Brite Ideas -- Dec. 2001

Trick-or-treaters converging on Palmyra, Indiana were offered more than treats Halloween evening when their rounds brought them to the front porch of the Palmyra UMC. Church members Judy Lincks, Mary Jane Hostetler and David Harmon donned Holstein cow costumes for a new twist on a popular milk commercial, as a means to offer them, not a mere treat, but the ultimate gift, Jesus Christ.

The entrance of the church served as a backdrop for the message Palmyra UMC is taking to the community. Its white double doors were opened to focus attention on its light-saturated altar. A poster attached to the table from which the treats were distributed posed a very simple, but important question; Got Jesus?

Children were given a variety of items that related to Scriptural references and included magnets, candy, suckers and a poem. Parents were given a packet of informational brochures listing worship times and church ministries. Adults received in a packet a magnet, scriptural mints, a printed prayer and a bracelet that, when the excitement of dressing up and collecting candy is over, reassures that "God keeps his promises," or asks a question to be pondered . Got Jesus?

Bienvenido, neighbors

During his tenure as pastor of DeMotte UMC, Calumet District, the Rev. John Weeks began to notice an influx of Spanish-speaking neighbors. The labor force servicing the six dairy farms in Jasper County is predominantly Hispanic. Noticing this, the members of DeMotte, with the help of the Rev. Oscar Ramos, organized an afternoon filled with food, music and fellowship. Not unusual for United Methodists, but this afternoon was structured to invite the Hispanic community living in Jasper County.

An initiative of Demotte's Igniting Ministry campaign, the afternoon was a success. "In this community, we are truly an open church," said Weeks. DeMotte UMC is already planning to offer Spanish/English classes and is working with Rev. Ramos on ways to be more inviting to their community.

Help from a little friendly gossip

Three years ago a group from Monrovia UMC, Bloomington District, started "On the Move," a ministry serving those living with disabilities. On the Move has blossomed with its most recent mission, refurbishing donated handicap equipment, given free of charge to those in need.

Andy York cleans and repairs such items as walkers and wheel chairs. Thus far, the program has operated by word of mouth, says York. The group struck a deal with the Interstate Battery Company to supply the batteries that equip refurbished wheel chairs. On the Move recently applied for non-profit status and received a grant from Morgan County to help continue their services. If you would like to make a donation of cash, used equipment or know of someone in need, please contact Andy York at 317/752-6519.

Celebrating 'God and His messengers'

Muncie's Trinity UMC celebrated their leadership in a unique way in October. The church held a banquet at Ball State University's Student Center celebrating "God and His messengers." Former Trinity pastors were honored for their combined 106 years of service to the church. Each pastor, including the Rev. Alvin Burton, 96, received a plaque and journal of the church's history.

Church shows true colors

Draped in their best red, white and blue, the Family Life and Drama troop from Old Bethel UMC, Indianapolis East District, hosted a USO-style show to honor veterans of war and to express American patriotism. The night featured music from several war eras and skits for the whole family. A dinner was served during the Saturday evening performance. The event was so popular, a repeat performance was presented the next day.

Does your church have a Brite Idea? If so, describe your "creative" ministry in 300 words or less. Include a sharp photo, noting who is in the picture and what's going on. Also, please note your name and daytime phone number. Send to: Brite Idea - Hoosier UM News, 1100 W. 42nd St., Suite 210, Indianapolis, IN 46208, or Editor .