Embed Size (px)
Citation preview
One of our recent vacation stops was The Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina. Years ago, on a trip home from
the south, we visited its Welcome Center. At that time, we assessed that it was not the way to spend our money or time
with two small boys. It was a wise decision.
As opportunity presented itself this summer, Tom and I enjoyed a return visit. We spent our day marveling at the home’s
innovations, hearing the stories of its past, touring the gardens, staring at the spectacular mountain views, lunching at the
Bistro. We got our steps in that day … and enjoyed every moment of it.
I wonder how many people are content with Welcome Center experiences. The Biltmore’s Welcome Center is nice. You
can see pictures, talk to guides, even purchase the “Audio Tour” and hear stories. It takes investment of money and time
to get past the check point. Even then, one must travel over two miles to reach a Shuttle … that then takes you further
along the winding road before the home becomes visible.
In a church, laity can be fascinated by the programs and events of a place; experts at sharing stories from the past;
comfortable with how things are; fixated on proper signage, music, worship time, refreshments ….. It takes commitment
and discernment to turn all these elements and more into a meaningful experience for those who dare to visit. Yet even
then, it will take more steps for someone to invest in a relationship with a church … let alone, Jesus.
I was wondering the other day, as I prepare for the fall season, how churches would respond to a simple question, “Why
should I visit your church?” In many ways, it is at the root of celebrating the ministries of each congregation. It is an
Outcome-based approach – what difference are you striving to make in this period of your life and ministry? Why are
you doing what you’re doing? It is opportunity to explore what goals to set, and what relationships need to deepen.
Yet, when all is said and done the simple answer is … hopefully …. prayerfully ….
….. So we can help you discover and experience Jesus.
Visiting a historic NC home did not change my life. It was an enjoyable experience and I’m grateful I went. Quite
frankly, visiting any of the 58 churches in the Western Reserve District may not change my life. Then again, in places
committed to and passionate about helping me know Jesus …. my life will never be the same!
The world is full of people wandering the winding road of life.
How will you come alongside them and help them know Jesus?
This is the work of Christ’s Church.
This is what, “Welcome! We’re glad you’re here!” is all about.
I thank you for your faithfulness in the work of God’s Kingdom.
Sondra
Western Reserve District
Newsletter September 2018
District Superintendent Administrative Assistant Office Hours
Sondra Snode Jerri Shultz Mon – Thurs 9:00-4:00
[email protected] [email protected] Friday closed
East Ohio Conference UMCOR
There will be two training dates for “Connecting Neighbors" in Geauga
County. The dates are:
Monday, August 27th from 5:30pm - 9:30pm (registration starts at
5pm. Class will be held at Chardon UMC in the Hayden Hall.
515 North Street, Chardon, OH.
Deadline to register is August 22nd.
Register at: https://connectingneighborschardonumc.eventbrite.com
Saturday, September 29th from 9am - 1pm (registration starts at
8:30am. Class will be held at Mayfield UMC in Chesterland.
7747 Mayfield Rd., Chesterland, OH
Deadline to register is September 21st.
Register at: https://connectingneighborsmayfieldumc.eventbrite.com
Questions? Contact Mike Williams at [email protected]
UMVIM Leader Training Dates
This training can be for youth leaders, laity and clergy who would like to lead mission teams
and are not yet UMVIM leader trained. Please contact Kathy Dickriede at
[email protected] for more information.
Training dates:
Saturday, August 25th from 1pm - 4pm. at the Area Center in North Canton, 8800
Cleveland Ave. NW 44720 The training is geared toward leaders for UMVIM
trips to Puerto Rico.
Saturday, October 27th at Church of The Savior in Cleveland Heights. Learn more
about East Ohio's best practices, ways to be connectional and build the partnership in
healthy ways that empower local folks and create principled Christian leaders who help
to make disciples for the transformation of the world. Time is TBD.
Obituaries: Richard H. Parks, Jr., retired elder, died July 27, 2018
Valerie W. Stultz, retired elder, died June 14, 2018
Gayle E. Maly, spouse of Rev. David E. Maly, died June 9, 2018
Donna M. McCoy, surviving spouse of Norman E. McCoy, died June 8, 2018
I want to Thank everyone for the prayers said for me during
my 2 recent heart attacks and other health issues. I enjoyed
the cards and the visits. I have been doing much better and
hope to be back at work full time by the end of August. I
missed seeing you all at Lakeside. Jerri
Birthdays September
3rd - Kerri Williamson
5th - Janet Gibson
9th - Julie Applegate
16th - John Wolfe
23rd - Beverly Wrobel
25th - Elizabeth Bufkin
28th - Linda Alvey & Laurie Krieg
29th - Terry Simpson
Anniversaries September
5th - Rich & Jill Thewlis
30th - Jeff & Katie Stoll
2-1-1
2-1-1 is a free community service that provides information about social, health and government resources 24 hours a day. Simply dial 2-1-1 to be directed to helping agencies that provide:
Food, clothing, housing and utility assistance
Services for older adults and people with disabilities
Family support, children and youth services and parenting
Substance abuse and mental health treatment
Employment programs
Tax assistance, budgeting and credit counseling
Volunteerism and donation programs
Community Voice Mail Call 2-1-1 or visit them online at 211neohio.org
WORKSHOP: Could you use help working with married and premarital couples? On
Saturday, October 13 (9:00-3:00) there will be a PREPARE-ENRICH Certification
Workshop at Willoughby UMC. PREPARE-ENRICH is a well-tested online
assessment that provides you with the tools you need for an effective impact on the
lives of couples. The cost (including materials) is $195.
visit www.prepare-enrich.com or call Rev. Dr. Hazel Partington (440)-552-4762 to
register or for more information.
"A Way Forward"
The East Ohio delegation, which was elected by Annual Conference, has scheduled the
following five listening posts to hear the thoughts and concerns of clergy and laity heading into
the Special Session of General Conference.
Sat., Sept. 8th from 10am - 12:30pm @ Wildare UMC
Sat., Sept 29th from 10am - 12:30pm @ Cambridge Christ UMC
Tues., Oct. 9th from 6:30 - 9:00pm @ New Phila First UMC
Sat., Oct. 20th from 10am - 12:3opm @ Ashland UMC
Tues., Nov. 6th from 6:30pm - 9:00pm @ Aldersgate UMC
Pre-registration is not required but is helpful or us to plan hospitality. Please register yourself
and any guests coming with you. Registration is available via Eventbrite at eocumc.com under
General Conference. The delegation also has established the email address of
[email protected] should you wish to contact each of the delegates.
Andover UMC is seeking a pianist. Full job description at our
website: www.andoverfirstumc.org. Interested applicants can email their resume
Additional questions? You may call Andover UMC @ 440-293-6290 and ask to speak with
Rev. Ric Harvel.
Responsibilities include: 2 Sunday morning worship services, choir accompanist, choir
rehearsal Sun. a.m. between services, occasional special services.
The Western Reserve District Office continues to collect Box Top Labels, eye glasses and cases, Campbell soup labels and used ink cartridges. Your pastor can bring them to the District Office when they come for their consultation or bring them to your churches charge conference and give to Jerri.
The Creative Workshop (sponsored by The East Ohio Conference Office)
Featuring Jason Moore of Midnight Oil
September28th and 29th
A hands on learning experience designed to bring creativity to
congregations of any size means and worship style.
For more information: https://worshipexperienceseminarsept28.eventbrite.com
or register by phone at 330-499-3972.
Fall-for-All Clergy Retreat 2018
Servant Leadership & Visioning and Implementation
November 12th-14th, 2018
The Carlisle Inn at Sugarcreek
1357 Old Route 39
Sugarcreek, OH 44681
carlisleinnsugarcreek.hotelsone.com
Project Feed 2 Dates/2 Locations
Saturday, November 10th Sunday, November 11th
West Elementary Wadsworth Middle School
315 Beaver St. 150 Silvercreek Rd.
Newcomerstown, OH 43832 Wadsworth, OH 44281
Doors open both days @ 1:30pm.
Meal packing for developing nations: 2pm-4pm
Cost is $10 ($5 with a canned food donation for local food bank.
Our goal is to pack a total of 50,000 meals.
Contact projectfeedevent.org for more information.
WESTERN RESERVE DISTRICT
LAY SERVANT TRAINING
September 14th and 15th
Johnston Federated UMC (6262 Youngstown/Kingsville Rd., Farmdale, OH)
Offering Two Classes:
Basic – the first step in becoming a lay servant
Advanced – Lay Pastoral Care Giving
Registration Deadline is August 22nd.
Please contact The District Office for a registration form.
Western Reserve District Youth
Schedule for 2018
AUGUST 19, 2018 – DYC PICNIC 2pm -- ? 953 Park Rd., Painesville OH 44077
Please bring a dish to share and a chair.
SEPTEMBER 9, 2018 – DYC Meeting @ 1:30 NMCUMC 9290 Lakeshore Blvd., Mentor,
Open to all youth and youth leaders within the Western Reserve District connection
who would like to participate in the planning and running of District Youth events.
OCTOBER 7, 2018 – District Youth Council Hayride @ 5pm. Ridgeview Farm 5488
Kinsman Rd., (SR 87) Middlefield, OH 440-693-4000. Open to all Youth within the
Western Reserve District. Invite friends. It will be held rain or shine. Cost is $10.
Please bring snacks and drinks to share. Each youth group must provide enough adult
chaperones to adhere to their church’s Safe Sanctuary policy. DYC is to arrive at
4pm. Registration begins at 4:30pm and the Hayride begins at 5pm and finishes
around 7-7:30pm.
NOVEMBER 10, 2018 - CCYM Project Feed. Newcomerstown Middle School 325
W. State Street, Newcomerstown, OH 43832
NOVEMBER 11, 2018 – CCYM Project Feed. Wadsworth Middle School, 150 Silvercreek
Rd., Wadsworth, OH 44281. Come join other youth groups across The East Ohio
Conference as we package meals for those in need around the world. This event
grows by leaps and bounds each year as we minister to the needs of others. More
information available on East Ohio Conference website under Youth.
NOVEMBER 17, 2018 – DYC Game Day 1pm-8pm. Hope Ridge UMC, 9870 Johnnycake
Ridge Rd. Mentor, OH 44060. More information in next Newsletter.
DECEMBER 2, 2018 – DYC Christmas Party @ 1:30pm. NMCUMC, 9290 Lakeshore
Blvd., Mentor. More information in next Newsletter.
REACHING NEW PEOPLE
Contact the Western Reserve District Office as soon as possible if you are
interested in attending. 440-352-2083 or [email protected]
Boardman UMC (Mahoning Valley District) on September 28th
and 29th
.
