May 2018 by SpringfieldFUMC

MAY 2018 / Volume 52 / Issue 5

Our church staff is here to help each of us live as a disciple of Jesus Christ who transforms the world. Feel free to contact them.

A PHONE 217.793.9760 WWW.SPRINGFIELDFIRST.ORG

PASTORAL STAFF Dr. Roger Grimmett | Lead Pastor

When I was a kid, my church used to have a children’s sermon each Sunday. All of the kids would go and sit on the steps at the front of the church. This was most definitely my favorite part of Sunday mornings.

Rev. Mike Whitaker | Pastor Rev. Nicole Cox | Pastor

MINISTRY STAFF Brennan Pappas | Director of Technical Arts Carli Burton | Director of Senior Ministries Chase Carlisle | Director of Worship Arts

Elyssa Carlisle | Director of Children's & Youth Choirs

I have to tell you, this lesson has stuck with me ever since. There have been many times that I thought about that tube of toothpaste before I said something I shouldn’t have. And there have certainly been times when I thought about that tube just a little too late, when I really regretted something I had said.

custodial STAFF Renoldo Gayton | Lead Custodian

STAFF emails: First initial and Last name@springfieldfirst.org

2 Good Tidings /

MAY 2018

I remember one particular children’s sermon where my pastor had a tube of toothpaste. He squeezed a little out on a toothbrush and then asked if we could put the toothpaste back into the tube. We all giggled because we knew that was impossible. My pastor then explained to us that, just like we can’t put toothpaste back into the tube, we also can’t put mean words that we say back into our mouths. Once they leave our mouths, they are out in the world.

You know, every time I read through the book of James, I am reminded of that children’s sermon from long ago. James is filled with wisdom about the words that we speak and the sharpness of our tongues. Not only that, James is also full of all sorts of practical advice about our faith. Beginning on Mother’s Day, we will be starting a new series called Practical Faith, where we will dive into all of the wisdom that James has to offer. Not only will we spend time looking at James during our sermon series, but we are also encouraging everyone to read through the book of James with our REAL Scriptures. Each day, we will send you an email with the verses to be read that day. It’s super simple and easy. If you haven’t signed up for the emails, you can do on our website: www.springfieldfirst.org/next-steps/scripture-emails. (You may also view the list of readings on Page 15.) James is an awesome book. I’m looking forward to seeing how it impacts my faith, and I hope it will impact yours! We hope you will join us as we seek to grow in our faith in practical ways!

WELCOME NEW ASSOCIATE PASTOR Justin Snider

Miriam, Sam & Katie

We have good news to share. We now have a new Associate Pastor that has been appointed to replace Pastor Mike Whitaker’s position. His name is Justin Snider and he will be coming to us from Danville where he is Associate Pastor at St. James United Methodist Church. Justin is married and has two young children, Sam (age 9) and Katie (age 5). His wife Miriam is also a Methodist minister who has just been appointed to serve as pastor at Chatham United Methodist Church. Justin’s first Sunday with us will be July 1st. Justin grew up in the town of Tuscola, Illinois. He received an undergraduate degree from Greenville College in 2002 with a double major in religion and communications. He earned his Master of Divinity from Duke Divinity School in 2006. In 2010, Justin was ordained an elder in the Illinois Great Rivers Conference. He also recently completed a certificate in religious fundraising through the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. Justin is completing his 12th year of full-time parish ministry. He shared with the Staff Parish Relations Committee during his interview that he has a heart for preaching, teaching, praying, and helping to equip lifelong disciples of Jesus Christ who are growing in faith. We were also pleased to learn that Justin’s parents, two siblings, and his siblings’ families all now live in Springfield. His parents are thrilled to have their grandchildren (and children, of course) in the same town. Please keep Pastors Justin and Miriam, Sam, and Katie in your prayers, and provide them with a warm welcome when they arrive in July. In the name of Jesus, Mitch Johnson Staff Parish Relations Committee Chair MAY 2018 3

EVENTS Thursday, May 3 The theme of this year’s event is “Unity,” based on Ephesians 4:3 which says, “Making every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” This year, Springfield First will offer three specific times for prayer on May 3: 7:00-8:00am, 12:00-1:00pm, and 5:00-6:00pm. Please come to any of these prayer times in our Sanctuary and join together with members of your church family in praying for America. Prayer guides will be available for each person. You can take your prayer guide and pray in the pew or at the altar for any amount of time during one or more of these selected times for prayer. I would love to see you on May 3, 2018.

SPRING CANTATA

Praise to theLord, theAlmighty The New Life Adult Choir, Handbell Choir, PreK-6th grade children’s choirs, and OneVoice Youth Choir will present the Spring Cantata – Praise to the Lord, the Almighty – accompanied by a full orchestra on

May 6 at the 9:00am Traditional Service in the Sanctuary. We will be singing beautiful and exciting music from various musical styles, including selection from J. S. Bach’s St. John’s Passion, contemporary classics from Keith Getty and Chris Tomlin, energetic gospel music, and favorite hymn arrangements in symphonic style. So come and let your hearts be filled with the joy of spring! And as we proclaim the grace and glory of God our Father, invite your friends and neighbors to experience this reviving and uplifting worship together!

Please note a few changes for our regular Worship Experiences on May 6th: The 9:00am contemporary worship service in the Community Life Center will be cancelled. The 5:30pm Saturday and 10:30am Sunday contemporary services will both take place in the Community Life Center. 4 Good Tidings /

MAY 2018

“THE GLS INSPIRES ME TO LEAD WITH A PURPOSE BIGGER THAN MYSELF. IT IS TRULY THE HIGHLIGHT OF MY SUMMER. WE BRING LEADERS FROM OUR ORGANIZATION EACH YEAR, AND IT’S A TRUE GIFT TO OUR ORGANIZATION TO BE ABLE TO OFFER WORLD-CLASS LEADERSHIP TRAINING…”

AU G US T

You have influence and the ability to positively impact your community and world. No matter where your influence is—in your family, school, work, or church – when you commit to grow your leadership, everyone around you wins! On August 9-10, 2018, Springfield First will once again be a host site for the Global Leadership Summit (GLS). The GLS is a world-class, two-day event broadcast from Willow Creek Community Church near Chicago that features world-renowned faculty members who deliver a unique blend of vision, inspiration, and practical leadership skills. Leaders worldwide leverage the GLS to sharpen their skills and to unleash the full potential of their teams. Download the free GLSnext app now! The app contains hundreds of short leadershipdevelopment videos, full Summit talks, daily quotes, and access to the GLSPodcast and GrowthTracks and is a great way to learn more about the power of the event. Visit our website at www.springfieldfirst.org for more information and to register. Use priority code 18HSFAMILY to get the super early bird discount rate of $89.

Megan Tamte Co-Founder & Co-CEO, EVEREVE What can you expect from participating in this year’s GLS? Improved work quality 86% of participants who applied new team-building skills learned at the GLS “Agree” or “Strongly Agree” that those skills have improved the quality of their work. Volunteered at church 13% of church leaders “volunteered for a new church leadership position” because of inspiration received at the Summit. Shared the Gospel 25% of repeat participants reported, “The GLS inspired [me] to share the Gospel in the past 2 years,” with average results of 93 first-time commitments per participant. Increased job satisfaction 87% “Agree” or “Strongly Agree” that they found “a greater sense of significance and satisfaction from a new leadership position” the Summit inspired them to pursue. Impacted community 54% cited concrete ways they served the poor (33%), comforted the hurting (20%), educated others (19%), helped youth (19%), and fought injustice (8%).

Start your leadership development today! MAY 2018 5

GROUP LIFE

NEW CLASS! THE ROLE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT IN THE WESLEYAN TRADITION Wednesdays, May 2 to 30, 6:30-8:00pm · Room 5 In this Easter season, we look forward to Pentecost Sunday on May 20, which commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit on the disciples of Jesus Christ as described in Acts 2. Yet the role of the Holy Spirit in the life of the church and Christian disciples is often misunderstood. Join Pastor Roger and others during the five Wednesdays in May as we explore this topic. Please bring your Bible with you. Sign up online or at Connection Point.

BIBLE STUDY FELLOWSHIP Bible Study Fellowship (BSF) is introducing a new study for the fall, People of the Promised Land, Part 1. This study begins with Israel's entrance into Canaan under the leadership of Joshua, and covers the kingdom of Israel from Joshua to Solomon. Springfield First hosts the daytime women's class, which includes a structured program for infants through kindergarten, on Thursday mornings at 9:15-10:45am. An opportunity to register for this class will take place on Thursday, May 1, at 9:15am. BSF meets in the Community Life Center. Contact Maggie Barton with any questions at 629-8382. An evening men's class and an evening women's class, both meeting on Mondays at 6:30-8:00pm, are also available in the Springfield area. To find out about these other class opportunities, go to bsfinternational.org and click on "locate a class."

Join the Men’s Fun League If you are interested in being part of a fun golf league for men of all ages from Springfield First, contact league founder Dr. Les Hohenstein (lhohenstein@comcast.net or 787-9184) or Scot Vogler (BigV2242@yahoo.com or 816-5869) as soon as possible. Tee times range

STARTING POINT Thursday, May 3, at 6:00-7:00pm Atrium 3 Have you been attending worship but want to know more about getting connected into this community of faith? Attend Starting Point! This is your opportunity to meet the pastors and lay leaders, ask questions, and learn about opportunities to get more out of your experience. Contact: Paige Cooper, pcooper@springfieldfirst.org or 793-9760 x114

G6 CLASS Tuesdays, beginning May 8, 6:30-8:00pm Room 6 The one-sentence mission statement of Springfield First – to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world – leads many people to ask, “What is a disciple?” The G6 Class will detail six characteristics of a deeply devoted disciple of Jesus Christ, all beginning with the letter “G.” Glory – worshiping God Grace – imparting Christ’s love Growth – celebrating spiritual disciplines Group – doing life together Giftedness – serving others Generosity – sharing compassionately Contact: Sharon Sweeney, ssweeney@springfieldfirst.org or 793-9760 x102

from 4:00-5:30pm for 9 holes every Monday, April 23

Note – The G6 class is a pre-requisite

through October 29, at Brookhills Golf Club

for becoming a New Member at

(5350 Old Jacksonville Rd. in Springfield). Cost is

Springfield First. The next New Members

$8.00 if you walk. We encourage you to bring a friend! 6 G o o d T i d i n g s / MAY 2018

class will take place on Tuesday, June 19, at 6:30-8:00pm.

SERVING & MISSIONS

Mission Garden

Spring is finally here, and it's time to till the soil and plant veggies in the Springfield First Mission Garden. All food produced in the garden, located just north of the church garage, is donated to Kumler Outreach to help feed the homeless and those less fortunate in Springfield.

MAY

After May 5th, we will need volunteers who are willing to give 1-2 hours of time each week to keep the garden in repair by helping with harvesting. If you have a couple of hours each week, we would love to have your help!

at 9:00am. Please bring your gloves and garden

PRODUCE DELIVERERS We are in need of volunteers willing to take harvested produce from our Mission Garden and deliver it to Kumler Outreach. If you would be willing to take a trip every other week, please let us know!

trowel. Sign up online or at Connection Point.

Contact: Chris Baughman, cpbaughman@gmail.com

Volunteers are needed to help with planting the Mission Garden on Saturday, May 5, beginning

LOOKING FOR A WAY TO GIVE BACK? JOIN US ON JUNE 2-3 FOR A CHURCH-WIDE WEEKEND OF SERVICE! We are encouraging everyone to serve somewhere in the community for a few hours. We will have some options available for you to sign up to serve a local non-profit, or you can figure out your own unique way to serve others (take a meal to a sick neighbor, offer to mow someone’s lawn, pick up trash in your neighborhood or at a local park, etc!). Sign up in the Atrium or online at www.springfieldfirst.org. Find a place that touches your heart!

PARKING MINISTRY We are in need of Parking Partners who can serve one Sunday each month at either service, 20 minutes prior to the service and 15 minutes following the service, to park and then pick up cars for our members with mobility challenges. Please contact Carli Burton (cburton@springfieldfirst.org or 793-9760 x111) if this is a place where you would like to serve.

MAY 2018 7

CHURCH LIFE NEW MEMBERS

UNLESS THE LORD BUILDS THE HOUSE, THOSE WHO BUILD IT LABOR IN VAIN.

Easter Offering

In April, we welcomed over 20 new

PSALM 127:1

One of the strategies to accomplish our mission

members into our Springfield First family! At Springfield First, our mission is to make

as a church is to “Unleash Compassion.”

disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation

Through our Easter offering this year,

of the world. Each of these individuals

we are doing just that! The total for our special

took the steps to learn what that means

offering this year is $22,148.59 and counting!

by participating in a 6-week study known

As a church, we have agreed to work with other

as our G6 Class. After that, they each took our

area United Methodist churches to sponsor a

New Member class to learn what it means to

Habitat for Humanity build in the Springfield area.

commit to being a member here at Springfield

We are so excited about this opportunity to

First. We are so incredibly excited to

unleash compassion in our community.

officially have them as a part of our family!

Thank you for your generosity in making a new

Gordon & Nancy Brown

home possible for a low-income resident who meets

Matt & Hannah Cleveland Paige Cooper Rachel Dempsey Ryan Griffin & Jenni DeMarco Daniel & Laura Hamilton Gina Henderliter Michael & Jennifer Hoerner Linda Lally David & Jenni Manning Andrew & Kendra Patton Jeff Price Mandi Richards Janet Richter Samantha Thomas

GRADUATE RECOGNITION If you have or know of a Springfield First student who will be graduating

the criteria established by Habit for Humanity.

Our God Reigns!

Whether you’re shopping for mom, grandma, your mother-in-law or a friend, the Springfield First Bookstore has dozens of unique gift ideas that are perfect for that special woman on Mother’s Day! NEED IDEAS FOR SOME GIFTS? A fun and colorful assortment of all types of mugs are available

from 8th grade, 12th grade, or college,

for $10 each. We also carry faith candle holders for $10,

please contact Jenny Hutcherson at

Christian tote bags for $5, and Christian puzzle books for $3.

jhutcherson@springfieldfirst.org

An assortment of kitchen items such

or 793-9760 x103 with their

as hand towels, oven mitts and trivets

information by May 10. We would like

are all available for under $15. Does

to recognize their achievement on the

your special lady like to read? We

weekend of May 19/20. Thank you!

have books just for women, daily

8 Good Tidings /

MAY 2018

Scriptures, and Bible verses starting at $2 each.

Adventure Bible Camp JUNE 18-22, 9:00am – NOON Ages 3 through 5th grade Welcome to Shipwrecked: Rescued by Jesus! This is where kids learn that Jesus rescues them when life gets stormy. Through personal stories told by children living out their faith, creative snacks, fascinating science inventions, dynamic music, and interactive Bible lessons, children will discover God’s love and purpose for each of them. Are you ready for a wildly creative, inventive, interactive adventure with God? We know you are!

REGISTER NOW FOR ABC! Visit www.springfieldfirst.org to register your child online, or registration cards are available at the jeep in KidLife, as well as at the ABC donation tables in the Atrium and outside the Community Life Center. Serving Opportunities So that we can make this an awesome experience for kids throughout our community, we need lots of volunteers! The following areas are ways you can share your time and talents: Crew Leader/Crew Assistant · Lead a small group of children through each daily station. Registration/Check-in Team · Pass out wristbands and name tags to children as they arrive. Safety Team for ABC · Be stationed at a certain spot to watch doors, help children when needed, and assist with first aid. Site Leaders/Site Assistants · Lead the different stations that kids will visit during ABC. Decorations · Help to create decorations for rooms, the Sanctuary, hallways, and the Atrium.

Work days are scheduled on certain Saturdays. Watch for dates to be announced. For more information about Adventure Bible Camp, please contact Stacy Kuhlmann at skuhlmann@springfieldfirst.org or 793-9760 x106.

MAY 2018 9

KIDS' MINISTRIES

Watch for posted curriculum information: www.springfieldfirst.org/kids-youth/parents

FAITH IS A LIFELONG JOURNEY! If you would like to be a part of helping children on their faith journey, contact Stacy Kuhlmann at 793-9760 x106 or skuhlmann@springfieldfirst.org.

START HERE!

Parents, contact Stacy Kuhlmann at skuhlmann@springfieldfirst.org or 217-793-9760 x106 with any questions. Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/kidlife and www.facebook.com/kidlifeec.

WHY CHILDREN’S MINISTRY? The children’s ministry is designed for children to grow in their faith by experiencing God’s Word at an age-appropriate level. We invite all children, birth to 5th grade, to come and check out the area of church designed just for them!

May brings the feeling of the start of summer. Warm weather, no coats, sounds of bugs and birds coming back from a cold winter, more sun, fewer clouds, and outdoor activities to keep us active, like camping! All ages will be going on a camping adventure throughout the month of May as we strive to learn “S’more of Jesus!” TOTLIFE (BIRTH-5 YEARS) • Nursery Bible Points: God made grass, flowers, trees, frogs, and bees. TODDLERS BIBLE POINTS • Jesus wants us to share, Jesus wants us to tell others, Jesus wants us to welcome others, and Jesus wants us to work with others.

O TO CHURCH

PRESCHOOL BIBLE POINTS • The Holy Spirit Comes, Helping Others in Need, God’s People Share, Serving the Church.

KIDLIFE (K-3RD)/TWEENLIFE (4TH-5TH) / Camp Out and G.R.O.W. With Jesus

At Camp Out! kids will have a blast trekking through an outdoor adventure – minus the bug spray and lack of sleep! They’ll kindle new friendships and continue discovering that Jesus has called us to Go to church, Read the Bible, Obey God’s Word, and Witness to Others. Kids will experience the Bible in active, hands-on ways, and then circle up with their Cabin Crews for thought-provoking discussions to help bring them closer to understanding Jesus. Kids will run, jump, and even splash through games that connect with the weekly/monthly Bible verse. Dramatic and interactive activities will help every child remember and apply each weekly Bible Point. Kids will love ending each service with singing a fun mix of classic worship songs and brand-new praise songs. So grab your pack and let the adventure begin!

EAD OUR BIBLE

O TO CHURCH

May Theme:

EAD OUR BIBLE

May Theme:

Getting S’more of Jes

Main Bible Point:

Getting S’more of Jes us

BEY GOD’S WORD

A huge “Thank you” to all the volunteers who helped make Palm Sunday and Easter Sunday a spectacular worship experience for the children! We ARE BLESSED TO HAVE YOU!

ITNESS TO OTHERS

10 G o o d T i d i n g s /

MAY 2018

BEY GOD’S WORD

Main Bible Point:

ITNESS TO OTHERS

Jesus has called us to G.R.O.W.

Big Word:

“The Holy spirit came as Jesus promised.” Acts 2:3

Jesus has called us to G.R.O.W.

Big Word:

“The Holy spirit came as You don’t want to miss May 6th! JEast esBay us will probemjoining isedKids’ .” AMinistries cts 2:3 to kick off our camping adventure! They will also be sharing all about their camp with the children!

CONNECT WITH STUDENTLIFE: Facebook: StudentLife FUMC | Twitter: @FUSION_SM | Instagram: STUDNT_LFE PARENTS: If you are new or would like to receive periodic parent email updates, please go to www.springfieldfirst.org, and under the ‘Youth’ tab sign up for our email list! You can also email StudentLife Director Matt Cleveland at mcleveland@springfieldfirst.org.

Students:

Spots are still available for this year’s summer retreat: Beach Week!

Contact Matt at mcleveland@springfieldfirst.org ASAP if you or your student is interested in joining us for this life-changing retreat! Spots are going fast, so don’t miss this opportunity! Cost is $250 per student, and registration forms can be picked up outside the StudentLife room.

Parents:

The final informational meeting regarding the details for this year’s

retreat is on Sunday, May 6, after the 10:30 am service in Room 8.

SUNDAY NIGHT FUSION SCHEDULE: 5:00-6:00pm - FUSION:Middle & High School Small Groups 6:00-6:30pm - Dinner for all ages! 6:30-7:30pm - FUSION:High & Middle School Small Groups

*No FUSION on Sunday, May 13, for Mother’s Day. *Final Sunday Night FUSION of the school year: Sunday, May 20

OneVoice Youth Choir We will not meet on May 13 or 27. Our final rehearsal for the school year will be on June 3.

MAY 2018 11

SENIOR MINISTRIES For information regarding Senior Ministries’ events or trips, or if you or a loved one are moving to a care facility, please contact Carli Burton at cburton@springfieldfirst.org or 793-9760 x111.

AROUND THE TABLE ADVENTURE: SENIOR FELLOWSHIP (AGES 55+) Date: Thursday, May 10 Pastor Roger will be speaking to us beginning at 9:30am regarding the overall vision of the church. He wants and values your input. Time: 9:30am-12:30pm Where: Rooms 5/6 Why: Fellowship, food, games (numerous card games, board games, and dominoes – you are welcome to bring one of your favorite games) Hostesses: Ruth Long and Marge Deffenbaugh Sweet treats and coffee will be ready when you arrive, and a delicious hot meal will be served at 11:45am. Suggested donation is $5.00.

TRIP:

On Friday, June 15, we will attend a comedy, Trouble in Tumbleweed, at the Blackburn College Bothwell Auditorium in Carlinville. This play by Tim Kelly, suggested by Nikolai Gogol’s Inspector General, has hilarious twist and turns

RETIREMENT PEACE PROJECT Springfield First United Methodist Church and Retirement Peace University have partnered to bring this special retirement income planning course. Retirement Peace University is an interactive, two-day workshop for all those over age 50.

to keep us laughing. Briefly, Mayor

Attendees review over 40 financial and health

Oates has been hired by a Boston

decisions that shape the success of one's

businessman to build a town in Arizona

retirement. Learning to make better choices today

that will one day be the capital. Oates

can guard against retirement income challenges

hires his incompetent relatives to fill

tomorrow. Springfield First receives pay-it-forward

the positions, and that’s when the

scholarships which include all class material and

town gets in trouble, calling for an

a written retirement plan specific to your situation.

incognito inspector. We will car

No personal questions will be asked publicly.

caravan due to the short distance. The cost of $25.00 will cover dinner at Reno’s Italian Ristorante, show, and travel. Please sign up in the Atrium or call Carli Burton at 793-9760 x111. Your check holds your place. 12 G o o d T i d i n g s / MAY 2018

Seating is limited to 20. It will be on a Saturday from 10:00am to 4:00pm (please bring a sack lunch) and on a Sunday from 1:00 to 4:00pm. Watch for scheduled dates. For more information, call Retirement Peace at (217)498-7700.

MAY Thursday, May 3 Church Women United May Friendship Day 1:00pm St. John AME Church Friday, May 4 UMW Luncheon Noon Community Life Center Speaker, Jennifer Fishburn Friday, May 18 Lydia/Rachel Circles 9:30am – Rooms 5/6 Friday, June 1 UMW Luncheon Noon Community Life Center Speaker, Jean Welch July and August Summer Break

CURRENT MISSION ACTIVITIES • Quilting, sewing, crocheting (3rd Thursday of each month) • Collecting the following: • Items for 2018 Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes • Baby layette items for Kumler Outreach • Children’s blunt scissors for Midwest Mission Distribution Center For further information, contact Crystal Russel at 801-2573. LYDIA AND RACHEL CIRCLES The Lydia Circle and Rachel Circle will meet together on Friday, May 18, at 9:30am in Rooms 5/6. MAY LUNCHEON On May 4, at noon, we will have Jennifer Fishburn, from U of I Extension, give a talk about container gardening for this spring. Please come and join us. Contact Crystal Russell for a reservation. Suggested donation for lunch is $7.00; first-timers are always our guests. JUNE LUNCHEON Senior Services of Springfield plans many activities for Seniors. We will learn what is planned for the summer of 2018 from Jean Welch on Friday, June 1. This is also Birthday Month for United Methodist Women, so come and join your Birthday Group and celebrate with us. Call Crystal Russell to reserve a spot.

COME AND SHARE YOUR GIFTS OF FELLOWSHIP AND SERVICE TO LIFT UP OTHERS IN CHRIST! MAY 2018 13

STAFF NEWS

Summer Interns We are excited to announce that we will have two interns this summer at Springfield First! SYDNEY ELLIOTT will be joining our team as a summer intern in StudentLife. Sydney is currently studying Spiritual Formation at Lincoln Christian University and is passionate about bringing people into a relationship with Jesus Christ, especially our students! She has already been an active leader in this ministry, so our students are excited to see her take on this new opportunity. Sydney has an amazing passion for ministry and is going to be a big asset to StudentLife! SAM KAUERAUF will be our summer intern in Kids’ Ministries! Sam is following a call from God and pursuing a degree in Children’s Ministry at Indiana Wesleyan University. This summer, he will be working directly with children here at Springfield First and learning the day-to-day tasks needed to run this ministry. His focus will be with the TweenLife kids, but he will experience the other areas as well. He will also be leading the music portion of Adventure Bible Camp. Sam was a part of StudentLife and is very excited to be back in this role of intern. Help us to welcome them to our team!

Dear Church Family, I am leaving my position at Springfield First, as of April 20, to spend more time with my family. I have enjoyed my responsibilities and the people here and feel blessed that I was given the opportunity to serve Springfield First as an administrative assistant. My family and I will continue to attend worship services here and serve as part of the amazing volunteer community that I have been privileged to witness on a daily basis. Thank you for all of the kindness and support that you have given to me. This church community is truly a blessing for me and my family.

THANK YOU TO KRISTI OSMOND!

~ Kristi Osmond

On behalf of all of Springfield First and the Staff Parish Relations Committee, I would like to express our appreciation for Kristi’s work as an administrative assistant. She has played an integral and important role in the Unfinished Initiative and in our weekly bulletins, as well as many other activities within our church. We pray for God’s best for her and her family in the future. Mitch Johnson · Chair, Staff Parish Relations Committee

The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. “THE LORD IS MY PORTION,” says my soul, “THEREFORE I WILL HOPE IN HIM.” · Lamentations 3:22-24 ESV · 14 G o o d T i d i n g s /

MAY 2018

Thank You!

baptism

On behalf of the staff and congregation we give a BIG thank you to all who delivered Easter lilies to our members who can no longer get out to our services. We trust you were blessed as you gave this blessing. ~ Carli Burton

IS JESUS IN YOUR WILL? Our time in this world won't last forever, but our influence can. As you plan for the future, prayerfully consider tithing 10% of your estate to the church for which Jesus gave his life.

Welcome to God's family: Emily Grace King Maryn Elise Solomon

Deaths Please hold in prayer the families of: Pam Mitchell Janet Roth-Shaw Ginger Ward Roberta "Robbie" Weir

HEADED TO THE HOSPITAL? Make sure that you let them know at registration that your church is Springfield First United Methodist Church. This helps our pastors and congregational care team know so we can pray for you and visit you while you are in the hospital.

may REAL Scriptures Judges and James

May 1 – Judges 19:1-9

May 11 – Judges 21:10-17

May 22 – James 3:13-18

May 2 – Judges 19:10-15

May 12 – Judges 21:18-25

May 23 – James 4:1-3

May 3 – Judges 19:16-22

May 13 – James 1:1-8

May 24 – James 4:4-6

May 4 – Judges 19:23-30

May 14 – James 1:9-18

May 25 – James 4:7-12

May 5 – Judges 20:1-7

May 15 – James 1:19-27

May 26 – James 4:13-17

May 6 – Judges 20:8-17

May 16 – James 2:1-7

May 27 – James 5:1-6

May 7 – Judges 20:18-28

May 17 – James 2:8-13

May 28 – James 5:7-11

May 8 – Judges 20:29-36

May 18 – James 2:14-17

May 29 – James 5:12-15

May 9 – Judges 20:37-48

May 19 – James 2:18-26

May 30 – James 5:16-18

May 10 – Judges 21:1-9

May 20 – James 3:1-6

May 31 – James 5:19-20

May 21 – James 3:7-12 MAY 2018 15

Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage

PAID

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 2941 South Koke Mill Road · Springfield, IL 62711

Springfield, IL Permit No. 578

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

To receive Tidings via mail OR email, contact the main office at 217-793-9760. Connect with us online at www.springfieldfirst.org for more resources.

Upcoming Events

may

–

The Role of the Holy Spirit in the Wesleyan Tradition class begins (6:30pm)

–

National Day of Prayer (7:00-8:00am, 12:00-1:00pm, and 5:00-6:00pm)

–

Starting Point (6:00pm)

–

Spring Cantata (9:00am traditional service)

–

G6 Class begins (6:30pm)

–

Mother’s Day

19/20 –

Graduation Recognition Weekend

–

Building Closed for Memorial Day

june

2/3

–

OneThing Weekend

18-22 –

Adventure Bible Camp (9:00am-12:00pm)

WEEKEND WORSHIP EXPERIENCES

Saturday 5:30pm Contemporary Sunday 9:00am Traditional · 9:00am Contemporary in CLC · 10:30am Contemporary

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Stay up on ALL future events of Springfield First · visit our website www.springfieldfirst.org