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A PUBLICATION OF FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
THEWINDOW 1411 BROADWAY | LUBBOCK, TX 79401 | 806.763.4607 | FUMC.COM | NOVEMBER 2020
What’s Inside Page 02 Adult Ministry
Page 04 Missions & Outreach
Page 05 Emily’s Farewell
Page 06 First Youth
FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH•LUBBOCK
FIRSTLBK
MOVED BY JESUS. LOVING PEOPLE. SERVING ALL.
Our mission is to create a grace-filled environment in which Christ transforms lives.
GIVE THANKS It’s been more than twenty years since I served as a youth pastor. And while I can recognize the many things that are so very different today, there are still some truths that I know are still relevant and meaningful that we SENIOR PASTOR can draw from today. Todd Salzwedel I’m reminded of an immediate example from a praise song that was a mainstay at camp and youth functions – “Give Thanks”. The song and lyrics are simple, as is the lesson it teaches. It begins with the chorus which says: Give thanks, with a grateful Give thanks to the Holy One, Give thanks, because He’s given Jesus Christ, His Son Simple enough, right? It was a lesson we tried to impart to youth every chance we could. We aimed to exemplify that same gratitude ourselves as leaders. We contended that it was a truth we could count on no matter the circumstances we faced in our lives. This month, when many of us gather around dinner tables for Thanksgiving, we might take part in the tradition of giving voice to the things we are grateful for in this past year. I’m sure my family will. But I’ve also heard many people express that they will just be grateful to say goodbye to the year 2020. I understand that. The struggles we have dealt with as a global community, the national discord that we witness in new and unimaginable ways on
a daily basis, and the uncertainty of the near future make it difficult to start from a position of gratitude. But… Surely there are still areas of our lives and events for which we can recognize God moving in our midst. There are moments where an act of kindness and compassion demonstrate the inherent goodness of so many in our lives. Even in the struggle and obstacles we face, we can give thanks because we are assured, we don’t face these trials alone! In fact, the only verse of the song “Give Thanks” says: And now, let the weak say I am strong Let the poor say I am rich Because of what the Lord has done for us. It’s a simple song with such an important message… maybe especially at a time like we find ourselves now. Psalm 28:7 says that “the Lord is my strength and shield; my heart trusts in Him, and I am helped. Therefore, my heart rejoices, and I give thanks to Him with my song.” In such a time as this, God lets us know that He has us in the palm of His hand secured by His strength. We are confident that God places people in our lives to journey together with for encouragement and help. And at least in my house, we are grateful! Grateful for to be here among each of you… grateful for the people of First Lubbock… and grateful that in times such as these, we have the opportunity to turn to God with everything knowing that He will guide and protect us! Give Thanks! Grace and Peace! Pastor Todd Salzwedel November 2020 | The Window
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Dear church family,
Shera Atkinson Minister of Spiritual Formation and Congregational Care
It is now November and it is my intention to have all Christmas shopping done by Thanksgiving. I am about halfway there. Last year I had the same intention and finished my shopping on Christmas Eve. Scripture tells us, “be doers of the Word, and not hearers only…” (James 1:22 NKJV) The question is how do we move from good intentions to action?
The answer may begin with the difference in the words intention and intentional. There are only two letters difference in spelling but a world of difference in meaning.
• intention (noun): the thing that you plan to do or achieve: an aim or purpose
• intentional (adjective): done in a way that is planned or intended
There are many approaches to becoming intentional, but it starts with a relationship. It is important to start each day making sure that you are intentional about God’s plan for you rather than your plan for you. When we are in relationship with God, hearing and following is motivated out of love
and excitement to see what God has in store. It helps you remember what are you running for, i.e. the goal, and it helps you run with perseverance. Second, you need a plan. Create an action plan and a time schedule for completing successive steps to your intended goal. Keep to your schedule by setting the goal as a top priority. Third, the writer of Hebrews reminds us that we need accountability: “Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works.” (Hebrews 10:24 NLT) We are not intended to reach our goals alone. God consistently encourages us to engage in “one anothering”. Find your group and enlist others who will encourage and spur you on! Fourth, simplify! Rid yourself of distractions and fruitless or unnecessary activities. Rearrange your schedule to reflect the importance of your intention. Oscar Wilde once said, “The smallest act of kindness is worth more than the grandest intention.” One goal that we are all called to is to love God and others. How easy it is to get caught up in the tyranny of the urgent and the dailiness of life and fail to live into our good intentions. Remember scripture reminds us: “Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” (1 John 3:18 NIV) Soli Deo Gloria, Shera
Women’s
Advent Luncheon Come and enjoy some of your favorite things presented by the FUMC Women’s Ministry! WHO: All FUMC Women WHEN: December 3rd 11:00 to 1:00 WHAT: An advent Luncheon complete with Carols, Fellowship and Christmas / Advent Fun REGISTRATION: Please email Gloria Ashby, gashby@fumc.com, or call 763 4607 ext 222 COST: All donations will be applied toward a mission project for the residents of My Father’s House
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November 2020 | The Window
Rejoice in the Lord “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice!”
to it; a jingle that just doesn’t go away. Likewise, with singing comes rejoicing.
November is a great month for rejoicing. Even in our current age of uncertainty and unwelcome news of tragedy and increased illness, there are moments the Lord gives us for rejoicing. All we have to do is look around and search… perhaps search a little harder now than before… to find those things that bring us opportunities to rejoice.
We might think rejoicing is a one-way kind of path we are on with the Lord. That it’s us rejoicing to Him. However, we are told differently by the prophet Zephaniah. I love the minor prophets in the Old Testament – their oracles (visions by God) are profound. In chapter 3 verse 17 we read that God, the Mighty Warrior, is with us… that He takes great delight in us and will “rejoice over you with singing.” I get goosebumps just thinking about this.
With Thanksgiving on the horizon, we know especially at this occasion; it is our duty and privilege to give thanks (with rejoicing) to the Lord. One might even rejoice at the thought of getting those great Black Friday deals for Christmas gifts. With rejoicing comes singing. The two cannot be separated! The scripture verse above almost has its own “ring”
God sings? What?! The Creator of all, the Supreme Lord of creation, sings? What an amazing thought – God’s voice singing over us. In all things, it’s not just us that rejoices, but God who does as well. He takes great delight in
us, saves us, is with us, and SINGS with rejoicing over us. I am sure that even in these tough times we are in, God is still singing. Who knows what the song title might be or what the lyrics of His music are, but He is singing. What a sound that has to be. Perhaps it is a strong, thundering deep sound. Or perhaps it is the “still small voice” that followed the earthquakes and fire in I Kings 19. Whatever sound it is, He is rejoicing. Shouldn’t we? Be no more afraid of your voice now, nor more ashamed of it being heard… and above all, sing spiritually. +Soli Deo Gloria+ Matt Johnston Organist and Assistant Director of Traditional Music MJohnston@fumc.com
MUSIC FOR ALL SAINTS
LUX THE DAWN FROM ON HIGH
by Dan Forrest
FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH, LUBBOCK 141 1 B R OAD WAY
Sunday • November 1 • 5:00 p.m.
FUM C C h am b er S i n g e r s pre s e n t D a n F o r rest ’s LU X : T he Dawn fro m o n High , an d O N at a L u x by T h o m a s Ta l l i s a n d M o rt en Lauri dsen fo r Al l Saint s D ay. Ou r th e m e th i s y e a r, L U X , th e Lat i n fo r l i g ht , bri ng s ho pe and com for t am id th e s e u n c e r ta i n ti m e s . Social distancing will be in place and face coverings are highly encouraged. Childcare Provided
FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH•LUBBOCK
FIRSTLBK
MOVED BY JESUS. LOVING PEOPLE. SERVING ALL.
November 2020 | The Window
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Missions & Outreach Ways to Serve ANNUAL COMMUNITY THANKSGIVING MEAL Saturday, November 14 To keep our guests and volunteers safe during this season, this year’s Community Thanksgiving meal will be drivethrough pick up of to-go-meals. Volunteers are needed to prepare meals and pass them out. Please sign up for a shift at fumc.com/thanksgivingvolunteer. HURRICANE RELIEF PHONE CALL TEAM Volunteers needed ASAP As many of you know, a record 10th Hurricane struck the Gulf Coast within the week. There is great need and we intend to respond. In fact, we have been presented with an opportunity to help from right here in the Northwest Conference. If you have access to a computer with internet and any phone, you can help with the estimated 10,000-15,000 calls that will need to be made starting ASAP. Persons suffering damage or needing assistance will need to be contacted and offered compassion and assistance so a team of people need to be assembled to help. I understand all will be handled online with a need to contact about 20 people a day. Please contact Sara Lattimore, slattimore@fumc.com for more details and to get on a list of those who are available to start making calls.
HURRICANE RELIEF MISSION TRIP December 12-17 Location: Jasper, TX Lodging is staying on cots at the Methodist Church in Jasper. The church would provide breakfast and lunch, dinner would be out. The church would help with in town transportation for assessments. Projects: Damage Assessment in partnership with Texas Department of Emergency Management.
BAYLESS SNACK BAGS/ FOOD2KIDS WORK DAY December 5 Take your family or join some of your church family in packing snack packs with Food2Kids. Sign Up Online at signupgenius.com/go/baylesssnackbags The warehouse is located at: South Plains Food2Kids - 12516 Chicago Ave. GROWING MISSIONALLY MISSION STUDIES
Ten people max, teams of 2-3 will go into the community to survey damage and needs on homes.
New Studies coming in January 2021!
A couple of people willing to help collate data to pass along are also needed.
FAMILIES IN MISSION (Small Group)
This trip is not repairing damage, but preparing the way for repairs to begin, and building relationships and partnership in the community for future teams. Volunteer skills: Flexibility! Must be willing to try a new model and adapt as needed. Ability to talk to people is needed. Attention to detail and able to follow instructions and complete assessments on home, reporting the repair needs are also important. Participants must be 18 or older. If you have any questions please contact Sara Lattimore, slattimore@fumc. com. Sign up at fumc.com/hurricane-relief.
SMALL GROUPS
Mondays 6:00-7:30 (Ongoing) Lattimore House A small group for families of all shapes, sizes, and ages. Build community with families that desire to serve, grow, learn, and love others together. Contact Sara Lattimore, slattimore@fumc. com for more information December Mission Offering Month Mission Trip Sign Ups Begin: Summer of 2021- Alaska 12/5 Bayless Snack Bags/Food2Kids Work Day 12/19 Christmas Food Box Distribution/ Food Bank Work Day Sara Lattimore Director of Missions & Outreach slattimore@fumc.com
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November 2020 | The Window
November 2020 | The Window
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UPCOMING EVENTS
SUNDAY SCHEDULE SMALL GROUPS 9:45 A.M.
FIRST YOUTH GATHERING
CHARLIE’S COAT DRIVE
NEW TIME: 5:30-7:30 P.M. Wesley Room
Donate new or gently used coats from November 8 - December 13
COMMUNITY GROUPS
Drop-off locations will be available throughout the church. Other drop-off locations are TBA.
MIDDLE SCHOOL
SKI TRIP 2021
November 4 | November 18
Wolf Creek Ski Resort, CO
6:45-8:00 P.M. First LBK Church | Wesley Room
NEW DATES: March 17-21, 2021
HIGH SCHOOL November 11 6:45-8:00 P.M. FirstLBK Church | Wesley Room
CHARLIE’S 8th Annual Kids-4-Kids COAT DRIVE
DONATE NEW OR GENTLY USED COATS FROM
NOVEMBER 8 TO DECEMBER 13, 2020 DROP-OFF LOCATIONS FIRSTLBK // WENTZ ORTHODONTICS READY-SET-GO // BEST IN-HOME CARE THE DANCE GALLERY // TRIPLE J
COATS WILL BENEFIT: Kingdom Come Ministries
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November 2020 | The Window
Charlie PITNER
FIRSTLBK 9TH GRADE STUDENT
Memorials & Honorariums – October 15, 2020 EVERLIVING CHURCH TRUST In memory of Bill McMillan by Ethel McLeod
In memory of Dee Craig by Beverly Stirman
In memory of Bill McMillan by Jere and Marisue Smith
In memory of Susan Headrick by Beverly Stirman
In memory of Harold Humphries by Dan and Kay Howard
In memory of Monta Jean Smitherman by Beverly Stirman
In memory of Bill McMillan by Dan and Kay Howard In memory of Becky Davis by Dan and Kay Howard
MUSIC MINISTRY In memory of Dr. Robert Carr by Charles and Paula Key
In memory of Hadley Phillips by Dan and Kay Howard
In memory of Dee Craig by Dan and Kay Howard
In memory of Bill McMillan by George McInturff
In memory of Harrell Spears by Dan and Kay Howard
In memory of Bill and Laura McMillan by Fuston and Billie Ruth McCarty
In memory of Bill McMillan by Jerry and Tobie Bailey
In memory of Dr. Robert Carr by Larry and Susan Hess
ORGAN FUND In memory of Bill McMillan by the McMillan Class
FRIENDS OF MUSIC In memory of Jimmie Mason by Beverly Stirman In memory of Dick Craig by Beverly Stirman
In memory of Sylvia Taylor by Beverly Stirman
In memory of W. G. McMillan by Tom and Carolyn Neal
SECOND HELPINGS In memory of Dana Robertson by Jerry and Tobie Bailey
In memory of Larry Neal by Beverly Stirman
Our Life Together October 2020 BAPTISM Congratulations to Ryan and Brittany Todd on the baptism of their son, Theodore Lee. Theodore was baptized Sunday October 18 in the 11 Traditional service by Reverend Bailey Barkley. NEW MEMBERS Congratulations to Jim Dines and Nancy Wood on joining First Lubbock Sunday October 4 in the 11T service by Pastor Todd Salzwedel. Jim and Nancy are transferring from Central UMC in Albuquerque. SYMPATHIES Sympathies to Fuston McCarty and family on the death of their wife and mother, Billie Ruth McCarty. She died October 15. She and Fuston have been members since February 1975. Sympathies to the family of Mike and Marilyn Riley on the death of Mike’s father, Claude Riley,at the age of 100. Mike was by his father’s side when his father passed away, October 18. Mike and Marilyn are members of the Pathfinders Sunday School Class.
Welborn Payne Christian Life Conference First United Methodist Church, Lubbock
SANDRA RICHTER
Old Testament Scholar and Author
$10 - Lunch Reservations • Free Childcare • Information & Reservations at fumc.com/sandra-richter Contact: Dr. Shera Atkinson, satkinson@fumc.com • Gloria Ashby, gashby@fumc.com
November 21 & 22, 2020
LISA HARPER
AUTHOR. SPEAKER. MOM.
SATURDAY JANUARY 16
2021
10 a.m.-12:45 p.m. First United Methodist Church, Lubbock 1401 Broadway
Information and registration at fumc.com/lisa-harper. Cost is $40. FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH•LUBBOCK
FIRSTLBK
MOVED BY JESUS. LOVING PEOPLE. SERVING ALL.
November 2020 | The Window
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FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH•LUBBOCK
FIRSTLBK
Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage
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MOVED BY JESUS. LOVING PEOPLE. SERVING ALL.
Lubbock, Texas Permit No. 594
1411 Broadway Lubbock, TX 79401 Return Services Requested
FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH•LUBBOCK
FIRSTLBK
FIRSTLBK
MOVED BY JESUS. LOVING PEOPLE. SERVING ALL.
WORSHIP SERVICES Traditional
8:30 a.m. Connect - Sanctuary 9 a.m. Bowman Chapel 11 a.m. Sanctuary
Contemporary
9:30 a.m. Christian Life Center 11 a.m. Christian Life Center @fumclbk @fumclbk 8
November 2020 | The Window
1411 Broadway, Lubbock, TX 79401 fumc.com The Window is a monthly publication of First United Methodist Church, Lubbock