August 10, 2006

Central E-Link

Weekly Newsletter of the Central Texas Conference

Welcome! This is the conference’s weekly update to church leaders — lay and clergy — for things you probably need to know. Information to be shared must be submitted to Carolyn@ctcumc.org by 4 p.m. Wednesday in order to be e-mailed on Thursday. Articles should be as brief with 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

2 NEW ALERTS:

Is your church ready for visitors in September — just 3 weeks off! Remember, mystery guests will be visiting many of our churches during September to measure our collective hospitality and how visitors see God through us. Mystery Guests will be looking at many things including visitor parking, handicap accessibility, helpfulness of greeters and members, avoidance of “insider” terms, how message and music focus on God, and is there an invitation to know Jesus Christ (not just join the church).

Urgent need for volunteers in New Orleans — We recently learned some of our UM churches in New Orleans will be demolished unless they are gutted by the city's deadline of Aug. 29. If you would be willing to assist with this effort at such short notice, either individually or by coordinating a team, please contact Connie Thomas at the Louisiana UM Disaster Recovery Ministry at revcthomas@bellsouth.net. You may also visit their website at http://www.laumcstormrelief.com. Please be prepared to take care of your own meals. Housing arrangements are coordinated through the Disaster Recovery Ministry. Each volunteer should plan to give $5-15 per day per person to the place where they are housed. You can also plan on donating $50-$100 per person to give to the response station for construction materials. Contact Jennifer Coggins, CTC director of humanitarian services, at jennifer@ctcumc.org or 817-877-5222 with any questions or to notify the conference office that you will be participating in this important ministry.

Near-time events:

A “Month o’ Sundays” Revival — Revival takes a new shape this year at First UMC of Waxahachie. Each Sunday throughout the month of August there will be a different emphasis with speakers, music and programs designed to revive that particular area of ministry. Here’s the line up for this weekend:

Sat., Aug. 12th - Women's Spirituality Seminar/Luncheon 9-2:30 "Hearts Directed Into God's Love" 2 Thess. 3:5 Led by Margaret Sutton - Gifted Lay Speaker and Teacher
Sun., Aug. 13th - Morning Worship - Preaching: Margaret Sutton, FUMC Cleburne - Special Music: Asbury Sunday School Class - Evening Worship 7pm in Family Life Center - Preaching: Dr. Georgia Adamson, D.S. Waxahachie District - Special Music: Morgan Lindsey/Steve Bourgeois present - "Holy Jazz." Everyone is invited!

Waco prayer conference — First UMC, Waco, will host a Waco Prayer Conference 2006 on Friday and Saturday, Aug. 18-19, at the church’s Family Life Center. The "Live a Praying Life" conference will be led by author Jennifer Kennedy Dean, and will feature a session on "The Privilege of Prayer" (6:30-8:30 p.m. Friday) for pastors and church leaders. The three sessions on Saturday will run from 8:15 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and include topics on: “The Problem of Prayer,” “The Promise of Prayer,” and “The Power of Prayer.” The registration includes materials and lunch on Saturday: $25 before Aug. 13; $30 after Aug. 13. The Saturday session will include a special free seminar for attendees' children (4 yrs - 6th grade), "Teaching Children to Pray." (A sack lunch needs to accompany each child on Saturday.) For inquiries, call 254-772-5630 X 218 or email lhammond@fumcwaco.org.

Note to layspeakers attending the Prayer Conference — Layspeakers attending the First UMC Waco prayer conference are invited to extend their stay after the conference (until 5:30 p.m.) Saturday, Aug. 19, to complete training for the advanced course Lay Speakers Lead Prayer. Dr. Sandra Oliver will lead the session for the advanced course Lay Speakers Lead Prayer.

Stephen Ministry training — First UMC Bedford extends an invitation to anyone interested in doing Stephen Ministry. Please join the next training class beginning August 17 at First Bedford. It’ll be Thursdays from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. and two Saturday mornings. It requires some reading and $50 for the books. Stephen Ministry was formed 27 years ago, and is still going strong because it’s a caring ministry that brings Christ’s healing love to people who are either hospitalized, terminally ill, grieving, homebound, in a job crisis, facing transitions, disabled, separated or divorced, lonely or experiencing other stresses in life! Direct inquiries to Rosemary Oberheu at 817-282–3160.

Missionaries/mission interpreters program (repeat) — Jerri and Bill Savuto, UM missionaries and mission interpreters for the South Central Jurisdiction, will conduct a mission education event at 3 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 13, at Acton UMC. This event is in support of global mission of the UMC and planned for district mission secretaries, mission outreach chairs, UMW presidents, mission leadership chairs; conference mission leadership team, UMW officers and committee of mission personnel; and anyone interested in exploring missionary support in the Central Texas Conference. RSVP by Aug. 7 to Dawne McAlpin, conference secretary of global ministries, at 817-326-4242 or dawne@actonumc.org.

Katrina Church Recovery Bishop’s Appeal — Bishop Ben Chamness joins other bishops in the U.S. in urging all churches to show the 7-minute Katrina Church Recovery Appeal DVD and to receive an offering for the appeal on Sunday, Aug. 27. This is the DVD shown at Annual Conference; copies are available in every district office and can be ordered through UM Communications’ toll-free customer service number at 888-346-3862. In addition to the video message, the DVD features several downloadable resources that congregations may choose to use in their appeal.

Local Church Fall Fundraisers — Plans are underway in many local churches for their annual fall fundraising events. Once again, the conference will provide a listing of these events in the Central Link newspaper (Sept. 8 issue) and on the conference website so that people may visit events beyond their own churches. Send your event information (name, date, place-including address, special attractions, etc.) by Aug. 23 to Carolyn Stephens at Carolyn@ctcumc.org or Carolyn Stephens, Central Texas Conference, 464 Bailey Ave., Fort Worth, TX 76107.

News

38 churches fulfill their 2006 “Connectional Ministry Share” faithfulness

A message from CF&A Director Harvey Ozmer: Central Texas UMs’ generous spirit is enabling the various ministries of the Central Texas Conference to live out the old hymn “We’ve a Story to Tell to the Nations.” I want to thank you for the attention so many congregations of every size are giving to our conference “Connectional Ministry Share” commitment so far this year. Your giving is an obvious reflection of your belief in the mission of Christ … that there’s a “story to tell to the nations that God sent us his Son to save us and show us that God is love.”

It is with appreciation of you that I am pleased to report that the financial receipts of the conference are up 3% over this time last year; all seven districts show a percentage increase in “Connectional Ministry Share” giving; and 12 churches join the previous 26 congregations that have completed 100% “Connectional Ministry Share” (apportionment) giving in July. The latest churches are:

• Brownwood Emmanual Chapel

• Georgetown St. Paul

• Bethel (Temple District)

• Temple St. James

• Ennis Trinity

• Sardis

• Godley

• Tonk Valley

• Graford

• Kopperl

• Tolar

• Waples

Called Executive Session of conference (repeat)

Bishop Ben R. Chamness has called a meeting of the Executive Session at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 19, at Central UMC, Waco. The purpose of this meeting is to complete some unfinished business from the June 5 meeting. The Executive Session is composed of all the clergy of the Central Texas Annual Conference. Only those who are full members of the conference (ordained elders and deacons) are able to attend and vote on matters of membership, character, and conference relationship. The only laity who may participate in the Executive Session are members of the Conference Board of Ordained Ministry.

Events-Opportunities

Fall Leadership Summit
The Fall Leadership Summit, a training opportunity for church leaders and others interested in specific ministry areas, will be held 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 9, at First UMC Hurst. The opening plenary features Dr. Marcia McFee on “The Rhythms of Liturgy and Life: Worship Dynamics and Spiritual Formation.” Participants then choose one breakout session from the areas of worship, children, evangelism, missions, or young adults. Early registration by Aug. 23 is $20/person. Contact Susan Briles for additional information at 817-877-5222 or susan@ctcumc.org. The brochure can be found on the conference website at www.ctcumc.org.

Christian concert at Joshua

Joshua First UMC will host a concert by Christian recording artist Christopher Ames (www.christopherames.com) at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 23. Chris is a long time friend of many in the Central Texas Conference. He started in the music ministry under the name Chris Rhodes but because another artist with the same name rose to prominence before he did, Chris has chosen to use his middle name Ames instead of Rhodes to dispel any confusion. Many youth and young adults met Chris at Glen Lake Camp or in one of the early groups he played in named Watermark. Chris uses his music to get to the heart of our faith and to tell the story of his journey thus far. He is a contemporary Christian combination of John Denver and Kenny Loggins with much of his music influenced by the likes of Phil Keaggy, Randy Stonehill and The Beatles. We hope you’ll mark your calendar and come support Chris in his music ministry; greet an old friend and simply be blessed by his music. A love offering will be taken to support his ministry. Chris will have CDs for sale. He will also be performing in concert on Friday, Aug. 26, at First UMC Waxahachie and Saturday, Aug. 27, at Flower Mound UMC.

Study on Public Education

Grace UMC, Arlington UMW unit will sponsor a church-wide mission study on Public Education Saturday, Aug. 26. The study leader will be Thalia Matherson, president of the North Texas Conference UMW. The event will begin at 9:15 a.m. with a light breakfast and end with a light lunch at noon. The two-hour session will satisfy the minimum study requirements to become a "Mission Today Unit." Everyone is invited. For lunch, please RSVP to Barbara Carter at barbaramcarter@gmail.com.

Woodway summer concert series

Woodway First UMC’s Summer Concert Series welcomes “Brethren” on Sunday, Aug. 20, in the 10:30 a.m. worship service and in concert at 7 p.m. Admission to the concert is free, and a love offering will be taken. Brethren is a new quartet from the greater Washington, D.C./Northern Virginia area featuring the voices of Todd Gaither, Pat Vaughn, Justin Dean and K.C. Armstrong. These exceptional musicians, all of whom have sung with the legendary Glenn Draper of Chattanooga, TN, have a common passion for sharing the love of Jesus Christ through music. Their eclectic musical selections - from Southern Gospel to hymn arrangements to the latest contemporary sounds - and their rich approach to quartet singing will warm your hearts and fill your souls! Don’t miss the last concert in our 2006 Summer Series! Contact Katy at (254)751-0411 for more information.

Hispanic-Latino/a Ministry Awareness and Opportunities

Sept. 30 — 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Glen Lake Camp
The Conference Committee on Hispanic/ Latino Ministry invites you to learn about the diverse Hispanic people and the great opportunities to be in ministry with your neighbors. Look for the brochure on the Hispanic Ministry webpage and in Entre Nos / Between Us, our conference Hispanic Ministry Newsletter later this month.

Paperwork requests for candidate/probationary member spring interviews due Sept. 1

All eligible certified candidates and probationary members seeking full connection to the Central Texas Conference must submit requests for paperwork for 2007 Spring Interviews by Sept. 1. Requests must be in the form of a written, originally signed letter stating whether the candidate is seeking elder’s or deacons orders, under which Discipline the candidate is working, and what conference relationship the candidate is seeking: commissioning as a probationary member, continuing probationary membership, recognition of orders, ordination, etc. Those seeking elder orders should address their requests to elder’s registrar Jacquetta Johnson-Chambers, and those seeking deacon orders should address their requests to Bobby Cullen. All requests should be sent to P. O. Box 121407, Arlington, TX 76012-1407. Spring Interviews are scheduled for March 28-30, 2007 at Glen Lake Camp & Retreat Center. This is a Wednesday through Friday schedule. Please contact Gala Trimble at 817-795-7120 if you have questions.

Christian recording artist at Acton UMC
Celia Whitler, Christian recording artist and author of On the Way to Somewhere ( a collection of faith stories from Celia’s encounters with amazing and ordinary people all across the USA), will be in concert on Sunday, Sept. 3 at Acton UMC in Granbury. Celia’s engaging musical style and personality endears her to all ages. The Concert starts at 5:00 p.m. and will be followed by the Last Blast Beach party with water slides, slushies, hot dogs and family fun! Bring your book for Celia to autograph. A free will donation will be taken at the door. Contact: Suzanne Cate, minister of music suzanne@actonumc.org.

Ballinger UMC Celebrates 120 years of Methodism
Beginning at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 16, Ballinger UMC (1501 Broadway 76821) will be celebrating 120 years of Methodism in Ballinger by having an Old Fashioned Camp Meeting on the church grounds. Festivities will include Cokesbury singing, silent movie showing of current building being built, horseshoes, dominos, and more. A meal of beans and cornbread will be served. Sunday worship at 10:55 a.m. on Sept. 17 will be a special service of celebration. Come and join us. This weekend is also Ballinger's Homecoming. For info e-mail Dency McClure at dency@msn.com or contact the church office at 325-365-2323.

UMME Rally Sept. 16-17

The annual UM Motorcycle Enthusiasts Rally at Glen Lake Camp will be held Sept. 16-17 for all UMME chapters to meet each other, have fun and Christian fellowship. But we always encourage attendance from all bikers, from all walks of life and all denominations to come and find out what we are about. The event starts at 10 a.m. on the 16^th. It is a great time for all who attend. UMME chapters from over the state will come and fellowship and worship together. We will be entertained this year by T.J. Smith, a singing impressionists. He has well over a 100 voices from Elvis to AeroSmith to ZZ Top. He has performed from Texas to Las Vegas! All will be entertained. There will also be motorcycle games and a ride thru Sommerville and Hood counties. The rally will end by attending the 10:50 service at Granbury First United Methodist Church on Sunday. Reservation forms are available online at www.umme.org. The cost is $60 per person; this includes one night's stay, two meals, entertainment and all the fun you can stand.

Upcoming events of the Central Texas Methodist Foundation:
Financing Your Church Building Project —10 a.m.–noon Saturday, Sept. 16 at Trinity UMC, Arlington.

A workshop that covers all of the ways a church building project is financed and re-financed. How to determine your church’s safe debt level, how much money can be raised in a capital campaign and how to get started for a successful finish. Open to clergy and lay persons interested. No charge, but must call to register: 817.332.1394 or 800.333.4096.

   How to Start & Grow a Permanent Endowment Fund —10 a.m.-noon Saturday, Sept. 23, at First Burleson.
This workshop will prepare you to lead your church through the four simple steps to start and grow a permanent endowment. The fastest growing source of income for beautifying, maintaining, and expanding church properties is from endowments. Open to all clergy and lay persons interested. No charge, but must call to register: 817.332.1394 or 800.333.4096.

   Good $ense Budget Course Training for Teachers — 10 a.m.-noon Saturday, Sept. 30, at Epworth UMC.
This training event is offered to anyone who would like to teach this acclaimed course at their local church. The Good $ense Budget course serves a range of people—those in financial crisis or to those who want to deepen their understanding of God’s call to stewardship. More than just a learning experience about budgets and finances, this course enables participants to reflect on their relationship to money within their faith journey.   Cost is $12.00 for materials.   Must call to register by September 21st: 817-332-1394 or 800-333-4096.

Backpack for Kids Program

The Tarrant Area Food Bank (2600 Cullen St., Fort Worth 76107) invites volunteer youth and senior groups, church classes and civic club members to the Wednesday night Backpack for Kids Program. At 6:30 p.m. each Wednesday, volunteers pack food that will provide meals for 797 children over the weekend. To schedule your group, contact JoAnn Biggers at 817-332-9177, ext. 109.

Sharing God's Grace — The Greatest Gift!
Discipleship Themes at First UMC Colleyville give us focus for worship, study, and action during a specific period of time--a period of weeks or a liturgical season such as Advent or Easter. First Colleyville’s summer Discipleship Theme has been "Summer of Service: Grace, Mercy, and Peace." We have participated in mission trips and a youth choir tour, offered Vacation Bible School and "Godspell Jr." to our community, undertaken local and global mission projects, and studied what Paul and Jesus taught about grace, mercy, and peace.

In September, we begin the fall focusing on sharing our faith--acting on Christ's call to us of witness, nurture, and outreach. Our Discipleship Theme will be: "Sharing God's Grace--The Greatest Gift!" This theme coincides with a conference-wide emphasis by Bishop Chamness on evangelism, equipping the church to "make disciples of Jesus Christ." During the 9:45 a.m. Sunday school hour Sept. 10, 17, and 24, Pastor Gary Kindley will lead a Bible Study for adults and youth in the Event Center focusing on three important biblical passages: The Great Calling Matthew 4:18-22 - Making Disciples Through Witness; The Great Commission Matthew 22:34-40 - Making Disciples Through Nurture; and The Great Commandment Matthew 28:16-20 Making Disciples Through Outreach. This study is based on a curriculum written by Dr. David Mosser, who has previously led renewal services for First Colleyville.

Lay Speaking Class opportunities

• Advanced Lay Speaking Class (Lay Speakers Lead in Evangelism and The Faith-Sharing Congregation: Developing a Strategy for the Congregation as Evangelist) – Aug. 19 & 20 at First UMC Comanche (217 E. Grand). Contact Howard Hagood, Brownwood District Director of Lay Speaking at howard@txol.net or 254-734-2977 (home) or 254-734-5729 (cell).

• Basic Lay Speaker Course (Temple District) — Sept. 15 & 16 at St. Philips UMC, Round Rock. Faculty: Don Gregory and Frank Holder. Notify Frank Holder if you will be in attendance (pnwarior@swbell.net)

• Disciple-Making Faith Communities will be offered in Temple District by Mary Duffel at 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 23, and 1-5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 24, at Troy UMC. Class participants should contact www.Cokesbury.org to purchase the Disciple-Making Faith Communities Lay Speakers Guide for the class participants, and the resource text: Next Church Now, Revised Ed. with DVD. Bring a sack lunch for Saturday.

• Waco District 2006 Basic Lay Speaking Course — Saturdays Sept. 16, 23, 30 at Bracks UMC (1005 LaSalle Ave., Waco 76706). Instructor: Corliss McBride. Register by fax (254) 776-1939, e-mail Waco@ctcumc.org. Direct inquiries to Ramona Curtis daytime 254-710-1294 & evening 254-751-9988 or Corliss McBride 254-776-4499.

Healing service

Waxahachie District Healing & Wholeness Worship Service will be held 5 p.m. Aug. 27 at Ferris Heights UMC (108 Center, Waxahachie 75165). This will be a service of prayer, laying on of hands, and anointing with oil. Sponsored by District Nurture Council. Direct inquiries to Cheryl Moseley at cmoseley@kjllp.com.

Live Out Loud!

The 2006 South Central Jurisdiction Singles Retreat will be held Nov. 3-5 at Mount Sequoyah Conference & Retreat Center, Fayetteville, Ark., with Terry Hershey at keynote speaker. Terry is an inspirational and motivational speaker, captivating storyteller, and offers a gentle reminder to slow down and focus on the few things that matter in life. Music for the retreat will be by Hannah Blaylock & Lost and Found. They won the Arkansas Acoustic Festival in 2003. Numerous honors have followed. Their first CD “Cover Me” has been met with much critical acclaim. Hannah Blaylock & Lost and Found have opened for the Legendary Judy Collins and received Honorable Mention in the 2003 Nashville Songwriters Association International Songwriting Competition.

There will also be 24 different workshops from which to choose; including Achieving Financial Freedom, Finding the One While Having Fun, Discover Your Spiritual Type, The Shape of Successful Leadership, and Real Life, Real Faith, Real Hope. In addition to the workshops, there will be a special opportunity to join Terry Hershey at Stonebridge Meadows Golf course for a round of golf. Also, NEW THIS YEAR Yoga, Disc Golf, exploring Fayetteville and work camp on the Mountain. Come join us on for the Singles Retreat on The Mountain this fall. There is something for everyone! For more information and registration forms go to www.mountsequoyah.org, call the Mount Sequoyah office at 800-760-8126 or 479-443-4531.

Spanish Immersion Team to Guatemala - Nov. 11-26, 2006
The annual UMVIM Spanish Language Immersion team will be returning to Guatemala Nov. 11-26. The team will be studying Spanish in Xela at the Sakribal language school, staying in a Guatemalan home, and using the new language skills in interaction with the local church and community. The team will be led by long time UMVIM team leader and student of Spanish, John Benson jbenson23@earthlink.net . To learn more go to http://www.home.earthlink.net/~jbenson23/spanish/ or click for an application: http://www.umvim.org/SEJ-app.pdf

Aldersgate associates have opportunity for “summer camp”

Aldersgate Enrichment Center, the sheltered workshop just outside Brownwood, is planning a trip to Glen Lake Camp & Retreat Center in Glen Rose during the month of September. To cover the cost of camp, Aldersgate associates are saving their aluminum cans and asking others to do the same. Please bring or send your aluminum cans (or money donation) to Aldersgate before September. The goal is $2,500. For more details, contact Aldersgate at 325-646-5608 or visit www.glenlake.org. If making a donation please specify that donation go into the CAMP ACCOUNT.

United Methodist Relief Agency Needs Funds for Middle East Crisis (repeat)

The UM Committee on Relief (UMCOR) has issued an urgent appeal for funds to assist civilians caught in the renewed fighting in the Middle East. "Our funds for Middle East emergencies are painfully low," said the Rev. Paul Dirdak, UMCOR director. "As Christians and as a denomination, we need to equip ourselves to do our part in responding to humanitarian needs in this tragic situation." Contributions should go to the Middle East Emergency Fund (#601740) of the Advance for Christ and His Church, the United Methodist designated mission giving fund. Donations can be made online or by telephone, mail or by putting a check in the collection plate of any United Methodist Church. One hundred percent of the contribution goes to the Advance ministry indicated. Checks may be written to UMCOR, with Middle East Emergency fund #601740 and placed in collection plates or mailed directly to: UMCOR, P.O. Box 9068, New York, NY 10087-9068. Credit card donations may be made by calling 800-554-8583. You may also make a donation online at

http://secure.gbgm-umc.org/donations/donate.cfm?code=601740&id=30.

Opportunity to co-sponsor refugee families (repeat)
Refugee Services of Texas (RST) is seeking churches to co-sponsor refugee families that will be resettled in the Fort Worth area beginning in September. Families are placed within a 50-mile radius of the RST office in Fort Worth, and if your church is located near to the area, then the opportunity for co-sponsorship may be a very rewarding experience for your congregation. Some activities may include: furnishing the family’s apartment, meeting them at the airport, setting them up with some clothing and food to be ready for their arrival, providing some transportation to doctor’s appointments, helping them learn how to use food stamps at the grocery store, giving how to use the bus lessons, giving ESL lessons or other training to help them acclimate to their new home and community, helping them to find community resources and tap into social service agencies, assisting as a liaison at the children’s schools, and being an advocate and a friend to them. This is not an exhaustive list, and the families will certainly have varying needs and bring a wide variety in skill and education levels. All of these activities will help them become self-sufficient. The financial commitment is generally not too large, and the CTC can provide small grants for assisting refugees if necessary.

If your church is not located in the Fort Worth area, there are a number of other ways that you can support refugee resettlement and create meaningful relationships with refugees. Please be in prayer about this opportunity. If you are interested in learning more about this exciting opportunity, please contact Ann Smith, CTC Refugee & Immigration Ministries Coordinator, at polarmom@charter.net; or Jennifer Coggins, director of humanitarian services at jennifer@ctcumc.org.

Cayote UMC plans 100^th anniversary (repeat)

Cayote UMC is in the planning stage to celebrate the church’s 100 year anniversary Sunday, Oct. 15, from noon to 3 p.m., including lunch, a worship service, and reflections from former pastors and their families. If you know the whereabouts of any former pastors, pastor's families, or former members, please email that information to vmcmethodist@clearwire.net, or call Christie Robbins at 254.934.2842.

100 years and counting! (repeat)

Everman UMC is planning a celebration of its 100th anniversary on Sunday, Sept. 3. A special “Birthday Worship Service,” followed with a lunch, will honor the many years of worship and the accomplishments of church members and clergy throughout the 100 years. If you know someone who would like an invitation to this special day of celebration, please send names and addresses to mbalch@academicplanet.com.

UMVIM trip to OIMC (repeat)

Join the Adult UMVIM team Oct. 25-29 serving the Oklahoma Indian Missionary Conference. OIMC was established in 1844 to serve “distinctly Indian congregations.” Many churches are historic, having been around since the tribes were forcibly removed from their homelands beginning in the early 1840s. The CTC team will assist with vital repairs for churches that cannot afford to contract the work nor do it on their own. The project provides a rewarding volunteer opportunity and a unique cultural experience. Visit the Conference website at www.ctcumc.org for more details. Contacts: Jennifer Coggins at Jennifer@ctcumc.org or Teresa Sherwood at teresas@fumcmansfield.org.

Mission/disaster response training programs (repeat)

UMVIM Team Leader Training will be held 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 16, at First UMC Mansfield. If you are interested in learning more about being a UMVIM team leader, join the CTC-sponsored UM Volunteers in Mission for a special event to train dedicated mission team leaders. Visit the Conference website at www.ctcumc.org for more details. Contacts: Jennifer Coggins at Jennifer@ctcumc.org or Teresa Sherwood at teresas@fumcmansfield.org.

The CTC Disaster Response Task Force will present early Response Training at 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Sept. 30 at Glen Lake Camp & Retreat Center, Glen Rose. The course teaches the various ways volunteers can respond to a disaster during the earliest days. Once local emergency officials open a community to debris removal, house cleaning and tarping, volunteer teams become a sign of hope that survivors are not alone and the community, both near and far, will be present with them throughout their recovery. Early response training prevents volunteers from making costly and dangerous mistakes that could set a survivor back. Visit the Conference website at www.ctcumc.org for more details. Contacts: Jennifer Coggins at Jennifer@ctcumc.org or Chuck Graff at cgraff@fumcftw.org.

Resources

Resource Center

New resources highlighted at the Conference Resource Center this week are described below. For these and many more resources, contact Carol Roszell at 817-877-5222 or 800-460-8622.

Serious Answers to Hard Questions: Ten Leading Theologians Confront Ten Challenges to Faith. Ten 30-minute video lessons hosted by Bishop Kenneth Carder. What about… Evil, Religion and Science, Other Religions, Evangelism and Tolerance, The God of the Old Testament, Jesus and Christianity, Resurrection, The Gnostic Gospels, The Sins of the Church, and Forgiveness? Includes leader’s guide and participant’s guide. Wesley Ministry Network.

A message from the CTC Board of Church & Society - Jerry Longwell, Chair

All of us have watched in horror as the cycle of violence in the Middle East rapidly escalates. The complexity of the political situation there does not allow for simple solutions, but it is clear that the cycle of violence and retaliation continues to add tragedy upon tragedy for all who are involved. We mourn the loss of any life due to warfare, but we especially deplore the death and injury of innocent civilians, including children.

Religious leaders, including United Methodists, have quickly responded to this latest eruption of violence. Their statements point out that there are differing views of the causes and the solutions to the area’s problems, but are unanimous in the call for justice and peace for the people of the Middle East. A sampling of these statements can be found at the sites listed below. One thing we can all do is to pray for peace and compassion for all involved.

What We Believe (from the Social Principles)

http://wwws.umc.org/interior.asp?ptid=1&mid=519#doc_anchor

Click on “The Political Community” ¶164 I – Military Service

Click on “The World Community” ¶165 A-D — Cultures, Power, War & Peace, Justice & Law

General Board of Church & Society

http://archives.umc.org/frames.asp?url=http%3A//www.umc-gbcs.org

Brief GBCS statement and links to statements by the World Council of Churches, the U.S. National Council of Churches, plus a link to a UM News Service story with quotes from:

• Bishop Janice Huie – president, UM Council of Bishops

• Rev. R. Rand Day – chief exec., General Board of Global Ministries

• Rev. Larry Pickens — chief exec., UM Commission on Christian Unity & Interreligious Concerns

• Rev. Bob Edgar - chief exec., U.S. NCC

• Rev. John McCullough – chief exec., WCC

• Rev. Samuel Kobia of Kenya — a UM speaking on behalf of WCC

Color printing resource

First UMC Bedford is offering an affordable alternative for all your color-printing needs. Let us help you afford color for posters, brochures, postcards, and more. Regular printing of your color Sunday bulletin can also be arranged. Contact Hilarie Mallette at 817-283-5536, or email hmallette@fumcbedford.com.

Have you planned your fall stewardship campaign?

If you do not have a stewardship campaign scheduled, if you need to change what you have been doing, or if you just want to talk about how to do it, help is available. It won’t cost anything. Don’t pay a consultant for something that is free to your church. This is a professional program. Your CTC Stewardship Task Force will help you. Call Dick Swain at (817) 573-7035 or e-mail dnlswain@charter.net. It is important that you start planning now!!

Evangelism resource

The 2-DVD set of Dr. Woody Davis’ “Sharing Our Faith” seminar presentation at the Spring Leadership Summit is available through the conference office. An order form is on the conference website at www.ctcumc.org under “Ministry Areas” in the menu bar, then “Witness,” and then “Evangelism.”

Mount Sequoyah newsletter

Anyone wishing to stay abreast of activities and events at Mount Sequoyah, the South Central Jurisdiction retreat center in Fayetteville, Ark., can do so at programs@mountsequoyah.org.

Depression Connection support groups (repeat)

Depression Connection Team collaborates with churches to develop and operate support groups for people with depression, bipolar disorder, and related conditions. People suffering from these disorders are more likely to achieve recovery when participating in small peer support groups. Presently, we have five groups and we are developing three new ones to begin this month. Would you like to consider having your church sponsor a group? For additional information please contact Tony Campbell at Tony@depressionconnection.org or call (817)-810-9599.

Calendar

— Looking Ahead —

Missionaaries/mission interpreters program — 3 p.m. Aug. 13 at Acton UMC

Waco Prayer Conference — Aug. 18-19 at First Waco UMC Family Life Center, Waco

Advanced Lay Speaker training — Aug. 19-20 at First UMC Comanche

Deadline for local church fall fundraiser event listings — Aug. 26

Katrina Church Recovery Bishop’s Appeal in local churches — Aug. 27

Deadline for certified candidates/probationary members to submit paperwork — Sept. 1

Everman UMC 100^th anniversary — Sunday, Sept. 3

Fall Leadership Summit — Sept. 9 at First UMC, Hurst

Basic Lay Speaker training — Sept. 15-16 at St. Philips UMC, Round Rock

Ballinger UMC celebrates 120 anniversary — Sept. 16

Lay Speaker training — Sept. 16, 23, 30 at Bracks UMC, Waco

UM VIM Team Leader Training — 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Sept. 16 at First UMC Mansfield

Called Executive Session — Sept. 19 at Central UMC, Waco

Advanced Lay Speaking course (Temple Dist) — Sept. 23-24 at Troy UMC

CTC Disaster Response Task Force Early Response Training — 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Sept. 30 at Glen Lake Camp

Concert to benefit Zimbabwe orphans Endeavor — 3 & 7 p.m. Oct. 1 concerts at Bass Performance Hall, Downtown Fort Worth

Hearts & Minds for Mission: An Intensive Seminar for Lay Mission Volunteers — Oct. 6-7 at Perkins School of Theology, SMU, Dallas

GBGM Health & Wellness – Congregation Health Ministries (see article) — Oct. 8-11

Church Growth & Development workshops with Paul Nixon — Oct. 9 (morning for churches with 50 to 100 in worship/afternoon for churches with 150 to 200 in worship) at Arborlawn UMC, Fort Worth

Cayote UMC 100^th anniversary — noon to 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 15

Adult UM VIM trip to Oklahoma Indian Missionary Conference — Oct. 25-29

Live Out Loud – SCJ Singles Retreat — Nov. 3-5 at Mount Sequoyah Conference & Retreat Center

Needs, Resources, Opportunities

NOTE TO LISTERS: Please contact Carolyn Stephens at Carolyn@ctcumc.org

to pull your listing when your opening has been filled.

Administrative Assistant

Ovilla UMC seeks applicants to fill our part-time (approx. 32 hours/week) administrative assistant position. Applicants should be computer literate, possess solid word processing skills and enjoy working with a wide variety of people. For more information, please contact the OUMC office at (972) 617-8840 or ovillaumc@sbcglobal.net.

After-School Childcare Workers

United Community Centers (UCC) offers after-school childcare and youth programming (full day when school is not in session) in low-income neighborhoods in the Fort Worth area. Looking for individuals with passion for helping youth succeed. Hours range from noon to 7 p.m. during the school year. Must have valid TX Driver’s License and pass criminal background checks and drug screen. Email resumes to info@unitedcommunitycenters.org or fax to 817-924-3992. Interviews starting for immediate hire.

Director of Music Ministry
Oak Hill UMC in Austin seeks a director of music ministry. This full-time position oversees and coordinates all aspects of the music program, including direction of vocal choirs and instrumental groups for all ages for one traditional, one blended and one praise worship service. Candidates should be experienced music professionals with gifts for spiritual leadership. Oak Hill UMC is a 1,260 member congregation in SW Austin averaging 650 in worship. For additional information and a copy of the job description please visit www.oakhillumc.org <http://www.oakhillumc.org/> or submit electronic requests to Senior Pastor John Reynolds at jreynolds@oakhillumc.org.

Organist/Accompanist

FUMC McGregor is in need of an organist/accompanist. This position is part time, and requires participation with our 11 a.m. worship service and choir. McGregor is a growing satellite community of Waco. For more information or to apply, please call 254-840-2181 or email fumcmcgregor@sbcglobal.net

District Secretary

The Fort Worth District office seeks applicants for administrative assistant/secretary. Weekly hours are 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 8:30 a.m. – noon Friday. The district office oversees and supervises the ministry of the clergy and the churches within the bounds of the district. The primary role of this position is to serve as assistant to the DS. She/he must be knowledgeable of the workings of the UMC, willing and able to assist clergy, local church staff, UM members, conference staff, and other district offices or organizations as needed or required. Confidentially is of the utmost importance in the district office. Starting date: Sept. 18. Requirements: computer skills in Word, Excel, Quicken and Access. Full job description sent upon request. E-mail resume to fortworth@ctcumc.org or mail to Scott Youngblood, 464 Bailey Ave., Fort Worth 76107.

Church Pianist
St. John the Apostle UMC (5440 Mansfield Rd., Arlington 76017 - behind Kohl’s department store) seeks a pianist for their 8:30 a.m. traditional worship service. If interested, please contact Lori Simmons at lori.simmons@stjohntheapostle.org or 817-468-8484.

Part-time Secretary

A part-time secretary needed at Smithfield UMC in North Richland Hills. This position is a 29-hour per week job. Would like someone outgoing and computer literate. Please send resume to Tim Boeglin pastor@smithfieldumc.org or the church office office@smithfieldumc.org.

Youth Director Available for Position
Christopher Youngblood, completing his interim director of youth services position at Genesis UMC in Fort Worth, will be available to start work on Aug. 15. He's looking for a growing youth program in the Fort Worth area that would benefit from a youth minister with strong interpersonal skills, a committed faith, and the ability to promote friendship and bonding among young people. Part-time is preferable, with the possibility of moving to full-time starting in November. For more information, contact yngbld70@gmail.com.

Choir/Praise Band Director

Wellspring UMC, Georgetown, a young, growing, exciting church, seeks a full-time choir/praise band director. Great staff and wonderful congregation. E-mail resume to: whitbeckg@wellspringgeorgetown.org.

Choir Robe Giveaway!

Crowley UMC has 37 blue choir robes to give away. Call 817-297-4530 for more information or contact Mary Gean Cope at mary-gean@crowleyumc.com

Part-time Program Assistant

First Hurst UMC (521 W. Pipeline Rd. Hurst 76053) seeks a part-time program assistant. Description: 24 ½ hours: Monday-Thursday 12 p.m. -5 p.m.; Friday 8:30 a.m. -1 p.m. Position will assist the director of music/worship and the minister of youth and their families. Will also assist the communications director and will serve in a back-up capacity in this area. Will cover receptionist’s desk during the lunch hour. Requirements: Computer skills necessary: Word, Excel, and Publisher. Experience in Adobe and Shelby Systems a plus. Looking for person with the following traits: positive attitude, pleasant phone etiquette, excellent organizational skills, task oriented and works quickly, able to handle many tasks, works well with others. Contact: Mary Dublin at 817-181-7384 or mdublin@fumchurst.org.

Church Pianist

Eastern Hills UMC (1509 Wilson Rd., Fort Worth 76112) seeks a church pianist with the following requirements: ability to sight read hymns and play choral music, able to take direction from the choir director and pastor, available each Thursday at 6-7 p.m. for choir practice at the church, be at church by 8:15 a.m. each Sunday for choir rehearsal. Church service begins at 9 a.m. and be available for staff meetings and special church services as needed. Contact: Alfie Wines at 817-457-2758.

Organ For Sale

For Sale: E-50 Yamaha Full Pedal Organ $500. Bill Sanders 254-835-4851.

Director, Youth and Children's Ministry

Alliance UMC, an active, growing congregation in far north Fort Worth seeks that special someone to fill the position of director of youth & children's ministry. Currently a full-time position, the church is open to the possibility of splitting the job into two part-time positions (youth director and children's ministry director). Alliance youth are active in worship, mission, and service. We had over 190 children in VBS this year, and we are looking for someone to take both programs to the next level of engagement in Christian education, spirituality, and discipleship. Education and/or prior experience in youth/children's ministry required. Successful candidates will undergo a background and reference check prior to employment. AUMC will offer a competitive salary commensurate with experience and is flexible to accommodate the needs of the right candidate(s). To learn more about Alliance UMC, visit our website at www.allianceumc.org. Please submit resume of work experience to: Alliance UMC, Attn: Virginia O. (Ginger) Bassford, sr. pastor, 7904 Park Vista Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas 76137, Fax: 817-281-8195. E-mail: Please use the Subject line Youth Director/Children's Director and send to: alliance.sr.pastor@sbcglobal.net and spice_fishcar@swbell.net

Church Secretary

Church secretary position at the First UMC Brownwood. Send resume and references to Don Scroggs at 325-643-1555 or email at dscroggs@bwoodtx.com.

New Church Start-Up Items Needed

Light of the World in Hudson Oaks near Weatherford is moving into new facilities and is in need of several items (listed below). If you have or wish to donate any of these items, please contact the pastor, Jana Wear, at 817 832-6250 or janawear@sbcglobal.net..

• children's sized tables for the children's area

• children's books

• gently used toys for the nursery

• screens/partitions for sectioning off areas

• light, mobile tables for potlucks and the like; 3- or 4-shelf bookcases (reachable for children)

• gently used large area rugs for the children's area

• storage cabinets

Digital Communications Director

Contact: Frances Jett Roberts, AGS Administration/Human Resources, General Board of Church and Society, 100 Maryland Ave. NE, Washington, DC 20002; e-mail: froberts@umc-gbcs.org. Picked up from Newscope

Director of Multicultural Ministries

Contact: Maria James, toll-free phone: 877-899-2780, ext. 7100; fax: 615-340-7565; e-mail: recruit@gbod.org..... Part-time youth director. Contact: Elk Grove UMC, Elk Grove, Calif.; phone:

916-686-8303; e-mail: office@elkgroveumc.org. Picked up from Newscope

Pianist & Choir Director

Silver Creek UMC in west Fort Worth seeks a pianist and choir director. If interested, please contact Jason Hamilton at jason@silvercreekumc.com.

Preschool Childcare Director

Agape School is looking for a preschool childcare director. Must be able to provide a warm Christian environment. Two years experience, education in early childhood, managerial and bookkeeping skills a must. Contact Handley UMC (Fort Worth area) at 817-451-4321.

Director of Music

First UMC, Corsicana seeks applicants to fill our part-time director of music position. While the
primary worship style in our church is traditional, we seek a director that is open to leading a variety of music styles to help meet the diverse needs of our congregation. To inquire, call Mike Alexander at 903/874-5656 or email your resume to mikea@fumccorsicana.org.

Nursery Staff
Genesis UMC seeks caring adults who desire part-time employment that demonstrates God’s love and care to our young children. Our nursery staff members work primarily on Sunday mornings (infants through kindergarten) and at Parents’ Night Out babysitting ministry on two Friday evenings per month (infants through 12-year olds). They also provide child care for scheduled special events and meetings in the church. We check references and run back ground checks. Genesis UMC is located in southwest Fort Worth at 7635 S. Hulen St. Applications are available in the church office or for more information, contact the church at 817/292-4551 or carol@genesisumc.com.

If you know someone in your church, district or even outside the

Central Texas Conference who might appreciate receiving this weekly

electronic newsletter — or to unsubscribe your own listing —

please contact Susan Briles at Susan@ctcumc.org

Making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world