1. family and parenting
2. children

Volume XX
November, 2014
Several years ago at a used book sale a title
caught my eye. The book is entitled, “The
Expected Church” by M.S. Rice written in 1923.
The book is a collection of sermons preached by
the author at the Metropolitan Methodist
Church in Detroit. On nothing more than the
title, I paid a nominal fee to see what treasures
it held. The first sermon tells of a gathering of
prominent leaders discussing the perplexing
issues facing their community and the world.
After much discussion, one of the leaders stated
that all the conversations tend to end with the
same question, “What is the church going to do
about it?” Rev. Rice noted the profound
responsibility this placed upon the church, that
no matter what the issue, there was an
expectation that the church would take a
leading role in addressing the issues of the day.
Writing about this, he adds, “It is a terrific thing
for the church to be expected. Its duty is serious
enough when it is thrusting itself upon a world
that does not want it. But when the world is
wanting it, and waiting for it, and actually
expecting it, then the responsibility should
make the church quake. If it fails then, it
squanders opportunity and trades an offered
respect for an earned contempt. It not only
disappoints God but it likewise betrays
humanity. The reward for what the church has
done is this: it is expected to do more.”
The power of that statement, preached nearly a
century ago is just as profound today. Sadly, I
think there are less expectations upon the
church today than there were then. Perhaps it is
because we squandered the opportunities.
There may be many reasons for this. But,
whether there are expectations for the church or
No. 11
not, I believe we can play an important role in the
issues of this day, if we are willing.
Portions of the world are facing a severe health
threat due to Ebola. Two of the hardest hit areas
are Sierra Leone and Liberia. These countries
have a strong, historic United Methodist
presence. Those who are dying are our neighbors,
our sisters and brothers in faith. The church,
particularly the United Methodist Church, has
been playing an important role in this health
crisis. In Liberia and Sierra Leone, the church has
been a leader in education, prevention and
treatment. Church clinics, originally established
for other purposes, have been refurbished into
treatment centers for this deadly disease.
Faithful responses to this deadly disease are not
limited to these countries. Churches throughout
the world, including the U.S., have provided
resources and funds to help fight this disease and
care for the survivors. Such compassionate
outreach is an important message for all to see.
It isn’t just about Ebola. It is about the church,
the Expected Church, being willing to be a leader
amid the challenges we face. The issues of 2014
are different than they were in the 1920’s, but the
truth remains that we are an expected church.
Whether society expects the church to take a
leadership role is irrelevant. More important is
the fact that God calls us to be in the midst of it all
bringing the love and comfort and hope to all in
need.
Pace bene (peace and all good things),
Howard
2
November 2014
First United Methodist Church
Welcomes New Members
Addresses and telephone numbers are being included so you may update your church directory.
Elizabeth and Tim Miller have two children,
Catherine, nine and Jackson, four, and like to
say they came to FUMC for the preschool and
have stayed ever since. Elizabeth and Tim both
work at Cummins. Tim enjoys photography
and cycling and Elizabeth is a musician and a
welcome addition to the chancel bell choir.
They reside at 3150 Heather Lane,
For Your Information
Columbus, IN 47203. 812-418-8986.
Barb and Bill have lived in Columbus most of
their lives, and have two married adult children.
In their free time, Barb enjoys working in the
garden (she has already jumped in to work with
John Lemley on church gardening) and Bill
enjoys restoring old cars. When not busy with
their business, an epoxy flooring company, they
enjoy spending time with their grandchildren,
Izzy and Eavey. They reside at 12271 E. Legal
Tender Rd., Columbus, 47203. 812-579-5871.
Music with a capital M defines both Shen
and Robin. Shen has a successful piano
studio in her home. Along with working at
Cummins, Robin and Shen enhance the
FUMC Praise Team Celebration service –
Shen as lead singer and Robin as Director
of the Praise Team. They have been in
Columbus since 2012. They have a two-year
old son, Elton. They reside at 4282 E.
Windsor Lane, Columbus, IN 47201 - 812418-6988.
THURSDAY, APRIL 23 AND FRIDAY APRIL 24, 2015
www.fumccolumbus.org
3
Please join in a celebration of new life
What:
A baby shower for
Jayden Michael Boles
Where:
Fellowship Hall
When:
Sunday, November 16, 2014
2:00 p.m.
RSVP:
FUMC Office, 372-2851,
if attending
If you cannot attend, please consider
bringing a card of welcome and support to
the church office, or simply remember Grace
and Jayden in your prayers.
Show Your FUMC Pride!!!
First United
Methodist
T-Shirts will be
available for
purchase. Golf
shirts are
available for pre
-order. Contact
Sarah Campbell
at 372-2851 for
more
For Your Information
SMORGASBORD
812.372.2851
November 2014
4
SAVE THE DATE!
Fridays at First
Returns with
HOME FOR THE Holidays
A musical smorgasbord of holidays treats for the
entire family! Featuring members of the FUMC
family in a evening of holiday fun designed to put you
in the spirit of the season and to inspire you with the
message of the coming of our Savior.
For Your Information
Friday, December 19, 2014
7:30 p.m.
This event is free and open to the public!
Noel = NO Empty Lunchbox
Another NOEL project has been completed. Sixty-five children received lunches over the fall
break October 13th—October 17.
This project could not have been completed without the help of many people from our
congregation. Thank you to all who helped prepare the lunches after the first service , and
those who delivered the lunches , most days in the rain, were Bev and Ron Ellis, Robin
Campbell, Lee Arthur and Nathanial, Vera and Sue Ellen Brown, Pat Emerson, Janie Hood,
Jim Gillespie and Jeannine Roberts. Everyone’s help was appreciated.
Lithuanian Missionaries
to Speak at FUMC
On Sunday, November 16th there will be a
conversation with our missionaries from
Lithuania during the Sunday School hour. This
will be a chance to meet Bill and Helen Lovelace
and hear about their ongoing work with the
budding Lithuanian churches. Everyone is
invited to attend this event which begins at
10:10 a.m. in the Fellowship Hall.
Charge Conference
2014
Our annual Charge Conference
will be held on Wednesday,
November 12th at 6:30 p.m. The
Conference will be held at the
East Columbus UMC. All are
welcome to attend.
812.372.2851
5
www.fumccolumbus.org
New in the Library
Title
Author
Category
Library #
Muldrow, Dianne
I Learned from a Little Golden Book
Life Support
Whitlow, Robert
Self-help
126 MUL
Fiction
FIC WHI
Heaven is for Real
DVD
DVD HEA
Everything I need to Know
Children of God Storybook Bible
Exodus
The Giving Tree: a Parable on the
Gift of Giving
Water Bugs and Dragonflies:
Explaining Death to Young Children
Water Come Down! - the Day You
Were Baptized
Tutu, Desmond
Wildsmith, Brian
Silverstein, Shel
Juvenile
Easy
Easy
J 220.95 TUT
E 221.1 WIL
E FIC SIL
Stickney, Doris
Juvenile
J 306.9 STI
Wangerin, Walter
Easy
E 265.1 WAN
HAVE YOU EVER?
Have you ever been shopping at the mall for Christmas and started
humming along with the carols being played and suddenly wanted
to burst forth in song?
Have you ever wanted to play your Christmas music before
Thanksgiving?
Have you ever wanted to sing with the Chancel Choir at Christmas but didn’t have the time
to commit to weekly Thursday night rehearsal for the entire Fall?
Now is your chance to do all three! In preparation for our annual Christmas special music
service on Sunday, December 21 at 9:00 a.m., the Chancel Choir invites you join us. We will
have a special rehearsal on Thursday night November 13 from 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. just for that
special program with additional rehearsals on December 4 & 11 from 7:00 – 8:00 p.m. and
our final rehearsal on December 18 from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. (You may not be able to attend all
the rehearsals but we want you to come as often as you can so you will feel comfortable
singing with us.) You don’t have to have a great talent for singing, or be able to read music,
or be a professional musician. You just need the desire to praise our Lord in music during
this Advent season. We want to welcome you and make sure you have a positive experience
with us. If you have questions contact Kevin Butler or any current Chancel Choir member.
Help us fill the choir loft to overflowing for this special musical Advent celebration!
For Your Information
New for Children
6
November 2014
Priscilla Circle
Priscilla Circle met in the Blue Room at the church on October 13, 2014. Katie
Jerome's program was about books that had made a difference in our lives. She
also had the worship. After a short business meeting refreshments were served.
United Methodist Women
Our next meeting is on November 10, 2014, at 7:00 p.m. in the Blue Room at the
church. Herb Perry will be presenting the program on the Jail Ministry he is
involved with. Nancy Englebert has the worship. Hope to see everyone there.
United Methodist Women
Christmas luncheon
Wednesday, December 3
Fellowship Hall
The Miriam Circle
The Miriam Circle met October 15 at the lovely home of Gay Burnside. Gay served her
delicious pumpkin pie. Cynthia Stephenson opened the meeting with prayer and business
was conducted.
Jeri Ahlbrand brought the lesson on Mrs. Noah who was only mentioned once in the
Bible. We knew that she was married and had 3 sons, she was a torch barer . She loved
animals . She was an inspiration, a help mate and she did as God commanded her
gathering seeds of every kind. We also learned her given name was Naamah. Jeri found a
children's book entitled "For The Earth "which was about Naamah. The author was Sandy
Eisenberg Sasso.
Lena Powell gave the devotions on "I'm a Little Tea Cup' which gave the development of
the potter molding the tea cup and the journey of the making of this cup. It was related to
our lives and how God molds us to what we are today.
We will be helping with the organization of the breakfast for the mission conference
November 15. We will be feeding 100 or so people.
Our next meeting will be at the home of Liz Lipson with Sue Paris bringing our lesson on
the travels of Ray Vander Lann on the 19th of November.
Our Christmas luncheon will be held on December 3rd in Fellowship Hall and will feature
Johnny and Nancy Gilliland. Miriam circle will provide drinks, desert, and table
decorations.
812.372.2851
www.fumccolumbus.org
7
Cookie Walk 2014
The 24th annual cookie walk will be held Saturday, November 22, in Fellowship Hall from 9:00
a.m. till 12:00 noon. This year’s scripture was selected from Deuteronomy 5:33. "You shall walk
in all the ways which the Lord your God has commanded you.” Church members are invited to
bake, bring, and buy. This years’ cookie walk will feature FUMC members paintings and
photography. All proceeds are donated to various groups both locally, state, and nationally.
Don’t have time to complete your holiday baking Let the UMW Cookie Walk help! Hundreds of
cookies, pounds of fudge and candy and holiday breads will be lining the tables of Fellowship
Hall. Please come early or better yet let us do your shopping. Complete the form below to help
with the baking and the buying!
24th Annual Cookie Walk
You shall walk in the ways which the Lord your God has commanded you. Deuteronomy 5:33
DONATIONS
I will donate__________dozen homemade cookies.
Please bring cookies to the Church kitchen on Friday, Nov. 21
I will donate__________dozen decorated cookies.
Please bring cookies to the Church kitchen on Friday, Nov. 21
PERSONAL SHOPPER
I cannot attend the Cookie Walk so please “shop” for me!
I would like _____pounds of cookies.
I would like to order fudge:
_____pkg(s) Chocolate _____pkg(s) Cranberry ___pkg(s)Peanut Butter
I would like to order divinity: _____pkg(s) divinity
I would like to order of peanut brittle:
_____pkg(s)
I would like to order mini loaves: _____loaves
_____Please deliver
_____I will pick up at church
Name__________________________________________
Phone__________________________________________
Proceeds from this great event will help fund First United Methodist
Women’s mission projects, locally, in Indiana, nationally and throughout
the world.
United Methodist Women
Saturday, November 22
9:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon
Fellowship Hall
8
November 2014
Learning Tree’s Preschoolers LOVE their gifts from
Learning Tree Preschool News
the United Methodist Women!
Holiday Bazaar is November 15th
Learning Tree Preschool is hosting its 3rd annual Holiday Bazaar & Market on Saturday,
November 15th from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Looking for that perfect holiday gift? Need some Thanksgiving goodies? Come join us for
some unique one-stop shopping!
Interested in renting a booth space or do you know someone who is? We will be booking
vendors until all spaces are full. Accepted vendor types include Artisans, Crafters, Direct Sales
Home Businesses and Farmer’s Market Food Stalls. For more information please contact us at
LTPboard@gmail.com or 812-378-2825.
812.372.2851
www.fumccolumbus.org
9
Thanks again to all who volunteered, donated and ATTENDED the first WorldFest event on
Thursday, September 25th. We are already making plans for next year’s event, and hope you
can join us in 2015! We wanted to share some images from this special celebration.
Scholastic Book Fair is Coming!
November 11th – 16th in Room 116
(by the pop machine in the lower level)
Hours of operation:
Tuesday 11/11 –Ask in the preschool office to be let in.
Wednesday 11/12 - Friday 11/14 - 9:00 a. m. - Noon
Saturday 11/15 – 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. during Holiday Bazaar
Sunday 11/16 - 8:30-11:00 a.m. before and between services
This book fair is just in time for holiday gift-giving season! Or…donated books
are always welcome in our preschool classrooms or the church library.
Learning Tree Preschool News
WorldFest a Huge
Success!
10
November 2014
Learning Tree Preschool News
Poinsettias For Sale!
It’s that time of year again! Learning Tree will again be offering beautiful Poinsettias for
sale!
All plants are $12.00 with proceeds to benefit the Playground Fund!
Order deadline is Friday, November 21st
Payment must be turned in with completed order forms
Cash, check or money order accepted. (Made payable to Learning Tree Preschool)
Poinsettias will be available for pick up at the Preschool
Wednesday, December 3rd 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
(Any plants NOT picked up by end-of-day Friday the 5th will be donated to the Church)
SCRIP Gift Cards Available for Purchase
What is SCRIP? The SCRIP program offers gift cards from retailers to
the preschool at a discount. These are the same cards you would buy at
the store, but with direct benefits to Learning Tree Preschool’s
fundraising efforts.
Many popular retailers participate in the SCRIP program; including Starbucks, Noodles and
Company, Panera, iTunes, Kohl’s, Gap, Old Navy, Target, Wal-Mart, Disney and the list goes on
and on. A complete listing is available on the order forms available outside the preschool office.
SCRIP cards make great gifts—birthdays, graduations, holiday presents, teacher thank yous!
They are also perfect for your own purchases with merchants you routinely shop! Just pay with a
gift cards, and put your regular household shopping dollars to work for the Preschool.
To place an order
Fill out an order form available outside the preschool office along with a check payable to
Learning Tree Preschool, OR go online to www.shopwithscrip.com and complete an order
online. (If you don’t want to set up an online payment method, simply write your check
payable to LTP and turn it into the preschool office.)
Order Deadline is Thursday, December 4th by 12:00 noon (We cannot accept late
orders due to shipping constraints.)
Orders will be available for pick-up in the Preschool office on Thursday, December 11th
Thank you for supporting Learning Tree Preschool!
812.372.2851
www.fumccolumbus.org
Travelers Class November Rm 216 (except Nov. 16), at
10:10 a.m.
We've got a lot of variety in topics and
leadership this month. Check us out for one
Sunday or for all four.
Nov. 9 -- Images of God
"The Bible is rich with images of God:
Shepherd, Spirit, Creator, Father, Mother,
Rock, Fire, and so many more. Some of these
are quite familiar, others less frequently
heard. The diverse images remind us that
God is beyond any image but that each one
provides a glimpse into God's nature. In this
week's class, Pastor Howard will lead a
discussion on some of these biblical images
and the ways in which we envision God in
our personal lives." Rev. Howard Boles
Nov. 16 -- Lithuanian Missionaries Bill
and Helen Lovelace will be sharing their
work with all adult classes today. So, look up
Lithuania and be part of the group meeting
in South Fellowship Hall.
Nov. 23 -- A Faith Issue in the News...
We'll look at the current, or recent, event/
issue that The Wired Word resource group
has focused on and formatted for class
discussion.
Nov.30 -- No Class (Thanksgiving weekend)
Cleaning Supply Drive a
HUGE Success!
Thanks to the generosity of the people of
First UMC, the cleaning supply pantry at
the Lincoln Central Neighborhood Family
Center has been stocked! The people of
First UMC collected 65 cleaning items to
this project. Because of this congregation’s
generosity, many of our neighbors are able
to clean their homes! Thank you for your
generosity!
This collection is a part of an ongoing
ministry partnership with LCNFC. We will
be collecting cleaning supplies on a
quarterly basis to help keep the shelves of
their cleaning supply pantry stocked. Our
next collection will be January 11th and
18th, 2015. Watch for more information in
the coming
months!
Thank you for
ENGAGING in
MINISTRY!
I would like to
thank everyone for
the cards and all
the kind words
during Pastor
Appreciation week.
I am overwhelmed
by the thoughtful expressions and
supportive words. It is an honor to
serve together as God’s ambassadors
of love and grace.
Sincerely,
Rev Boles
For Your Information
Nov. 2 -- Who Do You Trust? "According
to a recent AP-GfK poll, only about a third of
Americans say most people can be trusted,
compared to about half of Americans who
said that in 1972. Join us for a look at trust
and where you stand in comparison to your
fellow Americans." Cindy Witwer,
Facilitator
11
12
November 2014
Santa’s Workshop coming December 6th!
Saturday, December 7th (10 a.m.-1 p.m.) will be Santa’s Workshop –
a great morning filled with crafts and projects kids of all ages can
make to give as Christmas gifts or to keep! This fun event is open to
everyone – so invite your friends and neighbors!
Youth Opportunities
WE NEED YOUR HELP to make it a success – if you would like
to lead one of the craft project tables please contact Sarah by
November 9th to sign up! You can bring your own idea/supplies
for the craft or work at one of the pre-planned/provided craft
tables, all I ask is to bring your excited and loving presence to help
the children!
Santa’s Workshop is free; however a free will donation will be
accepted at the door to cover the costs of materials. Any additional
money raised will be used to purchase Christmas gifts for children
from the Lincoln Central neighborhood.
This is a great event, open to the entire community and it’s a lot of fun for the children and the
adults participating! We hope to see all of you there! Contact Sarah Campbell for more
information (scampbell@fumccolumbus.org or 372-2851).
Acolytes and Crucifers Needed!
Children and youth (2nd grade and older) are needed to serve at Acolytes and Crucifers in our
9:00 worship service. If you are interested in serving your church by being an Acolyte or
Crucifer, please sign up online via our church website (www.fumccolumbus.org). Acolyte
training, arranged at your convenience, is available if you have not already been trained.
Please contact Sarah Campbell for more information or to schedule a training
(scampbell@fumccolumbus.org or 372-2851).
Advent Mission Opportunity: Socks
for Honduras
While doing your Christmas shopping this year,
pick up an extra package of socks (any size or
color). We will be collecting socks in the giant
Christmas stocking and then sent to
Honduras. Watch for more information later.
Contact Sarah Campbell at 372-2851 or
(scampbell@fumccolumbus.org ) for more
information.
812.372.2851
www.fumccolumbus.org
13
Operation Shoe Box
All Mission Project offerings will be accepted in the church office or in the box under the Youth
and Children’s Missions bulletin board on the 3rd floor near the elevator. For more information
contact Sarah Campbell (372-2851 or scampbell@fumccolumbus.org).
November 16th
is Youth Sunday!
Join the FUMC Youth for a special worship
experience as they lead the congregation in
worship through the sermon, songs, prayers,
scripture and a skit! Youth in 7th -12th grades
are encouraged to be a part of this service.
Please contact Sarah Campbell 372-2851 or
scampbell@fumccolumbus.org to learn more!
Youth Opportunities
It is Operation Shoe Box time again at First Church! Our goal this
year is to create 50 Shoe Boxes to send to children all over the world
through Samaritan’s Purse! Everyone in the church is invited to
participate in this mission project. You can donate items on the wish
list, give money to purchase items for the boxes or donate money to
send the packages (each box is $7 to ship) or you can help at the
packing party on Sunday, November 2nd.
Items needed (please remember all items must fit in a shoe box):
EMPTY SHOE BOXES (Plastic preferred)
SCHOOL SUPPLIES: Pens, pencils and sharpeners, crayons or markers, stamps and ink pad
sets, writing pads or paper, solar calculators, coloring and picture books, etc.
TOYS: Small cars, balls, dolls, stuffed animals, kazoos, harmonicas, yo-yos, jump ropes, small
Etch A Sketch,® toys that light up or make noise (with extra batteries), Slinky,® etc.
HYGIENE ITEMS: Toothbrush, toothpaste, mild bar soap (in a plastic bag), comb, washcloth,
etc.
OTHER: Children’s T-shirts, socks, ball caps, sunglasses, hair clips, toy jewelry, watches,
flashlights (with extra batteries), and hard candy (must be in double Ziploc bags).
A PERSONAL NOTE: You may enclose a note to the child and a photo of yourself or your
family. (If you include your name and address, the child may write back.)
DO NOT INCLUDE: Used or damaged items; war-related items such as toy guns, knives or
military figures; chocolate or food; out- of-date candy; liquids or lotions; medications or vitamins;
breakable items such as snow globes or glass containers; aerosol cans.
14
November 2014
White Gift Sunday
Mission Opportunities
December 7, 2014
On Sunday, December 7, we will continue
the long-standing FUMC tradition of
collecting Christmas gifts for the residents
of the Indiana United Methodist
Children’s Home in Lebanon, Indiana. As
of mid-October there were 22 girls and 8
boys at the home, most of them between
the ages of 14 and 18. Many of the
teenagers remain at the home over the
holidays, and your gifts make the season
brighter for them. If you have participated
in White Gift Sunday before, notice that
the suggested shopping list differs a great
deal from those in past years. The staff is
suggesting items for the group homes as
well as personal gifts for the teens. Please
bring unwrapped gifts to church December
7, along with wrapping paper or a gift bag
if you wish, and place them in one of the
containers provided. If you prefer to
make a monetary donation, checks should
be made payable to FUMC, marked
IUMCH, and placed in the collection plate
on December 7or turned in at the church
office. Our contributions in past years
have been enthusiastically received and
gratefully acknowledged, so we know that
again this year those at IUMCH will
appreciate your generosity.
You may learn more about the IUMCH by
visiting the website at www.iumch.com, or
by visiting with Martha Smock, Bob
Welsch, or Ron Arnold, who have all been
gift deliverers.
Gift Ideas...
Arts and craft kits
Batteries
Board games appropriate for teens
Books for teens
Cooking utensils for homes
Curling irons and flat irons
DVD Players
DVDs (G and PG only)
Electric can openers
Electric razors
Fishing poles
Game System PS-3 and games
Gift cards to restaurants
Gift cards to Old Navy
Hair dryers
I-POD doc radio player
Movie gift cards to Goodrich Quality Theatres
MP3 players (no video, no wireless)
Museum/Zoo/Theme Park/Sporting Event
Tickets
Pot holders and oven mitts for homes
Postage stamps
Sketching paper
Towels and washcloths
Tupperware
Watches
Wii games
Writing journals
Methodist Mountain
Mission Truck
November 11, 2014. Before noon on
November 10. Urgent needs list.
Children’s Clothes and shoes,
including underwear and socks.
Men’s clothes and shoes, uniforms –
scrubs, dishes pots and pans and
small appliances.
812.372.2851
www.fumccolumbus.org
15
November: Food for Fish
Month
“For I was hungry and you gave
me something to eat,
I was thirsty and you gave me
something to drink,
I was a stranger and you invited me in.”
Matthew 25:35
In Mission Together with Board of Global Ministries
On November 14-15 First UMC will host a national conference sponsored by the General
Board of Global Ministries. This event, focused on strengthening our local and international
missions, is open to everyone. Friday’s event which runs from 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. will focus
on the international missions, specifically in Lithuania. Among the participants will be Rev.
Patrick Friday from the General Board of Global Ministries and Bill and Helen Lovelace, our
mission partners in Lithuania.
Saturday begins with an interactive worship service with a church in Lithuania. Because of
the time differences, this worship service will begin at 7:30 a.m. Portions of the service will
be in English and portions will be conducted via satellite in Lithuanian.
The rest of the conference will continue on Saturday until 3:00 p.m. focusing more generally
on mission work in ways that are collaborative and helpful to all involved.
You can participate in several ways. You can register to attend the event for one or both
days. The fee for local participants is $39. You can also help by volunteering to assist with
this conference. If you would be interested in helping with hospitality, serving meals, set up
or take down, please contact Rev. Boles to express your interest.
Mission Opportunities
The Love Chapel website opens with this Bible verse in which Jesus reminds us of our
obligation to feed the hungry. At FUMC, one of the many ways we follow Jesus’ teaching is to
support Love Chapel, which, as an outreach program of the Ecumenical Assembly of
Bartholomew County Churches, strives to meet community needs through its food pantry
and other assistance programs. Our church collects monetary donations every year
throughout the month of November in order to help fill the regular food pantry for the month
of December. Hunger envelopes for your donations will be located in the pew racks during
the month of November. Checks should be made out to First United Methodist Church, with
Food for Fish written on the memo line. Your generous cash donation will provide much
needed food and assistance for many needy people in our community. If donations exceed
$2500, up to $750 will be donated to UMCOR. Last year our church donated $2500 to Love
Chapel and $367.82 to UMCOR through the Food for Fish drive. In addition, we collected
500 boxes of Ramen noodles for the Love Chapel Christmas pantry. We are blessed as a
congregation to be able to help those in need, and we know that the recipients of our gifts are
appreciative, as we receive many words and notes of gratitude.
16
November 2014
Adult Faith Development Opportunities
Faith Development Opportunities
Short Term Bible Studies
Who is This Man? October 26– November 23: Join Pastor
Chris as we look at how Jesus’ influence has swept over history and
how his vision for us to lead lives of dignity, compassion,
forgiveness, and hope continues to inspire and challenge humanity
today . This class is on Sundays at 10:10 a..m. through November
30.
Not a Silent Night November 30-December 28: Join Pastor
Chris as we experience Advent and Christmas with Mary, the
mother of Jesus. We will imagine Jesus from Mary’s point of view,
journeying with her from the Crucifixion and Resurrection
backwards to the Christ Child being born in a stable.
A look ahead—save the
date for these new
classes coming soon:
Making Sense of the Bible
January 4—February 8
For more information: clantz@fumccolumbus.org
Small Group’s—An Open Chair, Waiting For You to Join!
LINCS with Kids—5:30—7:30 p.m., SFH, led by Chris and Stacey Wessel. Look for more
information, contact Stacey Wessel at christianwessel@sbcglobal,net
Monday Morning Bible Study— Every Monday morning—10:00 a.m., Blue Room, led by Jeri
Ahlbrand. This women’s only group meets throughout the year and cover various biblical topics.
This summer and fall they will be studying the Book of Acts.
Friday Night Small Group— Friday evenings—7:00 p.m., Blue Room, led by Marsha Sons. This
group meets on Friday nights throughout the year.
Travelers— Sunday mornings beginning August 10—10:10 a.m., Blue Room, facilitated by Arleen
Keele. This group meets during the school year and discusses current events and “hot button” topics
in the faith.
Women and Men of Faith—Sunday mornings beginning August 10—10:10 a.m., Multipurpose
Room, led by Sue Paris and Sue Ellen Brown. This group works through in depth studies and enjoys
great fellowship!
Digging into Bible— Sunday mornings beginning August 10—10:10 a.m., Room 116, led by
Marsha Sons. This group focuses on studying the various books of the Bible. They have already
worked through Genesis and Exodus. They are exploring the Book of Joshua.
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Children & Youth Sunday
School—
Each Sunday 10:10 a.m.
Little ones are curious and active and need a fun environment to
learn about Jesus’ love. This fun class will use art, stories, games
and more to help the children learn more about Jesus and His
love for us. This class meets in Room 311.
Good Shepherd!
Prekindergarten, Kindergarten, 1st Grade
The Good Shepherd program teaches Bible stories that
come to life for the children using wooden figures. The
children are encouraged to express their interpretation of
the story through art. This class meets in Room 314.
Spark Sunday School! 2nd – 6th
Grade
Each Sunday the children are invited to a faith experience
using the Bible to better understand God and what God
calls them to do and be. We will use videos, activities,
crafts, stories and games to understand the message of the
Bible, learning foundational Bible stories. This class meets
Junior High! 7th & 8th grade
Journey 101: Knowing, Loving, Serving God is a threepart basic faith course that helps to answer essential
questions as it guides middle school youth on the journey
of growing as a Christian. The goal? Becoming a deeply
committed follower of Jesus Christ. This class meets in
Room 316.
Senior High! 9th—12th grade
How do faith and our relationship with Christ affect my life?
Our youth struggle with personal issues , current events and
topics, the Bible, and discuss ways to make the world better
in this class. This class meets in Room 312.
Children birth—Age 3 will
have a great time in childcare with
stories, games, music and crafts
with loving, trained paid
caregivers!
Childcare in the nursery is
available from 8:45-12:15 each
Sunday
Sounds of Joy Choir (ages 3
years-1st grade) meets each Sunday
from 10:00 –10:15 a.m. in room
310. Sounds of Celebration
Choir(2nd—6th grades) meets
each Sunday from 6:00-6:45 p.m.
in the music center.
During Worship
Children are always welcome to
stay in worship. However,
sometimes children aren’t ready
for a full worship experience.
That’s why we have “Christian
Connections”. Children 3 and
older spend the first portion of the
worship service with their parents,
then can choose to stay in worship
after the Children’s Moment or can
attend this fun child-centered time
to learn more about Christian
values & explore God’s Word in a
fun way.
Your child will experience the love
of Jesus through various activities
including videos, the arts,
laughter, prayer, games and more.
Youth Group
7th—12th graders
We meet in room 316 on Sunday
nights (5:30-7:30) for a fantastic
night filled with fun, food, friends &
finding out more about God, Jesus,
the Church & YOURSELF!
Faith Development Opportunities
Jesus Loves Me!
Toddlers & Preschoolers
Nursery
18
November 2014
Our Church
Family
Church Notes
Our Sympathy is
extended to Laura
Baker on the death
of her brother.
All Saints Day
November 1st is designated as All
Saints Day in the church calendar.
Historically, this was a day to honor
all the saints. In some cultures it
was a day to visit the cemetery to
give thanks for one’s ancestors.
While some might imagine this to
be a somber event, it was actually a
time of celebration. Some churches
hold worship services on All Saints
Day, but more common is to
celebrate this on the first Sunday in
November. Here at First UMC, as
in many churches, we will
participate in this time of
remembrance and celebration by
remembering the members who
died in this past year. It will be a
chance to give thanks for their
legacy and the ways they continue
to inspire our lives. Along with the
church members, it is a chance for
all of us to reflect upon the saints of
our lives and give thanks for their
ongoing impact in our lives.
Sermon Topics
November 2
All Saints Sunday
“Living with Ghosts”
Texts: Revelation 7:9-11
Matthew 5:1-12
Rev. Howard Boles
November 9
“Come Before Winter”
Texts: Matthew 25:1-13
2 Timothy 4:9-16
Rev. Howard Boles
November 16
Youth Sunday
“Who am I”
Youth Led
November 23
“Divinity in Disguise”
Texts: Psalm 100
Matthew 25:31-46
Rev. Howard Boles
November 30
“Look Out Below!”
Texts: Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
Rev. Chris Lantz
Susan and Tammy
would like to thank
the following volunteers for helping prepare the Spire for
mailing— Leah
Hooker, Joan Houston, Lloyd & Susan
Douglas, Clarel Brandenburger and Jack
& Joyce Piercefield.
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www.fumccolumbus.org
19
November Calendar
Room Key: MC= Music Center, MPR = Multi-purpose Room, BR = Blue Room, CR =Conference Room, FH = Fellowship Hall
WEEKLY ONGOING NOVEMBER
MEETINGS
Monday, November 10th
SPRC—7:00 p.m.—(CR)
Every Sunday—
Traditional Worship—9:00 a.m.—Sanctuary
Coffee Connection—10:00 a.m.—Library
Sunday school—10:10 a.m.—See Bulletin
Celebration Worship—11:00 a.m.—
Sanctuary
Bible Study—6:00 p.m.—BR
Youth Group—5:30 p.m.—Room 316
Tuesday, November 11th
Roundtable—6:30 p.m.—(FH)
Boy Scouts—6:30 p.m.—(BR)
Monday—
Small Group—9:30 a.m.—MPR
Women’s Bible Study—10:00 a.m.—BR
Hot Meals—5:00 p.m.—FH
Boy Scouts—6:30 p.m.—FH
BSF—6:55 p.m.—Rooms
Philharmonic—7:00 p.m.—MC
Friday, November 14th
Global Ministries—10:00 a.m.—(Sanctuary)
Thursday—
Prayer Group—12:00 Noon—Chapel
Praise Team Rehearsal—6:30 p.m.—
Sanctuary
Chancel Choir—7:00 p.m.—Music Center
8:15 p.m.—Sanctuary
Friday—
Small Group—7:00 p.m.—BR
Saturday—
BSF Leaders—6:45 a.m.—MPR
Saturday, November 15th
Global Ministries—7:30 a.m.—(Sanctuary)
LTP Bazaar—9:00 a.m.—(FH & MPR)
Sunday, November 16th
YOUTH SUNDAY
Baby Shower—2:00 p.m.—(FH)
Lincs w/ Kids—5:30 p.m.—(FH)
Monday, November 17th
Smorgasbord Mtg—7:00 p.m.—(Room 104)
Tuesday, November 18th
Missions—5:30 p.m.—(BR)
Girl Scouts—6:30 p.m.—(FH)
Church Council—7:00 p.m.—(BR)
Tuesday, November 19th
Girl Scouts—6:30 p.m.—(FH)
Saturday, November 1st
Birthday Party—3:00 p.m.—(FH)
Friday, November 21st
Girl Scout Lock In—6:00 p.m.—(Room 316)
Sunday, November 2nd
Lincs w/ Kids—5:30 p.m.—(FH)
Saturday, November 22nd
Cookie Walk—9:00 a.m.—(FH)
Monday, November 3rd
V.I.P. Luncheon—12:15 p.m.—(BR)
Hope—7:00 p.m.—(BR)
Tuesday, November 4th
Prayer Shawl—10:30 a.m.—(BR)
Trustees—5:30 p.m.—(CR)
Girl Scouts—6:30 p.m.—(FH)
Church Calendar
Tuesday—
Chancel Ringers—7:00 p.m.—MC
Thursday, November 13th
Finance—12:00 Noon—(CR)
LTP Board—5:45 p.m.—(MPR)
First United Methodist Church
618 8th Street
Columbus IN 47201
RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED
The Spire is a monthly publication
of First United Methodist Church,
618 Eighth Street,
Columbus, IN 47201
Phone: 812.372.2851
Fax: 812.378.2828
Worship Services
9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.
Education Opportunities &
Coffee Connections
at 10:10 a.m.
Church Office hours:
8:00 a. m. to 4:00 p.m.
Monday through Friday
NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION
U.S. POSTAGE PAID
COLUMBUS, INDIANA
PERMIT 24
Pastor, Howard E. Boles
Pastor, Christopher W. Lantz
Director of Youth and Children’s Ministries, Sarah Campbell
Director of Membership Development, JoAnne Rother
Director of Learning Tree Preschool, Elisabeth Jones
Director of Music, J. Kevin Butler
Director of the Praise Team, Robin Macheel
Organist, Robin Gratz
Administrative Assistant, Tammy Fields
Church Secretary, Susan Johnson
Custodian, Marcia Hornback
Facilities Manager, Paul McHone
Custodian, Roland Campfield
Articles for the Spire should be
submitted to Tammy Fields, Editor,
by the 20th of each month.
Do we have your email address? If not, please send to tfields@fumccolumbus.org.
www.fumccolumbus.org