August 9, 2007

Central E-Link

Weekly Newsletter of the Central Texas Conference

Welcome! This is the conference’s weekly update to church leaders — lay and clergy. Articles/requests should be submitted to Carolyn@ctcumc.org by 12 noon Wednesday in order to be e-mailed on Thursday. Articles should be brief and include active links to websites or contact persons for details. Use this information for announcements, in church newsletters and/or bulletins. The E-Link and the Central Link newspaper are posted on the conference website at www.ctxumc.org. Read them online or download and copy to share with others. To add a colleague or church member to E-Link’s weekly distribution, send their addresses to susan@ctcumc.org.

— Editor: Carolyn Stephens Carolyn@ctcumc.org

Near-Time Items

[New and/or changed information is printed in blue.]

Texas floods — Urgent need for volunteers! —Volunteers are still urgently needed to help with flood recovery efforts — particularly in the Eastland area. Teams will be needed for some time to help with rebuilding in communities such as Eastland, Gainesville (North Texas Conference) and Marble Falls (Southwest Texas Conference). If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Jennifer Coggins, director of humanitarian services, at jennifer@ctcumc.org, 817-877-5222 or 800-460-8622.

Christian education/questionnaire reminders — The Conference Nurture Council reminds congregations that Sunday, Sept. 9, is Christian Education Sunday. On that day, all CTC churches are asked to emphasize Sunday school by “Celebrating the Return.” Ideas and resources can be found on the conference website (www.ctcumc.org - click icon on front page). Please remember to take an offering to support the Christian education ministries of the conference and remit it to the conference treasurer for account 403-010-6.

DON’T FORGET to return your completed questionnaire (“How Your Church Is Doing in the Area of Nurture Ministries”) that your local church received at Annual Conference. The Conference Nurture Council will use the responses to more effectively plan programs, training, and other resources to assist our local churches in the areas of nurture ministries. If you cannot locate your copy, download one at

http://ct.brickriver.com/files/oFiles_Library_XZXLCZ/Nurture_Council_-_How_is_your_church_doing_in_the_area_of_nurture_ministries_CYMUUFAX.pdf

United Methodist Men’s “No Man Left Behind Conference” — The United Methodist Men of the Central Texas Conference will sponsor the No Man Left Behind Conference Aug. 16-18 at First UMC Mansfield (777 N. Walnut Creek Drive, Mansfield). This program incorporates three days of learning, planning and fellowship in order to build a sustainable ministry to men. The No Man Left Behind Conference offers principles, practices and components of a men’s ministry “perfectly designed” to change lives, families, churches and communities over the long haul. Participants will leave with a specific written plan designed with their church in mind and an understanding of the powerful keys to long-term success:

• how to create, capture and sustain momentum among men

• how to avoid wasting a decade of your ministry by choosing the wrong strategy

• how to connect everything you do to an inspirational vision

• how to get men in small groups

• how to mobilize the men you already have

For more details on the event and to register, contact ministry consultants at 800-929-2536 or visit www.maninthemirror.org. This event is designed for senior pastors, men’s pastors, associate pastors, and men’s ministry leaders and laymen. If you want your church to have a system that is designed to help men become turned-on disciples of Jesus Christ, this course is for you.

News

UMs seek change in tone for GC08

United Methodists want to change the tone of conversation and debate at the church’s top legislative assembly in 2008. Organizers of the denomination’s General Conference, which meets April 23-May 2 in Fort Worth, have endorsed “Guidelines for Holy Conferencing – What God Expects of Us” as a blueprint for conversation. The guidelines are in response to long-held concerns that the General Conference more resembles the style and conduct by secular political bodies than the higher expectations of a faith-focused group, according to Bishop Janice Riggle Huie, president of the UM Council of Bishops. Huie pointed out that John Wesley believed in the use of Holy Conferencing as an organizing and governing principle. “In much of the Western world, results are measured in terms of winners and losers,” she added. “Holy Conferencing does not work that way. It focuses on discerning were God is leading us. It focuses on prayer; rational and respectful conversation; and a belief that with God, all things are possible.”

Bishop Sally Dyck of Minneapolis, who led a working group that refined the guidelines, credited the denomination’s young people for bringing the issue to the forefront. She is encouraging delegations, caucus groups, authors of petitions and resolutions, general agencies, and anyone else connected to the General Conference to practice the principles of Holy Conferencing in the time leading to and during the conference. The guidelines will be posted on Web sites, and included in delegate materials. The guidelines are:

(1) Every person is a child of God. Always speak respectfully. One can disagree without being disagreeable;

(2) As you patiently listen and observe the behavior of others, be open to the possibility that God can change the views of any or all parties in the discussion;

(3) Listen patiently before formulating responses;

(4) Strive to understand the experience out of which others have arrived at their views;

(5) Be careful in how you express personal offense at differing opinions. Otherwise dialogue may be inhibited;

(6) Accurately reflect the views of others when speaking. This is especially important when you disagree with that position;

(7) Avoid using inflammatory words, derogatory names, or an excited and angry voice;

(8) Avoid making generalizations about individuals and groups. Make your point with specific evidence and examples;

(9) Make use of facilitators and mediators;

(10) Remember that people are defined, ultimately, by their relationship with God--not by the flaws we discover, or think we discover, in their views and actions.

We believe Christians can discuss important issues without the acrimonious debate and parliamentary maneuvering that can divide a group into contending factions. We see too many examples of that in secular society. We believe the Holy Spirit leads in all things, especially as we make decisions. We want to avoid making decisions in a fashion that leaves some feeling like winners and others like losers. We can change the world through honest conversation on matters about which we are passionate. (Sources: Newscope, UM News Service and Council of Bishops)

General Conference petitions lost through e-mail

General Conference petitions sent via e-mail before noon Friday, July 27, need to be resubmitted due to technical problems, according to officials with the 2008 General Conference. The petitions were not delivered because of problems with the e-mail address petitions@umpublishing.org. Petitions submitted by U.S. mail to the petitions secretary, as well as petitions submitted through the General Conference website, are not affected, however. “I have been assured that the e-mail address is now functioning properly, and I regret the inconvenience that this situation has caused,” said Rev. Fitzgerald Reist, secretary of General Conference. For future submission, anyone who does not receive an acknowledgement of the receipt of a petition within three weeks should contact the office of Rev. Gary Graves, petitions secretary, at 270-274-4590.

Oct. 26 is the deadline for organizations, clergy members, and lay members of the UMC to submit a petition to the denomination’s top legislative body. The worldwide UM gathering will be April 23-May 2 in Fort Worth. Detailed instructions for submitting petitions are available online at http://www.umc.org/site/c.lwL4KnN1LtH/b.2336161/k.1E1C/General_Conference_2008.htm.

Important opportunity to Give

Zimbabwe, once considered the breadbasket of Africa, is now in ruins. There is no food on the store shelves, no fuel for transportation, no medicines, and only a few left to care for the one million orphans falling prey to the effects of poverty. Grandmothers and aunts who have been caring for the children are now succumbing to hunger and disease. The AIDS crisis is worsening as is the incidence of malaria, TB, water-borne illnesses and malnutrition.

You can make a difference. You can stand in the gap with the UMC of Zimbabwe to be a beacon of hope to the people. You can help people know that God has not forgotten them. With your support people will be fed, the church will be a place of refuge and comfort. This appeal gives us the opportunity to help those caring for the children, who themselves are hungry and often sick. Please write your check to Central Texas Conference UMC with “Zimbabwe emergency aid” written in the memo line and mail attn: Jennifer Coggins, Central Texas Conference UMC, 464 Bailey Ave., Fort Worth 76107. Please visit the conference website (www.ctcumc.org) to download more information.

Campus ministers/chaplains want to meet your students

September brings a new semester/year for college/university students. Your cooperation is needed for the Wesley Foundation and United Christian Fellowship units at schools/universities in the Central Texas Conference and beyond — and the two universities where we have chaplains — who would like to meet the students from your congregations who will be attending their schools. They want to help young people who have grown up in your churches to continue growing in their faith and have a "home away from home" while in college on their campuses. Campus ministers want to personally invite them to participate in their ministries that include worship, small groups, service projects, leadership opportunities, and lots of good fellowship. Please send their contact information to via email to the appropriate addresses below. Any contact information that you can send would be appreciated. Even if you only have their name, send that so they might be contacted them through the schools’ databases.

University of Texas: mail@texaswesley.com

Baylor University: baylorwesley@yahoo.com

Texas Christian University: l.d.churchman@tcu.edu

Hill College: unitedchristian@clearwire.net

University of Texas-Arlington: wesfnuta@swbell.net

Navarro College: ucfnav@earthlink.net

Tarleton State University: tsuwesley@earthlink.net

Weatherford College: jimatwesleyfound@yahoo.com

Texas Wesleyan University: gchilds@txwes.edu

Southwestern University: mckinnej@southwestern.edu

Thanksliving 2007 — World Hunger/Poverty (UMCOR #982920)

World Hunger/Poverty is a program that assists millions of people who suffer from chronic malnutrition.

80% of the funds are used to alleviate hunger and poverty outside the United States and 20% within the U.S.

Through the World Hunger/Poverty program, the UM Committee on Relief (UMCOR) not only supplies food for hungry people, but also helps poor countries move forward with development. Seeds, tools and training are provided to enable people to grow their own food. This program combines immediate crisis relief (food, clothing and medical supplies) with long-term solutions (clean water, immunizations, enhanced agriculture and advocacy for appropriate public policies) to bring hope to people in despair. Since 1940, UMCOR's mission - providing relief in disaster areas, aiding refugees and confronting the challenge of world hunger and poverty - has helped to heal the hurts of humanity in nearly 100 countries. Tax deductible donations to UMCOR may be sent through your local UMC. Submit all donations on a remittance form to: Conference Office, P.O. Drawer 99087, Fort Worth 76199. Please indicate that your donation is for Thanksliving 2007. UMCOR’s administrative costs are funded primarily by undesignated.

Events-Opportunities

Fall Leadership Summit focuses on smaller churches

This year’s Fall Leadership Summit, scheduled for 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 8, at Central UMC in Waco, will focus on smaller-membership churches although several workshops are appropriate and beneficial for churches of all sizes. The keynote speaker for the morning program will be Julia Kuhn Wallace, director of Small Membership Church Ministry for the General Board of Discipleship, who will help congregations be more relevant in their communities. She and others will conduct the afternoon workshops on:

“Strengthening the Small Membership Church” — Julia Kuhn Wallace

“Mom, Can We Go to Sunday School” — Barbara Bruce, educator in the PowerXpress curriculum and author of 7 Ways of Teaching Bible to Children

“Re-Discovering Our Greatest Unrealized Potential: Senior Adult Disciple Growth Within Small Membership Congregations — Dan Bonner, vice president of development at Wesleyan Homes and part-time associate pastor for evangelism and development at Wellspring UMC, Georgetown

“Giving a Meaningful Invitation: Providing an Opportunity for People to Follow Jesus” — Bishop Richard C. Looney, Episcopal director of the UMC’s Foundation on Evangelism

“Effective Missions in Your Own Community” — conference mission leadership to include Dr. Doyle Allen, Jeff Jones, Rev. Dawne McAlpin and Teresa Sherwood.

For more details or to register visit www.ctcumc.org or contact Susan Briles at 871-877-5222, 800-460-8622 or susan@ctcumc.org.

Meeting the Challenge of Large Church Ministry
A national gathering for first-time senior ministers of large-membership churches, sponsored by Memorial Drive UMC in Houston and the Large Membership Church Initiative of the General Board of Discipleship, will be held Sept. 21-24 at Memorial Drive, Houston. For more details, visit www.mdumc.org and click on the information link.

Attention Youth Workers!
Ignite is here– register now! A Senior High retreat focused on “acceptance.”
Sept. 15 & 16 at Glen Lake Camp. Cost is $46.
Ignite starts at 11 a.m. on Saturday and ends at noon on Sunday.
Get more info at www.ctcumc.org on the students page.
Register at www.glenlake.org.

UM: A Black Church Consultation

“United Methodists: A Black Church Consultation” is a project of the Urban Ministries Committee of the Conference Outreach Mission Council. The program, which will be held Friday-Saturday, Oct. 19-20, at St. Andrews UMC (522 Missouri, Fort Worth 76104), will be a time of celebration through worship and dialogue with seven distinguished leaders in ministry:

• Dr. James Hal Cone, the Charles A. Briggs Distinguished Professor of Systematic Theology at Union Theological Seminary, will present two messages over the two days — “The Black Church Predicament” inviting participants to identify the issues and “Theological Perspective on the Black United Methodist Church/Where Do We Go From Here?”

• Dr. Chester R. Jones, district superintendent with the Arkansas Conference and immediate past General Secretary of the General Commission on Religion & Race

• Rev. Felicia P. Hopkins, associate pastor at St. Mark’s UMC in El Paso with valued experience in the secular corporate world and as a chaplain in the U.S. Army reserves, will present “A Fresh Look Toward the Future”

• Rev. Tyrone D. Gordon, senior pastor at St. Luke Community UMC, a Dallas congregation with a membership of over 5,000, will lead worship

• Bishop Ben R. Chamness, Episcopal leader of the Central Texas Conference, will give the opening address on Saturday followed by Dr. William B. Lawrence, dean of Perkins School of Theology, who will share his remarks

• Dr. Evelyn L. Parker, associate professor of Christian Education at SMU Perkins School of Theology, and Dr. Austin Frederick, assistant to the Episcopal office and Connectional Ministry director for the Southwest Texas Conference, will participate in panel reflections along with the plenary speakers

The target audience for this event is clergy, laity, seminary students, professors, African-Americans and other church leaders seeking to discern the calling of God for these times for the Black UMC. The consultation will address:

• Issues dealing with the Black UMC relationship and the greater African-American community

• Issues surrounding the decline of the Black Church membership or the lack of church growth

• The Black Church challenge since the merger of 1968 (dissolution of the Central Jurisdiction)

• Theological reflections on the Black encounter in the UMC

• Strategies for future action

• Issues of inclusiveness and diversity in the UMC

• Traditional role of the African-American worship experience vs. other cultural worship experiences

• Refocusing on what African-Americans bring to the table

• Ways to recapture the African-American spiritual vitality in the UMC and the rest of the story …

For more details and a registration form, visit the conference website www.ctcumc.org and click on “Black Church Consultation.”

UMW Burning of the Candle – 2007

Each year at the Central Texas Conference Annual Meeting of United Methodist Women, there is a ceremony called BURNING OF THE CANDLE. Money in any amount is given before the meeting - by units, executive committees, or individuals - in honor of someone: a relative, friend, minister, unit, officers, etc. or in memory of a deceased relative or friend. The money collected is used to fund the total mission program. In 2007 it will cost $32.04 to support the total mission program for one minute. (The amount changes each year.) A candle for each district is burned for the exact time that each district has funded a portion of the mission program. Information that is requested on the form (except the amount given) is printed in a book to be distributed at the Conference Annual Meeting. BURNING OF THE CANDLE money is not counted as part of the pledge for the units or individuals, but is "above pledge" or "second mile" giving. Contact; 254-778-7051 or jnolen5221@sbcglobal.net)

A Black Church Consultation
A project of the Urban Ministries Committee is scheduled for October 19th and 20th at St. Andrews UMC in Fort Worth. A brochure is attached for your consideration.

Pastoral care program

King's Daughters Hospital will offer the "Equipping Church Members for Pastoral Care Conference at the Harris Community Center in Belton in October. For information, contact Vic Killian at 254-771-8699. The program is designed to help elders, deacons, eucharistic ministers and others in the churches who are involved in care of those who are ill and their families. The keynote speaker will be Dr. Paul Powell, retired dean of Truett Seminary at Baylor University.

Survivors of Suicide support group
Survivors of Suicide, or “SOS,” is a grief recovery group for family members and friends who have had a loved one die by suicide. A new Survivors of Suicide support group will be starting in September. This is an eight-week program that will meet one evening per week for two hours. Following the completion of the series, there is a monthly “Next Step” support group that group members can participate in. The group will meet at First UMC (800 W. Fifth St., Fort Worth, 76102). For more information, please call Larry Grubb at 817-339‑5098.

UM Men planning ahead for 2008

The CTC UM Men will sponsor a men’s retreat Feb. 1-2 at Glen Lake Camp. Conference men are invited to be inspired by learning how to become a “Fisher of Men” by:

• Becoming enthusiastic about fishing

(Are you excited about men’s ministry?)

• Fishing the right lake

(Are you targeting the right audience?)

• Choosing the right equipment (rods, reels, bait)

(Are your programs stale? Do you need better lures?)

• How to get the fish into the boat

(How to we get more men involved?)

• Why catch and release is good

(How can we get men to become more effective Christian leaders at home, work and church?)

UMM General Secretary David Adams of Nashville will be keynote speaker. Together the group will explore how to build and enhance men’s ministry in our local churches. Friday will feature an optional golf scramble at Squaw Valley Golf Course in Glen Rose. For more information contact Donnie Sherwood at

(817) 332-5522, ext. 204 or dsherwood@irr.com.

Senior Adults Gather at Mount Sequoyah
Senior adults from around the South Central Jurisdiction will gather at Mount Sequoyah Conference & Retreat Center in October for the annual retreat Leaves of Gold, a retreat that gives senior adults the opportunity for worship, learning, spiritual renewal, fellowship and fun. This conference offers various workshops on today’s environmental issues, ministry opportunities, hobbies, music, recreation and aging issues. Off campus outings offered this year are a fall train ride and a tour of a historic house museum. For more information and a registration form please check the website: www.mountsequoyah.org or call 800-760-8126.

Session 1 - October 15-18: Features David Lux preaching, Alicia Opoku, worship leader, both from St. Paul UMC in Lincoln, Neb., and David Hawkins, Greenwood UMC Bible study leader.
Session 2 - October 22-25: Features Robert E. Long preaching, from St. Luke’s UMC, Oklahoma City, Charles Horton, Lawton district superintendent, Bible study leader, and Edna Morgan, Pine Bluff, worship leader.

Dave Ramsey's Financial Peace University at Alliance UMC
Debt is all around us. And it is in your church, too. More than 70 percent of Americans live paycheck to paycheck. Over 35 percent of Christian marriages end in divorce, and money problems are the number one cause. Dave Ramsey has a long history of helping families successfully confront these problems head-on. This is a Biblically-based accountability program that teaches you to manage God's money and resources, to eliminate debt, build wealth, and give like never before. On average, families reduce their debt by $5,300 and save $2,700 in just 91 days.

Financial Peace University consists of a 13-week video curriculum taught by financial expert Dave Ramsey that incorporates small-group discussions to encourage accountability and discipleship. The class will be held at AUMC on Mondays, Sept. 10 thru Dec 3, 6:30pm - 8:30pm. The cost is $89.95 per person (spouses free). Come to a Preview session on Mon, Aug 27, 6:30pm - 7:30pm to see if this is a program for your family. Payment will be collected at the Preview. RSVP to Sandi Mitchell (sandimitchell@sbcglobal.net or 817.281.3741). What could the People of God do for the Kingdom of God if they were debt free?!

2008 New Church Start – East Mansfield

Want a hard job? Want a challenge? Would you like being a pastor with no money, no members, no land, no building but a great future and great possibilities? Does the possibility of being a founding pastor and helping set the DNA of a new church in the conference appeal to you? Can you relate to people who are not currently active in any church and to people who don’t have a church home? Do you have a passion for reaching new people for Christ?

Pastors, if this job description appeals to you, send your application to allen@ctcumc.org. Applications should state in no more than one page why you would like to be considered by Bishop Chamness, Cabinet and Church Growth & Development to start a new church in East Mansfield in June of 2008. Got questions? E-mail Allen Goss at allen@ctcumc.org or send snail mail to Allen @ 464 Bailey, Fort Worth 76107. Applications must be received before Oct. 1, 2007. Existing churches that feel called to help sponsor the new church start in East Mansfield in June of 2008 may also send applications to allen@ctcumc.org. Applications must be received before Oct. 1, 2007.

Annual Stewardship Development Programs that Really Work

The Central Texas Methodist Foundation will host a workshop on “Annual Stewardship Development Programs that Really Work” 10 a.m. – 12 noon Aug. 25 at the Conference Center (464 Bailey, Fort Worth 76107). There is no charge, but reservations are required — call 800-333-4096 or e-mail kathy@ctmf.org. This specific workshop is designed for pastors and committees of stewardship and finance. The ministry of stewardship development is most effective with a dedicated committee sharing the responsibilities and involving the whole congregation. Three of the most successful stewardship programs currently used by churches will be discussed and all the components of each program. One of the three programs is sure to be a good fit for your church.

"Journey to True Financial Freedom"
One of the most significant sources of stress for families and individuals is financial issues. Although these problems arise for a variety of reasons, many are due to the mishandling of income and expenses. Many individuals and families simply do not know how to handle money because they did not have a good example in their own family, or were never taught basic financial issues. Fortunately, there is a way we can help people cope with daily financial decisions.

St. Andrews UMC, Arlington is sponsoring a special seminar by Crown Financial Ministries, “Journey to True Financial Freedom,” on Saturday, Aug. 25. The seminar will be taught by an instructor from Crown Financial Ministries, a non-denominational ministry. The emphasis behind the seminar is to teach participants how to bring the financial area of their lives under God’s control. It is a practical seminar that focuses on application and is applicable to individuals and families of all income levels. The seminar has resulted in changed lives, as people dedicate themselves to living God’s principles of stewardship. Registration information can be obtained by contacting St. Andrew’s UMC by phone (817-465-3043) or by clicking on the link on our website at www.sa-umc.org. If you have questions, please contact the church office.

“Creative Worship” and “Design Matters” workshops by Midnight Oil Productions

Community of Hope UMC (1800 E. Debbie Lane, Mansfield 76063) will host two workshops featuring Len Wilson and Jason Moore of Midnight Oil Productions. They will be held from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sept. 17 and 18. “Creative Worship” will be presented the first day and “Design Matters” the second day. For more info or to register for either or both events: http://www.midnightoilproductions.com/seminar/mansfield.php.

• Sept. 17 - “Creative Worship”

Anyone who has seen an “excruciating” PowerPoint presentation in worship knows that for many churches new digital media has nothing to do with new energy and creativity in worship. The real story in worship now is not the use of screens, but how screens and other forms of media come together to create powerful experiences of God. These four sessions, based on Wilson and Moore’s books of the same names, invite participants to explore what happens next with cutting-edge thinking on metaphor, design and media creation, team planning, and much more.

• Sept. 18 – “Design Matters”

This hands-on workshop will take your visual savvy to an entirely different level as you sit with the Midnight Oil guys and learn how to create powerful media for worship. The day is a mix of fresh ideas and techniques that you can learn, take home and use right away. The seminar is designed for specialists in the area of image, video, design, and technology. Whether a pastor, worship leader / musician, media person, or artist, whether staff or volunteer, you will leave the day with a long list of new things to try, websites to visit, and techniques to implement. Most importantly, you'll leave excited and energized about communicating the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Good Times and Happy Days!
Music of the Fabulous 50’s and the Sensational 60’s!
Hamburger Dinner (the works!)
6 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 18, in the Great Hall at First UMC Arlington (313 N. Center St., Arlington).
www.ArlingtonMethodist.org

For information and general admission tickets contact: Kathy or Judy at metro 817-265-0211 no later than Tuesday, Aug. 14!

Trout Fishing in America
Trout Fishing in America, a popular singing duo, is coming to Acton UMC Saturday, Aug. 25, with a performance at 4 p.m., followed by a fish fry. Kids, parents and grandparents will LOVE this Grammy-nominated duo who sing such favorites as “My Hair Had a Party Last Night,” “18 Wheels on the Big Rig,” and “The Coffee Pot Song.” Think Gilbert and Sullivan meet the Smothers Brothers with Shel Silverstein! For more details, contact Suzanne Cate, minister of music and worship, at 817-326-4242.

Items of interest from the Board of Ordained Ministry

The Board voted in February to change the deadlines for Spring Interview paperwork to the following:
   • Annual deadline to request an interview with the BOM — was Aug. 1 postmark
   • Annual deadline for BOM to send out interview materials — Sept. 1 postmark
   • Annual deadline to submit interview materials — Jan. 15 postmark
Application form to request an interview is available on the Board’s website, www.ctcbom.org, under the Policies and Forms and Candidacy Information links.

During Annual Conference, the administrative office of the BOM shifted from the O.C. Armstrong Hall on the Texas Wesleyan University campus to Elizabeth Armstrong Hall. The move is for about two months in order to accommodate a renovation of “O.C. Hall.” Phone numbers and e-mail address remain the same.

Women of Faith Conference – First UMC Mansfield has 25 tickets remaining!

Ladies…..It is that time of year again! Time to head to the American Airlines Center to hear the Women of Faith speakers remind us of the Amazing Freedom God gives us. If you have not been before, this is an incredible time to worship and draw closer to God as well as fellowship with friends. It will be held 7-9:30 p.m. Friday (Aug. 24) and 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday (Aug. 25) at the American Airlines Center in Dallas. Cost: $65. To learn more about this fabulous event including lunch and hotel accommodations as well as to register for this event, please visit the following link: http://www.fumcmansfield.org/site/default.asp?sec_id=1820. Please contact Diane Odette at lizdiane@earthlink.net for more information.

Resources

Conference Resource Center

New resources highlighted at the Conference Resource Center this week are described below. There are always new resources; check them out! For these and many more resources, contact Carol Roszell at 817-877-5222 or 800-460-8622.

36 Parables. For nearly 2000 years, the parables of Christ have instructed and inspired. Now, nine of these powerful stories are retold for today’s audiences on three DVD’s each containing three parables. Each DVD in the series contains short films depicting three beloved parables in modern situations. Each DVD is approximately 15 minutes running time. 2006. DVD’s available separately. Leader’s discussion guide included.

Evangelism Resources
If your church needs resources for evangelism, there are two new free resources:
(1) Leader Guides for the "Pathways to Christ Series" [Begin with Jesus, Gifted in Christ, Learning New Habits and Understanding My Faith Journey with Christ available in packets of 25 for $10] are online now as free pdf downloads at http://www.gbod.org/evangelism/articles.asp?item_id=44040

(2) MP3 audio pod casts of Offering Christ Today articles. Follow the link for this week’s article "Offering Christ Today: Let Everybody Sing — Music for Oral Learners" at http://www.gbod.org/evangelism/articles.asp?item_id=14589 and select "Click here for audio."

Nothing But Nets T-shirts available

Cokesbury Bookstore is supporting the Nothing But Nets campaign by offering T-shirts for sale. The entire $20 goes to the purchase of a mosquito net for a family. Please stop by the store and learn more about how you can help save lives.

Jurisdictional Retreat Center opportunities

For the latest program opportunities at Mount Sequoyah, our South Central Jurisdiction retreat center, check out their current newsletter posted on their website at www.mountsequoyah.org.

Depression: Support your own support group

Depression Connection Team now has 11 groups spread out across Tarrant County. By calling Depression Connection at 817-810-9599, people may be referred to an appropriate group. If your church would like to

sponsor a support group, contact Ed Jones at the same number or email depressionconnection@ce-corp.net.

Calendar

Conference UMM’s No Man Left Behind Conference — Aug. 16-18 at First UMC, Mansfield (800-929-2536

or www.maninthemirror.org)

UMM’s No Man Left Behind Conference — Aug. 16-18 at First UMC Mansfield

Singer/Songwriter Retreat — Aug. 17-19 at Mount Sequoyah Conference & Retreat Center, Fayetteville, Ark. (www.mountsequoyah.org or 800-760-8126)

Women of Faith Conference — Aug. 24-25 at American Airlines Center, Dallas

Aging in the 21^st Century & Beyond - SCJ Leadership Training — Sept. 3-5 at Mount Sequoyah Conference & Retreat Center, Fayetteville, Ark. (www.mountsequoyah.org or 800-760-8126)

UMW College Women Retreat — Sept. 21-23 at Camp Hoblitzelle (near Midlothian)

3^rd Annual National Congregational Health Ministries Conference — Sept. 23-26 at Wichita, KS

http://new.gbgm-umc.org/umcor/work/health/events/conferences or jftruitt@comcast.net)

Globalization: The Challenge of Global Community — Oct. 14-19 at New York City www.primetimers.info)

Thanksliving Offering for “World Hunger/Poverty” — any Sunday in November

Living Faith, Seeking Justice — Nov. 1-4 at Fort Worth (contact: mharrison@umc-gbcs.org

Navigating the Single Life retreat for singles — Nov. 2-4 at Mount Sequoyah, Fayetteville, Ark. (www.sequoyahsingles.org)

Conference Marriage Retreat — Jan. 18-20, 2008 at Glen Lake Camp (contact: Karen Granderson at

817-877-5222)

Needs, Resources, Opportunities

NOTE TO LISTERS: Please contact Carolyn Stephens at Carolyn@ctcumc.org to pull your listing when your opening has been filled.

Conference Table/Whiteboard

New World UMC has a conference table (10ft L x 46.5inW x 29in H) and a Whiteboard (12ft L x 4ft W) that are in need of a new church home. If you are interested in one or both of these items at no charge, please contact the New World church office, 817-460-4212, no later than August 23.

Part-Time Pianist

First UMC Bertram seeks a part-time pianist. Sunday services are at 9:30 a.m. each Sunday with choir practice at 6:45 p.m. Wednesday. Bertram is a friendly congregation conveniently located 26 miles from Lakeline Mall in Austin and 26 miles from Georgetown on Hwy. 29. Duties include working as a team with the choir director and pastor to bring about a meaningful worship experience through music with hymns, preludes, postludes, and special music. Organ experience is a plus. Contact: Chris Bistline at 512-743-9587or ccbistline@yahoo.com for further information.

Children's Director—Georgetown Area
Wellspring UMC, a fast growing 10-year-old church on Georgetown's West Side, seeks a full-time children's director. Experience in working in churches and knowledge of the UMC very important. Education in childhood development, ability to work with both parents and children, and keen ability for programming is critical. Good salary and benefits. Fax resume to Gary Whitbeck at 512-863-4089, or email whitbeckg@wellspringgeorgetown.org

Administrative Assistant

The Wesley Foundation at Texas Christian University (2750 W. Lowden, Fort Worth 76109-1722) has an immediate opening for an administrative assistant.

General office duties, office management and bookkeeping

Required: Computer skills (MS Word, Publisher, Access, Outlook, Quicken)

Supervising of office work students and office organization

Oversee building use, scheduling and custodial staff

Reliable transportation for errands

Work with program assistant, Bible study leader, Student Leadership Team to provide office and administrative support

Flexible hours but must be available Thursday afternoons and evening until 6:30pm to help with meal set-up and clean up.

Ability to maintain confidential or sensitive information

The administrative assistant performs administrative and secretarial duties to meet deadlines and maintain quality standards. This position coordinates the efforts of other staff and manages the office and must be able to take initiative to complete tasks. The position requires interpersonal skills necessary to work with college age students and a commitment to the ministry of the Wesley Foundation to serve students. The qualified applicant must be willing to faithfully represent and carry out the mission, goals, and spirit of service embodied by the Wesley Foundation at TCU and the UMC. For application and complete job description, please contact Lindsey Churchman at 817-924-5639, 817-921-5639 fax, or Methodist@tcu.edu.

Pianist for Worship
Two Fort Worth area congregations need a pianist to help lead worship through music. Worship services are 9 to 10 a.m. at Bethel UMC and 10:45 to 11:45 a.m. at Wesley UMC. There is one choir practice per week except in summer. Needed is an energetic, self-motivated, talented musician to play for worship and help the choir learn music. Please call Patti Waser at 817-246-1242 or 817-313-1021.

Youth Director

Western Hills UMC, Fort Worth seeks part time (10 – 15 hours a week) youth director. This position will be supported by a church that provides a healthy atmosphere for young people to grow spiritually and to have a safe and fun place to gather. This location gives provides an opportunity to minister to a multi- cultural community. If you feel that this might be your calling, please email pastor@westernhillsumc.org or call Landy Senter at 817-244-1153.

WANTED: VBS Materials

Left over materials from VBS, "Soaring to New Heights, are request by Temple Hall UMC, Granbury Aug. 13-17. Contact Helen Jones at 817-594-7940. Thanks for anything!

Part-Time Assistant Children's Director

First UMC Hurst seeks an energetic, creative person who is passionate about ministry with children and families to fill the part-time position of assistant children's director (20-25 hours/week). Good communication and organizational skills are important as this position involves working with children, parents, and volunteers, along with/for the children's minister in an established children's program of over 400 families. Primary responsibilities would be leading preschool children's worship, working with younger children's Sunday school classes and teachers, family ministry activities, along with other projects that involve children and families. For more information, contact Holly Dittrich (formerly Holly Brothers), minister to children and their families, at 817-428-9301, ext. 27 or hdittrich@fumchurst.org.

Full-Time Director of Student Ministries

Stephenville First UMC seeks a spiritually grounded, energetic, personable self-starter with experience in building a strong, dynamic youth ministry. This church of 1250+ members is located in a college town 60 miles SW of the Metroplex, and has a youth program that is ripe for growth. Contact the Search Team at fumc@our-town.com. Salary negotiable and competitive.

Worship Leader

The Journey, a new UMC being planted in Abilene, seeks worship leader with gifts and abilities to create a worship environment so that transformation takes place. Leader must demonstrate ability to start, train, develop, and lead a band that would facilitate an atmosphere whereby people can connect with the Divine. Past church (or parachurch) leadership experience is essential as well as devotion to Christ. Monthly preview services begin in September and weekly services will begin in January 2008. The position offered is currently part-time but has potential of being full-time if applicant is capable and willing to perform other church functions. Music will be contemporary in style, but will include both hymns and contemporary songs similar to those by Chris Tomlin and David Crowder Band. For more information, e-mail Bailey Barkley at baileydbarkley@yahoo.com.

Part-time Choir Director
First UMC in Springtown, a growing congregation in an exploding community about 30 minutes northwest of Fort Worth, seeks a part-time choir director. Candidate must be able to direct the chancel choir and lead in worship for 2 services on Sunday mornings. This position will require 5-10 hours per week. Resumes and inquiries may be submitted to Kory Koch, khkochk98@gmail.com or 817-523-7874.

Music Director – Georgetown

St. John’s UMC in Georgetown, Texas seeks a part-time music director to give leadership to a diverse music ministry program which includes vocal, handbell and instrumental groups. Experience required; degree in music preferred. Salary will be commensurate with education and experience. Send or fax resume and any other appropriate supporting documentation to St. John’s UMC, Attn: Kent Marrs, 311 E. University Ave., Georgetown 78626 or fax to 512-869-2311.

Coordinator of Children & Youth Ministry

Aldersgate UMC Arlington has established this new position to better serve their neighbors by rejuvenating their children and youth ministry. The largely Hispanic neighborhood is filled with children of all ages who need direction and encouragement to become part of the church. Building on successful outreach programs such as HOPE after school tutoring and English as a Second Language classes, Aldersgate will now focus on door-to-door recruitment of children and youth in the immediate East Arlington area. This staff leader, under the direction of the senior pastor, will help develop the plan, implement the program and be responsible to carry out the mission. Interested applicants should be a committed Christian, innovative and energetic, and be sensitive to the impact of change on a mature congregation that has responded to this call to mission. Spanish and English fluency is required, as well as a background check. Present funding supports a part-time position (about 20 hrs/week). Contact Pat Reddy, ereddy@sbcglobal.net for an application form and job description.

Director of Education

Wellspring UMC in Georgetown seeks a full-time director of education. If interested, please contact Gary Whitbeck at 512-930-5959 or email resume to whitbeckg@wellspringgeorgetown.org.

Executive Director

Arlington Urban Ministries is an outreach ministry of the Arlington area UM churches and provides individualized assistance to families in crisis or in transition. AUM provides financial assistance to clients for utilities, rent, medical needs and prescriptions. We also operate a small pantry to supply our clients with food, toiletries and baby items. Our client counts have increased by over 300% and our financial assistance by over 500% since 2001. AUM operates a resale shop as one of our primary funding sources. AUM seeks an executive director who will be the chief staff member and will be responsible for the professional leadership and management of the organization. The executive director will report to the Board of Directors and will be responsible for providing the means for accomplishing the vision, direction, and growth for AUM as established and periodically modified by the Board. The executive director will provide overall leadership for fundraising, AUM’s visibility in the community, organizational development, and financial oversight. The executive director will also be responsible for overseeing the programs of the organization. Send resume to: Curtis Arnold, Personnel Committee Chair, Arlington Urban Ministries, 701 Dugan St., Arlington 76010.

Full-Time Director of Youth Ministries

Trinity UMC, Arlington seeks an experienced and committed Christian to fill the position of director of youth ministries. Trinity is a 3,300-member congregation with an active program of ministry to students from 7^th grade through 12^th grade. Responsibilities for this ministry include facilitating junior high and senior high Sunday school, Sunday evening and Wednesday evening youth programming, and summer youth activities including youth mission trips. The position also involves involvement in seasonal activities and programs for youth and their families. Candidates should be eager team players who can work well with a Youth Council and other volunteers in reaching out to continue to grow a dynamic youth ministry program. Candidates should also be able and willing to accept supervision and leadership from clergy staff. Salary is commensurate with experience, training, and education. Interested persons should email their resume with personal references to Brenda Beaver, Trinity UMC at brenda@trinityumcarlington.org, or submit by fax to 817-795-4437.

Hammond Church Organ

Hammond electric church organ for sale. Wooden cabinet and external speaker in good condition. Works fine but is disconnected. Perfect for home practice or small chapel performance. Best offer. Call Pastor Dan at 817-624-3242.

Exterior Marquee
Exterior upright marquee or illuminated signage needed for mission aid UM church in Fort Worth. Call Pastor Dan at 817-624-3242.

P-T Music Director/Pianist

Part-time music director/pianist needed for The Church of the Good Shepherd UMC in Arlington. Candidate must be able to direct and accompany choir. Responsible for music selection and leading worship for two services on Sunday mornings. Good sight reading skills are a plus. Please submit a resume to jonathangeer@sbcglobal.net <http://us.f309.mail.yahoo.com/ym/Compose?To=jonathangeer@sbcglobal.net>.

P-T Director of Student Ministries
St. Andrew’s UMC Arlington seeks a qualified person to guide, grow, and nurture their youth program. This is a part-time position, 12-15 hours per week. St. Andrew’s UMC is a multi-ethnic congregation located in South Arlington. Applicants should be comfortable working in a multi-ethnic, multi-cultural setting. For questions or to submit resumes, please contact Richard Reed at richard@sa-umc.org or 817-465-3043.

Youth Director

First UMC, Corsicana seeks a full time youth director. Applicants will need to demonstrate a commitment to Christ, a passion for youth ministry, and a theology compatible with the UMC. Experience in providing a dynamic youth ministry is required. Housing is provided as a part of the compensation package. Resumes or inquiries may be submitted to mikea@fumccorsicana.org or by calling Mike Alexander at 903-874-5656.

P-T Youth Director

Eastland First UMC seek a part time Youth Director. Eastland is located 1 hour from Weatherford and 1 hour from Abilene on I20. The congregation is committed to youth ministry and a great deal of potential exists in

building the program. Salary and travel allowance are negotiable. For more information please contact the church office at 254-629-1022 or jbpatrick97@hotmail.com.

Choir Director

Silver Creek UMC seeks a part-time choir director with skills in leadership and team-building. Individuals interested in leading a growing program within a quickly-changing ministry should submit resumes to jason@silvercreekumc.org. Candidates should be available for long-term employment and be willing to adapt and grow with an expanding church.

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