (middle row) Matt Huie, John Huie, Mark

Hotz, Andy Lash, Don Border; (bottom row) Victor Perri,

Grayson Michalski, Candy Michalski

“It's sad to think that a simple rainstorm could wipe out a house, or a town. However, this happens every year, destroying the homes and lives of thousands. It's not possible to stop these natural disasters but one thing can be controlled, the speed and quality of recovery made by the victims. It's necessary to hear the call to minister to others through mission when the need arises.

As we left for West Virginia I didn't know what to expect. Many were probably wishing they were at home at some point in the week; at least we had homes to go back to. The people were great and made it an enjoyable experience. And, though the work was at times very hard, the kind words and smiles we received for helping to rebuild someone's life would make it all worthwhile.”

----Don Border

Joys & ConcernsWeddings

Congratulations to the following couples who were united in marriage in our sanctuary in the past month:Steve Kramer & Kathleen Attebery were married by Rev. Ron on July 5th. Steve is the son of Jim & Sandra Kramer.

Kristy Bakeman & Todd Radzinski were married by Rev. Ron on July 6th. Kristy is the daughter of Ron & Joyce Bakeman.Jennifer Boswell & Stephen Tedeschi were married in our sanctuary on July 20th.

BirthsTrevor Paul Halley was born June 5th to Scott & Jody Halley. Proud grandparents are Jim & Linda Dettmer. Andrew John Pamer was born June 22nd to John & Jodi Pamer. Proud grandparents are Jerry & Rosey Pamer.Aidan Connor McEnulty was born July 3rd to David & Heather McEnulty. Proud grandparents are Terry & Karen Muskoff.Congratulations to all!

DeathsThe prayers and sympathy of the congregation are

extended to Don Heddesheimer, whose wife Chris Heddesheimer entered the church triumphant on June 26th. Chris was a member of our bell choir. Services were held at the church on July 1st.

Deepest sympathy is also expressed to the family of Ruth Crissinger, who entered the church triumphant on July 5th. Ruth was a nursing home resident who had been a member of our congregation for many years.

The prayers and sympathy of the congregation are also extended to Jim & Brenda Basnik and family upon the death of Jim’s father, Vincent; and to Darleen Price and family upon the death of her brother-in-law, Jack Deardorf.

From our church’s mailboxDear Congregation,As one of the recipients of the Chapman scholarships, I am very grateful for your

financial assistance towards my college education. Through the years, the church has been like a second family to me. I have met so many people that have all helped to shape the person I have become.

There are two men that have especially had an impact and have a very special place in my life – Rev. Ron and Mark Hotz. Their teaching, advice and the examples they set have motivated me to become a better person bystriving to live by God’s Word. I thank you all – Rev. Ron, Mark, and members – for the scholarship and for helping to get me on the right path in life.

Sincerely, Ryan Spence

Dear Church Family & Chapman Scholarship Committee,Thank you for all of your support I have received from my

church family. Thank you for the honor of receiving the Chapman Scholarship. The gifts received will go a long way to helping me through school. As I prepare to attend school locally, I look forward to the opportunity to continue to serve this church.

Love, Matt Milia

To my friends at SUMC,Thank you so much for your prayers and calls during my

recent hospitalization and recovery. A special thanks to Rev. Ron for his visits. It is wonderful to be a part of this church family.

Sincerely, Nancy Dawson

Dear Rev. Ron, Pastor Paula and Church Family,Please allow me to express my appreciation for your loving care of Chris and me during Chris’ final illness. Your prayers and expressions of support were most helpful during this difficult and sad time. I am especially thankful for the almost daily visits made by Ron and Paula to the Clinic. Chris looked forward to your visits and they were certainly a blessing to her. Again, thank you for everything.

Don Heddesheimer

To our friends at Strongsville United Methodist Church,Thank you for all your lovely cards and notes you sent

during my knee replacement surgery and rehabilitation. Your thoughts and prayers meant so very much to us. I’ve been home since July 6th and am doing pretty well.

Thank you for all your thoughtfulness. You are very dear people and we miss you all very much.

Love in Christ, Lenore Ekar

Dear Congregation,Thank you for your prayers. I’m recovering well.

Sincerely, John Lieb

God is so good. Andy came home last night from the mission trip. He had a really good time. He likes helping people and he said he was blessed again on this trip.

I am so thankful to the Lord for blessing me with such a wonderful son.

Love in Christ, Sharon Lash

Dear Rev. Mowry, Pastor Paula, and Faith Family,Thank you for celebrating in such an important day in our

lives. It meant so much to us that we were able to be baptized by the same person, especially since Becki was baptized over 25 years ago in Akron! We would also like to thank you for the wonderful bagels that you brought us when Reese was born.

Thank you, Robert, Becki, Simon & Reese Crawford

Senior Center offers health programsStrongsville Senior Center, 18100 Royalton Rd., is offering

two valuable health opportunities. A program on Women and Heart Disease will be offered on Thursday, August 1st at 11:00 am. The program is free but registration is required.

Cholesterol screening will be done from 9 to 11 am on Thursday, September 5th. Cost is $15.00 and registration is required. Both programs are sponsored by Southwest General. To register or for more information, please call (440) 816-4044.

It’s time to sign up for ConfirmationEven as you enjoy your summer vacation, preparations are

underway for the 2003 Confirmation Class. If you are entering the 6th grade this fall (or older and not yet confirmed), you are invited to participate in this class. If you have not yet received a letter and would like to be in the class, please contact the church office (238-6135) and we will add you to our list. Once you are on the list you will receive additional information concerning the confirmation schedule and requirements. Hope to see you in the fall! Pastor Paula

Property Purchase Update

On July 15th the City Council of Strongsville held a public hearing on the Church’s request to re-zone the property located on Webster and Royalton Roads. Strongsville United Methodist Church has entered into an agreement to purchase this 14.8 acre parcel if it is re-zoned from residential use to public facility.

City Council must vote to place the re-zoning issue on the November 2002 ballot for consideration by the voters of Strongsville. The purpose of the public hearing was for the Council members to hear arguments both for and against the re-zoning issue being placed on the ballot. Council did not vote on our request at the July 15th meeting. Our prayer is that their vote in our favor will come before the end of July.

If our request is placed on the November ballot, it must be passed by a majority of the voters in Strongsville and by a majority of the voters in Ward 1 (where the property is located).

Please keep this issue in your prayers asking God to bless our efforts and direct our actions.

Growing up in today’s world is tough! Youth and children must be able to face this reality and live with purpose, hope, faith and joy. We believe that these qualities of life are uniquely found in a relationship with Jesus Christ. Logos exists to help our Church foster this relationship with a proven system of nurturing ministry.

Logos… Builds Christian relationships, Nurtures youth and children into a committed faith

relationship with Jesus Christ, and Prepares them for a lifetime of Christian

discipleship.Our Logos program involves youth, children, parents,

pastors and the congregation in a weekly, four-part ministry where Christian relationships are modeled and practiced.

On Sundays, August 4th and 11th, following both services, you will have the opportunity to register your youth and children (grades K – 12) for the 10th year of Logos at SUMC. Logos begins on Thursday, September 5th.

There is also a need for adult help in several critical areas of Logos. Everyone in the congregation is asked to prayerfully consider how they might be part of this vital ministry. We need teachers for our Kindergarten, 3rd, and 5th grade Bible hour classes (Bible hour is from 6:30 – 7:30 pm). Substitute teachers and teacher’s helpers are also needed. Playtime is scheduled from 7:30 – 8:30 pm and requires the help of adults who enjoying playing games or doing crafts. If you can commit one or two weeks during our 12 week semester or you can be at the church for about 1 ½ hours each week during those 12 weeks, we can put you to work.

To find out more about Logos and how you can help our youth and children experience the transforming love of God, call Lynne Koszkalda (238-0883), Carol Perri (238-1041) or Bev. Wells (572-1415).