The Messenger Page 1 The Messenger March, 2015 Whitewater Area Regional Ministry - WARM Volume 10, Issue 3 Submitted by Rev. Susan Bresser Long before God laid down earth’s foundations, he had us in mind, had settled on us as the focus of his love, to be made whole and holy by his love. Long, long ago he decided to adopt us into his family through Jesus Christ. – Ephesians 1:4 Special points of interest: Summer Camps Lenten Lunches Youth Ministry Adult Mission Trips Promise Point Birthdays & Anniversaries Senior Adults Inside this issue: Lenten Lunches 2 Children’s Ministry 4 Prime Time 6 Scholarships 7 Worship Schedules 8/11/12 Birthdays/ Anniversaries 21 Calendar 22/23 THE BEAGLE. WORTHY ENOUGH? Miss P, a beagle, won the Best of Show at this year’s Westminster Dog Show. A beagle? Best of Show? Really? A beagle (I say, incredulously). I grew up with beagles and even had a beagle as an adult. I know all about beagles. They are vocal, nosey (literally), sneaky, and operate completely on their own schedules, with their own agendas. Our beloved beagle, Brigit, got into the bathroom trash every chance she could; even though she was punished each time she did it. She escaped – more than once – from the enclosed backyard because she was on the trail of either a rabbit or a squirrel. One cold evening she followed a scent for more than a mile – with her family members chasing after her, calling her name and shaking the treat box! When we lived next to an elementary school, she would often make a run for it so that she could greet all the children who were outside for recess. She was (how does one say it nicely?) dense. It’s true; beagles are adorable and friendly, but they are so … so … common. How can a beagle win the Westminster Dog Show? What about the Dandie Dinmont Terrier? Or the Saluki? Or the Lowchen, one of the most exotic and rarest breeds on the planet? How could the everyday, normal, conventional, common beagle win? I was really in deep contemplation about Miss P and her new title, when it dawned on me, why not? Why not a beagle? They are loyal, kid-friendly, protective, and affectionate. They are the classic family dog. Snoopy is a beagle, you know. Charles Schultz, of Peanuts fame, immortalized the beagle breed forever! Why not a beagle? And then I really got to thinking. So many times we feel ‘common’ – wondering how God could use us, let alone love us. Are we really worthy? And what makes us worthy? Because we’re pretty common, normal, conventional … and many times we’re kinda dense. The answer is grace; always grace. God doesn’t love us because we’re the smartest or the prettiest or the most exotic. God doesn’t love us because of anything we’ve done. It’s all about trusting that we have a place in the Kingdom because God has made room for us. What makes us right with God? Trusting that God has placed value on us and embracing that relationship. In her book, Help, Thanks, Wow: The Three Essential Prayers, Anne Lamott captures this value well in a prayer she wrote: see Front Page on page 16 The Messenger Lenten Lunches Page 2 submitted by Jayne Haskey Once again First United Methodist Church (WARM) will participate in the Ministerial Association Lenten Lunches started on February 25. The basic schedule is lunch at 11:45 am with a 10-15 minute devotion beginning about 12:15 pm. Each devotional leader has flexibility in deciding just what will be their focus for the day. Devotions can include music and liturgy, but each leader is expected to bring enough copies for the participants, which have reached close to 100 at times. Everyone in the community is welcome! Summer Camp 2015 March 4 - First United Methodist Church: Devotional Leader: Father Oscar Rozo March 11 - First English Lutheran Church: Devotional Leader, Father Mark Niehaus March 18 - St. Patrick’s Catholic Church: Devotional Leader, Pastor Steve Hanson March 25 - Congregational United Church of Christ: Devotional Leader, Dr. Donald Bell submitted by Rev. Susan Bresser Why camp? Experience outdoor adventure Engage in Christian community Develop confidence and self-esteem Grow in faith Connect with face-to-face relationships Pine Lake Camp is located 7 miles northwest of Westfield. 400 wooded acres, a 40-acre spring-fed lake, three sand beaches and miles of nature trails make up the outdoor environment. There are different types of camps and different facilities for your enjoyment. FOR ALL OF GOD’S CHILDREN! For over 150 years here in our conference, campers have had their lives transformed through camping ministry. Every camp experience will include opportunities to grow in faith, to experience friendship and true Christian community, and to have fun in an outdoor setting. We have two United Methodist Camps in our conference. Each camp offers a unique camping experience. The variety of settings allows you to select the location that best meets your camping needs; from tent camping to hotel-style lodging. Lake Lucerne Camp is located 5 miles south of Wautoma. 525 acres of mixed forest and prairie, a 48-acre clear water lake, sand beaches, miles of hiking trails and seasonal horseback riding make up Lucerne’s outdoor environment. There are a variety of lodging facilities and a variety of camps. For more information, please visit www.WIUMCamps.org. For camping brochures and registration forms, please visit the church office. The Messenger A Stewardship Message Sometimes we feel the tug to be a part of new or different ministries. Within WARM the list of stewardship activities where you and I can make a difference are abundant. All of us have gifts and abilities to share, and these can be matched with the multitude of opportunities. Below is a sample of several activities where you may find a match! Habitat for Humanity house build in Whitewater - Contact Pastor Kim (608.289.8615) for work days May 11-15 Midwest Mission Distribution Center work trip - Page 3 submitted by Dave Gamble Contact Pastor Kim June 20-28 Sager Brown UMCOR Depot work trip - Contact Pastor Kim Need for Stephen Ministers (one-on-one care and support for fellow church members) - Contact Pastor Kim Food Pantry Sunday (first Sunday of each month) - Food donations to the Whitewater Food Pantry Extra or backup helpers for University Free Lunch (Tuesdays) Contact Delores Feltych (608.883.6831), University Ministries Lunch Coordinator WARM committees - If you have an interest and are willing to serve on the variety of church committees, contact any of the WARM pastors. There is always a need for members and future leaders. We are all busy and often don’t know how we can meet the demands for our time and talents. I recall the old saying, “If you want something done, then ask a busy woman or man to help.” Take the time to stop and reflect on where you feel a nudge to help in some way. Often helping within a community brings more fulfillment than you would ever imagine. United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) UMCOR provides emergency relief in many areas of the world. To find out more about UMCOR’s ministries, please visit umcor.org. You can donate to any project by placing a contribution in the offering plate at any of the WARM churches or by sending a check to: UMCOR P.O. Box 9068 New York, NY 100879068 You can also give by calling 1.800.554.8583, where credit card donations are accepted. You may also give online by clicking any of the “DONATE” links, or make a $10 donation anytime by texting “UMCOR” to 80888. Please pray for those who are hungry, displaced, sick or in poverty because of natural and human-made disasters, and for the workers who minister to them. The Messenger Page 4 Promise Point Mission February was a mission month for Promise Point. We gathered money to donate to Global Ministries Methodist Children’s Home in Bolivia. You can check it out at http:// www.umcmission.org/Give -to-Mission/Search-forProjects.Projects/15154A The home provides a permanent home for abandoned and orphaned children, hosts worship, and empowers women submitted by Heidi Cook financially and spiritually. Together we are also working on memorizing four Bible verses; music makes it easy! We encourage parents to use our little take-home Promise Point cards and review the Bible lessons and verses together, maybe even at dinner. We have begun looking at the Bible as a whole. We have painted a large board giving us a picture of all 66 books of After School Study/Mission Group Our after-school study/mission group was busy making Mardi Gras masks for Blackhawk, Brookdale and Fairhaven. The masks turned out beautifully and brightened FLOOD Middle School Group We are ever so thankful for the FLOOD! They have so much energy on Wednesday nights. Under the leadership of Jeff Cook, Team Jesus performed a special program which had rhythms made up by the drummers that matched Bible verses, which submitted by Heidi Cook the hearts of those who wore them! submitted by Heidi Cook Lisa Otterbacher and a few college students, they discuss important issues as they learn God’s Word and pray and play! Team Jesus Drummers the Bible, and we are marking in which books our stories and memory verses are found. We will also be encouraging our little disciples to take their Bibles at home, find a book they are unfamiliar with and find a memorable story or verse contained in it to share with the group. Exciting Bible adventures at Promise Point!! They are currently working with Jen Soehner on a dowel rod routine for the Easter season. submitted by Heidi Cook Christine Hayes displayed via projector during their performance. It was a very special and creative drumming occasion! The next drumming date is set for April 12, the week after Easter and the day of the Easter musical! The Messenger Page 5 Finding Christ in the Old Testament Would you like to lead your children to find Christ in all the books of the Bible? The Jesus Story Book: Every Story Whispers His Name by Sally LloydJones, fast became a favorite among parents and children because it casts the Old Testament stories through the lens of interpreting their fulfillment in Christ. In other words, failure to see Christ as an essential figure in the Old Testament books renders them meaningless. For the law was given so that we might despair and flee to the arms of Christ, right where God wishes us to be! For hasn’t the law shown us that while our right hand sets to doing good and honorable things, our left hand finds that which is dishonorable and not worthy of God! And so there is a resurgence of recovering a view of the books of the Bible as containing the story of Christ in them, so that despair might become hope. Good works, though they give one the appearance of having achieved something good, cannot attain eternal life, for as the Psalmist proclaimed: “who can forgive my hidden faults!” We have faults hidden even from our own view! But despair turns to joy, mourning turns to dancing in Christ! So we learned in Promise Point through Peter walking on the water with Jesus, it wasn’t just the walking on water that was important. It wasn’t just doing mighty and incredible things; it was doing them through faith in the Spirit that counted. For Jesus reminds him: “Why did you doubt, you just saw a man walking on water and yet your faith was still challenged?” We have to practice the same WARM Summer Stretch Summer Stretch for Kids is coming to WARM!!. It will be a 4-5 week event for kids in 1st -5th grades on Wednesday evenings in submitted by Heidi Cook dependence on the Spirit that Jesus did. We need full confidence in the power of the Holy Spirit. So our kids learned by song, “For without faith, it is impossible to please God, for he who comes to God must believe that He exists. And that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him.” (Hebrews 11:6) and, “It’s not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the Lord.” (Zechariah 4:6). My head and heart grab on to the words, “earnestly seek Him.” Isn’t this what we want for our children, to earnestly, diligently seek the Lord by God’s Spirit in their hearts, at home, at school, and in the wider world? This is my prayer for our WARM kids and my own, that they may seek connection to Christ in this way, filled with heavenly desire that guides their paths in this world. submitted by Heidi Cook June. We will have special music with Jen Soehner, special games with Mike Soehner, some Bible teaching and emphasis on missions In the world and our community. We hope to provide some unique ministry opportunities in the community for the kids. The Messenger Page 6 submitted by Lisa Otterbacher As the cold Wisconsin winter is pulsing through our veins, it hasn’t taken the wind out of the Prime Timer’s hearts as attendance continues to increase; perhaps it is everyone getting excited for our 2015 Mission Trip, or just that we’re such a fun group to hang out with! God has been calling many youth to come and make a difference; if all registered attendees participate in our 2015 Mission Trip we will have a record number of participants! We will be traveling with 49 youth and leaders. More updates forthcoming in April and May. Moving forward, nothing but more fun Christian opportunities lay ahead. Youth are already busy with gearing up for our 2015 Famine lock-in set for February 27-28. Our youth will start their famine fast at noon during school, and we will end together in a shared meal at 6 pm on Saturday February 28 in Fellowship Hall at First Church. Throughout the 30 hours we coordinate a number of activities to include making Christian support bags for homeless that can be shared during various mission trips, learning about hunger, create tieblankets, assist the Bethel House with various projects, play outside games and participate in a scavenger hunt to support our local food pantry. The youth also create cardboard boxes they sleep in overnight to help them experience how some of God’s children go without warm and safe homes. This year Prime Time invited area churches to join us in our Famine lock-in. Our hope is that the First United Methodist Church could host this year’s event and then travel to a different church each year thereafter. The intended goal is to unite as a community, from all our churches with the mission of striking out hunger. We have encouraged our youth to seek financial donations from parishioners, neighbors and friends with the purpose of recognizing and supporting this worthy cause. 100% of all funds raised/donated will be shared equally between the 30-Hour Famine organization and the Whitewater Food Pantry. Student-Led Service and Pancake Breakfast Our Student Lock-In, Student-Led Service and Pancake Breakfast is scheduled for April 18 -19 at First Church. We will gather for our Lockin beginning at 5 pm on the 18th. The youth will spend the evening and night preparing for the 10 am worship service. We will be serving breakfast on April 19 after both the 8 am and 10 am services. The annual Pancake Breakfast is one of several youth fundraising events that help defray the costs of our mission trips. We remain so thankful for the support of our united congregations. We could not be such an engaged and successful youth group without all your support through faithful prayers and giving hearts. May God bless each of you. May your love and support of the youth help them to grow in faith and develop into grace-filled adults. As faithful mentors you are preparing our youth to withstand any challenges they will face; through your witness of faith may they receive God’s unyielding strength, courage and love. God bless. Page 7 The Messenger 2015 WARM Scholarships The Whitewater Area Regional Ministry Scholarship Committee is pleased to announce the availability for the tenth year of a $500 scholarship from the Ike & Kate Schaffer Scholarship Fund. In order to be eligible for consideration as a recipient, one must satisfy the following criteria. While in the WARM area, you have: Attended, on at least a half -time basis, church services at one of the WARM churches, and Been actively involved in one or more of its studentrelated activities. Be an individual who is planning to pursue the continuation of his or her education, to include any of the following: full or parttime college/technical school course work, single class enrollment; workshop, seminar or trip of an educational nature. Applied for and been accepted to the program of any of the above educational institutions or functions. Be at least a current high school senior or older. Also available is a WARM Scholarship. The guidelines for this scholarship are: The WARM (Whitewater Area Regional Ministry) scholarship is open to students from any of the WARM churches – graduating high school submitted by Carole Schringer seniors through those of any age working to complete an initial undergraduate degree. The scholarship is available to those undertaking any course of undergraduate, post-high school education deemed appropriate by the Scholarship Committee. Both an applicant’s financial need and participation in the WARM congregations are to be considered in selecting a recipient. Typically, there will be a single recipient each year of a scholarship equivalent to $1,000 in 2014 dollars. The scholarship may be awarded to the same recipient up to four times (four separate years) at the discretion of the Scholarship Committee. A new application is required each year. The scholarship need not be awarded every year. Funds available and at least one highly qualified applicant will be the determining factors. Multiple scholarships or an increased scholarship amount may be awarded in a single year if funds are available. The scholarship award is to be paid only after the recipient has successfully completed a minimum of one semester of post-high school study. Successful completion will generally be defined as a grade point average of at least 2.5 on a 4.0 scale, but payment of the scholarship award will be at the sole discretion of the Scholarship Committee. Application forms for both of these scholarships will be available after the 1st of April from the Church Office at First UMC. The application form must be filled out in full and returned to the church office no later than Friday, May 4. ...application forms must be filled out in full and returned to the church office no later than Should you have questions in regard to the scholarships and/or applications for same, please feel free to contact any of the committee members: Carole Scharinger (Chair) 262.473.4745 Carol Colin-Beckman 262.473.1072 Terrie Parenteau 262.473.8667 Glenn Hayes 262.473.4036 Mark Hiebert 262.473.3288 Bruce Schroeder 262.473.6269 Chuck Taylor 262.495.8625 Friday, May 4! Page 8 The Messenger WARM Worship Schedules First UMC 8 am - Chapel Service 10 am - Sanctuary 10:20 am - Sunday School 1st & 3rd Sundays LaGrange UMC 9 am - Worship 9:20 am - Sunday School Richmond UMC 9 am - Worship Sunday School following worship All three WARM churches have Food Pantry collections on the first Sunday of each month. Please continue to give generously to our local Food Pantry. First UMC March 1: 2nd Sunday of Lent Communion: In the Pews Galatians 5:1 (CEB) Mark 12:28-31 (NRSV) “A JOURNEY OF RELEASE & GAIN: How is it with your relationships?” During the week of March 1, you are invited to give up social media: emails, texts, social sites (except those necessary for work). Use your phone for voice conversations only. If you can’t do it for the week, try it for 3-4 days. Or if you must, limit social media to one hour per day. Focus on socialization in real time, which produces love in real time as well. March 8: 3rd Sunday of Lent Psalm 46:8-11 (NRSV) Matthew 11:28-30 (The Message) “A JOURNEY OF RELEASE & GAIN: How is it in the silence?” During the week of March 8, you are invited to give up talking. If you must, talk at work or in important family situations, but be aware of talking too much. Focus on hearing others: their words and emotions. Focus on setting yourself aside and entering into the world of others. March 15: 4th Sunday of Lent Psalm 91:1-13 (The Message) Matthew 11:28-30 (NRSV) “A JOURNEY OF RELEASE & GAIN: How is it with your energy level?” During the week of March 15, you are invited to give up television. Focus on other things that can provide rest and restoration for your soul. March 22: 5th Sunday of Lent Philippians 4:6-7 (CEV) Matthew 14:22-33 (NRSV) “A JOURNEY OF RELEASE & GAIN: How is it with all the distractions?” During the week of March 22, you are invited to give up your cell phone. Use it for work or family emergencies only. If you can’t do it for the week, try it for 3 days, or even one. Focus on God’s faithful and steadfast presence in your life. March 29: Palm Sunday Matthew 21:1-11 (NSRV) “A JOURNEY OF RELEASE & GAIN: How is it on your journey of faith?” During the week of March 29, you are invited to give up all of the things you gave up previously - but all at once. This is the hardest week, and it will require dedication. Take note of the distractions, but live in the silence. Page 9 The Messenger Arguments for the Dream Act Please join us (everyone is welcome!) on Thursday, March 12, 6 pm at First Church for a supper and an in-depth presentation by Professor Annie D’Antonio Stinson of UW-Whitewater about the current status of the Dream Act and Deferred Action programs. submitted by Elaine Frietsch The Dream Act is in keeping with the U.S. heritage as a nation that treats immigrants fairly and makes special efforts to reach out to young people. Many of these immigrants were brought here at a young age by their parents and had no say in the matter. Most are as American as the native- born citizens. A potluck dinner will start at 6 pm, and the program will continue right after the dinner. Please bring a dish to pass. Call Elaine Frietsch (262.308.8752) if you have any questions about this social action program or any others that we present on a regular basis. Spring Salad Luncheon and Silent Auction SAVE THE DATE!! UMW’s Spring Salad Luncheon and Silent Auction will be Wednesday, April 22 from 11 am-1 pm at First United Methodist Church! Hot Chicken Salad!! That’s all that needs to be said!! When you begin your de-cluttering this spring, please consider the Silent Loose coins of March at FUMC The loose coins of March are eager to get a higher education! (Or was that to help some WARM students go on for more studies after high school graduation?) Anyway, the coins will be going for WARM scholarships, adding to a fund that was started in memory of Ike Schaffer. WARM Singers If you’d like more music in your life, come to a WARM sing-a-long. On the second Monday of each month singers will submitted by Jen Soehner Auction as a place for your items. 100% of the profit from the auction goes to missions! submitted by Mary Anne Gerlach All high school graduates and college students actively involved in WARM are eligible, and the Scholarship Committee hopes to be able to award several scholarships to deserving students. Look for the announcement on page 7 in this issue of the Messenger for more information about the scholarships that are available and the application requirements and process. Please be generous with this opportunity to use our loose coins to make the WARM scholarship fund grow. submitted by Rev. Susan Bresser gather in the Chapel at First Church to enjoy some favorite hymns. We will gather at 7 pm on Monday, March 9. Everyone of WARM and their friends are welcome, and no special talent is required, just an enjoyment of singing! Page 10 The Messenger Confirmation 2014-15 submitted by Rev. Susan Bresser Introducing Confirmation Student, Sarah Morales Nickname: Princess Born: Fort Atkinson, WI Hobbies: Cell Phone and Wii Gifts & Strengths: Helping family when they need me, good at homework What I like best about church: Singing God: Leader Scariest thing that has ever happened: Ran over by a bike (that my sister was operating) Best thing that has ever happened: When my baby cousin Olivia was born If I could travel anywhere in the world: Italy Biggest challenge faced by teens today: Peer pressure Introducing Confirmation Mentor, Shelly Treder Born: Waukesha, WI Family: Married to Craig 3 sons, 2 daughters, 2 grandchildren Who I was as an 8th grader: Loved being with friends and hanging out with them Gifts and Strengths: I don’t stay mad Employment: Lakeview Elementary School Teacher’s Aide Best thing ever: Having children God: Powerful and loving Why I’m involved in the life of the church: To feel closer to God Joy in the church: It’s a nice place to reflect and think about other people Faith traditions growing up: Catholic Introducing Junior Mentor, Peter McCrea Nickname: Peda Born: Fort Atkinson, WI Who I was as an 8th grader: Silly, loveable Sports: Football and basketball Instrument: Tuba Favorite subject in school: Science After high school: UW-LaCrosse Gifts & Strengths: Friendly, outgoing, helpful Joy in the church: Our congregation God: Wonderful Biggest challenge faced by teens today: Fitting in Introducing Confirmation Student, Sydney Treder Born: Waukesha, WI Family: 3 brothers and 1 sister Hobbies: Gymnastics, softball, school, showing horses & goats for 4H Gifts & Strengths: Loyal, responsible What I like best about church: Hearing new things about the Bible God: Loving, forgiving Scariest thing that has ever happened: Getting bucked off my horse when I was 10 years old Best thing that has ever happened: Softball champions 3 years in a row If I could travel anywhere in the world: Australia Biggest challenge faced by teens today: Peer pressure Introducing Confirmation Mentors, Tim & Stephanie Hoffmann Born: Fort Atkinson, WI (T), Appleton, WI (S) Who I was as an 8th grader: Farm kid (T), people pleaser (S) Gifts and Strengths: Helping others (both) Employment: Self-employed trucking company (T), 2nd grade teacher at Washington Elementary School (S) Best thing ever: Being married to each other, having kids God: Da man (T), listener/teacher/leader/ friend (S) Why I’m involved in the life of the church: Like working with kids (T), being part of a faith community (S) Joy in the church: Fellowship (both) Faith traditions growing up: United Methodist (T), United Church of Christ (S) see Confirmation on page 13 Page 11 The Messenger WARM Holy Week, March 29-April 5 Palm Sunday FUMC - 8 & 10 am LUMC - 9 am RUMC - 9 am Holy Thursday FUMC - 7 pm As part of our Holy Thursday service at FUMC, each worshiper is asked to bring 30 “pieces of silver” (coins of any denomination) as an offering on behalf of those who have been betrayed. All coins will be donated to the General Board of Global Ministries (of the United Methodist Church) for their AntiHuman Trafficking campaign, working with those ensnared in trafficking of humans for commercial and sexual exploitation. RUMC - 7 pm FUMC - 8 & 10 am LUMC - 9 am RUMC - 9 am with Brunch to follow! Good Friday Ecumenical Services We begin worship at FUMC - 1 pm The Cross of Christ is then carried to the Congregational United Church of Christ (service beginning at 1:45 pm). The Cross of Christ is then carried to First English Lutheran Church (service beginning at 2:30 pm). Buy Scrip for Spring Break! Start thinking Spring Break and Easter. Are you planning a trip? Are there Scrip cards you might use on your trip? You could buy your cards now, like maybe gas cards, and that might help you stick to your vacation budget. We keep several gas cards in stock. Are you planning a little something special to put in an Easter basket? Our college students always appreciate a gift card to Subway, or a gas card would also come in handy. My daughter’s favorite is to receive an iTunes card or one to her favorite clothing store. Easter Sunday submitted by Gina McManaway Each scrip/gift card you purchase gives the church a percentage of your purchase, yet you still get to spend the entire amount of the purchase price. For example, if you purchase a Woodman’s card for $50, you go to Woodman’s and spend the $50! If you don’t spend the entire $50 the remaining amount stays on the card for you to spend the next time you go to Woodman’s. You don’t lose that balance. This is true for any “Scrip” card you purchase! Consider purchasing scrip for even just your groceries. Woodman’s pays 5%. If you use $500 a month in scrip for groceries, that’s $25 you are giving your church without it costing you anything extra. That adds up in a hurry. As always, there is a long list of retailers who participate in this program. Pick up a current list at the Scrip table at either First UMC or Richmond UMC. If you have any questions about this fundraiser, call Gina at 262.473.2131. Happy shopping, and thank you for supporting our ministries! Page 12 The Messenger 2015 Adult Mission Opportunity If you are new to Mission trips, this is a great place to start!! Midwest Mission Distribution Center (MMDC) in Chatham, IL could not carry out its mission without volunteers. MMDC needs volunteers and loves its volunteers! There are many ways in which you can volunteer at MMDC. They offer opportunities to serve for a day or for a week. They have volunteers that stay on submitted by Kim Brumm campus and those that come from right there in Chatham. If you want to volunteer at MMDC, we will gladly work with you to find a time that works. For more information, contact: www.midwestmissionsdc. org May 11-15, 2015 $130 (need half of the cost immediately) Carpool to Springfield, IL (about four hours) We will work Tuesday -Thursday and use Friday to tour the area and then commute home. Costs for MMDC: Deposit - $20 Materials fee - $50 Lodging $15/night x 4 $60 We will split the cost of gas (carpooling) and groceries. Please bring extra money for sightseeing or purchases at the Fair Trade shop onsite. ENOUGH, A Lenten Study @ RUMC Richmond UMC is hosting a Lenten Study on the book “ENOUGH” by Adam Hamilton. And Pastor Kim will have a Sermon Series to go along with the study. Sunday, March 1 9 am - Sermon Series “ENOUGH, When Dreams become Nighmares.” 5:30-7 pm - Small Group Study (everyone is encouraged to participate) Sunday March 8 9 am - “ENOUGH, Wisdom and Finance” 5:30-7 pm Small Group Study Sunday, March 15 9 am - “ENOUGH, Cultivating Contentment” 5:30-7 pm - Small Group Study Sunday, March 22 9 am - “ENOUGH, Defined by Generosity” 5:30-7 pm - Small Group Study Sunday, March 29 9 am - “ENOUGH, Hope” 5:30-7 pm - Small Group Study March 16 The Messenger Senior Adults submitted by Elizabeth Asher Activities have been and are being planned for our Senior Adults! Our Senior Adult group meets during mild weather months to include our Snow Birds and to make it easy to get out and about. May 21 - We will gather at First Church for lunch followed by a program with the “Blue Notes” from Milton singing to us. June 18 - We will travel by bus to Milwaukee to Confirmation Page 13 tour the Sprecher Brewery, noted for their Root Beer! July 16 - We will drive over to the Rotary Gardens in Janesville. August 20 - We will gather at First Church for lunch and then have a program presented by Elaine Frietsch on our Clown Ministry. This is sure to tickle us all! September 17 - Again we will gather at First Church for a lunch, and Mary Beth Byrne will present a program on her experiences at Africa University. October 15 - Lunch at First Church followed by a program on home inspections. If you have any questions about any of these activities, please contact Elizabeth Asher, [email protected] All adults of WARM and their friends 55 years and older are invited to all of these activities! continued from page 10 Introducing Junior Mentor, Joe Bullis Name: Joseph Nickname: Jo Jo Born: Durand, WI Who I was as an 8th grader: Immature full of energy, unstoppable Sports: Football, basketball, track Favorite subject in school: History After high school: UW-Whitewater Gifts & Strengths: Ability to make people laugh Joy in the church: The community and all the people God: Provider/parent/friend Biggest challenge faced by teens today: Living in a society where beauty is valued more on the outside than the inside ATTENTION: On Wednesday, March 11 the Confirmation Class will join Richmond UMC for their potluck!! They will stay until 7:45 pm, returning to FUMC by 8 pm. Thank yous! Dear FUMC, Thank you so much for the cards and well wishes. The donations to the Zell Music Fund were a beautiful gesture. It has been an honor to serve the church and your children. Jen Soehner To my friends at FUMC, Thank you so much for the beautiful hand-knit afghan that was brought to me while I was in rehab at Fairhaven. It was so comforting! I appreciate the visits, prayers, and cards, too. I am back in my apartment since Thanksgiving and am grateful to be walking again, pain-free! In God’s Love, Phyllis Masterson The Messenger Page 14 submitted by Mary Anne Gerlach Sunday, March 15 How could any one person make a difference in the wake of such widespread devastation? As responders around the globe scramble to help survivors, the United Methodist Committee on Relief, UMCOR, is prepared to act! ONE GREAT HOUR OF SHARING HELPS UMCOR MAKE A DIFFERENCE! The following is from the umcgiving.org website about One Great Hour of Sharing: “When disaster strikes around the globe Haiti’s 2010 earthquake or Hurricane Sandy of 2012 so many watching the drama unfold on our living room televisions feel entirely helpless. How could any one person make a difference in the wake of such widespread devastation? As responders around the globe scramble to help survivors, the United Methodist Committee on Relief, UMCOR, is prepared to act. So don’t be fooled by the word “committee”. Since 1940, when UMCOR’s forerunner was established to meet the needs of those suffering overseas at the onset of World War II, we’ve continued to respond to those in desperate need today throughout more than eighty countries around the world. The response of UMCOR isn’t something “they” do, it’s something “we” do. When You Give You Equip Christ’s Body to Serve in His Name. That’s because your generous giving to One Great Hour of Sharing is what allows UMCOR to act as the arms and legs of Christ’s church, moving toward the most vulnerable in their darkest days. Convinced that all people have God-given worth and dignity—without regard to race, religion or gender - together we are assisting those impacted by crisis or chronic need. Because you give, the United Methodist Church’s compassionate response to human suffering continues today: When tornadoes ripped through Oklahoma, we responded When children in Zimbabwe lost parents to AIDS, we responded When a massive tsunami devastated lives in Japan, we responded And when the next mass crisis occurs, we will be prepared to respond UMCOR will be able to offer aid in Jesus’ name to those who suffer because United Methodists give through One Great Hour of Sharing. In fact, it’s your generous giving that allows us to respond when disaster strikes. Not “they.” “We.” The One Great Hour of Sharing offering, a United Methodist Special Sunday, enables the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) to respond to disasters around the world by covering its operational and administrative costs. Unlike other mission programs, UMCOR receives no World Service or other apportionment money. By giving to One Great Hour of Sharing, you enable UMCOR to keep the promise that 100% of designated gifts can go 100% to support the designated PROJECTS. Please continue to give generously to the One Great Hour of Sharing. Your gift can make a difference in the lives of those who are hurting. Give Generously to One Great Hour of Sharing Sunday, March 15 Page 15 The Messenger Community Clothes Closet The Community Clothes Closet is continuing its twelfth year of operation under the able leadership of Kay Robers, who is still elated at the success of the Community Baby Shower at Daniel’s Sentry store. Our volunteers greeted shoppers as they came in, and most of them were happy to make a contribution. Sentry had a special deal on diapers, and our thrifty shoppers took advantage. As the diaper shelves got empty, we volunteers would record those that had been donated, and then restock the shelves with them, so the next shoppers would have the pleasure of donating them. Sentry has credited the Closet with 25 boxes of wipes and 30 packages of diapers which were “recycled” in this way, and the Closet will claim them as needed over the next few months. At the end of the day, Kay reports packing up 6 boxes of baby things, and cash donations bought $371 worth of Sentry gift cards submitted by Mary Anne Gerlach to be used to replenish diaper supplies. The day was about more than donations: Closet volunteers, including, Nora Robers, Bethany Landsee, Cindy and Kay Robers, plus our WARM volunteers Georgia Kestol Bauer, Pat Miller, Kay Miles, Jean Leedham, Mary Anne Gerlach, Kris Cameron, Karen Raufman and Michelle Hixson (thank you, thank you! and also thanks to any others whose names have fallen out of our steel sieve memories) had a good time sharing stories and greeting their friends as they came into the store, gathering information and making connections with each other and with their friends, which will bear fruit in the coming years. Kay is also looking forward to warmer weather, and reminds us that outgrown coats, or no longer needed coats, will be most welcome to our Closet shoppers next fall – the Closet will gladly store them until they are needed. Also on our list of needs are 13-gallon garbage bags as well as socks and children's clothing. We always appreciate donations of household items. Thinking spring? For young women, thinking spring leads to thinking spring prom – and prom dresses. The Closet is planning on “Prom Possible!” again this year (last year’s event put smiles on the faces of over 100 young women). That means the Closet is in need of donations of prom dresses (or any dress that could be worn to a prom); please check out your closets – we don’t want to disappoint any of these young women. Thank you for your many donations, which continue to fill the needs of our shoppers. Remember that the Closet (several rooms on the second floor of the Congregational Church) is open on the first and third Saturdays of each month from 8:30-11:00 am, and it continues to bless many people in our community. Spring ahead one hour at 2 am on Sunday, March 8! Warmer weather is on the way!!! Prom dresses for anyone who needs one!! Page 16 The Messenger Compassion in Action The Blessings of Stephen Ministry Stephen Ministry multiplies blessings throughout the church and community. Congregations receive a practical and powerful way to respond to Christ’s submitted by Pastor Kim commandment: “Love one another as I have loved you.” (John 15:12 RSV) Pastors have a team of gifted, trained, and committed lay caregivers ready to minister to hurting people. Lay people nurture and use their gifts in Richmond UMC Renovation The Richmond UMC has undertaken a renovation of their front entrance to make it more welcoming to everyone! Here is an update. We are maybe six weeks from putting it all together. The arch is being shaped at this time (see picture on page 17), and the crown molding for Front Page meaningful ministry, growing spiritually as they serve others. People who are hurting have a compassionate companion - a caring Christian friend who provides emotional and spiritual support. submitted by Edna Leason the interior is also being shaped into the same arch shape around the window above the door that is now in place. The old wood is in need of being replaced as it has rotted over the years. Not bad as it’s been in place since the late 1800s. We are beginning to get excited as the time is approaching. Our hopes are to make the entrance inviting to all who enter our little church on the hill. continued from page 1 Hi, God. I am just a mess. It is all hopeless. What else is new? I would be sick of me, if I were You, but miraculously You are not. I know I have no control over other people's lives, and I hate this. Yet I believe that if I accept this and surrender, You will meet me wherever I am. Wow. Can this be true? If so, how is this afternoon - say, two-ish? Thank you in advance for Your company and blessings. You have never once let me down. Amen. (pg 34 – Help, Thanks, Wow) Lamott is playful in her writing, but she makes an important point. God does not grow sick of us. God keeps inviting us back. God always wants to be in relationship with us. How about 2-ish? How about now? As we journey with Jesus to the Cross this Lenten season, let us remember that we are worthy of God’s love. Let us follow Jesus, not because of our beagle-like noses, but because of love and commitment. And because of the wonderful gift of grace. The Messenger Page 17 Above Building the arch for RUMC entrance Above Promise Point Above Prime Time...fellowship, where God is embraced and great conversation happens Periodically WARM publishes pictures on our website and in the Messenger. If you do not want your picture published, please contact Jayne in the church office. Thank you! Above Worship @ FUMC Page 18 The Messenger University Ministry The Ecumenical Campus Ash Wednesday Service was well attended by students, faculty and staff. It was a joy to have the students lead the worship service and administer the imposition of ashes. I had challenged those in attendance to deepen their prayer life, make a significant fasting commitment, not a “wimpy” one, and to make a difference in their alms giving (i.e., giving of their time, talents and money). FREE LUNCH is off and running! We have had a large increase in new students participating in the program. We are running at 18% new people. WE CARE submitted by Pastor Kim Thank you to Miriam and Ruth Circles and the Richmond UMC congregation who have served so far this semester. We have had several student volunteers helping around church this semester. Andrew will be helping with Free Lunch and updating our communication venues for University Ministry. Amanda has been providing child care for families that are participating in Financial Peace University on Tuesday evenings. She is also helping at Promise Point. Amanda even invited her friend Kaya to help out. College sisters Megan and Brooke are regulars in the nursery on Sunday mornings at First Church. February 17 was Expression of Love hosted by the Delta Sigma Theta sorority. They had dinner for friends. I wish I would have taken a picture of how beautifully they set up the tables for dinner. About 100 people enjoyed a lasagna dinner with luscious chocolate tarts for dessert. The fragrance was hmmmmm good!! submitted by Terrie Parenteau Want to “give back” but haven't found what you’re looking for? Why not check out WE CARE? It’s a service group offering university students an opportunity to gather together to support those in need. All supplies are provided. We make quilts for “Linus Project,” create scrapbook pages for those who are in early stages of dementia and Alzheimer’s, sew dresses for young girls to start school, make “Capes for Kids,” design holiday stockings for the Association for the Prevention of Family Violence, make jewelry and do numerous other projects. All completed items are donated to local organizations. Have an idea for a charity need? Please come and share your thoughts, ideas, talents and skills. It’s a come-asyou-can group, no strings attached. Never done any of these things before? Not a problem; we’ll teach you whatever you need to know. We meet Sunday afternoons, 3-6 pm (flexible end time) at First United Methodist Church, 145 S. Prairie St. (they sponsor the Free Lunch on Tuesdays). Spring schedule: March 1, 8, 15 April 12, 19, 26 May 3 Snacks will be provided!!! The Messenger First UMC offers electronic giving, which allows you the convenience of making donations on a scheduled, automatic basis. If you are writing checks and preparing envelopes every week, or if you prefer to stop writing Page 19 To set up an electronic donation, simply fill out the form below or ask Jayne for an authorization form to fill out and return it to the Business Office. Donations can be debited automatically from either a checking or savings account. If you are interested, please contact Jayne Haskey (262.473. 2131) for more details. checks altogether, you will especially appreciate electronic giving. It is convenient for you and provides a donation consistency for our church. We use a company called Vanco Services through the Wisconsin Annual Conference. We have several families participating, and the process is very simple. You set the amount and the date you want to give. The monies are transferred from your checking/ savings account to the church account. Authorization Form Church name: Your name: Address: City, State, Zip: E-mail address: I would like to make the following contribution: General Operating Fund $ per week per month (circle one) Date or days of month/week Checking/Savings Information Please debit my (check one) Checking account (attach voided check) Routing #: Savings account (attach voided deposit slip) Account # Valid routing # must start with 0, 1, 2 or 3 I authorize the above organization and Vanco Services to process debit entries to the above account. I understand that this authority will remain in effect until I provide reasonable notification to terminate the authorization. Authorized signature: Date: / / Page 20 The Messenger WARM Business Meetings for March March 3 WARM Staff Mtg., 9 am (FUMC) March 17 WARM Staff Mtg., 9 am (FUMC) March 10 Trustees, 6 pm (FUMC) Church Council, 7 pm (LUMC) Finance, 7:30 pm (FUMC) March 19 SPRC, 6:30 pm (FUMC) March 31 WARM Staff Mtg., 9 am (FUMC) March 15 Ad. Council, 8 am (RUMC) WARM Contact Information First UMC Pastor Susan Bresser 262.458.2309 (home) 608.333.4249 (cell) [email protected] www.fumcwhitewater.org Looking for information? See who to contact!! Richmond UMC Pastor Kimberly Brumm 262.473.5622 (home) 608.289.8615 (cell) [email protected] http://richmondumc-wi.homestead.com LaGrange UMC Pastor Don Norman 262.472.9166 (home) 920.723.3862 (cell) [email protected] www.warmlagrangeumc.com Prime Time (High School Youth) Tom & Julie DuVal 262.949.7309 (cell) [email protected] Tim & Lisa Otterbacher 262.409.0300 (cell) [email protected] Promise Point Mike Soehner 608.201.6494 (cell) [email protected] Stephen Ministry Coordinator Mindy Wade 920.723.4385 (cell) [email protected] Children’s Ministry Coordinator FLOOD (Middle School Youth) Heidi Cook 262.379.0421 (cell) [email protected] March 16 The Messenger Page 21 Rick Hendrikson Dorothy Frutiger Gary MacDonald Emery Kachel Jennifer Kachel Bruce Schroeder FUMC Anniversaries John & Nancy Hoffmann Keith & Dawn Raufman Keir & Barb Johnson Wes & Katy Katzman LUMC Birthdays FUMC Birthdays Dorie Hanson Sara Runez 2ndJudy Jaeger 3rdDuane Dickens Mike Gabbey Jenna Loomans Patty Rehberg Kay Crosby Barb Dickens Kristyn Kachel Elizabeth Houwers Cheryl Binnie Sally Watson John E. Hoffmann Bryce Bukowski Joan Stone Carol Zimmerman Elizabeth Bols Blake Bukowski Jake Katzman Erin Gabbey Ruby Schroeder Penny Alwin Sally Christopher Madalee Gregoire Lois Reisman Cameron Boydston Tom Ganser Betsy Hixson Lois Nyman Mike Kachel Dawn Shelbourn Bobbi Wedl Caryl Campbell Art Hughes Carolyn Gorby Lexi Dama Chris Dunham Tanner Marshall Frank Taylor Marilyn Taylor Eddie Mathews RUMC Birthdays Mike Mroch Elaine Kelleher Noreen Lamsam Dane Dempsey Jessie Butt Michael Borglin Myron Seaver Cody Jones Dallas Jones Ken Rowley LUMC Anniversaries John & Pam Duerst Craig & Shelly Treder RUMC Anniversaries Brad & Carmen West Dave & Edna Leason Jeff & Nora Karbash Food Pantry On the first Sunday of each month, all three churches of WARM have Food Pantry day. On those days, everyone is invited to bring food pantry items that will be donated to the local Whitewater Food Pantry. The Food Pantry is always in need of canned goods, fresh produce, baked goods, dish soap, laundry soap and any other cleaning products. Thank you for your generous donations! The Messenger Page 22 CLR - Cristo La Roca FUMC - First United Methodist Church LUMC - LaGrange United Methodist Church RUMC - Richmond United Methodist Church Sun Mon March 2015 Tue Wed Church Events Thu Fri Sat 1 Food Pantry Sunday/ Communion 8 am - Chapel Service (FUMC) 8:15 am - Choir Practice (LUMC) 9 am - Worship (LUMC & RUMC) 10 am - Sanctuary (FUMC) 1 pm - CLR Worship (FUMC) 3 pm - WE CARE (FUMC) 5:30 pm - Small 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 17 Happy St. 7 pm - CLR in library Patrick’s Day (FUMC) 9 am - Staff (FUMC) 10 am - Womens Messenger Group (CLR @ Deadline FUMC) pm - Ruth Circle Messenger 1:15 @ Fairhaven 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 Palm Sunday See first Sunday for Worship times 8:15 am - Choir Practice (LUMC) 5:30 pm - Small Group Study (RUMC) 30 31 Daylight Savings spring ahead one hour See first Sunday for Worship times 8:15 am - Choir Practice (LUMC) 3 pm - WE CARE (FUMC) 5:30 pm - Small Group Study (RUMC) 15 One Great Hour of Sharing See first Sunday for Worship times 8 am - Ad. Council (RUMC) 8:15 am - Choir Practice (LUMC) 3 pm - WE CARE (FUMC) 5 pm - Wheel Chair Basketball Banquet (FUMC) 5:30 pm - Small Group Study (RUMC) See first Sunday for Worship times 8:15 am - Choir Practice (LUMC) 5:30 pm - Small Group Study (RUMC) 1:30 pm - Esther Circle (FUMC) 7 pm - WARM Singers (FUMC) 9 am - Staff (FUMC) 10 am - Womens Group (CLR @ FUMC) 1:30 pm - Kindred Caregivers (FUMC) 6:30 pm - Financial Peace (FUMC) 10 am - Womens Group (CLR @ FUMC) 6 pm - Trustees (FUMC) 7 pm - Church Council (LUMC) 7:30 pm - Finance (FUMC) 16 Deadline 6 pm - Miriam Circle 10 am - Womens Group (CLR @ FUMC) 9 am - Staff (FUMC) 10 am - Womens Group (CLR @ FUMC) 9:30 am - Wed. Morn. Bible Study (FUMC) 11:45 am - Lenten Lunch @ FUMC 3 pm - Communion @ Fairhaven 6:30 pm - Lenten Small Group (FUMC) 7 pm - Chancel Choir (FUMC) 9:30 am - Wed. Morn. Bible Study (FUMC) 11:45 am - Lenten Lunch @ First English Lutheran 6 pm - Potluck (RUMC) 6:30 pm - Lenten Small Group (FUMC) 7 pm - Chancel Choir (FUMC) 9:30 am - Wed. Morn. Bible Study (FUMC) 11:45 am - Lenten Lunch @ St. Pat’s 6:30 pm - Lenten Small Group (FUMC) 7 pm - Chancel Choir (FUMC) 9:30 am - Wed. Morn. Bible Study (FUMC) 11:45 am - Lenten Lunch @ Cong. UCC 7 pm - Chancel Choir (FUMC) 9 am - Prayers & Squares (FUMC) 6 pm - Prayer/ Worship (CLR @ FUMC) 9 am - Devotions @ 6 pm - Prayer/ Brookdale Worship (CLR @ 10 am - Devotions FUMC) @ Blackhawk 6 pm - Dream Act Presentation, UMW (FUMC) 9 am - Prayers & Squares (FUMC) 6:30 pm - SPRC (FUMC) 6 pm - Prayer/ Worship (CLR @ FUMC) 9 am - Devotions @ 6 pm - Prayer/ Brookdale Worship (CLR @ 10 am - Devotions FUMC) @ Blackhawk 8:30-11 am Clothes Closet @ Cong. Church 9 am - Lenten Small Group Study (FUMC) 9 am - Lenten Small Group Study (FUMC) 9:30 am - MMDC Mission Trip meeting (RUMC) 8:30-11 am Clothes Closet @ Cong. Church 9 am - Lenten Small Group Study (FUMC) 8 am - Capital District Officers Mtg. (FUMC) 9 am - Lenten Small Group Study (FUMC) Page 23 The Messenger CLR - Cristo La Roca FUMC - First United Methodist Church LUMC - LaGrange United Methodist Church RUMC - Richmond United Methodist Church FLOOD - Middle School Youth Group Prime Time - High School Youth Group Sun March 2015 Mon Tue Wed Youth Events Thu Fri Sat 1 Food Pantry Sunday/ Communion 9:20 am - Sunday School (LUMC) 10 am - Sunday School (RUMC) 10:20 am - Sunday School (FUMC) 7 pm - Prime Time (FUMC) 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 16 17 Happy St. 18 19 20 21 24 25 26 27 28 Daylight Savings spring ahead one hour 9:20 am - Sunday School (LUMC) 10 am - Sunday School (RUMC) 7 pm - Prime Time (FUMC) 15 9:20 am - Sunday School (LUMC) 10 am - Sunday School (RUMC) 10:20 am - Sunday School (FUMC) 5 pm - Wheel Chair Basketball Banquet (FUMC) 7 pm - Prime Time (FUMC) 22 9:20 am - Sunday School (LUMC) 10 am - Sunday School (RUMC) Messenger Deadline Messenger Deadline 9:20 am - Sunday School (LUMC) 7 pm - Prime Time (FUMC) 10:45 am University Ministry Free Lunch Patrick’s Day 10:45 am University Ministry Free Lunch Messenger Deadline 23 Spring Break 29 Palm Sunday 10:45 am University Ministry Free Lunch 30 No University Ministry Free Lunch Spring Break 31 10:45 am University Ministry Free Lunch 6:45 am - Breakfast Club (FUMC) 3:15 pm - Promise Point 5 pm - Confirmation 6 pm - Drumming 6:30 FLOOD All Wednesday Night WARM programs held at FUMC. 6:45 am - Breakfast Club (FUMC) 3:15 pm - Promise Point 5 pm - Confirmation 6 pm - Drumming 6:30 FLOOD All Wednesday Night WARM programs held at FUMC. 6:45 am - Breakfast Club (FUMC) 3:15 pm - Promise Point 5 pm - Confirmation 6 pm - Drumming 6:30 pm - FLOOD All Wednesday Night WARM programs held at FUMC. No Breakfast Club No Wednesday Night WARM Programs! FLOOD Lock-in Spring Break FLOOD Lock-in Spring Break WARM: First UMC, LaGrange UMC & Richmond UMC The Messenger is published by the Whitewater Area Regional Ministry 145 S. Prairie Street Whitewater, WI 53190 Phone: 262.473.2131 Fax: 262.473.2362 E-mail: [email protected] Return Service Requested We’re on the Web First UMC fumcwhitewater.org LaGrange UMC warmlagrangeumc.com Richmond UMC [email protected] Susan Bresser Lead Pastor, Whitewater Area Regional Ministry (WARM) Donald Norman Pastor, LaGrange UMC Kimberly Brumm Pastor, Richmond UMC, University Ministry and WARM Caring Ministries Norma I. Albino-Noriega Pastor, Cristo La Roca Heidi Cook Children’s Ministry Coordinator Michael Soehner Wednesday Youth Director Tom & Julie DuVal/Tim & Lisa Otterbacher High School Youth Leaders Megan & Brooke Linse and Renee Stoll Nursery Care, FUMC Dolores Feltych University Ministry Lunch Coordinator Jim Athas Director of Music, FUMC Christine Hayes Chancel Choir Director & World Drumming Instructor, FUMC Janet Hardt Pianist & Choir Director, LUMC Elizabeth Asher Pianist, RUMC Mindy Wade Stephen Ministry Coordinator Betty McManaway & Joe Sherman Custodian & Maintenance, FUMC Jayne Haskey Office/Business Manager/Administrative Assistant, WARM Gina McManaway Clerical Assistant, WARM
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