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Hoosier United Methodist News Archives
HOOSIER UNITED METHODISTS e-newsletter
For Friday, December 16, 2005 -- In the Season of Advent
This newsletter is paid for by your annual conference apportionments.
Edited by Daniel R. Gangler, director of communication dgangler@inareaumc.org
BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY
Mary was confused by the angel's words and wondered what they meant. Then the angel told Mary, "Don't be afraid! God is pleased with you, and you will have a son. His name will be Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of God Most High. The Lord God will make him king, as his ancestor David was. He will rule the people of Israel forever, and his kingdom will never end."
-- Luke 1:29-33 (Contemporary English Version)
INDIANA AREA AND CONFERENCES CHRISTMAS BREAK OFFICE HOURS
The Indiana Area UMC office in Indianapolis will be closed Dec. 22 and will re-open Tuesday, Jan. 3.
The North Indiana United Methodist Conference Center in Marion will be closed Dec. 26 and will re-open Monday, Jan. 2.
The South Indiana United Methodist Conference Center in Bloomington will closed at the end of the day Dec. 22 and will re-open Monday, Jan. 2.
NEWS AND INFORMATION
WORLD METHODIST DELEGATION DISCUSSES ECUMENICAL DIALOGUE WITH POPE
A World Methodist Council delegation discussed ecumenical relations during a meeting with Pope Benedict XVI at the Vatican. The Dec. 9 visit occurred the day following the 40th anniversary of the Second Vatican Council, during which the Roman Catholic Church emphasized its commitment to ecumenical dialogue. His Eminence Sunday Mbang of Nigeria, who led the delegation, congratulated the pope on his election on behalf of World Methodists, and thanked him for renewing the commitment that his predecessor, Pope John Paul II, made to ecumenism. Citing progress that has been made in Methodist-Catholic relations through the International Dialogue Commission, Mbang spoke of the "significant theological convergence that has been realized on such fundamental themes as revelation, faith, scripture and tradition." Acknowledging that "there are still doctrinal matters to be settled between Methodists and Catholics," he indicated that each sees gifts in the other that could strengthen the church's witness. (UMNS)
BOARD OF PENSIONS OFFERS LONG-TERM CARE INSURANCE
The United Methodist General Board of Pension and Health Benefits now offers a Long-Term Care Insurance Plan. The deadline for enrollment has been extended to TODAY, Dec. 16. As of Nov. 28, the South Indiana Annual Conference has 18 active participants and three spouses who have enrolled in the Long Term Care program to be administered by John Hancock Life Insurance Co. Long-Tern Care Insurance is underwritten by John Hancock Life Insurance Company and any eligible, actively at-work clergy and lay participants age 65 or younger enrolling by Dec. 16 have guaranteed acceptance regardless of their health status. Enroll online by visiting the GBOPHB Long Term Care Web Site at http://gbophb.jhancock.com or request an enrollment kit online or by calling 1-800-222-6905.
UMCOR ANNOUNCES PARTNERS
The United Methodist Committee on Relief released the names of the partner agencies that will share the $66 million grant received from the federal government to handle the case management after Hurricane Katrina. According to UMCOR, the ten social service and voluntary organizations will make up Katrina Aid Today -- and will oversee 3,000 professional staff and volunteers who will assist the hundreds of thousands of families by Hurricane Katrina. UMCOR received the $66 million case management grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in October. The agency then opened up an application process for organizations wanting to help, and a grant review board selected the ten grantees. The grantees are Boat People SOS, Catholic Charities, Episcopal Relief and Development, Lutheran Disaster Response, The National Disability Rights Network, The Odyssey House of Louisiana, The Salvation Army, The Society of St. Vincent De Paul, the United Methodist Foundation of Louisiana, and Volunteers of America. Paul Dirdak, deputy general secretary of UMCOR, said the selected organizations have a track record of responding to the needs of disaster survivors in a recovery effort. "Additionally, each of the partners has pledged matching funds or in-kind donations that will multiply the existing resources made available under the FEMA grant," said Dirdak. Nearly 30 organizations applied for the partnership. (Disaster News Network)
PASTORS-TO-PASTORS SALARY RELIEF PROGRAM TO CONTINUE THROUGH 2006
The Pastors-to-Pastors salary relief program to assist the salaries of pastors whose church buildings and/or parsonages were destroyed during this past summer's hurricanes in the Louisiana Conference, will continue through 2006, according to Bishop Mike Coyner. Earlier this year, Coyner suggested each pastor in the Indiana Area give at least $10 per paycheck to help with this fund. Checks need to be payable to the Indiana Area United Methodist Foundation and sent to the foundation at 1100 W. 42nd St., Suite 210, Indianapolis IN 46208. The foundation in turn sends these funds directly to the Louisiana Area bishop's office for distribution. Remember, these gifts are tax deductible. For more information call the foundation office at 317-924-1321 or e-mail jgentry@inareaumc.org. Thank you for your generous support.
SAGER BROWN NEEDS RELIEF SUPPLIES TO MEET HIGH DEMAND
The UM Committee on Relief's Sager Brown Depot needs relief supplies to help meet the high demand for disaster aid in the United States and around the world. According to interim director Ted Warnock, school kits, layettes, flood buckets, sewing kits, health kits, and hand towels are in great demand. Visit http://gbgm-umc.org/umcor/kits.cfm to find out more about relief supplies, health kits, assembly, and shipping (Advance #901440). (UMNS)
CAMPUS MINISTRY TO BE PLANTED AT AFRICA UNIVERSITY IN SPRING
The annual conferences that brought The United Methodist Church the first two Wesley Foundations in the United States are teaming together to plant the first Wesley Foundation in Africa next year. In an agreement between the Illinois Great Rivers Annual Conference and the Wesley Foundation at Purdue University in the North Indiana Conference, the Revs. Glen and Lana Robyne will consult with Africa University and plant the first Wesley Foundation campus ministry on the continent. The Robynes will be on-site from Feb. 1 through June 30, 2006. The Robynes are both ordained elders in Illinois Great Rivers, but have been serving an appointment to the Wesley Foundation at Purdue University in the North Indiana Conference since 2001. The chapel at Africa University was constructed in 2001 and included an unfinished area in the basement for expansion. Through donations from Illinois Great Rivers, it was dedicated as the Reeves Wesley Foundation. While the chaplain and student groups are currently using it, AU administrators wished for an expanding program, which was shared during a 2002 visit by Wesley Foundation at the University of Illinois and Purdue students and staff. For more information on supporting the ministry, contact the Wesley Foundation at Purdue at (765) 743-5066 or via e-mail at purduewesley@verizon.net.
STUDENT FORUM 2006 TO BE HELD AT MICHIGAN'S ADRIAN COLLEGE
More United Methodist college students than ever will have an opportunity to explore leadership and hone their skills at Student Forum 2006 at Adrian College in May. About 500 student leaders, college chaplains, and campus ministers are expected to gather at the meeting at the college in Adrian, Mich. That number is up from about 350 last year, now that Student Forum is no longer limited to annual conference delegations, said the Rev. Meg Lassiat, director of Student Ministries, Vocation, and Enlistment at the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry (GBHEM). The theme of the conference is "True Disciples: Learning to Fish." The conference will include leadership training, spiritual formation, and networking. Student Forum is the national leadership conference of the United Methodist Student Movement, sponsored by the Campus Ministry Section of GBHEM. More information will be posted at www.umsm.org/studentforum in January.
BILL TO CURTAIL INTERNET GAMBLING COMES BEFORE CONGRESS
Congressman Jim Leach (R-IA, 2nd) introduced legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives Nov. 19 to prevent the use of credit cards to gamble illegally on the Internet. Senator Jon Kyl (R-AZ) is spearheading the Senate version of the bill. In a recent "60 Minutes" interview, Kyl pointed out the insidious nature of online gambling. Over the last seven years, similar legislation has twice passed both the House and Senate, but has never made it to the President's desk. The Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act of 2005 (H.R. 4411) beefs up the ability of banks and law enforcement to halt Internet gambling transactions made on the Web using PayPal, credit cards and electronic bank transfers, even on gambling Web sites operated outside U.S. borders. You can take three important actions to impact this legislation: Contact your representative and urge their support on this important legislation; arrange a personal visit with your Representative during the Christmas Congressional break and express your support for this legislation and support United Methodist anti-gambling efforts by giving to the Advance Special Gift # 05-05-99 through your local church.
UNITED METHODIST MEN RECEIVE GRANT TO SEND DEVOTIONAL BOOK TO TROOPS
In the last four months, the General Commission on United Methodist Men has raised $25,000 and will receive a matching amount from the John Templeton Foundation to send updated copies of a World War II book of daily devotions Strength for Service to God and Country to U.S. troops in Afghanistan and Iraq. Some 230,000 copies of the book, Strength for Service to God and Country, have already been sent to members of the armed services. Five thousand additional books will be sent in Christmas packages to troops serving in Afghanistan.
METHODIST HOSPITAL INTRODUCES NEW LABYRINTH
All Clarian patients, employees and visitors can experience the spiritual healing of the labyrinth. The creator of the World Peace Labyrinth for the 2002 Winter Olympics, John E. Ridder, has designed a 36-foot scale replica of the Chartres Cathedral labyrinth at Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis. "This labyrinth is called a Chartres, which is an 11 circuit or path labyrinth originating in the stone floor of Chartres Cathedral in France," said Ridder. The labyrinth is located in the courtyard area of the Noyes Pavilion of the hospital, and is available to all who wish to travel its path. Methodist Hospital is making this labyrinth walk available for prayer, meditation, contemplation or personal growth.
HUMAN RELATIONS DAY TO BE OBSERVED JAN. 15
Human Relations Day was established by the 1972 General Conference to promote support for the Community Developers, United Methodist Voluntary Service and Police-Community Relations programs. Begun in 1968, the three programs formerly had received support from the church wide Bishop's Fund for Reconciliation. In 1989 the Youth Offender Rehabilitation Program replaced the Police-Community Relations Program to respond to the growing population of youth offenders and their need for creative redirection. Your offering on Human Relations Day, the Sunday before the birthday observance of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., strengthens United Methodist outreach to communities in the United States and Puerto Rico, encouraging social justice and work with at-risk youth. To order free resources, including bulletin inserts, call toll free 888-346-3862, or go online to www.umcgiving.org. Please give generously. Your Special Sunday gifts make a world of difference!
DUE TO BUDGET CUTS TOGETHER REDUCED FROM 24 TO 12 PAGES
Due to cuts of more than $24,000 in 2006 budgeted income from the South Indiana Conference, the Indiana Area United Methodist Communication Commission has cut the size of 2006 issues of Hoosier United Methodists Together from 24 to 12 pages beginning with the January 2006 newspaper issue. Editor Dan Gangler told the commission, the 12 pages of content not being printed will be available on the Indiana Area Web site, in links to other Web sites and through the weekly Friday e-newsletter. The commission also will send a letter to readers in January asking for their contributions to maintain nine issues of the newspaper.
PUBLISHING HOUSE TO CEASE PUBLICATION OF QUARTERLY REVIEW
The winter issue of Quarterly Review, a joint publication of the UM General Board of Higher Education and Ministry and the UM Publishing House, will be the last in the current format. GBHEM informed the publishing house in a Sept. 27, 2004, letter that the agency would discontinue its support for the journal. Jerome King Del Pino, GBHEM general secretary, said while a decline in subscriptions over the last decade was a factor, the agency's primary motivation was a reevaluation of its entire communications strategy. Hendrik Pieterse, editor of Quarterly Review, will remain on the interpretation staff of GBHEM. UMPH is exploring alternative options for reaching this audience.
KEEP IN SHAPE WITH WINTER EXERCISE
Exercise is just as important during the winter months as it is the rest of the year. But colder temperatures and shorter days make regular exercise more challenging. Instead of hibernating, plan for the colder months ahead. Motivate Yourself -- Focus on the benefits of exercising right through the winter. Exercise Inside -- If you don't like cold weather, walk at the mall, join a health club or invest in some home exercise equipment. Layer After Layer -- If you do exercise outside, layer your clothing. Stay Safe -- Beware of slippery surfaces and choose footwear with enough traction to prevent falls.
PEOPLE IN NATIONAL UNITED METHODIST NEWS
BISHOP MILTON WILLIAMS, SR., who presided over the Mid-West Episcopal Area of the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church, died Dec. 3 in Belleville, Ill.
EDWIN SANTO, director of Hispanic/Latino Ministries in the Florida Conference, has been appointed director of Hispanic/Latino Leadership Formation at the United Methodist General Board of Discipleship, effective in January.
EDWARD SIMMONS of Katy, Texas, has been named as the second executive director of Mountain T.O.P., a ministry of the Tennessee Conference, which places youth and adult volunteers into the Cumberland Mountains for short-term mission experience, effective Jan. 1.
YOLAND PUPO-ORTIZ has been appointed by Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary in Evanston, Ill. as director of the course of study program for Spanish speakers. Course of study is a five year program of intensives that trains licensed local pastors in The United Methodist Church.
NEWLY LISTED COMING EVENTS
NORTH INDIANA CONFERENCE ANNOUNCES NEW 2006 RESOURCE EVENTS
The staff of the North Indiana Conference Center in Marion, recently announced new resource events for next year. Here they are:
SUCCESSFULLY LAUNCHING NEW WORSHIP SERVICES
NIC Pastors $20 and Staff/Laity $30 (includes lunch) Calling all Staff/Laity!
Saturday, Jan. 14 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. - Ed Fenstermacher, NIC Associate
Director for Church Development & Revitalization. This workshop is designed for
churches that are planning to launch a new worship service and want to do it
right! You will explore these key areas: When and why a church should start a
new service, identify a target audience, design the service, get people to come,
gain your church's support. Bring along staff and laity - teamwork does make a
difference. Recommended reading: How to Start a New Service: Your Church Can
Reach New People, by Charles Arn, 1997 Baker Books.
CHURCH ADMINISTRATION & THE FAITH STORY
NIC Pastors $60 (Laity and others $100) Wednesday, Jan. 11 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mexico New Life UMC, with the Rev. C. Jack Scott. The church sometimes compartmentalizes the ministry ... administration separate from program ministries. In this workshop, we will see how administration of the local church is led by the Story of Faith. The Story defines the energy for the business of the church. How do we tell the Story? Finances that do not burden the Church. The future of your Church. How will we keep the ministry alive in the future? Don't miss this one! Call and register now!
SACRAMENTS 101: Weddings, Funerals, Communion & Baptism
NIC Pastors $60, Thursday 10 a.m. /Friday 4 p.m. Jan. 26-27, Hanfield UMC, Marion, Ind. and the Needham-Story Funeral Home -- the Rev. Phil Lake. This course is designed to assist those pastors in the early stages of their ministry (like the first 10 years?) or those with "experience" and interested in getting some new ideas. The primary focus of this course will be dealing with some of the most important life events in our parishioner's lives - Communion, Baptism, Funerals and Weddings. It is the purpose of this workshop to provide the practical "nuts and bolts" while providing theological understanding to carry out the ministry in the everyday lives of the people we are called to serve. To be included will be a 'field trip' to a local (Marion, Ind.) funeral home where Funeral Director Frank Downing, will lead us in a discussion and answer questions regarding the grieving process and other 'funeral' related questions (including answers to questions 'you were always afraid to ask' .... guaranteed to be interesting.
MUSIC: Exploring Multi-Cultural Musical Resources
NIC Pastors $60. Staff/Laity and others $75, Monday Jan. 23 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., St. Joseph Conference Center, Tipton, Ind. -- Richard Henderson Participants will explore the numerous resources and ways of infusing multi-ethnic/multi-cultural musical genre in the worship experience. We will discuss and offer solutions to music diversity and look at how music in the life of the church has the potential to meet the needs of the congregation. It is essential for the leaders of the church to have some understanding of the different music styles and when to use them. This seminar will give assistance in solving musical dilemmas in churches while keeping the focus on God.
To register or for more information for these events: e-mail: diane@nicumc.org or call 800-783-5138 Ext 13 Diane
INDIANA'S HIGH SCHOOL ECU CAMP ANNOUNCED, ALSO NEEDS MEN COUNSELORS
The Indiana Partners for Christian Unity and Missions is sponsoring an opportunity for high school students in Indiana from many different denominations. Ecu Camp is scheduled for June 8-11, 2006 at Merom Conference Center located between Terre Haute and Vincennes in South Indiana. The camp is for high school youth who want to spend time for spiritual renewal, learning, leadership growth, and fun. The cost is $180 and most of it can be covered by a scholarship from the South Indiana Conference Committee on Christian Unity and Interrelgious Concerns. High school students from grades 10 to 12 are eligible. There will only be three students selected from churches in the North Indiana Conference. The deadline for applications is May 1, 2006. For those interested or for more information, contact the Rev. Stephen M. Bard, P.0. Box 226, Liberty Center, IN 46766 or call 260-694-6363. The camp is also needs two men counselors to act as leaders for the days the camp is held. Counselors must be at least 21 years of age. If interested, please contact the Rev. Stephen Bard by May 1.
PREVIOUSLY ANNOUNCED EVENTS
ANDERSON CHURCH HOSTS WEEKEND WALK IN THE LIGHTS
Anderson First United Methodist Church invites you to participate in what has become an annual event at Davis Park. This winter, as you are driving through the city looking at Christmas decorations top by Davis Park for a Walk in the Lights, Dec. 16 -- 18, 6 to 8:30 p.m. The woods and trees at Davis Park will be decorated with lighted ornaments and symbols that tell the meaning of Christmas. Discover why we put lights on trees, what Christmas wreaths represent, why we give gifts, and what many other decorations and symbols of the season mean. Then come inside the lodge for cookies, coffee and cocoa. Davis Park is a facility of First United Methodist Church and is located at 4507 Nichol Avenue on the corner of West S.R. 32 and Layton Road in Edgewood/West Anderson. For more information, call 765-643-6977.
FISHERS PRESENTS CHRISTMAS MUSICAL BY LUCADO AND FETTKE
Fishers United Methodist Church invites the community to join them on Sunday, Dec. 18, during morning worship services at 8:30, 9:45 and 11 a.m. The is scheduled to present a special Christmas Musical entitled " One Incredible Moment" by Max Lucado and Tom Fettke featuring First's Sanctuary Choir, Orchestra and Drama Team.
MUNCIE CHURCH TO PRESENT IN BETHLEHEM INN DINNER THEATER DEC. 16-17
Fountain Square United Methodist Church in Muncie will host its premier performance of In Bethlehem Inn Dinner Theater, two nights, Dec. 16 and 17. Guests will be served a meal of stew, bread, cheese, fruit, dessert and drink by servants of Bethlehem Inn, and will have several opportunities to interact with their hosts Eli and Sarah during the meal. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.; the play starts at 6 p.m. Tickets are $7.50 for adults and $5.00 for children, 12 and younger. Seating is limited. No tickets will be available at the door. For more information contact the Church office at 284-0319 (9-Noon, M-F) or Carolyn Walters, 281-9484. Fountain Square Church is located at 4405 S. Madison St. across from the Gas America Mini-Mart. Look for " the Church with the Big Jesus." In Bethlehem Inn, by John Carter, is produced by special arrangement with Contemporary Drama Service."
PEACE AND JUSTICE ROUNDTABLE BEING FORMED IN SOUTH CONFERENCE JAN. 13
If you are South Indiana clergyperson interested or engaged in peace and justice issues, let's chat! An on-going peace-and-justice roundtable is forming. The first gathering is scheduled for noon, Friday, Jan. 13, at Smith's Row Restaurant in Columbus, Ind. (418 4th St., 812-373-9382). Lunch is Dutch treat, but the good conversations are free. Please RSVP to Lisa Marchal at First UMC in Columbus -- 812-372-2851, so a reservation can be made for you.
COKESBURY TO CO-SPONSOR LARGE CHURCH INITIATIVE WORSHIP CONFERENCE
Cokesbury Worship Connection will be co-sponsoring a worship conference with the Large Church Initiative, Jan. 17-19, 2006, at First United Methodist Church in Grapevine, Texas. This worship conference is open to: clergy, musicians, band members, lay speakers, worship committees/altar guilds, anyone interested in planning worship! For complete details visit your local Cokesbury Christian Bookstore, call 800-672-1789 or click http://worshipconnection.cokesbury.com/content.aspx?dyn=433
CONGREGATIONAL HEALTH MINISTRIES TO PUT THEORY INTO PRACTICE
Clarian Health Partners will offer a Congregational Health Ministries course this winter. Congregations may send up to three members (clergy, nurses, and laity) to this class for one fee of $500. Scholarships are available. This course meets the requirements of the International Parish Nurse Resource Center's Basic Parish Nurse Ministry course. Registered Nurses will be awarded contact hours from Clarian Health Partners upon completion of all course work. This program expands the content for a comprehensive approach to building a local congregational health ministries program. Participants will be expected to complete a health ministries project within their congregational neighborhood by the end of the course. Class days will be Thursdays and Fridays, Jan. 19-20, Feb. 2-3, 16-17. Class sessions will be from 8:50 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at North UMC, 38th & Meridian, Indianapolis. Lunch is included. Course work will end with a Commissioning Service on Sunday, Feb. 19. Participants must attend all class days to receive a certificate. Non-certificate participation may be permitted depending upon enrollment. For more information and application, contact Pat Thorlton at 317-962-3412 or pthorlton@clarian.org.
YOUTH LAY SPEAKER/SERVANT RETREAT SET FOR JAN. 20-21 IN SOUTH CONFERENCE
The Indianapolis East and West Districts and the South Indiana Conference will sponsor a Youth Lay Speaker/Servant Retreat at St. Mark's United Methodist Church, 4780 E. 126th St. in Carmel from 6 p.m. Friday, Jan. 20 to 6 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 21, 2006. All NIC youth, high school and college age, are invited to join retreat. The requirements by the General Board of Discipleship indicate that to become a Lay Speaker/Servant, youth must be recommended by their local church. Cost for the weekend school is $25 per person which includes food and a T-shirt. Scholarships are available. For more information and registration, contact Lisa Morris at 317-924-4140 or lmorris@indymetroumc.org or online at www.indymetroumc.org. Space is limited. Register as soon as possible.
NORTH INDIANA CONFERENCE TO HOLD RETREAT FOR PARSONAGE TEENS
The 13th Annual North Indiana Conference Parsonage Teens Retreat for high school youth grades 9 through 12 is scheduled for Jan. 26-29. Theme: "Character Counts" Trustworthy, Respect, Resonsivility, Fairness, Caring and Citizenship." Eighth grade sibs are invited with attending older sibs. This retreat is a time away with other teens that live in parsonages. Every appointed pastor's teens are invited to attend. The retreat begins at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday evening, Jan. 26 and ends at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 29. The cost is $75. The Conference Council on Youth Ministry and Ministry Development of NIC are sponsoring organizations. The retreat will meet at Epworth Forest in North Webster, Ind. Teens will need to bring a sleeping bag, pillow, personal stuff, warm clothes, Bible, passion for God and the anticipation of a great time. All appointed pastors will soon be receiving a letter with a registration form. Return the form and a check for $75 to the NIC Conference Office. Or, call the Conference office at 800-783-5138 and register today. Some scholarships are available. Contact person: The Rev. Ron Mabry, intheattic@juno.com or 765-764-4244.
NORTH INDIANA VOLUNTEER IN MISSION, DISASTER TRAINING SET FOR FEB 4
The North Indiana Conference announces Volunteers in Mission Team Training and Disaster Relief Training scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 4 from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Mexico New Life Center in Mexico, Ind. The event is designed for leaders and participants of work teams, youth leaders and people who want disaster relief training. The cost is $10 per person which includes lunch and the cost of materials. Topic to be covered include: How to plan a mission trip, where to go when your church wants to send a team, spiritual enrichment, being a team member, cultural sensitivity, insurance and liability forms regardless of where you go, issues of risk and answers to your questions. For more information, contact Bonnie Albert, NIC VIM Coordinator, at bonkay@hotmail.com or call 219-464-1447. To register, call the North Indiana Conference Center toll-free at 800-783-5138.
ALDERSGATE RENEWAL MINISTRIES PRESENTS WORSHIP CONFERENCE FEB. 9-12
Aldersgate Renewal Ministries presents Worship Conference 2006, a fellowship, teaching, training and worship event to equip your ministry, Feb. 9-12 at the Aldersgate Renewal Center, near Nashville, Tenn. in Goodlettsville. Worship Conference 2006 registration is available online by logging on http://www.regtable.com/register.php?eventcode=656604-1803. For more information, log on to http://www.aldersgaterenewal.org.
GROWING BEYOND PREJUDICE CONVOCATION FEB. 26-27 IN BLOOMINGTON
" Growing Beyond Prejudice as People of Open Hearts, Open Minds, Open Doors," a pre-Lenten Convocation on Hope and Healing presented by the South Indiana Conference Committee on Racial Healing is scheduled for Sunday, Feb. 26 (4 to 9 p.m.) and Monday, Feb. 27 (9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.) at Saint Mark's United Methodist Church in Bloomington. Presenters include: the Revs. Chester Jones, Felipe Martinez, and Bishop Mike Coyner. Other leaders will be announced. More information to come.
SOUTH INDIANA CHURCH AND SOCIETY GROUP SPONSORING TRIP TO WASHINGTON
The South Indiana Conference Board of Church and Society is organizing an intergenerational seminar on National and International Affairs for March 29 -- April 2, 2006, in Washington, D.C. The seminar is designed to educate and motivate United Methodist youth and adults to integrate their faith and social justice issues, as well as understand the responsibility of Christian citizenship. Churches are encouraged to recruit and sponsor pairs of church members from different generations (minimum age: 14) to participate as learning teams and share their experiences with others in the congregation and the Annual Conference. The cost is projected to be around $500 per person including airfare. Enrollment is limited to the first 40 persons. The Jan 11 preparation meeting for participants will be held in Indianapolis rather than Bloomington. Those registered will be called with location details. For more information, contact the Rev. Lisa Marchal, Conference Peace with Justice Coordinator, at lmarchal@fumccolumbus.org or call 812-372-2851.
STORIES OF THE CELTIC SAINTS TRIP TO SCOTLAND SCHEDULED FOR APRIL
Storytelling trip to Scotland This 10-day tour of Scotland and Durham, England, begins with three nights on the Isle of Iona. Travel with three storytellers to learn about Patrick, Columba, Bridig, Aidan and Cuthbert. It is a unique opportunity to enter into the sacred spaces of Scotland, experience great cathedrals and glorious countryside. Sponsored by Dr. Kent Millard and Betty Brandt of Saint Luke's UMC, maximum of 40 travelers. April 18-27, 2006, $2,746 from Indianapolis includes airfare, accommodations, two meals a day and entry fees. Final registration date is Dec. 18 with full payment due on Jan 8, 2006. Express interest and ask questions by contacting Betty Brandt, 317-846-3404x339, brandtb@stlukesumc.com.
GOSHEN CHURCH INVITES UNITED METHODISTS TO TAKE JOURNEY OF PAUL
Faith United Methodist Church in Goshen, Ind. invites interested travelers to walk the steps of Paul on a Missionary Study Tour: Journey of Paul, Nov. 9-18, 2006. Travel to Greece and Rome and follow in the Apostle Paul's steps. For more information, contact Faith UMC, 22045 CR 18, Goshen, IN 46528 or call 574-875-4438.
NEW MISSION OPPORTUNITY
YOUNG ADULT MISSION TRIP TO BOLIVIA IN THE WORKS
Youth, ages 16-26, have a unique opportunity set before them. They will travel to Bolivia next summer with veteran leaders (David Harsh, WI; Carolyn Carter, IA; Claudia Segura, IL) and meet and work with Bolivian youth on a mission project. This United Methodist Volunteer In Mission experience is offered through Mission Discovery -- a program of the North Central Jurisdiction. The trip, estimated to cost $2,200, runs from June 17 -- July 2, 2006 and takes the team to Montero, Bolivia, home of Kay Twilley, General Board of Global Ministries missionary. Please encourage a special young adult in your family, church or conference who would benefit from a cross-cultural and spiritual journey to Bolivia and who would come back to share that experience here at home!
Please contact Lorna Jost, umvim-ncj@brookings.net or get your application on line: http://www.umc.org/northcentralvim/md_opportunities.html. Application deadline is Jan. 30!
OTHER MISSION OPPORTUNITIES
VOLUNTEER ENCOURAGES HOOSIERS TO REMEMBER MCCURDY SCHOOL
Ralph Miller, a retired member of the South Indiana Conference with a his home church at Lincolnville in the North Indiana Conference, reminds Hoosiers of the church's educational ministry at McCurdy School in New Mexico. Miller taught, coached and preached at McCurdy for more than 20 years and now spends his time as a McCurdy volunteer. McCurdy School, a project related to the General Board of Global Ministries of The United Methodist Church presently enrolls 420 pre-school, kindergarten, elementary, middle and high school students and is committed to providing quality education in a Christ-centered environment in the Espanola Valley of New Mexico, one of the poorest areas in the United States. Your contributions can be sent to McCurdy School, 261 McCurdy Rd., Espanola, NM 87532. For more information and other ways you can volunteer and contribute to the church's mission at McCurdy, log on to www.mccurdy.org.
VOLUNTEER TECHNICIAN NEEDED TO TRAIN LIBERIAN MISSION IN COMPUTER USE
The Ganta Mission Station in Ganta, Liberia has 24 computers in various departments throughout the mission station. The station needs a volunteer to come to Ganta on one of the work teams to train one or two people to do the servicing of computers. A person on staff, who learned about computers through trial and error, could benefit through a couple of weeks of training from a computer technician. In this way, the mission can keep its computers maintained and functional in its continuous pursuit towards accountability and information sharing. For more information contact Joe Wagner, wagners@operationclassroom.org or write to Operation Classroom, PO Box246, Colfax IN 46035, 765-436-2805 or 7650-650-0231 or log on to www.operationclassroom.org.
WOMEN'S UBUNTU EXPLORERS PILOT GROUPS FOR MISSION TRIPS IN 2006
A new program, created jointly by Mission Volunteers (GBGM) and United Methodist Women is called the Ubuntu eXplorers -- Two of these pilot groups are being headed up by capable leaders from the Northern Illinois Conference -- Judy Siaba jsiaba@umcnic.org will lead one to Uruguay and Cara Newhouse cara.newhouse@garrett.edu will lead the other to Côte D'Ivoire (Ivory Coast). Contact either of these women for information and application forms. United Methodist Women wish to fill these teams with women of all ages and backgrounds. If interested in knowing more about the other two opportunities to Cambodia and Zimbabwe, you may call Mission Volunteers at 212-870-3825 or the Women's Division at 212-870-3911.
VIM TRIP SCHEDULED FOR GUATEMALA IN MARCH, DOCTOR, DENTIST NEEDED
A Volunteer in Missions team will be visiting a Methodist Clinic in Guatemala March 25-April 2, 2006 in the Boca Costa de Solola area, one of the poorest areas in the country. This area was recently devastated by mudslides from Hurricane Stan which caused deaths in the thousands. The clinic is in desperate need of medical and dental personnel. This trip still needs a dentist and a doctor to join the team. Cost for the trip is estimated at $1,200 per person. You may visit www.bocacostamm.org to learn more about the VIM volunteers and the local clinic in Paquila, Guatemala. If you are interested in learning more, please contact Jill Beam at 574-935-5827 or lightbeam53@hotmail.com. Also, please pray that our doctor(s) and dentist(s) will hear Christ's call for him/her to help the people of Guatemala.
NORTH INDIANA CONFERENCE PLANS SPRING BREAK FAMILY V-I-M TRIPS
The North Indiana Conference Mission Volunteers Resource team has planned three Spring Break Mission trips especially for families. (Families can mean individuals, couples, mom and dad with children, or grandma and grandpa with grandchildren, or youth and a counselor.) Families will combine their desire to travel and interest in doing hands-on mission work by traveling to Costa Rica. While there they may work at an orphanage or one of the special needs schools or doing home repairs in a neighborhood church or home and touring some of the awesome sights in Costa Rica. Interested persons may check out the website of Charlie Strong www.strongmissions.com to gain a better understanding of the work we will be doing. Spring Break 2006 dates are March 25 to April 2, April 1 to April 9, or April 8 to April 17. We expect the cost to be between $1,500 and $1,800 per person depending on the cost of airfare and your selection of sleeping arrangements. The cost covers airfare, all room, board, tips, ground transportation and construction costs ($200) associated with the Volunteer In Missions (VIM) project. If you want more information, please contact the North Indiana VIM Coordinator, Bonnie Albert, 219-464-1447 or bonkay@hotmail.com for more information.
NEW JOB LISTING
WALNUT CREEK CHURCH SEEKS MINISTER OF MUSIC AND WORSHIP ARTS
Warsaw Walnut Creek UMC has an immediate opening for a Minister of Music and Worship Arts. This is a part-time position. Candidates must have an appreciation for a variety of music/worship styles; including traditional hymn and contemporary music. The desire to be a team member and direct vocal groups and musicians is essential. The ability to play keyboard and lead spirited singing is highly desirable. Contact Jim MacDonald via email: pastorwcumc@kconline.com; church office: 574-267-4032; or send resume to Walnut Creek UMC, 2033 S 150 W, Warsaw, IN 46580
MISSION ADVANCEMENT MANAGER NEEDED AT RED BIRD
Red Bird Mission Southeastern Kentucky seeks a Christian person to assist in the planning and organizing of fund-raising programs. This person helps encourage individuals, churches, and others to support the work of the Mission & Clinic through preparation of public relations materials, direct mailing campaigns and visits to present and prospective donors. Duties include development and maintenance of World Wide Web site and data base record of contributions. Also conducts tours of Mission & Clinic premises to provide visitors with a good understanding of the work. BA or BS degree desired or equivalent business experience. Some overnight travel may be required. Salary: Manager I. Housing provided. For more information, contact David Long at hr@rbmission.org or call 606-598-3155.
PREVIOUS JOB LISTINGS
NEW ALBANY CHURCH SEEKS PART-TIME WORSHIP PASTOR (01)
Part-time Worship Pastor -- position available: An evangelical, purpose-driven United Methodist Church in New Albany, Indiana (metropolitan Louisville) seeks a part-time Worship Pastor. The successful candidate will develop and lead a well-rounded blended worship ministry that utilizes music, Scripture, drama and prayer to meet the broad needs of the congregation. This position also is responsible for recruiting and motivating a lay leadership team to participate in the worship and visitation ministry. Please see complete job description at: www.wesleychapel.org/JobDescription/Worship.pdf. Send resume to Rev. Donald Smith, Wesley Chapel United Methodist Church, 2212 State Street, New Albany, Indiana 47150.
BUSINESS, COMPUTER TEACHER NEEDED AT RED BIRD MISSION (09)
Red Bird Mission School in Southeastern Kentucky is in need of a Business and Computer Teacher for the second semester of the 2005-2006 school year beginning Jan. 3, 2006. The base salary for a Bachelor Degree teacher with no experience is $17,300. Housing and utilities also are furnished. Please contact Robert Ferguson at 606-598-2416 for more information. More information on Red Bird United Methodist Mission and Mission School also may be found at www.rbmission.org.
MISHAWAKA CHURCH SEEKS PRAISE, WORSHIP LEADER (09)
Willow Creek United Methodist Church (Mishawaka, Ind) currently has an opening for the position of Praise and Worship Music Leader. This is a part-time position. Candidates must have an appreciation for a variety of music/worship styles including traditional hymns and contemporary praise music. Candidates should be creative thinkers who enjoy working with a team to design and lead worship services. The ability to lead spirited congregational singing, play an instrument, and direct and recruit instrumentalists and vocalists is essential. Experience with technology in worship is highly desirable. Please send résumé to willowcreekumc@sbcglobal.net
LATINO INSTITUTE SEEKS PROJECT COORDINATOR (09)
The Indiana Latino Institute seeks an individual to fill the Project Coordinator Position to work with the Faith Advocacy Project and the Hoosier Faith and Health Coalition for an increased tobacco tax. This position is part-time, will last one year and is funded through a grant from The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. Applicants need to contact Aida McCammon, President/CEO of the Indiana Latino Institute, Inc. at amccammon@indianalatino.com or 317-472-1055, ext. 101. A detailed job description is available by e-mail by writing dgangler@inareaumc.org.
OTHER JOBS PREVIOUS LISTED CAN BE FOUND ON THE INDIANA AREA SITE
Log on to www.inareaumc.org and click on " Jobs and Events" in the left column.
RESOURCES
PEACE WITH JUSTICE GRANTS AVAILABLE FROM BOARD OF CHURCH AND SOCIETY
The UMC General Board of Church and Society has issued the 2006 Peace with Justice Grant Program Guidelines and Application Form. These grants are funded by the local churches and Annual Conferences from the Peace with Justice offering taken on Peace with Justice Sunday. (50% of the offering is retained in the Annual Conferences, and the remainder is forwarded to the General Church.) If interested in receiving a guidelines and application form, please contact Lisa Marchal, Peace with Justice Coordinator, at 812-372-2851 or lmarchal@fumccolumbus.org. Deadline for applications is Feb. 28, 2006.
PREPARE YOUR VIDEO RECORDER FOR TWO NCC CHRISTMAS SPECIALS ON CBS, ABC
NEW YORK -- Two Christmas Eve specials produced under the auspices of the National Council of Churches USA will light up the nation's living rooms Dec. 24 on CBS and ABC. Outgoing NCC President Bishop Thomas L. Hoyt, Jr., Christian Methodist Episcopal Bishop of Louisiana and Mississippi, will replace David Letterman when he preaches to 1,500 worshippers in Jackson, Miss., on CBS; and " Joy to the World," a mix of music and praise produced for the NCC by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, will replace ABC's " Nightline" for one night. Both specials are scheduled to run at 11:30 p.m. (ET) Dec. 24 but air times vary from station to station. Viewers are encouraged to check local listings
RESOURCES IN THE SOUTH INDIANA CONFERENCE AVAILABLE BY PHONE
By calling the Conference Media Resource Center at (800) 919-8160, you can order from a vast selection of videos and DVDs. The Center is a FREE-LOAN library with return postage your only cost involved. This service is provided through your apportioned giving. Mary Barnes, Director, can be e-mailed at mbarnes@sicumc.org for more information, or you may access the catalog on the Web at www.sicumc.org and place an order there.
DEATHS LANE
CHARLES LANE, retired pastor (NIC), died Dec. 11, 2005. A memorial service was held Dec. 15 at the Rosedale Hills UMC, 4450 S. Keystone Avenue, Indianapolis. Surviving: Wife, Catherine; sons, Larry, Terry and Allan; daughter, Jana Kea. He also had one daughter who preceded him in death, Cheryl Nordby. Condolences may be sent to Catherine Lane, 1135 Wren Dr., Franklin, IN 46131-2291. Memorials can be given to the Franklin United Methodist Community, Alzheimer Special Care Unit, 1070 W. Jefferson, Franklin, IN 46131-2199.
JOHN W. STALIONS, retired pastor (NIC), died, Dec. 13, 2005. A private memorial service is scheduled for today, Dec. 16 at the Randall & Roberts Funeral Home, 1150 Logan St., Noblesville, Ind. Memorials can be given for Gideon Bibles. Memorials and condolences may be sent to Carol Short, 778 Winter Court, Carmel, IN 46032 or memorials may be given to your local Gideon Society. Burial will be in the Carmel Cemetery in Carmel, Ind. Surviving is his daughter, Carol Short, and a son, Philip Stalions.
APPOINTMENTS
Bishop Michael J. Coyner has announced the following changes within the Indiana Area. All dates effective 2005 unless otherwise noted. These appointments are based on Cabinet reports received by Indiana Area Communication this week.
South Indiana
- Davis, Greg from Patoka, Vincennes to Northside Community, Terre Haute. This appointment announced last week was rescinded on Monday, Dec. 12.
Last updated on 04/01/2008Compiled as a service of Indiana Area United Methodist Communication in Indianapolis.