January 13, 2016 Vol. 31, No. 1

First United Methodist Church 212 S. Park Street Kalamazoo, MI 49007 269.381.6340 www.umc-kzo.org

THURS-SAT, Jan 14-17 - "The Mountain Top"(a play)Jan. 14-16 @ 8 p.m.; Jan. 17 @ 2 p.m.Balch Festival Playhouse on Kalamazoo College's campus. Depicts a re-imagination of the events of the evening before the assassination of MLK, Jr. at the Lorraine Motel.

FRI, Jan 15 - Community ReflectionLed by Kalamazoo College students @ 11 a.m. in Stetson Chapel

SUN, Jan 17 - 30th Annual NMA MLK, Jr. CelebrationHosted by Mt. Zion Baptist Church (120 Roberson St.) at 4 p.m. with keynote speaker Rev. Dr. E.L. Branch, pastor of Third New Hope Baptist Church, Detroit

MON, Jan 18City of Kalamazoo Communitywide Day of Service8 a.m. at City Hall, 241 W. South Street. Volunteer opportunities available through Volunteer Kalamazoo.

Convocation at Stetson Chapel, Kalamazoo College at 10:50 a.m. by Ora Stokes, a native of Jackson, MS who relocated to Kalamazoo in 2001.

Commemorative Walk begins at 3:30 p.m. at the flagpole at Kanley Chapel, WMU; to K College Red Square, corner of Thompson & Academy streets, at 4 p.m.; to MLK Park, corner of Rose St. & W. Mich. Ave.

Community Celebration to reflect on community-wide day of service and to celebrate the MLK holiday at The Radisson, from 5-6 p.m. with local performers.

The First Word Januar y 13, 2016

FIRST CHURCH STAFFThe staff is here to empower and equip the congregation for ministry and mission. Email *staff by entering the first letter of their first name and the entire last name, and then: @umc-kzo.org. (i.e., scharnley@umc-kzo.org).

*Rev. Steve Charnley Senior Pastor*Rev. Julie Kline Associate Pastor*Rev. Dan Duncan Pastor of Children & Families Ministries*Jacqueline Stilger Minister of Music *Ruth LaMachia Church Business Administrator*Christi Landreville Administrative Assistant *Jennifer Stupica Communications Coordinator*Bernie Foulk Organist*Curt Flowers Bookkeeper*Denise Wilcox Contributions Assistant*Sara Miller Interim Office Assistant*Robin Entenman Office Assistant/Security*Connor Bailey Hospitality InternCari Miller First Singers DirectorLinda Winkelman JFON Legal Assistant (JFON@umc-kzo.org)Pamala Roman Custodian Todd Bloomfield Evening Custodian Ernesto Escobedo Custodian/Security Michael DeYoung Evening Security Timothy Landreville Sunday Evening Security Julie Meyers First Care DirectorBishop Deborah Kiesey Bishop of the Michigan AreaRev. John Boley Kalamazoo District SuperintendentRev. Bill Haggard Grand Rapids District Superintendent

GLOBAL STAFFJeff and Ellen Hoover Democratic Republic of the CongoRev. Irina Margulis RussiaVIM Vickee Seals San Juan, Puerto Rico

WELCOME to The First Word, a bi-monthly publication, except during the months of June, July, August and December when The First Word is published monthly. Articles for the next issue are due no later than Wednesday, January 20, 2016.

The next newsletter will be mailed THURSDAY, January 28, 2016. Articles submitted to the newsletter should be sent electronically by email to Jennifer Stupica at jstupica@umc-kzo.org

PRAYER CHAIN. Did you know that it is as easy as picking up the phone or e-mailing the office to have your prayers multiplied by many caring members of your church family? Please contact the church office, 381-6340, if you would like to be included in our weekly email prayer chain. If you would like to be added to our phone prayer chain, please contact Mary Beth Garman at (269) 321-9332.

STEPHEN MINISTRY is a confidential care giving ministry of our church. If you would like a Stephen Minister to walk with you during a difficult time in your life, you are welcome to contact Wendy Arnold at 323-3244.

The First Word (USPS953900) is published bi-weekly by First United Methodist Church, 212 S. Park Street, Kalamazoo, MI 49007. Periodicals postage paid at Kalamazoo, MI. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to First United Methodist Church, 212 S. Park Street, Kalamazoo, MI 49007.

Please keep these friends in your prayers

Bob Baker, JL Ball, Jacqueline Barnard, Helen Bray, Kurtiss Brown, Doug Charnley, Mollie Clements,

Skip Decker, Russ Gabier, Harold Garman, Bob Hamet, Elaine Havens, Nell Holland, Nancy

Jacobs, Liz LaMachia, Becky Lawson, Rueith Lewis, Alan Lincoln, Jim McDonald, Terry Mishler, Mandy

Morrill, Francis Morse, Mariel Neu, Nancy Olds, Debbie Rawson, Pat Stevenson, Marilyn Stieglitz, Sandi Stupica, Mary Helen Thomas, Ed Torrance,

Arlene Triestram, Barbara Vindedehl, Virginia Weller, Chuck Wilson, Grace Wunderlich, families of two

teens lost to gun violence last week

Our sympathy and prayers to the family and friends of

Helen Lincoln, wife of Alan Lincoln, mother of John (Dona) Lincoln and Laurie Lincoln, grandmother of

Kailey and Michael Lincoln, who died December 27.

Catherine Gifford, mother of Pat (Paul) Stevenson, who died December 27.

It's a Boy!

Congratulations to Rob & Emma Boley on the birth of their second son, James August Boley,

on December 4, 2015. Big brother Will and grandparents Diane & John Boley are feeling very

blessed.

Baptism Sunday

If someone in your family would like to be baptized, our next scheduled Sunday for baptisms is January

24 during the 11 a.m. worship service. Contact the church office if interested.

Confirmation Class Begins Feb. 7

Confirmation prepares youth for church membership and is open to all youth 8th grade

and above. Contact Pastor Julie Kline if interested in more information.

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Rhythms of the

worship series

Our worship planning team has chosen the theme for this year's Rhythms of the Soul worship series as “Love Is On the Move.” Four songs will highlight that theme as it relates to our lectionary scriptures for each Sunday.

January 17 – “What the World Needs Now”January 24 – “Better Together”January 31 – “You’ll Never Walk Alone”

SoulMLK, Jr. Celebration -“Equity in Action: Uniting Community”Sunday, January 17 @ 4 p.m.Mt. Zion Baptist Church, Kalamazoo

Mark your calendars for this opportunity to fellowship with our neighbors on the north side of Kalamazoo. The 30th Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Celebration is being held at 4 p.m. on Sunday, January 17, 2016 at the Mt. Zion Baptist Church (120 Roberson Street, Kalamazoo). This event is sponsored by the Northside Ministerial Alliance in partnership with Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo College, Kalamazoo Valley Community College and the City of Kalamazoo. The speaker is Dr. E.L. Branch, Senior Pastor at Third New Hope Baptist Church in Detroit.

January 17, 24 and 31, 2016

Dr. E.L. Branch, Senior PastorThird New Hope Baptist Church

Detroit, MISalvation Army Angel Treeby Pat Stevenson

Our congregation helped make Christmas special for 85 children. Even though it may not have seemed as personal as in past years, our gifts for the children were very much appreciated and helped to make the holiday season bright for our community. Thank you, First Church, for your giving spirit!

Young People LuncheonSunday, January 17, ~12:15 p.m.Station 702 Restaurant

Station 702 is located at 702 Douglas Avenue, which is not far from the church. If you are in need of a ride, please see Pastor Julie. This brunch is for the younger adults of the church (a very intentionally vague category) and for those who are searching for a niche in the church or just a few folks to hang out with. At this first brunch of the year, we’ll talk about some of the “dangerous topics” we might want to talk about and also get started with some tantalizing conversation. Come and join us, bring a friend. During 2016, Young People will continue to host Pub Theology on the first Thursday of the month at a local brew house. All are welcome to join them! On February 5 and March 5, they will meet at Olde Peninsula Restaurant. In April they will move to Old Dog Tavern (402 E. Kalamazoo Ave.).

Sanctuary clean-up dayby Deb Karnemaat

Join us on Saturday, January 16 from 9 a.m. to noon to help clean the sanctuary after the busy holiday season. Please bring a bucket if you have one. Contact Rich and Deb Karnemaat at 324-4216 if you are able to help, so they know how many are coming.

Exercise classWe are considering offering a winter exercise class here at the church. If this is something you would be interested in attending or leading, let the office know.

Food pantry needsOur food pantry can always use donations of small sizes of soap, shampoo, conditioner and toothpaste. Laundry detergent is also in demand, as these are items that Loaves & Fishes does not supply. Donations can be dropped off at the food pantry window.

“Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.”

MLK, Jr. Letter from Birmingham Jail, April 16, 1963

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2015 Special Sunday Offerings GIVENINGIVENIN2015DATE OFFERINGDESCRIPTION 20142015

January 18 Human Relations Sunday 426.00 446.00

February15 YouthMissionsSunday+ 3,918.4011,529.38

March 15 One Great Hour of Sharing 1,745.83 1,889.40

April5 EasterOffering 7,853.007,609.00

May 24 Peace with Justice Sunday 242.00 255.00

June21 CampSunday 177.001,481.00

July19 MichiganUnited/JusticeTeam 1,226.002,750.00

August 16 Native American Sunday1,942.00 633.51

September20 ASPSunday 1,301.41

October 4 World Communion Sunday 692.00 400.00

October25 ChristianEducationSunday 408.00469.00

November8 UMWSunday 3,139.991,455.00

December 7 United Methodist Student Sunday423.00 83.00

December24 ChristmasOffering 13,040.1013,441.47

N/A Bishop'sAppeal(2014:Malaria)*5,081.68--

SPECIALSUNDAYOFFERINGSTOTAL $40,331.0041,741.26

Those Sundays in bold italics are the six Special Sundays of the United Methodist Church. Giving to Special Sundays prepares students to become leaders for the church and the world; empowers the poor and victimized to live fuller lives through self-improvement programs; challenges injustice; and pays administrative costs for disaster relief.

JFON immigrant ministry newsby Ann Sweany

After our first JFON general intake clinic in November, we began “Know Your Rights” presentations in Battle Creek, at the ICE detention center. Recently, ICE has been in the news due to a new emphasis on finding those remaining in the country after receiving deportation orders. While following through on legal judgments makes sense, it is possible that many people with such judgments against them may not have had adequate (or any) representation in court. This is because immigration is considered a civil, as opposed to criminal, matter; and as such, there is no provision for indigent legal counsel. Indeed, we learned that a number of women from Central America are being held currently at the jail. Because we are fortunate to be working with Maia Justine Storm, an immigration attorney with a long relationship with Calhoun County, county staff were able to facilitate a meeting between Maia and the women to determine whether JFON could help. Currently, we are working with eleven such clients, providing legal representation that otherwise would not be available. The difficulty people from Central America face is that, though the situation there is dire, it doesn’t meet official criteria for asylum. The 1951 Refugee Convention spells it out: a refugee is someone with a “well-founded fear of being persecuted for reasons of race, religion, nationality, membership of a particular social group or political opinion." In spite of acknowledged, rampant gang violence in parts of Central America, it is difficult to make a case for asylum, particularly without skilled help. We continue to reach out to the community to let them know of JFON’s presence in Kalamazoo and our mission. Everywhere, we find a welcome reception, with people using words such as “amazing” in response to the news. Thank you for your equally amazing support.

Human Relations SundaySunday, January 17

On the Sunday before the remembrance of the Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s birthday, The United Methodist Church will celebrate Human Relations Day. This churchwide Special Sunday is our opportunity as The United Methodist Church to extend a helping hand to our sisters and brothers. Our gifts on this Special Sunday will support a variety a causes, such as ministries that advocate for social justice, serve survivors of domestic violence, nurture at-risk teens, help fathers gripped by addiction and wrap loving arms around young mothers who have nowhere to turn. Offering envelopes will be included in the bulletins on January 17. Please give generorusly, if you are able.

Check out our thank you letters!The church has received several thank you letters

for monetary gifts to local ministries. Check out our bulletin board for letters from Foods Resource Bank (gift of $9,240.57), Loaves & Fishes (gift of $2,353),

and the Disability Network (gift of $650). You make it possible for us to support these important ministries

that lift up our neighbors. Thank you!

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by Rev. Julie Kline, jkline@umc-kzo.org

Youth TribeSunday MORNING AND evening

youth events

David Rohs Scholarship Application Now Onlineby Marsha McKenzie, Trustee

The Trustees would first like to extend a "thank you" for the recent gift from church members to the David Rohs Scholarship Fund. If anyone is interested in also contributing to this scholarship fund, please note “Scholarship Fund-UMF00579” on the memo line of your check. Or, if you would like to create your own scholarship fund, please speak to Rev. Charnley or one of the Trustees. (This fund is held at the United Methodist Foundation of Michigan and is managed by First United Methodist Church of Kalamazoo Trustees.) Now is the time to check out the “More Information” tab at www.umc-kzo.org to review the David Rohs scholarship application if you would like to be considered for this new scholarship. Scholarships of up to $1,000 are available from the David Rohs Fund for youth/young adults that are a member of and active in FUMC. Youth/young adults may apply for scholarships for up to $1,000 to attend a college, university or seminary. Scholarships of $500 are also a possibility to attend a community college/trade school. Scholarships may be used for tuition and fees, room and board, books, transportation and personal expenses associated with the cost of education. If youth/young adults, who are members of and active in FUMC, choose a Methodist-related college, university or seminary (MI or US), the possibility exists for quadrupling the $1,000 through the United Methodist Foundation. This online application can be found at https://www.umhef.org/UMDFSapp.php. Questions? Contact Rev. Julie Kline or Marsha McKenzie (Treasurer, FUMC Trustees). The FUMC application period runs January to March 2016, with a deadline for applications of March 31, 2016. The Youth Pastor and two Trustees will be involved in the selection process.

SUN, January 17 Cocoa & Class @ 9:30am – TED Talk: 5 Major World Religions & Islam“All major religious traditions carry basically the same message, that is love, compassion and forgiveness… the important thing is they should be a part of our daily lives.” ~Dalai Lama

If we are to claim our own belovedness it will follow that we will recognize the belovedness of others, even those that are different from ourselves. This Sunday and the following 3 Sunday mornings we will listen to a TED Talk about a world religion and then discuss it. Often times, the studying of other/world religions can lead to a stronger and more committed faith of our own. Come, learn and engage with one another.

Youth Tribe @ 6-8pm – Mindful Mission: “Not So Random Acts of Kindness.” Youth will have an opportunity to approach random people with a purposeful act of compassion. Gandhi said “Be the change you want to see in the world.” If we want a world that is randomly more kind and compassionate then we need to make it happen. We will break out into small groups and will do a hot chocolate mission downtown, make care packages, help with the food pantry, visit McDonald’s, maybe shovel some driveways. Dress warm!! Many of you will be outside!! Please bring a snow shovel if you have one.

SUN, January 24 Cocoa & Class @ 9:30am – TED Talk: Buddhism As we claim our own belovedness, we also recognize the belovedness of others who may follow another path to God. This week we will look at Buddhism. Buddhism is a religion of eastern and central Asia growing out of the teaching of Gautama Buddha that suffering is inherent in life and that one can be liberated from it by mental and moral self-purification. Come, learn and engage with one another.

Youth Tribe @ 6-8:30pm - Movie MadnessMaze Runner: The Scorch Trials. We watched Maze Runner together and now it’s time for the sequel. In this next chapter of the epic “Maze Runner” saga, Thomas and his fellow Gladers face their greatest challenge yet: searching for clues about the mysterious and powerful organization known as WCKD. Their journey takes them to the Scorch, a desolate landscape filled with unimaginable obstacles. Teaming up with resistance fighters, the Gladers take on WCKD’s vastly superior forces and uncover its shocking plans for them all.

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New Parent’s group!We are starting a new fellowship and study group, meeting during the Sunday School time (9:30-10:30 a.m.), for parents who have at least one preschooler. We have a number of you in this congregation, and know that this is an exciting as well as busy and sometimes stressful time of life. We want to give you a chance to connect with others in this life stage, share stories, and grow in faith. We will begin on Sunday, January 17, and meet in Room 307 (on the 3rd floor, across from Pastor Dan’s office). We don’t have a name for this group yet, so that can be one of the first agenda items! Our nursery will be open for those younger than our youngest Sunday School class (beginning at age 4), which also runs during that same time, on the second floor.

Sunday School is “Deep” this year!Upcoming Bible lessons will be: January 17: Jesus Chooses January 24: Jesus Brings Good News January 31: Jesus Heals

3rd and 4th graders (and parents!) We are offering again the “Listening to the Sermon” sheets which will help these young worshipers to learn how to get the most out of adult worship and messages. These clipboards will be available in their classroom, and also outside the sanctuary; these will be most effective if a parent discusses what they have learned soon after the service!

Godly Play (11:15 a.m. to noon, for 4 year olds thru 2nd graders) January 17: Jesus in the Wilderness January 24: Jesus and Bartimaeus January 31: Jesus and Zacchaeus

January Family Fun Night! Our January “Family Fun Night” will be at Borgess Fitness Center (3025 Gull Road) on Friday, Jan. 15 for swimming and a potluck meal. Cost is an economical $1 per person! Be there at 5:45 p.m. to get into your swim togs; swimming from 6-7 p.m., with potluck dinner from 7-8 p.m. Here is a great event for all ages, and for us to be together as a larger church family! Beverages and tableware provided. Questions? Contact Pastor Dan or Nate Hawthorne (nhawthorne@jaquarealtors.com).

Dates and EventsFRI, Jan 15, 6-8pmFamily Fun NightBorgess Fitness Center3025 Gull Road, Kzoo

SUN, Jan 17First Bells Play at 11am service

FRI, Jan 24Baptism SundayContact a pastor or the church office if interested in having someone in your family baptised

SUN, Jan 31Acolyte Training/RefresherSanctuary, 9:45 a.m.

Children & Families Ministriesby Rev. Dan Duncandduncan@umc-kzo.org269.381.6340 x231

Acolyte TrainingPastor Dan will be leading a training/refresher course for all current and new acolytes on Sunday, January 31. Meet in the sanctuary at 9:45 a.m.

BaptismsOur next Sunday for baptisms will be January 24. If you are interested, please contact Pastor Dan or one of the other pastors (381-6340) ASAP!

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Sunday Morning Partners in MinistryJan. 17

8:30and11a.mJan. 24

8:30and11a.mJan. 31

8:30and11a.mFeb. 7

8:30and11a.mFeb. 14

8:30and11a.mFeb. 21

8:30and11a.m

8:30 Lay Reader Deb Willoughby Karen Hassev-oort Jan Schoenherr Carol Hodges Linda Winkelman Terry O'Connor

8:30 Office/Welcome Center need someone need someone need someone need someone need someone need someone

8:30 Greeters Sally Hubbard Barb & Tim Swartz need someone need someone need someone need someone

8:30 Sound/Lights Jim Willoughby Greg Anderson Jim Willoughby Greg Anderson Jim Willoughby Greg Anderson

11:00 Lay Reader Tim Mullikin Deb Search Willoughby Michael Seals Chris Stamper Ginnie Hessler Janice Brown

11:00 Office/Welcome Center need someone need someone need someone need someone need someone need someone

11:00 Greeters Tom & Gerry Schaberg

Ho Sung & Young Ae Lee

David & Judy Kingsley

Kingsley and Robb Families Bruce Binns need someone

11:00 Acolytes Sean WilloughbyTom Clark

S. WinglemaierTJ Murphy

Drew EatonKelcey Briggs

Tom ClarkEmma Hampton

Kameran LongSean Willoughby

Kelcey BriggsDrew Eaton

11:00 Sound/Lights Bob Lane Robyn Lane Jonah Bolton Bob Lane Robyn Lane Jonah Bolton

You Are Warmed by God's LoveBlanket ministry for children in crisisby Ellen McDonald

Report for 2015 ▶ Blankets donated to Bela Lahner,

Virginia Weller, Bethany Christian Services, Family and Children's Services, 2 children at Spring Valley School, 175 blankets donated to Eleanor Street Shelter.

▶ 25 pillows and pillow cases to Family and Children's Services and Eleanor Street Shelter.

2016 another year, the need continuesPlease continue your good work to make blankets and pillow cases for children in crises. Since children come in all sizes, baby to teenagers, you choose the size of your blanket. Labels are available to iron on. Contact Ellen for a label at j-mcdonald@sbcglobal.net. Any contributions to this ministry are most welcome. Your monetary gift will help to purchase fabric and pillows. Donations are tax deductible as charity giving. Thank you for your support in providing a comforting blanket for someone in need.

Sanctuary Sound SurveyWe are a large church with a high ceiling and pews a significant distance from the pulpit/speakers. Therefore, we are concerned that there are some that are unable to capture the full worship experience. Please help us in our research of new technology that can improve this problem by doing a very short online survey. The survey will be open until February 28. You can access the survey through the link included in our Around the Corner e-news. The survey is also accessible from our website (www.umc-kzo.org). Click the "More Information" tab at the top of the home page, and then the "Registrations" drop down menu.

The work progresses on the new Worship Center for the Wesley Foundation at WMU, a ministry which was birthed

by our church many years ago. Watch for details of how you can join in supporting the “Widening the Welcome” capital campaign and by so doing, make a difference in the lives of

our young people of faith—some of whom may be hearing the call to ordained ministry in the United Methodist Church.

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Introducing our newest members!Joined November 22, 2015

(This is a partial list! More bios coming in the next issue!)

Leah Barnes & Audie Nabors822 W. Main St. Apt. A, Kalamazoo, MI 49006Leah: 718-2965, barnes.leahj@gmail.comAudie: 366-9070, Aldwin.nabors@gmail.com

Leah finds joy in her family, a good book, a good workout, and spending time with her fiancé Audie Nabors. She says that “absolutely everyone” has made her feel welcome at First—but she is “keeping an eye out” for ways to become more involved! Audie loves to exercise, play sports, spend time with family and friends, play with his dog, enjoy nature, and eat great food. Audie is a research associate at MPI, which specializes in medical and healthcare research.

Jerry & Margie Bultema8114 Robinbrook St., Richland MI 49083203-7435; geraldbultema@aol.com

Margie and Jerry Bultema are both retired. They are the parents of three lovely daughters, and grandparents to two grandchildren and two step-grandchildren. In addition to spending time with their family, Margie loves to weave fabric, and Jerry likes to read. He especially enjoys biographies, history, and mystery novels.

James Cousins3516 Old Colony Rd., Kalamazoo MI 49008382-1188; jamescousins4@gmail.com

Jim is a lifelong Methodist and Michigander, a retiree, and a self-proclaimed “foodie.” He grew up in Niles, Michigan and comes to us from First United Methodist of Buchanan.

Paul Cutler4249 Lakesedge Dr #214, Kalamazoo MI 49008372-3823

Paul grew up in Plainwell and now lives in Kalamazoo. He enjoys walking for exercise, reading, listening to the radio and TV, and spending time with friends—both old and new. Being brand-new to the First Church community, he is excited to learn about all the opportunities for ministry and involvement.

Sharron Grinwis4423 Timberland Dr., Kalamazoo MI 49008-2837381-9484; kempgrinwis@hotmail.comSharron was born and raised in Coldwater. She has lived in Kalamazoo proper for the past 52 years. She is a retired English teacher, and her late husband, Gordon, was a professor at Western. Sharron loves reading, discussing films and books, entertaining in her home, and collecting American folk art.

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Fred JacksonPO Box 19608, Kalamazoo MI 49019372-5766; kazooguy@att.netAfter moving all over the country (including Connecticut, where his son lives now), he came back to Kalamazoo “for three months” 26 years ago: he’s been here ever since! Fred loves to read, cook, travel, and entertain. He especially loves spending time with his son and granddaughters, and is looking forward to traveling to Paris in the springtime with his oldest granddaughter, who has been studying French in high school.

Jake Lisak905 Barton, Otsego MI 49078377-6881; j.lisak@hotmail.comJake was born in Central Illinois and has family throughout the Midwest. He moved with his family to West Michigan when he was young and has been here ever since. Jake is currently working on his master’s degree in social work, but he also loves to play his guitar and make new things by cooking or woodworking. Jake enjoys the friendliness of our church and how everyone introduces themselves!

Carrie McDougal & Shaun Perski5737 W Heverly Dr., Portage MI 49024313-617-2542; Carrie: 248-470-1685; mcdougalck@aol.comShaun Perski and Carrie McDougal are the parents of two small boys, Evan (5) and Alec (3). Shaun is an architect who enjoys biking, running, woodworking, and video games; and Carrie is a dentist who likes reading, scrapbooking, gardening, and canning. They moved to Kalamazoo in 2005 and were invited to First by their friends Kelly and Bob Yeung.

Sara Miller1416 Sheridan Dr, Kalamazoo MI 49001281-639-6902; sara.lindsay.miller@gmail.comSara has been involved in music ministry at First since 2009. She sings with the Chancel Choir and First Singers, rings handbells, jams with the Emerging Worship band, and helps coach the young singers in First Beats. Sara moved to Kalamazoo to be with her husband, Mike. After growing up in a military family, she’s ready for Kalamazoo to be home.

Gary Mittelbach10815 M-43, Richland, MI 49083629-5462; mittelbach@kbs.msu.eduGary discovered First Church through his wife, Katherine Gross, and his son, Mark. He loves fishing, hunting, gardening, oil painting—really, doing any kind of work with his hands. Gary is an MSU professor: He works with the Kellogg Biological Station, a research field station at MSU, whose research focuses on research in ecology and agriculture.

Mark Mittelbach1832 W North St., Kalamazoo MI 49006-3026567-0826; mgmbonkers@gmail.comMark was born in Columbus, Ohio, but his family soon moved to Richland, where he grew up. He really loves painting—but reading and playing games with friends and family also bring him joy. Mark’s father, Gary, is also a new member.

Look for more new member bios in our next issue!

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When Roger and I joined this church nearly 50 years ago, we promised our support, including regular financial contributions. Each fall, we would determine the amount we expected to provide during the following year. But within just a few weeks, my church asked for more. A special offering was being taken for a worthy project. As a new member, I was bothered by the slow but incessant stream of additional requests for donations. Now, as the Finance Committee chair for 2016, and in the spirit of full disclosure and transparency, I share what we already know will be coming along in 2016. The 2016 operating budget (about $914,000) was developed last fall based on the estimates of giving provided by our membership and other anticipated sources of income. This budget provides the infrastructure to keep our doors open. It pays clergy and lay staff, and it covers building operations such as utilities, routine maintenance, and insurance; office expenses; supplies for worship, education, and congregational care; and our connectional commitment of Ministry Shares to the wider United Methodist Church. Special offerings outside the operating budget are requested about once a month. Many of these are sanctioned by the United Methodist Church, such as Human Relations, Peace with Justice, Native American Ministries, and World Communion Sundays. The Christmas and Easter offerings support missions recommended by the Outreach Ministry Team. These offerings are listed regularly in The First Word along with the current and previous year’s receipts. There are sometimes unanticipated emergency appeals in response to natural disasters or man-made suffering. Other projects, developed through this local church, also deserve our support—Justice For Our Neighbors (JFON) legal services for immigrants, the food pantry, You Are Warmed by God's Love blanket ministry, Pastor’s Discretionary Fund, You Are Not Alone (YANA) Sunday evening meals, youth missions, and others. These projects are all independently supported. This church provides space in our building for these ministries, but the direct expenses are not part of the operating budget. Many of these efforts could also benefit from the time and talents of our members as well as financial contributions. If any of these ministries especially appeal to you, please make your interest known. Extra

volunteers are welcome. When we embarked on the $4.2 million building addition and renovation about eight years ago, we knew it would take some time to fully retire the debt. There have been three successive three-year Forward in Faith campaigns, soliciting pledges to cover this major capital project. Remaining debt is currently about $670,000. At the conclusion of the latest Forward in Faith III campaign period in 2017, after the outstanding pledges have been paid, the balance of our mortgage debt is expected to be about $250,000. Over the next year, we must consider how to complete this payment and become debt-free. Meanwhile, if you’re new here and you missed the capital campaigns, you don’t have to have pledged to make a contribution toward our capital debt. Surprise us! This church has had a long relationship with Wesley Campus Ministries. Members of FUMC began the Wesley Foundation in the 1950s, and many FUMC members have been involved in this ministry with university students. Wesley’s new Ministry Center, visible from Howard Street, is being erected on the edge of the WMU campus. We, along with other area UMC congregations, have been asked to support this construction project. For FUMC Kalamazoo, the Wesley’s request is $50,000 to be paid over three years. Many of our members with long connections to WMU and to Wesley have already contributed as individuals, and their support is much appreciated. We hope to broaden the support among our membership to cover this appeal. Expect more information within the next month or two. That’s what we know so far. If you have questions about your church’s financial operations, please feel free to ask. The ongoing generosity of our members and friends is needed to keep our doors open and to offer Christ to the world through our mission to experience, celebrate, and share God’s love.

Where the Money Goesby Molly Williams, Finance Chair

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The First Word Januar y 13, 2016

“Darkness cannot drive out darkness: only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate: only love can do that.” These are words from Martin Luther King, Jr. that give us our marching orders in the new year. They echo the eloquent prologue of John’s Gospel wherein we read, “The light has shown in the darkness and the darkness cannot overcome it.” (John 1.5) I am writing this the morning after the candlelight vigil which was held in our sanctuary to remember the lives of two high school seniors who were killed tragically by gun violence this past week. The vigil was organized by their peers from both Loy Norrix and Kalamazoo Central High Schools and attended by nearly 300 persons. Pastor Julie Kline welcomed the gathered into our sanctuary—a sanctuary from violence, a sanctuary of safety, where all are welcome and all lives matter. Tender words of remembrance and grief were shared by the grieving families, including some of the younger siblings. Earnest, heartfelt words of sympathy were shared by friends. Carsten Strand, a senior at Loy Norrix and member of our church, urged us to change the culture by voting our convictions and especially encouraged high school seniors to wield this powerful weapon of democracy. Another youth from our church, Andrew Peavler, spoke up with

gentle eloquence reflecting Jesus in our desire for peace and light amid the darkness. I stood by the Park Street door to welcome any latecomers and beside me stood Dr. Michael Rice, the Superintendent of the Kalamazoo Public Schools. While listening to one of the moving tributes, I watched him wipe a tear from his cheek and realized one was running down my own. This vigil came on the eve of upcoming celebrations of the work of Martin Luther King, Jr. It comes as a challenge for us to continue the journey of justice. The statue in the Martin Luther King, Jr. Park, just over the railroad tracks on Rose Street, portrays the civil rights leader in full stride, purposefully stepping forward—wearing, I might add, a flowing pulpit robe. Join me and many others for any of the Kalamazoo MLK events published on the front cover of this issue of The First Word. After the vigils and after the celebrations, let us not sit still, ensconced in a comfortable pew, but let us light a candle, hold it high, and boldly step out to defeat the darkness!

Marcia Rogers has moved to Onekama, Michigan! She will miss her many church friends, including those in the Chancel Choir. It was with mixed emotion that she requested a transfer to her new church home, a church that she has been attending for years near their summer home (now their permanent residence). She would love to hear from you. Her new mailing address is: P.O. Box 434, Onekama, MI 49675.

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH PERIODICAL POSTAGE PAID212 S. Park Street IN KALAMAZOO, MICHIGAN Kalamazoo, MI 49007(269) 381-6340

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The First Word Januar y 13, 2016

WE ARE A RECONCILING CONGREGATION. First United Methodist Church of Kalamazoo invites all persons to join us on our journey of faith. Jesus Christ calls us to be an inclusive church that exemplifies the kingdom of God. We strive to move toward reconciling relationships with all, affirming those who are marginalized for any

reason, including sexual orientation or gender identity. We welcome all with open hearts, open minds, open doors.

2016 First Word ScheduleArticle Deadline Mailing Date

January 20 January 28February 3 February 10February 17 February 24March 9 March 16March 23 March 30April 6 April 13April 20 April 27May 4 May 11May 18 May 25June 15 June 22July 13 July 20August 17 August 24September 7 September 14September 21 September 28October 5 October 12October 19 October 26November 6 November 16November 23 November 30December 7 December 14

Articles are due on the deadline! Late submissions will only be

published if space permits. Articles may be edited for space

and content.

WINTER WEATHER POLICYThe church will always be open for worship on Sunday

mornings. But please use your best discretion in deciding when to venture out. Weekday meetings may be cancelled if travel is dangerous. Team and committee chairs are asked

to contact the church and their members if a meeting is cancelled. Please check our website, Channel 3 news, Facebook and email for closing notices. Please note the

church office may be open, even though area schools are closed due to weather.

January Circle MeetingsAnna Circle - no meeting

Lydia Circle - Wednesday, January 20Friendship Village @ 1 p.m.Program: "The Church (not church)" by Rev. Steve Charnley

Miriam Circle - no meeting

Ruth Circle - Tuesday, January 19Church parlor @ 7 p.m.; Program: TBD

The first General Meeting of the year is scheduled for Wednesday, March 2. The Business Meeting begins at 9:30 a.m., program starts at 10:45 a.m. Lunch will be served (reservations required). Program: "The Church and People with Disabilities," led by Rev. Steve Charnley. All women are invited!