February 4 2009

 

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 Tuesday in order to be e-mailed on Wednesday. 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.ctcumc.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

 

 

 

News Briefs — The Conference

 

RETHINK Church

An article in the Feb. 6 issue of Central Link newspaper announces the launching of the new RETHINK Church campaign that tells seekers there are thousands of doors leading to church and thousands more that lead church into the community. Please note, the launch date has been changed from April 22 to mid-May.

 

Annual Conference Business / Awards / Recognitions

                2009 Annual Conference Offering — Deadline Feb. 18   Each year the CTC Annual Conference receives a special offering at Annual Conference in June. The Conference Mission Ministries is accepting suggestions for any agency or cause as recipient of the 2009 Conference Offering. Requests should be submitted in writing by Feb. 18 to Doyle Allen, Director of Mission Ministries, 464 Bailey Ave., Fort Worth 76107-2153. It should include the following information:

                •  Name, address, e-mail, telephone and contact person (name, address, e-mail and telephone numbers) of the submitting organization

                •  Name and position of person submitting the request

                •  Brief description of the mission/ministry of the organization

                •  How the offering funds would be used, if selected

 

Morris Walker Award Nominations — Deadline April 20   Each year the Conference Board of Laity recognizes outstanding service and accomplishment with the Morris Walker Awards — one award to a layperson and one award to a clergy person. Conference Lay Leader Steve McIver is now accepting nominations for the 2009 Morris Walker Awards which will be announced at Annual Conference June 7-10. This award recognizes the "above the ordinary" service of lay and clergy to their local church and within the Conference and community. The award carries with it a special plaque and a $500 scholarship for continuing spiritual education. Nominations are normally a letter of recommendation signed by one or more nominators and accompanying back-up materials or other letters of recommendation. Nominations should be mailed to CTC Lay Leader Steve McIver at P.O. Box 545, Ferris 75125 or SMcIver635@aol.com. The deadline for nominations is April 20.

 

Disability Education/Awareness Leadership Grants — Deadline April 30   The Committee on Disability Concerns is accepting applications for their D.E.A.L. college grants. Their goal is to educate and create an awareness of handicapping conditions and issues with two grants to upper classmen or returning UM college student. One grant is for a student with a handicapping condition and the second to a student with a declared major in assisting individuals with handicapping conditions (i.e., special education, speech pathology, hearing/visual impairment, social work, counseling, physical/occupational therapies, etc.). For more details, visit the conference Web site at www.ctcumc.org or contact Jane Gates at jane@pasotx.com or 254-853-2976.

 

Merit, Stephens and Brown Scholarships — Deadline April 30   The Conference Higher Education Task Force is accepting applications for several scholarships to UM students. The categories are:

Merit Scholarship to a first-year student attending a UM-related college or university (amount of scholarships to be determined by conference wide contributions to the 2008 Student Day offering)

Stephens Scholarships for a UM student majoring in business or accounting ($1,000)

Stephens Scholarship for a UM student majoring in journalism or public relations ($1,000)

Dr. G. Alfred & Opal Brown Ministerial Scholarship for a student planning for ministry as an elder in the CTC at seminary approved by the UM University Senate ($5,000)

For more details about each of these scholarships, please visit the conference Web site at www.ctcumc.org/page.asp?PKValue=930 after Friday, Feb. 6.

 

Bishop’s Scholarship to Lon Morris — Deadline March 15   Each year Lon Morris College extends this scholarship opportunity to bishops around the world for a student from their area entering Lon Morris. The application process requires a letter of recommendation from the student’s pastor as well as a letter of introduction from the student that details their involvement in school and community, why they have chosen Lon Morris and what they hope to gain in their education there. They should be sent to Bishop Mike Lowry, 464 Bailey Ave., Fort Worth 76108. The presentation will be made at Annual Conference June 7-10.
 

                ATTN: Perkins Alumni — Organizers are compiling an updated and accurate database for all area Perkins alums in order to communicate more affectively for the meeting at Annual Conference, send periodic newsletters, give important updates from Perkins, etc. Please contact Robert Kenji Flowers (Perkins Alumni Council rep for CTC) with all your current info to: robkenjium@gmail.com.  Also, if you know any retired CTC clergy who are Perkins alums, please send their info as well. You can see the updates on the renovations at Perkins at www.smu.edu/theology/. They have webcams and pics of the progress. Plan to attend our breakfast at Annual Conference!

 

Free Scholarship/Loan Money From GBHEM!
The General Board of Higher Education & Ministry Scholarships Office is now accepting online applications! Students may go to http://www.gbhem.org/ or http://clicks.skem1.com/v/?u=4691ff8aba16070df63faa23f50c7464&g=120&c=2214&p=cbe170dd02a19c92b34951fb279980d8&t=1 and complete an application from their home computer. They will then receive an email detailing the additional steps to complete the process. The Loans Office went "live" last May; the Scholarships Office went "live" Jan. 5.  In 2008 the Scholarships Office awarded more than $4.5 million to 3,200 plus students. GBHEM is expecting a record number of applicants this year and strongly urges students to complete the application process early, rather than waiting until the deadline date.

 

Christian Video Licensing Renewal — Deadline Feb. 20
It is time for the CTC to renew its umbrella policy for video licensing.  If your church would like to participate with this policy, please contact Susan Briles at susan@ctcumc.org,  800-460-8622 or 817-877-5222.  The cost to enroll is $180 and the policy renewed Feb. 2 and expires Feb. 1, 2010.  Please consider the following as to whether or not your church should participate:  Pre-recorded home videocassettes or DVDs, those commonly available in retail or rental stores and those offered from the conference resource center, are intended for personal home use only. These videos and DVDs generally do not carry licenses for non-home showings and viewing outside of the home, such as in church sanctuaries, meeting rooms, classrooms, fellowship halls, etc. requires a license which specially authorizes the video to be shown regardless of there being no admission fee charged or the video having been purchased.

 

A Word From Church Growth & Development
To all shareholders, please accept CG&D’s apologies for sending out your tax statements with your first call letter and forgetting to let you know the green remittance form is no longer needed so it was not included. CG&D has your names and information on your checks. If it is a Sunday school class you are paying for, please just make sure the memo line says the name of your class.  Again, we apologize for the confusion. Thank you for your continued support. We could not do what we do without you!  

 

CTC UMVIM Coordinator to Blog about Trip to Zimbabwe & Liberia
Julie Warren, the UMVIM coordinator for the CTC, left Tuesday, Feb. 3, to assess projects in Africa. She will first travel to Zimbabwe to deliver cholera medication, research potential project sites and ministries that our congregations can support, and see the food distribution that ZOE Ministry (www.zoeministry.org) is doing on behalf of the UM Committee on Relief (www.umcor.org).  Julie will then spend time in Liberia, first assessing needs at Ganta UM Hospital and participating in a Ganta stakeholders’ meeting, and then playing a key role in a new comprehensive health plan for the UMC in Liberia. Ganta Hospital is part of UMCOR Health’s hospital revitalization program in Africa, and Liberia is a focus area for the church’s new global health initiative. Please keep Julie in your prayers and visit her blog site as she updates it with information during her trip. Her site can be found at http://missionprescription.blogspot.com.

 

UM Men Retreat This Weekend — Feb. 6-7

Late registration for the UM Men's Winter Retreat Feb 6-7 at Glen Lake is available online at First Mansfield UMC. Go to event's registration at the bottom right corner of their home page. It is important that pastor's take as many men as they can. Bishop Lowry will be the featured speaker on Saturday morning and the program will help to kick start your men's discipleship program. If your church is declining in men, money and spiritual leadership, then you need to be there. Also, please consider asking some men to go to the 10th National Gathering of UMM in Nashville July 9-12.

 

Justice For Our Neighbors Volunteer Training — Feb. 6

Justice For Our Neighbors, CTC’s UMCOR ministry for immigration legal services, will hold a volunteer training session from 9 to 11 a.m. Friday, Feb 6, at First Street Methodist Mission (801 W. First St. in downtown Fort Worth). A member of the JFON national staff will conduct the volunteer training. It will be an excellent opportunity to hear more about JFON, how our clinics work, review policies and procedures, and acquire skills necessary to help JFON's ministry with immigrants.  The morning training will be followed by lunch (provided by JFON), and then we will hold clinic for new clients from noon to 4 PM. If you have ever considered volunteering with JFON or would simply like to hear more about volunteering, please come on Feb. 6. If you are already a volunteer with JFON, come and review valuable information on policies and procedures. The training will be very educational and informative for new volunteers and current volunteers alike. You will have an opportunity to put the training to use in the afternoon as we welcome new clients to our JFON clinic site.  If your schedule does not permit you to stay for the whole day, please consider attending the training in the morning. For more information, contact Amy Spaur at 817-534-3293.

 

Clergy Tax Seminar — Feb. 12
As many know, the clergy have unique issues with taxes. That’s why the Central Texas Methodist Foundation has arranged to bring in a tax expert who has worked with clergy before for a special training event Feb. 12 at Arlington Heights UMC, Fort Worth. Take a morning to catch up with what’s new and what you need to know for taxes this year and next. The fee is $40. Clergy may register online through the partner Foundation (copy and paste:  http://www.umf-tac.org/CTMFclergy2009.html) or download the registration form and mail with payment to CTMF, 3215 West 4th St., Fort Worth 76107. Clergy may also register by phone at 817-332-1394 or 800-333-4096.

 

Spanish Immersion Weekend — Feb. 13-14

Acton UMC (3433 Fall Creek Hwy, Granbury 76049) will host the Spanish Immersion Weekend Feb. 13-14 for beginners and those who attended last year’s class and want to take the next step. Sponsored by the CTC Hispanic Ministries Office, the cost is $50/person with childcare provided upon request by Feb. 6.  For more details and to register, please contact Sam Rodriguez at 817-877-5222, 800-460-8622 or sam@ctcumc.org.

 
SCHIP/Medicaid Application Assistance Training — Feb. 20

SCHIP/Medicaid Application Assistance Training will be held from 9 to 11 a.m. Feb. 20 at St. Stephen UMC (1800 W. Randol Mill, Arlington 76012). The state of Texas has the highest percentage of uninsured children in our country. If your church would like to learn how to help families enroll in low or no-cost health insurance, please make plans to send 1-2 people to this free event. For information, contact Mary Spradlin at ssumc@sbcglobal.net or 817-460-8655.

 

3rd Annual Faith Community Leadership Summit — Feb. 24

The Department of Pastoral Care at Texas Health Resources is sponsor for the 3rd Annual Faith Community Leadership Summit Feb. 24 at Round Up Inn, Will Rogers Coliseum in Fort Worth. The program is designed to bring together faith leaders from all denominations in Tarrant and the surrounding counties to dialogue and network, to share best practices, provide needed resources and to equip leadership for the challenges of the 21st century. For more details and to register, visit www.texashealth.org/faith.   

 

Lay Speaker 6th Annual Meeting — Feb. 27-March 1

Lay Speaker Ministries will offer an introduction to lay speaking and opportunities for lay speakers to further their education and to fulfill requirements for continuing certification when they meet for their 6th Annual Meeting Friday-Sunday, Feb. 27 – March 1, at Glen Lake Camp & Retreat Center. Please visit www.ctcumc.org/page.asp?PKValue-10989 for the full listing of more than a dozen courses and opportunities. Direct questions to Susan Jett at sjett@tol-tx.com or 254-385-0130.

 

UMVIM Team Leader Training — March 1

Are you interested in learning more about being a UMVIM (Volunteers in Mission) team leader? If so, join the CTC UMVIM for an event dedicated to training future mission team leaders. There will be leadership skills taught for everyone, beginners and advanced, from 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, March 1, at Salado UMC (650 Royal St., Salado 76571). Learn tips for accident insurance, project planning, group theological reflection and much more. For questions and additional information, contact Jennifer Bellamy, director of humanitarian services, at Jennifer@ctcumc.org or 817-877-5222 / 800-460-8622.

 

United Methodist Women Spiritual Retreat — March 20-22
Join UMW March 20-22 at Lakeview Camp & Conference Center for “Becoming the Powerful Women God Wants Us to Be,” led by clergywomen Ginger Watson and Brenda Weir.  The cost is $155 for single occupancy and $125 each for two or more to a room. The price includes five meals.  Registration is Friday 4-6:30 p.m. with dinner being served from 5-6:30 p.m.  Please click here http://www.ctcumc.org/page.asp?PKValue=919 for more information and a registration form or contact Registrar Jean Nolen at 254-778-7051 or jnolen5221@sbcglobal.net.

 

CTC Spring Leadership Summit to Focus on Health & Wellness Theme — March 21

The Conference Spring Leadership Summit focuses this year on health and wellness -- TAKING CARE...of the Body of Christ – March 21 at Central UMC in Waco (5740 Bagby 76712). While this program, sponsored by the Conference’s Mission Ministries, will benefit both clergy and laity, the track on “Keeping the Flame Alive: How to Light a Candle Without Burning Yourself Out,” is geared specifically to clergy and extends over the period of three workshops. Dr. Mark DeHaven, well known for leading the GoodNEWS Project for churches of the CTC over the past four years, will present the opening plenary. In “Improving Health and the Quality of Life: Why the Church Must Lead,” he will outline the traditional connection between faith and health, and address the compelling need for people of faith to take an active leadership role today in reducing the growing worldwide epidemic of chronic disease. Participants will spend the remainder of the day with four workshop choices listed below. For more details and a registration form, visit www.ctcumc.org. The workshop choices:

                •  Keeping the Flame Alive: How to Light a Candle Without Burning Yourself Out (CLERGY)

                •  Growing Healthy Children

                •  Living the Last Third Fully and Ending the Race Well

                •  Spiritual Practices for an Integrated Life

                •  Community Gardening: The Act of Inspiring/Transforming Communities Through Gardening

                •  Feed the Body, Free the Mind

                •  You Gotta Have Heart

                •  Special People, Special Needs

                •  When Winter Comes: Hospice and Palliative Care: Death Is a Part of Life

                •  The Recovering Church

 

Cover the Uninsured Week / How to Get Involved — March 22-29

An estimated 50,000 children in Tarrant County alone qualify for SCHIP/Medicaid but are not receiving benefits because they are not enrolled. The Tarrant County SCHIP Coalition is seeking locations for SCHIP/Medicaid enrollment events. If your church would like to sponsor and promote an enrollment event, the coalition can provide training and/or bilingual staff to facilitate the event. For information, contact Mary Spradlin at ssumc@sbcglobal.net or 817-460-8655.

2009 Hunger Ministry Grant Applications — Due March 31
Through the generous contributions from CTC churches to last year’s Thanksliving Offering, the CTC Task Force on Hunger will be able to fund ministries initiated by congregations that address hunger in our communities. If your congregation would like to initiate or build capacity for a ministry that fights hunger locally, please download the grant application at www.ctcumc.org/hunger and return it to the conference office by March 31. Applications will be reviewed and awards made in April. The task force looks forward to learning about your developing programs and the blessings they will provide to your communities.

 

CTCYM 2009 Online Registration

The CTC Youth in Mission 2009 online registration for individuals is now open at www.ctcym.org.  Individuals have the option of reserving their spot with a $100 deposit, or pay the full price all at once. Be sure to register early to take advantage of early-bird discount.  

 

Only 2 More Previews Events / 20% Discount on VBS Resources
This month and next, Joyce Brown, Cokesbury curriculum consultant will offer a number of hands-on previews of Cokesbury’s 2009 Vacation Bible School --- CAMP E.D.G.E. (Experiencing and Discovering God Everywhere). A 20% discount will be given on all VBS resources ordered at these events. The remaining dates are listed below. For more details contact Joyce Brown at 817-249-2526 or joyce@danbrownart.com.

•  Sunday, Feb. 8, at First UMC in Belton (205 E. 3rd Ave, Belton)

2-5 p.m. workshop on "Curriculum Choices for Children: VBS, Sunday School and More" as

part of Temple District Training Day. The 20% discount will be given on all orders placed that

day for Cokesbury’s 2009 VBS—Camp E.D.G.E.
•  Sunday, Feb. 22, at Lorena UMC (205 S. Bordon) from 3 to 5 p.m.

 

Talent Bank Forms

Have you filled out a Talent Bank Form? The form, available online at http://www.ctcumc.org/talent_bank.asp is used to fill conference positions of leadership on boards, commissions, task forces, etc. This is your opportunity to let those involved with the nominations process know of your specific area(s) of interest.

 

What Is Your Story? Find Out at Glen Lake This Summer!
Get your summer vacation plans taken care of early and visit http://www.glenlake.org/summer for dates, online registration & more information. Volunteer forms are also available by visiting http://www.glenlake.org/volunteer.

 

Young Adult Mission Trip to Aldersgate — March 26-29

The Conference invites all college-age and young professionals to participate in a mission trip to Aldersgate Enrichment Center, a ministry dedicated to meeting the needs of physically and mentally challenged adults by providing employment opportunities and life skills training. Download a trip participant packet at www.ctcumc.org/umvim and direct questions to Jennifer Bellamy (Jennifer@ctcumc.org) or Joy Roberson (Joy@ctcumc.org) or at 817-877-5222 or 800-460-8622. Come to Early, located just outside Brownwood, to learn about this outreach ministry right in our own backyard.

 

 

 

News Briefs — The Denomination

 

Update Your Interpreter Subscriptions List!
Interpreter Editor Kathy Noble addresses pastors and church leaders: Have you submitted your list of church leaders to receive Interpreter magazine in 2009? If not, it’s not too late. If you’re not certain, please check. Be certain that your congregation has updated its list of leaders to receive World Service Fund-paid subscriptions to Interpreter magazine in 2009. If there is any question as to whether or not you have updated your list or if it has been received at United Methodist Communications, please call our Customer Service team, 888-346-3862, or drop a note to interpreter@umcom.org.  If you have not submitted it, please do so as soon as possible by updating it on-line, faxing, e-mailing it or sending it via postal service.
 
Each congregation is entitled to 10 subscriptions for their leaders. For help in ordering magazines for the first time, a list of leaders now receiving the magazine, assistance with on-line enrollment or anything else, please call Customer Service at UMCom 888-346-3862, or e-mail interpreter@umcom.org.  If you are unfamiliar with Interpreter, please let us know, and we will provide a way for you to preview a copy.

 

Kenya Famine: Survey Warns of Starvation Without Intervention

NAIROBI, KENYA - Without immediate, massive intervention and assistance, starvation in Kenya will become a deadly reality, according to a new assessment report from global humanitarian agency Church World Service. The country's leaders proclaimed a national crisis on Jan. 16 , with some ten million Kenyans--nearly a third of the country's population--now being affected by food insecurity. CWS has launched a U.S. fundraising campaign  and its Nairobi-based East Africa office is responding to the growing crisis with immediate food and nutritional aid in the agricultural districts of Makueni and Mwingi in Kenya's drought-plagued Eastern Province. The effort is targeted to benefit 20,237 people.

HOW TO HELP: Contributions to support this emergency appeal may be made online at: www.churchworldservice.org/donate; by check to Church World Service, P.O. Box 968, Elkhart, IN 46515; or by calling toll free 800-297-1516.

 

Educational Opportunities Beyond Central Texas 

Weaving a Web of Connections — Feb. 21 in Little Rock

UM Communications and the Arkansas Conference are partnering to offer this training event Saturday, Feb. 21, at Philander Smith College in Little Rock, Ark. Ideal for pastors, staff, members and volunteers, this one-day training event covers the basics of Web ministry and introduces many free or low-cost tools to develop a dynamic Web presence so every local church can fulfill the mission of the church to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. 0.7  C.E.U. credit for full participation. Contac: Cheryl A. Hemmerle at 888-278-4862 or training@umcom.org.

  

Addiction Ministry Responders Conference — Feb. 23-25 at Mount Sequoyah

http://www.mountsequoyah.org/www.mountsequoyah.org/Programs_&_Events_files/Brochure%20AddictionWorkshop09pg2.pdf  A conference for all church leadership, clergy and laity, to help shape the church’s response to substance abuse problems within their communities and congregations. www.mountsequoyah.org. The registration deadline for the Addiction Responders Conference has been extended until Feb. 16. This conference is for ALL church leadership to help shape the church’s response to substance abuse problems within their communities and their congregations. For details go to www.mountsequoyah.org and click on events or call Marilyn 800-760-8126.

Small Church Leadership Institute — March 9-13 at Mount Sequoyah http://www.mountsequoyah.org/www.mountsequoyah.org/Programs_&_Events_files/08%20Small%20Church%20Flyer%20Final.pdf   A conference to equip laity and clergy with the knowledge and skills for leading their small attendance church into the future. www.mountsequoyah.org.  
 
Caring for Creation Conference — March 27-29 at Mount Sequoyah

http://www.mountsequoyah.org/www.mountsequoyah.org/Programs_&_Events_files/Final%20Brochure%2057103.pdf.  A conference designed to educate, network, and inspire faith communities to initiate, develop, and sustain stewardship programs that will protect and celebrate God’s creation. Speakers range from social justice workers to sustainability to people with backgrounds in fisheries management and business. Ray Anderson, chairman and founder of Interface, Inc., is the keynote speaker. www.mountsequoyah.org.
 

FOCUS ’09: Fearfully & Wonderfully Made — July 21-24

Mark your calendar and save the date for this quadrennial conference for workers with children will be held July 21-24, 2009 at Indianapolis, Ind.  Registration will begin this fall. (See item on Grants to Ethnic Churches under “Conference News.”)  Contact: Melanie Gordon mgordon@gbod.org. 

 

 

News Briefs — Local Congregations & Ministry Groups

 

Rediscovering Paul Seminar — Feb. 27-28

First UMC Fort Worth (800 W. 5th St.) will host a two-day seminar entitled “Rediscovering Paul,” Friday evening, Feb. 27, and Saturday, Feb. 28.  Bernard Brandon Scott, (PhD., Vanderbilt University, Darbeth Distinguished Professor of New Testament at the Phillips Theological Seminary and author of several books, including Hear Then the Parable and Re-Imagine the World) and Arthur J. Dewey (Th.D., Harvard University, Professor of Theology, Xavier University, Cincinnati Ohio and co-founder of the Healing Deadly Memories program) will lead the lecture and workshops.  The Friday evening lecture, “Will the Real Paul Please Stand Up?” will be presented from 7:30 – 9 p.m. Saturday morning workshops (9:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.) include: “Imperial Images in Stone and Song,” “Resurrection and the Body of Christ,” “Justification by Faith: What Might Paul Mean?” and “Paul for a New Day.” This seminar is presented by the Westar Institute, “Jesus Seminar on the Road.” Registration:  www.events@westarinstitute.org.  For more information, visit www.westarinstitute.org or contact Bronson Davis  at 817-763-8589. Continuing Education Credits (.5) available.  

 

Palmer Youth Mission Opportunity — June 25-28

Palmer announces PUMP 2009!  PUMP is a four-day mission weekend sponsored by FUMC Palmer for youth groups from across Texas and surrounding areas. PUMP 2009 dates are June 25-28. Youth entering grades 4-12 and adults alike are given the opportunity to serve those in need living in the Palmer area. In addition to the mission projects, there will be small group studies, meaningful daily worship, awesome music provided by Mikeschair of Nashville and many planned activities designed to help everyone let loose, experience God and have fun.  This is an excellent mission trip for first-timers and/or small youth groups.  For more information, contact Debbi Mitchell at 214-683-1501 or palmerpump@yahoo.com. Space is limited so act early so a registration brochure can be sent to you!  Sign up deadline is May 25. Come join the group and get PUMPed!

 

Speegleville UMC Chili Cook Off — Feb. 21

Speegleville UMC (606 Willow Grove, Waco 76712) will host their Annual Chili Cook Off from 5 to 7 p.m. Feb. 21. Judging will be at 4:45 p.m.  Mac and cheese, hot dogs, cornbread, drinks and deserts will also be available. Adults: $5, Children 10 and under: $3. Contacts: Wesley Perry at 254-498-9206 or Sal DiVenti at 254-848-9017.

Group Volunteer Opportunities
United Community Centers, a national mission institution of the UMC in the Central Texas Conference, has several work projects available for groups looking for a mission project in the Fort Worth area:

  • Polytechnic Center:  install chain link fence in front yard for playground area during construction
  • Bethlehem Center:
    1. Remove tree in playground overhanging garage
    2. Clean up playground area – get bushes and weeds out of fence
    3. Build and install shelving and dividers for Clothing Room
  • Wesley Center:  Build and install clothing racks and hooks for Clothing Room.

If interested, please contact UCC at 817-927-5556 and speak with Sharon Bartells or Sherry Dunn or e-mail info@unitedcommunitycenters.org.
 
Individual Volunteer Opportunities — Deadline Feb. 9
United Community Centers, Inc., a national mission institution of the UMC in the Central Texas Conference, is looking for volunteer receptionists for its administrative offices in Fort Worth. The hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday-Friday.  Please contact Rob Miller at 817-927-5556, ext. 112 or email rmiller@unitedcommunitycenters.org by Monday, Feb. 9.  

 

“The Shack” Author Wm. Paul Young Visits Breckenridge Church — March 23
Wm. Paul Young, author of the wildly popular and controversial book “The Shack,” will be a special guest in the Breckenridge community March 23. He will speak and answer questions about the book and the theology it embraces at 7 p.m. March 23 in Breckenridge High School’s Bailey Auditorium (500 W. Lindsey, Breckenridge 76424). “The Shack” has been a topic for small group discussion at many of the conference’s local churches. Tickets for the event are available at http://firstumcbrenckenridge.tix.com. There is a package deal that includes one hardback book per couple, special seating and admittance to a private reception. More details will be available soon.
 

Focus on Marriage — Feb. 28

First UMC of Waco will host Focus on Marriage: See Your Marriage Through the Eyes of God from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Feb. 28. The program, featuring Beth Moore, Gary Smalley and others, will be a live satellite broadcast. Contact: Cindy Praesel at 254-772-5630 or check the church Website at www.fumcwaco.org.

 

3rd Annual Faith Community Leadership Summit — Feb. 24

Texas Health Resources’ Dept. of Pastoral Care at Harris Methodist will host the 3rd Annual Faith Community Leadership Summit featuring Leonard Sweet from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Feb. 24 at Round Up Inn. The event brings together faith leaders from Tarrant and surrounding counties to dialogues and network, share best practices, provide needed resources and equip leadership for the challenges of the 21 century. For more details, check the Website at www.texashealth.org or contact Laura Van Hoosier at LauraVanHoosier@texashealth.org / 817-703-0432.

 

 

Resources

 

Resources from Dean McIntyre (GBOD director of music resources)

One of the most frequent requests I receive is for help in locating lead sheet versions of hymns and songs for guitar players and others who use chord symbols. Here are two good sources. You’ll find others through Google, publishers’ websites, and most music retailers.

1. There are currently 128 free downloadable lead sheet hymns and songs on the GBOD website at

http://www.gbod.org/worship/default.asp?loc_id=17,897,899&act=nav_loc

2. And this excellent collection from Abingdon, available from Cokesbury: How Sweet the Sound

http://www.cokesbury.com/forms/ProductDetail.aspx?pid=442444

How Sweet the Sound is a collection of 250+ hymns set in standard "lead sheet" format used by bands and other instrumentalists. The format consists of a melody line (no harmony) with chord symbols above (including bass notes) and lyrics of one or more verses below. It includes material from The UM Hymnal and more than 50 popular hymns and choruses from other hymnals and songbooks. The book also includes an index that lists the songs alphabetically and a chart with guitar chord grids.

Worship Web site: www.umcworship.org

 

New LOGOS Ministry E-Letter

Take a look at HEARTFELT, the new LOGOS Ministry e-letter designed for busy families who want to grow body, mind and spirit, and who want support and encouragement. Each edition will have information for parents and for children around a timely topic, and a session of "Family 'Round the Table" which will include a dinner theme and menu, activities for families to do together, a Bible study, and a framework for family prayers and worship. Subscribe by clicking http://www.thelogosministry.org/heartfelt.html.

 

Plan Your Fall Stewardship Campaign Now
Start to plan for your fall stewardship program now, not in August. This program provides all of the information to run your fall campaign the same as from a paid professional firm, BUT IT’S FREE! For information and scheduling, call Dick Swain at 817-573-7035.
 
Are You Comfortable with Your Church Finances?

Are Proper Procedures in Place?
Help is available AND IT’S FREE.  Call Dick Swain at 817-573-7035 to schedule a free session with your finance committee.  We will review budgeting, planning, all policies and procedures to keep everything on a secure basis.  An hour of your time here is a good investment!    

 

Midnight Oil Programs

The guys at Midnight Oil are recommending www.Evangelize.com as a great new site for searching video clips in worship. “We want you to know about it because we think it's a great place to go when you're not at Midnight Oil,” say Len and Jason. It's a site that focuses on quality video production, without all the extra clutter of some other sites — a site by producers and for producers.

Registration is now open for 2009 Midnight Oil seminars and conferences! Early bird registration, now in effect, offers a $10 discount for every attendee. Take advantage of this offer. Check out the confirmed slate of events below. Contact Midnight Oil at Midnight Oil Productions at news@midnightoilproductions.net.   

Mar 24-26 -- Leadership and Effectiveness Conference, Arlington TX

Mar 27-28 -- Oklahoma Conference Discipleship Training, Oklahoma City OK

May 7-8 -- 2009 Worship Boot Camp, Fayetteville AR

Aug 20-21 -- 2009 Worship Boot Camp, Plano TX

 

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 more resources, contact Carol Roszell at 817-877-5222 or 800-460-8622.

Friends. A 4-session video-driven Bible study with leader’s guide. Who are the most influential people in a student’s life? Parents, teachers and pastors would like to think they are, but students spend more time interacting with their friends than with anyone else. Friends influence every part of student’s lives. In these 4-sessions common issues are addressed: Loneliness; Peer pressure; Comparisons; Identity. 2 DVDs, leader’s guide; printable handouts and more.

 

Crime Victims Council Information at www.crimevictimscouncil.org

The new Crime Victims Council website (www.crimevictimscouncil.org), sponsored with a generous grant from Downtown Fort Worth Rotary, offers many resources. If you are a survivor who would like to share your story or pass along a word of encouragement to one of our survivors or post a picture and other information about a victim, please email your submission to encouragement@crimevictimscouncil.org.

 

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.

 

Needs, Resources, Opportunities

 

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

 

Youth Director

The First UMC of Brownwood (2500 11th St., 76801 - 325-643-1555 or 325-642-6197 - don.umc11@verizon) seeks a full-time youth director. Please contact Don Scroggs, senior minister, with questions and send resume to his attention.

 

Praise Team Leader (Part Time-20 hrs./wk)
First UMC of Keller, a growing church 25 minutes north of Fort Worth with an average attendance of 700, seeks a committed person of faith to lead musical aspects of contemporary worship in the Methodist tradition. Prior experience necessary with knowledge of contemporary Christian music and the ability to energize, motivate, and mentor people in music ministry. Responsibilities include weekly worship and staff meetings, rehearsing and leading the adult praise band in the 9:30 a.m. contemporary service, overseeing and coordinating other praise teams, and coordinating music for church functions as needed.  Strong vocal skills needed with the ability to play an instrument. Computer skills and knowledge of sound systems/techniques a plus. Salary negotiable and competitive. Send resume to David Gerig, director of music and worship at davidg@kellerumc.org or FUMC of Keller, 1025 Johnson Road, Keller 76248.  817-431-1332.  www.kellerumc.com.

 

Director of Youth Ministries
First UMC of Keller seeks a committed and dynamic person of faith as their Director of Youth Ministries. Prior experience in youth ministry is required. Salary negotiable and competitive. For more details contact the FUMC church office at 817-431-1332 or e-mail Jason Jones, executive pastor, at jasonj@kellerumc.org.  FUMC of Keller, 1025 Johnson Road, Keller 76248.

 

Church Steeple
Alliance UMC (Fort Worth) has reduced the selling price of their used steeple to $2500 or best offer (buyer pays shipping). The steeple is in excellent condition. As a reference, a new steeple of this type would cost over $22,000. The church and original steeple were built in 1995 and may be viewed at http://www.allianceumc.net.  Specifics: Height: 30’ 9,” Width at Base: 3’ 8,” Weight: 3300 lbs.  
Construction: fiberglass with lightning protection and a cross. Contact: Ken Damon at kdamon@paccar.com or 817-428-2336.

 

Church Van

Church Van for sale.  2002 Chevy 15-passenger van, 30,000 original miles, clean inside and out...$15,500...this is the one you have been looking for. Contact: 903-654-0784.

 

Part-time Organist
A growing church with vibrant, supportive music ministries and congregation, Saginaw UMC seeks a part-time organist (ca. 12 - 15 hrs/wk, including estimated practice time).  The ideal candidate will have excellent sight reading and accompanying skills. A bachelor of music degree is preferred, but not required. Responsibilities include 2 Sunday morning services and other special services (Advent, Christmas, Lent) throughout the year, adult choir rehearsals on Wednesday evenings, and playing for weddings and funerals. Saginaw is a thriving and rapidly growing Tarrant County community near Eagle Mountain Lake, accessible via Airport Fwy. and I-820 West. Send cover letter and resume: Jedda Jones, Director of Music and Creative Worship, Saginaw UMC, 209 Bluebonnet, Saginaw 76179 or email jedda@saginawumc.org.

 

Director of Music & Worship

First UMC of Burleson, a rapidly growing community near the DFW Metroplex, seeks an experienced, full-time Director of Music and Worship to oversee a comprehensive music program for adults, youth and children and to assist in the development and leadership of worship. Candidates must have demonstrated skill in choral and instrumental conducting. Candidates must also demonstrate proficiency in the development and leadership of worship, supervision of subordinate staff, and ability to work as part of a growing ministry team. Sensitivity to multiple worship styles is preferred. Salary commensurate with experience and education.  Please submit letter of application, resume and references by Jan. 29 to the attention of: Jeff Smith, Senior Pastor, First UMC, 590 NE McAlister Road, Burleson 76028.
 

Employment Opportunity
United Community Centers, a national mission institution of the UMC located in the Central Texas Conference, is looking for a housekeeper for the Wesley Center in North Fort Worth. This is a full-time position with benefits. Please contact Rob Miller at 817-927-5556, ext. 112 or e-mail rmiller@unitedcommunitycenters.org to apply.  

 

Pastor’s Library Items
Barry Payne, son of Lillie Payne of Weatherford and the late Rev. Jack Payne who served a number of congregations and as a district superintendent in the CTC, is helping his mother move to smaller quarters and hoping some folks would be interested in his father’s library. Pastors, friends and churches that would be interested in the library of the Paynes, may contact Barry at 254-797-0150 or paynebj@htcomp.net. The books range from old songbooks to books for young pastors and include many related to various religious themes such as Methodism, pastoring, travel and more.

Electric Bass Player
FUMC Colleyville seeks an experienced bass player for their praise team who has a heart for worship; previous experience with praise teams a plus. Present rehearsal times are Wednesday evenings 8:30-9:30 and Sunday morning set-up 10 a.m. with worship at 1 a.m. For more information or to apply, please contact Kallie Ritchey at 817-281-5254 or send your resume to kallie.ritchey@fumccolleyville.org.  

Director of Music Ministries/Worship Leader

Foundation UMC in west Temple seeks a dynamic, energetic person committed to Christian ministry for a part-time (20 hrs/wk) director of music ministries and worship to be responsible for the oversight of music ministries. Individual should be able to play guitar or piano and provide leadership for the Worship Team. Applicants should possess a strong knowledge of contemporary and traditional Christian music. Submit inquiries or resumes to mabeav1022@aol.com  or ryan@psalm5.org.  

 

Yamaha Organ

The Wesley Mission Center of the First UMC of Mansfield has a Yamaha Organ available FREE to a start-up church only. Contact Teresa Washington, Wesley Mission Center director, at 817-473-6650 or teresaw@fumcmansfield.org.

 

New Church Start Needs Communion Rails & Kneelers

Resurrection UMC — a new church start in Cleburne — needs small padded communion rails or kneelers.... as well as many other items as expected for a new church start such as altar table and offering plates. If you have anything they might use, please contact Pastor Victor Pena at pastorpena@att.net or 254-485 3140.

 

Child Care Center Director

Lorena UMC, located near Waco, seeks a director for the church’s Child Care Center which is open Monday - Friday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Responsibilities include: provide and supervise the Child Care Center with effective programs, work as a resource for parents and the Lorena UMC Child Care Board, recruit children, insure compliance with DHS standards in all areas, as well as administration in the areas of personnel, and finances. The Lorena UMC Child Care Board and the pastor supervise the director. Minimum qualifications are: candidate must be 21 years of age, have a high school diploma, have some form of college credit hours in child development, or a day care administrator’s credential issued by a professional organization, some college hours in business administration, and also must have a minimum of two years experience with a licensed child-care facility. For more information, or to submit a resume, please contact Christie Robbins at 254-857-4283 or pastor@lorenaumc.org.

 

Youth Minister

Wellspring UMC has an opening for a part-time youth minister.  Persons interested in applying for this position must submit their resume' to the church by Dec. 23. Resumes may be faxed to 512-863-4089 or emailed to hartmans@wellumc.org.

  

Youth Director
May UMC seeks a part-time youth director. Inquiries can be made by calling Tae Beckling at 254-259-2278 or TaeBeckling@yahoo.com.  

 

Used Golf Carts

A group from Trinity UMC in Arlington went to the “Leaves of Gold” Older Adult Retreat last week at Mt. Sequoyah, and we discovered a need that the camp has.  Mount Sequoyah, our jurisdictional retreat center in Fayetteville, Ark., has a need for additional golf carts to transport adults from building to building. If you have a used golf cart that you would be willing to donate to the facility, please contact Executive Director Sheri Altland at 479-443-4531.  There is also a fund established to purchase used golf carts, and contributions may be made to the fund.

 

Director of Youth Ministries

FUMC of Crawford is taking applications for a part time director of youth ministries.  Responsibilities include Sunday duties, mission trip, camp, and leadership camp.  If you are interested in applying, you may contact Rebecca Hull (pastor) at 254-486-2361 or 254-486-2644 or at crawfordumc@netzero.net.

 

 

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