Let There Be Light Come, Celebrate the Christmas Season with Us
[LOVE SELF] WITHOUT CONDITIONS
FEATURES A LETTER FROM THE SENIOR PASTOR........5 [INSERT AWKWARD SILENCE]..........................6
Matt Deville talks about his recent experience at a weekend marriage workshop
BECOMING WHOLE AGAIN..................................9
Each Christmas Eve the sanctuary is filled with the light of Christ as each person passes the flame, lit from the candle on the Advent wreath, to the person next to them.
Let There Be Light
ON THE COVER: Families gathered in Galvez Plaza for the Carols & Candlelight Concert last year. Photo taken by Todd Rossnagel.
Celebrate the Christmas Season with Us
Lindsay Veillon steps out of her comfort zone and discovers the transformative power of bible study
INTIMATE PLACES.............................................10
Margaret Johnson offers a step-by-step guide to centering prayer and shares how prayer has transformed her life
I WISH YOU WERE HERE EVERYDAY..............12
Pete Prophit shares a recent experience he had working with a student in the HYPE after school program
HYPE: A VOLUNTEER'S VIEW..........................13
We sat down to chat with the volunteers who make the HYPE after school program happen
CONGREGATIONAL NEWS.............................14 Sharing our joys and sorrows together
CALENDAR OF UPCOMING EVENTS............15
WHO WE ARE & WHAT WE’RE ABOUT:
We are a worshipping community that seeks to provide a place of belonging where you can experience the Living God. • LOVE3: We are personally committed to loving God, ourselves and others. • WE OFFER JESUS CHRIST TO EVERYONE
• GOT BRAINS? We offer Christ to people who have questions and doubts, creating a space for thinking people to come to faith. • WE ARE PASSIONATE about making a place of hospitality for people already claiming the Christian faith, and non-religious people seeking to find out more. • WE EXPLORE fresh expressions of worship and contemporary styles of music.
• WE LIKE TECH! Don’t leave your smart phone at the door! Use it to read Scripture, connect with others, and plug-in to the external content on our website. • YOU ARE WELCOME HERE: No matter who you are, you have a home at First Methodist.
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930north | www.firstmethodist.org | Winter 2017
Let There Be Light
Sunday, December 10 Sanctuary at 8:30 and 11:00 AM The FUMC Chancel Choir and Festival Orchestra will lead worship. The theme of the service will be Let There Be Light and will feature seasonal favorites: "The First Noel," "Silent Night," "Angels We Have Heard on High," and "Carol of the Bells."
Downtown Christmas Pilgrimage Sunday, December 10
Join us in this great downtown tradition as we journey from church to church and hear a wonderful assortment of music celebrating the season. 5:30 PM Mt. Zion First Baptist 6:00 PM First United Methodist 6:30 PM First Presbyterian 7:00 PM St. James Episcopal 7:30 PM St. Joseph Cathedral 8:00 PM First Baptist
The Longest Night Thursday, December 14 Sanctuary at 7:00 PM
On one special night in December, we celebrate the winter solstice, the longest night of the year. We host a service of healing, hope, and encouragement at this time as a reminder that even on the darkest day, Christ comes to offer light into our world. This service speaks particularly to persons who have had a difficult year and to all of us who have unspoken concerns and needs.
Christmas Eve at First Methodist Sunday, December 24
THE 8:30 AM SANCTUARY SERVICE will feature a Christmas meditation and carols and will end with the lighting of candles and singing "Silent Night." Festival Brass will provide prelude music beginning fifteen minutes prior to the service. THE 9:45 AM AMERICA STREET SERVICE is our contemporary worship experience and will be held in the Conference Center. Join us as we gather to celebrate the birth of Jesus! Rev. Brady will share a message of hope; the band will lead us in worship; and Holy Communion will be served. The service will end with the lighting of candles during the singing of "Silent Night." THE 11:00 AM SERVICE will be family-oriented and will feature a retelling of the Nativity as seen from the eyes of animals at the Nativity. Rev. Brady will share a message of hope and the service will end with the lighting of candles and singing "Silent Night." Festival Brass will provide prelude music beginning fifteen minutes prior to the service. THE 5:00 AND 7:00 PM SERVICES include a Christmas meditation, Rev. Brady will share a message of hope, Holy Communion, and will end with the lighting of candles and singing "Silent Night." Festival Brass will provide prelude music beginning fifteen minutes prior to the service.
www.firstmethodist.org | Winter 2017 | 930north
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A LETTER FROM THE SENIOR PASTOR
Senior Pastor Rev. Brady Whitton Executive Pastor Rev. Pattye Hewitt Associate Pastors Rev. Becky Poor Rev. Fernie Rivera
OUR MISSION: Transforming lives by engaging our members to celebrate and share God’s love in Jesus Christ. OOPS! EDITOR'S NOTE In the article titled "Why We Serve" in last edition of 930north we misspelled Steve Shurtz's name. We apologize for this editing error.
Pastor Emerius Rev. Dr. Don Cottrill Deacon Rev. Ann Trousdale Editor & Designer Amy Book Proofreaders Extraordinare Susan Melsheimer Toni Gilboy Virginia Guffey Contributing Writers Matt Deville Lindsay Veillon Chris Spencer Margaret Johnson Pete Prophit Drake Walsh Elizabeth Hackenberg Cornelia Hackenberg 930north Magazine is published quarterly for the Baton Rouge community and friends of First United Methodist Church by the FUMC Office of Communications. HAVE A STORY TO TELL? Email: abook@firstmethodist.org WANT TO KNOW MORE? Contact us at (225) 383-4777 www.firstmethodist.org SEND CHANGE OF ADDRESS TO: toni@firstmethodist.org
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“OH, COME ALL YE GUMBO”
One of the greatest events of the year is the Downtown Christmas Pilgrimage. In biblical days, families and friends would travel together on a pilgrimage, to an important destination. This is no different today. You're invited to come and join together in community prior to the pilgrimage. We will gather at 4:00 PM in the FUMC Conference Center for fellowship, for a meet-and-greet, and for a warm cup of gumbo to get you on your way. From the Conference Center, you will have a chance to walk with your new friends to Mount Zion for the first stop along the Downtown Christmas Pilgrimage.
ADVENT ADVENTURE
Are you looking for something free and fun to do with your kids? You are invited to join other families in an Advent Adventure on December 17 from 3:00-5:00 PM at Galvez Plaza, located at 200 North Blvd. • Free family activities • Food • Cookie decorating • Crafts • Face painting • Inflatables • Scavenger hunt
JUNIOR & SENIOR HIGH CHRISTMAS PARTY
All junior and senior high school youth are invited to attend the Youth@First annual Christmas Party. Contact Kale Wetekamm, Director of Youth Ministry at kwet@firstmethodist.org for more information.
930north | www.firstmethodist.org | Winter 2017
D e a r Bro t h e rs & S i ste rs i n Ch ri st, It’s difficult to describe, but recently my faith in Christ is awake and alive in a way it hasn’t been before. I find myself more drawn to the scriptures, to prayer, to worship, and to sharing my faith with others. I feel the power of the Holy Spirit at work in my whole being -- guiding, strengthening, convicting, and changing me. I’ve found a new confidence in the belief that through the person and work of Jesus Christ I have been made right with God — that in Christ, God has “taken away my sins, even mine, and saved me from the law of sin and death." It’s amazing and exciting. Now I want to be clear that this “revival” of my walk with Christ is not of my making. It truly is a gift from God. As Paul says in Ephesians, “by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God” (Eph. 2:8). However, I can point to a few changes that were thrust upon me that prepared me to receive this gift anew. First, following my heart surgery I made my morning “God time” a non-negotiable. That may sound strange coming from a pastor, but like many of you I often allowed the demands of the world around me – work, family, etc. - to crowd out my time with God. Following my surgery I no longer allow that to happen. It is now “God first” in my day (and exercise second). During that time with God, I am reminded of who I am – a new creation in Christ. It centers me, strengthens me. It reminds me where I live – in the unshakable Kingdom of God. God wants to meet with us, speak to us, live in us, and assure us of his eternal love and grace. But God won’t force himself on us. We have to make time for God. I now see my time with God every day as a matter of life and death. I encourage you to do the same. Second, following my surgery I was forced to slow down. Before my surgery when my body and mind said, “Stop!” I kept going. That’s what it means to be a productive member of society, right? You push through. Well, friends, pushing through landed me on an operating table. (Some have asked, “But, Brady, wasn’t it also genetics?” and the answer is, yes. But the grind I was living wasn’t helping my genetic predisposition one bit.) I’m not going to let that happen again. Slowing down, saying no to more things, learning to let people be disappointed in me, etc., has been one of the greatest things I have ever done for my life with God. I am forced to ask myself regularly, “What is truly important?” “Where do I find my value?” “Where are my energies best spent?”
One of the main ways God speaks to us is through what is known as the “still small voice.” How can I hear the “still small voice” of God when I am hurried, harried and stressed? The answer is simple -- I can’t. Paul says the fruit of the Spirit is “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.” How can these things emerge when I am filling every moment with activity, noise, and running around like a crazy person? They can’t. What do you need to do in order to slow down? What do you need to give up? What do you need to turn off? Take my advice, don’t wait. Do it now. There are a few other life-adjustments I’ve made post surgery that I see have enabled me to receive God’s grace more fully, but I’ve already gone on too long so I’ll save those for another time. But bear with me a little longer. The new life I’m experiencing in Christ is not something unusual, rare, or strange. It’s not for spiritual super heroes. It’s not for pastors only. It’s what countless Christians through the ages have experienced and have tried their best to proclaim and teach to us. It’s not for the rare few. It’s for you. Jesus says he came that we might have new and abundant life, life in God’s Kingdom, the “life that truly is life.” This new life is a gift of God’s grace for those who will have it. You can have it. But only to the extent that you will move Christ and the things of Christ to the center of your life. It’s strange, but God really is a jealous God. Until we make Christ first, we will never know the fullness of his presence in our lives. Jesus really is the one you have been looking for. Don’t wait for a crisis or a holiday or a time when you imagine life is going to slow down to make him the Lord of your life. Do it now. The only thing you’ll regret is not having done it sooner. Renewed in Christ’s Love,
Rev. Brady
Rev. Brady celebrating his birthday at our annual Fall Festival with Bowen McRae & Alex Byo, Director of Missions at FUMC.
www.firstmethodist.org | Winter 2017 | 930north
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[LOVE GOD] BECOMING WHOLE AGAIN
[LOVE SELF] INSERT AWKWARD SILENCE
BY MATT DEVILLE
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hile having coffee with a friend a few weeks ago, the following conversation occurred: “What do you and Beth have planned this weekend?” he asked. I replied, “We are actually attending a two-day marriage workshop at our church tonight and all day tomorrow.” (Insert awkward silence.) After a moment or two passed, he responded, “Are y’all doing okay?” I couldn’t help but laugh. “We’re fine,” I said. “Actually, we’re great, which is the reason why we are going to this workshop.” It seems my friend was worried that my wife and I were “in counseling.” Like many couples who struggle through this stage of life– being married for 10+ years and raising two small children– we are not immune to the day-to-day weight of it all. I shared with my friend the idea that we weren’t trying to fix a specific problem, rather we wanted to explore ways to strengthen our marriage. I will be honest, though, I was slightly anxious about spending 13 hours over a two-day period in a room discussing the tender topic of marriage. The idea of having to address potential issues with my spouse–with no place to hide–was a bit unnerving. What I didn’t know at the time was the Hold Me Tight Marriage Workshop was about to change my life and influence the direction of our marriage. Structured around seven topics, a team of relationship experts guided the group through a brief orientation on each subject. They supplied couples with a template of questions for each person to answer and then share with one another in a private conversation. It seems strange to be anxious about engaging in a conversation with my wife of 11 years, but admittedly, I was a little intimidated. We decided we would sit in our regular pew in the sanctuary to have our conversations, which immediately put me at ease. After each discussion period, the group reconvened and couples were given an opportunity to share thoughts on what the process was like for them. By the conclusion of the evening session on Friday night, I was astounded at the discoveries we had made. Surprisingly, I was already looking forward to coming back the next day. As Saturday morning spilled into the afternoon, Beth and I continued to talk and share, and we were often amazed at the things we never knew or even considered about each other. We were captivated by the feedback from the other couples as well. We were fortunate to have had one couple in the group who had been married 40 years. It was both heartwarming and heartbreaking to hear the husband say he wished he had shared this experience with his wife 30 years ago. The people gathered together that day came from different age groups and diverse backgrounds but each shared experience was welcomed and valued. By the conclusion of the workshop, there was little doubt that all who attended left with relationship tools and valuable
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IN 34 WEEKS PARTICIPANTS READ 80% OF THE BIBLE
“...HAPPY TEARS BECAUSE I WAS COMPLETELY OVERTAKEN BY THE GRACE OF GOD.”
BECOMING WHOLE AGAIN
BY LINDSAY VEILLON
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INSERT AWKWARD SILENCE A M a rria g e W o rk sho p Exp e ri ence
The idea of having to address potential issues with your spouse –with no place to hide–was a bit unnerving. resources to apply in their daily lives together. I highly recommend the Hold Me Tight Workshop and challenge any couple to give it a shot. Keeping an open mind and a full heart, this experience can truly change the direction of your marriage. For those of you who, like my friend, may view a marriage workshop as “couples therapy,” think about it like this: if you wait until things are bad before you try to fortify your relationship, it might be too late. Beth and I emerged from the weekend with a renewed sense of spirit, innovative methods of communication and a newfound awareness of one another in our marriage. Sitting in our pew on Sundays, I often find myself thinking about those conversations. I’m grateful they took place in the same sacred space where we exchanged vows 11 years ago. And as is so often the case, I know God’s hand was in that, and it makes me smile.
n January of this year, I was lost. I felt very confused about where my life was headed. I felt empty and purposeless. The church that I grew up in flooded back in August, and I had not attended church for months. I was broken and suffering, and I knew that I needed to find a way back to God. I tried going to several churches but never found what I was searching for. In a moment of desperation, a quick google search led me to the First United Methodist Church website, and shortly after, I found myself looking at a Young Adult Disciple Bible Study that was starting soon and seemed like exactly what I needed. I stepped WAY outside my comfort zone, emailed someone about the class, and attended day one without knowing anyone. I sat down in an unfamiliar room and waited for the people to trickle in. Little did I know that this class, along with this group of people, would undoubtedly change my life for the better! Reading the Bible (or really, just reading in general) has always been challenging for me. I’m an engineer, and I am very left-brained, so comprehending what I’m reading is tough. I tend to over-analyze and take things too literally. Finding the metaphor in the story is nearly impossible for me. The reading struggle is real, y’all. That being said, taking this class was the BEST decision I could have ever made! The Disciple Bible Study manual is broken down in a way that links the readings by themes. This is PERFECT because it helps me, the “ignorant reader”, know In Disciple I participants study the Old and New what to look for within the readings. The first couple of weeks, I would read and comprehend the Testaments over 34 weeks and journey with others, scripture very literally. growing, sharing, (and sometimes wrestling with Then I would go to class and we would talk about all of the “metaphors” and hidden knowledge within the readings that I had missed upon my pass. I remember leaving Bible Study the first couple of weeks and just crying on my way home. The tears were happy tears because I was completely overtaken by the grace of God – his overwhelming love for me. I was also amazed, time and time again, when a message I’ve read dozens of times would suddenly take on a new meaning and offer so much insight for my life. Week by week, I began to feel a little less broken, a little less lost. Through scripture I was becoming whole again.
Scripture) together. 34 weeks is a big commitment (yes, we did just drop the c-word!) We know the word “commitment” may seem scary, but this small group experience is worth overcoming your phobia! Disciple will not only increase your biblical knowledge—but will also change your heart as you read about and experience God’s love and transforming power! To join the next Disciple group, contact Jennifer Stephens, Director of Small Group Ministry, at jstephens@ firstmethodist.org or 225-383-4777, ext. 265.
I still struggle sometimes with knowing my purpose in life, but through my readings in Disciple Bible Study and the talks I have with Rev. Fernie, Rev. Brady, and the girls in class, I have learned and I find overwhelming comfort in knowing that God loves me no matter what. As long as I seek him, complete and TRUE happiness can be realized. There is no greater feeling in the world than that. www.firstmethodist.org | Winter 2017 | 930north
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[LOVE SELF] WITHOUT CONDITIONS
[LOVE GOD] GENEROUS: A JOURNEY
[LOVE OTHERS] WHY I SERVE
gen•er•ous adj 1: showing a readiness to give more of something, time or money, than is strictly necessary or expected 2: showing kindness toward others
(Continued from previous page) Because we try to be faithful to God’s will for our lives, we were able to talk, pray, and eventually come to the decision to trust God to lead us and our family in the next phase of our life. It is all part of our journey. We are excited to see what God has in store for me at the Foundation and with the rest of our lives. In this season of stewardship where we are focusing on God’s generosity and giving God thanks for all he provides us, I challenge you to pray for what He has in store for you. Be open to the possibilities and have the courage to go in the direction He is leading you. It is all part of your journey! For both online or giving through the Shelby Next Giving app you will be given options for:
BY CHRIS SPENCER
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e are all on a journey. The Bible is full of rich stories of everyday people who embarked on a journey and followed their faith. From Abraham to Paul, scripture provides us with timeless examples of people who mustered up the courage to follow God’s call and set out on a journey that would change their lives and countless other lives over the centuries. Along the way, a common theme emerged among these example-setters in the Bible. In each of their stories, we read of ways they paused to give back to God some of what He had entrusted to them. The Bible also tells us they gave thanks to God for His many blessings in their lives.
I was young. My dad was granted full custody of me. We were members of a neighborhood Methodist church, and oftentimes that church, its staff and volunteer youth leaders, provided a comforting refuge during the challenging times in my life. This discernment process also made me realize how many ways God has blessed our family. He has provided so much to Karen and I since He brought us together almost 30 years ago. So often in life we look at the difficulties we face or the challenges we run into, and we worry and fret over the potential outcomes. But how often do we thank God for the good He has brought into our life, and the fruit He has provided us?
I also thought about our So often in life we look at the journey that led us to First I reflected on many of these faith journey examples when I difficulties we face or the Methodist, and the active roles recently made a career change Karen and I have been blessed challenges we run into, and we both and joined the United Methodist with over the years. Like so many worry and fret over the potential of our fellow church members, Foundation of Louisiana as the outcomes. But how often do we we have made lifelong friendships organization’s development officer for south Louisiana. UMF CEO thank God for the good He has through the church. We have and church member Rob Fairly watched our children grow and brought into our life, and the approached me two years ago about mature spiritually both inside the fruit He has provided us? joining the organization. In that church’s walls and outside them, initial meeting, Rob told me he through mission trips and volunteer considered his role at the Foundation “a calling”, and he advised efforts. First Methodist offers so many opportunities for us to me to pray about the potential move. From that first meeting get involved and become the hands and feet of Christ. What a with Rob, and as I learned more about the Foundation, I became blessing this truly is! more and more intrigued by the support it provides Methodist churches and their members throughout the state. In that reflection process, I thought of some of the lifechanging moments in our time in the church that have helped My wife, Karen, and I wrestled with numerous factors as we shape our relationship. Karen grew up in the Baptist faith, and considered the move. As I factored in the potential reasons for her decision to join First Methodist was a defining moment in making this career move, some of them were straightforward and our life together. Along the way, we both have taken various some were more difficult. I had been with my previous employer Disciple Bible studies that have played a major role in growing for 24 years, and the thought of leaving the company was at times our faith. And several years ago, we took Financial Peace overwhelming. The company had provided me with some great University, which helped lead us on the path to tithing (giving opportunities to grow and develop skills in a variety of roles. I had 10% of our income back to God.) Although Dave Ramsey, thought, like many people probably do, that I would work at the the author of Financial Peace, would not consider us honor company until I was ready to retire. students, we do try to follow the principles of his program. This has afforded us the opportunity to give more and more back to I also thought long and hard about my journey. I grew up in the church because we are mindful of what God has given us. North Carolina as an only child, and my parents divorced when (continued on the next page)
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930north | www.firstmethodist.org | Winter 2017
• • GIVE ON THE SHELBY NEXT GIVING APP: Download and install the app. Search by organization name (First United Methodist Church) and/or by zipcode (70802) and select FUMC from the list. Next create your donor profile. GIVE ON OUR WEBSITE: Visit www.firstmethodist.org and click on the red "GIVE" button located in the upper right corner.
• •
amount of your donation payment method (debit card, credit card, checking account) giving to a specific budget (General funds, missions, etc.) recurrence of your donation (one-time or automatically recurring)
The Giving Tree
HELP MAKE A CHILD'S CHRISTMAS SPECIAL
THE HEBREWS 11 SOCIETY Faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. Indeed, by faith our ancestors received approval. -Hebrews 11:1-2
In 2014, the Trustees of First United Methodist Church formed an endowment committee to educate our members and supporters about the church’s endowment and encourage them to prayerfully consider leaving a legacy gift to the church. A legacy gift is distinct from regular giving to the church and can take many forms: • A bequest in your will • A gift of real estate • Naming the church as a beneficiary to your life insurance or retirement plan • The creation of a gift annuity
If you would like more information about legacy giving or the endowment, please contact Rev. Brady Whitton at bwhitton@firstmethodist.org, or Bill Potter, Chair of First United Methodist Church’s Endowment Committee, at bpotter@pncpa.com.
The Giving Tree is a special tree representing 300 children in our community who need your help. You can be part of this ministry by providing gifts for these children, making Christmas more joyful for them. FUMC is once again partnering with Bernard Terrace, Magnolia Woods, and Wildwood Elementary schools, and the Methodist Children's Home in Ruston, LA. The Giving Tree will be in the gym at FUMC on Sunday, November 12 and 19, so you can select the names of children who need gifts. Or request a name by emailing GivingTree@cox.net− include the number of names you want and if you have a preference of boy/girl, age, or school. For each child you choose, you will be given a wish list of gift ideas including clothing sizes. • Return wrapped gifts to the Giving Tree on Sunday, November 26 or December 3. • All gifts must be returned by December 3 so they can be delivered to the schools prior to their Christmas break. The Giving Tree is sponsored by the Wesley Fellowship Sunday School Class. Questions? Contact Jon Seger at 252-6304 or email GivingTree@cox.net. www.firstmethodist.org | Winter 2017 | 930north
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[LOVE GOD] INTIMATE PLACES
[LOVE GOD] A GUIDE TO CENTERING PRAYER
A GUIDE TO PRACTICING CENTERING PRAYER
BY MARGARET JOHNSON
1. Begin by choosing a sacred word as your invitation to God’s presence and action within (ex. favorite name for God, or perhaps a fruit of the spirit—love, peace, or joy.) You can use the same word over and over again or select a new word each time. The word I have used for years is “light.”
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n 1998 I was introduced to centering prayer in Lake Charles, Louisiana, when I was accepted into the St. Charles Center Spiritual Direction Training Program. We were encouraged to practice centering prayer 20 minutes twice a day.
The benefits for me have been life changing. In centering prayer, God touches those intimate places that only God knows. This has allowed me to let go of things in my life that do Centering Prayer will be offered not belong. The from 12:00-12:30 PM at FUMC result is improved on Tuesdays during Advent, relationships with family, friends, beginning December 5, 2017. and strangers on the street. I have Come and find your quiet center become a kinder, in the Aldridge Chapel from gentler person. Even 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, where you in stressful or painful circumstances, I have can come and go as you wish, a feeling of peace. read, journal, pray, or simply sit.
Centering Prayer will begin at 12:00 PM and ends at 12:30 PM.
I was raised in a family with four children and two bathrooms in a large, older home. One of the bathrooms did not work, which left one for all six of us. Obviously, we were required to make good use of our allotted time in the bathroom. As a child and teenager, I was afraid of being ridiculed when I talked about my
aspirations and plans, so it was easier for me to share bathroom space than to share my innermost thoughts and dreams with my family members and friends. I did not want to reveal who I really was. Through the healing power of communing with God, I accepted that I was loved by God, and as the beloved daughter of God, could become the person God created me to be. I was awakened to truths that led me to authenticity and transparency in my relationships.
3. When thoughts interrupt, return ever-so-gently to the sacred word. It is much like sitting by a river bank and watching logs go by. Acknowledge the log or the thought, and let it go. If it is something important, trust that God will bring it back to you at a later time. We all have “monkey minds” that try to get us off track. Be
4. Remain in silence with eyes closed for a few minutes at the end of the prayer period. This allows you to carry your word with you through the rest of the day.
THERE’S AN APP FOR THAT! Contemplative Outreach makes a really nifty app for centering prayer which allows you to set the time you want to spend, has suggested scriptures for opening and closing, and allows you to choose a sound to begin and end your prayer with. It is available for download in the iTunes App Store or Google Play.
You may be asking yourself,”What is centering prayer?” It is a method of silent prayer that prepares us to receive the gift of contemplative prayer, prayer in which we experience God’s presence within us, closer than breathing, closer than thinking, closer than consciousness itself. This method of prayer is both a relationship with God and a discipline to fosters that relationship. Centering Prayer is not meant to replace other kinds of prayer. Rather, it adds depth of meaning to all prayer and facilitates the movement from more active modes of prayer—verbal, mental, or affective prayer— into a receptive prayer of resting in God. Centering Prayer emphasizes prayer as a personal relationship with God and as a movement beyond conversation with Christ to communion with Christ.
“...it was easier for me to share bathroom space than to share my innermost thoughts and dreams with my family members and friends. I did not want to reveal who I really was.” 10 930north | www.firstmethodist.org | Winter 2017
2. Sitting comfortably, with eyes closed, silently introduce the sacred word as your consent to God’s presence and action within. We close our eyes to keep from being distracted by outside influences. Closing our eyes helps us to focus on our word, which allows us to empty our mind and make room for God to move within us.
confident that with practice, this will become easier for you.
Join us at the Wesley Foundation of LSU located at 333 East Chimes Street, from 9:00 AM-3:00 PM as we prepare our hearts for Advent and engage in contemplative practices and walking and praying the labyrinth. Participants should bring their own lunch. For more information contact Cherri Johnson, Director of Spiritual Formation at FUMC, at cherri@firstmethodistl.org.
www.firstmethodist.org | Winter 2017 | 930north
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Helping Youth Prepare for Excellence
[LOVE OTHERS] REACHING OUT ACROSS THE AISLE
a volunteer's view We sat down for a chat with three volunteers and got their perspective on HYPE, what their reservations about volunteering might have been, and how serving through this ministry has affected their lives.
I Wish You Were Here Everyday
BY PETE PROPHIT
PHOTO BY JALIYAH ALEXANDER, HYPE STUDENT
L
ast year I was asked by a church member who because there was specialized tutoring being done at strongly supported HYPE, to join the team of school for upcoming testing. There were two family night volunteers that tutor children from Bernard Terrace dinners at the church, but his mother didn’t show up so every afternoon. At the moment, I couldn’t come up with we would always sit with him. a plausible reason to reject the request, so I agreed to show up on Wednesdays since I usually attended The Then Mary Treppendahl was appointed to take over Table (worship and dinner) later that evening anyway. as Director of HYPE for this year, and it was a whole new I had a little apprehension since I ball game. There has been much had no teaching experience with I was very pleased with the more structure and discipline and youngsters, but what could be so progress Jermaine had more challenges for the volunteers. difficult about reading and math made over the summer. But the Again, I was a little apprehensive at a primary school level? I was about my classroom skills, but Mary most heartwarming thing assigned to 4th-5th grade students— was extremely supportive and, happened last month. about a dozen—with a teacher and frankly, who could ever turn her two other volunteers. My wife also down? came along and helped with some younger kids. The operation wasn’t really heavy on structure and discipline, I was very pleased with the progress Jermaine had but my job was simply to help them with homework. made over the summer. He seemed motivated to do his After one or two sessions, I was working very hard with best in school and was always in good spirits when he one 4th grade boy, Jermaine, who was really struggling saw me on Wednesdays. But the most heartwarming with very basic work. It was almost like he didn’t thing happened last month. I was with the other understand my language, and volunteers at the entrance where finally he just shut down. the kids got off the bus. When Jermaine saw me, he ran over, gave Now I was out of my league, me a hug, and said, “Mr. Pete, I so I went to solicit help from wish that you were here every day”. the expert, my wife. Using her Well, I was really moved by his motherly skills, she was able to personal remark, but I also began determine that he was upset about to appreciate the effect we were a bullying incident during the bus having on some of these young ride from the school. We told him people. Jesus says that we should that it would be dealt with by the use our talents to help children in teacher and we would follow up. need and this program gives all of us an opportunity to do just that. As the weeks went by, I gave him extra attention and always included him when I was helping other students I am so thankful to the person who introduced me to because they had the same homework. He was a slow HYPE and encouraged me give it a try. And I hope that learner but he was at least trying and making progress. my story will motivate others to get out of their comfort Later in the school year, he seldom showed up for HYPE zones and share their time, their talents, and God's love
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What were your expectations, reservations, or fears before you began volunteering with HYPE? Drake Walsh: I had always thought that I did not have enough time to do something like this. How was I going to get from work (in Denham Springs) to First Methodist in time? I did worry if I had the right personality to be a teacher in a group setting. I work in a lab evaluating coatings on paper substrates! Elizabeth Hackenberg: I was nervous because I didn’t know if I could do or be what the students needed, but I wanted to encourage their faith and help them find a safe haven at our church.
It does change your perspective; instead of focusing on yourself, you focus on a child in need of a helping hand. Jesus wanted all of us to possess faith like children; a pure, unassuming, and humble faith. Why do you choose to spend time each week serving through the HYPE program? Drake Walsh: This one is the easiest of the questions! Are we not called to be the hands and feet of Christ? I see no better way than to help the children of God.
Elizabeth Hackenberg: HYPE has grown my faith immensely and made me aware of the tremendous satisfaction that can be found in helping others. At times, I feel as if the kids help me more than I help them.
Elizabeth Hackenberg: In the beginning (nearly 4 years ago) I volunteered with Hype because my parents encouraged me to. But now I do it because I enjoy mentoring the students and I feel it's important for them to have someone they can trust and rely on.
Drake Walsh: HYPE has strengthened my faith by increasing my "love of neighbor”. We are all called to serve. I volunteer with my son and we work with the 4th and 5th graders. When I leave, I always feel that my time was very much needed, and there is always the need for more volunteers.
Cornelia Hackenberg: I devote my time to HYPE because seeing the joy and excitement on the children's faces when they see me never gets old.
Cornelia Hackenberg: I had heard a lot about HYPE from my sister, Elizabeth. She made it sound fun and inspiring. I hoped to form a bond with the students and not only impact their school performance, but their everyday lives. How has your involvement in HYPE affected your faith, relationships, prejudices, or perspective?
Since 2015 HYPE volunteers have worked alongside teachers with over 88 students to achieve: • 45 students on AB Honor Roll •10 students on Principal's Honor Roll • 1 student of the year 2016-2017 • 5 students elected as student government representatives The HYPE after-school program meets Monday-Thursday, from 3:45-5:45 PM, at FUMC. Volunteers typically serve 1 day a week for 2 hours. If you are interested in being a part of this ministry, contact Mary Treppendahl at mtrep@firstmethodist.org or 383-4777, ext. 246. OPPOSITE PAGE- TOP: Students posed for a picture taken by their fellow student, Jaliyah Alexander. LEFT: Jermain trying to beat Pete in an arm-wrestling match. ABOVE: Drake Walsh having a laugh with students & Cornelia & Elizabeth Hackenberg with their homework table group.
www.firstmethodist.org | Winter 2017 | 930north
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CONGREGATIONAL NEWS│SHARING OUR CELEBRATIONS & SORROWS
[LOVE SELF] WITHOUT CONDITIONS
[LOVE SELF] WITHOUT CONDITIONS
Celebrating Our New Members...
Tyler Graves
Meghan Graves
Celebrating the Baptism of... Beckett Lundgren 7–30–17 son of Chris & Lauren Lundgren Coogan Bram 8–27–17 son of Brooke & Patrick Coogan William Peeples 8–27–17 son of Bill & Annie Peeples Lane Webre 9–10–17 son of Chance & Emily Webre Mason Bernal 9–10–17 son of Troy & Brooke Bernal Sutton Lassere 9–17–17 son of Mary & Andrew Lassere Caleb Milazzo 9–24–17 son of Matt & Jennifer Milazzo Kacie Benjamin 9–24–17 daughter of T.J. & Johnnay Benjamin Benjamin Ferrari 10–8–17 son of Elizabeth & Chris Ferrari Ainsley Shelton 10–15–17 daughter of Jean-Marie & Chase Shelton
Celebrating the Birth of... Claire Webber
Ali Jones
Glynn Grantham
Chris Ferrari
Rawley Webber
Mike Jones
Cissy Grantham
Elizabeth Ferrari
Emma Rachal 7–26–17 daughter of Tracey Rachal Skylar Gagliano 8–25–17 daughter of Natilie & Danny Gagliano Charlotte Lacey 8–29–17 daughter of Colin & Christina Lacey Miller Breland 9–7–17 son of Martha Claire Breland Robert Grunewald 9–8–17 son of Kris & Allee Grunewald RosaMaria Knapp 10–9–17 daughter of Melodie Knapp Jacob Ridge 10–16–17 son of Sam & Michelle Ridge
Sympathy to the Families of... Carl Allen 7/25/2017 Linda Johnson 8/6/2017 Bob Smallen 8/13/2017 Wilbur Williams 8/18/2017 Lavita Fousse 8/21/2017 Patrick Fellows 9/4/2017 David Davis 9/7/2017 Elizabeth Baker 9/15/2017 Lynwood Hebert 9/18/2017 Gloria Wurst 9/16/2017 Kirk Mosely 9/18/2017 Mary Faulkner 9/26/2017 Allen Miller 10/2/2017 Jeremy Lockett 10/20/2017 Jack Heroman 10/18/2017
OPPOSITE PAGE TOP: FUMC hosts an event several times a year called Membership Matters for those interested in learning more about church membership, profession of faith or adult baptism. On November 1 at Membership Matters, we welcomed 16 people into membership at FUMC and baptized Beth Meredith! Join us in giving thanks to God for our newest members: Dorothy Barnette, Diana Hamer, Kurt Keppler, Jason Landrem, John and Beth Meredith, Brad Milioto, Mark and Gwen Monceaux, Tom and Suzie Reckert, Becky Reynolds, Claire Shirley, and Sarrah Sonnier.
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WINTER 2017 Calendar of Events
For more information about small groups, classes, retreats or special events visit www.firstmethodist.org or call 383–4777
WEEKLY CALENDAR SUNDAYS
8:30 AM WORSHIP–SANCTUARY 9:00 AM CAFÉ 930 9:40 AM SUNDAY SCHOOL NEWCOMER COFFEE/ DISCOVER FIRST ESSENTIALS I CHILDREN’S WORSHIP 9:45 AM WORSHIP–AMERICA ST. 11:00 AM WORSHIP–SANCTUARY 4:30 PM PRAYER MINISTRY 5:00 PM ADULT CLASSES YOUTH@FIRST FUSE CHILDREN’S PROG.
MONDAYS
10:30 AM PRAYER MINISTRY
TUESDAYS
9:00 AM KNITTING & MEN’S COFFEE 10:30 AM WOMEN’S AA GROUP 12:00 PM ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS
WEDNESDAYS 4:30 PM 5:30 PM 6:30 PM 7:00 PM
CARE TEAM THE TABLE [dinner+worship] ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS CHANCEL CHOIR
THURSDAYS
ADULT EVENTS ADVENT RETREAT DECEMBER 2 • 9:00-3:00 PM AT WESLEY FOUNDATION OF LSU CENTERING PRAYER TUESDAYS, DECEMBER 5, 12, & 19 11:45 AM-12:30 PM • FUMC SPIRITUAL FORMATION CENTER
COSTA RICA FAMILY MISSION TRIP FEBRUARY 10-17 A BEAD & A PRAYER RETREAT APRIL 13-14 • AT FUMC
CHILDREN’S EVENTS
OH, COME ALL YE GUMBO SUNDAY, DECEMBER 10 4:00 PM • AT FUMC DOWNTOWN CHRISTMAS PILGRIMAGE SUNDAY, DECEMBER 10 5:30-8:00 PM • BEGINS AT MT. ZION BAPTIST CHURCH
ADVENT ADVENTURE SUNDAY, DECEMBER 17 3:00-5:00 PM • GALVEZ PLAZA, 200 NORTH BLVD
YOUTH EVENTS JR HIGH ALL-NIGHTER NOVEMBER 17 • 8:30 PM
LONGEST NIGHT SERVICE THURSDAY, DECEMBER 14 7:00 PM • SANCTUARY AT FUMC DEUTERONOMY RETREAT FEBRUARY 2-4 • AT THE WESLEY CENTER, WOODWORTH, LA WOMEN’S RETREAT MARCH 2-4 • AT ST. JOSEPH'S ABBEY, COVINGTON, LA
APPALACHIA SERVICE PROJECT MISSION TRIP JANUARY 20-27
YOUTH SKI TRIP DECEMBER 26-31 • SALIDA, CO CHRISTMAS PARTY MORE DETAILS TBA
9:00 AM THURSDAY LADIES GROUP
MONTHLY LECTIONARY TEXTS A series of Scripture readings for specific days of the year. The Revised Common Lectionary is a 3–year cycle of readings. Four passages are recommended, usually 2 from both the Old & New Testaments. Thus, over a 3–year period the Bible is covered in a systematic & balanced way.
NOVEMBER 19 Judges 4:1-7 Psalm 123 or Psalm 76 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 Matthew 25:14-30
DECEMBER 3 Isaiah 64:1-9 Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19 1 Corinthians 1:3-9 Mark 13:24-37
DECEMBER 17 Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11 Psalm 126 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24 John 1:6-8, 19-28
NOVEMBER 26 Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24 Psalm 100 Ephesians 1:15-23 Matthew 25:31-46
DECEMBER 10 Isaiah 40:1-11 Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 2 Peter 3:8-15a Mark 1:1-8
DECEMBER 24 Isaiah 9:2-7 Psalm 96 Titus 2:11-14 Luke 2:1-20
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First United Methodist Church 930 North Boulevard Baton Rouge, LA 70802 Change Service Requested
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Join us on Sundays: 8:30 AM - Sanctuary Worship Service 9:40 AM - Sunday School for all ages Children’s Worship 9:45 AM - America Street Contemporary Service 11 AM - Sanctuary Worship Service 5:00 PM - Adult Small Groups & Studies Youth@first (Youth Group) F.U.S.E. Children’s Programming Nursery Care is available from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, Sunday mornings, and from 5:00-7:30 PM on Sunday Evenings.
Join us on Wednesdays: 5:30 PM - The Table [dinner+worship]
To discover more about us visit firstmethodist.org
facebook.com/FUMCBR